Culture Archives - FIFTY+SA

Rare 1855 painting of Port Adelaide on public display for the first time in 170 years

Staff Writer — Thu, 14 May 2026 05:41:01 +0000

In July 1855, an artist newly arrived in Adelaide picked up his brush and spent two weeks painting everything he could see along the Port Adelaide waterfront. Ships at anchor, horse-drawn carts on the wharf, government buildings, pubs, commercial premises – the full, busy life of a colonial port in its early prime. Two years later, the Great Fire of 1857 tore through Port Adelaide, destroying half the town and nearly its entire commercial district. Frank George Hankey’s panorama is the only known visual record of what stood there before. For 170 years, that watercolour – stretching nearly two metres

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South Australia’s history festival what’s on 2026

Staff Writer — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 21:59:00 +0000

The history of John Martin’s Paul Flavel Join author Paul Flavel as he marks what would have been John Martin’s 160th year. He will share stories from his research, insights from creating his book, and reflections on the legacy of the iconic Adelaide department store. A nostalgic and engaging look back at a place many remember fondly. Wed 6 May, 11am – 12pmHetzel Lecture TheatreInstitute Building, State Library of South AustraliaCnr North Tce & Kintore Ave, Adelaide, SA, 5000Free Stories, Stories, Stories…! Narracoorte Homestead Do you like hearing stories about history? Do you like sharing stories about history? The history

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South Australia’s History Festival celebrates what connects us

Staff Writer — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 21:59:00 +0000

South Australia’s History Festival will return in May 2026 with the theme of Connections. With more than 550 events spanning 16 regions, the 2026 Festival celebrates the state’s history and the connections that bind us, thanks to its six Feature Programs – First Nations, Tasting History, From Many Places, Open Doors, Children and Family, and Rainbow Histories. Tours, talks, exhibitions, walks and workshops will invite audiences to explore multi-generational stories stretching across decades and millennia, continents, and Country. South Australians will discover the ties that shape our shared identity with events right across the state, from the threads that bind

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McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic celebrates 20 years in 2026

Staff Writer — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:14:25 +0000

One of South Australia’s most beloved motoring events is set to return, with the McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic celebrating its 20th anniversary on Sunday, 12 April. More than 400 vehicles are expected to take part in this year’s iconic parade, transforming Main Road in McLaren Vale into a moving showcase of automotive history, from early vintage models through to modern luxury vehicles. Among the highlights is one of the rarest cars in the country, a 1959 MG Magnette Series III sedan, the only known model in South Australia and one of just five in Australia. The vehicle will form

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Norwood Food & Wine Festival returns for AFL Gather Round

Staff Writer — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:44:00 +0000

The Norwood Food & Wine Festival will once again bring thousands to The Parade on Sunday 12 April, offering a showcase of South Australia’s finest produce, wines and culinary talent alongside the excitement of AFL Gather Round. Running from 11am, the free street festival features an impressive lineup of local restaurants, producers and beverage makers. Visitors can sample everything from premium seafood and artisan pasta to flame-cooked meats, paired with wines, craft beers and spirits from across the state. Live cooking demonstrations from acclaimed chefs Kane Pollard, Laura Sharrad and Duncan Welgemoed will be presented through the Tasting Australia Kitchen,

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A new chapter for State Theatre Company South Australia

Staff Writer — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 05:28:00 +0000

A major new cultural development is set to transform Adelaide’s CBD, with State Theatre Company South Australia to become part of a landmark Arts & Media Hub on Franklin Street. Announced by Premier Peter Malinauskas alongside Arts Minister Andrea Michaels and ABC Chair Kim Williams AM, the partnership will see the ABC relocate from its ageing Collinswood headquarters to the Tapangka development site in the city. The former Adelaide Bus Station site will become a vibrant new cultural centre, bringing together State Theatre Company South Australia, State Opera South Australia and Country Arts SA, just a short walk from Her

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Mandy Hall’s Fringe favourites

Mandy Hall — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 03:09:54 +0000

For Adelaide foodie Mandy Hall, the Fringe is best enjoyed with an open mind and a bit of curiosity. Some nights call for big ideas, others for music, laughter or something quietly unexpected, and her picks reflect that balance beautifully. A familiar voice to FIFTY+SA readers, Mandy’s Fringe favourites span theatre, music and immersive experiences, with a common thread of strong storytelling and thoughtful craft. It’s a list that encourages you to mix the bold with the joyful, trust your instincts, and embrace the fact that the Fringe is at its best when you let its variety lead the way.

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Australia Day 2026 in South Australia: Reflecting on Our Continuing Story

Staff Writer — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:40:10 +0000

The Australia Day Council of South Australia has released the program for Australia Day 2026, with a free, inclusive line-up of events to be held on Monday 26 January at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama and surrounding locations. The 2026 program reflects the Council’s overarching theme Respect. Reflect. Celebrate., and the event theme Our Continuing Story, recognising the diversity of cultures, histories and experiences that shape Australia today. Held at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama on the banks of the River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri, Australia Day will be marked through two bookend hero events: Mourning in the Morning and the Aus Lights Program in the

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Etched in history at The Cedars

Staff Writer — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 02:13:37 +0000

As excitement builds for the opening of the new $9 million Heysen Gallery in March 2026, the estate has launched its special “Etched in History” brick campaign, inviting the public to leave a personal mark on one of the nation’s most treasured cultural landmarks. For a $250 donation, supporters can have their name—or the name of a loved one—engraved on a brick that will form part of the footpath leading to the new gallery. This permanent tribute offers a meaningful way to honour family, celebrate a passion for the arts, or simply connect with a place that has inspired Australians

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PolArt: Your next Euro adventure planned

Staff Writer — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 02:27:59 +0000

Fortunately for South Australians, we’ll be able to have a taste before we commit to travel plans when PolArt launches in late December in Adelaide. From 27 December 2025 to 5 January 2026, the city and Barossa will transform into a colourful celebration of Polish heritage with over 500 Polish dancers, artists, musicians, writers and performers making the journey from all over Australia and New Zealand to Adelaide. This year marks PolArt’s 50th anniversary, a cultural milestone that promises to make this the most spectacular festival yet. Audiences will revel in the colour, flavour, and rhythm of Poland, from breathtaking

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