The Kiama Housing Strategy Forum provided a platform for residents to hear from planning, housing, and design experts while offering reflections on housing affordability, liveability, and the future shape of Kiama’s communities.Hosted by Kiama Council at The Sebel on Friday, it was held to encourage community input into the draft Local Housing Strategy which is on public exhibition.The session was structured around pre-submitted questions, giving the panel time to respond in depth, though this format limited direct audience interaction.Who was on the panel• Ed Paterson – Kiama Municipal Council Director of Planning and moderator of the event• Natalie Allan – Southern Cross Community Housing• Simon Kersten – Property professional, known for his pragmatic lens on local development and economics• Madeleine Scarfe – Architect, with expertise in place-based design and economic impact• Cathryn Lyall – President of Kiama Business Network and business and finance expert, offering a big-picture view of community resilience and sustainabilityMic drop moments💬 Natalie Allan:“Our perception of who we are directly influences the way we act.”She challenged the room to move beyond self-interest and nostalgia when writing submissions. Her message? Think community-first. Define “character” inclusively. And consider who benefits when we protect the status quo.💬 Simon Kersten:“We’re just exporting workers every morning and importing tourists every weekend.”Kersten’s quote hit hard, highlighting the imbalance between local housing and job opportunities, and making the case for tying economic development to housing growth.💬 Madeleine Scarfe:Highlighted the economic distortion of short-term rental accommodation, noting that a property rented at $1000 a night contributes less to the local economy than a long-term resident who buys groceries, uses local services, and sends their kids to school.💬 Cathryn Lyall:Reminded attendees that affordability isn't just about house prices. It is also about building a local economy with enough diversity that people can live, work, and age in place.Takeaway messageThe forum was not just about planning codes or zoning maps. It was a challenge to residents: to think bigger. To ask who is missing. And to ensure that Kiama remains not just a beautiful place to visit, but a place where people can afford to belong.Listen to • KMC Director of Planning present Draft Housing Strategy V2 at Housing Strategy Business Panel Discussion on 11 April here • Business Panel Discussion here• Housing Expert Dr Tony Gilmour discuss the Draft Housing Strategy V2 with Bernie Hems on KCR here • KMC Director of Plan Ed Paterson discuss the Draft Housing Strategy V2 with Bernie Hems on KCR here Have your sayKiama Council’s draft housing strategy is on public exhibition until April 27.You can read it and share your views here. If the current approach doesn’t reflect your priorities, you are entitled to contact your councillors directly and ask for changes that support a more liveable, affordable Kiama.The forum was rich with insight, lived experience and bold ideas. The Bugle will be sharing more highlights and panel discussions on The Bugle app over the next two weeks.

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.”

A comprehensive list of unanswered questions about the finalisation of the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club project has been lodged by Cr Melinda Lawton, who is calling for full documentation to be added to Kiama Council’s Asset Register and made available for public accountability.The detailed question with notice (Item 19.2 on the agenda) for Tuesday's Council meeting) includes more than 50 documentation points spanning compliance certificates, as-built plans, warranties, maintenance schedules, financial reconciliations, environmental assessments and community usage registers.Cr Lawton described the surf club as “the most recently completed KMC project” and is seeking to ensure all builder and consultant documents have been accurately supplied, stored and referenced.She is also requesting a clear record of items purchased by lessees, community use logs, and formalised leasing agreements.“We need to close the loop properly on these major capital projects,” Cr Lawton said. “Our community deserves to know not just what’s been built, but how it’s being maintained, what we’re responsible for, and what’s been handed over.”Cr Lawton clarified her intent was not to single out the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club, but to set a consistent standard across all Council-owned assets. “I want to make it clear the intention is to do all of this with all assets. I'm using this one as the start because it's the most recently completed,” she said.In a brief response, CEO Jane Stroud advised that the responsible officer is currently attending the Australasian Management Challenge and a full answer will be provided at the May meeting.The motion follows Cr Lawton’s earlier push for a full audit of Council’s asset records, signalling a broader call for governance rigour, particularly around high-profile, community-facing infrastructure.

Graham Brown is entering politics for the first time by running for Family First in the seat of Gilmore because he wants to help fellow small business owners and represent the majority of constituents rather than a vocal minority. The Moruya businessman is the managing director of Euro Civil, a company he started with his wife Julie a quarter of a century ago that installs safety barriers.He will go up against Labor incumbent Fiona Phillps, Liberal veteran Andrew Constance, Community Independent Kate Dezarnaulds and The Greens’ candidate Debbie Killian in the battle for Gilmore in the May 3 federal election.Brown said he decided to throw his hat into the ring because he believes Family First’s policies on a range of topics, including housing, immigration and support for small business. “I'm standing because I love this country,” he said.“I've had both sides of working on the farm and also working in the civil industry and you see a lot of stuff going on and I see that the frustration with the cost of living, the power prices going up when we were promised a reduction in power bills.“I'm very passionate about seeing the government being held accountable to and coming back to the core basics of what they stand for. “They're quick to throw money around to try and get people to vote for them but they're missing a lot of the main points.” “I guess I'm representing the underdog in a lot of ways, the people that own small businesses and don't get too much say in politics. “They've got to sit back and put up with what's thrown at them and by people that have never experienced life in the real world. “I left school at 15, worked on the farm and started my own business in between milkings, running mobile discos at night time and fencing contracting in the day.“Through hard work and determination I’ve given the customers what they want and that is what I stand for and I think that can apply to politics.“Giving people what they want without leaning towards a minority. “Basically, I just want to see the right thing done by this country. There are a lot of decisions that are being made that aren't in the country's interest. They might be in the minority's interest but not in the whole country's interest.”Brown’s view is that families are spending too much time working extra hours to cover for the rising cost of living, which is having flow-on effects.“Family values is the biggest thing that I'm all for,” he added.“I see mums and dads working hard, their families are left in daycares and the mums and dads are working on separate jobs and there's no family life.“We're living in a world now where we're paying high interest rates and the families have just got to spend their time working and not spending family time. “They're missing out on a lot of the family values and they don't get too much say. The schools tend to be helping to raise the kids instead of the parents because they're either in daycare or they're in schools and the parents get home at night.“It's causing a lot of issues with juvenile crime going through the roof. A lot of it's because they're not spending enough time with their parents and not getting that proper upbringing.“I think it's because the parents are too busy trying to pay the bills and the kids are left without proper parenting.”Small businesses are doing it tough because of the extra costs imposed, Brown added.“I was talking to a fella the other day who wants to start his own business but he said he just felt like every time he wanted to get going he had red tape and he's banging his head against the wall trying to get going. “Once upon a time it was just so easy to be able to. There were lots of incentives to get started but now it's like everything's against you. “You put in a tender for a contract that lasts five years and you’re not expecting the power prices to go through the roof and the costs of labour to go up.“It's sending a lot of small businesses broke because of the extra costs involved.”

Even though Mat King is a new face on the board of the Kiama Business Network, he’s quickly become one of its most passionate voices.“I’ve volunteered before,” he says, “but it’s always been a bit of a solo journey. This time, it feels completely different, it’s a team. And I’m learning something every time we sit down together.”As Vice President of the Network and owner of Creative Kooks, Mat brings an energy that blends grassroots enthusiasm with a hunger to learn. He’s the first to say he’s not the most experienced person at the table and that’s exactly what motivates him.“I believe if you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room,” he says with a grin. “So I know I’m in the right place. I’m learning from people with backgrounds in HR, banking, law, people who’ve led careers, juggled families, and still show up with their hearts in the right place.”For Mat, the standout is the group culture itself - open, inclusive and powered by shared values.“There’s no ego, no hierarchy. If you bring an idea and it’s got heart, the board gets behind you.”That’s exactly what happened when he proposed a partnership with Headspace to run a mental health first aid course. Initially hoping for 10 participants, the event was overwhelmed by demand, with 47 people signing up in just a few days.“The community response was huge. It reminded us we were on the right track - that what we’re doing really matters.”It also showed Mat the unique impact of volunteering as part of a structured, supported team. The Network gave him the space to run with the project and the confidence to think about what’s next.Beyond his mental health initiatives, Mat is now working with the board on refreshing the local “Buy Local” campaign - aiming to better include online businesses and digital-first entrepreneurs.“I’ve realised volunteering like this isn’t just giving back - it’s building up. You grow your own business skills, make meaningful connections, and feel part of something bigger than yourself.”As a father, business owner, and active community member, Mat says his greatest reward is setting an example.“One day, I want my kids to be proud of what I’m doing - to see how important it is to give back, and how much joy and learning can come from being part of a team that genuinely cares.”It’s not just about volunteering anymore - it’s about community, collaboration and building a better Kiama together.

By Jacqueline ForstConsumer and Carer Advocate, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District.The Bugle is pleased to announce that Jacqueline Forst will be contributing a series of articles focusing on aged care issues that matter to the Kiama community.Jacqueline brings extensive experience as a Consumer and Carer Advocate with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District and Carers NSW. With postgraduate qualifications in Commerce and Social Work, and a background in human services design, she is deeply committed to social equity and community-led innovation.Aged care is heading towards a crisis point.More Australians are living longer, but too many are spending those extra years in poor health.This graphic shows the projected increase in Kiama LGA residents aged 65 and over - from 4,950 in 2021 to 8,550 by 2036. This represents a 32% increase and highlights the growing need for age-friendly services and planning in the region. ​As our population ages, demand for care is soaring, costs are climbing, and both government and providers are under pressure to keep up.Australia’s population is ageing at an unprecedented rate. Over the next 40 years, the number of people over 85 is expected to triple.Yet our health span lags 12 years behind our lifespan, meaning many Australians spend their later years with limited mobility and high care needs.This shift is making aged care more complex and costly to manage.In the Illawarra-Shoalhaven region, the effects are already being felt.Former Warrigal CEO Mark Sewell confirmed that 500 aged care beds have closed over the past decade. ISLHD CEO Margot Mains estimates the region is now short 1,025 beds as of March 2025.At the same time, the cost of care has climbed significantly, with the Productivity Commission reporting that average aged care bed-day costs have risen from $71,420 in 2014 to $85,891 in 2022–23 (adjusted for inflation).In response, the federal government passed the Aged Care Bill in November 2024, with the new Aged Care Act set to take effect on 1 July 2025.It introduces reforms aimed at stabilising the sector, recognising that further closures would have dire consequences.These include increased funding, higher wages for care workers, expanded access to nursing, and more direct care hours.Local governments like Kiama Council have struggled to navigate the evolving aged care environment.Despite the good intentions behind Blue Haven Bonaira, the council underestimated the financial and structural shifts that have reshaped the industry.Meanwhile, larger not-for-profit providers were consolidating, reducing risks, and stepping away from unprofitable ventures.Under the new legislation, around half of new aged care residents will face higher costs.While hardship provisions remain, those with fewer resources may need to travel further to find suitable care.These pressures are particularly urgent for Kiama. According to the 2021 Census, our median age is 48, ten years older than the national median.By 2036, the number of Kiama residents aged 65 and over is projected to grow from 4,950 to 8,550. A 32% increase. Planning for this now is essential.The path forward will require collaboration across all levels - government, providers, community leaders, and residents.Together, we must find sustainable solutions that ensure older Australians.

Local skies, lost stories and brave souls remembered ...  It was standing room only at the Kiama History Centre on Friday as fifth-generation local Russell Fredericks took the audience on a wild ride.Or rather, a tragic nosedive through three remarkable military aircraft accidents that took place in the hills and skies around our region.It was the kind of talk that made you lean forward, forget to sip your tea, and wish history had a rewind button. Gordon Bell, who opened the event with affectionate banter, joked that Russell was “chicken” - too young, at least compared to his Jamberoo pedigree.But nobody in the room doubted that his deep local knowledge and knack for detail were the real deal. With warmth, wit and a surprisingly slick PowerPoint for someone who claimed not to do technology, Russell took us through three aviation incidents that had been all but erased from collective memory.  The first story took us to 1939 and the side of Saddleback Mountain.A Hawker Demon fighter, piloted by young Jack Ohlmeyer from Clare, South Australia, spiralled out of the clouds and into the earth.His parachute failed. Locals from Jamberoo rushed to the wreckage.Wal Alexander, a dairyman, got there first.Jack died within seconds in his arms. His body, taken by ER ambulance, was eventually buried with full military honours back in Clare.Site of the Fountaindale Rd crash on Saddleback Mt Jamberoo Russell revealed that Jack was not only the first pilot from No.3 Squadron to die in WWII, but possibly the first RAAF pilot overall.The moment hit hard. Not just for history buffs, but for everyone who has walked the Saddleback trails and never known. On to 1943. A Bristol Beaufort bomber vanished above Foxground in dreadful weather.Beaufort Bomber Its crash was so secretive that locals did not even know it had happened, until Bullocky Brennan came upon the wreckage while carting timber with his bullocks. He found four crew members charred inside the plane, and one slumped against a tree, lifeless. Decades later, Gerringong Scouts and locals trekked to the site to install a plaque.It was a poignant reminder that war often leaves its mark quietly, deep in the bush, under the ferns, and in the memories of people like Molly Irvine, who rode from Clover Hill Rd across Wallaby Hill to milk cows for her neigjbours for two shillings and remembered those men as if they had just fallen.Then came 1957.A Fairey Firefly crashed west of Foxground during a training exercise.Fairey Firefly wreakage below Barren GroundsTwo young naval officers died instantly after mistaking Kiama’s lighthouse for Point Perpendicular. A flare seen shortly after raised false hope. It was just the intense heat igniting ammunition. A naval prayer was said on the hillside that night. It was an accident that could have been avoided by 20 feet. A tragic miscalculation that has haunted the escarpment ever since. Russell peppered the afternoon with vivid asides.A radar operator who was not believed when she tracked a Japanese flight over Kiama.A mysterious 1920 crash near Chapman’s Point. Bullock teams and Scout maps. The room chuckled and sighed in equal measure. The final slide called for a small gesture.To remember the airmen who died here, often in training, far from enemy fire but no less brave.Graham Kenderdine, aviation sleuth and son of a local wartime navigator, helped piece these stories together.But it was Russell’s voice, steady and respectful, that brought the forgotten back into focus. As we filed out, the murmurs said it all. “Incredible,” someone whispered. “I had no idea.” Neither did most of us. Until Russell gave us wings.You can read more about these historical aviation tales here.

Kiama Anglican Church’s free family fun days have been a huge hit at Christmas and Easter time over the past three years and next Saturday’s event promises to be another success.Kids have a great time at the Fun Days with their parents, while hounding them about when the next one is happening!It is a place where families can hang out together and do fun stuff for free. What more can you ask for than that!This Easter no one will be disappointed there will be plenty of things to do:Rolling across the grass in Zorb BallsBig and little kids Jumping CastlesCreative art and craft activitiesFace PaintingIndoor gamesCarnival Alley FoodGiant Easter Egg Hunt and much more.The Easter Bunny turns up each year, trusting the "orange tiger" to lead the hunt!See you on Saturday (19 April) from 1pm to 4 pm at Kiama Anglican Church at 2 Terralong Street, Kiama, and remember there is free car parking on site.

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips has pledged more than half a million dollars to upgrade Kiama Surf Life Saving Club.Phillips made the announcement on Saturday at the club, promising $512,000 to upgrade the facility if Anthony Albanese's Labor Government is re-elected at the May 3 federal election.The incumbent MP said the upgrade would make the club a fit-for-purpose space for training and social activities for young members.Phillips has previously delive $5.5 million in funding for the new Gerringong Surf Club and she said this election commitment would be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.“I am so proud to be supporting this project because I know how important Kiama SLSC is to the local community here in Kiama," Phillips said.“I have supported Kiama SLSC in multiple funding grants, including supporting them in their successful grant application to fix their roof."I’m also proud to have supported the local Surf Life Saving Community by delivering $5.5 million for the fantastic new Gerringong Surf Club, which I opened in March this year.“I will always stand with our Surf Life Saving Clubs and our coastal community.” She was joined by Kiama councillors Imogene Draisma and Stuart Larkins, and members of the surf life saving club at Saturday's announcement at Surf Beach.

Kiama Councillor Erica Warren has asked for a full breakdown of how much Kiama Municipal Council is spending on councillor conferences and events, prompted by concerns that public funds may be stretched too thin to justify multiple attendees at external forums.Her question with notice (Item 19.3 on the agenda for 15 April) seeks details on average costs per event, year-by-year totals, and what has been allocated in Council’s budget for these expenses.Cr Warren says she’s particularly interested in whether multiple councillors need to attend the same conference, especially when those funds could be spent on community services.“I understand that the Mayor or Deputy Mayor may be expected to attend some events,” she wrote, “but we have to ask: are these trips all necessary, or are we just used to saying yes to everything and are we coming in under budget annually?”The CEO’s detailed response reveals that Kiama councillors have collectively spent:$21,992 in 2023–24$22,336 in 2022–23$37,112 in 2021–22And $13,369 so far in 2024–25 (with more events to come)The 2025-26 budget allocates $15,000 to councillor conference attendance.While some events involve online training or local meetings, others include flights, accommodation, and dinners across destinations such as Canberra, Tamworth, Newcastle, and the Adelaide Hills.The response also notes that only one councillor has submitted a required professional development plan, despite all being asked in October 2024, something that determines what training or conferences are truly necessary.Kiama Council has a policy requiring councillors to be endorsed by resolution to attend events, with reports and costings provided in advance. Still, the item raises broader questions about optics and priorities in an era of financial restraint.Cr Warren also noted: “The new Councillors have already seen that there are many items coming up for the community that aren't in the budget but would benefit the community."Items that have been well supported, such as a disabled parking space at Kiama Med Clinic, or the pool cover at Jamberoo Pool. Funds are also needed to plan for a walking track in Jamberoo, which won't happen until we have the money to do the preparatory work so we can apply for grants."The list is ever growing and luckily, we are a group of Councillors that want to get things done, but without fine-tuning our spending habits, small but impactful changes won't happen."We will begin to see a positive change in our finances over the next 2-3 years, but we need to think about what we can do now, to make an impact.”

Election signs have started popping up across Kiama, and not everyone is happy about it.Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has taken aim at candidates who have installed corflutes on public land leading into the formal election period, calling the practice “visual pollution” and a breach of the rules.“It’s not a free-for-all. The law is clear, and everyone should play by the same rules” the state member said. “It’s time to do politics differently.”He criticised signs being placed on fences, poles and other publicly owned infrastructure, and said he has only ever put his signs on private property. “If a small business was caught doing this, they would be fined – and so too should these candidates.”Kate Dezarnaulds’ team says their campaign has acted well within the law and in the spirit of long-standing Australian electoral practice.“On Saturday 22 March, we placed signs across Kiama in public locations commonly used for community notices, such as fences that regularly display banners for local sporting events and community activities,” a spokesperson said.“The law allows election signage from either the date the election is called or up to eight weeks before polling day, whichever comes first.  “We believe we have followed both the letter and the spirit of the law.”The team also raised concerns that some Kate4Gilmore signs have been taken down, while other signage nearby was left untouched.“If Council’s concern is signage on public land, we would welcome clarity on the approach being taken, to ensure all campaigns are treated consistently.”While Ward encouraged residents to report unauthorised signs to Council, Kate4Gilmore’s campaign struck a different note: “Our focus remains on engaging respectfully with our community about the big issues, from housing and health to the rising cost of living.“Our signs are just one way of letting people know we are here, we are listening, and we are ready to work hard for our region.”With voters watching closely, the question may be less about where signs go up and more about who is willing to listen when they do.

Playing tennis is like riding a bike - once you learn you’ve got the skills for life.Ryan Stirling spent his younger years in Cowra and participated in tennis lessons organised by local club members from the age of four. He moved to Tenterfield where he played basketball, volleyball, golf, squash and Aussie Rules but no tennis as there was a lack of organisation.“The courts seemed to be never in use,” Ryan recalled. After completing his secondary studies at Tenterfield High School, Ryan completed a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Chemistry) at the University. of NSW at Randwick. Ryan then went to work for Masterfoods at Wyong for four years, then travelled to Canada on a skiing holiday before moving to England where he worked for an engineering consulting company from 2004-2008.He made his comeback to tennis when he joined the Jamberoo Tennis Club in 2018 and started playing night competition in Division 4 with Shaun Thurkettle, Ryan Stalgis and Nick Kofod. Ryan came to live in Jamberoo in 2020 and works for the Shellharbour Council at the waste depot at Dunmore.This year he was promoted to Division 3 night comp, teaming up with two of the club’s most experienced members - Noel Faulkner and Joel Edwards. Ryan has performed well in the club championships, winning the B Grade Men’s Doubles in 2023 with Harley Fry and in 2024 with Shaun Thurkettle.

A motion calling for deeper environmental scrutiny and community accountability ahead of any move to relocate Kiama Municipal Council's works depot to the Minnamurra River catchment will be debated at Tuesday's Council meeting.Cr Melinda Lawton has lodged a notice of motion (Item 20.1 on the agenda) urging Council to commit to a formal environmental impact analysis, costed flood and runoff studies, and a comprehensive assessment of road access and long-term maintenance issues.She also wants the findings formally presented to councillors and costed into the upcoming 2025–26 Delivery Program and Operational Plan.Cr Lawton says her motion aligns with the Coastal Management Act 2016, which mandates the protection of coastal wetlands and littoral rainforests, rehabilitation of degraded areas, and strengthened resilience to climate change."We can't pursue economic efficiency at the expense of the Minnamurra catchment's environmental, social and recreational value," she said. "The community deserves to see the full picture, not just the financial upside."While Council staff note these assessments will be required under existing legislation, Cr Lawton's motion seeks explicit commitment and transparency at a public level.In a staff response, CEO Jane Stroud confirmed the proposal is currently in its early scoping phase under a newly adopted Project Management Framework. A working group including risk, finance, waste and infrastructure staff has been formed, and preliminary funding has already been flagged in the draft 2025–26 Capital Works Program.Stroud also noted although the motion does not strictly meet the Code of Meeting Practice, it has been included in the business paper as relevant funding and briefings are already in place.This motion is a call for greater environmental transparency and community accountability before the relocation of Kiama’s depot to the Minnamurra catchment. While Council staff are already required by law to carry out many of these assessments, Cr Lawton is advocating for explicit Council commitment and reporting, with the goal of protecting a sensitive and significant ecological and recreational area.

With the federal election on the horizon, teachers are concerned that a change in government could mean a change in their funding.The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments announced last month they had agreed to provide $4.8 billion for NSW public schools over the next 10 years. Members of the Teachers Federation met with the union's president and Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, at Nowra High School on Tuesday to receive an update on the funding agreement.Mr Rajendra and Mrs Phillips speaking with teachers in front of the Full School Funding Billboard truck. Photos provided.Phillips shared findings from a new survey of teachers across the Gilmore, Whitlam, and Cunningham electorates. The survey revealed more than three quarters (76%) of teachers are concerned that Opposition Leader Peter Dutton will scrap this historic funding agreement for public schools if he becomes Prime Minister.Both the President and Organiser of the NSW Teachers Federation, Henry Rajendra and Duncan McDonald respectively, cited the Coalition's history in government as a key reason for concern.“This funding is at risk should Peter Dutton be elected PM. The Liberal-National Coalition government cut school funding agreements the last time they were in power, denying children vital support. Most concerningly, Peter Dutton has failed to offer bipartisan support for the new school funding agreement,” Rajendra said.McDonald added: “Since 2013, successive Coalition governments have delivered cuts to New South Wales public schools. “In fact, just the day after the agreement was signed, shadow finance minister Jane Hume refused to commit to the additional $4.8 billion in funding for NSW public schools. “The Coalition under Peter Dutton has also made no commitments to increasing school funding in NSW.”The 10-year agreement, signed by the federal and NSW governments, aims to raise funding for public schools to 100% of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) - a minimum funding level, as defined by McDonald.“We call it 100% of the SRS, but it’s actually the minimum level of funding required to meet the needs of all students. That’s why it’s so significant. It will allow schools to focus on areas of need and on equity for students,” he said.Mr Rajendra with teachers and students from Gerringong Public School. Photos provided.The same survey released by Phillips showed two thirds of teachers across the Gilmore, Whitlam and Cunningham electorates believe this funding is critical to support students who have fallen behind in literacy and numeracy.“There are teachers in our area expressing these concerns because they see students in need every day. They go above and beyond to support them, but they lack the necessary resources. What we’re seeing is teachers burning out,” McDonald said.“We’re also seeing state-level departments of education struggling to attract and retain teachers due to burnout and heavy workloads.”Rajendra also highlighted the positive impact of the funding agreement on NSW public schools.

Community Independent candidate for Gilmore, Kate Dezarnaulds, is demanding better health care for the electorate, claiming people are waiting too long, paying too much or going without care. Dezarnaulds is adamant the communities within the vast geographical area which covers the South Coast from Kiama to Moruya are tired of political quick fixes while the real cracks in our health system keep widening.“The major parties are busy fighting over headlines and handouts, while our health system is being held together by burnt-out workers, unpaid overtime and short-term grants,” she said.The age-old problem of people in regional areas getting the rough end of the pineapple, compared to their city counterparts, is rearing its ugly head again."Despite having the same Medicare card, people in Gilmore receive far less federal investment in their health than those in the city," she added. "Regional Australians get $848 less per person each year on average. That’s an $80 million shortfall for Gilmore alone."The flow-on effect spreads to added financial burdens in a range of areas, she argued.“When people can’t access care locally, they’re forced to travel long distances, take time off work, and cover extra costs for fuel, accommodation, and childcare - carrying the emotional and financial burden themselves,” she said.“For regular check-ups, it’s the hassle and cost of travelling. But when it’s time to give birth, the choice is even harder: either relocate the whole family into temporary accommodation, or face the lonely experience of being separated during one of life’s most joyful and stressful moments.“People in regional areas often pay the same premiums as those in the city, but get far less back because there simply aren’t enough local specialists or services to claim against.“Research shows regional Australians face higher out-of-pocket costs, even when they’re insured. So, while city residents are using their cover for things like massages and wellness perks, people here can’t access basics like maternity care, elective surgery or radiotherapy.”Dezarnaulds warned voters not to be fooled by the two major parties announcing new clinics and services.“If there’s no one to staff them, it’s just headlines,” she said. “We’re seeing this across the board. From GPs and aged care to psychologists and paediatricians. Teenagers are waiting months for assessments and diagnosis that are essential to their mental health support, and families are desperate for solutions.”Her health care priorities for Gilmore are to make Medicare work better for rural and regional communities by funding time with your GP, whole-person care, and early intervention, while reforming the funding model to reward health outcomes with a focus on primary preventative care.She is backing community-led solutions and wrap around family services, especially those that address the social and economic drivers of poor health, wants to fix the workforce crisis with a local strategy to train, attract and retain health professionals, expand specialist access and create sustainable business models that acknowledge the fundamental role that allied health and pharmacists as small businesses play in keeping us well.Dezarnaulds said she had the genuine courage needed to tackle the impact and causes of diseases of despair by supporting services that address trauma, addiction, poverty and social isolation.“Aboriginal health organisations like Waminda, or local wrap-around services like The Family Place in Moruya, show what works: care that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms,” she said. “We should be backing these models, not treating them as fringe. True equity of access means every community, in every postcode, gets the support they need.“Health isn’t a luxury, it’s a right. It’s time to fund what works, and that means backing our people.”

Concerns over missed opportunities and stalled projects dominated discussion at the latest Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association meeting last week. Members expressed frustration that $50,000 in Rural Fire Service grant funding was lost. The funding had been allocated for solar panels on the Jamberoo fire shed and for a community mural and garden project. Delays in securing permissions and obtaining information from Council meant both grants lapsed before the projects could proceed.  “This was a huge, missed opportunity,” one member said. “It would have saved the community thousands in electricity costs and added value to the town’s public spaces.”Also discussed was the off-leash dog park in Jamberoo, which is listed on Kiama Municipal Council’s website as due for completion by June 2025. Members noted the lack of visible progress or public plans and hoped that the timeline remains realistic.Heritage signage was also discussed, with the group hoping to install five interpretive signs along the main street and two in Reid Park. Council has recently given unanimous support for the concept.While earlier grant applications were unsuccessful, members expressed a strong willingness to pursue new funding opportunities. Flooding and stormwater management remain live concerns, with little visible progress since community meetings in 2023.Residents say the School of Arts and nearby homes are still vulnerable to flooding due to overland water flow in heavy rain  One member suggested Council be reminded of its responsibility to act before damage occurs again.Discussion also turned to the Draft Local Housing Strategy, with particular concern about the inclusion of land behind Macquarie Street as a potential growth area. Many landowners were unaware their land was referenced in the strategy and questioned how development would be feasible given the steep terrain, flooding risk and lack of infrastructure. The group also reviewed the positive community meeting on the Jerrara Rainforest and Wetlands Reserve and noted Council’s willingness to consider funding an updated Plan of Management. The meeting concluded with appreciation for the ongoing efforts of Councillors who continue to advocate for the Jamberoo community across a range of local issues, from housing and infrastructure to green space and heritage projects.

Saul Griffith stood in front of a packed room at the Grand Hotel in Kiama with a beer in hand and a message that cut through the political noise: Australia can lead the world in climate action, but only if we stop waiting for others and start doing the work ourselves.Griffith, an inventor and engineer with deep experience in global climate policy, brought urgency and optimism to a community event hosted by local independent candidate Kate Dezarnaulds.He has advised governments around the world, including working on the Inflation Reduction Act in the United States.In recent months, he has seen that progress unravel.His own organisation lost more than $2 billion in US government contracts as political winds shifted.“Political flip-flopping costs us. It destroys trust, delays progress and kills opportunity. Australia has a chance to show another way.”That way, according to Griffith, is full electrification.Australian households that electrify their cars, appliances and heating systems, and install rooftop solar, could save more than $4000 a year. Scaled nationally, this would lead to savings of nearly $2 trillion by 2050.“This is not a sacrifice,” he said. “It is an opportunity. But we have to fight for it. The system is not going to change itself.” Griffith also addressed the Coalition’s recent decision to embrace nuclear energy, describing it as a distraction rather than a solution. “It’s not serious policy,” he said.While he supports nuclear technology in countries without other viable options, he argues it makes no sense for Australia. It is costly, slow to build and relies heavily on water. “We have sunshine, we have momentum, and we know what works. We are the driest inhabited continent on Earth. Nuclear relies heavily on water we simply cannot spare - we don’t need it,” he said.“We need courage and the right incentives.” He explained Australia’s electrical grid is already experiencing a transformation - 40% of substations now send electricity both ways due to rooftop solar.But regulators are still operating as if we live in the 1950s.Griffith argues Australia has the best sunshine in the world and the perfect conditions to electrify homes, businesses and even heavy industry. What’s missing, he said, is the political will.Griffith is not aligned with any party, but he is passionate about the role independents can play in restoring integrity and ambition to Parliament.He’s worked with the current crossbench and describes them as some of the hardest working and most values-driven MPs in Canberra. He believes more independents could help hold major parties to account and push for real progress. That’s where Dezarnaulds comes in.While Griffith joked that everyone in the room already knew she was great, he also made it clear her campaign is serious.Dezarnaulds has spent years working with community organisations across Gilmore, listening to concerns about affordability, infrastructure, environmental protection, and political integrity. Her campaign is backed by Climate 200 and supported by a growing grassroots movement. Griffith reminded the room the energy transition will not only lower bills and cut emissions but can also help address inequality. With the right policies, renters, low-income households and small businesses can share in the benefits. But if we wait or get distracted by expensive dead ends like nuclear, the window will close. “We know what to do,” he said. “Electrify everything. Start in your community. And vote for people who will make it happen.”

Opinion It takes courage to run into danger when others run away. And in Jamberoo, that courage wears ponytails, work boots and smiles that hide sleepless nights.The local Rural Fire Service brigade, like Kiama’s Surf Life Saving Club, is quietly reshaping what frontline service looks like - and who belongs in it.Half of Jamberoo RFS’s operational team are women. Its captain, Hannah McInerney, is the first female brigade leader in the Illawarra.Their message is simple: inclusion isn’t just nice to have.It’s critical to capability. It makes our emergency services more resilient, more responsive and more connected to the communities they serve. That’s why it is so disheartening to hear public figures still clinging to outdated beliefs about who belongs in what roles.When a would-be federal representative questions whether women should serve in combat, it is not a policy debate.It’s a warning signal.It tells every girl who dreams of making a difference that her ambition will always be second-guessed - not because of her skills, but because of her gender. Normalising diversity in frontline roles doesn’t weaken the system.It strengthens it.It sends a powerful message that courage, leadership and care are not defined by age, gender or background.When the community sees inclusive teams protecting their homes and livelihoods, it reshapes old stereotypes and opens the door for everyone to contribute. These women - from Kiama’s beaches to Jamberoo’s valleys, are not asking for praise.They are asking to be recognised as capable.To be seen for the hours of training, the split-second decisions, the physical toll, the emotional weight.They are showing up, night after night, sometimes risking their lives.What they should never have to risk is their right to belong. Let’s not slide backwards.Let’s take our cue from the communities that already know better - and do better.

At a community meet the candidates forum hosted at Kiama Uniting Church, the absence of the Australian flag drew criticism from former Liberal MP Joanna Gash, prompting her to write a Letter to the Editor to The Bugle. But Reverend Kath Merrifield, who moderated the event, says the meaning behind the church’s wall display has been misunderstood. “We do not have an Australian flag at the church. We never have,” Reverend Merrifield said. “It is not a political decision. It is simply not part of our worship or community space.” Instead of flags, the church displays coloured fabric panels.These include the red, black and yellow colours associated with Aboriginal identity, and green, blue and white representing Torres Strait Islander culture. They are not flags, but cloth strips that have been on the wall since January.Their purpose is to represent the Uniting Church’s ongoing covenant with First Nations peoples through its national body, the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress.Andrew Constance, Liberal candidate for Gilmore, speaking at the Meet the Candidates forum at Kiama Uniting Church. Reverend Merrifield said the cloths reflect the church’s commitment to truth-telling and reconciliation. “The colours change to mark different church seasons."It is part of our spiritual life. Around Easter they will change again.”  The community forum was organised by 350.org Australia, the Australian Conservation Foundation and the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change.It drew a crowd of 145 locals and featured Gilmore candidates including Fiona Phillips MP, Andrew Constance, Kate Dezarnaulds and Debbie Killian. While Ms Gash criticised the lack of the national flag, Reverend Merrifield clarified the church would have displayed one respectfully if requested. “We just do not own one.”