lifestyle
The Mortlock Chamber at the State Library of South Australia.
SA's library among the world's finest
The State Library of South Australia isn’t just about turning pages, but also turning heads, having been crowned the second most beautiful library in world.
The honour was bestowed upon the library in August at the 1000 Libraries Awards 2025, thanks to thousands of book lovers from across the world casting their votes.
Designed in the French Renaissance style, the building opened in 1884 and was once home to the public library, museum and art gallery. With more than 40,000 books lining the shelves, ornate balconies and tiered galleries, a visit to the Mortlock Chamber feels like stepping into the pages of a grand, old-world storybook.
First place was awarded to the Harry Potter-esque Library of Trinity College in Dublin. The majority of the other libraries in the top 10 are located in Europe.
Celebrate the magic of the State Library this holiday season, when the Mortlock Chamber shines with Adelaide’s largest indoor Christmas tree and festive activities for the young and young at heart.
Visit slsa.sa.gov.au to learn more about the State Library of South Australia.
What's the most energy-efficient way to cool my home?
South Australia is no stranger to extreme heat. Last summer, the Bureau of Meteorology recorded a sweltering SA-wide average maximum of 37.3 degrees Celsius. RAA Product and Pricing Manager Tom Graue shares his top tips for efficiently cooling your home.
Air-conditioners are often the first thing that come to mind when we want to cool our home. But
they also mean higher power bills. Before you hit the on switch, there are a few quick, low-cost alternatives to help keep your home cool.
With up to 30 per cent of unwanted heat coming through windows, keeping blinds or curtains closed during the day can significantly reduce indoor temperatures.
Ceiling and pedestal fans can cost mere cents per hour to run, and can make you feel up to 3C–4C cooler by circulating air – even if the actual room temperature doesn’t change.
If you must switch on the aircon, make sure it’s serviced before summer, so it runs efficiently.
Setting the thermostat to the coldest temperature may cost you big bucks. Each degree cooler than 25C can increase running costs by up to 10 per cent, so instead set the thermostat to between 23C–26C.
Once your home is cool, seal up the gaps with draught stoppers around doors and windows to stop hot air sneaking in and cool air escaping.
Switch your ceiling fans to ‘summer’ mode, and continue keeping those blinds and curtains drawn.
If you own your home, long-term improvements may help with ongoing future costs.
A well-insulated ceiling can cut up to 35 per cent of heat gain, while adding or upgrading double glazing or tinted films on windows can reduce radiant heat entering your home.
If you’re in the market for a new air-conditioner, the latest models with high star ratings can use up to 40 per cent less energy than older units.
RAA’s network of Trade Assist tradies can help with insulation and unit maintenance and replacements.
Strategically planting trees or using large pot plants to shade around windows and outdoor walls can also cut temperatures inside by several degrees.
With these tricks up your sleeve, you can keep cool this summer without breaking a sweat worrying about your bill.
Looking for a fairer energy deal? Find the right plan for you at raa.com.au/energy or call 8202 8118 to speak with one of our experts.
Tips for choosing your ride
A mobility scooter is a great way to maintain your independence but deciding to buy one can be daunting. We answer some of our member’s commonly asked questions.
Do I need a driver’s licence?
No, you don’t need a driver’s licence to use a mobility scooter. However, if you have a pre-existing medical condition that prevents you from driving a car or you’re taking certain medications, it may affect your ability to safely use one. Check with your doctor first to ensure your hearing, coordination and reaction time are up to scratch.
How much does a mobility scooter cost?
Mobility scooters cost between $3000 and $6000 with your RAA member discount. If price is a barrier, you may be eligible to receive My Aged Care assistance, with your contribution based on what you can afford.
How far can I travel on a single charge?
The distance you can travel depends on the terrain. Hilly areas will cause the battery to work harder than when driving on flat terrain. Other factors include the weight the scooter is carrying (including your weight), and the size of the battery.
As a guide, a small scooter may travel up to 20km on a single charge, while a more powerful model could have a range of more than 40km. Consult the scooter’s manual about battery performance and maximum range to find out more.
Am I covered by RAA Road Service?
Yes. If you hold any level of RAA Road Service and your mobility scooter breaks down, has a punctured tyre or the battery runs flat, RAA can help get you moving again.
Can I test drive before I buy?
You can test a range of mobility scooters at your local RAA Shop or book a free in-home demonstration if you’re in metro Adelaide or select regional areas.
For help choosing a mobility scooter, chat to one of our friendly experts on 1800 251 254 or visit raa.com.au/mobility-scooters
What's open on Christmas Day in SA?
Looking to get out and about on Christmas Day? Go wild with a day out at one of SA’s top wildlife experiences. Head to Monarto Safari Park, Adelaide Zoo, or Urimbirra Wildlife Park in Victor Harbor for a festive day with furry, feathered and fanged friends.
From the wild to wildflowers, pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the grounds of Adelaide, Mount Lofty, and Wittunga Botanic Gardens, or the Arid Lands Botanic Gardens in Port Augusta. Just be aware that cafes and indoor facilities may be closed.
Too hot in the summer sun? Many movie theatres remain open, so escape the heat for the cool comfort of the cinema.
Find member discounts at raa.com.au/rewards
IMAGES: Getty; RAA; State Library of South Australia/Toby Woolley.
