Commenting on the story: Feds kick own goal with new sport plan

Local government provides facilities for community sport and recreation. It is assisted by state and federal government and its own ratepayers.

Sport participation has been under pressure for a number of years for many reasons. An increase in population from multiple cultural backgrounds has meant that ovals, netball, tennis courts and other facilities are being used to capacity. It isn’t easy to find large areas of new open space to convert for sport. It is expensive, as high levels of usage means that artificial turf is needed more and more, along with lighting and facilities. Climate change weather events play a part.

The eastern councils of Adelaide are working hard to address unmet demand by working with both state and federal governments, but land is expensive and land areas large enough for soccer and other ball sports are rare. We appreciate any help from state and federal governments to help us locate, purchase and develop such areas for active spaces.

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In 2017, Campbelltown Council built the ARC Recreation facility with the assistance of both state and federal funding. It has been an outstanding success with patronage by all, from babies to the elderly. It is a model that works and is working for other areas too.

Recreation needs are changing because of working patterns, family needs and other demands. Bike trails, pump tracks, BMX trails, walking paths and non organised sport is part of the mix. Access for all is necessary, and happening all over the state, but is expensive. State and federal funding for local government projects initiated, by their communities, is providing 21st century solutions which feature sun protection and indoor facilities as well as outdoor spaces.

The simplistic analysis of the chart of people engaged in sport and recreation in the article is deceptive. I wondered what questions were asked. The doom and gloom headline is not a true reflection of everyday activity in either the city or regional areas of South Australia. – Jill Whittaker, Campbelltown City Council Mayor

Commenting on the story: Where are all the books? ‘Radical’ UniSA approach empties library shelves

Congratulations all library staff. Our vision has been realised. – Irene Doskatsch, former UniSA deputy director library services

Commenting on the story: Vale Khai Liew: Tributes flow for legendary SA designer

Khai Liew was more than iconic. He was so important to South Australian, Australian and international design and urban architecture, as well as an extraordinarily gifted individual who crafted and designed art pieces for living spaces.

I first met him when I purchased several mid-century pieces back in late 1990s early 2000s. He had a very good eye. My sister in Canberra bought eight mid-century dining chairs – we still sit on them when visiting. I have just moved into my new house and my beautiful Danish rosewood cabinet arrived back after three and a half years in storage.

I would bump into Khai around Adelaide, especially at the Adelaide Central Market. I remember one of the last times we spoke and he was lamenting having to be interstate so often as his market for his designs was there. But he was still a keen South Australian.

I am so very very sad to hear of Khai’s death and hope we can celebrate his contribution to SA in a meaningful way. – Mariann McNamara