Bomaderry High School Principal Ian Morris has been named by The Educator as one of the 2025 Hot List recipients.The Educator Hot List recognises just 50 leaders across Australia who are shaping the future of education through innovation, impact and outstanding leadership. It celebrates principals and educators whose work over the past year has made a measurable difference for students, staff and their wider communities.Morris said it was an honour to be recognised, but emphasised the award reflects the combined efforts of staff, students and families.“It means a lot to me personally, but more importantly it means a lot to our school community. Principals don't get those awards for doing things alone - it’s really about our whole school community,” he said.Morris has been Principal of Bomaderry High School since 2017. In 2020 the State Government announced a major rebuild - but as Morris noted, that was only the start of an incredibly challenging period for the region.“We’re still going through that rebuilding process now. It was announced in 2020, so we had bushfires, floods and COVID-19 - significant changes all in the matter of months for our school community, but obviously the world in general.”The rebuild has brought modern facilities, specialist learning spaces and improved accessibility across the school.“We have fully fitted-out metalwork, woodwork and kitchen facilities. We have laser cutters, 3D printers, resin printers. We have augmented reality welders — where students can look at what would appear to be a real-world welding situation with different programs built into it,” Morris said.“It helps them gain the confidence and skills so that when they go into the proper welding bay, they feel prepared. I really don’t understand the technology,” he laughed. “But my staff do. They're amazing.”The school now has lifts in each block, and a purpose-built support unit is underway, including classrooms with their own toilets, showers and small learning spaces. Morris says the facilities finally match the quality of the staff and students.“About $41.25 million has been spent on the school, which I think is thoroughly deserved. It’s a 58-year-old school. And we also have top-quality staff - 10 or so HSC markers. What I always say is that the facilities are finally catching up to the expertise that’s already here.”After more than three decades in education, Morris says the biggest changes he’s seen relate to the rise of social media and the growing connection between schools and families.“The advent of the internet and social media has had a huge impact on kids’ ability to remain focused. The accessibility of information - whether it’s factual or not - is so quick and easy. So it’s been about helping students become really good digital citizens,” he said.“When I went to school, you hopped on a bus, went to school and came home - there wasn’t much interaction. Now parents want to be involved, and we want to support that. It’s amazing to have that level of connection.”Morris said Bomaderry High School places equal importance on wellbeing and academic success.“You can't learn well if your needs aren’t met,” he said. “So we provide a breakfast club for any student who needs it - even if it’s their second breakfast. They’re well looked after.”The school also has a youth worker, chaplain, Aboriginal Education Officer, SLSOs, year advisors and a school nurse.“Those key personnel are fantastic. We have settled kids coming into school because we know they’re supported - and then they can focus on learning. We’re working with the kids, not doing things to them.”“We have strong values and really high expectations of every student. It’s a balancing act - but an important one.”Reflecting on his 30-plus years in education, Morris credits his own teachers and mentors for shaping his path.“It started with me having great teachers who took an interest in me. Education has given me everything in my life. The hunger’s still there. Working with inspirational teachers keeps me coming back every day.”Morris also revealed that Bomaderry High has just been named a Five Star Innovative School for 2025 - adding another accolade to what is already shaping up to be a standout year.“We’ve been recognised this year for young, inspirational up-and-coming leaders, both teaching and non-teaching. We’ve had public education awards for outstanding HSC results - four Band 6s in engineering studies last year - and our careers and employment skills project also received an award.”“Again, I’m not running all those things. These are amazing staff doing incredible work.”Despite the accolades, Morris remains focused on the school’s long-term vision.“We’re striving for excellence. I’m just fortunate to be the leader of it.”

As part of a series looking back at the major moments of 2025, The Bugle is presenting a look back on the stories that mattered on the South Coast over the past 12 months - this article was first published on 13 FebruaryKiama was exceptionally well represented at this year’s Wooden Boat Festival in Hobart, held from 7-10 February, with two boats - the MV SIGNA and Wayfarer II - featured at the prestigious Constitution Dock.Both boats were the result of long, multi-year restoration projects by Kiama locals passionate about the craft of boat building. The MV SIGNA was restored by a crew of men in their 70s and 80s, led by owner John Hansen, while Wayfarer II was overseen by 79 year old Rick Scott-Murphy.Both boats sailed to Hobart, each facing its own set of challenges along the way. Rick sailed Wayfarer II from Shellharbour in early January to ensure he’d make it to the festival on time.“We sailed in one leg from Shellharbour to Twofold Bay, Eden, where we had to do some minor repairs to the exhaust. Then we set off for Flinders Island, but we ran into an issue with the autopilot, so I didn’t want to cross Bass Strait without it,” says Rick.“Instead, we diverted to Lakes Entrance and moored the boat at Metung for a few weeks while we sent the component away for repair. Once it was fixed, we sailed to Lady Barron on Flinders Island, where we waited for a good weather window, then sailed straight through to Kettering in one go.”The Wayfarer II. Source: Rick Scott-Murphy.John and his crew left on 22 January, giving themselves a bit less time to reach Hobart, which almost proved costly. They ran into mechanical issues when they discovered a blockage in the heat exchanger on top of the gearbox and had to stay a couple of nights in Batemans Bay.“The trip was a lot harder than we expected,” says John. “It was grueling. We faced some major seas down the coast of New South Wales. The toughest part was the 38-and-three-quarter-hour stretch from Bermagui to Saint Helens. After that, we just hopped down the coast to Hobart.”Both John and Rick expressed the immense relief and excitement they felt when they finally reached Constitution Dock in Hobart.“You spend some harrowing hours at sea in rough weather in Bass Strait,” says Rick. “But when you arrive at Constitution Dock, no matter what time of day, the crowd in Hobart welcomes you warmly. It’s such a good feeling.”John praised the MV SIGNA for its superb build and how it handled the rough seas.“We’re very proud of the boat,” says John. “It handled everything we threw at it. One time, leaving Batemans Bay, we faced three-and-a-half to four-metre seas with water pouring over the boat, but it handled it beautifully.”The restored MV SIGNA.Both also had emotional reunions with people connected to the boats. Rick reunited Wayfarer II with its original owner, Bruce Martin, while John invited the children of MV SIGNA’s original builder, Robert Riddell, to the festival.“We have a photo of me and my brothers and sisters in front of this boat just before it was launched,” says Donald Riddell, Robert’s son. “The size of the boat and the project was a major milestone for us. It’s very emotional to be here, as it’s such a recognition of my father’s skill.”Both John and Rick expressed their continued passion for the craft of boatbuilding and their admiration for the other boats at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, as well as for sailing itself.“Shipwrights - the people who build these boats - are a dying breed, which is really sad,” says John. “But what you see here is top-of-the-line workmanship. These boats are just beautiful, and every one of them has a story to tell.”“I just find it fascinating that with just wind and water, you can go anywhere in the world. I could sail this boat anywhere in the world using only the wind. The feeling of unfurling the sails, trimming them to the right angle, and watching the boat surge forward - that’s something I’ll never get over,” says Rick.The Bugle would like to congratulate both boats and their respective crews for all the hours of hard work and dedication, and for being recognised at the National Wooden Boat Festival.

With New Year’s Eve fireworks cancelled this summer, locals won’t have to wait long to see the sky light up, with the Kiama Show Society confirming its much-loved fireworks display will return as part of the 2026 Kiama Show.Set on one of the most picturesque showgrounds in Australia, the Kiama Show continues a tradition spanning more than 175 years, combining rural heritage, community connection and a seaside atmosphere few events can rival.Horse events will return for 2026 Kiama ShowFormed on 24 November 1848, the Kiama Show Society is one of the five oldest agricultural show societies still operating in Australia.Its first meeting was held at the Fitzroy Inn, when Kiama township consisted of just 18 permanent houses, two stores, two inns, one church and a jetty in the harbour.The Agricultural Show was established to encourage early farmers to experiment, share knowledge and discover what agriculture best suited the newly settled district.The Kiama Showground, located beside Kiama’s Surf Beach and surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on three sides, offers views to the Blowhole in the north and a setting that allows families to enjoy rural life alongside fresh sea air and coastal scenery.A creative addition returning for the 2026 program is Kia-Bald, a twist on the traditional portrait section of the adult art pavilion.Artists are invited to submit a portrait of a well-known local identity who embodies the spirit of Kiama through contributions to the arts, sport, community, civic life or local business.Entrants must seek permission from their chosen subject, with generous cash prizes on offer for first and second place, as well as a People’s Choice award. Entries close on 19 January.Chief stewardess of the pavilion Sue Cox said the arts section remained one of the Show’s most popular features.“The arts are pretty popular – very popular with the kids. We’d get so many entries from the kids, but this is for 16 and over,” she said.“If we had it under 16, we’d be swamped.”Cox said the pavilion also benefited from increased visitation during peak holiday periods.“It’s quite popular that time of the year. We get a lot of holiday makers, some people that come down on the train and sort of spend the day – it’s good,” she said.The ever-popular Woodchop Championships will again feature as one of the Show’s major attractions, drawing competitors and spectators alike.Woodchop at Kiama ShowHorse events will also once again be a major drawcard across Friday and Saturday, with riders from across NSW competing in showjumping, hacks, galloways, ponies, rider classes, breeds and led events.From junior riders gaining ring experience to high-level open classes and crowd-favourite showjumping rounds.With the cancellation of New Year’s Eve celebrations, the Saturday night fireworks at the Kiama Show are set to be an even more anticipated highlight.Thanks to the support of Carter Ferguson Solicitors, the display will again bring the community together for a vibrant and memorable finale to the Show weekend.

Please note - this article was first published on 25 April This year marks nine years since Cheryl and Jamie Warren became joint owners of the historic Jamberoo Pub - but their family’s connection to the venue runs much deeper.Built in 1857, the pub has had a long and colorful history. Its relationship with the Warren family began in 1987 when they first started running the business.“We've been running the Jamberoo Pub since 1987,” Jamie says. “So I've basically worked there ever since - it's really the only job I’ve ever had.”Jamie became co-owner with his father in 1995, around the same time he and Cheryl got married.“Jamie and I met many years ago, and I actually worked at the pub back in the early ’90s,” says Cheryl. “I’m a CPA and tax agent, and while I’d been working for other accountants in public practice, I was already deeply involved in the pub’s accounting.”But Cheryl’s ties to the pub go even further back than she originally realised.“I later found out that the man who changed the pub’s façade in the 1950s - giving it the look it has today - was actually my uncle’s stepfather, a Welsh opera singer who owned it at the time,” she says.In 2018, Cheryl and Jamie officially bought out Jamie’s father to become co-owners. Since then, they’ve been running the pub together, and the love they have for it has never faded.“It’s always been a classic old country pub that needed some work, but it had this incredible atmosphere,” Jamie says. “That’s something that’s stuck with me all these years.”Jamie and Cheryl on the Jamberoo Pub veranda on their wedding day (11 February 1995). Source: Jamie WarrenJamberoo has long been a farming town, and Jamie reflects on how the pub’s patrons have changed over the years, even if the essence hasn’t.“Having first lived in Kiama and then moving to Jamberoo, it was a real farming community. And the crowd you would have in the pub most afternoons would be the dairy farmers with their dogs, pigs, snakes, even horses at times,” says Jamie. “It was just very jovial and there was a lot of camaraderie. There's obviously not as many farmers now and a lot of new people. But there is still that farming vibe - we still have roughly 15 to 20 dairy farms - but we have also connected with the various sporting bodies in town and community groups. There’s still a real sense of togetherness here.”The past nine years of ownership, though, haven’t been without challenges.“We’ve been through one of the most tumultuous periods in recent history,” Jamie says. “I think you'd be hard-pressed to find a publican in Jamberoo who’s dealt with what we’ve faced - especially the COVID pandemic.”“Getting through COVID, following all the rules, and trying to keep things going - it wasn’t easy. Even before that, bushfires and other events hit businesses across the South Coast. It’s been a tough run, but we’re finally starting to see improvement.”One of the more meaningful additions to the pub is the Johnny Warren Room, which honours Jamie’s uncle and godfather - legendary Socceroos player and SBS commentator, Johnny Warren. The room is filled with memorabilia and photos celebrating his life.“It’s a really special space,” Jamie says. “Every day we get to celebrate his legacy and share it with everyone who walks through the door. It’s the last thing people expect to find in a country pub.”“The number of people who come in and say, ‘Wow, I was at that game,’ or ‘My dad took me there’ - it’s incredible,” Cheryl adds. “People from all generations connect with those memories, and it’s amazing to hear their stories.” While Cheryl and Jamie have only officially owned the pub for nine years, their goal remains the same: to keep the Jamberoo Pub a warm, welcoming place for locals and visitors alike.“We want people to walk in, be wowed by the history on the walls, and experience something they can’t find in many other places,” Jamie says.

Revellers heading to the coast, rivers and waterways this New Year period are being urged to put safety first, ahead of one of the most dangerous times of year around the water.Despite relatively mild weather forecast across much of coastal NSW, large crowds are expected to enjoy water activities as people take advantage of the holiday period, increasing the risk of swimming and boating incidents.New Year’s Day is one of the highest-risk days of the year for coastal incidents and drownings, with tragedies three times more likely than on any other day. On average, six people have drowned on the NSW coast during December over the past five years.Since the start of December, Surf Life Saving NSW volunteers have performed 304 rescues and 849 first aids.SLSNSW teams across the state will be fully operational during New Year festivities, conducting surveillance patrols late into the evening along the coast and assisting other emergency services. Over the past week, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers across the state have performed 182 search and rescue missions, including 44 emergency responses, safely returning 473 people to shore.Marine Rescue NSW will be ready to respond 24/7 during New Year’s celebrations across the state and will be assisting with exclusion zones on Sydney Harbour on New Year’s Eve, including with 10 vessels on Sydney Harbour.The community is being urged to take safety warnings seriously these holidays, particularly around alcohol consumption while swimming or boating and especially at unpatrolled locations - where the majority of coastal drowning incidents occur. People celebrating New Year’s near the water are strongly reminded to avoid swimming at night, outside of patrol hours and in remote locations, and to be aware that alcohol, recreational drugs and the ocean can be a deadly combination.“Every summer, tragically, we see people overestimate their ability and the consequences can be devastating. Most water-related tragedies are preventable, and it only takes one poor decision to change lives forever," said Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib.“Look after yourself, your friends, your family and the people around you – please make safety the priority this New Year. “The New Year period is a very busy time for our emergency services, with thousands of people on and around the water. "The best way to support our lifesavers and rescue crews is by making smart choices before you enter the water.”Surf Life Saving NSW Chief Executive Officer Steve Pearce said the New Year period has always been one of the busiest on our beaches. “We're really urging potential beachgoers to take heed of those basic safety messages; don't swim at unpatrolled locations, look for the red and yellow flags - because if our lifesavers can't see you they can't save you - and understand your limits when entering the ocean."Please remember to Stop, Look, and Stay Alive this New Year."Marine Rescue NSW Acting Deputy Commissioner Dan Duemmer said most boating incidents over the past week have been due to engine, battery and fuel issues - which are preventable.“Boaters must ensure their vessel is in good working order before launching, have the correct safety equipment on board, always wear a lifejacket, log on, and carry enough fuel, with some in reserve. "These measures will not only help you have a safe and enjoyable day on the water - they might just save your life.“If you’re heading out on the water on New Year’s Eve, please plan and prepare, and make sure your lights are working.”

Please note - this article was first published on 25 March One day last week at my local primary school, teachers and students alike regaled themselves in the colour orange, which is apparently the colour signifying the promotion of mutual respect, social wellbeing, inclusivity and a sense of belonging.This fact about the colour orange was something I did not know.I also had no idea why my grandson was wearing fluoro orange long socks, orange sunglasses and an equally hued headband to school.But as we walked into school, I was in awe of the creative,fabulous, and sometimes riotous outfits parents had produced, all very orange, and worn to school that day. From just a modest orange scarf, to a full blown head-to-toe sartorial experience, it was all there, and I was impressed.Of course! It was Harmony Day. A day for us to recognise and respect our cultural diversity. And to wear the colour orange.The smiles on the children's faces told a positive story. They were loving dressing up, as part of a learning experience.This led me to think more about the act of dressing up, and how much fun it is.From the time we are toddlers, there's a dress-up box of some kind. In most toy cupboards, in kindies, playgroups and childcare centres, you'll find capes, masks, tiaras, wigs and an assortment of dress-up gear.Dressing up is instilled in our psyche from a very young age. Little children love to be superheroes and princesses - we see Spider-Man and Elsa constantly at the school drop-off, the playground and the supermarket.And as we all grow, our love of dressing up gets stronger.Whether it be birthday parties, school formals, weddings, funerals, Christmas or New Year’s Eve parties, it's the done thing to dress up. Think about Melbourne Cup day in Australia. A fine example of adult dress-up, and it's not just about the hat.Come to think of it, where would the world be without Hollywood's red carpet at the Oscars, the Paris fashion shows, Elton John's crazy glasses, the make-up that made Kiss a world famous rock band, Dame Edna Everage’s enduring persona, Eurovision and that most important dress-up day of all - Halloween where scary, often grisly costumes bring great joy.Call me superficial, but I love it all.And of course, I have also indulged in many a dress-up over the years at parties.I have been Morticia Addams, in black wig and white powdered face, Patsy Stone, complete with French Roll and pretend Bolli, the Creature from the Black Lagoon and my last dress-up affair was my favourite. It was more a dress-down, which ended hilariously. The venue was one of those island holidays where, every night a different entertainment was organised. The problem for me was what to wear? Nothing in my luggage was giving me any ideas. Then hubby came to the rescue. The Creature - a black garbage bag, a staple gun and about 5kg of seaweed did the trick. I was completely covered, head to toe, in brown seaweed he had collected from the beach. I paraded around, won the prize of a bottle of very bad bottle of bubbly, and then the seaweed got incredibly smelly. Hilarious fun, and a very long lasting memory.We have all had to dress-up at some stage or another in our life. It should be creative, and it should be fun. As someone once wrote: no matter how you feel - get up, dress up, show up and never give up.

The spirit of Christmas shone brightly at the Alchemy Chorus South Coast’s Christmas Carols.This magical community event brought together the voices of Alchemy Chorus, a choir for people living with and alongside dementia, and two enthusiastic local primary school choirs - Sts Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School and Kiama Primary School. Christa Wood, founder and manager of the Alchemy Choir said the concert highlighted not only the choir’s musical achievements but also the profound impact of intergenerational collaboration.“We celebrated the power of music to connect generations, inspire joy, and strengthen community bonds,” she said. The choirs performed a selection of cherished Christmas carols, filling the Kiama Uniting Church Hall with warmth, harmony, and holiday cheer.In a touching exchange of gifts, students from the participating primary schools surprised every member of Alchemy Chorus with a handmade Christmas card, each one crafted with care and festive creativity. In return, Alchemy Chorus members presented each child with a personalised Christmas bauble. “This concert was a beautiful reminder of how music bridges generations,” said Jenny Ferguson, the Alchemy Choir musical director. “Seeing the joy on the faces of both the children and our choir members was truly special.”Families, friends, and community members gathered to enjoy the uplifting performances, creating a heartfelt celebration of togetherness during the holiday season.Alchemy Chorus continues its mission to support people living with dementia through the power of music, fostering connection, confidence, and community participation.

Kiama Jazz & Blues Club has pressed pause on its festival for March but Kiama Council is pressing ahead with plans to run a series of concerts at venues in the LGA on the same weekend.Council will coordinate a grassroots festival of live music to be held at venues including Kiama Leagues Club, The Grand Hotel, Kiama Bowling Club, Cin Cins and Burnetts on Barney, as well as local libraries on 6-8 March.Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said Council wanted to make sure on that weekend, the town is still filled with the sound of jazz and blues.“As a community I think we are all disappointed that the Jazz & Blues Festival has been paused. It has been a part of Kiama’s cultural identity for the last nearly 40 years,” he said.“When the announcement was made there was significant commentary regarding its importance on local culture, art, business, visitation and local community enjoyment.“Local businesses have responded and put up their hands to arrange music on that weekend.”Council had already allocated $7000 in funding to the Jazz & Blues Festival, which the organisers have declined. Part or all of that will now be used to organise and support the grassroots event.“As Council’s financial situation continues to move toward sustainability, Council has adopted a coordination role to facilitate those businesses already planning for the weekend,” Cr McDonald said.“Something as simple as a program and venue map can help people plan to enjoy whatever music is on offer.“It is a work in progress, however the desire is there. Destination Kiama are already working towards early plans and expressions of interest.“Our focus is on supporting the community, bringing music to the area in March, and bringing people together for what is annually a fantastic event.“Council recognises the Kiama Jazz and Blues Festival has been a much loved event for a very long period of time. It will be exciting to have a jazz and blues offering while the Festival is on pause and as the committee work towards their 40thanniversary in 2027.”Kiama Jazz & Blues Club, when announcing the festival being called off for March, pointed to the delay in the development approval for one of the venues, Fillmore’s, as being a reason for the decision.However, Council CEO Jane Stroud responded by saying that it had “absolutely nothing to do with the Festival”.“A DA is a land-use-based approvals process for the operation of a particular activity on a parcel of land. They are manifestly separate issues.”KJBF director Becky Guggisberg said the club was pleased to hear the Mayor’s announcement of an alternative music event being planned for March.“We welcome any initiative that keeps creativity and community connection thriving in Kiama.“While the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival has pressed pause for next year, we genuinely applaud Council’s commitment to maintaining the spirit of live music on a weekend that has long brought colour, visitors and community pride to our township.“As this initiative is not the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival, we understand it may take a different creative direction and need not be limited to jazz or blues, which we see as a positive opportunity for local venues to shape the weekend in their own way.“Now that Hindmarsh Park and its much-loved stage have been fully restored, we hope it may once again be activated as an inclusive and accessible part of this community-led music weekend.”

Please note - this article was first published on 14 April Funny as. A cast of characters. An odd assortment.They’re the blokes that get together at the Jamberoo Bakery at 6.15am every Monday and Friday.Such a simple idea. And such a huge success. The Man Walks which have now spread around Australia.The Man Walk was founded by Kiama local Mark Burns in 2018. There are now 84 chapters around Australia, as well as one in England and another in New Zealand.Jamberoo’s chapter was started by local real estate agent David Hall in 2019.“Hally”, as he is universally known, worked for many years as the sports editor for the Kiama Independent, the precursor to The Bugle. He is well aware of the issues facing men in the rural idyll of Jamberoo.“Walk, talk, support was the slogan which really attracted me,” he told The Bugle.“I could see the success of Kiama, but it’s a bit of a way at 6am, and I thought it’d be nice to have our own.“We had 10 at the first walk, and it has grown ever since. We were virtually strangers, and now I feel like I’ve got more than 20 new mates. It is just a really good feel.“I was confident it would work but I didn’t think we would get the numbers we’ve got, Now, we have more than 30 who walk regularly.“Getting men involved in something that is not too strenuous, starting early so if they’re working they can get away in time. That’s part of the reason it’s so successful.“We walk in different directions on the Monday and the Friday, about three kilometres each time.”Women network, but men form relationships through what they do, whether it’s working or golfing or drinking. Or in this case, walking.When they retire they are often lost, and feel very isolated. They look forward to their retirement, but when they get there they’re just plain lonely. They lose any social connection very quickly.“One of our walkers believes the whole thing has saved his life,” Hall said.“He was very isolated, and very depressed. This has given him a whole new outlet, and new friends. Another has a small farm out of town, and was just sitting at home. Not to embarrass him, but he says it’s been the greatest thing ever for him.”Ray Burley, a retired construction project manager, said: “Meeting other people, sharing stories, getting out in the morning and having a chat is really good for your mental health.“It’s good to talk about your health, because men don’t ever talk about that, not in front of their wives or girlfriends. You learn about the village and the goings on. It’s a social atmosphere. I enjoy it.”From local farmers to wealthy retirees, from the Snake Catcher of Jamberoo, the man you call when you have unwanted visitors in the back shed, to collectors of antique cars an makers of furniture to movers and shakers from the Big City simplifying their life, all get together at 6am.Always with a smile on their faces. Always with stories to tell.“Since we’ve first started we’ve had more than 250 walks, acquired sponsors and made a significant contribution to Jamberoo life,” Hall added.“From little things big things grow.”

Merry Christmas to all our wonderful readers of The Bugle and best wishes for 2026.This has been a momentous year for The Bugle with our reach via newspaper, online and social channels rising to new heights.We also launched our Bugle Bulletin weekly YouTube round-up as part of our commitment to covering the news that matters for the Kiama local government area and surrounding regions.All of us were thrilled in October when The Bugle won the coveted Best Editorial Campaign at the 2025 Country Press NSW Awards of Excellenc.We were also nominated for best sports story with our reporter, Lleyton Hughes, a finalist for the NSW Young Journalist of the Year category.Our offices are currently closed but will reopen on Monday, 12 January.If you would like to get in touch with us during the holiday period, please email [email protected] and we will get back to you as soon as we can.We will still have plenty of fresh content on our app during the holiday shutdown period as well as breaking news when it happens.At the heart of everything we do at The Bugle is the local community.It is our pleasure to tell the stories of the people and groups within this community which make it such a special place to live.We look forward to doing so again in 2026 and hope you will again join us for the ride.

As part of a series looking back at the major moments of 2025, The Bugle is presenting a look back on the stories that mattered on the South Coast over the past 12 months - this article was first published on 9 MayMember for Gilmore Fiona Phillips has opened up on the strain of her achieving her goal of being re-elected after securing her third term on the back of a lengthy and draining campaign leading into last Saturday’s election.Phillips managed to not only hold off Liberal candidate Andrew Constance but secure a swing of just under 5% to Labor as part of the nationwide trend which resulted in Anthony Albanese being returned as Prime Minister with a majority government.For the 55-year-old Gilmore MP, the slings and arrows of public life in an election campaign are part and parcel of the role but she is relieved it is now over.“I was just elated,” she said when asked about the moment she realised the seat had been retained last Saturday night.“I've had an opponent for quite some time, over a year, and I’ve had a lot thrown at me.“I've just really tried to stay focused on what I've had to do, which is support our communities but everything has been a really big strain on me, personally, so just to know that that part is over is very good for me and my team.”Phillips, who was contesting her fourth federal election after losing in 2016 and then winning the next three, said she never questioned if it was all worthwhile.“I always say you would really want to do this role because going through elections is really, really hard,” she said.“And I do want to do it. The moment I stop enjoying it, I won’t be doing it.”“There's lots of different things we do as the federal member and it's a big electorate too - it takes in three local government areas, three state members and just to get across that area is huge.”Phillips was surprised by the overwhelming nature of her victory given the bookmakers had installed Constance as an early favourite before a YouGov poll in the lead-up to the vote indicated that the tide had changed in her favour.“Honestly I really thought it was going to be close and I had a quietly good feeling on pre-poll but you can never tell so I always like to err on the side of caution so I was pleasantly surprised on the night,” she added.As polling closed late in the afternoon, Phillips spent some time with her family before joining her small army of Labor faithful to watch as the official results started filtering in.Now, she says, her priority is to deliver on her promises of strengthening the local economy, alleviating the pressures of the cost of living crisis and helping facilitate Australia’s switch to renewable energy.

NSW Police have issued a warning to motorists to slow down and drive safely as double demerits come into force for the holiday period.Double demerits are in place from Wednesday (24 December) to Sunday, 4 January, targeting speeding, mobile phone use, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences.The double demerits period is in addition to Operation Christmas and New Year 2025, which will also run until 4 January.The high-visibility police operation involves officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command with the assistance of general duties and specialist police from all police commands and districts across the state.Five deaths have occurred on the roads since the operation began on Friday.Police have detected almost 3000 speeding offences, 231 drink driving offences, and 489 positive drug driving offences. There have been more than 116,000 breath tests and 6330 drug tests conducted.There have been 351 people who have lost their lives on NSW roads this year, which is 28 more than the same time last year.Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said police would be out in force over the Christmas and New Year period, but ultimately road safety came down to the choices drivers made.“Double demerits are in place to reinforce the importance of following the road rules, particularly during busy holiday periods when traffic volumes are higher,” Minister Catley said.“Every choice on the road has consequences. People must take responsibility for their actions and ensure they are not putting themselves or others at risk.“NSW Police will not tolerate reckless or dangerous behaviour and will use every power at their disposal so everyone can celebrate safely this holiday period.“I thank NSW Police for their tireless work keeping the community safe over Christmas and the New Year, often at the expense of time with their own families, so others can enjoy the holiday period safely.”Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said road safety was everyone’s responsibility, and the Christmas and New Year holiday period was one of the busiest times on our road network.She said the Government was “pulling every lever to make our roads safer, but we can’t change the decisions of motorists". "We need every motorist across NSW to ensure they’re making safe choices behind the wheel.“Every death on our roads is one too many, and we are urging all drivers to make safe choices so they can get home safely to their loved ones this holiday period.“The number of deaths on our roads is not just a number. Every single person who has died one our roads this year left behind family, friends and loved ones.“Double demerits are in place to deter dangerous behaviour and remind motorists that speeding, using a mobile phone, not wearing a seatbelt or riding without a helmet can have devastating consequences.”Plan your trip by downloading the Live Traffic NSW app, visiting livetraffic.com, calling 132 701, or using the TfNSW journey planning tool myjourneynsw.info.Members of the public are urged to report motorists engaged in dangerous driving to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Kiama MP Katelin McInerney is calling Sydney-based developer Level 33 to work with Kiama Council after she endorsed the reduction of the Akuna Street proposal to eight storeys.McInerney issued a statement in the wake of the plan being granted State Significant Development status to say that the compromise from a much-higher proposal was a workable solution for the town centre."This proposal of eight storeys is a significant improvement on the previous 13-storey proposal," she said. "This reduction makes the proposal a more appropriate scale for the site, given its location."McInerney is urging local residents to have their say once the details of the proposal are put on exhibition in the new year. "I continue to call on Level 33 to work with Council and the community through this process regarding the specifics of their proposal, to reach an outcome which delivers the best results for Kiama’s Town Centre," she added. "I know that since the sale of this site to Level 33 by Council, there has been considerable concern about the future of the site.‘I want to be clear with the community, it is my job to represent your views and this determination is only the first step in the process of a State Significant Development. "This is not an approval that has been granted. "The project will be required to go through a rigorous and transparent assessment process, as is the standard, including public exhibition when the community will be able to have their say."The NSW Government on Friday announced a list of sites throughout NSW that have been rated as state significant, which means that the developers can apply to the Housing Delivery Authority for increased height limits.Kiama Council had previously allowed a maximum of six storeys for the Level 33 proposal.After SSD status was granted, Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald expressed his disappointment with the NSW Government's decision.“Like many in our community will be, I’m disappointed by this decision,” Cr McDonald said on Friday afternoon.“Council has recently adopted planning controls for the Kiama town centre that reflect extensive community consultation and set a six-storey height limit for this site.The state’s decision to advance an eight-storey proposal is not consistent with those locally adopted controls and community expectations.“Housing delivery matters, but so does getting the right outcome for Kiama."Development in the heart of our town must respect our local character, amenity, infrastructure capacity and the plans our community has helped shape.”

Kiama Council will look at implementing a shuttle service for construction workers amid fears about parking in the town centre with a series of high-rise developments in the pipeline.Parking was a hot topic on the agenda at Tuesday night’s Council meeting with Councillor Yasmin Tatrai putting forward a notice of motion to institute parking permits for local residents.Cr Tatrai wanted Council to potentially issue two parking permits per household, bring in beach and on-street parking regulations with greater allowances for residents, and permits for local business owners.Her move was voted down after much debate after Council CEO Jane Stroud had recommended that such a system would not meet Transport for NSW’s Permit Parking Guidelines eligibility criteria and it would also create a significant administrative burden to implement, manage and monitor.In her response, she stated the work was not Council’s Delivery and Operational Plan or budget and confirmed that previous reports had explored this issue on many occasions.Staff and Councillors had also reached out to other LGAs such as Manly, Byron Bay and Wollongong to gather insights on how different parking systems, such as paid meters, had been implemented elsewhere. With high-rise construction set to kick off as early next year on three multi-storey developments on Akuna Street and the Council-owned Shoalhaven Street Precinct, the perennial parking problem in Kiama is about to get worse.Around 70 parking spaces at the Level 33 development site on Akuna Street will be fenced off midway through next month due to safety concerns.And when the developments are underway, particularly if they occur simultaneously, the construction workers will add to an already heavy parking burden.Council is looking at setting up a site outside the town centre with construction workers catching a shuttle service into the works zone.“If all three sites happen to be building at the exact same time, that would ruin the road network,” Stroud told The Bugle.“We're actually doing a giant body of work on that at the minute so that we can manage any kind of full-on construction period.“You can designate where you want construction workers to park and you can make that condition as part of the consents. “What I don't want to see is public parking chewed up. “I'm very aware that we need to manage any construction period as carefully as we can.”Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said Cr Tatrai’s notice of motion “was coming from the right place but there is a lot of work for us” before Council can have a definitive plan to fix the parking problem.“Previous Councils have considered or debated a number of parking management options, such as paid visitor parking to free up spaces in the central business districts, and parking fee exemptions for local residents, however these haven’t garnered enough support to move beyond suggestions.“Parking is something that Council is critically aware of, especially with the summer tourist season upon us and the possibility of future development occurring within the town centre. “Development of an overall strategy which factors in the many considerations is my preferred option.”Councillor Stuart Larkins has called for a review of the time limits on parking areas in the LGA - Kiama’s most recent Parking and Traffic Study was published in 2021 - and Stroud hoped to be able to add an update to the parking and traffic management plan into next year’s budget.The Shoalhaven Street Precinct is a step closer to reality after Council endorsed its submission for the rezoning proposal to Planning Minister Paul Scully on Tuesday night. The Department will prepare an issues paper which will go to the Minister for a decision.

Summer is when the South Coast’s towns and villages are at their best, shining the spotlight on some of NSW’s most iconic landscapes.From Christmas markets and community celebrations to carnivals, beaches and New Year’s Eve events, The Bugle has rounded up what’s happening across the region. Destination Kiama’s manager of tourism, events and economic development, Sally Bursell said summer signals the region's peak period with the last week of December traditionally the busiest. “Boxing Day tends to be the busiest day in the year at the Kiama Visitor Information Centre at Blowhole Point,” Bursell said. “Not every business is open on Boxing Day, so the VIC (Visitor Information Centre) is a beacon that people can trust, and plays a role in dispersing visitors through to our key experiences and activities around the region such as The Illawarra Fly, Minnamurra Rainforest and of course Jamberoo Action Park.” Bursell encourages those who have family and friends staying, to be Kiama’s ambassadors.Huskisson Fair. “A lot of people have friends and family staying and they sometimes get a little bit of cabin fever over the Christmas and New Year period,” she said. “Go out and explore your own backyard and show your friends and family – there are just so many options. “Supporting locals this time of year is super important - it’s been a challenging year and a little patience and kindness goes a long way.” Christmas and pre-Christmas events To kick off the festive season, The Picnic Train will run a special diesel locomotive-hauled return trip from Sydney to Kiama on 20 and 21 December, offering a nostalgic way to arrive on the South Coast. In the Shoalhaven, the Milton Village Showground Christmas Market will take place on Saturday 20 December from 9am to 2pm, featuring collectables, giftware, and handmade goods. Gerringong’s annual Christmas Parade will also be held on Saturday from 10am hosted by Gerringong Lions, beginning at Belinda Street, with floats, music and entertainment. Christmas on the Greens at Gerringong Bowlo will offer a free, family-friendly community celebration from 4pm. The Gerringong RFS Santa Run will be held on Sunday, departing at 2pm from Stafford Street, Headland Gerroa and finishing at Michael Cronin Oval around 5:15pm. Shellharbour Council will host Create and Sleigh at the Shellharbour Civic Centre on Monday (22 December) from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, a free evening of Christmas arts and crafts where you can design and create Christmas decorations. For those last-minute Christmas gifts, Kiama Farmers Markets is on Tuesday at Black Beach Reserve with over 150 stalls of locally made crafts, boutique fashion, art, jewellery, homewares and gourmet treats.   Kiama Library will host a children’s Christmas activity with local children’s author Diann Rodgers-Healey on Tuesday from 10am - 12pm for a morning filled with activities, designed ages 10-12 - cost $5. Gerringong's Santa Run.Carnivals and school holiday fun Running from Boxing Day until 4 January, Laurie’s Kiama Family Carnival returns with food carts and rides with the kids sure to leave whatever energy they have left at Laurie’s! Further south, Husky Carnival begins on 26 December and runs right through to Australia Day on 26 January at Huskisson Playing Fields, with over 20 exhilarating rides, extensive side show games, tasty carnival food and entertainment – including fireworks on Saturday (3 January), it’s a family night of fun. The ticket box opens at 5:30pm daily. Jamberoo Action Park will again offer its six weeks of summer program, including Dive-In Movies every Saturday evening, beginning 20 December at 5pm.   Illawarra Fly. For those seeking adventure above ground, Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk and Zipline Tours at Knights Hill offer extraordinary views of the local rainforest and adrenaline-fuelled experiences. Beaches, walks and outdoor adventures The Shellharbour-Kiama-Shoalhaven region has more than 100 beaches nestled into its coastline from the famous Seven Mile Beach in Gerringong, to the whitest of sand at Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay - swimmers are encouraged to check BeachSafe website or download the app for current information and conditions and patrols. With many coastal walks along the headland of the Kiama region, from the Minnamurra River to Kiama Blowhole, to Loves Bay in Kiama Heights to Gerringong – there is something for everyone to remain active and burn off that extra pudding! For those who want to go 'Fishing with a Local' – check out one of the South Coast’s finest fishers George Newcombe where you will be taken to tried and tested fishing spots. Bookings are essential. Always wanted to hang 10? Check out Surf Camp Australia lessons at Seven Mile Beach in Gerroa where there is consistent ideal surfing conditions for beginners. Check out the Minnamurra Rainforest by torchlight with the NSW National Parks and enact all of your senses with this unforgettable adventure – bookings are essential. Learn more about the oldest living peoples and cultures, check out Gumarra Aboriginal Cultural Experience and Education and learn about the many different facets of art, language, food and dance – bookings are essential. New Year’s Eve across the region While there will be no fireworks in Kiama this year, celebrations are still set to light up the town. “Lots of businesses have decided to embark on new things and Yves is launching their new deck with their New Year’s Eve white party theme,” Bursell said. Yves Social White Party provides a chic and coastal celebration while overlooking Kiama Harbour to celebrate NYE25. Bookings are essential and this is an 18+ event. Jamberoo Action Park.Located at Kiama Blowhole, Diggies is holding two sittings: Sunset Sitting from 4:30pm-6:30pm and Dinner Party from 7:30pm – featuring a Mediterranean-style feast. “Diggies is somewhere that always has a NYE event, but they are upping the ante this year with a Mediterranean style feast,” Bursell said. Meanwhile Cin Cin Wine Bar at Little Blowhole is taking over with a mini street party, beginning at 5pm, offering wines, food and an outdoor celebration to reminisce on 2025 and welcome 2026.Check out the Destination Kiama website for more information: www.kiama.com.au For more information on BeachSafe head to www.beachsafe.org.au

The Illawarra and Shoalhaven’s coastal bars may offer access to some of the region’s most popular waterways, but Marine Rescue NSW is reminding boaters they can quickly become dangerous if conditions are misjudged.With the summer holiday period underway, Marine Rescue NSW Illawarra Inspector Stuart Massey is urging skippers to take extra care when crossing the Lake Illawarra Bar, Crookhaven River Bar and Sussex Inlet Bar.Boaters looking to cross coastal bars should stand off, check the conditions and then decide whether it is safe to proceedInspector Massey said coastal bars demand patience and preparation, particularly for visiting boaters unfamiliar with local conditions.“Boaters looking to cross coastal bars should stand off, check the conditions and then decide whether it is safe to proceed,” he said.“It is best to cross on a run-in tide because there are fewer compression waves.”Each bar behaves differently depending on weather, swell and tides, and local knowledge can make a critical difference.3500 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are ready to assist boaters on the state's waterways this holiday seasonMarine Rescue NSW is encouraging boaters to seek advice from their nearest unit before attempting a crossing.“The decision and responsibility to proceed always remain with the skipper,” Inspector Massey said.“If you’re holidaying at another coastal location and plan to cross a bar, please do your homework and never put yours or your passengers’ lives in danger.”Mistakes on coastal bars can have serious consequences, with capsized vessels turning a routine outing into a life-threatening emergency within minutes.Inspector Massey said wearing a lifejacket at all times is essential.“If something does go wrong, stay with the vessel and grab hold of anything floating,” he said.Beyond bar crossings, Marine Rescue NSW says many callouts across the Illawarra Shoalhaven could be avoided with better preparation.From Port Kembla to Kioloa, more than half of incidents attended by volunteers are caused by engine or battery problems, or vessels running out of fuel.“These are preventable issues,” Inspector Massey said. “Every safe trip starts before you hit the water.”Skippers are advised to check safety equipment before departure and continue to assess conditions throughout their trip, as weather can change rapidly along the coast.This summer, more than 400 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers will be on duty across seven local units — Port Kembla, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Jervis Bay, Sussex Inlet, Ulladulla and Kioloa — operating rescue vessels and radio rooms.Last summer, between December 1 and February 28, volunteers across the region carried out 196 search and rescue missions, including 78 emergency responses, returning 446 people safely to shore.During that period, crews also monitored almost 4,000 vessels that had Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW.Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are ready at any hourActing Commissioner Todd Andrews said Logging On before heading out remains one of the simplest and most effective safety measures boaters can take.“When a boater Logs On, they share details of their trip and expected return time,” he said.“If they don’t return as planned, a search will be initiated. Logging On saves vital time in an emergency.”Boaters can Log On via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or on VHF channel 16.Andrews said choosing to delay or cancel a trip in poor conditions should be seen as good seamanship.“If you’re unsure, don’t go out,” he said. “We want people to enjoy their time on the water and get home safely.”Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organisation supporting boating safety and local communities across the state.

The little drummer boy sits beside Frosty the Snowman, the sunlight bouncing off his pointy orange nose. Next to him is a nativity set and a family of skiers all lined up waiting for Santa to arrive. Unlike traditional Christmas scenes adorning homes across Kiama, these decorations are made using recycled golf balls and tees.Kiama Golf Club member Jane Wall has combined her two passions, golf and craft to capture the spirit of Christmas. And those lucky enough to know her are likely to have a Christmas Wall Ball on their mantelpiece or window sill. “Last year I gave my neighbours a family of golf ball skiers,” says Jane. “They are mad snow bunnies.”Jane also gifted her sister a special Christmas golf ball she created using their mother and grandmother’s costume jewellery. “Mum passed away in July and left us all this jewellery that was hers and her Mum’s,” explains Jane.“I wasn’t going to wear it, but I wanted to keep it, to honour their memory so I’ve incorporated it into the costumes I make to decorate the golf balls.“That way Mum’s still a part of our Christmas.”All of the Christmas golf ball decorations made by Jane use recycled materials and have a special meaning for those she gifts them to. Her latest Christmas creation is a Canterbury Bulldogs-themed golf ball for a friend who lost her brother recently. It will sit proudly atop his grave. A former pro golfer in the 1990s, Jane worked as a police officer when she wasn’t on the European tour. Like all first responders she was trained to run towards danger, not away from it. Jane’s job as a police officer embodies the bravery and selflessness we all witnessed watching the horrific footage from Sunday’s Bondi shootings when 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl, were killed by two gunmen.She also worked as an Ambulance NSW Triple Zero operator, supporting people through their most harrowing moments. Frontline work comes at a cost and Jane is among the one in 10 Australians who have experienced PTSD, with first responders at even higher risk due to repeated exposure to trauma.“Policing was what I loved and I was good at it,” says Jane “I was told by my superiors that I cared too much but in this job you can never care enough and unfortunately some of the things you see never leave you.” The golf ball decorations are one way Jane manages her PTSD, a lifelong condition that can knock the wind out of her sails at any given moment.She has avoided the news since the devastating massacre, the worst in the nation’s history since Port Arthur. She knows the images of two active shooters, police running towards gunfire and people fleeing for their lives, will trigger her PTSD. In her years as a serving officer, Jane saw the worst of society. Now she looks for the best, choosing to focus on the things that bring her happiness. While the nation was glued to their screens watching the horror at Bondi Beach unfold Jane was busy fossicking through her local recycling centre for pots and bits and bobs to create a fairy garden.“I do it because it makes me smile, and it makes the people I give my creations to smile as well. You need to find those small moments of joy when things are at their worst,” she saysPlaying golf - she has an excellent handicap of two - and crafting provided an escape from her worst days at work and kept her mind busy during the Covid pandemic. When the PTSD was its worst Jane knew she was in “real trouble” when she couldn’t even play golf; one of the things she loved most in the world. She credits the ladies golfers at Kiama with “pulling her up and out of a black hole where I would just beat myself up over everything”. Jane slowly recovered her confidence and started playing again. “The ladies got me back on the course, helped me get my game back on track,” says Jane.“But without that support, from my partner, the golf ladies and having the game and the golf ball Christmas decorations for therapy, who knows where I would be.”So if you have received a Wall Ball Christmas decoration, know that it is so much more than a quirky present. It’s a reminder that a kind word, supportive hug, or a simple smile can go a long way this silly season. It can change lives.

Volunteer crews from Marine Rescue Shoalhaven and Marine Rescue Jervis Bay worked together to assist two anglers after their vessel capsized off Currarong at the Banks near Jervis Bay.The men were thrown into the water when their runabout was swamped by a series of larger waves and overturned on Tuesday.Thankfully, another vessel nearby saw what had happened and quickly came to their aid, pulling both anglers safely from the water.Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said rescue vessels Jervis Bay 41 and Shoalhaven 30 were deployed to the incident.The capsized vessel at the Banks“Our crews carried out welfare checks on the anglers and transferred them safely onto the rescue vessel,” Inspector Massey said.“The capsized boat was also secured, as it posed a navigational hazard, at the request of NSW Police Marine Area Command.”The anglers were uninjured and returned safely to shore, where they expressed their gratitude to the recreational boaters who first stopped to help, as well as to the Marine Rescue volunteers who ensured everyone made it home safely.Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit professional organisation, and its volunteers are proud to look out for their local boating community and be there when they’re needed most.

More than 100 people braved rain and lightning to participate in the Sam Matters Cup at Gerringong Golf Club. The annual event raises awareness of suicide prevention, in honour of 18-year-old Sam who took his own life five years ago.Each year those in the tight-knit Gerringong community turn out to remember the “loveable, cheeky, beautiful boy” who had “every reason to live”. And each year they are prepared for a downpour. “It rains every time,” says Sam’s brother Perry who, along with hundreds of supporters, donned wet weather gear and braced for a wet and windy 18 holes on the picturesque, but notoriously tricky course.The Sam Matters Cup is usually held in September but it was postponed to December this year after hundreds of millimetres of spring rain made the hilly course unplayable.Despite being moved to summer, the heavens opened again on the morning of the cup but the deluge didn’t deter supporters of Sammy and the Matters family - dad Dean, mum Mel and brothers Josh and Perry.Photo: Ella GunningAbout 120 golfers braved the weather in honour of Sam’s love for a game he had played for almost a decade and to raise money for the Saving Sammy Foundation, set up by Dean and Mel in the hope other families don’t have to experience the loss they feel every day since their son’s death. “Today is a chance to remember Sam with our community and friends and prevent the same heartbreak happening to another family,” says Mel, who organised all the catering for the event at The Hill, the family’s well-known Gerringong restaurant.“Golf was such a big part of Sam’s life,” says Gerringong Golf Club professional Shane Cochrane who, along with Dean and other club stalwarts, has been instrumental in organising the annual event.This year, like many before, the weather thwarted players’ attempts to complete 18 holes, with the event cancelled midway through due to the severe weather. “Steve would’ve continued to play in weather like this, he’s used to the rain, he’s from New Zealand,” grins Shane. He was referring to Tiger Woods’ caddy Steven Williams, who visited the picturesque course in October to play 18 holes and launch his book, written by Gerringong Golf Club member Evyn Priest, about life on tour with the GOAT of golf.While many of Sammy’s supporters would’ve happily continued on in the rain, nearby lightning strikes made the event unsafe and forced the course to be cleared.Alex and Greg Weir. Photo: The BugleToolijooa farmer Greg Weir, a relative of the Matters’ family, dusts off his clubs each year to play in the cup and managed to squeeze in 10 holes before being called in.“I only play golf once a year, this event, with my son Alex,” says Greg. Although the pair were the inaugural winners of the Sam Matters Cup in 2020, Greg says the day is not about competition, it’s an opportunity for people, especially fathers and sons, to bond and have important discussions about mental health. Photo: Ella Gunning“We might not do it much but things like this charity event get us talking, and put a spotlight on suicide and mental health,” says Greg. “That’s Sam’s legacy.”And that’s why the Matters’ family pour their heart and soul into organising the event, with Dean at the forefront of the golf day making sure everything runs as smoothly as possible - rain, hail or lightning.Photo: Ella GunningThe downpour failed to dampen the spirits of those who knew and loved Sam and the close-knit coastal community joined the extended Matters’ family at The Hill for lunch.Mel, Kiama’s Deputy Mayor and a baker by trade, was on the tools helping to churn out delicious meals and hot and cold drinks for the wet, bedraggled golfers. Photo: Ella GunningDean, with the help of his granddaughters Jess and Nicky, drew names out of a hat to determine who would win prizes, given the competition was cancelled.“Unfortunately it rains more often than not when we hold the cup, apologies for that, but it never stops people from showing up,” he told the crowd gathered to honour Sam. No one seemed to mind that the golf game was cut short, with connection, camaraderie and mental health awareness the real winners on the day.“I was very proud of Melissa, she spoke at the presentation this year, something she hasn’t been able to do in the past because it was just too painful,” says Dean. “Our community is amazing, it’s like it gives us a collective hug saying ‘we are with you’.”With Australian Institute of Health and Welfare figures showing 3214 Australians died by suicide in 2023, the need for connection, awareness and suicide prevention has never been greater. On average nine people across the nation lose their lives to suicide every day. In NSW, suicide deaths rose to 954 in 2024, higher than in previous years.The Saving Sammy Foundation hopes the more than $100,000 raised will help bring down these heartbreaking numbers through funding youth development programs at Nowra PCYC and the Building Young Men Program, a mentoring initiative with Kiama High School.“Mentors talk to the boys about their own challenges, the difficulties they faced in growing into young men,” explains Dean. “It is a fantastic initiative which I wish had been available when Sam was alive. "Maybe the outcome would have been different. If we can save one young person Sam's life will not have been in vain.” Young people needing support can reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800, both are free and confidential 24/7 phone and online chat counselling services.