Don't Overdue It

This month we uncover the quirky history of some of Mount Gambier's long-lost pubs. From fire to fraud to the pubs with no beer, this fun and fascinating episode will take you through scandals and surprises as we toast the bars that time has forgot.

In this episode, we share powerful community stories from the Mount Gambier Library Storytelling Campaign. Through short recordings, locals reflect on the meaningful, and sometimes life-changing, experiences they’ve had with the library—highlighting its role as a place of connection, learning, and inspiration

This month we’re talking with Mount Gambier’s Youth Activation Group (YAG), a passionate group of young volunteers aged 15–25 creating youth‑focused events and driving change alongside Council. Hear their stories, their passion, and their vision for Mount Gambier’s future.

An exploration of the early days of aviation in Mount Gambier, highlighting the first flights and the local stories that helped shape our region’s connection to the skies.

Meet Susea Spray- retired teacher, photographer, and now a cruising sailor turned award‑winning children’s author. After leaving Adelaide in 2013 to live aboard a traditional big blue sailing boat, Susea has travelled across three oceans, explored extraordinary places, and transformed her adventures into lyrical stories for young readers. Her A Big Blue Boat series, born during the quiet of the Co...

In the 1890s, fear swept through Tantanoola and the surrounding districts as a mysterious predator stalked the countryside. Was it a tiger, a leopard, or something else entirely? Join us as we unravel the legend of the Tantanoola Tiger—a gripping tale of mystery, media frenzy, and the unexpected culprit behind the chaos.

This month we dive into the crystal waters of the Blue Lake/Warwar. From its colour-shifting magic to monster myths, this iconic landmark has inspired art, literature, and even a yodel! Join us as we explore the science and folklore behind one of Australia’s most famous wonders.

Think libraries are just about books? Think again! Our after-school STEM sessions are packed with hands-on projects that teach science, technology, engineering, and math inthe most exciting ways. Hear how we’re helping kids explore, invent, and dream big—one experiment at a time.

Run by the bold and enigmatic Catherine Temple, Kitty Temples Tavern became a magnet for scandal, sly grog rumours, and enduring folklore. Though hard evidence of wrongdoing is scarce, Kitty’s reputation grew into legend and over time, fact blurred with fiction, cementing her place in Mount Gambier’s colourful pub history.

Bianca Richardson is a Limestone Coast illustrator and graphic designer with a love for delightfully wonky lines. When she’s not illustrating children’s books, she’s building an exciting creative life right where her roots run deep. An advocate for regional talent, Bianca proves you don’t need a big city to chase big dreams, make a big impact, or inspire a thriving creative community.

Back by popular demand, YouTube creator Greg Buck returns for Adult Learners Week with fresh skills, new stories, and even bigger Dirty Socks adventures. From tech novice to confident online creator, Greg’s journey proves it’s never too late to learn something new. Dirty Socks YouTube Channel

It was meant to be the start of a new life together—but within weeks, it became a nightmare. This episode unravels the chilling events of a short-lived marriage that ended in violence and death in Roseville, and the dramatic consequences that followed. A murder. A trial. An execution. And a hangman who refused to do his job. This is the true story of love turned fatal—and justice carried out with...

When was the last time you tried something for the first time? Each July, Firstival transforms over 130 libraries across South Australia into vibrant spaces of discovery. With hundreds of free or low-cost beginner-friendly events, people of all ages are invited to explore new skills and experiences. Join us as Firstival redefines what it means to be part of a modern library community.

The Valley Lake / Ketla Malpi has always been more than just a scenic spot — it’s a place where memories are made. In this episode, longtime residents of Mount Gambier share heartfelt stories of their time by the lake. From boat races and family picnics to swimming, daring dives off Nurses Landing, and even encounters with an aggressive swan, these memories offer a fun and nostalgic look back at d...

From the deserts of Egypt to our very own Limestone Coast, author Nicole Alexander shares the journeys—both real and imagined—that inspired her latest bestselling historical novel, The Limestone Road.

In this episode, we chat with Ryan Pearson, the passionate Dungeon Master behind the Mount Gambier Library’s Dungeons & Dragons group. He explains what D&D is all about, what makes a great Dungeon Master, and how the game fosters creativity and brings people together. Ryan shares the story of how the group was formed and some memorable moments from their sessions, highlighting the power of...

High School English teacher, voracious reader and Award- winning Australian author and playwright, Margaret Hickey loves a sunburnt country. From our rugged mountain ranges, far horizons and sweeping plains, the Australian landscape is where the beauty and the terror combine for Margaret create her award winning crime novels. During her recent visit to the Mount Gambier Library we chatted about th...

For this episode, we journey back to May 10, 1897, when the tranquil town of Mount Gambier was thrown into chaos by a sudden and violent earthquake. Hear about the extensive damage it caused, fears of volcanic eruptions, and the surprising theories about the quake's origins that emerged in the aftermath.

Happy 15th, Mount Gambier Library! We’re joined by the some of the team who opened the doors all those years ago. Get the inside scoop on the early days and hear what made that first day unforgettable!

You could argue that Margaret Pink is as iconic to Mount Gambier as our famous Blue Lake. As one of Australia’s most successful Tupperware ladies, if she hasn’t been to your house, there is a high chance she’s visited your mum's or nan's. Marg has built a career that’s as enduring as the items she sells, and after 57 years in the game, she joins us to chat about her life built upon her favourite f...

Research scientist, firefighter, and debut sci-fi writer, Wayne Richardson is all three. In this episode we sit down with the Mount Gambier local just before his official book launch here at the Mount Gambier Library, as he shares the sparks that fuel his creativity, the joy of writing, and what happens when your publisher goes into liquidation just days after your debut novel is released.

Travel back to September 1867, when a quiet Sunday in Evelyn Street, now known as Krummel Street Mount Gambier was shattered by a horrific act of violence. Eliza Goodridge, a mother and wife, endured a brutal attack by her husband Henry in their modest home, suffering multiple stab wounds and a severe cut to the throat. Join us as we explore the chilling details of this tragic case and the content...

In this heartwarming episode, we take a nostalgic journey back in time as we hear from older generations who share their fondest memories of having fun in their youth. From a night out at the Kings Theatre to a dance at the Barn, our guests reminisce about the joy, freedom, and spontaneity that defined their younger days. Join us as we explore the different ways they "let their hair down&quot...

This Library and Information Week join us as we celebrate the remarkable legacies and the progress of women in politics. Learn about the ground-breaking history of women’s suffrage in South Australia, to Mount Gambier electing the State’s first female Mayor. We shine a spotlight on the pioneering Lenore Bishop, and chat with our current Mayor Lynette Martin OAM. Dive into the rich history of women...

Join us for this episode of ‘Don’t Overdue It’ as we dive into the innovative and community-focused world of the Mount Gambier Library's "Library of Things" collection. From ice cream makers to movie projectors and metal detectors, learn how you can borrow a range of fun and useful items. Discover the stories behind the collection, the most popular items, and how this initiative is b...