Civic Park Opening.
The year that was: Whyalla's best of 2025
From major city upgrades to record-breaking events, economic investment and unforgettable community moments, 2025 has been a year to celebrate in Whyalla. As the year draws to a close, we’re wrapping up a cross section of good news, great achievements and local wins that shaped our city, and there were plenty.
Mayor Phill Stone said the city should feel proud of everything achieved throughout the year, “2025 has been a year of real progress for Whyalla, given the circumstances of OneSteel. As we head into 2026, we are looking forward to the announcement of its future. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together and excited for what’s yet to come.”
Here’s your all-in-one snapshot of the highlights that made 2025 a year of progress and positivity for the Whyalla community.
Major moments of 2025:
Playground upgrades
This year saw exciting transformations across our recreational spaces, with the Mitchell Quinn (McGee Street) Playground Upgrade completed and the new Civic Park Playground officially opened.
Mitchell Quinn (McGee Street) Playground upgrade.
A record year for Cuttlefest
Whyalla’s cuttlefish season hit new highs, from the launch of the first-ever Cuttlefish Concierge to record attendance and an expanded Salty 'Sea'esta.
- Cuttlefest a Winner for Whyalla
- Cuttlefest Secures Funding & Wraps Up Record Season
- Introducing Whyalla’s First ‘Cuttlefish Concierge'
- Dive into Cuttlefest at Salty ‘Sea’esta
- The Salty ‘Sea’esta Returns – Bigger, Better + Extra Day
Cuttlefest Concierge, Carlos Passango. Cuttlefest awards winner.
Airport upgrade boost the local economy
The Whyalla Airport upgrade works delivered significant benefits this year, supporting local contractors and upgrading the runway.
- Local Contractors Benefit from Runway Upgrade
- Airport Cleared for Take-off After Vital Upgrade Completion
- Whyalla Airport Runway Project Boosts Local Economy
- Whyalla Airport Upgrade recognised as Corporate Project of the Year
Local contractors in the airport. Whyalla City Council and Fulton Hogan at the Airport Awards.
A big year for funding and investment
State and Federal commitments helped push key projects forward and support local workers.
- Funding Continues to Flow for Whyalla
- Council Secures Funding for Major Runway Upgrade
- Federal Funding Making Splash + Play Plaza a Reality
- $2.4 Billion Plan to Secure Whyalla’s Future
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with Mayor Phill Stone. Funding for the Splash Play Plaza with Minister King.
More highlights from across the year
Here are even more good-news stories from 2025, click each link you can read the full story.
- Christmas on the Avenue Success
- Prioritising Cuttlefish Protection
- Mental Health Matters Round Returns
- Major Opportunities for Local Contractors
- Steelworks Administration Benefiting Community
- Support for Whyalla’s Small Businesses
- Supporting Workers Through Career Transition
- Premier’s Visit – Update from the Mayor
- Whyalla Maritime Museum Receives Significant WWII Donation
2025 Projects to continue into the new year
A number of exciting projects kicked off this year and will shape the year ahead:
- Basketball Court Upgrade – Ada Ryan Gardens
- Whyalla Boat Ramp Upgrade
- Whyalla Sports Hub
Whyalla Sports Hub announcement.