Our local candidates stepping forward for election           Group A: INDEPENDENT “Community minded, business focused”Cameron McDonaldCameron, a Kiama native, is a partner at Culleton Lawyers with a Master’s in Property Law and Business Law Transactions and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance. He is President of the Kiama & District Business Chamber, a member of the Destination Kiama Tourism Committee, and a founding member of the Kiama & District Stronger Community group. Cameron also coaches the U11 Girls Kiama Power AFL team. With a strong family tradition of community service, he is dedicated to improving the Kiama LGA, supported by his wife Leah and their children. Erica WarrenErica, a Jamberoo local with 46 years in the Kiama area, has over 35 years of experience in hospitality. She is the General Manager of The Co-Op Gerringong and has won several awards as the former Licensee of Jamberoo Pub. A member of the Kiama & District Business Chamber and Destination Kiama, Erica is passionate about supporting local businesses, tourism, and youth employment. With a Bachelor of Social Science, she advocates for common-sense decisions that balance development and environmental preservation. Erica is running for council to continue making a positive impact on the community. Melissa MattersMelissa, a third-generation Gerringong native, owns and operates The Hill Bar and Kitchen with her husband Dean, employing 60 locals. She has a deep connection to the community, rooted in her family's farming legacy. Melissa is committed to preserving Gerringong's heritage and natural beauty while fostering economic growth. Her businesses sponsor local sports clubs, reflecting her dedication to supporting youth development. Melissa’s leadership, innovative mindset, and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to the community as she works to address the challenges and opportunities facing local enterprises. Mark BurnsMark, with over 20 years as an owner and clinician at Gerringong and Kiama Physiotherapy, is dedicated to community wellbeing. He founded The Man Walk Charity, encouraging men to connect through meaningful conversations. Mark also leads the Building Young Men mentoring program, guiding Year 10 boys into adulthood, and serves as a director of the Kiama and District Stronger Community charity. His commitment to health, connection, and community development makes him an ideal candidate for local office.Derek McMahonDerek, a lifelong Kiama resident now in Gerringong, operates two local businesses—McMahons Transport and Lumberjacks Firewood—employing locals and supporting community events. He chairs the Gerringong Bowling Club, is active in Gerringong All Sports, and co-founded Gezza Cares and the Kiama & District Stronger Community group. Awarded the Australia Day Award for his charity work, Derek is passionate about future planning, employment, and financial sustainability for the LGA. He is a decisive leader committed to community improvement. Group B: INDEPENDENT “A reasonable voice for the community”Alan SmithAlan pursued a law degree to resolve issues with Kiama Council but realized effective communication was key. He advocates for open dialogue and common-sense decision-making in council, emphasizing the impact of decisions on community well-being. Alan is committed to preserving the unique character of local villages while supporting appropriate development. As President of Jamberoo Football Club and owner of Jerrara Creek Farm and Amaki Cafe, he is deeply involved in the community. His corporate experience equips him to navigate complex challenges in the council. Alan holds an MBA, a Bachelor of Laws, and several project management certifications. Noel Killmore“Gaffa” a Kiama local is the owner of Killmore Plant and Services. A business which has provided heavy duty mechanical services since 1992. Belinda Camarda“Bindi” is a strong advocate for conservation and the preservation of our history. Bindi saved “Marks Cottage” from a Council demolition order. Built in circa 1860, the cottage housed the workers who built both Culwalla and Terragong Houses in Jamberoo.John Trevenar“Head” is the driving force behind the renovations at Gerry Emery Reserve in Gerringong. John has secured over $800,000 in grants and donations to upgrade this much loved and utilised community facility. Narreda GrimleyNarreda is an extremely experienced senior executive. Having recently retired from corporate life, she volunteers at Aging with Grace, a charity which supports our elderly residents.Group C: INDEPENDENT “Your Sensible Choice”Matthew BrownMatt has deep roots in Kiama, from being Kiama High School Captain to co-owning Amigos Mexican Restaurant. A former local MP, and corporate lawyer for 12 years, he has volunteered as a surf lifesaver and served on the council since 2016. As the founding Chair of Destination Kiama, Matt bridges private enterprise and government, securing funding for projects like the Kiama Coastal Walk. With expertise in public administration, he is dedicated to keeping the Council “Fit for the Future,” enhancing local facilities, and supporting sustainable housing. Matt holds degrees in Mathematics, Law, and an Executive MBA.Danielle SteelDanielle has a lifelong connection to Kiama, from her childhood and schooling at Kiama High School to her family's longstanding local businesses and her father's 25 years as a councillor, giving her a profound understanding of the community's needs. With extensive experience in the hospitality and tourism industries and a senior business development role in a multinational building materials manufacturer, Danielle offers a unique perspective on local business challenges. Her vision focuses on fiscal responsibility and driving value for residents while ensuring the council operates efficiently. Brendan RussellBrendan was born in Kiama, and his involvement in local sporting clubs and success in the 1995 Australian Championships highlight his active community participation. As a business owner of multiple small enterprises, including restaurants and a legal firm, Brendan is passionate about creating opportunities for young families. His commitment to sensible council decisions aims to provide value for ratepayers and residents. Kane PreslandKane is a distinguished Kiama High School graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Kane is dedicated to improving mental health in the community. His involvement in the Veteran Surf Project and Waves of Thinking underscores his commitment. As the manager of Penny Whistlers, one of Kiama's busiest cafés/restaurants, Kane understands the housing and employment challenges faced by his generation. He is eager to address these issues on the Council. Joan ComberJoan is a long-standing Kiama Downs resident and former independent optometry practice owner with BOptom and MOptom qualifications She continues to serve the community even in retirement. As a scripture teacher and active member of the Kiama Anglican Church, Joan's dedication is unwavering. Her leadership in the Zonta Club of Wollongong and decades of healthcare service position her to address the needs of local businesses and ageing residents effectively.Group D: LABOR Imogen DraismaImogen has served as Deputy Mayor for four years, emphasising the need for financial sustainability and strong governance in Kiama's future. Raised in Kiama, she attended local schools and earned a double degree in Arts and Law from the University of Wollongong. As a student activist, she focused on student safety and pandemic-related support services. Imogen has worked for members of NSW and Australian parliaments, bringing her legal and political expertise to her role. She is dedicated to ensuring that the council remains financially stable and well-governed. Stuart LarkinsStuart has served as a councillor for four years and is running for re-election to maintain local government independence and democratic control in Kiama. A lifelong resident of Kiama with deep family roots in the South Coast, Stuart identifies as a Wodi Wodi man. He is passionate about representing the community's interests and continuing to help people. Stuart attended Minnamurra Primary School and Kiama High School, and he holds a double degree in Law and Arts, along with a graduate diploma in legal practice. He is committed to tirelessly serving the Kiama community. Lucy AboodLucy is a mother of two young children, and wants to ensure that we have quality early childhood education, affordable housing options, and a liveable environment for families – which she feels is extremely important. “I will be a strong voice advocating for these issues and more if elected to council." Harrison LedgerHarry is 19 years old, which makes him one of the youngest candidates to ever nominate for Kiama Municipal Council. He is currently studying Law. Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of NSW. Clare McInerneyClare has lived in Kiama for the past 35 years. As a retired high school teacher and deputy principal she is a strong advocate for public education.Group E: GREENS Melinda LawtonMelinda leads this diverse and committed group. She is an accomplished executive leader and design specialist with a wealth of experience in project management, design and construction sectors. She is a team player, specialising in finding creative solutions to complex problems. Melinda is currently working with Waminda, a dedicated Aboriginal female-led organisation ensuring services and wrap-around support for their Shoalhaven community. Jordan Casson-JonesJordan, the 2021 Kiama Young Citizen of the year, brings youth to the team as the youngest candidate to be endorsed by the Greens. He is acutely aware of the impact of cost of living and lack of housing options for young people and has been involved in the campaign for more mental health services in Kiama LGA. Mark WhalanMark has grown up in Kiama. His experiences in local journalism and social media, gives him an astute awareness of the concerns of the local community. With a keen knowledge of local heritage and character, he sees preserving the best of the old with the best of the new is important as Kiama experiences the impacts of growth and change. Andrew SloanAndrew is well known and respected as a previous councillor and Deputy Mayor. He is a civil engineer specialising in water infrastructure. He has a passion for the expansion of renewable energy into powering local communities as they switch to an electric future.Stuart HallStuart, a retired schoolteacher from Werri Beach, is well respected by the many local kids that have been in his care. Stuart has specialised in integrating the natural world with his work and has qualifications in permaculture, horticulture and “Green” education. Group F: INDEPENDENT “A Fresh Start for Kiama”Mike CainsMike is a farmer, owner of Pecora Dairy, 2021 Nuffield Scholar & 2024 Royal Agriculture Show Presidents Medal recipient. He is on the board of the Kiama & District Business Chamber and a founding member of the Wednesday Kiama F armers Market. Dad to two adult children and husband to Cressida for over 20 years. Before returning to the area he grew up in, Mike carved out a successful corporate career with senior executive roles at companies like Fairfax Media and CoreLogic. In corporate Australia and in small business he acquired the skills to a) bring people together b) solve problems and c) get things done - if elected he will work with other councillors to create a more productive council. Marcus HewittMarcus, a Kiama cattle farmer for over 15 years, has 30+ years of experience running fitness centres in Sydney. A father of three, he understands the challenges faced by families and businesses in Kiama and advocates for better amenities in the region's growing towns. Marcus supports the development of functional accommodation for farm and local business workers. An avid fisherman, he is passionate about preserving the area's natural beauty. As part of the Mike Cains team, Marcus aims to leverage his business experience and local knowledge to support jobs, growth, and investment in Kiama. Eric McAuleyEric is a 20-year Bombo resident. His career encompasses environmental remediation, but he currently runs his own business recycling batteries and other materials. He is an exponent of the circular economy and its benefits to society. Eric is deeply passionate about the future of the Bombo quarry. He believes that we have the perfect opportunity to promote a world class urban design to create a new state of the art community close to beach, electrified train and highway. James CahillJames has lived in Kiama for the past 43 years, raising a family. He has enjoyed career employment in information technology and communications at senior management level working for multi-national corporates. Jim is a keen Christian and surfer, with community volunteering experience including previous lengthy involvement with junior football as coach. Jim is pleased to support Michael Cains to provide a fresh start for Kiama Council.Cressida CainsCressida has a passion for supporting women in rural and regional Australia. She is the 2020 Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award winner for NSW and ACT and National runner up. She is on the board of Australian Women in Agriculture and is a fierce advocate for helping rural and regional women achieve positions of influence. She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Bachelor of Business. Together with Mike she founded Pecora Dairy and has been on the organising committee of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers market. She is mother to two adult children. Group G: INDEPENDENT “Energy and Experience: Getting CounciI back on track”Yasmin TatraiYasmin and her husband Roger live at Kiama Downs. Yas has run a large-scale event production business which has included running large events at venues all over the country including venues like Eastern Creek. Yas has managed a security business and worked in NSW Health for over 10 years with a specific focus in working with people with disabilities and their carers. Yas' business, government and corporate experience provide a diverse background and she will bring these skills to the council chamber. Gail MorganGail is a long-term Kiama resident, poet and acclaimed author. Gail has lived and worked all over the world, from Sydney, Alice Springs, London, France and New Guinea. Gail is a lover of music and is passionate about seeing more live music in the Kiama CBD. Henry Clyde StreamerHenry is a life-long Kiama local. He attended local schools and graduated from Wollongong University with a Bachelors of Economics and Finance and holds a Certificate of Executive Management and Development from UNSW Business School.Henry works for the banking and finance industry in Wollongong and previously in a local bank branch in Kiama. He is keen to use his experience and expertise to help fix Kiama Council’s finances. Henry has also previously worked for Surf Life Saving Australia, assisting with the aerial patrol of Surf Beach and Kendalls Beach - keeping our community safe. Suzanne MansfieldHaving lived in Kiama for more than 60 years, Sue is a passionate about our local community. A local business owner, mortgage broker and bank manager by trade, Sue has the experience to help get Kiama’s finances back on track. An active member of the Kiama community, Sue has even taught Sunday school at local churches. Married to Allan, Sue has six children including twins who attended Kiama High. Daniel HillDan Hill is a long-term Kiama Downs resident and teacher with the Department of Education. Dan has a young family and understands the cost-of-living pressures facing our community.Dan cares deeply about our local environment and is strongly opposed to the offshore wind farm proposal. Andrew ProsserOwner of Gerringong small business Stoic Brewery, Andrew wants to see council run efficiently like any business. Andrew wants to see council cut red tape and encourage more locals to go into business in the Kiama area. Andrew is a passionate believer that people with skills and real-life experience are required as part of the leadership of Kiama Council. Group H: INDEPENDENT “Back to Basics”Mark CroxfordMark, 62, is a semi-retired corporate and public affairs consultant, mental health advocate for veterans, and incumbent Kiama councillor. A 20-year Navy veteran with service in Bosnia-Herzegovina, he has worked as a senior ministerial adviser in the Howard Government and as a consultant lobbyist. Before his 2021 election, Mark chaired Kiama’s Combined Community Advocacy Group and led the Kiama High School P&C Association. Married to Cath with four children, his leadership is driven by a deep commitment to community service. Robert BartlettRob, 31, is a Chartered Accountant who started his career at Ernst & Young before moving to the South Coast in 2021 to run his family’s business. Engaged in promoting tourism and hospitality, he collaborates with local businesses to boost the region's growth. Rob is an active member of the Gerringong Bowling Club and enjoys exploring Kiama's natural beauty with his family, balancing professional dedication with community involvement. Darren OrmsbyDarren, 59, is a Kiama small business owner and Country Manager for an international supplier. He brings leadership experience from his time as a Logistics Manager and General Manager for Sydney Rugby Clubs. A former sommelier, Darren supports the Kiama Rugby Club and advocates for the NDIS, driven by his experience as a parent of children on the Spectrum. He is dedicated to building a supportive, inclusive community in Kiama, where he has lived for five years.Michael O'TooleMick, 60, is a former Superintendent with a 29-year career in the NSW Police Force, primarily serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra areas. A Business Degree holder, he was the Region Sponsor for Domestic and Family Violence and the last 'lock up keeper' at Gerringong Police Station. Active in the community through the Gerringong Lions Club and Surf Life Saving Club, Mick is dedicated to fostering safety and well-being in the region he has served for decades.

Since last October, when The Bugle reported that Gerringong Community Garden had a new president in Sue Daniels, the garden has doubled in size, offering a bounty of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and bee-friendly flowers.Daniels, who previously spent eight years with the Kiama Community Garden, brought her self-taught gardening skills from the UK, where she managed an acre of garden. She now leads the Gerringong group focusing on sustainability and permaculture principles. The garden avoids harmful pesticides, relying instead on natural methods like banana peels, eggshells, and garlic spray to deter pests.Composting plays a crucial role in the garden’s success. The group maintains ten compost bins, supplemented by organic waste from the local Perfect Break Café and seaweed collected from the beach. This rich compost reduces the need for store-bought fertilisers.The group, consisting of about 12 members, meets every Tuesday morning to work in the garden. After a few hours of toil, they enjoy tea and homemade cake. Daniels keeps the team motivated with charming, poetic texts outlining the day's tasks, adding a touch of fun to their routine.One of the members, an engineer, designed an irrigation system to keep the plants hydrated during warmer months, addressing the challenges of weather fluctuations. The garden yields a variety of produce, including bananas, blueberries, and blackberries, and the group hopes to expand to raspberries, avocados, and olives.However, the garden's expansion has brought financial challenges. Every year, the group needs new soil, seed-raising mix, and protective nets, but as they are not a registered Not-For-Profit organisation, they struggle to secure funding. This raises the question of whether they could join a larger NFP to access grants.Beyond gardening, the Gerringong Community Garden group is a close-knit community. If you're interested in joining or just want to see the garden, you're welcome to visit the Gerringong Bowling Club on a Tuesday morning after 10am to meet the group.

The Kiama Knights under 16’s girls tackle team were crowned the Illawarra Group 7 Rugby League Merged Competition premiers on Saturday August 24 when they defeated Corrimal 14-10 at Wollongong’s Win Stadium.The Knights’ had a very impressive final series considering that when the regular season wrapped up they were in 3rd position on the ladder and couldn’t afford to lose any of their final series matches.Their first semi final was a do or die game against the 4th placed Collegians. Their next final was a preliminary final against the 2nd placed Western Suburbs and the grand final was against the 1st placed Corrimal team.They miraculously won all three games and president of the Kiama Knights Junior Rugby League Club (JRLC) Carl Middleton says the keys to their success was enjoyment and how close-knit they were as a team.“Whenever you saw those girls run out they were just having fun and enjoying their footy. They were really cohesive and they got along well as a team and a group. And when a footy team is like that and they gel like these girls did then the rest will just follow,” says Middleton.The girls celebrating after the hooter. Source: Kiama Junior Knights FacebookSome of the players in the team were new to tackle rugby league and both Middleton and coach Craig Simon say their improvement from the start of the year to now has been astounding.“Their skill level has been outstanding which is a big factor in why they win. It’s a credit to those girls because for anyone who starts rugby league it usually takes a little bit to build up your skills, but it appears that these girls just picked it up quickly. So it's a credit to Craig and the team around him, but mostly it's a credit to those girls,” says Middleton.“With half the side new to the team, some completely new to tackle rugby league, they all improved out of sight. By the end of the season they were coming to me asking to start the games because they were enjoying it so much,” says Simon.Simon says he is very impressed with how the Illawarra girls tackle competition has developed and advanced since its inception and believes this year was as good as he’s seen it.“Girls tackle is improving every week and it will continue to improve. The ball movement and reading of the game is getting better. But the defence, especially the tackling techniques, are standouts and it just makes the comp very competitive,” says Simon.The Knights won their grand final 14 - 10 and scored three tries. These were scored by Ella Churchill, Ella Greatz and Noa Lindsay. Their one conversion was kicked by Neve Higgins.

Labor Councillors Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins have made the commitment to improve road safety with the development of a Local Road Network Safety Plan ahead of the upcoming local election.Residential roads such as Farmer and Taylor Street were pointed out as areas where the speed limit should be lowered to 40-km/hour for “consistency of speed limits in town centres.”A traffic calming and safety meeting was held on the corner of Farmer and Taylor Street on Tuesday 20 August, with community members and councillors present.“We recently met with residents and their concerns and feedback are very clear - they want a safer local road,” said Clr Draisma.30 concerned residents in the area have formed the ‘Taylor Street Traffic Action Group’ to advocate for traffic calming in the area.“We’re hoping for traffic calming as soon as possible, it’s a narrow street and has become a traffic hazard”, a spokesperson for the group said. The group has been campaigning for a safer street for years, reaching out to Gareth Ward, local Councillors and the Minister for Regional Transport to voice their concerns over speeding cars and buses that “fly down the street at breakneck speed.”Kiama Council voted on the motion, with all council members supporting making the safety along Taylor Street a priority but one; Clr Mark Croxford objected. “It feels like no-one is communicating with each other, we raise the issue over and over and over again. What do we have to do to raise the flag?” a spokesperson for the group urged.It’s indisputable that the faster a car is travelling, the longer it takes to come to a complete stop. According to the NSW Department of Transport, if a car is driving at a speed of 50-km/h it will take 37m to stop, the distance cuts down to 27m if the car is travelling at a speed of 40-km/h.Clr Larkins emphasised the importance of speed reductions across urban-residential areas in keeping pedestrians safe.“The research has made it clear the connection between pedestrian safety and vehicle speeds. There is a 10 percent chance of survival for a pedestrian impacted at 50-km/h. A reduction even to 40-km/h would increase the chance of survival to 60 percent” said Clr Larkins.Parents of Kiama Public School have experienced first hand the safety risks of insufficient traffic measures near the school's entrance during pickup and drop off. Kiama Council manages over 308-km of roads. Recent upgrades to local roads have included upgrades to Minnamurra Public School, Gerringong Public School, Kiama High School,new pedestrian crossings and the expansion of ‘kiss-and-drop’ zones. 

Kiama was hit with one of the wildest wind storms over the past 24 hours, with wind gusts reaching peak speeds of 89km/h.The NSW SES Kiama unit worked tirelessly to attend to calls for help including fallen trees, damaged cars, broken roofs and blocked roads. The volunteers were called out to 54 incidents across the region as a result of the damaging winds. Source: Jamberoo Rural Fire ServiceJamberoo Rural Fire Service (RFS) were out on the ground from 6am yesterday morning, assisting with fallen or arcing power lines that sparked grass fires across Jamberoo. “We are working our way through the jobs, but please help by not driving unless you have to, not trying to drive over or around downed power lines and following the instructions of emergency service personnel,” a spokesperson for the Jamberoo RFS said.The weather has since eased with a calm day expected today. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of the potential for damaging winds tomorrow, Friday 30 August.  Fallen power lines have caused outages across the region. Over 140 properties across the Kiama area remain without power. Source: Jamberoo Rural Fire Service“Work will continue throughout today to safely restore power as quickly as possible to the remaining 3,000 homes and businesses currently without supply. These customers are mostly in the Macarthur, Illawarra & Shoalhaven regions,” a spokesperson for Endeavour Energy said. For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500 or if life-threatening call 000.

Blood Cancer Awareness Month is marked each year during September to raise awareness of one of the most prevalent and dangerous cancers. 140,000 Australians are living with blood cancer, a type of cancer that typically doesn’t get the attention that other cancers receive. Kiama resident, Sandra Bottrell, was diagnosed with blood cancer 32 years ago.Sandra, who works as a wellness coach and grief counsellor, said her diagnosis doesn’t make up who she is. “Blood cancer doesn’t have to be a death diagnosis,” she said. The journey to Sandra’s diagnosis began when she noticed something wrong, and went to the doctor to see what was happening.“I didn’t feel like myself, I had blood work done and it came back abnormal, I was referred to get a bone marrow test to see if I had bone cancer, it came back negative. I was diagnosed with blood cancer,” Sandra said. She received treatment but felt there was more she could be doing for her mind and body. Sandra began her business Raw Love Superfoods Foods making clean, raw, organic food to fuel her body and share her new-found love with others in Melbourne. After a series of significant traumatic events in her life, Sandra has dedicated her time to learning about the ways we can take charge of our health without relying on mainstream medicine.“A lot of organisations focus purely on the medical side. I think health and wellness is just as if not more important,” Sandra continued.Sandra’s resilience is a testament to her today, she speaks about her condition openly, and wants to channel her experiences into helping others.Sandra operates her holistic wellness business out of Kiama and offers support in topics of pet loss, death of a loved one, health-related changes and assisting others to support their loved ones going through grief.For more information about her services, visit sandrabottrell.com.au or Sandra Bottrell Holistic Counsellor

The Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong have given a $180,000 donation to the Peterborough School for a new school bus fitted out to suit their students needs.Peterborough School, located in Warilla, provides supported, individualised programs for students from Kindergarten to Year 12 with a disability.“Principal, staff and students at Peterborough School would like to thank Bendigo Bank for their kind donation of the bus and ongoing support,” said Gabrielle Sheather, Principal of Peterborough School.The Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong hosted a Community Connect Evening where local not-for-profit groups joined together to showcase what they have going on in the community and pitch their grant proposals. The Peterborough Foundation, on behalf of the school, pitched for funding to repair their existing school bus. The Community Bank committee later announced they would be donating a brand-new bus to the school.“The Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong are so proud to be supporting the Peterborough School - Peterborough provides supported individualised programs for students with a disability,” a spokesperson for the Community Bank said.The 2024 Toyota Coaster school bus was delivered to the school this month. The Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong officially opened its doors to the public in2000 and have reinvested over $5 million in the local community. 

On 28 August, the Paris 2024 Paralympics opens, which will be the first-ever summer Paralympic Games to be hosted by France.From 28 August - 8 September, over 4,400 athletes from all over the world will compete in 549 medal events. Co-captained by Angie Ballard, eight-time Paralympic medallist in athletics, and Curtis McGrath, triple gold medallist in para-canoe, the 2024 Australian Paralympic team consists of 160 athletes. Out of those athletes, 61 will be making their Olympic debut.On Monday 26 August, in the lead-up to the games, the Minister for Sports, Anika Wells, announced that the Federal Government will reward Paralympians who win medals at the Paris 2024 and Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games.“The investment by the Australian Government recognises the importance of Paralympic sport in Australia,” said Alison Creagh, Paralympics Australia President, in a media release.Creagh said that medal rewards, which Paralympians first received during the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, was a timely boost.“Knowing that their achievements are valued equally to their Olympic colleagues will give our athletes more confidence and motivation to compete at their best.”Tokyo dual gold medallist Madison De Rozario will be carrying the Australian flag along with Para-swimmer Brendan Hall during the Opening Ceremony.“Paralympians aren’t here in Paris for money – we’re here in the green-and-gold because of what it means to us to compete for our country,” De Rozario said.“But this support tells us as Paralympians that we are valued. It also tells the public that athletes with a disability are equal with non-disabled athletes.”

The Dementia Choir - Alchemy Chorus South Coast - is set to unite with their inspiration and sister choir, Alchemy Chorus Canberra, for a heartfelt musical event. The Canberra choir played a crucial role in supporting the South Coast group when it first began in Gerringong in October 2022.Alchemy Chorus is a unique ensemble that brings together individuals living with dementia, along with their relatives or close friends, volunteer musicians, and singers. Together, they create an atmosphere of joy, storytelling, and community through the power of music. The name 'Alchemy' perfectly encapsulates the choir's mission: blending diverse elements into something truly valuable. The choir is inclusive, welcoming those with dementia who can still participate and benefit from singing, as well as their care partners. There are no auditions - every voice is treasured, and every participant is embraced.Dr Christa Wood, Founder and Manager of Alchemy Chorus, expressed her excitement about the upcoming event, saying, “We are thrilled to join forces in a combined concert in Goulburn to showcase the beautiful voices of those living with and alongside dementia.”The essence of the Alchemy Choirs is about leaving dementia at the door and immersing in a few hours of singing, camaraderie, and joy. As working choirs, they focus on vocal and breathing exercises, harmonizing, and even performing canons, all while ensuring that they hold at least two public performances each year.The much-anticipated concert will take place on 14 September at St Nicholas' Church in Goulburn, a convenient midpoint between the two choirs. The performance is set to begin at 1pm, and the choirs are hopeful that the local community will come out to support this inspiring event.Alchemy Chorus South Coast operates as a program under the Rotary Club of Gerringong Sunrise Inc., embodying the spirit of service and community through music.

Waminda, the only Indigenous all-female-led Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) in Australia, is set to host its inaugural Waminda National Conference from September 17-19, 2024, at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre in Nowra. This landmark three-day event, themed “Celebrating 40 Years of Aboriginal Women in Leadership,” promises to be a groundbreaking gathering. The conference is a celebration of resilience, community strength, and visionary leadership, with a focus on honouring the past, examining the present, and shaping the future of Waminda. Attendees will engage with a rich tapestry of discussions and reflections, highlighting the profound impact Waminda has had over the last four decades.The event will feature an impressive lineup of over 30 keynote speakers, including prominent figures such as Aunty June Oscar AO, Waminda’s Chief Executive Leadership; Cleone Wellington; Melanie Briggs; Professor Yvette Roe; Professor Roianne West; Maddy Hodgetts; Dr. Janine Gertz; Dr. Jackie Huggins and Professor Juanita Sherwood, among others.The conference will delve into a variety of critical and thought-provoking topics, such as Health and Mob Wellness, Social and Emotional Wellbeing, Spirituality, Institutional Systems, Matriarchal Leadership and Decolonisation, Birthing on Country - Our Way, Media and Blak Business Leadership, The Voice Referendum, and Treaty - Where to from Here? Additionally, attendees will explore the future of Waminda and its community over the next 40 years, the concept of Imperfect Allies - Non-Indigenous women learning how to walk alongside Indigenous women and the community, and the premiere of the Waminda Documentary on Self-Determination and Matriarchal Leadership.In addition to the panel discussions and keynote addresses, the conference will offer healing sessions, including Weaving, Spiritual Healing, and Being Workshops, providing a holistic approach to well-being and cultural connection.Waminda, now celebrating 40 years of unwavering dedication and leadership, stands as a beacon of empowerment for Aboriginal women. It is home to Australia’s first-ever Capital Construction Project Birthing on Country Community Hub, where culture leads, not institutions. Waminda’s unique model of care, healing framework, and thriving social enterprise, the Blak Cede Gunyah Café, continue to surpass expectations, expanding rapidly within just three months of operation.With a growing staff of over 170 dedicated individuals, Waminda continues to serve as a pillar of health, well-being, and inspiration to the community—proof that it is not just surviving, but thriving.Tickets for the Waminda National Conference are available for purchase on the Waminda website. See full information: https://waminda.org.au/40 Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a historic event that honours the strength and leadership of Aboriginal women.

The Wild Weekend at Bundanon: A Journey Back to the 1980sBundanon’s latest offering, The Wild Weekend on 7-8 September, is an immersive celebration that invites visitors to step back into the vibrant, eclectic world of the 1980s. The weekend promises a rich blend of activities, from wild bush foraging and queer storytelling sessions to contemporary theatre, live art, and the crowning event—the quirky and unpredictable (Not So) Blue Light Disco.A Retro Extravaganza: (Not So) Blue Light DiscoOn September 7, prepare to dance the night away with Aunty Jonny, Glenn Twenty, and a lineup of special guests at the (Not So) Blue Light Disco. This event is a full-throttle homage to the 80s, featuring classic tunes, dazzling homage performances, and exciting prizes for the best-dressed attendees and those with the fanciest footwork. The disco promises a true 80s experience with food trucks, fire pits, crimping stations, and yes—the punch is definitely spiked!Join Aunty Jonny and their mischievous crew for a night where no effort means no entry, ensuring that everyone who steps onto the dance floor is ready to embrace the wild spirit of the era.Meet the Hosts:Jonny Hawkins brings their unique flair as an actor, writer, and DJ. A WAAPA-trained performer, Hawkins is renowned for their Shakespearean prowess, having won the prestigious Burton Award. Their acting credits span acclaimed productions such as Mr Inbetween, Stan’s The Other Guy, and the award-winning RIOT. As a writer, Hawkins’ short film Joy Boy garnered accolades, including Best Film at Melbourne’s Queer Film Festival. Hawkins is also a celebrated DJ and founder of The Dollar Bin Darlings, spreading disco love across Australia.Duncan Fellows, the co-host of the event, is a seasoned actor based on Darkinjung land, with over 20 years of experience in Australian TV, theatre, and voice-over. Known for his roles in Deadloch, The Letdown, and Home and Away, Duncan also moonlights as Glenn Twenty, sharing his love for drama with students on the coast and in Sydney.A Weekend to Remember: event rundownSaturday, September 72:00 PM: Wild Queer Times with William Yang – A performance lecture.6:00 PM - 10:00 PM: (Not So) Blue Light Disco – A night of 80s music, dance, and fun.Sunday, September 811:00 AM: HELIOS – An award-winning modern retelling of an ancient myth by Australian storyteller Jamie MacDowell.12:30 PM: Breaking Bread with Friends with Bonita Ely – A long lunch and discussion on performance art in the 1980s.1:00 PM: Wild Bush Foraging with Diego Bonetto – Explore the bush with a celebrated food expert and author of Eat Weeds.HELIOS: A modern myth reimaginedOne of the highlights of the weekend, HELIOS, is an internationally acclaimed modern retelling of an ancient myth. Performed by Jamie MacDowell, this intimate, cinematic storytelling experience takes audiences on a journey through the life of a young boy navigating the challenges of growing up. Set against the backdrop of rural England and the towering cityscape, HELIOS is a tale of life, pride, and the invisible monuments we build in our lives.Created by the award-winning duo Wright & Grainger, HELIOS blends spoken word and live music, offering a unique theatrical experience that has captivated audiences worldwide. With performances in prestigious venues like The Sydney Opera House and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, this is a must-see event that promises to be both powerful and poignant.Throughout the weekend, visitors can also explore Bundanon’s Art Museum and enjoy a visit to the Ramox Café, both of which will be open for the duration of the event.The Wild Weekend at Bundanon is more than just an event - it's a nostalgic, creative, and immersive experience that celebrates the vibrant culture of the 1980s. Whether you're a fan of disco, theatre, or the great outdoors, there's something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to relive the past and make new memories at this unforgettable weekend event.Visit the Bundanon website for details: www.bundanon.com.au

In a world awash with political slogans and campaign promises, it is worth asking: do we really need the glitz and glamour of catchy phrases to understand who we are voting for? While local elections in Australia often lack the dramatic flair of their international counterparts, does this make it harder for us to feel connected to or informed about the candidates vying for our votes?The contrast with the United States could not be starker. Take the recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Outside the venue, a bold sign proclaimed, “A New Way Forward,” echoing Kamala Harris’s campaign trail rhetoric. It was a phrase designed to inspire hope and signal change, reminiscent of the slogans that have defined U.S. presidential campaigns for decades. By the time Barack Obama took the stage, urging the crowd to chant “yes she can,” it was clear the audience felt swept up in the fervour—a reminder of the powerful role that well-crafted messaging can play in shaping political narratives.Meanwhile, back home, the press handles our local elections in a vastly different manner. Coverage tends to be more subdued, focusing on practical, community-based issues rather than the grandiose visions we see splashed across American headlines. But this quieter approach raises an important question: does the lack of intense media scrutiny and political commentary impact our ability to truly get to know the candidates?Without the spectacle and saturation coverage, it can be challenging for voters to form strong impressions of who is standing for office. The issues may be closer to home, but are we as informed about them as we could be? It is a question worth pondering, especially when local elections determine who will be making decisions that directly affect our daily lives.It is not about the catchphrase, but about who is genuinely prepared to represent our best interests.

The future of a beloved preschool in the Kiama Local Government Area (LGA) is in jeopardy following the Kiama Council's decision not to renew its lease.Jamberoo Preschool, a community-owned, not-for-profit institution, occupies a flood-prone council block granted to the school in 2008 under a 20-year lease. Over the years, the community has invested heavily in the school's construction, only to see it repeatedly inundated by floodwaters - eight times to date."Council has decided it is easier to let the lease expire in four years rather than undertake any flood-proofing measures," said Mike Cains, leader of the ‘Fresh Start for Kiama’ group and a candidate in the upcoming local government election.In 2021, a Kiama Council report recommended building a flood-proof barrier for the preschool, but the necessary funding never materialised. The cost for essential sub-road surface drainage, which could significantly alleviate the school's flooding issues, is estimated in the millions.Mr Cains recently visited Jamberoo Preschool and met with its director to discuss potential solutions. "Council has been uncooperative in helping find alternative accommodations," he remarked. "They suggested the local youth hall, but it's obviously too small for a preschool that is growing as rapidly as this one."Jamberoo Preschool currently serves 67 families and has over 100 families on its waiting list. It is widely regarded for its high staff-to-child ratio, providing local children with an exceptional social and pre-school education.While there are grants available from the NSW Department of Education to establish or build a new school, these grants require a long-term site lease - a condition Jamberoo Preschool currently cannot meet.In a turn of events, the Fountaindale Group, developers of the newly approved Golden Valley Road subdivision, offered a small parcel of land from the old Araluen farm as a potential new site for the preschool. This offer is seen by some detractors as a trade-off to facilitate the approval of Golden Valley Road Stage Two."It's a beautiful site, with an old fig tree and space for a veggie garden and a chook run," Mr Cains acknowledged. "It's certainly a generous offer. However, Golden Valley Road Stage Two is part of Kiama Council's medium- to long-term housing strategy, which could be up to 20 years down the line – unless fast-tracked. For this to help the preschool, Golden Valley Road Stage Two would need to be fast-tracked into the 'short term' section of Kiama's new housing strategy."But Jamberoo Preschool doesn't have 20 years, and it barely has the four years left on its current lease. "Securing a site and starting any renovation or construction work needs to happen now if the school is to have any chance in the grant application process," Cains warned."Kiama Council has left Jamberoo Preschool's future in limbo, and that is simply not acceptable," he continued. "Council must take an active role in securing a permanent alternative home for the preschool."According to Cains, Kiama Council's responsibility is to help villages within its LGA become more independent and resilient. However, achieving this vision for Jamberoo requires significant work. "If we envision Jamberoo as a thriving village of 2,500 to 3,000 people, then failing to provide more housing, let alone a preschool, is simply unacceptable," he emphasised.If elected, Cains pledges to work with other councillors to ensure that the preschool secures a permanent, long-term home that supports Jamberoo's future growth. He also mentioned that the new preschool would be a key component of a proposed "Advocacy Plan" he hopes to introduce. This plan would collate infrastructure projects, advancing them to shovel-ready status, thereby enabling Kiama Council to capitalise on state and federal grants and subsidies as they become available."Right now, Kiama Council lacks an advocacy plan," he explained. "The last term of council left us with little more than some resolutions and a few dot points.""This is about setting Kiama up for the future, creating more liveable towns and villages, and putting the community first," Cains concluded.The Kiama Labor team have told The Bugle that they are also committed to ensuring solutions can be found for Jamberoo pre-school. Both Councillors Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins sit on the recently established Jamberoo Pre-school working group, with Belinda Hibbert, and are advocating for solutions both at the current site and a future move. Lucy Abood, who is number three on the ticket, is also a parent who sends her kids to Jamberoo pre-school and is passionate about ensuring that solutions are found to addressing flooding or a future site move.Councillor Larkins commented, “We know through the Jamberoo-Gerringong flood studies that a swale and a culvert is required to address flooding problems at the preschool. The costs of these pieces of infrastructure goes up into $4 million. Money that Council simply does not have. Council has been advocating to the Federal and State Governments in obtaining disaster mitigation funding and as councillors, we will continue to advocate for Jamberoo pre-school and addressing flood mitigation.”Both Councillors are also happy to support moving the pre-school and liaising with the community on alternative locations.Kiama Council have said, "Kiama Council has been in ongoing contact and discussions with our tenants Jamberoo Preschool over the issue of regular flooding at the preschool premises. "The current building in which Jamberoo Preschool is located (adjoining Council’s community hall, Jamberoo School of Arts) is owned by Kiama Council and leased to Jamberoo Preschool with the current lease due to expire 2028. "However, due to the repeated flooding of the premises, both parties have agreed this is not a viable long- or medium-term arrangement and the Preschool is looking at options to relocate. "Council understands Jamberoo Preschool management has been speaking to another local provider about a potential move into that organisation’s premises. "Kiama Council has been helping to facilitate this transition including providing support for the preschool to seek funding for the move (eg: from NSW Government and/or NSW Education Department), Council has also participated in discussions with local MP Gareth Ward and Jamberoo Preschool towards this aim. "In the meantime, Council is committed to assisting where we can, providing staff to help clean-up after flooding incidents and helping the Preschool move into the Jamberoo School of Arts section of the premises if/when flooding is predicted or occurs, if that space is available."

Kiama Golf Club golfers Dylan McDonald, Wil Daibarra and Chase Boreland will take part in the NSW/ACT PGA Associate Championship at Tura Beach Country Club next week.The trainee golfers, who all grew up in Kiama and work in the club’s pro shop, will travel to Merimbula on Sunday 25 August to compete in the four-day tournament from August 27-30. A $50,000 prize purse is up for grabs for the first time in the event, run by PGA Australia.Merimbula’s Tura Beach Country Club, an 18-hole championship course, has tournament hosting rights for the next three years.It will be McDonald’s first time playing in the NSW/ACT PGA Associate Championship as a first-year trainee. Third-year PGA associate Daibarra finished 14th in last year’s event, while Boreland, who’s in his second-year of his traineeship, finished 40th. All three golfers are aiming to be in the top 50 on the leaderboard after two rounds to ensure they make the cut to play in the final days of the event. More than 140 amateur golfers will compete in the Blue Ribbon championship, one of 30 competitions the golfers are required to play over the course of their traineeship.At the end of their three-year traineeship the golfers can join the Australasian PGA Tour if selected and play in professional tournaments.“Hopefully over the next few years I’ll get good enough to give playing (on the Australasian PGA Tour) a go,” says 29-year-old McDonald. “I started playing golf pretty late in life, when I was 20. I didn't play any junior golf but I worked in the pro shop and was a bit of a golf nut, so getting a job in the industry is perfect for me.” Daibarra started his golfing journey as a 13-year-old junior and the 21-year old is in the final year of his traineeship. He plans to join the PGA’s Qualifying School next year to shoot for a spot on the Australasian Tour. “I’ve set myself a goal to make the tour in three to five years,” says Daibarra, who teaches golf lessons when he’s not working in the pro shop or out on the course perfecting his game.The golfers are selling raffle tickets to help fund their travel and accommodation to the week-long event. Tickets are $5 and are available form the Kiama Golf Club pro shop. Three lucky winners will receive a golf lesson with Wil, Chase and Dylan once they return from the tournament.

Australia’s National Day of Action, R U OK? Day will take place on September 12 this year to remind Australians that any day is a day to start a conversation that could change a life.The reminder comes as 72% of Australians are reporting elevated levels of distress according to Suicide Prevention Australia. However, R U OK? research has found that 90% of people who are regularly asked “R U OK?” feel more supported, connected and cared about.R U OK? CEO Katherine Newton notes, in a press release, that R U OK? Day is an extremely important day of the year, but she stresses that people shouldn’t just wait to be reminded, they should be constantly asking this question.“There is an increase in supporting behaviours around R U OK? Day, our National Day of Action. However, we don’t want people waiting until September to reach out to the people in their world who might be struggling because life happens every day,” says Newton.R U OK? Day promotes regular, meaningful conversations with the people close to you, helping to prevent small things from becoming big things.By checking in regularly, you build trust and normalise talking about what’s really going on, so when the people in your world find themselves struggling, they know you’re someone they can talk to. Conversation tips and crisis support contacts can be found at ruok.org.au. To get help 24/7, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, phone 000 for emergency services.

I’m definitely up for anything pink and sparking served in a flute glass.This recipe was provided by the lovely ladies at the Gerringong Community Garden. So, if you have lots of rhubarb in your garden at home, here’s what you can do with it.Rhubarb sparkling wine recipeIngredients:3½ cups rhubarb3½ cups of sugarJuice of 2 lemons12 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar4 litres of waterMethod:Chop up your home-grown rhubarb into small pieces to make three and a half cups.Add into a large vessel which has been well cleaned and rinsed with boiling water, along with three and a half cups of sugar. There are several suitable vessels: ceramic fermenting crock, a food grade lidded plastic bucket or large glass jar.Add the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, four litres of water, and leave in a cool, dry place to ferment for three days. Then bottle and leave for around three weeks. Glass bottles are preferable.Rhubarb-champagne- courtesy of Pip MagazineThen pop it like a champagne bottle! Expect some fizz, just like real champers. It’s quite delicious and satisfying and costs a lot less than the bottle shop.You can add mineral water into your glass if you prefer a less sweet beverage.Garnish with strawberries.A wonderful variation is to use half strawberries, half rhubarb. This delightful rhubarb sparkling wine is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a celebration of homegrown produce.Whether you're toasting a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet moment in the garden, this bubbly pink creation is sure to impress.So, gather your rhubarb, get fermenting, and raise a glass to the sweet satisfaction of homemade wine. Cheers to the fruits of your labour!

This month we welcomed Joan Hoffman to the Probus Club of Gerringong.It’s lovely to have Joan as a new member in our club. We already had the pleasure of her company on the Murray River and High-Country tour where she gave us ‘a trial’.We continue to celebrate in true Probus tradition with fun, friendship and fellowship. There is always a luncheon, theatre, tour or casual sporting event to make sure everyone finds an event they enjoy. Thanks to our event organisers Peter Jeffrey and Laurie Woollcott we are spoilt for choice.The Ten Pin Bowling at Bomaderry this month was so much fun. Spares, strikes, a few gutters and lots of fun.Source: Gerringong ProbusThe Probus Club of Gerringong meet every 4th Monday at 9.30 a.m. at the Uniting Church Hall on Fern St. For enquires please contact Rose Arberry Ph 0422 124 006 or email [email protected] Sutherland, Gerringong Probus.

Lady Helen Munro Ferguson, wife of the sixth Governor General of Australia, established the Australian Red Cross as a branch of the British Red Cross, nine days after the start of the First World War in July 1914. The organisation grew rapidly. Lady Helen wrote to the mayors of every shire and municipality in Australia asking them to initiate a local branch. Typically, a letter was published in the local newspaper and a meeting was called.By November 1914 Australia had 88 city or suburban branches and 249 country branches, all established within the previous four months. One of these branches was in Gerringong. Minutes of the first meeting show that on Wednesday afternoon August 19, 1914 twenty one local ladies met and formed a working committee of the Red Cross society. Mrs W Nelson was elected first president, Mrs Noble was elected treasurer, and Miss Hall secretary.  Gerringong is one of a small number of branches that has operated continuously since then. A certificate of appreciation was recently presented to the Gerringong branch by the Australian Red Cross.We are currently a small but enthusiastic group, well known for our Devonshire tea stalls at the Gerringong Rotary markets held on the third Saturday of each month in the Gerringong Town Hall.Would you like to join us? We hold meetings on the first Friday of each month at 1.00 pm in the Gerringong RSL Hall and welcome new members and visitors. Contact Ann on 0412 011 352 for all enquiries.

Thirteen years after winning her first US Open of Surfing, Sally Fitzgibbons returned to California’s iconic Huntington Beach and did it again. “For the final, I closed my eyes and pictured an empty beach in Gerroa. It brought me calm,” she says.Three good thingsSuper excited over her incredible win on 11 August, Fitzgibbons has just landed on Australian soil after what she describes as “a wild week.” Because not only did she win the US Open of Surfing title, she was also voted on the Australian Olympic Committee Athletes' Commission (on the exact same day) and later, inducted into the Surfing Walk of Fame.“It’s a unique sport in that you train so hard and you put it all into every performance. You don’t know how willing the waves are to come your way, and you have to be accepting of that,” Fitzgibbons says.She goes on to explain that when the waves don’t hold the power, it becomes technically much harder because you have to produce everything yourself. But boy, did the 33-year-old Gerroa surfer deliver the goods in the US Open of Surfing final, beating 17-year-old Bella Kenworthy of San Clemente, 12.06 - 11.96.“At this point in my career, I’m really appreciative. My mum and dad were there. The anchor to all of my performance has always been coming home,” she says.Sally Fitzgibbons inducted into the Surfing Walk of Fame. Courtesy: World Surf League (WSL).Almost feels like yesterdayFitzgibbons’ first US Open title came in 2011 at the age of 20.“It’s interesting,” she reflects. “You don’t realise how quickly time passes. You feel like you’ve done it for a minute.“I still felt like the 14-year-old paddling out.”It was at that very age that Fitzgibbons won the ASP Pro Junior Open, emerging as one of Australia’s best female surfers. Since 2009, she has been on the World Surf League’s (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), finishing 12 times in the world’s top eight, which includes three No. 2 finishes and three No. 3 finishes. A new generation of female surfersAnyone who has been following the local surfing scene, knows that the South Coast is brimming with young, talented female surfers.It's vastly different from when Fitzgibbons grew up, she’d go and surf with a friend here and there but mostly she hung and surfed with the boys.“Now, it’s so cool. Hundreds of girls picking up their boards and heading out surfing with their friends. Feeling so welcomed,” she says.Many of them are dreaming of following in Fitzgibbons’ footsteps.Her advice to them? “Always come back to the joy of surfing, even in competition. See the ocean as your best friend and remember that love of surfing,” she says.Ripping it up. Courtesy: World Surf League (WSL).The spot for Olympic surfingHuntington Beach is being floated as the potential site for competitions, when surfing’s back on the Olympic program for the Summer Games in Los Angeles in 2028.Fitzgibbons calls it “the ultimate arena for surfing.”“It has this long pier. You would have a stadium on the pier and on the beach, so you would be surrounded by the crowd,” she says.“Huntington Beach is Surf City USA, it can’t get it more iconic. I can’t wait and see what happens. I think Australia would do well, we have such depth. See if I can throw my hat in there as well.”Home sweet GerroaBut for now, she’s going back home to Gerroa, which she says has provided the anchor to all of her performances.“It’s why I still base myself here. I fly back as often as I can. One day back in Gerroa and I reset myself. I’m more comfortable here where all you can hear is the ocean. It’s the heart of everything that I do.” Fitzgibbons wants to extend a big thank you to “our Gerroa community.” She says that the energy towards her has never wavered. Whether it’s been a good or bad day, she’s always felt supported, “It has allowed me to do what I really love."