The Gerringong and District Historical Society has received a donation of $2,779 from the Sunday Night Charity Raffles held at the Gerringong Bowling Club. The wonderful generosity shown through these raffles will assist us in mounting ongoing exhibitions of interest to the Gerringong community. ‘Swim between the Flags’ is the next exhibition by our Archive Team exploring the history of the Gerringong Surf Club from 1914 to 1994. This timely exhibition coincides with the completion of the new Surf Club premises.The exhibition will be opened by Gary George, President of the club, at 2pm on Saturday 22 March at the Gerringong Heritage Museum. The exhibition will certainly be of interest to present and past Surf Club members as well as the wider Gerringong community.

Gerringong is revving up for an exciting day as The Gerringong Lions Club Car Show & Motor Fest rolls into Michael Cronin Oval on Saturday, 15th February. The event, proudly sponsored by Kiama Council, Power FM, Gerringong Automotive, Prized Pieces, Shannon’s Insurance, and Bowden’s Car Care Products, promises a spectacular display of over 300 cars.Most importantly, all proceeds from the event will go directly to The Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation. Last year, the Lions Club donated $15,000 to the cause, and with strong support from the Gerringong community and participants, they hope to match or exceed that amount this year.Event Details:Spectator entry: $5 per person (children 12 and under free)Car entry fee: $10Trophies awarded for:Best in ShowBest Classic CarBest Modified CarSpectator vote: Attendees can cast a vote for their favourite carAdding to the excitement, the NSW Police Force will showcase a Highway Patrol vehicle, and a raffle will offer fantastic prizes: 1st Prize: Three nights at Easts Beach BIG4 Park (valued at $1,190) 2nd Prize: $300 worth of Bowden’s Car Care Products 3rd Prize: A $200 hamper from Gerringong IGAThere are limited spaces left for car entries. Car clubs or individuals interested in participating can contact Stefanie at [email protected] or 0410 626 199 to check availability.Gates open to the public at 9 AM, with food and refreshments available throughout the day. Plus, the Gerringong Markets are just a short stroll away, making it a fantastic family day out.Don't miss this high-octane community event supporting a great cause!

We are all a product of our life experiences, and those experiences shape who we become. As someone once said, if your partner doesn’t support you and what you care about, and vice versa, your partnership won’t last long. Amanda Large and Dave Butcher exemplify this truth through their enduring relationship, which is built on mutual respect, shared affinity, and a deep connection to the natural world. Their story is the last in my Valentine's series.   Amanda Large and Dave Butcher’s love story is one built on shared values, mutual respect, and a deep connection with the natural world. Their journey together has been a slow burn, beginning as colleagues and developing into a lifelong partnership. They first met in the mid-1980s through work, when Amanda was running the animal welfare branch for local government, and Dave, interested in the welfare of research animals, provided advice in that area. Amanda asked him to come in for a discussion, which stretched toward lunchtime. When Dave asked if she’d like to go to lunch, she firmly replied, ‘Thank you very much, I’ve got my own packed lunch.’ That was the end of lunch invitations, but they continued working together on a consultative committee for animal welfare, which led to the establishment of a system for animal welfare within research institutions.  They remained colleagues for several years before their relationship evolved into something more. Dave recalls Amanda as being ‘very, very attractive,’ though it was another five or six years before they married. Amanda, when reviewing nominations for the committee, summed Dave up with the comment: ‘apparently competent.’ Over the years, their relationship has thrived on shared values, similar political outlooks, and a mutual fascination with animals and the environment. It was Dave’s promise of a long-awaited horse that sealed the deal when they moved to their property in 2009, finding their home within weeks and never looking back..Winning hearts and changing lives. The horse brought Amanda and Dave to Jamberoo, and this bond proves it was meant to be Despite their different career paths, Amanda transitioning from veterinary science to law, and Dave, a veterinarian, dedicating much of his life to animal welfare and conservation, including leadership roles with Western Plains Taronga Zoo, RSPCA, WWF and Greening Australia, they have always supported each other’s ambitions. Their life together is a blend of shared and independent pursuits.  Both are actively involved in the community through the Red Cross, the Jamberoo Valley Classic Vehicles Club, and the Jamberoo Rural Fire Brigade, but they each take on distinct roles within these organisations. Amanda describes their relationship as one of balance, time together, time apart, and constant learning. “You have to keep it interesting,” she says. “When you work from home, like I do, you need to get out and do things, so you have something to talk about when you come back.” Though they never had children together, their life has been rich in companionship, community, and purpose. The key, Amanda believes, is their enduring ability to make each other laugh and their shared love for the world around them.  

When Paul announced in February that he was getting married in April, his mother, Linden Kalinin, felt a rush of joy - quickly followed by the realisation that two months was a very short time to plan a wedding. But as a librarian, she had a secret weapon: the Dewey Decimal System.What started as a flurry of excitement quickly turned into a research project. Wedding etiquette? Shelf 395.22. Project management? 658.404. Speech writing? 808.51 - oh, the nerves! Table settings, napkin folding, stress management… all neatly catalogued in the world of books.Gerringong was the perfect location, a place filled with beauty and community. Paul and Satomi, his Japanese bride, chose to be married at the Uniting Church, with the reception at the Surf Club, where the hardworking Children’s Medical Research Foundation ladies catered a meal to remember.Yet some things - love, joy, the sheer emotion of the day - could not be found in any library. As Linden watched Satomi, who had been a cherished visitor in their lives for so long, finally become family, she realised that no book could capture that feeling.The rain fell, but instead of dampening spirits, it made for a cosy celebration, with guests gathering close, sharing stories, and savouring the simple pleasure of being together.In the end, despite lists, research, and meticulous planning, the day was defined not by its perfect execution but by the love that filled the room. And yet, Paul still insists it was a "simple little wedding" in Gerringong.But Linden Kalinin, the librarian, knows better.This story was originally written by Linden Kalinin for the TAFE Library newsletter and has been adapted for The Bugle.

For Kiama local, James Brown and his business partners, Nova Vino isn’t just about importing wine, it’s about sharing a story. Inspired by an encounter with Georgian wine during a trip abroad, a question was sparked: “How do we bring this wonderful wine to Australia?”The company was then founded 18 months ago, by three friends from diverse professional backgrounds of sales, law, and finance. Determined to bring the unique flavours of Georgia to the local area, the trio invested in sourcing wines and securing collaborations with two Georgian wineries Shumi and Marani. Needing his own firsthand experience, James travelled to Georgia, immersing himself in the country’s ancient winemaking culture. Here, their winemaking traditions date back over 8000 years, with wine made in clay pots called Qvevris. This winemaking method, sees the harvested grapes and their stalks added to the Qvevris buried in the ground, to ferment for months.The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Their first order of 7,000 bottles was overwhelming, but through their own marketing efforts, Nova Vino made a name for itself.Nova Vino is building a strong presence in Kiama - local sommelier, Kayla Meta has joined the team and brings a wealth of knowledge. Acting as accounts manager for the company, Kayla, highlights that it is very different for a brand to be launching regionally as well as expanding into Sydney.“The food and wine scene down here is really pushing forward, so to say ‘we actually believe in the area for our brand's launch is really unique,” says Kayla. James and Kayla both highlight that Georgian wine is a niche market offering, one that caters for wine experimentation and exploration, for those people who want to try something different with some unique wine varietals. With wines priced between $22 and $120, there’s something for everyone, from casual drinkers to connoisseurs.Nova Vino recently hosted a sold out tasting night at Cin Cin Wine Bar, hoping to expand into more local restaurants and bars. Even as their business grows, Nova Vino remains dedicated to bringing a unique taste of Georgia’s winemaking traditions to Australia. Try some for yourself this week from stockists - Manning Street Cellars or check out their website www.novavino.com.au

Alana Valentine’s new play Nucleus is all about the nuclear energy debate, which is quite timely considering what is going on in the country at the moment. But when she began working on it six years ago, she had no idea the debate would resurface.“I was working on this for about six years,” says Valentine. “In fact, I had a public reading at the Shoalhaven Art Centre in 2022 which some of your readers might've come to. It wasn't the same play but it was based on some of that research I'd done.“I put all that in an archive box and wrote a different play which became Nucleus but in truth I've been working on it for years and I didn't know that they were going to revive the nuclear power debate, but in the end I like that theatre can have its finger on the zeitgeist.”Nucleus follows the lives of a man and a woman on opposite sides of the nuclear debate, exploring their lives over nearly 30 years. The play is inspired by the real-life story of the proposed nuclear power plant in Jervis Bay.“I have a deep passion for Australian history,” says Valentine. “I really believe that if we understand our past, we can better shape our future. I’m a resident of Jervis Bay, so I’ve swum at Murray’s Beach many times. I knew that the car park there had been the site of a failed attempt to build a nuclear power station on the headland in 1969.“I started talking to activists who had been involved during that time - not just with the Jervis Bay project. I met some amazing people in the Shoalhaven area who made the kind of life that we live now possible.”Nucleus Promotional Poster. Source: Griffin Theatre Company.Valentine has been a playwright for many years, often focusing on verbatim theatre, where scripts are based on real people's words. Her most famous works include Paramatta Girls, which explores the experiences of three Indigenous women in a Parramatta Girls Home, and Run Rabbit Run, which focuses on the South Sydney Rabbitohs.However, Nucleus is fictional - though rooted in extensive research and interviews about nuclear energy activists on both sides - because Valentine wanted the creative freedom to tell a richer story.“When I work with real people and their lives, I want to portray them with integrity, making sure they feel they’ve been represented properly,” she says. “Similarly, I wanted to depict both sides of the nuclear energy debate with integrity. But Nucleus is also a deeply personal story. “The nuclear debate serves as a metaphor, pushing these two characters to confront the legacy of their relationship. The play unfolds in a series of reveals, and fiction allowed me to give more depth to the characters and make the story more engaging, as it’s just the two of them talking.”While Valentine aims to fairly represent both sides of the debate, she makes it clear that the play isn’t going to make your mind up for you.“My whole life has been based on the idea that people have their own opinions and that they have their own brains and what the theatre should do is complicate the issue and present the human face of this story,” says Valentine.The play is structured to draw you into the debate through the relationship between the two characters. As their lives become increasingly intertwined, the debate falls away and you’re left with a complex, but human, relationship between two people.It is refreshing to see at a time when heated debates online often obscure the human side of things, Nucleus reminds us that it’s possible to disagree respectfully, without compromising your beliefs.“You can disagree with someone and still be civil. It doesn’t mean abandoning your opinions; it just means listening and explaining why you believe what you do,” Valentine says.Nucleus opens at the Griffin Theatre Company in Darlinghurst on 14 February and runs until 15 March and you can buy tickets here: https://welcome.griffintheatre.com.au/overview/4505.

An independent candidate running for the seat of Gilmore is encouraging the community to share their stories, ideas, and concerns about the future at a series of talks across the region.Kate Dezarnaulds is calling on locals to find their voice, champion a cause and step up to speak at the We Are Gilmore Lightning Talks.The talks will kick off at Nowra School of Arts on February 28, followed by events in Gerringong, Culburra, Moruya, and Ulladulla.“Inspired by the growing grassroots Community Independent movement across Australia, the We Are Gilmore series aims to connect, energise, and elevate diverse voices across the electorate,” says Ms Dezarnaulds.“The events will feature fast-paced, engaging talks from local community members, covering personal experiences, big ideas, and pressing local issues."This is politics done differently—more listening, more learning, and more people-powered action.”Nowra - February 28 from 6pm - 10pm, Nowra School of Arts.Gerringong - March 1 from 6pm, 106 Fern Street.Culburra - March 2, from 6pm, 4 Farrant Ave, Culburra Beach.Moruya - March 8 from 6pm, 11 Page Street, Moruya.Ulladulla - March 9, from 6pm, 141 St Vincent Street, Ulladulla.

Students with a passion for politics can now be selected for a National Youth Parliament.Up to 150 high school students will be selected to represent their electorate in the three-day program, held in Canberra next year. The National Youth Parliament, launched by speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick, will teach students about the drafting, consideration and passing of bills to become law. It complements the Parliament in Schools civics education program delivered to over 145 schools across the nation. “The National Youth Parliament will give our young people a national platform to contribute to democracy and politics through a hands-on experience,” says Mr Dick.“Young people have a vital role to play in public discussion, and a youth parliament is a meaningful and sustained youth engagement model that we have seen across Australia and the Commonwealth.”The National Youth Parliament will begin taking applications in the second half of this year.

True partnerships are built on love, respect, and the space for each person to grow as an individual. In this fourth instalment of our Valentine’s Day series,True partnerships are built on love, respect, and the space for each person to grow as an individual. In this fourth instalment of our Valentine’s Day series, Geoff and Marilyn Heinecke’s story stands out not just for its longevity but for the balance they have nurtured throughout their 51-year marriage.Geoff and Marilyn Heinecke’s love story began in Sydney when Geoff, a country boy from Tumbarumba, visited his aunt in Bondi. Marilyn, best friends with his cousin, was just 12 when they first met. Geoff, by his own admission, was "very boring" back then, but years later, they reconnected, and their long-distance romance took off.Geoff would travel to Sydney, taking Marilyn out for dinner in nice places – "sort of interesting," she recalls with a laugh.Marilyn, a city girl and trained nurse, took a leap of faith, leaving Bondi for Tumbarumba after they married in 1973.The transition was stark – she had barely been outside of Sydney before. “I was a real city girl,” Marilyn says. “Bondi, then nurse training at St Vincent’s, then suddenly Tumbarumba.” But working at the local hospital gave her independence and a sense of belonging. She arrived at the same time as another young nurse who had married the local vet, and they formed a strong bond.In 1976, Geoff and Marilyn moved to Kiama, drawn by family ties and the promise of a new chapter. They don’t just tell their story – they share it, feeding off each other, finishing each other’s sentences, filling in the details. Their partnership is built on love, laughter, and mutual respect.Geoff continued teaching when they moved to Kiama, while Marilyn continued nursing. “I was lucky,” she says. “I could work, I could be my own person, not just Geoff’s wife.” Geoff, ever the storyteller, fondly remembers the students who challenged him, the ones he reached with patience and humour. “Teaching is like a merry-go-round,” he says. “The same characters get on each year, just with different names.”As they settled into life in Kiama, their family grew, and they watched their children thrive in local schools.Their son went on to become the CEO of a Norwegian paper company, their daughter an accountant. The next generation may not be teachers or nurses, but there is a doctor in training.Their marriage has been filled with love, family, and adventure. Marilyn lights up when talking about the breathtaking “Inside Passage in Alaska” tour – the glaciers, the stillness of the water, and the sheer beauty of the landscape. Geoff, on the other hand, recalls their time in Russia, fascinated by its history and culture. They still love cruising, with a Kimberley trip planned for later this year.After nearly 51 years together, they remain deeply connected, sharing everything from family joys to community ties. “We’ve had a wonderful life,” Marilyn says, smiling at Geoff. He grins back. “And we’re not done yet.”

This is the third instalment in The Bugle’s Valentine’s Day series, celebrating love that stands the test of time.When statistics tell us that the average Australian marriage lasts just eight years, reaching 61 years together is nothing short of remarkable.For Robyn and Gary Atkins, love has been about respect, shared adventures and an unwavering commitment to each other.From their first meeting at a Sydney jazz club to a life built in Jamberoo, their story is one of simple joys, enduring love and a deep appreciation for life’s journey, whether at home, in their motorhome exploring the outback, or among their beloved community.Their secret? Kindness, laughter and never sweating the small stuff.Sixty-one years of marriage is no small feat, but for Robyn and Gary Atkins, it has been a journey of love, respect and a little bit of jazz.The couple first met at a jazz club in Sydney in 1961, an era when dance halls and live music were the backdrop to many romances. Robyn, originally from Cobar, moved to Sydney with her family when she was eight.She left school at 15 and began working as a junior at George Patterson Advertising before later becoming a flight hostess with East West Airlines.Gary, who grew up on a dairy farm near Taree, came to Sydney to complete his apprenticeship and built a career as a millwright with Great Western/Fielders Flour Mill, later working on the maintenance team at ABB in Moorebank.“I thought he was too young,” Robyn recalls with a laugh. “I made him show me his driver’s licence. He couldn’t dance – trod all over my toes – but there was something about him.”Three years later, they married at Hurstville Presbyterian Church.Gary and Robyn Atkins on their wedding day. Their early years were spent in Sydney, but they always had a connection to the Kiama area, spending weekends at their caravan at Kendalls Beach.When their daughter Melissa married a local, they decided to make Jamberoo their permanent home – and have now been there for nearly 25 years.So what is the secret to their long and happy marriage?“We never argue,” Robyn says simply. “Well, maybe a few little spats, but nothing serious. We respect each other. We’ve never been materialistic – never felt the need to keep up with the Joneses.”Their deep roots in the community have made Jamberoo home. Gary enjoys spending time around the house, keeping the lawns immaculate and makes sure to get out for a walk every day. “It’s good exercise,” Robyn says. “He even pushes the lawnmower – no ride-on for him!”In retirement, they have embraced travel, exploring both overseas destinations and the vast landscapes of Australia in their motorhome. For Robyn and Gary, nothing compares to discovering the "real life and backbone" of Australia, meeting people in small towns and experiencing the outback.“You see the heart of the country that way, it’s not just about the places, it’s about the people.”For Robyn and Gary, life is about family, community and appreciating the simple things. “We love it here,” Robyn says. “We have wonderful neighbours, a great community and a life we love.”

Greg Martin Vale, a well-known local artist, has been exhibiting at The Old Fire Station in Kiama, showcasing his latest works.Recently, Greg won the Jean Hanson Memorial Award at the Kiama Show, along with “one or two” first prizes. However, he insists the real value of the show isn’t the awards but the exposure and connections it brings. One such example is a customer who, after seeing his work at the show four years ago, recently reached out to purchase a canvas print.Greg also made an impact in an unexpected category at the Kiama Show - cleaning up in the plant section!Every February and October (usually over the long weekend), Greg holds an exhibition at The Old Fire Station. Again, for him, it’s about visibility and reaching a wider audience.But beyond his own work, Greg is passionate about the broader arts scene in Kiama. He believes the town desperately needs a designated year-round art gallery to boost tourism and support local creatives. He noted that Mayor Neil Reilly has shown interest in making a dedicated space at the council chambers, - which never came to fruition. Maybe in the future developments!"Tourism in Kiama is lopsided," Greg said. "Creatives need to be celebrated, and artists need spaces that attract visitors." He also highlighted the strong local arts community, praising initiatives like the Kiama Arts Society’s exhibition at Kiama Leagues Club in July.Greg also stressed the need for a theatre or multi-purpose creative space, where artists across disciplines could come together, collaborate, and showcase their talents. Kiama Arts Society has an exhibition at Kiama Leagues Club in July which is great for creatives and for the community.For now, visitors can enjoy his and other artists work revolving throughout the year at The Old Fire Station, gaining a glimpse into Kiama’s thriving creative scene.

The Labor and Greens-controlled Senate has postponed the federal inquiry into the offshore wind industry's consultation process, causing community outrage.Originally set to conclude by 13 February, the Senate Committee has delayed the report's release until 13 March.Submissions for the Inquiry, which closed on 30 August, 2024, have raised serious concerns about the transparency and effectiveness of the consultation process. Despite earlier commitments to hold public hearings and complete the inquiry before a federal election, the delay has led to suspicions of political interference, as an early election could undermine efforts to ensure proper scrutiny and public involvement.Alex O’Brien, President of Responsible Future Illawarra, says the delay is unacceptable.“We expected a prompt and fair review, but what we're seeing is a clear political strategy to avoid accountability especially if there are no public inquiries,” says O’Brien.Ben Abbott from No Offshore Turbines Port Stephens says that the community genuinely engaged with the inquiry and have not been treated with the same respect in return. “The community's participation in this Inquiry was in good faith and I am disgusted with the way the Port Stephens community has been treated from the very start and nothing has changed,” says Abbott.Responsible Future Illawarra and No Turbines Port Stephens view the situation as a political manoeuvre that compromises transparency and accountability. They are determined to continue opposing offshore wind projects and are calling on the Senate Committee to complete the inquiry before the federal election, to ensure that Australians’ democratic right to be heard is protected.

Valentine’s Day is more than a fleeting moment of romance - it’s about the relationships that shape our lives, whether they be lifelong marriages, new beginnings, friendships, or the ways we express love through thoughtful gestures.This year The Bugle is celebrating love in all its forms with a six-part series highlighting local stories of romance, commitment, and community spirit.For our second story The Bugle talked to Keith and Barbara Adams, who have shared 56 years of marriage built on love, laughter, and a deep connection to the Kiama community.Their story is one of resilience and joy, showing that love is not just about grand gestures but the small moments that create a lifetime together.Keith and Barbara Adams have shared 56 years of marriage, a life shaped by love, laughter, and deep ties to their community.Their journey together began when they met at a Salvation Army Harvest Festival. “Keith used to go with his mates to youth group,” Barbara recalls. She was 18 at the time, and four years later, they married and started a life that would see them raise three boys and become pillars of Jamberoo.The secret to their long marriage? “Oh, I don’t know,” Barbara laughs. “We just get on with life.”While they rarely argue, Keith grins and adds, “I just let Barbara be the boss.”Keith and Barbara moved to Jamberoo 36 years ago, where Keith built their home and worked to support the family while Barbara dedicated herself to the community.Barbara has spent 17 years involved with Red Cross - 15 of them as president - while Keith, ever the joker, calls himself Mr Red Cross.He proudly takes on the house duties and supports Barbara’s efforts behind the scenes.Their commitment to Jamberoo runs deep. From school P&C meetings to the local football club, they’ve always been involved. Now, in their over-55s community, they remain surrounded by friends and a strong sense of belonging. “Jamberoo is community, community, community,” Barbara says, and for Keith and Barbara, it’s the perfect place to call home.Stay tuned as we bring you four more stories filled with heart, history, and homegrown romance.

Valentine’s Day is more than a fleeting moment of romance, it’s about the relationships that shape our lives, whether they be lifelong marriages, new beginnings, friendships, or the ways we express love through thoughtful gestures.This year, The Bugle is celebrating love in all its forms with a six-part series highlighting local stories of romance, commitment, and community spirit.Our series begins with Stan and Jenny Judd, whose love story is woven into the fabric of Kiama and Jamberoo.Jenny is a Kiama girl through and through, while Stan moved to Jamberoo as a boy when his father bought a dairy farm on Minnamurra Falls Road.They met in 1967 at the Illawarra Rural Youth Club, where young people from farming and non-farming backgrounds came together.But they weren’t a couple at first. Instead, they built a friendship through dances, competitions, and events, getting to know each other without any pressure.“We were just part of the same group, going to football balls, show dances, and rural youth competitions,” Jenny recalls. “It was a great way to really know someone before romance even entered the picture.”It wasn’t until 1969 that they officially started dating, drawn together by a shared love of community and adventure. They married in 1971 at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Kiama and built their life on the family farm. Stan and Jenny Judd married in 1971 at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Kiama and built their life on the family farm. When dairy farming no longer seemed the future, Stan transitioned to the quarry industry, working his way up to manager. Jenny focused on raising their two children, growing their own vegetables, and supporting the family business.“The real highlight of our marriage has been our family,” Jenny says. “We were blessed with two wonderful children, and now we have four beautiful grandchildren. Nothing in life could ever compare to that.”Every second year, they took their children on long camping trips across Australia, forging unforgettable memories.“We packed up the Land Rover and just went,” Jenny says. “Cape York, the Flinders Ranges, out to the desert. We wanted our kids to see beyond their backyard.”Their children inherited their love of adventure. After finishing their education, both headed overseas on working holidays before settling in Queensland.Veronica and her two daughters now live in Brisbane, while Adrian and his family are on the Tweed Coast. “We do a lot of flying and driving back and forth,” Jenny says. “At least they’re in the same direction!”Despite the distance, they remain a close family. “We meet up regularly, and all our grandchildren have had holidays with us,”Jenny says. “That’s been such a wonderful way to bond. They’re aged from 14 to 19, all so individual, all a treasure. We are very blessed.”“We were always a team,” Stan adds. “And we still are. That’s the key.”

As Valentine's Day 2025 approaches, Kiama’s Wildflower Studio is embracing a growing shift towards sustainability, local flowers, and creative alternatives to the traditional red rose.Owner Kate Riordan and Kim, Wildflower Studio’s floral stylist, now in their third year running the florist, have witnessed firsthand how tastes are evolving.“When we first took over in 2022, roses were still a big part of Valentine’s Day, but we also saw a huge demand for native wildflowers,” says Kate. “Now, three years on, that trend has only grown.People are looking for something fresh and modern. "The younger generation especially loves native flowers, while older customers tend to stick with the classic red rose.”Owner Kate Riordan and Kim, Wildflower Studio’s floral stylist, now in their third year running the florist, have witnessed firsthand how tastes are evolving.All roses at Wildflower Studio are Australian grown “We never stock imported flowers,” Kate notes, reinforcing the studio’s commitment to sustainability and supporting local growers.The Wildflower Studio is also offering add-ons for those looking to make their Valentine’s gift extra special.Locally made chocolates from Tilda & Cacao are proving to be a hit, with handcrafted bonbons tailored for the occasion. For those with a sweet tooth, they’re also stocking heart shaped donuts from Moist & Glazed, complete with love heart sprinkles.Beyond gifts, the studio has teamed up with local men’s hairdresser, Gentleman’s Cut on Manning Street, for a Valentine’s promotion. “Any man who gets a haircut this week can bring in their receipt and receive 10% off their Valentine’s Day purchases,” says Kate“It’s a fun way to get people involved and encourage local shopping.”As Valentine’s Day spending continues to grow, with Australians expected to splash out $535 million this year, Kiama locals are embracing a mix of tradition and innovation. While romantic dinners and flower bouquets remain popular, more people are looking for unique ways to mark the occasion. Whether that’s celebrating Valentine’s Day with friends, opting for native flowers over roses, or picking up a box of chocolates and a fresh new haircut.For Kate and Kim, the focus is clear: making Valentine’s Day special while keeping it local, sustainable, and full of love.

John Micallef never set out to be a hero. At 74, he was simply out at Gerroa enjoying his latest passion, wing foiling, when an ordinary afternoon turned into a life-saving mission.It was a rough day on the water. As John made his way back to shore, he noticed two men on the beach waving at him.At first, he thought they were yelling because he had come too close to the swimmers. "I was getting a bit concerned because they were bigger than me," John laughed."Then I thought maybe they were warning me about a shark."But as he turned to look, he saw a woman being dragged further out to sea by a strong rip.Her arm was flailing above the water in distress. Without hesitation, John sprang into action."I knew I had to reach her quickly. Rather than approaching her standing on my foil board, which has a razor-sharp hydrofoil, I stayed on my knees, using the wing to propel myself towards her."Photo Credit: Bob McMillan When John reached the woman, she was exhausted and anxious. He knew the key was to keep her calm. "I just told her, ‘Stay calm. Everything will be alright.’"The board was too small to hold them both, so he instructed her to grip the foot strap and hold onto the board for buoyancy.Then, carefully, he used the wind to steer them back towards shore. "We were about 200 metres out, but thankfully there was a strong wind helping us in."The real challenge came as they entered the wave zone. "I had to be really careful because the hydrofoil underneath is incredibly sharp. I told her, ‘When I say so, push away from the board as far as you can.’ And she did exactly that when the waves hit."After tumbling through a few waves, they finally reached the shallows. "I told her, ‘Alright, we’re nearly there. When you can stand, just let go and walk in.’ And that was it."Waiting onshore, the two men who had signalled John ran to thank him.The woman, still shaken, was immensely grateful."I thought you were abusing me!" John joked to the men. "They said, ‘No, no, we were trying to get you to help her!’"John’s friend Joe Fischer, who is 78, was in awe when he heard what had happened. "The bloke’s 74, he should be in a nursing home!" Joe laughed. "But instead, he’s out there saving lives. He’s braved the elements and rescued someone. Good on him, I say. He deserves a medal."The rescued woman had unknowingly entered a dangerous rip. "The area near track three always has a strong rip," John explained. "It’s not a safe place to swim, and unfortunately, she got caught."Mayor Cameron McDonald praised John’s quick thinking and the strong community effort that supports beach safety."What an an exemplary awareness of quick thinking and ocean awareness.Thanks to John in averting what may have been another tragedy on a local beach. Again, we see members of the community assisting lifeguards and voluntary lifesavers in keeping our beach users safe. It also serves as a reminder - swim between the flags, listen to lifesavers' instructions, know your abilities, and don’t go in if you don’t know local conditions. Respect the ocean always."Despite his modesty, John’s act of courage highlights the importance of ocean awareness and staying calm in emergencies. "I’d never done anything like this before.As I was approaching her, I thought, ‘How am I going to handle this?’ My final thought was, if I can just get to her, at least she’ll have something to hold onto. And if I couldn’t get her in myself, I’d stay with her and call for help."John also credits the woman for staying calm and following his instructions. "That was imperative," he said. "Otherwise, both the swimmer and the rescuer can be in danger."At an age where many might slow down, John remains incredibly active, cycling, playing tennis, performing in a band, and now, wing foiling. "I don’t know that I’m super fit," he said. "I’ve had two heart operations in the last year. But I love being active."Joe, however, isn’t buying John’s humility. "The man’s a legend," he said. "He’s out there doing things that most of us wouldn’t even attempt at half his age."As locals continue efforts to educate visitors about surf safety, John’s story serves as both a reminder of the ocean’s dangers and an inspiration.He was simply in the right place at the right time - with the skills, courage, and quick thinking to save a life.

On Wednesday, 12 February, Jervis Bay writer Kell Woods, author of the Sunday Times bestseller After the Forest, will launch her new novel Upon a Starlit Tide in Huskisson.Kell’s debut novel, After the Forest, was a gritty reimagining of Hansel and Gretel set in Germany's Black Forest in 1650. Now, with her highly anticipated follow-up she transports readers to a new historical setting and reimagines not one, but two classic fairytales.Upon a Starlit Tide weaves together the tales of The Little Mermaid and Cinderella, set in Saint-Malo, Brittany, in 1758.The story follows Lucinde "Luce" Leon, the youngest daughter of one of Saint-Malo’s wealthiest shipowners. While Luce dreams of escaping her privileged yet stifling life to join a ship’s crew, her plans are derailed when she rescues a near-drowned man from the sea.Kell was offered a two-book deal with US publishers TOR Books who released her debut in 2023. She was then given 18 months to write her follow-up."Writing went from being my weird little hobby that no one cared about to suddenly being my job. It was incredibly exciting and wonderful, but at the same time, it was terrifying and filled with self-doubt," says Kell. "I thought, They’re going to realise they've chosen the wrong person. I had to work through all the impostor syndrome and second-book anxiety. It was just a matter of putting your bum on the seat and chipping away at it until something came."The first piece of the Upon a Starlit Tide was found when Kell felt drawn to reimagining The Little Mermaid. But as she delved deeper into the story, she realised it needed something else to balance the original tale’s dark themes - and that’s when she found the next piece."The Little Mermaid is a really dark, sad story," says Kell. "She dies in the end, turns into foam, the Prince chooses someone else, and her tongue is cut out - it’s grim. I realised I wanted to weave in another story with more lightness and beauty, so I chose Cinderella."It was this fusion of fairytales that ultimately shaped the novel. In finding Cinderella, Kell also discovered the setting for her story - Saint-Malo, a city with a rich history and a backdrop of both opulence and darkness."Because I was doing Cinderella, I thought, I could set this in France. From there, I began researching the French coastline and different historical periods, eventually settling on Saint-Malo," says Kell.Saint-Malo, a walled city on the English Channel, is both beautiful and steeped in maritime history. The 18th century, when the novel is set, was also an era of decadent masked balls for the French aristocracy - making it an ideal setting for two contrasting fairytales to coexist.Through the intersection of fantasy and historical reality, Kell aims to immerse readers in a world where the fantastical feels just as real as the tangible."I do as much research as a historical fiction writer would," says Kell. "I want readers to feel like the place is real, that everything makes sense, and that it feels familiar. From there, I launch into magic, witchcraft, mermaids, and other fantastical elements."Kell believes that blending these elements with historical reality is important because, in those times, people genuinely believed in mythical creatures and folklore."People back then actually believed in this stuff, and that’s probably the main reason I’m drawn to it," says Kell. "They believed it was real, so I can dig into their beliefs and make it feel as authentic to readers as it did to them."Saint-Malo’s folklore is rich with tales of fairies living in rocks and caves, as well as stories of mermaids and magic - elements that greatly influenced Kell’s storytelling.Upon a Starlit Tide will be released by HarperCollins Australia on Wednesday, 12 February. Kell will be celebrating the launch with friends, family, and book lovers at back-to-back events at BooBook on Owen and Jervis Bay Coffee in Huskisson.After that she will be having a book tour, and all dates and locations can be found on her website: https://www.kellwoods.com.au/news.

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is ready to swing into Milton’s inaugural Folk, Jazz and Blues Festival and has provided a $10,900 grant to help kick-start the event.The three-day Milton Folk, Jazz and Blues Festival will be held at venues across the village, including the iconic Milton Theatre, pubs and cafes from May 9-11 and will showcase performances by some of Australia’s most renowned artists, alongside talented local musicians.Mrs Phillips recently attended a fundraiser for the event at the Milton Hotel where she met with organisers, including Jacob Woods.“I congratulate Jacob and his team on bringing this community cultural event to Milton,” she said.“It’s a fantastic opportunity for local musos to show their diverse talents alongside some amazing performers that Jacob has been able to secure.“I’m so excited to see this event come together for locals and visitors to the area, and I’m really pleased to have secured $10,915 from the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund to help kick it off.”Jacob said he had always dreamt of creating a free music festival in Milton, the town he said he was “lucky to call home”.“Music brings people together, and it has always brought me closer to the people around me,” he said.“I want to live in a place where you walk down the street and everybody is singing, smiling, connecting - and during the Milton Folk Jazz and Blues Festival that is exactly where I'll be.”He said the community benefits would be massive, giving businesses a “chance to thrive” during May, a usually quiet time of year on the South Coast.“The community has shown so much excitement with their overwhelming support of the event, which has come in the form of artists, volunteers, sponsors and donors all coming forward to offer themselves to the inaugural event.“One of our objectives is to create more jobs for artists, and with this continued support we are able to do just that,” Jacob added.The Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund has provided $610,000 to support 27 new projects in regional, rural, and remote New South Wales in 2025, including the Berry OpenField Festival that will run from 13 to 15 June.Mrs Phillips said the fund helped get projects off the ground and boost employment opportunities for artists and arts workers in regional and remote areas of Australia.“I’m really proud to deliver these great events that provide a platform for local and visiting artists to share their work and engage with audiences in two of our beautiful heritage towns,” she said.“I love music and music festivals, and I’m proud to support local creatives and to help promote two great weekends of entertainment for locals and visitors to our region during the quieter winter period.”

Local soccer star Jacob Carney from Gerringong Breakers FC has made headlines with his incredible goal being nominated for the prestigious People’s Puskas award, an annual competition run by Veo Technologies to celebrate the best grassroots soccer goals worldwide.This is an exciting moment for both Jacob and the entire Gerringong community, as his outstanding goal now stands among the top contenders from around the world. His nomination highlights not only his skill and dedication but also the talent nurtured in local football clubs like Gerringong Breakers FC.Now, Jacob needs your support! The public can vote for their favourite goal, and every vote brings him one step closer to claiming the title. Show your support and cast your vote at www.peoplespuskas.com/contenders/jacob-carney.Let’s rally behind Jacob and put Gerringong on the global soccer map! Congratulations, Jacob—we’re all cheering for you!