Wet and wild conditions have swept through the region this week with coastal communities placed on high alert for erosion and potential flooding.

Former Mount Gambier resident and well-known cave diver Josh Richards also made international headlines after joining the rescue efforts at Laos.

ABC South East SA reporter Samuel O'Brien headed to Southend, Beachport and Kingston where he explained the sogging and high tide warnings to a national audience on ABC News Breakfast.

We have also seen the South Australian 2026-27 State Budget handed down, hydrogen harvesting being touted as a resource of the future and the District Council of Robe detailing its financial struggles due to erosion and low government grants.

As we head into the long weekend, Casterton will come alive with the Australian Kelpie Muster. The picturesque Victorian town's population will swell with dog lovers and tail-wagging kelpies taking over the main street.

Thanks to Ashley Quinsey for sharing this adorable photo of a kelpie taking part in the activities at Casterton.

Have a great long weekend, drive safe on our roads and tune in to our weekday and Saturday Breakfast programs on ABC South East SA radio, via ABC Listen or stream us live via our website.

Stay warm and thanks for reading our newsletter!

And remember, if you have a story idea or a news tip, drop an email to abcsoutheast@abc.net.au.

Sandra Morello

ABC South East SA editor

South Australia's State Emergency Service warns people not to risk their safety as abnormally high tides are set to lash the state's coastline.

It's been about for a century, but companies are springing to action to find "gold hydrogen" underground around the country, as Australia and the world strive to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

South Australian Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis has unveiled the 2026-27 state budget. Here are the winners and losers. 

Josh Richards is on his way back to Australia, after multiple days helping rescue miners trapped in a Laos cave.

Josh Richards has made news for his diving and his interplanetary ambitions. Now he's using his skills to try to rescue others. 

Just 12 months ago, Australian sheepskins were worthless and dumped in landfill. They are now in hot demand amid a surging merino wool industry.