Federal Member for Grey Tom Venning has launched a public petition calling on the Federal Government to fund a Doppler weather radar for the Lower Eyre Peninsula.
Mr Venning says the region currently sits at the outer limits of existing Bureau of Meteorology radars in Ceduna and Adelaide, creating significant gaps in real‑time weather coverage.
He argues this lack of accurate and timely weather data has serious implications for farmers, fishers and emergency services operating across the Lower Eyre Peninsula, which is home to a major agricultural sector and the Southern Hemisphere’s largest fishing fleet.
According to Mr Venning, the distance from the nearest radars means radar beams are too high in the atmosphere by the time they reach the Lower Eyre Peninsula, effectively leaving the area as a weather “blind spot”.
The petition is calling for Federal Government funding for a dedicated Doppler radar to improve weather monitoring and safety outcomes for the region.
Mr Venning says improved coverage is critical for agricultural planning, fishing operations and emergency response, particularly during severe weather events.
He has welcomed a commitment of $5 million from Member for Flinders Sam Telfer and the SA Liberal Party towards a new Doppler radar if elected, but says further Federal investment is needed to deliver the project.
“By signing this petition, you are telling the State and Federal Government that the Eyre Peninsula deserves the same level of coverage as the rest of Australia,” Mr Venning said.
“It is incredibly frustrating that one of the most productive regions in Australia is forced to operate in a dangerous weather blind spot.”
