🍂Country Fun & Hidden Courts

Good morning, Hills lovers. The highlight for me this week is that the puzzles have finally arrived - more on that below! Also, this week we’re celebrating two of life’s best connectors: community and fun. On one hand, there’s the annual Show coming up soon in Uraidla, rich with tradition and country goodness. On the other, those quiet community tennis courts dotted through our towns, waiting for a picnic basket, a few racquets, and a lazy afternoon of fun.

Let’s get into it.

PUZZLE UPDATE
They’ve arrived, finally!

I’m so excited to share that the puzzles have arrived.

With the help of my husband, our two little people, and my bestie the weekend was spent packaging puzzles into mailer boxes, hand delivering a few locally to save the postie, popping some in our roadside stall for easy collection, and posting the rest out to everyone else. Orders have come from all over Australia including Darwin, Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney, regional NSW and Victoria, Melbourne, Port Lincoln, Margaret River, and Perth plus many more little nooks around the place.

I’ve emailed everyone who placed an order. If you selected delivery, your tracking number should be in your inbox. If you selected local pickup, you’ll have an email from me with instructions. If you haven’t seen the email come through, please let me know.

If you are new to the Pantry and not sure what I’m talking about…in short, I commissioned a painting by local Adelaide Hills artist Tess Bartholomew and turned it into a jigsaw puzzle. With Christmas coming up, I thought I better order extra’s so if you would like one, you can purchase from the puzzle shop here.

Thank you again. Your support means so much, and this project has truly filled my cup. I can’t wait to see everyone finishing their puzzles, please share your pics so we can all celebrate together!

SHOW DAY IN URAIDLA
Tradition, laughter, and local pride

There’s a hum that settles over Uraidla in early November. It’s the sound of the Uraidla & Summertown Country Show gearing up again, just a short drive from the city but still has a strong sense of good country atmosphere.

Locals will tell you this isn’t just another event. It’s a meeting point of generations, neighbours, and visitors who come to see the best of the Hills in full colour. From the smell of hot chips and fresh hay to the rhythmic chop of timber and the call of yard dogs, it’s a feast for the senses and a celebration of community at its purest.

This year’s show brings back all the favourites: log chopping, sheep shearing, livestock displays, live music and food trucks brimming with Hills flavours. Kids will run wild through the entertainment zone while adults linger over a glass of local wine or gin. And somewhere near the main arena, Jordan Steffans, South Australia’s own strongman, will no doubt draw a crowd.

Behind it all is the quiet work of volunteers who keep the spirit of the show alive year after year. Their efforts were recently recognised with two major awards, a fitting tribute to the heart that goes into every detail.

Whether you arrive by bike, shuttle bus or the old family ute, one thing’s certain: you’ll leave feeling part of something bigger. This Hills event, in particular, has a way of doing that. Go here for all the info you need to know.

TENNIS PICNIC DAYS
Old courts, new memories

I first stumbled across community tennis courts when I noticed the Cherryville courts after rolling down that notoriously steep descent on my gravel bike. Tucked in among the gums sat an old community court. My friend, who I was riding with, suggested these humble courts would make a perfect picnic spot. Bring some food, bring the kids, invite a few families. I could picture it straight away, a lazy afternoon of tennis with food spread out and kids running between games.

Since then, I’ve started spotting them all over the Hills: Scott Creek, Greenhill, Upper Sturt, Harrogate, Charleston. Quiet community reserves where the courts sit patiently, waiting for anyone who wants to play. They’re not full-blown tennis clubs, and from what I can see they’re mostly volunteer-run, kept alive by locals who dedicate their time to preserving these wonderful spaces.

That’s the charm. They aren’t fancy, but they’re perfect for a day out. You turn up with a picnic, a few racquets, some other families, and the day unfolds naturally. A few rallies, plenty of laughter, kids weaving between courts and playgrounds, maybe a glass of wine with cheese on a picnic rug. And, as so often happens in the Hills, there’s usually a walking trail nearby, so a hit of tennis can flow into a stroll through the bush.

These tennis picnic days are a reminder of what the Adelaide Hills does best: connection, fresh air, and simple pleasures that linger long after you’ve packed away the racquets. I’ve pulled together a list of community courts across the Hills. Check it out here.

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It’s GoGoGreen in the streets of Stirling! The trees are dressing up in their soft, fresh spring-green leaves just for the occasion, so come and join the Stirling Laneways fun on Sunday, October 26. You’ll be treated to performances by world-class musicians through the Stirling Laneways ongoing partnership with Hills Folk Music. More than a market, Stirling Laneways is a celebration of village life and the spectacular seasons of Stirling and the Adelaide Hills, bringing something colourful, a little wild, and wonderfully unique to market Sundays in Stirling. Always: Peramangk & Kaurna Country.

Find your flow with a 60-minute Vinyasa class led by Ash Kalionis in some of the Hills’ most welcoming community halls. Thursday nights in Piccadilly (7–8pm, 23 Oct), Saturday mornings in Crafers (8.30–9.30am, 25 Oct) and Sunday mornings back in Piccadilly (8.30–9.30am, 2 & 9 Nov). Each class is $15, and spots fill quickly. One local said, “It was so good, I can’t wait to go again.” To save your spot, text your name and preferred date to Ash on 0421 122 287.

An Iranian Food Journey at The Olive Branch Café in Balhannah is a celebration of Iran’s rich culinary heritage, offering a shared feast of authentic entrees, mains and desserts. Each dish comes from the pages of Iranian cookbooks, carrying its own story and a sense of cultural connection. Hosted by Circle of Friends Australia Incorporated, a 100% volunteer refugee support group, this event not only delights with high-quality food but also supports refugee communities, with every plate contributing to a more welcoming future. Guests can BYO wine or purchase on the night, with dietary needs catered for as part of bookings, and a raffle adding to the evening’s sense of generosity and community. Friday 24th October, 6:30pm You can book your tickets here.

MARKETS

🎨 Stirling Laneways
| MARKET | Stirling
📅 Sunday, 26 October 2025 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Discover the vibrant charm of Stirling Laneways, where local artisans, pop-up stalls, and street performances bring the town’s laneways to life. Enjoy a day of shopping, food, and community spirit in this lively village-style market.

🎪 Stirling Market
| MARKET | Stirling
📅 Sunday, 26 October 2025 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Enjoy a family-friendly day in the Adelaide Hills at this long-running local market. Browse fresh produce, handmade goods, art, and fashion while enjoying live music, delicious food, and a warm community atmosphere on Druid Avenue.

🍂 Houghton Spring Fair & Produce Market
| MARKET | Houghton
📅 Sunday, 26 October 2025 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Celebrate spring at this family-friendly community fair, featuring local produce, entertainment, kids’ activities, and food and wine tastings. Enjoy a fun day out in support of the new Houghton Community Hub—free entry, with $5 parking around the oval.

🌿 Adelaide Hills Farmers' Market
| MARKET | Mount Barker
 📅 Saturday, 25 October | 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Discover fresh seasonal produce and artisan goods while supporting local South Australian farmers and producers. A vibrant community market held every Saturday morning in the heart of Mount Barker. 

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK

🏛️ Hahndorf Strassendorf Walking Tour
| COMMUNITY & HERITAGE | Hahndorf
 📅 Thursday, 23 – Friday, 31 October | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Take a guided walking tour through Hahndorf to uncover its hidden stories, historic landmarks, and rich German heritage while capturing the charm of South Australia’s oldest village. INFO

🌙 Hahndorf After Dark Walking Tour with Dinner at The Haus
| COMMUNITY & HERITAGE | Hahndorf
 📅 Thursday, 23 – Friday, 31 October | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Enjoy dinner at The Haus Restaurant before setting off on a 90-minute evening walking tour through Hahndorf to explore its historic sites, local legends, and captivating night charm. INFO

🏡 Hahndorf Hufendorf Walking Tour
| COMMUNITY & HERITAGE | Hahndorf
 📅 Thursday, 23 – Friday, 31 October | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Explore the original layout of Hahndorf on a guided walk through historic backstreets, Germanic cottages, and Australia’s longest-running Lutheran church. Discover the fascinating stories of Prussian settlers and the heritage that shaped this charming village. INFO

🪚 Community Shed (The Green Shed)
| COMMUNITY & CRAFTS | Gumeracha
 📅 Thursday, 23, Tuesday, 28 & Thursday, 30 October | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Join the Gumeracha Community Green Shed for a friendly maker space where you can create, repair, learn new skills, and share a cuppa with others.INFO

🛠️ Community Shed (The Red Shed)
| COMMUNITY & MAKER SPACE | Uraidla
 📅 Thursday, 23, Tuesday, 28 & Thursday, 30 October | 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Bring your creativity and join The Red Shed, a friendly community space where you can work on projects, repairs, or group creations while learning and connecting in a relaxed environment. INFO

🏓 Social Table Tennis
| COMMUNITY & WELLNESS | Basket Range
 📅 Thursday, 23 October | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Enjoy a fun and friendly morning of table tennis for all ages and abilities. Learn a few tips, stay active, and connect with others in a relaxed community setting. INFO

📚 Maths Meets Storytime: Fun in Every Tale
| LIBRARY & FAMILY | Stirling
 📅 Thursday, 23 October | 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
Discover how stories can spark mathematical thinking in this playful storytime series for preschoolers and their families. Enjoy engaging tales, problem-solving fun, and practical tips to support numeracy at home. INFO

🎨 Adult Polymer Clay Workshop
| ARTS & CRAFTS | Mount Barker
📅 Thursday 23 October 2025 | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Join this free polymer clay workshop to design your own colourful beads, charms, and jewellery pieces. Enjoy a fun, hands-on session that lets you add a personal touch to your style while learning new creative skills. INFO

⚽ Walking Football
| COMMUNITY & SPORT | Mount Barker
 📅 Friday, 24 October | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Stay active and social with Walking Football — a fun, low-impact version of the game designed for over-50s. Played indoors at a walking pace with no contact, it’s the perfect way to keep fit and connected. $10 per session | $5 concession. INFO

🥘 An Iranian Food Journey
| FOOD & CULTURE | Balhannah & Littlehampton
📅 Friday, 24 - Saturday, 25 October | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Savour authentic Iranian dishes and stories in a shared dining experience supporting refugee communities, hosted by Circle of Friends Australia. INFO

🌮 Mexican Food Fiesta Cooking Class
| FOOD & CULTURE | Stirling
📅 Saturday, 25 October | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Join Chef Genevieve Harris for an authentic Mexican cooking experience featuring handmade tortillas, tequila prawns, beef mole, and Tres Leches cake. INFO

🍽️ YWAM Adelaide Fundraiser Dinner
| COMMUNITY & FUNDRAISING | Norton Summit
📅 Saturday, 25 October | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Enjoy a night of native flavours and community connection while supporting YWAM Adelaide’s mission to grow and give back. All proceeds will help upgrade their fire prevention systems to ensure a safe and welcoming space for future groups. INFO

🌸 Mt Barker Waldorf School Spring Fair
| COMMUNITY & FAMILY | Mount Barker
📅 Saturday, 25 October | 7:30 AM
A vibrant day of handcrafted stalls, delicious food, live music, games, and a showcase of the school’s unique education, perfect for the whole family. INFO

🎤 Black’n’Gold Cabaret
| MUSIC FUNDRAISER | Echunga
📅 Saturday, 25 October | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Enjoy a lively night of music, guest vocalists, raffles, table games, and a silent auction to support Andrew Russell Veteran Living; BYO food and drinks. INFO

🎺 Hahndorf Band Festival 2025
| COMMUNITY & MUSIC | Hahndorf
 📅 Saturday, 25 October | 9:30 AM – All Day
Celebrate the 19th annual Hahndorf Band Festival with the return of live brass and concert band music. Enjoy performances from community bands, local food, and a vibrant festival atmosphere in the Pioneer Memorial Gardens with free entry for all. INFO

📸 Adelaide Hills Photography Club Exhibition
| ARTS & CULTURE | Stirling
 📅 Saturday, 11 – Saturday, 25 October | During Library Opening Hours
Discover the beauty of Adelaide and the Hills through the eyes of local photographers at this inspiring free exhibition. Explore stunning landscapes and artistic perspectives that capture the spirit of our region. INFO

🧁 Nanna’s Blooming Bake Club
| FOOD & COMMUNITY | Charleston
📅 Sunday, 26 October | 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Spend a sweet afternoon baking botanically inspired treats, sharing recipes, and exploring the gardens at Charleston Farm, with optional pick-your-own blooms available. INFO

🎪 Callington Show in The Hills
| COMMUNITY SHOW | Callington
📅 Sunday, 26 October | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Celebrate 22 years of the Callington Show with family activities, food and trade stalls, entertainment, and the popular Calli Trail Show bag. INFO

🎶 Summer of Live Music 2025/26 with Hawkins Band
| MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT | Hahndorf
📅Sunday, 26 October | 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Enjoy a season of live music at the Adelaide Hills Wine Bar with relaxed Sunday sessions, special performances, and festive events. Sip local wines, savour great food, and soak up the atmosphere with friends. INFO

🌿 Spring with Adelaide Hills Outdoor Playgroup
| FAMILY & EDUCATION | Stirling
 📅 Monday, 27 October | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Celebrate spring with nature art and outdoor play in the beautiful Old School Community Garden, perfect for children aged 0–6 and their families. Hosted by Adelaide Hills Outdoor Playgroup for over 10 years, this beloved community event is now full, so join the waitlist to be part of the fun. INFO

🎤 Social Singing at Gumeracha
| ARTS & CULTURE & MUSIC | Gumeracha
 📅 Monday, 27 October | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Join a fun and welcoming sing-along at Torrens Valley Community Centre, where all voices are celebrated. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon of music, camaraderie, and community spirit, no experience needed. INFO

🧘 Yoga with Ness
| HEALTH & WELLNESS | Gumeracha
 📅 Monday, 27 October | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Boost your strength, flexibility, and balance in this beginner-friendly yoga class with Ness at Torrens Valley Community Centre. A relaxing and energising way to care for your mind and body. INFO

 ❤️ Heart of Care: Where Careers Begin and Communities Thrive!
| COMMUNITY & CAREERS | Strathalbyn
 📅 Tuesday, 28 October | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Explore rewarding opportunities in the community care sector at this informative showcase. Meet local providers, learn about diverse roles from support work to management, and discover how your skills can make a real difference. INFO

💃 Happy Dance with Ness
| HEALTH & WELLNESS | Gumeracha
 📅 Tuesday, 28 October | 9:15 AM – 10:15 AM
Get moving and boost your energy with Ness in this fun, mid-intensity dance session at Torrens Valley Community Centre. A perfect way to stay active, feel fantastic, and enjoy a morning of movement and music. INFO

🎶 Baby & Toddler Music Sessions at The Shared Table Café
| COMMUNITY & FAMILY | Stirling
 📅 Wednesday, 29 October | 10:00 AM & 10:45 AM
Bring your little ones along for a fun, free morning of baby and toddler music at The Shared Table Café. No bookings needed — just grab a coffee, relax, and enjoy the joyful tunes! INFO

💃 Dance Fitness Zumba
| HEALTH & WELLNESS | Norton Summit
 📅 Wednesday, 29 October | 9:30 AM – 10:15 AM
Get moving to Latin rhythms in this fun, beginner-friendly Zumba class at The Summit Community Centre. Burn calories, improve coordination, and enjoy an energetic workout! $5 per session, pay on the day. INFO

🧘 Hatha Yoga with Flo Benattar
| HEALTH & WELLNESS | Norton Summit
 📅 Wednesday, 29 October | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Relax, stretch, and align your mind and body in this beginner to intermediate Hatha Yoga class at The Summit Community Centre. Cultivate flexibility, balance, and inner calm with Flo’s guided practice. $10 per session. INFO

🛡️ Australian Red Cross EmergencyRedi Workshop
| COMMUNITY & SAFETY | Gumeracha
 📅 Wednesday, 29 October | 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Learn practical, social, and psychological strategies to prepare for emergencies and create your own REDiPlan at this Red Cross workshop. Gain confidence in keeping yourself, your household, and your community ready for all-hazards situations. INFO

ON LATER, BOOK NOW

📚 Ukaria Constellation Workshop
| WORKSHOP | Mount Barker Summit
📅 Sunday, 7 December | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Join facilitator Matthew Ritson for a Systemic Constellations Workshop exploring personal and nature constellations in a reflective, community-based setting. INFO

🎶 Hillside Sounds at Ambleside Distillers with Chris Cavill, Trav Collins & Netherby
| MUSIC | Ambleside Distillery, Hahndorf
📅 Friday, 21 November | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Enjoy an evening of live music under the stars with performances by Chris Cavill, Trav Collins, and Netherby, paired with great food and craft spirits at Ambleside Distillery. INFO

🎶 Unb'Rocken, Balic Rock at the Pony
| MUSIC | The Brewshed, Totness
📅 Friday, 15 November | 8:00 PM till Late
Experience a high-energy night of blues and rock as Bali’s powerhouse band Unb’Rocken brings their electrifying sound to The Brewshed. INFO

🍝 Flavours Of Our Community: Cooking Class
| FOOD & COMMUNITY | Aldgate
📅 Tuesday, 11 November | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Join Daniella and Fran for the first Italian-themed session of this year-long community cooking series celebrating culture, connection, and the joy of sharing food. INFO

🎨 Casual Intermediate Adult’s Watercolour Classes
| ART | Stirling
📅 Saturdays, 8 November – 13 December | 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Explore new watercolour techniques and build on your intermediate skills in relaxed, hands-on Saturday sessions designed to inspire creativity and growth. INFO

_{Thanks for reading Adelaide Hills Pantry. I hope it added a moment of enjoyment to your day.}

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the traditional custodians of our land. We recognise Peramangk and Kaurna people as the traditional custodians of the place where the content in this newsletter is featured and where the newsletter is created. We pay respect to Elders past, present and future and to the cultural authority of First Nations Peoples from other areas of this country.