Kiama has been grappling with shock and division in the past few days following the guilty verdict delivered last Friday against the local state MP, Gareth James Ward.

The independent Member for Kiama was convicted of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault, stemming from incidents involving an 18-year-old in 2013 and a 24-year-old political staffer in 2015.

As the electorate processes the news, residents are torn between Ward’s legacy as a dedicated local representative and the gravity of his convictions.

The verdict has left many in the community reeling. The charges, involving serious allegations of sexual violence, have sparked heated discussions at local cafes and in offices.

Many are struggling to reconcile Ward’s public persona with the court’s findings, which detailed power imbalances and the courage of victims who came forward years later.

“The court has made its decision and proven that he’s guilty,” a local retiree told The Sydney Morning Herald, reflecting a sentiment shared by many. “He absolutely should resign. Anyone with a sketchy idea of right and wrong shouldn’t be a member of parliament.”

Ward, 44, has been a familiar and energetic presence in Kiama since his election as a Liberal MP in 2011, later serving as an independent after leaving the party in 2021 after it emerged that he was the subject of a police investigation.

Known for his tireless engagement, Ward has attended virtually every community event, from school fetes to surf club fundraisers, earning praise for his accessibility.

Locals describe him as someone who “never missed a beat,” responding promptly to every email, letter and text, and publicly celebrating constituents’ achievements, from sporting victories to academic honours.

His visibility and dedication made him a popular figure, reflected in the hundreds of supportive letters he has received since the charges emerged in 2022.

“He’s been there for us, always,” say long-time Kiama residents and Ward supporters. Their sentiments echo those of many who voted for Ward in 2023, re-electing him as an independent despite a 10.7% swing against him and the looming trial.

For these supporters, Ward’s convictions feel like a betrayal of the approachable MP who championed the Illawarra and South Coast.

Ward’s popularity in Kiama is rooted in tangible contributions. These efforts, alongside his advocacy for infrastructure like the Shellharbour Hospital plan, have left a lasting impact, making it challenging for some to reconcile his crimes with his achievements.

Despite the gravity of his convictions, a segment of Kiama’s community remains steadfast in their support for Ward.

This loyalty mirrors broader societal patterns, such as the support for US President Donald Trump, where followers prioritise policy wins or perceived strength over personal scandals.

In Kiama, some residents, particularly business leaders, value Ward’s ability to deliver funding, with one social media post noting that “upstanding business people” supported him for “delivering barrels of pork”.

Psychologically, this can be explained by cognitive biases: once trust is invested in a leader, withdrawing support feels like admitting personal error, a difficult step for many.

In Kiama’s tight-knit community, group dynamics further reinforce this loyalty, as supporters align with like-minded peers.

Ward’s extensive history in the area - born in Gerringong, educated locally, and involved in politics since his teens - foster a sense of familiarity that is hard to shake.

This connection may explain why some Kiama’s support persists, unlike the broader Australian public’s condemnation, as seen in national calls for his resignation.

Ward’s legal troubles are not his first controversies. In 2017, he faced an alleged blackmail attempt in New York City after arranging a massage.

In 2018, Liberal MP Ann Sudmalis accused him of bullying and branch stacking. In July 2024, he made headlines for arriving at Parliament House in his underwear to retrieve a spare key after locking himself out, an incident he claimed was exaggerated.

These non-criminal incidents were largely overlooked by supporters, highlighting a pattern where Ward’s charisma and local impact overshadow his missteps, unlike how similar behaviour might be judged elsewhere.

Ward’s convictions carry a maximum penalty of seven years for sexual intercourse without consent and up to five years for each indecent assault.

His bail was revoked on Wednesday and he has been imprisoned at Silverwater Correctional Centre as he awaits sentencing on 19 September.

Ward faces mounting pressure to resign. NSW Premier Chris Minns called his continued status as a sitting MP “ridiculous,” while Opposition Leader Mark Speakman labelled his position “untenable”.

Both leaders support an expulsion motion, which could trigger a by-election in Kiama within 60 days if Ward does not step down voluntarily.

For Kiama, the prospect of a by-election adds uncertainty to an already turbulent time. In recent years Kiama Council has been in the spotlight for local governance issues and on the other hand, accolades - twice winning the best tourist town award.

Some question the timing of the allegations, pointing to past disputes like the 2018 Sudmalis accusations, which he denied. “He’s been targeted before,” said one anonymous supporter. “People here still believe in him.”

As Ward considers an appeal within the 28-day window, Kiama faces a defining moment.

An expulsion motion, backed by both major parties, could reshape the electorate’s future, but legal challenges may delay resolution.

Constitutional experts note that Ward’s potential incarceration would complicate his ability to serve, strengthening the case for his removal.

For now, the community remains divided, dealing with the loss of the MP they thought they knew while confronting the reality of his crimes.

The Bugle invites readers to share their thoughts on this developing story as Kiama navigates the next few weeks. Email your Letter to the Editor via [email protected].