19 September 2025
What’s next for Laura: Community Workshop & New Steering Committee
On Monday 8 September 2025, Regional Development Australia Yorke and Mid North (RDAYMN), in partnership with, Northern Areas Council (Council), hosted a workshop to explore the future of Laura and how the town could best utilise the State Government’s $1 million Community Infrastructure Program.
Community Engagement & Feedback
The workshop, facilitated by Daniel, Chief Executive of RDAYMN, attracted around 50 community members who shared ideas on Laura’s needs, priorities, and opportunities for investment. Feedback was gathered through both the workshop and a survey open until 15 September, with all contributions to be summarised and reported back to the community. This feedback will guide the prioritisation of projects, with a newly formed local committee (listed below) working alongside Council and RDAYMN to refine priorities, ensure proposals meet funding requirements, and oversee planning and delivery.
A total of 15 people were nominated for the committee, with the final group selected and narrowed down by the Laura Community Development and Tourism Association. Council extends its thanks to everyone who put their hand up to be involved and contribute to shaping Laura’s future.
Introducing the Committee
The following people are the local community representatives tasked with steering this initiative:
- Anthony Lines
- Cat Blesing
- Denise Higgins
- Frank Bernhardt
- John Barberien
- Leanne Opperman
- Sophie Millington
- Sue Scarman
These individuals will help ensure that the vision for Laura reflects a broad cross-section of the town.
Pictured: Leanne Opperman, Anthony Lines, Frank Bernhardt and Sophie Millington. Absent: Cat Blesing
What Comes Next
The committee will help take community ideas forward, shaping which projects will be prioritised under the funding program. There will be ongoing community communication: summarised feedback, further consultations as needed, and transparency as the planning and delivery phases progress.
Everyone is still welcome to contribute please contact the Northern Areas Council via email to admin@nacouncil.sa.gov.au or call 08 8664 1139.
Northern Areas Council
Mayor
Sue Scarman | 0418 844 935