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First-placed Kiama flex muscles to conquer Camden
First-placed Kiama flex muscles to conquer Camden

17 June 2025, 1:00 AM

Kiama made it five wins in a row in Illawarra rugby over the weekend, defeating Camden with a dominant 41-25 victory at home.After climbing to the top of the ladder last week, Kiama knew they needed to reinforce their position with a strong showing against third-placed Camden. Kiama forward Dante Patrick said the team struggled to find their rhythm early.“It was a tough game to get into from the start. They threw quite a bit at us and, as I’ve said the past few weeks, we’ve really been working on our defence,” he said.“We weathered the storm and once we started getting a bit more ball to play with, it was quite a pretty thing to watch.”Despite the commanding win, Patrick noted the team was still disappointed to have conceded 25 points - most of them late in the second half.“We started to lack a little bit of discipline, gave away back-to-back penalties, and a couple of turnovers that really let Camden get a few last-minute points to scare us a little bit,” he said.With five consecutive wins against top teams, Kiama remain firmly atop the competition ladder. But Patrick said the team won’t be getting ahead of themselves.“We let in 25 points on the weekend, and for a team that's trying to maintain a high standard, we want to bring that number down. That’s what keeps us hungry and ensures we don’t get complacent about where we are,” he said.As a reflection of their impressive season so far, two Kiama players have been selected to represent NSW Country. Lock Jack Hobbs has been picked for the Open side, while prop Isaac Kaunicaramaki will represent the under-20s Colts.“It’s very well deserved. It's a big achievement, and it’s great to see one player in each side. The whole team is behind them - I think the whole town of Kiama is behind them,” said Patrick.Next week, Kiama travel to the Highlands to face sixth-placed Bowral. Patrick expects a tough contest, especially with the added challenge of playing away in cold conditions.“They've got a young team with a few Illawarra representative players as well. So it’ll be a really good clash, and if we don't give them the respect they deserve, they could do a number on us. We’ve just got to get our prep right,” he said.

Stingrays strike late to sink Kiama in Group 7 nail-biter
Stingrays strike late to sink Kiama in Group 7 nail-biter

16 June 2025, 3:00 AM

It was heartbreak for the Kiama Knights in Round 9 of the Group 7 South Coast Rugby League competition, as they went down in the 78th minute of their top-of-the-table clash with the Stingrays of Shellharbour.The Stingrays got off to a flying start with a try in just the second minute. From there, it was a back-and-forth battle. Kiama’s Brad Killmore responded in the eighth minute, but Tim Lafai put the Stingrays back in front with a try in the 18th.Soon after, Trey Barlow extended the Stingrays’ lead by pouncing on his own kick to score. But the Knights stayed in the contest, with Matt Morris crossing before half-time to bring the score back to 16-10 at the break.Coach Matt O’Brien revved up the Knights during the interval and they came out firing in the second half with tries from Kye Andrews and Kieran Poole propelling the home side into the lead.Lafai struck again in the 73rd minute with his second try, narrowing Kiama’s lead to 22-20 with seven minutes to play. The Knights defended bravely but couldn’t hold out, conceding a try in the corner in the 78th minute that sealed the Stingrays’ victory.“It was a good hit-out, finally getting back on the field after three weeks off, especially against the top team,” said Knights fullback Brad Killmore. Fullback Brad Killmore scoring the Knights' opening try. Photo: @stickspix_“Disheartening finish with them scoring in the last minute, but there are still plenty of positives to take from the game. I’m keen to move on and take on Jamberoo next week.”Jamberoo also pushed last year's runners-up, Shellharbour Sharks, but couldn’t quite secure the win. After an even first half, the Superoos led 14-12 at the break. But the second half started all Shellharbour, who ran in three quick tries to make it 28-14.Jamberoo showed plenty of fight. Jack Talbott ran nearly the length of the field for a try in the 63rd minute, and the team capitalised again three minutes later to bring the score to 28-24. Unfortunately, they couldn’t close the gap before the final siren.Despite the result, Jamberoo coach Jono Dallas found plenty of positives, especially given the injury toll affecting the squad. “We’re still missing our two starting props, so to hold their pack was impressive,” Dallas said.“We actually turned a corner in a few areas. Most of the tries we conceded came down to poor decisions. I think we could have solved them with a bit more composure. “We’re still without eight from our squad and suffered another broken arm yesterday, so if we can fight through the next couple of weeks, we’ll get some luck and finish the year strong.”Gerringong Lions were the only local first-grade team to secure a win in Round 9, ending their losing streak with a 30-18 victory over the Nowra-Bomaderry Jets. The Lions roared out to an 18-0 half-time lead, but the Jets responded strongly, levelling the scores at 18-18 midway through the second half. However, Gerringong regained control with tries in the 64th and 72nd minutes to seal the win and put themselves back in the title hunt.Lions captain Nathan Ford said he was glad to be back in the winners circle, especially considering it was a milestone match for club stalwart Jake Taylor.“The win was set up by our defence early in the first half which allowed us to score points in the back end of the half,” he said.Kiama will face Jamberoo next week in a local derby. Photo: Stickspix_“Didn’t start well in the second half with errors and some poor decisions letting them back in the contest. I was proud of how we fought our way back and held our composure, especially back at home for Jake Taylor’s 150th first-grade appearance.“It will be a great confidence boost heading into the second half of the season. We will continue working hard before the game with Berry this week.”Kiama take on Jamberoo in a local derby next round, while Gerringong face Berry in another crucial clash.

Johnny Warren Foundation wants greater support for grassroots football
Johnny Warren Foundation wants greater support for grassroots football

15 June 2025, 8:00 PM

Findings from a $140,000 PhD research scholarship, funded by the Johnny Warren Football Foundation, have called for stronger support and recognition of grassroots football across Australia.The foundation was originally established by the NSW Government in 2003 following a proposal by football legend Johnny Warren to then-premier Bob Carr outlined a need to develop a NSW Football Foundation and Academy. After Johnny’s passing in 2004, his nephew Jamie Warren, who also owns the Jamberoo Pub, took over as Executive Chair and in 2018, the foundation funded a major football research scholarship at the University of Sydney, valued at $140,000.“The foundation has recently been focused on continuing John's broader legacy,” said Jamie.“We saw research as a way to contribute to the future of the game, particularly because there’s so little academic work being done on football in Australia.”The recipient of the scholarship, Dr Donna Denyer, spent six years conducting in-depth research into the relationship between community football and the broader Australian football landscape. Her findings were released in November 2024.Johnny Warren playing football for Australia. Photo: Jamie WarrenDr Denyer’s research aimed to explore how grassroots football contributes to shaping the national football network. Her thesis highlighted the need for governing bodies to go beyond a market-driven approach and recognise the social, cultural, and community contributions made by local clubs and volunteers.“The main part of the research is trying to connect grassroots football to the professional game,” said Jamie.“Donna conducted 34 interviews, analysed 91 key documents and 129 media articles, and uncovered key themes including the need for greater engagement between professional and community football, improving access and affordability, and celebrating the cultural diversity of the sport.”The findings also emphasised the need for more flexible formats and inclusive pathways to encourage broader participation - all starting at the base level.“These are the kinds of things that can and should be strengthened at the grassroots level. They create a ripple effect that benefits the entire football ecosystem,” Jamie said.The foundation is now reviewing Dr Denyer’s findings to decide on next steps.“We’re weighing it all up and discussing what actions to take next,” said Jamie. “We’re still shaping what the next phase of the foundation will look like.”Jamie remains optimistic about the sport’s future in Australia.“In many ways, football is in a great place. Participation is strong, especially among girls. The Matildas are selling out stadiums, which was unheard of a decade ago.Johnny Warren as a young boy. Photo: Jamie WarrenSince John passed, we’ve seen growth not only in players but in the professionalism of club administrators and coach education. We’re qualifying and performing in the men's and women’s World Cups - the game is strong.”Jamie says Johnny’s legacy continues to drive both him and the foundation.“John was all heart when it came to football. His passion inspires everything we do.”A quote from Johnny, included in Dr Denyer’s thesis, sums up the spirit of the foundation:“Football binds people outside the football pitch … Membership to the football family does not depend on ability but rather on devotion and camaraderie … Football people, real football people, will do anything anytime for other football people. That is community at work …”Jamie also expressed gratitude to the local community who’ve supported the Jamberoo-based foundation over the years.“We’ve had so much help locally, and I’d really like to thank everyone who’s supported us and John’s legacy.”

Kiama Coastal Classic set to break records with over 1000 runners
Kiama Coastal Classic set to break records with over 1000 runners

15 June 2025, 6:00 AM

The Elite Energy Kiama Coastal Classic is on track to break its own attendance record, with over 1000 participants set to hit the course on Saturday, 22 June.Since its debut in 2016, the event has grown steadily in both scale and popularity and Seb Gallery, Marketing Manager at Elite Energy Events, has been involved since day one.“I’ve worked on and off with Elite Energy for the last 10 years. We launched this event in 2016, and I’ve been part of it from the beginning,” said Gallery.“Back then we had just over 500 participants. This year, we’re looking at more than double that - likely over 1,000 runners.”The Kiama Coastal Classic features four distances - 2km, 5km, 12km, and 21km - all starting from the Kiama Surf Club and following the region’s spectacular coastal track. Its growing popularity reflects the national surge in health and fitness culture and the run club boom.The 2024 Kiama Coastal Classic.“It’s an incredibly picturesque run, so you don’t have to do much to sell the location,” Gallery said.“In the past two to three years, we’ve seen a big shift toward health and fitness - especially running. That movement has definitely boosted our numbers this year.”Beyond the running, Gallery says the event plays a valuable role in supporting both local community spirit and regional tourism.“It’s about bringing the locals together, which we’re always passionate about,” he said.“But it’s also about attracting people from Sydney and beyond. They come down, stay the night, grab a meal or a drink - and many end up coming back again. We hear that often in our post-event feedback.”Now entering its ninth year, the Kiama Coastal Classic is firmly established as one of the most scenic and community-driven runs in the region.So whether you’re lacing up or cheering from the sidelines, head to Kiama Surf Club on 22 June and be part of this growing coastal tradition.Get more information here: https://raceroster.com/events/2025/91548/kiama-coastal-classic-2025

Eels slip into Kiama to prepare for NRLW season
Eels slip into Kiama to prepare for NRLW season

14 June 2025, 11:00 PM

There was blue and gold everywhere you looked at Chittick Oval when the Parramatta Eels NRLW team trained in Kiama ahead of their season opener on 3 July.The Eels, managed by Kiama local Kate Parkinson, are set to take on the Cronulla Sharks in the first game of the NRLW season. They chose Kiama’s pristine, coastal facilities as part of their training camp in preparation for the challenge ahead.According to Group 7 operations manager Ashton Sims, the Eels are just the latest in a growing list of professional teams taking advantage of what the Kiama region has to offer.“It’s fantastic to see how many different NRLW and NRL teams have trained here over the years,” said Sims.“In my time, we’ve had the St George Illawarra Dragons, Canberra Raiders, Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Parramatta Eels, and even the Australian Kangaroos back in 2021.The Eels NRLW team will play Cronulla in the opening game of the season.“Now we’ve also hosted NRLW teams like the Wests Tigers, the Dragons, and now the Eels.”Sims said the attraction is simple: Kiama provides a break from city life and the perfect setting for focused, high-quality training.“The facilities here are fantastic - between the gym at The Sebel, the Kiama Showground, and Chittick Oval right by the ocean, it’s the ideal environment for elite teams,” he said.A former NRL veteran himself, with over 200 first-grade games, Sims knows the value of camps like this when it comes to building team chemistry.“When you're away from home and family, your team becomes that family. It’s crucial to build those bonds off the field - that’s what translates to trust and connection on the field,” he said.“You get to be fully focused on footy. And the proof’s there - Penrith Panthers trained here the past few years, and look at what they’ve achieved.”The Eels NRLW team is still chasing its first premiership, and they'll be hoping the Panthers left a little of their winning magic behind in Kiama - and that they’ve picked it up just in time.

Dragons' finals hopes take huge hit after Sharks defeat
Dragons' finals hopes take huge hit after Sharks defeat

12 June 2025, 11:15 PM

St George Illawarra's chances of qualifying for the NRL finals have taken a huge hit after they gave up a 12-point lead to the Sharks on Thursday night.The Dragons appeared on track to score a boilover victory against their local derby rivals at Sharks Stadium but they went from being 18-6 up to losing 30-18.Cronulla ran in four unanswered tries in the second half to put a major dent in St George Illawarra's hopes of sneaking into the playoffs.Heading into their third and final bye next week in Round 16, the Dragons are sitting in 12th spot on the ladder with a 5-8 record.They will probably need to win at least eight of their remaining 11 matches to have any chance of figuring in the playoffs.The Dragons host Parramatta in Wollongong on 28 June in their next martch before they face a tough run against the Raiders, Roosters, Bulldogs, Cowboys and another clash with Canberra.On current form, they could be well out of the finals hunt after that stretch.They started slowly against the Sharks but after conceding the first try, they equalised when veteran hooker Damien Cook crossed the stripeRising star Lyhkan King-Togia notched a clever individual try and when the Dragons made it three tries in a row before half-time with Sharks centre Jesse Ramien in the sin bin, they went to the break holding a commanding 18-6 advantage.But they had a series of fumbles from high kicks and gave away silly penalties as the Sharks drew level and then went ahead following a try to winger Sione Katoa. With the match in the balance and the Sharks clinging to a six-point lead with less than 10 minutes left, the Dragons were on the wrong end of a controversial call from referee Grant Atkins from a kick restart which left coach Shane Flanagan up in arms.Dragons centre Moses Suli batted the ball back while over the 40m line after the kickoff from halfway but the referee ruled the ball had not travelled 10 metres so he gave the Sharks a penalty, which led to Katoa scoring again to ensure victory for the home side.Flanagan was "amazed" at that decision and a few others which went against his team."There's a red line there that's called the 40-metre line and Moses Suli was on the other side of the 40-metre line," he said in the post-match media conference.He conceded the Sharks "ran a little harder in the second half, got good field position and all their kicks were contestable"."We didn't handle the kicks."

Maddie provides Power boost: VFLW talent joins Kiama
Maddie provides Power boost: VFLW talent joins Kiama

12 June 2025, 8:00 AM

Kiama Power have announced the exciting signing of Maddie Edwards, a former VFLW midfielder, to bolster their women’s team for the rest of the season.Edwards brings top-level experience, having played for both Richmond and Williamstown in the Victorian Football League Women’s competition.“She spent the last two seasons with Williamstown, where she was voted Players’ Player in 2023 and finished runner-up in the Best and Fairest,” said Kiama Power committee member Anthony Grady.“She was also in their leadership group last year and was the inaugural captain of the Coburg Lions women's team when they entered the competition - she’s incredibly credentialed in both talent and leadership.”Grady said Edwards has already made a strong impression at training.“She jumped straight in - vocal from the start, giving direction and sharing tips. It’s like having another coach on the field,” he said.“Her experience at the elite level and exposure to high-quality coaching is something she brings with her, and she’s already passing that on to our younger players.”Kiama Power’s women’s team has had a mixed start to the season, with three wins and three losses. Their next match is a rematch against the Bulldogs, who beat them back in Round 4, and they’ll be looking to turn the tables this time.Meanwhile, the men’s first-grade team is taking advantage of an extended break following the King’s Birthday long weekend and this week’s bye.“We lost to the Lions two weeks ago, but for three quarters it was a tight contest,” said Grady.“We let them kick five goals in the third quarter, and that was the difference. If we’d taken our chances and stayed focused, the result could have easily gone the other way.”With time to regroup, the team is focusing on building consistency and playing four strong quarters when they return to the field.

Kiama Red Cross Fun Run raises over $10,000
Kiama Red Cross Fun Run raises over $10,000

11 June 2025, 6:00 AM

The 11th annual Kiama Red Cross Fun Run raised more than $10,000 over the weekend to support vulnerable individuals and families in the local area.Sunday's weather broke in favour of the event, offering a clear window for the 384 participants who took part in the 5km, 8km, and 21.1km races and fun runs.“We were so blessed with the weather - things weren’t looking good the day before or the day after,” said Judi O’Brien, president of Kiama Red Cross.Runners of all ages were invited to participate in the Fun Run. Photo: Brian Scott“People came out in droves. We had 384 entrants, which is up on previous years, and we raised more than $10,000 for the Red Cross. It was an excellent day.”O’Brien said feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the stunning coastal views and the supportive marshals stationed along the course.“You couldn’t have asked for a better winter day - fresh air and that beautiful Kiama coastline. It really made for a special atmosphere,” she said.“We’re also lucky to have so many service clubs and community members helping with marshalling. Runners were so appreciative of their encouragement - it really lifted spirits.”While the focus of the day was on community and charity, O’Brien acknowledged the achievements of the top finishers:21.1km winners:Male: Scott FraserFemale: Lucy Holman8km winners:Male: Colt PhillipsFemale: Mariana Byrne5km winners:Male: Rob LittleFemale: Emily CrumpA whole family getting into the action at the Kiama Red Cross Fun Run. Photo: Brian ScottThe Kiama Red Cross Fun Run began in 2014, originally envisioned as a one-off event to promote healthy living and raise funds. But the success of that first year sparked a now decade-long tradition.“It was so popular and raised so much money that we decided to keep it going,” O’Brien said.“In over 11 years, we’ve raised more than $80,000 just from this event alone.”'She added that the event has grown and evolved in response to community feedback, including the recent introduction of a half marathon (21.1km) for more competitive runners, while maintaining shorter distances for walkers and casual participants.“We’ve really honed the event to make it something people look forward to every year.”O’Brien praised the Kiama community for its continued support and said planning is already underway for the 12th Fun Run in 2026. The Bugle will feature an extensive collection of photographer Brian Scott's Fun Run photos in next week's digital edition.

Flanagan revamps Dragons side for crucial Sharks clash
Flanagan revamps Dragons side for crucial Sharks clash

10 June 2025, 11:00 PM

St George Illawarra's hopes of making the NRL finals are fading fast after last Friday's 50-point drubbing at the hands of the Dolphins.They get a chance to put their playoff campaign back on track on Thursday night when they travel to Shark Park to take on traditional rivals Cronulla.Dragons coach Shane Flanagan has made several changes to the side that was thrashed 56-6 at Suncorp Stadium although he has been forced to make a couple of changes due to injury and State of Origin.Veteran centre Valentine Holmes is out after being retained by Queensland for next Wednesday's Origin clash in Perth with Corey Allan returning to the side in his place.Dragons winger Christian Tuipulotu has been sidelined after aggravating his hamstring injury early in the Dolphins defeat with Tyrell Sloan regaining his spot on the flank.Front-rower Blake Lawie has been dropped and second-rower Raymond Faitala-Mariner will also miss the Sharks showdown after suffering an asthma attack during last week's loss.Gerringong forward Hamish Stewart has been relegated to the bench after starting at lock against Redcliffe with Jack de Belin getting the No.13 jersey.Stewart made 36 tackles and only missed two but made just 66 running metres in 52 minutes of game time.He has played 11 matches in his rookie season and has started in the past five matches.Hame Sele and Emre Guler have been added to the pack to face Cronulla as St George Illawarra try to rebound after dropping to 11th place on the ladder with a 5-7 record.Flanagan said in the post-match media conference that the poor showing in Round 14 would not happen again."I'll make sure of it. Don't you worry. That's my job," Flanagan said."We can make excuses but we are not here to make excuses. It just wasn't up to standard. It is really disappointing."It's not acceptable for the Dragons."

Turning the tables: Kiama claim top spot in Illawarra rugby
Turning the tables: Kiama claim top spot in Illawarra rugby

10 June 2025, 6:00 AM

Kiama surged to the top of the Illawarra District Rugby Union ladder over the weekend with a commanding 62-10 victory over the University of Wollongong.The dominant performance marked Kiama’s fourth consecutive win, with the team crossing the line for an impressive 10 tries.Kiama's Dante Patrick said he was impressed that they stayed focused by addressing their mistakes, even in a one-sided match.“We really made sure to focus on the negatives - turning over the ball, silly mistakes. We never got complacent. We’re always striving to be a bit better,” Patrick said.“Against a different team, those mistakes could have cost us. I think that’s what kept us on the right path throughout the game.”Patrick also acknowledged the effort of their opponents, praising the team's respect for a University side that’s rebuilding this season.“They were ready for a game, so we showed the same respect by giving them our best. Everyone’s had their time as the struggling side, and what you want is to challenge the top teams - that’s how you improve,” said Patrick.He went on to highlight the standout debut of Zechariah Taufa, who made his first-grade debut following strong performances in reserve grade.“He’s only 18, from a rugby league background, and switched codes this year. He’s been a shining light, ripping it up in second grade and earned his spot on Friday night,” said Patrick.A Kiama lineout from last week's win against the Vikings. Photo: Brian Scott“He didn’t look out of place at all - I think there’s plenty more first-grade footy ahead for him.”Looking ahead, Kiama will face a major challenge against third-placed Camden, who sit just two points behind them on the ladder.“Camden are a lot like us - unpredictable and dangerous. You’ve got to stay in front of them the whole time to shut them down,” said Patrick.“We always have a tough battle with them, so we’ve got a big week of prep to try and stay on top.”Kiama will host Camden at Kiama Showground on Saturday, 14 June.

Kiama Sporting Complex upgrade likely to be over $100m
Kiama Sporting Complex upgrade likely to be over $100m

09 June 2025, 3:00 AM

The early indicative estimated cost of fully revamping Kiama Sporting Complex is expected to top more than $100 million as Kiama Council seeks feedback from the local community about how to upgrade the ageing facility.Both the Kiama Sporting Complex and South Werri Reserve masterplans are going up for public exhibition on Tuesday and will be on display on the Council website for 56 days.Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald is keen to hear what the community thinks about which direction Council should take with each project.“The public exhibition of these masterplans present different options for these locations, particularly the Kiama Sporting Complex, as to what the community might see as the future of these areas,” he said.“We know that the lighting at the Complex is less than ideal, the playing surfaces need upgrading, and the facilities haven't been upgraded for a number of years.“The Kiama and District Sports Association has been a great advocate for our sporting groups over a range of issues, including in support of bringing these master plans forward for public consultation.“We're really looking forward to receiving public feedback on what these areas might look like. It may be that these current plans are not the appropriate plans because they were the subject of previous consultation.“We've had the ability over a longer period of time to think about how those areas are being used and what options there might be for our community regarding their use.”For such a mammoth undertaking as overhauling the Kiama Sporting Complex, a combined effort will be needed from all levels of government to fund a project which could cost north of $100 million.“The different Complex plans have significant dollar values attached to them and a serious upgrade will not be possible without significant funding from federal or state governments” Cr McDonald said.“It's not something that will happen overnight but essentially the finalised plan will enable us to advocate for funding to ensure that the facility is the best it can be.“Short of that, we will also be looking at funding opportunities so that we can implement a staged process of upgrade for items that are necessary at this time, such as improved lighting, improved change room facilities so that those facilities are more suitable.”While the South Werri Reserve does not come with such an enormous price tag, Council is keen to hear from residents about their vision for its design and functionality.“There are a lot of users of the South Werri area, and considerations such as environmental and indigenous culture and history that we as a community are keen to protect, maintain and enhance” Cr McDonald added.“Similarly to the Kiama Sports Complex, its important to have a South Werri Reserve plan in place to be able to take advantage of funding when it is available to implement the final plan for the area that the public decide they would like to see.”

Jamberoo to host 2025 NSW FootGolf tournament
Jamberoo to host 2025 NSW FootGolf tournament

07 June 2025, 8:00 PM

The best footgolfers in the state and beyond will be heading to Jamberoo next weekend. Footgolfers? Yes, FootGolf.For those unfamiliar, FootGolf involves players kicking a standard soccer ball into enlarged golf holes, following rules and etiquette similar to traditional golf.Jamberoo Golf Club will host the 2025 NSW Open FootGolf tournament on 14-15 June.This year marks the third time Jamberoo has hosted the tournament, having also staged the inaugural event in 2016.“Jamberoo has supported the sport right from its very beginnings here in Australia,” said FootGolf ambassador and player Deryn Knott.“They have a permanent nine holes available for social players most afternoons, which enables us to not only practise there but to host competitions as well.”Knott explained that the way they build the courses is to dig the FootGolf holes in strategically placed positions along a golf course, typically on the edge of fairways.It's all about concentration. Photo: Suzanne Paul“When not in use,” said Knott. “We cover the holes with a man-hole style cover with an artificial turf surface, which allows for the usual upkeep of the golf course to continue uninterrupted and means the holes are barely visible to golf patrons.Players from around Australia and overseas - including Japan, Malaysia, and potentially New Caledonia - will travel to Jamberoo to compete, with results contributing to their global ranking.“Players will earn points towards their global ranking, which is what attracts international competitors,” said Knott.“Last year at the Australian Open, we had about 30 to 40 starters - roughly half international and half domestic players from states like Victoria, Queensland, and across New South Wales.”Knott has been playing the sport for several years and said it was a natural transition from football.“The thing that got me hooked was that it's an individual sport. In football, you're part of a team, and it's sometimes hard to measure your personal contribution,” he said.Japan and Malaysian players last year. Photo: Suzanne Paul“In FootGolf, there’s no argument - your score reflects how well you played. It allows you to gauge your achievement and track your progression.”He also noted the accessibility and affordability of FootGolf, compared to traditional golf.“With FootGolf, you can just grab a soccer ball and head out for a kick - take it as seriously or as casually as you like,” said Knott.“It’s less frustrating than golf too. In golf, the technicality of a swing can hold you back. But with FootGolf, if you want to curl it, you usually can.”Some big names are expected to compete, including Hilmi from Malaysia, who recently won a major tournament in Vietnam. But Australian Ryan Paisley, last year’s Jamberoo champion, remains the favourite.“Ryan’s been consistently winning for the last couple of years, so he’s likely Hilmi’s biggest challenger,” said Knott.The tournament features men's and women’s open divisions, as well as over-45s - and it's open to all, even first-time players.“It might seem intimidating to join the NSW Open as a beginner, but anyone can play at Jamberoo from 2pm most days,” said Knott.“You’re welcome to get some practice in before tee-off next week.”Spectators are also encouraged to come along, relax, and check out the action.“Anyone can come and watch. Sit at the bar, enjoy the BBQ, and experience a unique and exciting sport in a beautiful setting.”

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