In Gerringong, the Naval Association of Australia has been fostering camaraderie for 21 years through its vibrant and close-knit community. Comprising ex-service personnel and their partners, the association is more than just a monthly gathering; it's a lifeline of friendship and support.The association prides itself on creating a positive and engaging environment, where members, ranging from aviators ("birdies") to divers ("bubblies"), come together to share their unique experiences. This diverse blend also includes “stokers or clankies” (engineers), “subbies” (submariners), “dibbies” (seamen), “fish heads” (ship drivers), “greenies” (electricians), and “box packers” (logisticians). Clearly, it’s a group that enjoys humour and banter. Unlike the traditional military hierarchy, there's no distinction in rank here – everyone is known by their first name, fostering a sense of equality and easy going friendship.Max Hair wielding a naval officer's sword prior to cutting the cake Meeting monthly, the group engages in storytelling, affectionately referred to as "warries" (stories). These tales, often laced with humour and banter, provide a therapeutic outlet for members who understand the nuances of a life in the Navy. It's not just about reminiscing; the association recognises the importance of social connection for mental well-being, especially during the challenging transition into retirement.The monthly gatherings also feature a formal segment where business matters are discussed, and occasionally, remembrance is observed. Historical talks and commemorative events add depth to the meetings. Following the formalities, members enjoy coffee and cake and informal chats. Once a month attendance is optional at a local lunch venue, further strengthening the bonds forged within the group.Despite the evident benefits and the sense of family, the association faces a challenge – dwindling numbers. Encouraging retired personnel to join is a priority, ensuring the inclusive and diverse mix of members continues to thrive. The group is not limited to Australian Navy veterans; it welcomes those from the British or Canadian navies and the merchant marine.At the helm of this maritime community is Commodore Lee Cordner, a veteran with 33 years of active service and 16 years in the reserves. Dr. Cordner, also an accomplished author on maritime security, serves as the President. The group's Patron is Vice Admiral Tim Barrett, a former Chief of the Navy, adding a touch of prestige to the association.The Secretary, Robert Foster, a former Warrant Officer, exemplifies the association's commitment to continued service. In retirement, Foster works as a Veteran's Advocate, assisting fellow vets in navigating the bureaucracy of Veterans Affairs. This dedication reflects the association's ethos of looking out for one another beyond the monthly meetings.The Gerringong Naval Association's legacy traces back to the late Bill Popple, a WW2 veteran and founding secretary. Although Popple has passed away, his spirit lives on.  The oldest member, Max Hair, known as "Bunny," is 95. Bunny served as a ‘dibbie’ (Petty Officer) in the Korean War, and in his speech at the group’s 21st anniversary event he described the association as more than a group – a family.In a world where connections are valued more than ever, the Gerringong Naval Association stands as a testament to the enduring bonds forged by those who have sailed the seas together.

The Kiama Memorial Arch was a feature of the Remembrance Day ceremony held in Hindmarsh Park on 11 November between 10.30 and 11:30 am. The Arch has quite its own history.The Memorial Arch was unveiled on April 25, 1925, by Sir George Fuller Premier of NSW.He made a poignant comment at the unveiling that ‘When the stone has doth crumbled away, the memory of the ANZACs would still be green.’The Memorial cost 1040 pounds and 108 pounds was subscribed at the unveiling ceremony with 200 pounds still owed. The designs were prepared by Charles Rosenthal and Day, architects and the builder was W.G. Fazer of Sydney who used brown marble and local building materials. The idea for the arch came from Colonel Colin Dunmore Fuller DSO who was the younger brother of the NSW Premier Sir George Fuller, who lived at Dunmore House. Colonel Fuller served in the 6th Light Horse Regiment. From the end of WW1, a soldiers' memorial fund was established with a number of ideas proposed, such as a drinking fountain, a memorial tower or a community hall.Gerringong built the Gerringong Soldiers Memorial Hall and Jamberoo established the marble honour rolls in their Memorial Arch built at the original Jamberoo School of Arts which is now demolished. The new entrance gates to the Jamberoo School of Arts now incorporate the honour rolls. A final meeting was held in March 1924 to debate the final proposals, a memorial hospital or a memorial park? The well-attended meeting heard Colonel Fuller speak persuasively in favour of the memorial park. Surprisingly the meeting voted against him, in favour of a memorial district hospital. However Colonel Fuller did not give up and at a further meeting in the town hall a week later spoke even more persuasively for a memorial to "those whose bodies lie in distant lands.” An opposing speaker J. Drennan spoke against saying ‘he had relatives lying in the soil of France and did not want a big stone stuck up in the street as it would be of no benefit to anyone.” The debate was well recorded in the Kiama Independent and Illawarra Mercury at the time and in a more recent article in the Mercury by Dr Karl James. This time the mood swayed to support Colonel Fuller and a large majority voted for the monument and park, as Kiama residents can see for themselves today in 2023.Dr Karl James made the eloquent point that every name represents an individual life, someone’s son and someone’s brother.  The example of Walter and Frank Farquharson who both died in WW1 and whose bodies never returned were a well-known example to the Kiama community at the time from their many letters home published in the paper before they died. As recorded in the actual Arch itself and on the NSW War Memorials Register, The Kiama Memorial Arch has a large number of memorial plaques, the Unveiling plaque from April 25 1925, a Plaque to mark the service of HMAS Kiama during WW2 in the Pacific during 1944 and 1946.Four Panels bear the names of local citizens who have served Australia in times of War and conflict besides WW1.The West face of the north pillar has an inscription that lists the names from 1914 -1918. 200 men from Kiama served, and 44 never made it home.  The west face of the south pillar has the honour roll of those who served in WW2 from 1939-1945.The Wall of Remembrance next to the Arch is named after Gordon Grellman, former Kiama and Jamberoo RSL member and WW2 pilot. This was unveiled by Mayor Brian Petschler on 11 November 2013.The Wall is unique in Australia as it allows a memorial record of anyone who has served in any force anywhere that was an Ally and not an Enemy of Australia. The application had to be made by a direct relative of that person currently living in Kiama and that person proposed had to be now deceased. You don't have to be deceased to get your name on the Memorial Arch. The rules on the Memorial Arch are extremely strict and the name must have been born or recruited in Kiama, with several names not on the Arch that are regarded as eligible.The King’s Penny set in the top right of the Wall of Remembrance was supplied by James Seader who was the great nephew of James Sydney Seader whose name appears on the Arch. The Penny known as the Dead Man’s Penny was issued to families of all those killed in action on the Allied side in WW1 by King George V.Recently the Memorial Arch developed a lean, observed since 1953, due to the soft ground it was built. A 2-degree lean was identified with the 200-tonne structure which was sitting on approximately 6 metres of fill, in the area where Kiama had its original tip in the early days of European settlement. A creek also used to run through the area and was now piped. It was estimated piles some 11 to 12 metres would need to be driven to reach the hard basalt rock and a supporting column was built underneath to stabilize the structure. The work was completed in 2015.At one point Kiama Council considered demolition of the Arch. Former Kiama and Jamberoo RSL Sub branch President, Colonel Ian Pullar, told the Bugle the Sub Branch insisted on a complete replica being built at the cost of more than $ 5 million if that occurred. The branch had been very disappointed with the work done to replace the Jamberoo Memorial Arch when the new Jamberoo Arts Centre was built. The drains were instead fully restored and rebuilt and the Arch now sits on steel and concrete underpinnings that go 18 metres down to the bedrock.Ian Pullar said, “if a Tsunami engulfed Kiama, the Arch would still be there when the water receded.”

In the realm of Lions Clubs International, the mantra "We Serve" is not just a slogan but a commitment to selfless service. Within this community-minded ethos, Jon Phipps stands as a model of humility and dedication, embodying the core values of Lions. Recognised as a 'Legend of Lions,' Jon's journey traces back to the inception of Kiama Lions in 1970, where he holds the distinguished position of being one of the two original charter members.The Kiama Lions Club, formed on March 12, 1970, at the Brighton Hotel, under the leadership of Charter President Ian Andrews, has evolved into a beacon of community service. The charter night on June 16, 1970, marked a significant moment with 220 Lions, visitors, and guests, where the Club's average age was a youthful 28.Jon's service extends over an impressive 53 years, during which he has actively participated in various projects, from the iconic driver reviver initiative to his current focus on the Australian Lions Children's Mobility Foundation. As a physician, Jon underscores the many benefits of philanthropic endeavours plus an active lifestyle.Beyond his Lions commitments, Jon, alongside Hilton Bloomfield, champions fundraising through stamp collection, an initiative where stamps from individuals and organisations across Kiama are auctioned. The proceeds from these auctions fund walkers for children facing mobility challenges.Jon has been a passionate cyclist and spearheaded fundraising events to raise much-needed funds for organisations like the Fred Hollows Foundation and the Children's Medical Research Foundation. His four-year involvement in the St. George South Coast Running Festival during the 1980s demonstrates his commitment to making a tangible impact.In reflecting on his Lions journey, Jon expresses gratitude, stating, "Lions has been an amazing gift for me." He says that the camaraderie within the Club, united by a shared goal of making the world a better place, has enriched his life. As Kiama Lions extends an invitation to like-minded individuals, Jon's story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of community service. For those interested in joining the Lions journey, membership information is available on their brand new website at www.kiamalions.org.au 

Festive Extravaganza at The Pavilion Kiama: A Christmas Shopping DelightThe Pavilion Kiama buzzed with festive cheer as it transformed into a bustling hub for an afternoon of Christmas shopping and entertainment on November 16. The event featured an array of local market stalls, offering a diverse range of goods that catered to every taste and preference.Veronica's sweet truthAttendees were treated to a shopping experience with an abundance of options, including hampers, art pieces, chocolates, homewares, candle packs, handbags and purses, books, clothing, arts and crafts, home decor, food products, beauty essentials, health and wellbeing packs and much more.The event not only provided a unique shopping opportunity but also encouraged the support of local businesses, allowing patrons to find the perfect Christmas gifts for their friends and family—all conveniently located under one roof. Organisers emphasised the importance of starting Christmas shopping early to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable holiday season. Veronica Dzelde 16 years with Lions and Gerry McINerney 41 years joined in 1982A major highlight of the day was the chance to capture the festive spirit with photos alongside Santa Claus, creating cherished memories for attendees of all ages.Among the standout local stallholders were the Kiama Elves, showcasing delightful Christmas tree decorations, Making Faces Makeup Studio offering a range of hair and makeup products, NEG Photography presenting spectacular local images and unique gifts, The Source Bulk Foods providing sustainable and bulk food options, and Waminda and Kiama Chocolate Company, satisfying sweet cravings with their delectable offerings.The team Jackie Hall, taylor jesen, kylie hardingThe Pavilion Kiama's Christmas shopping extravaganza successfully brought the community together, fostering a sense of holiday spirit while supporting local businesses and artisans. As the countdown to Christmas begins, events like these contribute to the festive atmosphere, making it a season to remember for all who attend.

Kiama Council is once again asking residents, businesses and other organisations to donate to the Mayor’s Giving Tree Appeal.The Giving Tree Appeal allows our community to provide gifts for children up to 14 years, which are then distributed to local children for Christmas. Giving Trees are situated in the foyer of Council’s administration building in Manning Street as well as at Kiama Library, Gerringong Library and Museum and The Pavilion.Please don’t wrap your gift, as they need to be sorted into age groups for distribution.Gifts may be left under the trees from now until Thursday 7 December.  

Kiama High School threw another successful Open Night on 7 November 2023, giving future students a glimpse into what their future schooling might look like.The night was run by students and teachers alike, with peer leaders and volunteers leading prospective students through a range of activities from science, music and technology through to sports and the arts.It was also an opportunity for Kiama High’s senior students to show off their major works for the year, which thoroughly impressed onlookers with the skills and talents of tomorrow’s future leaders.Seven Year 11 students are raising money for their trip to the National Youth Science Forum taking place in January next year. The trip will cost $3000 each, so the students sold lollies while their parents and teachers helped out with the sausage sizzle to help raise funds for the trip.The NYSF Team: Kai King, Charlie Philpott, Charlie Meredith, Keziah Whitford, Maisie Whitbourn and Emily FarrahKHS student and artist Tabitha Marshall with her grandfather and drawing subject, MarioSinger and student Misha belted out bangers for attendeesCaelen shredded his version of 'Eddie' by Red Hot Chilli PeppersHenry wowed new students with chemistry experimentsThe Bugle's Molly Jackson had a hair-raising time with the physics experimentsThanks to Phoebe and Maya for giving The Bugle a brush up on our physics knowledgeYoungsters got to test out the gym with a hectic game of floor hockey

Kiama Council has introduced the new Small Community Event Grants program so community groups will no longer need to apply for funding on an ad hoc basis.The Small Community Event Grants program will offer between $250 and $2000 to local groups to help fund their events. Funds will be distributed across two rounds in April and November each year in April and November, with each round offering a total of $8000 in grants.Eligible groups need to be based in the Kiama Municipality, be incorporated or auspiced by an incorporated organisation, be not-for-profit, and be able to demonstrate how the wider community will benefit.Kiama Mayor Neil Reilly said the new program provided a better way to support community events in an open and transparent way.“Council receives numerous requests for donations throughout the year from local organisations for community events such as garden competitions, art workshops, charity concerts, street parades and bushfire fundraisers,” Mayor Reilly said.“These were traditionally considered by Council as they arise on an ad hoc basis.”Applications for the November funding round are now open, and close at midnight 24 November 2023.

On Friday evening the Kiss Arts Festival kicked off with the Adults Only Kiss Kabaret, a night about hilarity, laughter and fun. The event was organised hosted by Tamara Campbell and her partner Dave Evans, aka ‘Kiki Bittovabitsch’ and ‘Pascale’. The two were hilarious as the MC act keeping the audience entertained during the act changes. Outrageous and fun, these two are a polished act.Kiki and Pasquali introduced performers with the most diverse skills: jugglers, acrobats, comedians, musicians, stuntmen and magicians. Most importantly, it was a seamless transition from act to act.The Bugle attended the event, and I personally haven’t laughed so hard in ages! It’s always refreshing when comedic theatre isn’t constricted by too much ‘political correctness’!The line-up of acts included:Nick Rheinberger and Tia Juana Wilson, who teamed up for a singing comedy skit, sharing their music and humour in two sets, warmed up the crowd with their irreverent poetical music.Nick Nickolas, who has won multiple awards as a magician, including the World Championships of Street Magic and Best Magic Act at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, had the crowd amused and engaged with his dry humour and sleight of hand magic.Dressed like a sequinned Angus Young, the “Wham Glam Circus Man” from Canberra, was an energetic comedy act with a heavy dose of circus! He was also excellent at engaging the crowd by encouraging volunteers and collaborators from the audience.One very dextrous performer did the most unusual act with his big orange rubber ball, that he blew up and climbed inside! It’s doubtful that anyone in the audience had ever seen anything like it.The male burlesque dancer was a marvel of slick moves and stunning costumes, and all eyes were rivetted on his very toned and lithe physique. His music choices for extraordinary and energetic to say the least.On the whole, a very entertaining and funny evening was had by all. Highly recommended for next time that Kiss Kabaret comes to town.

The Gerringong Community Garden has been going for over five and a half years, but it's the recent ideas and vision of our new president, Sue Daniels, that have really seen it flourish. Under her guidance, the garden has become a thriving hub for cultivating leafy greens and an array of wonderful produce.Gerringong Community Garden - supplied by Chris HuddleExciting news to hand as the Gerringong Bowling Club has generously granted access to expand the garden along it’s Western boundary. This expansion is set to double the size of the garden and create even more opportunities for the community to engage in productive gardening.A non-profit venture, the community garden has plans that are ambitious and diverse, all with the aim of benefitting the local community. These plans are dedicated to making gardening accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The expanded garden offers a golden opportunity for locals to get involved, cultivate their own produce, and reap the rewards of sustainable living.Sue Daniels says, "I love this garden! I now get to grow all the vegetables and fruit I love without pesticides. You don't need to know how to garden to join us. We will help you and after a morning of gardening share our produce. If you are new to the area, it's a great way to make friends."She mentions that the Garden will need some help from volunteers as they are building the extension to the garden, which is a sizable undertaking. Sue says, “We don’t necessarily need experienced gardeners - just people who are strong and able to dig large holes as we want to move the fruit trees that are in tubs at the moment and make new garden beds too.”The Gerringong Community Garden wishes to acknowledge the dedication and hard work put in by the previous president Peter Berry, who held it together over the past five years, especially during the Covid times.All are welcome and new community members are encouraged to join the project. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a newcomer, there's a place for you in this vibrant community venture. Together, the community can sow the seeds of positive change in Gerringong.

The Shoalhaven Cancer Care Centre (SCCC) achieved a momentous milestone by extending compassionate care to over 10,000 local patients as it commemorates a decade of dedicated service and held an event on 16 October to mark the significant milestone that has been reached.Margot Mains, Chief Executive of the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD), extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff and volunteers who have tirelessly served the local community saying, “We are incredibly proud to celebrate this 10-year milestone at the SCCC and look forward to the next 10 years as we continue to provide these important services to our local community.”“The SCCC is an integral part of the District’s Cancer Care Services, providing a range of specialised cancer care and treatments to people in the Shoalhaven and South Coast. This includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, blood management and infusions, plus a wide range of patient support services.” Professor Lorraine Chantrill, Co-Director of Cancer Services at ISLHD, emphasised how the Centre, since its inception in 2013, has revolutionised cancer care services in the Shoalhaven, facilitating local access to care and minimising the necessity to travel to Wollongong or Sydney.“We’ve seen the SCCC’s capacity expand over the past decade, with significant increases in the number of patients able to access treatment each month,” Professor Chantrill said. Throughout the years, the SCCC has evolved, expanding to accommodate eight chairs in the Oncology Day Centre and introducing a second Linear Accelerator. This enhancement offers patients enhanced access to radiotherapy treatments.ISLHD Nursing Co-Director Cancer Services, Nicola Ryan, said the community has been at the centre of the planning, construction and operation of the SCCC, contributing to the success of the Centre. “The accommodation lodge located adjacent to the SCCC was made possible thanks to $1 million raised by the local community through the Shoalhaven LINAC committee, and subsequent donations and fundraising efforts have continued to support the SCCC and its services,” Ms Ryan said.

The Jamberoo Branch of the Red Cross has won two significant awards at the Red Cross NSW Annual General Meeting: The Patterson Cup and the Chairman’s Shield. The Patterson Cup is presented annually to the top-performing branch in New South Wales.The Jamberoo Branch took home the cup for the second consecutive year, beating out a total of 157 branches. This achievement was attributed to their fundraising efforts, having raised $54,000 during the 2022/2023 financial year. The Jamberoo Branch, with just 74 members, serves a community with a population of slightly under 1700.In addition to their Patterson Cup win, Jamberoo emerged as co-winners of the Chairman's Shield, sharing the award with Tweed Heads. The Chairman's Shield recognises branches that excel in the Red Cross Calling campaign, and Jamberoo's contribution of $10,000 was instrumental in securing the honour.Amanda Large, speaking on behalf of the Jamberoo Branch, said, “Our Branch is deeply appreciative of the ongoing support we receive from the Jamberoo and Kiama communities, and of the continued commitment of our volunteers.”

The Kiama Swim Club (KSC) has been an inclusive family-oriented sporting organisation since 1953. The club is open to people of all ages and abilities, fostering a sense of community and a passion for swimming. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, KSC offers something for everyone.KSC organises a wide range of swimming events from short sprints to challenging long-distance swims.The Club primarily attracts swimmers aged 4 to 18 but welcomes individuals of all ages. In the spirit of continuous improvement, swimmers participate in timed heats, striving to surpass their personal bests.Experienced swimmers assist beginners with pool noodles and kickboards, fostering a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to give their best effort. During events like the Individual Medley, older swimmers mentor those less experienced, helping them remember their stroke transitions.There is a weekly Pointscore system to keep motivation high. Swimmers earn points for improving their times, adding a competitive yet friendly edge to our club. KSC also hosts special events, such as the pre-Christmas long-distance races (400m, 800m, and 1500m), as well as a fun event where swimmers predict their finishing times.KSC's technical officials hold Swimming Australia qualifications, enabling KSC to use swimmer results as official times. This recognition plays an important role in helping swimmers qualify for Area Events, State competitions, and even Nationals.The Club is fortunate to have dedicated volunteers like John Williams and Archie Walker, both with a long history of service. John, a national-level accredited technical official, represents KSC at various swimming meets, including prestigious international events like Pan-Pacs, Para Pan Pacs, and Oceania Champs. To honour their commitment, they both have perpetual awards in their names.Vice-Captain, Ruby, who has been a part of KSC for a decade, shares, "My favourite thing about the Club is making new friends and having fun." Even the youngest member, aged five, loves swimming, racing, and making friends within our close-knit community.Recently, KSC received a $4200 grant as part of the 2022-23 round of volunteer grants. Melissa, the Club Secretary, expresses gratitude for this support, saying, "We are using the volunteer grant to encourage participation by parents to become involved in the committee." She emphasises the importance of the committee and parent helpers in shaping the club's future.Kiama Swimming Club summer season commences on Friday 13 October, at 7pm and runs every Friday during school terms. Come along and see what it is all about.

Kiama and Gerringong Libraries have kicked off their school holiday programs with activities and events for kids of all ages.Gerringong Library hosted a Lego “Spot The Difference” event on Tuesday 26 September, giving kids the opportunity to flex their creative muscles with the classic building blocks. The concept of the event was for kids to build their own Lego creations, take a picture with a Polaroid camera, then make five changes to the set. They can then compare their pictures to the newly changed Lego build and challenge other players to spot the difference.The Lego sets will remain on display alongside their photos so other library visitors can participate.The young builders didn’t hesitate when it was time to start building their displays. One young Lego build brought his own masterpiece to show the rest of the class. This fun and free community event made a big impact on school holiday fun. There are even more events planned throughout the school holidays at Gerringong and Kiama libraries for kids to check out.Kiama Library opened its doors on 27 September to activities and workshops for kids and parents, including an arts and crafts program to make botanical suncatchers.Other upcoming events include green screen short films on 3 October and building your own ‘frog hotel’ on 6 October at Gerringong Library, and the Lego Mega Bugs Family Challenge Night on 3 October at Kiama Library.

When The Bugle approached owner Elizabeth Burnett about the school holiday program held at Burnetts on Barney, she was very positive about it and invited us to join the event, to witness bee waggles, taste honey, and photograph the immersion experience.Rachael with the children in the group session devouring their honey spoons - straight from the hive! The scene was set with the enthusiastic Apiarist Rachael Peedom and her daughter commandeering an area of the complex to enlighten enthusiastic parents and children about the importance of bees. Apart from tasting the bees' honey fresh from the Burnetts onsite hives, the children donned beekeeper suits and got up close and personal. On the agenda was honeybee anatomy, pollination, bee life cycles and how bees make honey.  The children learn why it is crucial to keep planting as many flowering plants as we can to ensure all our native and honeybees survive.Homeschooling parents from Wollongong, Brendon and Christie brought their children along to join in the activity that is running through the school holidays.Rachael has been running workshops at Burnetts over the past 18 months and has endless enquiries from parents. She has told her family that holidays are on the back burner for them as she caters to the public interest. Her daughters help with the workshops and her husband does the heavy lifting.She developed her interest in bees whilst she was studying as a mature age student at Wollongong University. The nutrition and science course consisted of Food Security modules that peaked her interest in that with no pollinators there is a knock-on effect. She has a passion about educating others and she says the pursuit is highly addictive.Rachael says that children are like sponges with soaking up new knowledge and are an absolute delight to be with. “They ask the best questions!” She has just recently installed a hive in Kiama Public school and the integrated lessons include children working outside with her in bee suits and with the teacher in the classroom. She hopes to get more hives in school going forward. There were a variety of ages of children that joined in the experience. With the stark quarry background one would be forgiven if some of the footage looked like the kids could be on another planet! Certainly, the dance moves and buzzing would indicate other creatures.‘Bee-inspired’ which is an initiative by Rachael, offers workshops, beekeeping and honey sales plus private coaching to help get you started in the beekeeping game. They can help you reach your goal of pollinating your veggie garden, produce honey, make beeswax candles, start a new career, or help save the planet! For more information check out the Bee-inspired website.

The Jamberoo Rural Fire Brigade held its first trivia night to raise funds for specialised equipment at Club Jamberoo on 9 September.Tickets for the night were a hot button item, with all 100 tickets selling out in 10 days to 10 tables of trivia enthusiasts.The night was hosted by the quizmaster and Deputy Captain John Temlett, who swapped out his orange firefighting gear for a retro velvet purple suit, assisted by firefighter Jen Maclean.Quizmaster and Deputy Captain John TemlettThe night included six rounds of questions interspersed with games like “First in Best Dressed,” where participants dressed up like firefighters.The charity auction was hosted by Brigade Vice President and veteran firefighter David Butcher, who sold a wide selection of items like artworks and a rare opportunity for a family portrait by well-known photographer and firefighter Linda Faiers.Brigade Vice President David ButcherShowing true dedication to firefighting, Brigade Captain Hannah McInerny left the event to respond to a grass fire and returned in full firefighting garb later that night.Captain Hannah McInerney with firefighters Jordan Casson-Jones and Marc McLaren after returning from a grass fireJamberoo Rural Fire Brigade wants to show its appreciation for the support it received from local businesses and individuals who donated items to auction and prize packages for the highest-scoring teams.Pictures supplied by Linda Faiers

A fabulous day for an observation tour with Romans Car Club. The day prior to their big meet, the club gets together for camaraderie and a country drive. Thanks to Chris and Steve I managed to go along for the ride.The group of drivers and supporters posed at the Blow hole prior to hitting the road. The car club provides a huge network of friends and adventures for the members and they make the most of the weekend together coming from areas as far away as Bathhurst to take part and catch up with friends.FORD T COUPE - 1927 and the dark FORD V8 COUPE - 1933Organisers Chris and Neil contemplate the fantastic Kiama vista as they discuss the vagaries of the observation questionnaire and route.CHEVROLET STANDARD COUPE - GREEN - 1938Arriving in Berry the cars graced Queen Street with their presence and many a photo was taken by onlookers. There is just something about that old world grandeur.A trip to Berry is unheard of without stopping at the iconic donut van! Coffee and catch ups ensued up and down the street whilst supporting the local economy with some retail therapy.FORD DELUXE SEDAN - 1938 lounging next to the FORD 1936 COUPE - BLUE - 1936A drive back through the fabulous coastal country side and arriving at the Gerroa Fishermans Club for lunch - It certainly made for a colourful car park! And what views diners are treated to there!Holden Sedan 1956Then to the big day at Black Beach - nearly 300 cars on a stunning day, taking over the headland.A sensational blaze of colour on the Kiama harbourside - forefront - a home made Ford Replica Utility - 2022Local Jeff Keest with his homemade coupe convertible 1995.The Romans Hot Rod Association has 63 years of Hot Rodding in the state. In fact they were the first club in NSW. Lyn Arrowsmith was on the ride and he was one of the founding members - a long association! Below - the top 5 cars voted by the entrants.1 of 5 top entrants as voted by visitors: Marc Alcoc from Gerringong proud owner of the peppermint green roadster pictured above1 of 5 top entrants as voted by visitors: John Dyer from Nowra with the Red '32 Roadster.1 of 5 top entrants as voted by visitors: Chris Cassar's blue roadster1 of 5 top entrants as voted by visitors: Jason Cavanagh's burgundy '36 Coupe.1 of 5 top entrants as voted by visitors: Tony Borg's Black Model A Tudor The amount of love and care put into the vehicles by their owners is life-consuming - so awards are well deserved!Looking over the vista of cars - whilst Kiama Lions club served up the obligatory sausage sandwich to 100's of visitors.CHEVROLET M56 COUPE - 1939The cars certainly graced the streets of Kiama and look great against our heritage backgrounds! My lilac ride for the day with car owner Steven (pictured above) - a huge shout out to the club!Lots more photos to come.Photo credits : Hot card photography, The Bugle, James B Media

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The Woolworths pop-up shop and BWS liquor store in Kiama Village have reopened to the public once again.The pop-up store sells essential grocery items like milk and bread while the main Woolworths store stays closed for renovations.Kiama Woolworths closed in July for what was supposed to be three weeks until 16 August while work was carried out on the site. However, the site has remained closed after a worksite accident on 27 July that put a contractor in hospital.Woolworths is yet to announce a new reopening date for the rest of the centre.

Gerringong Pic’n’Flicks will be showing the George Gittoe and Hellen Rose film “Ukraine Guernica Art Not War '' on Friday 1 September at the Gerringong Town Hall starting at 7:30pm.The film was launched in the Illawarra at the Gala Cinema Warrawong on 16 August. George Gittoe is a long-term resident of Werri Beach, and if you saw him quietly shopping at the local Gerringong IGA, you wouldn’t have any idea what a remarkable life he has led. He is described as one of Australia’s most uncompromising artists, activists, and filmmakers. In collaboration with Hellen Rose, new creative works arise from the ashes of unspeakable tragedy, including the former House of Culture in Irpin, Ukraine.For 50 years, he has worked in almost every war zone since Vietnam, including Cambodia, Nicaragua, the Philippines, Somalia, South Africa, Rwanda, Mozambique, Western Sahara, Southern Lebanon, Palestine-Israel, Tibet, East Timor, Bougainville, Northern Ireland, the Republic of the Congo, Yemen, Iraq, the North-West Frontier of Pakistan, and Afghanistan. He has become an award-winning filmmaker and public artist.He has brought a fearless and compassionate eye to all these war zones and has received many awards and honours, including the Sydney Peace Prize.Remarkably he has made several Pashtun romance dramas in northern Pakistan, where filming sometimes led them to cross the border into Afghanistan.In George’s own words, why does he do it? “The whole world is my studio. In the past it was the natural world where predators fed on gentler creatures. I go alone into a different kind of human wilderness to contemplate the basics of humanity.”George Gittoe installed the Yellow Surf Shack in 2021 at Pacific Avenue Werri Beach in a yellow fibro house built in 1947. Since 2005, it has served as a base for the surf community at Werri Beach. George had a famous Yellow House artist refuge in Jalalabad, Afghanistan (with the permission of the Taliban). The first bohemian Yellow House was in Sydney in 1971, when George was 21, with the likes of Brett Whiteley and Martin Sharp.