Southern Highlands country artist Amber Kenny will bring her emotionally resonant songwriting to Jamberoo, performing as part of Australia Day in the Park on Monday, January 26 from 8.30 to 10.30 am.Kenny’s Jamberoo appearance follows a busy and high-profile Tamworth season, where she has been showcasing her work across multiple performances at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Her Tamworth program includes a “Straight from the Heart” songwriter afternoon at the UNE Building, a free Beautiful Scars album launch show at The Press Basement Bar, and additional appearances in collaborative songwriter formats and festival precincts such as the Toyota FanZone. She has also used the festival to launch new material, releasing her latest single, Pretty, alongside her Tamworth performances.Currently performing multiple shows a day in Tamworth, Kenny has been presenting songs from her debut album Beautiful Scars, a deeply personal collection that blends country, folk and alt-country influences. The album marks a defining moment in her artistic journey, positioning her as a distinctive and thoughtful voice within contemporary Australian country music.Beautiful Scars explores themes of resilience, vulnerability and self-acceptance, drawing directly on Kenny’s lived experience. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, creating an emotionally rich and cohesive listening experience shaped by honesty and storytelling rather than production gloss. The album was recorded over nine days on a rural Southern Highlands farm, where the isolation and landscape allowed Kenny and her collaborators to fully immerse themselves in the creative process.“It’s really our album to celebrate, with each song just as much theirs as it is mine,” Kenny said. “They all gave so much of themselves, and I thank them for being so generous and brilliant. Each song is like a dance between light and dark - the warmth of sunflowers and sunlight, alongside the deeper acceptance of the scars you carry and wear.”Kenny has said she is particularly looking forward to sharing her music in Jamberoo, valuing the opportunity to perform in a relaxed, community-focused setting and to begin Australia Day in a way that feels grounded, inclusive and connected to place.Australia Day in the Park is presented by the Jamberoo Red Cross and the Jamberoo Rural Fire Brigade, in partnership with Kiama Municipal Council.

A meeting grounded in musical tradition has sparked one of Australia’s most exciting new projects.Brothers, the newly formed band featuring Frank Sultana, Dan Sullivan and Nathan Beretta, have just released their debut album, ‘Introducing Vintage Sounds In Modern Blues', by the band called 'Brothers’.The project came together during a trip to Memphis in 2024, when Sullivan and Beretta travelled to the United States as a duo to compete in the prestigious Memphis International Blues Challenge. At the same time, Sultana was invited over by the Blues Foundation to serve as a judge for the grand final.During their time in the US, the trio played shows together, busked on the streets, and travelled through Mississippi, building a strong musical connection along the way. Those experiences soon led to booking studio time at the Sun Studio in Memphis.“We did a session at Sun Studios in Memphis, and that kind of solidified the band,” he says.Although Brothers is a new name, the collaboration itself has been in the works for years.Sultana had previously produced an album for Sullivan and Beretta, and the three musicians had frequently shared stages in various configurations.“We’ve kind of been making music together for the last couple of years in different ways,” Sultana says. “It felt like a natural progression for us to do something as the three of us.”Originally conceived as a stripped-back acoustic trio, the project quickly evolved once songwriting began. “Once we started writing songs for it, it became clear it could be something bigger,” Sultana says. “With drums and bass, it took on a more electric feel.”Their debut album is “brand spanking new,” with CDs already on sale ahead of its official launch. The record is a collaborative effort, with all three members contributing songs and sharing vocal duties. “I sing three songs, Nathan sings four, and Dan sings two,” Sultana says.Following a run of early shows late last year, Brothers are now hitting the road for their official album launch tour from the 30th January, with dates across Sydney, Adelaide, and Melbourne, before heading up the NSW coast.With a debut album born at Sun Studio, a shared musical history, and a growing list of live dates, Brothers are proving that sometimes the strongest bands come not from long-term planning, but from the right people crossing paths at the right time.For more information or to purchase the album, visit franksultanamusic.com.

‘Music in the Park’ on Sunday, 25 January is coming back for another year, with a mix of young local talent, classic rock, folk, blues and high-energy punk set to take centre stage at Hindmarsh Park. Running from 2 till 6pm, the free outdoor concert will feature five acts from across the region with a mix of sounds to suit music lovers of all ages.Among the performers is Florence Johnson, a 15-year-old singer-songwriter on piano and vocals.Florence, a student of long-time Kiama singing teacher Marianne Patton, is known for her love of soul, jazz and pop, and is looking forward to the opportunity to perform at the event.Also appearing is Char Wall, an 18-year-old singer-songwriter who recently graduated from TIGS. Char has been selected to perform at ENCORE at the Sydney Opera House (a prestigious showcase of outstanding HSC music performances from 2025) and is also a student of Marianne Patton.Bringing vintage sounds to the afternoon will be The Freewheelers, a duo featuring vocals, guitar, harmonica and cajon (google it if you must). Their set blends folk, blues and country.Fans of louder fare will enjoy Ramoans, a high-energy tribute to legendary punk band ‘The Ramones’, recreating the raw live sound of the original group with classics such as “Blitzkrieg Bop” and “I Wanna Be Sedated.”Rounding out the line-up is Seldom, a local four-piece band performing popular covers rooted in classic and alternative rock.‘Music in the Park’ is supported by a cultural grant from Kiama Council, which has helped make the event possible. ‘Music in the Park’ remains a popular fixture on Kiama’s summer calendar, bringing families and friends to gather with picnic blankets for an afternoon of live entertainment. The event’s family-friendly atmosphere and free entry continue to make it a highlight in summer, particularly at a time when festival cancellations are filling our Headlines.

While queuing for my coffee yesterday at Kiama Village, I glanced across and noticed an equally long line at the sushi bar. It got me thinking about how much of our lives we spend waiting — for all sorts of things.These days, we’ve mastered the art of passing the time. We scroll aimlessly on our phones, enduring the wait until we finally reach the front of the queue and receive the service we came for.Waiting has never been my strong suit. In fact, I’m terrible at it. Even now, though I’m working on it, I freely admit my patience is limited.As a child, I was a master of the “Are we there yet?” syndrome. My teenage years brought their own trials — waiting for exam results, waiting for boyfriends to call, waiting for just about anything was pure torture.Job interviews were no better. In the days before mobile phones, waiting meant one long, nervous vigil for the landline to ring or the mail to arrive.A short corporate career, followed by years as a small business owner, brought unexpected relief. My restlessness became an advantage: if something needed doing, I did it immediately. Procrastination? Not for me, thank you very much.Then came childbirth — four times. My impatience was legendary. Nurses, doctors and quite possibly my unborn children likely had a good laugh at my expense: “Just hurry up and get born, baby!”Strangely, the child-rearing years were calmer. With so much to do, there was no time for impatience. By then I’d discovered jogging and the gym, and how exercise could calm my soul.Now, a little older, my affliction is easing. I don’t shop online, click and collect, or wait for home deliveries. If I need something, I go out and buy it. I rarely play the waiting game — and it’s bliss.That was until last week, when the universe decided to pay me back. The culprit? A timber delivery for home renovations.I’d organised a carpenter to start once the timber arrived, so it wasn’t just me waiting — it was him too. On delivery day, I was up at 6am: showered, dressed, breakfasted … waiting.There was a delivery window, but as the hours passed, my agitation grew. By early afternoon, the carpenter had to leave for another job. Naturally, the delivery arrived moments later — and the timber was the wrong size.The moral of the story?The replacement timber arrived the next day at 9.30am. The waiting wasn’t nearly as bad this time. I let my husband handle it — while I slept in.

The news may seem bleak at the moment, but there’s been a fabulous surprise behind the scenes at KCR. Our much-loved Tuesday morning presenter Jason Beasley-Hahn has shared some very happy news. Jason popped the question nine years ago, and on 27 December, he and his partner Valerie finally sealed the deal - tying the knot and taking the plunge in a moment that delighted (and completely surprised) close family and friends.Guests believed they were attending Valerie’s birthday celebration, only to discover they were actually witnessing a wedding. The surprise marriage came as a joyful shock to many, and a coach then whisked everyone away to Little Betty’s for the reception.Those who know Jason won’t be surprised by the romance. He’s long had a reputation as a true romantic, something that’s obvious to anyone who follows his Tuesday morning playlist from 7 to 9 a.m. Congratulations to Jason and Valerie from all of us at KCR. KCR Is Growing - Meet Our New Voices!"We’re thrilled to announce a wave of fresh energy at KCR! Six talented new volunteers are joining our team, each bringing unique skills, perspectives, and passion to the station," Peter Sullivan, Director of Programming.KCR is pleased to welcome several new and returning presenters to the station. John Stott joins KCR with a new program, Off the Rails, a monthly on-air adventure with Jason Beasley-Hahn featuring trains, pushbikes, food, and stories. Tim Brosnan brings more than 40 years of experience in commercial and community radio, most recently at VOX FM. His new program, Drive Time with Tim Brosnan, airs Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m., delivering smooth tunes, sharp insights, and unmistakable radio charm. KCR is also delighted to welcome both returning and new voices to The Kiama Book Space. After time away while serving as Kiama’s Mayor, Neil Reilly returns to the microphone, joined by Cam McConachie, Jane Parbury, Diane Ellison, and Karen Lateo. The program celebrates reading, exploring the stories behind the stories and the books that inspire us, making it a must-listen for book lovers. Listeners can tune in via KCR’s digital streaming service at kcr.org.au.KCR - Programming UpdateKCR has several programming updates this February. Cool Classics with Lee Cordner is expanding to a two-hour program, airing Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m., with a repeat broadcast on Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m., starting 5 February.Two new programs are also joining the schedule: Grass Roots Folk, presented by Neil McCann, will air Wednesdays from 6 to 7 p.m., commencing 4 February, and Metalmorphosis, presented by Myron (Boris Gazibarich), launches on Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m., starting 5 February. In addition, New Yorker Down Under with Steven Peacock is moving to a new timeslot on Fridays from 7 to 8 p.m., effective 23 January. Listeners can tune in via KCR’s digital streaming service at kcr.org.au.Chat Tuesday and Council CounselI will be taking a break from presenting Chat Tuesday and Council Counsel to focus on supporting KCR behind the scenes as Marketing Manager. Hosting these programs has been an incredibly rewarding experience - meeting inspiring members of our community, hearing their stories, and engaging with councillors past and present. I have immense respect for the dedication they bring to our local area, and I am deeply grateful for the connections, conversations, and insights shared on air.That being said, I’m excited to be on air this Friday at The Kiama Show. KCR will be live streaming directly from the Show from 8 to 10 a.m., with live crosses to anchor Glenn Shepherd, and interviews including Kiama Show President Guy Stearn, Piers Parbury, and other visitors. Please come and meet our team in the Local and Homegrown Hub - we’d love to say hello and share what’s happening at KCR.New PodcastDr. Scott Wilson, Honorary Research Scientist at Macquarie University and Senior Research Fellow at RMIT, with 25 years’ experience as an ecotoxicologist and environmental scientist, recently visited Kiama Library to talk about microplastics and AUSMAP, the Australian Microplastics Assessment Project, of which he is Research Director. AUSMAP is a citizen science project that counts microplastic particles washing up along waterways in locations across Australia.Scott was introduced by Karen Lang, who leads the local AUSMAP team, and the event was hosted by Michelle Hudson, representing Kiama Library. 

While it’s been a very distressing start to the new year across the nation, my focus locally in 2026 will be providing more cost-of-living relief for South Coast families, helping to upgrade local roads and infrastructure and, of course, supporting our wonderful community organisations.On January 1, a raft of new measures were introduced by the Albanese Labor Government to help people with the cost-of-living, including cheaper medicines, 1800MEDICARE and more mental health support.With the largest cut to the cost of medicines in the history of the PBS, patients will now pay no more than $25 for a PBS script.Pensioners and concession cardholders will continue to benefit from the freeze to the cost of their PBS medicines, with the cost to remain at $7.70 until 2030.Australians now have even better access to free health advice with the launch of the 1800MEDICARE telehealth service and app on January 1.Whether people need expert health advice or reassurance, they can call 1800MEDICARE and the registered nurses will be there 24/7 to provide advice and refer people to the health service they need.Free telehealth sessions can also be arranged with a 1800MEDICARE GP via phone or video - available all weekend and weeknights between 6pm and 8am.I know people in and around Kiama will be pleased the Albanese Government’s new national early intervention service, Medicare Mental Health Check In, is now online, providing free mental health support and care, without a diagnosis or referral.These commitments are at the heart of Labor’s plan to strengthen Medicare, along with the tripling of the bulk billing incentive which means more fully bulk billed medical centres and more local patients seeing their GP for free. I’m also really pleased that the new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics at Nowra and Shellharbour will open soon, taking pressure off our hospital emergency departments.Good news for local families, with our Three Day Guarantee for childcare rolled out on January 5, and in July of this year, our second round of tax cuts for every tax payer will kick in, with our third round of tax cuts coming in July 2027. All of these new measures will help people struggling with the cost-of-living and are on top of so many initiatives already taking the pressure off such as 20 per cent wiped from student debt, free TAFE and five per cent deposits to help first home buyers get into their own home sooner.I’m proud to be your local representative in Federal Parliament and hope to see you out and about in the community soon.Please note - this is paid content.

For Kate McNaughton, the owner of Dido Street Early Learning Centre (ELC), one of the hardest parts of her job isn’t staffing, compliance, or paperwork - it’s saying no.“It is incredibly difficult,” she says. “I have had parents call in tears, feeling overwhelmed and desperate to secure care so they can return to work. As a mother myself, these conversations are especially hard.”And these aren’t one-off conversations. They’re happening again and again.At Dido Street ELC, the most in-demand spots are in the ‘baby room’, where children are cared for up to the age of two. With capacity for just five children per day, the waiting list stretches out for two years. Sibling enrolments are prioritised, and for everyone else, the list keeps growing.“Families are often shocked,” says McNaughton. “They’re unaware of the current childcare shortage, especially in infant care. The majority of new enrolments typically occur at the start of the year, when children transition to primary school and places open up.”Her advice is blunt - and often surprising to first-time parents.“Immediately get onto a [childcare] waiting list as soon as you fall pregnant. Sounds silly doesn't it, but it is the reality of the matter.”Kiama may be one of the South Coast’s most sought-after postcodes, but for parents of young children, there’s a less glossy reality beneath the surface. The town has officially been labelled a “childcare desert” - a term used when demand for childcare far outstrips supply.It’s not just a local problem. Across New South Wales, 28 per cent of the state is now classified as a childcare desert, according to a report by Victoria University. That figure is down from 40 per cent in 2020 - a rare piece of good news in a sector under pressure.There are a couple of reasons for the shift. The number of childcare places has increased by about 10 per cent between 2020 and 2024, while population growth among children under five has slowed.But statistics don’t always match lived experience. For families actually trying to secure paid care - especially for babies - places can still feel like gold dust. Infant rooms are more expensive to run, staffing ratios are tighter, and fewer services offer them at all.Then there’s the fear factor.By almost any measure, 2025 was not a good year for the early childhood sector. A series of high-profile abuse cases, serious compliance breaches and regulatory failures dominated headlines and rattled parents nationwide.The anxiety quickly spilled into local Facebook groups, including Wollongong Mums and Illawarra Parents, where worried families debated pulling children from centres, delaying enrolments, or questioning whether formal childcare was safe at all.That unease didn’t stop at the screen. Naomi Gates, director of Kiama Preschool, said her service saw a sharp rise in enquiries following the abuse scandal at a Melbourne childcare centre last year. Choice matters more than ever, she said - and families are seeking reassurance.“It’s a huge decision to find the service that matches with your philosophy,” said Gates. “There is also a strong emotional component, as leaving your child each day in the care of others is a major decision for families. I have seen parents very anxious, and I recognise the need to build trust and confidence with families.”Kiama, she argues, has more options than the “desert” label suggests. According to data supplied by the Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA), the Kiama local government area has 642 places in long daycare services, 185 in community preschools and 381 places in out-of-school care.“Navigating the many different services can be daunting,” says Gates. “My advice is to always visit the service, talk to the educators, and find out about the service’s philosophy.”In New South Wales, every Early Childhood Education and Care service is required to publicly display its compliance and quality rating history, with information available to families on the government’s Starting Blocks website. A recent NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into the early childhood education and care sector flagged the need for faster reporting.Kate (Top left) and her team from Dido Street Early Learning Centre on NAIDOC Week.Little Zacs Academy, which opened in Kiama Heights in 2024, is currently listed as “not yet rated” on the Starting Blocks website. Until ratings catch up, parents often fall back on what they trust most - word ofmouth. playground conversations and WhatsApp chats continue to shape decisions as much as official data.Tune into parents’ conversations and a clear picture emerges. What matters most isn’t just the curriculum, but safety, a sense of calm, and meaningful outdoor play - hallmarks of both Kiama and Jamberoo Preschools. Nature-based play is also growing in popularity. Grounded Education, run by two local parents, offers a “Bush Kindy drop-off program” for children 3-7 years old, running following the school term.Meanwhile, “co-care” arrangements are gaining traction as families rethink what “the village” might mean in 2026. Mum of four Virginia Tapscott is the founder of All Parents Work, an organisation that advocates for the recognition of unpaid care work. As a working mother based in a rural location, her care arrangements are creative: a nanny one day per week, supported by a network of neighbours and local families.Part of the problem, she believes, is growing discomfort with informal care. “It works where there is trust and a good degree of familiarity,” she says. “And I prefer the kind of supervision that is provided informally. My son knows our neighbours well and they will be in his life on a consistent ongoing basis.”For families navigating Kiama’s childcare desert, connection matters. Sharing tips, swapping leads and leaning on one another can make all the difference in an already intense season of life.As one local parent told The Bugle: “It can feel like you’re lost with no support, but when you reach out for help, there’s always someone who will lend a hand, give you a tip, or hook you up with a babysitter.”“We spend all this time Googling childcare centres and chasing waiting lists - but we don’t reach out to a friend who could be happy to lend a hand.”

The NSW Government has released a new report outlining the next steps in consultation on the future use of the David Berry Hospital site, reaffirming the long-standing Kiama landmark will remain in public hands with a guaranteed health presence.Minister for Health and Regional Health Ryan Park and Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney announced the update on Friday, confirming further formal engagement will take place in 2026, including Aboriginal-led consultation with the local Aboriginal community.The report follows the second phase of community consultation, conducted by independent consultants RPS, who engaged directly with more than 130 community members and staff through focus groups and pop-up events. It builds on the 2024 Have Your Say survey, which attracted nearly 1,200 responses, with 87 per cent of participants indicating healthcare should remain the primary focus of the site.The Minns Labor Government reiterated its commitment that the historic hospital site will continue to benefit Berry and surrounding communities through future health-related uses, while acknowledging the site’s complex history.Minister Park said David Berry Hospital has been part of the region for more than a century and, while no longer suitable for its original purpose, its future must reflect community values and needs.He also acknowledged the negative impact the site has had on local Aboriginal communities through systemic racism and past government policies, including the Stolen Generations, and said meaningful engagement with First Nations communities is a priority.“Through this ongoing consultation and engagement, we’re ensuring the site will remain a meaningful presence for the health of the region,” Minister Park said.Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney welcomed the progress, saying she had worked closely with NSW Health and the Minister for more than two years to advocate for strong community consultation and community-led decision-making.“I welcome the progress made on working closely with our local Aboriginal community to shape the future uses at the site,” Ms McInerney said.Formal Aboriginal-led engagement activities are expected to commence shortly, with a final engagement report due by mid-2026. The second phase consultation report is now publicly available on the NSW Government website.

Nearly five decades strong, the Kiama Art Society is preparing to welcome over 2000 visitors to its 46th Annual Art Exhibition at Kiama Leagues Club next Sunday (25 January).Standing the test of time, the society sees the exhibition as more than just a display - it’s a vital platform for local artists, now more than ever.“In a world where so much art is sold online, it’s essential that artists still have a space to share their work with a live audience,” said Kiama Art Society president Michelle Skuza.“Solo exhibitions are expensive and can be daunting to organise, putting them beyond the reach of many artists. "Collaborative exhibitions like this one allow artists to introduce their work to new audiences, while giving the public the chance to experience a wide range of styles and genres they might not even know exist.”This year’s exhibition will feature over 150 artworks spanning contemporary and traditional landscapes, seascapes, still life, expressive abstracts, local Kiama subjects, and exceptional works by high-school students in Years 10-12.Skuza is especially passionate about showcasing the talent of Kiama artists, young and old, and is eager to see how people of differing ages, backgrounds, and experiences come together through their art.“Some visitors will be old friends who have attended many previous shows, while for others it may be their first exhibition experience. Some artists are exhibiting for the first time, while others are well-seasoned professionals,” she said.“One thing is guaranteed: not everyone will agree with the judges’ prize choices, but all will agree that, for a small regional town, Kiama punches above its weight when it comes to art.”Beyond displaying local talent, the exhibition is about connecting people through art.“Hopefully, visitors will leave with an appreciation for the depth of artistic talent in the area and be encouraged to support local art - not just now, but into the future,” Skuza said.“Seeing the quality of art being produced may also inspire artists not yet in the society to join and share in the social and creative opportunities it offers.”The exhibition is held in partnership with long-time supporter Kiama Leagues Club, which provides not only the venue for two weeks but also storage for exhibition stands and acts as the major prize sponsor.“Their staff make the entire process - from setup to pack-up - run smoothly. "This year, when a major sponsor was lost, the Leagues Club stepped in and increased their support to cover the shortfall. It is community cohesion like this that makes Kiama such a great town to live in and be part of,” Skuza said.The exhibition runs from 10 am to 5 pm in the Leagues Club’s upstairs auditorium, and all are welcome. Membership forms for the Kiama Art Society will be available at the exhibition and can also be found online at KiamaArtSociety.org.au.

New year, new you. It’s a mantra repeated by millions of people who have over-indulged during the silly season.So it’s no surprise that physical health and wellbeing consistently tops the nation’s resolution list each year.A survey by Finder - which polls thousands of Australians on their financial, physical and mental health - found 71 per cent made New Year’s resolutions with saving money, getting fit and eating well the top priorities. While people begin the year with good intentions, a whopping 77 per cent quit by the end of January according to global nutrition and food tracking app MyFitnessPal, with 20 per cent ditching their goals in the first week of the year when they return to work and find they are time and energy poor.Kiama pilates instructor Angie De Battista says another common reason for quitting is that people often set goals that are too ambitious for their fitness levels.“The key is to start off small, make sure you listen to your body and what it is telling you so you don’t overdo it,” says the founder of A+Pilates.Angie is no stranger to easing into a new lifestyle. Originally from Sydney’s Northern Beaches she moved to Kiama when she was in her late 20s and, despite not knowing anyone, soon became a well known face working as a real estate agent at Ray White Kiama.She met her husband Greg at Jamberoo Pub after making the shift south and then, for the next two decades while also raising her own family, Angie helped others “find their place” in the close-knit Kiama community.In 2022 Angie and Greg decided to “retire” and travel around Australia in their caravan. Initially Angie embraced the transition from working 50 plus hours a week to a slower paced life.But she soon realised that she missed the community interaction and structure work had given her. Exercise had always been part of Angie’s daily routine and the avid pilates lover took her mat on her caravanning trip.“It was my daughter Elle who suggested I become a pilates instructor,” says Angie. “So when I came home I did an intensive teacher training course and now I run six classes a week at Kiama Downs Surf Club and Snap Fitness Kiama.“Every class is tailored to the needs of participants, I want to make sure that people set up the right building blocks so that they avoid injury and can keep coming back. When resolutions - whatever they may be - feel too difficult, people get discouraged and give up altogether.”And it can come at a cost. Finder data shows 39 per cent of those surveyed spent $1000 or more on subscription services like gym membership, meditation platforms or meal kits to help build better habits. But subscriptions also come with hidden traps with three out of four Australians experiencing problems cancelling, prompting an overhaul of Australian Consumer Laws.The reforms, expected to be introduced later this year, will require businesses to clearly outline sign-up terms, provide reminders before free trials end and make cancelling a subscription as straightforward as joining.“Our reforms target unfair subscription practices that exploit consumers, particularly arrangements where signing up is easy but cancelling is deliberately difficult,” says Federal Productivity Minister Andrew Leigh.A survey of gym-goers by research and comparison platform Canstar found one in four Australians spend an average of $77 per month on a gym membership but a quarter go less than they initially planned.Angie says exercise should “fit in with your stage in life for both ability and availability so that health and wellbeing resolutions stick”.“My pilates classes are specifically designed to be supportive for all life stages and help people move better, feel stronger and improve their overall wellbeing,” says Angie.“There is no financial commitment required to try my Surf Club classes, you can come casually and pay as you go, but my only advice is to make an ongoing commitment to yourself to improve your health, it’s all about creating habits.“All you need is a yoga mat and a can do attitude, I make sure I tailor the classes to everyone’s fitness level and if you are just starting out I can provide the props like bands, blocks and a roller.” Classes at Kiama Downs Surf Club are held twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays and are designed to improve posture and core strength and build mobility and muscle tone. “After the stretching and strength work we do guided meditation which helps reduce stress,” explains Angie. “And as an added bonus we are overlooking the beautiful Jones Beach, then gather for a coffee at Stacks, so if that doesn’t improve your mental health I don’t know what will!” For more information about A+ Pilates classes email [email protected].

Dunmore farmers John and Janelle Kelleher are paying the price for a bad decision back in 1956 where John’s uncle allowed an easement to be put through their farm for the convenience of a farmer who had a block of land at the back of their property.The easement was only 12 foot wide and half a kilometre long, mainly for horses, carts, cattle and tractors.Now the back block has a house on it which is rented out to the public and at present, the tenants and all their visitors are not required to sign in on the visitor log book which is part of the farm’s biosecurity plan.Anyone can go through this part of the farm at any hour of the day and night the Kellehers have no knowledge of where they have been and if they have been in contact with any exotic diseases, weeds and pests because of this, they want the law to change.The Kellehers had been in contact with former Kiama MP Gareth Ward about the issue and have recently held discussions with new state member Katelin McInerney.They have also sought legal advice but have been told that unless the State Government amends the Biosecurity Act then they are stuck with the current situation where they have to hope that anyone who uses the easement signs in beforehand.“We want that law changed to accommodate biosecurity, because at the moment, anyone can go up there,” Janelle said. “We’ve got cattle up there, and our cattle could be exposed to anything. "The biosecurity act was created in 2015, then the regulation 44A2 was changed in 2017 to give exemptions to easements, which is now putting ourfarm in a biosecurity risk.”If people have visited foreign countries, they may be unaware they are bringing diseases to Australia and when an outbreak occurs on agricultural land, the effects can be devastating.“They don’t have to sign in,” John said. “Any Tom, Dick or Harry can just walk up there.“They could have been overseas in a place where they’ve come into contact with anything. Who knows what. So the biosecurity isn’t protected anymore.“If any disease breaks out, a 10-kilometre radius goes up where nothing can go in or out of that area.” Janelle added that the Australian government loves to talk up the strength of the national biosecurity protocols but this law makes a mockery of those claims.“It’s so important to our farmers. But what the politicians say is a load of crap. Our whole herd could be wiped out. It’s ridiculous,” she said.“People should have to sign in and let us know where they’ve been. We want restrictions for our cattle just in case there is an outbreak so that we can retrace back where these people have been and try to work out what happened.”The Kellehers had five cattle die 15 months ago due to lungworm, prompting them to upgrade the biosecurity at their breeding farm.At the moment they have got about 80 head of cattle near the easement, using a strip-grazing farming technique where John changes the placement of the electric fences each day to give the paddocks time to regenerate.“We want other farmers out there that are going through what we’re going through to know that we’re here. “We want them to ring us and join us in trying to change this law so we can make it better for farmers.”The Kellehers would like any other farmers experiencing problems due to this law to contact them on 0447 040 965.

Kiama Councillor Yasmin Tatrai wants to make sure the New Year's Eve fireworks are reinstated in 2026 so she is spearheading a community-led petition and moving a motion at next month’s Council meeting to lock it in.Cr Tatrai said the catalyst for the petition was a raft of local business owners telling her that they had suffered a negative downswing in trade on New Year’s Eve. She took photos across the town centre and foreshore on New Year’s Eve which show unusually empty streets, low foot traffic and subdued trading conditions - a stark contrast to previous years when fireworks attracted huge numbers of families, visitors and overnight stays.“It was sad. At seven o’clock on New Year’s Eve it was like a ghost town. It was disturbing,” she said, speaking as an individual Councillor not on behalf of Council.“There was nothing to do in the LGA whatsoever on New Year’s Eve.Cr Tatrai empathised with the plight of pet owners who say their dogs in particular experience stress from the fireworks but added that the noise only lasts for 15 minutes.“We've all got to work together,” she said.“It's about potentially 16,000 people in town enjoying a night together with their families in the community, going to all the venues, going to the cafes and restaurants.“We are a tourism town but without tourism, business couldn’t survive. And then what? We've seen towns around Australia that don't get business, their towns close.”Since the 2025 fireworks were officially cancelled in September due to the financial constraints of the state government’s performance improvement order, Mayor Cameron McDonald has reiterated that it would be a one-off.Cr Tatrai will move a motion at the first monthly meeting of the new year in February for Council to commit to the Sky Show and to prepare a business case by June.She wants Council to engage with the community on suitable locations and timing and to allocate funding and planning resources early, or explore cost-recovery options such as a ticketed or partially ticketed event.“Fireworks are not just entertainment — they are a proven driver of tourism, hospitality spending and community connection.”Cr Tatrai said successful community-run models already exist elsewhere, demonstrating that fireworks can be delivered safely and responsibly without placing undue strain on council budgets.“Other towns have shown that with early planning, community partnerships and ticketed formats, fireworks can be both financially responsible and highly successful,” she added.“We’re asking Council to work with the community — not remove events that bring people together and support local livelihoods.”Her Change.org petition can be found here.Fellow Kiama Councillor Erica Warren is also canvassing local opinion with a survey about how New Year’s Eve should be celebrated.Cr Warren’s survey asks whether people would support “a more distributed model of New Year’s Eve celebrations across multiple locations in the Kiama LGA”.She lists Gerringong, Jamberoo and Kiama Downs as other locations where celebrations could be held and asks how likely would people be to attend celebrations if they were held in multiple locations.Cr Warren’s survey also asks for “new ideas or improvements for New Year’s Eve celebrations” and whether they should be funded by a ticket and business sponsorship system or Kiama Council via the ratepayers. Her survey can be found here.

Berry-born human rights barrister Jennifer Robinson made her mark on the legal fraternity long before she helped free activist Julian Assange.Ms Robinson worked quietly behind the scenes for over a decade as a member of Assange’s legal team before the WikiLeaks founder was finally freed in 2024, catapulting the former Bomaderry High School student into the spotlight.But the 44-year-old has been racking up accolades and awards for as long as her friends and family can remember. The most recent is being named alongside fellow high flyers as a winner of the 2025 Global Australian Awards.The awards recognise “extraordinary Australians who are quietly shaping the world” through life-saving breakthroughs in fire safety, ageing science and humanitarian action, to global leadership in business, innovation, culture, human rights and space discovery.Global Australian Awards CEO Kate McQuestin says Ms Robinson was one of several winners, from hundreds of nominees across 140 countries, selected by an independent panel of judges.“(Jennifer) represents Australians succeeding well beyond our borders and, in doing so, strengthening Australia’s influence, reputation and competitive position at home,” says Ms McQuestin.“From London to New York, Vietnam to Singapore - we are very proud to be shining a light on the success of Australians around the globe.” Ms Robinson, who lives and works in London’s Doughty Street Chambers but splits her spare time between her Gerroa holiday home and her family’s farm in Berry, has never been one to shy away from a challenge, taking on her first human rights fight at just 21.She was still a student at the Australian National University when her legal work helped political prisoner Benny Wenda and his family escape West Papua. She graduated in 2006 with the University Medal in Law and went on to become a Rhodes Scholar. At Oxford she chaired the Law Faculty’s pro bono postgraduate organisation, Oxford Pro Bono Publico, which provides research assistance on major human rights cases around the world, and was named by the UK Attorney-General as a National Pro Bono Hero for her work in 2008. While at Oxford she worked with renowned human rights lawyer Geoffrey Robertson to expose child abuse in the Catholic Church and in 2019 was named International Pro Bono Barrister of the Year.She is the youngest Australian woman to appear before the International Court of Justice, and as well as taking on high-profile cases like Julian Assange. Despite all the awards and all the wins across her stellar career, she describes Assange’s emotional reunion with his wife Stella as the “highlight”.Ms Robinson looked on, with tears in her eyes, as Assange stepped off the plane into the waiting arms of his wife after fighting for freedom for almost two decades. It was after defending Amber Heard in the infamous Johnny Depp deflation case - the Hollywood actress was subjected to widespread online hate and Ms Robinson received death threats - that the lawyer used the “power of the pen” to explore how the system often fails victims of gender-based violence.Ms Robinson co-wrote a book How Many More Women? Which was in part inspired by Heard and other women the law failed but also the “strong female role models” who helped raise her.Jennifer’s maternal grandmother worked in women’s refuges in Sydney to support those fleeing domestic violence, she was instrumental in shaping her sense of social justice from a young age.“That bears out in a lot of what Jen does,” says her father, Terry. “She wrote her first book about how women are mistreated, she’s very passionate about changing that.”Ms McQuestin says the human rights lawyer joins a host of talented Aussies “transforming global systems, saving lives, empowering communities and elevating Australia’s influence worldwide”.“Australians back themselves and they back each other. That ‘have-a-go’ attitude and spirit is loved around the world and is at the heart of our global reputation. “And yet, Australians are famously modest. Many don’t seek recognition for what they’ve achieved.”“Together, they represent Australian ambition at its best — bold in vision, generous in spirit and determined in action. They are resilient, curious and adventurous.” Mr Robinson agrees. “Jen takes a lot on,” he says. “I don’t know how she does it. She had to work hard to get where she is today, coming from a small country town. But Jen never shied away from hard work. “She got her first job at 15 at the local pub, The Berry Hotel. All my kids did, and it taught them a great work ethic.”

At first glance this appears to be an unassuming book, but once you start exploring, you find 128 pages of creative inspiration and work of many local makers in fabric crafts since 2020. It’s more than a book. It’s a celebration.Featured makers include: Robyn Sharp (knitter and artist), Peter Daley and John Mara (crochet), and unique plant dyed knitted pieces by Brian McCarthy. But for every maker highlighted there are many more quietly and busily engaged in their inspired creations whether represented in the book or not. Groups mentioned include Berry Spinners and Weavers, Kiama Quilters and Wrap With Love participants. Displays included those at Kiama Library, Gerringong Library and Museum (GLaM), Bonaira Care Home and Blue Haven Terralong independent living units, and each were hailed a success. As we hurtle into a future dominated by uber-technology and AI, it sometimes takes displays like these and books like this to remind us of the significance of hand-crafting, not only for individuals but also for community-building. Meticulously compiled by Boni and Peter Maywald, this book could also be described as a work of art, as it incorporates over 100 full colour photos, many taken by photograher Lea Tucker, that also offer a lot of thoughts to consider, including in the accompanying artist statements. These provide a glimpse into the creative journeys of many of the participants.Last, but not least, the Kiama Craft in COVID wall hanging is reproduced in its final form, with details of its origins and the inspirations behind the 50 makers involved. This amazing wall hanging will be on display at Kiama Show along with the launch of the book.At Kiama Show, 23-24 January: This book will be launched at 2pm next Friday (23 January) by Sandra McCarthy, along with the finished Kiama Craft in COVID wall hanging. When visiting the Show, enter for a chance to win a Gift Pack that includes the book, at the book launch stand in the Pavilion.

What started as a summer swim at the Kiama rockpool turned into a life-or-death rescue on New Year’s Eve, as a tourist was swept into the surf and injured.With the quick thinking and teamwork of three young Kiama Nippers, local cadets, and lifeguards, a potentially fatal incident ended in safety.The Kiama rockpool was bustling with tourists that afternoon. The surf was high, with waves breaking into the pool and surging over the edges.“We actually thought it was a prank,” said 10-year-old Parker Parr, recalling the moment he first saw the victim floating in the dangerous waters. “There was a helicopter that came over and said ‘wear your lifejacket’ and we were like, oh, it might be a prank, but then we figured out he was floating.”Parker was accompanied by two young Nippers and friends, nine-year-old Willow and 12-year-old Charley Hallinan, who were meeting for a swim when they noticed the man in trouble.“I was nervous for the man,” Willow said. “He was just laying out – if people had not gotten to him in time, he might have actually died.”The children acted quickly. Their first attempt to alert an adult failed: “I don’t believe you,” someone told them and “he’s just practising floating”. Refusing to ignore the danger, the kids ran to Diggies and the alarm was raised.By coincidence, Peter Gallagher, Kiama Nippers Water Safety Supervisor and lead coach, was returning from a surf-ski training session with cadets Forbes Robertson, 14, and Finnlay Smee, 16.“He told us to get away so we wouldn’t have to see a dead guy’s body because he looked dead,” Forbes said.From the water, Pete quickly assessed the situation, grabbing the man by the arm and asking, “Are you alive? Are you awake?” The injured tourist, estimated to weigh 130 kilograms, had a dislocated shoulder and multiple lacerations from the rocks. Pete worked to keep him above the water and out of the surf, supported by the cadets.Meanwhile, lifeguard Jake Willick was alerted via SurfCom and raced from Surf Beach on a jetski. The swell was extreme, with waves around eight feet, and getting the injured man onto the jetski sled proved a complex task.“It was quite difficult getting him onto the ski with the size of him and the size of the swell and his injuries,” Jake said. “We had to drag him, Pete, and the surf ski out of the impact zone because of the big swell - they’d get pushed into the rocks.”The victim was finally transferred to the jetski and taken to the boat ramp, where the fire brigade assisted with a stretcher before paramedics arrived to take him to hospital and he is now on the road to recovery. Throughout, the only responses from the man were vomiting from swallowed water and screams of pain.The young Nippers who raised the alarm watched the rescue unfold.“Once our parents told us it was a big deal, then I was proud,” Charley said. Parker added: “I’m just glad and thankful that he’s alright.” Willow remembered an unusual moment during the rescue: “When he was getting carried in by the jetski, there were dolphins following – it was strange.”For the cadets, the experience was like none other. “We thought he was a log, but then he got closer, just laying on his back – we just thought he was dead,” Forbes said. Finnlay added: “When I saw him there was a lot of adrenaline – that’s the first time I’d ever seen something like that.” Both have been part of Nippers for 10 years.Kiama local Jake, who has been lifeguarding since he was 17 and is now 25, reflected on the severity of the situation. “A couple of years ago, the same thing happened and a swimmer got washed out of the rockpool and died,” he said. “In the end, this was a good outcome. He was very lucky with the surf. If Pete and those boys hadn’t been paddling past and I was on my own, I would’ve struggled a lot.”As young Charley said, “Nippers is very helpful for learning about the waves and how the tide works.” For everyone enjoying the water, staying alert, swimming between the flags, and knowing your limits can make all the difference.

There’s just a week to go to the ever-popular Kiama Show, which this year celebrates its 178-year anniversary. Hosted at the Kiama Showground –one of the state’s most picturesque locations – the Show features a broad selection of agricultural events and entertainment over two full days on Friday and Saturday (23-24 January), culminating in a stunning firework display at around 9pm on Saturday.Giddy up At the heart of the two-day Show are, of course, cattle and horses, Pony Club events and competitive showjumping. Friday show classes, starting at 10am, include cute Australian Miniature Ponies and Shetlands, Arabians and Warmbloods, as well as Australian National Saddlehorses and Stock horses in ridden contests, with Pony Club events kicking off at about 11.30am in Ring 1. Saturday features junior and senior riding classes and a 15-hand-plus competition that includes the Off The Track Thoroughbred NSW/ACT Series, whose winner and runner-up will be eligible to take part in the NSW state final. Standardbred classes are new for 2026, open to horses registered with Harness Australia only. Showjumping competitions take place over both days, starting at 9am. Showjumping heights have been altered to encourage more riders to develop their skills and compete in this thrilling competition.  Photo: Brian ScottCattle all classCattle classes celebrate the local area’s long history of farming and dairy production, which still take place extensively among Kiama’s justifiably famous, green rolling hills. Expect to see dairy breeds such as Illawarra, Holsteins and Jerseys, and a wide range of beef cattle. Young farmers (under 14s and under 18s) take part too, proudly showing off their particular charges. Cattle shows take place from 9.30am on Friday and are an exciting chance to learn more about local farming and agriculture.On the chopping blockOn Saturday the attention turns to competition of the humankind. Yes, it’s the woodchop! This classic event has been part and parcel of the Kiama Show for over 70 years. If you can bear to watch as axes slam into solid logs, expect skilled participants in standing block and tree-felling classes, with the Double-handed Sawing Championship and Junior Underhand Handicap event further highlights of this iconic sport. Woodchop events begin at 9.30am on Saturday in a dedicated arena at the church end of the Showground.The Pavilion a hive of activity A country show wouldn’t be a country show without Pavilion events, and new this year is a wonderful prize in grateful recognition of the outstanding contribution made by Pavilion steward Bruce McIntyre, in over 50 years of dedicated service. Donated by Bruce’s son Geoff in honour of his father, who sadly died last year, the Bruce McIntyre Award rewards the Most Successful Exhibitor Overall in the Pavilion, with a $200 first prize, trophy and ribbon, and $100 runner-up prize and ribbon. Entries to Pavilion classes can be made up to 5pm on Monday 19 January, and delivered on Wednesday 21 January from 3pm-6pm, and on Thursday from 8am-11am. Cut flowers, roses, dahlias and decorative flower classes have until noon on Thursday 22 January to enter, with submissions due between 6.30am and 8am on Friday 23 January. For how to enter, check out the Kiama Show website on kiamashow.com.au/2026-schedule. Produce and cookingVegetables, fruit and produce always deliver a mouth-watering selection of beautifully presented goodies that wouldn’t look out of place in the finest greengrocer, while cookery shows off participants’ baking and cooking skills. Classics such as fruit cake, scones, brownies and Anzac biscuits are ranged alongside jams, preserves, pickles and condiments, with an extensive selection of junior cookery classes, open to age groups from Under 5 to 16 and under, giving the kids an early – er, ‘taste of competition.New to the baking line-up this year is ‘My favourite cake’. Reserved for exhibitors aged 80 and over, participants are invited to choose and create a cake recipe that’s special to them. Prepare to dazzle with your very own take on the Victoria Sponge!Photo: Brian ScottHandicrafts, art, LegoCreativity is the watchword throughout the Pavilion – think artwork, photography, handicrafts, sewing, spinning and weaving, with expanded classes this year for knitted and crocheted rugs. Last year saw the inaugural Kia-Bald portrait competition in a tongue-in-cheek homage to the Archibald, which will doubtless invite another talented selection of portraits of Kiama identities. Kids have their own classes, with the Junior artwork section attracting a host of entries in particular. Another big attraction for the under 18s is the Lego section, and from this year, their parents can get a piece of the action and a chance to become Lego masters in their own right with new entries for adults, as well as an intergenerational class. For this, grab a grown-up (or two) and create an aspect of the Kiama Show from Lego, document it and submit your entry for a chance to win. Flowers and plants in bloomEvery year areas of the Pavilion are turned over to flower power – a gorgeous array of cut flowers filling the space with colour and fragrance. Roses and dahlias earn their own special group of classes, as do decorative arrangements, with an inspiring selection of posies displayed in containers such as vases, teacups and teapots. There’s something for everyone, whether your taste runs to colourful blooms or subtle foliage. Pot plants demand particular care, so it’s only fitting that they should feature in their own special section, with extra classes this year in the Junior section (17 years and under). Adults should bring in their bromeliads, fish out their ferns and seek out their succulents for their chance to win the plaudits of Most Successful Exhibitor and the Robert Young Shield, donated by Elizabeth Burnett of Burnetts on Barney.Entertainment aplentyA full program of entertainment running alongside traditional events means fun for all the family at this year’s Show. Let the games begin (at 2pm on Friday) with Billycart and Hobby Horse races, the Tug of War and Gumboot Toss, all kindly sponsored by Native Cafe. MadStyle Moto Bikes make a welcome return to the Show with a motorcycle display packed with jaw-dropping tricks and stunts.Move over Muster Dogs! Farmer Dave’s canine superstars also return to this year’s Show with the K9 Superwall – a vertical obstacle that gets higher and higher each round – and Temptation Alley. Photo: Brian ScottWill the intrepid pups make it seamlessly from one end of the arena to the other, or will they be swayed by the many toys and treats along the way, designed to put good dogs off their stride? Find out at the Showground on Friday and Saturday evenings (see program for timings). There’s also the chance to put your own pet in the spotlight at the annual Pet Show, taking place this year on Friday at 5pm in the Showground. Junior classes, open to children under 16, include Most Unusual Pet, Cutest Cat or Kitten, Best Groomed Dog and much more, while adult classes feature Best Trick, Golden Oldie and the ever-popular Pet Most Like Its Owner. Entries to the Pet Show close at 5pm on Monday 19 January, so there’s still time to include your favourite furry or feathered friend. For a full list of classes, check out the Kiama Show Schedule online at kiamashow.com.au/2026-schedule.Saturday sees an action-packed day, starting with Footgolf in the Showground and featuring a double round of ShowMow, featuring modified lawnmowers up against each other in a battle to put the Wacky Races to shame. Just don’t expect the grass to be trimmed – the focus here is speed over style. The Six Bar equestrian event is a thrilling contest comprising a series of tightly spaced, ever-taller fences to jump, to delight horse-watchers, while the Farmfit Challenge gives participants the chance to show off their farm-edged fitness and endurance with a series of physical challenges.Ambassador programSaturday will also give visitors the opportunity to welcome Kiama Young Woman 2026. Mia Thompson, 18, works on a dairy farm and will go on to compete against other entrants from local shows for a chance to appear in the Zone Final, which will be held by Albion Park Show in February. It’s an especially exciting time for young people at the Show this year, with the launch of Kiama Show’s involvement in the Rural Ambassador program. Mia Thompson. Photo: SuppliedAimed at people aged 14-30 years, the program aims to attract and encourage those who would like to learn more about agriculture in general and the Show in particular, but aren’t sure how or where to start. Read more about the program on the Kiama Show website. Kiama Show programFriday​​9.00am Pavilion opens (downstairs only; upstairs opens 11am)9.00am Showjumping events begin9.30am Dairy and beef cattle classes begin, including Junior Paraders10.00am Australian miniature, Shetlands, Coloured and Standardbred horse classes begin (Ring 1)10.00am Arabian, Warmblood, Saddlehorse and Stock horse classes begin (Ring 2)11.30am (approx) Pony Club and Open Sporting events begin (Ring 1)2:00pm Billycart Races (Showground)2:30pm Hobby Horse Race (Showground) - Sponsored by Native Cafe3:30pm Gumboot Toss (Showground)- Sponsored by Native Cafe4:00pm Official Opening of the 2026 Kiama Show (Showground)5:00pm Pet Show (Showground) - Sponsored by Joske Family6:00pm Farmer Dave's Temptation Alley (Showground)7:00pm MadStyleMoto Bikes (Showground) - Sponsored by Middleton Financial Planning7:00pm Pavilion closes8:00pm Farmer Dave's K9 Superwall (Showground) - Sponsored by Summerbell Foundation9pm Close of Show​Saturday9.00am Pavilion opens9.00am Showjumping events begin9.00am Pony and riding classes begin (Ring 1)9.00am Hacks, Adult Riding, Galloway hacks, Show Hunter Galloways and Hacks classes begin9:30am Woodchop events begin2:00pm Footgolf (Showground) - Sponsored by Jamberoo Footgolf3:00pm Gumboot Toss (Showground) - Sponsored by Native Cafe3.15pm Billycart Races (Showground) - Sponsored by Native Cafe3:45pm Hobby Horse Races (Showground) - Sponsored by Native Café4:00pm Six Bar Jump (Showground)4:30pm Ag Ambassador & Young Women Presentation (Showground) - Supported by BlueScope WIN Community Partnership & The Agriculture Group (TAG)5:00pm Farmfit Challenge (Showground) - Sponsored by Cloud Wealth5:45pm Farmer Dave's Temptation Alley (Showground)6:30pm  ShowMow - Lawnmower Race Round 1 (Showground) - Sponsored by Aaron Shelley – Project Dry Hire & Kilmore Plant Services Kiama​7:30pm Farmer Dave's K9 Superwall (Showground) - Sponsored by Summerbell Foundation8:15pm ShowMow - Lawnmower Race Round 2 (Showground)- Sponsored by Aaron Shelley - Project Dry Hire & Kilmore Plant Services Kiama​8.30pm Pavilion closes9.00pm Fireworks - Sponsored by Carter Ferguson Solicitors, Gerringong

Kiama Council is forging ahead with the Kiama Sounds of Jazz & Blues live music weekend in March and is calling on businesses and the community to support the stopgap event.After the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival organisers pressed pause on their event for 2026, Council is organising a community‑led live music weekend in its place. The Kiama Sounds of Jazz & Blues live music weekend will feature live performances across multiple venues, spanning jazz, blues, and a variety of other music styles.Kiama Council tourism and economic development manager Sally Bursell said the initiative would help local venues and businesses keep live music thriving across the region during the traditional festival weekend.An Expression of Interest is now open for local businesses and venues interested in hosting performances with the deadline to nominate this Sunday (18 January). Bursell said after Mayor Cameron McDonald announced late last year that Council would step into the breach, they have received plenty of interest from local businesses.They held a meeting with business owners before Christmas to map out a plan.“Everyone was sort of on the same page and willing to pull together however they could,” she said. “We asked them what did they think Council's role could be to support them.“We spoke about a few things - how it would be good to have as many businesses involved as possible and how the challenges can be marketing and connecting the businesses.“So we thought that Council's biggest contribution could be those things - looking at how we can communicate what's going on and where, and also looking at using funds to physically connect the businesses through a rotating bus or something along those lines. “We've got the EOI out to try and get as many businesses that are willing to do something in that sort of capacity - live music within their businesses. “We've been really encouraged to see the business support and also the community support and response.“Essentially it's a venue led and paid for exercise and Council’s just supporting through the marketing and pulling everyone together while the Jazz & Blues Festival is on pause for this year. Bursell said Council staff were connecting artists with venues and have reached out to Kiama Business Network to see if they can assist as well.The fact that the Jazz & Blues Festival is on every meant that many tourists had pre-booked accommodation and some venues had lined up live music acts.Council will help coordinate who is participating, preferred performance times and programming opportunities, informing a draft weekend schedule and promotional activity.Cr McDonald hoped the live music weekend would preserve the spirit of the long‑running festival while giving venues the flexibility to curate their own line‑ups.“One of the things I value most about Kiama is the way our community steps forward when something important to them is at risk of being lost.“With the Jazz & Blues Festival taking a break in 2026, it’s been encouraging to see local venues and creatives come together with their own ideas to keep live music part of our town’s identity. “Council’s role here is simple: To support, coordinate and create the space for community-led initiatives to happen.“This Live Music Weekend in early March is a good example of that approach. It’s about backing local effort, strengthening collaboration and letting the community lead the way.“We want to ensure the weekend continues to bring vibrancy, culture and visitors to our towns and villages.”After the long-running Folk By The Sea festival was wound up and the Changing Tides independent music event was cancelled in November, the local events calendar has taken a heavy hit.Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival organisers are planning to return for a 40th anniversary festival in 2027.

For more than 70 years, the Country Women’s Association of Kiama has been a hub for community gatherings, high teas and charitable work. But the local branch faces an unexpected upheaval: their longtime home has been sold, leaving the group to find a new base.CWA Kiama president Cheryl Pearce said the situation has been complicated and frustrating. “We’re not entirely sure when everything has to be out,” she said. “I rang state office, but they’ve been a bit cagey. It’s commercial and confidential. We just don’t have the details.”The property, built in 1953, has served generations of women in Kiama, providing not just a meeting place, but also storage for chairs, tableware and other community resources. Maintaining such an ageing building, Cheryl says, had become unsustainable. “Once a branch decides it no longer wants to upkeep its building, we give permission to state office to take it over and sell it.The maintenance is beyond us,” she said.The sale is part of a larger wave of development in the area. Cheryl described developers eyeing multiple properties in the neighborhood, sometimes approaching older residents directly with generous offers for their homes. “I’ve been here 26 years, and I became aware of developers knocking on doors,” she recalled. “Some of these offers were huge. It can be overwhelming for older women, widows, or those unfamiliar with the process.”With the building scheduled for a potential demolition to make way for new developments, the CWA has been working quickly to move its resources. Finding a new meeting space has also required creative solutions. The Kiama branch has been offered limited use of the Catholic Church hall for monthly meetings, though it doesn’t provide the convenience of their former home.Cheryl emphasised the importance of keeping the CWA community intact, despite the logistical challenges.“We’re trying to enter the building before state office takes over to retrieve anything we need,” Cheryl said. Furniture, crockery, and other items are being offered to local community groups, including the Anglican Church and Jamberoo CWA.“We’re trying to keep it as a real community. Even if we have to share resources with other branches or other groups, we’ll make it work.”The CWA itself has a long history of supporting women and communities.Formed in 1922 to help country women fight isolation and lack of health services, the organisation quickly became a force for change. Members have set up baby health centres, funded bush nurses, built maternity wards and hospitals, and created schools, rest homes, and holiday cottages. Today, the CWA continues to improve conditions for women and children, offering a network of support, educational programs, social activities, and fundraising initiatives – locally and internationally.Though they’ll no longer have their own building, Kiama CWA plans to continue holding meetings, and providing catering and community projects. “We’ve enjoyed the luxury of having our own building for many years,” Cheryl said. “Now we just have to accept it, adapt, and keep going. It’s about the people and the work we do together – that doesn’t change.”

If you’ve spent time around Kiama’s pubs, festivals or folk gatherings over the past decade, chances are you’ve crossed paths with The Water Runners.What began as a loose collection of local musicians has grown into one of Australia’s most respected folk-roots acts and most recently awarded Runners Up for The People's Choice Award for the Australian Folk Music Awards (Folk Alliance Australia).Formed around 2016, The Water Runners have settled into a long-standing lineup since 2017, featuring Kiama local John Littrich on guitar and vocals, Neil McCann on banjo and mandolin, Danita Harris on fiddle, and Gerringong’s own James Turk on double bass.“We’ve had a couple of people come and go over the years,” Littrich says, “but since 2017 we’ve basically had the same lineup. It’s been really solid.”That stability has helped the band refine what many now describe as their signature sound – a lively blend of bluegrass, folk and roots music, anchored firmly in Australian stories.It’s a style that’s even earned them a genre of their own.“People have started calling it ‘bush grass’,” Littrich laughs. “We love the bluegrass sound, but we wanted to sing about Australia – our bushrangers, First Nations heroes, local history– not just American places we haven’t lived in.”That approach has struck a chord well beyond the South Coast.The Water Runners have now played folk and music festivals across almost every Australian state, from Tasmania to Queensland, with Western Australia the only one left to tick off.They’ve just returned from Queensland’s iconic Woodford Folk Festival – one of the largest festivals in the Southern Hemisphere – and are barely pausing for breath.“It’s been busy,” Littrich says. “We’ve got Illawarra Folk Festival this week, then Bulli, then straight up to Tamworth.”The band has been a staple at the Illawarra Folk Festival since the early days, not only performing but also volunteering behind the scenes – helping with production, set design, and sound.  “We're looking forward to that. But we have to keep a bit of petrol in the tank, both literally and metaphorically, to get up to Tamworth and do that,” he says.Tamworth, of course, looms large this year.While the Water Runners might joke they’re not “hanging out with Keith Urban,” they’re heading north with an impressive list of nominations across multiple award bodies — including the Tamworth Songwriters Association, Capital Country Music Association, Capital Country Radio, and the Australian Bush Balladeers Association.Their latest album Shelter has picked up nominations for Best Song and Best Video, while tracks like Viking and Murrumbidgee continue to gain national attention.The latter tells the powerful true story of a Wiradjuri man who saved around 90 people during the Gundagai floods of the 1850s.“There are so many songs about Ned Kelly,” Littrich explains, “but not many about our First Nations heroes. When I saw the statue in Gundagai and read the story, I thought – "this guy needs a song.”That sense of storytelling is central to the band’s connection with audiences, especially at regional festivals.“When you play somewhere like Majors Creek or Braidwood and you sing a song about that area, locals really latch onto it,” he says.“It helps you connect in a much deeper way.”Despite touring nationally, Kiama remains home base and creative hub Littrich speaks about with pride.“We’re really lucky here,” he says. “You’ve got young bands like Pacific Avenue, The Terrys, Joan Montgomery – and then older, folkier artists like us.There's a lot of artistic and musical talent in Kiama. I just hope a lot of these festivals that are sort of falling by the wayside can be resurrected, and we can capitalise on the talent we do have in the town.”That local network feeds directly into the band’s work.The Shelter video, which has been nominated for best video and song, was filmed in Jamberoo, shot by local videographer Blake Lauricella, with a cameo from Littrich’s son Dom – better known these days as a member of Pacific Avenue and part of The Inspired Unemployed circle.The song itself came from a simple songwriting challenge while travelling around Australia with his wife Jane.“She put words in a box and made me pull one out each day and write a song,” Littrich says. “There were threats of no beer if I didn’t.”The result was Shelter, a song about finding warmth, safety and belonging, themes that resonate just as strongly back home as they do on the road.Despite the long drives and packed festival schedules, the band remains grounded.“We take each day as it comes, and there's a lot of work in planning these things,” Littrich said, “But it's really nice when you get nominated for these things, and you get a little bit of recognition, not that we're going to be retiring to the Bahamas anytime soon,” he joked. “Even if we don’t win, it’s just really nice to be nominated,” he adds. “You go along, rub shoulders with other songwriters, make a few connections – and that’s always good.”For a band that’s been playing together for years, Tamworth is just another stop along the road. The Water Runners will head north, play their gigs, catch up with friends, and then return home to Kiama – doing what they’ve always done.