GERRINGONG JETS 2ND GRADE T20

KIAMA CAVALIERS 2ND GRADE T20

KIAMA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL GRAND FINAL - GROUP 2

KIAMA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL GRAND FINAL

KIAMA CAVALIERS4TH GRADE CRICKET

KIAMA JUNIOR CRICKET - UNDER 13 BLUE

Kiama Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) will host a special screening of Chasing the Gold, a new documentary about the iconic Coolangatta Gold race, on Wednesday (14 January).Created by Nalu Productions and Walker Films, the film follows athletes Connor Maggs, Lana Rogers and former Kiama Nipper Ali Day as they pursue victory in one of Australia’s most gruelling endurance events.“The Coolangatta Gold is the race that defines the spirit, history and identity of surf lifesaving in Australia,” said Kiama SLSC’s Denita Wright.“It is recognised as one of the most demanding Ironman and Ironwoman races, and Chasing the Gold brings the behind-the-scenes story to life, capturing an iconic Aussie culture with an intimate portrayal of what it takes to be a winner of The Gold.”Wright said Kiama SLSC was inspired to screen the film as a way to share the story of a surf lifesaving legend who began his journey at Kiama, while also raising funds for the club.“Ali Day’s surf lifesaving story began as an eight-year-old Nipper at Kiama Surf Life Saving Club. Kiama SLSC is lucky to secure Chasing the Gold, and we are the only club within our branch hosting the film,” she said.“The long hours and commitment of volunteer surf lifesavers to patrols, training and community service are what it’s all about - patrol teams working together, senior members mentoring juniors, and our club coaches training and supporting our athletes.”In addition to fundraising, the event aims to strengthen the relationship between the surf club and the wider Kiama community, something Wright believes is vital.“Hosting events helps the club stay visible and connected, not just as a patrol service but as a social and cultural gathering place. Chasing the Gold is a way for Kiama SLSC to give something back, and it strengthens the connection locals and visitors have with the beach, the club and the surrounding community.”Wright hopes the dedication and hard work showcased in the film will inspire audiences of all ages.“We hope Chasing the Gold will inspire our Nippers, other young kids and adults too. The movie shows the dedication, commitment and resilience required by athletes to pursue what they love to do,” she said.“For those aspiring to follow in Ali’s footsteps, his advice is simple: ‘I hope the film encourages the next generation to get out in the surf, have a crack, and never give up on their dreams’.”The screening will be held on 14 January at the Kiama SLSC clubhouse, starting at 7pm. Tickets can be purchased here, and Wright hopes the event will sell out.“Your ticket directly contributes to the future of surf lifesaving. Let’s sell it out - bring your family, bring your mates, and settle in for an uplifting night celebrating the athletes, culture and history that make surf lifesaving so special.”

As part of a series looking back at the major moments of 2025, The Bugle is presenting a look back on the stories that mattered on the South Coast over the past 12 months - this article was first published on 26 OctoberAli Day has retired a happy man after winning a barely believable 11th Coolangatta Gold on the weekend to sign off from the elite ironman ranks in perfect style.The former Kiama Surf Life Saving Club nipper has rewritten the record books to become one of the most decorated and admired athletes in the history of the sport.Over a career spanning more than 15 years, Day became the first ironman to win the three major titles in the same season – Coolangatta Gold, Iron Series and Australian Championships.This year’s Coolangatta Gold was shortened but Day yet again blitzed the opposition to win in a time of two hours, 23 minutes and 39 seconds to finish 53 seconds ahead of Northcliffe rival Matt Bevilacqua and Cory Taylor, who was a further 26 seconds behind his training partner.“It’s so good – that’s probably one of the first times I had doubts coming into it,” Day conceded.“I felt like Bevy was coming home like a freight train. I’m just counting my lucky stars that I got away with another one.“Obviously, with the 40km race you’re in rhythm the whole time and with the shorter race, running that soft sand was brutal.“You just never get in the flow. I knew that if I could just keep somewhat of a barrier, I was going to be OK. Bevy, CT - they were chasing me that whole time and I was holding on for dear life in that last run leg.”Day removed any doubts that he would go around again next time.“That is 100% the last time I’ll do this race,” he said.“It was a huge challenge. I wanted to tell myself after last year that I wouldn’t come back and do it. But at the same time, I get to live this incredible life, I have an incredible family and an incredible support network, sponsors.“I still knew in the back of my mind I had one more in me and I’m so glad I was able to win this one.”Day led by 70 seconds coming into the final run leg and Bevilacqua looked to be finishing the stronger but the undisputed champion was too strong.The Coolangatta Gold has a new female champion with 24-year-old Electra Outram from Sunshine Beach claiming her first major title.Before taking part in his final event, Day was inducted into the Surf Life Saving Australia Hall of Fame, recognising his extraordinary career defined by excellence, resilience, and contribution to the surf life saving movement.Ali crosses the finish line. Photo: Surf Life Saving AustraliaHis career accolades include:10x Coolangatta Gold Champion (a record unmatched in history)5x Nutri-Grain Ironman Series Champion with 22 race wins4x Australian Ironman ChampionWorld Ironman Champion4x Queensland Open Ironman ChampionAustralian and state representative“You never start your career to get awards or have this recognition, you want to make the Iron Series, I wanted to win the Gold, you want to be a professional and get the most out of yourself for as long as you could,” Day said.“I’ve been in the sport since I was eight years, and a professional for 17 years so it’s really special for me, but it’s more special for my circle – my kids, my parents, Kel, my coaches, the clubs and people who have made my career what it is.”Surf Life Saving Australia CEO Adam Weir said Day “represents everything that Surf Life Saving stands for – courage, commitment, and community.“His record speaks for itself, but it’s his integrity and passion for giving back that truly set him apart.“Ali’s induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a champion who has inspired generations on and off the beach.”

Former Gerringong junior Tyran Wishart has signed a long-term deal with Perth, joining Melbourne Storm teammate Nick Meaney in committing their future to the club from 2027 onwards.Wishart has signed a five-year deal while Meaney has linked with the Bears for three years.An energetic utility player, Wishart has played 84 NRL games for the Storm since his debut in 2022 and has twice represented the Australia Prime Minister’s XIII.The 26-year-old, whose father Rod was an Illawarra Steelers legend, was awarded the Storm’s Rookie of the Year award in 2022 and has scored 21 tries for the club.“I’m really excited about the challenge of being a part of a new team and creating a legacy for the Perth Bears, as well as representing the past players and fans of the Bears and Reds franchises,” Wishart said. "I see this is an opportunity to continue to evolve my game and be a part of something special for the NRL and sport in our country.“There is already so much buzz about the Perth Bears and I’m excited to have the opportunity to be a part of it.” Meaney, who has scored 62 tries and kicked 351 goals in 159 NRL appearances since his debut with the Knights in 2018, is another handy recruit for Perth coach Mal Meninga. “Tyran and Nick are exceptional players that will bring a wealth of experience and leadership to our club,” he said."I am absolutely thrilled to welcome them to the Perth Bears.“Tyran’s energy and effort across all levels of his game make him a player that others want to play with.“He is highly skilled, tough as nails and will set the standards for us both on and off the field.“Nick provides us with creativity and spark in attack and is also an excellent defender.“He can play multiple positions in the backline, is an exceptional goalkicker and like Tyran will be a leader at our club.“Above all, Tyran and Nick are exceptional people who will help us set the standards for Perth Bears for 2027 and beyond.”

As part of a series looking back at the major moments of 2025, The Bugle is presenting a look back on the stories that mattered on the South Coast over the past 12 months - this article was first published on 11 November.Young surfer Alice Hodgson made history as the first female to win the annual Jones Beach Boardriders surfing competition in its 43-year history.Held at Jones Beach on Saturday, the event - renamed Robbo’s Round last year - began bright and early at 7am, with 64 competitors going head-to-head.“The competition was first introduced in 1983 when our club started, 42 years ago,” said JBB president Hayden Bombaci.“It’s a specialty event. Instead of the usual four surfers per heat battling for waves and the win, this one is one-on-one - the winner progresses through the draw all the way to the final, knockout style.”The conditions were on the smaller side, perfect for the younger groms but trickier for senior competitors.“The smaller, trickier conditions often give an advantage to the younger, more agile groms,” laughed Bombaci. “Plenty of groans from the oldies could be heard!”After a day full of upsets, the final came down to two young surfers - Hodgson and 13-year-old Lennox Lindsay.“It culminated with two groms in the final,” said Bombaci.“Their tenacity to hustle from round one all the way through was awesome. Both competed with smiles on their faces, inspiring even younger competitors. Dreams start small and local.”Bombaci said the reaction to Hodgson’s win was incredible.“Everyone lost it,” he said. “She took down some huge names and was on a rampage through the draw."I think this victory was a real coming-of-age moment - her introduction to stamping her dominance in the area and the sport. No one sees the hours of effort she puts in - they just see the result.“She personifies the JBB spirit. As a club, we love her. All our girls are ripping and super supportive of each other. There’s a crew of girls who don’t even surf but come down every event to cheer them on."They ran down the beach and met her at the water’s edge, giving her the ultimate surfing honour - being chaired up the beach.”The event received strong community support, including professional judging from Surfing NSW, a $50 voucher from real estate agent Aimee Longbottom for the highest heat total, bread rolls donated by Breadrocks Shell Cove, and meat from Superior Meats in Shellharbour.“A huge $2000 was donated by Daniel Mikosic from Multiquip, and a brand-new custom surfboard was donated by Matt Thompson from Indumech through Zink Kiama,” added Bombaci.“You can see there’s plenty of community backing, which is incredible. Every cent we generate comes from members, sponsors, and grants.”It wasn’t just about donations - the event brought the whole community together.“We had members and non-members hanging out. One of the neighbours we checked in on because of the noise had actually set up on the deck with friends, enjoying the music and hilarious commentary,” said Bombaci.“The community are absolute legends and the reason we love our little spot. In this crazy world, it’s cool to provide a safe place for all walks of life to hang out. There’s a real sense of belonging.”This year marked the second under the event’s new name, Robbo’s Round, renamed from Man on Man in honour of community member Pete Robinson. The idea came from JBB life member Grant Mason.“Pete Robinson lived in the house next to where we hold the events most of the time at North Jones,” Bombaci explained. “He’d often come and say hello - we used his power and water, not to mention the hooter, for years.“Pete’s wife Karen still lives there, and the family remains very supportive. Pete’s son Ben earned a wildcard invite this year. Unfortunately, Pete has since passed away, so we fondly call it Robbo’s Round in loving memory of him - and all our members and community who we’ve lost.”Looking ahead, Bombaci said the future of JBB and the event is bright.“We’ve got great surfers coming through and older members returning because it’s a place of belonging,” he said.“Robbo’s Round is a unique event and certainly my favourite. It’s always a great day - no second chances, no making it up next month. The best surfer on the day wins it all.”

As part of a series looking back at the major moments of 2025, The Bugle is presenting a look back on the stories that mattered on the South Coast over the past 12 months - this article was first published on 12 NovemberGerringong 82-year-old John Le Carpentier, or “Chippy” as he is known around town, defied Father Time yet again at a gruelling event at University of Wollongong’s recent Illawarra Fitness Festival.Despite his age, Chippy braved the Team Race category alongside 21-year-old University of Wollongong College graduate Cohen Harms and student Max Ferri.His contribution included a 700m run and 700m on the rowing machine, followed by another 700m run before finishing with 140m of a farmer’s carry with two 10kg weights.While he found the weighted exercises breezy, the competitive and intensive nature of running was the event’s most taxing aspect.“I'm quite capable of going out tomorrow and walking 40 or 50km, that would never bother me. But running is a different thing,” he said.Chippy is no stranger to fitness challenges - he has previously been involved in a 12-hour Lifeline walk and the 1000km Oxfam Trailwalker with his family.He also attends spin classes twice a week, takes daily 6km walks and frequently orienteers, also logging a fitness activity for every single day of September as part of Million Moves’ campaign to popularise physical exercise.To train for the Hyrox event at the uni, Chippy called upon his instructor Korin Koutsomihalis and UOW College fitness student Daniel Fleming, both of whom work at Soul Fit Co.“Doing exercise with other people is motivating as opposed to just doing it on your own, because you can always find an excuse to [avoid] it.“But when you do it as a group, you feel obligated to turn up and do it, and you kind of bounce off each other,” Chippy said.He has no intentions of slowing down, with a trip to Japan on the horizon that includes a seven-day mountain hike.“My thing with keeping fit is not about the length of life, but the quality of life,” said Chippy.“So it's kind of advantageous - you spend less time getting treated by doctors because you're healthier.”

By David Graham It is not often you meet up with a tennis player who has a family connection with greatness. That's the case with Julia Szulerowski.Julia and Ralph lived and worked in Boston and later Dallas Texas. The Szulerowskis returned to Australia in 2007 and later made their home in Kiama.After retiring in 2015 the pair joined the Kiama Tennis Club and started playing social tennis at the Blowhole courts.Julia's great grandfather was William Cecil Marshall, who was an amateur tennis player who reached the first Wimbledon Men's singles final in 1877. He was an architect designing private houses and many university buildings in Cambridge, England as well as a university building in Dublin. William went on to design tennis courts in Cambridge and London. The first Wimbledon had a field of 22 players. A small crowd of about 20 dressed formally, paid one shilling to watch the match standing as there were no seats. A far cry from the modern-day Wimbledon. Marshall was a defensive player and was no match against the aggression of Spencer Gore, who won the match 6-1 6-2 6-4 in 48 minutes. Julia believes that funds raised from the match were put towards a much-needed grasscourt heavy roller.William was also an amateur artist, naturalist and keen ice skater.Whilst Ralph did start playing a little tennis back in his high school days at Wollongong High School, he really took the game on after joining the Kiama Tennis Club in 2020. Julia and Ralph began social tennis, finding it was a great way to exercise during the Covid pandemic. Ralph won the KTC B Grade mixed doubles in 2023 and 2024 with Helga Pimm, and has had a number of successes at the Kiama Vets and Legends tournament held each November.Julia continues to enjoy her tennis, playing social matches each Tuesday and Thursday, as well as competing in triathlons and walking.

In 2025, the Kiama LGA enjoyed one of the most memorable sporting years in recent history. The year delivered three top-grade grand final victories, four lower-grade premierships, four local NRL debuts, an 11th Coolangatta Gold triumph, and a young surfer winning two major qualifying series events.Rugby league and rugby unionThe year began with outstanding success across both rugby league and rugby union. Kiama sides reached grand finals in reserve and first grade in both codes. While reserve grade narrowly missed premiership success, first grade claimed the titles across both competitions.Kiama Rugby’s clash against Shoalhaven was decided in dramatic fashion. A sideline conversion after the siren from young gun Tom Baker sealed a one-point victory, ending a 22-year premiership drought and delivering the Illawarra District Rugby Union title.Meanwhile, in Group 7 rugby league, the Kiama Knights produced one of the most courageous performances in club history. Repeatedly defending their line against the Shellharbour Sharks, the Knights secured a gritty 16-4 grand final win, capping off a remarkable turnaround after winning just three games in 2024.NRL and elite pathwaysAt the elite level, a remarkable eight Gerringong Lions juniors featured in the NRL in 2025, including four debutants. Dylan Egan, Hamish Stewart and Hayden Buchanan represented the Dragons for the first time, while Ashton Ward debuted for the Rabbitohs. They joined Reuben Garrick, Jackson Ford, Tyran Wishart and Kyle McCarthy as Lions products playing at the game’s highest level.Kiama junior Maria Paseka also starred for St George Illawarra, featuring prominently in the NRLW competition throughout the season.Local club successKiama Hockey Club enjoyed an exceptional year, with four women’s teams reaching grand finals across second, third, fourth and fifth grade. Fourth and fifth grade went on to claim premierships, capping off a strong season for the club.Women’s soccer also flourished, with three local teams claiming premierships:The undefeated Kiama Quarriers All Age Division 1 sideThe undefeated Jamberoo Ravens Over 40s teamThe Gerringong Breakers All Age Division 3 teamTogether, they rounded out a standout year for women’s sport across the LGA.Surfing and endurance sportRising surfing star Lucy Darragh capped off a remarkable year by claiming bronze in the Under 16 female division at the ISA World Junior Championships. Her 2025 campaign included victories at the Nias Pro and the Taiwan Open, propelling her to number one on the Oceania Qualifying Series rankings.Former Kiama nipper Ali Day further cemented his legendary status by winning a record-breaking 11th Coolangatta Gold - an achievement unmatched in the event’s history. He also announced his retirement in a career that includes an extraordinary résumé: five Nutri-Grain Ironman Series titles, four Australian Ironman Championships, one World Ironman Championship, and four Queensland Open Ironman Championships.AFL and other highlightsIn Aussie Rules action, although Kiama Power narrowly missed finals across all grades, the club recorded a significant year of progress. Highlights included the club’s first all-grade clean sweep in six years and four players selected in the AFL South Coast Teams of the Year.Additional highlights from 2025 included:Former NRL stars Junior Amone (rugby) and Zac Lomax (cricket) lining up for Kiama teamsKiama bodyboarder Sophie Leathers winning the inaugural female division of the Shark Island Challenge13-year-old Lennox Lindsay claiming the Under 14 Australian Junior Surfing ChampionshipOverall, 2025 delivered extraordinary success for sport across the Kiama LGA, for both men and women. With clubs chasing back-to-back titles, locals competing at elite levels, and emerging juniors making their mark, 2026 promises to be even bigger.

For Arnie Delaite, sport has been a defining part of his life since high school days in the United States.Growing up in the cold northern-eastern state of Maine, Delaite first discovered his passion for athletics in his sophomore year, encouraged by friends who were strong competitors themselves.“I started running quarter miles and half miles, and I just got better and better,” the 82-year-old said.Arnie's article in Maine US newspaper.His talent quickly became clear, breaking multiple school records in running events, discus and javelin.His success continued when he attended the University of Maine, where he chose to pursue athletics over basketball - despite having captained his high school team.It was a decision that paid off.“In my first year at university, I broke the school record,” Delaite recalled. “That was a real highlight for me.”Now living in Kiama, Delaite is competing at an impressive level.He recently travelled to Canberra to compete in Masters athletics, entering six events and bringing home six medals.Arnie's six medals from masters athletics.“I was pretty happy with that,” he said with a laugh.When reflecting on his decades-long involvement in sport, Delaite says athletics remain his favourite.“Looking back, athletics is probably my favourite sport. I’m really enjoying it at the moment.”His advice for young athletics is simple but meaningful: “Just stick with it. "Keep working at it and you'll be surprised at what you can achieve.”From breaking records in Maine to winning medals on Australia tracks, Delaite's journey is a testament to lifelong dedication - and the joy of continuing to do what you love.

Oak Flats have emerged as surprise ladder leaders in the South Coast Cricket T20 competition after thumping the Kookas at Oakleigh Park on Saturday.After their match against Lake at Howard Fowles Oval was washed out, they beat the Kookas by 34 runs to ensure top spot heading into the Christmas-New Year break.Shellharbour are hot on their heels after beating the Kookas and Albion Park while Lake trounced Kiama after the pitch dried out later in the afternoon.Oak Flats posted 9-130 with allrounder Zaied Bin Khalid smacking 50 off 33 balls with four boundaries and two sixes, following on from captain Jack Bennett’s 33 at the top of the order.Josh Cuthbert bagged 4-25 for the home side but apart from 34 from veteran opener Anthony Dragovic, the Kookas were never in the hunt in the run-chase to finish well short.Bin Khalid completed a superb display with 2-5 from three overs as young seamer Sam Huetter (2-12), spinner Lucas Dell’Orefice (2-3) and Shuhel Hussain (2-21) also tore through the opposition.Shellharbour restricted Kookas to 9-102 in the earlier game at the same venue and then blasted their way to the target in just 9.4 overs with Ned Taylor (49) and Daniel Smith (41) unbeaten in the nine-wicket cakewalk.Harbour then relocated to Keith Grey Oval where they just managed to do enough to topple Albion Park in a two-run thriller.Taylor (48), Jacob Coleman (33) and Matthew Klaczkiewicz (35 not out) wielded the willow as the visitors amassed 6-152 with Aiden and Keegan Campion snaring a couple of wickets apiece.The Eagles got off to a strong start via openers Will Schofield (42) and Keegan Campion’s 44 but just fell short of their victory target in a nail-biting finish.Lake captain Kerrod White top-scored with 54 as they put 5-155 on the board against Kiama and after Adam Ison and David Coleman fell to Jake O’Connell from the first two balls of their innings, the Cavaliers were always on the back foot, responding with 7-82.The two-day combined competition with Shoalhaven resumes on Saturday, 10 January with the South Coast T20 comp final round the following Friday.Ladder: Rats 14, Harbour 13, Lake 12, Kiama 10, Kookas 5, Park 4.

The 2025 senior spring basketball season came to a close two weeks ago with an exciting grand final series that featured both a nail-biter and a major upset.Participation numbers across Kiama Basketball were strong throughout 2025, with both junior and senior competitions filled to capacity. The senior competition featured five women’s teams and 10 men’s teams, highlighting the continued growth of the sport locally.The women’s grand final saw Autumn Competition champions Timms Roofing face competition newcomers The Dolphins.“After a slow-scoring first half, both teams came out firing in the second half, and the scores were within two points with three minutes to go,” said South Coast Leisure Basketball Association secretary Michael Bailey.“Timms Roofing held on to take the win and become back-to-back champions, claiming both the Autumn and Spring Competition titles in 2025.”In the men’s grand final, undefeated minor premiers The Brakers faced first-time grand finalists Surf Camp Spurs.“An epic tussle ensued, with the teams trading baskets for the entire game. The contest came down to the wire, with Surf Camp Spurs getting over the line in an upset win,” Bailey said.The loss marked The Brakers’ second grand final defeat of the year, despite remaining undefeated throughout the rest of the competition.The premiership-winning Surf Camp Spurs Kiama Basketball team. Photo: Kiama BasketballThe thrilling grand finals capped off a highly successful year for Kiama Basketball, particularly at the representative level.“The Masters Men’s team won the Barrengarry (Southern Region) Men’s Open competition - not bad for an over-35s side competing against much younger opposition,” Bailey said.“Our juniors were also extremely successful in the Barrengarry competitions, with Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 boys teams, along with the Under 14 girls team, all enjoying strong seasons and bringing home a bag full of medals. "Our Under 12s were also runners-up at the John Martin NSW Country Tournament.”Following the Illawarra Hawks’ premiership-winning season, which culminated in early 2025, basketball participation surged across the region, and Kiama Basketball has capitalised on the momentum.“We have been working hard to develop pathways for progression from junior to senior basketball, and from social player to representative level, while embracing new technology and programs to enhance the overall experience for our participants,” Bailey said.“The junior and senior committees have worked tirelessly, and our commitment to developing new officials continues through referee development programs and the encouragement of junior referees.”Bailey said 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger, with expansion planned across all competitions.“We are looking to expand our girls’ and women’s competitions - girls will play on Monday afternoons and women on Wednesday nights. "Our inclusion programs will continue to support participants competing in both local and representative competitions,” he said.“We are also planning to expand the senior competition to accommodate up to three additional teams. Our representative pathways will be further strengthened, with juniors already in training for the rep season starting at the end of January. "The senior program will also expand to include men’s and women’s open and youth teams.”

As part of a series looking back at the major moments of 2025, The Bugle is presenting a look back on the stories that mattered on the South Coast over the past 12 months - this article was first published on 28 SeptemberIt took Shellharbour Sharks 56 minutes to finally break through the Kiama defence in the Group 7 Grand Final at Centenary Park over the weekend - but by then, the Knights had already laid the foundations for a famous win.Coming into the game, both sides were evenly matched. Kiama had beaten Shellharbour just two weeks earlier to qualify for the grand final, while the Sharks entered as minor premiers, playing in their third straight decider.Not much could separate the two teams in the opening 20 minutes, with both being held up over the line in a tense, physical start.A turning point came in the 15th minute when Shellharbour were awarded a penalty - and five-eighth Sam Hooper got into a scuffle with Sharks captain Jayden Morgan. Both were sent to the sin bin, and from there, Shellharbour began to assert dominance. The Sharks earned five consecutive repeat sets on Kiama’s line, but the Knights’ scramble defence continued to hold firm.There always seemed to be another red-and-white jersey to save the day.Both sin-binned players returned as Kiama worked their way back into the game. In the 28th minute, a towering bomb from halfback Cameron Vazzoler was dropped by Shellharbour fullback Jacob Seabrook and pounced on by second-rower Tom Angel, who scored the opening try of the day.The score remained 6-0 at halftime.Rain began to fall early in the second half, and play became scrappy, with both teams guilty of handling errors. In the 55th minute, Kiama winger Callan Thistlewaite dropped the ball coming off his own line, giving Shellharbour another golden opportunity.Two plays later, the Sharks finally cracked the line, with a floating cut-out pass from halfback Braxton Wallace finding winger Jye Brooker, who dived over in the corner. Wallace missed the conversion, leaving Kiama clinging to a two-point lead.Shellharbour looked to be building momentum, but a brilliant 40/20 from fullback Brad Kilmore flipped the script. Moments later, Angel crossed for his second try, off a perfect short ball from Vazzoler. Kiama extended their lead to six with just over 15 minutes remaining.The next 10 minutes were pure desperation, with the Knights making three errors in a row coming out of their own end.But once again, their defence stood tall, repelling wave after wave of Shellharbour attack.Their resilience was rewarded in the 72nd minute. Under pressure, the Sharks ran the ball on the last tackle and began throwing it around. A wild sequence saw the ball travel 10 metres backwards, then another 20 metres back again. Thistlewaite chased a loose grubber and grounded it, scoring Kiama’s third try to seal the game - and the Group 7 premiership.Angel was awarded Player of the Match in a performance full of heart, though it could have gone to any number of Knights players.Kilmore paid tribute to his teammates’ spirit:“I don’t think we played as well as we could have. We made way too many errors, but our response to those mistakes was what mattered. No matter who dropped the ball or gave away a penalty, we all stuck together, got around each other, and defended for our teammates.”Kilmore said the team’s bond was the key to their premiership success.“The club really went to another level this year thanks to the coaches, community members, and support staff. They’ve made the club a joy to be part of, and that creates the perfect environment for us to come together - not just as teammates, but as mates.”Kiama couldn’t replicate the result in the reserve grade final, going down 22-16 to the Stingrays of Shellharbour.Earlier in the day, Berry defeated the Gerringong Lions 34-12 in the Under 18s.

This week's edition of The Bugle is full of local news and views from our South Coast community.Our lead story is how Kiama Council is planning to cope with the extra parking burden caused by upcoming construction work and there is also a feature on the Sam Matters Cup golf day at Gerringong.READ THE DIGITAL EDITION HEREMore than 100 people braved rain and lightning to participate in the charity event at Gerringong Golf Club.The annual event raises awareness of suicide prevention, in honour of 18-year-old Sam who took his own life five years ago.Each year those in the tight-knit Gerringong community turn out to remember the “loveable, cheeky, beautiful boy” who had “every reason to live”. And each year they are prepared for a downpour.You can also read plenty of great community stories, including an update on the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival, a crackdown on e-bike problems by local police and a local resident making Christmas treasures with meaning.Kiama Golf Club member Jane Wall has combined her two passions, golf and craft to capture the spirit of Christmas. And those lucky enough to know her are likely to have a Christmas Wall Ball on their mantelpiece or window sill.In sport, you can read about all the latest in South Coast cricket, NRL star Zac Lomax turning out for Kiama and Lucy Darragh's successful trip to the world juniors.Darragh claimed third place in the Under-16 women’s division at the ISA World Junior Surfing Championships last week - a key contribution to Australia securing the Team World Championship for the second year in a row.The championships were held in Punta Rocas, Peru, from December 5-14, with Darragh progressing all the way to the final before narrowly missing first place by just 0.41 points to eventual winner Bailey Turner (USA).

Gerringong’s Lucy Darragh has taken third place in the Under-16 women’s division at the ISA World Junior Surfing Championships last week - a key contribution to Australia securing the Team World Championship for the second year in a row.The championships were held in Punta Rocas, Peru, from December 5-14, with Darragh progressing all the way to the final before narrowly missing first place by just 0.41 points to eventual winner Bailey Turner (USA).Darragh was a standout from the opening round, posting the highest combined heat total of her division across the entire competition with an impressive 15.5. She also recorded the equal-highest single-wave score of the event, earning a 9.00 on her fourth wave in round one.“The waves are absolutely pumping today. You couldn’t really ask for better waves, so really stoked on that,” Darragh told ISA Surf after that first round. “There was a lot of build-up to the first heat, a lot of nerves, so I’m really happy to get that one out of the way. "It’s been such good waves - yesterday and today it’s been six-foot-plus, pumping left and right.From there, Darragh appeared unstoppable, winning every heat until the semi-finals. She said she was thrilled to reach the semis alongside close friend Charli Hately.“I’m so stoked Charli [Hately] got the score in the end,” Darragh said. “It’s so good to see us both get through and yeah, pumped for the semis. I’ve been looking forward to this comp all year.“Travelling with the team, staying with the team - the whole team spirit - you know, doing the ring of fire and tunnel when we go out, it’s been so sick. It’s exceeded my expectations.”In the semi-finals, Darragh faced her first setback, finishing second behind Turner, who would go on to claim gold. The result still secured Darragh a spot in the final, while Hately narrowly missed out after finishing third in her heat.Darragh started the final strongly with a 6.43 on her opening wave but was unable to build on that score as Turner and eventual silver medallist Catalina Zaraquiey found higher-scoring rides.She mounted a late charge with her final wave, scoring a 6.23, but fell just 0.41 points short of Turner, who finished with a combined total of 13.07. Zaraquiey claimed second place with a total of 12.87, leaving Darragh to take the bronze medal.Team Australia after their win. Photo: Pablo FrancoDespite finishing third, Darragh played a significant role in Australia’s overall success, as the team claimed the world title for the second consecutive year.Australia secured four medals at the championships to earn its ninth team gold and 20th team medal overall. The campaign was led by Ocean Lancaster’s gold medal, alongside silver for Milla Coco Brown and bronze medals for Caden Francis and Darragh.Darragh also remains atop the Oceania 2025-26 Women’s Qualifying Series rankings as the season draws to a close.