Nikki and Tay Esen have been breathing life back into dying devices for more than a decade.The Phone Surgery, their family-owned South Coast business, carries out mobile phone, laptop, tablet repairs from Batemans Bay to Kiama, and last year opened up a shop front in Terralong St Kiama Village.Co-owner and director Nikki, who has a degree in business and event management, started the Phone Surgery with her husband Tay, an electrician by trade who now specialises in micro-soldering and is the business’ head technician.“We opened the Phone Surgery in Batemans Bay in 2014 and we now have four locations, including Kiama Village, Nowra and Vincentia and as well as a repair van with that comes to you,” says Nikki.“The Phone Surgery was one of the first repairers on the South Coast and has been in business for more than a decade,” says Nikki.“Three years ago during COVID we also set up The Phone Surgery Repair Van, which does on-site repairs with a built-in workshop on wheels.“We have two young children and know how busy life can get,” says Nikki. “Heading out to one of our stores, especially with kids in tow, can be challenging so The Phone Surgery Repair Van comes straight to your door, at home or work, to fix your broken devices on the spot.”The Phone Surgery specialises in repairs for mobile phones, iPads/tablets, laptops, PCs, smart watches and other small electronic devices such as gaming consoles.“We are a family-run business with a dozen employees, including myself and my husband.“We are all passionate about providing our community with a fast and convenient repair service which includes screen and battery replacements, water damage, charging and audio issues, data transfers, virus removal and much more.“The Phone Surgery offers free quotes for repairs of mobile phones, iPads/tablets, laptops and smart watches for popular brands such as Apple and Samsung. We also provide a wide range of accessories and brand new Samsung handsets and refurbished Apple iPhones.”The Phone Surgery also specialises in electronic integrated circuit (IC) board repairs that require micro-soldering. IC board repairs can take up to 10 business days, depending on how complex the repair issue is, says Nikki.“Tay has almost two decades of experience in the tech repair industry,” says Nikki. “He started as an electrical apprentice when he was 18 but changed careers to move into mobile phone repairs. He is a certified senior microsolderer and leads our team of 10 technicians as well as running the mobile repair van.“A mobile phone repair can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes,” says Nikki.“We can fix your iPad or tablet within two hours and laptops and PCs can take two to three days.”Nikki says all repairs include a three-month warranty, battery replacements come with a six-month warranty and PC and laptop repairs also have a six-month warranty.The Phone Surgery is located at Shop T14, 143 Terralong St and is open seven days from 9am to 5.30pm, 9-4pm Saturday 10-4pm Sunday. The mobile repair van operates from Monday to Friday.The repair van can be booked online via the website www.thephonesurgery.com.au.Please note - this is paid content

It’s not too late to have your say about Kiama Council’s Employment Lands Strategy after the timeframe for public feedback was extended.Local business owners and ratepayers have until next Sunday (19 October) to lodge a submission. Kiama Business Network executive officer and market manager Mel Scarr has written to members of the organisation offering to collate responses in a group submission to Council. Scarr said lodging feedback was worth doing for five main reasons. You get to influence outcomes: If Council hears recurring concerns (for example, about where land is zoned, conservation of views, traffic, noise), they can amend the strategy. Submissions can change maps, planning rules, or infrastructure investment priorities.You can protect your interests: Whether you’re a business owner, resident, landowner, or someone concerned about environment or amenity - a submission gives you a chance to outline what you want or what you fear, and make sure those are heard.Better decisions overall: More input tends to produce plans that are more equitable, more sustainable, and more acceptable to the community. It’s more likely to avoid unintended negative outcomes.Future proofing: Planning for the long term means that decisions made now will shape what Kiama looks like for decades. If people don’t engage, decisions will be made without their voice.Access to services and infrastructure: If you or your family need business services, shops, schools, health etc, you want them accessible. Ensuring enough employment lands are available in the right spots helps make sure services grow in step with population.The Strategy is a 20-year strategic planning framework for commercial and industrial land in the Kiama Local Government Area. It looks at how much land is needed, where it should go, what it should be used for, constraints (like environmental, infrastructure, natural features) and opportunities. It is aligned with other Council plans, like the Local Housing Strategy and Local Strategic Planning Statement. Scarr said ensuring there is enough land zoned for business and industry would mean more local job opportunities. If people have to travel far for work, that adds cost, time, stress. Having closer employment can improve quality of life. As population grows from around 23,000 to a projected total of 30,000 by 2041, there is a need to plan where businesses, shops, services, roads, sewer, water, etc will go so growth doesn’t lead to congestion, or loss of natural areas or poor infrastructure.The Strategy is linked with the Housing Strategy. Growth in housing without planning for employment lands means people might live far from where they work. That can increase commuting, pressure on roads, transport, fuel costs. Also, having local shops, commercial services, health, education facilities near housing makes communities more liveable. People don’t want to drive everywhere.Decisions made now will affect property values, traffic, livability, costs.

Kiama Business Network is looking to support local operators to thrive as part of Small Business Month in October.KBN is hosting its final Business Connect event for the year, hosted by The Collective Beat Kiama on Collins Street on Thursday, 30 October. It promises to be an evening of connection, conversation and community. Whether you're new to KBN or a long-time member, these events are a great chance to reconnect, meet fellow local business owners and expand your network in a relaxed, welcoming setting.KBN president Cathryn Lyall said business owners share insights, strengthen relationships and grow as a vibrant business community.“While encouraging visitors to our LGA is vitally important for our local economy, we are increasingly finding great value in connecting local businesses and their customers to other local businesses,” she said.“The more our own local community sources their goods and services from small businesses within our LGA, the better our small businesses can survive the tougher winter months the when we have less visitor traffic. “We have a growing diversity of businesses in our KBN community and most are still navigating the long tail of the recent economic challenges after 12 interest rate rises in 13 months. “That, plus high insurance costs, payroll tax increases, very high power costs, high commercial rent charges with low supply of suitable commercial premises, plus the recent cuts to the NSW Government Business Connect and Destination program, all particularly affect rural and regional small and medium businesses.“Kiama Business Network is committed to supporting our local businesses all year round and our Kiama Business Connect events, in partnership with our members, provide an engaging and purposeful way to grow the interconnectivity and resilence in our local economy.”KBN standard members receive a free ticket, gold members are entitled to two and platinum members will get three. Additional guests are $25 each while prospective members receive free entry.The Business Connect event will be held Thursday, 30 October from 5pm-7:30pm.As part of Small Business Month, the NSW Small Business Commission is running dozens of online events and workshops covering topics such as staffing, cyber security, entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, intellectual property and sales strategies.“KBN encourages all business owners to log into the state government website and take advantage of the offerings available,” Lyall added. “KBN is also able to advocate directly through Business Illawarra and Business NSW on any matters directly affecting rural and regional areas such as Kiama and, as always, we partner wherever possible with the Destination Kiama team and Kiama Council to support programs and events that enhance opportunities for our local business community.”KBN and Marketing Movement are also bringing together six local business owners for a free marketing roundtable on Wednesday, 29 October from 9.30am-11am at KBN’s offices.This is a 90-minute, small-group strategy session built around helping your business to give you clarity, next steps and a plan to grow.First in, best dressed - contact [email protected]

The saga over the Glenbrook Drive land sale is nearly over but due to the scarcity of lots in Kiama, the five sought-after blocks are expected to fetch a pretty penny.After years of negotiations to cut through bureaucratic red tape to have a long-standing covenant on the land removed by the NSW Government, Kiama Council recently convinced Minister for Transport John Graham to clear the way for the land sale.The covenant was placed on the land way back in 1991 because it was deemed too close to Bombo Quarry but many other houses have been built in the cul-de-sac a two-minute drive west from the Kiama town centre.Council has moved swiftly since last month’s removal of the covenant at 17-25 Glenbrook Drive, engaging First National Coast & Country to put the land on the market and an auction will be held on site on 25 October at 1pm with each lot going under the hammer individually.With Council aiming to comply with the state government’s target of 900 new homes by 2029, it is a step in the right direction as part of its overall housing strategy.Based on recent sales and the scarcity of alternative options, each lot could sell for more than $1 million.First National Coast & Country sales representative Sam Lathbury said the Glenbrook Dr auction was an outstanding opportunity to secure a near flat vacant lot in a superb location. “We’ve had lots of enquiries but because it's an auction and there's not a guide price set with them, a lot of that is price enquiry but the general interest on the back of those is really strong,” he said.“It seems to be ramping up.“The majority have had some local connections. People coming back to Kiama. Lots of families looking at buying and building their own home. There's some development interest, some builders interested. We've got a bit of everything.”The lots have bushland scenery across the road and residents can walk to Bombo Beach through a track near the Spring Creek lagoon.“Easier blocks to build on are so rare,” Lathbury added.“There's been nothing like this in Kiama for so long. There's a development potential but Mum and Dads can build their own house, grandparents can build a single-level house - it fits so many of the criteria on what people are going to want, which means that we're not then just selling something to someone who wants to build a duplex. “We're not entertaining offers before because it's a Council sale - they want everything to be transparent and to be as open as possible, hence why we're doing all the auctions at the same time and doing an auction on site.”The lot sizes range from 531sqm to 559.6sqm.Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald was relieved to see the land sale finally going ahead.“This is a win for the community and for our Council’s advocacy efforts,” he said. “The listing of the Glenbrook Drive lots was one of our key Advocacy Plan objectives, and I’m proud we’ve now achieved it. “We still have important advocacy priorities to deliver - particularly the lifting of restrictive covenants on Council’s Spring Creek landholdings.“Unlocking this land would allow us to provide more housing and employment lands for our growing community, which would in turn help support local families, and strengthen Council’s ability to deliver essential services in a financially sustainable way.”Prospective buyers can register their interest in the Glenbrook Dr lots at the First National Coast & Country Kiama website.

Lime Building Group is celebrating after winning two awards at the recent NSW Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing presentation night.The Gerringong custom home builders were named the winners for Best Contract House ($8-$9million) and Best Use of Bricks.Lime was thrilled to get the nod for the prestigious awards.“We are beyond honoured to have our work recognised at this level. These awards are a true reflection of the collaboration, skill, and dedication that go into every project.“To our clients, thank you for trusting us to bring your vision to life. To our incredible trades and suppliers, your craftsmanship, reliability, and attention to detail make all the difference. And to our own team, your hard work, precision, and passion are what keep lifting the bar higher every year.“None of this happens alone. "These wins belong to everyone who played a part in turning drawings and dreams into homes that will stand the test of time.”Earlier this year, Lime won an unprecedented nine times at the 2025 Master Builders Association Regional Excellence in Building Awards, the most successful night in the company’s 15-year history.The business is led by local builder Joel Stewart and specialises in custom luxury home construction across the South Coast and Southern Highlands, with projects ranging from Wollongong to Mollymook.

Kiama may not have claimed a trophy at this year’s IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards, but the town certainly made its presence felt, with a record three tables of councillors, local award entrants and Kiama Business Network members joining more than 600 of the region’s business leaders at WIN Entertainment Centre last Friday night.The Illawarra’s premier business celebration recognised excellence across 18 categories, with Sicona Battery Technologies named Business of the Year and inducted into the Hall of Fame for its third consecutive win in International Business. Symbio Wildlife Park, now celebrating its half-century, also pulled off a hat trick, taking home three awards including Outstanding Business Leader for CEO Matthew Radnidge.For Kiama, the evening was about visibility and connection. The inaugural Kiama Business Awards, held earlier this year at The Pavilion, gave local winners the chance to progress as finalists at the regional level. Burnetts on Barney, Slow Dough, This Old House Studio, Ozeano Eyewear, WorkLife, and Kiama Leagues Club’s Sarah Rebbeck proudly represented the diversity and strength of the local economy.While none of Kiama’s finalists took home Illawarra titles this time, Mayor Cameron McDonald said the strong turnout underlined the town’s growing confidence and ambition.The Kiama crew at the Illawarra Business Awards. “The majority of our local enterprises are small businesses: family-run, owner-operated and community-connected. To see them stepping up on a regional stage is a success in itself,” he said.“These awards are about more than trophies - they are about recognition, collaboration and inspiration. Kiama’s strong showing is proof of the talent and innovation thriving in our community.”The Kiama Business Network was equally proud of the representation, with president Cathy Lyall noting that building connections across the region helps open opportunities for local enterprises.The 2025 Illawarra Business Awards highlighted the region’s adaptability and innovation in challenging times. Green Gravity, Housing Trust and Dharawal Distilling Co. were among other big winners, with all category winners set to represent the Illawarra at the upcoming NSW Business Awards.The record attendance for Kiama at the Illawarra awards shows that local businesses are ready to engage, learn and compete on a bigger stage - and, in time, to bring home some of those coveted trophies.Shoalhaven Business Chamber took home the Outstanding Local Chamber gong in recognition of the outstanding support for their business communities and regional economic development. Shoalhaven Business Chamber were joined by Vincentia’s Supercalla Private Properties on the winners list.Supercalla took out the Excellence in Micro Business award for its efforts in holiday property management.

Walkbuy is continuing to immerse itself in Kiama’s retail scene, bringing local businesses and shoppers together as its main purpose – and now, there’s even more reason to get involved.Since launching this month, Walkbuy has received excellent support from the Kiama business community, with more than 40 local retailers, cafes, creatives, and service providers jumping on board. These include favourites like Kai Lunar, The Coffee Emporium, Cin Cin Wine Bar, Zink Surf, The Collective Beat, Burnetts on Barney, Felicity Gardner Illustrations, the Sea and Beau, KG cafe, Mermaid&Me Boutique, Barber Industries Kiama, to name a few.Using the app is simple – receive real-time notifications (called “Pulses”) from these local businesses as you Walkbuy and discover new arrivals, special offers, or what’s fresh out of the oven. Whether you're after boutique fashion, great coffee, handmade goods, or weekend plans, Walkbuy helps you shop around the corner, and be part of the community.And here’s the kicker: every time you activate a Pulse in September, you’ll automatically go into the draw to win $500 cash. No strings attached – just shop local, explore what Kiama businesses are offering, and you could be $500 richer by the end of the month.“The response from the community has been incredible,” says Walkbuy founder Peter Walsh. “Every weekend we’re out on the streets chatting to locals and businesses, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “People love how easy it is to use, and they’re genuinely excited to discover and support local shops in a new way. We are also learning ways to improve, which is priceless.”Walkbuy is free to download and for Kiama businesses, 12-month free trials are automatically activated when signing up! Kiama locals, now is the time to get involved! Download Walkbuy today on the App Store or Google Play, support local, and be part of Kiama’s shopping evolution!Please note - this is paid content

A historic Southern Highlands landmark that once called the faithful to prayer is now answering a very different calling as a one-of-a-kind home and income-producing estate.The former church at 39 Hoddle Street in Robertson, built in 1902, has been reborn as a unique estate blending heritage, artistry and modern lifestyle.Converted in 2018, it now includes a striking private residence and two boutique self-contained apartments, each offering character and income potential.Belle Property Southern Highlands principal Debbie Pearce said early buyer interest had been strong since it was listed last week.The selling agent said the property was expected to fetch somewhere in the high-$2 million range, though no official guide price has been released.Rather than a family home, she sees the estate appealing to lifestyle buyers keen to leave the bustle of the city while enjoying passive income from short-term accommodation.The property’s three distinct zones each tell their own story.The former hall has been transformed into a New York–style retreat with soaring ceilings, dramatic light and a freestanding bath framed by a cathedral-style window.The “Angel Place” wing, filled with murals, colour and theatrical flair, offers another playful take on church living.And the main conversion, with its black-and-white palette and soaring windows, shows off a more contemporary side.Pearce said the work had been carried out with respect for the building’s structure.“I think it’s been done very sympathetically, so the key features have been retained. The beautiful Oregon ceilings were sourced locally,” she said.Outside, mature plantings, citrus trees and lawns complete what Pearce describes as an inviting indoor-outdoor flow.The half-acre block sits behind a classic white picket fence in the heart of the village.Robertson, she added, is increasingly seen as a lifestyle location in its own right.“Robertson itself is becoming quite progressive, and we are seeing a lot of families moving to the area to enjoy the village-feel lifestyle,” she said.“The Southern Highlands is highly attractive for weekend getaways, so this has that opportunity to offer somebody who is wanting to purchase and utilise the property for that reason.”She said the listing offered a rare chance to secure not just a house, but a piece of history reimagined.“The mature trees and planting give it a really nice indoor-outdoor flow, but also the owner has an exceptional eye and has retained the charm while adding a very eclectic, quirky feel to it,” Pearce said.For more information, visit Belle Property.

The Pavilion hosted a full house on Thursday as Business Illawarra welcomed NSW Opposition Leader Mark Speakman, Shadow Treasurer Damien Tudehope and Shadow Minister for Small Business Tim James for an exclusive members’ forum.Business Illawarra director Coralie McCarthy moderated the wide-ranging conversation, which covered the challenges facing small business, housing pressures and the state’s infrastructure priorities.Speakman described the Illawarra as “one of the most magnificent places in NSW,” before outlining his party’s economic platform.Mark Speakman and Serena Copley with local business leaders and Council representatives. Photo: Business Illawarra“Small business is the engine room of our economy. Our ethos as Liberals is to help business - our job as government is to make it easier for businesses to generate jobs, opportunities and growth.”He warned of “headwinds” for business, citing high energy costs, rising premiums, sluggish demand and record insolvencies. He also criticised the government’s budget approach, predicting cuts to infrastructure would hit regional communities hardest.Housing affordability and stamp duty reform were also in focus. Speakman flagged incentives for downsizers and restoring the option of a property tax for first-home buyers. He has also pledged a $26 million upgrade to Kiama Sports Complex and support for freeing up Spring Creek land for housing.Audience members raised concerns about cuts to tourism funding, rising workers’ compensation premiums, and the need for social and affordable housing. Local councillors, business leaders and tourism advocates stressed the importance of government support for the region’s economy and liveability.While the next state election is still 18 months away, Speakman said the Opposition would continue to put forward policies “progressively to the people,” noting, “the best predictor of what we’d be like in government is what we’ve done in the past.”

The Micro Business Showcase organised by Kiama Business Network, last Thursday brought together local entrepreneurs, community members, and supporters for an evening of networking and promotion at The Pavilion in Kiama.The event gave micro businesses a platform to connect directly with the community and each other.With catering provided by Culinarius Catering & Fine Food, the event was co-hosted by a range of local businesses including Bryant & Co Lawyers, Creative Kooks, eMerge Business Support, Expressive Art Experience, Gutter Knight Illawarra, Kiama Chocolate Company, Known Designs & Print, Resolve Business Coaching, SurfCoast Pilates and Surfing, and The Wildflower Studio. Guests were treated to live chocolate making by Kiama Chocolate Company, with fresh samples gobbled up throughout the evening. Expressive Art Experience featured live painting by local artist Tiffany Springett, and attendees were invited to join in and contribute their own brushstrokes to a shared artwork.Known Designs & Print added a creative touch by gifting branded items, including rulers, key rings and sticker sheets displaying the logos of participating businesses.The night had a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, giving businesses the chance to showcase their products and services in person. As part of the Business Connect initiative, the event highlighted the strength and diversity of Kiama’s micro business community, and reinforced the value of supporting local as well as introducing a new retail promotion Walkbuy. Tiffany creating a masterpiece. Photo: The Bugle

Kel Swan didn’t want to see another empty stopfront in Kiama when the owner of White Earth didn’t want to renew her lease due to the rising cost of rent.Kel and her partner Karen Wilson took over the eco-conscious store on Terralong Street themselves, reopening it as The Sea & Beau on 5 July.“We thought we would take it on because you look up the street and there's so many shops for lease and it looks so bad,” said Kel.“We already had heaps of beautiful customers and it would have been sad to see it go.”Kel’s journey to owning The Sea & Beau started during the COVID pandemic, Kel and Karen were both in the travel industry and were made redundant as no one was travelling. With twin boys Cody and Lennon only 15 months old, Kel applied for a part-time position at White Earth simply as a way to get out of the house.“I applied to have a job here, just mostly for social. And then ended up loving it. Like, didn't realise how much I would love it,” she said.“All the customers are awesome, we've become good mates with a lot of people just from being here for the last four years.”Kel grew up in Kiama and her connection to Terralong Street starts with her first job at 14 at Scoops, and she has memories of her current store being Classy Lady, a boutique store in the 1990s.“My mum used to come here all the time and I used to sit out the front waiting when I was a kid,” she said.“I've actually got heaps of memories from this shop, but I just didn't realise it was the same one.”The store’s new name holds a special meaning to the couple, with Sea or ‘C’ representing Cody, and Beau being Lennon’s middle name. The store’s palm tree logo represents the boys as Kel says “they keep fighting over who's the tallest one”.Kel and Karen are locals who are proud to be raising their children in Kiama and giving back to the community. Their focus on community is evident with their Father’s Day window display with drawings and messages from local children to their dads.“The kids are all really proud. People with kids have come and gotten photos next to their picture,” said Kel.The Sea & Beau Father's Day window displayThe business supports local causes like school raffle donations and has also introduced three new Illawarra-based brands since taking over.Having previously worked at Kiama’s Visitor Centre, Kel understands the importance of having a vibrant shopping scene for the town’s success.The Sea & Beau is open seven days a week and located at 96 Terralong Street.

Berry business Totem Eco, founded by a husband and wife team, took home the top prize at the Clean + Conscious awards for their brand’s natural deodorant.Toby and Katie Gibson’s brand, Totem Eco, won Gold for Best Deodorant at the Clean + Conscious Awards 2025 with their Blue Gum Natural Deodorant Stick. Totem Eco also secured Silver in the Sensitive category for their Kakadu Rose Natural Deodorant Stick.The Clean + Conscious Awards highlight the most sustainable and ethical products in Australia and New Zealand, with winners undergoing testing by leading experts across health, beauty, sustainability and media.“We were up against some of the brands that we'd really respected over the years and who were sort of the trailblazers and are still doing great stuff in this space,” said Toby.“But to take home gold and being in that company was just a huge achievement for us, given we're just a little family business and they're very big and established players.”Totem Eco launched after Toby and Katie relocated to Berry from Sydney as a way for them to reconnect with their roots and for their children to have more of a grounded upbringing. The couple started becoming more aware about the products they had in their household and how safe they were around children.“Having kids makes you a little bit more conscious of the products that you have in your house and that you're using on your body,” said Toby.Both Toby and Katie made the switch to natural deodorant some time ago and felt as if they could make a difference in the space with their own product. Despite being relatively new and coming up to their “three-year mark”, the couple have made a splash in the industry and put their skills together, Toby having been a genetic scientist and Katie being a hair and makeup artist.Toby explains that not all natural deodorant brands are the same, and many tend to be bi-carb based, whereas what sets them apart is their magnesium-based formula.“It's really more effective on odour control and gentler on your body…We like to say you only need to use it once a day at most,” he said.“People sometimes might balk that it's maybe potentially more pricey than say their roll-on that might be on special on the shelves”.“One of our sticks will last you between three to four months and you can't really put a price on your health and the planet”.As Totem Eco grows, the couple still maintain their local connections by regularly going to markets to sell their products and remain dedicated to their founding principles.More information about Totem Eco and their products can be found online at totemeco.com.au.

At 69, Daryl Henson holds the unique title of being the youngest resident at Cedar on Collins, Kiama’s premier retirement village. Having lived in Kiama since he was in Year 8 in high school, Daryl’s deep connection to the area made his choice to retire locally an easy one.After a long career with Sydney Trains at Bombo Quarry and years spent in a house with a sizable yard on Shoalhaven Street, Daryl found maintaining his garden increasingly demanding - especially after a health scare linked to overexertion. Seeking a retirement option that combined ease with community, he discovered Cedar on Collins.“It felt like a resort from the moment I toured it,” Daryl said. “The location is unbeatable - right in the heart of Kiama with everything just a short walk away. “Plus, living on a flat block is a relief after years on a slope.”His stylish two-bedroom apartment features a generous balcony where he enjoys outdoor time without the hassle of upkeep. Daryl is also a fan of the village’s concierge service, and appreciates the convenience of having the front desk staff.Beyond comfort, social connection was key. Monthly outings and themed events like the recent Italian night foster a warm, welcoming atmosphere. “I’ve met lots of interesting people and absolutely love the ‘oldies’,” he laughs. As a history enthusiast, Daryl relishes conversations about Kiama’s past with fellow residents.He acknowledges that safety and peace of mind are assured with an emergency call system in each apartment, offering reassurance to those with health issues.Cedar on Collins appeals mostly to locals, with easy train access drawing interest from surrounding areas. For Daryl, moving here meant simply changing his address - his vibrant Kiama lifestyle remains wonderfully intact.“What’s not to love about Kiama?” he smiles. “Great cafes, the Leagues Club nearby, the supermarket, and Hindmarsh Park just across the road. It’s home.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns has admitted his government needs to do more for small and medium-sized businesses while addressing local business leaders at The Pavilion in Kiama on Monday.Minns made his fourth visit to the Kiama electorate in the past 11 days to lend his support to Labor candidate Katelin McInerney’s campaign to win the vacant state seat at the 13 September by-election.Along with Treasurer Daniel Mookhey, he spoke to a large group of Business Illawarra members on a range of topics.“I come to these meetings with a little bit of reticence, particularly in the middle of the by-election, because I can see some people's eyes rolling and saying, well, the election's on, so you're down here, which is a natural human response,” before adding that he had conducted similar forums all across the state over the past couple of years.“We think it's a really important part of being a government that's responsive to the biggest employers in NSW, and that is small and medium-sized enterprises.“And we need to do more. We want you to grow.“We want you to invest in your community. We want you to know that you've got a government that recognises that it's been a difficult few years, and that you need help in certain instances, in certain parts of the economy, and in other areas you just need to get out of the way.”Minns told the forum that NSW had been left behind compared to other states, particularly Victoria, when it comes to getting their fair share of national revenue from the Federal Government.‘We need sharper elbows when we're dealing with the feds, particularly for NSW’s share of Commonwealth money. We've got major infrastructure projects right across NSW,” he said.“We're currently in the middle of building Shoalhaven and Shellharbour Hospital, putting billions of dollars into our health network."But it might surprise you to know that not withstanding the fact that NSW has about a third of the country's population, we get about 24% of the infrastructure spend for the country. And that difference is a massive difference for our state.“It means that there's a limit on how much we can grow and how fast we can grow. For the GST split, it's even worse.”Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald thanked Minns and Mookhey for making the time to engage directly with the local business community but was unhappy with the lack of clarity provided on local issues.“With a by-election now underway in Kiama, it was disappointing that we heard little about the issues directly affecting our community,” he said.“Voters in Kiama want to know where the Government stands on the projects and priorities that matter to them.”Council recently adopted its State Government Advocacy Plan, which highlights the most pressing local priorities requiring state support, including:The Kiama Sports Precinct redevelopment: upgrades to ageing facilities supporting more than 5,500 club members.Urban Expansion Area Structure Plan: strategic planning for up to 4,500 new residential lots.Bombo Water Resource Recovery Facility upgrade: urgent investment to support housing growth and protect the environment.Removal of the Spring Creek restrictive covenant: unlocking Council-owned land to restore financial sustainability.Premier Chris Minns, NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Business Illawarra director Coralie McCarthy. Photo: The BugleKiama main streetscape renewal and Harbour revitalisation plan: modernising public spaces and activating underutilised precincts.Education and early learning facilities: flood-free preschool for Jamberoo and more providers across the LGA.Improved road and public transport links, including reclassification of Jamberoo Mountain Road.Special Entertainment Precinct: to support Kiama’s live music and night-time economy.Attendees at the forum. Photo: The Bugle“These issues are critical to the future of Kiama,” Cr McDonald said.“As Mayor, I again extend an open invitation to the Premier and Treasurer: come to Kiama, sit down with our community, and tell us where you stand on these priorities. Our residents deserve to know.”

When Michael Bowden observed that traditional entertainment wasn’t filling seats at his business Cin Cin Wine Bar, instead of doubling down he focused on what Kiama needed.This has resulted in a wholesome approach to hospitality alongside co-owner Melanie Allen, that focuses on getting people to reconnect with others, which has seen events sell out in days.This approach came from Michael’s own journey in mental health advocacy, his involvement with the Man Walk, his social enterprise Rockstar Dads, and years of experience in hospitality (28 years to be exact).“I've always found that being able to connect with other people is one really good tool when it comes to having good mental health,” he said.“I've sort of gone, ‘well, what am I passionate about and how can we bring that into the business?’”This strategy is proving to be effective, with the venue’s ‘The Case of the Kiama Blowhole Mystery’ event selling out in days. The intimate event includes drinks on arrival and a full interactive experience unraveling the mystery of the Kiama Blowhole body.“I thought it was a really good way for people to connect … we advertised it and within two to three days we sold the first one out,” said Michael.Cin Cin’s variety of hands-on experiences also includes paint and sip sessions, clay making, candle workshops, and macrame classes. All of the events that Cin Cin offers have a mutual purpose, building connections.Cin Cin’s Thursday Book Hour is an example of this, running from 4-5pm in collaboration with Kiama Unplugged, people are encouraged to ‘disconnect from your phone and reconnect with a good book’. This has expanded to include knitting, crocheting, board games, and conversation.The partnership with Kiama Unplugged is also working on expanding to unplugged date nights, giving couples the opportunity to put their phones away and connect over dinner. These nights will also include a community table for singles to meet new people and have conversations over dinner.“The main thing is it's just not doom scrolling on your phone, it's about doing something with a purpose,” Michael said.Monthly Barstool Brothers gatherings offer men a relaxed and low-pressure opportunity to connect over a free meal, meeting on the last Wednesday of each month. Michael’s collaborative approach doesn’t stop there, with a project in the works with local resident Tamara Campbell. The project involves a dinner at Cin Cin where a topic is set for the evening and people are encouraged to connect through fun conversations facilitated by Tamara.“I know Tamara quite well and I know her personality, it will bring to the facilitation some fun and some playfulness,” said Michael.Michael is also reaching out beyond just events and into practical solutions, including a new courtesy electric van that provides sustainable transportation for patrons. Michael is using Cin Cin’s new courtesy van to create connections with local businesses, Fillmore’s and Little Betty's, running a circuit between the three venues to get patrons to and from home.Connection is the cornerstone of Michael’s innovative and collaborative approach to his business, and as he says it’s as simple as “being open to having a conversation with just the person sitting next to you”.Cin Cin Wine Bar’s upcoming events can be found on their social media pages or at their website. The Case of the Kiama Blowhole Mystery event runs Thursday September 18, 6-9pm, with tickets available through Eventbrite.

Duncan Hill Real Estate has announced the winners of their Best Shed Competition that celebrates the craftsmanship of shed owners across Kiama and the Southern Highlands.The competition invited entries from tool-filled man caves to peaceful garden hideaways, creative studios and backyard bars, spaces where “human endeavour takes precedence over human comfort”.Taking first place for the Southern Highlands category and winning a $500 Bunnings gift card was Peter’s shed, with his carefully planned and executed workshop. Built entirely by Peter himself, the shed shows thoughtful consideration both structurally and functionally.Peter designed the shed with its view from the house in mind, making sure it fit in well with his garden. Inside Peter’s shed, Duncan Hill describes it as “a place for everything and everything in its place”, with the space set up to be as comfortable and efficient as possible.The shed is completely ply lined, in order to eliminate drafts, with a window above the work bench that offers a view of an orange tree and the sky. Peter has set up a good quality music system to listen to the radio while he works on household projects.Seven Marks Gallery took home second place, earning a $250 Bunnings gift card, with a shed that is a stark contrast to Peter’s workshop. Originally approved as a shed in 1964, this project took 50 years to complete, resulting in a large structure that is divided into two spaces with opposed functions.Seven Marks Gallery. Photo: Madeleine ScarfeThe first space functions as a gallery, it’s intentionally empty, still, and meditative as to not to detract from displayed artworks. The second serves as a workshop, filled with boxes, tables, machinery, half finished works, tools, bits of metal, furniture, beer, and kilns, representing potential and ongoing projects.Madeleine Scarfe was the judge of the competition and stated that entries needed to be a building separate from a house that involved activities that are messy, noisy, smelly, or take up too much space, otherwise why wouldn’t you do it inside a house?All entries shared this common thread whether they were garden sheds, potting sheds, milking sheds, workshops, or storage sheds.Both winning sheds exemplify what Madeleine describes as “love and care and personal commitment” shown through their execution and ongoing use.“Both are essentially Colorbond boxes, graceful in their simplicity and both beautifully represent the function of a shed - a place you can go to do the things you are driven to do, where you occupy your mind and your hands,” she said.Duncan Hill Real Estate expressed their gratitude to all participants including Peter, Sandra, Coby, Chick and all the other entrants who shared their personal workshops and sheds for the competition.

Kiama’s Parfait Patisserie has taken home four awards at the National Artisan Baking Awards, including best croissant.Owner of Parfait Patisserie, Troy Hindmarch, and baker Alex Miller claimed the awards at the Baking Association of Australia event in July. Troy won first place in the white sourdough category, and Alex secured first place for croissants and second place for flavoured sourdough.Alex’s winning croissant scored highest out of all Viennoiserie products, earning him the overall Champion Viennoiserie award.“It feels amazing that we’re being recognised for something that we've always thought we could do,” said Troy.The team's success is even more impressive considering they entered the exact products that they sell daily in their shop.“We didn't have anything special as one-offs, we took the exact same croissants we bake in our shop every day and entered them in the competition,” Troy said.“We all feel in our team that we just have a great product range as it is, we just want to focus on what we do day in, day out, and it's paid off.”Troy explains that what sets Parfait Patisserie apart is that they do all the “fundamentals really well”, utilising the right procedures to make a great product.“Using the right ingredients, no shortcuts, and just skill and a lot of years of practice have definitely gone into it as well,” he said.The competition format allowed them to bake in their own kitchen environment before driving the finished products to Sydney for judging, rather than baking the product in front of judges.Troy plans to enter the team into more regional and state competitions in the near future, explaining that it's beneficial for apprentices to compete in lower-level competitions to gain experience.“When you do a competition it forces you to learn some new skills,” he said.“It’s going to grow their knowledge a lot faster and just give them a more well-rounded understanding of the industry.”Kiama locals are the clear winners here, with award-winning pastries available fresh daily at Parfait Patisserie.

Kiama’s Lime Building Group has won an unprecedented nine times at the 2025 Master Builders Association Regional Excellence in Building Awards, the most successful night in the company’s 15-year history.The business is led by local builder Joel Stewart and specialises in custom luxury home construction across the South Coast and Southern Highlands, with projects ranging from Wollongong to Mollymook.“I normally win one [award] every year that we go … I don't think I've won nine in my whole career,” Joel said.The awards won by Lime Building Group included major categories such as Master Builder of the Year 2025, Best Contract Home Over $6 Million, Best Contract Home $5 to 6 million, Best Kitchen Project $100,000 to $200,000, Best Bathroom Project $50,000 to $75,000, and Best Swimming Pool over $500,000 as well as Best Residential Fit-Out, Best Outdoor Living Area Project, Best House Additions, Alterations & Renovations $2 Million to $3 Million.“It makes me really happy because it wasn't just one house that won. It was four different projects we'd done,” he said.“It really shows that we've got a really strong team to be able to win so many awards across so many different categories.”'The Autumn House' by Lime Building GroupIn an industry that is becoming increasingly reliant on subcontractors, Lime Building Group operates with over 50 full-time employees and many of them have been with Joel for 7-10 years.“To deliver what we're doing, you've got to run that model, which is how they used to run building companies 10 or 20 years ago,” he said.Joel said it can be difficult when hurdles happen, like when there's multiple days of rain - he can’t simply send his workers home, he needs to find work for them.But the payoff of this is consistency and continuous improvement as a team.“It's like, ‘hey guys, last time we did that, we did pretty well, but next time I reckon we can do it better.’ And then we just keep learning and evolving with that,” he said.Growing up in Foxground helped Joel develop an understanding of rural infrastructure that serves him well when they work on larger properties in the area.Joel’s vision remains the same from when the business started, delivering quality projects without compromise.“If we do something we're not happy with, we just pull it down and do it again. And if it costs me money, the boys just know that we just do it again and I'll wear the cost,” he said.Lime Building Group will now head to The Master Builders Association of NSW Excellence Awards in September as finalists, where they’ll be up against elite builders across the state.

Kate Dezarnaulds was genuinely surprised when her name was called out at the inaugural Kiama Business Awards.The WorkLife founder took home the Outstanding Business Leader award, a recognition she describes as “absolutely delightful”.“It was very unexpected from my point of view,” Dezarnaulds said.“The camaraderie of other business owners is a real joy, and the respect and acknowledgement that's implicit in the award is so gratifying.”The Kiama Business Network established the awards this year as a way to recognise outstanding business achievements in the area. WorkLife was also nominated in the Excellence in Small Business category, dual recognition that shows the company’s impact in the region.Dezarnaulds admits that she used to be cynical about business awards but made the decision to enter multiple awards the past few years. The recognition has been valuable to the business considering the financial challenges many small businesses face.“Small business is really full on and risky, and the last few years has not been very profitable,” she said.“To take a moment to take stock on what you have achieved when you feel like the usual measure of success is dollars in the bank … it's been great to be able to actually say, no, it's OK, we've done some really great things.”The journey to this success began when Dezarnaulds founded WorkLife in 2017 after getting tired of her Berry to Sydney commute for work that she’d made at least 882 times. She tried working remotely from home and a local cafe, both of which weren’t working for her, so then she opened WorkLife’s first co-working space in Berry.After WorkLife’s success in Berry, they expanded to Kiama and Coledale, though they lost their Kiama location during COVID, they bounced back by opening a space in Picton in 2023.“We've got a lot of Kiama-based businesses that are working out of our location in the area at the moment,” Dezarnaulds said“I think part of my surprise was the acknowledgement of the role that we play in the wider region here.”Looking ahead, Dezarnaulds wants the small business community to build better connectivity with young people in the region.“I would love for the small business community to build better connectivity with our young people in the region so that we can keep their energies and their intellects close to home,” she said.