Philled In: Mayor’s engagements and City Round-Up
There is plenty to “Phill you in on” this month, with Mayor Phill Stone continuing to represent the community at important meetings, ceremonies and events, while Council delivered several exciting initiatives across the city.
From celebrating Whyalla’s young world champions and breaking ground on a major community project to commemorating Vietnam Veterans’ Day, it has been another busy period for council and the community.
Mayor Stone said one of the month’s highlights was hosting a Mayor’s Reception for the Aussie Energies Hydrogen Team from Sunrise Christian School.
Karman, Eli, Caelan, Shannon and Simon represented Whyalla at the 2026 H2 Grand Prix World Finals in Bulle, Switzerland, where they designed, built and raced their own hydrogen-powered remote-controlled car.
After four hours and an incredible 538 laps, the team claimed the Modified Junior world championship title, finishing 37 laps ahead of the runners-up.
“They have made Whyalla proud and shown the world what our young people and our city are capable of achieving.” Mayor Stone said.
“We also thank their families, teachers, mentors, sponsors and the wider Whyalla community for supporting them throughout their journey.”
Mayor Stone also joined council representatives and members of the community to commemorate Vietnam Veterans’ Day and honour all Australians who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War.
He paid special tribute to Whyalla’s L/Cpl Richard John “Rick” Abraham, who was born in Whyalla in 1946 and attended local schools before being called up for National Service. Rick served with the 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment and was tragically killed in action in Vietnam on 6 July 1969, aged just 22.
Mayor Stone, CEO Justin Commons, Cr Bill Simpson, Cr Peter Borda and Cr Zia Westerman attended the service, which included the laying of wreaths in remembrance of those who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“It was an honour to join our community in paying tribute to Australia’s Vietnam veterans and ensuring the stories of local servicemen such as Rick Abraham are never forgotten,” Mayor Stone said.
Another milestone was the official ground-breaking ceremony for Whyalla’s new Splash and Play Plaza, marking the beginning of construction on the much-anticipated community project.
Mayor Stone promoted the project through interviews with 5AA and ABC Radio, while also continuing to advocate for Whyalla through meetings with the Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association, Spencer Gulf Cities and fellow Eyre Peninsula mayors.
Other engagements included welcoming new Australian citizens, attending the graduation of the first Heavy Industry Multi-Skills Program cohort, meeting with senior SAPOL representatives and welcoming SA Chamber of Mines and Energy CEO Catherine Mooney.
Whyalla’s month-long Mental Health Matters Round has also came to an end after bringing the community together through local sport and activities promoting connection, physical activity and positive mental wellbeing.
“Thank you to every club, organisation, volunteer, participant and community member who supported Mental Health Matters Round,” Mayor Stone said.
“While the official program may have concluded, its message remains important, look after your wellbeing, check in with those around you and reach out when you need support.”
Council is also reminding dog and cat owners that annual registrations must be renewed by the end of August. Animal details and registrations can be updated through the Dogs and Cats Online website.