Every Tuesday at 9am, Bernie Hems hosts Counsel Council on Kiama Community Radio, a segment that invites local councillors to speak openly about the matters on the community’s mind.

This article has been created based on Bernie’s conversation with Cr Matt Brown on 20 May 2025.

The following views expressed are those of Cr Matt Brown and not necessarily those of Kiama Council or Kiama Community Radio.

Cr Brown was pleased to confirm that the much-anticipated Bombo staircase is now open.

“I can finally say with great confidence that the Bombo staircase is now open,” he said.

“It’s an essential link in our coastal walking track and a truly special place. You feel like you’re walking on a different planet.”

He credited former councillor Warren Steel for his persistence in pushing for the staircase and shared that Steel is proposing the name “Thunder” for the new feature.

“He says it has cultural significance for First Nations people and also reflects the sound of the waves crashing on the rocks,” Brown explained. “He wants to spell it with an A. I think it’s a great name. It’s catchy.”

Destination Kiama plans to make the site a feature of future tourism promotions. Cr Brown encouraged locals to go and experience the walk themselves.

Turning to Kiama Harbour, Cr Brown expressed support for Councillor Mike Cains’ notice of motion to form a local committee that would lead a revitalisation plan.

“We all know that our harbour is the jewel in the crown of this area,” Brown said. “But some parts of it are looking tired. People are constantly asking what’s going on with the Cargo’s building, the storage sheds, the cabins.”

Cr Brown explained that the proposed committee would help bring together local voices and the various government departments responsible for different sections of the harbour.

“This committee could act as a conduit between the community, Crown Lands, Transport for NSW and other key stakeholders. We need to bring all the pieces together and start making progress.”

He acknowledged concerns about cost and said the motion had been scaled back to minimise budget impact.

“The goal is to get better planning, better access, and better use of this treasured space,” he said.