When former Kiama High student Mateo Goytizolo returned home after being medically discharged from the army, one of the first things he did was reach out to his old school mates.It turned out to be a lightbulb moment for the army private, and politics, philosophy and economics graduate.Kiama High School friends Ben Falconer and Jaden Manley were working in the solar energy industry. Ben as a Kiama-based electrician and owner of Solar Storm and Jaden as a systems design specialist in solar sales.Now in their late 20s, the trio lost touch after high school when Mateo went to university and was posted to Townsville. But when he reached out it was like stepping back in time and the tight-knit group of friends reconnected.The bond grew deeper when they started working on their business project - All Australian Energy - in November before launching it early this year.“We decided to put our brains together and that was enough to equal one pretty sharp brain,” joked Mateo.All Australian Energy installs solar panels and batteries and along with the trio, employs five other ex-Kiama High School students as sales representatives.“We are keeping our business in the community to help the community,” says Mateo.With the push for renewables a key election topic and some Kiama suburbs experiencing frequent blackouts, Mateo expects interest in solar panels and battery storage to increase.Australia is a world leader in solar energy production, with solar panels installed on more than four million homes, but less than five per cent have battery storage.The federal government recently launched its Cheaper Home Battery Program, offering a 30 per cent discount on the up-front cost of a home battery.If Labor retains government, and the promised solar battery storage rebates are delivered, Mateo says the technology will become much more cost effective and even allow users to make money from solar power.“If people want to profit from solar power we link them to our partner Amber Electric,” he says.“People can then export their excess energy into the grid during peak periods of high demand to maximise the bang for their buck.”Mateo expects energy bills to continue rising and says a passive income from solar and battery energy can help reduce the cost of living.But he has a word of warning for those interested in solar battery storage. “I would recommend doing your homework,” he says.“The solar and battery company you choose should be an approved seller and have all the correct qualifications to claim the new rebate on your behalf through an Accredited Certificate Provider."Mateo has urged those interested in exploring their solar panel and solar battery options to keep it local and contact the team for a consultation.“We can send a system design specialist to look at people’s energy bills and then design an energy system for their needs,” says Mateo.“Solar panels were quite expensive when they first came onto the market but they are now very cost effective. If these solar battery rebates do come through batteries will be much more affordable.“We install premium Australian-made RedEarth Energy batteries that come with 100% Blackout Protection and can power your entire home."It's difficult to navigate your way around solar and batteries at the moment, but we tailor our solar and battery systems specifically to your home's energy consumption habits, ensuring you are completely energy independent, regardless of government policies or power outages."

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward is pleased to see Kiama has continued to perform well in the category of new Justices of the Peace (JPs) over the past six years.Figures released this week show that over the past six years, Kiama is second only to the much larger Wollongong state electorate when it comes to the number of JPs.Kiama has 275 people who are JPs according to the most recent data from 2024 for a tally of 1959 across the past six years.Wollongong has the highest with 414 in their total of 2636. Heathcote has the third-highest total (1378), followed by Shellharbour (810) and South Coast (757).“Becoming a Justice of the Peace in NSW offers several benefits, including community recognition, professional development, and the opportunity to make a positive impact and assisting others,” Ward said. “JPs also gain valuable skills like attention to detail and handling confidential information, which can be transferable to various types of employment. “I encourage local residents who are eligible to consider becoming a NSW Justice of the Peace (JP) today and supporting our local towns and villages."To be eligible for appointment as a NSW Justice of the Peace (JP), you must:Be at least 18 years of age;Be nominated by a NSW Member of Parliament (MP);Be an Australian citizen or a person who is entitled to vote at a general election for the Legislative Assembly;Be of good character; andNot be an undischarged bankrupt.To find out more about eligibility and character, you can read the Guidelines on the appointment of Justices of the Peace: assessing eligibility and good character issued by the NSW Attorney General.“Local JPs can also network with other experienced JPs and access training opportunities through organisations like the NSW Justice of the Peace Association (NSWJA)," Ward added.“NSWJA also have their 2025 annual conference in November in Fairy Meadow and with over 2,800 active members is the leading voice for JPs in NSW." To learn more information, please visit the Department of Communities and Justice website.

OpinionListening to Kiama Community Radio’s interviews with the four lead candidates contesting Gilmore, it quickly became clear.Some focused on immediate relief, such as cost-of-living measures, funding boosts and short-term incentives.Others spoke about longer-term structural reforms.Debbie Killian (Greens)"If we keep choosing short-term fixes, we will never solve the real problems facing our community."Maybe this difference says more about us than it does about the candidates. Feeding, clothing and housing our families is vital.But it is worth asking whether we have become so used to short-term solutions that we shy away from deeper changes. Are we choosing the comfort of quick fixes over the harder path of long-term resilience?Fiona Phillips (Labor) "I come from a point of loving this community and wanting to genuinely see better outcomes."It is not an easy choice. Both approaches have a place.Kate Dezarnaulds (Independent) "Real change happens when communities stop waiting for permission and start leading the way themselves."The question is whether, as a community, we are willing to think beyond the next few years and what that could mean for the future of Gilmore.Andrew Constance (Liberal) "You do not have to always agree with the community, but you must always fight for them."These differences in approach are worth considering carefully as we head to the polls.If you're still deciding, or simply want to hear how each candidate explains their own values, Kiama Community Radio is giving voters a clear voice this electionIn a crowded election field, it is easy to be overwhelmed by promises, flyers and slogans.That is why Kiama Community Radio deserves real credit for their recent in-depth interviews with Gilmore’s leading candidates.Fiona Phillips (Labor), Andrew Constance (Liberal), Kate Dezarnaulds (Independent) and Debbie Killian (Greens) were each given the same set of questions, covering topics like housing, healthcare, First Nations voice and climate action.Each candidate was given time to fully explain their views without interruption.If you have not yet made your decision, or if you simply want a deeper understanding of the values and priorities of your chosen candidate, listening to the podcast because you will not find a better way to compare their policies, their style and their vision for our region.Good politics begins with informed voters.Thanks to Kiama Community Radio, Gilmore residents have been given the tools to make thoughtful choices this election.🎧 Listen to the interviews hereYou can see the full list of candidates standing for the House of Representatives and the Senate in Gilmore by visiting the Australian Electoral Commission website

Gilmore candidate Andrew Constance was blindsided by a report claiming members of a religious sect have infiltrated the army of volunteers who have been handing out how-to-vote cards for the federal election.Independent candidate Kate Dezarnaulds said she has had first-hand experience of intimidatory bullying tactics from volunteers at local polling booths.She told The Bugle about these incidents, including one where a volunteer had taken a photo of her and her 11-year-old daughter talking to a Greens official without their consent as “proof” that she was linked to their party.The Sydney Morning Herald reported on Monday night that hundreds of members of a religious sect known as the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church had been campaigning in Labor-held marginal seats in Victoria and NSW, including Gilmore. When asked by The Bugle about the report, Labor incumbent Fiona Phillips did not want to comment about the allegations and said her focus was ensuring the issues relevant to the Gilmore electorate are at the forefront in the lead-up to election day on Saturday. There are six pre-polling stations which have been operating in Gilmore since last Tuesday with already more than 26 per cent of voters getting in early to have their say at the ballot box, including at Kiama Uniting Church which has been very busy over the past week.“There was something menacing and hard to put your finger on in terms of the style and behaviour of the dominant number of volunteers for the Liberals over the last week," Dezarnaulds said.“There are familiar faces from the local Liberal Party who were at some polling booths but the dominant numbers have been made up by a group which are not known to the community and have been very threatening and menacing and dominant in their behaviour.“People really don't like the experience of being harassed at the polling booths and overwhelming booths with out-of-towners doesn't do anything to communicate to the people of Gilmore that the Liberal Party is listening to their concerns and their priorities."Dezarnaulds said the actions of some volunteers had been intense but "our job is to rise above it, to keep on smiling and to stay focused on having conversations that matter with people who are undecided on where to put their vote".Kate Dezarnaulds. “They have been aggressively positioning Liberal Party corflutes en masse and relocating and moving other parties so that they have the dominant positions at every booth.“They have been pouncing on cars in driveways, particularly that contain elderly people and shepherding them to the polling booth. They have been whispering completely misleading information into people's ears as they finally step over the threshold into into the polling area.“Some of them the other day had a photograph of my 11-year-old daughter on their phones with us having a conversation with a friend who was handing out for the Greens and have been whispering in people's ears saying ‘she's a Green”. I've never had anything to do with The Greens party or election campaigns and for a picture of my daughter to be on the phones of a bunch of threatening men from out of town is pretty galling.“I'm very glad to see that the temperature has come down a notch or two (since the report was published) and the behaviour seems to have been corrected by the local branches of the Liberal Party who are behaving in a much more pleasant way.“There's absolutely nothing which is non-compliant or illegal about what they are doing, just culturally it's deeply offputting to people and and it speaks to the incredible number of resources that the Liberal Party are throwing at this seat. “I think that we are past saturation point. I think it is now offputting to voters and people don't like seeing politics played in this aggressive way. They would prefer to be straightforward, respectful and friendly.”Constance was not happy with any implication from Dezarnaulds that he would condone intimidatory tactics.“It’s quite a serious allegation that she is putting because I don’t go and ask the religious background of any volunteer,” he said. “It’s inappropriate to and she should do well to know that any Australian can participate in the democratic process, regardless of religious background or what she might think.Andrew Constance with Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor at the start of the election campaign. Photo: macourtmedia.com“Generally pre-polling is very respectful. If people have concerns, the election officials are there. Go to them if you have concerns.”He went on to criticise Dezarnaulds for comments she made in an email last year which were leaked to the media earlier this week.“I think Kate Dezarnaulds has done enough damage given her position in relation to Berry and describing it as a backwards, miserable retirement village,” he said.“Throughout my career, I’ve done nothing but to make sure our communities are unified and embraced. “There are wonderful people in Berry who work tirelessly as volunteers, there’s some fantastic festivals - everything from the local show to the Australia Day ceremonies to the services put on by those volunteers and I can assure you it is not a miserable backwards retirement village.“It’s not as if she decribed it five years ago like that, she described it as that last year.”

Kiama Farmers' Markets has been called off for 30 April due to the wet weather.Due to the heavy rains and ground damage at Surf Beach, today's Kiama Farmers Market has been cancelled.Unfortunately the markets were unable to relocate to the Uniting Church hall due to the area being used for Federal Election pre-poll voting.Even though the market has been cancelled, some stalls will still be set up in the car park to assist with some of your fresh food needs: Rita's Farm, Produce from Orange, Bakers Chemistry gluten-free bed, Flour Water Salt Bakery .Schottlanders Wagyu will attend with customer orders and a small range of cuts and they will also be back next Wednesday (7 May) as their last official week at the farmers' market.

"War is one of those stupid corruptions of mankind we keep repeating. You hated them, then peace came, and we turned around and got on with life. There’s no point holding hate. It doesn’t do anyone any good." – Harold WestHarold West served in what is now Papua New Guinea.From his home in Kiama, the 102-year-old reflects on the war that shaped his early adulthood, and the quiet strength that carried him into peacetime.He was part of the Anzac Day services in Kiama last week, riding in a car in the official march.When Harold talks about war, he doesn’t dwell on heroism.He speaks plainly, almost gently, of a time when he was 18, conscripted into the Australian Army, and sent to fight the Japanese in New Guinea, the eastern half of the island that is today the independent nation of Papua New Guinea.“You’re shooting at a bloke you don’t know because someone told you to do it,” he says. “That’s the way it was.”For four years, Harold worked as a wireless operator, keeping communications alive through dense jungle and harsh conditions.He remembers being in Wewak, in northern New Guinea, when the war ended.“We caught the surrender ceremonies up there,” he says. “And that was it. Four years, then peace.”But coming home didn’t mean picking up where he left off.“You miss a big chunk of your life,” Harold reflects. “You’ve lived by army rules, and then suddenly, you’re free. It’s strange. You’ve got to start from scratch.”Before the war, Harold had already begun training as an accountant.Without the interruption, he imagines he might have finished his studies, found a job, and married young. “But the war turned that path inside out,” he says.“When I got back, I just wanted to settle down. Find a girl, get married, have a family. That was my way of getting back to normal.”And that’s exactly what he did. He completed his qualifications as a Certified Practising Accountant, met and married Eunice in 1949, and together they built a home in Mascot.They raised three daughters, and now have seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Many family holidays were spent at their much-loved getaway in Jervis Bay.In recognition of his longstanding commitment to community service, Harold was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2007.When Harold retired they moved to the South Coast, a decision they had long dreamed about. “We loved it down here,” he says. “We built a cottage and eventually moved our whole life here.”Now living in Kiama, Harold reflects often on peace and forgiveness.“They were the enemy then. Now we trade with them. There’s no point holding hate. It doesn’t do anyone any good.”Harold’s story is one of endurance, perspective, and quiet resolve.“War is just one part of your life,” he says. “When it ends, you turn around and get on with the next bit.”

Opinion"My father refused to march on Anzac Day until the service of Indigenous soldiers was formally recognised."Those words, shared by a local resident after this year’s Anzac Day events in Jamberoo, capture something many of us felt but struggled to articulate.The moment you leave two flagpoles bare for an Anzac Day ceremony, you invite a distraction that should never have occurred.At the Anzac Day March in Jamberoo the weekend before Anzac Day, two flagpoles stood emptyAt the Anzac Day March in Jamberoo the weekend before Anzac Day, it was the RSL that made the decision to fly only the Australian national flag. Two flagpoles stood empty.This decision left many in the community feeling disappointed and excluded.Flags are symbols. And like language, tradition and democracy itself, symbols evolve.Across the world, flags have changed shape, colour and meaning, reflecting revolutions, reckonings and the growing understanding that nations are made up of more than one story.The British flag itself evolved into what we now call the Union Jack, acknowledging the union of England, Scotland and Ireland, and eventually representing the United Kingdom. It did not start that way. It grew.Australia’s flag, too, has a history of evolution. The Federation Star gained its seventh point in 1908 to represent all territories.A version of the Australian Blue Ensign was carried into battle by Australian troops in both World Wars.But it was not until 1954, more than five decades after Federation, that our current national flag was officially declared under the Flags Act. In 1995, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags were also formally proclaimed as official national flags of Australia.So when a local Anzac Day service takes place in front of three flagpoles and only one flag flies, it sends a message. Not necessarily an intentional one, but a message all the same.By Anzac Day itself, however, the story had changed. Local community members chose to raise all three national flags - the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags - side by side. The difference was not lost on those who attended.As one local said, "Well done to Jamberoo for being so inclusive and respectful of all, and for including ALL three of our national flags."Well done to Jamberoo for being so inclusive and respectful of all, and for including ALL three of our national flags.The emotional weight of the issue was clear in other reflections too."Respect to those RSLs now who acknowledge this also," another wrote, sharing a historical note that many Aboriginal servicemen were once excluded from RSL branches, denied entitlements, and discouraged from marching on Anzac Day.Many Aboriginal veterans returned from war only to face exclusion at home.Many Aboriginal veterans returned from war only to face exclusion at homeOthers pointed to deeper truths often overlooked."You can find a million pieces of info about colonisation of Kiama, but so very little on its first inhabitants," one contributor observed. "Forever learning."And when ugly arguments erupted online about which flags "deserved" to be flown, another reminder surfaced: "The gracious acceptance of the Aboriginal flag is, to me, characteristic of a country that has come to terms with its past, however difficult it has been."In my opinion, of all organisations, the RSL should understand that the details we choose to honour carry real weight.Recognising the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags as national flags in 1995 was not a small gesture. It was a deliberate act, a formal acknowledgment that Australia’s story did not begin in 1788.So when people dismiss the act of flying all three flags as unnecessary, I believe they are missing the point.This is not about tokenism. It is about truth, respect and the kind of country we choose to be.To me, in a nation where all three flags are officially recognised and flown at Parliament House, citizenship ceremonies, and at many Anzac Day services, leaving two flagpoles empty sends a message that cannot be ignored.Flying all three flags does not divide us. It strengthens us. It tells the truth. And it shows every young person that all who serve, and all who remember, belong.Next year, I hope we raise all three. Quietly, respectfully, together.

You could feel the frustration in the room, not anger for anger’s sake, but a deep weariness that came from years of seeing housing decisions made without listening to the people who live here.At last week’s housing forum at Kiama Leagues Club, the panel had spoken.Then it was the community’s turn. What followed was part town hall, part truth-telling session.So what would actually fix the housing strategy?When the question was put to the panel they didn’t hold back.Former urban planner Tony Gilmour suggested two quick changes: add affordable housing to the list of strategy priorities and make it crystal clear that in-fill and brownfield development are preferred over sprawl on greenfield sites."That’s planning 101," he said. "And we’re not even doing that."Housing Trust CEO Michelle Adair called for data with a pulse.“We need to know who’s going to live here,” she said. “How old are they, what are they earning, are they raising kids, are they care workers or casuals, or retirees?”Without this, she argued, the strategy is planning for a place that may not even exist. She also called for an action plan with actual action, not vague “we’ll review this in two years” clauses.Architect Madeleine Scarfe demanded targets. Social housing in the Kiama LGA sits at just 0.6 per cent - well below the state average of 4.2 per cent.She also called for an increase to at least 5 per cent and for limits on short-term rentals. "Targets matter," she said. "Even if they’re modest, we need to know where we’re headed."She also urged Kiama Council to take out Spring Hill and Riversdale Road from the strategy until demand justified it. “We don’t need them now,” she said. “Let’s not waste land just to hit numbers we don’t believe in.”Bronwyn Siden, a retired town planner, spoke plainly. “You can’t achieve affordable housing in greenfield sites,” she said. “The infrastructure costs alone make it unviable.”She called the current strategy a step forward, but one still fundamentally flawed.Her message was clear: Council needs help. Volunteers, experts and locals must work together if the vision is to be realised.Neville Fredericks, a developer and former Mayor backed her up. The real problem, he said, isn’t bad intentions, it’s bad regulation. “The system is designed to produce sprawl,” he said. “If you want compact, walkable, diverse housing, you have to change the rulebook.”And then came the big red flag - infrastructure. Or rather, the lack of it. One long-time resident asked how 900 new homes could be approved without accounting for the waste they would produce.He had done the maths: four people per home equals 720,000 litres of sewage from 900 homes per day. Has Sydney Water even been consulted?No one could say. The silence was damning. “We’re already short on sewer and space,” he said. “We can’t keep piling people in and pretend it will sort itself out.”Alan Woodward brought the cautionary tale. He spoke of Ligurano, a coastal town in Italy that once thrived.Now it’s a ghost town half the year. Holiday rentals replaced families, schools shut down, and trains stopped running. “Could Kiama become the next Ligurano?” he asked. The room fell quiet.And still, practical ideas kept coming. Bernadette Black, a South Precinct resident, described streets overwhelmed by short-term rentals - not a family getaway, but party houses for 18 guests with no development approval.An environmental advocate warned that Spring Creek, Kiama’s last remaining coastal freshwater wetland, was under threat from proposed housing development.A small local developer and builder stood up and told the story from the other side. “We want to build affordable homes,” he said, “but the system is stacked against us.”He listed every layer of cost: stamp duty, capital gains tax, GST, land tax, holding costs and the endless risk of going to the Land and Environment Court. “We’re not the enemy,” he said. “We’re part of the solution, if we’re allowed to be.”And yet, the room wasn’t cynical. It was clear-eyed. Create a citizen jury. Attract real innovation. Invite funders, insurers and housing organisations to collaborate with local knowledge.“The innovation won’t come from Council,” said panel member Jacqueline Forst. “But it can come from us.”In the final moments, 21-year-old Jordan Casson-Jones took the mic again. “If teachers and nurses and firefighters can’t live here, then this won’t be a community anymore,” he said. “It’ll just be a place.”

From Sydney’s bay walks to Kiama’s coastal vista, Fran Barton has always moved forward with quiet determination. Now, surrounded by good company and morning light, she’s found exactly where she needs to be. When Fran first visited Cedar on Collins, it wasn’t just the ocean breeze that drew her in, it was the sunlight.Her daughter, who lives in Kiama, had noticed it too and gently encouraged her. “Mum, I think it’s time,” she said.  At 96, Fran had spent years in Sydney, where her social circle had thinned and the hills near her home were, as she puts it, “a killer.”Stepping into a sunny, north-facing unit that catches both the morning and afternoon light, Fran knew she had found her next chapter. Nearly a year later, she has no regrets. “I couldn’t be happier,” Fran says, with a matter-of-fact warmth that suggests she’s not one for fuss. “There’s something for everyone here, but no pressure. I’ve got my independence, but there’s always someone nearby.” Fran, who has three children and 10 great-grandchildren, is known among fellow residents not just for her friendly presence but for her fitness.She completed the City2Surf seven years in a row, all after turning 70. “I said to my sister, I’ll keep doing it till I’m 80 if we enjoy it,” she recalls. “And we did.”Her sister Val, her companion in many of those races, passed away at 89, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and a headline that still makes Fran chuckle: “City Sisters Smash the City2Surf.” “We were at the back of the pack,” Fran says, “but we finished.” She laughs easily now, even while sharing the more difficult parts of her journey, losing her husband in 2012 after a long battle with Parkinson’s, navigating the quieter, lonelier years that followed, and recognising when it was finally time for a change. “I was ready when I was ready,” she says simply. What makes life at Cedar on Collins so special for Fran isn’t just the building, or even the outings and exercise classes she enjoys with fellow residents like Hilton and Jan, it’s the little signs that her life still ripples outward. Her daughter, Sidonie, a horticulturalist, has even named a flower after Fran’s cardigan - “Fran’s Cardy,” a pink bloom that links generations through colour and love. Fran doesn’t own a mobile phone, doesn’t see the point in it, and jokes that her daughters think she lives in a “time warp.” But her clarity of thought and compassion are anything but out of touch. She worries about the future, yes, about technology outpacing humanity, and about respect becoming rare, but she believes in women’s equality and independence, and sees those gains as vital. The hills of Kiama don’t bother her much anymore. “I’ve walked to the chemist, down to Penny Whistler. I’m working up to the shops,” she says, describing her gradual reclaiming of confidence. “I don’t use a stick. I don’t need it.” And when asked about a photo, Fran waves off any worry. “I’m not photogenic,” she says with a grin, before pausing. “But I don’t care.” After all, there’s strength in being seen - and plenty of sunshine to go around.

Opinion By Neville Fredericks, former Mayor of Kiama There is a better way to build. We do not spend our weekends strolling the cul-de-sacs of Campbelltown.We go to Berry or Braidwood.We are drawn to places with a town square, a traditional main street, and footpaths where people say hello.That tells me something. We know what good towns feel like, but somewhere along the line, we stopped building them. I have spent decades thinking about why.The answer lies in the planning codes that shape every street, setback and driveway.These codes still reflect post-war thinking, imported from the United States, where the car industry heavily influenced urban design. That is why so many new suburbs are built around cul-de-sacs and collector roads.They are car-dependent, not people-friendly. Public transport does not work in them. Neither does walkability.We inherited those frameworks, and we are still using them. When I was working on the Tullimbar project in Albion Park, we ran into exactly that problem.We wanted to create a compact, walkable, mixed-use township. But we quickly discovered the regulations would not allow it.So, with Council’s support, we wrote a new set of planning rules.At Tullimbar, we did things differently. Every street had a footpath on both sides.Setbacks were one metre, not five. Every home had a front veranda.If someone was sitting out front and you walked past on the footpath, you were only a few metres apart. You had to say good morning. You built relationships without trying.Some blocks were just 250 square metres. That is perfect for people who are ready to downsize, who are done with lawnmowers and want a home they can manage. But it was still Torrens title, because we had real laneways. Laneways matter. You cannot build good terrace housing without them. But most Council DCPs do not even contain a standard for them.We need to talk about that. Because as we age, more and more of us will want to downsize.Research out of Melbourne shows half of people over 65 would consider a smaller home if it was the right product. But that product is not being built, because our regulations do not permit it.The planning system, in many ways, is fostering worst practice. I cannot say that strongly enough. We need model regulations that allow for traditional towns, designed around walking, neighbourliness and mixed uses.I have spoken with the Department of Planning and the Government Architect.They agree with the need, but they told me that they needed additional skills and resources, and a model in order to lead it.They are waiting for someone else to go first. One place where best practice could happen locally is Bombo Quarry.With enough scale to support 5000 people, it offers a real opportunity to demonstrate what a sustainable, walkable township could look like. But to unlock that kind of thinking, we need inspired and visionary political leadership.The kind of leadership that is not afraid to challenge outdated assumptions or trial something different. The public can help. Advocacy matters. If the community clearly signals that this is what we want, then elected leaders are empowered to act.They can establish the right framework and set up the advisory teams needed to get it right.

Independent candidate for Gilmore Kate Dezarnaulds has been forced to defend herself after an email containing disparaging comments that she made about Berry was leaked to a media outlet.A section of the email was published by The Daily Telegraph on Monday in which Dezarnaulds described Berry as a "miserable backwards retirement village" and that "she can't wait to get out of" the picturesque South Coast town which is a part of the electorate of Gilmore.Dezarnaulds, who previously served as Berry Chamber of Commerce president, is one of eight candidates for the federal seat with pre-polling open last week leading into this Saturday's election day.In the email in question, which was sent to a number of Shoalhaven Council employees last May, she said “My term as president finishes in August and I cannot wait to get the hell out.”She admitted to sending the "poorly worded" email which she said was a result of "months of stonewalling by council in providing transparent details about leases over valuable community assets".Dezarnaulds told The Bugle that she was not overly concerned that the faux pas would cause much concern in the Gilmore electorate."One of the guiding beliefs of my campaign is that sunshine is the best disinfectant and I suspect that shining a light on these petty political games does little to recommend the Liberal Party to the sensible centre of our community, who will ultimately decide this election."The comments in question, while unfortunate, and admittedly poorly worded, came in a moment of frustration at the 11th hour, after months of stonewalling by Council in providing transparent details about leases over valuable community assets."For more than two years, as President of the Berry Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, I advocated for a more open leasing process for council-owned buildings, many of which were being provided on recurring peppercorn leases to a narrow group of community organisations."Kate Dezarnaulds speaks at a meet the candidates forum. Photo: SuppliedDezarnaulds claimed in her statement that the email has surfaced because a Liberal Party member "lodged a GIPA (Government Information Public Access) request to trawl through years of my correspondence with Shoalhaven Council". "This is a common tactic used by political parties to build 'dirt files' on opposing candidates. Out of 266 pages of correspondence across three years, they have found one single poorly chosen sentence expressing frustration about the renewal of these leases on the same terms to the same groups."This week, the Liberal Party have chosen to release this to the media in an attempt to stir division in my hometown. If that’s the worst they can find about me on the eve of a federal election, the people of Gilmore should sleep as soundly as I do."Frankly, the bigger concern here is the current culture and behaviour of the Liberal Party itself - from wasting Council resources in pursuit of petty political point-scoring, to daily demands for council rangers to remove legally positioned corflutes, and the domineering, intimidating behaviour witnessed at pre-poll booths this week. These increasingly desperate and petty tactics are making them unrecognisable to many former supporters- myself included."Dezarnaulds was adamant her full record as Berry Chamber of Commerce president showed that she "maintained a strong, professional relationship with Council, helped secure grants, ensured the Chamber’s financial stability beyond my own tenure, doubled Chamber membership, and led Berry to win three consecutive Top Tourism Town awards"."The Liberal Party would do better to spend less time playing political games and more time listening to their communities and developing good policies."That’s what people are looking for - leadership that puts the community first, and a positive change in our political culture."State Member for Kiama Gareth Ward issued a media release within a couple of hours of the story being published to criticise Dezarnaulds' actions.“How can you attack a community that you want to represent,” he said.“Having established the Age and Disability Commission to guard against the abuse, neglect and exploitation of older adults and people with disabilities, I consider her comments highly offensive.“The comment isn’t just age discrimination; it targets the very town this candidate lives in. I must say it’s an interesting operating model to attack the community you want to represent in Parliament.“Being a Member of Parliament involves respecting all people, including the views of all ages, and the views of people you don’t agree with. I deeply value the views of older Australians who share wisdom and experience with me.“Older Australians also make up such a large number of community volunteers. These comments are hurtful and disrespectful."An apology to older people and the Berry community is necessary. These comments will hurt and upset many."The full context of the email in question"I don’t know how much more clear I need to be in order to seek the support of Council to ensure the sustainable operations of the Berry Chamber of Commerce.My term as President finishes in August, and I cannot wait to get the hell out of this miserable backwards retirement village.What I would like to do is set the organisation up for success into the future before I go. Kicking this down the road for another five to ten years will miss the opportunity of this moment of positive momentum that I have volunteered endlessly for the last few years to create the conditions for."For the record, the leases to the two Council owned buildings in question were extended without transparency, reference to Community plans or priorities and without a tender process or review. Thus my frustration."

St John Ambulance Kiama Combined Division had a big week at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and local Anzac Day events.A team of a cadet first aider, six first responders and an Emergency Medical Technician travelled to Sydney to support the Royal Easter Show, on the show's busiest day. For many it was their first state event, which offered them experiences that are not commonly presented to them around the Illawarra and Shoalhaven. Kiama Combined Division’s 2IC and officer in charge, Melissa Williamson, said the team had a great time at the Easter Show.“It was a great experience for them, they got to see stuff they may not ever normally see. They got to meet members from all over the state,” she said.The St John Ambulance Kiama Combined Division at the Sydney Royal Easter ShowThe team treated 20 patients with cases increasing in complexity as the day continued, but they still had time to enjoy themselves. “We managed to squeeze in some time at the end to grab some showbags, which is really good. It was great for camaraderie between people,” Melissa said. Not long after their day at the Easter Show, the Kiama Combined Division were back out again attending the Kiama dawn service and the Anzac Day march and ceremony.“We don't actually charge anything for Anzac Day either because of what it is, we just go there completely voluntarily,” Melissa said. The Kiama Combined Division currently has around 20 adult members as well as seven members under the age of 18. The division covers community and sporting events within the local community and around the Shellharbour LGA, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands areas. “I guess some of the community events they can't run without first aid coverage,” Melissa said. “Because our guys are volunteers, we can do it for less than what you would pay for events management and organisation.”Melissa says that the benefit of volunteering with St John Ambulance goes beyond the events. “You gain those skills throughout and become confident in helping other people if something does go wrong,” she said. “It’s kind of a win-win…for the community and for the members to gain those skills, because those members are going to take those skills with them in everyday life.”Melissa encourages people to join St John Ambulance Kiama Combined Division as they are always looking for new volunteers.“All you can do is give it a go. We do have a period where you can decide before you're fully committed,” she said. “You won't be left on your own, taking charge of everything, you have people supporting you all the way.”St John Ambulance Kiama Combined Division are actively recruiting and looking for volunteers. To learn more or get involved, you can reach out to them via Facebook or through their website.

Looking for the perfect way to start your election day?Swap the polling queue for sea views and a story worth sharing.A special guided Landcare walk will be held at Werri Beach on Saturday 3 May, from 10am to 12pm.Led by local plant expert and Landcare legend Ailee Calderbank, this walk is your chance to uncover the hidden wonders of Werri Beach - one of Kiama’s most breathtaking landscapes, second only to the Blowhole.Here is what you will discover:• The native plants that weave the magic of our coastal and littoral rainforest vegetation,• The invasive weeds putting pressure on this fragile environment — and what we are doing about it,• The passionate Landcare volunteers who have been quietly restoring this beach for over 20 years,• How you can get involved in this inspiring conservation success story.Discover the hidden wonders of Werri Beach - one of Kiama’s most breathtaking landscapes, second only to the Blowhole. Photo: Siannon PariceThe plan:Meet under the iconic fig tree opposite 65 Pacific Avenue, Werri Beach, and return there for a delicious catered morning tea.Expect a relaxed walk along the full length of the beach, with plenty of time to stop, rest, and soak it all in.Important to know:• The walk covers dirt paths, sand, pavements, stairs and uneven ground.• Please wear sturdy walking shoes, a hat, comfortable clothes and bring plenty of water.You will still have heaps of time to vote afterwards - and you will have already voted for nature with your morning!Bring your friends, bring your family - and bring your love of this beautiful place.The event is free. Get your tickets here For more information, contact Meredith Hall on 0499 027 770

"Vote as if the future of your kids depends upon it, because it does" is the message appearing in letterboxes across Kiama in the lead-up to the federal election thanks to local members of the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change.The flyers circulating through Kiama are produced by the South East Climate Alliance and display a "climate and energy scorecard" where Gilmore’s political parties’ environmental policies are scored as poor, fair or good.The ARRCC is a multi-faith organisation that advocates for a sustainable future, viewing climate change as a moral and spiritual issue - one that should be considered in this year's election.Members of ARRCC and climate activists at Kiama Uniting ChurchARRCC member Louise Pinson says the organisation’s motivation is to spread awareness about climate issues and shed light on local political parties' environmental policies. “It's not telling people how to vote, but just asking them to think about the environment as they vote considerably,” she said. “For many of us, we have children and grandchildren, and my child and grandchild live here in Kiama, so I really want the world to be as good a place as it can be." She highlights that every ARRCC member is connected to a church or religious organisation and they might usually be seen as "conservative" but they want to “conserve nature and conserve our environment”. Kiama Uniting Church is one of many churches across Australia which displays climate change banners and encourages people to take yard signs to put up at their homes in this pre-election period. These banners and signs display slogans such as "climate action, not nuclear distraction" and "no new coal and gas". Berry Uniting Church Reverend John Brentnall highlights the importance of churches getting involved in climate action as caring for creation, which has been a part of the church’s DNA from the beginning. “It's to do with the recognition that God created everything, and that humankind is in the process of destroying a lot of it,” Rev. Brentnall said.“We just feel a responsibility to try and protect it and to remediate it if possible.”With their banners raised and flyers delivered, ARRCC’s community presence is a reminder that climate action can start anywhere.

Our region is fortunate to have active Lions Clubs making a real difference in the community - but to keep that momentum going, they need more helping hands.Both the Kiama and Minnamurra Lions Clubs are currently seeking new volunteers to support their initiatives in different ways.The Kiama Lions Club has been running its successful Return and Earn program for the past six years, raising over $20,000 in 2024 alone. The initiative involves collecting recyclable containers from around the community to raise funds for local groups and individuals in need.“It’s money for nothing, and it’s going to charity or back into the local area,” says Michael Fox, Return and Earn coordinator for Kiama Lions. “Plus, there’s the environmental benefit - keeping it out of landfill, the ocean, and wherever else it ends up.”Fox says the program requires a lot of hands-on support, and the club is eager to welcome new volunteers.“We’d love some extra help. You don’t need to be a Lions Club member to get involved - anyone from the public is welcome,” he says. “We’re looking for around 20 people over the course of a week, and not everyone is always available, so we really need backups.”Meanwhile, the Minnamurra Lions Club is hosting an Information Night at Jamberoo Pub on 20 May, aimed at introducing Jamberoo residents to the club’s work and encouraging new memberships.“There’s no Lions Club in Jamberoo, and while we’re called Minnamurra, the name actually refers to the Minnamurra River catchment - so our goal has always been to join with Jamberoo,” says Minnamurra Lions Club president Phil Lyon.“Anyone is welcome to come along, meet our members, and learn more about what we do. A lot of people don’t realise that Lions is the largest service organisation in the world - and all the money we raise goes directly to those in need.”If you're a Jamberoo resident - or simply someone interested in giving back - the Minnamurra Lions Club would love to hear from you or see you on 20 May.To get involved with either club, or to learn more, reach out directly to Kiama or Minnamurra Lions via their websites.

At The Bugle, we believe good local democracy starts with people feeling heard, valued and respected.Whether it's a footpath that goes nowhere, a crossing that makes your heart race, or a flashy new building that forgot to include truly accessible toilets, if something in your community isn’t working, you shouldn’t be left shouting into the void.And yet, that’s how it often feels.Maybe you’ve had a proper vent with the neighbours.Someone’s posted a frustrated comment in the local Facebook group.And now you’re wondering, what next? How do you actually get Kiama Council to listen?Believe it or not, there is a way forward.It’s not always fast, and it doesn’t come with fireworks.But with persistence, respect and a bit of strategy, it can work.Here’s how to turn frustration into action.1. Start with a councillorFind a councillor who might understand your concern. Give them a call or send a short, respectful email explaining what the issue is, why it matters, and what you’d like to see happen.Even better, invite them to come and see it.Councillors are far more likely to act when they’ve visited the surf club that just received a $5 million makeover, only to find the so-called “ambulant” toilet can’t actually be accessed by anyone using a mobility device.Or when they’ve had to cross Belinda Street, Gerringong, and found themselves in a game of chance with passing traffic.Grounding the issue in lived experience helps cut through.2. Speak at a public forumCouncil holds a public forum the Monday before each council meeting. If your issue lines up with an item on the agenda, you can register to speak.You’ll get five minutes. No grandstanding. No theatrics. Just a clear, calm opportunity to share your perspective. And yes, councillors do listen. Some even go back and rewatch the recording.3. Ask for a Notice of MotionThis is one of the most powerful tools councillors have. A Notice of Motion allows them to formally put an issue on the agenda for discussion and decision.You can’t submit one yourself, but you can ask a councillor to raise it on your behalf. If it’s supported, Council staff must follow up with a report or action.This is how change happens, whether it's about green waste services for local businesses, better planning for accessible infrastructure, or policies that actually reflect lived community needs.4. Build community backingIf the issue affects others, don’t go it alone. Talk to your local P&C, community advocacy group, surf club or sports group. Share your concerns and invite others to join the conversation.A lone voice might be dismissed as a squeaky wheel. A community chorus is much harder to ignore.5. Shine a lightStill hitting a wall?There’s power in visibility.Write a letter to the editor. Call in to local radio. Raise your issue respectfully on social media, or get in touch with The Bugle.Public pressure isn’t about stirring up outrage. It’s about shining a spotlight, building understanding and making sure those in power are paying attention.What to avoid• Don’t attack Council staff. They implement policy. They don’t make it.• Don’t send a novel. Keep emails short and focused.• Don’t wait until the ribbon-cutting. Raise concerns early when there’s still a chance to influence outcomes.Because local voices matterThe Bugle is committed to a stronger, fairer Kiama.We know that when people feel confident to speak up, when they know where to go, who to ask, and how the system works, they’re more likely to take part in shaping their community’s future.You don’t need a title, a platform or permission. You just need to care enough to say something.And when you do, we’re here to back you.

Gathered around a table at Perfect Break Café in Gerringong, Sue Daniels and Kent Ladkin share a laugh over vegan toasties and freshly squeezed juices.The conversation flows effortlessly, interspersed with stories about surfing, yoga, and local happenings.For these passionate South Coast Vegans, their lifestyle isn't just about diet, it's about community and friendship.Sue Daniels, a fourth-generation vegetarian turned vegan, moved to Australia ten years ago from the UK, bringing with her a strong commitment to animal welfare and community connection.She quickly realised the importance of camaraderie among like-minded people."Our vegan group is mainly for friendship, sharing recipes, and welcoming anyone interested. You don't have to be vegan to join," Sue explained.Sue Daniels is a regular volunteer at the Gerringong Bowling Club Community GardenKent Ladkin, owner of Perfect Break Café and the neighbouring Natural Necessity surf shop, embodies this ethos.A long-time vegan and dedicated yoga teacher, Kent opened the café as a place to foster community.He believes the café isn't just about food, it's a gathering space for conversations and connections. "Our goal has always been to create an inviting space for everyone, regardless of their dietary choices," Kent said.The South Coast Vegan group organises regular meet-ups, picnics at Seven Mile Beach, and coffee mornings around the region.Their gatherings highlight the inclusive spirit that defines their community. Sue fondly recalls these meet-ups, emphasising their value beyond the meals: "Friendship is at the heart of everything we do."The group also organises raffles to raise funds for wildlife sanctuaries, recently donating £70 to Hillside Animal Sanctuary.In their thank-you letter, Hillside emphasised the impact of the group's support: "Your compassion has a profound impact on the lives of the rescued animals in our care. Your contribution helps us provide a safe environment for farm animals, wildlife, and pets, ensuring they stay healthy and happy."Sue and Kent agree veganism is about more than dietary preference, it's a compassionate lifestyle choice that connects people through shared values.They avoid divisive discussions, focusing instead on mutual respect and understanding.Their interactions demonstrate a thoughtful, community-driven approach that resonates well beyond their group."We're about welcoming everyone and creating a supportive environment," Sue said.As the South Coast Vegans continue to grow, their commitment to community and camaraderie remains their greatest strength.

Gilmore candidate Kate Dezarnaulds is at loggerheads with local councils after some of her election signs across the electorate have been removed.Dezarnaulds claims voters are being denied fair access to information as the federal election campaign heads into its final week before the May 3 vote.The independent candidate said she has received advice from a respected Senior Counsel confirming that blanket bans on election signage are likely unlawful but council staff in Kiama, Shoalhaven and Eurobodalla have removed signs amid threats of fines of up to $6000 per sign.Her campaign director, Will Davies, said the removal of the signs had raised serious questions about fairness and democratic access."As an independent campaign working with a modest budget, visibility matters," he said."Major parties have access to millions of dollars for saturation advertising. Election signs are one of the few affordable ways for independent candidates to reach voters. Removing them tips the scales even further away from fairness."Davies added that the Kate 4 Gilmore campaign is fully complying with State Environmental Planning Policy to ensure signs are placed within the permitted election period, meet all safety and size requirements and will be removed within seven days of election day."Other councils across NSW are allowing signage during the election period where it meets basic requirements," he said."But here in Gilmore, we are seeing signs removed within hours of installation, sometimes even on public holidays, and minor issues, such as positioning on front lawns, receiving outsized enforcement responses."Gilmore voters deserve a level playing field, not an election campaign where independents are disadvantaged through inconsistent or heavy-handed enforcement."Dezarnaulds has formally written to all three councils seeking "a review of their approach and a commitment to uphold the principles of fair and open elections".Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has previously taken aim at candidates who have installed corflutes on public land, calling the practice “visual pollution” and a breach of the rules.“It’s not a free-for-all. The law is clear, and everyone should play by the same rules” the state member said.“If a small business was caught doing this, they would be fined – and so too should these candidates.”Pre-polling opened earlier this week at six locations throughout the Gilmore electorate.

More than double the expected number of walkers turned up on Saturday 12 April to take part in a Landcare guided Kiama Coast Walk, a gentle but powerful reminder of how much local knowledge matters in caring for country.The walk, which covered sections from the Little Blowhole to Minnamurra Headland, was part of the Kiama Coastal Community Planting Program, supported by a BUPA Healthy Cities Landcare Australia grant.The Landcare Kiama Coastal walk started at Little Blowhole It showcased the work of four local Landcare groups restoring native vegetation along the coastlineWe gathered at the Little Blowhole where Landcare site coordinator Chris Powell welcomed the group.Cr Melinda Lawton and Little Blowhole Landcare Coordiantor Chris PowellFrom the very beginning, the tone was warm, curious and collaborative, with community members eager to learn and connect.Three experts joined the walk and generously shared their time and insights: horticulturist, Carl Glaister, Landcare Illawarra coordinator Meredith Hall, and Landcare’s seed collector Brendon Hammond.Landcare Illawarra Seed Collector Brendon HammondTheir message was simple but crucial: local matters.Carl pointed out that even native plants can cause harm if they are not native to this area.Carl Glaister with a native not native to the area.He showed examples of non-local natives that had been planted with good intentions but were not thriving or had disrupted the local ecology.It was a clear reminder of why deep local knowledge, not just broad environmental awareness, is so important.He also drew attention to three weeds of national significance that continue to threaten our coastal landscape: Agapanthus, Asparagus fern, and the deceptively beautiful but damaging Madeira Vine.Asparagus vine and agapanthus thrive on either side of the Kendalls beach stairsMany walkers were stunned to discover that the lush vine growing along the fence at the Surf Beach cabins was, in fact, Madeira vine, a fast-spreading invader that can smother native bushland and pull down mature treesMadeira Vine thriving on the fence at Surf Beach cabins The walk ended with a generous morning tea at Minnamurra Headland, where walkers mingled with Landcare volunteers and swapped stories over homemade treats.For many, it wasn’t just about learning how to remove invasive weeds, it was about reconnecting to place, to purpose, and to one another.Weeds to watch out for:• Agapanthus (Agapanthus praecox): Often used in suburban gardens, agapanthus forms dense clumps that crowd out native plants. Its seeds spread easily via stormwater.• Asparagus fern (Asparagus aethiopicus): • A vigorous woody herb with spiky leaves and an underground corn that needs to be removed. Its colourful berries are spread easily by birds.• Madeira vine (Anredera cordifolia): This vine produces fleshy aerial tubers and can smother entire tree canopies. Despite its pretty heart-shaped leaves, it is a serious environmental threat.For practical tips on how to remove these weeds safely and effectively see the following links: Maderia Vine  Ground Asparagus (fern)  Agapanthus Upcoming events in Landcare Kiama Coastal Community Planting program.Saturday 3 May | 10am – 12pm | Werri Beach and Werri Lagoon Book hereWe know it is Election Day, but it will be a short walk.And please join one, or more 😊, of the community plantings at the sites you visited:Saturday 10 May | Bombo Headland – Hosted by Bombo Headland Landcare Book hereSaturday 17 May | Kendalls Beach (South End) – Hosted by Kaleula Headland Landcare Book hereSunday 18 May | Minnamurra – Hosted by Minnamurra Headland Landcare Book hereSaturday 24 May | Werri Beach – Hosted by Werri Beach Dunecare Book hereSaturday 31 May | Little Blowhole, Kiama – Hosted by Little Blowhole Landcare Book hereFriends and family are welcome. Even if you can come for a short time, it will help us plant 300 plants at each site.And just contact Meredith Hall on 0499 027 770 with any questions about these events or Landcare Illawarra, at any time.