A third woman in the past five years will now be at the helm of Kiama Lions Club, marking another milestone for the once male-dominated community group.Outgoing president Cheryl Moses handed over to incoming leader Susan Hudson during the club’s 55th annual changeover at Kiama Leagues Club recently.Moses became only the second female president in the club’s five-decade history, following Veronica Dzelde’s breakthrough term five years ago.The new board was sworn in at the changeover night. “All the men have been very helpful over the past year,” Moses said.“My year as president was a big learning curve. I enjoyed it, after I was initially reluctant to take on the role.“Lions Clubs are still relevant today, because of the way we give back to the community.Members and guests applauding at the changeover night.“We raise tens of thousands of dollars each year for various community projects.“It’s all about serving the community, and that’s why I joined, as well as to meet other local people.”Hudson, who joined the club three years ago, now takes the reins.“I’m really positive about continuing the great work of the club,” she said.“All the men have been welcoming to me since I joined the club. And kind. The men are genuinely lovely. All the things they stand for are genuine.“In terms of my goals for the year ahead, I want to further strengthen our fundraising. We support the local high school and surf club, among other things, and I love the thought of keeping that going.“We also want to keep attracting new members. If people want to join our club, of any age, feel free to get in touch with us on our Facebook page.”Women now make up 10 of the 52 members at the club, which distributed more than $66,000 to various projects over the past year.

Heritage in the Kiama electorate is set to get a massive boost due to NSW Government funding and the establishment of a Heritage Advisor Service as part of Council’s new Planning and Development Hub.A total of $8.65 million in investment has been committed statewide under the NSW Heritage Grants Program with the Kiama electorate, which stretches south to Bomaderry and Shoalhaven Heads, will receive $60,000.The money designed to restore and protect properties and sites for future generations.Berry and District Historical Society is receiving $10,000 for the conversion of a 1970s bathroom back to 19th century storage facility at Berry Museum, providing a safe space to store the museum’s collection.A total of $25,000 is going to Shoalhaven City Council to establish heritage conservation areas in Shoalhaven towns and villages, focusing first on Kangaroo Valley and Milton.And the same amount has been granted to Kiama Council for a heritage advisor Service to provide specialist heritage advice to Development Assessment Planners and the general community.Government spokesperson for Kiama, MLC Sarah Kaine said the heritage advisor service would be a valuable community asset.“This is great news for Kiama and a credit to the people and grassroots organisations who preserve our local heritage sites for everyone to appreciate and enjoy,” she said. “This record NSW Government investment in the 2025-2027 Heritage Grants Program is vital in ensuring the stories of our past are never forgotten.“We want to continue to unlock more opportunities for local people and visitors to engage with our heritage and culture.”Council’s new Planning and Development Hub, at the old Westpac Bank, is where people can get face-to-face advice and guidance from its team of planners, building certifiers and lodgement specialists.This will soon include being able to book meetings with a specialist Heritage Advisor.Council director of strategies and communities Ed Paterson said this new service would assist owners contemplating any maintenance or work to their historically significant properties.“Kiama has a rich First Nations and European history which can be seen in the many heritage buildings, landscapes and historic infrastructure found throughout our towns and villages,” he said.“These structures and landscapes, and the stories they tell of times gone by are highly valued by our community and visitors alike.”Paterson said funding this new service would also support initiatives to identify, conserve and promote places or objects that have significance to the local area and community.This will include educational programs and developing a Heritage Strategy for the area.Recruitment for a heritage advisor is underway.

Anne Andersen and Franca Lyon never set out to shatter any glass ceilings but that’s effectively what they did when they became the Minnamurra Lions Club’s first female members.While many might ask why it took almost three decades for the club to have its first female members to join their ranks, Franca and Anne are quick to point out that the once all-male cohort have welcomed their appointment. They chuckle when they are called pioneers, but both agree that the club needs more members, whether they are women or men, as resources are “spread thinly” and the number of people joining service organisations is dwindling.“I don’t think there were ever battlelines drawn,” says Anne when asked about the absence of female members since the club’s inception in 1999. “But we saw the need for new members so we thought why not give it a go. And it’s always good to have a fresh perspective, new blood.”Franca agrees saying: “The club is always looking for more people to commit to doing the good work being carried out by volunteers, so why not use us? "Women are an under-utilised resource that haven’t been tapped into and we often have a different way of approaching things.”She is quick to point out the pair are “not ready to overthrow any regimes” nor are they looking to add to the list of the many good causes that the club already supports.“That’s right,” laughs Anne. “We are just happy to help out. There may be a cause that we would like to initiate or start in time but we are spread fairly thinly and winter is always our busiest time.”“It’s a challenge,” agrees Franca. “Because the club supports Kiama Rugby League, volunteers will work on the gate as well as running the sausage sizzle at the Seaside Markets on the same day, so volunteers are thin on the ground.”Both women have cooked snags or stood at the gate to collect entry fees for rugby league games alongside their husbands - long-time Minnamurra Lions Club members Bill Lyon and Phil Andersen.Now Anne and Franca will now volunteer in an official capacity, as fully-fledged members, after years of working behind the scenes to support their husbands’ involvement in the club.Recently Lions, Australia’s largest service organisation, requested that the more than 1000 individual clubs across the nation take ownership of their own housekeeping, which included creating an online presence.Bringing the club into the 21st century was no mean feat, considering the average age of members is around 70. But Anne’s husband Phil - the club secretary who has signed on for his fifth year in the job - stepped up to the task creating a website for the Minnamurra Lions Club.The club also elected a new president, with Franca’s husband Bill stepping down from the role earlier this week after two years in the position. Bill maintains his active membership and will continue his hard work to recruit more members, including women. “You can’t be stuck in the past, every organisation needs to evolve,” agrees Anne. “The men have been very welcoming of Franca and I to join them.”Minnamurra Lions Club meets several times a month to volunteer for services as well as hosting an informal dinner, which includes a guest speaker, at Kiama Golf Club. Greg Kelly, an ex diplomat from the Department of Foreign Affairs will be the club's next guest speaker. If you are interested in becoming a member visit the club’s website.

Kiama Council’s controversial decision to cancel the New Year’s Eve fireworks display unless a sponsor can be found will have ramifications not just for local businesses but community groups as well.For many local business operators, the festival is their biggest money-spinner of the year while community groups use the event as an opportunity to raise much-needed funds.The local Rural Fire Service, covering Jamberoo, Gerringong, Foxground and Carrington Falls, and Surf Life Saving Clubs have been beneficiaries as the chosen charity.Volunteers worked their way through the heaving crowds on Kiama’s foreshore, collecting donations and raising awareness about their efforts in the community.The Surf Life Saving Clubs were chosen for the past two years with the Rural Fire Service getting the gig the previous two years.By simply having volunteers wander around with donation buckets, around $15,000 has been raised each New Year’s Eve to help fund their vital community services.Destination Kiama chair, Councillor Matt Brown was intending to put forward Landcare as this year’s chosen charity as well as a local mental health group.Kiama Council has put the call out for sponsors to offset the cost of the annual event after recently opting to withdraw its own funding with Mayor Cameron McDonald stating that the NYE Sky Show needs substantial external funding to go ahead.Councillors voted against allocating $95,000 to self-fund the fireworks when the 2025-26 budget was approved last month with Cr McDonald saying they needed to be fiscally responsible while operating under the State Government-imposed Performance Improvement Order.South Coast Surf Life Saving branch president Shane Wicks, who is a member of Kiama SLSC and the Jamberoo Rural Fire Service, hoped that Council can find a solution through a sponsor or change its mind about financially supporting the event.“It’s a great opportunity for community groups to get a large range of people in a small area and a lot of community groups rely on different types of funding to fund a lot of their activities,” he said.“Surf life saving doesn’t get government funding. We do grants but most of the funding comes from ourselves - clubs have to organise fundraising.“With regards to the RFS, we are supplied with basic equipment that we need to fight fires but it’s the things on top like gas detectors and thermal imaging cameras to identify hot spots we have to fun.”Wicks said the volunteers not only collected money but used the opportunity to engage with the community about the services they provide and offer advice on safety matters, such as fire hazards, surf awareness and fishing on the rocks.He added that as a local resident who has been going to the New Year’s Eve show for more than a decade that the town is alive as thousands gather to celebrate together by watching the spectacular fireworks, Australia’s biggest coastal fireworks outside of Sydney.“I’ve been to at least 15 with my kids over the years, there’s a great vibe in the town and you very rarely see any trouble,” he said.“Being able to fundraise during those events that are put on by Council just makes it so much easier for those organisations.“The community absolutely loves the fireworks. It’s a great atmosphere.”Council’s Spendmapp "Event Tracker" data revealed there was $1.76 million in local spending on New Year’s Eve, which was the highest total recorded across recent major events.Little Betty’s on Collins Street is one of the many local businesses which thrives on New Year’s Eve and co-owner Paul Paterno said he would be disappointed if the fireworks display disappeared from the calendar.“The amount of people who descend into town is incredible,” he said.“Without it a lot of businesses miss out on their biggest night of the year.“It’s always good when we’ve got that many people in town - thousands walking around looking for food and drink. It would be a shame not to have it.“Having the fireworks on gives people a reason to come to Kiama. I do believe people are going to go other LGAs that do have events on and it will leave Kiama missing out.“The return on investment for local businesses is much greater than the 80 or 90 grand it costs to put them on.”

When Kelly Morrison joined Gerringong’s Travel Focus Group three months ago she pitched a business idea - solo women’s travel tours - to owner Peta Godfrey.ROAM is a bespoke travel service for adventurous women, travelling alone or with girlfriends, which focuses on good food, good company and lots of laughs.Kelly, an avid explorer whose love for travel began in the late 1980s and has taken her across the globe many times over, created the concept after years of fun adventures, sometimes solo, sometimes with family and friends.Kelly quickly learned “wine tastes better with girlfriends” and Peta knew Kelly was onto something. Who wouldn’t want to travel with like-minded women on tours with no mental load required, where all the organisation is done for you and the only person you have to think about is yourself.Kelly hosted a breakfast meeting this week, not only to get the word out about the services offered by ROAM, but to also tap into the wealth of expertise shared by female travellers.She held the meeting on a Tuesday because “at least one of my friends was off so I knew she’d come along”. The event coincided with one of the most severe weather fronts – an East Coast low – to hit the South Coast in recent times.Despite the 150mm of rain that fell across the region, more than a dozen intrepid female travellers turned up to share coffee, croissants and ideas for future adventures together.“We had 15 lovely ladies brave the wind and rain to join us for our inaugural breakfast,” says Kelly. “Some were single and wanted adventures with other like-minded women, some were girlfriends who wanted to travel together but without the mental load of having to organise an itinerary and, interestingly, we had quite a few married women whose husbands are too busy or don’t want to travel.”All of the women who attended had one thing in common - their idea of a great holiday aligned with ROAM’s beliefs of slow travel, enjoying the location, leisurely mornings and small-group tours.“Our solo women tours are all about slowing down and savouring the journey,” says Kelly. “There are no crack-of-dawn wakeups or rushed schedules. We don’t do alarms unless it’s for pastries!“Delicious food is a big part of the ROAM experience, there are no sad salads allowed. We also offer meaningful cultural experiences, rather than rushed tick-a-box, buy the fridge magnet tours. “You can explore at your own pace and yes, you can skip the museum for wine if you want to.”ROAM’s first tour, in November, will be held in New Zealand and include good food, fine wine, a health spa and jet boat ride. But there are many more adventures on the horizon.“We had a wide range of interests at the breakfast, with women suggesting tours to Africa, Italy, Vietnam and even a pub crawl through Ireland and Scotland,” says Kelly. “There was a common theme of going to a location, such as Italy, and staying for a few weeks in one place and becoming part of the community.“Some of the activities that were of interest included cooking classes, art retreats and hiking tours such as the Camino trail. Everyone wanted off the beaten track, with travel outside the main tourist season that is unique and authentic.”If this sounds like your kind of globetrotting visit ROAM on the Travel Focus Group’s website. You can join the mailing list to stay up to date with upcoming tours and sign up to join waitlists.

Kiama Downs is the next location in the local government area likely to get a fenced off leash dog area with Jamberoo’s new facility a couple of months away from completion.Councillor Stuart Larkins has led the push for Kiama Council to launch its first Dog Friendly Spaces Strategy, which was adopted at the June Ordinary Meeting.“In the past we had seen a very ad hoc approach to the decisions around dogs spaces, in particular a big focus on the beaches,” said Cr Larkins, voicing his views as a Councillor, not on behalf of Council.“It didn’t really identify the issue, particularly in Jamberoo where not only was there debate about whether a dog space should be fenced or not, or whether they needed one.”With more than 9000 dogs in the local government area among the human population of 23,000, Council needs to provide several friendly spaces for the canine community and their owners to spend quality time together and to get in some much-needed socialisation and exercise.The Jamberoo fenced off leash area is being constructed and is due to be complete in September with recent adjustments to the plan ensuring there will be spaces for small and large dogs to roam.Cr Larkins said the Jamberoo sporting community will be thrilled once the new FOLA is up and running because they have had ongoing problems with dog owners using Kevin Walsh Oval and other sports fields and leaving more than just footprints.He was confident the Jamberoo space would be big enough to give local dog owners plenty of room for their canines to stretch their four legs.“A lot of the sporting community raised feedback through that Strategy around the difficulties they experienced of people using the sports fields for running dogs and the dog waste that is then produced,” he added.“The whole point about establishing the five-year strategy is it outlines where dogs should and shouldn’t go but it also creates the community expectations about the safety and standards for dogs within our LGA.”Kiama Downs is likely to be the next cab off the rank for a designated area for dogs and a location would need to be locked down after a community consultation period.“When I moved the motion in the Council meeting I made an addition that Council explores the opportunity for a fenced dog park in Kiama Downs,” Cr Larkins said. “We’ve got 9000 dogs and a high proportion of them are in the Kiama Downs area.”

Tay Byrne, an emerging young leader from Dharawal country recently completed the 2025 NSW Parliament Young Aboriginal Leaders Program with 20 other young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from around the state. “We all got the chance to come together and workshop some leadership skills, hearing directly from community (leaders) and organisations, how they were successful in making change in their community,” Byrne said.“Pretty much hearing their story, how they were successful in making change in their community and their advice on what that looks like for the next generation going through that process.” Byrne shared that they struggled with identity and figuring out who they were as a young person, but also with their education. “I wasn’t very good at reading and writing, so I struggled a bit with school and lack of support.”Having experienced this within their own schooling, Byrne speaks with authority on the issue of providing greater support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander school students. One of the issues raised by Byrne is that the initiatives and programs established by governments in schools are unreliable and students, like Byrne, become subsequently displaced educationally. “A lot of the things that were offered to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student would often go for about a year, and then funding would subside and you wouldn’t have anything else for a couple of years until some new government policy would come in and there would be some incentive to do it,” they said.  “The limitations at the moment that we are facing is we’ve lost funding, so we’ve lost the worker. “We’re not able to support our Year 7 and 8 students at the moment to the full capacity that we could be. “It is just the attendance rates of our children, it’s a crucial part of schooling. So those development years are going to impact if that child stays for their senior schooling and their employment.”Part of the NSW Parliament program Byrne attended was preparing and delivering a speech to the Upper House of the NSW Parliament.“I was pretty lucky in the sense that I was able to represent two communities, the Illawarra Aboriginal Alliance Corporation and the Gunya Gurindja team from Vincentia High School, which started under Aunty Gai,” they said. “Just being able to showcase what they do in school, how effective the program is (Gunya Gurindja) and highlight how underfunded these programs and initiatives are. “I’m passionate about preserving our culture and ensuring that all the fight our elders have fought was for something and they can rest.“So we can continue to carry that fire and we (younger generations) continue to represent our culture.“We have the longest living and continuous culture. It is something that all people should be proud of, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, because we both benefit from the knowledge of traditional owners.“Everyone can benefit from embracing Indigenous culture and knowledge as a collective. We have adapted to the westernised and colonial Australia that we live in and it is now time those systems adapt to Indigenous people and grow together.” This year’s national NAIDOC week, which runs from 6–13 July has the theme ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision, & Legacy’ highlighting the achievements of the past generations, while looking forward to the future strengths of young leaders, the vision for communities and acknowledging the legacy paved by ancestors.

Even though the Illawarra and South Coast is over the worst of the wild weather that hit the region this week, boaters in particular are being reminded to stay safe over the weekend.Dangerous surf and strong winds are forecast along the NSW coast with Transport for NSW Maritime urging boaters to stay off the water. NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings said this week's powerful weather system is expected to continue to bring large waves and hazardous conditions along the east coast. "While the rain and wind are beginning to ease, the swell remains hazardous. We strongly urge all boaters to stay off the water until conditions improve," he said. “We’re asking all boaters and water users to stay off the water while these conditions pass.“A strong low-pressure system is moving down the coast, bringing rough seas and big swells. “Crossing coastal bars or heading offshore in this kind of weather is extremely dangerous. "If you’ve brought a boat or jet ski on holidays, don’t risk it, leave it on the trailer and stay off the water.“We’re seeing lots of debris into the waterways; the debris not be able to be seen which makes it extremely dangerous for boaters."There are safer times to enjoy the water, now is not one of them. Taking risks puts your life and others in danger, including emergency services who may need to respond. “If you absolutely must go out, stick to sheltered inland waters and wear a properly fitted lifejacket at all times. Check the weather before and during every trip, and if in doubt, don’t go out.”

NSW Police are urging drivers to take extra care on the roads during the next two weeks, with data indicating 20 per cent of fatal or serious crashes occur during school holiday periods.Motorists who plan to travel across the state are being urged to drive to the weather conditions which are typically adverse in the month of July.The winter public school holidays begin on Monday 7 July and conclude Friday 18 July 2025.Officers will be conducting enforcement patrols and operations over the next two weeks to deter drivers from making poor decisions.In the July school holidays last year, eight people lost their lives in fatal crashes; the same number of deaths were recorded for the same period in 2023.NSW Police data shows almost 20 percent of crashes involving injuries or fatalities occur during the 12 weeks of public school holidays.So far this year, 190 lives have been lost, 29 more deaths than for this time last year.Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, said the July school holidays was typically a time when weather conditions could contribute to serious crashes.“Drivers need to be aware of the risks when travelling in wet and snowing conditions, with black ice a serious hazard on our roads at this time of year,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.“Our data shows one in five serious or fatal crashes happen in the school holidays.“We also know that about two thirds of fatal crashes occur on regional areas.”Assistant Commissioner Driver said the school holidays were a time when families typically go on road trips, often in unfamiliar territory.“Take extra care, reduce your speed, and remain focused so you and your family can arrive at your destination safely.“As always, don’t speed, wear a seatbelt, never drive when tired, do not use a mobile phone while driving and never drive if affected by drugs or alcohol.”NSW Police figures:- 2024 School holiday period (12-week period) there were 2106 crashes where people were injured, including 63 fatalities.- 2023 School holiday period (12-week period) there were 2228 crashes where people were injured, including 56 fatalities.- 2025 January and April school holiday period there were 1305 crashes where people were injured, including 37 fatalities.- The July school holidays are typically the third worst period for fatal crashes compared to the other school holidays.Driving Tips:- Look out for black ice, a coating of glaze ice on the surface of the road which is transparent and hard to see and can cause a loss of traction.- Stay alert during heavy rainfall as it can cause pooling on the road, leading to an inability to control the vehicle and poor visibility.- Avoid driving in dark and wet conditions as it carries the risk of not seeing wildlife.- Drive to the conditions especially in regional areas like the Snowy Mountains, Orange, Bathurst and the Blue Mountains.- Check your cars are roadworthy before travelling – monitor tyre pressure, fluids, brakes, lights, wipers and car battery to ensure they are in good working condition.

This week's edition of The Bugle brings you full coverage of the wild weather that battered our region this week with rain and heavy winds causing havoc up and down the coastThe Illawarra and South Coast is counting the cost of the trail of destruction that was left behind.Click here to view our latest editionKiama's local government area was inundated with rain and buffeted by heavy winds with gusts of more than 120km/h.Kiama only received 18mm in the 24 hours to 9am on Thursday after copping 133.2mm in the previous 24-hour period. Foxground received 148mm, Broughton Creek 191mm and 207mm at Bawley Point during the midweek deluge.This week's edition also inclusdes a feature on the real estate market with interest rate cuts on the horizon and all the winners from the inaugural Kiama Business Awards ceremony at The Pavilion on Thursday night. You can also read plenty of great community stories including an update on Kiama's New Year's Eve fireworks display which is in jeopardy, the Council's Dog Strategy and plans for more EV chargers in the LGA. And there is more on a new local travel service, trekking in Nepal, why quolls just have a dens and all the latest in local sport, including league, rugby, AFL and dragon boating.

In just a few weeks living on the South Coast, one thing has become clear to me: property prices here are next level.My first story spotlighted a jaw-dropping $6 million sale in Kiama Downs.Perched above Jones Beach with sweeping ocean views, the resort-style stunner was snapped up at a new record price for the suburb.Then came The Bugle’s look at the 20-year property boom in Gerringong.Back in 2005, the median house price was $625,000. Today it’s nearly $1.8 million. Staggering stuff.If only we knew back then just how much values would rise, you’d have borrowed as much as you could to invest in local property.Gerringong isn’t alone. In Berry, average house prices have soared from $653,000 to $1.6 million.Shell Cove has jumped from $576,000 to $1.4 million, and Albion Park units have more than doubled over the past two decades.Even modest homes are commanding premium prices.Local agents say cashed-up buyers from Sydney and Canberra are still circling.It’s great news if you’re selling, but not so much if you’re trying to break into the market.What’s unfolding in this region mirrors a broader coastal trend: lifestyle migration, flexible work, and the post-pandemic property shift.But there’s something about Kiama and its surrounds - the beaches, the village feel, the easy rail link to Sydney, the much-improved drive to Sydney (thanks to the Albion Park bypass) - that makes it particularly magnetic.And yet, as a newcomer to the region, my first reaction was: how is any young local supposed to buy a property here?Unless you’re inheriting a windfall or cashing out of the city, the numbers simply don’t stack up.Median prices well above $1 million in small coastal towns have become the reality, not the exception.That disconnect is real, and it's growing. It raises hard questions about affordability, generational access and whether councils are striking the right balance between high-end development and local housing needs.Kiama is still paradise. But paradise should come with a pathway, not just a price tag.If this region wants to stay vibrant and inclusive, we need to start asking: who’s the South Coast for, and who’s being left behind?

Kiama Council's partnership with Shellharbour City Council to improve flood management on Swamp Road is paying dividends, with the support of grant funding from the Office of Local Government.Council has secured $150,000 in funding to implement a pre-warning management system at this key thoroughfare, which spans both local government areas.This jointly managed initiative aims to reduce flood-related risks and improve the efficiency of road closures during heavy rainfall events.Kiama Council director of infrastructure and operations Darren Brady said the funding and collaboration would make a significant difference.“This project demonstrates the value of cross-council partnerships in enhancing community safety during emergencies.”There are five key elements to the project.Coordinated Flood Response: Kiama and Shellharbour Councils will continue to close Swamp Road when rising water levels make the road impassable.Manual Boom Gate Installations: New manually operated boom gates will replace temporary barriers that are prone to damage or removal during storms. Shellharbour Council recently completed installation of a gate on their side of Swamp Road.Consistency in Design: Kiama Council will adopt the same gate design and dimensions to maintain a consistent approach across both jurisdictions.Expedited Delivery: Negotiations are underway for Kiama to acquire a prefabricated gate from Shellharbour to fast-track the installation process.Enhanced Signage: Procurement is in progress for additional flashing light signage to alert motorists during closures.With the region being inundated with rain this week due to the East Coast Low, flood management is an increasingly urgent issue for local residents.

The Illawarra and South Coast is counting the cost of the wild weather which hit the region this week.Kiama's local government area was inundated with rain and buffeted by heavy winds.The severe weather warning for rain has been lifted after Wednesday night's downpour was not as extensive as first feared but a wind warning is still current for the South Coast although conditions are expected to ease later on Thursday.KIama only received 18mm in the 24 hours to 9am on Thursday after copping 133.2mm in the previous 24-hour period.Wind gusts of more than 60km/h are still lashing the LGA on Thursday and a Coastal Hazard Warning is still in place for the Illawarra and South Coast, along with the Hunter, Sydney and Mid North Coast regions.Damaging surf conditions are forecast to continue throughout Thursday.Bombo Beach on Wednesday. Photo: Matty TaylorA series of low pressure systems remain in the Tasman Sea. A secondary low that was moving northwards just offshore from the NSW coast has begun to weaken.Strong to gale force south to southwesterly winds around these lows are generating large and powerful south to southeasterly waves on Thursday.The yacht which ran aground off the Kiama rockpool three months ago, the Ailsa Craig, has been out of the water at Kiama Harbour getting repairs.The Ailsa Craig has been stabilised at Kiama Harbour. Photo: The BugleThere were fears on Wednesday that it would tip over in the strong winds and the fire brigade was called but the damaged 15-metre vessel has been stabilised.Macquarie Pass has been closed due to landslides on the road while the Shoalhaven has also been hit hard by the extreme conditions.Kiama's SES Unit has been busy responding to incidents with two of its flood rescue teams assisting other SES Units on the South Coast.The NSW SES has advised residents not to enter floodwater in low-lying parts of Hay Avenue in Shoalhaven Heads after heavy heavy rainfall has caused significant river level rises across the Shoalhaven River and its tributaries.Kiama SES crew members hard at work this week. Photo: Kiama SESMinor flooding has also occurred at Nowra and Terara.The Shoalhaven River peaked at 2.4m overnight.Sanctuary Point has experienced flooding with hazardous conditions at Mountain Street, parts of Larmer Avenue and The Park Drive.Further south at Burrill Lake, residents are also being advised to watch and act by the SES on both sides of the waterway.Endeavour Energy has issued a statement on Thursday morning to say its crews are continuing to work on repairing storm damage and they are safely restoring power to customers as quickly as possible.At the height of the storm, power was interrupted to nearly 30,000 homes and businesses, with wind gusts reaching up to 125 km/h and causing more than 400 electrical hazards.Bombo Beach on Wednesday. Vision: Matty TaylorEndeavour is looking to restore supply to the remaining 2980 customers across the Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands, as well as small pockets in Western Sydney and the lower Blue Mountains.📞 Report fallen powerlines immediately on 131 003⚡️ Keep at least 8m away from hanging wires or those on the ground or tangled in debris❌ Never drive across fallen powerlines, or through flood waters!🚑 Call 000 for life-threatening emergencies or in the event of an electrical shock.🚨 Call NSW SES on 132 500 for emergency rescue assistance.The scene at Jacobs Drive at Sussex Inlet on Wednesday.

Kiama businesses and residents are being asked to get creative this July, with KidsWish launching a new Christmas in July campaign to support local children with disability.KidsWish’s goal is to raise $37,500 to purchase 1500 new toys for children with disability and illness for their annual Christmas Party on December 4 at Symbio Wildlife Park. This initiative supports KidsWish’s biggest event of the year, which welcomes up to 3000 guests and ensures every child receives a gift.KidsWish stakeholder engagement and fundraising manager, Emily Wright, highlights the importance of “safe and supportive” events for families and children living with disability or illness."We get a lot of families telling us that it's the only time their child feels accepted and included with no judgement," she said.“Our events are supported by KidsWish volunteers and a lot of our programs and events are supported by disability support workers. We've got people trained to support the children."For many families, KidsWish events provide opportunities to attend venues they wouldn’t normally access. The organisation's cinema events are often the only time some families feel comfortable taking their children to the movies, thanks to the supportive environment created by volunteers and disability support workers.The fundraiser has already seen positive community response, with local businesses readily displaying tabletop donation cards. According to Wright, many businesses have expressed interest in hosting their own fundraising events, whether this year or next."We're just really hoping that it's something that will grow year on year and hopefully heaps and heaps of people from the Illawarra get behind it,” she said. “KidsWish rely entirely on fundraising efforts to do the work that we do."She described this fundraiser to be one that is easily accessible to the community, where people can create their own Christmas in July events while contributing to the toy fund. Options for these events could include morning teas, dress-up days, trivia nights or bake sales.“We'd love for lots of various venues or community groups or schools or even individuals to think of something fun they can do over the month of July to acknowledge Christmas in July,” Wright added.Supporters are able to see exactly how their contributions make a difference through the KidsWish toy fund tracker. If the goal is exceeded, additional funds will support KidsWish year-round events and experiences for children living with disability.Kiama residents can get involved by making direct donations, hosting creative fundraising events, or volunteering with KidsWish programs. The campaign runs throughout July, with each donation bringing the goal of 1500 toys closer to reality.To learn more about KidsWish Christmas in July fundraiser, make a donation, or to get support for hosting a fundraising event, head to their website kidswish.org.au.

Whether it is an upcoming birthday gift or adding to your furniture collection, there is something for everybody’s liking at the Kiama Woodcraft Group exhibition and sale at the Old Fire Station Gallery on Terralong Street, Kiama. Opening at midday on Thursday (3 July), the exhibition and sale will be open until 9 July from 9am until 4pm. Kiama Woodcraft Group member Glenn Grigg told The Bugle that this exhibition and sale will be “small items of furniture or toys, clocks, bread and cutting boards, anything that is made with wood basically”. “I’ll have two tables and a number of cutting boards made from Camphor Laurel timber, a couple of bowls maybe, a salt and pepper mill. “One of the guys in the group has been collecting tools for many years, chisels, planes, all those sorts of things and he has repaired a lot of old tools and he sells those as well.” For those who thought that they had missed the usual exhibition and sale in January, fear not. “We normally have the sale in January and then one later in the year around October, but we missed the January one this year because it (the Old Fire Station) was booked out.” The Kiama Woodcraft Group meets every third Tuesday at the Joyce Wheatley Centre with Grigg encouraging those interested to attend. “It is an opportunity for guys to meet together, share expertise, have a cup of tea together,” Grigg said. “It is a bit like a men’s shed, where the guys meet and encourage one another. So, there is that element, and it also gives us an outlet. “During our monthly meetings we share stories, there is an ask the expert session.” For more information about the Kiama Woodcraft Group or the exhibition and sale from the July 3 head to www.kiamawoodcraft.orgEntry is free.

The Illawarra and South Coast has been battered by overnight rain storms and heavy winds with emergency services working overtime to respond to calls for help.A complex low pressure system brought heavy rain and damaging winds to the Illawarra, South Coast, Newcastle and Sydney with some areas recording over 200mm of rain.Kiama has copped 133mm of rain in the 24 hours leading up to 9am on Wednesday with Foxground receiving 148mm and Broughton Creek 191mm.Huge waves crash into the Kiama coast north of Blowhole Point. Vision: The BugleFurther south, 170mm has fallen in Currarong and 207mm at Bawley Point.The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast that the South Coast could receive another 50mm-100mm overnight on Wednesday into Thursday morning.SES crews are continuing to respond to severe weather along the NSW coast, from the Mid North Coast to the Far South Coast.The majority of incidents overnight have involved fallen trees, powerlines and damaged roofs.NSW SES has responded to over 2320 incidents, with most in the Hunter, Sydney Metro area, Illawarra and South Coast.More than 1200 volunteers have provided assistance, including assisting beachside properties with sandbagging efforts to protect them from coastal surge on the hightide overnight.Flash flooding remains a key concern from Sydney to the South Coast on Wednesday.Coronation Park has yet again flooded. Photo: Matty TaylorThe Bureau of Meteorology has issued a gale warning for the Illawarra, Batemans and Eden coasts, as well as Sydney enclosed waters and the Coffs, Macquarie, Sydney and Hunter coasts.Widespread rainfall totals reached 150mm overnight, with falls exceeding 200mm at Ulladulla.Emergency Warnings have been issued in Burrill Lake, where about 200 properties are impacted by flooding, some of them to over floor level. Sanctuary Point residents are also under an Emergency Warning.Flood rescue crews responded to a surge in rescue incidents around Shoalhaven overnight as flash flooding swept through the area.More than 17,000 homes and businesses have been left without power in the Shoalhaven, Illawarra, Southern Highlands, Blue Mountains and Western Sydney.Endeavour Energy has announced there are more than 300 fault sites across large parts of those areas that its crews need to inspect, make safe and repair.The worst-hit areas include Kiama and Jervis Bay, with damage extending inland into the Southern Highlands.Power was out in many parts of Kiama and Jamberoo with Endeavour Energy announcing restoration work had been completed by 12.30pm on Wednesday.Kiama and Gerringong libraries, as well as the Kiama Family History Centre and The Pavilion have been closed on Wednesday with other Council sites operating with reduced services, including the Administration Building, Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Centre and Kiama Leisure Centre.There have been numerous power outages in the Kiama LGA with several shops closing early on Tuesday and not being open on Wednesday.Surf Beach at Kiama. Photo: Matty TaylorJamberoo Pub closed early at 3.30pm on Tuesday to make sure staff and patrons did not have to travel to and from the venue in the treacherous conditions.Kiama High School and Vincentia High School are operating under minimal supervision on Wednesday.Road closures are in place on the Princes Highway near Ulladulla as well as Taylor Road at Albion Park, Swamp Road from Dunmore to Jamberoo and Windang Road at Primbee.The Illawarra Highway between Tongarra Road and the Princes Motorway has been reopened after it had been closed on Wednesday morning.At midday on Wednesday, NSW SES advised people in the Sussex Inlet to prepare to evacuate due to rising minor flooding if they live in the following areas:River RdWunda AveEllmoos AveJacobs DrivePoole AveCater CresBanksia StFairview CresNielson LaneChristine StLaguna LodgeRiviera, Riverside and Seacrest Caravan ParksNSW SES Acting Assistant Commissioner Allison Flaxman said flash flooding is a significant risk with this weather system and urged the community to take caution on roads.“These incidents are a timely reminder that roads are slippery, and conditions can become dangerous quickly,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Flaxman said.“Please never drive, walk or play in floodwaters. If you do come across a flooded road, turn around and find an alternative route.”The Bureau of Meteorology has issued an initial minor to moderate flood warning for the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers at Menangle and Camden, as well as an initial minor flood warning for the St Georges Basin at Sussex Inlet.Assistant Commissioner Flaxman also urged those in low-lying areas to know their flood risk and have a plan in place.“That means understanding what you will do if your area floods and where you will go if you need to evacuate,” she said.“We also remind community members to keep clear of fallen trees and powerlines as our crews work to clean up storm damage.“We have deployed personnel, high clearance vehicles and aviation assts into the areas of impact."There are 28 warnings current, including seven emergency warnings.Residents of Wamberal and North Entrance were asked to evacuate due to dangerous waves which could significantly damage buildings. NSW SES Volunteers door knocked the affected residents and advised them to evacuate before high tide as a precautionary measure to ensure safety of residents.Severe weather is forecast to continue throughout today, before easing from Thursday as the low moves east into the Tasman Sea.“This weather system is complex and dynamic and we will continue to issue warnings as the situation evolves,” Assistant Commissioner Flaxman said.“Stay up to date on the latest warnings and advice via the Hazards Near Me app and set up a watch zone for your local area, or visit the NSW SES website.”When travelling in these coastal areas, the SES advises motorists to stay alert for flash flooding over roads and to never drive through floodwater as it is dangerous and unpredictable.Damaged buildings, fallen trees and downed powerlines should be avoided.Rain and strong winds are expected to continue on Wednesday (2 July), before easing from Thursday as the system moves into the Tasman Sea.NSW Police Force, Marine Area Command advise that:People should consider staying out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas.Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf.Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage.Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket.Boaters should remember to log on with their local Marine Rescue radio base, via VHF Radio or the Marine Rescue APP, and consider their safety management plan.📞 For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

The East Coast Low has left a trail of destruction across the NSW coast, including the Illawarra and South Coast.For all the latest information, click here for The Bugle's news coverage.📞 For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.Here is a selection of photos and videos from the wild weather.Coronation Park at Kiama's Surf Beach has been inundated. Photo: The BugleA fallen tree at Barney Street in Kiama. Photo: The BugleHuge waves crash into the Kiama coast north of Blowhole Point. Vision: The BugleSurf Beach at Kiama. Photo: Matty TaylorBombo Beach on Wednesday. Vision: Matty TaylorAn SES truck at the ready in Kiama. Photo: The BugleSussex Inlet was one of the hardest hit areas. Photo: Mitchell BeadmanBanksia Street in Sussex Inlet. Photo: Mitchell Beadman

The Bugle is pleased to present a fortnightly feature with Kiama High School, bringing you the latest news and events from the school.Brave students undergo Shave for charityKiama High's Student Representative Council recently held the World’s Greatest Shave at Kiama High School. The World's Greatest Shave is an annual event organised by the Leukaemia Foundation, aimed at raising funds to support families facing life with blood cancer.A huge shoutout goes to four students who were brave enough to shave: Noah H, William H, Thomas T and Ollie W. In addition, the SRC held a bake stall and coloured hair spray to help raise money to donate.If you would like to donate, please visit the World's Greatest Shave website.Darling Harbour delightBoth Year 12 Geography classes travelled to Darling Harbour recently as part of their study of an urban place undergoing change. The students observed the redevelopment that has taken place at Darling Square and Barangaroo and learned about the social and economic forces driving these changes. The students also learned about the Indigenous and industrial history of Darling Harbour and its links with other places.Tree planting extravaganzaKiama Year students will conduct tree planting around the district on 4 August as part of National Tree Day. This annual event has been running at Kiama High School since the 1990s. This year the sites are Minnamurra Rainforest, Kaleula Headland (near Kendall’s Beach), The Boneyard, Shoalhaven Heads, Seven Mile Beach and Curry’s Mountain. Kiama Council is providing a sausage sizzle (including vegetarian options) at Kendall’s Beach after the planting. Students will also be able to participate in beach activities, including a sand modelling competition and ball games. The cost of the Tree Planting Day has largely been subsidised by the P & C and Kiama Council. Volleyballers oh so close to state titlesKiama High School's open boys and open girls volleyball teams travelled to Bomaderry last month to compete at the South Coast finals. Facing the region’s toughest competition, the Kiama teams once again demonstrated their skill, teamwork and determination proving they could compete with the best. Both the boys and girls teams came agonisingly close to a top-two finish, which would have secured them a spot at the State Championships. Despite just falling short, their performances were a credit to their commitment and sportsmanship throughout the day. There is much to be proud of, and the best news is that every player from both squads remains eligible to return in 2026. Cross Country runners excelKiama High School was represented by 29 dedicated students at the recent South Coast Regional Cross Country Championships, held at the scenic but challenging Willandra Cross Country Course on the foothills of Mt Cambewarra. The course demanded physical endurance and mental resilience, and the runners rose to the occasion.Their efforts were rewarded with impressive results, including six students qualifying for the NSW State Cross Country Championships. Congratulations to all participants, with special mention to the state qualifiers: India Binks, Finn McNeilage, Payton Garvey, Harrison Smee, Indiana Garvan, and Ebony Winston.

Updated Illawarra and South Coast residents have been warned to expect heavy rain and damaging winds on Tuesday night with the risk of flash flooding increasing.A vigorous coastal low pressure system has been developing off the coast of NSW and the Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning early on Tuesday.Residents in the Illawarra, South Coast, Central Tablelands, Mid North Coast, Metropolitan, Northern Tablelands, Northern Rivers, Hunter, and North West Slopes and Plains Forecast Districts have been advised to monitor conditions and be prepared for locally destructive winds and heavy rainfall.Peak gusts in excess of 125km/h are possible for the area from Bondi to Wollongong, which will then extend south to Ulladulla overnight.Isolated heavy rain has also inundated in Ulladulla and surrounding areas.The SES issued a statement to advise people in the coastal area from Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay to stay indoors with the same warning to coastal residents from Bulli to Collaroy.Flash flooding is a high risk throughout the east coast where heavy rain could cut roads without warning. If you do need to be on the roads, drive with caution as we are expecting to see flash flooding by the afternoon commute.NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Debbie Platz reminded residents that flash flooding is dangerous and unpredictable."This particular low is now going to start to impact coastal areas of NSW from tonight, from the areas between Coffs Harbour in the north and Bega in the south," she said on Tuesday."It is likely that this system will bring significant weather to these coastal fringe areas."This weather will include damaging surf, coastal erosion, significant moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms along with damaging winds."This is a very dynamic and fast-moving system. Very different to the systems we have seen in recent times. We do expect the rainfall and winds will ease from Thursday."Kiama Blowhole on Tuesday. Photo: Matty Taylor Plan your journey ahead where possible. Check Live Traffic NSW for updates on closures or hazards on your route and the Hazards Near Me app.Six-hourly rainfall totals between 70-90mm are possible, with isolated totals up to 120mm. A separate Coastal Hazard Warning is also current for parts of the NSW coast.Locations which may be affected include Taree, Newcastle, Gosford, Sydney, Wollongong, Armidale, Nowra and Batemans Bay.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.* Don't drive, ride or walk through flood water.* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.To keep up to date with the weather conditions, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website or call 1300 659 210.