Kiama Council have alerted motorists to upcoming changes to flow of traffic at the Belinda Street entrance and exit at Gerringong, with partial or full closures between 31 May and 3 June 2024. The closures will enable the railway bridge overpass at the western end of Belinda Street to undergo maintenance by Sydney Trains. For the entire duration of this period, the road will have one lane closed, with traffic controllers monitoring the flow between 7:00am and 6:00pm.  Nightworks will take place between 6:00pm on 1 June and 6:00am on 2 June. During this time, the road will be fully closed, and traffic required to detour to the northern (Fern Street) exit from Gerringong.  Throughout the full closure period, this detour will also need to be utilised for motorists accessing the service station at the far end of Belinda Street. Other business and residences will remain accessible to local traffic. 

Kiama’s eagerly anticipated Spring Garden Competition 2024 launched earlier this month. This year the competition categories promise to showcase a wide range of gardening talents and design ideas. Entrants will compete in the following categories: Garden over 1000 square metres - can include whole or part Garden under 1000 square metres - can include whole or partPredominantly native garden - whole or part of a garden with significant portion of Australian nativesCourtyard, balcony or indoor garden - referring to a garden almost enclosed by walls, fences, hedging or buildingsSenior living complex garden - Can include retirement villages and nursing homesEdible garden - can be vegetable gardens, culinary herb gardens, bush tucker gardens, or a combination of these with an element of sustainability and eco creation such as worm farms or composting, etc. Children’s garden - Created or cared for by a child or group of children. This can include childcare centres, school gardens or just a family backyard.These categories allow all types of gardens, big or small, traditional or innovative to have their moment to shine in the competition. Entries for the Spring Garden Competition 2024 are open until Friday 20 September. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this flourishing community event. Join in celebrating nature’s beauty and the shared passion for gardening in the Kiama community. Good luck entrants! Check out last years winners here: https://thebuglenewspaper.com.au/NewsStory/spring-has-sprung-garden-competition-winners-announced/653eeda0155f700028b859d6#topFor more information you can email [email protected] follow the Club on Facebook go here: https://www.facebook.com/p/Kiama-Garden-Club-Inc-100066376278429

Domestic and family violence (DFV) is one of the primary causes of homelessness among women and children in Australia. Perhaps of greater concern, 34 women lost their lives at the hands of an intimate partner between 2022-23, which was a 28 percent increase from the prior year. This data has not gone unnoticed, with recent government action to increase awareness, support and crisis accommodation for women and their children in Supported Accommodation & Homelessness Services Shoalhaven Illawarra (SAHSSI) Safe Places.Prevalence in regional communities Recent data has shown that DFV impacting women - and subsequently their children - is not only increasing, but more prevalent in regional communities than urban areas. According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, the DFV assault rate in 2023 was 592.8 incidents for every 100,000 people in regional NSW. This was a significant increase to Sydney, which registered 360 incidents per 100,000 people. “Women in regional, rural and remote (RRR) areas are more likely than women in urban areas to experience DFV; with 21 percent in RRR and 15 percent in urban areas,” says Chief Executive Officer at SAHSSI, Penny Dordoy.This, Dordoy says, may be due to a number of factors. Firstly, the geographical separation limits the amount of social support with others outside of the relationship. Furthermore, seeking help may be more difficult.“The more rural the community, the more likelihood of police, health professionals and DFV workers knowing both offender and victim. This lack of privacy can inhibit women's willingness to use local services and may also affect the adequacy and fairness of justice-based responses,” says Dordoy. “Public visibility of courts in small towns can result in women and their children feeling unsafe and exposed to their perpetrators. Perpetrators have often spent time purposely destroying the woman’s reputation in the community and within services where she may need to reach out for support.”Social norms and values may also prevent women from reaching out. This may be particularly so within rural communities that consider ‘family problems’ as private affairs not to be discussed, and hold expectations for individuals to be stoic and self-reliant. “The fear and threat of community gossip, social stigma and shaming, and the additional consideration of how this will affect children in small communities, can also be used as a coercive tool used by perpetrators,” explains Dordoy.Furthermore, Dordoy cites other contributing factors, including: complex financial arrangements such as those where money is tied into farms and family businesses, fewer available support and emergency services particularly for those with diverse and specific needs, lacking transport systems, reduced connectivity and digital literacy, perpetrators having greater access to firearms, dominance of rural masculinity, community protection of high-standing perpetrators, and additional stressors such as flood, fire and drought. Overall, Dordoy views such issues like a triangle. “The closer you are to the top of the triangle, the more remote you are, the fewer people in your community, the higher the barriers and the less opportunity to escape DFV safely. If you are in a city, at the bottom section of the triangle, the more services, opportunities, places to seek help, financial assistance or ability to rent or achieve secure housing, and choice,” she explains. Understanding various forms of domestic violenceThe broader definition of DFV may not be well-understood by the general public and is often littered with misconceptions. General Manager of Women Illawarra Inc., Michelle Glasgow, reiterates that DFV may take various forms, and in many instances does not involve physical violence.“Domestic abuse is about the perpetrator exercising power and control over the victim. In my experience, it usually starts with emotional and psychological abuse, such as name calling, public humiliation, undermining and gaslighting, threats to leave, withdrawing of affection or attention, stonewalling. It is designed to undermine the victim’s confidence, socially isolate them and make them dependent on the perpetrator’s approval.” “I liken it to a systematic process of creating a brain fog that keeps you in the dark, unable to see clearly as the rules and behaviours are unpredictable and ever-changing,” she explains. “The other forms of abuse that are not physical are religious, financial and abuse of pets in some instances. Coercive control is a little more subtle. It is a pattern of behaviours that in isolation look innocuous. However, they are repeated over time and have the effect of removing the autonomy of the victim in their life.”Glasgow paints a painful picture of how someone experiencing DFV may feel like they are constantly walking on eggshells, unsure of how someone will respond, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. From the outside looking in, it may be hard to detect. However, it is a relentlessly terrifying and exhausting existence for the target. Providing new Safe Places Naturally, increased cases means increased need for support. Unfortunately, the system is drastically under pressure. Whilst Women Illawarra Inc. are able to support with advocacy letters to housing providers to advocate for women fleeing DFV, Glasgow admits that the Staying Home Leaving Violence program in the Illawarra has been at capacity for a significant period of time, and hence a primary service that cannot currently be utilised.Acknowledging this critical need for support amid the current housing crisis, Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, recently announced the opening of a new Safe Places facility in Ulladulla to provide emergency accommodation for women and children experiencing DFV in the Southern Shoalhaven. The Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program is funded by the Albanese Labor Government, which, thanks to an investment of $72.6 million, financed the renovation, building or purchase of new crisis or emergency accommodation. The program has enabled 32 SAHSSI Safe Places sites to open across the region, providing support for up to 256 women and children experiencing DFV each year. Most recently, the Southern Cross Community Housing Safe Places site in Ulladulla opened its doors last February. The facility’s six studio apartments will provide assistance to up to 24 women and children. Federal Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, recently visited the Illawarra Safe Places sites. “Women and children face significant challenges when leaving family and domestic violence,” said Minister Rishworth.“These new Safe Places sites will assist more women and children experiencing DFV, by ensuring they have a safe place to go and can access necessary specialist services. Our government remains determined to tackle the scourge of family, domestic and sexual violence. It’s simply unacceptable.”Phillips recently accompanied Minister Rishworth for a tour of the newly opened Ulladulla facility. “Visiting the new Safe Places emergency accommodation gave me an opportunity to meet the women and children who have experienced family and domestic violence, and to hear their harrowing personal stories first hand,” said Phillips.“It was great to speak with the wonderful frontline workers, who are helping these women and children by providing a safe haven for them, and also providing the absolutely vital support they need to move forward.”Federal Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth and Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips visiting the new Safe Place in Ulladulla.More information on the Safe Places program is available through the Department of Social Services’ website.Speaking up and seeking helpPhillips reiterates that, “one life lost to violence against women is too many, and deaths of women at the hands of men who profess to love and care for them has to end".It can be confusing trying to clearly ascertain the state of a relationship, particularly one in which a degree of coercive control has been enforced. If you are unsure, Glasgow urges reaching out to a trusted friend, colleague, family member or support worker and starting a conversation. “There are some incredible online supports like 1800-RESPECT that can provide 24-hour counselling and information. The first step is always having a chat,” she urges.Women Illawarra also welcome contributions from volunteers, who feel the call to support women and children who have experienced DFV. Potential volunteers can register their interest via the Women Illawarra website: www.womenillawarra.org.au. They will also be at Wollongong City Council’s Volunteer Expo on 22 May and hosting a community gathering at Lang Park, Wollongong on 25 May at 12:30pm, calling for action to change the Illawarra culture towards violence against women.If you or someone you know may be at risk in a DFV situation, please seek support from organisations such as Women Illawarra, SAHSSI and 1800-RESPECT. Contact police on 000 in the event of immediate danger.

By Paul Summerside Pickleball, one of the worlds fastest growing sports will be coming to Kiama Leisure Center on Sunday, 26 May for an open trial day. Pickleball Australia founder and president, Wayne Lee, will be offering his knowledge and input on how to play this new and fun social sport, suitable for all, along with host Paul Summerside and other accredited pickleball coaches.All levels of players are welcome with limited spots available. There will be two sessions available.Session 1: Beginners/intermediate at 11:30am - 1pmSession 2: Advanced at 1pm - 2.30pmBoth sessions are free and bookings are essential. Bookings can be made to: [email protected].

With a growing population at its hand, and the positive effects of physical activity on health and general well-being well-documented, the ability to access fully-functioning sport facilities for both recreational and training purposes within the Kiama district is crucial. However, with the Council facing potential budget cuts, investments in sports and civic assets could potentially be put on the backburner. As previously covered by The Bugle, the new Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig appointed an independent reviewer, Mr John Rayner, in December of 2023 to advise on Kiama Municipal Council’s financial circumstances. Rayner’s findings were made public this summer, on 1 February, and recommended several severe budget savings and efficiencies to be made within the next two years.In Item 13.9 - Submission to Legislative Council: Inquiry into the ability of local governments to fund infrastructure and services, which is included in the Agenda for the Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday, 21 May 2024, it is noted that: “There is a concern over investment in aged care services and commensurate consequential underinvestment in civic assets, such as swimming pools, sports fields, surf clubs, stormwater, roads, moving services etc. Increasingly the local sporting community require upgraded and more modern assets that are fit for purpose and encourage female participation. As noted in the charts and financial analysis above KMC’s ability to meet the needs to existing and future community through existing budgets falls short of community expectations and need".

Leading up to their 25th anniversary (and National Volunteer Week, 20-26 May), Minnamurra Lions Clubs are acknowledging the outstanding contribution their members have made to the club itself and the broader community. One compassionate volunteer in particular is John Knox - fondly known as Knoxy. He’s been a member of the club since 2007, according to the President of Minnamurra Lions Club, Bill Lyon. During that time, Knoxy has held the position of President (2011-12) and Zone Chairperson (2012-13). He has also coordinated numerous Minnamurra Lions’ service and fundraising programs. Knoxy’s teaching background has enabled him to connect with his local communities in both professional and volunteer capacities. This is something he continues to do today - not only through the Minnamurra Lions Club, but through other avenues as well. For example, when bushfires ravaged the South Coast several years ago, Knoxy was often absent from Kiama, busily contributing to local communities and assisting farmers through the BlazeAid volunteer-based organisation.Clearly an avid believer in giving back to the community, Knoxy also assists many of Kiama’s older residents in accessing healthcare, social outlets and shops locally, and throughout Wollongong, as a volunteer driver for Kiama Community Transport.“Driving some of our locals to their doctor and health appointments is a rewarding experience,” beams Knoxy.“Many of our clients would be unable to access these opportunities if community transport didn’t exist. We are always looking for more drivers to help out. No particular qualifications are required, apart from a driver’s licence,” he urges.Members of Minnamurra Lions Club know that Knoxy is always one of the first people to put up his hand when volunteers are needed - whether that be to help at the monthly Kiama Market barbeque, assist at the entrance gates for Kiama Rugby League Club or coordinate one-off events. Knoxy also played a central role in the Minnamurra Lion’s Killalea Parking Project, which kindly coordinated the parking of hundreds of cars for patrons attending the monthly Killalea Markets.  “This was a big undertaking, requiring a very coordinated approach from members,” he recalls. “We would mark out the parking areas on the Saturday before the markets and then attend from early on Sunday morning, managing three parking areas until patrons left in the afternoon. This was all for a gold coin donation.“Unfortunately, COVID and then a change in the management of the venue saw the markets close, which was a pity as every cent of the roughly $2,000 collected each month went straight back to the community.” As you can see - Knoxy is always on the lookout for projects that serve others. One of his current projects involved encouraging members to pass ring pulls from aluminium cans onto him. This might sound odd initially, but Knoxy has a heart-warming reason for this request - so be sure to bear this in mind and set your ring pulls aside. “The ring pulls themselves are not aluminium. They are titanium. The ones we collect are donated to make lightweight wheelchairs for people with disabilities,” he explains. Lyon and all involved in Minnamurra Lions Club applaud Knoxy’s consistent efforts, noting the significant difference his commitment makes to the lives of many. Thanks for your contribution, Knoxy!

By John LarkinsDonna Portland, is a multifaceted person whose career journey spans the realms of literature, journalism, and philanthropy. As the author of "Positive Habits Get Results" and a former journalist at The Bugle Newspaper, Donna's transition to her current role as General Manager of the Quest for Life Foundation marks the realisation of her dream to make a meaningful impact in Bundanoon's charitable landscape.Donna Portland was guest speaker at the Kiama Lions meeting earlier this month. And what a colourful tale she had to tell. With a career as diverse as it is intriguing, she spent six ‘very full time’ years working as a professional crew on superyachts, immersing herself in the enigmatic world of luxury travel. In her  talk, Donna revealed the inner workings of this exclusive industry, offering insights and dispelling misconceptions propagated by ‘reality’ shows like "Below Deck".When Donna returned to Sydney in 1999 after working on yachts in The Mediterranean, Caribbean and USA waters, she became a mother.At the same time she emerged as a leading figure in the Australian superyacht domain, earning awards such as the 2015 Business of the Year and the 2016 Industry Champion for her valuable contributions to the Australian superyacht sector.Now residing in the Southern Highlands, Donna is an ardent advocate for sustainability, with a keen passion for electric cars.It was a very interesting evening. Part of the purposes of Lions Clubs are Lions Clubs inspire service-minded people to serve their communities without personal financial reward. If you would like to enquire about joining the Kiama Lions you can do so via their website.

Kiama Council has recently announced an invitation for landowners to submit an expression of interest (EOI), nominating potential development sites for consideration in their Growth and Housing Strategy. This invitation is extended to developers who gain consent from a landowner. Although, the turnaround for submissions is tight, with a deadline of 5:00pm on Friday 24 May 2024. Whilst some people may consider this a surprising and somewhat controversial move, Council view it as a proactive step towards sustainable growth and housing. According to Kiama Council’s Director Planning, Environment and Communities, Jessica Rippon, this initiative demonstrates commitment to partnering with the community in establishing sustainable growth and housing solutions. “The Landowner and Developer EOI process is intended to reduce speculative planning proposals, through clear identification and articulation of sites to investigate as potential future growth areas through the Growth and Housing Strategy. This allows for development to be appropriately staged and infrastructure needs to be met and strategically planned,” she explains.“The Growth and Housing Strategy intends to provide more certainty to the community and development industry about where growth could occur in the future and areas where growth or expansion is not suitable. Only sites deemed to possess strategic merit will be considered for inclusion.”Rippon advises that all nominations would undergo a thorough and confidential evaluation process. In addition to cross-checking against a set criteria, other relevant factors will be considered, such as adherence to normal planning processes. Furthermore, Council has developed a probity plan to ensure joint protection of Council and community, and continued respect for commercial sensitivities of landowners and developers.“Any land that is proposed for inclusion will be clearly identified in the draft strategy, which will be subject to a formal exhibition process allowing for community feedback at that time,” advises Rippon. This call for submissions is a move that is wholeheartedly backed by the Director of Fountaindale Project Management - the development company behind the Golden Valley subdivision in Jamberoo - and Chair of the Property Council’s Illawarra Chapter, Jennifer Macquarie.“The development industry is very supportive of Kiama Council providing the opportunity for landowners to submit expressions of interest for their property to be included in its growth strategy,” says Macquarie. “Council has made the process pretty clear and simple. There is a series of questions on Council's website intended for landowners to convey the unique elements of their site and why it should be included. Council is not looking for lengthy submissions or expensive design plans, which makes the process accessible to any land owner, not just larger developers.”Acknowledging the current housing crisis, Macquarie has been advocating for all Councils in the Illawarra region to accelerate their housing supply. “Equally important is making sure the industry is enabled, through good planning controls, to deliver a mix of housing types, including affordable rental housing,” she adds.“I expect Kiama’s growth and housing strategy will address these elements while looking at the best location for different types of housing in terms of access to services and infrastructure.”As Macquarie agrees, any discussions around growth and housing in the Kiama region often stirs up emotion and controversy within the community. However, this EOI is not only an opportunity for landowners and developers to submit an application, but also for the community to share their views and ideas.“Although historically, there has been a push back against new housing in Kiama LGA, there is a growing understanding of the need for more housing to be provided in the community, particularly options that are price accessible to young people and service workers. Many people are okay with new housing, if it’s well planned, well designed and in the right locations,” elaborates Macquarie. Further information and to lodge an expression of interest, head to Kiama Council’s website before the deadline of 24 May 2024. 

As Heart Week (6-12 May) raises awareness of how to keep our tickers in check, Member of Parliament for Kiama, Gareth Ward, and Blue Haven Bonaira resident, Mike Newcombe, are lobbying for a similar cause to ensure heart starters are strategically placed and maintained within our community. In 2023, Ward gave notice in Parliament of the Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) (Public Access) Bill, which would see defibrillators become mandatory in public buildings and transport. This bill would also aim to introduce mandatory registers of clearly marked and maintained defibrillators, as already stipulated in the United States, South Korea and 15 other European countries. The bill; however, lapsed in accordance with Standing Orders between Parliamentary sittings. A delay which could essentially be a matter of life and death. “On average, 3,800 people in New South Wales die from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year. More than 70 percent could have been saved if they had access to a defibrillator. That figure is several times the national road toll. Put simply, this bill will save lives,” says Ward.“Defibrillators last about seven years, with ultra-portable defibrillators lasting about one year. It is concerning that one-fifth of PADs are non-functional when tested, potentially wasting time and worsening outcomes in time-critical cardiac arrest management. The current lack of regulation is contributing to avoidable deaths.”“South Australia has introduced similar measures, and I couldn’t think of a better time during Heart Week to give notice of this bill.”In the lead up to this year’s National Heart Week, Ward revived his intention to introduce the bill, which is yet to be debated or voted on in the Legislative Assembly. In the meantime, he has taken heart in visiting the model village Blue Haven Bonaira has become, with monumental efforts and fundraising made by Newcombe and fellow residents to roll out widespread state-of-the-art AEDs throughout every floor, and in other main thoroughfares within the retirement village. It was Newcombe’s son and local Senior Staff Specialist in Emergency and Retrieval Medicine, Mark Newcombe, who got the wheels in motion for this potentially life-saving upgrade to the facility, having queried the accessibility of AEDs when Newcombe, who has had a bypass himself, moved in approximately three years ago.“I wasn’t sure what an AED even was to start with,” chuckles Newcombe, a former engineer.“I checked with the committee that it was okay to look around, and there were none. There was one buried in the nursing home, I believe. But that was too far away from us. There are 59 units here, and often a couple of people in each one, yet no AED available. I told the committee we needed to do something about that, but in those days the cost was out of our reach to do it properly. They were around $3,000 each.”What Newcombe soon discovered after conducting his own research was an Australian TGA-approved product to recently hit the market, CellAED. Much more affordable and easier to house, transport and utilise, this discovery made approximately one year ago suddenly allowed the dream to become reality. “They are one-tenth of the cost, about $300-$400 roughly, and very simple to use. They just sit on a bracket on the wall with a sticker above it, and all you have to do is crack it open and place two pads onto the person,” says Newcombe, holding one comfortably in the palm of his hand. “The first step was then to decide how many we needed, keeping in mind they need to be placed in timely accessible locations. You have only got a very small window. Every minute that passes, the chance of recovery reduces. You have got to use it within the first five or so minutes otherwise you lose the patient.”Newcombe and his team calculated that 16 AEDs were required to cater for one on each of the four floors in all four buildings, along with additional installations in the garages, the café and the main hall. Having done the math on cost to install CellAED products in all required spaces, Newcombe took the figures and proposition to Kiama Council, as current owners of the premises.“Council generously chipped in a couple of thousand dollars. The rest has been funded by residents, including ongoing maintenance,” explains Newcombe.“Every AED is battery operated and must be serviced every year – because if that battery goes flat, they are useless. Each of these devices has a green light that will flash every minute or so, which means it is operational. If it is red, it says the battery is getting low. The sim inside it will contact its base every month and tell them that it is operational. If it fails for some reason, it tells them there is a problem and they send a new one out.“The next step is now training, because AEDs are of no use if somebody doesn’t know what they are or what they do, or have confidence in using them.”It certainly pays to have family in high and helpful places, with Necombe’s son sharing his medical know-how by delivering a training session for residents to gain confidence around when and how to use AEDs. “Lots of people have been worried about doing something wrong, but as soon as you put the pads on, it does an ECG first and then talks to you. It says ‘shock required’ and then does its thing. It determines how much shock is required – it will do shock one, and then two, and then three if necessary. It is very clever.”“They are meant for sudden cardiac arrest, which is different from a heart attack. Many people don’t know the difference. A heart attack can be described as a really bad pain, like somebody standing on your chest. Sudden cardiac arrest is when the heart just stops. The person drops to the ground and is unconscious. This could be called a heart starter. It shocks the heart back into its rhythm again.”Fortunately, Blue Haven Bonaira residents haven’t had to use one of the CellAED devices yet, which Newcombe lightheartedly admits really would be, “the proof in the pudding.” However, this well-considered rollout provides peace of mind, particularly among an ageing demographic. Although, as Newcombe reiterates, sudden cardiac arrest can strike anyone of any age and any health status.“There are about 20,000 deaths in Australia every year from sudden cardiac arrest. There is no discriminatory age about it. It can even happen to infants, and a fair number of footballers have suddenly dropped on the field,” he cautions. Ward had advised Newcombe from the outset that if he was going to do this, he may as well do it properly - and Newcombe has gone above and beyond to do just that and more. Ward will be in attendance at the residential training on Friday 24 May, hopefully with a much anticipated update regarding the progress with his bill in Parliament. 

The Kiama High School P&C Association is excited to announce our major fundraising event, Comedy for A Cause, which will be held on Friday, 31 May at 7:30 pm at the Kiama Leagues Club. Tickets are $40 each, which includes a free raffle ticket and can be bought at: https://comedyforacause.net/tc-events/kiamahs/. We are raising money for our school, and we need your help! The KHS P&C don’t often host fundraisers as we run the high school canteen. The profits from the canteen provides funding to students for representative sports and to the school directly, for items such as the COLA, school murals and arts programs.In recent years, our number of canteen volunteers has been critically low and we’ve had to employ more staff to cover the workload, which impacts our canteen profits and ultimately reduces the funding that we have available to offer the school.Just as importantly, we also need volunteers on our P&C committee in order to keep it (and the canteen) thriving as sadly, we have a number of retiring committee members this year. If we can’t keep the P&C operating, we risk losing the school canteen.This will have a huge impact on our kids because they love the canteen. In the words of our students:“I love the canteen because it’s open for everyone. If it’s a cold day, you can come and eat something warm.” “The canteen is a friendly, welcoming space where you can spend time at recess and lunch.”“The canteen team is always a highlight of my day! They always make me feel seen, comfortable and supported during the times when I’ve really needed it. Not only that, but the food is the BEST!” The welcoming atmosphere, which is mostly due to the wonderful Janelle, who works full-time preparing delicious meals for our students in the canteen. She’s a shoulder to lean on, a listening ear and a helping hand. Janelle really embodies the values of the school: respect, responsibility and excellence. She’s created not just a canteen but a positive space that enhances the well-being of our students, where all students and volunteers are welcome. It’s such a great space for our young people.We’re looking for people to join the P&C committee in the roles of President, and Vice-President. General members are also encouraged to join. We’d love you to join us! Whether it’s by attending our Comedy for A Cause evening or becoming a volunteer. We welcome all volunteers, whether you have a grandchild at the school, a neighbour or a friend, we encourage everyone who can spare a little time to reach out and help, either as a canteen volunteer or a P&C member.We look forward to seeing you at our fun Comedy for A Cause night on 31 May, or at our annual general meeting, which will be held in the high school library on 4 June at 6:30 pm.

A convivial crowd converged on the Old Fire Station in Kiama on the chilly evening of Friday 17 May, for the opening of the 2024 Kiama-Shellharbour Camera Club exhibition.  The exhibition (of 38 photos) features the images of seven local photographers – Troy Williams, Phill Reece, Kevin O’Gorman, Nathan Miller, Rowan Hollingworth, Flavio Spedalieri and current Club President Linda Fury.  Nathan Miller with his stunning photo Galactic GuardianMs Fury explained that the event, “showcases the amazing work of some of our talented members, a number of whom are national award winners, and who have all put a great deal of work into their images”. The exhibition features nature studies, landscapes, seascapes, portraits and other subject matters and styles according to the photographers’ creative choices. Rowan Hollingworth with his incredible macro works - Lichen Splatter and Figtree Leaf StudyLinda Fury's lovely and vibrant images of Tasmania's Bridestowe Lavender FarmKiama Mayor Neil Reilly opened the exhibition enthusiastically, commenting on being, “astounded by the diversity of styles” on display. Also in attendance were Shellharbour Deputy Mayor Kellie Marsh, and Kiama Councillor Mark Croxford, alongside Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer, who remarked that after the difficulties of the last few years it was, “fabulous to see arts and culture coming back to the fore”. Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward, spoke of the “beautiful vistas” on display and “how blessed we are to live in this part of the world”.  Chris Homer, exhibitors Flavio Spedalieri and Linda Fury, Neil Reilly, Gareth Ward MP, Kellie MarshThe Club was grateful to have received a Kiama Council Small Community Event Grant, which helped fund this year’s exhibition. Winners of the Council grants were required to demonstrate how the donation would:·        Benefit the Municipality of Kiama;·        Strengthen the Kiama community; and·        Contribute to Council’s goal of a socially just and inclusive community. Ms Fury, who has been President of the Club for over seven years (and a member for 15), said of the Club, now in its 60th year, “Our small and friendly club welcomes new members and offers them help and encouragement on their photographic journey”. Prospective new members can join or view further information via the Club’s webpage. Membership is $35 a year and includes:·        A members meeting on the first and third Wednesday of each month;·        A range of online monthly competitions – which are either open or themed. Recent themes have included ‘Minimalism’ and ‘Food and Drink’; and ·        group support and encouragement.The exhibition runs daily from 9:00am-5:00pm until Wednesday 22 May, at the Old Fire Station Kiama. 

Charles Dickens’s character Wilkins Micawber in David Copperfield warned of debt’s downside: “Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen and six, result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pound ought and six, result misery”. While Kiama Council has suffered significant debt, pulling Blue Haven out of the general ledger and creating new yearly accounts for the last current and preceding financial years has created a surer course. Even so, there are still hard times ahead, as recent figures released by the Kiama Council’s Sustainable Communities Advisory Committee shows spending continues to exceed revenue.In part, this was due to an “extraordinary escalation” in contracts and materials – felt by most Councils across NSW - and a growth in depreciation with no growth in revenue. Materials and services costs increases, growth in depreciation with no growth in revenue.Whilst the council’s total cash position didn’t deteriorate in the last five years, mainly due to the sale of assets, the unrestricted cash balance (the thin purple line) – this is the money the council can spend today (liquidity) - remains very low.Unexpected outlays such as litigation fees, flood damage and more, are funded from unrestricted cash. Council’s negative unrestricted cash balance in 2020/21 and 2021/22 financial years.Blue Haven TerralongThe decision taken by Council about 40 years ago to move into residential aged care seemed like a good idea at the time. The Blue Haven businesses did not have a separate set of accounts. The council was navigating blind. Profit, loss and expenditure were all recorded in the general ledger.In 2022, the Council separated the ledger and created a new set of accounts for Blue Haven to establish the true profit and loss.Blue Haven Terralong in the redThe true financial position of Blue Haven Terralong and Bonaira combined for 2022-2023 is at a $2.54m loss for the financial year.The Sustainable Communities Advisory Committee’s report states over-investment in aged care and an under-performing return, and has caused “underinvestment in civic assets such as swimming pools, sports fields, surf clubs, stormwater, roads, mowing services, etc.”. This was in the context of the local sporting community needing more modern assets and to encourage female participation.Council’s unrestricted cash balance at 30 June 2023 was $2 million and would have been more except for the need to fund $5 million of landslide repair works.On 13 October 2022, Council voted to sell Blue Haven Bonaira Residential Aged Care Facility and the Bonaira Independent Living Units, but voted to retain Blue Haven Terralong. In light of new and more accurate figures, grounded in modern accounting methodology, the sale of Blue Haven Terralong looks key to resolving some of its financial issues. One strategy would be to resolve the sale after the September Council elections, in the hope of removing some of the Councillors who either don’t agree with the figures or place social justice issues above solvency.

Last month, university students and best mates Fynn Cowen and Riley Nicholl, both  21, embarked on a mission to conquer Kiama's cafe scene by sipping their way through  30 cafés in just as many days. What inspired such an ambitious undertaking? "We’ve  always appreciated that Kiama has an abundance of cafes," they shared. "It got us  thinking about how many there actually were and how long it would take to try them all."  Their venture was not just a pursuit for their next caffeine hit, but also an exploration of  the town's culture and community. "This was our chance to experience new places and  meet new people," they added.  Cowen and Nicholl meticulously evaluated each café based on two crucial criteria. The  flavor of different types of caffeinated beverages and the ambience of the café itself.  "We focused on two main things: the taste of different coffees and the overall vibe,  including customer service, at different times of the day," the pair explained. The friends chose a different style of coffee at each location, making every visit unique. From off-menu delights like the ‘Espresso Tim Tam Shake’ at Moist ‘N’ Glazed, to heartfelt conversations with a DJ at Bouquiniste on their final day. Both found that each cafe offered its own memorable experience. Buskers outside Short Black Coffee Kiama raising money for a mental health charity while Burnetts On Barney's (Kiama’s Landscaping Hub) offered not only great coffee but also an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.  Of course, no quest is without its challenges. Juggling their mission with busy  schedules tested their commitment to the task. "As uni students working jobs, preparing for each visit was a bit of a logistical challenge," confessed the duo. Sometimes having to try coffees as early as 6:30am or as late as 9:00 pm. However, they agreed that finding cafés to visit wasn’t the hard part. “They're everywhere in Kiama!”  Reflecting on their 30-day journey, Cowen and Nicholl agreed that breaking away from the routine of visiting the same four or five spots repeatedly was a delightful change. "Every new coffee brought a smile to our faces, and we’ve come to appreciate the local scene even more."  If you are interested in learning more about the friends' café quest, you can get in touch with them directly at: [email protected].

Sleepless Terralong Street residents want the state government to install new sound cameras next year, after enduring revving cars and motorbikes on the weekends.The NSW Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and NSW Police are testing noise cameras in Wollongong and Bayside to detect the decibel level from passing cars and motorbikes.While the success of Destination Kiama means more than 1.3 million visitors passed through the municipality in the last year, success has come at a cost.Terralong Street resident Penny Montgomery says the noise from hoons revving their cars is staggering.“This is the noisiest place I’ve ever lived in. Residents are consistently woken after midnight by idiots revving their cars and tearing up and down Terralong Street,” she says.“They speed through Woolworths carpark and then belt past Blue Haven at 1:00 or 2:00 am. Noise cameras are a great idea. The sooner, the better.”Lizzie Mion lives across the road from Woolworths on Terralong Street, and says the cars and motorbikes keep her up at night.“They start at the roundabout (Havilah Place) and rev their engines on weekends until they scream. I don’t know why they do it. They must be from out of town.”Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said in April, pending the completion of the tests, the government will install sound technology cameras in NSW.“Car hoons are on notice. The NSW Government has heard the community’s concerns about noisy vehicles and is committed to sourcing and testing the most effective methods to deter anti-social behaviour on our roads,” she said.Aggressive young drivers spoil seaside tranquillity. Photo credit Traffic Technology Today.In New South Wales, the noise threshold from a car exhaust must not exceed 90 decibels and for motorbikes, 94 decibels.“The EPA is working closely with local councils, NSW Police and Transport for NSW on the trial, which will establish whether noise cameras are an effective method for identifying noisy vehicles,” says a NSW EPA spokesperson.The EPA can issue fines of $150 to $500 to individuals, while the police can issue a $206 fine for "operating a vehicle to produce unnecessary noise" – including performing a burnout or revving.Fines can also be issued for altering an exhaust or air intake to increase noise levels, while drivers can receive two demerit points and a $150 fine for "causing an offensive noise to be emitted from a sound system.”NSW police figures show the majority of drivers, who had their cars defected or impounded in the last three years, were young men aged 17-29.Hoon paying respects to the locals.A pilot study last year by Canadian psychologist, Dr Julie Aitken Schermer, published in Psychology Today, predicted young drivers with loud exhausts could be needy narcissists and sadists.“The results suggest individuals who make their vehicles loud may be doing so to deliberately hurt others by disturbing them …”To report ‘rev-heads’ and noisy exhausts, contact the EPA at: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/your-environment/noise/vehicle-noise/reporting-noisy-vehicle-exhaust.

National Volunteer Week 2024 (20-26 May) is a timely reminder that giving back to others out of the goodness of one’s heart not only benefits recipients but also volunteers themselves - in a number of ways. Illawarra-based volunteer Peer Supporter for Red Nose Australia, Rachel Phillips, who understands firsthand what support bereaved parents may require, can testify that giving back can be deeply cathartic. People who consider volunteering as their primary source of personal achievement record higher well-being scores than those who view relationships, family, sport and work as their greatest source, according to the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index. Furthermore, as Phillips shares, volunteering for a particular charity of vested interest can prove profoundly healing. Phillips has been a Peer Support Volunteer for the Red Nose 24/7 Grief and Loss support phone line since November 2023. Her calling arose from the tragedy of having lost her baby girl, Rosie. Sadly, Rosie passed away in utero on 24 May 2022 at 32 ½ weeks gestation due to a cord accident.Rachel and Tim holding Rosie.“My amazing social worker from the Royal Hospital for Women mentioned the Red Nose Peer Support to me in the early days. While she was supporting me through my subsequent pregnancy, I asked her more about it. Once my youngest son was seven months old, I decided to apply. That was about 18 months post loss,” recalls Phillips.“I decided to volunteer to honour my daughter, Rosie. Peer support is so important in helping bereaved families, and I felt like I wanted to give back to the bereaved community. It is a positive way to use my experience to help others facing baby or infant loss. Losing a baby can be so isolating. It’s incredibly rewarding when you hear the change in people’s voices from the beginning to the end of the conversation."Phillips is well-supported by the organisation in turn, with access to training and an app for volunteers to air questions or concerns. Additionally, as Chief Executive Officer at Red Nose, Keren Ludski, assures, there is always someone available to debrief with or escalate things to if required. “Volunteers engage in intensive training to qualify as a Peer Supporter, and are assigned a mentor and always have access to one of the staff team for guidance or debriefing,” says Ludski. “Peer Support volunteers engage in ongoing training opportunities and refreshers, and are also a beautiful community of friendship and support to each other. There is always at least one volunteer and one bereavement services staff member per shift, and the platform we use allows the shift team to communicate and support each other throughout the shift.”For Phillips, volunteering in this capacity has not only allowed her to demonstrate care and compassion toward fellow bereaved parents, but also process her own grief and acquire a sense of purpose out of hardship.“I love having dedicated Rosie-time in a hectic time of our lives, as it is in her honour. Creating this space and time for her has also helped with my grief. Being able to use your lived experience to help others is an invaluable gift,” shares Phillips, who assures anyone is capable of volunteering in such a capacity.Rachel, Tim and Family. “I think the biggest words of encouragement are that ‘you can do it’. You don’t need to be a counsellor. You just need to listen, understand and link people with any support they may need. I was very worried about finding the time or being able to offer enough hours, but they are so accommodating and appreciative of any hours you can offer.”Volunteering opportunities with Red Nose AustraliaThe theme for National Volunteer Week 2024 is ‘Something for Everyone.’ There surely is. Chief Executive Officer at Red Nose, Keren Ludski, outlines the many ways in which potential volunteers can get on board to support this crucial cause, even from the comfort of their own home, including their Footprints-, Treasured Babies- and Heartstrings-programs. “Footprints volunteers across Australia establish and build meaningful connections with birthing hospitals and shared care GPs. We aim to have connections with every one of these across Australia. Our volunteers ensure these professionals have the latest information on safe sleep, safer pregnancy programs and knowledge on where to refer for good bereavement care,” explains Ludski.  “There is definitely scope within the Kiama LGA/broader Illawarra region and we would be honoured for the community to help us take these important steps. Even just 10 hours a year can help save little lives and support bereaved families.”The Treasured Babies Program, established in 2002, may be of particular interest to those who may wish to put their creative skills to use for the greater good to sew, knit, crochet and assemble precious handmade garments created from guidelines and patterns provided by Red Nose and keepsakes suitable for babies from 14 weeks gestation to full term. The program is also supported by volunteers at Men’s Shed, who build the Angel boxes.“When a baby dies, there is often little warning, leaving parents in shock. Having access to the Treasured Baby items, which have been lovingly handmade, can reduce some of the stress at an incredibly traumatic time,” shares Ludski. Treasured Babies Volunteers (Credit - Red Nose).The Heart Strings Card Writing Volunteer Group is another one of Red Nose’s offerings. This community membership program provides bereaved parents with beautiful cards handwritten to acknowledge family’s little ones in the lead up to their special dates of memory. Additionally, there are a broad range of other opportunities, from administrative through to assistance at events and baby expos and corporate volunteering. What might seem like a small contribution to a generous volunteer can make an immense difference to the lives of others.  “This National Volunteer Week, I’d like to thank our hundreds of Red Nose volunteers who give their time so generously to our programs and those on our 24/7 Grief and Loss Support Line. It is because of their incredible generosity that we are able to provide support to thousands of families around Australia. We are so grateful to you,” expresses Ludski. Keen to lend a hand? Red Nose runs regular volunteer information sessions, with the next being scheduled for 29 May, 26 June and 25 July 2024 at 7:30pm AEST. For further information, visit the Red Nose website, phone 1300 998 698 or email [email protected].

Zara Hall of Moruya SLSC and Archie Weir of Kiama Downs SLSC have been named the Ingenia Holiday Parks Junior Lifesavers of the Year.“I did not expect to win and I was so surprised when I got it,” Hall said. “I went through all the emotions, I was nervous, I was excited, but it means so much to me to represent the Far South Coast and my club, Moruya here.”Weir added, “I’m ecstatic, it’s been a bit of a dream of mine for a while. I’ve been in lifesaving since I was a little Nipper and it means so much to come here to this camp and be with likeminded people, it’s really expanding my horizons.” Formally recognised on Friday, 26 April, after a three-day team building and leadership development program on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the pair represented the South Coast and Far South Coast with distinction, proving that NSW is blessed with talented young lifesavers along the entire coastline.An enthusiastic and motivated lifesaver with a bubbling personality, Zara is passionate and gives so much to her club, Moruya SLSC. There she actively supports the “Same Wave” program for all-inclusive lifesaving and passes on her knowledge to younger members.Zara Hall with her mum Fiona. Photo credit: Surf Life Saving New South Wales.Judges noted she places a strong value on education, hoping to establish a program at her club that raises awareness of the beach to those visiting from inland.“It makes me so happy to represent Moruya when I think about the things the club is a part of, like the ‘Same Wave’ program,” Hall said.“I love just being at the ocean, around the club, I love competing, I love patrolling, I love everything about Surf Life Saving.”Kiama Downs SLSC's Weir, meanwhile, has several years of club experience. The panel noticed his desire to constantly improve his skills and his understanding of the important role lifesavers play on our coastline.“It was important to me that I showed that I have leadership qualities and the different ways that we can show compassion to the community through lifesaving,” he says.“Lifesavers are that sense of safety for the community and by being a lifesaver, I also get a really strong sense of belonging.”Archie Weir with his family (from left to right): sister Darcy, mum Skye and dad Adam. Photo credit: Surf Life Saving New South Wales.Junior lifesaver finalists engaged in a three-day team building and leadership development program at Collaroy, which culminated in Hall and Weir being selected as the NSW Junior Lifesavers of the Year.“I enjoyed learning about who we were and what we want to be as lifesavers, what our future is. We had some talks on that,” Hall says.“It’s been amazing, and I want to thank all the facilitators who made it possible.”About what was the highlight of the three-day program, Weir replies:“A very tough question. One of my highlights was definitely being able to meet new people, and make new friends with others also interested in surf lifesaving."Executive General Manager of Tourism for Ingenia Holiday Parks, Matt Young, says that being involved in a program now in its 34th year has given them great pride.“We have a responsibility to ensure the guests who come and stay with us go home happy and having had a safe trip, and part of that is working with Surf Life Saving NSW and helping to grow the new generation of lifesavers,” he says.“I come here at the end of the event really excited to speak to everyone who has participated. They’re all enthusiastic, and it’s great to see this generation coming through so focused on giving back to the community.”

A Service Review of the Kiama and Gerringong Library by the State Library of New South Wales has been labelled “generally positive” by Kiama Council, with plans to develop a Library Strategy to support and encourage increased membership and usage of the facilities.As part of the Strategy, Council will explore revenue opportunities, including the hiring of spaces and ‘mixed uses’ within the library facilities. The State Library of NSW encourages all libraries to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of the community. In other Councils, strategies have included offering 24 hour access where feasible, introducing co-working spaces and podcast facilities. Currently, it is unknown if this is an option for Kiama. During the 2023/24 financial year, Kiama Library Service was one of three Council operations put under review, alongside Kiama Leisure Centre and The Pavilion Kiama. Business plans will be finalised during the 2024-25 financial year to implement, where appropriate, the recommendations of these services reviews.Kiama Council has also spoken out about the recent censorship of books relating to same-sex parenting by a Western Sydney Council. Earlier this month, Cumberland City Council banned a selection of books relating to same-sex parenting from the library. The motion has since been reversed after public backlash, but discussions are ongoing.“Kiama Municipal Council has a proud history of supporting free public access to literature and learning for all,” says Chief Executive Officer at Kiama Council, Jane Stroud.“Council is supportive and proud of its diverse, tolerant and strong community.That the actions of one Council serve to swiftly bring all others into disrepute does a great disservice to reputation of the whole sector.”

Jamberoo Preschool has sent out a plea to the local community, after an eighth flood at the facility has left the building “not fit for use,” according to the preschool’s Director, Belinda Hibbert. In a letter to parents whose children attend the service, Hibbert informed families that Kiama Council “cannot afford to fix the issues around the flooding” and, as a result, “it is unlikely that the lease will be renewed come 2028”. Currently, the centre, which leases a building on Allowrie Street from Kiama Council, has 67 families in their care and over 100 families on their waiting list. Jamberoo Preschool is a popular option for families in the area, with Kiama Preschool already inundated with applications.“As a community-based, not-for-profit preschool, we are an extremely important service for the Jamberoo community and many families rely on us,” Hibbert told The Bugle. “To lose the preschool would be devastating.”To address the problem, the preschool has put together a sub-committee who plan to apply for a grant from the Department of Education, which could cover the cost of building a preschool, but not purchasing land to build it upon. “We are reaching out to the community for support and help,” says Hibbert. “If you know of any locations or possible land that might be suitable for us, please reach out.”Kiama Council has supported the centre’s flood-recovery, including undertaking a Flood Study in 2021, which recommended installing a ‘flood-proof barrier’ at the rear of the preschool. This work was not undertaken and funding was never made available.A statement from Kiama Council on the situation at the Jamberoo Preschool reads: ‘Due to the repeated flooding of the premises, both parties have agreed this is not a viable long- or medium-term arrangement, and the Preschool is looking at options to relocate.‘In the meantime, Council is committed to assisting where we can, providing staff to help clean-up after flooding incidents and helping the Preschool move into the Jamberoo School of Arts section of the premises if/when flooding is predicted or occurs, if that space is available.’ On 4th April, the NSW Government announced they would fast-track the largest expansion of preschools in the State’s history to deliver 100 preschools co-located with public primary schools by 2027. At this point, it is unclear whether this is an option for the preschool.Whilst sorting through flood-damaged items, educators found a letter written by a child attending the service during a previous flood.‘I remember being knee-deep in dirty water and being evacuated,’ wrote Pippi, who was five-years-old at the time. ‘It was scary and I didn’t know what would happen next. We were carried out across the water and into a waiting fire truck. I am really glad my sister wasn’t there that day.’To support the preschool’s flood-recovery efforts, reach out via their Facebook page. 

Not even a mega downpour on 11 May deterred families from heading to the Open Day at Kiama Fire Station, which has become one of the region’s main annual attractions.Five-year-old Lachlan Rossiter had been “waiting for days for the fire day!” And the big day finally came for Lachlan, who attended with his dad, Cam Rossiter, and younger brother, three-year-old Ollie Rossiter. It was the third Open Day at Kiama Fire Station that they’ve attended. The 2024 edition definitely met their expectations. Lachlan shared that he liked holding the fire hose and going into the cab of the fire truck the most.The brothers were proudly wearing their orange ‘Fire and Rescue’ helmets. They do come in handy, if you’re going to help a tall, grown-up fireman or -woman.Because once a year, during the Fire Station Open Day (which is a statewide event), firefighters at Kiama Fire Station get to do a bit of ‘show and tell’ about the fire trucks, station and, above all, the important work that they do in and around Kiama.“Yeah, it’s really good to see everyone here,” said Kiama Captain, Rhys Dawson. “To get a good understanding of what we do, and also ask questions about any fire safety measures that can be implemented in the home.”“For us, to push the home fire safety message in,” he underlined. The most common type of kitchen fireThere was a kitchen simulator on display, just outside the back of the fire station. Deputy Captain, Brian Guillaumier, stood ready to demonstrate what to do and - equally crucial - what not to do if there’s a kitchen fire. It is, as it turns out, the most common type of house fire. “It’s always a handy thing to know, especially when it comes to cooking fires,” said Captain Dawson. “And to make sure that we got those preventative measures such as fire blankets and fire extinguishers (which you can purchase relatively cheaply from somewhere like Bunnings, for example).” Deputy Captain Guillaumier agreed. “That is 12 bucks well spent, if you ask me,” he said. Parents and children lined up under the protection of the roof, close enough so that they could see the sink, but within a safe distance from what was about to happen.On the stove stood a saucepan with only 10 millilitre of oil in it. But it can cause a lot of damage, especially if left unattended.Ablaze. The Kiama firefighters simulate what a fire in the kitchen looks like, caused by only 10 ml of oil.“Just give this a couple of minutes, you can see that it’s smoking already,” explained Deputy Captain Guillaumier. When the saucepan caught fire, firefighter Tristan Reid was at hand to quickly step in. “He’s simply going to put out the fire by putting a lid on it. And, you’ll see. Look at that! He puts the fire out. If he takes the lid off, it’s going to catch fire again.“We don’t use water on a kitchen fire. Use a fire blanket, a fire extinguisher and get out of the house,” stressed Deputy Captain Guillaumier. Make sure to have working smoke alarms in the houseAnother fire safety measure is a smoke alarm.Deputy Captain Guillaumier held one in his hand as he turned to the group. “What happens when they go off?” he asked, and put on the smoke alarm, which immediately started beeping.“Get out of the house to the letterbox,” one girl offered up.“Get out of the house to the letterbox,” Deputy Captain Guillaumier repeated. “Do we go back into the house? Of course, we don’t. We’re outside the house, we stay outside the house and call 000.”If you don’t have a smoke alarm or aren’t sure if it works properly (the alarms have an expiry date and usually needs to be replaced every ten years), call on the friendly team at the fire station who offer free home safety checks. To request one, you can either call the station directly on 02 4232 1222 or go to the ‘Home fire safety’ section on the NSW Fire and Rescue’s website, www.fire.nsw.gov.au. Home safety checks are available all over Kiama. Boys hanging out by the fire truck (from left to right): Lachlan Rossiter, Cam Rossiter and Ollie Rossiter“But anyone from Jamberoo and Gerringong can also request one and we generally work with the RFS (Rural Fire Service) to make that happen,” explained Captain Dawson.Since Kiama Fire Station is an on-call station, they try to coordinate it so that all the home safety checks can be done in one day. That generally translates to once a week.One of the most unusual questions that Captain Dawson was asked during the Open Day is what daily life is like for a firefighter.Wanted: On-call firefightersNow, it’s a bit different because they’re on-call firefighters, which means that they also work other jobs. “In our days off, we carry a pager. The pager activates whosoever is on at that time, we’ll come to the station, we’ll get the fire trucks, go and help the community,” said Captain Dawson.Currently, there’s a full on-call staff of 21 firefighters. Plus the trucks. There are two of them: an urban trucker and a bushfire tanker.“At the moment, we are sitting at 17 and do have a couple of vacancies,” continued Captain Dawson. “If anyone is interested in becoming a retained firefighter, you can log onto the NSW Fire and Rescue’s website and there’s an area where you can apply under, called ‘On-Call Firefighters’. It gets filtered through to the local zone office for consideration.”Family Reid at the Kiama Fire Station (from left to right): Bec Reid, Beau Reid, Tristan Reid and Olivia Reid.He suggested that if you’re interested in applying, remember to check out the criteria. If there are any questions, you can always call the station or the zone office at Wollongong.“But again, if you’re applying, we’re more than happy to have a look anyone. Please consider applying,” he encouraged.Bec Reid’s husband, Tristan, is an on-call firefighter. It’s the second time that she and their two children, three-year-old Olivia and two-year-old Beau, are at the Open Day event. Olivia beamed that she was having fun while she pulled out the fire hose and jumped into the fire truck.Like many others in attendance, Olivia and Beau greatly enjoyed being with their dad at the fire station. It was a day sure to be remembered.Photo credit: Malin Dunfors & Bec Reid