Kiama Leisure Centre is hosting an Abilities Unleashed session for children living with disability, during the upcoming autumn school holidays.The session, which is free of charge, will be held on Tuesday the 16th of April between 10am and 1pm.The Abilities Unleashed Program, organised by Disability Sports Australia, encourages active ways forward for people living with disabilities aged up to 25. These free multi-sport ‘come and try’ days provide the initial steps in the journey of children living with disabilities. Each session aims to motivate and enable participants by giving them the opportunity to try a variety of sports and recreation within a fun, safe, and inclusive environment. Participants are split into small groups and rotate across four to six activity stations. Each activity consists of modified sport and active recreation and uses adaptive equipment to suit the participants. The activities are facilitated by specialised coaches with the support of students and community organisations. Benefits of attending the day:physical and mental health benefits of exercisesocial wellbeing, friendships, and community connectionstrengthening balance, coordination and mobility skillsteamwork, collaboration and planning increased self-esteem through a sense of achievementCost: Free. Bookings essential. Register online: kiama-abilities-unleashed-school-holiday-program

The Kiama Lions Club is proud to announce its ongoing commitment to supporting education and enrichment opportunities for local students with a generous donation of $5000 to Kiama High School. The donation will specifically benefit the school's Breakfast Club program and provide essential IT equipment for students in need.The Breakfast Club program at Kiama High School plays a vital role in ensuring that every student has access to a nutritious meal to start their day. The donations from the Kiama Lions Club will enable the school to continue the program, ensuring that even more students have the opportunity to benefit.In addition to supporting the Breakfast Club program, the Kiama Lions Club is excited to introduce a new initiative in collaboration with the newly established Ad Altiora extension class at Kiama High School. This innovative initiative aims to provide enrichment opportunities in the classroom, closely aligned with the NSW Syllabus, to enhance the educational experience for students.The Ad Altiora extension class, supported by local Lions and community connections, will focus on providing advanced learning opportunities for motivated students, encouraging intellectual curiosity and academic excellence. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world application, the program aims to inspire and empower students to reach new heights of achievement."We are thrilled to be able to support Kiama High School and its students through our donation and partnership with the Ad Altiora extension class," said John Larkins, President of the Kiama Lions Club. "Education is a cornerstone of our community, and we believe that every student deserves access to the resources and support they need to succeed. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of these initiatives on the students at Kiama High School."The Kiama Lions Club extends its gratitude to the local community for their ongoing support and contributions, which make initiatives like this possible. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of young people and ensure a brighter future for our community.For more information about the Kiama Lions Club and its initiatives, please contact John Larkins at 0422844721 or [[email protected]].

After recent storms that left the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club roof in disrepair, the community displayed an inspiring show of solidarity and kindness to help fundraise to mend the damages – on the very weekend of predicted further wild weather! Fortunately Kiama was not hit as hard as neighbouring areas or the evening could have been very different for the guests.Leading this charge was Pritpal from JJ's Indian Restaurant, Kiama, who offered to cook a lavish Indian banquet for 100 attendees, free of charge with proceeds going to the roof restoration.The event on Saturday 6 April, held at the club, was nothing short of magical. It transformed into a vibrant celebration of community spirit, with a Bollywood DJ spinning tunes, lively dancing, and even a conga line snaking through the room. Attendees added to the colourful atmosphere by dressing in beautiful saris, enhancing the festivity.Club President Phil Perry took on the role of waiter for the night, while Club Treasurer David Gorman meticulously hand-washed every dish—a true testament to the dedication and teamwork within the club.Pritpal and JJ's Indian Restaurant have long been pillars of the Kiama community. For 13 years, they've been offering free meals to the homeless and affordable $5 student meals to international students at Wollongong University.Monica from JJ's was thrilled to see the community enjoying their culinary delights and wasted no time hitting the dance floor, sparking a night of joy and camaraderie."The event was a massive success," said Club President Phil Perry, "not only in raising funds to repair our roof but also in showcasing the strength and spirit of our community."The Kiama Surf Life Saving Club extends its heartfelt gratitude to Pritpal, JJ's Indian Restaurant, and the entire community for their overwhelming support during these challenging times.Check out these awesome pics from the event

The Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue group has been thrown a lifeline, with a shared $50,000 donation from the Greater Bank to the environmental and animal rescue groups in the region. Launched on the NSW’s South Coast in 2005, the group rescues and rehabilitates seabirds, shorebirds, sea turtles and sea snakes. It operates along the coastline south of Sydney, taking in Wollongong, Nowra, Batemans Bay, Bega, and Eden.The new funds ensure ASTR is well-positioned to continue its crucial work in rescuing marine wildlife.Spokeswoman Lauren Manning-Darby is keen to point out the financial strain imposed by caring for sick and injured animals and the importance of ongoing support in tackling threats faced by marine life. From entanglements in fishing gear to pollution to contaminated waterways and plastic pollution, there are many challenges, making ASTR's initiatives vital for the wellbeing of coastal ecosystems.Greg Creagan from Greater Bank said the wildlife rescue group’s work was important in maintaining the delicate balance of the coastal ecosystem. “Everything has its place in the ecosystem, but with threats to ocean and shore life these animals are finding it harder to survive,” Mr Creagan said. “So many of these species are thriving thanks to the work of Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue, so we’re thrilled at Greater Bank to support their efforts. We know they will continue to do amazing work into the future!”The #GreaterIllawarra Community Funding Program, which awards monthly grants to local not-for-profits, has been instrumental in channelling support to deserving causes like ASTR. With over $237,000 donated to date, the program serves as a major support for grassroots initiatives.To participate in the program or nominate a not-for-profit for future rounds, interested individuals can visit the Greater Bank website. This ongoing initiative exemplifies the power of collective action in safeguarding the environment and supporting animal welfare in the Illawarra region.

They call it “The Nasty Game for Nice People”. And Jamberoo is playing host to some of the fiercest competitors in the game, with the Jamberoo Croquet Club Championship kicking off today and running until the weekend. Thirty two competitors have assembled from clubs around the state, coming from Wagga, Nowra and as far north as Port Macquarie to play on the finely kept croquet lawns of Jamberoo, three of them tucked in behind the oval, one of the many largely undiscovered jewels of the area. “It is addictive, it is a mind game,” says Geoff Evans, mild mannered, like so many other players, until the moment he steps across that thin white line. “I started in 2019 after a lifetime of aversion. And I find it utterly fascinating. “Ïn Rugby Union you have to win the right to get the ball out to the backs. Here you have to earn the right to get your ball through the hoop. “It is very much a tactical game. Played with the utmost courtesy and etiquette.”Tournament Manager Steve Milton said the Jamberoo Croquet Club was some 25 years old, and the lawns had been built specifically for the game. “We decided to put on the tournament and have 32 participants from all over NSW,” he said. “We have a waiting list of 17 players. There are four different styles of croquet, and the one we’re playing is called golf croquet. It is like snooker on grass. The same coloured ball.“Wimbledon was originally a croquet club. It is not just a matter of hitting a ball through the hoops, you are fighting over the hoops. It is addictive. The people are enjoyable. It becomes a pleasurable mental exercise.”Nor is croquet purely a game for retired folk. Ben Bowen, 13, who won a local championship last year, says he became interested in the game five years ago when his granddad started playing. “People who say it is an old person’s game, they don’t know what they are talking about,” he says. “My brothers always say it is like watching grass grow. I just ignore them. “I am aiming to go bigger. I don’t think I will be in the state team, I know I will be.”The Championship begins on Wednesday and runs through until Saturday. For more information ring the tournament manager Steve Milton on 0417 885 301.Croquet’s origins are said to date back to antiquity. The modern game of croquet took England by storm in the 1860s, from which it spread around the world, and all the way to Jamberoo. 

The Australian Federal Police has more than 7000 staff, but few Australians have any idea what they do. In an attempt to better inform the public of at least some of their operations, for the first time the Federal Police are showcasing the work of their Negotiation Operations Team.The work of the Team includes negotiated surrenders, suicide interventions, extortion events, sieges, barricaded offenders, mental health incidents, kidnap for ransom, public order events and even cybersecurity incidents.There were more than a hundred such serious incidents in Australia last year.Members of the team also operate internationally, including in Afghanistan, Somalia and other hotspots.In the past 12 months, the AFP Negotiation Operations Team has assisted in a number of cases of Australians kidnapped overseas, with members responding to assist with the safe retrieval and return of Australian citizens as a result.Most of these cases remain confidential. One case included the alleged kidnapping of an Australian pilot along with two local subcontractors near a remote telecommunications facility in the highlands of Papua New Guinea in February, where AFP Negotiation Operations were called upon to assist.The incident made international news. French newspaper Le Monde reported that the New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape was under intense pressure to improve security in the area after the bodies of some 64 locals were found by the side of the road, victims of centuries old clan warfare. In February last year 2023 AFP negotiators supported the families of an Australian resident and New Zealand citizen who was rescued after being kidnapped in the Papua New Guinean jungle.The Australian Federal Police claim the attendance of negotiators has historically cut police attendance times at incidents, lowered the need for force to be utilised and kept officers and members of the public safe from harm.In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), 98% of the incidents AFP negotiators attended since February 2023, were resolved without the use of any force or further escalation.The agency reports that these events were all considered high-risk incidents and required specialist capabilities to respond.The elite communications capability is considered world-leading in the law enforcement community, delivering training workshops for other international law enforcement agencies in Thailand, India, Philippines, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Japan and Vietnam.AFP data indicates that the deployment of negotiators to incidents involving suicidal persons has led to the emergency being resolved within 30 minutes, on average.AFP Sergeant and Lead Negotiator, Victor Yanes said the Negotiation Operations Team was trained to perform under high-stress situations and work in volatile and potentially dangerous environments, anywhere in the world.“AFP negotiators operate in situations when people are in crisis and serious danger,” he said, “We generally turn up on someone’s worst day. In that sense, AFP Negotiators are a ‘break glass in case of emergency’ capability.”In the event of a kidnapping or incident involving an Australian citizen, whether it be in Australia or offshore, AFP negotiators manage communications with the next of kin by creating a communication cell to contain the flow of information.“In the first instance, negotiators are called on to deploy to an incident. We then collect the facts to understand the situation, including the people involved, such as alleged offenders and victims. We then confirm who the AFP is required to communicate with through this cell,” Sergeant Yanes said.“Negotiators manage the communication flow, the messages being conveyed, all with the aim of ensuring that the people involved are safe and protected. We know when we wake up every day that we could potentially save someone’s life.”AFP negotiators are selected during a specialised training course involving multiple levels of advancement, each requiring various degrees of skill.Team members undergo continuous training ensuring they can adequately and strategically respond to emergencies.“AFP Negotiators come from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances, with varying professional experiences and expertise to provide a well-rounded capability,” Sergeant Yanes said.“Having a diverse team provides us with more strategic options and opportunities to ensure we are equipped to tackle any situation.”

In a recent Forbes magazine survey, a range of fitness experts compared and rated a list of sporting activities across six categories, including muscular strength and flexibility. Squash was ranked the healthiest overall, based on its many physical benefits, including offering a great cardio workout, improved flexibility, ability to build lower body strength and endurance, and its kilojoule burn rate which supports healthy weight maintenance.Squash is a high-intensity workout and players use more energy than for almost any other sports. Squash is also an all-weather activity. It is easy to learn and can be played at any age, individually or in teams. and for leisure or as a competitive sport. Games and equipment can be modified to suit size, skill level and physical ability. Squash is particularly beneficial for growing minds and bodies. It combines strong physical activity (players build fitness, strength and agility via regularly running, leaping and diving for the ball) with the discipline, focus and mental strategy skills to anticipate the moves of, and outwit, an opponent – and to make quick decisions under pressure.In addition to the above, learning to play squash helps kids develop and build many important life skills and habits, including:Strong hand-eye coordination; Greater confidence and self-esteem;Improved psychological wellbeing and healthy stress release;Improved social connection - promoting camaraderie and teamwork, and providing an opportunity to make friends while engaging in healthy competition; Concentration, resilience, mental toughness, sportsmanship, and time management.Free Junior Training on SundaysGerringong Squash Club is committed to promoting the wonderful game of squash, especially in juniors – and is offering FREE Junior Training every Sunday from 3-4 pm, with Damien Collins of www.cheekymonkeysquash.com. Damien coaches all standards, from absolute beginners to professional players, and is strongly dedicated to seeing more young players take up the game.Group and Private TrainingOn Sundays, both before and after Junior Training, Damien is offering group and private squash lessons for those wishing to improve their fitness and standard of play.Gerringong Squash Club is located at 29 Belinda Street Gerringong.Bookings can be made through: Mark Allison (President) on 0418 233 985, [email protected] orDamien Collins (coach) on 0449 981 128, [email protected]

There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the business community right now, with spiralling costs and low demand killing off many enterprises, but when it comes to dairy farming there’s plenty of optimism on the NSW South Coast. Justin Walsh, 39, runs a major dairy farming operation at Jasper Brush just past Berry. The area was named after the brother of one of the early settlers John Ingold. His brother Jasper died in 1860 before he could leave England for Australia, while the term brush refers to the original temperate rainforest which once coated the area. Justin milks some 380 dairy cows each day, sending some 7000 litres a day to Sydney which is then sold under the brand name Pauls. “Farming is the only industry where you can be 50 and everyone considers you young,” he laughs. “I didn’t think I would end up being a dairy farmer when I went off to uni, but I always thought I might end up running my own business. “There is a lifestyle aspect, my father has only ever lived on the two houses on this property his entire life. There are always spin off benefits. But it has been a very successful business, it has been financially rewarding.”Now there’s some words you don’t hear together very often these days, successful business, financially rewarding. And Justin is more than happy to throw his weight behind the Young Farmer Business Program being run by the NSW Department of Primary Industries.The NSW Young Farmer Business Program, which began in 2016, is dedicated to empowering the next generation of farmers by providing them with business skills and resources to succeed in farming enterprises in a rapidly evolving industry.Whether young farmers are just starting out in the industry, looking to create their own businesses, or expand and grow existing family operations, the Young Farmer Business Program aims to help the next generation to make informed decisions.Registrations are now open for workshops in Nowra, Bega and online for the Ag.Biz Ready Program for young farmers in the South East of NSW.Focused on 5-minute intervals, the program is aimed at every young farmer who thinks getting “future ready” in business is too complex, expensive or time consuming. Throughout the 10 week program, young farmers benefit from 10 micro-learning modules relevant to regional business needs,  two minute video case studies filmed with a local business peer and workshops in Nowra, Bega and online. Justin, who studied agricultural science at Sydney University, speaks highly of his own education. “It taught me how to think about farming as actually a business,” he says. “It taught me how to think about challenges.“When I came home, if I hadn’t had that time at uni, I think I would have fallen into the same old patterns. I just wanted to get on with it. My mom and dad were looking at retiring. It was a bit of a blank slate. “Farming is not always easy, but it has a lot of things going for it. Agriculture needs positive stories. “Compared to the rest of the world, I would say there is an unbelievable amount of opportunity. Farmers in general are getting older and they are looking for young people coming through to take over existing businesses. “For people who have the right skills, who are willing to learn and are willing to put in the time and effort, there is unbelievable potential in agriculture. All the aging farming population are looking to retire.“That is why the Young Farmer program is really good, it gives them the opportunity to learn some of the business skills. It is about helping people set up their business opportunities for success, and to face the industry’s unique challenges.”Module topics for the Young Farmers program include getting the right insurance, cybersecurity, achieving financial viability, forming business networks, and turning disasters into opportunities.Justin concludes: “In the old days, farmers were more like Old McDonald. Now they are more like multi-million dollar businesses.”To find out more go to the website: https://www.youngfarmer.nsw.gov.au/People can register at any stage during the program – it’s self-paced, although the learning modules are released weekly, beginning this week.

Now considered one of Australia's leading writers and a social justice advocate ahead of her time, Kiama's own Charmian Clift is a worthy recipient of a NSW Blue Plaque 2023, announced by NSW Minister Hon. Penny Sharpe. This plaque will be unveiled later this year by the Minister.Charmian Clift was born into a weatherboard worker’s cottage in Kiama in 1923, attended Kiama Primary school and later, Wollongong School in Wollongong.She moved to Sydney in 1941 and began a career in journalism where she met and later married war journalist George Johnston. They initially moved to London and then to the Greek islands.She was a talented lyrical writer well known for co-writing My Brother Jack with George Johnston. She also wrote Mermaid Singing and Peel me a Lotus, genre-setting memoir-cum-travel books during her family's bohemian time living in Hydra in Greece.Charmian was a definite rule breaker in terms of 1950s women's fiction. She is most well known for her weekly column in the women's pages of the Sydney Morning Herald and Melbourne Herald (over 240 essays) from 1964-1969. Her column allowed her a voice to express her thoughts, what she called her "sneaky little revolutions", on important socio-political issues including feminist and Aboriginal rights. Please come and join in the celebration of Charmian Clift at our Social Justice Dinner and hear our local special guest speakers on Saturday, 13th April, 2024 at Kiama Leagues Club:Suzie Eggins, current President of the Kiama Historical Society, has researched and written extensively about Charmian Clift’s life.Dr Graham Tucker, local academic, completed his PhD thesis on Charmian Clift.Tickets to the Dinner can be purchased through the following link: https://nswlabor.org.au/event_13042024

Gerringong Lions Club celebrated its 30th anniversary this month. Approximately one hundred people attended the celebratory dinner at The Gerroa Fisherman’s club. Lions President, Peter Jeffrey addressed the audience of Lions dignitaries, representatives of other Gerringong community groups and representatives of other local Lions clubs about the history of the Gerringong Club.Robyn Jeffrey and Lions Club President, Peter JeffreyIt was chartered on 21st March 1994, with 38 members, only seven of whom still remain active in the club. The establishment of the Gerringong Lions Club was largely due to the Kiama Lions Club and dedicated locals Geoff Heinicke, Rick Norris and Rob Danby. The group held some casual meetings at Cronin’s Pub with interested locals and the outcome was the formation of the club.Bobbie English and Lions District Governor Danny RichardsonThe first Club President was Clive Dopper, a local butcher, whose aim was to mix fellowship with good fun whilst doing community service.Peter went on to accomplish a long list of community projects and service, too long to mention here, but included the restoration of the Boat Harbour picnic grounds with the building of the rotunda and bridge across the creek. The maintenance of this area continues today. Lions have established working associations with other community organisations such as CMRI, Gerringong Public School and the Uniting Mayflower Village. Local sporting clubs have also benefited from Gerringong Lions Club through the donation of grants. The avenue of trees on Fern St from Omega to the entry of town was planted by Lions.The Whale Watching platform on the southern headland was another project and the recently completed memorial garden nearby was also established by the Club. The Lions Car Show has raised many dollars over the years for Prostate Cancer Research and more recently Childhood Cancer Research.Steve Pottie, Korin, Rogery Berry and Peter Jeffrey presenting a cheque to Korin, owner of SoulfitThe list of charities, organisations and individuals that have benefited from Lions’ donations is long. Needless to say this wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of such a caring community. Locals are always up for making a donation, buying a sausage sandwich or a raffle ticket. The Lions recognise how lucky we are to live in this town. Peter touched on this support when he mentioned The Lions major fund raising project at the moment, which is Return and Earn. Brian Arberry, Michael O'Leary, Bob Stewart, Barry Smithers, Ian Mangelsdorf, Cliff Roberts receives a special commendation from District Governor Danny Richardson (absent: Vince Stalgis)Last year, after five years of endeavour, Lions collected the 1,000,000th item to earn $100,000. Currently they are on track to collect the next million items in under three years. All of this money is dispersed back into the community or spent on Lions projects.Entertainment on the night was provided by Night and Day, with Chris Cutting and Merryn Lee-Perez, and the meals were provided by the Seahorse Oceanview Restaurant. It was a memorable and relaxing evening of fellowship.

Parkinson’s Support Kiama is hosting an upcoming seminar on the pathology of Parkinson’s and advanced treatment for the disease. The event will be held on Monday 15 April from 9.15am at Kiama Leagues Club.The seminar will feature expert talks by both Dr James Peters and Dr Joel Maamary. Topics covered will include the clinical features of Parkinson’s and therapies available as well as a Q&A section. Audiences are encouraged to ask the doctors anything about Parkinson’s, including its symptoms, treatments and the current state of medical research.Tea and coffee will be provided throughout the morning with a space in the day for some singing and dancing. At the end of the seminar, audiences will be invited to move downstairs for lunch at Sails Bistro.For further information you can contact Lesley Errington at [email protected]

Marine Rescue NSW faced their busiest Easter yet, responding to a record number of incidents across the state. During the four day weekend the organisation completed 163 search and rescue missions, including 54 emergencies, safely bringing 440 people back to shore. The surge in activity could have been due to favourable weather conditions with high numbers of people taking the opportunity to get out on the water. The previous Easter record took place in 2022 when volunteers completed 154 missions. The busiest areas were across Greater Sydney, the Hunter Central Coast and Illawarra regions.Deputy Commissioner Darren Schott noted a significant number of fuel related incidents, stating that boaters should carry enough for their voyage including some reserve. “The rule of three is the safest option, a third for your journey, a third for your return and a third in reserve to get back safely,” said Schott. Throughout the weekend, volunteers kept watch over more than 2,900 vessels which Logged On with the service using the Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16, carrying out several successful missions involving disabled vessels.Despite the challenges, Marine Rescue NSW remains dedicated to ensuring the safety of boaters and supporting local communities. The organisation is urging anyone taking a boat out to sea to log in first on their app.

Nestled alongside Reid Park and the Jamberoo Sports precincts stands the Jamberoo Youth Hall, a humble yet invaluable asset to the community. On May 15th, 1988, this hall was officially opened by past Mayor Neil Fredericks, marking the culmination of years of dedication and hard work by the locals in Jamberoo. Fast forward to March 23rd, 2024, and the hall was once again at the centre of community celebrations, commemorating its rich history and the countless memories it has fostered over the years.The hall's origins trace back to the visionary Les Hartenstein, who saw the need for a central venue where youth groups could meet and store their equipment. With groups scattered across various facilities, the idea of a common space for youth activities and community functions took root. Kiama Council joined hands with the community, offering a dollar-for-dollar deal to kickstart the project. What ensued was a remarkable display of community spirit, with residents coming together to fundraise, volunteer labour, and donate materials.The original deed of 1982 laid down the hall's purpose – to serve primarily as a hub for youth activities. Over the years, it has evolved into a versatile space, accommodating a wide array of community gatherings. From Scouts and Guides to Playgroups and dance classes, the hall has been a constant presence in the lives of Jamberoo's residents. The Jamberoo Country Women's Association also found a home in the hall, further enriching its role as a community centre and developing a huge group of young women participating today.The recent event on March 23rd, 2024, was a testament to the enduring legacy of the Youth Hall. Acting Mayor Imogen Draisma eloquently spoke on the hall's significance, highlighting its role in fostering community bonds and nurturing generations of young people. Committee members, hall users past and present, along with local dignitaries, gathered to reminisce and celebrate.A series of historic photographic display panels were prepared, showcasing the hall's journey from conception to fruition by Stuart Richards. Community members were encouraged to contribute their memories and photos, ensuring that the event truly reflected the collective spirit of Jamberoo.One thing remains clear – Jamberoo Youth Hall is more than just a building. It is a symbol of community resilience, unity, and the enduring commitment to nurturing the youth and heritage of Jamberoo. Congratulations to the committee members, especially the long serving ones, for keeping the memories alive.

As Easter draws near, it's a time for reflection, renewal, and the celebration of compassion and kindness. In a world often fraught with challenges, the message of Easter resonates as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the power of empathy and understanding in our lives.Across the globe, diverse traditions mark this season, each weaving a tapestry of faith, culture, and community. For Christians, Easter symbolises the triumph of life over death, as they commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ through prayer, church services, and shared meals with loved ones. Simultaneously, Jewish communities observe Passover, commemorating liberation and resilience in the face of oppression, while Muslims embark on Ramadan, a month of spiritual reflection, fasting, and acts of charity.In the midst of these varied celebrations, the common thread of compassion unites us all. It's the essence of humanity that transcends religious and cultural boundaries, urging us to extend a hand of kindness to those in need.Choosing compassion means recognising the inherent dignity of every individual and actively seeking opportunities to make a positive difference in their lives. It's about listening to a friend in distress, offering support to a neighbour in crisis, or dedicating time to volunteer for a cause close to your heart.As a tangible expression of our commitment to compassion, why not consider volunteering for a charity this Easter? Whether it's lending a helping hand at a local shelter, assisting with community projects, or simply being there for someone in need, every act of kindness contributes to the collective wellbeing of our society.In the spirit of Easter and compassion we are encouraged to explore volunteer opportunities available in the community. From puppy volunteering to serving meals, there are countless ways to make a meaningful impact and spread joy this season.As we journey through this Easter season, may we be guided by the principles of compassion, empathy, and kindness. Together, let's create a world where love knows no bounds and every heart is touched by the spirit of Easter.Wishing you all a joyful and meaningful Easter season!

From April 10th to 15th each year, World Music Therapy Week spotlights the profound impact of music on healing and wellness. But what exactly is music therapy? Simply put, it's the use of music-based activities to achieve non-musical health goals.Dr. Kath Lawson, Kiama’s dedicated music therapist, explains, "Registered Music Therapists are university-trained allied health professionals who work with people of all ages and stages of life. Each session is tailored to the individual or group, and it’s usually heaps of fun."Music therapy is more than just entertainment. "There’s a lot of processing and development going on through the music-making," Dr. Kath emphasises. "Anyone can participate in music therapy, regardless of musical ability. It’s not necessarily about performance, though that can happen if it’s someone’s particular interest."Dr. Kath's experiences highlight the breadth of music therapy's impact. "I’ve worked with pre-school children, families, young adults, and older people,” she says. “I’ve even been part of a research project focusing on songwriting for people with dementia and their care partners. Over a 10-week program, they managed to write 36 songs together!"Music therapy's beauty lies in its therapeutic essence, addressing needs across various life circumstances. Whether supporting individuals with disabilities, aiding rehabilitation, navigating trauma or mental health challenges, or enhancing quality of life in chronic health conditions or palliative care, music therapy offers a versatile approach to enrichment."It’s incredibly special to work with people in this way. Your brain just works differently on music," Dr. Kath says. Today, music therapy is integrated into numerous hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health hubs. Participants in the NDIS scheme often access music therapy as part of their individual plans.To learn more about music therapy's potential to support you or someone you know, visit the Australian Music Therapy Association’s website, or contact Dr. Kath at 0402 101 312. 

Particularly for those considering travel plans throughout the upcoming school holidays, the Continence Foundation of Australia have announced the next Great Dunny Hunt competition in support of the many Australians struggling with incontinence. Australians are being urged to make contributions and updates to National Public Toilet Map website or app, with the competition running from 29 March to the end of World Continence Week on 16 June 2024. And speaking of running – this initiative may also prove a lifesaver for holidaymaking long-distance runners suffering with stress urinary incontinence pounding new-found pavements! Over five million Australians currently live with incontinence. Alarmingly, this number is anticipated to reach approximately 6.5 million by 2030. Furthermore, elite athletes such as runners are three times more susceptible to experiencing stress urinary incontinence primarily due to excessive pelvic floor pressure.  One recent study revealed that almost half of the participants did not feel comfortable hitting the road without reliable information regarding public toilet locations. Therefore, keeping information regarding public toilets location and accessibility across the nation current is crucial for enabling Australians to go about their daily business with confidence, particularly when holidaying and nearby toilets may otherwise be an unknown. To reduce the number of Australians struggling with anxieties of getting caught short during the upcoming school holidays and beyond, holidaymakers and local public loo inspectors are encouraged to upload details such as location, access hours and supplied amenities, with the option to include an accompanying image. Alongside the feel-good knowledge that all contributions may help fellow Australians feel confident in hitting the road on holiday and foot, participants uploading a new listing or updating an existing entry are in the running to win one of three $500 EFTPOS vouchers upon completion of a short survey. Sean Burford, crowned Australia’s Greatest Dunny Hunter in 2022 for submitting over 130 locations to the National Public Toilet Map, took glory in the rewarding experience of uncovering rural Australian spots. “Both Toilet Map and other resources have some misplaced or out of date dunnies. Once I had a location, I would research it to determine there was really a dunny there. I spent a fair bit of time in Google Street View. Council and Government websites were also great source for checking the facilities, hours and access requirements for a dunny. Websites catering to travellers would often have photos or reviews with more information.” “This turned each lateral/longitudinal coordinate into a story about each place, whether it was the most scenic toilet in Australia or perhaps a prime example of why one state’s toilets were better than those just across the border on the same highway. It sounds like a fair bit of work, but once I was familiar with the various websites, it would take about five minutes to get a good feel for each spot.” Recipient of the 2018 Rodney Warmington Churchill Fellowship, Katherine Webber, stresses the importance of inclusive and accessible public toilets in fostering community participation.Webber’s research emphasises the vital role public toilets play in supporting health, economic development and tourism. Webber advocates for comprehensive planning and government oversight to ensure equitable outcomes in public toilet provision. Photos of many toilets Webber has visited are documented via Instagram @Public_Toilets_Anonymous.  So, why not visit a public toilet or two yourself to help relieve the pressure experienced by many Australians these holidays? Support the Great Dunny Hunt by contributing to the National Public Toilet Map between 29 March 29 and 16 June 2024. Visit www.continence.org.au/great-dunny-hunt and www.toiletmap.gov.au for more information.How do Kiama public toilets stand up being scrutinised for the public by the public? Personally, I would like to see some of our local artists be commissioned to make our toilets more memorable with appropriate artwork. We then could become a positive talking point on the Great Dunny Trail!

In Kiama LGA, the Lions Club is more than just a group of volunteers flipping sausages or collecting bottles and cans. They're a vibrant community making waves of difference in people's lives, all while having a blast doing it."We just don't work hard turning sausages," says a proud member of the Kiama Lions Club. "We have fun and make a real impact on people's lives."The ethos of the Kiama Lions is about turning ripples into waves, with each member contributing to strengthening both themselves and the community at large. From assisting local charities to supporting global initiatives like childhood cancer research and hunger relief efforts, the Lions leave no stone unturned in their quest to make the world a better place.But they don't do it alone. The Lions Club is supported by numerous businesses and individuals within the town who share their passion for service and giving back. And they're always on the lookout for more hands and hearts to join their cause."You too could jump puddles and see the ripple you make turn into waves," encourages another enthusiastic member. "Whether you're a business looking to contribute or an individual wanting to make a difference, there's a place for you in our club."Becoming a member of the Kiama Lions Club isn't just about service; it's about forming lifelong friendships and experiencing the joy of seeing countless smiling faces at their events and initiatives."Join us," urges Bobbie English, the club's contact person. "You'll never know the joy until you give it a go. Reach out to us at 0455043043 or email [email protected] to start your journey with us today."In Kiama, the Lions Club isn't just an organisation; it's a beacon of hope, community, and endless possibilities.

The Gerringong Bowling Club Community Garden is a group of keen local gardeners with a community mind. The group meets at the garden, at the rear of the Gerringong Bowling Club, each Tuesday at 9.30am and hold various working bees throughout the year.Led by their dedicated President, Sue Daniels, the group has enjoyed nearly doubling the garden space in just six months. Adding several new raised garden beds, planting new fruit trees, adding a polytunnel and many other upgrades. Group member Michael working in the gardenThis morning Gareth Ward MP for Kiama visited the garden with high praise for the way the space has grown, offering encouragement and support. Several new members have lent a hand assembling new equipment for the garden. The Men’s Shed in Gerringong graciously took on the task of building the new garden beds with wooden planks that were donated to the group by Red River Wood in Kiama. The Bowling Club also lent a hand by donating the new polytunnels and two metal raised garden beds. Some new garden bedsThe group’s efforts are in full bloom, the gardens are producing beautiful fruits, vegetables and herbs with more in the works. The community garden stands as a testament to community collaboration and a shared passion. The garden is abuzz with many very happy bees, lady bugs, and their lovely mascot, Daisy the dog.Liv & SamThe group is always looking for new members who want to get involved, meet new people, learn new things and be a part of something in our community. You can find more information on their facebook page.

By David GrahamKiama Tennis Club, a hub for approximately 500 members spanning all age groups and skill levels, recently wrapped up its highly anticipated Club Championships on Sunday, March 24th, 2024. The event, now in its 63rd year, once again showcased the club's vibrant tennis community, offering a platform for players of varying abilities to vie for the coveted title of Club Champion for the year.In a thrilling showdown, Joe Moseley emerged triumphant in the Open Men’s singles final, besting newcomer Phil Ross in a match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. However, Ross found redemption in the Men’s doubles alongside partner Matt Terentis, clinching a hard-fought victory against the formidable duo of Dave Lehman and Joe Moseley.Experience proved to be the winning factor in the Open Ladies doubles final, as seasoned pair Karen Koks and Belinda Murphy outplayed newcomers Megan Minter and Dianne Fava, securing a commendable win with a scoreline of 6/4 7/5.The B Grade Mixed Doubles Round Robin drew enthusiastic participation, with Helga Pimm and Ralph Szuleroski emerging as the victors after a spirited contest against Milton and Gail Gaynor.Reflecting on the rich history of the championships, it's worth noting that the inaugural event in 1961 saw Tom Brown and Margaret Tozer crowned as the first champions in Men’s and Ladies' singles, respectively. Noteworthy figures like Norma Stead, a stalwart of the club now in her 90s, claimed consecutive Ladies titles in 1963 and 1964.The 1990s witnessed the dominance of Paul Summerside, former tennis coach at Gerringong, who clinched the Men’s title from 1992 to 1996 before embarking on an international journey to compete on the professional circuit and coach in Germany and Asia. Other luminaries who have etched their names in the annals of the championships include Mark Manchur, Gwen Hinchliffe, and Bjorn Meyers.The success of the 63rd Kiama Tennis Club Championships underscores the enduring passion and competitive spirit that define the club's tennis community, promising even greater excitement in the years to come.Kiama Tennis Club Championships 2024Kiama Tennis Club with around 500 members is able to cater for all ages and certainly  all abilities of player -from Beginners to more advanced tournament players. To this end the Club Championships concluded on Sunday 24 March  2024. This event provides just that, a chance for the competitive players to compete amongst each other in a tournament environment to see who the Club Champs for 2024 would be. The 63rd Championships were quite successful with Joe Mozeley taking out the Open Men’s singles final against new club member Phil Ross in an entertaining match.Phil Ross and Matt Terentis turned the tables  in the Men’s doubles with a tight win against Dave Lehman and Joe Moseley. Veteran pair Karen Koks and Belinda Murphy showed all their experience in the Open Ladies doubles final to defeat newcomers Megan Minter and Dianne Fava 6/4 7/5.The B Grade Mixed Doubles Round Robin was well supported seeing Helga Pimm and Ralph Szuleroski  defeat Milton and Gail Gaynor.The first Club Championships held in 1961 was won by Tom Brown (men’s singles) and Margaret Tozer in the Ladies. Club stalwart Norma Stead now in her 90’s was the Ladies champion in 1963 and 1964. Paul Summerside (tennis coach at Gerringong) took out the Men’s title from 1992 to 1996 before heading overseas to compete on the circuit and work in Germany and Asia as a coach. Other winners of the prestige singles have been Mark Manchur, Gwen Hinchliffe and Bjorn Meyers.