Central Jamberoo is festooned with red wreaths and Australian Red Cross memorabilia as the local branch puts their best foot forward to mark the 110th anniversary of the organisation’s work. On Tuesday 13 August, Jamberoo Branch is celebrating by asking locals to wear red as a thank you to the volunteers who have been, and always will be here to help. Formed after the outbreak of World War One in 1914, the Australian Red Cross Jamberoo Branch has played a pivotal role in connecting older or vulnerable community members and raising funds for life changing Australian Red Cross programs. Jamberoo Branch President, Barbara Adams, says turning 110 is a milestone worth celebrating. “We are proud of our long history serving this community and of the volunteers and members who continue to deliver what’s needed to those who are most vulnerable. In celebration of this milestone, we’re encouraging the Jamberoo community to wear red to acknowledge those we have stood beside, and those who continue to make our important work possible,” she said. In celebration of the 110th anniversary, from Sunday 4 August, Red Cross memorabilia will be on show in the vacant shop next to Kings Patisserie in Allowrie St, Jamberoo, and local businesses will display an exhibition of images by well-known Jamberoo photographer Linda Faiers, showing past and current Jamberoo Red Cross volunteers in action. Branch members skilled in knitting and crochet will also be yarnbombing and garlanding the village to “paint the town red”. From 10 till 2 on Thursday 8 August, Ms Adams will host the regional Red Cross Zone Conference at Club Jamberoo, with around 50 delegates expected including members from neighbouring Red Cross branches in Kiama, Gerringong, Albion Park, Dapto and Fairy Meadow as well as dignitaries from Head Office. On Tuesday 13 August, Jamberoo Branch is putting on a free community morning tea from 10am till midday in the RSL hall on Allowrie St, with all welcome to join in the celebrations. From 10am that morning, there will also be a drive-by of classic cars through Jamberoo courtesy of members of the Jamberoo Valley Classic Vehicles Club – look out for red and white vehicles in particular. 

The annual Kiama International Sea Side Arts Festival (KISS) has lost 40 percent of its funding due to Kiama being named a major city in 2024. KISS Arts Festival is an annual free family friendly festival that celebrates circus, comedy and art and has been held in Kiama for 12 consecutive years.The festival previously relied on almost half of their budget from Regional Arts funding, but since Kiama is no longer considered ‘regional’ they are going to have to figure out other ways to continue.In a video released via the KISS Facebook page, event organisers Tamara Campbell and Dave Evans revealed, “We need to raise an extra $20,000 for the festival and this has happened because Kiama, with its one traffic light, has been declared a major city which means we’ve lost access to all of our regional funding.”The labelling of Kiama as a ‘major city’ is very strange as Kiama doesn’t feature the regular elements of a major city such as Wollongong. Campbell says this strange decision could negatively affect the arts culture in Kiama as a whole.“In terms of regional funding eligibility from Festivals Australia, the reason that we were previously classified as regional is because we are a country town, we don't have the population that major cities do, we have minimal public transport links, minimal infrastructure and facilities and as such, it was deemed important to support artistic activities in country Australia. None of those things have changed,” says Campbell.However, MP for Kiama Gareth Ward isn’t convinced that the labelling of Kiama as a ‘major city’ is the main problem. He says that it is all the Labor party’s doing.“Whilst the Federal Government have recategorized Kiama as a major city for GST purposes, which is rather odd, this has nothing to do with the NSW Labor Government’s savage cuts to regional arts programs,” says Ward.Ward cites his previous ability to be able to secure regional arts grants from the coalition government as a prime indicator of the Labor government’s priorities.“As the local MP, I was able to secure several grants for the KISS Arts Festival and many other local Kiama arts and cultural festivals from the former Coalition Government. However, the current NSW Labor Government sees NSW as simply Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong; regional NSW just isn’t on Labor’s radar,” says Ward.It remains that Evans and Campbell need funding and they have tried to find other pathways by applying for grants and funding applications themselves and have been unsuccessful due to a big increase in applicants as well as their own lack of experience with the process.“Funding applications are getting more and more competitive. COVID-19, bushfires, floods and now, major festivals folding has all had a devastating effect on the arts industry. As a result, more and more companies are looking to acquire funding to stay afloat. Numbers of applicants have increased considerably at the same time as less funding is available,” says Campbell.“Funding is achieved by creating a rapport with these organisations which is not done overnight. They need to become familiar with your work and we need to learn to tailor our offering to exactly what the funding round is for,” says Campbell.Campbell and Evans have now been forced to turn to the Kiama community for their help in getting the $20,000 of funds needed for the festival. “It wasn't a decision that we took lightly as we want KISS to always be a free festival. However, to take such massive steps backwards after making such solid steps forward for the last 12 years didn't seem like the right thing to do either. We are asking those in the community who have attended the festival in the past to pay it forward for those members of our community who can't necessarily afford to do it themselves. This is a one-off scenario and we are already looking into new funding and sponsorship options moving forward,” says Campbell.In the video on the KISS Facebook page, Evans breaks it down that if 200 families donated $100 each then they would make their $20,000 target. And Campbell breaks this down even further by saying, “If you divide that $100 over the 12 years of KISS that works out to be only $8 a year to be at KISS.”Evans and Campbell are very passionate about the KISS Arts Festival and believe that these events are an integral part of a small community like Kiama, and they would hate to see it taken away.“Children who get access to the arts grow up to be well rounded creative thinkers. Adults who get access to the arts are able to laugh, cry, dance, sing, open up to each other and build community. Families that are exposed to the arts are able to enjoy all of the above together,” says Campbell.“Each year we build on the previous year and each year we are approached by our community with new ways to be involved. Our desire to produce accessible, family friendly events and Kiama's creative spirit drives us to produce KISS each year.”If you would like to support live performance and the arts in Kiama, you can donate to ensure that KISS gets another year. The link to the GoFundMe is here.

Helen Laidlaw is set to launch her highly anticipated book “On Wadi Wadi Country: From the mountains to the sea”.The event is to be held on Saturday 17th August at 2pm in the Kiama Library Auditorium, hosted by local Kiama writer, author and Journalist Bruce Elder. The book explores the lives of several First Nation Families and early European Families who lived in this area. These two groups are deeply intertwined with Kiama and the surrounding areas. Some of the families are the Longbottoms, the Dixons, the Weston/Johnstons and the Pikes.One of the most amazing stories is about King Mickey and Queen Rosie. Pictured on the cover is Queen Rosie in a photo from the November 1927 Sydney Morning Herald.You are invited to join Mr Elder to share your thoughts on Laidlaw's work over an afternoon cup of tea or a glass of wine. Mark your calendars as there are more events to come. Nick Hartgerink - Saturday 14 September 2024 at 2pm in Library Auditorium, to enjoy a detailed history of Kiamas Aged Care Facility, Blue Haven Malcolm Bedford - Saturday 26 October at 2pm 2024 in Kiama Library Auditorium, as he looks forward to hearing your ideas for the future of Bombo Quarry

As National Homelessness Week commences, ‘Q Shelter’ has called on contesting candidates in the upcoming state election to commit to ending homelessness in Queensland by the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. Launching today the state peak body for housing and homelessness focus on the 2024 Queensland State Election Policy platform will detail six key priorities with the end goal of preventing homelessness. Q Shelter Chief Executive Officer Fiona Caniglia put this challenge to aspiring Queensland Government decision-makers ahead of October’s state election."We must have bold and ambitious goals that include targets and adequate investment in the right programs so that we prevent and end homelessness in the runway to the 2032 Games,’” Caniglia said.“The Olympic Games are in full swing in Paris. The international spotlight will be on Queensland in the lead-up to 2032, and we have an incredible opportunity to position Brisbane and Queensland as the first Olympic and Paralympic host that has ended and not worsened homelessness.” Within their policy platform, Q Shelter explains that through ‘ending homelessness’ it will essentially mean a future experience of homelessness would be brief, rare, and non-recurring. Increased focus on prevention is at the forefront of Q Shelters initiatives, including investments in: Support programs to help people sustain their tenanciesMore supportive housing for people experiencing significant vulnerabilityPrevention of children’s exposure to adverse experiences, a cause of complex homelessness in later lifeIntegrated support for families and children so that children and young people do not experience homelessness at a young ageEnsuring enough homes to meet population needs, inclusive of social and affordable homes“There should be a greater focus and investment in prevention and early intervention so that people don’t become homeless in the first place.”“If circumstances such as unemployment or family conflict and violence leads to homelessness, then we need a system that guarantees that experience is brief, rare and non-recurring. We can’t afford to let people enter homelessness with no way out,” Caniglia said.The six priority areas the peak body has outlined aims to address the complex issues of housing need and homelessness in a holistic and sustainable manner.Prevent and end homelessnessRapidly increase housing supply, including through modern methods of constructionSupercharge the community housing sector for growthStrengthen the private housing systemAchieve housing system reformAmplify and embed the voices of people with lived experience and expertise.Building on many diverse policies and investment measures already in place, Caniglia said that this will include specialist responses to young people, people living with disability and First Nations peoples. “We are encouraged by the bipartisan approach and commitment to housing targets in Queensland for the next 20 years.”“It is essential that the implementation of Homes for Queenslanders and The Queensland Housing Summit Report continues. The depth and breadth of housing system reforms is critical to future success in planning for Queensland’s significant population growth,” said Caniglia.The complete Q Shelter State Election Policy Platform can be accessed on the Q Shelter website:https://qshelter.asn.au/storage/2024/07/20240715-Q-Shelter-State-Election-Platform.pdf 

Mike Cains, board member of Kiama & Districts Business Chamber, is running for the Kiama Council, bringing with him extensive experience and a deep connection to the region. Mike has lived in the Kiama Local Government Area since 2008. He's a local businessman, farmer, and passionate community advocate. From corporate executive roles to founding the successful Pecora Dairy with his wife, Cressida, Mike is dedicated to sustainable business practices and community engagement. His vision for Kiama is shaped by strategic thinking, financial literacy and a profound love for the area.Can you share a bit about your history and connection with the Kiama LGA?I have lived on a farm in Knights Hill since 2008. I have been married for over 20 years to Cressida and we have two grown children. Together we started the Pecora Dairy in 2011. I am also a 2021 Australian Nuffield Scholar, which aims to increase farmers’ technical and management skills. It gave me a global perspective on how to effectively advocate for the region's agriculture and bring ideas and solutions to local farming challenges.Kiama is the best place to raise a family and start or grow a business. Born and raised in Southern Illawarra, I returned to the region with my young family after a corporate career in Sydney. I've been involved in outstanding community groups, including being one of the founding stallholders of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers Market. I'm also proud to serve on the board of the Kiama Business Chamber and support the Kiama Show.Could you tell us about your professional background and current occupation?Currently, I'm known for my work as a businessman, farmer, and cheesemaker. Before returning to Kiama, I held executive roles at Fairfax Media, Herron Todd White Valuers, and CoreLogic Australia. Our family business, Pecora Dairy, is a national brand known for sustainability and has won the prestigious Royal Agricultural Society Presidents Medal.What inspired you to run for Kiama Council?  I'm proud of what Kiama has achieved, but there's still much to do. I bring strong financial management skills, strategic thinking, networks and corporate sensibility to the table. My expertise in agriculture, housing, and renewable energy can help address key issues. With a mature business and great staff, I have the time and energy to give back to the community that has supported my family and business from the start.What are your ‘qualifications’ to sit as a councillor? My corporate career and running a successful startup have given me vital skills. I've learned to bring people together, solve problems, and get things done. People want professionalism and corporate sensibility to ensure the Council serves all citizens effectively. What is your political persuasion, philosophy and ideology? What motivated your decision to run as an independent candidate?I'm practical, sensible, and centred. I'm passionate about finding solutions to climate change and promoting efficient local government. Council should deliver effective, friendly services without strident politics. Running as an independent shows my commitment to sensible and practical decisions based on community needs, not party interests.What key issues do you intend to address if elected, and what are your primary goals for the community?The top priority is maintaining a sound balance sheet and pursuing a sustainable operating surplus to avoid administration and rate hikes.We need a sensible housing strategy that addresses community needs while preserving our streetscape, green space, and agriculture. Ensuring smaller villages retain their character and become more viable is crucial. We must also fast-track the harbour revitalisation program and integrate it with the foreshore and showground.Additionally, we need a strong, diverse local economy providing high-quality jobs. Engaging with the community and ensuring effective services for everyone is essential. A stronger focus on arts and culture, including visual arts and live music – can be the bedrock of our identity and something I feel passionate about.How do you plan to engage with the community to ensure residents’ voices are heard?There's no substitute for talking to people from all walks of life. For example, I've spoken to parents in Jamberoo whose pre-school has been flooded twice recently. They have 100 children on the waiting list and need a plan for the future. Listening to these concerns ensures Council provides effective services for the whole community, not just the most vocal.What previous experience do you have in public service or community involvement? How will you prioritise and balance the diverse needs and interests of various groups within the LGA?I'm proud to serve on the Kiama Business Chamber board, which has grown to over 200 members and plays a significant role in advocacy, education, and boosting economic activity. As a founding member of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers Market, I've seen it become a community institution. I believe in collaborating with community groups and am keen to find new ways to ensure their voices are heard after the precinct groups were dissolved.What is your stance on managing growth and development in an environmentally sustainable way?We need to build dwellings that meet our community's needs. Currently, 76% of our homes are stand-alone houses, but only 49% are occupied by no more than two people. We must address the demand for smaller dwelling types. Promoting waste reduction, renewable energy, and a circular economy is vital. I propose an opt-in council-wide Virtual Energy Network for effective energy trading among residents.How do you approach to fiscal responsibility, budget and funding for key local initiatives and community projects?I believe in kick-starting community projects and actively pursuing grant monies. Council should create an “Advocacy Plan” such as the one Shellharbour council has. Essentially a wish list of projects, prioritised and advanced to 'shovel-ready' status to give them the best chance to succeed in competitive grant processes. I am looking forward to working with the CEO, her council team and fellow councillors to bring critical projects to fruition. What partnerships or collaborations would you pursue to benefit the community? How do you intend to support local businesses and the local economy? Building the Kiama brand should drive economic activity beyond tourism, promoting the production and manufacturing of goods and services. We need to strengthen off-season tourism and develop regional attractions, such as bushwalking and coastal trails. Revitalising the night-time economy is also important for Kiama's growth.How will you address the need for improved local infrastructure and public services for residents? Firstly, Council needs to review its functions and services to determine and focus on what is needed. When organisations have a clarity of purpose and eliminate waste and inefficiency – extraordinary things happen. This is the only way to direct and allocate resources to the areas where our community will derive the most benefit.Mike Cains presents as a candidate who understands the importance of both preserving Kiama's unique character and driving forward-looking development. His approach to Council appears rooted in collaboration, practicality, and a genuine desire to serve the community. By focusing on sustainable growth, enhancing local infrastructure, and fostering a thriving local economy, Mike aims to ensure that Kiama remains a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive place for all its residents. His candidacy offers a promise of dedicated service, practical solutions, and a deep commitment to the well-being of the Kiama community.

On August 2, NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen announced a new Boating and Infrastructure Dredging Scheme for NSW coastlines. The program will allocate $28 million towards public boating amenities over four years and $16 million for dredging at key locations along the NSW coast.“Our state’s waterways are the most beautiful in the world, and this program will support local communities to plan for, build and maintain waterways infrastructure to keep it safe and accessible for people now and into the future,” says Minister Haylen.NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings says, “We’ve listened to the feedback from the boating community, which highlighted the need for continued investment to support maintenance of local boating infrastructure.”Transport for NSW Maritime have committed to working towards a target of zero deaths and serious injuries on NSW Waterways by 2056.Registrations of interest for the grants programs will be open later this year, with successful applicants to be announced in 2025.

On Saturday, August 3, the Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association Inc. (JVRRA) organised a public meeting at the Jamberoo Youth Hall. The event aimed to inform residents about the Council’s Draft Growth and Housing Strategy and its potential impact on the community. The meeting, attended by approximately 50 people, primarily focused on a submission by the developers, Fountaindale Group for Golden Valley Stage 2 (GV2). An early concept plan for GV2 was submitted to the Council as an Expression of Interest and has been included in the Draft Housing Strategy document published by Council. This meeting provided residents with a unique opportunity to engage directly with the developers and address their concerns. JVRRA President Stuart Richards emphasised the importance of respectful conduct during the meeting, which was observed by all attendees. He provided background information on the Council document, noting that submissions are due by August 16.Secretary Ros Neilson then delivered a 20-minute presentation highlighting the elements of the Housing Strategy that affect Jamberoo residents. She stressed the community’s desire to control growth in a way that suits the village. Neilson mentioned that the State Government is pressuring the Local Government Area (LGA) to release land for 900 new homes by 2029, equating to 180 new homes per year over the next five years, and pointed out that this target is double the projected growth rate over the next five years.Neilson said that compared to NSW state averages, the LGA has an older population (median age 50, with 27% over 65), higher affluence, more households without children, less cultural diversity, and a significant portion of the workforce employed outside the LGA. The need for more diverse housing to cater to both older and younger demographics was acknowledged by all. A key emphasis was that growth should respect and enhance the natural environment and be accompanied by improved infrastructure. The JVRRA highlighted the shortage of long-term rental accommodation, which impacts the socioeconomic diversity of the area. They also stressed the importance of protecting agricultural land and biodiversity, limiting population growth outside the town centres, and ensuring infrastructure delivery aligns with housing targets. There was frustration over ongoing negotiations with Sydney Water regarding future upgrades and servicing. Roads, particularly the restricted Jamberoo Mountain Road, continue to be a concern as it constrains growth. The developers are expected to enhance existing public land through both infill and greenfield projects, meeting the needs of the growing population. Mentioned was the current need for a dog park, a kids' bike space, and more public land not designated for housing. Fountaindale Group’s Stage 2 concept includes walking tracks, enhanced green spaces, and community gardens. Ros Neilson concluded by encouraging residents to submit their thoughts to the Council using a SWOT analysis and should consider whether the strategy protects valued aspects of the community, missed opportunities, and potential threats. Fountaindale Group’s proposalLawson Fredericks, his sister Jennifer Macquarie, and their father Neville Fredericks, who comprise the Fountaindale Group, presented their Stage 2 concept. Having a long history with Jamberoo, the Fredericks family has strong ties to the area, with Neville having served as mayor of Kiama for 12 years. Their first project, Golden Valley Road development (GV1), a 50-lot subdivision, has been accepted by the Council. In response to the Council’s call for Expressions of Interest for the Housing Strategy, Fountaindale Group’s Stage 2 concept offers a variety of smaller blocks (350-600m²) to meet the need for diverse housing options. The proposal includes:·        44 terrace lots with rear lane garage access for downsizers, singles, investors/rentals, and first-time home buyers.·        34 standard lots.·        20 'resilience' lots of 2000m² each, designed to be off-grid with individual effluent treatment, PV electricity generation, and an 8-star passive energy rating. Lawson Fredericks addressed the technical aspects, focusing on sewerage needs, with the developers covering 90% of the cost. The development would add 78 dwellings to the sewer system, leaving 82 new connections for the existing township. The proposed development, visually contained within a small valley, would logically define the town’s eastern boundary. Drainage would flow into Colyers Creek, with a new system to manage runoff. Jennifer Macquarie emphasised the economic boost GV2 would provide, with approximately 350 new residents contributing an estimated $4 million annually to the local economy, supporting retail and service viability. A pre-school and early childhood education site is proposed within GV2, on a 1,500m² parcel valued at $1.2 million, to be donated to a local community trust. This site would allow for future grant applications to construct a new preschool. The current preschool has flooding issues.Local residents expressed the need for additional access roads around GV2 to reduce traffic on Golden Valley Road and improve access to the proposed preschool. The developers have included provisions for various access points. The proposal also includes a community garden near the preschool, with potential management by a local gardener’s club or the community trust. Colyers Creek would receive additional plantings, and a public footpath would be constructed along its length. A Voluntary Planning Agreement would ensure these commitments are delivered as part of the land rezoning process. To conclude the presentation, Neville Fredericks mentioned a commissioned report on social and public infrastructure by an expert in traditional main street retail, which would be made public once received. Some concerns were raised about the timeline for the new preschool, but the preschool director, Belinda, assured that the long-term plan allows ample time for funding applications, and approvals and planning to take place. Some local residents expressed their excitement about the preschool plans.The JVRRA is doing an excellent job representing its membership, quickly organising this public meeting to provide ample time for responses to the Council. It is hoped that the other development sites under consideration will receive as much input from active community groups.

OPINION:Yesterday’s community meeting at the Jamberoo Youth Hall, hosted by the Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association (JVRRA), was a pivotal moment for our town. This event was a testament to what well-organised community groups can achieve. As residents, we had the unique opportunity to engage directly with the key stakeholders involved in the Golden Valley Stage 2 proposal, part of the Kiama Council Draft Growth and Housing Strategy.  This meeting not only provided a platform for information exchange but also demonstrated the power of proactive community involvement. “With the release of the Council’s Draft Growth and Housing Strategy, JVRRA wanted to be on the front foot by assisting our local community to be well-informed of the issues associated with the Draft Growth & Housing Strategy that will have an impact on Jamberoo,” said Stuart Richards, President of JVRRA.The meeting started with a presentation by Ros Neilsen from JVRRA, who provided a summary of the Draft Growth & Housing Strategy, particularly how the strategy will impact Jamberoo in the future. The aim is to assist the local community in making their submissions to the Council on the strategy. This was followed by Jennifer Macquarie from the Fountaindale Group, who explained the concept for the Golden Valley Stage 2 site. She elaborated that the concept plan is based on understanding Jamberoo’s specific needs and constraints, such as limited housing choice, limited sewer capacity, the tenuous viability of local services and businesses, and the critical need for a new preschool. The plan adapts to trends towards lower carbon footprints and energy bills while creating a community that is socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable through a diverse housing mix to match local needs, population numbers to sustain local services, and design principles that encourage passive solar home design.“The Fountaindale Group valued presenting its Golden Valley Stage 2 proposal to the Jamberoo community. The Council's Draft Housing and Growth Strategy identifies suitable properties but lacks detailed plans, usually addressed during rezoning. Our ideas for Stage 2 include diverse housing and significant community benefits like a community garden, green spaces, and land grants for a preschool. Early discussions will help us understand community preferences and convey our constraints, fostering respectful collaboration,” said Jennifer Macquarie from the Fountaindale Group. During the Q & A session, several key points were addressed. The sewer infrastructure improvements required for the new development will primarily be funded by the developer, with potential contributions from Sydney Water. Concerns about the timing and certainty of the preschool relocation were raised, highlighting the need for early action to address flooding risks. The voluntary planning agreement mechanism was explained, ensuring that community benefits are legally secured and transferred with the property. Questions about the impact of smaller lot sizes on the broader community were clarified, emphasising that changes would be specific to the proposed development area. The importance of considering infrastructure contributions from developers for traffic calming measures was discussed, with an explanation of the council's process for assessing and funding these needs. Overall, the community showed interest in the proposed development, particularly the benefits it could bring, while also raising concerns about infrastructure, timing, and maintaining the character of Jamberoo. One Jamberoo resident with small children expressed enthusiasm for the proposal: "I think it looks amazing. I'm excited to be able to drive into Jamberoo and see the new preschool under the fig trees. I'm excited there will be new green spaces, a walking track, that the creek will be revegetated and there will be a park where my children can ride their bikes. I love that there's a variety of different size blocks. I love that there's smaller blocks that potentially some of my friends will be able to afford. I love the community garden and the extra entrance off Allowrie Street will reduce traffic. I'm keen to be a part of this." Stuart Richards from the JVRRA commented that the meeting provided clear affirmation of the community’s role in the planning process. This is significant because it empowered residents by giving them the opportunity to voice their opinions and see their concerns taken seriously, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards community development. Additionally, the presence of developers ensured accountability, as they were able to directly address concerns and clarify plans, which helps build trust and transparency. As I reflected on this meeting, it’s clear that such forums are invaluable for the community. To maintain this momentum, the council should provide regular updates on the proposal’s progress and any agreed-upon changes, keeping the community informed and involved. Organising follow-up meetings will ensure ongoing dialogue and integral community input. By continuing to ask questions, raise concerns, and hold developers and council representatives accountable, we can ensure our voices are heard and acted upon, paving the way for a vibrant and thriving Jamberoo. Trust is also essential and believing that everyone involved wants the best outcomes for the community helps set realistic expectations. Focusing on achievable goals through collaboration, transparency, and informed participation can shape a future that reflects the aspirations and values of Jamberoo residents. By staying informed and engaged, we can continue building momentum, fostering a community where every voice is heard, and every stakeholder is committed to the collective good.

Gerringong Pics and Flicks are calling on all local filmmakers and enthusiasts who are interested in learning the art of cinematography, screenwriting, editing and all things film, to apply for their new scholarship.The scholarship is for residents of the Kiama LGA aged between 18 and 25 and will cover a portion of the costs for two short courses at the Australian Film and Television Radio School (AFTRS).Gerringong Pics and Flicks Incorporated is a community run not-for-profit organisation, which has screened films monthly at Gerringong Town Hall for 24 years. They also support local community and cultural events and have teamed up with both AFTRS and Screen Illawarra for this scholarship.In a press release, Gerringong Pics and Flicks wrote, “Applicants need to be 18 to 25 years when they enrol in their chosen AFTRS short course and live in the Kiama Council Local Government Area to be eligible to apply for the Pics and Flicks scholarship. The scholarship valued at $1000 will provide $960 financial assistance towards the cost of fees for the AFTRS short courses and $40 for one year’s professional membership of Screen Illawarra.”The scholarship application form will be downloadable on Friday 9 August from the Gerringong Pics and Flicks Facebook page. Entries close Friday 23 August. Gerringong Pics and Flicks presents a film on the first Friday of every month (except January) and in August they will be playing Celine Song’s Oscar nominated film Past Lives.Past Lives is a poetic film about a Korean girl who immigrated to America as a 12 year old and as an adult in America reconnects with a boy from her childhood which creates a wedge in her current relationship.It is an emotional exploration of a past world and a current world and the ways in which they intrude on one another.

Architect and builder duo Sally Meaton and Karl Whitehead have brought their vision of a dream family home to life, while also contributing to the growing trend of increasing housing density and diversity in the region. Their latest creation, a newly constructed semi-detached dual occupancy home at 7A Federal Street in Minnamurra, showcases their commitment to efficiency, low maintenance, and harmonious integration of natural light and native landscaping. The home is currently on the market representing a unique opportunity for buyers.Recognising the potential of duplex housing as a solution to the escalating demand for housing, especially in areas with limited land availability and rising property prices, the duo embarked on this project to maximise space utilisation. Duplexes provide two separate homes on a single property, making them an ideal choice for optimising land use.Purchased in 2019, the block presented a prime opportunity for the duo to design and build their ideal family home. Drawing on their extensive experience living and working in the eastern and inner western suburbs of Sydney, where terrace housing is prevalent, they applied their expertise to create a unique duplex in Minnamurra.After relocating to the South Coast with their young children in the months following the second COVID lockdown, the couple completed the duplex in 18 months. The clever spatial arrangement of the home provides ample space, featuring three bedrooms, an office, a separate lounge, and a combined kitchen and dining area that seamlessly transitions to the rear yard. Additionally, a spacious room beneath the garage offers versatility, suitable for use as a gym, workshop, home office, or storage for water sports equipment.From the street, the duplex presents as a pair of white brick, double-storey homes with gable roofs. The interior floor plan spans three levels, offering visual connections to the green roof and convenient access from the dining area to the deck and garden. The north-east facing split-level design emphasises natural light and showcases high-quality finishes. Double-height ceilings in the kitchen and dining areas enhance the sense of space and openness.The use of durable materials, including double brick, burnished concrete floors, wool carpet, and native plants, underscores the home's resilience and low-maintenance design - ideal for its river and beachside location. Comfort features such as underfloor heating, double glazing, cross ventilation, and integrated air conditioning further enhance the living experience. Meaton says, “We reused the timber joists and bearers from the existing house for the stair battens,” thereby retaining some of the original flavour.This is the couple’s second project together, following the success of their first – a rammed earth cabin in the Blue Mountains, which has been featured in Green Magazine and The Local Project.Content and settled by the river, Meaton and Whitehead are embracing the Minnamurra lifestyle, enjoying the fruits of their architectural and building expertise in a home that exemplifies modern, sustainable living.For more information about the property, go to the First National Coast & Country website. Any questions can be directed to real estate agent, Aimee Longbottom at: 0414 615 400.

The recent debate and Q&A session on Kiama’s mayoral election was a striking example of community engagement at its best. These events are indispensable for equipping residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions on critical local issues. This forum was a prime opportunity for community members to hear a range of perspectives and pose their questions directly to the experts.The evening began with a nod to the expertise and experience of the panel, setting a tone of informed discussion. This was followed by an acknowledgment that the community had been starved of information on this crucial decision. The Bugle was congratulated for admirably filling this void, providing much-needed education and encouraging residents to do their research, including investigating how other councils operate.One of the primary concerns aired was the financial impact of changing the election system. This information is essential for residents to understand the economic implications of their choices.The debate also delved into the stability and accountability of leadership. While a directly elected mayor might better reflect community priorities, there were legitimate concerns about political influence and the potential for internal council politics to cause disruption.Questions about handling an ineffective mayor highlighted the complexities of both election models. Proponents argued that a directly elected mayor is more accountable to the community. It ensures that the choice of mayor is in the hands of the people, supporting the principle of democracy. It reduces the risk of internal council politics affecting the mayoral position, as was cited in examples from other councils like Wollongong and Shellharbour. The revelation that removing a poorly performing directly elected mayor could involve significant time and expense was a reality check. It emphasised the need for robust mechanisms to ensure effective leadership.What became clear during the session was that many in the audience felt they lacked sufficient knowledge about the pros and cons of each election model. The chance to engage directly with experts was highly valued, providing residents with a more comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.The feeling in the room was that community debates and Q&A sessions like this one are invaluable. They empower residents with the information necessary to make informed decisions and ensure that local governance truly reflects the community’s needs and desires. As Kiama heads towards its next election, the insights gained from this session will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.

On 31 July, The Bugle and Kiama Community Radio hosted a debate on whether the voters of Kiama want to change from a councillor-elected to a directly elected mayor? It’s the referendum question that will be answered on 14 September.Currently, the councillor-elected mayor serves a two-year term, whilst a directly elected mayor would serve a four-year term.Around 70 locals gathered at the Kiama Leagues Club on Wednesday night to hear both sides of the argument. Former Kiama mayors (Brian Petschler, Neville Fredericks, Sandra McCarthy), current councillors (Stuart Larkins, Matt Brown, and Karen Renkema-Lang), local businessman (Mike Cains) and a directly elected Mayor (Chris Homer of Shellharbour) were the debaters.Here is a summary of the for and against arguments, as presented by both teams:Views of the FOR team:Direct election supports democracy – ‘people rule’ – the decision is in your hands. Direct elections have worked well in other LGAs.A directly elected Mayor is directly accountable to the community-at-large and all the thousands of voters, not just the (4-8) councillors. The power to choose is in the voters’ hands.The direct election of the mayor does not propose wards for council or mean an extra councillor. If the proposal is successful, the community will still have an elected council body of nine members: eight councillors and one mayor.An increasing number of councils have adopted direct mayoral elections: Wollongong, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla, and Bega. Smaller councils than Kiama have also done it, such as Uralla, Bellingen and Dungog with voting populations of 10,000 people (Kiama has 18,000) have directly elected mayors. Some councils without wards have directly elected mayors.As a voter, you can check the candidates’ profiles on LinkedIn to ascertain their background and experience. You can talk to them prior to the election and ask them if they are willing to work full-time for the community? Or remain part-time. You are getting plenty of value for their time. It allows for someone ‘fresh’ to come in, rather than just the major political parties “locked and loaded” for the next 10 years – having done ‘backroom deals’ to take turns at the role of mayor.There are examples of councils where the councillor-elected mayor has changed over far too often: i.e. Wollondilly, where over a 27-year period from 1993 – 2020, there were 21 mayors – with an average term of 15 months. Clearly a dysfunctional ‘revolving door.A high turnover can result in decades of little planning, and little progress. By directly electing a mayor, Kiama LGA can avoid the turnover.In those 27 years in Wollondilly of “everybody gets a prize,” you can imagine what endeavours occupied the time of councillors.... Councillor-elected Mayors would spend their two-year term looking over their shoulder shoring up support – their opponents, particularly the ones they had disposed of to get there in the first place. Their time would be spent, not in the service of the ratepayers, but sharpening their knives in readiness for another round of backstabbing and treachery. You can imagine the borderline corrupt horse-trading of councillors... The “you scratch my back, I scratch yours”-deal.If only in the role for two years, the mayor might get more involved in short-term political decisions that favour their next mayoral electoral cycle – which is another one or two – instead of a four-year role where they would take a more long-term view.  We have already seen animosities and petty squabbles; court cases and censures spill out onto the floor of Kiama’s chamber. To say that this couldn't happen to us is the height of optimism. The worst that can happen with a directly elected Mayor is that we get a dud mayor for four years. The worst-case scenario with our current system is unthinkable.A directly elected Mayor takes these moral hazards out of play: focuses councillors on their jobs and sets us up for a future of delivery.There is a small additional cost to the council election budget every four years of only $20-22,000. That’s only $1.20 per voter.There is a way out if the elected mayor is not up for the job, as the Minister for Local Government can remove them, whether elected by councillors or directly elected, as happened in Canada Bay in December 2023. Kiama is the best place to raise a family and start a business. We can't risk future progress in an unstable democracy.The debaters.Views of AGAINST team:There is no good reason to change. Speaking from experience (with three former mayors on this side): “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.”The mayor needs to engage with the general manager, media and the public, as well as report on Council matters. So, the only change would be a four-year term, rather than a two-year term. With no easy way to replace an underperforming directly elected mayor, there are no benefits to having them locked into a four-year term. There may be risks though: Primarily if the elected mayor does not have majority support from councillors, they have a serious problem becoming a “paper tiger.”The public may not be aware that without the support of the other councillors, it’s difficult to carry ideas forward. Then, there’s a risk of councils being sacked. The mayor needs to demonstrate leadership and if they are not backed, they become ineffective – practically - and the council is at risk of dysfunction.The original adjustment to the act in the early 90’s was for the larger councils, such as Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong. Later came Parramatta, Blacktown and Liverpool. In Wollongong, Lord Mayor Harrison was allegedly at odds with the general manager and the councillors. Different views lead to dysfunction and the minister had to act to dismiss that council and the mayor. Currently in Liverpool, the mayor has allegedly acted to dismiss the general manager. There is no good reason to change to this method just because other councils have done it.Kiama is not ‘political’, although some are identified as political party members. Most councillors consider issues on their own merit.Why would we want to pay more money for a system with a greater risk?We don’t need to ‘Americanise’ our council, in terms of everything being related to the popular vote.Over the last 30 years, all our mayors have served full terms.Staying as we are means ‘getting more bang for your buck’ – getting more and costing less.We have checks and balances every two years to choose whether or not to replace the mayor.The Local Government Act aligns with the Federal and State parliament for protocol and meeting procedure. Australian citizens do not directly elect the Prime Minister and Premier, and the majority of councils in NSW do not directly elect their mayor.Our current system encourages the mayor to be an inclusive leader, to understand the skills, strengths and weaknesses of the elected councillors and harness the combined knowledge and expertise as the governing body of the council and engaging with the community. It is a team approach.It is a system that votes for ideas and policy first above popular people.Mayors that are elected by the voters in an area serve a four-year term. These mayors are elected in addition to the elected councillors. A person elected as mayor cannot also be elected as a councillor in the same area.It is possible to concurrently put yourself up for mayor or councillor, or both. A person can only hold one of those roles. If this referendum succeeds, then the number of councillors remains at eight in total, plus the mayor.At the conclusion of the debate, including the Q&A, the attendees voted in favour of a directly elected mayor: 54.2 percent for to 45.8 percent against. Some attendees chose to abstain. This is quite a small sample, so it could go either way come 14 September when the Kiama LGA will decide in the referendum that accompanies the local government elections. Kiama Council has updated its FAQs page as there seemed to be some confusion at the end of the question time on the night. Here are the links. https://www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/Council/Local-Government-Election-2024/Referendum-Electing-a-Mayor https://www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/Council/News/Mayoral-referendum-and-elections-FAQs-update 

Kiama Knights Junior Rugby League Club (JRLC) President Carl Middleton has been awarded the South Coast Volunteer of the Year award by NSW Rugby League.The 2024 NSW Rugby League Community Awards took place on July 29 acknowledging the vital contribution made to the game every season by more than 31,000 volunteers across the state.Of the more than 700 clubs in NSW, 18 volunteers’ efforts were highlighted and Middleton says he is honoured to be recognised. “I’m very humbled by it because I do know the amount of work that a lot of people do in junior rugby league. There’s a hell of a lot of volunteers and it's a very strong group of people who are involved so it's extremely humbling to receive the award,” he said.Since Middleton became President in 2018, the registered players for the junior Knights has risen from 178 to 496 and Kiama JRLC Secretary Kristie Laird says that this is very much as a result of Middleton’s impact.“He has been an instrumental member of our Committee for more than 12 years, and as President he has led a number of initiatives both on and off the field which have resulted in our Club becoming one of the biggest Clubs in Group 7 and the Illawarra,” says Laird.Middleton says he is unable to quantify the amount of hours that he and others donate to the club, but says “it is all worth it in the end”.“I think there's a lot of people out there who have just got a willingness to help and assist other people and, in this case, help young kids in junior rugby league. I spend countless amounts of time on the phone and doing things, but it’s something I enjoy doing and it's something where, if you didn't enjoy doing it you wouldn’t do it,” says Middleton.And Middleton says his main joy comes from watching everyone enjoy their rugby league on a weekend and hopes that from his work, kids will be able to have happy memories of playing footy in Kiama.“Just seeing the smiles on the kids' faces, seeing their mothers, fathers, extended family, siblings having a good time at the footy on the weekend. You just want the kids to be in a position where they can enjoy their footy,” says Middleton.Other than being President, Laird says that Middleton has a lot of other roles within the club.  “He has given his time to coach a number of teams, is a qualified level 1 Sports Trainer, Vice President of the Kiama Senior Knights and is everyone’s favourite ground manager with pump-up music blaring at Chittick Oval. This award is certainly a fitting reflection of his Club-first approach,” says Laird.

Waminda South Coast Women’s Health & Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation, based in Nowra, has been awarded a $670,000 grant by the NSW government.Waminda is a culturally safe and holistic service, providing Aboriginal women and their families an opportunity to belong and receive quality health and wellbeing support.Waminda hopes to use the grant to build effective partnerships and to improve and coordinate palliative and end of life care for Aboriginal people. They will also offer specialist training opportunities for existing Aboriginal health practitioners and they also seek to increase death and grief literacy by improving awareness through education.​​“This grant for the Waminda South Coast Women’s Health & Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation will be an important step in offering culturally appropriate and high-quality palliative care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living on the South Coast,” says David Harris, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty.The grant comes as a part of the End of Life and Palliative Care Non-Government Organisation Grants Program in which the NSW government is investing more than $3.5 million in funding over four years to increase community capacity to engage with death and dying.Other than Waminda, five other NSW organisations have been given a share of the funding including Bullinah Aboriginal Health Service, the AIDS Council of NSW (ACON), Palliative Care NSW, the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia and the New South Wales Council for Intellectual Disability.Minister for Regional Health and Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park stresses the importance of this topic and believes funding must support all cultures and communities in NSW.“End of life and palliative care for a loved one can be a challenging time and different communities have different needs and expectations during this period,” says Park.

On Friday 2 August, Green and Gold Day, both public and private buildings, famous landmarks, sporting grounds and local councils across Australia will light up in the national colours. The initiative is to remind all Australians to wear green and gold to work, school or play to support the Aussie athletes as they take on super Saturday, which is the biggest day of sport during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.“It’s great to see so many Australians throwing their support behind the Australian Olympic Team. I know that initiatives like these really have a positive impact on our athletes, bring communities closer together and show that everyone back home is unified in their support for the team,” says Matt Carroll AM, CEO of the Australian Olympic Committee in a media release.Aussie Stingers water polo player, and two-time Olympian Bronte Halligan, was excited to learn about Green and Gold Day.“Support from home really helps to lift everyone on the Team. Seeing so many amazing landmarks lighting up to let everyone know Green and Gold Day is on, is so special, it really makes it feel like the whole country is getting behind us,” she says.“On the field of play we wear our green and gold with pride and seeing that connection amplified connecting all Australians is a real inspiration.”Find out more about Green and Gold Day.To read more from our Olympic coverage:'Allez, allez': Local Olympians ready for the ParisA ceremony in France honours fallen Australian Olympian and WWI soliderHistoric opening ceremony on the Seine to launch the Paris Olympics GamesOlympic torch relay at Blue Haven Bonaira

Sydney FC are hosting the Kiama Football Festival at the Kiama Sports Complex for children aged 6-12, on September 14 and 15. Teams of 8-10 players are encouraged to enter and will play a minimum of six games each on the day.The Kiama Council wrote in a press release, “This festival is a fantastic way for players to celebrate the end of the winter season and experience the thrills and excitement of a football gala.”The day is open to all mixed boys and girls teams with a cost of $300 per team. You can register your team at the My Sydney FC Website here: https://my.sydneyfc.com/kiama-football-festival.

Ever tried ordering dinner with your family and everyone has different ideas? You might end up with a bizarre mix of sushi, pizza, and curry! That’s why it’s crucial for all of us to have our say in the Kiama Council Draft Housing and Growth Strategy to ensure it suits everyone's tastes.In the end, it's all about trust. Believing that everyone involved wants the best outcomes for the community is crucial. Understanding that, like politics, development is the art of the possible helps set realistic expectations. It's important not to ask for something impossible to deliver, but rather to focus on achievable goals that can make a significant difference.To make informed submissions, we must first be prepared to educate ourselves about the proposals and their potential impacts. This involves understanding the details of the strategy, such as proposed housing types, environmental considerations, and infrastructure plans. Engaging with the material provided by the council, attending community meetings, and discussing with neighbours and experts can help build a comprehensive understanding.Being informed also means recognising the balance between growth and sustainability. The strategy aims to address housing shortages while preserving the character and environment of Kiama. By supporting well-planned developments that include diverse housing options and sustainability measures, we can advocate for growth that benefits everyone.Through collaboration, transparency, and informed participation, we can shape a future that reflects the aspirations and values of our residents. By being informed and actively participating in the consultation process, we can ensure that our submissions are constructive and grounded in reality. This approach not only strengthens our community's voice but also fosters trust and accountability between residents and the council.We can show that through informed and collaborative efforts, we can build on the momentum of positive change, fostering a community where every voice is heard, and every stakeholder is committed to the collective good. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage deeply with the Kiama Council Draft Housing and Growth Strategy, making our submissions count towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

The federal government awards the Kiama Central Netball Club a $3,500 volunteer grant. “These small grants can make a big difference to community sporting organisations that are providing a fantastic training ground and fun social outlet for young players,” says Fiona Gilmore, Federal Member for Gilmore.Phillips called to congratulate the players and volunteers during a recent round of games. “The place was buzzing,” she said.The Kiama Central Netball Club has about 180 members — 16 teams, 20 coaches, 16 managers, 30 umpires and 15 committee members. Players range from six to 60-years-old across all playing groups.Kelly Schofield, the Club president, welcomed the funding, saying:“The grant will go towards computer equipment, electronic payment devices and storage to assist the committee with its organisation of the running of the club and its events.It will also assist our coaches, managers and umpires with new resources, equipment and First Aid supplies.”Twenty-five community groups across the Gilmore electorate will share more than $66,000, including the Gerringong Districts All Sports ($3,500), the Lions Cub of Gerringong ($2,000) and Gerringong Sunrise Rotary ($1,100), according to Fiona Phillips.“This funding boost is welcomed as it will provide greater support for local volunteers and ensure they continue to support their community.At the end of the day, we want volunteers to know that we are backing them, and I will continue to support their work in assisting our South Coast communities.”

More than 70 Aboriginal Elders from the Illawarra and Shoalhaven communities attended the Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards 2024 on Saturday night, 28 July.Shoalhaven City Council hosted this year’s awards ceremony, themed ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Black, Loud and Proud’, in collaboration with the councils of Kiama, Shellharbour and Wollongong.The celebrations attracted more than 400 people to the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre.Welcome to Country during the Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards 2024. Credit Smith Media.“Witnessing the incredible award winners, local talent and the renowned performers take to the stage was truly inspiring,” said Mayor of Shoalhaven Amanda Findley in a media release.“The NAIDOC Awards recognise the remarkable accomplishments and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations and businesses.”The 2024 NAIDOC Award winners are:Young Achievers of the Year: Kealen Blattner and Takesa FrankOutstanding Contribution to Reconciliation (Non-Aboriginal): Tracey Kirk DowneyOutstanding Contribution to Reconciliation (Aboriginal): Dale WrightCaring for Country and Culture: Blak CedeOrganisation of the Year (For Profit): Gadhungal MarringOrganisation of the Year (Not For Profit): Cullunghutti Aboriginal Child and Family CentreOutstanding Contribution to the Community (Paid and Voluntary): Sylvia Timbery & Uncle Kevin ButlerElder of the Year (Uncle): Uncle Edward BloxsomeElder of the Year (Aunty): Aunty Grace Crossley.Photo credit: Smith Media.The evening also featured Shelley Ware as the MC, performances by the local cultural organisation Gadhungal Marring, Jiah King and performances by headline act Dan Sultan.