The 2025 senior spring basketball season came to a close two weeks ago with an exciting grand final series that featured both a nail-biter and a major upset.Participation numbers across Kiama Basketball were strong throughout 2025, with both junior and senior competitions filled to capacity. The senior competition featured five women’s teams and 10 men’s teams, highlighting the continued growth of the sport locally.The women’s grand final saw Autumn Competition champions Timms Roofing face competition newcomers The Dolphins.“After a slow-scoring first half, both teams came out firing in the second half, and the scores were within two points with three minutes to go,” said South Coast Leisure Basketball Association secretary Michael Bailey.“Timms Roofing held on to take the win and become back-to-back champions, claiming both the Autumn and Spring Competition titles in 2025.”In the men’s grand final, undefeated minor premiers The Brakers faced first-time grand finalists Surf Camp Spurs.“An epic tussle ensued, with the teams trading baskets for the entire game. The contest came down to the wire, with Surf Camp Spurs getting over the line in an upset win,” Bailey said.The loss marked The Brakers’ second grand final defeat of the year, despite remaining undefeated throughout the rest of the competition.The premiership-winning Surf Camp Spurs Kiama Basketball team. Photo: Kiama BasketballThe thrilling grand finals capped off a highly successful year for Kiama Basketball, particularly at the representative level.“The Masters Men’s team won the Barrengarry (Southern Region) Men’s Open competition - not bad for an over-35s side competing against much younger opposition,” Bailey said.“Our juniors were also extremely successful in the Barrengarry competitions, with Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 boys teams, along with the Under 14 girls team, all enjoying strong seasons and bringing home a bag full of medals. "Our Under 12s were also runners-up at the John Martin NSW Country Tournament.”Following the Illawarra Hawks’ premiership-winning season, which culminated in early 2025, basketball participation surged across the region, and Kiama Basketball has capitalised on the momentum.“We have been working hard to develop pathways for progression from junior to senior basketball, and from social player to representative level, while embracing new technology and programs to enhance the overall experience for our participants,” Bailey said.“The junior and senior committees have worked tirelessly, and our commitment to developing new officials continues through referee development programs and the encouragement of junior referees.”Bailey said 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger, with expansion planned across all competitions.“We are looking to expand our girls’ and women’s competitions - girls will play on Monday afternoons and women on Wednesday nights. "Our inclusion programs will continue to support participants competing in both local and representative competitions,” he said.“We are also planning to expand the senior competition to accommodate up to three additional teams. Our representative pathways will be further strengthened, with juniors already in training for the rep season starting at the end of January. "The senior program will also expand to include men’s and women’s open and youth teams.”

As part of a series looking back at the major moments of 2025, The Bugle is presenting a look back on the stories that mattered on the South Coast over the past 12 months - this article was first published on 28 SeptemberIt took Shellharbour Sharks 56 minutes to finally break through the Kiama defence in the Group 7 Grand Final at Centenary Park over the weekend - but by then, the Knights had already laid the foundations for a famous win.Coming into the game, both sides were evenly matched. Kiama had beaten Shellharbour just two weeks earlier to qualify for the grand final, while the Sharks entered as minor premiers, playing in their third straight decider.Not much could separate the two teams in the opening 20 minutes, with both being held up over the line in a tense, physical start.A turning point came in the 15th minute when Shellharbour were awarded a penalty - and five-eighth Sam Hooper got into a scuffle with Sharks captain Jayden Morgan. Both were sent to the sin bin, and from there, Shellharbour began to assert dominance. The Sharks earned five consecutive repeat sets on Kiama’s line, but the Knights’ scramble defence continued to hold firm.There always seemed to be another red-and-white jersey to save the day.Both sin-binned players returned as Kiama worked their way back into the game. In the 28th minute, a towering bomb from halfback Cameron Vazzoler was dropped by Shellharbour fullback Jacob Seabrook and pounced on by second-rower Tom Angel, who scored the opening try of the day.The score remained 6-0 at halftime.Rain began to fall early in the second half, and play became scrappy, with both teams guilty of handling errors. In the 55th minute, Kiama winger Callan Thistlewaite dropped the ball coming off his own line, giving Shellharbour another golden opportunity.Two plays later, the Sharks finally cracked the line, with a floating cut-out pass from halfback Braxton Wallace finding winger Jye Brooker, who dived over in the corner. Wallace missed the conversion, leaving Kiama clinging to a two-point lead.Shellharbour looked to be building momentum, but a brilliant 40/20 from fullback Brad Kilmore flipped the script. Moments later, Angel crossed for his second try, off a perfect short ball from Vazzoler. Kiama extended their lead to six with just over 15 minutes remaining.The next 10 minutes were pure desperation, with the Knights making three errors in a row coming out of their own end.But once again, their defence stood tall, repelling wave after wave of Shellharbour attack.Their resilience was rewarded in the 72nd minute. Under pressure, the Sharks ran the ball on the last tackle and began throwing it around. A wild sequence saw the ball travel 10 metres backwards, then another 20 metres back again. Thistlewaite chased a loose grubber and grounded it, scoring Kiama’s third try to seal the game - and the Group 7 premiership.Angel was awarded Player of the Match in a performance full of heart, though it could have gone to any number of Knights players.Kilmore paid tribute to his teammates’ spirit:“I don’t think we played as well as we could have. We made way too many errors, but our response to those mistakes was what mattered. No matter who dropped the ball or gave away a penalty, we all stuck together, got around each other, and defended for our teammates.”Kilmore said the team’s bond was the key to their premiership success.“The club really went to another level this year thanks to the coaches, community members, and support staff. They’ve made the club a joy to be part of, and that creates the perfect environment for us to come together - not just as teammates, but as mates.”Kiama couldn’t replicate the result in the reserve grade final, going down 22-16 to the Stingrays of Shellharbour.Earlier in the day, Berry defeated the Gerringong Lions 34-12 in the Under 18s.

This week's edition of The Bugle is full of local news and views from our South Coast community.Our lead story is how Kiama Council is planning to cope with the extra parking burden caused by upcoming construction work and there is also a feature on the Sam Matters Cup golf day at Gerringong.READ THE DIGITAL EDITION HEREMore than 100 people braved rain and lightning to participate in the charity event at Gerringong Golf Club.The annual event raises awareness of suicide prevention, in honour of 18-year-old Sam who took his own life five years ago.Each year those in the tight-knit Gerringong community turn out to remember the “loveable, cheeky, beautiful boy” who had “every reason to live”. And each year they are prepared for a downpour.You can also read plenty of great community stories, including an update on the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival, a crackdown on e-bike problems by local police and a local resident making Christmas treasures with meaning.Kiama Golf Club member Jane Wall has combined her two passions, golf and craft to capture the spirit of Christmas. And those lucky enough to know her are likely to have a Christmas Wall Ball on their mantelpiece or window sill.In sport, you can read about all the latest in South Coast cricket, NRL star Zac Lomax turning out for Kiama and Lucy Darragh's successful trip to the world juniors.Darragh claimed third place in the Under-16 women’s division at the ISA World Junior Surfing Championships last week - a key contribution to Australia securing the Team World Championship for the second year in a row.The championships were held in Punta Rocas, Peru, from December 5-14, with Darragh progressing all the way to the final before narrowly missing first place by just 0.41 points to eventual winner Bailey Turner (USA).

Gerringong’s Lucy Darragh has taken third place in the Under-16 women’s division at the ISA World Junior Surfing Championships last week - a key contribution to Australia securing the Team World Championship for the second year in a row.The championships were held in Punta Rocas, Peru, from December 5-14, with Darragh progressing all the way to the final before narrowly missing first place by just 0.41 points to eventual winner Bailey Turner (USA).Darragh was a standout from the opening round, posting the highest combined heat total of her division across the entire competition with an impressive 15.5. She also recorded the equal-highest single-wave score of the event, earning a 9.00 on her fourth wave in round one.“The waves are absolutely pumping today. You couldn’t really ask for better waves, so really stoked on that,” Darragh told ISA Surf after that first round. “There was a lot of build-up to the first heat, a lot of nerves, so I’m really happy to get that one out of the way. "It’s been such good waves - yesterday and today it’s been six-foot-plus, pumping left and right.From there, Darragh appeared unstoppable, winning every heat until the semi-finals. She said she was thrilled to reach the semis alongside close friend Charli Hately.“I’m so stoked Charli [Hately] got the score in the end,” Darragh said. “It’s so good to see us both get through and yeah, pumped for the semis. I’ve been looking forward to this comp all year.“Travelling with the team, staying with the team - the whole team spirit - you know, doing the ring of fire and tunnel when we go out, it’s been so sick. It’s exceeded my expectations.”In the semi-finals, Darragh faced her first setback, finishing second behind Turner, who would go on to claim gold. The result still secured Darragh a spot in the final, while Hately narrowly missed out after finishing third in her heat.Darragh started the final strongly with a 6.43 on her opening wave but was unable to build on that score as Turner and eventual silver medallist Catalina Zaraquiey found higher-scoring rides.She mounted a late charge with her final wave, scoring a 6.23, but fell just 0.41 points short of Turner, who finished with a combined total of 13.07. Zaraquiey claimed second place with a total of 12.87, leaving Darragh to take the bronze medal.Team Australia after their win. Photo: Pablo FrancoDespite finishing third, Darragh played a significant role in Australia’s overall success, as the team claimed the world title for the second consecutive year.Australia secured four medals at the championships to earn its ninth team gold and 20th team medal overall. The campaign was led by Ocean Lancaster’s gold medal, alongside silver for Milla Coco Brown and bronze medals for Caden Francis and Darragh.Darragh also remains atop the Oceania 2025-26 Women’s Qualifying Series rankings as the season draws to a close.

NRL star Zac Lomax made an unexpected switch over the weekend, donning Kiama Cavaliers colours for his debut in the club’s fourth-grade side.Released from his Parramatta Eels contract in November, Lomax had been linked to the yet-to-launch R360 competition (which has been delayed until 2028), sparking speculation about his sporting future with Super Rugby franchises lining up for his signature.Few, however, would have predicted a move to fourth-grade cricket for Kiama.Kiama's fours entered the match sitting second on the ladder and hosted third-placed Gerringong, who batted first and put on an opening partnership of 40 before Lomax was introduced into the attack.“Zac Lomax, on club debut, tore through the top order, entering the attack at first change and finishing with 3–38 from six overs,” Kiama Cricket Club president Bernie Brown said.“Clancy Sloan - also on grade debut - took 1-15, Harry McCrone 1-17 and Adam McCrone 1-23, plus a run out, as the visitors closed at 8-169.”Lomax capped a standout performance with an unbeaten half-century.“Lomax and Harry McCrone strode to the crease with an eye on the total and got straight to work,” Brown said. “Zac was the first to retire on 50 not out in the ninth over, belting six fours and three sixes from 34 balls.“Zach Gervaise made a run-a-ball 14 before youngster Harry reached the retirement milestone of 50* to record his maiden grade half-century.”The chase, however, was not without tension. Matt Harrison made a solid 23 from 26 balls to keep Kiama in the contest, but a collapse of 4-11 left the home side under pressure.“Club stalwart Shane Wilson and youngster Clancy Sloan expertly guided the team to victory in the final over with three balls to spare,” Brown said.“The Cavs have been building something special under the guidance and leadership of Andrew Marsh. Seen as a nursery for the next generation and mentorship, the side is well entrenched in the top two and making the most of every opportunity.”One grade higher, club legend Geoff McIntyre reached a major milestone, claiming his 300th club wicket in Kiama’s third-grade loss to second-placed Jamberoo.McIntyre reached the mark in style, jumping from 298 to 304 wickets with six scalps from seven overs of leg-spin. Despite his efforts, Jamberoo posted a strong 9-250.Kiama’s reply began positively, with Brendan Czulowski carrying his bat for an impressive 91 not out and Steven Piper contributing 36, but the remainder of the batting order struggled to make an impact - until McIntyre arrived at the crease as the final batter.“It was a day of third-highest achievements for Geoff with bat and ball, finishing the chase on 30 not out - his third-highest score - and putting on a wonderful display of power hitting, including a big ‘free-hit’ six over deep mid-wicket,” Brown said.“His 10th-wicket, 80-run partnership with opener Brendan Czulowski was great to watch and brought the Cavs within 40 runs of the total. In true style, Geoff made sure everyone celebrated Brendan’s highest club score and carrying the bat.”Despite the loss, with Kiama finishing on 9-211, Brown praised McIntyre as one of the club’s great servants.Geoff McIntyre walking off the pitch after taking his 300th wicket. Photo: Kiama Cricket Club“Making his club debut in 1991, Geoff recently brought up his 200th club match - just the 27th Cav to do so - which is a fantastic achievement,” Brown said.“Geoff is a humble clubman who checks in every week with the captain and is always willing to sit out to make way for others. He has played every grade for the club, earning his first-grade cap, number 288, on December 16, 2001, against Lake Illawarra. His teammates formed a guard of honour as he left the field.”Elsewhere, the Kiama Cavettes went back-to-back heading into the Christmas break. Bowling first at home, they restricted Oak Flats to 3-123 before openers Ebony Winston (50 not out) and Carolyn Perry (49 not out) chased down the target themselves in just 14 overs.“The Cavettes have been outstanding with the bat this season, making a name for themselves as the chasing champions and losing just 13 wickets across eight matches,” Brown said. “The result moves them into fourth on the ladder with strong momentum heading into 2026.”The back to back winning Kiama Cavettes side. Photo: Kiama Cricket Club Kiama’s first-grade side fell seven runs short in a T20 loss to Shellharbour after chasing 152, despite a blistering 43 from Josh Battishall off just 12 balls.They rebounded in their one-day fixture against Lake Illawarra, bowling the visitors out for 126 and reaching the total in just 23 overs. Niall Owers and Glenn Cleary claimed three wickets each, while Adam Ison top-scored with 46.

Bay and Basin are just one point behind Shellharbour in second spot on the South Coast cricket ladder after an emphatic win at Scout Willoughby Oval.The Dolphins dominated their final one-dayer before Christmas with Brandon Labb leading the way with a hard-hitting 96.Labb smashed five sixes and eight boundaries in his 86-ball knock as the visitors amassed 251 despite three wickets each from Beau Chamberlain and Cruz Wraight.Harbour slumped to 4-34 after both openers were out without scoring with captain Daniel Smith’s 68 the lone resistance in their reply of 166 with Dolphins seamer Brock Balgowan (4-50) the main destroyer.Kiama claimed an upset win over first-placed Lake Illawarra in a low-scoring clash at Howard Fowles Oval.Niall Owers and Glenn Cleary bagged three scalps apiece as the Lakers went from 3-28 to be all out for 126.The Cavaliers chased down the total for the loss of just three wickets inside 23 overs with opener Adam Ison’s 46 and an unbeaten 27 from captain Jaya Hartgerink providing the bulk of the runs.North Nowra Cambewarra made the most of an ideal batting surface at Geoff Shaw Oval with Justin Weller (77 not out), opener Blake Horton (66) and captain Nathan Thomas (48) finding the boundary regularly.Rats captain Jack Bennett bagged four wickets and then top-scored with 73, well supported by allrounder Callum O’Neil belting 60 from 37 deliveries, but the Rats were bowled out for 233.Bomaderry flogged Ex Servos 287-90 at Hayden Drexel Oval with Jarrod Mitchell (82), Michael Coulter (4-15) and Peter King (4-40) the star performers for the Tigers.Ex Servos’ modest total could have been a lot worse if not for a defiant 57 from opener Matthew Higham, who carried his bat as wickets tumbled around him.The clash between Kookas and Albion Park was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to a wet Oakleigh Park pitch.This Saturday, the T20 competition will be on with Albion Park at home to Kiama, Kookas hosting Shellharbour and Oak Flats away to Lake Illawarra in the midday games.A second round will be held at 3.45pm with the Kookas and Rats locking horns at Oakleigh Park, Kiama switching to Lake and Shellharbour heading to Albion Park.Ladder: Lake 61, Shellharbour 52, Bay and Basin 51, Bomaderry 50, Kiama 47, North Nowra 46, Oak Flats, Kookas 26, Albion Park 24, Ex Servos 15.

Jones Beach Boardriders member, 13-year-old Lennox Lindsay, has claimed the Under-14 boys title at the Australian Junior Championships after a nail-biting final.Competing over seven days in Wollongong, Lindsay surfed all the way to the finals, earning Wave of the Day twice along the way.In the final, he faced Port Macquarie’s Harry Stephens. Lindsay held a comfortable lead for most of the heat, but with five minutes remaining Stephens posted the highest score of the final - a 7.15 - to snatch the lead.Still holding priority, Lindsay needed a strong score. With less than a minute on the clock, he took off on a right-hander and delivered a 6.65, reclaiming the win by just 0.12 points.Jones Beach Boardriders (JBB) President, Hayden Bombaci, said he was beyond proud of the young surfer.“It’s incredible to have the number one boy in Australia surfing out of our club. Lennox is humble, enthusiastic, and a great role model for our groms. To see him clinch the U14 Boys Final on his very last wave with just one minute to go was electric,” Bombaci said.“His win shows our juniors that they can shine nationally - even internationally - and that sense of belief is priceless. He’s paving the way for the next generation, especially the boys.”Bombaci said Lindsay’s maturity in the water is what impresses him most.“He reads the wave like someone much older, linking turns with speed and flow while keeping his composure in critical sections. That execution earned him Wave of the Day and helped him deliver that clutch final wave to seal the title,” he said.With the event held close to home at Thirroul Beach, East Corrimal Beach and McCauley’s Beach for the final, Bombaci said the local setting benefitted all JBB competitors.“Competing on a coastline they know so well gave the team comfort and confidence. Having a cheer squad on the beach was huge - you can’t buy that kind of support. Back-to-back days in small conditions can test your mental endurance, but the familiar sights and sounds of Wollongong definitely put them at ease,” he said.Female JBB members Alice Hodgson (U18), Lani Cairncross (U16) and Ruby Neill (U14) all reached the semifinals of their divisions, narrowly missing out on a finals berth.“Our female surfers are the star power of the club right now. They’ve carried the representative torch for years, and it’s been amazing to watch them develop,” Bombaci said.(From left to right) Lani Cairncross, Ruby Neill and Alice Hodgson all placed equal third nationally for their ages. Photo: Jones Beach Boardriders“To have Alice, Lani and Ruby all reach the semifinals and finish equal third nationally shows the depth we’ve built and the momentum they’re carrying into the future.”Bombaci said the club’s success comes from strong family support, a welcoming club environment, and deliberately challenging young surfers by having them compete in open divisions.“They’re talented, hardworking, and backed by families who ride every high and low with them. At JBB we focus on creating a positive, supportive environment, and competing in opens has sharpened their skills against older, more experienced surfers,” he said.“In a few years Ruby will no doubt join the opens. That mix of talent, support, and resilience is why they’re thriving on the national stage - and pulling off some classic upsets along the way.”Bombaci also gave a particular mention to JBB member Geoff Latimar.“He was on the beach all day supporting and advising the young surfers, as always. He has been a huge part of their success, and he should be proud,” he said.

This week's edition of The Bugle is full of local news and views from our South Coast community.There is a report on Sydney developer Level 33 claiming the proposed multi-storey complex on Akuna Street will enhance the town centre despite plenty of criticism in the community.READ THE DIGITAL EDITION HEREManaging director Eddy Haddad told The Bugle that they were “aware of the concerns and are taking them seriously” following a backlash to the proposed $66 million development.Level 33 recently withdrew its legal action against Kiama Council and has engaged with the Housing Delivery Authority to complete the project.The HDA could allow the developer to go beyond the seven-storey limit to the 10-14 range for the complex which could house two supermarkets.“We intend to deliver a landmark development for Kiama that will enhance the town centre, including significant retail activation and additional retail and resident car parking,” Haddad added.You can also read plenty of great community stories including the latest on the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival being placed on pause, the impact of the social media ban for teenagers and how to adopt a pet from Shoalhaven Animal Shelter.The Shelter cares for dogs, cats and other animals who come through the doors needing stability and a bit of luck. If adoption isn’t suitable for you, please consider other donations. You can send the shelter fast-tracked reindeer treats to PO Box 42, Nowra. Things like dog and cat treats and toys of all kinds and sizes are appreciated and vital for the continued enrichment and love the staff give their animals.In sport, you can read about all the latest in South Coast cricket, the Hawks' up and down week and a local surfer making plenty of waves.Kiama's Kyah Shipley is sitting in second place in the Open Female division heading into the Sydney Water Surf Series finale this weekend.

Kiama Cricket Club began their weekend in blistering form, recording two T20 wins on Friday night.The Cavettes opened the round at Bonaira Oval against Shellharbour and restricted them to 88 from their 20 overs. Emma Ford was the standout with the ball, taking 2-8 including a maiden. Kiama’s openers Ava Sloan and Ebony Winston quickly shut the door on the chase, blasting their way to the total in just eight overs. Winston top-scored with 48 not out off 24 balls, while Sloan added 30 not out from 21.At Oakleigh Park, the Kiama men’s first-grade side faced the Kookas in their first T20 of the season. Kiama struggled early, with the top order falling cheaply to be 7-84 before lower-order pair Ryan Timbs and Glenn Cleary fought hard to lift them to a competitive total. Their 26-run partnership pushed the Cavs to 110, with Timbs - newly added to the first-grade short-form squad - top-scoring with 16.The Kookas got off to a rapid start but Kiama’s bowlers tightened the screws, restricting their opponents to 100 from 20 overs to claim an impressive win, led by Blake Mackrell (3-6) and Adam Ison (3-18).On Saturday, first grade travelled to face the Bay and Basin Dolphins with Sheldon Hall making his debut to be cap number 417 for the club.The first grade Kiama Cavaliers squad along with a photo of debutant Sheldon Hall. Photo: Kiama Cavaliers Cricket ClubKiama restricted the Dolphins to 8-169 in the 50-over clash, with Joe Burgess, Glenn Cleary, Brad Ison and Niall Owers taking two wickets each. Despite an excellent 63-run opening partnership from Burgess (38) and David Coleman (33), the chase faltered and Kiama were bowled out for 147 in 45.2 overs.Second grade took on the challenge of two consecutive T20s on Saturday, facing Oak Flats and then Jamberoo. Against Oak Flats, Kiama posted 8-132 thanks to a 59-run opening stand from Ryan Timbs (23) and Josh Battishall (31). Their bowlers then delivered strongly, dismissing Oak Flats for 116 with Timbs, Vincent Sherrell and Michael Hook each taking two wickets.Fatigue caught up with the squad in the second match, where they were dismissed for 115, a total Jamberoo chased down in 17.1 overs.Third grade hosted Albion Park and despite posting a competitive 166, Eagles opener Adam Clay stole the show with an unbeaten 103, guiding his side to victory with two overs to spare.Fourth grade finished the weekend on a high, piling on 203 against the Kookas thanks to Andrew Marsh (50*) and Zach Gervaise (45*). The Kookas were bowled out for 140 in 30 overs, with Oliver Wilson and Daniel Cooper taking two wickets each.This week marks the final game of the year for the Cavettes, who will host Oak Flats on Friday. First grade will face Shellharbour away in Friday’s T20 before taking on Lake Illawarra on Saturday in their final one-dayer of the year. Second grade meets Lake Illawarra away in their third T20, third grade will travel to Jamberoo, and fourth grade will play Gerringong at home.

Kiama's Kyah Shipley is sitting in second place in the Open Female division heading into the Sydney Water Surf Series finale this weekend.The series, held across four weekends, features a range of surf lifesaving events designed to prepare competitors for major competitions later in the season. Athletes earn points in each event, with the overall winner decided by the highest total at the end of the final day.Shipley said that while the series is primarily about building form for the season ahead, she’s pleased with her performances so far.“The past three rounds have been a great start to the season, giving me ideas on what I should work on and improve,” she said. “And, as Sydney Water always is, it throws the best and the worst surf at you.”Shipley has been competing in the Ironperson, Surf Race, Board Race and Single Ski, earning several strong results - including a few wins.“I’m racing in the Opens now, so the ski is included in the Iron. It’s not my strongest leg, but there’s always room to improve,” she said.“Right now, in terms of total points, I’m sitting second behind Sarah Locke. She always pushes me, and I’m pretty proud of how I’ve gone so far in my first year racing Opens.”“I’m positioned well in the Iron, Swim and Board events at this stage - but all of that can change. That’s surf.”Shipley has been involved in surf lifesaving since she was six years old and says it’s now an essential part of her life.“I love racing with my friends, and we always push each other. I love the team events too - they’re a huge part of why I love the sport so much,” she said. “I used to be scared of the water when I started, and now I can’t live without it.”Kyah says she is still finding her feet on the ski, but that learning and improving makes the sport fun. Photo: Kyah ShipleyHer favourite event is the Ironperson because it tests all her skills - swim, ski, board and run. The ski, however, is still where she’s finding her feet.“I’m not the best on the ski yet,” she laughed. “I’ve still got my L-plates on. I was coming second in one of the races and somehow completely missed the can - so I ended up last. My dad was volunteering in the IRB and had a good laugh! But I’m happy to keep learning and improving. It makes the sport fun.”Shipley has big goals for the coming year, including the Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series, plus Australian and State Championships on the Gold Coast. For now, she’s using the Sydney Water Surf Series as both preparation - and a chance to enjoy the sport with her friends.“My main goal is to have fun, put my foot on the starting line and try my best,” she said. “All I can do is have a go, cheer on my team and enjoy it. I hope to see the rest of my teammates from Warilla smash it too.“So many of them are doing amazing things. Imogen Moore and Max Miller, who are also from the Kiama community, are racing incredibly well. It’s unreal to see. If I get on the podium on Saturday, great - and if not, I’m sure I’ll learn something.”Shipley will race in the final round of the Sydney Water Surf Series on Saturday, 13 December, at Bulli Surf Life Saving Club.She thanked Central West Plumbing, Civil Drainage and Ngi Brown and her team for sponsoring her equipment.“I also want to thank my surf club coach Craig Burke from Warilla Barrack Point, and Greg ‘Egg’ Miller, my pool and ocean swimming coach from Kiama Leisure Centre,” she said.

Two Sundays ago, before the eager nippers took to the waves, Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club held a special ceremony to celebrate the donation of a new gazebo from the Kiama Rotary Club.Among a crowd of Rotary and Surf Club volunteers, the gazebo was formally handed over by the president of Kiama Rotary, Phil Whyte, to Kiama SLSC’s junior activities coordinator, David Griffin.Kiama SLSC sponsorship coordinator Ian Harvey-George said they were thrilled with the new addition to the club’s equipment.“We have a long and strong relationship with Kiama Rotary. They generously donated our previous gazebo in 2019, which served us well but was sadly beyond repair,” Harvey-George said.“I approached Kiama Rotary to see if they could help us replace the damaged gazebo, and over the past few months we’ve worked closely together to make sure we found the right setup for everyone.”He also spoke about the importance of shade for volunteers during the busy summer season.“The beach can be a harsh environment for both kids and adults, especially on hot days. Our volunteer lifeguards spend hours on the sand every weekend, and large gazebos are vital for keeping them cool and protected from the sun’s harmful rays,” he said. “This new gazebo provides essential shelter for our nippers and for the volunteers who keep the club running and the beach safe.”The gazebo will also be used to shelter Kiama SLSC’s hardworking BBQ volunteers.“They’re at the beach early every Sunday, setting up and cooking for hungry nippers and families,” Harvey-George said.The handover also coincided with the presentation of the new-season nippers shirts - free to all participants thanks to Kiama SLSC’s generous sponsors.“As this is my first year as sponsorship coordinator, I wanted to create something special for the kids. This year we introduced a gold sponsor position on the front of the shirt, which Mystics Mechanical proudly took up,” he said. “We’re also thrilled to welcome several new sponsors as we continue building strong relationships between the club and local businesses.”Russ from Mystics Mechanical with one of the new nippers shirts. Photo: Ian Harvey-GeorgeHarvey-George emphasised how vital local sponsors are to a volunteer-run club like Kiama SLSC and praised the broader Kiama community for its support.“Much of our equipment and uniforms is sponsored by local businesses - from surf boats and nipper boards to flags and now the Rotary gazebo. Sponsorship helps us purchase and maintain essential equipment, and you’ll see the support in uniforms too, such as age managers’ shirts and the bright orange water safety tops,” he said.“It’s not just financial help. There’s expertise as well. For example, when we had issues with our surf boat trailer, Russ from Mystics Mechanical generously donated his time to help fix it.”Now in his first year as sponsorship coordinator, Harvey-George said he is relishing the role because of the relationships it builds and the joy of helping local kids thrive.“I love connecting with people, and this role allows me to do that every day. Whether it’s maintaining long-standing partnerships or heading into town to build new ones, the relationships are truly rewarding,” he said. “I feel proud when I see someone wearing our nippers shirt around town, and I get a real thrill knowing that vital equipment has been made possible through sponsorship - especially when you see the smiles on the kids’ faces.”Looking ahead, Kiama SLSC will host its Pride Surf Club Day on 15 February and will soon be seeking local sponsors for the event. The club will also hold a film screening of Chasing the Gold in early 2026, featuring Ironman Ali Day, who began his journey with Kiama SLSC as a nipper.“Come down to nippers on a Sunday to learn more, or reach out via our website. I’m always happy to speak with local businesses interested in sponsorship - we can tailor opportunities to your needs, budget, and desired exposure,” Harvey-George said.He also extended special thanks to the club’s supporters: The Rotary Club, Mystics Mechanical, The Sebel, Yves, One Fitness, Lime Construction, Saltwater Café, The Gentlemen’s Cut, Swell Bathroom Renovations, Alba Ergonomics, Diggies Café, FlipOut Albion Park, and Kiama Pharmacy.

This week's Bugle Bulletin brings you the best of the week’s local stories.Our lead story is about Grand Pacific Health being selected to run Nowra’s new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, bringing the long-awaited service closer to opening.Set for Scenic Drive near Shoalhaven Hospital, the clinic will offer fully bulk-billed care for non-life-threatening conditions for extended hours seven days a week.Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles, Health Minister Mark Butler and Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips were in attendance for the official announcement.The Kiama and Minnamurra Lions used their community initiative to help the Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council to cut the grass at the former police residence property on Terralong Street.While the Gerringong Co-Op was buzzing on Saturday night as Starshine lit up the venue with a high-energy show, A Tribute to Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac.Fans sang along to favourites like Rhiannon, Landslide and Go Your Own Way, with the band’s powerhouse lineup - including former members of “Dreams” and Las Vegas performer Nikki Canale - recreating the magic of the Fleetwood Mac era.In sport, the Illawarra Hawks' NBL title defence is looking shaky after they slumped to their 10th loss in 15 matches when they went down to last-placed Cairns Taipans.At The Bugle, we’re committed to pairing impactful visuals with meaningful local storytelling - delivering a news experience that’s informative, entertaining, and deeply connected to our community.Subscribe to The Bugle News Kiama on YouTube so you never miss an episode!

The Illawarra Hawks are in danger of not even making the playoffs after going down to the last-placed Cairns Taipans.After registering a 113-109 overtime win over South-East Melbourne Phoenix on Thursday night, the Hawks looked like they were finally clicking into top gear.But the NBL champions put in arguably their worst performance of the season on their home court on Saturday to go down 93-76 to Cairns.They are now in eighth spot on the ladder with a 5-10 record and their chances of defending their title appear remote.They were on level terms at 20-20 after the first quarter against the Taipans but a 29-14 second term meant they trailed by 15 at the main break.The Hawks went shot for shot with Cairns in the third quarter but were unable to bridge the gap despite 17 points and 11 rebounds from star centre JaVale McGee.Illawarra captain Will Hickey contributed 10 points, seven assists and 11 rebounds in a typically busy performance while bench forward Dan Grida stepped up with 18 points in just 10 minutes of game time.Cairns were undermanned, without Jack McVeigh, Sam Waardenburg and Reyne Smith, but produced their best effort for the season.They nearly threw away what turned out to be their win over the Phoenix.The Hawks led 31-13 after the first break but after making slight inroads over the next two quarters, South-East Melbourne stormed home with a 32-19 run in the final term.Illawarra regained their shooting touch in the overtime period with import guard QJ Peterson pouring in a season-high 42 points to complement McGee’s 29 points and 13 rebounds.They are back in action on Thursday night against Brisbane Bullets at WIN Entertainment Centre.The Bullets (5-11) have a similar record so the Hawks cannot afford to lose to the other team below them on the ladder.We want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here

Ex Servos went perilously close to causing a major boilover before coming away with a rare tie in a thriller against Shellharbour in their South Coast Cricket clash on Saturday at Scout Willoughby Oval.Matthew Higham top-scored with 64 as the visitors posted 232 with Brenton Geribo (3-52) and Hunter Ockenden (3-15) leading the Harbour attack.Jacob Coleman went ballistic at the top of the order to slam eight sixes and 11 fours in making 118 from just 57 deliveries.But after Jovan Croese snared 4-37, the Harbour had a middle-order collapse and the scores were tied when Bradd Cuddy dismissed Jim Glazbrook for 26 to spark wild scenes of jubilation for Ex Servos after they had appeared certain to lose.Young opener Kody Lawler blasted his maiden first-grade century as Oak Flats got the better of Albion Park at Keith Grey Oval.Lawler smashed an unbeaten 122 from 149 deliveries, including 13 fours and a six, to bat out the 50 overs in the Rats’ total of 8-291.He shared an 87-run opening stand with Ruan Pieters (56) as the Park bowlers struggled to stem the flow of runs.Allrounder Raheel Chaudry took 3-26 but several Park batters squandered promising starts apart from Thomas Wilson, who blasted 68 in a 48-ball knock, as they were bowled out for 179.Rats skipper Jack Bennett bagged 4-36 with new-ball duo Nathan Morrow (2-32) and Zaied Bin Khalid (2-30) also among the wickets.Bomaderry captain Kealen Blattner continued his strong season with 113 as the Tigers triumphed over North Nowra Cambewarra in a Shoalhaven derby.Blattner and Jarrod Mitchell (93) combined for a 170-run second-wicket partnership in their total of 311 despite the efforts of opening bowlers Cooper Bramley (4-57) and Justin Weller (3-60).North Nowra lost a couple of early wickets and despite Weller’s 55 and 44 from captain Nathan Thomas, they finished 104 runs in arrears.Daniel Troy (4-51) and Rhys Burinaga (3-35) were the pick of the Bomaderry bowlers.Bay and Basin cemented third spot by beating Kiama in a low-scoring affair at Sanctuary Point.Brandon Labb held the home side’s innings of 8-169 together with 43 before Tom Mason (4-36) and Caleb McLennan (3-18) ensured Kiama finished 23 runs short of their target, failing to capitalise on a 63-run opening stand from David Coleman (33) and Joe Burgess (38).Ryan Smith took 4-19 as first-placed Lake Illawarra thrashed the Kookas at Oakleigh Park.The home side was rolled for 86 and the Lakers reached the target one ball shy of 10 overs with Jake O’Connell thumping 36 off 18.This Saturday, Shellharbour host Bay and Basin, Kookas take on Albion Park at Oakleigh Park, North Nowra Cambewarra head north to Oak Flats, Kiama are away to Lake Illawarra and Ex Servos face Bomaderry at Hayden Drexel Oval.Ladder: Lake 60, Shellharbour 51, Bay and Basin 44, Bomaderry 42, North Nowra, Kiama 39, Oak Flats 25, Kookas 23, Albion Park 21, Ex Servos 14.We want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here

How unique is this contest?The atmosphere, the colour, the dress-ups, the noise, the sheer unadulterated beauty of competition in this glorious game of cricket between England and Australia!And the sledging and the brilliance of individual performance on both sides.I’m sitting on my couch, it’s evening of the fourth day of the second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane.I’m watching the last few hours, and England are struggling.Sorry, but I’m excited. I love my Aussie cricket team with a passion.They end up winning by eight wickets but England’s Barmy Army supporters are singing and clapping and drinking beer and partying in the stands, and the green and gold supporters are giving it right back.Oh the joy of it!If you ever get the chance, if it’s even remotely possible for you, watch an Ashes series.Or even a game. The high is brilliant. It should be illegal.We want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here

Kiama Rugby Club junior Asher Chapman has been selected to represent Australia in the Under-16 Australian squad.Chosen after his standout season with the NSW Waratahs U16s, Chapman will attend a development camp this month before lining up against the Queensland Reds U17s at Wests Rugby Club on Thursday (11 December).New Kiama Rugby Juniors president Richard Payne said he is thrilled to see a local player reach the national stage.“I watched all of his NSW games through the Super AU series on TV and he was a complete standout the whole time,” Payne said.“I think he finished as the leading try-scorer, or very close to it. He just stood out with the ball in hand, and defensively he looked very comfortable at that level - he commanded the ball, found space, had beautiful footwork and great defence. Really exciting.”Chapman was the only Illawarra rugby player selected, and he has been a long-term junior at Kiama Rugby Club.“He’s been playing since he was eight,” Payne said. “He’s been a long-term junior, and his dad was a former president of the Junior Club and is now president of Illawarra Rugby. They’re a family who have dedicated a lot of time to the club.”Despite juggling commitments with NSW, Australia and rugby league for the Illawarra Steelers, Payne said Chapman always makes time to return to Kiama.“This year he was tied up with a huge amount of representative football in both codes, and he always found time to come back and play for Kiama,” he said.“I watched him play a few games and he did some special things that not many people can do on a football field. The boys got such a thrill out of playing with him - he got them all the way to the grand final. He was a huge part of that. He’s an amazing football player, but he’s also really dedicated to the club.”Payne said Chapman is already a role model to younger players.“All the boys in that team got around him and went up to a couple of those NSW games. They absolutely loved watching him on that big stage and you could actually hear them through the TV - they were pretty loud, pretty supportive,” he laughed.“He’s a great role model for the other young kids coming through who aspire to do some pretty cool things like he is now.”What makes Chapman special, Payne said, is the combination of natural ability and hard work.“He’s always been talented - I remember watching him run at Australian Champs in primary school. He’s super quick."But he keeps getting better because natural talent only gets you so far. His greatest strengths are his work ethic, dedication and passion for the sport,” he said.“To stand out when you’re playing against Queensland, when you’re representing NSW - you’ve got to be a pretty special talent. And he certainly did. He’s put himself into that upper echelon, and Rugby Australia is clearly paying attention.”The Australian U16 squad will face the Queensland Reds U17s at Wests Rugby Club next Thursday with the match streamed live on the rugby.com.au YouTube channel.We want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here

This week's edition of The Bugle is filled with the latest news and views from our local South Coast community.Our main report is on Kiama MP Katelin McInerney voicing her disapproval for the high-rise development in the pipeline for Akuna Street.READ THE DIGITAL EDITION HEREMcInerney says it’s “completely inappropriate” for a developer to want to build a 14-storey development in the town centre.Level 33 is set to request the Housing Delivery Authority to allow a much higher development on the corner of Akuna and Shoalhaven Streets.The developer has dropped its legal action against Kiama Council in the Land and Environment Court and is expected to lobby Housing Minister Paul Scully and the Housing Delivery Authority to have the project declared a State Significant Development, which would effectively sideline Council from limiting its height to the already approved level of seven storeys.You can also read plenty of great community stories including a look back in history at Charles Kingsford Smith's exploits at Gerroa, Saltwater Cafe winning a national award and a charity making a difference in Nowra.In sport, you can read about Minnamurra's young star on the rise who has won the national under 10s 100m and 200m sprint gold medals as well as a teenage rugby player going places.Kiama Rugby Club junior Asher Chapman has been selected to represent Australia in the Under-16 Australian squad.Chosen after his standout season with the NSW Waratahs U16s, Chapman will attend a development camp this month before lining up against the Queensland Reds U17s at Wests Rugby Club on Thursday, 11 December.New Kiama Rugby Juniors president Richard Payne said he is thrilled to see a local player reach the national stage.We want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here

Just over 200 kids took to the rough waters at Jones Beach for the Saddleback Mountain Cup, enjoying a day of friendly competition and fun for young nippers.Hosted this year by Kiama Downs Surf Life Saving Club, the Saddleback Cup brings together nippers from Kiama, Kiama Downs, Gerringong, Shoalhaven Heads and Sussex Inlet surf clubs for a mixture of relay-based events.“It’s a fun nippers mini-carnival aimed at getting all the kids involved in some sort of activity,” said Kiama Downs SLSC Junior Activities Coordinator Ben Woods. “It’s usually their first experience of competition, and it’s also an opportunity to have a bit of fun with the local clubs - with just a little bit of rivalry.”This year marked the second time the competition had expanded to include Shoalhaven Heads and Sussex Inlet. Despite some rough weather before and during the tournament, the event was a success.“It was a really good day,” Woods said. “After a lot of rain throughout the night, I was a little bit worried it was going to keep raining, but at six o’clock the sun came out and it ended up being pretty warm down on the beach.”Over 200 nippers participated on the day. Photo: Ben WoodsThe surf conditions were challenging for some of the younger nippers, so organisers adjusted the courses accordingly. “We didn’t send the young ones all the way out the back,” Woods added.The program was packed with team-based events: age relays, over-and-under relays, all-age relays, sprint relays, and even a tug of war. But the highlight of the day, as always, was the parent relay.“The big highlight for all the kids is always the parent relay at the end, where the parents face off against the kids,” Woods said.While the focus of the day was on participation and enjoyment, Kiama Downs ultimately finished with the overall win.Woods said that despite the low-stakes atmosphere, the event plays an important role in the surf club calendar.“I think it really celebrates nippers as an activity, and it’s important in the grassroots development of surf life saving,” he said. “It gives kids that first taste of competition. Sometimes the bigger carnivals can be a bit daunting, so having a fun, smaller carnival can be the springboard into those bigger events later on.”He thanked all the participating clubs, along with the volunteers, age managers and water safety personnel whose efforts ensure the tradition continues each year.

A couple of weeks ago, two junior cricket teams made their way down to Kiama’s one-of-a-kind ocean-view pitch at Black Beach for a weekend match.Dressed in their whites, they walked out at sunrise only to discover that, sometime in the previous days or nights, the pitch had been damaged.“They noticed some damage to the wicket caused by an e-bike,” said Kiama Cricket Club president Bernie Brown. “Someone had ridden their bike there and melted the synthetic, and then ridden off.”Fortunately, the damage was in a spot that didn’t affect play, and the match went ahead. But Brown said the situation could easily have been much worse.“If that vandalism is in the wrong spot, it makes the pitch dangerous and unplayable, and the kids miss out. We have to transfer them to other fields outside the region, potentially, and they don't get to enjoy one of the most picturesque sporting fields in the country,” he said.“It’s a wonderful facility. Everyone loves playing down there. It’s heavily used by our junior teams midweek and on weekends, so it would be really unfortunate - and a significant cost - to patch, repair or replace the synthetic surface.”A close up of the vandalism at the Black Beach cricket pitch. Photo: Bernie BrownAdding to the frustration, Brown noted the pitch had been rebuilt and resurfaced just three years ago using a Kiama Council grant.“A lot of hard work from our volunteers and community money went into restoring that facility. It’s disheartening to see that time, energy, and community investment being destroyed by vandalism,” he said.Although the damage is outside the line of play, Brown hopes it can be repaired quickly to avoid encouraging further incidents.“We don’t want it looked at and replicated by another e-bike user thinking they can copycat. So we’re working with Council to have it patched and repaired - even though it’s not in play - just for the amenity and ongoing safety of the facility,” he said.This isn’t the only instance of vandalism the club has faced. The Gainsborough Oval cricket nets were also vandalised in a similar e-bike incident.“We’ve just been successful in getting a grant to have the damage at the nets replaced and repaired, so the juniors can continue to use that area safely,” Brown said.The new gate installed at the Gainsborough Oval cricket nets. Photo: Bernie BrownTo protect the nets, Brown has been forced to install a gate - something he had hoped to avoid.“It’s unfortunate because we want the facility to be available to the public and the community at all times, not fenced off and padlocked just to stop this behaviour,” he said.“However, we can’t continually ask for grant funding or raise money ourselves to keep replacing facilities that are being attacked by vandals on e-bikes.”Despite both incidents involving e-bikes, Brown stressed that the club has no issue with the bikes themselves.“We’re not against legal e-bikes, but we’re definitely against vandalism and the destruction of community assets."There are plenty of other places they could use them on private property - not on cricket wickets. It’s really disheartening.”Brown even extended an invitation to those responsible for the vandalism - at the pitch or anywhere else in Kiama - to join the cricket club instead.“We want to put it out there: come and enjoy a game of cricket. Come to our training. Learn to enjoy the sport as much as we do, and hopefully gain greater respect for community infrastructure by seeing the effects of vandalism,” he said.“It affects the kids, the sporting outcomes, everything. We’d invite them to come along and enjoy cricket. I’d love it if they walked away thinking cricket was a better use of their time.”