Michelle Brennan’s life has been a remarkable blend of diverse achievements and a passion for community. From riding at prestigious events like the Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide Royal Shows to winning a world championship in crosscut sawing in 1993. Now, as the volunteer coordinator for the Kiama Show, she plays a vital role in one of the region’s most cherished events.Growing up in Geelong, Michelle’s childhood revolved around horses and long trips to competitions. “My piggy bank was always for spending money at the Easter Show,” she fondly remembers.Michelle Brennan as a five year old in the Grand Parade at the Sydney Royal Easter Show Those long days on the road cemented her lifelong obsession with shows. In her early twenties, she shifted focus from horses to timber sports, excelling in crosscut sawing and axe throwing. This journey took her across Australia, Canada, and the United States, culminating in her 1993 world championship victory.In her early twenties, Michelle shifted focus from horses to timber sports, excelling in crosscut sawing and axe throwingToday, Michelle pours her boundless energy into the Kiama Show, orchestrating volunteers and juggling the many moving parts behind the scenes. Her knack for teamwork shines as she steers a committee spanning generations, from twenty-somethings to octogenarians. “It’s amazing how we all come together—it says so much about the spirit of the show,” she says with pride.But her passion doesn’t stop at Kiama. As a veteran horse steward at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, Michelle thrives on the sweat and camaraderie of agricultural events. “It’s gruelling, it’s exhausting, and I absolutely love it,” she says, laughing.When she’s not knee-deep in show preparations, Michelle wears many hats. She navigates the world of international compliance at Wollongong University by day and runs Stockyard Pearls, her pearl jewellery business, by night, a true reflection of her versatility.Even with such a packed schedule, Michelle’s heart is firmly with the show. “This isn’t just something I do; it’s who I am,” she says. “Bringing people together, watching it all come to life, it’s pure magic.”Visit the Kiama Show website here

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has launched a petition calling on the NSW Labor Government to re-establish a Return and Earn facility in Kiama following the suspension of the service during the Kiama Woolworths redevelopment. Mr Ward has launched a petition to provide the community an opportunity to support these calls. The petition can be found here. In a letter to Mr Ward, the NSW Government has said that the Kiama Electorate has several Return and Earn Facilities including “Stockland Shellharbour, PCYC Lake Illawarra and Port Kembla Golf Club.” “I’m sorry to break it to NSW Labor, but Stockland Shellharbour, Lake Illawarra and Port Kembla aren’t in the Kiama Electorate. I’ve always said Labor didn’t understand our community, but it seems they don’t even know where it is,” Mr Ward said. “Data obtained from a Question on Notice indicates that the Kiama Electorate recycles more than 2 million items per year with more than $200,000 returned annually to charities, causes and individuals. This is a popular service and Kiama should have its service back. “This is not a case of a call for a facility that we’ve never had. I’m simply calling on the NSW Labor to give us back our Return and Earn. “This is yet another service cut to our community from a government that thinks the definition of NSW is simply Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong. “I look forward to taking up this cause when Parliament returns next month,” Mr Ward concluded.

Jamberoo’s Alan Swan never thought he’d be part of the gruelling George Bass Marathon, but the experience became a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and shared effort, proving that teamwork truly makes the dream work.For Alan, the challenge wasn’t just physical, it was a test of mental grit. “I’m not exactly a sea creature,” he jokes. “I’m more comfortable on land. The deep-sea crew changeovers were especially daunting for me.”Yet, it was in those moments of discomfort that Alan discovered the power of his eight-member crew. “Rowing is all about working together,” he reflects. “It’s not about individual effort; it’s about rhythm, flow, and trusting your teammates.”Kiama Surf Life Saving Club George Bass Marathon Team proves teamwork makes the dream workThe George Bass Marathon is legendary for a reason. Over seven days, crews face relentless rotations, rowing in shifts that challenge their endurance and spirit. Long days mean swapping every 20 minutes, with equal rest, but shorter days are even more punishing, with six-person teams only getting 10 minute rest periods.“The short days were harder,” Alan says. “There’s barely any time to recover before you’re back in the boat.”Behind the scenes, the land support crews were equally critical. They moved boats, set up camp, and prepared meals, ensuring the rowers could focus on the water. “Our support team was incredible,” Alan says. “They took care of everything. It made all the difference.”The physical toll was immense, blistered hands, sore feet, blistered and bruised backsides from the unrelenting motion of the boat. But Alan’s good humour carried him through. “One guy told me to use a tub of Vaseline with a spatula,” he laughs. “That advice saved me!” Seven Days of Blood Sweat and Tears and BlistersAmidst the struggle, there were moments of magic. “One day, everything just clicked,” Alan recalls. “We found our rhythm, the boat was flying, and the coastline was stunning. I thought, how lucky am I to be part of this?”Support from sponsors like Ray White Real Estate, Kiama Lions Club, and Boab Marine was vital. “Boab Marine provided our support boat,” Alan shares, “and the funds helped us secure a new set of oars. For smaller clubs like Kiama, that’s huge.”The marathon’s 50th anniversary made the event even more special. “Rowers from the original race, now in their seventies, joined in,” Alan says. “Seeing them still out there was inspiring.”For Alan, the experience wasn’t just about personal achievement. “If one person wasn’t fully committed, it wouldn’t have worked,” he says. “It was all about everyone coming together.”The George Bass Marathon has left Alan with a new sense of confidence and possibility. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve done in a long time,” he says. “But it’s shown me that stepping out of your comfort zone is where you grow.”As he considers his next adventure, one thing is certain: Alan Swan is ready to keep testing his limits, proving that with teamwork and determination, anything is possible.

After nine years in Kiama, The Collective Beat at 100 Terralong Street has been given notice to vacate its premises. This unfortunate development will impact 45 local small businesses and 10 dedicated employees. The Collective Beat is owned and directed by Sheree Bailey, and the store is a vibrant addition to Kiama that attracts locals and tourists, fostering a huge community presence that is based on ‘locals supporting locals’. The small businesses that have thrived within the store include local mums, dads, grandparents, artists, photographers, makers, and creators, with their trade directly benefiting the local economy. The effects of this closure will be felt by the majority of the store’s employees who are residents of Kiama, Gerringong, Jamberoo, and Shellharbour. “We really want to thank everyone for their support and the connections over the years both in the community and other businesses in town,” says Sheree. “It was always meant to be a six-week pop-up store, so that’s where it started, and it turned into nine years and we’re honoured to have had so many incredible years.” Before closing its doors, The Collective Beat will host a celebration event at the store on Saturday 8 February to honour its incredible journey and many memories they have created over the years. The event, named ‘The End of an Era’, will serve as a thank you to the community and bring together locals, creative owners, and employees. Although this marks the end of The Collective Beat’s time in Kiama, the community can still support local makers through its stores in Gerringong, Berry, Huskisson, and Milton. The community is encouraged to keep supporting these small businesses and talented local creators. “From Kiama we’ve expanded to four other locations over the last five years, Kiama was so appreciative, it made us want to open other local shops,” Sheree says. Sheree remains hopeful about finding a new space in Kiama to host The Collective Beat once again and restore its presence in the town.The Collective Beat thanks the community for its constant support over the years, emphasising that while this is the end of an era, it is not the end of their story.Event details can be found on their Facebook page. 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced $5 million in funding for the Nowra Riverfront Precinct. The funding, part of the government’s regional Precincts and Partnership Program, is set to create an integrated space that incorporates parklands, accommodation, areas for commercial and social activities, and transportation networks. The new community space will reconnect Nowra city centre with the Shoalhaven River waterfront, and strengthen the town’s role as the civic and tourism centre for the Shoalhaven region. “My Government is building Australia’s future, today announcing we will deliver $5 million to create the Nowra Riverfront Precinct,” Mr Albanese says.  “This project will transform Nowra and create a space that can be enjoyed by the local community and tourists for years to come.”The funding will support the finalisation of the masterplan, design central open spaces, and deliver public space improvements to encourage further private investment for the area’s renewal. Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips expresses how important the funding is for the Nowra community, with the Riverfront revitalisation being long-awaited. “A revitalised Nowra Riverfront will mean huge benefits for our community with improved liveability and wellbeing options as well as being good for tourism, local businesses and jobs,” Mrs Phillips says. “As a long-time local, the Shoalhaven Riverfront has always held great personal significance to me…It’s where I married, where I regularly swam with my family and community, and it’s where I fought so hard along with our community to save Nowra’s community swimming pool.” Shoalhaven City Council Mayor Patricia White shared the council’s excitement about being able to continue to progress the project, as a foundational part of Nowra’s development. “This funding will allow us to complete planning investigations and finalise the masterplan designs for the flagship riverfront park, and conduct further community consultation and a business case to facilitate investment in this foreshore precinct.”The Nowra Riverfront Precinct promises to enhance community wellbeing, support tourism, and boost the local economy while shaping a thriving future for Nowra and the Shoalhaven region.For more information, visit Nowra Riverfront Activation (NRAT)

Police are appealing for information following a serious e-bike crash in Lake Heights that left a man critically injured.At approximately 2:30pm on Sunday, 12 January 2025, emergency services were called to Weringa Avenue, Lake Heights, where a man had fallen from an e-bike. Officers from Lake Illawarra Police District arrived to find a man, believed to be in his 30s, suffering from serious head injuries.NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the man at the scene before he was airlifted to hospital in critical condition. The rider, who has not yet been formally identified, remains in hospital. A crime scene was established, and the Crash Investigation Unit is leading inquiries into the incident.The man is described as being of Pacific Islander/Maori appearance, aged 25-35 years, about 175cm tall, of large build, unshaven, with short, neat hair. At the time of the crash, he was wearing a black Nike jacket and a red t-shirt.Police have released an image of the e-bike involved in the crash and are urging anyone with information about the incident or the identity of the rider to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via NSW Crime Stoppers. All information will be treated in strict confidence.The rise in popularity of e-bikes has brought significant safety concerns. Modifications, illegal usage, and doubling up on bikes are contributing to accidents and hefty fines, underscoring the need for better education and enforcement.In a recent case, a young rider received a $4,000 fine after being caught riding a modified e-bike that exceeded legal speed and power limits. The rider was also found without a helmet, further highlighting the risks of non-compliance.To address these issues, police have launched initiatives such as Operation Spark, aimed at educating e-bike users and enforcing compliance. Officers attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol regularly conduct compliance checks, resulting in numerous warnings, infringement notices, and charges.These efforts demonstrate the ongoing commitment to promoting safe e-bike practices and reducing accidents in the community. Doubling up - where two people ride on a bike designed for one - is a growing issue. This unsafe practice compromises bike stability, increases the risk of crashes, and breaks the law. Similarly, illegal modifications, such as boosting motor power beyond 250 watts or removing speed limiters, transform e-bikes into unregistered motor vehicles, leading to fines and safety hazards.As e-bikes continue to grow in popularity, it’s crucial for riders to prioritise safety. Wearing helmets, following legal guidelines, and avoiding risky practices are essential to protect everyone on the road. Police, parents, and communities must work together to educate riders and enforce regulations, ensuring that e-bikes remain a safe and enjoyable mode of transport. Please visit NSW Police website for more informationHave you seen these issues in your neighbourhood? Share your thoughts with The Bugle and help us raise awareness.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward is inviting residents across the Illawarra and South Coast to take part in a new survey to share their thoughts on the ongoing issues with delays, cancellations, and service disruptions on the South Coast Rail Line. Mr Ward is launching the survey to collect real, direct feedback from local commuters, with the goal of highlighting the specific challenges faced by residents and ensuring that the community’s concerns are heard at the highest levels of government. “We’ve heard from countless local residents who are frustrated by constant delays, cancellations, and the lack of action on much-needed upgrades to the South Coast Rail Line,” Mr Ward says. “I want to hear directly from you about the impact this is having on your daily lives.” The survey will allow commuters to indicate their level of satisfaction with the South Coast Rail Line, with the aim of gathering responses to advocate for much needed improvements and upgrades. “Local commuters deserve better, and it’s time to give them a platform to share their experiences,” says Mr Ward. “This is about gathering the facts from the people who know the issues best - the passengers who rely on the South Coast Rail Line to get to work, school, and other important destinations.” Mr Ward highlights how this is an important opportunity for locals to speak up and tell the government what they think about the current state of the South Coast Rail Line.  “With new intercity carriages sitting idle at Waterfall Station and the South Coast Line falling behind other regions in service improvements, it’s clear that the current government needs to hear from us,” says Mr Ward. Mr Ward expresses that he is committed to fighting for a better rail service, and this survey will be a critical part of that effort. 

Backyard chickens are a staple in Kiama, bringing joy and fresh eggs to many households. But living in harmony with nature means sharing our space with predators like foxes, quolls, native rats, snakes, and birds of prey. Some of these species are invasive, while others are protected and vital to our ecosystem.Here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your flock safe while respecting our local wildlife.Foxes: The cunning invadersFoxes are highly adaptable and a serious threat to poultry. Known for their ability to dig, climb, and tear through lightweight wire, they can decimate a flock in one night.How to protect your chooks from foxes:Heavy-duty wire: Use galvanised mesh with openings no larger than 10mm. Lightweight chicken wire will not stop a determined fox.Dig-proof your coop: Bury wire at least 30cm into the ground or build your coop on a concrete base.Secure locks: Use strong latches on doors and windows to stop foxes from breaking in.South East Local Land Services supply cages for catching foxes where they can be humanely euthanised Quolls and native rats: Protected but hungryQuolls and native rats are carnivores. Like the bush rat and marsupial rat, they are protected species and are known to target poultry. Quolls are excellent climbers and can take adult birds, while native rats may go for eggs or chicks.How to balance protection and conservation:Fully enclosed coops: A solid roof and heavy duty very small-gauge wire will keep quolls and rats out.Natural habitats: Plant native shrubs or build hiding spots away from your coop to encourage quolls and rats to stay in their natural hunting grounds.No poisons or traps: These can harm native species. Use humane deterrents like motion-activated lights.Snakes: Silent but essential predatorsDiamond pythons are non-venomous and protected. They play a vital role in controlling pests but can target eggs and smaller chickens. Snakes often get stuck in chicken wire after eating, as their bodies expand during digestion.Do not attempt to handle the snake yourself. WIRES or a licensed snake handler will remove it safely.What to do if you find a snake in your coop:Call WIRES: Do not attempt to handle the snake yourself. WIRES or a licensed snake handler will remove it safely.Upgrade your wire: Use small-gauge galvanised mesh to prevent snakes from entering.Reduce attractants: Store feed securely and collect eggs daily to minimise food sources.Birds of prey: Aerial huntersKiama is home to several predatory birds, including brown goshawks, wedge-tailed eagles, and owls. These birds can swoop on free-ranging chickens, particularly younger birds.How to protect your flock from birds of prey:Cover your run: Use shade cloth or netting to create a physical barrier.Plant trees: Dense foliage can provide natural protection from aerial predators.Supervised free-ranging: Watch your flock, especially during peak hunting times like dawn and dusk.A community effortPredator control works best when neighbours collaborate. Foxes, for instance, often travel across multiple properties, making collective action more effective. Get involved with South East Local Land Services who run workshops to share strategies and protect both your flock and native wildlife.Coexisting with natureIn Kiama, we’re fortunate to live in a place rich with biodiversity. While predators pose challenges, they’re an integral part of our environment. By investing in secure coops and adopting wildlife-safe practices, you can keep your chooks safe without compromising the wellbeing of our local species.Note: Electric Fences and PetsElectric fences can be a safe and effective way to protect chickens from predators, but they require careful planning to ensure the safety of pets like cats and dogs. Electric fences can also inadvertently harm non-target animals, so use them thoughtfully. Combine them with other measures, like well-built coops and reducing attractants, to minimise the need for electrified barriers.While electric fences can be a helpful tool for predator control, pet owners should weigh the benefits against potential risks and take extra precautions to keep their furry friends safe.

The Minns government’s recent announcement addressing the housing crisis is a welcome step towards acknowledging the depth of the problem. But to untangle the mess we’re in, we must first understand the decades of decisions, policies, and public attitudes that brought us here.At its core, the crisis is one of supply and diversity. For decades, local councils, influenced by vocal "drawbridge" residents, those who want no change after settling in, and political movements resistant to development, have stifled housing solutions. The result? A severe under supply of smaller, more affordable homes near town centres, leaving renters, young people, and downsizers out in the cold.Public engagement, though introduced as a mandatory process under the Planning Environment Act of 1979, has often been dominated by those opposed to change. The rise of anti-development sentiment in the 1980s and 1990s, further entrenched the "not in my backyard" (NIMBY) mentality. These groups opposed medium density developments and vilified developers as greedy, creating an environment where even well planned, sustainable housing projects were blocked.Adding to this was the production of lengthy, bureaucratic documents written in overly complex language, effectively shutting out large portions of the community from meaningful participation. Public consultations became exercises in frustration, with residents struggling to engage with content designed more for regulatory compliance than community clarity.Our planning regulations, designed to accommodate community input, have become increasingly prescriptive and complex, often prioritising aesthetics over practicality. Minimum lot sizes, restrictive zoning, and outdated engineering standards have made it nearly impossible to build the variety of housing that modern communities need.The Minns government must confront a planning system where innovation is stifled, and councils are paralysed by fear of public backlash. Developers, often the villains in public narratives, are simply delivering what regulations allow. If smaller homes, terrace housing, or mixed-use developments aren’t being built, it’s because the current system doesn’t permit them.The loudest voices in public engagement have historically come from older, more established residents, comfortable in their single-family homes. Meanwhile, younger generations, renters, and essential workers, those most affected by the housing crisis, are underrepresented.The Minns government must address this by finding ways to involve a broader spectrum of voices, particularly younger people, who are often left out of these discussions.To solve the housing crisis, we must embrace bold, transformative solutions:• Regulatory Overhaul: Replace outdated, single-use zoning with flexible, mixed-use zoning that allows diverse housing types.• Community Diversity: Prioritise housing for all demographics, from singles and renters to families and retirees.• Public Engagement Reform: Simplify the language and format of public consultations to make them accessible and inclusive.• Creative Planning Standards: Adopt modern engineering standards, to enable smaller, low-maintenance homes.• Density with Sustainability: Focus on high-quality, medium-density developments near transport and services to minimise environmental impacts.The Minns government’s acknowledgement of the crisis is an opportunity to rewrite the narrative. By understanding the missteps of the past, resistance to change, overly complex regulations, and unbalanced public engagement, we can pave the way for a housing system that is inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of all.The question now is, will we rise to the challenge, or will history repeat itself?

In Kiama, adventure meets safety at the local surf lifesaving club, where young people are turning their love of the ocean into life-changing skills. The Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club (KSLSC) is not just about surf sports; it’s about equipping the next generation with confidence, responsibility, and a deep respect for the ocean. Peter Gallagher, the head board coach, is passionate about the club’s mission. “Surf lifesaving isn’t just about competition,” he says. “It’s about teaching kids to navigate our beaches safely and to look after one another. Our beach is challenging, so we focus on giving them the skills they need to enjoy it with confidence. And if they want to compete, that’s a bonus.” The club’s cadet program offers young lifesavers more than just training in board paddling. It teaches them how to recognise rips, use them strategically in rescues, and avoid unnecessary risks. These are not just ocean skills, they are life skills. The program runs year-round, blending structured training with vibrant social events that build camaraderie and resilience. From early morning board sessions to pizza nights and barbecues, the club fosters a sense of belonging and teamwork. “Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club is about more than sport,” Peter explains. “It’s about community. These kids aren’t just learning to paddle a board, they’re learning how to keep others safe, and that’s something they’ll carry with them forever.” The club’s efforts are evident in its young members. Whether competing in surf events or assisting during rescues, these cadets are on the front lines of action, mastering the unpredictable ocean with confidence and skill. For parents, the club offers an ideal channel for their children’s adventurous spirit. With opportunities to compete, learn lifesaving skills, and contribute to their community, KSLSC provides excitement and purpose in equal measure. Kiama’s Surf Lifesaving Club is setting the standard for how young people can embrace adventure responsibly. By giving kids the tools to navigate challenges safely, it ensures that every wave they catch, and every rescue they make, is a testament to their training, courage, and care.

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By Lesley Berry Gerroa Combined Probus members enjoyed a bus trip to Camden Valley Inn to celebrate Christmas in style at the end of last year.The group was entertained by Charlie Chech - Australian Best Male Vocal Performer ACE Awards.With a mission to honour the crooning greats, Charlie Chech had all our members mesmerised especially one certain lady! We look forward to our 2025 Meetings.

Meeting her for coffee at the Gerringong Co-op, where she runs operations, I expected a chat about the usual: roads, rates, and rubbish. Instead, Erica brought a quiet passion that made me sit up. This is a woman who has lived through loss and come out the other side with an unwavering determination to make Kiama better, not just for her, but for all of us.Erica’s story is rooted in Jamberoo, where her family ran local pubs and taught her the value of community. “Our hills, our villages, they’re not just beautiful; they’re part of who we are,” she says. But it was the passing of her husband, Chad, before the council election that forced Erica to pause and ask herself the tough questions. Could she take on the demands of council, her full-time job, and, most importantly, still be there for her teenage daughter Molly?She decided she could and should. For Erica, Kiama is worth fighting for. Preserving our green rolling hills is at the heart of her vision. “Those hills are why people come here,” she tells me. “They remind us what makes this place special.” But Erica isn’t stuck in a no-growth mindset. She gets that development is inevitable; she just wants it done in a way that respects what we love most about our region.She has big plans. Jerrara Dam, for instance. It’s personal for me. My grandfather’s dairy farm was resumed to build it. Erica shares my vision for transforming it into a wildlife sanctuary and educational hub. Her eyes light up as she talks about eco-tourism, birdwatchers, and students discovering the beauty of the area.Erica is also laser-focused on improving council culture. She doesn’t sugar-coat it: customer service needs to improve. “Council has to think like a business that serves its customers,” she says. And she’s not just talking. Her “Get it done” mantra drives her approach to solving long-standing issues, from fixing broken processes to making council-owned spaces, work for the community. And then there’s her big idea: a Winter Solstice Festival. Three months of music, arts, and events to inject life into the region during its quietest time. It’s ambitious, but Erica doesn’t seem fazed by that.Her leadership isn’t loud or flashy. It’s practical, thoughtful, and deeply connected to the community she serves. Erica Warren isn’t just a councillor. She’s one of us, working to make Kiama a place where we can all belong.