This Saturday, 14 September, voters across New South Wales will witness the restoration of democratic governance in three local government areas as Central Coast Council, Wingecarribee Shire Council, and Balranald Shire Council return to the polls. These councils, previously placed under administration due to performance and governance issues, will once again see residents elect their representatives.The former government placed the councils under the control of an administrator following concerns over their governance. Now, as the councils transition out of administration, a significant milestone will be reached with the election of new councillors.In Central Coast Council, where 77 candidates are competing for 15 councillor positions, the council has been under administration since October 2020. The suspension and subsequent dismissal followed a public inquiry that highlighted serious governance issues.Wingecarribee Shire, whose councillors were suspended in March 2021 and later dismissed after another public inquiry, will see 60 candidates vying for 9 councillor spots.Meanwhile, in Balranald Shire, 13 candidates are competing for 8 councillor positions. The shire has been under administration since January 2020, also following a public inquiry.To facilitate a smooth transition, the Minister for Local Government has issued a Performance Improvement Order for each council. This order will be in effect for 12 months post-election and focuses on critical areas such as budget discipline, financial sustainability, and governance. The councils will be required to adhere to strict guidelines, including:Gaining concurrence from the Office of Local Government before making major staffing decisions, such as terminating the General Manager, restructuring the organisation, or altering budget allocations.Ensuring compliance with adopted council policies, particularly in meeting practices, councillor request systems, and councillor/staff interactions.Consulting with the Council’s Audit, Risk, and Improvement Committee before implementing significant changes to council priorities.While the 2024 local government elections will restore democratic representation in nearly all affected areas, Central Darling Shire Council in far west NSW remains an exception. This council, which has been under administration for over a decade, will see its elections deferred until March next year as part of a new Rural and Remote Council model.Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig emphasised the importance of these elections, stating, “Democracy is an important part of our society, and every resident should be given the opportunity to elect the people they want to represent their local interests."He added, “The issues that led to these councils being placed under administration in the first place were very serious. While the new councils are finding their feet, I want to make sure there is a framework in place to ensure stable and strategic governance, which is why I intend to issue each council with a Performance Improvement Order.”

Quiet hours have been implemented in some supermarkets and offered at certain Service NSW locations - why not extend this to voting?Voting can be stressful for many people, and not just because of politics or choosing the right candidate. For some, the act of voting itself is overwhelming.At polling booths, candidates and volunteers often line the entrance, each competing for your attention. Flyers are handed out, conversations are loud, and the huge crowds lead to sensory overload. This can be challenging for anyone but is especially difficult for those who are neurodivergent, anxious, or an array of other reasons.Setting aside one hour of quiet time during voting would help those who find the typical environment overwhelming. This quiet hour might include dimmed lights, lowered noise level and no campaigners at the door. It’s a small accommodation that could make a big difference. This isn't a new idea, and has been pushed by Autism Activists in Australia, however it was unclear where the enquiries led too. It seems there are far too few sources on this topic online. If anyone knows of any recent sources or has any experiences they wish to share, ‘The Kiama Youth Forum’ wants to hear from you. Reach out on Facebook or Instagram to join the conversation.

Mike Cains and Marcus Hewitt, the lead candidates of the independent party A Fresh Start for Kiama Council, have proposed a program which would allow tiny homes to be built on existing farmland in an effort to ease the housing problems in Kiama.This program would allow a streamlined approval process for tiny homes on farms in the Kiama LGA which they believe would both make family farms more viable and provide affordable housing for low income earners.In a media release on September 9, Hewitt said, “Farming is still an important part of the beautiful place we call Kiama. Local families taking up affordable rentals on our farmland not only solves desperate housing needs, but it also generates farm income and brings together different elements of our community under a common goal.”In the same media release the two council candidates revealed the story of local farmer Ray Foster to illustrate the current issues with the tiny home approval process.According to the media release Ray Foster agreed to host a resident and their $100k tiny home on his farm for modest weekly rent. However, Mr Foster was advised that to comply with planning laws he had to submit a Development Application with the attendant expert reports. A process that is estimated to cost Mr Foster $50k, something he couldn’t afford.Both council candidates believe their idea is one that will fix this issue and should be adopted in the next term of council.“If elected, we will work with other councillors to ensure that we don’t miss this opportunity to provide affordable accommodation and help the viability of our region's family farms,” says Cains.This proposal came out the same day that Master Builders NSW announced that industry forecasts project NSW to be 73,700 homes behind the Housing Accord target of 377,000 new homes for the period from 1 July 2024 until 30 June 2029.Master Builders Association of NSW Executive Director Brian Seidler said, in a press release, that the forecast downgrade reflects the ongoing struggle to control inflation, persistently high interest rates, and ongoing supply constraints in the residential building sector.“While we expect a gradual market recovery in the coming years as broader economic conditions improve, more needs to be done to address the housing shortfall. “All levels of government have acknowledged the challenges around planning, workforce, and productivity. We must ensure that momentum is maintained in these critical areas. “Industry productivity has declined by 18 per cent over the last decade. State governments must expedite planning reforms to cut the excessive costs and long timelines associated with construction,” said Sedler.

As election day approaches, many of us find ourselves in a familiar dilemma: who do we vote for when none of the candidates seem to align with our values? It’s not uncommon to feel disconnected from the names on the ballot, especially when campaign tactics leave much to be desired.Recently, I had a personal wake-up call. I discovered that the candidate I was planning to put first on my ticket was behind a campaign I find utterly cringe-worthy. It left me questioning whether I could really stand behind someone whose approach to politics feels so disconnected from the issues I care about.It seems that many voters are facing a similar struggle. In a time when political campaigning is often focused on discrediting opponents rather than proposing constructive ideas, it’s easy to feel like you’re being asked to choose the lesser of evils. But should voting be about picking someone simply because they're not as bad as the alternative?Here’s the thing: elections shouldn’t be about just avoiding the worst option. They should be about finding someone who truly represents your values and your vision for the community. Yet, in an environment where many candidates seem more focused on criticising others than offering real solutions, it’s becoming harder to make that choice.So, what can we do? We can start by looking beyond the surface of the campaign noise and asking ourselves some tough questions:What are the issues that matter most to me?Which candidate has a clear stance on these issues?Are they offering real solutions, or just playing politics?Yes, it’s hard when a candidate’s campaign style puts you off, but at the end of the day, it’s their policies and ability to deliver on them that should matter most.If you’re finding it difficult to navigate the election and make an informed choice, you’re not alone. Many of us are struggling to cut through the noise. But by focusing on the issues and what each candidate stands for, we can still make a decision that reflects our values—and ultimately helps shape the community we all want to live in.

Kiama Council area is undivided, there are no wards. We are a whole of Council area single electorate with 9 councillors to be elected under the Proportional Representation system from 40 candidates split into 7 groups. In 2021 it took 39 counts to decide on the 9 positions on Kiama Council by transferring preferences.  2 candidates, Stuart Larkins, Labor, and Warren Steele were elected without reaching a quota. To the surprise of many people, the Greens did not get their third candidate up, despite having a bit over 2.7 quotas when all the first preferences had been counted to Labor having a fraction under1.7 quotas and Warren Steel’s Group having less than 0.7 of a quota. This was because most voters just voted 1 above the line and their votes became exhausted.So, your preferences matter.Under the rules you must vote for at least 5 candidates. Then you may continue to number more candidates if you wish.You can vote by group by numbering the boxes above the line, or you can ignore the groups and vote for candidates of your choice below the line. If you only number 1 or even 2 boxes above the line, or for only 5 to 10 candidates below the line, you risk exhausting your vote before all councillors are elected.In a proportional voting system, a candidate is elected if they receive votes equal to or exceeding the quota for their council area. At the last council election, the quota for Kiama Council was 1502 after 15,016 formal ballots were cast by an 87% turnout of electors. This year’s quota is expected to be of a similar size but will ultimately depend on the number of formal votes cast.After the count of first preferences is complete, each candidate who has reached quota is elected.Where an elected candidate has a surplus of ballot papers over the quota, this surplus is transferred to those candidates not yet elected on a proportional basis to each voter’s next preferred candidate.After each transfer of ballot papers (and their associated votes), if any more candidates have reached quota, they are elected and added to the queue of surpluses to be transferred. This transfer of surpluses continues (one at a time) until all have been transferred.After this, if not all nine councillor positions have been filled, the candidate with the lowest number of votes is cut from the race. All the ballot papers received by this candidate, including those received from surplus transfers, are sorted to the continuing candidates according to their next available preference.This process continues until all the vacancies are filled, whether or not they reach the quota.With 9 councillors to be elected, it is so important that electors go beyond putting 1 in a box above the line and so just voting for 5 candidates all in that group.If they do just vote 1, they may get their No 1 in, and possibly No 2, but they waste their 3, 4, and 5 votes, as the numbers 3, 4, and 5 candidates in a group mathematically have no chance of getting in. They will be eliminated almost inevitably after the transfer of surpluses from those elected on primary votes. The 3s, 4s, and 5s are there purely so that a group can get a box above the line.Candidates with close to quotas, or large personal votes below the line, will stay in the race longer than most of the 3s, 4s, and 5s on group tickets.  If voters want to have a real impact on the makeup of the next Council they must number several boxes above the line, or they will end up with some councillors being unexpectedly elected without needing to get a quota.An approach you might like to follow for voting above the line by groups is numbering:Put 1 in the box for the group containing your favourite candidate or candidates Put 2 in the box for the group containing your next favourite candidate or candidatesPut 3 in the box for the group with the least - worst.Put 4 in the box for the next - least worst.By then you will have voted for 20 candidates. You can continue numbering group boxes if you want, but it is optional. You do not have to number the boxes for the groups containing number 1s and 2s that you don’t want under any circumstances.Voting below the line works on the same principle, but, as committed below the line voters know, you can be more creative.Sandy Rendel

As we head towards the local council elections, it's easy to get caught up in the noise. Campaigns are filled with promises, accusations, and critiques, and it can be difficult to sort out what really matters. One piece of advice as you consider your vote: look for candidates who focus on what they will do, not just what they won’t.There’s a difference between tearing something down and building something up. Candidates who spend their time telling you what they oppose, what they’ll stop, or what they won’t allow may sound strong in the moment. But when the dust settles, what’s left? Opposition without a plan is just an empty promise. Leadership is not about pointing fingers or drawing lines in the sand—it’s about paving a way forward, even when the path isn’t clear.We need leaders who have a vision for our community—candidates who will tell you what they plan to achieve, not what they will avoid. The reality is, progress comes from positive, forward-thinking ideas, not from standing in the way of something else.This is especially true in local government, where practical solutions to real-world problems are what matter most. Whether it’s sustainable development, better infrastructure, or improved community services, we need representatives who can tell us exactly how they will contribute to making our community a better place—not what they’ll block or reject.So, as you listen to candidates over the next few weeks, ask yourself: do they have a plan, or are they simply opposed to someone else’s? Because when the time comes, we need leaders with solutions, not just critics with complaints.

OpinionIn Australia, voting is mandatory, but for young people, it’s about much more than fulfilling an obligation. They are increasingly using their vote to shape both their communities and the world they want to see.At a local level, young people are focused on issues that directly affect their lives—such as climate action, affordable housing, mental health services, and social interaction. They value community spaces where they can connect, engage in recreational activities, and participate in cultural events. Social interaction plays a key role in building a sense of belonging, and young people are pushing for more inclusive, safe spaces where they can gather and thrive.Beyond the local sphere, young people are engaged with global challenges like climate change and social justice, demanding real solutions that address both their immediate and future needs. They aren’t "rusted-on" voters who stick with one party; they vote based on the issues that matter most to them. By focusing on policies rather than party loyalty, young voters are showing leadership in their communities, holding local representatives accountable for meaningful action.This new generation of voters is proving that democracy isn’t just about showing up at the polls—it’s about shaping a future that reflects their values. They are demonstrating that real leadership comes from addressing both local and global concerns, and it’s something older generations can learn from.As the next election approaches, we would all do well to follow their lead by considering the issues that truly matter. Shaping the future starts with the decisions we make in our own backyards.

OpinionIn elections, candidates should focus on their plans and ideas for improving the community. Yet, too often, we see campaigns that rely on tearing down opponents rather than addressing the real issues. This tactic is troubling because it distracts from what truly matters and raises questions about the integrity of those who use it.When a candidate focuses on discrediting others, it often suggests they don’t have the substance to stand on their own. A campaign built on attacking opponents rather than promoting solutions is not about leadership—it's about avoiding real conversations and undermining trust in the democratic process.Disparaging others does more than just hurt those targeted; it diminishes the quality of debate and leaves voters with less information about what each candidate actually stands for. Leadership is about addressing issues head-on, offering solutions, and demonstrating the ability to move a community forward. Personal attacks achieve none of that.As we head into the election, let’s focus on candidates who talk about what they will do for the community, not those who spend their time criticising others. After all, real leadership comes from a place of vision and integrity, not from tearing others down.

Only months after winning the Second World War, Winston Churchill was voted out of office as Prime Minister. On this occasion he perhaps cynically quipped that ‘democracy is the worst system of government – except for all the others that have been tried’. In a few weeks, voters in the Kiama Municipality will have the opportunity to decide on a referendum question which asks you if you would like a popularly elected mayor. For those who think this is a good idea, I ask that you read on and consider that the grass is not necessarily greener. I urge people to vote ‘No’ to the proposed referendum. Currently, Kiama voters elect nine Councillors, and those Councillors not only elect the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, but they also play an important role in holding the Mayor to account.If the mayor doesn’t do a good job – they can be replaced. If you elected a mayor once every four years, and that mayor doesn’t perform, you’re stuck with a dud.Currently, if the mayor leaves office for whatever reason, another councillor can immediately take their place without the need for a costly by-election. The current arrangements mean a new Mayor would bring the experience and understanding of council and its deliberations on matters throughout that term.We don’t directly elect the Prime Minister or Premier; these matters are determined on the basis of who can command the confidence of the chamber. The proposal to directly elect a mayor departs from the very important principles of responsible and stable government.By our elected councillors determining who will be the mayor, the councillor who hold the office needs to focus on working collegiately and colourably with their colleagues in order to get things done.Local government should be about bringing various skills, views, backgrounds, and talents together to progress the best interests of our community. A mayor elected from among elected councillors is more likely to foster this environment given they need the votes of a majority of their colleagues to stay in the job.The corollary can be (and often is) that a popularly elected mayor may be at loggerheads with the elected councillors, which causes dysfunction and disharmony where the councillors become pitted against the mayor. I’ve seen this all too often in places like the Shoalhaven. A popularly elected mayor will also allow a greater opening for party politics in local government as the two major parties know this position can be very influential over the course of a four-year term.Our State Electorate of Kiama touches four local government areas. In my experience as your local MP, Kiama Council has had the least internal tumult and the most consistent collaboration between elected councillors.Whilst I may not have always agreed with the decisions and direction of Kiama Council, debate in the council chamber is overwhelmingly respectful, dignified, and sensible.Opinion by Gareth WardJust like Churchill, I welcome whatever the decision of our community will be. I love democracy because the people always get it right.

By Lleyton Hughes and Neve SurridgeYouth engagement in local council matters is finite in Kiama. Whether it is lack of information, enthusiasm or simply because young people think council matters don’t apply to their everyday lives, it’s something that needs attention. That’s the reason why The Bugle hosted the first Youth Forum meeting with Kiama Community Radio on Thursday, 29 August. The discussion provided hope for the future of young people represented in politics. Three councillor-candidates attended the session, including; Imogen Draisma, incumbent Deputy Mayor and Labor Councillor, Kane Presland, fourth on Matt Brown’s independent group ballot and Harrison Ledger, fourth on the Labor party ballot. Jordan-Casson Jones, second on the Greens party ballot, was also going to attend but got called away to assist with an active bushfire. He was given the same questions as the other candidates but replied to them individually.Housing affordabilityHousing affordability is a known issue in Kiama, especially for young renters who are met with a fraught process of minimal available housing and of those available, far above a feasible weekly price. Cr Draisma highlighted the current situation of shared housing in the town, “at the moment you're at the behest of the market where there are multi-bedroom places in Kiama so you have to pair up with quite a few people to get your foot in the door for a rental.”“Good housing needs to be diverse. It's about utilising existing stock,” Cr Draisma continued. Ledger agreed with the approach, “I think we have to have these intergenerational concerns in our brain. When we have these huge barriers, not just financial but logistical, of getting young people housing and a roof over their head.”Short term rentalsCr Draisma also confirmed that the current council was in talks with the state government to have short-term rental applications (STRA’s) regulated. All three were in agreement that there needed to be controls implemented to limit these STRA’s.Casson-Jones discussed the need to preserve the environment when looking at future housing developments in the area.“There is an amount of housing that needs to be built to ease the pressure, but we also understand that the environment and fertile land around Jamberoo and west Kiama [that] needs to be preserved,” said Casson-Jones.“A lot of people I’m aware of will sign a six-month lease between March and October, and then will get kicked out for the summer so that the homeowners can make big bank over the summer period and then repeat,” Presland said.Six percent of properties in Kiama are registered as short-term accommodation, only falling slightly behind the eight per cent registered in Byron Bay. Casson-Jones has felt the immediate effects of short stay accommodation in the region, he currently lives between two Airbnb properties himself. “Short stay accommodation has put pressure on the housing market, as coined by the University of Wollongong as the ‘Airbnb effect’ where rents in regional and tourist centres have gone up from about $550 a week in 2020 to $800 a week in 2022.”“It changes the tenor of the places, as the services change from servicing a residential domestic population to servicing tourists… The Kiama Greens acknowledges that and highlights in our campaign the need to investigate the policies to free up holiday rentals,” Casson-Jones said.Presland commented on the wealth generated by these short-stays and Airbnbs being used outside of Kiama, “their profits aren’t redistributed to people in the community and they’re more distributed towards shareholders in that group who aren’t necessarily from Kiama.”Kiama nightlifeNightlife is another core concern for young people in the area, with the social areas limited and new business owners fearing closure due to noise complaints, which Council manages.“Everything hits the snooze button [at 4pm] and there’s nothing for anyone to do,” Cr Draisma said. The special entertainment precinct, launched with a petition this July, is an initiative Cr Draisma and incumbent Councillor Stuart Larkins have supported.“Working with state government, Council can identify a particular area in our town centre, which means they can operate louder, sound is permissible, music is permissible… There needs to be real opportunities for artists to occupy spaces,” Draisma said.Whilst all attendees were in agreement that there is work to be done in the nightlife scene, Presland commented on being cautious of going too far.“It’s a real challenge because we need to attract people to that nightlife. But we also need to think about how far we want to go with this because you look at Noosa and Byron Bay and they have great nightlife but at the cost of the town being run out by other people,” Presland said.The forum ran for an hour, with other topics discussed including mental health support services and supporting youth engagement in local council. To watch the full meeting, go to The Bugle's YouTube channel.If you are a young person in Kiama and you are passionate about the town and have ideas that you want to express, please email The Bugle at: [email protected] tuned for the next announcements surrounding the Youth Forum.

 Election material and pamphlets litter letterboxes around our community and the countdown is well and truly on as early voting for next week’s local government election has begun.  The Bugle has always been about keeping the community informed and allowing the community to have a voice. Whether it’s through The View, Blow your Bugle or our roving reporters, we have kept you abreast of what is happening in our community and how we are being impacted.   Over the past year, our community has faced some difficult challenges. Many would say the impacts of those challenges were exacerbated, rather than mitigated by our Council. Some might say that Council and some Councillors were the direct cause of these challenges and the financial conundrum that we now find ourselves in. However, this is all (hopefully) in the past.  With the finalisation of the sale of Blue Haven Bonaira imminent, though now extended by a month, there will be some much-needed cash for the coffers for the operating and structural deficit. But make no mistake, the challenges of the NSW Government’s Performance Improvement Order remain. Understandably, given our experience over the last couple of years, our community fears the worst regarding special rate rises, further privatisation and cuts to services. Our long running campaign for (positive) change continues. With most incumbent Councillors not seeking re-election, it looks like change is coming. We do not congratulate ourselves, for this because we are merely a mouthpiece of what the community is feeling.  The community has brought about this change.  It’s not mission accomplished, or job done. Come 14 September, every adult in our community has the responsibility to ensure the results reflect a positive way forward. We want elected representatives who will resolve a way forward, not squabble at every opportunity. We want genuine transparency about the financial situation and what is next. We want to ensure that all parts of the community, not just parts of it, are heard. We want genuine opportunities, progress and investment for local businesses and the economy. We want real action for our youth on jobs, entertainment and housing affordability. The time for change has come – let’s make sure it is a positive one. 

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) has welcomed the release of the Councillor Conduct Framework Discussion Paper, which was announced by the Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig earlier today with an extended period for comment.LGNSW President Darriea Turley AM said the local government sector had been anticipating the release of the framework and supported any move that would ensure the highest standards of integrity and probity across all levels of government. “This issue has been the subject of long conversation for councils and the eventual framework will be a key cornerstone in maintaining integrity, transparency and trust in local government across the state and this next step in the consultation process is very much welcomed by the sector,” Cr Turley said. “The Discussion Paper has a range of aspects to it and we look forward to working with councils to hear their feedback and then liaising with the Minister and the Government to ensure we get a final framework that works for everyone. “Ultimately we want to see a framework that allows councils to carry out their functions efficiently and appropriately, will provide clear expectations to elected officials and confidence for the community at large. While there are some aspects that will need to be approached with caution and the provision of more detail, Cr Turley highlighted some potential improvements included in the proposed framework. “As financial sustainability of councils becomes an increasing concern for all of us, it’s good to see that this framework may lead to a reduction in costs to councils by way of removing the contentious role for private investigators. “Instead, complaints about conflicts of interest would be made directly to the Office of Local Government (OLG) and complaints about misbehaviour would be made directly to a Local Government Privileges Committee,” said Cr Turley. “Further, the proposed framework would give Mayors greater powers to sanction councillors for acts of disorder during meetings but significant sanctions (such as suspension, financial penalties or disqualification) will only be made by an appropriate tribunal (such as NCAT).“This is a vast improvement to the current arrangements where such penalties are made by a NSW Government official, often a substantial period of time after the event.” “I know this is a busy time for local government as we face council elections on Saturday 14 September, but I encourage all councils to look closely at the discussion paper and put forward a submission by the deadline of 15 November,” Cr Turley said. A copy of the Councillor Conduct Framework Discussion Paper and more details on the consultation process can be found on the Office of Local Government Website here:Councillor Conduct Framework - Office of Local Government NSW

The Minnamurra Progress Association held a candidate forum on Tuesday 3 September to provide residents the opportunity to speak to the councillor-candidates that seek to represent them.In attendance from alphabetical order of Group A to Group H; Cameron McDonald, Alan Smith, Matt Brown, Imogen Draisma, Melinda Lawton, Michael Cains, Gail Morgan and Mark Croxford. All councillor-candidates touched on the fraught housing situation across the local government area. Preservation of the natural environment opened up each of the candidates addresses, Melinda Lawton raised the importance of the Minnamurra River, “we have a duty to protect these waters,” she said. Community members present verbalised their concerns for building small properties on small plots of land. Mike Cains stressed the importance of preserving our landscapes, but the need for sustainable development is ongoing, an outlook many candidates shared.“We also must acknowledge that young people, seniors, and service workers also have the right to live in affordable housing,” said Cains.Matt Brown echoed this notion, “we need a diversity of homes, which we don’t have at the moment.”Imogen Draisma also noted the composition of housing stock in Kiama is heavily skewed towards large plots of land with multi-bedroom homes. Homes that aren’t suitable for many Kiama residents, “I’m a young renter myself. We need two bedrooms, we need one bedroom.”Cameron McDonald addressed the residents core concern for housing that Kiama will be urbanised, “[the community] don’t want to see urban sprawl, they don’t want to see our green rolling hills turned into condominiums.”Gail Morgan provided her stance on development in the municipality, with calls to end high rise development, “we’re calling all the horrible high rise development that we’re planning for central Kiama. We’re calling it infield, that’s a lovely euphemism.”Another topic heavily discussed was the financial position of Kiama Council, and how this will be resolved in the next term.Financial stability and revenue management came into question. All candidates recognised the poor management of the Blue Haven Bonaria site.“Two years of backwards and forwards. Do we sell it? Do we not? It gave a signal to the market that turned it into a fire sell,” Alan Smith said.Draisma said a priority will be “getting back into black”, and the council cannot “survive on rates alone”, with all candidates in agreement that revenue generation will need to be a first concern. “If we cannot live within our means, we shouldn’t be putting our hands in other people’s pockets,” Croxford said. Croxford continued by discussing the dire state of affairs the council was left in when the previous term of councillors were sworn in.“We inherited a situation that no council should ever have to inherit,” Croxford said.Fresh faces on the ballot paper said they want the future council to be a professional one.“I’m not a politician, I stand in because I was tired of seeing the dysfunction that was the previous council. I watched your meetings. They were shocking,” Alan Smith said.“The first thing is to make sure that the next term of council is a professional council… one where people aren’t focused on petty squabbles but rather getting on with business of council, of getting things done,” Cains said. Incumbent Councillor Mark Croxford addressed the comments of dysfunction in the previous council chambers as a result of other councillors refusing to come to agreements. “In the previous term of council, there were far too many who were not willing to compromise,” Croxford said.Residents of Minnamurra pushed the candidates to share their views on the offshore wind farm project, Cains and Smith expressed their distaste for the sight of wind turbines, however, Smith noted it ultimately lies with the federal government.

In every community, there comes a time when the voices of its people rise up to speak truth to power, to defend the values and the environment they hold dear, and to push back against decisions that may not serve the collective good. These voices, often dismissed as dissent, are in fact the heartbeat of democracy, reminding those in power that governance is a responsibility, not a right.But what happens when these voices are systematically silenced? Why do those who hold power and control often fear the very community they are meant to serve? The recent history of community activism, from the Northern Rivers to our own backyards, offers a sobering insight into the lengths some will go to suppress the voices of the people.Take the case of Di Morrissey, the beloved Australian author who took a stand against a controversial development in the Northern Rivers. Morrissey, like many others, recognised the potential harm that large-scale developments could inflict on the environment and the character of the community. She used her platform to rally support and bring attention to an issue that mattered deeply to local residents. But in return, she faced a barrage of legal threats and bureaucratic obstacles that eventually forced her to step back. Her story is not just about one woman's fight against development; it is about the broader struggle to maintain a space for community voices in the face of overwhelming power.Yet, there are stories of communities fighting back and winning, proving that collective action and public support can indeed challenge even the most formidable adversaries. A shining example of this is Crikey’s recent battle with the Murdoch press. In 2022, Crikey published an article implicating Lachlan Murdoch in the dangerous rhetoric surrounding the January 6 Capitol riots. What followed was a defamation lawsuit filed by Murdoch himself, aiming to silence Crikey's critical voice.But instead of backing down, Crikey took the fight to the people. They turned to their readers and the broader community, crowd-sourcing the funds needed for their legal defence. What emerged was not just financial support but a groundswell of public voices rallying behind Crikey's right to free speech and fearless journalism. The power of these combined efforts was undeniable. In the end, Lachlan Murdoch walked away from the lawsuit, a significant victory for independent media and a powerful testament to what communities can achieve when they come together.These examples, from Morrissey's quieted activism to Crikey's triumphant stand, highlight a critical question: Why do those in power fear community voices? Perhaps it’s because these voices represent something uncontrollable and unpredictable. They embody the collective will of the people, a force that can challenge established power structures and demand accountability. They are a fundamental reminder that the community, when united, holds real power.But the efforts to silence us should only strengthen our resolve. For every Di Morrissey who is pressured into silence, there are countless others ready to take up the mantle. For every attempt to suppress our voices, there is an opportunity to come together, louder and stronger than before.The message to those who seek to silence us is clear: the more you try to quiet the community, the more you reveal your fear of its power. And that power, once awakened, is not easily subdued.As we move forward, let us remember the importance of our collective voice. Let us continue to speak out, to organise, and to demand that those in power listen—not because we seek conflict, but because we seek a community that is just, equitable, and sustainable for all.In the end, the question isn't why they fear us, but why we must never stop speaking up. For when the community is silent, power goes unchecked, and the very fabric of our democracy begins to unravel.So, let us continue to raise our voices. Let us continue to fight for what is right. And let us never forget that the power of the community is the foundation upon which all true change is built. 

At the local government elections on 14 September 2024, voters in the Kiama LGA will face a referendum question: YES or NO – as to whether they want a popularly elected mayor in the future. Historically Kiama has nine elected councillors who vote for the mayor (and deputy) among themselves. This role is held for two years and then re-voted. Should the method of electing the mayor be changed?Interestingly when The Bugle held the public debate on 31 July on this subject, the Against side were mostly former Mayors, who argued strongly against changing things. In a nutshell, the way they see it was succinctly stated by Brian Petschler, "The mayor needs the support of a majority of councillors, and everyone’s focus needs to be on local issues."They also cited incidents in other councils where administrative intervention was needed when the elected mayor was inadequate or there was a dysfunctional council due to their lack of support from councillors. Councillor candidate Mike Cains is in favour of change, saying, “Not far from us – in recent times Wollondilly Council had 21 changes of Mayor in 27 years. To immunise ourselves against such nonsense a directly elected Mayor is essential.”He also maintains that “A four-year term gives the mayor the authority that comes with the ability to set strategy and see it through, the mayor also carries with them the mandate to lead that is given to them by the residents”.The Bugle has written extensively on this subject in July and August, so please visit the App for the full summary of ideas on both sides of this fence.Should the mayor be directly elected? Results from The Great Debate

Leader of the Independent team for council Yasmin Tatrai has encouraged Kiama LGA voters to put the Greens last and has called on other tickets in this election to do the same. “I am a conservationist, not a protectionist. Greens are too extreme, and we need sensible people on council who will work together to fix the budget, keep rates low and support balanced and sustainable development. “Whilst voters only need to indicate a first preference above the line, we are encouraging people to number all the squares above the line and put the Greens last.  “A vote for the Greens is a vote for higher rates, more budget chaos and support for the offshore wind farms.  “We also need Councillors that are focused on practical conservationism, not political idealism. We can and should be leaders in waste and recycling and reduce our energy and water usage and costs. These things save money and are good for the environment.  “Greens will always support more bureaucracy, more red and green tape and make it harder for small business to work with Kiama Council. “If elected, I will take a policy to council to cut two regulations for every new one proposed to be introduced.  “I am excited by the opportunity to be on council and make a contribution to our community. But I also need to be clear about what I stand for and our team is recommending that voters put the Greens last,” Ms Tatrai concluded. 

Our local candidates stepping forward for election           Group A: INDEPENDENT “Community minded, business focused”Cameron McDonaldCameron, a Kiama native, is a partner at Culleton Lawyers with a Master’s in Property Law and Business Law Transactions and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance. He is President of the Kiama & District Business Chamber, a member of the Destination Kiama Tourism Committee, and a founding member of the Kiama & District Stronger Community group. Cameron also coaches the U11 Girls Kiama Power AFL team. With a strong family tradition of community service, he is dedicated to improving the Kiama LGA, supported by his wife Leah and their children. Erica WarrenErica, a Jamberoo local with 46 years in the Kiama area, has over 35 years of experience in hospitality. She is the General Manager of The Co-Op Gerringong and has won several awards as the former Licensee of Jamberoo Pub. A member of the Kiama & District Business Chamber and Destination Kiama, Erica is passionate about supporting local businesses, tourism, and youth employment. With a Bachelor of Social Science, she advocates for common-sense decisions that balance development and environmental preservation. Erica is running for council to continue making a positive impact on the community. Melissa MattersMelissa, a third-generation Gerringong native, owns and operates The Hill Bar and Kitchen with her husband Dean, employing 60 locals. She has a deep connection to the community, rooted in her family's farming legacy. Melissa is committed to preserving Gerringong's heritage and natural beauty while fostering economic growth. Her businesses sponsor local sports clubs, reflecting her dedication to supporting youth development. Melissa’s leadership, innovative mindset, and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to the community as she works to address the challenges and opportunities facing local enterprises. Mark BurnsMark, with over 20 years as an owner and clinician at Gerringong and Kiama Physiotherapy, is dedicated to community wellbeing. He founded The Man Walk Charity, encouraging men to connect through meaningful conversations. Mark also leads the Building Young Men mentoring program, guiding Year 10 boys into adulthood, and serves as a director of the Kiama and District Stronger Community charity. His commitment to health, connection, and community development makes him an ideal candidate for local office.Derek McMahonDerek, a lifelong Kiama resident now in Gerringong, operates two local businesses—McMahons Transport and Lumberjacks Firewood—employing locals and supporting community events. He chairs the Gerringong Bowling Club, is active in Gerringong All Sports, and co-founded Gezza Cares and the Kiama & District Stronger Community group. Awarded the Australia Day Award for his charity work, Derek is passionate about future planning, employment, and financial sustainability for the LGA. He is a decisive leader committed to community improvement. Group B: INDEPENDENT “A reasonable voice for the community”Alan SmithAlan pursued a law degree to resolve issues with Kiama Council but realized effective communication was key. He advocates for open dialogue and common-sense decision-making in council, emphasizing the impact of decisions on community well-being. Alan is committed to preserving the unique character of local villages while supporting appropriate development. As President of Jamberoo Football Club and owner of Jerrara Creek Farm and Amaki Cafe, he is deeply involved in the community. His corporate experience equips him to navigate complex challenges in the council. Alan holds an MBA, a Bachelor of Laws, and several project management certifications. Noel Killmore“Gaffa” a Kiama local is the owner of Killmore Plant and Services. A business which has provided heavy duty mechanical services since 1992. Belinda Camarda“Bindi” is a strong advocate for conservation and the preservation of our history. Bindi saved “Marks Cottage” from a Council demolition order. Built in circa 1860, the cottage housed the workers who built both Culwalla and Terragong Houses in Jamberoo.John Trevenar“Head” is the driving force behind the renovations at Gerry Emery Reserve in Gerringong. John has secured over $800,000 in grants and donations to upgrade this much loved and utilised community facility. Narreda GrimleyNarreda is an extremely experienced senior executive. Having recently retired from corporate life, she volunteers at Aging with Grace, a charity which supports our elderly residents.Group C: INDEPENDENT “Your Sensible Choice”Matthew BrownMatt has deep roots in Kiama, from being Kiama High School Captain to co-owning Amigos Mexican Restaurant. A former local MP, and corporate lawyer for 12 years, he has volunteered as a surf lifesaver and served on the council since 2016. As the founding Chair of Destination Kiama, Matt bridges private enterprise and government, securing funding for projects like the Kiama Coastal Walk. With expertise in public administration, he is dedicated to keeping the Council “Fit for the Future,” enhancing local facilities, and supporting sustainable housing. Matt holds degrees in Mathematics, Law, and an Executive MBA.Danielle SteelDanielle has a lifelong connection to Kiama, from her childhood and schooling at Kiama High School to her family's longstanding local businesses and her father's 25 years as a councillor, giving her a profound understanding of the community's needs. With extensive experience in the hospitality and tourism industries and a senior business development role in a multinational building materials manufacturer, Danielle offers a unique perspective on local business challenges. Her vision focuses on fiscal responsibility and driving value for residents while ensuring the council operates efficiently. Brendan RussellBrendan was born in Kiama, and his involvement in local sporting clubs and success in the 1995 Australian Championships highlight his active community participation. As a business owner of multiple small enterprises, including restaurants and a legal firm, Brendan is passionate about creating opportunities for young families. His commitment to sensible council decisions aims to provide value for ratepayers and residents. Kane PreslandKane is a distinguished Kiama High School graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Kane is dedicated to improving mental health in the community. His involvement in the Veteran Surf Project and Waves of Thinking underscores his commitment. As the manager of Penny Whistlers, one of Kiama's busiest cafés/restaurants, Kane understands the housing and employment challenges faced by his generation. He is eager to address these issues on the Council. Joan ComberJoan is a long-standing Kiama Downs resident and former independent optometry practice owner with BOptom and MOptom qualifications She continues to serve the community even in retirement. As a scripture teacher and active member of the Kiama Anglican Church, Joan's dedication is unwavering. Her leadership in the Zonta Club of Wollongong and decades of healthcare service position her to address the needs of local businesses and ageing residents effectively.Group D: LABOR Imogen DraismaImogen has served as Deputy Mayor for four years, emphasising the need for financial sustainability and strong governance in Kiama's future. Raised in Kiama, she attended local schools and earned a double degree in Arts and Law from the University of Wollongong. As a student activist, she focused on student safety and pandemic-related support services. Imogen has worked for members of NSW and Australian parliaments, bringing her legal and political expertise to her role. She is dedicated to ensuring that the council remains financially stable and well-governed. Stuart LarkinsStuart has served as a councillor for four years and is running for re-election to maintain local government independence and democratic control in Kiama. A lifelong resident of Kiama with deep family roots in the South Coast, Stuart identifies as a Wodi Wodi man. He is passionate about representing the community's interests and continuing to help people. Stuart attended Minnamurra Primary School and Kiama High School, and he holds a double degree in Law and Arts, along with a graduate diploma in legal practice. He is committed to tirelessly serving the Kiama community. Lucy AboodLucy is a mother of two young children, and wants to ensure that we have quality early childhood education, affordable housing options, and a liveable environment for families – which she feels is extremely important. “I will be a strong voice advocating for these issues and more if elected to council." Harrison LedgerHarry is 19 years old, which makes him one of the youngest candidates to ever nominate for Kiama Municipal Council. He is currently studying Law. Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of NSW. Clare McInerneyClare has lived in Kiama for the past 35 years. As a retired high school teacher and deputy principal she is a strong advocate for public education.Group E: GREENS Melinda LawtonMelinda leads this diverse and committed group. She is an accomplished executive leader and design specialist with a wealth of experience in project management, design and construction sectors. She is a team player, specialising in finding creative solutions to complex problems. Melinda is currently working with Waminda, a dedicated Aboriginal female-led organisation ensuring services and wrap-around support for their Shoalhaven community. Jordan Casson-JonesJordan, the 2021 Kiama Young Citizen of the year, brings youth to the team as the youngest candidate to be endorsed by the Greens. He is acutely aware of the impact of cost of living and lack of housing options for young people and has been involved in the campaign for more mental health services in Kiama LGA. Mark WhalanMark has grown up in Kiama. His experiences in local journalism and social media, gives him an astute awareness of the concerns of the local community. With a keen knowledge of local heritage and character, he sees preserving the best of the old with the best of the new is important as Kiama experiences the impacts of growth and change. Andrew SloanAndrew is well known and respected as a previous councillor and Deputy Mayor. He is a civil engineer specialising in water infrastructure. He has a passion for the expansion of renewable energy into powering local communities as they switch to an electric future.Stuart HallStuart, a retired schoolteacher from Werri Beach, is well respected by the many local kids that have been in his care. Stuart has specialised in integrating the natural world with his work and has qualifications in permaculture, horticulture and “Green” education. Group F: INDEPENDENT “A Fresh Start for Kiama”Mike CainsMike is a farmer, owner of Pecora Dairy, 2021 Nuffield Scholar & 2024 Royal Agriculture Show Presidents Medal recipient. He is on the board of the Kiama & District Business Chamber and a founding member of the Wednesday Kiama F armers Market. Dad to two adult children and husband to Cressida for over 20 years. Before returning to the area he grew up in, Mike carved out a successful corporate career with senior executive roles at companies like Fairfax Media and CoreLogic. In corporate Australia and in small business he acquired the skills to a) bring people together b) solve problems and c) get things done - if elected he will work with other councillors to create a more productive council. Marcus HewittMarcus, a Kiama cattle farmer for over 15 years, has 30+ years of experience running fitness centres in Sydney. A father of three, he understands the challenges faced by families and businesses in Kiama and advocates for better amenities in the region's growing towns. Marcus supports the development of functional accommodation for farm and local business workers. An avid fisherman, he is passionate about preserving the area's natural beauty. As part of the Mike Cains team, Marcus aims to leverage his business experience and local knowledge to support jobs, growth, and investment in Kiama. Eric McAuleyEric is a 20-year Bombo resident. His career encompasses environmental remediation, but he currently runs his own business recycling batteries and other materials. He is an exponent of the circular economy and its benefits to society. Eric is deeply passionate about the future of the Bombo quarry. He believes that we have the perfect opportunity to promote a world class urban design to create a new state of the art community close to beach, electrified train and highway. James CahillJames has lived in Kiama for the past 43 years, raising a family. He has enjoyed career employment in information technology and communications at senior management level working for multi-national corporates. Jim is a keen Christian and surfer, with community volunteering experience including previous lengthy involvement with junior football as coach. Jim is pleased to support Michael Cains to provide a fresh start for Kiama Council.Cressida CainsCressida has a passion for supporting women in rural and regional Australia. She is the 2020 Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award winner for NSW and ACT and National runner up. She is on the board of Australian Women in Agriculture and is a fierce advocate for helping rural and regional women achieve positions of influence. She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Bachelor of Business. Together with Mike she founded Pecora Dairy and has been on the organising committee of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers market. She is mother to two adult children. Group G: INDEPENDENT “Energy and Experience: Getting CounciI back on track”Yasmin TatraiYasmin and her husband Roger live at Kiama Downs. Yas has run a large-scale event production business which has included running large events at venues all over the country including venues like Eastern Creek. Yas has managed a security business and worked in NSW Health for over 10 years with a specific focus in working with people with disabilities and their carers. Yas' business, government and corporate experience provide a diverse background and she will bring these skills to the council chamber. Gail MorganGail is a long-term Kiama resident, poet and acclaimed author. Gail has lived and worked all over the world, from Sydney, Alice Springs, London, France and New Guinea. Gail is a lover of music and is passionate about seeing more live music in the Kiama CBD. Henry Clyde StreamerHenry is a life-long Kiama local. He attended local schools and graduated from Wollongong University with a Bachelors of Economics and Finance and holds a Certificate of Executive Management and Development from UNSW Business School.Henry works for the banking and finance industry in Wollongong and previously in a local bank branch in Kiama. He is keen to use his experience and expertise to help fix Kiama Council’s finances. Henry has also previously worked for Surf Life Saving Australia, assisting with the aerial patrol of Surf Beach and Kendalls Beach - keeping our community safe. Suzanne MansfieldHaving lived in Kiama for more than 60 years, Sue is a passionate about our local community. A local business owner, mortgage broker and bank manager by trade, Sue has the experience to help get Kiama’s finances back on track. An active member of the Kiama community, Sue has even taught Sunday school at local churches. Married to Allan, Sue has six children including twins who attended Kiama High. Daniel HillDan Hill is a long-term Kiama Downs resident and teacher with the Department of Education. Dan has a young family and understands the cost-of-living pressures facing our community.Dan cares deeply about our local environment and is strongly opposed to the offshore wind farm proposal. Andrew ProsserOwner of Gerringong small business Stoic Brewery, Andrew wants to see council run efficiently like any business. Andrew wants to see council cut red tape and encourage more locals to go into business in the Kiama area. Andrew is a passionate believer that people with skills and real-life experience are required as part of the leadership of Kiama Council. Group H: INDEPENDENT “Back to Basics”Mark CroxfordMark, 62, is a semi-retired corporate and public affairs consultant, mental health advocate for veterans, and incumbent Kiama councillor. A 20-year Navy veteran with service in Bosnia-Herzegovina, he has worked as a senior ministerial adviser in the Howard Government and as a consultant lobbyist. Before his 2021 election, Mark chaired Kiama’s Combined Community Advocacy Group and led the Kiama High School P&C Association. Married to Cath with four children, his leadership is driven by a deep commitment to community service. Robert BartlettRob, 31, is a Chartered Accountant who started his career at Ernst & Young before moving to the South Coast in 2021 to run his family’s business. Engaged in promoting tourism and hospitality, he collaborates with local businesses to boost the region's growth. Rob is an active member of the Gerringong Bowling Club and enjoys exploring Kiama's natural beauty with his family, balancing professional dedication with community involvement. Darren OrmsbyDarren, 59, is a Kiama small business owner and Country Manager for an international supplier. He brings leadership experience from his time as a Logistics Manager and General Manager for Sydney Rugby Clubs. A former sommelier, Darren supports the Kiama Rugby Club and advocates for the NDIS, driven by his experience as a parent of children on the Spectrum. He is dedicated to building a supportive, inclusive community in Kiama, where he has lived for five years.Michael O'TooleMick, 60, is a former Superintendent with a 29-year career in the NSW Police Force, primarily serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra areas. A Business Degree holder, he was the Region Sponsor for Domestic and Family Violence and the last 'lock up keeper' at Gerringong Police Station. Active in the community through the Gerringong Lions Club and Surf Life Saving Club, Mick is dedicated to fostering safety and well-being in the region he has served for decades.

Labor Councillors Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins have made the commitment to improve road safety with the development of a Local Road Network Safety Plan ahead of the upcoming local election.Residential roads such as Farmer and Taylor Street were pointed out as areas where the speed limit should be lowered to 40-km/hour for “consistency of speed limits in town centres.”A traffic calming and safety meeting was held on the corner of Farmer and Taylor Street on Tuesday 20 August, with community members and councillors present.“We recently met with residents and their concerns and feedback are very clear - they want a safer local road,” said Clr Draisma.30 concerned residents in the area have formed the ‘Taylor Street Traffic Action Group’ to advocate for traffic calming in the area.“We’re hoping for traffic calming as soon as possible, it’s a narrow street and has become a traffic hazard”, a spokesperson for the group said. The group has been campaigning for a safer street for years, reaching out to Gareth Ward, local Councillors and the Minister for Regional Transport to voice their concerns over speeding cars and buses that “fly down the street at breakneck speed.”Kiama Council voted on the motion, with all council members supporting making the safety along Taylor Street a priority but one; Clr Mark Croxford objected. “It feels like no-one is communicating with each other, we raise the issue over and over and over again. What do we have to do to raise the flag?” a spokesperson for the group urged.It’s indisputable that the faster a car is travelling, the longer it takes to come to a complete stop. According to the NSW Department of Transport, if a car is driving at a speed of 50-km/h it will take 37m to stop, the distance cuts down to 27m if the car is travelling at a speed of 40-km/h.Clr Larkins emphasised the importance of speed reductions across urban-residential areas in keeping pedestrians safe.“The research has made it clear the connection between pedestrian safety and vehicle speeds. There is a 10 percent chance of survival for a pedestrian impacted at 50-km/h. A reduction even to 40-km/h would increase the chance of survival to 60 percent” said Clr Larkins.Parents of Kiama Public School have experienced first hand the safety risks of insufficient traffic measures near the school's entrance during pickup and drop off. Kiama Council manages over 308-km of roads. Recent upgrades to local roads have included upgrades to Minnamurra Public School, Gerringong Public School, Kiama High School,new pedestrian crossings and the expansion of ‘kiss-and-drop’ zones. 

NSW Government reporting shows young people are under-represented in local councils across the state. Over half of all councillors in NSW are between 50 and 69. In many communities, “the voices of young people are missing from debate and decision making.”Local government can influence what young people experience in their communities. Councillor and Deputy Mayor Imogen Draisma, who entered Kiama Council at the age of 22 hopes to break the glass ceiling and have young people represented in local government. In an interview, Cr Draisma noted the lack of engagement between local government and young people in the town, and the misinformed idea that larger issues are out of Council’s hands.According to research conducted by The Whitlam Institute, the following topics are at the forefront of what matters to young people; environmental issues such as pollution, plastic use and climate change, women’s rights, Australia’s place in the global system, human and child rights, extinction of human and animal species, caring and providing for others less fortunate than themselves. “If we can engage young people to combat those issues on a closer level, it can become local-based activism and change how young people experience this town,” Cr Draisma said. When asked what matters to Cr Draisma, she answered simply.“I would like to stay here.” The rise in short-term holiday accommodation across Kiama has impacted the availability of rental homes that young people rely on to set up their roots in our town. Rising housing costs in Kiama are also contributing to the growing barriers for young people to stay in the town. “If short term rentals take over this town it will cripple the South Coast,” Cr Draisma noted. Getting involved Kiama Council has a monthly public forum, and a monthly council meeting both to which members of the community can attend and provide feedback, suggestions and commentary on what’s happening in the town and how council can support them further.Youth ForumCouncillors Imogen Draisma will be joining candidates Kane Presland, Harry Ledger and Jordan Casson-Jones online on Thursday 29 August, 3.00pm - 4.00pm to discuss how they plan to re-invigorate Kiama and support young people who see a future in the town. If you have any questions, suggestions or topics of interest you wish to be explored during the session, please scan the QR code to register your interest.