Did you spot an army of 6-year-olds dressed like cliched pensioners roaming around Kiama? On 30 July, local schools - and schools across the country - celebrated an important milestone for Kindergarten students: 100 days of Kindy (or 100 Days of Prep, depending on where you’re based).Kiama Public School studentsIt’s hard to pinpoint where this tradition came from, but in schools in Australia (and the UK and America), it’s celebrated in an unconventional way. Kindergarten students dress up as 100-year-olds and take part in a range of 100-themed activities. (Did we mention, the teachers dress up too?)This isn’t just about dressing up like Grannies from Bluey (parents will get that reference!). It’s a way to reinforce an important milestone in Mathematics. It just so happens that 100 days of Kindergarten falls around the time, 6-year-olds start to explore triple-figures in their Maths curriculum. Kiama Public School students As part of the day, students explore 100-themed literacy, numeracy and craft ideas, including threading 100 Cheerios on a necklace and then eating it.There is some push-back to the tradition on the internet. The fancy dress theme has been criticised for being ageist and ableist. One mum, writing on the website Disabledparenting.com, bristled when her little boy asked if he could “take one of my wheelchairs to school” to pretend to be elderly.But, you could also argue, it’s a chance to have open conversations with your children around ageist stereotypes. “Let’s talk about the older people we know? What about Grandpa who loves to go surfing? Instead of a walking stick, how about taking a fishing rod or a golf club?”Minnamurra Public School StudentsControversy aside, 100 Days of Kindy is all about celebration. This is an important milestone for Kindergarteners, who have traversed the anxiety of starting school and learnt so much in such a short time.As part of the celebrations at Kiama Public School, Kindergarten students reflected on their school highlights so far."My favourite thing in Kindergarten is going to the library and reading books," said Tiana. Meanwhile, Charlotte shared, "I loved performing our class play at assembly" and Charli said, “My favourite day in Kindergarten was Pyjama Day.”As Minnamurra Public School said in an email to parents, “We are so proud of our Kindergarten students and all they have achieved so far this year.”Congrats to all Kindy students (and their care-givers) on 100 amazing days so far!

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

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

In light of Homelessness Week from August 5 - 11, The Salvation Army has released an alarming statistic that shows 45,850 children and young people will experience homelessness in Australia on any given night. The growing issue of homelessness impacts some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. Young people are particularly vulnerable to several issues such as housing breakdown, violence in the home, poverty and leaving school early.As the largest providers of homelessness services in Australia, Salvos works to support those who experience homelessness and advocates for fair and equitable access to housing, from immediate crisis accommodation to long-term solutions. The Salvation Army’s youth services runs 10 crisis refuges across the country to help support more than 4500 young people each year. The General Manager for Youth Services at The Salvation Army says, “Children and young people should have the freedom and opportunity to grow up in safe environments” Recently, more than 300 schools across Australia formed the number 45,850 on their school ovals to help raise awareness for the issue. The study also revealed a 5 percent increase in people who were assisted with homelessness between January and April 2024, with a significant rise in youth- related issues. Find out how you can help here or call 13 SALVOS

The Minns Government has announced new reforms to combat rising housing stress in New South Wales and make renting fairer for tenants across the state, introducing new laws to end “no-ground evictions”.Around a third of the population in NSW are renting, and as it stands there are no laws in place to protect renters from being evicted without reason. Under the new laws, reasonable grounds for eviction include where the renter is at fault (breach of lease, property damage or non-payment of rent), the property is to be sold, significant renovations are to be made, change of use, the landlord intends to move into the home or the tenant is no longer a part of the affordable housing program.The proposed legislation aims to combat housing insecurity and stress that 59.2 percent of low to moderate income households experience, according to the 2021 Census. The Real Estate Institute of NSW (REINSW) has criticised the reform. Tim McKibbin, CEO of REINSW has grave concerns on real estate becoming a “less attractive” investment for investors. “The cruel irony for tenants is that every time you make residential property a less attractive investment, the more you drive investors away, and the less homes there are to rent”, McKibbin points out.On the other side of the fence, The Tenants Union of NSW has applauded the government’s decision, calling the reform a “win for renters’ rights in NSW”. Kiama’s population continues to rise, with the overall population set to increase to 26,000 by 2026, new housing will be required to accommodate the growing community, and according to Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Minister for Youth Rose Jackson, rental reforms will be “crucial to rebuilding our housing system.”According to data from REA Group, 283 renters were interested in properties in the Kiama region in the past month, with a serious imbalance of 12 houses available for rent. Premier Chris Minns highlighted this ‘anxious’ and ‘challenging’ process of securing a rental property in the state, noting the “lines on Saturday morning with hundreds of people waiting to inspect new properties.”No-grounds eviction legislation will be introduced to parliament next month.Have you experienced housing stress in Kiama or have a renting story to share? Email us [email protected] to tell your story.

The upgrades to two netball courts and the car park at Albion Park Rail are near completion, according to a media release from the Shellharbour City Council.As part of the McDonald Park Master Plan, the turf netball courts will be replaced with two hard surface courts, lighting will be added to enable extended use of the courts as well as connection footpaths for improved accessibility.The upgrades to the main car park, located on Tongarra Road, include a proper entry and exit, a new bitumen surface, lighting, connection footpaths, drainage and landscaping works.Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer said that the new additions to McDonald Park cater to the increasing demand for sport in the area.“Albion Park Netball Club has more than tripled its membership over the past six years, going from five to 16 teams,” Mayor Homer said.The upgrades are paid for by the Shellharbour City Council ($600,000) and a contribution from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program ($740,000).

We have seen three censure motions against councillors – one for abuse by Councillor Mark Croxford – with Karen Renkema-Lang defeating her politically motivated censure. Neither The Bugle nor the public knows the name or charge against the third councillor.Councillors Karen Renkema-Lang, Kathy Rice and Jodi Keast, were referred by council to the Independent Commission Against Corruption. They have denied any wrongdoing. The three women fought against the Council’s groupthink and for that, they were punished. Turn clocks back 100 years.As CEO Jane Stroud said, “I hold specific concerns and worry about the worsening functionality of the Council, when in uncertain times and unchartered territory, what is really required is cohesive and collective effort to correct the course of the organisation.”Bravo. It was a shame she sided with the blokes (except Matt Brown who abstained), and in a classic case of shooting the messenger at the 16 July council meeting, the Council referred The Bugle to the Australian Press Council.The Bugle is guilty of reporting the Bonaira fiasco, draft after draft of Council’s corrected accounts, the pros and cons of ocean wind farms, reporting the dodgy Loves Bay development, council’s lack of parking policy and much more.Let us compare the recent tactics of Clr Mark Andrew Croxford with those of Senator Joseph McCarthy, a little-known junior senator from Wisconsin until 1950.McCarthy claimed the US Department of State was riddled with communists as the Cold War raged. Using the same tactics, Croxford has conducted his own witch hunt for the name of the owner of The Bugle.He created a context of mounting fear and paranoia in the council executive demanding – as if this was in the public interest – to know if property developers had inveigled their way into The Bugle.In fact, Council already knew the owner had bought the newspaper more than a year before. The owner is a businesswoman writer, not a property developer.This did not stop Croxford. Are or have you ever been associated with property developers?Croxford’s comments on the Council floor on 16 July, contained the imputation that the owner takes ‘cash for comments’ from developers. This contemptible suggestion goes to the very heart of integrity and reputation. It is libellous and motivated by malice.He has not offered one scintilla of evidence to support his claims. Not then, not now.The owner had a legitimate right to privacy. That’s why we have the Privacy Act. This sort of bullying does not go over well with women. Is this the sort of person you want on the council?To compound the libel, Mr Croxford published a series of Facebook posts which held The Bugle, its owner and staff, up to ridicule and contempt by fair-minded readers.He accused Lynne Strong’s opinion article in The Bugle, "Is Our Council Structure Fit for Purpose?" of being an example of psychological propaganda used in war. Really? I mean, really?Ms Strong was the 2017 Australia Day Ambassador and an Australian of the Year nominee. Her awards and credentials are compelling.Further, at the same council meeting, with his mind on the September council elections, Croxford asked the CEO a raft of politically motivated questions about who was to blame for the Blue Haven Bonaira fiasco.He is fighting for transparency and accountability. He won’t stop until someone is burnt at the stake.Two can play the fear game and you will find this fact grounded in the council’s Long Term Financial Plan 2024-2025 to 2033-2034. In scenario two, which the council downplays, there is the option of a special rate variation of 10 per cent in 2026-2027 on top of the normal rate peg. That’s a rate fee of around 14 per cent.Let me give Croxford a hand because this council has swum from the Titanic to the Marie Celeste and is spent.In a confidential council report of the Director of Finance (21 November 2017), it included the risk profile of building Bonaira.Bonaira build risk assessment, Kiama CouncilIt shows all three tenders were high risk (in red) and the companies seeking to throw risk back on to the Council. What did the successful Tier 1 builder of Bonaira, do in the final stages of the tender to win it?Apparently, according to the document, a meeting was held with council and the awarded contractor  on 7 December 2017 and, “all high risk items raised by Council have since been resolved.”A Council spokesperson said it had, “looked into this and there’s not anything further we can supply, except the information you’ve already sourced that is on the public record.”The builder of Blue Haven Bonaira is now facing legal action by council. Join the queue.The Kiama Council quoted Thomas Jefferson in its 2023 mid-year review who said, “The government you elect is the government you deserve.”On the 14 September council elections, be the Administrator and elect the government you deserve.

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

On a chilly and windy winter evening, Mayor Neil Reilly announced the nine winners of the Local Government Awards 2024, against the backdrop of a packed Pavilion Kiama.Family, friends, colleagues, team and club members had turned out in full on Tuesday, July 30, to celebrate the recipients.The Local Government Awards are part of Local Government Week, which runs from 29 July-4 August, and which also coincides with the anniversary of the founding of the municipality. Aunty Gwenda Jarrett gave a beautiful Welcome to Country, saying "To receive a nomination is as good as receiving an award."This weekend, on 27 July, the winners of the Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards 2024 were celebrated at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, hosted by the Shoalhaven City Council in collaboration with the councils of Kiama, Shellharbour and Wollongong.Mayor Neil Reilly and Citizen of the Year recipient Michael Gleeson. Credit: Kiama Council.Werri Beach resident Michael Gleeson won the Citizen of the Year award for his over 40 years of community service, including his environmental advocacy work.“I’m being recognised for doing good things for the town, making it a better place to live in,” he replies as to what it means to win the award.But Gleeson admits being a bit embarrassed by it all, although “my family is so pleased.”“I can live with having my photo taken a couple of times,” he adds with a smile.Senior Citizen of the Year recipient Rhonda Bailey and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Rhonda Bailey of Gerringong received the Senior Citizen of the Year award for her long-standing contributions to community organisations such as the Gerringong Tennis Club and the Children’s Medical Research Institute.Bailey found out that she had won a couple of weeks ago but had no idea that she had been nominated.“It came as a huge surprise,” she says. Although it didn’t take long, more like “two seconds,” to figure out who had put her forward.But she’s feeling embarrassed over the nomination since there are “lots of people who do great volunteer work in Gerringong.”Grace Stewart's brother Hamish and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Grace Stewart, the triple Olympian born and bred in Gerringong, was added to the Sports Honour Roll for her exceptional achievements in field hockey. With the Hockeyroos co-captain currently at the Paris Olympics (where she’s scored two goals so far), Stewart’s brother Hamish received the award on her behalf.“She thanks the Kiama Council and community. It doesn’t go unnoticed, it’s greatly appreciated,” he said.Complete list of recipients of the Local Government Awards 2024: Citizen of the Year: Michael Gleeson Senior Citizen of the Year: Rhonda Bailey Community Group of the Year: Country Women’s Association Kiama Evening Branch Arts Honour Roll: Tamara Campbell Sports Honour Roll: Grace Stewart Sports Achievement Award: Nardia Guillaumier Sports Volunteer Award: Karon Dawson Robert East Memorial Award: Berbel Franse Megan Dalley Award: Hallie Le Maître.Country Women's Association Kiama Evening Branch's Katherine Brennan accepting the Community Group of the Year award on the group's behalf and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Dean Jaye accepting the Arts Honour Roll on behalf of Tamara Campbell, and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Sports Achievement Award recipient Nardia Guillaumier and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Sports Volunteer Award recipient Karon Dawson and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Jenny Drummond for the East Family, Robert East Memorial Awards recipient Berbel Franse and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Roz Dalley, Megan Dalley Award recipient Hallie Le Maitre and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.

The NSW Government is enhancing beach safety with the introduction of new Emergency Response Beacons (ERBs) at Austinmer and Woonona beaches.These advanced beacons are the first of their kind, they connect directly to Surf Life Saving NSW’s State Operations Centre, allowing for quicker responses in both the water and nearby areas. The beacons are equipped with flotation devices and powered by solar energy, providing relief to emergency response personnel in unpatrolled and remote areas.The rollout, funded by the Minns Labor Government, follows a Coastal Water Safety Roundtable’s findings, and aims to address increased drownings at unpatrolled locations. Other locations include Gordons Bay, Mahon Pool, Turimetta, North Palm Beach, Bateau Bay and Forresters Beach. Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said, “The installation of new beacons is a critical step towards ensuring the safety of everyone who enjoys our beautiful coastline.” 

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

On Sunday August 18, the Gerringong Music Club will host an interactive superhero-themed concert especially for children at the Gerringong Town Hall.The event is designed by Clear Strings, a professional string quartet, and it will include melodies of Superman and Wonder Woman as well as popular TV songs and hits by artists like Billie Eilish. It will feature violins, a viola, a cello and a double bass.It was inspired by an intensive music education program which was conducted by the Australian Chamber Orchestra in Sydney which resulted in huge improvements in learning, development, behaviour and attendance.Music Director of Clear Strings, Renae Zink, says, “It has been proven that interactive musical experiences at a young age can foster a life-long love of music. The importance of exposing children to engaging and exciting musical experiences cannot be emphasised.”Musical Director of the Gerringong Music Club Imogen Stewart says, "We are excited to present our first concert designed with children in mind. We’re learning more about how important music is for well-rounded child development, helping kids feel, think and move better and are committed to bringing those experiences to Gerringong for our kids to enjoy.”The event is sponsored by the Gerringong Branch of Bendigo Bank provided through its Community Grant Scheme.The event starts at 2pm on 18 August, doors open at 1:30pm. Book your tickets online at www.gerringongmusicclub.com.au. Members, children and students are free. Visitors $30.

We've all had those restless nights when sleep just won't come. You toss and turn, feeling the frustration grow as the clock ticks on. The stress of lying awake only amplifies your anxiety. You wonder how to quiet your mind and find that much-needed rest, all while dreading the fatigue and endless cups of coffee that will follow the next day. The worry adds to the sleeplessness.Acute and chronic insomnia is common. Approximately one in three adults experience insomnia symptoms, and about 10 percent meet the criteria for an insomnia disorder.In Australia, most people will face insomnia at some point in their lives, with around 10 percent experiencing mild insomnia. It is more prevalent among females and older adults. Insomnia can manifest in various ways, including:Difficulty falling asleepWaking up during the nightWaking up too earlyFeeling tired or sleepy during the dayFeeling cranky, depressed, or anxiousDifficulty paying attention, focusing on tasks, or remembering thingsMaking more errors or having more accidents.Treatment Options: Insomnia is treatable. Often, the key lies in adjusting your daily and bedtime routines. Some find relief through medication, counselling, or a combination of both, especially when anxiety or low mood contributes to their insomnia.Common sleep medications include sedative-hypnotics such as benzodiazepines. Short-acting benzodiazepines are used as sleeping pills, while long-acting ones are prescribed for anxiety. However, there is a risk of developing a tolerance with long-term use.Melatonin, a naturally occurring neurotransmitter that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, is gaining popularity. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine sleep expert Dr Luis F. Buenaver, Ph.D., "Your body produces melatonin naturally. It doesn’t make you sleep, but as melatonin levels rise in the evening, it puts you into a state of quiet wakefulness that helps promote sleep."Dr Buenaver suggests that while most people produce enough melatonin on their own, there are steps you can take to optimise its production."Create optimal conditions for melatonin by keeping lights low before bed, and stop using your computer, smartphone, or tablet. The blue and green light from these devices can neutralize melatonin’s effects," he advises.Exposure to daylight during the morning and afternoon can also help regulate your melatonin production.Non-drug treatments: The good news is that several non-drug treatments for insomnia can be tried at home. By changing some of your habits and routines, you can improve the quality of your sleep. Tips for better sleep:Follow a sleep schedule: Maintain consistent bedtime and wake-up times every day, including weekendsStay active: Regular physical activity promotes better sleepCheck your medications: Some medicines can interfere with sleepLimit or stop naps: Napping during the day can disrupt your sleep cycleLimit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine: These substances can affect your ability to fall and stay asleepManage pain: Don't tolerate pain; address it to ensure it doesn't interfere with your sleepAvoid large meals and excessive fluids before bed: These can disrupt sleep.By making these changes, you may find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Nighty night!

Currently funded by the Federal Government, the Heart Foundation Walking Program has grown to over 330,000 walkers nationwide. Individual and group lead programs by 700 volunteers helping those towards a healthier heart lifestyle. 1 August 2024 is set to see the Heart Foundation Walk kick off from Harry Sawkins Park in the Nowra CBD at 8am. Joining the local walking groups is Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips alongside Heart Foundation general manager Simon Cowie and Walking Program Officer NSW/ACT Lizzie Hannah. “Evidence shows that just 30 minutes of daily walking can lower heart disease and stroke risk by 35 per cent, reduce key risk factors including hypertension and metabolic disease and boost mood,” Mrs Phillips said.“Yet only one in five adults meet the level of physical activity recommended by the Australian Guidelines.”Mrs Phillips walks her dogs daily and said the benefits of joining a walking group extended beyond physical health.The National Walking Initiative focuses on five key areas:Supporting more people to participate in the Heart Foundation Walking program.Building health professional skills and confidence to discuss and prescribe physical activity.Empowering communities to lead local initiatives.Promoting active living through healthy built and natural environments.Educating the public and advancing action.Hoping to inspire more residents to participate in regular exercising habits, Mrs Phillips is eager to connect with other community members and groups. LOCAL WALKING GROUPS:https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/basin-bay-strollers https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/greenwell-point-walkers https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/kiama-walking-group https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/nowra-walkie-talkies https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/nsw-happy-feet

Kiama author Ryan Butta will officially launch on Tuesday July 30 The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli at Bouquiniste Cafe, where he spends time writing, reading and drinking coffee with owner, good friend and fellow author Clayton Comber.The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli is based on the life of Harry Freame, the first Australian soldier to win the distinguished conduct medal at Gallipoli. Telling Harry’s story is right up there as one of Ryan’s proudest achievements, not just because it was the second of his non-fiction books to be picked up by a commercial publisher. “I always wanted to be commercially published. That's like a validation thing for a writer for some reason,” explains Ryan.His pride is linked to the fact Ryan was able to give Harry Freame the recognition he deserves as one of Australia’s most decorated soldiers. Renowned war correspondent and historian Charles Bean called Freame the “finest scout at Gallipoli” and “the most ubiquitous soldier on the peninsula”. But Harry doesn’t feature in your typical ANZAC histories. Freame was born in Japan and had an Australian father and Japanese mother. He was raised as a Samurai, under the Bushido code - the seven principles of righteousness, loyalty, honour, respect, honesty, courage and consistency which samurai warriors live by. “Harry was loved by the troops he fought alongside,” says Ryan. “Men rallied behind him, he was a leader of men. When it came down to it, our troops relied on his intelligence to launch attacks. Harry would crawl around on his belly and map the Turkish trenches, their defences, the number of machine guns they had. He was captured in the trenches at one point and managed to escape. He was wounded so many times his body was covered in scars.”Harry, who died in 1940 just before WWII broke out, was buried in an unmarked grave in Sydney. But thanks to Ryan, and his meticulous research, people are now able to hear Harry’s story and understand that the ANZAC legend is much richer and more nuanced than the historical snapshots we often hear about.“It was tragic and very emotional to read about what these young men went through when I was researching this book,” says Ryan. “They had no idea about the horrors they would face. And it wasn’t just young British Australians out there on the battlefields of Gallipoli. There were Africans from the French colony fighting alongside ANZACs, there were Indigenous soldiers, Maori soldiers, Sikh soldiers, there was the Zionist mule regiment doing all the transport. So it was a very multicultural fighting force, I’m not sure that comes through when we talk about the ANZAC legend.”Ryan was not only able to tell Harry’s story in The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli but he was also able to ensure that Harry received the recognition and burial that he deserved as a decorated war hero.Ryan wrote several emails to the Australian government, including petitioning the Prime Minister, to push for Harry’s service to be recognised. Last month his long fight to honour Harry came to fruition. Thanks to Ryan, Harry now has a plaque honouring his sacrifices on his gravesite. “I hope I have done his story justice,” says Ryan.  You can hear Ryan speak about The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli from 5.30pm at Bouquiniste for a Q&A with Clay. Stay tuned to hear more about how Ryan “amplified” the Anzac legend in the next print edition of The Bugle on August 9.

On Monday July 30, Blue Haven Bonaira hosted a special event to commemorate the 2024 Paris Olympics by holding their own Olympic torch relay.Denis Ryann, who proudly carried the Olympic torch back in 2000 for the relay leading up to the Sydney Olympics, began the Blue Haven Bonaira ceremony by carrying the torch accompanied by flag bearers and bagpipers from the entrance of the Barroul House Cafe.“I was given the honour of being Wollongong citizen of the year. And that honour gave me the opportunity to run with the torch at Woonona (in 2000). And when I ran it, I had a friend with me who was a bagpiper. When I had finished, I took the torch into the nursing home, and they loved it. And I thought I’d do it for the old people here and I’m proud I did it, because I think the senior citizens of Kiama just loved it,” says Ryann.Ryann walked the torch to the care home where he handed it to Val Brunker OAM, the former president of the Kiama Netball Association, who walked it into Matterson Hall.At over 85 years of age, Brunker says that sport is such an important part of a community and that it connects people of all ages together. And that the Olympics is one of a kind.“I remember watching the Sydney Olympics and I think it was just a wonderful spectacle and the athletes are just wonderful. Sport keeps a community together and it's great for people of all ages, especially the kids. For me, the TV stays on all day next to my bed. I fall asleep and then wake up and something else is on,” says Brunker.Val Brunker walking the Olympic Torch.The event brought together the Blue Haven Residential Aged Care Facility (RACF) residents, the Independent Living Units (ILU) and the Community Seaside Group and Kristen Delahunty, the acting lifestyle communicator at Blue Haven Bonaira, who stresses the importance of events like these.“When residents come into a facility to live, we need to look at what their cultural preferences are, how they live their life. They should not have to stop doing the things they like doing just because they are here. So being involved in group events helps them become involved in the local community. Kiama has such a tight knit community, and we want to keep them connected with people,” says Delahunty.The event also enabled residents who were volunteers at the 2000 Sydney Olympics to reminisce about an important part of their, and Australia’s, past. “We’ve got a lot of memorabilia in the foyer from the actual Sydney Olympics. We’ve got flags and welcome presents and all sorts of stuff. And this has been a great remembrance event so the residents here who were volunteers at the Olympics have got their families to dig out their volunteers shirts and tracksuits and they’ve all gotten excited,” says Delahunty. Vince O’Sullivan is a resident at Bonaira Blue Haven, and he came to the torch relay with a 2000 Sydney Olympics hat with all sorts of pins and decorations from the games. His wife Linda was also a volunteer.“We both were volunteers in the 2000 Olympics and we both have our uniforms. Vince was a driver for the officials, he drove them around to the different venues and I was welcoming dignitaries into the venues,” says Linda.Vince O'Sullivan wearing his 2000 Sydney Olympics hat.Vince, who suffers from dementia, was in high spirits on the day and Linda praises events such as these.“It’s very important to Vince, he’s changed dramatically since he’s been here. We, as a family, think we’ve picked the best place for Vince to come, they’re doing such a great job,” says Linda.“Living with dementia is something that is here and that we have to manage and if you see Vince here today, he's having an amazing time,” says Delahunty.Other than the fabulous bagpipes soundtracking the relay, there were also some songs from the Blue Haven Ukulele group. Peter Mayes, who is part of the group says that music is very important to the various residents of Blue Haven.“We’re more than happy to share it with people and we’ll do a monthly thing with the residents because music is a universal language. For people at the end of their lives or they have dementia, music is something that seems to spark them on and take them out of themselves,” says Mayes.The Ukulele Group, Peter Mayes is pictured to the left with the vest on.It was announced on May 30 that Blue Haven Bonaira was purchased by Hall and Prior Aged Care, and Mayes, who is also the chairperson of the ILU resident committee at the Bonaira venue, says he is excited about the transition. “We’re looking forward to a change of ownership in a way because we’re looking for someone who knows about independent living and the care home. In the last few years, I think the Kiama Council has lost the knowledge base that they had. Most residents came here with the knowledge that there was 40 years of history here, so a lot of us have an emotional attachment to the Kiama model,” says Mayes. “But it is probably just time for Kiama council to focus on doing what councillors do and I think getting someone who is experienced in aged care is the best way to take everyone forward.”Blue Haven Bonaira is holding many different events over the next two weeks to get the residents involved in the Paris Olympics with showings of medal events as well as Olympic themed happy hours.

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The Bugle has consulted Councillor Renkema-Lang’s Facebook page which represents her opinion. It is well worth the read. “As this Council term draws to a close it’s appropriate to ask Councillors, and indeed Council as a whole, what have they achieved in the last three years. In my view, the honest answer for myself is “not enough”. While I have had mixed success at getting motions and amendments adopted and enacted by Council, my efforts in the main have not led to tangible outcomes for the Community. A huge disappointment.The most important lesson I’ve learned over the past three years is that it is not enough to have passion, to uphold your principles, and to strive towards a clearly defined purpose. In hindsight this was naïve of me given my experience.I’ve learnt that a politician (at any level of Government) has to navigate the tricky space of power and politics while maintaining their passion, their principles and their purpose. I did not know how to navigate this space effectively. In spite of the above, I couldn’t have done things differently, and I’m pleased that regardless of the difficulties I faced that I have upheld my principles and my commitment for transparency and accountability. This is evident in my newsletters, radio interviews and in the questions I have asked on the floor of chamber. Our community wants Councillors who respect the views of others, even when they may strongly disagree. They want Councillors who understand the value of contested debate and the need to question and verify information provided by Council staff as part of their Governance role. Our community expect and deserve Councillors who uphold the highest standards, who are comfortable debating issues based on credible evidence without stooping to personal slurs and criticisms.People in our community have stated that “Council needs to repair the community’s trust before it can move forward”, and “Ratepayers are looking for outcomes, not more talk”. In my view, in order to ‘repair the community’s trust’ Council must listen with a view to bridging the gap between the halls of power and everyday experiences. They must demonstrate that they are delivering tangible outcomes that make Kiama more liveable, that unite members of the community rather than divide them, and that enhance the wonderful culture of the Kiama community in looking after each other. Council must also demonstrate that relevant information is provided to the right people at the right time, that information is presented in plain language, and that Council owns up to mistakes and demonstrates a commitment to learning and improvement. Of late I have been challenged about meeting my campaign commitment about being Sensible with Money. I have moved or supported many motions and amendments over this term with this commitment in mind (with mixed success). These include at least three in 2023 directly related to meeting the initial Performance improvement Order issued in November 2022. They were all unsuccessful – with the same six Councillors voting against them each time.For more detail about the above or about my efforts in striving towards meeting my campaign commitments over this term of Council please read my newsletter or visit the my progress SAFEKiama webpage.”