I read Mike Finnegan’s Letter to the Editor regarding the pausing of the Jazz and Blues Festival with interest, and as a long-term local felt it important to offer a different perspective.

Many people who live in Kiama chose to do so precisely because of what it already is: a small coastal town with a strong sense of community, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life.

For many locals, Kiama’s appeal is not defined by large festivals, fireworks, or events that draw significant crowds, traffic, noise, and disruption.

While events may be attractive to visitors, they often come at a cost to residents - including congestion, pressure on infrastructure, and a loss of the very character that makes Kiama distinctive in the first place.

To suggest Kiama risks becoming an “also-ran” without festivals implies that its intrinsic qualities are somehow insufficient.

Many locals would strongly disagree.

Uniqueness does not have to mean constant activity or a packed events calendar.

Kiama is already unique because of its coastline, villages, history, and community atmosphere.

Preserving that character is, in itself, a long-term vision worth protecting.

Council decisions should balance tourism aspirations with liveability.

Pausing or reassessing events does not signal a lack of ambition - it may simply reflect a conscious choice to prioritise residents and sustainability over growth for growth’s sake.

For many who call Kiama home, less is not a loss - it is exactly the point.

Dexter Rabbit

Kiama