This week's digital edition of The Bugle is headlined by the guilty verdict that has been handed down in the trial of Gareth Ward over historical sexual assault allegations

Ward was visibly taken aback when the verdict was read out at Darlinghurst Courthouse after a nine-week trial before Judge Kara Shead -

The 44-year-old had pleaded not guilty to five charges - he was found guilty of sexual intercourse without consent, common assault and three counts of indecent assault.

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A charge of common assault was considered not necessary by the NSW District Court once he was found guilty of the other offences.

The digital edition also brings you the story of a local photographer who has developed a kinship with the beautiful but potentially deadly octopus species that inhabit Kiama's rockpools.

There is also a feature on acclaimed filmmaker Gillian Anderson coming to Kiama for the Orry-Kelly Gala night and the "shame" that led her to create a movie about his amazing life.

You can also read plenty of great community stories including an update from Councillor Melinda Lawton on why she voted against the Kiama's Housing Strategy, an amazing property which has gone on the market near Easts Beach and the latest on the Illawarra Offshore Wind Zone.

And there is more on a local dementia support forum, Kate Dezarnualds' win at the Kiama Business Awards, a new book by a local poet and all the latest in local sport, including league, rugby, AFL and a teenage soccer player who represented NSW Country at the recent Matildas Championships.

Kiama's local government area was inundated with rain and buffeted by heavy winds with gusts of more than 120km/h.

Please note if you have picked up the print edition of The Bugle, due to Thursday night deadlines it was published before the Ward verdict was announced