Sandra Hansen, the current secretary and previous treasurer of the Kiama Country Women’s Association Evening Branch, was recognised on the NSW Governmenthonour role for her contribution to our community. Sandra was nominated by the CWA Evening Branch for the NSW Government Hidden Treasures recognition program highlting extraordinary contributions of female volunteers.In Sandra’s case, it is a fitting acknowledgment of her tireless efforts and contribution to the local community.Sandra is always putting up her hand to contribute above her executive roles and is active in so many of the community activities and events the branch undertakes.These have included Bunnings Halloween Night, Volunteer Awareness Week at the Kiama Farmers Markets, our partnership with St Vincent de Paul and our Anzac Day Event. Sandra has driven the Kiama High School donations of $9000 over three years.She has also supported her husband and a team of like-minded individuals undertake a “labour of love” to restore the beautiful MV Signa, a 50-year-old wooden boat that has called Kiama home since 2005. The boat restoration took two years and was returned to Kiama Harbour in May last year.Sandra remains a steadfast and hardworking member continually contributing to and influencing CWA-KEB’s approach to support the community outcomes.

We’re excited to introduce a fresh face at Kiama Community Radio (KCR) — and she’s already a bit of a local celebrity!Say hello to Daisy the Cow, our brand-new emblem and proud new voice (well, moo) of KCR.Daisy, who is owned by Council, is looking fresh as a daisy from the brilliant artwork of Tiffany SpringettWhy Daisy? Because she’s not just a local icon — she’s our neighbour.You’ll often see her standing tall in the paddock on Terralong Street. And if you spot Daisy, you’ve just about found us — we’re next door but one.Daisy perfectly captures the spirit of Kiama: relaxed, curious, and unmistakably homegrown. Just like KCR, she’s part of the landscape — keeping watch, staying grounded, and always ready to reflect what’s happening in our community.At KCR, we’re on-air rain or shine (streaming 24/7), bringing you local news, music, stories, and interviews. Daisy reminds us to keep things simple, genuine, and connected — and to never underestimate the power of a calm, steady presence.You’ll soon see more of Daisy in our social media, event signage, and KCR merchandise. She’s our mascot, our mood, and a friendly face from the neighbourhood.How to Listen to Kiama Community Radio (KCR):🎧 Website: Visit kcr.org.au to stream live.📱 Mobile App: Download the free KCR app (iOS and Android).📻 iHeartRadio: Listen via the iHeartRadio platform.🎙️ Podcast: Catch up on shows via Buzzsprout and Spotify.🌐 Zeno.FM: You can also stream live through Zeno.FM.

Police have thanked the public for their help after a missing man in bushland on the South Coast was located on Monday.Christopher Moore, aged 38, was last seen on Twelve Mile Road, Jerrawangala, about 32km south of Nowra, about 10.30am on Wednesday (25 June), when he was dropped off for a camping trip.He was due to be picked up at the same location on Friday (27 June 2025), and when he did not arrive, officers attached to the South Coast Police District were notified and started inquiries into his whereabouts.Police and family had held concerns for his welfare.Search efforts continued in bushland around the Jerrawangala or Wandandian areas over the weekend, coordinated by NSW Police Rescue Squad, with assistance from local police, Polair, SES, and NSW Rural Fire Service.The search resumed about 8.30am on Monday morning and around 11.50am, the man was located in thick shrub off Twelve Mile Road and was walked out by emergency services to safety.NSW Ambulance paramedics assessed his condition and he was not injured.He was taken to Shoalhaven Base Hospital for monitoring.

Australia’s leading fundraiser for cancer support, Dry July, is aiming to reach a major impact milestone this year: $100 million raised since its launch in 2008 for vital, often overlooked cancer support services. This has only been made possible thanks to the generosity of Australians who’ve taken up the challenge to go alcohol-free each July in support of those affected by cancer. This year, the nation is once again being called on to rally behind the cause, because there’s nothing more powerful than showing up for others.With one Australian diagnosed with cancer every three minutes and more than 15,000 expected to be diagnosed this July alone, there are 15,000 reasons to take on the Dry July challenge. Whether it’s a family member, a friend, or a colleague, most Australians know someone affected by cancer. That’s why the demand for life-changing support services continues to grow.Brett Macdonald, Dry July Co-Founder, said the initiative started as a personal challenge between a few mates and "never imagined it would grow into something that has impacted the lives of so many". "We would be incredibly proud to reach the $100 million milestone, but it can only be possible with the support of everyday Australians stepping up to support people going through one of the toughest times of their lives."Gillian Odbert, CEO of the Dry July Foundation, added: “Every Australian knows someone affected by cancer, and while the physical impact is often visible, the emotional toll can be just as heavy and far less recognised. "The funds raised through Dry July go towards support services that can make all the difference during such a difficult time.”Funds raised through Dry July directly support practical, life-changing services – from transport and accommodation during treatment, to wellness programs, specialist cancer nurses, and therapy sessions. Many of these projects are entirely community funded and simply can’t continue without ongoing public support. This year, donations will help 40 cancer organisations across Australia, including Cancer Council, Bowel Cancer Australia, and Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.Since 2008, over 377,000 Australians have taken part in Dry July, funding more than 1200 projects across 80 cancer organisations. This year, the fundraiser is aiming to rally 30,000 participants to sign up, donate, and help our fellow Aussies. Every dollar counts.Take up the challenge and Go Dry this July. Register as an individual, workplace or team at www.dryjuly.com.

Kiama U3A provides an array of classes and groups for the those in their "third age" of life, with Term 3 beginning next month. “U3A is a worldwide organisation, and it is the most active community organisation for retirees, bar none,” Kiama U3A president Charles Walker told The Bugle. Universities of the Third Age or U3As is a global voluntary, non-for-profit organisations which was conceptualised in France and has been active in the Kiama community for the past 25 years. “In Kiama we have presently around 200 members. We’d like to get to around 250. We run about 15 courses per week for eight weeks in each school term,” Walker said. “We have PhDs as our members, but we also have people who have never been to university as members, and didn't finish high school. “Knowledge is power. So being informed is much better.” There is something for everybody with Walker conceding “we are only limited by the imagination of our members who are willing to exchange their knowledge, get together and work something out". “We do a lot of history, science, music, arts, travel, topical discussions on what is in the news, philosophy courses.” A barrier Walker identifies is the availability of volunteers, with many Kiama retirees travelling for extended periods. “We find it difficult to get volunteers to commit as people want to tick something off their bucket lists. “But we are still active. It started off with the idea that it was academic or learning; learning was at the key. “And slowly that morphed into an active body promotes an active mind. So, we incorporated exercise into the syllabus. “Popular ones are things like Tai Chi and yoga, we also have activities like table tennis, and all different types of dancing.” The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that in the 2022-2023 financial year there were 4.2 million retirees or 16% of the Australian population. “We are mainly retired, but in today’s world, people don’t quite retire. They continue for a while,” Walker said. According to the research from the Australian Institute of Family Studies 2009, social isolation is “a known risk factor for poor physical health outcomes and depression and has been directly linked to ageing”. Walker maintains that whilst Kiama U3A may have co-members of other community organisations, it is not about competition. “We’ve got lots of co-members, joint members, but they (other community organisations) do something different to us and they don’t meet as often,” Walker said. The Bugle was invited to sit in on the class ‘What’s In The News’, led by Brian Cowling at Blue Haven Bonaria, where an eclectic mix of current news and events, history, and philosophy were discussed in a “safe forum”. News is a consistent source of information for many in society, which highlights the need for access and independence. For more information on Kiama U3A term 3, head to www.kiama.u3anet.org.au

Kiama Council has launched its first Dog Friendly Spaces Strategy after it was adopted at the June Ordinary Meeting.With more than 9000 dogs in the local government area for among the human population of 23,000, it is essential that Council can 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 Strategy provides a strategic approach to the future provision of dog friendly spaces throughout the area.Council developed the strategy in consultation with the community, with more than 500 responses to an initial survey in the co-design phase. There were more than 40 formal submissions to the strategy and numerous conversations and interactions at Community Pop-ups while the draft strategy was open to public feedback.The strategy defines dog friendly spaces, lists current off-leash and dog friendly spaces.Work is progressing on Council’s new fenced off-leash area for dogs in Jamberoo, which is one of the action items noted in the Dog Friendly Spaces Strategy.The fenced off-leash area (FOLA) at Jamberoo will be constructed with the following improvements after community feedback: The entire FOLA will now be expanded to two sections of 35sq m and 22sq m respectively (originally scoped for one area of 30 sq m)The two sections will comprise: one for large dogs (15kg+) and one for smaller dogs (under 15kg)A concrete footpath will be installed to link the existing footpath to the FOLACouncil will supply dog waste bags and bin and rubbish binsA bench seat will be installedShade shelters and drinking water for animals will also be provided.Funding for the additional works has been provided by Council’s section 7.12 developer contribution fund for new public infrastructure after overall funding had been approved by Kiama Council and the NSW Government.The Jamberoo fenced dog park is due to be completed by September.

This week's edition of The Bugle brings you the latest news on the battle to keep the New Year's Eve fireworks alive as they are under threat of being cancelled due to Kiama Council's financial constraints. Councillor Yasmin Tatrai has expressed her personal disappointment in the decision to approve the budget at last week’s Council meeting which has left Destination Kiama staff in a position where they have just a few months to find external investment to fund the fireworks or they will be cancelled.Click here to view our latest edition“I regret the recent the Council decision to not allocate $95,000 for New Year's Eve fireworks,” Cr Tatrai told The Bugle.“Although the decision has been made to prioritise local events over this cherished tradition, I feel hoodwinked by the choice to overlook what is arguably the most important night of the year for our community. “I fear this could be devastating for both the local community and the tourism economy."Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald launched an appeal for sponsors to come forward with an Expression of Interest form placed on the Council wesbite in a bid to attract corporate support by 13 July.There is also a feature on the suburb in our local government area which has experienced the biggest real estate 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.You can also read plenty of great community stories including a new author's children's book series, why Premier Barbers are a cut above and the plan to revitalise Kiama Harbour. Take the chance to join in the local whale census, check out a couple of new men's groups in our town and see how a talented young Kiama rugby league player is about to breathe fire for the Dragons in their upcoming NRLW season.Our dedicated sports photographer Brian Scott has taken lots of pictures of our local sporting community, plus there is a full list of What's On in our region and our puzzles page filled with brain teasers.

Kiama Council’s decision to cancel the New Year’s Eve fireworks unless a sponsor can come to the rescue has sparked a backlash but Mayor Cameron McDonald is still hopeful they can go ahead.Local community groups will miss out on their annual chance to raise much-needed funds at the event while business operators are likely to see a downturn in revenue on the day where thousands of visitors flock to Kiama to see the iconic fireworks display.Councillor Yasmin Tatrai has expressed her personal disappointment in the decision to approve the budget at last week’s Council meeting which has left Destination Kiama staff in a position where they have just a few months to find external investment to fund the fireworks or they will be cancelled.“I regret the recent the Council decision to not allocate $95,000 for New Year's Eve fireworks,” Cr Tatrai told The Bugle.“Although the decision has been made to prioritise local events over this cherished tradition, I feel hoodwinked by the choice to overlook what is arguably the most important night of the year for our community. “I fear this could be devastating for both the local community and the tourism economy. “New Year’s Eve is a time for locals and visitors to come together and celebrate, and given Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the night economy, it is disheartening to see the significance of this pivotal celebration diminished. “The fireworks are not just a festivity, they represent an opportunity to showcase the vibrancy of Kiama and attract visitors.”Fellow Councillor Mike Cains hoped that a solution can be found to ensure the fireworks remain an integral part of the local New Year’s Eve celebrations.“Like many people in the community, I'm disappointed that we've got to a point where the fireworks are essentially in jeopardy,” he said.“So many of us have taken our kids to watch the fireworks at nine o'clock every single year and then some of us have stayed on till midnight.“It's been a regular occasion on the calendar that has meant a lot to locals. I think there's a lot of people that are quite sad to see it go.“I can't believe that we can't find a way through whether that is by attracting sponsorship, having a VIP tent or creating a business model around it. “I can't believe that there isn't a solution that we can adopt to get us to the point where it's not going to be a financial millstone around the neck of Council. “So I'm confident we can get there and I'll be disappointed if we can't find a way through.”Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald on Wednesday launched an appeal for sponsors to come forward with an Expression of Interest form placed on the Council wesbite in a bid to attract corporate support by 13 July.“This is a fantastic opportunity to partner with Council, give back to the community and promote your business across the entire Illawarra region,” Cr McDonald said.“We’re on track to break even in our budget for 2026–27, and this is just one of many important decisions we’ve had to make to ensure Council is fiscally responsible.“As one of Australia’s largest regional fireworks events, Kiama’s NYE Sky Show gets an enormous amount of publicity and attracts up to 20,000 attendees. Now we’re offering a golden opportunity to put your name to this signature event.“I encourage local businesses and stakeholders to fill out our expression of interest form, or simply pick up the phone to speak to us about how you can be involved.”

By Murray Gibbs, Senior Natural Resource Management Advisor The Spotted-tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus), also known as the Tiger Quoll, is Australia’s largest carnivorous marsupial on the mainland and is listed as vulnerable in NSW. These elusive, nocturnal hunters need territories up to 500ha for females and 4000ha for males. This highlights the importance of our national parks and state forests but also the forests and woodlands in adjacent private land.Areas on private land with intact bushland, dense ground cover, hollow logs, and rock crevices for denning and hunting, will often be used by quolls that otherwise spend most of their time in public reserves.Spotted-tailed quolls may look cute, but these fearless hypercarnivores (diet more than 70% meat) can tackle prey twice their size and have the second most powerful bite for their body size of any predatory mammal in the world, after the Tasmanian Devil. They’ll consume anything from gliders, possums, small wallabies, rats, birds, bandicoots, rabbits, reptiles and insects.The Spotted Quoll is listed as vulnerable. Photo: Local Land Services.Once widespread, quoll populations have declined since European settlement due to habitat loss and degradation, competition with foxes and cats, deliberate shooting and trapping in response to chicken predation and roadkill.Landholders can play a vital role in addressing these threats to quolls by protecting and enhancing quoll habitat on their land, controlling introduced predators and consulting with Local Land Services and the National Parks and Wildlife Service if poultry are being attacked.Be part of the quoll comeback by incorporating these land management strategies:More Bush, More Life - Protect existing bushland, encourage natural regeneration and expand habitat through revegetation where cover is sparse. Use local native species and look for opportunities to connect patches of existing native forest and woodland.Don’t “tidy up” that log - Leave as much fallen timber, hollow logs, and rock piles as you can as they contribute to critical denning and hiding spots, as well as being habitat for a vast array of other species that contribute to the overall food chain and biodiversity.Control invasive species - Talk to Local Land Services about managing competing feral predators like foxes and cats, and rabbits that degrade natural habitats.By improving habitat on your land, you are supporting quolls and a whole web of unique and stunning native wildlife.If you would like more information and advice on supporting biodiversity on your land, and the current educational program, please contact Local Land Services NRM officer by calling 1300 795 299, emailing [email protected] or visiting https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/regions/south-east.Murray Gibbs is a Senior NRM Advisor with Local Land Services Agency for the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Kiama Councillor Mike Cains wants to transform Kiama Harbour from tired to terrific while retaining the unique charm of a special part of the town.Cr Cains and Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald will be Council’s representatives on a working group alongside three community members that will aim to revitalise the harbour after years of few improvements apart from the seawall upgrade.The motion to form a Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Working Group was passed by Council last week.“We want people to come to Kiama as a destination. We want them to enjoy the harbour. We want them to be blown away,” said Cr Cains, speaking as a Councillor, not on behalf of Council.“We all know what it's like to be on point on a sparkling summer's day or this time of the year when you can watch whales breach right outside, almost in spitting distance.“We live in the most amazing part of the world, yet our prime real estate, our jewel in the crown, sits there looking tired and old, unused and underutilised.“It's a legacy project. We have to get out the jumper leads and kick-start this thing. We have to apply the defibrillator to it. It has to get going again.“But more importantly, we need a community group that is able to help shape exactly how that harbour is revitalised, rejuvenated and how it serves the community into the future.“So a situation where we just say let's not do anything, let's not try and engage with the stakeholders. Let's just see what gets foisted upon us is something that's unacceptable in my mind.“And that's why I push for it very hard. It's a vital project for us and we're well within our rights to assert some advocacy around it.”Transport for NSW developed a plan for the harbour precinct four years ago but there has been minimal progress since then.“No one's saying the plan is perfect - there was a lot of consternation at the time but we have a plan, it's there and it's just been gathering dust for the last four years,” Cr Cains said.“When people go down there, they can see just how tired and industrial and moribund the place is.“It just doesn't take too much imagination to think what it could be with an upgraded marina, a restaurant, some accommodation where those cabins are that don't really bring Council much money, to be honest, but they occupy the most prime real estate heading up to Blowhole Point there.“You've got the SES and the Boy Scouts shed. We know how tired the building that occupies Cargo Fish and Chips is. And we know that School Flat can be utilised much more effectively.“It is complex - you do need Crown Lands, Maritime, Transport for NSW and Kiama Council on the same page to make sure that it is all that it can be. And that work starts now.”The Working Group will soon be calling for expressions of interest from the community as part of the process of selecting three more members. And it needs to have funds allocated to setting it up by Council.“We're going to be tasked with actions. We're going to be analysing, planning and executing,” Cr Cains added.“There might be other people who might cynically say we're gonna turn this into the Gold Coast.“And I would say to people that is precisely why we've created the Working Group, to make sure we don't get stuff that's inappropriate, that is at odds with what our community needs.“The whole purpose of the Working Group is to make sure that we strike that right balance.”

When Mitch Catterall returned to Kiama in 2024 after 12 years living in Melbourne, he was looking for a lifestyle change - and to escape the grey Melbourne winters. With his kids in tow, he hoped to reconnect with the tight-knit community he remembered growing up in.But he quickly noticed something was missing.“I had a lot of friends still living in the area - people I grew up with - and no one talked to each other or saw each other,” Catterall said.“Even my best mates from back in the day, the guys I used to hang out with every weekend... I’d message them one by one and say, ‘Have you seen Timmy?’ or ‘Have you seen Matt or Nate?’“And they all said no - not in years. I’d ask how long it had been, and they’d say eight, nine, ten, even twelve years. It really hit me: how do I get people back together?”That question led to the creation of the Kiama Dads Club - a group focused on connecting local fathers through casual, judgment-free social catch-ups and community support.Catterall chose to focus on dads because he saw a consistent pattern: isolation.“Something I call ‘Dad Guilt’ is massive - and I’ve felt it myself,” he said. “You want to go out, but you don’t want to take time away from the family. And before you know it, it’s been months since you’ve seen anyone socially.“No one was catching up. No one was really talking. They were just focused on work and family - especially if they didn’t play organised sport. There was a huge social gap.”In 2022, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that suicide remains the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15–44 - and Catterall believes a lack of regular social connection is a major contributor.“One study I saw said that for men to maintain balanced mental health, they need two to three social interactions per week,” he said.“I mentioned that to a mate recently and he couldn’t think of even one social event with friends - not related to family or work - in the last six months. That’s so common. Even for me. If it’s not with the kids or at work, it just doesn’t happen.”So in August 2024, driven by frustration and a desire to reconnect, he posted a call-out in the Kiama Community Facebook page and launched the Kiama Dads Club.“About a hundred people joined the Facebook group overnight - or within a day or two. It happened really fast,” he said.The group has since held a few informal catch-ups - the first in October, then in January, and most recently three weeks ago. As the concept evolves, Catterall hopes it will become a monthly event with a variety of options for different lifestyles.“So far we’ve met at a couple of pubs, the Grand, and Finding Fillmore,” he said. “It’s all been low pressure - just a simple way to reconnect.“But we’re also planning to introduce things like morning coffee catch-ups, walks, kicking a footy at the oval, even kid-friendly events where people can bring their kids along - because not everyone has the freedom to go out solo.”Catterall is keen to ensure the club remains inclusive and accessible to all.“I’m conscious that not everyone drinks or wants to hang out at the pub,” he said. “So there’ll be events like a Saturday morning coffee and walk around the harbour, or just a casual stop-and-chat that doesn’t revolve around alcohol.”To join the Kiama Dads Club, search for the group on Facebook or contact Mitch directly via private message.

Be warned - if you overstay your welcome, you could find a paper parking infringement waiting for you under your windscreen wiper from next Tuesday.Kiama Council is returning to issuing paper parking notices from 1 July as part of new NSW Government laws.Parking is an ongoing issue in Kiama with spots at a premium on Terralong Street and Manning Street during business hours and during weekends and public holidays when tourists flock to the town.Kiama is one of many Councils that has used the paperless system since the NSW Government introduced it in 2020.Under that system, the fine notice was sent via post to the vehicle owner.However, the NSW Government has now ordered Councils to return to paper parking notices.Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald is imploring local residents and visitors to please check parking signs and respect any stated restrictions before leaving their vehicle to avoid receiving a fine.And to treat Council's parking rangers with respect.“I ask everyone, whether local or visitor, to treat Parking Officers with courtesy," Cr McDonald said. "Our parking officers have one of the most challenging jobs in Council. "They deserve our respect, as does anyone whose job is to make sure we’re all following the rules.”Parking restrictions, whether outside shops or schools, are designed to ensure safe and equitable access to parking spots.In 2023-24 Kiama Council conducted 434 parking patrols, resulting in fines of approximately $107,000.

Marion Rattray’s husband died nine months ago, and nothing could have prepared her for the challenges that followed in this next stage of her life.From emotional and financial stress to health concerns, Rattray found herself struggling to manage everything on her own - until she discovered how much it helped to speak with someone who truly understood what she was going through.She recalls a moment that made a lasting impression.“When my husband was very sick, and it was just deathly quiet in the house, I rang a girlfriend and said, ‘It’s so quiet. What do you do?’,” Rattray said.“My girlfriend told me to turn on every television in the house, which is what I do now. I just need noise - something else happening in the house. It’s a big place, and I’m rattling around in it on my own.”Inspired by that conversation and the power of connection, Rattray founded a support group called WHOW – Widows Helping Other Widows.“Widows all have one thing in common,” she said. “We’ve lost our husbands. But each of us faces different challenges. Some are wondering whether to sell their home or find accommodation that better suits their needs.“What really makes a difference is the companionship of people who truly understand. If you’ve had a long and very happy marriage, I think the grief hits even harder. That’s why I felt there should be something just for widows.”The group has already held two meetings at the Lecture Hall of Kiama Uniting Church, and Rattray is hopeful more women will join in the weeks to come.WHOW meets at Kiama Uniting Church, every Thursday at 2pm.“There are a lot of widows in Kiama. People retire here, and women statistically live longer than men. We talk about all sorts of topics - everyone’s welcome to speak as much or as little as they like. It’s just a warm, supportive space to connect and relate.”WHOW meets every Thursday at 2pm at the Lecture Hall at Kiama Uniting Church. All widows are welcome - just drop in for a chat and some afternoon tea.For more information, you can contact Marion at 4233 2490.

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.

Traffic on the humpback highway is getting busy, with the northern whale migration season well underway, and there is no better place to view these majestic mammals than the headlands around Kiama.On Sunday, the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans (ORRCA) will hold its 26th annual whale census and is calling on the community to head to their favourite coastal destination to help track the cetacean travellers. Humpbacks are not the only natural wonder on offer in the region this winter and a new regional tourism campaign is encouraging people to hit the road and support local businesses during these tough economic times. Five councils, including Kiama, have joined forces with Destination Sydney Surrounds South for the Go Grand campaign, showcasing the natural wonders, accommodation, food and attractions on offer across the South Coast and Southern Highlands.Shannan Perry-Hall, the general manager of Destination Sydney Surrounds South, grew up in Bawley Point but it wasn’t until she moved interstate that she realised the unique beauty of the region. “We are spoilt for choice on the South Coast and Southern highlands,” says Ms Perry-Hall. “There is such a broad range of experiences on offer in quite a small area. So people can jump in the car on a Thursday night, take Friday off work and travel from Sydney or Canberra and be on the coast or in the highlands in a matter of hours for a weekend getaway.”Best of all, the hard work has been done by the Destination teams who have put together detailed itineraries for the winter tourism campaign’s four key themes: Grand Experiences, Grand Flavours, Grand Nature and Grand Stays. There is even an itinerary for a family getaway for the upcoming school holidays.“Winter is always a lot tougher for tourism businesses,” says Ms Perry-Hall. “And with difficult economic times at the moment, people aren’t spending money as much as they have done in the past. “But that’s the beauty of this campaign, it’s about grand experiences, many of which are free, rather than grand expenses.”And with activities already mapped out according to areas of interest, there is no mental planning load required. You can just pack a bag, jump in the car and wind your way up or down Grand Pacific Drive, says Ms Perry-Hall.So what does the tourism guru’s ideal road trip look like?“Well I would start in Kiama, it’s an easy drive from Sydney or Canberra, and there’s a heap of amazing accommodation options, so it’s a great first stop for a winter road trip,” she says.“I’d stay overnight at the Sebel and grab a share plate at Little Betty’s for dinner. Then the next morning I’d do the Kiama Coastal walk to spot whales and sea eagles and then grab a coffee and croissant from Slow Dough.“I’d go south for a spot of shopping and lunch in Gerringong and then head away from the coast into the Highlands. "There are some spectacular short walks at Carrington or Belmore Falls and then in the afternoon it’s time for some wine tasting. There are a lot of great accommodation and dining options in the highlands with the essential winter fireplace and comfort food.”Ms Perry-Hall also recommends a visit to Ngununggula Art Gallery while in the highlands, before heading south to the spectacular Bundanon in the Shoalhaven.“I am a coast girl at heart so I’d head back to the water to do some whale watching at Jervis Bay or even swim with the whales with local tourism operator Woebegone Freedive,” she says. “You can do all of these wonderful experiences over a couple of nights in different regions and really embrace the winter road trip or just use Kiama as your base because everything’s quite close.”Ms Perry-Hall is also encouraging locals to get involved in the campaign and act as tour guides for family and friends. “People have a real sense of pride for where they live and they are able to showcase not just all the activities on offer but also their favourite coffee shop, restaurant, winery or activity,” says Ms Perry-Hall. “There is no better holder of knowledge than a local and the food scene across the region is really growing with a focus on paddock to plate and fresh local produce. “There are also some great wineries and breweries and activities like swimming - the water temperature and clarity are great at the moment - whale watching and bush walks. What more could you want for a winter getaway?”So pack your bags, hit the highway and if you are travelling along Grand Pacific Drive this weekend choose your favourite headland to join in the ORRCA whale census. Whale spotters will need to register online and log their chosen location before census day on June 29. ORRCA will email all participants a Census Day kit which includes a sighting fact sheet and access to the organisation's Data Collection App to log sightings on Sunday.

Kiama Farmers' Market marked the 2025 Winter Solstice in true coastal style - with 35 brave locals plunging into the chilly waters at Surf Beach, just in front of Coronation Park.“It just felt like a great way to celebrate winter,” said market manager Tricia Ashelford. “In Kiama, we’re so used to beautiful warm weather that as soon as the temperature drops, everyone tends to retreat indoors. We thought, why not do something to embrace winter instead?”The idea of a communal cold-water dip began a few years ago, inspired by Kiama’s dedicated cold-water swimming community.“There’s no escaping winter,” said Ashelford. “You might as well embrace it and have some fun with it.”While winter brings a natural drop in attendance at the market, Ashelford wants to remind the community that the colder months also bring unique produce you can’t find any other time of year.Some of the 35 Kiama locals in the water to celebrate the winter solstice. Photo: Kiama Farmers' Market“We definitely see fewer shoppers during winter - and we completely understand that,” she said. “But we’re lucky to have a loyal customer base that shows up regardless.“Now’s the time to celebrate what’s in season. Just last week we had the first truffles of the season, which is really exciting. "We’re finishing the finger limes and transitioning into truffles. The citrus is fantastic right now, and the brassicas are beautiful.”Looking ahead, Ashelford also flagged the possibility of relocating the market temporarily due to upcoming restoration work at Coronation Park, which was damaged by saltwater inundation earlier this year.“We’re currently working with Council because of the saltwater damage that affected Coronation Park a few months ago,” she said. “We understand that restoration work will likely begin in August.”The market team is exploring several alternative locations to host the market during the three to four months of repair work.“Our biggest concern is ensuring any new site has enough parking, and making sure we keep communication clear with our customers and local businesses,” Ashelford said.Even though its winter, Kiama locals are still braving the weather at the Kiama Farmers' MarketAt the heart of it all, she remains passionate about the role the Farmers' Market plays in connecting local producers with the community.“This market is a direct line from local producers to their customers - it’s how many of them stay financially viable,” she said. “Having a consistent, weekly market is vital for small businesses, whether they’re selling fresh produce, craft beer, wine, gin, or handmade food products.“And it’s also about community. It’s amazing how many locals come each week - it’s a place to connect, catch up, and support one another.”The Kiama Farmers' Market runs every Wednesday from 2–5pm during winter. Stay updated on location changes and other announcements via their Facebook page.

NSW Police have announced that a 93-year-old man has died following a three-vehicle crash in the Southern Highlands.About 8.40am on Thursday 12 June, emergency services were called to Moss Vale Road, Burradoo, following reports of a three-vehicle crash.Officers attached to The Hume Police District attended and found three vehicles – a Mazda SUV, Honda SUV and an Audi hatchback – had collided nose to tail.The Honda driver – an 85-year-old woman and front passenger ­– a 93-year-old man, were treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to hospital for further treatment.The other two drivers – a 43-year-old man in the Mazda and a 45-year-old woman in the Audi – were uninjured and taken to hospital for mandatory testing.A crime scene was established, and the Crash Investigation Unit started investigations.The 43-year-old man was arrested and taken to Southern Highlands Police Station where he was released pending further investigations.On Tuesday, the 93-year-old man died as a result of the injuries from the collision.A report will be prepared for the Coroner. Inquiries into the circumstances of the crash are continuing.Anyone with information about the incident or dashcam or CCTV footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via its website.Information is managed on a confidential basis.

The State Emergency Service has issued a severe weather warning in the Illawarra for damaging winds on Wednesday morning.Gale-force winds have hit around the Great Dividing Range and southern coast of NSW, including Wollongong, extending to south-eastern Sydney and Newcastle. Blizzard conditions expected to continue about the ranges.The SES is advising motorists to drive according to the conditions and follow Live Traffic NSW for road and traffic updates. They are also being encouraged to secure loose items and to not park under trees in high winds. To keep up to date with the weather warnings, visit the Hazards Near Me app or via the Bureau of Meteorology website. If you require assistance in floods or storms, call NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening situations call Triple Zero (000). The Jamberoo Rural Fire Service has been busy attending incidents since the first call at 3.30am.They have cleared trees from roads across the township. Recent rain has made many trees unstable.

The Children’s Medical Research Institute Gerringong Committee has been raising money for Jeans for Genes since the campaign began in 1994. Every year supporters wear their jeans, buy the pens and badges, buy raffle tickets in the Denim Quilt raffle and come to the Jeans for Genes Trivia Night. The community is generous and very supportive while local schools hold mufti days with gold coin donations and businesses donate to the cause in a variety of ways.Every dollar donated goes directly to Children’s Medical Research Institute and helps find treatments and cures for children’s genetic diseases.CMRI was the first organisation in Australia dedicated to improving children’s health through research and has led the world for 65 yearsOne in 20 children face a birth defect or genetic disease. Finding treatments and cures can only come from vital research like gene therapy.Rhonda Bailey, Lorraine Peade, Lucy Hill, Sue Dmetreson from Gerringong CMRI. Wear your jeans on Jeans for Genes Day on Thursday 7 August to draw attention to the fundraising and help make this year another positive one for the Gerringong committee.Alessia, aged six, is featured on Gerringong CMRI's Trivia Night poster for this year and is one of the 2025 faces of Jeans for Genes. This is her story :When Alessia was born, her parents had no idea she would make medical history that would not only change (and save) her life – it would impact every other child born with thesame fatal genetic condition.Alessia is one of the 2025 faces of Jeans for Genes the iconic fundraising day that supports the labs at Children’s Medical Research Institute so scientists can do work today to changelives tomorrow.She was born perfect in the eyes of her parents Adriana and Adam but one call, when she was two weeks old, delivered devastating news. Alessia had become the first child in NSW to be picked up for Spinal Muscular Atrophy on the newborn screening test.Her mum, Adriana, said Alessia had the severe form of the disease. She was pre-symptomatic and they had to act fast.“The natural course of the condition is that the nerves connecting to her muscles would waste away, and it would affect her ability to sit up, to crawl, to walk, to meet all of her milestones, to the point where she would lose the ability to breathe,’’Adriana said.“Ultimately it would take her life. As a best-case scenario, we were looking at a lifespan of two years.’’As Alessia’s parents tried to comprehend this news – they were told something equally life-changing. NSW was taking part in a trial of a new gene therapy following its success overseas. With one injection, Alessia’s genetic error could be corrected within her cells, effectively curing her condition.“I couldn't believe what I was reading with gene therapy,’’ her dad Adam said. “It was truly amazing. Reading about it was incredible, but then for it actually to be happening in front of our eyes was, next level.’’Alessia slept through her gene therapy infusion and went home. Over the next few years her parents waited and watched as she reached many childhood milestones that should never have been possible, and today, she is a happy and healthy seven-year-old lacking only a small amount of muscular strength in her legs.“Gene therapy has been completely lifesaving and life changing,’’ Adriana said. “To think that within the past 10 years, if you were given the diagnosis of severe SMA for your child, you knew that it was a death sentence. "You were told to go home and to love your child because they will not reach past their second birthday, if you were lucky. And now, Alessia is seven – that was unfathomable.’’Professor Ian Alexander, who is head of CMRI’s Gene Therapy Research Unit, was involved in both the heel prick test being introduced in NSW (the first State in Australia to do so), and in the gene therapy trials coming to Australia. He and his team are now working on the next generation of gene therapies to improve the technology and hopefully expand it to other conditions.“The majority of my career has been about the possibility of being able to treat children in the future and now the field has got to the point where that is possible and it’s incrediblyexciting,’’ Professor Alexander said.Jeans for Genes is one of Australia’s oldest charity days and this year it will move to the first Thursday in August – after finding that many of our capital city streets and offices are quiet on a Friday.It may be on a different day but the challenge of finding treatments and cures for one in 20 Aussie kids with conditions like cancer, cystic fibrosis and other devastating genetic diseases remains the same.CMRI Gerringong will be selling merchandise at IGA Gerringong on Friday 1, Saturday 2 August and Thursday 7 and Friday 8 August. You can also buy raffle tickets for this year’s denim quilt that has been designed, made and donated by the Kiama Quilters’ Guild. It features denim and a range of bright colours that will appeal to all ages. The raffle will be drawn at the Trivia Night to be held at the Gerroa Boat Fisherman’s Club on Friday 8 August from 6.30pm for 7pm start.Buy your tickets online from 14 July at https://www.trybooking.com/DCRXB.