Community

Coopers Creek residents have had their licences to occupy the land for another 21 years, with a right of renewal for up to 35 years. It may not have ended decades of uncertainty for the 25+ residents at the Sandy Point village, but the Invercargill City Council wasn’t prepared

* Waituna Lagoon will be mechanically opened to prevent ecological damage and assist the community. * High water levels have been affecting local roads, paddocks, and farming activities for weeks. * Lagoon opening aims to flush nutrients and sediment, resetting the environment for summer. Environment Southland has decided to use its emergency powers

* Deaf and disabled communities demand Invercargill appoint a full-time sign language interpreter. * Lack of interpreter causes hardship, affecting hospital visits, events, and daily communication. * Recommendations include creating a disability portfolio and advocating for better inclusion policies. Invercargill’s deaf community is calling for the appointment of a full-time sign language

* Peacehaven Village raises $330,583 for dementia unit expansion in less than six months. * Six new dementia care beds will be added to meet community needs in Southland. * Only $55,417 remains to complete the $386,000 fundraising goal for the project. More psychogeriatric dementia beds are on the way

* ILT has returned more than $9 million to the Invercargill community this year. * The Group faced challenges due to labour shortages, inflation, and cost-of-living pressures. * Despite a tax-related deficit, ILT’s financial position remains solid with strong community support. ILT Group held its Annual General Meeting on 16th September, revealing

* Central Government raises parking infringement fees, with some fines increasing by 70 percent. * Incorrect use of mobility parks now incurs a steep penalty of $750 without a valid permit. * Invercargill City Council reminds drivers to park mindfully and activate parking machines. Invercargill City Council is encouraging residents to be more

* Bluff's Blue September Market aims to raise funds for Prostate Cancer awareness and support. * Stallholders will contribute to a raffle, with the prize drawn by Bluff’s Town Crier. * The covered market ensures comfort for visitors, regardless of weather conditions. Bluff’s Thieves Alley Market will be painted

* Invercargill Malayalees Association hosts successful Mega Thiruvathira event at Invercargill Central. * Traditional Kerala dance, Thiruvathira, captivates audience with its cultural richness and graceful performance. * IMA expresses gratitude to performers and community for supporting the cultural showcase. The Invercargill Malayalees Association (IMA) hosted the highly successful Mega Thiruvathira event on 15th