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.

From $1.76 in the bank to multimillion-dollar listings on Kiama’s coastline, the multi-talented Marnie Beauchamp has gone from rock bottom in 2005 to a post-pandemic renaissance.Now back in her home town and thriving once again as a real estate agent, Marnie’s return marks a full-circle moment in a career defined by resilience.During an interview with The Bugle last week, Marnie said: “It wasn’t the place that was the problem, It was the place I was in. I just needed time to heal.”In 2005, Marnie faced a trifecta of devastating personal trauma: a divorce, a draining six-month court battle, and the sudden death of her father.Her daughters were just five and eight when she sold her local real estate agency to spend more time with them.But a dispute with the franchisor led to a Supreme Court lawsuit, which cost her everything she had worked so hard for and leaving her in serious debt.“I remember sitting in the park one day and my girls asked for an ice-cream,” she recalled.“I had $1.76 in my bank account. I couldn’t even afford that. That’s how bad it got.”Bankruptcy and liquidating her company were options, but they weren’t options she could live with.“I couldn’t give up on the company I’d worked so hard to build,” she said.“And I didn’t want anyone else to suffer the financial hardship I was facing. So I made a promise to myself that I’d pay back every cent. And I did, even though it took me over 5 years to do so.”Still reeling from the court battle, Marnie then lost her beloved father. He was her mentor and rock, and passed suddenly at just 58.“I didn’t even get to say goodbye. It was horrific,” she said.Despite the grief, she returned to work. Within a year, she was ranked number 12 statewide in her real estate network.But the burnout that followed eventually caught up with her. By 2018, she stepped away from the industry and left the region.“I did solo road trips, spent time overseas, sat on beaches… I basically hid from the world,” she said. “But that space gave me clarity.”During that break, she wrote Unread Pages, a deeply personal book reflecting on trauma, healing, and the struggles behind public success.She also developed a real estate app, began mentoring, and became immersed in wellness - physical and emotional. Today, she lives by the principles of fasting, whole foods, and natural therapies - habits that restored her energy and focus.“When you give the body a break from toxins and constant consumption, it heals,” she said. “Just like your mind does with space.”That renewed vitality brought her back to Kiama. And back to real estate.She officially relaunched in November 2024. In less than a year, she has re-established herself, securing high-end listings and rebuilding a business largely through repeat and referral clients.“The majority of my work is with people I’ve helped before. That’s a great feeling,” she said.“It’s growing naturally, and I’m loving it.”Marnie’s connection to the region runs deep. She moved to Kiama at 21 and spent five years working in property development, including early work on the Shell Cove estate and other major subdivisions in the region.She said that Kiama was a “unique” property market.“Kiama has always had a strength that other areas don’t,” Marnie said. “We’re surrounded by farmland and ocean. There’s only so much property. That limited supply, plus the lifestyle, means we tend to recover quickly from downturns.”Despite broader economic pressures, she remains optimistic about the local property market.“In the last four weeks, enquiries have definitely picked up,” she said.“It’s still not translating to big sales volume just yet. But that always follows. I think we’ll see the Reserve Bank move to cut interest rates next month. That will trigger more confidence.”She describes the current climate as cautious, a reflection of cost-of-living pressures more than property fundamentals.“People aren’t going on holidays. They’re not spending freely. And that flows through to real estate,” Marnie said.“But Kiama holds firm. During COVID, places like Gerroa saw 60 per cent growth in property values in a year. That’s huge.”.“The market always rises. It just moves in cycles. Kiama is on the map now more than ever. People from Sydney and even overseas are looking here,” she said.Her market outlook for the next year is promising.“I think we’ll see renewed confidence before the end of the year,” she said. “Interest rate certainty will help. And Kiama always bounces quicker than most.”For Marnie, coming back to Kiama was about more than business. “My kids were raised here. I’ve previously lived here for many years," she said.“Coming back wasn’t just a career decision. It was about being where I feel most grounded.” 

Caroline Hartline is the force behind Kiama's quiet achiever. Her eyewear brand, Ozeano Eyewear, stood out from the competition to win the "Excellence in Sustainable Business” award at the inaugural Kiama Business Awards recently.With a 20-year professional background spanning corporate marketing, management consulting, non-profit leadership and eCommerce, Caroline brings a wealth of experience to the table. Caroline Hartline with her award for Excellence in Sustainability. Photo by Peter IzzardHer broad expertise and passion for purpose-led business inspired her to take the leap and build something of her own. In 2024, she acquired the assets of Ozeano Eyewear and set out to bring her vision of a sustainable, socially conscious brand to life.As she describes it, her goal is “a new mission that gives back, more along the lines of a social enterprise.”Ozeano Eyewear focuses on timeless designs, avoiding fast fashion trends to promote thoughtful consumption. The brand proudly supports environmental projects, including the Seabin Foundation, 1% for the Planet and the annual Ocean Film Festival. Indy wearing the 'Coolum Leopard Seal' glassesA new line of plastic-free eyewear accessories is also set to launch soon.Even with their promise to sustainability, they have made an effort to remain affordable without compromising on quality. In fact, the materials used in Ozeano eyewear surpass those found in many products on the market that sell for up to three times the price.For Caroline, building a sustainably focused business was never in question.“I love small business but never wanted to be responsible for additional landfill as a result of running a business,” she explains. Giving back has always been part of her ethos - she has worked with organisations such as the United Nations in Jordan, as well as the Australian Red Cross and The Salvation Army.“I’ve always been interested in humanitarian work and the environment but I also just have a general dislike for plastic. And once you dive deep and realise the havoc it wreaks on the environment and on the human body, it’s hard to overlook,” she said.Upon receiving the award for Most Sustainable Business, Caroline expressed genuine surprise. “I was very shocked to receive the award! It’s genuinely humbling as we are really such a little business and therefore, our impact is quite small. “It’s also a huge morale boost as often the hours put in the business aren’t reflected in the profits.”She also has practical advice for other businesses looking to prioritise sustainability:1. Start with your packaging. “Sustainable packaging is not only better for the environment but customers also appreciate it when your packaging can be put in the yellow or green bins instead of clogging up their red bin!”Ozeano Eyewear's sustainable packaging2. Review your supply chain.“If you’re selling products, have a look at your supply chain - who makes the products, what their sustainability certifications are and whether they’ve had any third-party audits like BSCI or Sedex.”3. Dig deeper into your materials.“Who supplies the materials/textiles that make up the products and how sustainable are these materials? Seek out certifications like Oeko-Tex or FSC, GOTS (for organic cotton) and GRS (Global Recycling Standard). Ask your suppliers and manufacturers how they’re transporting their products to you (often it’s in a lot of unnecessary plastic wrapping). They can switch to no plastic, use cloth, or there are also many cost-effective bio-based biodegradable plastic alternatives available these days (for garment bags, for example).”4. Create a sustainability policy. “It’s a good idea to draft and adopt a sustainability policy for your business including an ethical supplier and sourcing policy. You can get input from staff and also use it as a working document to show you areas for improvement. I’d be happy to provide any local businesses with advice around this.”5. Think beyond recycled plastic and share your journey.“Sustainability means different things to different people but for me, I think it’s about getting back to natural materials where possible. “I think there is a bit of a ‘recycled plastic’ trend going on at the moment but I question how sustainable it really is - because it’s still leaching microplastics into the environment and impacting human health. And then you have the issue about how traceable it really is. “Clothing and eyewear made of plastic bottles doesn’t impress me too much because it still creates a toxic product and a reliance on plastic use. Some people argue that plastic is more durable, but durability is a double-edged sword - it takes centuries to break down, shedding microplastics into the soil and ocean in the process. “Customers are increasingly choosing brands that reflect their values, so even small steps can build loyalty and impact. And importantly - share your progress honestly. It’s OK not to be perfect.”James & Zara wearing Ozeano glasses'in MinnamurraThe main message Caroline wants to share is every choice matters. “Whether you’re a business owner, a parent, a student, the way we consume and produce things shapes the world we live in.“I would encourage people to look at the tags of their favourite brands, how much polyester and nylon are in the clothes and how much plastic is used in its packaging. And also consider - can I wear this item for years to come?“We are so blessed to be surrounded by so much beautiful water and ocean here in the Kiama area. It’s not going to last though at the rate we’re consuming and producing plastic.”Caroline isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Next month, she will be launching a new business for kids and teens called Billie Green, offering undergarments made without any polyester or nylon in the fabrics, the new range will follow the same sustainable principles.To step up your eyewear fashion and support a local, sustainable business, visit the website here or find them on display at The Collective Kiama and regularly at the Kiama Seaside Markets.

When Kane and Hayden Presland were thinking about naming their new café, they immediately thought of their grandparents’ last name on their mother’s side: Beck. Their mother is one of two sisters, meaning the name was likely to die with them. Wanting to keep it alive, the brothers named their new venture Beck’s - only to discover they weren’t the first in the family to do so.“After we opened, my mum's auntie, who lives in Hungary - Beck is a Hungarian name - found out that my mum's great-grandfather used to own a Beck's Coffee House in Budapest in 1912,” said Hayden.So, it turns out the story of their new café on Tingira Crescent, replacing the much-loved Little Earth, began long before either of them were born.More than a hundred years later, in December 2024, Kane (26) and Hayden (21) were chatting when the idea hit them to open a café together. Beck's cafe in all its glory. Photo: Wilson Featherstone.Just two months later, as though the universe was listening, the owner of Little Earth - a close connection - asked if they’d be interested in taking over the space.“It was too good of an opportunity to miss,” said Kane. “It’s such a good location. It has north-facing sun with an ocean view, and it’s out of the main town of Kiama. “So it was perfect. We’d always had the idea of opening a café in the back of our minds, but we’d never found the right space to do it. This was the first time we could actually see it working.”The two went back and forth deciding on the layout and vibe, but Kane was set on letting the brand create itself rather than pushing a concept onto people. “One of the things we wanted was to not launch the brand too hard. We wanted it to evolve organically, to create itself.”Little Earth had its last day of service on 29 June, and just six days later, on 5 July, Beck’s was open and ready for customers. “We got the keys at like 6pm. Sunday night. Then we opened at 6:30am the next Saturday morning,” said Hayden. “It was 16-hour days. We’d get in at 6am and sometimes leave at 11pm. We painted everything, put in new floors, new tiles, new lights, and fitted out the retail room. We pretty much took the whole place apart and then put it all back together,” said Kane.The brothers have been surprised by how much support the community has shown, and they feel they’ve achieved their simple goal: to create a space where everyone feels welcome. “It’s been sick. We’ll be full inside, full outside, and there’ll be 30 people just standing around, drinking their coffee. We wanna be the kind of place where people will pull out camp chairs or milk crates and sit on them - or even just lay on the grass and watch the whales,” said Kane.Customers enjoying the sun and the coffee at Beck's Cafe. Photo: Wilson Featherstone.“We’re also really big on the customer experience when people come in,” added Hayden. “And making sure we stay consistent. If someone brings their friend in a week later, we want it to be the exact same experience for them too.”Also part of the café is a small surf store, filled with surf-related apparel - something both brothers are passionate about. “We wanted to showcase some of our favourite brands,” said Kane. “We’ve got boards from a local guy who shapes surfboards, merch from local brands, as well as clothes and jewellery. It’s all up-cycled stock and handmade, and we wanted to share that with other people.”In the future, they hope to expand by opening at night and getting a liquor license, helping turn their street - which also features Cin Cin Wine Bar - into more of a local nightlife hub. But for now, you can find the two brothers serving up high-quality coffee (still using the iconic Little Earth beans) and simple, fresh food from 6:30am to 2pm, Monday to Sunday.

A philosophy of serving up local produce fresh on the plate to customers has propelled The Farmers’ Table to Outstanding Café honours at the recent Illawarra and South Coast Local Business Awards. Nestled among Kiama’s historic Collins Street terraces, the cafe thrives on its communal spirit, which owner Alan Smith insisted upon when he acquired was was Amaki Cafe last year.“The place was falling to pieces. People were falling through the floor, it was that bad,” he said.“And it’s a heritage-listed building, which was part of the whole plan for buying it because it takes us back to a time when we all used to sit down and eat together and work together and help each other.“Community meant something back then so it all sits with the story of why we're doing what we're doing.”Alan is from the UK but his wife, Rachael Heald, is a local and when he came to Jamberoo for the annual sevens soccer tournament 15 years ago, she decided it was time to move back to the area.So they relocated from Sydney for a tree change and “The Farmers’ Table is an extension of our farm here in Jamberoo,” he explained. Alan had no prior experience in hospitality but with the help from locals, including architects and tradies, the cafe was fully renovated.“Originally, we were going to do the shop on the farm and get people to come here but it turned out to be far more difficult than we wanted it to be. So we decided to take the farm to town,” he said.“The idea is to get good Australian food, straight off the farm, straight into the cafe and we give the chefs the raw ingredients and they just create something marvellous.“They've got their take on various things. You think to yourself an egg is an egg but it isn't. “We use local seafood and produce and put it on a plate. If we can't supply it then we find somebody local who can.”Alan is in the process of getting chickens onto his farm while growing the size and scope of their market garden of herbs and vegetables.“The idea is to try and make our farms more productive. Keep our hills green because people work them get paid some decent money for their work,” he explained. “If you come to the Farmers’ Table for a meal, you're not just helping me, but you're helping everybody else in the local food chain.” Twelve of the cafe’s 15 staff live locally as well.“The feedback is what a great idea - the food is really good because we have chefs, we don’t have cooks and it shows in the quality of the food,” he added.“You're getting good, honest food straight off the farm. That's been cooked by someone who cares really knows what they're doing.”Winning the award at The Fraternity Club in Fairy Meadow after such a short time in operation was a thrill for Alan and his crew.“I was really taken aback because there are a lot of cafes in the Illawarra, there’s a lot in Kiama. To win it, I was really rocked back in my chair there for a minute because acknowledgement by your peers and customers is phenomenal,” he said.“You can say whatever you want about your own stuff but it's what other people think. Being recognised by people is a humbling experience because you're giving people something that they really want.“It's very nice to be recognised for the effort that the team has put in over the last year because there's been some long hours.”

In an event not to be missed, two of Kiama’s top chefs are coming together to cook a dinner celebrating the importance of local food.“Lauren Brown of Blue Swimmer Gerroa and Luke Basic of Silica in Kiama have generously donated their time and devised an amazing menu for the night,” says Slow Food Saddleback’s convenor Celia Wade.“Both are committed to the Slow Food principles of good, clean and fair food, and have been recipients of our Snail of the Approval for many years.“Slow Food Bites will be an evening to feast on food made by two of the region’s leading chefs, while finding out more about the importance of regenerative farming.”Previous dinners hosted by the local branch of the world’s leading real food advocacy movement have proved very popular events.“This year will be even more special because we are collaborating with people from the Grow Love Project, who have made films about local food producers,” said Celia.“These short films will stimulate discussion about the importance of knowing where your food comes from, and the issues involved with regenerative farming.“We’re sure they will spark conversation and give insights that will have people thinking next time they go food shopping.”The event is Slow Food Saddleback’s major fundraiser for the year. Money raised by the branch not only supports Slow Food's international and national projects and programs, but helps local efforts to foster greater food choice through Business Development Awards.“Over the years we’ve been able to use the funds we’ve raised to help food growers and makers do things they wouldn’t have otherwise been able to do – like attend conferences and buy pigs to aid on-farm sustainability,” Celia added.“They’ve told us how encouraged they feel to have people backing what they are doing and how much they appreciate our support.”Three more awards will be presented at the dinner.Slow Food Bites: Sunday 3 August, from 5.30pm, The Pavilion KiamaTickets ($80 or $75 for Slow Food members) - available now at www.trybooking.com/DDAVC - include a three course meal and welcome drink. Other drinks are BYO.

The Kiama area has dominated the 2025 Wedding Industry Awards for the Illawarra and Southern Highlands Region, with local businesses claiming top spots across multiple categories.Leading the winners, Sharon Campbell continues her outstanding run with Sharon is my Celebrant winning Civil Marriage Celebrant for the fourth consecutive year, and Elopements by Sharon winning Elopements and Intimate Weddings for the third year in a row.The Sebel Kiama won the Hotel Wedding Accommodation award, and also placed top three for Wedding Venue Coordinator and highly commended for Wedding Venue - Four to Five Star Hotel.Greyleigh Kiama earned high commendation in Boutique Wedding Accommodation and top five for Wedding Venue Coordinator. Minnamurra Rainforest also won the award for Wedding Ceremony Location.Creative wedding services shined with Always Flowers Kiama winning Wedding Florist, Making Faces Makeup Studio won Bridal Hair and Makeup, Chloe Marie Artistry taking Wedding Photographer, and Planned by Page winning Wedding Planner and Coordinator.Gerringong businesses also celebrated success, with Meet Mabel Vintage Caravan Bar Service winning Caravans, Trucks, Carts, and Bars, and The Gelato Bike placing top three in the same category, whilst The Wedding Creators won Wedding Content Creator.Additional recognition goes to The Mercure Gerringong Resort (top three for Wedding Venue - Four to Five Star Hotel), The Lodge Jamberoo (highly commended for Wedding Venue - Boutique), Seacliffe House Gerringong (top three for Wedding Venue - Farm and Country), Greyleigh - The Gables (highly commended for Wedding Venue - Farm and Country), The Pavilion Kiama (highly commended for Wedding Venue - Function Centre), and Crooked River Winery (top three for Wedding Venue - Winery).

True to their name, Slow Dough bakery took a while to get going but they are rapidly growing in reputation and impact in the Kiama community.The Manning Street bakery was named the Outstanding New Business at the Kiama Business Awards last week, well deserved recognition for owners Lucy and Richard King after years of hard work both before and after opening their doors.Slow Dough was created when Richard got into baking during the pandemic and in late 2021, he started selling the varieties he had come up with by mail order from the garage of their Gerringong home. “I think it’s safe to say that we’re elated to win the award,” Lucy said. “It is really important to receive recognition from your local community and it’s a real acknowledgement of the hard work we’ve put in.”Richard added: “We were really surprised - we’ve been very focused on our own patch, head down, bum up. We feel like we’re doing all right but relative to what?“So when we’re put up against extraordinary other businesses, to come out on top was pretty humbling.”When he started baking, he would send a message to his mailing list to say what was going to be ready each Saturday and people would respond to say which option they wanted.That grew to the point where they needed a bigger permanent location and it was tough to find a spot with space large enough for a bakery and a small area for customers to savour the treats. The old minister’s cottage at the Uniting Church had been used by the Men’s Shed but they had moved to a more suitable location for them, so Slow Dough pounced on the opportunity, opening their doors in early 2024.It took them more than a year to wade through the development applications paperwork and complete renovations to make it fit for purpose but it has proved to be the ideal location for them. “We both come from a corporate background,” Lucy explained.“Rich had always been interested in baking but had never got the opportunity to do it. So when we were in what seemed like a never-ending lockdown at the time, it allowed him the chance to get into making it.”Lucy King, Susan Spence, Jo Aspinall and Richard King at the Kiama Business Awards. Photo: The BugleHe said his initial offerings would have been “better for building than eating” but after lots of practice, he refined his craft.“Neither of us have done this before and are still learning every day in terms of baking and building a business,” Lucy added. “We just want to acknowledge the Kiama community and our customers who have really supported us. Everything we do is new. It’s just been so wonderful the way the locals have rallied us on because it’s been tough at times.“They’ve been open to what we do because we do things a bit differently. They’ve been willing to come along this journey with us. We’re very grateful.”They were also a finalist in the Excellence in Sustainability category, an essential part of their set-up.“My background is in corporate sustainability so it’s something that’s really important to make sure we’re integrating that into what we do as a business,” Lucy said.They partnered with Kerryn McInnes from The Passion Project at The Pines in Kiama and they collect Slow Dough’s compostable waste for her permaculture garden.“It’s a nice example of closing the loop within our local community and ecosystem of businesses,” Lucy said. “We do generate a fair bit of waste but we make sure we do as much as we can to reduce that.”Slow Dough’s cardboard packaging, including the coffee cups, is compostable and included in this program to help reduce landfill.

There’s a fresh buzz brewing at one of Kiama’s most prominent cafe spots, with Park Central Cafe on Terralong Street launching under new ownership last weekend.Harpal “Harry” Singh has taken the reins and kicked off a new era on Saturday, introducing a revamped New York-style deli menu, longer trading hours, and all-day service.Leading the front of house and kitchen is Rideika Boney, with a renewed focus on fresh, gourmet offerings and extended breakfast and lunch options.Park Central Cafe manager and chef Rideika Boney.“We're focusing on breakfast and lunch, extending opening hours from 7am to 5pm and keeping the kitchen open all day,” Singh said.“Some of the new additions on the menu are chicken burgers, veggie burgers, wraps, salads, and nachos, as well as protein shakes.“So, we're expanding the breakfast and lunch items, and including waffles for the kids.”The updated menu features sourdough sandwiches, bagels, croissants, artisan pastries, cakes and a wide range of hot and cold beverages. Coffee remains a major specialty.Originally from Punjab in India, Singh came to Australia a decade ago as an international student. He now lives in Wollongong with his wife, Gurpreet Kaur.“We love it here in Kiama and we have some good friends here. So, we didn’t hesitate to take on this business,” he said.He said Park Central Cafe’s location made it an ideal meeting place for locals and visitors. He’s aiming to cater to both with a menu that balances quality with comfort.“This is a popular holiday location, so it’s important that we have the right offerings for visitors,” Singh said.“But we want to continue to look after our local customers and keep growing the business.“We’ll be making everything fresh, and we’ll be expanding the kitchen. It’s all very exciting.”

Buyer confidence in the local property market is starting to lift ahead of next week’s Reserve Bank of Australia meeting, with analysts tipping a third rate cut for the year.Marnie Beauchamp, from Belle Property Kiama, says signs of renewed momentum are finally starting to emerge after a “pretty tough” opening half of the year.She believes the RBA’s next move could be a turning point.“It does feel like there’s more confidence and movement happening in the market in the past couple of weeks,” Beauchamp said.“I think that if we do get another interest rate cut next week, then that’s going to give us a real boost.“I just don’t think the two rate cuts we’ve had so far this year have been enough considering where everybody was at leading up to that.“With inflation and the cost of living these days, people need a bit more of a reprieve before they’re going to make their next move.“Coming into the second half of the year, another rate cut will be key, absolutely.”The RBA’s next interest rate decision is scheduled for Tuesday, with strong anticipation of a 25 basis-point rate cut.Economists from the Commonwealth Bank and Westpac are among those to forecast a rate reduction.Greg Crumpton, of Stone Real Estate, agrees confidence is rising again in the local property market.“It’s definitely starting to move upward,” Crumpton told The Bugle.“The last couple of interest-rate reductions have helped, but it’s the next one that I think will really kick things off.“Borrowing capacity and confidence increases when rates drop, and that brings more activity and buyers into the market.”As confidence improves, the region’s prestige performers remain in the spotlight.Leading the way is Gerringong, which topped Cotality’s 20-year growth rankings when it released its May 2025 property data last week.According to Cotality, Gerringong’s median house price has jumped from $625,000 in 2005 to nearly $1.8 million today.Beauchamp says the surge reflects the natural growth of the seaside town.“If you go back 20 years, there was very little infrastructure in Gerringong,” she said.“People came to Kiama because it had more shops and a supermarket, whereas over the last 20 years there’s been a whole lot of new buildings in Gerringong … more restaurants, shops, little boutiques, and more business in general.“And then they also opened that beautiful subdivision around Tasman Drive, and all of a sudden the big prices came in and people were paying $2 million for a block of land where the views are just incredible.”In the key growth corridor of Shell Cove, the median house price now sits at $1.4 million, also edging into prestige territory.Beauchamp was there from the very beginning, as the first stages of Shell Cove were launched in the mid-1990s.“I was working for a property developer at the time, before I got into residential sales,” she said. “We actually had a model created, which was sitting in the foyer of one of the display homes up there, showing how it was all going to look and where the marina was going to be.“That marina was proposed around the late ’90s but it has only just really taken off in the last couple of years.”Crumpton said local demand remained strongest east of the freeway, especially in locations with views.“This is still particularly sought-after,” he said.“Close proximity and walking distance to the beaches is a big attraction, and/or the local shops and cafes.”While buyer interest from Sydneysiders and Canberrans remains strong, Crumpton said locals were still key players in the Kiama market, either upsizing or downsizing.As for his local market prediction over the next year?“The previous 12 or 18 months, there’s been a lot of hesitation, but I think we'll see an increase in activity, and prices may even start to creep up again,” Crumpton said.“Interest rates are likely to keep going down, and that generally means things will start to pick up again in the market.”

Burnetts on Barney took out the Business of the Year top gong at the Kiama Business Awards on Thursday night at The Pavilion in Kiama.Kiama Business Network founded the event this year to recognise the exceptional achievements of businesses in the region.Trophies were awarded to winners in six categories with those businesses then judged to decide who would be the 2025 Business of the Year.Kiama Business Network president Cathryn Lyall said the anonymous judging panel comprised of local business leaders who analysed the 50 nominations to come up with finalists and eventually the category winners.“It was a fantastic night, the community came together,” she said.“The diversity of businesses of talent and individuals on display was a highlight.“It was very community focused, it was very nurturing and supportive - there was a strong feel that everyone was coming together to support the community.”The category award winners have all now won the right to be a finalist in the Illawarra Business Awards for the black-tie ceremony on 19 September at WIN Entertainment Centre.Excellence in Small Business & Business of the Year: Burnetts on BarneyBurnetts on Barney was recognised for its excellence as the region’s leading garden and landscaping centre.The business began in 2001 when Andrew and Elizabeth Burnett moved to Jamberoo to start a tree care business. They moved the business to its current site in 2012.Burnetts is not just a business but a dedicated community space providing a garden haven for locals and visitors alike.Its beautiful quarry-wall space is home to live local music each Saturday as well as festivals, community and private events throughout the year.Lyall said the judges were impressed with Burnetts not just being a central horticultural hub but it’s devotion to making Kiama a better place to live.Kiama Council representatives, Councillor Imogen Draisman, Mayor Cameron McDonald, Emily Vaughan, CEO Jane Stroud, Helen Demertzis, Cr Erica Warren and Cr Melinda Lawton. Photo: Peter Izzard Photography“It’s become a real hub for the community, doing stuff like sending a minibus out to Blue Haven twice a week so the retirees can come to the cafe and have morning tea together - for those who don’t have transport it’s a huge part of their week,” she said.“The musicians that they profile there, the many community events they host, interaction with the bees by kids and adults - there’s just so many things they do that go above and beyond the business of making money.”Excellence in Sustainability: Ozeano EyewearA small local social enterprise founded by Caroline Hartline, Ozeano produces ethically handmade prescription glasses and sunglasses using a 100% biodegradable plant-based bio-acetate.“Not only was it design conscious eyewear that was made with sustainable premium materials but there was a really clear impact around sustainability right from the outset,” Lyall said.Caroline Hartline from Ozeano Eyewear. Photo: The Bugle“She’s a relatively new business, all online from Kiama Downs, but her reach has not just national, it’s been global as far as what she’s doing to remove plastic from the oceans, among other things.”Outstanding New Business: Slow DoughThe unique bakery in Kiama, run by RIchard and Lucy King, was rewarded for its resilience.“It’s a great story from starting the business in their garage, nearly giving up because they couldn’t get the space they needed to run a shop front and then deciding to persevere, and their whole philosophy around slowing down, bringing people together, the high quality of the products,” Lyall added.Lucy and Richard King from Slow Dough. Photo: The Bugle“The staff are aligned on the journey together to embed sustainability and action in the community.“Their whole ethos and hard work they’ve put into building it into the successful business it is, shone through.”Excellence in Microbusiness: This Old House StudioThe architectural hardware microbusiness serves builders, architects, homeowners and designers up and down the South Coast.“The fact that we’ve got this on our main street is unique and desirable,” Lyall said.Dave Brown from This Old House. Photo: The Bugle“It was a tightly contested race but they are serving such a broad swathe of the community and they are a great example of the circular economy in our LGA.”Outstanding Business Leader (20 employees and under): Kate Dezarnaulds - WorkLifeLyall said there was another strong contingent in this category of finalists for this award.“Kate stood out for her leadership skills and qualities,” she said.Kate Dezarnaulds. Photo: The Bugle“She ran as an independent in the federal election but this was focused on WorkLife and all she’s done since she founded it in 2017."She’s done so many things for workers, freelancers and creatives to give them access to all sorts of ways to grow their businesses.”Outstanding Employee: Sarah Rebbeck from Kiama Leagues ClubRebbeck has played an integral part in the growth of Kiama Leagues Club’s in recent years.“What stood out for the judges was her dedication and strong work ethic from rising from the ranks of being in the kitchen to now being part of the executive leadership team over seven years,” Lyall said.“Going on that journey, studying to learn new skills and now overseeing the entire catering operations for the club, for a young female to do that was great.“The praise heaped upon her in her nomination from her colleagues was really strong and it gave a real sense of her empathy in the workplace, strong leadership qualities and clarity of vision for running the businesses and making it fit for purpose in the future.”

An eclectic mix of nominees have been announced as the finalists for the Kiama Business Network's inaugural Kiama Business Awards.Entries closed recently after a flood of nominations for the Awards which recognises and celebrates excellence across the local business community.The winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony at The Pavilion in Kiama this Thursday (3 July).At the ceremony, winners will receive trophies for the six award categories.Then the overall Kiama business of the year will be announced from the category winners.The winners in each category automatically progress as finalists in the Illawarra Business Awards for the black-tie ceremony on 19 September at WIN Entertainment Centre.Kiama Business Awards finalistsExcellence in Micro Business: This Old House StudioKiama Family Before and After School CareCicada Luxury CampingMiss Zoe's School of DanceElopements by SharonResolve Business CoachingBelinda DoyleExcellence in Small Business: Burnetts on BarneyDeer WillowPhoenix LawSaltwater KiamaNational Training MastersMarketing MovementWorkLife BerryExcellence in Sustainability:Ozeano EyewearCrooked River EstateSlow Dough x The Passion ProjectOutstanding Business Leader (20 employees and under):Kate Dezarnaulds (WorkLife.org.au)The CollectivePhoenix LawGulcin TopelElizabeth BurnettMegan StoreyOutstanding Employee:Sarah RebbeckEmily VaughanBarly BeazleyHelen DemertzisMark SmithJes CochraneChristine GloverOutstanding New Business:Slow DoughNativeSeth Dental GerringongComputer Troubleshooters South CoastJamberoo Jerky & Biltong Co

You don’t need a graph to see why Gerringong now tops the region’s property charts.Just stand on Tasman Drive.The clifftop views are breathtaking, and so is its property boom.Gerringong has emerged as the region’s most expensive town and the biggest long-term mover, topping the coastal market for both prestige and price growth.Its median house price is now $1.8 million, nearly tripling in value from $625,000 in 2005.That’s according to exclusive data released this week to The Bugle by Cotality (formerly CoreLogic), revealing the top end of the market across the Kiama, Shoalhaven and Shellharbour LGAs.In the first of a three-part special report examining the state of the region’s property market, The Bugle looks at the biggest movers, the most expensive towns, where there’s still a relative bargain, and what the numbers tell us 20 years on.Gerringong leads a powerhouse list of biggest movers that includes Berry, Kiama, Jamberoo and Shell Cove.Berry has seen its median house price surge from $653,000 to $1.6 million over the past two decades.Kiama’s values have risen from $669,000 in 2005 to $1.57 million today.And Jamberoo now commands a $1.5 million median house price, while Shell Cove, once a growth corridor, firmly sits in the prestige bracket at $1.4 million.When The Bugle visited Gerringong’s clifftop Tasman Drive on Monday, tourists were gathered for the view at a coastal stretch made famous by a recent Visit NSW TikTok video that went viral.Tourists at Tasman Drive. Photo: The BugleIt’s now more than just a scenic lookout. It’s the frontline of a property market that has left many locals, and first-home buyers, playing catch-up.Cotality’s research director, Tim Lawless, said that while local property values had soared over the past two decades, the market had more recently been through a weak patch.“Despite rising values since early 2023, both regions are recording values that are below peak levels,” he said.“Kiama-Shellharbour values are down 4.8 per cent from their record highs and Shoalhaven values remain 11.5 per cent below peak levels.“The drop in values between mid-2022 and early 2023 coincides with the early rapid phase of rate hikes but also came after a significant boom in housing values through the pandemic.”He said Kiama-Shellharbour values surged 51 per cent between the onset of Covid in March 2020 and the market peak during the pandemic.Shoalhaven values had an even greater bounce, up 64 per cent in the same period.Lawless said demand for lifestyle properties and homes within proximity to the coastline remained high, especially in areas that offer a blend of commutability and liveability.“Considering home values remain below their peak levels in these regions, buyers who missed out on purchasing a home during the pandemic boom may be more motivated to try again while price levels are discounted from their peak,” he said.And there are still a few opportunities to do exactly that.While the top end of the market continues to soar, the cheapest entry points around Kiama now sit between $720,000 and $1.33 million.According to the latest Cotality data, Albion Park remains the most affordable option, with units averaging just $720,000.Kiama units come next at $923,000, followed by Albion Park houses at $958,000.Shell Cove units sit at $1.08 million, while Kiama Downs houses, at $1.33 million, mark the upper end of what’s still considered a “budget buy” in the current market.NEXT WEEK: Agent reaction to the latest data, and their take on local property trends.

When Mark Foster set up shop in Kiama in 2007, he brought with him more than just a pair of shears and a confident scissor hand.He arrived from Manchester, England, carrying a legacy that dates back to 1886 - a six-generation tradition in the art of barbering, sparked when his great-great-great-grandfather Tom Foster won a pair of shears in a card game and put them to good use.Since then, 57 barbers have followed in the family footsteps - and Mark is proudly continuing the lineage here on the South Coast.Mark’s reputation as one of the region’s premier barbers is well-earned.With over 35 years in the business, including owning and running three successful salons in the UK, he blends old-world craftsmanship with a modern touch.Whether it’s a straight razor shave, a classic cut or an on-trend style for today’s modern man, Mark has witnessed the evolution of the industry and continues to evolve with it.Since opening Premier Barbers in Kiama nearly two decades ago, the business has grown in reputation and reach.Last October, Mark expanded his services to Gerringong with a second barbershop on Fern Street, answering a long-standing call from locals seeking the same professional care closer to home.This year also marks another major move. Premier Barber has relocated its original Kiama location from Terralong Street to 24 Collins Street Terrace - next door to the historic Pines Pantry (established in 1854).Mark and the team at the Collins Street barbershop. Photo: The BugleIt’s a fitting new home alongside another long-standing local institution - both businesses linked by heritage and a shared commitment to quality.Mark isn’t just cutting hair - he’s cultivating future generations.His team now includes five local staff members, including an apprentice barber in training, ensuring traditional techniques and personalised service continue well into the future.“As much as things change in the barbering world,” Mark says, “the essence stays the same - precision, pride, and the personal touch. That’s what we’re about.”From Kiama to Gerringong, from 1886 to today, Premier Barber is more than just a haircut - it’s history, style and community in every snip.Premier Barbers – Kiama: now at 24 Collins Street TerracePremier Barbers – Gerringong: 35 Fern StreetBookings and walk-ins welcome.

Esther Keenan has some sage advice for anyone embarking on big life and career choices: your passion now might not be your passion in the future, be open to opportunity. “It really needs to be emphasised, especially to kids, that if you find a passion now it doesn't mean you have to still be doing that in 20 years’ time,” says the Kiama businesswoman who set out on a nursing career pathway and is now printing with purpose. “Taking the chance and doing something you love is so fulfilling, and you just never know where that’s going to end up.” Esther is the owner of Kiama’s Known Design and Print, a bespoke business that started locally and has grown to provide printing and design services across the nation. She says starting a small business was a happy “accident” from an opportunity after a family trip overseas. Esther and her husband had taken their four children, whom she home-schools, to the US to represent Australia in the World LEGO robotics competition. While in the States, Esther came across clothing with “inspirational, thought-provoking prints” such as Love Fearlessly. The messaging resonated with her and, once back home, she regretted not bringing home some shirts. “I thought about getting some posted over but the cost was really prohibitive,” she said. “So I bought an entry-level vinyl cutter instead to make my own prints, just for fun.” Esther gave the printed shirts to friends and family and, through word-of-mouth, her clothing was soon in hot demand. Limited by single colour vinyl printing, Esther decided to take the plunge and invest in a commercial printer. “It was a very scary experience,” Esther said. “Luckily I have a very supportive husband who said let’s do it.” Initially, Esther says she was “terrified and overwhelmed” not only because of the large financial investment but also because she had to figure out how to use a commercial-sized machine to make prints for her clothing range. In a stroke of luck, Esther realised she could also create product labels and decals with her newly purchased printer. Another happy accident that helped her business grow. “As soon as I started to tell people locally that I could offer product labels and decals as well as clothing prints, the business went boom,” she added. What started as “a very local Kiama-based business” five years ago has now grown to include customers from across Australia, with coffee distributors and candlemakers among big-name clients. Esther now has three commercial printers to meet demand and has branched out into packaging and branding prints while still creating a “local” experience with small in-store signage, such as car decals, for clients. “Known Designs is more than a business - it's a demonstration of our love for creative expression and the satisfaction of delivering exactly what our customers envision,” said Esther, who continues to home-school her children (and can add teacher to her impressive skill set) while balancing her business and life in general. “Home-schooling hasn’t been a COVID thing for us, it’s been a life thing, so if you want to talk about careers that’s a full-time one,” she added with a laugh. Her advice for those considering a career path or pivot: “Back yourself and find people who will back you”. “It’s so important to surround yourself with the right people. And there are no shortage of them here in Kiama.” Esther’s point of difference to bigger print organisations is that she does small print runs for suppliers starting out their own business - capturing a South Coast market filled with creative types and entrepreneurs. “I don’t charge more for small runs,” says Esther. “So, if you're a candlemaker launching a small run as you start out, I will print 10 labels, instead of the minimum order of hundreds at a time.  “A lot of my customers have been on the same journey that I have, launching a small business is terrifying so if I can help them to make it easier, then that’s my niche.”

Kiama Business Network has been inundated with nominations for the inaugural Kiama Business Awards. Entries closed earlier this week for the first competition which recognises and celebrates excellence across the local business community.Everyone who submitted an entry will be invited to the Awards Ceremony at The Pavilion in Kiama on Thursday 3 July.At the ceremony, winners will receive trophies for the seven award categories:Outstanding EmployeeExcellence in SustainabilityOutstanding New BusinessExcellence in Micro BusinessExcellence in Small BusinessOutstanding Young Business LeaderOutstanding Business Leader (20 employees and under).The overall Kiama business of the year will then be announced from the seven category winners. Also, the winners in each category automatically progress as finalists to the Illawarra Business Awards later this year.Kiama Business Network executive officer and market manager Mel Scarr said the idea for the Awards came about after Business Illawarra director Coralie McCarthy asked why Kiama did not have a competition of its own.‘We were going to do it for next year because we had six weeks to launch ours but then we thought let's go for it and launch our own one,” Scarr said.“So, we did. And judging by the amount of entries that we had, it's been very well received. “We ended up with a good number of entries. We were surprised by how well it was embraced. And obviously, there was a need for it in the community by the amount of entries we got in such a short time.”The judging period is now underway with a panel of local business leaders going through the various submissions. Finalists for each category will be announced on Monday, 30 June in the lead-up to the awards night. “This being our first awards, we weren't sure what to expect, but the quality of entries and the enthusiasm has exceeded all expectations,” Scarr added.“The response has been incredible so it shows how ready our community is to celebrate local success.”One of the strengths of the Kiama business community is its diversity from microbusinesses popping up all over the local government area to bigger, established businesses which have stood the test of time.

Kiama local business, Making Faces Makeup Studio has won the 2025 Wedding Industry Award for Bridal Hair and Makeup in the Illawarra and Southern Highlands.The Wedding Industry Awards, recognise excellence over 30 regions of Australia and are considered the pinnacle of recognition in the Australian wedding industry.Owner of Making Faces Makeup Studio, Meryll Faulkner, and her team of six, bring world-class expertise to South Coast clients. Meryll has trained under Oscar-nominated makeup artist Tina Earnshaw in Los Angeles, in Paris with Atelier Maquillage, and with renowned fashion artist Victor Noble in New York.“It’s good, not just for me, it's for all our team. Which is really lovely,” said Meryll.“I think it's great for the industry to know that you're experienced. You know what you're doing. You're pretty professional”.After establishing Making Faces Makeup Studio in Sydney, Meryll made the decision to relocate her business to Kiama. The move was a significant shift for someone who spent years building a reputation in Sydney’s beauty industry.“I was just married to the business… life is about balance,” said Meryll.“I think you can have a business run you, instead of you running it. So, I think that coming to Kiama has been a good thing”.As a multi-year winner of the Australian Bridal Awards for Excellence and nominee for Australian Makeup Artist Awards, Meryll has trained leading makeup artists and worked across television, film, and high-profile events including a Channel Nine Today Show wedding segment.What distinguishes Meryll’s bridal work is her combination of skill, experience and personal approach to each client's unique style and needs.“Brides have to connect with you. I think that's really, really important, and it's such a special day,” she said.Beyond weddings, Meryll actively supports the Illawarra’s growing film industry, working as a lead makeup artist for the Channel 10 TV series ‘Mass to You at Home’, and local productions including ‘I’ve Got You’ and ‘Lesley’.As a NSW and ACT distributor for Atelier Maquillage professional makeup, her company supplies artists across television, theatre, and film.“It's really not about me, it's about the client and it's about being reliable and professional when things happen...experience just tells you how to handle a challenge,” Meryll said.Meryll’s achievements demonstrate what’s possible for creative professionals based outside major cities. She successfully navigates servicing local and Sydney clients whilst gaining herself national recognition for her work.As Making Faces Makeup Studio grows its local presence, Meryll remains committed to supporting local creative industries and emerging talent.The Wedding Industry Award recognises not just individual achievement, but the quality of talent in the area. For Illawarra brides, having access to award winning artists in the local area reinforces the region's growing reputation for wedding excellence.Making Faces Makeup Studio is located in Kiama and services the South Coast, Highlands, and Sydney regions.More information can be found on their website makingfacesmakeup.com.au