As the clip-on ties are being fixed and the stilettos slipped on, Kembla Grange trainer Kerry Parker will be traversing Mount Ousley on his way to Royal Randwick for The Everest race day – the jewel in the crown of the Everest Spring Carnival. Parker had two runners in the inaugural running of the King Charles III Stakes in 2023 – the undercard to The Everest race on the day, which would have many monarchists clutching their proverbial pearl necklace. “There’s no doubt the Everest has taken off and grabbed the public interest,” Parker said “It’s a huge day.” Parker, who rode as an amateur for "just the one" meeting at his home track of Kembla Grange, snagged a double which included “the cup”, but also trained a horse which captured the hearts of the Illawarra with racehorse Think It Over. When asked about the great moments the horse racing industry has provided, he can’t go past the duels Think It Over had with the Annabel Neasham trained Zaaki, but conceded seeing his owners smile from ear to ear is the tonic water [unless you're cutting weight]. “The race against Zaaki in the Seven Stakes, they [both horses] were absolutely brilliant,” he said. “I really enjoyed his clashes with Zaaki and I got terrific pleasure out of watching them - the determination of my horse and the great rides by Nash [Rawiller] beat Zaaki. “But to win anywhere, it’s all about winning. If you can win races for your owners – sometimes that is a big relief.” There is something outside of a horse, that is good for the inside of a man - unknown From royalty to reporters - figures like Everest runner Tempted 's owner His Royal Highness Sheikh Mohammed and the late journalist Mike Willesee, have been many who have backed Australian racing and for Parker the best owners are the ones who don't pile on the pressure."There wasn't a lot of pressure there because Richard Johnson, who owned him, is terrific to train for," he said."His [Think It Over] first start for me was a race at Hawkesbury and to go from there, we have been able to just enjoy the ride."During The Everest Spring Carnival, which is being hosted by the Australian Turf Club, the NSW government is conducting a Review of the Thoroughbred Racing Act 1996, but it seems there are some within the horse racing industry that are not aware. With the consultation process beginning on 30 September until 24 November, Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said “the review of the Thoroughbred Racing Act 1996 is a critical piece of work that the NSW Government is undertaking”. “The NSW government supports a thriving and sustainable racing industry across metropolitan, provincial, and country areas. “The racing industry is a key contributor to the states employment, supports small business, and has a significant impact on our economy.”Shadow Minister for Gaming and Racing Kevin Anderson said the NSW Coalition would continue to rally behind the industry. “The NSW Coalition is proud to support the NSW Thoroughbred racing industry which continues to gallop well ahead of the other states,” Anderson said. “The Everest Spring Carnival is another opportunity for thoroughbred racing to hit its stride and showcase our great state to the nation of the world.“The Coalition has a strong history of supporting thoroughbred racing, particularly country racing, investing $67 million on regional racetrack upgrades – a first for NSW.”As part of the review’s outline, it does not include provisions within the Act that establish Racing NSW as a body corporate that is independent of government. Parker has two runners on Everest Stakes day, with one of his runners considered an omen among the 'angel numbers' – Race 2 - Horse Number 11 - Flying Bandit - Barrier Number 11 - which jumps at 1:05pm AESDT.For more information on the review or how to be apart of the consultation head to: https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/tra-review

Shoalhaven City Council is adamant that upgrades to six roads are on track despite Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips questioning the lack of progress from $40 million in Federal Government funding.Phillips on Thursday called on Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White to publicly update the community on the status of local road upgrades after Council received the $40 million Shoalhaven Roads Package in 2022.The six roads in question are Forest Road, Callala Beach Road, Callala Bay Road, Culburra Road, the Coonemia/Currarong/Callala Bay Road intersection and the Greenwell Point/Worrigee Road intersection.“I delivered the funds three years ago, this month, but there continues to be little communication from the Shoalhaven Mayor on the progress of the road works,” she said.Phillips added “ratepayers just want their roads fixed”.“It’s beyond belief that I delivered $40 million in the federal budget three years ago, specifically to fix six key local roads, and yet what does the Shoalhaven Mayor have to show for it?“The least the Mayor could do is tell locals what’s going on and when their roads are going to be fixed.“It’s a bit rich of the Mayor calling for more money when the funding I delivered three years ago has not been spent.”Council responded with a statement to say the first instalment of funding was received in July last year and is work is being undertaken in three phases over a three-year period to be completed by late 2027. As part of the funding agreement with the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts, the Council project team provides monthly updates to the federal department and quarterly updates to Phillips. Council said the first phase of scoping was now complete after road safety analysis, road condition analysis, concept sketches and cost estimates were done. The project team is now in the design phase - that includes flood modelling to improve the resilience of access to towns and villages - which will determine the delivery schedule of the road projects. “The scoping phase has involved a lot of surveying, research and analysis which may appear like work is not progressing, but it’s certainly on track and part of the process of major infrastructure projects,” said acting director of city services, Kevin Norwood. “A thorough scoping phase ensures that the funding is allocated to the areas that need it most and the areas that will provide the greatest benefit to the community. “We now move to the second phase which includes detailed design for all sites, land acquisition process for Worrigee intersection and flood studies on impacted roads." The works schedule will be finalised and publicly available in February. Residents will start to see action in March when the electrical and water utility relocations are set to begin at the two intersection sites. The project will improve the durability and safety of the roads through pavement reconstruction, widening, signage, line marking, guardrail and intersection upgrades. More information is readily available on Council’s project page.

UNDER 8 MIXED TAG DRAGONS VS MUD CRABS

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing in Shellharbour.Sophia Pro-Whitfield, aged 13, was last seen at a shopping centre in Shellharbour about 8pm on Thursday.When she could not be located or contacted, Lake Illawarra Police District officers were contacted and started inquiries to locate her.Police hold concerns for Sophia’s welfare due to her age.Sophia is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 160cm tall, of a thin build, with an olive complexion, and dyed red hair.She was last seen wearing a long-sleeved camouflaged top and khaki pants.Sophia is known to frequent the Shellharbour and Dapto areas.Anyone who has information on Sophia’s whereabouts are urged to contact Lake Illawarra Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The Bugle’s gardening column, featuring local expert John Gabriele, will help you get the best out of your patch all year round.There’s nothing better than spring - the sun is shining, the garden’s calling, and it’s the perfect time for a good nursery ramble. Picking out beautiful new plants is one of life’s simplest (and most satisfying) pleasures.Spring isn’t just about flowers either - there are some incredible foliage plants that really shine this time of year.One of my favourites is a small Australian native: Acmena smithii ‘Forest Flame’. This beauty produces lush new growth in a rich, burgundy tone - it’s absolutely stunning. It does flower with small white blooms, but this variety is mainly grown for its striking foliage. Give it a regular trim when it’s young, and you’ll encourage more of that vibrant new growth to keep coming through.It’s a fantastic choice for our local conditions, thriving in a wide range of soils and perfect for native gardens.Another foliage standout is Loropetalum ‘Plum Gorgeous’. As the name suggests, its deep plum-coloured leaves are the main attraction - complemented by bright pink fringe flowers that give it its other name: Chinese Fringe Flower.‘Plum Gorgeous’ works beautifully as a feature shrub or trimmed into a hedge. The more you clip it, the more colour you’ll see - making it a rewarding addition to any garden.If you’re looking for groundcovers that bring a burst of colour, you can’t go past Osteospermum. The variety I’ve been enjoying lately is called ‘3D Steel Blue’. It’s a hardy little plant, often called a seaside daisy or Boneseed, and it thrives in sunny, coastal conditions - perfect for areas exposed to salt winds.It’s tough, low-maintenance, and flowers prolifically through spring with those eye-catching daisy-like blooms.Prefer to go native? The Rhodanthe is another wonderful groundcover, producing paper-like white flowers with pink buds and soft glaucous foliage. Plant it en masse, and your garden will look incredible. These are great in native-themed landscapes or anywhere you want a delicate touch of colour.For something a little different, check out Convolvulus. The variety I like has silver foliage, which makes it another excellent pick for coastal gardens. Silver leaves usually mean good salt tolerance, and it’s topped off with masses of white, funnel-shaped flowers. After flowering, give it a quick clip and it’ll reward you for years to come.I also love using Bracteantha (commonly called strawflower) as a filler plant. This Aussie native has papery daisy blooms in a rainbow of colours - from orange to pink, white, red and yellow. They’re just starting to bud now, but as the weather warms, they’ll burst open with colour.Another bonus? Once they’re done flowering, you can harvest the dried heads for seed. Store them away, sow them in April, and you’ll have a fresh flush of blooms next spring.And who can resist a little thrift? Armeria maritima is a charming border plant with cheerful flowers and excellent salt tolerance. It’s compact, hardy, and looks fantastic tucked among shrubs or planted along pathways.So this spring, get out in the garden, support your local nursery, and enjoy a good old-fashioned nursery ramble. There’s no better time to get planting!

A man has died following a motorbike crash in Nowra on Friday morning.About 5.40am, emergency services were called to Dudley Ave, Nowra, near Berry Street, following reports of a single motorcycle crash.NSW Ambulance responded and treated a man – believed to be aged in his 40s – however he couldn’t be resuscitated and died at the scene.Officers attached to South Coast Police District responded and established a crime scene.Berry Street, Nowra was closed, but has since reopened.A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Today marks the 100th anniversary of Seven Mile Beach in Gerroa being the unlikely venue for a moment in history when the 100 miles per hour barrier was broken on the sands. After the Daily Guardian newspaper put up a £50 reward for the first person in Australia to reach the milestone, Don Harkness - an engineer from Sydney - wrote his name into the record books at Gerroa. Back then the beach was known as the Gerringong Speedway, a place where motoring enthusiasts would gather to attend car races hosted by the Royal Automobile Club of Australia. After the first event in May 1925, the Daily Telegraph reported that: “It was by no means an auspicious beginning, as the rain had made conditions anything but pleasant.“Many a car became bogged in the sand on the way to the racing track, while the roads leading down to the beach were so treacherous that at least 20 cars had to be abandoned for the night on the hillside.”Harkness built a speed machine after importing an Overland chassis from the United States.He called his new car “Whitey” and equipped it wih a Hispano Suiza aeroplane engine in his bid to break the national record. On 17 October, 1925, he not only became the first Australian driver to go past the 100mp/h barrier but he reached 107.75m/h (173km/h) as he motored along the flat stretches of Seven Mile Beach.According to a report in The Sunday Times, “the run was made under the worst of conditions seen for years with danger hidden in every sand hole.” A crowd of around 2000 people cheered him in his high-octane mission along the sands.Seven Mile Beach was a popular place for motor racing enthusiasts with clubs from Goulburn, Nowra and Sydney travelling to Gerroa to strut their stuff at the “Speedway”.South Coast History Society, in its recent Recollections issue, recalls that Gerringong Congregational Church took exception to the Club hosting beach racing on the Sabbath with the Nowra Leader reporting “the beach should then not be disturbed by racing on a Sabbath, so that the gentle roll and lapping of the waves on the sea shore will, in the future, continue in its quietude undisturbed”.Council then announced “In view of the council’s resolution not to permit Sunday racing, the club is to be advised to arrange such fixtures for Saturdays.”The beach was also used regularly for horse racing, which had started in the 1860s.Seven Mile Beach was also used as the runway for the first commercial flight between Australia and New Zealand in 1933. Cars lined the beach, shining their headlights to help the pilot, Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith, successfully take off at 2.30am, with thousands of spectators also watching on.Harkness continued his daredevil racing exploits until he was involved in a crash in 1935 and decided to retire.

When the doors of Kiama Police Station swung open again this week, it wasn’t just the return of a local service - it was a moment laden with political theatre. Closed, only for a few months for some internal roof and internal renovations, the station’s reopening has been pitched by recently sworn-in Kiama MP, Katelin McInerney and the NSW Labor Government as part of the “broader plan to rebuild the NSW Police Force”. But ultimately, at its core, it was really about providing safe workplaces for the men and women who protect our community.For residents, particularly in our tight-knit community, the reopening may be a welcome symbol of stability and relief. Reports of vandalism, petty theft, intimidation in public spaces, and drug-related incidents have stirred unease. Youth crime, while far from rampant and certainly not of the scale that is being experienced in Victoria, has placed a spotlight on the readiness and visibility of law enforcement. In particular, Operational Regional Mongoose, a regional police operation specifically set up to investigate and tackle serious property-related crime committed predominantly by young offenders has been active in Kiama and the Illawarra in recent months. The Minns Labor Government has framed the Station’s return as more than a photo opportunity. The media release announcing the reopening is titled “Building a Safer NSW: Minns Government reopens Kiama Police Station to strengthen local crime prevention”. The strong language continues in describing the former Liberal-National Government as having “no plan for police recruitment, no plan for police retention and having sent wages back for more than a decade”.The Bugle does not disagree. Labor’s election platform emphasised reversing cuts to regional policing, increasing frontline service hours and re-establishing a presence – and the Minns Government is hitting the mark. Yet, the reopening sits at an interesting crossroads in public debate. Yes, the community welcomes the return to a permanent presence, but on its own, a staffed station will not solve entrenched issues that push younger people toward crime.School disengagement and ongoing social pressures are powerful drivers. And the more systemic challenges - from housing instability, a lack of local and long-term employment opportunities - will remain.After all, re-opening a police station does not automatically “strengthen local crime prevention”, particularly if it’s only operating from 9am to 5pm. Real focus needs to be placed on our youth and ensuring they remain active and engaged in their schooling, or vocational education. Ensuring there are opportunities for our next generation to genuinely feel like they can be positive and contributory members of our society is the only way to shift at-risk youths onto a different course.The Bugle’s View is that creating job opportunities, supporting local businesses and industry, addressing cost of living pressures and ensuring there are housing options for all, is the substance that will keep our community safe and prosperous alongside an active police station.

Within the space of four years, a wife became a carer for her husband, and he became a carer for her – this is just one of the many life experiences that make up the Illawarra ME/CFS, FM & Long COVID Support Group. Deirdre Backhouse, co-coordinator of the group, explained to The Bugle that while other members may not fully understand what others experience, the group aims to offer support to people who reach out, regardless of the severity of their illness. “The Support Group was just tremendous in helping us deal with the anger, frustration and disbelief that your whole life has changed,” she said. “It [inherent disabilities or acquired injuries or disability] impacts the carer very much as well as the person who is ill for whatever reason.” An inherent disability can be described as a condition that a person or human is born with and an acquired injury and/or disability typically is inferred from accidents, illnesses, or other medical events.   For National Carers Week which runs from 12-18 October, recognising and celebrating carers is the focus and the theme is “You are, know, or will be one”, which surmises the statistics of Australians who provide care to a family member or friend – close to almost 10 per cent of the population or nearly three million Australians. For many full-time carers, it consists of round-the-clock care and it can be all-consuming. “Caregivers juggle responsibilities like coordinating appointments, keeping track of medications and symptoms, managing daily routines, advocating within healthcare and educational settings, and offering emotional support,” Deirdre said. While there is support for carers within non-governmental organisations, Deirdre concedes the support from government departments can be frustrating at times, especially with the NDIS.    “Because the science has not caught up with illnesses, and this could be for lots of reasons too,” she said. “It means that we can’t apply, or it's very difficult to get funding from the NDIS, because the administration hasn’t caught up with the science.” When asked if the relevant government agencies provide the necessary structure to carers, Deirdre said that there is a need for greater collaboration and the simplification of government agencies and/or services. Within the Illawarra ME/CFS, FM & Long COVID Support Group is affiliated with Emerge Australia which is the leading national patient organisation for ME/CFS in Australia and is trusted by the government to provide evidence-based advice.ME stands for myalgic encephalomyelitis, CFS is chronic fatigue syndrome and FS is fibromyalgia syndrome.In November 2024, the Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler MP opened the event Parliamentary Friends For ME/CFS at Parliament House in Canberra, where Emerge Australia CEO Anne Wilson thanked Minister Butler for guiding a $1.13 million funding commitment earlier in 2024. The event called on Australia’s leaders to commit to: investing in clinical education, ensuring equitable access to health care, the NDIS and other disability supports and advancing research into ME/CFS. For the carers of Australia during this week of recognition Deirdre, and the Illawarra ME/CFS, FM and Long COVID support group have this message: “To our caregivers in the community, thank you for your respect, compassion and patience among many other incredible personal qualities that connect us to a better quality of life”. For more information on the Illawarra ME/CFS, FM and Long COVID Support Group head to: https://mecfsfmwollongong.org/about-usUnited as one and many Photo: Supplied

Shoalhaven City Council has been instructed by SafeWork NSW to provide greater support to Councillors to manage the risk of psychosocial hazards within the workplace. Following a review of psychosocial safety, the workplace health and safety regulator has issued two Improvement Notices. It has directed the organisation to consult with Councillors with regards to managing the risk of psychosocial hazards in the workplace, and to provide Councillors with information, training and instruction regarding acceptable workplace interactions or behaviours. New Council CEO Andrew Constance said SafeWork NSW had not advised him of the specific nature of complaints but he took the matters very seriously. “As CEO, I have a responsibility to ensuring this is a safe workplace for everybody and while these notices relate to Councillors, I am committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels supported and valued,” he said. “This request provides a valuable opportunity to review our practices, strengthen our support systems, and ensure we are meeting our obligations under the Work Health and Safety legislation.“SafeWork have not advised me of the specific nature of the complaints as it would be inappropriate for them to do so. "However, I am committed to working with staff, Councillors and SafeWork NSW to ensure we are exceeding the requirements of these notices."The findings require Council to remedy the matters by consulting with Councillors about managing psychosocial hazards in the workplace by 30 October and by providing training and instruction regarding workplace behaviour by 12 December.

Earlier this year, Shane Wilson from Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club was awarded the Cricket NSW Woolworths Cricket Blast Coordinator of the Year, following a 60% increase in program numbers during the 2024 season.Now, as Wilson prepares for another nine-week Woolworths Cricket Blast program - designed to teach kids the basics of the game - he hopes to achieve similar success.“We went from 26 to 42 in one season,” said Wilson. “But we’ve had a bit of a hiccup this time - Cricket Australia’s geo-locator wasn’t showing our program properly until last week, so people couldn’t find us.“Because of that, we’re currently sitting at around 22 to 25 registrations. Now that the issue’s been fixed and school’s back in full swing, we’re hoping to boost those numbers this week.”Wilson said he was humbled to receive the statewide award, but emphasised it was far from a solo effort.“I think it’s important to acknowledge it was a team effort. I had Nathan and Mel Battishall come on board last year, and they made a huge difference to the program. We worked together on a lot of it.”One of the keys to the program’s popularity was its focus on fun and creativity, rather than just cricket skills.“We really tried to make it more engaging and not solely cricket-focused,” said Wilson. “Mel created a planner where each week had a theme. Some of the favourites included Pizza Week, Silly Socks Week, BBQ Week, Water Cricket, and more.”Sessions run for an hour and a half, starting with around 50 minutes of skill-based stations, where kids are grouped by age or ability. After a short break - usually with Zooper Doopers and sometimes fruit (thanks to Woolies) - the kids head back out for informal games.“They go out and play their own games of cricket, often with their parents and siblings,” said Wilson. “It’s not just standing around waiting to bat or bowl - we set up three or four mini-games to keep everyone moving and having fun.”Wilson’s passion for the program comes from personal experience, having seen the impact it had on his own son.“Someone did this for my boy years ago - back when it was called Milo Cricket - and it made a huge difference,” he said.“Last year, my eldest - who’s now 13 - played senior cricket with me. And this year, we’ve brought back a fourth-grade team made up mostly of dads and kids. Just last weekend, we had six kids playing, some as young as 11, alongside their parents.”“It’s about building connection through sport. And really, where else would you rather be than Black Beach on a Friday afternoon? Parents bring a picnic rug, have a chat, and grab some pizza. The atmosphere is just fantastic.”This year’s program starts Friday, October 17, and runs every Friday for nine weeks until December 12. Sessions are from 4:30 to 6:30pm, and the program is open to kids aged 5 to 10.“The first week is what we call a trial week,” said Wilson. “We encourage kids who’ve registered to bring a friend. We’re also promoting it through local schools to help build momentum.”There’s still time to register. You can sign up via the Kiama Cavaliers’ official Cricket Australia page.

Local residents are being invited to participate in a national research study on Alzheimer’s disease, conducted by Kiama-based company Evrima.Evrima, an organisation working to bridge the gap between clinical trials, patients and general practitioners, is calling on people living with early-stage Alzheimer’s - and their carers - to share their experiences and perspectives on current treatment options.“The aim is not only to understand their daily challenges, but also to explore what they value in potential treatments, including the benefits and drawbacks of various medication options,” said Evrima CEO and founder Charlotte Bradshaw.“This kind of research gives people a chance to have a say in future treatment options, and ideally, the findings will help shape future policy and clinical guidelines.”People aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with mild or early-stage Alzheimer’s - or who are caring for someone with the condition - are eligible to take part. The survey takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.“The type of study being conducted is known as patient preference research - a mix of market research and clinical research that looks at what patients want and need in their healthcare,” said Bradshaw.While patient preference studies do take place in Australia and internationally, Bradshaw said it’s uncommon for them to be offered in regional or rural communities.“In fact, I haven’t seen many opportunities like this reach communities such as Kiama in my career, and I hope this is the beginning of more to come.”Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of death for women in Australia, and the second leading cause for men, behind heart disease. In 2024, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimated there were 425,000 Australians living with dementia - equivalent to 16 people per 1000.Bradshaw believes studies like this should become more common in regional areas, where people may face very different experiences with the healthcare system.“Having this research available in Kiama and the wider Illawarra is significant. It ensures that voices from non-metro areas are heard, which is vital because access to healthcare can vary greatly outside major cities,” she said.“People in regional areas might face different challenges - especially with conditions like Alzheimer’s - and their experiences deserve to be represented in national and global research.”Evrima has also ensured flexible participation options are available, recognising many potential participants may not have time to spare.“We know that asking people - especially carers - to commit 20 to 25 minutes of their time can be a challenge, particularly when juggling work, family, and other responsibilities,” Bradshaw said.“That’s why, for this study (conducted in partnership with Capri), we’ve made it flexible. “Participants can either complete the survey online in their own time or schedule a phone call with a researcher, who will guide them through it. We want to make it as accessible as possible.”The study has been running for the past few months and will finish at the end of October. Evrima is looking for a few more participants from the Kiama area to complete the final phase. To participate or learn more, visit: https://www.evrima.com/active-trials

Illawarra Hawks’ NBL title defence is back on track after their ending their three-game losing skid to start the season.The Hawks thumped Brisbane Bullets 116-89 at WIN Entertainment Centre on Saturday and now turn their attention to a tough road trip to Melbourne this Saturday when they will take on the Phoenix, who have won two of their opening three matches.After making the difficult decision to sack import guard JaQuori McLaughlin last week less than a month into his contract, Illawarra played with much more cohesion against the Bullets.They shot out of the blocks to open up a 25-3 lead by the mid-point of the first quarter and never looked like losing from that point onwards.Hawks guard Tyler Harvey was the star of the show with a career-high 10 assists to complement his 22 points and five steals.Star import JaVale McGee was kept quiet with only 13 points with veteran forwards Todd Blanchfield and Mason Peatling matching that total.McGee also pulled down 12 rebounds while dominating the paint for the home side.Illawarra, who landed 11 of their 25 three-point attempts, led 34-18 after their blazing first quarter.They maintained their momentum in the second term to lead 68-47 at the main break and after going into the final break with an 18-point advantage, they were able to cruise to the finish.Harvey, Blanchfield and Peatling buried consecutive triples at the start of the fourth quarter to allow coach Justin Tatum to give his bench plenty of game time in the closing stages.Development guard Johnny Narkle opened his NBL account with a three-pointer while Biwali Bayles scored 12 points and four assists in his 20-minute stint.After taking on the Phoenix, the Hawks will take flight again next week for a Saturday night showdown against the Wildcats in Perth before returning to Wollongong on Halloween for a clash with New Zealand Breakers.

The local small business community is celebrating the success of one of its own, with The Collective Beat’s owner, Sheree Bailey, awarded the Next Gen Leader Award at the recent 2025 Flare Awards.Run by the Small Business Hub, the Flare Awards are not your typical business awards - they are a bold celebration of female operators who are redefining what success looks like in the small business world. Designed to shine a light on women making real moves, the Flare Awards recognise innovation, leadership and community impact.This is Sheree’s second consecutive Flare Award win, cementing her reputation as a leading female operator driving change across the South Coast.“My interpretation of a next-generation leader isn’t defined by a title, but by influence, action, and a genuine commitment to growing others while leaving a positive legacy,” she said. “Leadership is about people, community, and the impact we leave behind, and I feel honoured to be recognised for that.”With four stores across the South Coast and more than 80 small business vendors trading under its umbrella, The Collective Beat employs over 15 staff and continues to be a cornerstone of the regional economy. Beyond retail, it has become a hub for collaboration - providing artisans and entrepreneurs with the platform, support and mentoring needed to thrive.The Collective Beat drives local spending and tourism while contributing to a vibrant small business ecosystem where women and community-driven businesses are supported to grow, innovate and succeed.Locals and visitors are encouraged to explore The Collective Beat’s stores across the South Coast - shop small and continue to champion the businesses that keep our region thriving.

Bomaderry played the role of party poopers when they denied Oak Flats victory in their return to the South Coast first-grade competition in a two-run thriller at Geoff Shaw Oval.It was a round where games finished in nail-biters or massive victories with Shellharbour just scraping home by two wickets against North Nowra in another match that went right down to the wire. Premiers Lake Illawarra trounced Albion Park, Kiama did likewise to Ex-Servos while Bay and Basin Dolphins cruised to a five-wicket win over Kookas.The Rats looked like they would be celebrating their return to the top grade in style on their home turf after they bowled Bomaderry out for 150. Bomaderry captain Kealen Blattner got his team’s innings off to a blistering start from the top of the order with 44 from just 25 deliveries but opposing skipper Jack Bennett (4-22) and all-rounder Scott McAndrew (3-27) turned the tide.Oak Flats were on target at 4-119 but after McAndrew was stumped for 49, they collapsed to lose 6-29 to fall just three runs short.North Nowra skipper Nathan Thomas (73) and opener Nick McDonald (61) formed the backbone of their total of 241 at Bernie Regan Sports Ground Shellharbour were sailing along with Oran Pattison making 70 but after a middle-order collapse, they were looking shaky but skipper Alex Brown’s unbeaten 108 got them home with just one more batter in the shed.Lake belted 313 against Albion Park with captain Kerrod White top-scoring on 87 and tailenders Jaiden Robinson (49) and Jarryd White (50) going on with the job despite 5-59 from Matthew Burns.The Park lost their first four wickets cheaply and were never in the hunt despite fighting knocks by Aiden Campion (30) and Will Schofield (28).At Oakleigh Park, the Kookas batted out the 50 overs to put 8-188 on the board thanks to Michael Perry’s 59 and veteran opener Craig Bramble’s paitent 41.Dolphins seamer Brock Balgowan led the way with 4-24 in attack and in reply, the visitors rarely looked troubled as they hauled in the runs with 14 overs to spare after Riley Haig’s unbeaten 51 followed opener Daniel Hylton-Cummins’ 44.Kiama kicked off their season with a bang by thrashing Ex Servos 301-81 with Adam Ison (86) and David Coleman (60) the stars with the bat and Ison’s brother, Brad, among the wickets with 5-35.

Five teenagers have had their charges upgraded to murder, following an alleged fatal stabbing at Dunmore earlier this year.Emergency services were called to Saturn Crescent, Dunmore, about 3pm on Tuesday, 28 January after a 25-year-old man was found suffering serious stab wounds.He was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics but he could not be revived.Lake Illawarra Police District officers established Strike Force Feods and started an investigation into the incident with the assistance of State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.Initial investigations revealed the man had allegedly been stabbed during a fight involving a number of people who left in an SUV.The vehicle was later recovered in Albion Park Rail and seized for forensic examination.Police charged a 15-year-old boy and a 38-year-old woman with murder and they remain before the court. Six teenagers, aged between 12 and 15, were also charged in relation to the incident.On Tuesday, Lake Illawarra detectives charged five of those six teenagers – a 13-year-old boy, two boys aged 14, a 15-year-old girl, and 16-year-old boy – with murder.Two of those boys, aged 14 and 16, were also charged with affray.The oldest boy will appear in a children’s court next Tuesday (21 October).The remaining five teenagers will appear in a children’s court the following Tuesday (28 October).The woman was due to appear in Wollongong Local Court on Tuesday while the teenager originally charged with murder also remains before the courts and is next due to appear in a children’s court on 28 October.

Twenty-five Kiama triathletes are set to compete at the World Triathlon Championships in Wollongong which gets under way on Thursday.In one of the biggest events on the triathlon calendar, the championships has attracted around 7000 competitors - and 25 of them will be representing Kiama.“It’s a major deal, especially for the age group athletes,” said Kiama Triathlon Club vice president Geoff Besnard. “There can be hundreds of people competing for those few spots on the national team. It requires a serious commitment in terms of time, training, and effort - so making it here means you're really good.”Besnard explained that athletes qualify through a points-based system, with events held across the country. The top 25 triathletes in each five-year age group bracket earn a place on their national team.“For example, a win might earn you 25 points, second place a bit less, and so on,” he said. “Athletes then represent their national team at the Worlds.”The competition kicks off on Thursday with age group standard distance races. Friday features more age group events, including the sprint distance. Saturday is dedicated to the Para triathlon and the sprint relays, while Sunday is the big day for the professionals, with the standard distance program.“We’ve got 25 Kiama athletes competing - mainly on Thursday and Friday in the standard or sprint distances. A few are also doing aqua bike, which follows the standard distance format,” said Besnard.He said training conditions in the lead-up have been ideal. “The weather’s been kind, and the ocean is unusually warm - around 20°C - so swimming has been comfortable,” he said. “Kiama is a great place to train. Many of our athletes have been working with club coach Jody Lindsay, who runs several training squads.”Besnard described Wollongong as one of his favourite triathlon courses in the world. Swimmers taking on the Minnamurra River. Photo: Kiama Triathlon Club“It’s right in the middle of the city, which makes it really special. The swim starts in the harbour, goes out the entrance, then loops back in,” he said. “The bike course includes a tough hill coming out of the harbour, then heads north past the Innovation Campus. It’s flat and fast in sections, but with some challenging hills. The run course follows the water, loops around the lighthouse, and finishes at Lang Park - just behind South Beach.”He added that most of the Kiama athletes are familiar with the course, which could give them a slight edge. “Wollongong hosts a regular event each year, so most of our athletes have raced it multiple times. "Many have been training on the course - riding the bike route and swimming in the harbour. It’s only half an hour away, so it's definitely a local advantage,” he said.Representing Kiama will be: Ben Purcell, Bianca De Swardt, Cameron Griffin, Cameron Dribbus, Carmel Sloane, Carolyn Dews, Cheryl Freeman, Dane Sablowski, Danie Marie, Harry Fraser, Joseph Cutler, Joshua Frangos, Karina Frangos, Keelan Green, Gary Gordon, Kellyanne Wynen, Mark Ettridge, Mark Wynen, Mary Street, Matthew Charnock, Phil Hay, Pierre Paturel, Scott Krauss, Tanya Fraser, and Tereza Olbrecht.

For Illawarra musician Kane Calcite, music isn't just about melody, it's about meaning.His acoustic sound - a blend of folk, reggae and heartfelt storytelling - has quickly earned him a warm following. But for Kane, it's never been about chasing fame, it's always been about building connections with his audience.Photo: Supplied“Every show is different”, Kane says.“If it’s a small gig, it's raw storytelling. If it's a big one, you might get a lot more energy. I like that it changes - it keeps things interesting.”That creativity reflects the heart of Kane’s approach to music: honest, grounded, and deeply connected to nature.He credits the ocean and the bush for sparking his imagination.“If I’ve been stuck trying to write a song for a week, I’ll go for a swim or a walk in the bush,” he explains.“Weirdly enough, I'll come home and finally write something. It’s like magic - nature just rests me.”Photo: SuppliedKane’s passion for his community is just as strong as his love for songwriting.Alongside his manager, the pair launched Busking for Convoy, a campaign tied to the i98FM Illawarra Convoy that uses live music to raise funds for local families.“It’s about getting the local music community more involved,” he says. “Music brings people together - it draws them in and helps heal them.”That belief in the power of music extends to supporting other emerging artists.Through initiatives like Battle of the Bands for Convoy, Kane is helping give young musicians a platform to share their talent.His advice to them is simple: “Trust yourself. Don't try to change who you are to fit someone else’s sound - people want authenticity.”Kane is gearing up to release his debut album next year - a milestone that feels like the natural next step in his steady, heartfelt journey.“It’s exciting. It feels like I’m exactly where I need to be.”

Kiama Woodcraft Group once again opened its doors - or rather, its workbenches - for the annual exhibition and sale at the Kiama Fire Station.For locals, it was a chance to see first-hand the creativity, craftsmanship, and dedication that go into transforming timber into something truly special.The exhibition showcased a wide range of handcrafted pieces, from finely turned bowls and intricate carvings to furniture and decorative items, all made by talented local artisans.Whether visitors were looking to pick up a unique gift, add a one-of-a-kind item to their home, or simply admire the skill of the makers, there was something for everyone to enjoy.The group has been part of the Kiama community for years, encouraging beginners and seasoned woodworkers to share their passion and keep traditional skills alive.