We are almost here folks - the end is nigh.Yes, we are talking (again) about the federal election this Saturday and the most important decision our community will make this year.As of last Saturday, exactly one week before polling day, almost 2.4 million people had cast their vote early.That’s around 400,000 more people than at the same period of the election campaign in 2022. And this also takes into account the Anzac Day and Easter holidays that reduced the length of pre-poll days in the lead-up to the big day.The pre-poll vote number will grow as the trend for early voting has increased. It seems the democracy sausage is losing out to people’s desire to avoid the queues, traffic and the tradition of running the gauntlet of volunteers shoving how-to-vote cards in your face.As we predicted, there has been almost wall-to-wall coverage of our electorate across national news publications. Here’s just a snippet:“How a sense of betrayal brought a major complication to a battleground seat” from Nick O’Malley at The Sydney Morning Herald is a profile piece on the big three contenders being Labor incumbent Fiona Phillips MP, Liberal contender Andrew Constance and Climate 200-backed Berry local Kate Dezarnaulds.In particular, the article focuses on Constance and his "backflip" on climate action following the Black Summer fires of 2020.Sinead Mangan at ABC News has highlighted Gilmore as one of the "Five seats that could change the course of the election" and profiled the plight of Kristy Alleson who has been forced to move house 13 times in three years.The housing crisis in Gilmore is very real and housing affordability and rental protections are at the top of her agenda.This follows a recent report from Cotality (formerly Corelogic) that the electorate of Gilmore is the 19th-most unaffordable electorate in Australia.“A holiday destination for some, but no one is coasting in Gilmore, Labor’s most marginal seat” writes Caitlin Cassidy and Jordyn Beazley, for The Guardian.Their piece focuses on the Black Summer fires of 2020, climate policy and the renewable energy debate.It also highlights an element that The Bugle has previously focused on – the Independent factor – with Dezarnaulds suggesting that she had about 13% of the vote, prior to her campaign’s official lunch.If she doesn’t end up as one of the last two standing, her preference flow may determine the winner.Our colleagues at The Illawarra Mercury have continued the focus on the Black Summer fires and climate policies more broadly in the “Gap widens in knife-edge seat of Gilmore, one of Australia’s most marginal”.They have highlighted polling conducted by YouGov during April 17 and 24 that showed Labor coming in at 54 per cent on a two-party preferred basis, compared to 46 per cent for the Coalition.Interestingly, in a dramatic flip from the 2022 results, Phillips attracted 36.2 per cent of the primary vote compared to 33.5 per cent for Constance.If this analysis is realised, it would represent an almost 10 per cent drop in his favourability since the 2022 election.Throughout all the coverage and content focusing on our community, there has been one constant: 373.That is the number of votes that stood between Phillips and Constance in 2022.Your vote will determine tangible outcomes related to housing, climate policy, cost of living.These issues will have a profound impact on all of us, over the next three years and beyond.The Bugle’s View is if you are not one of the 2.4 million people that has already voted in this election, please make sure you make a (formal) vote on or before this Saturday - the Gilmore electorate is one of the few places in the country where it really will matter.

Please note that this blog is paid contentOur community knows better than most the real impact of climate change.We were completely devastated by the 2019-20 bushfires along the South Coast, and we’ve been hit by flood after flood – we are experiencing climate change right now.The Liberals continue to deny this reality, but action to address it has never been more urgent.To help communities improve resilience and reduce risk, the Albanese Labor Government is delivering our $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund, and I was so proud to deliver nearly $4.5 million under the Infrastructure Betterment Fund to improveJamberoo Mountain Road, Foxground Road and Wallaby Hill Road.Labor has maintained a consistent energy policy. We are committed to reducing carbon emissions and upholding our international obligations such as the Paris Agreement – which the Liberals could withdraw from.  The Albanese Labor Government has already lifted our country’s emission reduction target from 26 per cent to 43 per cent by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050 to welcome energy investment from around the world. We’ve also legislated to bring the Climate Change Authority back to play a real and meaningful role in providing independent, science-based advice.To give people more choice to drive cleaner, cheaper to run cars, we’ve passed new Vehicle Efficiency Standards, and the National Electric Vehicle Strategy is increasing the supply and affordability of electric vehicles. The fastest way to put downward pressure on power prices is to increase supply and transition to renewables.Local people and businesses know that renewables are the cheapest and cleanest form of energy.We are a rooftop solar powerhouse, with over 33,000 installations.A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will deliver 30 per cent – or around $4,000 – off the cost of a typical home battery. This will slash up to 90 per cent off energy bills from day one.This is also good news for the grid because it means getting more cheap, fast, safe solar energy available in our homes night or day, when and where it’s neededThe Liberal Party’s $600 billion nuclear scheme will simply cost too much, take too long, and push bills up.Under Labor, we are well on our way to transforming Australia’s energy system to a reliable 82 per cent renewable grid backed by storage, gas and transmission. Only Labor’s plan will deliver cleaner, cheaper energy faster.Authorised by Fiona Phillips, Australian Labor Party, 3/59 Junction St, Nowra NSW 2541

Please note that this blog is paid contentThree years ago, I made a promise to the people of Gerringong that I would help deliver a new surf club for our community, and that’s exactly what I’ve done.I was so delighted to stand alongside Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club members of all ages, including excited nippers and proud club stalwarts, to officially open the new clubhouse in March.I’m proud to have delivered $5.5 million as part of the Albanese Labor Government for a magnificent, purpose-built club house that not only looks great, it is a super functional asset for local people.The new home will help secure the future of patrolling on Werri Beach and support the community, especially the development of our young nippers.It is a community sanctuary the club can be extremely proud of.I congratulate club president Gary George and the executive team, and builder Bluestone, who have worked tirelessly on this major project that will be enjoyed by members for decades to come.Our surf life saving volunteers play such an important role in educating our community and keeping locals and visitors safe on our beaches, and I will always support them.That is why, after delivering for Gerringong, I now want to deliver for the Kiama community as well - with $512,000 to upgrade the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club under a re-elected Albanese Labor Government. The Kiama SLSC has had a tough few years, and the community has truly rallied around the club to help raise enough money to fix its damaged roof.This shows just how important this club is for local people. Surf clubs play such a crucial role, and I was so delighted to meet with president Phil, club captain Natasha, and publicity officer Kate recently to hear about the inspirational work the club is doing.With over 400 members, including 283 nippers, 74 patrolling members and 20 cadets under the age of 14, the club is an essential part of the Kiama community. For young people in particular, the Kiama SLSC provides a sense of place, community and safety, supporting good mental health and leading to better outcomes for young people. This funding will upgrade the club's facilities and make it a fit-for-purpose space for training and social activities for its members, as well as providing a source of income to help the club become more self-sufficient.  I am proud to be part of this community, and proud to be delivering for the South Coast. Authorised by Fiona Phillips, Australian Labor Party, 3/59 Junction St, Nowra NSW 2541

Please note that this blog is paid contentAccess to affordable healthcare is absolutely vital for our community. That’s why I will always fight for improved local health services, cheaper medicines and more bulk-billing.I have been working hard to strengthen Medicare to get better outcomes for locals, and I’m thrilled that South Coast residents will get more free visits to the GP under are-elected Albanese Labor Government.Labor’s $8.5 billion investment in Medicare is the largest ever and means more local families and retirees will only need their Medicare card, not their credit card, toreceive the healthcare they need.Local doctors have told me the initiative will allow them to provide high-quality, fully bulk-billed consultations, ensuring that no one has to choose between their healthand other financial priorities.I have seen the amazing success of the Batemans Bay Medicare Urgent Care Clinic I delivered, with more than 12,500 people through the doors since the clinic opened,and I know how much we need that additional health care here in the north of the electorate too.That's why I am delighted that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will also open more urgent care clinics at Nowra and Shellharbour.The clinics will operate seven days a week, and will take pressure off our local hospital emergency departments, greatly improving access to healthcare in ourregion.I’m also proud to have delivered headspace Kiama to support our young people, a free walk-in adult Medicare Mental Health Hub in Nowra which will soon beupgraded, and $22.5 million to build Australia’s first Indigenous Birthing on Country facility on the South Coast.The amazing South Eastern Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic is helping women from Helensburgh to the Victorian border and, under a re-elected AlbaneseGovernment, will be expanded to include menopause care as part of our over $790 million women’s health package.We’re also increasing funding to train and keep more doctors, nurses and midwives in regional areas like ours, and only Labor will deliver cheaper medicines, with ascript to cost no more than $25 under the PBS from 1 January 2026.The contrast this election is clear: cheaper healthcare with a re-elected Albanese Labor Government, or Peter Dutton who wants to demolish Medicare.I will always keep working to ensure our community can get the healthcare they need close to home. Authorised by Fiona Phillips, Australian Labor Party, 3/59 Junction St, Nowra NSW 2541

As a mum of four and former teacher, I understand how important it is for a community to wrap its arms around our young people, and to support them in their time of need.Our young people were devastated after the challenges of COVID and a tough few years locally. That’s why I fought so incredibly hard for a headspace youth mental health service in Kiama.I spoke with kids, local schools and amazing community groups about what was needed and set about lobbying for a headspace service on their behalf. It wasn’t easy, with centres at Shellharbour and Nowra, but I wasn’t going to give up the fight until we won. And we did.I was so thrilled when headspace Kiama officially opened its doors in October 2024, and after only six months, it’s already having a massive impact on the lives of our young people in Kiama, Gerringong and surrounding areas.Cutting that green ribbon alongside the young people of Kiama who helped shape this essential service was a fabulous celebration, and it also recognised the resilience of a community that has had to bear way too much loss.Headspace Kiama manager Charo Serventy and his fantastic team have embraced our youth aged 12-24 and they’re providing mental health support as well as sexual health and drug and alcohol services, and helping young people reach their work and study goals.Opening headspace Kiama is one of my proudest achievements as your local Federal Member.As a true local, I will always fight for improved health and mental health service right across the South Coast.Only a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will strengthen Medicare, with more free trips to the doctor, cheaper medicines and more Urgent Care Clinics – where all you need is your Medicare card, not your credit card.This election is a choice between Labor's plan to keep building and strengthening Medicare, or Peter Dutton's promise to cut everything but your taxesI'm so proud to have delivered a local headspace in Kiama, and with your support, I will continue working hard for our community.Authorised by Fiona Phillips, Australian Labor Party, 3/59 Junction Street Nowra NSW 2541

With only three more weeks until the Federal election on May 3, both major parties have come out with signature policies which they think will directly address one of the biggest election issues that is facing the nation – housing. Labor’s policy centres around a $10 billion build to 100,000 homes specifically for first-home buyers. Simultaneously they will allow first home buyers access to 5 per cent deposits (purchasing a home normally requires a 10–20 per cent deposit) through a loan guarantee from the Federal Government.  The Liberal-National Coalition has announced it will allocate $5b to fund essential infrastructure like water, power and sewerage to unlock up to 500,000 new homes. In addition, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced that interest payments on mortgages taken out by first-home buyers on newly built homes would be tax deductible for five years.  There is a clear focus on first home buyers and ensuring "the Australian Dream" still exists for the younger generation, some of whom will be voting for the first time at this year’s election. Both parties have also committed to a two-year ban on foreign investors purchasing existing homes. While on paper, the policies are well meaning and well intended, they have been lambasted by economic and housing experts. Chris Richardson, a former Australian Treasury official and economic commentator labelled both parties’ platforms "a dumpster fire of dumb stuff", and Saul Eslake who has worked for ANZ and the Bank of America Merrill Lynch called the Coalition’s tax deduction on mortgage payments the "candidate for dumbest policy decision of the 21st century".  Ouch.  Ultimately, it comes down the laws of supply and demand. Tax offsets, subsidies and making it "easier" to purchase a home will inherently drive up demand. If this demand is chasing the same number of homes, prices will go up.  The national discourse on housing has collided with Kiama Municipal Council's draft Housing Strategy v2 that our community is currently reviewing in the context of our own housing predicament. As the most expensive place to buy a home in regional NSW and in the running (again!) for the Top Tourism Town in Australia award – this is an issue we must grapple with. Kiama Council has shown incredible foresight by reaching out to the community and running the Housing Strategy Forum at The Sebel, which laid bare the state of our situation and the needs for action.  We think community housing expert Natallie Allan put it best when she referenced historical news articles from the Kiama Independent. The articles covered "controversial" decisions that were decried at the time, but ultimately "all the things that we now look at and say this is the character of Kiama, were the things what we were arguing against when they came in". Another panellist, real estate expert Simon Kersten, noted it is almost impossible for a young person in Kiama to achieve buying their own home and Ms Allan noted that there were probably three people under the age of 30 in attendance at the Forum.  The Bugle’s View is that we need to change our ways, our thinking and our views. Our views can be our views, but we need to also understand that adopting self-righteous approach from some sections of our community might compromise the future and next generation of that very same community.

It’s that glorious shoulder season in Kiama - when summer's heat is a fading memory, autumn’s golden light starts creeping in, and suddenly Easter is right around the corner.You can feel the shift: the kids are counting down the last school days, the shops are lined with chocolate eggs in impossible-to-ignore positions, and parents are starting to quietly wonder how to keep the kids occupied for two whole weeks. Luckily Gerringong Bowlo have a fabulous new playground - just in time for the holidays!This year Kiama is delivering a school holiday line-up worthy of a chocolate-fuelled standing ovation.First up, Kiama Golf Club is bringing the fun with a jam-packed Easter-themed Saturday on 13 April. Kids Easter Craft runs from 3.30pm to 5pm, followed by a groovy Kids Disco from 6pm to 8pm. It’s just $5 per child per activity - grab your tickets at Club Reception before they hop away. And don’t forget, kids eat free every Sunday night with any main meal purchase. (Now that’s what we call a sweet deal.)Over at Kiama Leagues Club, the school holiday fun continues with an exciting calendar of kids’ events with a kids Disco on Thursday 17 April at 5pm – free entry! There's also free Kids Bingo on Tuesday 22 April at 11am – no bookings required, and a kids Magic Show on Thursday 24 April from 2:30 – just $10 per child (free for adults and under 2s). A great way to beat the holiday boredom without breaking the bank.Feeling creative? Palette Knife Fun is the perfect pick for teens and adults wanting to splash out. Guided step-by-step, you'll create a masterpiece of your choice using palette knife techniques. It's on during the holidays, strictly for ages 13 and up, and no experience is needed – just bring your imagination, snacks, and maybe an old shirt thanks to Expressive Art at their EAE Studio Kiama Downs Wednesday 16th April 1pm.Then on Easter Sunday (20 April), Yves is hosting a vibrant family lunch overlooking Kiama Harbour from 1pm to 3pm. There’ll be free kids' activities, including face painting, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and a classic Easter Egg Hunt. Meanwhile, grown-ups can enjoy great food, Easter-themed cocktails, and the smooth sounds of James Vann in the courtyard.And if you're after a truly egg-cellent afternoon of free fun, don’t miss the Easter Fun Day at Kiama Anglican Church, Saturday 19 April from 1 - 4pm. It’s become a Kiama tradition – and for good reason. Think Zorb Balls, Jumping Castles, face painting, crafts, games, and a giant egg hunt, all wrapped in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.Of course, for many, Easter is also a time of quiet reflection and community connection. Several local churches will be holding Good Friday and Easter Sunday services, open to all who wish to mark the occasion with meaning. Whether you attend out of tradition, faith, or curiosity, it’s a lovely way to pause and take in the spirit of the season.So whether you’re crafting, dancing, painting, praying, picnicking, or just trying to keep your sugar intake under control, there’s something for everyone this Easter in our LGA. Check out somewhere you haven’t been before - whether it’s Boneyard or 7 mile beach or further. We have a plethora of options North, South and West.Enjoy the holidays, take a breath, and may your hot cross buns always be fresh and your chocolate eggs safely hidden from sneaky snackers.

As we foreshadowed in our last edition of The Bugle View, the election has been called for 3 May 2025, alas, we were one week off in our prediction! However, we were right about one thing – the announcements and commitments from both sides of politics are coming thick and fast.As reported by The Bugle, Fiona Phillips MP recently spruiked the benefits for the division of Gilmore as a result of increased funding for the Strengthening Telecommunications Against Natural Disasters (STAND) program. Part of the $14 million boost will go to 18 sites in Gilmore from Ulladulla to Kangaroo Valley.Not to be outdone, Liberal candidate Andrew Constance announced an allocation of $840,000 to complete the Gerry Emery Oval clubhouse project at Gerringong. Mr Constance threw down the gauntlet to the incumbent Labor MP, challenging the Government to match the funding commitment. We are yet to hear a response.Here here, we say. The more the merrier. Show us the money!Our community is in a rare and unique position. As the most marginal key seat in this election, talking heads across the country will be commentating about Ms Phillips, Mr Constance and the division of Gilmore a lot over the coming weeks. Some pundits say that the result in Gilmore could be key to delivering a majority government.Last time around at the 2022 election, just 373 votes separate the two and the narrow victory to Ms Phillips handed Anthony Albanese a narrow majority. This time around, it could be a different story.While Ms Phillips won the seat, she received fewer first-preference votes than Mr Constance by around 6700 votes.Through the compulsory preferential voting system, the rest of 24,589 first-preference votes were filtered through all the other candidates until only Mr Constance and Ms Phillips remained, and ultimately this is where Ms Phillips won the day.Through preferences, the Labor incumbent was able to make up the 6700 vote deficit and come through with 372 votes to spare.So, whilst it looks to be a two-horse race in Gilmore, it may be those that initially vote for Kate Dezarnaulds (Independent), Debbie Killian (Greens) or Graham Brown (Family First), and how they preference other candidates, that will decide the result.Back in 2022, more than 5000 people or almost 5% of the voting population submitted informal votes. In an election where just 373 votes determined the result, this is a massive number. Whilst some of us no doubt submitted protest votes, others may have genuinely been trying to engage in their democratic right/duty but made a slight mistake. People, it might be a cliché in some parts of the country – but in Gilmore, your vote matters!Over the next four weeks, our votes will shape the country for the next three years. Sure, we want the major parties to show us the money and give us our fair share of funding, But if history is any judge – one in five of us will not put Labor or Liberal as our first preference and it is this 20% of the population that may hold the key to the election result for Gilmore.The Bugle View is that we all have a duty to vote, and vote correctly, because in Gilmore – our vote really matters.

Life is full of milestones, big and small, that deserve to be noted. Whether it’s a birthday, memorial, anniversary, new arrival, engagement, wedding or graduation, The Bugle’s digital app is the perfect place to share your news with the community.Best of all? It’s completely free to list your family notices!In a world where we are more connected than ever, taking a moment to acknowledge and celebrate life’s important events brings us closer together. A simple notice can inform, and keep our community in touch with milestones - whether celebrating or commiserating. Listing your family notice is easy! Simply submit your details through The Bugle’s digital app, and we’ll take care of the rest. On the app go to the community button and click on Family Notices and list your details from there. Let’s keep Kiama connected - one special moment at a time.

As we embark on a season filled with elections, school holidays, Anzac Day, and Mother’s Day, The Bugle is delighted to welcome a new addition to our editorial team: our new editor, Paul Suttor.Paul brings a wealth of experience from a journalism career spanning nearly three decades across major publications, including The Illawarra Mercury, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Daily Telegraph, The Sun-Herald, and NRL.com, where he has worked as a reporter, sub-editor and editor. His passion for sports runs deep - he has been a player for many years in the South Coast District Cricket Association and dedicates his time to coaching in the Football South Coast junior soccer competition. His expertise will further enrich our coverage of news, political, community and sporting life.Amid these exciting changes, we’re also enhancing our digital presence. While our print edition remains a staple, we now offer a regular “print digital” edition every Saturday, bringing you more frequent updates on the stories that matter. Subscribe to receive it directly in your inbox or log on to our app for exclusive content.As always, The Bugle thrives on community involvement. We encourage you to share your local news, sports stories, and achievements so we can continue celebrating our region. A huge thanks to our hardworking team - Lleyton, Lynne, Veronica, Brian, Steven and Shelby - who ensure the news reaches you weekly and with daily updates via our app. A special shout-out to our contributors also who share their expertise with our team and readers.  If you have any news tips for us, send them to [email protected]’re also excited to introduce a new section where you can upload family notices for free. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a wedding, an engagement, a birth, or a memorial, we invite you to share these moments with the community. Jump on the app to find it under the community label and list your details.  The app gives so much more for the community to explore - with features on business, faces of the coast, local artists and so much more. There is even a puzzle section for those “waiting times” in life.  A strong regional newspaper is a privilege, and we’re fortunate to have one that captures the heartbeat of our town. Become an advertiser to help keep the stories alive.  Stay connected, stay informed, and be part of The Bugle community.Belle

It’s been six short months since our community went to the polls and elected our new Kiama Council. Some were shocked at the results with Mayor Cameron McDonald’s “Community Minded, Business Focused” team taking one third of the seats, with another third also made up of newcomers. With the Federal election around the corner, the next two months will be chock full of campaigning, announcements, broad brush commitments and sweeping statements – we love it! The big question is, and always has been – what’s in it for us? What will our community get? And which candidates and political parties are best placed to actually deliver it? On an ultra-thin margin of 0.2%, the seat of Gilmore, which encompasses Kiama, Nowra-Bomaderry, Berry, Milton-Ulladulla, Jervis Bay and Batemans Bay and surrounds, is one of the key seats in the upcoming election. The result in Gilmore could indeed tip the result of the election one way or another. In Gilmore, it looks to be a three-horse race between the incumbent, Fiona Phillips (Labor), the failed challenger of the 2022 election Andrew Constance (Liberal) and Berry local, Kate Dezarnaulds as the independent, sponsored by Climate 200. With the benefit of a Federal Budget that will take place next week, Ms Phillips will have the opportunity to make commitments related to much-needed public infrastructure and cost of living measures. We have already seen proclamations regarding the Nowra Riverfront Revitalisation and upgrades to the Marine Rescue facility at Crookhaven Heads.  Mr Constance, historically a member of the “moderate” faction of the Liberal Party, has taken a more hardline stance on issues such as climate change, in line with the position of Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton. The Liberal Party will be latching onto historically high interest rates and inflation, and the subsequent impact on cost-of-living pressures as a core tenet of their election campaign. Finally, Ms Dezarnaulds is marketing herself as the truly independent voice for Gilmore. She sets her priorities as affordable housing and healthcare, powering the future, community resilience and honest leadership. She will be hoping history repeats itself and the Gilmore electorate supports her in the same way the Kiama community supported the independent ticket at the 2024 local council elections. The election must take place on or before 17 May 2025, and there will be a period of at least 33 days between announcing the date and polling day itself. For what it’s worth, here at The Bugle we have 10 May as our pick. Over the next 5-7 weeks these candidates will be out and about, making proclamations as to why they should represent Gilmore and our community for the next three years.  Over the next decade, our community will undergo very significant change. Whether it be to Council services or expansion of the existing town (both up and out) all of this means we are going to require more infrastructure, funding and support (from all levels of Government). The Bugle’s View is that every one of us has the responsibility to ask hard-hitting questions, seek genuine commitments and ensure we elect the candidate that will get the most for us now, and into the future.

 In our last edition of The Bugle’s View, we commended Kiama Council for demonstrating resolve in endorsing Version 2 of the draft Housing Strategy for public exhibition and comment. While it was not an easy decision, we noted that their slow and steady approach was essential in bringing the community along on this journey.After all, previous Councils had actively and effectively avoided conversations around growth - an inaction that has undoubtedly contributed to Kiama’s current situation: the most expensive housing market in regional NSW and some of the worst affordability measures in the state. This is no longer tenable, as young people and families continue to be priced out of the area.Our community has been conditioned to accept and expect that nothing will ever change, over a long period of time and this is why a slow and steady approach is what is needed. It has therefore come as a shock that over the last week, the “Low and Mid Rise Housing Policy” has been enacted across Kiama Town Centre. The details are relatively scant, but The Bugle understands that this will allow 22m high buildings across parts of our town – equivalent to 6 storeys. To put this into perspective, under the Kiama Local Environmental Plan, the controversial Akuna Street car park development is allowed to be 21m at its highest point.  According to the Southern Regional Planning Panel website, the Panel met on 13 November 2024 to discuss the Akuna Street development application. The minutes of the meeting state that the application still has unresolved issues related to:-     Height, bulk and scale of the built form; -     Pedestrian access, amenity and safety; -     Functionality of communal open space; -     Streetscape, including the lack of resolution to the Akuna Street frontage; and -     Impacts on the local heritage item. As a result, the developer of the Akuna Street car park has applied to the Land and Environment Court under a “deemed refusal Class 1 Appeal” for their development application. Effectively, Council staff were not in a position to recommend approval and the Planning Panel said the developer should “consider withdrawing the application to enable a significant redesign to fully respond to the concerns raised”. It is hard to see how new applications under the “Low and Mid Rise” policy could be supported, when they could be even higher than Akuna Street.  This policy has the potential to completely change the face and character of Kiama Town Centre with the potential for multiple Akuna Street style developments dotted throughout our main streets.  Whilst we are all for initiatives that will address housing affordability, The Bugle’s View is that allowing for building heights never seen before in town is quite possibly a step too far. 

For the first time in over six decades, the iconic Mount Vernon in New South Wales’ Kiama is on the market. A stunning piece of history perched high above Kiama's township, this heritage-listed bluestone villa-style residence has stood as a beacon of Victorian grandeur for nearly 150 years. Purchased by Joan and John Fraser in 1961, Mount Vernon has been meticulously restored to its former elegance, retaining its period charm while seamlessly integrating tasteful additions. Over the years, the Fraser family preserved the home’s architectural integrity and cultivated its grounds, with daughter Christine Fraser now placing the residence on the market following the passing of her parents.“Growing up in this home was an absolute joy - it was my childhood home, filled with love and laughter,” Christine said. “Some of my fondest memories are of family Christmases, birthdays, and special gatherings shared within these walls. It’s been incredible to see the next generations, from grandchildren to great-grandchildren, continue to enjoy the home and create their own memories here. “This home has always been a cherished family legacy, and I hope it brings as much happiness to its next owners as it has to us.”Christine’s mother Joan was born in Kiama and attended school at what is now the Anglican Church Hall. Her father John was also a Kiama local, having been born in the town before growing up on the family dairy farm, Killalea. The couple began their married life at Killalea before moving to Mount Vernon in 1961. When they first purchased Mount Vernon, the property was covered in lantana bushes, with no trees in sight. Joan devoted herself to restoring Mount Vernon and creating a beautiful garden that complemented the heritage property. Meanwhile, John built all the stone walls throughout the garden. “It really was a labour of love for them both. Over time, they painstakingly cleared the land and transformed it into the lush and picturesque garden that remains today,” their daughter Christine said. “When the National Trust visited in the 1970s, they commended my mother on her garden, noting how the carefully selected trees and shrubs reflected the era of the house.”The Frasers spent the rest of their lives at Mount Vernon, apart from the final three years of John’s life, when he required full-time care. They were also the original founding members of the Alpine Club of Kiama, contributing to the region’s vibrant community spirit.Constructed in 1874, Mount Vernon was commissioned by Kiama police magistrate Henry Connell. The villa-style property, built from locally quarried basalt, is one of only two of its kind in Kiama. The estate originally boasted uninterrupted views of Kiama Harbour, where Mr Connell oversaw the busy shipping activity. Today, the elevated position offers sweeping vistas of the ocean and township, reaffirming Mount Vernon’s status as one of Kiama’s most distinguished homes.The property’s Victorian Italianate design is defined by its expansive wrap-around verandahs adorned with intricate cast-iron columns and handcrafted timber railings. Inside, locally milled cedar joinery, two Italian Carrara marble fireplaces, and soaring ceilings further amplify the home’s period elegance. The grand central hallway, 450mm thick basalt walls, and ornate cornices complete the home’s timeless charm.The property’s gardens offer a rare glimpse into a bygone era. Jacarandas, Mexican cypress pines, camellias, and other mature trees planted by the Frasers contribute to an atmosphere of serenity and elegance.Set on a 3,074sqm estate, the property offers not only a living space that has been thoughtfully preserved but also the potential for future development. With the possibility to subdivide the front parcel of land (STCA), Mount Vernon presents an exceptional investment opportunity.Marketing agent Michele Lay said the heritage-listed masterpiece will likely attract historic aficionados who appreciate Kiama's rich history and architectural charm. “I believe it will appeal to those looking for a rare opportunity to restore a significant piece of Kiama’s past, whether they are eager for a full restoration or blending modern living with classic charm,” she said. “With its timeless appeal Mount Vernon is seeking those visionary buyers who are excited by the potential to create something extraordinary in one of Kiama’s most iconic and cherished landmarks.”The storied Kiama home has been listed through Ray White Kiama’s Michele and Matthew Lay with a price guide of $4.4 million to $4.9 million. 

After one of the more eventful Kiama Council meetings since the September 2024 elections, one thing is clear: this Council means business. Whereas previous Councillors would have found a way to stymie debate, delay, defer and not compromise, in one of its first big tests of mettle, our representatives decided in favour of progress.  Of course, we are talking about the much talked about, independently reviewed, double expression for those interested, now revised, version 2 of Council’s Draft Growth and Housing Strategy.  Following more debate, alternate motions and discussion about urban expansion, Council decided to place version 2 of the strategy on public exhibition for an extended period of 60 days. The main contention was the implication of including the controversial Springside Hill/Kiama West and Riversdale Drive land into the strategy and how this might influence future planning decisions. Some Councillors declared that they had received emails and representations from constituents concerned with the contents of the draft strategy and Councillors Warren and Lawton were particularly concerned about endorsing the staff recommendation.  Indeed, it was a marked shift from Council staff, led in the main by Director of Planning, Environment and Communities, Ed Patterson. Mr Patterson clarified with the Councillors that the strategy is a 20 year plan and that growth for the area will occur. His message was - the days of simply turning a blind eye to growth and naively relying on projects like Bombo Quarry as the answer, were over.   Rather, he said it was better for Council and the community to have ‘levers to play with’ in terms of shaping growth. This sentiment was echoed by Councillor Cains who said it was better to ‘have a seat at the table’ rather than losing control. Councillor Cains was also sceptical of a proposed motion to defer a decision on the draft strategy, stating that he did not want a decision to defer to be a trojan horse for Council to continue to ‘squib’ on making a decision – possibly a reference to the lack of leadership from previous Councillors.   Council will now prepare the public exhibition of version 2 of the draft strategy, a document that has been foreshadowed since 2021.  The concept of growth is something that has been outrightly rejected by some parts of the community for a long time, and these views should be acknowledged. However, Council is also aware that growth will occur and there is far greater utility in having a seat at the table, being part of the conversation and being able to pull levers at the appropriate time. The Bugle’s View is that this slow and steady approach is the right way to go about this, and we look forward to seeing the Views of all parts of the community over the next 60 days.

Applications are now open for the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, supporting emergingcreatives passionate about sharing their unique stories.The scholarship, dedicated to fostering creativity, is an initiative from Façon Australia and Greater Bank, with $10,000 in funding for one exceptional recipient to pursue their creative aspirations.For the first time, the Greater Bank will also award $1000 to eight finalists. Creative categories include writing, fashion design, accessory design, painting, music, dance, digital art, film, and photography and all finalists will be mentored by industry leaders.The Scholarship is open to Indigenous applicants aged 18 and over, living in NSW. Applications close on May 1, with the successful recipient announced at a special NAIDOC Week event on July 10. Visit Façon Magazine www.faconaustralia.com/apply/ or Greater Bank www.greater.com.au/ 

Nan Tien Temple in Berkeley is set to host a special International Women’s Day charity fundraiser on Saturday, March 8, offering a unique blend of mindfulness, community spirit, and creative storytelling.Now in its third year, the event attracts around 180 attendees and raises approximately $4,000 for Women Illawarra, an organization dedicated to supporting women in the region.One of the highlights of the event is the largest regional meditation session, held inside the magnificent main shrine of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Buddhist temple. Attendees will also take part in a Buddhist blessing ceremony, a rare and cherished experience for many.Adding to the day’s significance, the event will feature a special screening of Frances, an award-winning film by South Coast filmmaker Sharon Lewis. The film has received Best Film and Best Actress accolades both in Australia and internationally. This will be the first public screening beyond its initial premiere for Screen Illawarra members."Many people don’t realize that Nan Tien Temple has a 300-seat auditorium, making it an ideal venue for showcasing powerful films like Frances," says Gabrielle Quigley, Community Engagement Coordinator at Nan Tien Temple.The event not only raises funds for Women Illawarra but also shines a spotlight on South Coast creatives, reinforcing the temple’s commitment to community engagement and cultural enrichment.Attendees from Kiama, Jamberoo, and Gerringong have participated in previous years, and organizers hope to see even more South Coast locals join this meaningful celebration of women’s resilience and creativity.All proceeds go directly to Women Illawarra, ensuring vital support services continue for women in need.

We’re already a month into the year, and with school officially back, The Bugle has hit the ground running - covering the Lunar New Year, the Kiama Show, and local sporting feats. But would it really feel like the start of the year without another report on skyrocketing house prices?Last week, The Domain House Price Report revealed a surprising statistic: Kiama’s median house price has now surpassed those of Byron Bay and Noosa. At $1.51 million, Kiama has edged ahead of Byron ($1.5m) and Noosa ($1.33m), making it the most expensive place to buy a home in regional NSW.This might come as a shock, given that Byron and Noosa are renowned for attracting Hollywood A-listers - think Zac Efron, Chris Hemsworth, and Matt Damon - who have famously snapped up properties in those areas.So, does this mean Kiama is the next celebrity hotspot? According to local Ray White Kiama real estate agent Michele Lay, it’s already happening. A-listers Hamish and Zoe Blake bought in Jamberoo during COVID in 2022, and other high-profile buyers - whose identities remain under wraps - are reportedly showing interest.One can’t help but wonder what an equivalent "Hemsworth effect" - the property boom that followed Chris Hemsworth’s move to Byron - might do to Kiama’s housing market, especially given where prices already stand. Could the only way be up?We have to ask ourselves what do we want for Kiama? We’re incredibly lucky to live in Australia’s best small town and NSW’s Top Tourism Town, but this raises an important question: Is this the future we want?Of course, we can’t stop people from moving to Kiama, nor would we want to. But we can ensure that young families and essential workers can still afford to live here. The Bugle has previously highlighted concerns about the rise of short-term rentals and their impact on housing availability. While these rentals support tourism and local businesses, they also contribute to rising prices and reduced housing stock for locals.That’s why it was refreshing to hear Mayor Cameron McDonald state outright:“We’d like to think we’re an area that’s affordable for, and welcoming to, everyone.” It’s a noble aspiration - and one that every Australian town should strive for. But achieving it will require real action. Council has already warned that difficult decisions lie ahead and that the community needs to rethink its expectations around growth and housing.So, when it comes to A-listers or affordability, perhaps we should take a page from that old El Paso ad and ask:Why not both?

The Leukaemia Foundation has called on the community to join its campaign to help fight blood cancer, with deaths from the disease likely to double over the next decade.“The incidence and mortality of blood cancer is on track to almost double by 2035,” says Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti says. Blood cancer will become one of Australia’s most significant public health issues and the most prevalent and deadly form of cancer in the country if research funding continues to fall below that of other cancers, according to the Leukaemia Foundation.“Blood cancer has increased by 79 per cent in the past 20 years, but in that time only 12 per cent of blood cancer research funding has gone towards prevention and early detection of the disease,” Mr Tanti says.“Unlike most other prevalent cancers like lung, breast, prostate, skin, and bowel, you cannot screen for blood cancer, nor can you prevent it or make lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of being diagnosed - it's Australia's silent and hidden cancer crisis.” He says while blood cancer research has helped improve treatment and care options, the issue of prevention and early detection remains unsolved, with only 12 per cent of research investment funding prevention, early detection and diagnosis.  “Compared to other leading cancers in Australia, the investment in blood cancer research focused on prevention and early detection is vastly different and contributes to why the incidence of blood cancer is significantly increasing and outpacing that of all other cancers,” Mr Tanti says.In Australia the percentage of research investment funding prevention, early detection and diagnosis of cervical cancer is 90 per cent, melanoma is 55 per cent, lung cancer is 37 per cent, prostate cancer is 32 per cent, bowel cancer 27 per cent and breast cancer 22 per cent.The Leukaemia Foundation is calling for more investment into blood cancer research that focuses on prevention and early detection, and an increase in support services for patients and their loved ones.  To help close the gap, the Leukaemia Foundation is calling on the community to sign up to shave, cut, or colour their hair and fundraise during World’s Greatest Shave. This year the Leukaemia Foundation is aiming to raise $12 million dollars through the World's Greatest Shave.  Register to participate worldsgreatestshave.com or call 1800 500 088.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is calling on the New South Wales government to protect families by making the life-saving Meningococcal B vaccine free for at-risk groups.  Meningococcal B is a rare but devastating disease, which can progress quickly and lead to death or disability.To ensure more people in NSW are protected from the potentially deadly infection, the RACGP recommends free Meningococcal B vaccines for every child aged two and under and every teen aged 15 to 19-years-old.  Stacey Chater and her family were left devastated in 2022 when Meningococcal B suddenly and rapidly claimed the life of her 23-year-old son Brayden. “My son Brayden was the perfect example of the typical young Aussie bloke, he loved his family and his mates, he kept fit, and he was full of life,” Stacey says“He had a fever and a sniffle one night and 24 hours later we were at the hospital being told he was gone. I can’t explain the shock and disbelief.” “Meningococcal B is so quick and aggressive and so hard to know that you have it. Our family has been struggling for two years, and my doctor has diagnosed me with PTSD.”Stacey explains that she didn’t know there was a strain of meningococcal that her children weren’t vaccinated against, she assumed they were covered by the vaccines they received at school. “Financial burden is preventing Australians from being able to get the Meningococcal B vaccine,” says Stacey. “This is a devastating, traumatic disease that can be prevented. No other family should have to go through the journey we have been on, access to free vaccines would be life changing for families in NSW.”  RACGP NSW & ACT Chair, Dr Rebekah Hoffman, explains that deaths and disability related to Meningococcal B can be dramatically reduced. “Effective vaccines are available, now it is up to the government to ensure free access to all at-risk Australians,” says Dr Hoffman. “Meningococcal B is rare, but deadly. Statistics show it kills five to 10 percent of patients and leaves 10 to 20 percent of survivors with brain damage, hearing loss or a learning disability.”Dr Hoffman states that the virus is most devastating for vulnerable kids and young people, and cost shouldn’t prevent parents from protecting their children. “Prevention is the best solution, and effective vaccines are one of the most important tools we have for keeping our people safe from deadly infections such as these,” Dr Hoffman says. "In South Australia, the Meningococcal B vaccination program cut rates amongst children by 60 percent, and by 73 percent amongst adolescents.”“Queensland and the Northern Territory have also rolled out successful programs and it’s time for NSW to match these commitments."