NSW Premier Chris Minns believes the Government can get the balance right with development in Kiama amid community concerns over several multi-storey developments in the pipeline for the town centre.After Planning Minister Paul Scully said the Government was in favour on in-fill development instead of using greenfield locations in the surrounding areas, Minns moved to ease fears in the community about Kiama losing its character.The 14-storey proposal for the Level 33 development on Akuna Street is the main source of angst in the community along with another six-storey proposal at the other end of the street and the Kiama Council-led Shoalhaven Street Precinct, which could result in six- and eight-storey residential and commercial buildings across the road from the Bowling Club.“I wouldn't dismiss those concerns just outright,” Minns said.“You've got to have development that's in keeping with some of the most beautiful high streets and town centres that we have in the state.“But I think we can get the balance right. I think you can have a bit more urban development closer to town and one of the reasons it's really important is that it's got to go somewhere.”Minns, who was making his first visit to the region since the September by-election to announce pre-school funding in Bomaderry, recognised the need to avoid infringing on the natural beauty of the community.“In other words, ripping up green space to put more housing in with more land tracts.“So you've either got to go up or out or do a mix of the two. We're trying to do a mix.”For projects declared a State Significant Development, the Housing Delivery Authority and the Planning Minister can overrule Council’s objections to buildings being approved higher than their recommendations, which could be the case with the 14- and six-storey plans on Akuna St.“If the HDA makes a call, that's not the end of it. Obviously, it has to go through the planning and assessment process,” Minns added.“I think we can thread the needle - have more housing, but keep the natural beauty, the amenity of the local community up to scratch.”Minns’ Government recently passed new planning reforms which will speed up the housing approval process.“Over time, it'll make a big difference. But it's going to take time,” he said.“We got into this situation when it comes to housing prices and housing affordability over 10-15 years. So it's going to take time to get out of it, but it's a good positive step.“It means that we can have some common-sense laws.“One of the biggest changes is perhaps the least remarked on, and that is that the objectives of the Bill have now changed towards building houses.“Amazingly, previously that wasn't even mentioned as part of the legislation.“So I think any big state, any big jurisdiction that's got massive housing challenges, like we do in NSW, has to have as an objective of their plans, their legislation, their reforms, building new houses for the next generation.”Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald issued a statement to “set the record straight” on Council’s legal battle with Level 33 and how the potential for a 14-storey development to be approved was a matter for the NSW Government and Scully as the Planning Minister.

People in South Eastern NSW who are dealing with alcohol and other drug (AOD) dependency now have access to more tailored support, with a new round of grants from COORDINARE, the region’s Primary Health Network.COORDINARE’s Acting CEO Melissa Neal said while the region already has a range of AOD services and programs, new approaches are needed to reach priority populations who face higher risks or barriers.“Each program is tailored to improve access to holistic AOD programs to prevent and reduce harm for underserved communities, and to support a particular identified need in specific geographic regions,” Neal said.Wollongong Homeless Hub and Housing Services (WHHHS) will provide AOD harm minimisation support to people in crisis accommodation and drop-in services in Wollongong.Another program, Strong Sistas, is run by Directions Health Services. It focuses on women affected by family, domestic, and sexual violence (FDSV) who are also experiencing alcohol or other drug issues.Strong Sistas offers therapy, peer groups, case management, and referrals to complementary services in the lower Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla, and northern Bega Valley areas.“These programs provide vital support for women living with violence, particularly where substance use is involved,” said Directions Health CEO Bronwyn Hendry.“We’re here to listen, walk alongside people, and help them achieve their goals for themselves and their families – with dignity, strength, and connection.”The program supports women aged 18 and over, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and those living in regional or remote areas with limited access to services.WHHHS is also piloting Safe Pathways, which integrates AOD and peer support within housing services.The program aims to reduce housing breakdowns and improve tenancy outcomes.It supports people aged 18 and over from high-need groups, including those experiencing homelessness, escaping violence, leaving rehab, or from LGBTQIA+ and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.“Housing instability and substance use often go hand-in-hand,” said WHHHS CEO Mandy Booker. “By co-locating AOD and peer workers within our services, we’re creating a wraparound support system that meets people where they are. This initiative is about restoring dignity, stability, and hope.”These programs are funded under the Australian Government’s National Ice Action Strategy and National Drug Strategy.If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s alcohol or drug use, contact the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.

Several illegal tobacco stores in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven have been shut down this week, including one in Kiama, under the NSW Government’s new laws targeting illicit tobacco and illegal vaping.The stores have been closed immediately for 90 days, bringing the total number of stores shut to 24 since the tough new closure powers came into effect on 3 November.While closing down the 10 stores this week, which also took place in the Riverina, NSW Health inspectors, with support from NSW Police, found and seized over 349,000 illicit cigarettes, close to 17 kg of other illicit tobacco products and almost 4600 illegal vapes.Other stores in the Illawarra which have received closure orders are in Warrawong, Corrimal. Woonona and Wollongong.Investigations are ongoing and further enforcement action including prosecution may take place.“The operation this week across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Riverina is part of our ongoing efforts to disrupt the supply of illicit tobacco and illicit vaping goods to protect public health across NSW," Health Minister Ryan Park said.“Since the new closure powers started in early November, we have closed 24 stores.“This will take some time as we ramp up our closure activities, but this is just the beginning, and we want to reassure the community that we are targeting those retailers doing the wrong thing.“My message to retails selling illicit tobacco or vapes is stop it now. If you’re doing the wrong thing, sooner or later we will come for you.”NSW Health has been handed substantial powers to close premises selling illicit tobacco, illicit vaping goods or selling tobacco without a licence for up to 90 days.The Local Court may, on application by the NSW Health Secretary, make a long-term closure order of up to 12 months if satisfied a relevant breach has occurred.If an individual sells tobacco products, non-tobacco smoking products or vaping goods from closed premises they can be prosecuted and face a maximum penalty of up to:·For a first offence: 6 months imprisonment, a fine of $137,500, or bothFor a subsequent offence: 12 months imprisonment, a fine of $275,000, or bothFactors that may be considered in determining the length of a closure order can include previous conduct of the business, the seriousness of the offence, or immediate and ongoing harm to the community.From the start of this year until the end of October, NSW Health has conducted more than 1260 retailer inspections and seized more than 11.8 million cigarettes and over 2000kg of other illicit tobacco products and around 170,000 illegal vaping goods with a combined estimated street value of around $18.9 million.During this period, the NSW Ministry of Health finalised 17 prosecutions with the courts imposing a total of $597,200 in fines related to illicit vaping and tobacco offences. There are currently 28 prosecutions inclusive of the District Court appeal before the Courts.Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected breaches of tobacco retailing laws and the illegal sale of vaping goods on the NSW Health website.

It wasn’t quite the AC/DC classic hit ‘Back in Black’ being blasted out of the Kiama Council chambers at the November ordinary meeting, but better news from the NSW Audit Office to the Kiama LGA. NSW Audit Office Director Michael Kharzoo and Associate Director Mubashir Hassan provided an extensive overview to the meeting, sharing that Council is stepping out of the red. “You’ll see that there’s a $700,000 deficit in the current year which is a $2 million improvement from the prior year,” Kharzoo said. “Overall, the cash flows were negative $1.1 million so it’s only a small cash out this year.” Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud told The Bugle that while Council is not quite out of the woods yet with 12 months left to complete its Performance Improvement Order, this audit result demonstrates the sacrifice and resilience. “I said to the whole management team that this is going to be by far and away the hardest year because business efficiencies and service reviews will only yield so much savings,” Stroud said. “We have worked hard.” Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said that the audit provided “really positive news for Council”. “Congratulations to the administrative side, the CEO, the finance department, everyone that’s been involved in that,” Cr McDonald said. “They’ve worked very closely with the Audit, Risk and Investment Committee and with the Auditor-General’s Office to ensure that those reports are as they should be in accordance with the Local Government Act. “Underneath our performance improvement order, we’re heading towards that balance neutral so [that] by 2026-27 we have to have a balanced budget, and this really gives us a good oversight and view as to how we are tracking with that.” After the external audit was handed down, Stroud told the Council meeting of the hurdles they have had to overcome. “It is not that long ago in 2021-22 when we [Kiama Council] had a management letter that had 47 management issues and items,” Stroud said. “This year, we are down to four as well as having clean and unqualified audit opinions for the second year in a row and meeting all our statutory deadlines.  “Particularly when you consider the year that was last year and what a significant change in the organisation’s history and composition of its business.” The Bugle did ask if there would be an early Christmas present for the Kiama LGA, and sadly the Kiama CEO would not commit to taking up Santa Claus duties to provide any extra presents for the LGA in the form of a New Year’s Eve celebration. “We’ve got to stick to the budget. As I often say to my team, the budget is not a guide, we have got to make sure that we spend every penny wisely,” Stroud said.

It wasn’t quite the AC/DC classic hit ‘Back in Black’ being blasted out of the Kiama Council chambers at the November ordinary meeting, but better news from the NSW Audit Office to the Kiama LGA. NSW Audit Office Director Michael Kharzoo and Associate Director Mubashir Hassan provided an extensive overview to the meeting, sharing that Council is stepping out of the red. “You’ll see that there’s a $700,000 deficit in the current year which is a $2 million improvement from the prior year,” Kharzoo said. “Overall, the cash flows were negative $1.1 million so it’s only a small cash out this year.” Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud told The Bugle that while Council is not quite out of the woods yet with 12 months left to complete its Performance Improvement Order, this audit result demonstrates the sacrifice and resilience. “I said to the whole management team that this is going to be by far and away the hardest year because business efficiencies and service reviews will only yield so much savings,” Stroud said. “We have worked hard.” Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said that the audit provided “really positive news for Council”. “Congratulations to the administrative side, the CEO, the finance department, everyone that’s been involved in that,” Cr McDonald said. “They’ve worked very closely with the Audit, Risk and Investment Committee and with the Auditor-General’s Office to ensure that those reports are as they should be in accordance with the Local Government Act. “Underneath our performance improvement order, we’re heading towards that balance neutral so [that] by 2026-27 we have to have a balanced budget, and this really gives us a good oversight and view as to how we are tracking with that.” After the external audit was handed down, Stroud told the Council meeting of the hurdles they have had to overcome. “It is not that long ago in 2021-22 when we [Kiama Council] had a management letter that had 47 management issues and items,” Stroud said. “This year, we are down to four as well as having clean and unqualified audit opinions for the second year in a row and meeting all our statutory deadlines.  “Particularly when you consider the year that was last year and what a significant change in the organisation’s history and composition of its business.” The Bugle did ask if there would be an early Christmas present for the Kiama LGA, and sadly the Kiama CEO would not commit to taking up Santa Claus duties to provide any extra presents for the LGA in the form of a New Year’s Eve celebration. “We’ve got to stick to the budget. As I often say to my team, the budget is not a guide, we have got to make sure that we spend every penny wisely,” Stroud said.

Kiama Councillor Matt Brown is concerned about the old police residence on Terralong Street being an eyesore in the town centre and wants to see it restored to its former glory.Cr Brown put forward a Notice of Motion to Kiama Council at Tuesday night’s monthly meeting to advocate for a resolution around the former police residence at 30 Terralong Street, which has been snookered in a Native Title 1993 claim. He requested for Council to write to Kiama MP Katelin McInerney and the NSW Government to liaise with the state departments and the Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council [ILALC] to resurrect the heritage-listed building. “The residence is in a seriously devastated state and I think it’s concerning for everybody that we should have a beautiful building,” Cr Brown told the council meeting. Cr Brown said that he had spoken with ILALC CEO Adell Hyslop to gain a greater understanding of the predicament and said the proverbial legal handcuffs need to be removed. “I don’t have all the answers to how this should progress and that is why I am asking us to simply write to the local MP and try and work out a way forward in this somewhat complicated legal situation,” he said. “It is very unfair for anyone to point to the Land Council and say you need to do some work because they legally just can’t.”   Hyslop confirmed with The Bugle that the estimated cost for repair was between $2-3 million, and explained this was not a normal transaction of real estate for the circa 1850s residence. “We [ILALC] acknowledge that it is in a very dilapidated condition and that the building has become an eyesore,” Hyslop said. “The fact is that we have been working really closely with Crown Lands over the last couple of years, recognising that the costs now to potentially repair and restore both interior and exterior is going to be between $2-3m requiring restorations to be undertaken by a heritage expert.” Earlier in the meeting, Cr Brown tabled a letter from Ms Heslop to Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud, which provided an extensive overview of the situation. “The ILALC is very aware that the building, in its current condition, has become an eyesore in the main street,” Hyslop said in the letter. “We have been working closely with Crown Lands for approximately two years to obtain a hygienic report (now completed) and a builder’s report to assess [the] repair and restoration options.” The letter went on to detail the ILALC’s vision for the former police residence and how the transferring of ownership was under a successful land claim under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW) but goes on to explain the complexity of the next steps. “Because the claim was lodged after 1994, the land is subject to section 42 of the Act, which restricts dealings with land that may be subject to native title,” Hyslop said. “To initiate any type of dealing (i.e. direct use, issuing licences or leases) would require ILACLC to lodge a non-claimant application in the state courts to determine whether native title has been extinguished. “This process usually takes 12-18 months and costs approximately $20,000-$25,000.” Ms Hyslop further unpacks the complexities of the South Coast Peoples Native Title (SCPNT) claim, specifically, that the NSW Government would require the SCPNT to be finalised before the ILALC can lodge the non-claimant application. “Based on current timeframes, this determination [for the SCPNT] may not be concluded for another 5-8 years,” she said. “Following that, the ILALC would then need to negotiate with the registered Prescribed Body Corporate for the claim regarding agreed land use and/or financial or land compensation. “It is for these reasons, the ILALC cannot enter into licenses or leases for the property, as these would constitute ‘future acts’ under the Native Title Act 1993. “At this stage, the ILALC itself is unable to determine what use, if any, the property may have over the next 5-10 years. “The ILALC now owns a property that was poorly maintained for more than 20 years by successive government agencies – initially NSW Police and now Property and Development NSW – and which has become a significant financial liability. “The main purpose of land claims is to create wealth for Aboriginal people through land activation and business enterprises ventures. It is difficult to achieve this when land claims are encumbering with assets that are beyond economic repair.” Kiama Council voted unequivocally 8-0 (Cr Imogen Draisma declared a non-pecuniary interest as she is acting as the local MP’s electorate officer) for McInerney to advocate for greater support from the NSW government and its relevant departments.

Kiama Councillor Matt Brown is concerned about the old police residence on Terralong Street being an eyesore in the town centre and wants to see it restored to its former glory.Cr Brown put forward a Notice of Motion to Kiama Council at Tuesday night’s monthly meeting to advocate for a resolution around the former police residence at 30 Terralong Street, which has been snookered in a Native Title 1993 claim. He requested for Council to write to Kiama MP Katelin McInerney and the NSW Government to liaise with the state departments and the Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council [ILALC] to resurrect the heritage-listed building. “The residence is in a seriously devastated state and I think it’s concerning for everybody that we should have a beautiful building,” Cr Brown told the council meeting. Cr Brown said that he had spoken with ILALC CEO Adell Hyslop to gain a greater understanding of the predicament and said the proverbial legal handcuffs need to be removed. “I don’t have all the answers to how this should progress and that is why I am asking us to simply write to the local MP and try and work out a way forward in this somewhat complicated legal situation,” he said. “It is very unfair for anyone to point to the Land Council and say you need to do some work because they legally just can’t.”   Hyslop confirmed with The Bugle that the estimated cost for repair was between $2-3 million, and explained this was not a normal transaction of real estate for the circa 1850s residence. “We [ILALC] acknowledge that it is in a very dilapidated condition and that the building has become an eyesore,” Hyslop said. “The fact is that we have been working really closely with Crown Lands over the last couple of years, recognising that the costs now to potentially repair and restore both interior and exterior is going to be between $2-3m requiring restorations to be undertaken by a heritage expert.” Earlier in the meeting, Cr Brown tabled a letter from Ms Heslop to Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud, which provided an extensive overview of the situation. “The ILALC is very aware that the building, in its current condition, has become an eyesore in the main street,” Hyslop said in the letter. “We have been working closely with Crown Lands for approximately two years to obtain a hygienic report (now completed) and a builder’s report to assess [the] repair and restoration options.” The letter went on to detail the ILALC’s vision for the former police residence and how the transferring of ownership was under a successful land claim under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW) but goes on to explain the complexity of the next steps. “Because the claim was lodged after 1994, the land is subject to section 42 of the Act, which restricts dealings with land that may be subject to native title,” Hyslop said. “To initiate any type of dealing (i.e. direct use, issuing licences or leases) would require ILACLC to lodge a non-claimant application in the state courts to determine whether native title has been extinguished. “This process usually takes 12-18 months and costs approximately $20,000-$25,000.” Ms Hyslop further unpacks the complexities of the South Coast Peoples Native Title (SCPNT) claim, specifically, that the NSW Government would require the SCPNT to be finalised before the ILALC can lodge the non-claimant application. “Based on current timeframes, this determination [for the SCPNT] may not be concluded for another 5-8 years,” she said. “Following that, the ILALC would then need to negotiate with the registered Prescribed Body Corporate for the claim regarding agreed land use and/or financial or land compensation. “It is for these reasons, the ILALC cannot enter into licenses or leases for the property, as these would constitute ‘future acts’ under the Native Title Act 1993. “At this stage, the ILALC itself is unable to determine what use, if any, the property may have over the next 5-10 years. “The ILALC now owns a property that was poorly maintained for more than 20 years by successive government agencies – initially NSW Police and now Property and Development NSW – and which has become a significant financial liability. “The main purpose of land claims is to create wealth for Aboriginal people through land activation and business enterprises ventures. It is difficult to achieve this when land claims are encumbering with assets that are beyond economic repair.” Kiama Council voted unequivocally 8-0 (Cr Imogen Draisma declared a non-pecuniary interest as she is acting as the local MP’s electorate officer) for McInerney to advocate for greater support from the NSW government and its relevant departments.

There is a wide range of news and views from our local South Coast community in this week's edition of The Bugle.Our main story focuses on the divided opinion over multi-storey developments that are in the pipeline for Kiama's town centre.CLICK HERE TO READ OUR DIGITAL EDITIONNSW Premier Chris Minns, Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald and Council CEO Jane Stroud have their say on how the various proposals should progress.“You've got to have development that's in keeping with some of the most beautiful high streets and town centres that we have in the state," Minns said.“But I think we can get the balance right. I think you can have a bit more urban development closer to town and one of the reasons it's really important is that it's got to go somewhere.”You can also read plenty of great community stories including the stalemate over the former police residence in Kiama, a Christmas gift guide, a column from former Mayor Neil Reilly on the development issue and an Astute local business.In sport, you can read about all the latest in South Coast cricket, a young basketballer on the rise and the Kiama Knights' presentation night.Kiama Knights fullback Brad Killmore capped off a stellar return season by taking out the First Grade Best and Fairest award at the club’s 2025 presentation night.Best and Fairest & Player’s Player in the Kiama women's leaguetag team was Chelsea Wallace.

Kiama Council has approved funding for nine community initiatives, supporting everything from Christmas celebrations and live music to a locally produced documentary.The decision, made at Council’s 18 November meeting, awards $31,787 under the Signature Community Events, Cultural, and Health and Sustainability grant programs.Mayor Cameron McDonald said the grants aim to keep the region connected and thriving. “Kiama Council is proud to support these initiatives that bring people together, celebrate our culture and promote healthy, sustainable living,” he said. “These grants reflect our commitment to building a strong, connected community.”This round of funding includes support for Carols in the Park by the Kiama District Ministers Fraternal, the Gerringong Christmas Parade run by the Lions Club, and the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival’s Let’s Play! initiative.The Gerringong & District Historical Society will receive funding for the Werri Beach Estate Centenary, while Healthy Cities Illawarra will deliver its Let’s Play Kiama program.Slow Bird Productions’ Finding Your Path documentary also received support, alongside Damico Sound’s Music in the Park.The Kiama Illawarra Pride Choir will host its inaugural concert with the help of a grant, and The Everyday Table Kiama will continue its Shared Meals Connection Food Skills program.Council has allocated $85,000 for the 2025–26 financial year, leaving $52,213 available for the second round of funding, which is expected to open in February 2026.Applications were assessed on community benefit, alignment with Council’s Community Strategic Plan, value for money, capacity to deliver, and the project’s contribution to inclusivity.Local groups, artists and organisers are encouraged to start preparing for the next round, which will support projects that strengthen connection, wellbeing and resilience across the Kiama LGA.

The NSW Government has revealed a sweeping vision to reshape Nowra’s CBD and riverfront, outlining plans that could deliver more than 900 new homes, revitalise the city centre and strengthen links to the Shoalhaven River.Released on Wednesday, the Nowra City Centre Strategic Roadmap sets out a long-term blueprint for growth in the city’s commercial heart.The plan aims to boost investment, support new businesses, improve access to essential services and create a more vibrant connection between the CBD and the river.Alongside the roadmap, two rezoning proposals have been placed on public exhibition, covering more than six hectares of land along the riverfront.Together, the proposals would enable significant residential development within 200 metres of schools, parks, community facilities, transport and the newly upgraded Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital.The Nowra Riverfront Precinct proposal applies to 3.4 hectares between Bridge Road, Hyam Street and Scenic Drive.The plan would allow up to 377 new homes and introduce a two per cent affordable housing requirement.Building heights would rise from the current 11 to 28 metres to between 20 and 44 metres, with floor space ratios increasing to a range of 0.6:1 to 2:1.The proposal would also permit boatsheds to operate on land fronting the river along Scenic Drive.Next door, the Mandalay Sub-Precinct proposal, led by Homes NSW, covers 2.7 hectares of adjacent riverfront land.It would unlock approximately 530 new homes, including around 100 social and affordable dwellings.At least 30 per cent of homes on government-owned sites would be dedicated to social and affordable housing.Height limits would increase from two storeys to between three and six storeys, and the changes will create opportunities for new cafés and restaurants along the riverfront.The Government says the plans align with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041 and build on major recent investments in Nowra, including the Princes Highway upgrade, the four-lane Nowra Bridge and the $440 million redevelopment of Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital.Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast Ryan Park said the region’s expected growth made it essential to plan ahead.“With the Shoalhaven council area expected to grow by more than 43,000 people by 2041, we’re acting now to ensure the community has access to affordable, well-located homes,” he said.Planning Minister Paul Scully said the roadmap and rezonings offer a chance to create “a thriving hub with new jobs and homes,” while Housing Minister Rose Jackson welcomed the focus on new social housing close to essential services. Local MPs Liza Butler and Kaitlin McInerney also encouraged residents to review the plans and contribute feedback.Both proposals are now on public exhibition until 5pm on 17 December 2025. A drop-in community engagement session will be held from 4pm to 6.45pm on 27 November.

NSW Premier Chris Minns is on a mission to rid regional areas of the preschool deserts which have long frustrated parents away from the big cities.Minns visited the site for a new public preschool next to Bomaderry Public School to help start construction, one of 10 new facilities for the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions which are set to open in early 2027. There will be another 10 built in regional areas of the state as part of the NSW Government’s $769 million investment in public early learning.All public preschools will be co-located with local public schools, supporting children’s transition into kindergarten and easing pick-up and drop-off for parents with older students at the same school.The preschools will offer high-quality early education within state-of-the-art learning facilities which will include landscaped outdoor playground areas.Once complete they will provide places for up to 9000 additional children to access high-quality early education in their local community.“Providing the best possible start for our children is one of the most important investments any government can make,” Minns said.“Families in rural and regional NSW have told us they are struggling to find affordable, high-quality early learning close to home. “That’s exactly what these new public preschools in the regions will help fix – like this one right here in Bomaderry.“The former government didn’t build a single public preschool in 12 years. We’re building 100 in our first term, that are co-located with public schools so parents can also avoid the double drop-off.”He said there was a flow-on effect from this investment in preschools.“This is a crucial part of equity and fairness for families in regional communities,” Minns added.“It's incredibly important in lifting female participation in the workforce because we know where there are early childhood education deserts, there's less opportunities for both partners to be in the workforce. “When you live in one of the most expensive housing markets in the world, that is absolutely crucial and hugely necessary. “And this $770 million public preschool program is going to make a major difference in the communities where this program is being run out.”Kiama MP Katelin McInerney described the Bomaderry preschool as “an important resource for our families”.“When I first stood (for election) in 2023, I spoke to hundreds of families in this community, and one of the things that they were telling me at the time was that we needed more quality preschool places for our youngest learners,” she said.“It's going to be a really well-appreciated asset, and I'm so proud to have done my part to make sure that we have our littlest learners in the best possible environment, getting the best possible start.“I’m delighted that construction is underway and the school will soon be welcoming its first class of preschoolers.”Member for South Coast Liza Butler added: “The preschools we are building at Greenwell Point, Sanctuary Point, and the brand-new Worrigee Public School will give more children the best possible start to their education, right in the heart of their local community.”“As a child of parents who were both teachers and many, many family members that are currently teachers, I know the importance of early education and access to free public early education.”For Bomaderry Public School principal Dionne Hanbidge, they have been advocating for an onsite preschool “because we truly understand how much our children and families will benefit from this local early learning opportunity”.“Having a public preschool right here on our school grounds is pretty close to a dream come true, as it will not only provide high-quality early education but also create a seamless transition for our children as they move into kindergarten.” Among the other preschools which are part of the public preschool construction program are Barrack Heights, Berkeley West, Cringila, Greenwell Point, Hayes Park, Lake Heights and Sanctuary Point.

It was more like a party than a charity event when the Orangutan Foundation International hosted its Race to Save The Rainforest event at Kiama Surf Club on Sunday.The charity organisation is dedicated to facilitating the rescue, rehabilitation and release of these endangered animals, and preventing the further destruction of the rainforest they call home.“I think it was very successful. It felt like a party. There’s a lot of charities [and] a lot of fundraisers, so people are a bit fundraiser-weary. But it went the best it could have possibly gone,” said Kiama businesswoman Fiona Kennedy, who coordinated the event and has been an active member of the OFI for over 10 years.The Surf Club was transformed into a jungle with Kangia palms and vines from Mountain Range Nursery. Patrons sipped on orange cocktails courtesy of Campari and enjoyed catering from Kiama’s Saltwater Cafe, while enjoying live jazz from young performers and an engaging speech from OFI Australia president Kobe Steele.Various raffles and silent auctions were available to attendees, each of which went off without a hitch.Prizes included paintings from local artists Michelle Springett, Helen Harrowell, Bob McRae and Dr Pete Marshall, and multiple donated items from local businesses such as JJ’s Indian Restaurant, The Bellevue Hotel, Jamberoo Valley Farm, Making Faces Makeup Studio, Cin Cin Restaurant and Wine Bar, Fee’s Bees Honey and Cellarbrations.The night’s proceeds are going towards the construction of enclosures to house the primates and prepare them for a safe return to the wild, and to purchase square footage of the rainforest to prevent continued deforestation from palm oil extraction. “It’s destroying forests that can’t be replaced,” said Kennedy. “The name ‘orgautan’ means ‘gardeners of the forest’. They keep [it] going by eating and vegetation and pulling up seeds and roots. "These animals are very important to the whole ecosystem.”Stripped from their natural habitats, the traumatised orangutans are often exploited and sold on the black market for upwards of $250,000.It’s not just orangutans who are affected by the deforestation process. When the remaining debris is burned, the underground peat bog smolders and emits dangerous greenhouse gasses into the air.Kennedy is appreciative of the “amazing support” from the community in advocating for the global issue.For those who missed the event, the OFI website offers a ‘Foster Parent’ program where individuals can sponsor a displaced orangutan and provide it with necessary care from afar.

If you’ve ever wished your family Christmas photo came with a sea breeze and sandy toes, you’re in luck. Santa on the Beach is returning to Jones Beach, turning the shoreline into Kiama Downs’ most festive pop-up photo studio.Run by Kiama Downs Surf Life Saving Club, the annual tradition has become a firm favourite with local families who flock to the beach each November for a coastal spin on the classic Santa portrait. With a freshly redesigned set, a cheerful Surf Club Santa and the ocean as the backdrop, it’s become one of those only-in-Kiama moments that signals the start of summer.Sessions will run across two weekends in late November: Saturday 22 November from 9am to 1pm, Sunday 23 November from 1pm to 4pm, Saturday 29 November from 9am to 1pm, and Sunday 30 November from 12pm to 4pm. Pre-booking is strongly encouraged, with last year’s slots filling quickly. Bookings can be made online via the Kiama Downs SLSC Facebook page, and organisers say there’s a chance additional times may open up if demand is high.The fundraiser has grown steadily over the years, now serving as one of the surf club’s major income streams for its nippers program and essential rescue equipment.“Our Santa Photos on the Beach have been a huge success over the years,” says junior activities chairperson Ben Woods.“We invite everyone to come on down, bring family and furry friends. “It is great to see everyone getting into the festive spirit, from matching outfits to dressed-up pets. “It is a fantastic community event.”

In the heart of Vincentia, a change of tides is providing waves of relief for families across the Shoalhaven. Led by Jodie Heasman and her dedicated team, Oracle Support is building recovery pathways for families facing some of life’s toughest challenges.Tailored by experienced social workers and community cultural leaders, Oracle’s programs are designed to meet people at whichever situation they are in. Some walk into Jodie’s office with their babies, barefoot and no plans but to try and find a better life. Jodie and her team have helped many families bring that innocent light back into their tribes.With domestic violence on the rise, Oracle Support and Kiama Community College have joined forces to help women and children rewrite their stories.“We see a future where people can live free from domestic, family or sexual violence, substance addiction, homelessness, isolation, and exclusion,” Jodie explains.They have a new fitted-out Vincentia office base at Suite 2, Level 1 Burton Street Mall.Oracle is creating a healing space where community members can be seen, heard and supported through self-care strategies, counselling, workshops and recovery programs.From behavioural change sessions to healing on Country, their holistic approach has made Oracle a cornerstone of community wellbeing. The staff’s front yard? The white sands of Vincentia’s beaches, a daily reminder that peace really can begin in our own backyards.Their collaboration with Kiama and Shoalhaven Community Colleges has birthed the Care, Connect, Culture program. This is a gentle invitation for women to reconnect, heal, and learn practical life skills, followed by a nourishing lunch at Phoebe’s Kitchen downstairs.Participants receive certificates in Indigenous Art, Healing on Country, and Natural Living, but the real takeaway is confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging.“Together, we’ll walk a path of wellbeing, connection and care,” Jodie says.Oracle also runs the Positive Choices men’s program in collaboration with Achievable You, a behavioural change workshop designed to help men understand their emotions and make better choices in relationships.Free to participants and open to men aged 18 and over, the two-session course teaches real tools for conflict and emotional regulation, with completion certificates provided. The next intake begins in 2026. Every program at Oracle is free, community-funded and focused on creating a culture of care.“Trauma prevention and recovery is our culture in action,” Jodie says.Oracle Support isn’t a crisis service but through connection, compassion and collaboration, it is proving that healing starts with community and that the Shoalhaven’s strongest foundations are built together.

Kiama Council is spreading some extra Christmas cheer by offering residents an additional garbage (red lid bin) collection.Demand for waste services can be high over the Christmas-New Year period so Council is encouraging residents to take advantage of this service.Further information about regular collection dates can be found by inputting your address on Council's Find my bin collection date webpage.The extra collection details will be in these areas on these dates: Zone 1– extra red lid bin collection on Monday 22 DecemberZone 2 – extra red lid bin collection on Monday 29 DecemberZone 3 - extra red lid bin collection on Tuesday 23 DecemberZone 4 - extra red lid bin collection on Tuesday 30 DecemberZone 5 - extra red lid bin collection on Wednesday 24 DecemberZone 6 - extra red lid bin collection on Wednesday 31 DecemberZone 7 - extra red lid bin collection on Friday 26 DecemberZone 8 - extra red lid bin collection on Friday 26 DecemberZone 9 - extra red lid bin collection on Saturday 27 DecemberZone 10 - extra red lid bin collection on Saturday 27 DecemberRural Zone 11 - extra red lid bin collection on Tuesday 23 December.Rural Zone 12 - extra red lid bin collection on Wednesday 24 December.Council is also reminding residents that for problem household wastes such as batteries, cardboard, computers, televisions, paints, light globes, mobile phones, textiles, batteries, gas bottles, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, they should be dropped off at the Community Recycling Centre (CRC), located at the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Facility. The CRC facility will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.To dispose of live Christmas trees, residents are urged to cut them up and place them in their green lid bin with other FOGO waste.Artificial Christmas trees should be placed in red lid bins as they are not recyclable.

Kiama MP Katelin McInerney has launched the Kiama Electorate Christmas Gifting Drive, partnering with Albion Park and Albion Park Rail Community Centres and Salt Care in Bomaderry to collect gifts for those doing it tough.With Christmas fast approaching, many families across the Kiama electorate are facing a difficult festive season so she is calling on the community to help spread festive cheer to local families in need."Christmas should be a time of joy and delight for every child, but we know that's simply not possible for many families in our community right now," she said."I'm asking residents to dig deep and help us sprinkle a little Christmas magic into the lives of local families who are struggling. "Whether it's a toy for a toddler, sporting equipment for an active kid, or a gift voucher for a teenager – every contribution, no matter how small, can make an enormous difference."This is our chance to show that our community cares and that no family should face Christmas alone or without hope."I particularly want to encourage donations for our older teens, who can sometimes be forgotten at Christmas. "Toiletries, gift vouchers to major shopping chains, and age-appropriate gifts are incredibly welcome and will help these young people feel valued and remembered."Please give what you can – every gift helps spread the Christmas cheer our community is famous for.”To help make it easier for people to donate, the team at First National Real Estate Albion Park, operated by Alison Mansell and Darren Mansell, have kindly volunteered to be a collection point.The drive is accepting donations of new toys, sporting goods, games, toiletries, gifts, and gift vouchers. Donations will be accepted until 5pm, 12 December.Donation collection points:First National Real Estate Albion Park, 220A Tongarra Rd, Albion Park NSW 2527Kiama Electorate Office, 102 Terralong Street, Kiama NSW 2533

Four Year 11 students from Kiama High School - Ziggy Scobie, Lola Erokhin, Isla Buchanan and Alex O'Reilly-Fullerton - are gearing up for an inspiring start to 2026 after being selected to attend the prestigious National Youth Science Forum in January.The 12-day program, held at the Australian National University in Canberra and the University of Queensland, brings together students from across Australia to explore cutting-edge science, meet leading researchers and take part in hands-on workshops not possible in school settings.Kiama High science teacher Ruth Power, who has been promoting the program for years, said it gives students a rare opportunity to deepen their passion for science and make valuable connections.“Every student comes away saying it was an amazing experience,” Ms Power said. “They come back reinvigorated, inspired, and often rethinking their future career paths.”She said the program - which costs around $3000 per participant - is proudly supported by the Kiama and Gerringong Rotary clubs, who help fundraise and sponsor students each year.“The generosity of Rotary is always so appreciated,” she said. “It’s incredible to see how much they care about supporting young people in our community.”Over her 25 years as a science teacher, Ms Power said she’s seen the program spark leadership, confidence, and ambition among students.“For some, it’s the ignition point - that moment where their passion for science truly comes alive,” she said.The National Youth Science Forum will run in January, helping students connect with like-minded peers and discover just how far a love of science can take them.

This week's Bugle Bulletin brings you the best of the week’s local stories.Our lead item this week revolves around NSW Premier Chris Minns visiting the region for the first time since the by-election two months ago.He was on the South Coast to announce that work is about to begin on Bomaderry's new public pre-school, which will be one of 10 new facilities in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven area.Minns also addressed concerns about the proposed high-rise developments in Kiama with a 14-storey plan for Akuna Street causing widespread debate in the community.He thinks the State Government will get the balance right in planning for how coastal towns in the area will look in the future.We also report on the incident near Kiama rockpool in which an elderly man was found dead by emergency services on Friday.You can also tune in to see the Orangutan Foundation International charity event at Kiama Surf Club on Sunday as well as the Countdown Live concert which rocked The Country Club in St Georges Basin.And in sport, young surfer Lucy Darragh has added to her impressive record with a stunning success in Taiwan.The Hawks have gone down to the Sydney Kings and Illawarra's NBL title defence is looking somewhat shaky.At The Bugle, we’re committed to pairing impactful visuals with meaningful local storytelling - delivering a news experience that’s informative, entertaining, and deeply connected to our community.Subscribe to The Bugle News Kiama on YouTube so you never miss an episode!

A man has been charged with 11 offences after wielding an axe during a tense stand-off with South Coast Police at South Nowra on Friday night.Shortly before 7pm, emergency services were called to a home on Holloway Road following reports a man had forced his way into the property.Attending officers were told a 24-year-old man was inside the home armed with an axe, and was preventing three occupants – a 53-year-old woman and two 49-year-old men – from leaving.Three other female occupants – aged 32, 41 and 55 – were able to exit the home prior to police arriving.Police established a perimeter and contacted specialist resources to assist.About 11.15pm, specialist police from the Tactical Operations Unit, Tactical Operations Regional Support and Dog Unit entered the home and arrested him.During the arrest, the man was bitten by a police dog and tasered.He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene for lower-body injuries before being taken to Shoalhaven Hospital under police guard.On Saturday, he was taken to Nowra Police Station, where he was refused bail and charged with 11 offences:Contravene prohibition/restriction in AVOSpecial aggravation break and enter and commit serious indictable offenceStalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (personal) (three counts)Wound person with intent to cause grievous bodily harmStalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (domestic) (three counts)Kidnap with intent commit serious indicticable offence occasion actual bodily harmAssault police officer in execution of duty cause actual bodily harmThe 55-year-old woman was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for a minor arm injury, while both 49-year-old men were taken to Shoalhaven Hospital in stable conditions for treatment of minor upper body injuries.