JULY 2024

Meet Our Contributors

John Groom is president of the Illawarra Ramblers. He has lived for two years in Thirroul and previously 19 years in Stanwell Park. From 38 years book-selling, John retired to the Illawarra, is now on Thirroul Beach most days and walking or riding in the district a few days a week.

Roselin Fisher was ordained in 2006 and accepted a position with the Uniting Church as minister at the Village Chapel, Austinmer in 2009. She has a progressive, inclusive approach and believes science, archaeological discoveries, literary evidence and contemporary issues are not at odds with informed discussion about Christianity. Registered with ‘The Welcome Here Project’, the pet-friendly Church is open the 1st and 3rd Sundays monthly.

Renata Shanahan lives in Stanwell Park with her husband and three children. After having a regular yoga practice, she undertook teacher training to provide classes for the community. Having taught yoga from the iconic CWA Hall for the last six years, Renata now runs and curates The Park Studio in Stanwell Park.

Dr Victoria Beyer graduated from the University of Sydney’s Graduate Medical Program in 2012. She has a Diploma of Child Health and a Family Planning Certificate in sexual and reproductive health. Her areas of interest include paediatrics, women’s health and antenatal care. Victoria is a GP at Bulli Medical Practice.

Thank you!

Big thanks to our amazing community for your generous support during June’s “Our News. Your Voice” campaign! Your contributions to the Local and Independent News Association’s first nationwide fundraiser were a powerful reminder of the importance of local news. Thanks to your generosity, we can continue to invest in quality journalism. Genevieve and Marcus, the editors

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NEXT DEADLINE 17 July August’sfor edition

EDITORS Genevieve Swart, Marcus Craft

CONTACT hello@theillawarraflame.com.au; 0432 612 168; PO Box 248, Helensburgh, 2508. TheIllawarraFlame

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DEADLINE 17 July. Contributions welcome.

COVER The Illawarra Ramblers at Stanwell Tops. Photo: Tyneesha Williams

THE ILLAWARRA FLAME is published by a family business, The Word Bureau, ABN 31 692 723 477

DISCLAIMER: All content and images remain the property of The Illawarra Flame unless otherwise supplied. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission. Views expressed do not reflect those of the publishers.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The publishers acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and their cultural and spiritual connection to this land. Their stories are written in the land and hold great significance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, from the mountains to the sea.

THE ILLAWARRA

KANE DOWNIE

Writers festival comes to Thirroul

By Elizabeth Heffernan of the South Coast Writers Centre

The South Coast Readers and Writers Festival is coming to Thirroul Community Centre and Library on 13-14 July. With a line-up of more than 40 stellar award-winning authors, talented new voices, acclaimed poets, broadcasters and thinkers across 22 sessions, the weekend promises to be filled with captivating stories, thought-provoking discussions, and inspiring conversations.

Ahead of the festival, we sat down with Sarah Clutton, who will be featuring in the session ‘Secrets and Justice’ alongside Suzanne Leal with Meredith Jaffé on Sunday, 14 July. Book your tickets at southcoastwriters.org/festival

What is your latest writing project?

I’m excited to be up to the final edits on a book coming out in May 2025 with Allen & Unwin. The working title is The Remarkable Truth about Alfie Bains but that might well change! The premise is this: When Penny Bains opens the door of her Tasmanian farmhouse to Alfie, a boy with an Irish accent claiming to be her grandson, her life is turned upside down.

With this book, I have moved from domestic suspense into what the industry calls ‘up-lit’ –which basically covers stories that move or inspire, and leave the reader with a satisfying, uplifting and happy ending. This still gives me the opportunity to write suspense, but it also allows a lot more humour to come into the narrative, and that’s what I need at the moment and maybe others do too. Life is hard and sometimes you just want to be entertained in a fun but meaningful way.

Writers who have helped you write?   When I won the Dymocks McIntosh Commercial Fiction Scholarship in 2018 I got to spend a fabulous week in Adelaide for a Masterclass with the indomitable Fiona McIntosh. I was trying to write a new manuscript, and kept getting stuck on structure and narrative tension. I remember Fiona saying something like, ‘picture a staircase… keep the narrative tension going up and up and eventually you’ll have your book.’ That was a really easy picture to keep in my head

The book you are currently reading?   I’ve just read Michael Thompson’s debut, How to be Remembered. I saw him speak at a writers’ festival recently and he talked about resilience and persistence … it was the 43rd agent he sent his manuscript to who loved it. But after that a flurry of publishers bid for it and then another flurry of US filmmakers bid for the screen rights!

The book you reread? Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind. It’s set in 18th-century France and is the story of a serial killer … it’s utterly absorbing.

Concert for Gaza

By Yasmin Rittau

Illawarra Union Singers recently organised a fundraising concert for the people of Gaza. We are moved by the war that is causing catastrophic destruction of the land with widespread death, injuries and displacement of ordinary folk – many

of them children. We sing for peace and social justice and invited several local musicians who also kindly donated their time and talent to the concert. These included Femme Fatales, Singongo, Maurie Mulheron, Andy Ophee, Malika Elizabeth, Paul Spencer and Shalani Thomas.

We had a terrific three hours of music and afternoon tea at Thirroul Railway Institute and raised over $4700 for APHEDA’s Union Aid Abroad Gaza Appeal. People also contributed generously to raffles for a lovely array of donated artistic prizes and for highly sought-after caps.

We were very happy to make a positive contribution to the people of Gaza and to spark an afternoon of music and fun.

Winter is here, but home buyers aren’t hibernating!

With winter's chill settling in, many might think the real estate market is cooling off—but buyers are proving them wrong by staying active and enthusiastic. If you're not quite ready to sell, Julie can offer advice on preparing your property for spring.

When listing with Julie, you can count on someone who has:

Local market knowledge and expertise

Professionalism,

The willingness to go the extra mile

Be Scam Smart: 10 Tips for Tax Time

By Amanda Welsh, Fraud Manager at Horizon Bank

Navigating tax season can be daunting but throw in the increasing threat of tax scams and it’s even trickier. These 10 practical tips to identify phishing emails & reporting suspicious activity will enable you to safeguard your identity and prevent any financial losses during this upcoming tax season.

1. Beware of phishing emails: Phishing emails are sent by scammers, in this instance they will be pretending to be from myGov or other related government agencies. Often phishing emails ask for you to provide personal information & other sensitive details such as your myGov username and password.

2. Verify email sources: Double check the sender’s email address. Typically, any official emails from myGov will come from addresses ending in @my.gov.au

3. Avoid clicking on links: Instead of clicking links, you’re best to manually type in the myGov website address to your browser to access your account.

4. Watch for urgency or threats: Always be sceptical of emails that claim your myGov account could be suspended or you may face penalties if you don’t respond to the email promptly. The same goes for offers of refunds or overpayments.

5. Never share personal information:  Government agencies will never ask you to provide personal information via email.

6. Report suspicious emails: It’s important that if you receive any suspicious emails claiming to be from myGov or other government agencies, you report them to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) or even the myGov help desk.

7. Use two-factor authentication: Enable two-factor authentication if possible (2FA). By adding 2FA you add an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password when logging in, such as a code sent to your mobile phone.

8. Stay informed: Keeping up to date with the latest scam alerts and security advice from the ATO, myGov and any other relevant government agencies.

9. Educate others: Tell your friends, family and colleagues about myGov phishing scams so you can spread awareness.

10. Regularly monitor your accounts:  Keep a close eye on your account activity on your myGov account and linked services such as the ATO, Centrelink, Medicare or Department of Veterans Affairs.

By making sure you’re aware of the risks associated with the myGov phishing emails, and making sure you are proactive in taking measures to protect your account, you’re able to safeguard your personal information and minimise the risk of falling victim to a scam.

For more information on a range of scams, get your free Little Black Book of Scams from any branch of Horizon Bank: Albion Park, Thirroul, Wollongong. Address & contact details on the horizonbank.com.au website.

Scan the QR code for more scam information.

Coledale professor honoured

By Genevieve Swart

Any parent who’s watched their child race off in excitement to play and learn at Early Start Discovery Space will be glad to hear that one of its creators has been honoured for her work.

In June, Professor Lisa Kervin, Director of Research at Early Start at the University of Wollongong, was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for “significant service to tertiary education and to research in early childhood digital literacy” in the King’s Birthday Honours.

“It was a lovely surprise, I feel very, very humbled,” said Lisa, thanking both her amazing colleagues and her family for their support.

“My children have pretty much grown up on the campus. So it’s nice that it’s very much a shared story. I’ve got three young sons, two in high school, one in primary school. They’re quite excited … It’s nice for them to see that there’s some sort of recognition and outcome for the work that I do.”

All three of her boys were raised amid the delights of Early Start, from being involved in research projects to enjoying birthdays on campus.

“My eldest son was one of the babies that was photographed for our original bid for Early Start – he’s now 17. So it’s quite lovely to see the changes over his lifetime in what we’ve been able to achieve through the facility here.”

Lisa was born in Bathurst and worked as a teacher before joining UOW more than 20 years ago. “Working with children has always been part of my life,” she said.

Today she is part of a team of more than 70 researchers and 50 PhD students. “My role is overseeing the Early Start research environment and ensuring that our researchers are supported. A big part of my work is making sure that we’re disseminating research findings, so making sure that families that access Discovery Space, for example, are experiencing best practice.

“Every experience that we offer in the Discovery

Space has a team of researchers working behind it to make sure that what we are promoting through our facility is what we hand-on-heart know is what children need.”

Early Start works collaboratively with community organisations, state and national partners, Lisa said. “Probably the most important part of my work is making sure that people have access to the cutting-edge research that is coming out of Early Start.”

As a researcher, Lisa’s area of interest is children’s literacy development – how they play and make sense of their world. “We have a space in the Early Start building, which is right alongside the Discovery Space, which is the children’s technology play space. I’m the academic lead of that space and we offer weekly workshops for children and their adults to come and work with us on digital technologies.”

As someone who grew up in a time before the internet (“my own children cannot believe that I didn’t get an email address until I was at university”), Lisa has seen the concept of play change hugely. “But there’s some fundamentals that are still there. It’s fun and it’s child-led.

“One of the things that gives me the greatest delight is seeing so many children and their families come to visit us on campus each day.”

This is especially rewarding, Lisa said, as UOW data shows that one-third of those visitors have never been on a university campus before.

“The work that I’ve always been really passionate about is community-facing work. So to have a space where children and families, who may not have previously seen themselves as part of a university community, firmly established in our university is important.

“That’s what gives me my biggest smile each day, is seeing children grow up on our campus – as my own children have done.”

Lisa’s eldest son is now in year 12. “Who knows what’s on the horizon,” she said. “But he did do one of the master classes last summer here on campus in our science and medicine faculty.

“We have a little joke in Early Start that we are looking after student recruitment for about 2036 onwards.”

At the end of a day’s work, it’s always a joy to come home to Coledale. “There’s nothing like the feeling of, when you drive through Austinmer, you just start breathing differently because you’re almost home. There’s space around, the sound of the ocean, the friendliness of the neighbourhood.

“It’s a really great place.”

Prof Lisa Kervin AM.

Photo: UOW

Room to move at The Park Studio

By Renata Shanahan

I have been teaching yoga out of the iconic Stanwell Park CWA for the past six years but have longed to find a space for a dedicated studio. My friend Britta was moving her shop, The Unlikely Item, a mainstay alongside John and Frances Vander’s Articles Fine Art Gallery for the past few years, and so it seemed, the planets had aligned. It was the beautiful light and warmth of shop no. 4/111 Lawrence Hargrave Drive that sparked my interest in yoga classes here, so with a new coat of paint, lighting upgrades and a new floor, The Park Studio is now up and running.

I took on my teacher training and began teaching yoga when, as a mother, I found it hard to find time to fit in studio visits due to the add-on of travel time north or south to a class. My inspiration was to offer classes ‘down the road’ for the local community. The benefits of yoga have been life-changing for me, not only the physical strengthening and lengthening of muscles and structural alignment, but also the breath work and meditation to calm the mind and deepen awareness and connection to self and others.

The Park Studio will grow its weekly timetable over the next few months to offer classes most mornings, evenings and times in between. There will be classes for all levels of experience and I have found an incredible group of local teachers to give a mix of classes, from Dynamic Vinyasa classes to Gentle/Chill Yoga, Hatha and Yin sessions, suitable for beginners and experienced yoga students alike. Keep an eye out also for yoga and meditation workshops, sound baths, and other special creative experiences.

The Park Studio will be having a launch day in July. Visit the website to find out more. We look forward to welcoming you in.

Follow @theparkstudio_stanwellpark on Instagram and visit theparkstudio.com.au

Free space for community activities

By Roselin Fisher of Austinmer Uniting Church

Austinmer Uniting Church is a heritage-listed chapel in the heart of Austinmer and is a great space for local community groups to use for regular or special events.

The facility includes the Chapel, annex, kitchen and disabled access. The Chapel offers wonderful acoustics for musical performance or practice. The Chapel also has a grand piano and electronic organ available for use. The annex is an ideal space for small exhibitions or group meetings and activities.

Since 2014 Classics in the Chapel has showcased professional musicians and gifted young people seeking to gain performance experience. Solo musicians, singers, trios, ensembles, and HSC and Wollongong Conservatorium students have performed in our acoustically exquisite Chapel. “A hundred years on, the acoustics in Austinmer Uniting Church still ring true.” (Mercury 17/04/2023)

In 2021 the community rallied behind the church, helping to raise funds to upgrade crumbling piers under the church, ensuring this beautiful Chapel will be in the community for years to come.

There is no hiring fee for not-for-profit use and Public Liability insurance will be provided. For for-profit enterprises, a nominal charge can be negotiated when Public Liability insurance is shown to be current.

Austinmer Uniting Church stands solidly with our community to benefit and enrich the lives of people who live in our area. We welcome the community to take advantage of our facilities in the heart of Austinmer.

Enquiries: austinmeruca@gmail.com. Mobile: 0411 612 076

Explore Austinmer’s Gibson Track

An edited extract from Geoff Whale’s new guide, Northern Illawarra Beachwalks

DISTANCE 2.5km to 4km, climb 80m

DIFFICULTY Easy to Moderate

SUMMARY Magnificent temperate rainforest walk, mostly flat, extending a historic route.

HAZARDS Bike riders; leeches when wet

TRANSPORT Park in Foothills Rd, Austinmer, or take the steep Asquith Rd from Austinmer Station. Adds 2km and doubles the climb.

From the eastern end of Foothills Road walk diagonally up the 4wd track to the common trackhead for the Gibson and Sublime Point tracks (SP is currently closed). Start climbing through a rainforest cathedral with cabbage palms and abundant echoing birdlife. Although steep, the path is firm with new sandstone steps courtesy of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

After 200m turn left at the sign . The track narrows and flattens out. Cross a couple of small streams (with care), and the more substantial Flanagans Creek, which eventually flows into north Thirroul Beach.

Soon after pass a rusty sign on the right marking the lower end of the permanently closed Bulli Lookout Track, then work your way around a muddy patch to a large clearing . You’ll emerge here on the return leg. Beyond the clearing you come to a junction (1.3km) where the official Gibson Track becomes a management trail.

Options are A: follow Gibson down and exit at Foothills Rd (total walk 2.5km), or B (3km): walk down to , turn left to loop back up to the clearing and return. Best of all is C (4km): take the right-hand fork, part of an unofficial track network where you may encounter mountain bikers. Just be aware of your surroundings at all times and be prepared to share the path.

After another minor creek crossing the track veers right and uphill, emerging at a power line management track . Find the footpad heading slightly left (not the wide powerline route, that’s unsafe). Again in the forest you cross yet another creek, then soon after reach a junction left . This path descends through open forest, parallels the creek (now a deep gully) and narrows. At the lower end turn left at a wider and weedier track Cross the power line, turn left at the main fire trail, and head uphill past the Gibson Track gate to the 4-way junction

You could veer left up the official Gibson, but narrow paths on forest slopes are more inviting. Scramble up past the large tree ahead to pick up a minor footpad that ends at the clearing . Turn right, skirt the clearing to rejoin and retrace the main route.

Buy the booklet at bcw.grwpub.info

Learn to sew Boomerang bags

By Keiraville CWA’s Marion Cook

Each month at Thirroul and Corrimal libraries, the Keiraville Country Women’s Association (CWA) runs Boomerang bag sewing classes.

Boomerang Bags is about connecting communities, making bags, diverting waste, starting conversations, fostering sustainable behaviour, and having a bit of fun!

Boomerang bags are made from upcycled material and fabric. Run by the CWA and no experience needed, all sewing machines and materials are provided. We have provided bags for Flame Tree Organics Thirroul, Bulli Public School, Green Connect op shop and Bulli Community Centre.

Participants get to make Boomerang Bags for themselves and for the community.

The classes are run free of charge and have included homeschooled children and youngsters on school holidays. We have also taught a couple of young ladies how to iron during the process!

We now have a few regular ladies who have made friendships and enjoy time together whilst helping us with making the bags.

Classes are free, but bookings are essential as machines are limited. Book via Eventbrite.

• Corrimal Library, 3rd Monday of the month, 2.30-4.30pm

• Thirroul Library, 1st Monday of the month, 2.30-4.30pm

Apart from Boomerang Bags we also have a number of ladies amongst the branch and outside who sew for the hospitals, making bags for syringe drivers and for holding breast cancer drainage bags. Busy ladies at Keiraville CWA.

Art and travel with CWA

By Jan Johnston of Stanwell Park CWA

In May we planned a visit to Hazelhurst Gallery in Gymea. There is always lots to see and we were lucky to have on display an exhibition, Ukraine Guernica, by Australian artist George Gittoes.

We viewed the powerful artwork dealing with the effects of the Ukraine war.

We also watched a documentary film on the impact of the war on local residents and the artists’ creativity in painting murals on destroyed buildings in an act of solidarity with the Ukraine people.

It was a unique perspective and we left with a feeling that the nightly news provided a sanitised version of the conflict. The footage we viewed and the disturbing artwork showed us how ordinary people were impacted on a daily basis and the physical harm and fear they endured.

After such a moving experience, we were glad to chat over lunch in the warm and light-filled cafe

attached to the gallery. It will be worth another visit as we missed seeing the local artwork due to the exhibition capturing our attention.

Also in May, the 2024 CWA Annual State Conference was held in Coffs Harbour and coincided with the Bellingen Agricultural Show and a Coffs Harbour Art and Craft Show. There was so much to see and do that our conference attendee thoroughly recommends a visit to this part of the world in the month of May. The artworks which Stanwell Park CWA submitted once again won awards and we congratulate Cathie Milander for her successful entries.

We can be found at the CWA Hall, 15 The Drive Stanwell Park on the first Tuesday of the month 10am. Just turn up or you can send us an email on stanwellparkcwa@gmail.com

Meet Lost & Found Admins

By Oguzhan Dincsoy

Over the past 13 years, Nicole Harrison and Anne McNaughton have helped countless beloved pets from becoming strays via their Lost and Found Pets Illawarra Inc Facebook group. Created in 2011 and with more than 47,000 members, the group runs on volunteer power, with admins Nicole and Anne helped by three moderators, Scott, Janet and Sue. Originally from North East England, Anne migrated to Australia in 1998. Her hobbies all involve animals and she has three Miniature Schnauzer dogs. Nicole grew up in Sydney and spent time in the Illawarra for work before moving here permanently in 2007. Nicole enjoys visiting animal sanctuaries and rescues, loves photography, swimming, fostering kittens and spending time with her family and friends.

Nicole, who recently finished working at an art supplies business, and Anne, a former territory manager, rely on their people and customer service skills from their occupations to administrate.

“I worked for a large distributor of food and beverages that involved a huge amount of customer service and liaison and kept up my problem-

solving and people skills, which are very necessary when dealing with people who are upset and have lost or found pets,” Anne said.

Nicole said: “I had multiple roles, from customer service, warehouse managing [to] packing orders, administration. Due to it being such a varied role, I became adept at multi-tasking and assisting people from all walks of life, which are both large parts of being admin.”

The group provides many services.

“We have an amazing group who work together to reunite, scan, transport and hold lost pets so that they do not end up injured, permanently lost or in pounds,” Nicole said. “One of the biggest challenges I find is people not microchipping their pets, especially outdoor cats.”

They have also branched out into rescuing and rehoming pets. “We have a Lost and Found Rescue page and I also foster small dogs and puppies and cats and kittens,” Anne said.

As the admins, Nicole and Anne spend more than 50 hours a week on various tasks, from monitoring the group to organising transport and care for lost pets.

Anne is motivated to reunite owners and pets, and to prevent pets being held in pounds and their owners’ incurring fines.

“Although I don’t do this for thanks, the obvious relief of the elderly man or lady who are missing their companion, or the family who have lost their beloved pet is a reward in itself,” she said.

Toastmasters salutes new area director

By Vicki Christie of Helensburgh Toastmasters

Toastmasters is a global organisation that supports members to develop public speaking skills, leading to greater self-confidence, personal growth and leadership abilities. And we have a club right here in Helensburgh!

Toastmaster clubs form part of a wider network of areas. The Southern Division extends from Engadine to Wollongong. Wollongong proudly was the first club founded in Australia and celebrates 67 years this August!

This new financial year sees a new Area Director begin in this role – Matthew Derbridge from Helensburgh and UOW clubs. Matthew has been a Toastmaster for 10 years and will oversee the six clubs in this area, under the guidance of the Southern Division Director, Charmaine Bonnard.

Toastmasters provides a safe space to experience public speaking in a relaxed, supportive environment. Each meeting follows an agenda with an opportunity to participate in all roles, including chairing the meeting. It’s an organisation useful for creating connections, making new friends, building a social network and having fun whilst developing leadership and communication skills.

Helensburgh & District TM club meets at the Cupbearer cafe every 2nd and 4th Monday nights at 7pm, either in-person or on zoom. Feel free to contact Vicki on 0408 961 392 for further information. You’ll be most welcome!

Visit www.toastmasters.org/Find-a-Club

Nicole (left) and Anne with her Miniature Schnauzer,

Photo: Karen Wickham

Rates on hold while other world banks cut rates

By Ian Pepper of Ray White Helensburgh

Interest rates remained on hold again on June 18th following the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) meeting. This is despite other countries cutting their rates recently –Sweden, Switzerland, Canada and the European Union have all cut their interest rates. All had inflation issues and therefore raised interest rates to bring it under control, like we did here in Australia. Inflation is now trending down in all these economies, and in ours. The next RBA meeting is on August 5-6.

The local real estate market continues to be strong in most areas and segments. Spring could see a surge in listings as owners perceive it as the best time to sell and this can certainly be the case for some properties.

However, basic economics tells us that any increase in supply without a corresponding increase in demand will lead to pressure on prices. Therefore, please make sure you get the

Time to

grapple

Fabricio Itte is a man with a very particular set of skills: he has a Bachelor of Health Science, holds a Diploma in Sports and Recreation (Fitness) and was part of the coaching staff for the national Olympic freestyle wrestling team from 2007 to 2012.

Five years ago, he moved to Thirroul with his wife and young family; two years ago he opened Portal Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) in that suburb.

“I had other opportunities to move to the US and other cities internationally, but here in the Illawarra, the area seemed to offer everything my young family, my wife, Loretta, and I was looking for. We are so very happy because the communities we work in have been overwhelmingly supportive.”

Fabricio’s co-instructor at Portal BJJ, Eli Hedges, has opened another branch of the business in Port Kembla.

“Many of our gym members attend both gyms at different times and membership includes both studios,” Fabricio said. “We are non-competition focussed generally, but for those wanting competition we can easily cater for them as well.

“My experience and those of my other head instructors, Blake Barden and Eli Hedges, are extensive. We understand how the body works and focus is on fundamentals and fitness for beginners of all ages. We have groups of three- to five-yearolds, five to 10, and 10 to 15, and all ages above.”

Fabricio is keen to acknowledge the benefits of fostering a community within the gym.

“Our instructors are all highly credentialled as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu exponents, but it is the community where we develop and facilitate mentoring amongst the further advanced to foster development in others in which we are really proud.”

He says BJJ appeals to people of all ages, fitness and skill levels.

“We have a wide variety of participants. Tradespeople, police officers, professionals, both sexes, really all walks of life are included and most are just looking for fitness with a self-defence aspect combined.”

Blake Barden – a fireman by trade, born and raised in the Illawarra and current no.1 competitor in the Australian Federation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – leads the development of instruction at Thirroul and Port Kembla. “His personal ability in the sport is beyond compare. Genetically he is strong and he definitely trains well, but he also enables a strong community spirit by his camaraderie and fostering of kindness and understanding for people.

“It is probably a unique combination, but to have both him and Eli Hedges, who is also highly credentialled, working with me in a small gym is definitely unique and very rare. Both inspire others as well as maintaining a rigorous training regime for willing participants.”

BJJ is a sport that allows participants to develop and improve at their own pace, Fabricio says.

“We have had 10 blue belts from the gym, both men and women, of all ages.

“They grapple together, improve skills together and understand each other better. Getting on the floor and grappling can bring you very close to other people, both physically and mentally, and combat and collision sports can offer a whole new perspective on life.”

Fabricio says BJJ practitioners leave their ‘day-life’ outside when they enter Portal.

“There is indeed a juxtaposition of lives in grappling, but every life is left outside the gym, to concentrate on the grappling. The whole process can indeed be very mentally liberating for gym participants.”

For Thirroul and surrounding districts, Portal BJJ offers an inclusive alternative to traditional fitness pursuits and it encourages individual and community wellness.

For more info, visit www.portalbjjthirroul.com or email info@portalbjjthirroul.com

Janice Creenaune is a volunteer for PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease) Foundation Australia. Email janicecreenaune@gmail.com for further information.

Janice Creenaune meets jiu jitsu instructor Fabricio Itte. Photos by Samuel Creenaune

Ask your GP about brain health

By Dr Victoria Beyer of Bulli Medical Practice

22nd July is World Brain Day and this year’s theme is brain health and prevention of brain-related conditions, especially cognitive impairment and dementia.

Over 400,000 Australians live with dementia, and it is the second leading cause of death among Australians.

The question ‘How can I prevent dementia?’ is commonly asked in the consulting room. An estimated 40% of cases of dementia do have modifiable risk factors, (i.e., things we can control to reduce our risk).

Eat well

The Mediterranean Diet is an excellent framework for a healthy, balanced diet that is good for the heart and the brain. It includes: plenty of vegetables; legumes; grains and nuts; fruit; fish and seafood; extra virgin olive oil; poultry and eggs; small portions of red meat; some dairy.

Look after your heart

The same things that help prevent heart disease help to protect your brain. Your GP can assist you

to manage high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and to quit smoking.

Keep socially, mentally and physically active

Social engagement is important. Keep regular contact with your family and friends, join a community group, or consider volunteering. Undertake new and varied challenges for your brain such as puzzles and memory games or trying a new hobby. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days, but any amount of physical activity is beneficial.

Other top tips

Get enough sleep – exercise good sleep hygiene. Manage depression. Take care of your hearing and vision – if you are prescribed hearing aids or glasses, wear them! Avoid head injuries – wear a helmet, avoid trip hazards and use handrails.

At your next visit, ask your GP for personalised advice about taking care of your brain health – it is too precious not to!

Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm Saturday: 8am - 12 noon

Full range of general practice services including women’s and men’s health, child and adolescent health, older adult health and nursing home visits, and specialised clinics including:

y Travel medicine

y Weight management

y Skin cancer checks

74 Park Road, Bulli 4284 4622

Book online* via our website: www.bullimedicalpractice.com.au scan QR code:

*Please call 4284 4622 for an appointment if you have any respiratory symptoms

Enter ‘magic world’ of Eric Avery

By Jeremy Lasek

Internationally recognised First Nations performer Eric Avery knew from a very young age that music would be his life.

“Dad played the didgeridoo at home and when I was about 10, I learnt to play the piano by ear,” Eric said.

At primary school he started singing and when Eric was 12, he picked up the school’s violin and his pathway to a career on stage was set.

“I started formal lessons on the violin when I was 14 and it took a lot of hard work,” Eric said. “I would practise over and over, sometimes up to six hours a day.”

Eric is now recognised worldwide as a unique talent, renowned for his exquisite voice, violin and

dance, and he’ll be bringing his special show to Wollongong on 4 July for NAIDOC Week.

Eric said the Wollongong audience could expect him to “take them to a special place”.

“You can expect atmospherics, ethereal and magic feelings. There will be lots of magic.”

Eric has performed alongside some of the great artists of our time, including Yo-Yo Ma and Tina Arena, and at the Byron Bay Bluesfest, and with the Black Arm Band, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Darwin Symphony Orchestra and Grammy Award-winner Rhiannon Giddens. Notably, he was recognised as a 2020 Myer Creative Fellow, solidifying his role as a cultural ambassador and artistic visionary.

Eric’s artistic journey is a heartfelt homage to his ancestral roots from the Ngiyampaa, Yuin and Gumbangirr people of NSW. Guided by his family’s custodial songs, he revives ancient tradition, infusing his performances with the essence of his people.

Eric’s compositions can best be described as spiritual as he sings, predominantly in Ngiyampaa language, while playing violin.

“I find that my music can change my feelings and change the feelings of those around me, and together we go into a magic world,” Eric said.

Eric will perform at July 4’s Music and Tea at Wollongong Art Gallery. The free show was booked out at press time, but names are welcome for the waiting list. The performance is supported by CultureBank Wollongong.

Hands up for reconciliation in Helensburgh

By Annaye Chisholm of Helensburgh Public School

Helensburgh Public School celebrated Reconciliation Week from May 27 to June 3. This year’s theme was ‘Now More Than Ever’, and every class across the school decorated its doors in accordance with this theme.

Students engaged in rich conversations about the importance of Reconciliation in Australia and actively participated in a range of great activities. These included researching a significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person and creating a related artwork, Indigenous sports games, and Aboriginal education outdoor lessons with our Kitchen Garden teacher, Ms Lewis. We also held a special Reconciliation Week assembly, during which students created a sea of hands in the grass

to symbolise solidarity with First Nations Peoples.

One of our Aboriginal students in Stage 3 proudly showcased his artwork on his classroom door. He shared that “the art was my favourite Reconciliation Week activity because I like drawing.” His pride in his work was inspiring and a testament to the creativity of our students.

Calvin Abdiel piano Cedar Newman violin

NF1 Report

By Neighbourhood Forum 1

convenor Warwick Erwin

Neighbourhood Forum’s submissions to Wollongong City Council for the Draft Budget and Operational Plan, with Council’s responses, were presented at Council’s meeting of 24 June 2024. Below is an extract, edited due to space limitations. Please scan the QR code to read this report in full on the Flame’s website.

Pensioner’s discount on Council rates

This has been $250 for 35 years. It is not a percentage of the Council rates, which go up with CPI rises. Thirty-five years ago the relationship to the rates for home owners was approximately 23%. Today it is less than 11%. The Council can increase the discount and lock it to the CPI.

Extract from WCC Response: “Council and Local Government NSW hold the position the funding of pensioner rebates is a function of other levels of government and have continually called on them to both increase the rebate and fully fund the cost or increase pensions to fund the rates payments that support the provision of Council services.”

Council Rate increase

Council should not increase rates. Many residents believe the northern suburbs pay the highest rates in the Local Government Area and get the lowest response from Council. Residents give Helensburgh Town Centre Plan as an example of a project not carried out correctly from the beginning (e.g. flooding of footpath in Parkes St).

Maintenance of Council’s Infrastructure

Council is requested to increase the maintenance of its infrastructure, including stormwater drainage, road surfaces and buildings.

Engagement and listening to community Council engagement before a project is designed would save mistakes being made due to the lack of local knowledge. The Ridge, Parkes St drainage and retaining walls, Walker St drainage work for the Town Centre Plan works and Helensburgh Community Centre water issues being examples.

Lighting in Lanes

Old night soil lanes are now front roads for houses and some lanes have not received street lighting. Council needs to install LED street lighting.

Lilyvale St to Cemetery Rd, Helensburgh

A long-awaited footpath, which needs to include curb and guttering to match the curb and gutter in

Parkes Street. No curb and gutter means a lack of control of stormwater and erosion because of that lack of stormwater control.

Whitty Road reconstruction

The road has collapsed and the community is concerned about further collapse. This is a bus route for public transport and school buses.

WCC Response: “Whitty Road Embankment is programmed in the Infrastructure Delivery Program to be constructed in 2024-2025. The scope of works has been extended to include the newly damaged areas.”

Otford Community Hall

Engagement yet to be completed before design is defined as promised to NF1 in February 2024 and this project needs to be completed during the 2024-25 financial year. Otford locals have asked for a gable roof running north to south and outward opening glass doors (fire exit requirement).

Replacement Centre and Library

The 2508 community is using a temporary building that is more than 50 years old for a library. The old Community Centre was closed by Council due to health risks after Council had not solved the water issue for over a decade. Promises of a new combined building have been delayed by Council wanting it to be located, against the community’s wishes, in front of the Helensburgh swimming pool. This requires an 18-month development of a Plan of Management for the Crown Lands and a submission to the State Government for a change in the permissible uses so Council can build a facility here. Community expectation, when Council bought the two blocks of land beside the existing library, was that Council would build the new building there. This project needs fast-tracking with engagement with ALL the community.

Council with go into caretaker mode in August, with elections in September. NF1 meeting: Wed, July 10 at Thistle’s Club Room.

Repair works on Helensburgh’s Whitty Road. Photo: Wollongong City Council

VOLUNTEERS HELP BRIGHTEN SOMEONE’S DAY

As part of National Volunteer Week in May, NINA held an appreciation lunch for our fantastic group of volunteers. We celebrated the milestone years of service of our volunteers Bronwyn, Dianne and an amazing 20 years of service from Dennis. We asked a few questions to find out about their time with NINA. If this inspires you, please get in touch as we are always looking for more volunteers.

How did you first find out about volunteering at NINA?

Dianne: I discovered NINA and its reliance on volunteers by seeing the organisation’s shop front. I then enquired about what roles were required to fill. Bronwyn: I had known about NINA for some time and had read about NINA in the Flame magazine (formerly 2508). As I was still working at the time, it was a plan for some time in the future to be able to volunteer.

What made you want to start volunteering?

Dianne: In my past employment I had undertaken roles in disability services and aged persons services. Retirement from paid work meant I then had time to volunteer my assistance to a local community-based organisation. Additionally, I was new to this community and wanted to meet people. Bronwyn: After retiring I was speaking with a friend at the gym who was volunteering for NINA and that got me thinking again … maybe it’s time.

What do you do in your volunteering role?

Dianne: Individual transport.

Bronwyn: Individual Transport, also Group Assistant on the Shopping Trips which involves helping clients on and off the bus, helping store their shopping safely in the bus etc.

What do you get out of your volunteering role?

Dianne: It is a privilege to assist people who are unable to get to their appointments. The clients impart so much local history on these trips, and we always have such great chats. We share stories and

you can feel like you can make a real connection, showing the great level of trust the NINA clients have with the volunteers. Also, assisting clients by providing transport keeps up my driving skills. It makes me feel I am contributing to meet a need.

Bronwyn: I get enjoyment in seeing the elderly being able to retain their independence, being able to move around in the community and surrounds. It is also very satisfying to be able to make sure the clients can keep their appointments if they have no other means of getting to them.

If someone was considering volunteering but was unsure, what insight would you share to convince them to give it a go?

Dianne: Volunteering keeps you in social contact. It adds quality of fulfilment to your life because you are assisting people maintain their social connections, or providing a hello when delivering meals which brightens a person’s day. If assisting on the bus, you will meet amazing people. Vehicle driving keeps your driving skills going. Connecting with others is a basic human need and volunteering provides that opportunity. The training you will receive can either keep you up to date with changes – eg first aid – or give you new skills, eg how to assist others appropriately.

Bronwyn: Give it a go, the people you meet and the conversations you have with the clients are priceless, and you might also require this help at some time.

Affordable Architecture

By Ben Wollen

I recently re-watched a documentary on one of the world’s most famous but under-theradar architects, Louis Kahn. The doco is called My Architect and it charts Louis Kahn’s son uncovering his father’s life. Nathaniel Kahn was only 12 years old when Louis was found dead from a heart attack in the bathrooms of Penn Station, New York. The doco is a good watch – I highly recommend it!

It got me thinking, though, about the state of architecture and the cost of capital ‘A’ Architecture.

Cost phase 1 - capital ‘Q’ for Qualifications

I taught sustainable design at the University of Technology and I always empathised with students just starting out in their careers. It’s a long (five years), arduous (92% of architect students report moderate to high levels of stress) and expensive course (more than $100,000 over a five-year degree). Back when I finished uni, the cost was much less and I’ve only recently paid off my HECS debt. Current Commonwealth-supported students will leave with HECS debts upwards of $70,000 and experience a CPI increase annually of 4.7%. So on a debt of $70,000 and given your first pay is under the payback threshold, in the first year, that debt jumps to $73,290 – for a young architect living and working in Sydney, $3000 makes a big difference!

Cost phase 2 - capital ’W’ for Work

Five years of Uni (most students take six), then two years learning on the job, then about a year for the registration process. With registration comes new

LETTER TO THE EDITOR RE ‘TINY DREAMS’, JUNE 24

responsibilities, more risk, more professional indemnity insurance. Salaries by this time should have gone up from about $65K in today’s dollars up to $85K on average. Most smaller boutique studios where students first cut their teeth have around six staff members. If we multiply this by $85k for a mid-journey architect, that’s about $510K in salaries for a small office. That’s a lot of moula that a small firm needs to charge for its designs!

Cost phase 3 - capital ‘D’ for Design.

Custom homes and buildings don’t come cheap and the No.1 complaint pointed at architects is budget blow-outs. Fine thin edge details, large spans and unconventional forms cost money. The thing is, the better the details, the better chance of winning an award and therefore of getting the better projects with the better budgets.

Cost phase 4 - capital ‘B’ for Build

A builder once told me he could estimate the cost of a building by the weight of the architectural drawings in his hands, i.e. the more details, the more paper, the more tricky details to account for. The issue with many drawing packages is that they’ve been designed in a cosy office, on paper, models and computers. There are no site constraints, cranes, rain, wind, gravity, or health and safety legislation in our 3D programs.

Cost phase 5 - capital ‘M&M’ for Marketing & Maintenance

An architecture studio needs to market its project. That means hiring an architectural photographer and a stylist, turfing the owner out of the house for a day and hoping that they can get photos good enough to win an award or two. For the builder, there’s callbacks to deal with any defects and then waiting on final payment. For the owner there’s maintenance, which can be on a whole new level depending on the building design.

“This is a great article and we love the growing awareness around tiny homes,” writes Blake Walker, director of Tiny Solar Homes. Scan the QR code to read Blake’s answers to some common questions posed in last month’s article.

I think from this little piece, you can get a better idea of the cost of capital ‘A’ Architecture. I’m always amazed at how Architecture even gets built in this day and age of competition for resources and construction cost inflation. I admire the clients seeing through their grand designs. I admire the builders realising the heavy drawing packages. And I admire the architects envisioning amazing spaces. Each building is an optimistic act resulting in a small miracle. As for Louis Kahn, he paid the ultimate cost of capital ‘A’ for Architecture but I think he wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Photo: Tiny Solar Homes

Meet A Trusted Building Inspector

Introducing Craig Brymer of Jim’s Building Inspections

I have 40 years’ experience in the building industry as a qualified tradesman in Bricklaying and Carpentry & Joinery, as well as earning the Building Supervisor’s Clerk of Works Certificate (Cert IV) and Builder’s Licence.

I successfully ran my own construction business for 33 years before seeking a new challenge. Partnering with the renowned Jim’s Group, Australia’s largest building inspection company, felt like the perfect fit.

I offer a comprehensive range of property inspection services in Thirroul and the Illawarra region, including:

• Pre-purchase building and pest inspections

• New construction stage inspections:

• Pre-pour slab

• Frame inspections

• Lock-up and final handover inspections

• Post completion defects reports (3-month maintenance period)

• Dilapidation reports

• Depreciation scheduling reports (tax savings for investment properties)

• Methamphetamine testing and analysis

PARTNER CONTENT

• Asbestos testing and clearance certificates

My services are fully insured, covering Professional indemnity, Public Liability, Workers’ Compensation and a NSW Police Check.

I take pride in using my vast experience to help my clients understand that buying or building a home is not only an investment – it must be safe and meet building standards.

My building inspection reports provide peace of mind, featuring a fast 24-hour turnaround, numerous photos and clear explanations. I also follow up post inspection to discuss the report, ensure clarity and answer any queries.

Please contact Craig on 0417 022 277 thirroul@jimsbuildinginspections.com.au jimsbuildinginspections.com.au (end-of-lease tenancies)

ACCESS PROPERTY CONVEYANCING

Buying or selling a property is a big

At Access Law Group, we believe that choosing a lawyer over a conveyancer is the smartest move you can make for a seamless, worry-free transaction.

Our top 4 reasons to choose a lawyer rather than a conveyancer: Immediate and comprehensive legal advice and services for all of the legal issues that go beyond just the conveyance. Negotiation of specific terms to suit your circumstances, including some you might not even think of needing. Prompt and efficient resolutions to disputes that arise in the conveyance. Consideration of your broader interests, for example estate planning or asset protection issues.

Trust Access Law Group to give you the peace of mind you deserve by providing you with thorough legal advice throughout your property dealings.

Exhibition shows off city’s big things

By Local Studies librarian Jenny McConchie

Towering above the skyline, the smoke stack at Port Kembla was opened in 1965. Measuring 200m in height and weighing 14,000 tons, it is part of the bigger side of our city being celebrated in the Wollongong City Library Living Large exhibition.

Constructed by the Electrolytic Refining & Smelting Company, the chimney was designed to send emissions from the refinery higher up in the atmosphere where winds could disperse pollutants over a wider area.

The company began operations in 1907 and as early as 1945 locals were expressing concerns about the damaging effects that fumes and dust from the smelter were having on their health. This culminated in a two-year health study in 1959 that reported an unusually high incidence of mild bronchitis in the sample group from Port Kembla.

Several projects were undertaken by ER&S to address these concerns, the largest being the smoke

Mondays at U3A

Thanks to Barbara Cranfield of NIU3A

Mondays at U3A are a great way to begin each week. U3A is a community organisation for retired and semi-retired people and anyone interested in its Special Interest Groups which provide social, educational, and physical fitness opportunities. The descriptions of Monday’s five groups were written by their convenors.

Balance’n’Bones: Weekly, 9.30-10.30am or 10.30-11.30am

This holistic exercise program for women and men includes gentle aerobics, conditioning and stretching, balancing, improving posture, and relaxation for mind and body. Participants choose their level of participation and enjoy the company and encouragement of other class members.

stack. Used until the smelter closed in 2003, its fate was sealed when concrete cancer was discovered in the structure. The stack was demolished on 20 February 2014.

You can view the Living Large exhibition in person at Wollongong City Library or online. Or, for a bit of fun try one of the online jigsaw puzzles that have been created from the collection.

Email localhistory@wollongong.nsw.gov.au

Drama: 1st and 3rd Mondays, 11am-12.30pm

The most important aim of our group is to have fun and lots of laughs. We do relaxation, breathing exercises, voice projection, improvisations, and movement exercises. We also prepare monologues and skits for presentation at U3A meetings.

Current Affairs: 1st and 3rd Mondays, 1.30-3pm

We consider the impact of news items for our country and globally. Discussion is free-ranging and inclusive. Each session concludes by considering topics to focus on next time and is followed by a visit to a café.

Drawing and Painting: 2nd and 4th Mondays, 11am-1pm

Beginners and experienced artists welcome. Every session has a theme chosen by members. Themes have included drawing animals, buildings and types of shading. It’s a lovely sociable group.

Australian/Pacific Studies: 2nd and 4th Mondays, 1.30-3pm

We look at a range of topics related to the history and culture of Australia and our near neighbours. At each meeting, two topics are presented by members and by outside speakers. Members can just come along and listen, and enjoy a coffee after the group. A great way to meet new people.

Visit www.northernillawarra.u3a.org.au

Recipe for fun

By Noelle & Roxanne, Helensburgh Girl Guides

On Thursday, May 30th, our Guide team participated in a fun challenge inspired by MasterChef at our Guide hall. The activity involved making a delicious savory Italian Jalousie. We were evenly split into teams and given the recipe. Our task was to read through and memorise the recipe within 10 minutes.

Each team consisted of five Guides. We selected our roles in the cooking process, and then we got to work. The catch? We weren’t allowed to refer to the recipe while cooking. Instead, we had to rely on our memorised instructions.

When our part of the cook was complete, the next Guide on our team would take over, and we had just one minute to brief them on where we were and what they needed to do next.

It was a fun and interesting challenge, requiring us to rely on our memory and teamwork.

Overall, a great experience!

Travels with Probus

By publicity officer Lorraine Jones

The Helensburgh and District Probus Club members had a very happy outing on Wednesday, May 19. More than 40 members went on a Bass and Flinders cruise.

The trip started at the Sans Souci wharf. The boat went up the Georges River as far as Alfords Point. As well as expensive houses lining the banks, there was the odd derelict boat shed. Most of the sheds were well cared for. There were some mangrove trees along the verges of the river. Among the birds on the river were shags diving for fish and then holding out their wings to dry. An excellent morning tea was served. Lunch was a buffet with fish, ham and chicken accompanied by a salad and bread rolls. Wine could be bought to accompany the lunch. The sunny weather promoted happy conversations. It was a very enjoyable trip.

Great outdoors books

With the team at Collins Booksellers Thirroul

A lovely time of year to rug up and take a walk along our beautiful Illawarra trails or enjoy the outdoors vicariously at home with one of the many lovely nature books available in-store. We have great titles on a variety of topics: wild mushrooming, flora, sea life, birding etc. And what events can you look forward to this month? We are enthusiastic supporters of the South Coast Readers and Writers Festival to be held on 13th-14th July at Thirroul Community Centre. We’ll be there enjoying the line-up (one of the perks of being booksellers) as well as selling the accompanying books. Organisers have managed to secure incredible speakers for conversations and panels on an array of topics and genres. Watch out for Collins Booksellers Thirroul co-owner/operator Amanda Isler joining one of the Saturday panels to discuss The Business of Publishing. Will be an amazing weekend to enlighten and inspire!

BOOKSELLERS thirroul

Shop 5/264 Lawrence Hargrave Drive

www.collinsbooksthirroul.com.au

@collinsbooksellersthirroul

collins

Alison Hawley from Fluro Fun N Fitness runs the 2508 Salvos weekly ‘Walk N Talk’ group. Here she is (left) with Belinda and Michelle, discovering beautiful bush trails.

Walking group back on track

News from Helensburgh Salvos

The 2508 Salvos weekly Walk n’ Talk group is back with a difference… there’s no talking! Well, for the first five minutes, anyway! The group starts every walk with five minutes of timed silence. Something that was hard for some walkers to get used to when it was first introduced.

“We ask that people spend the first five minutes of the walk quiet with their own thoughts,” said 2508 Salvos Mission Leader, Lauren Martin. “The suggestion is that they use the time to shake off any worries of the world that they are carrying into this space, and ask God – or their higher power – to show them what it is that they need to talk about that day.”

It’s an idea that Lauren took from a Salvation Army walking church operating in Brisbane.

“When I heard about the use of silence, it really appealed to me,” she said. “So many of us (me included!) spend each day rushing from one thing to the next. To be able to start a new activity with some deliberate quiet time, in prayer or contemplation, is a beautiful gift to self.”

The ‘Walk n Talk’ group was started a few years ago by a 2508 Salvos volunteer and fitness instructor, Alison Hawley, who operates her own personal and group training company, Fluro, Fun N Fitness. She is passionate about sharing the body, mind and soul benefits of exercise.

The group walks for 45 minutes and Alison likes to show people around the bush trails that are hidden just beyond the residential streets of Helensburgh. The group meets at Charles Harper Park Rotunda on Wednesdays. Updates via Helensburgh Salvos on Facebook.

Wild about winter

By Amanda De George

The bite of winter has finally arrived and the lure of an open fireplace and the great indoors can be a little hard to refuse. But what if I told you there are two not-to-be-missed happenings in the animal world right now, and they’re both close to home? Grab your winter woollies and let’s explore.

Superb Lyrebirds’ incredible mating display

Lyrebirds perform their elaborate mating displays between May and August.

The males build mounds formed from freshly scratched earth and will have up to 20 of these throughout their territory. The mounds, about one to two metres in diameter, are the perfect platform to stand on and perform for females.

This is when the impressive tail comes into its own. The males lean forward, inverting the tail over their head while the large curled lyre-shaped feathers stretch out either side. He cycles through the songs of local birds and a series of mechanical clicks and shrieks while moving back and forward, doing his best to impress.

Where: Anywhere in the wet forest areas of our escarpment. Mt Keira Summit Park is a great starting point, as is Sublime Point. For an almost certain sighting, head to Minnamurra Rainforest.

Humpback Northern Migration

About 40,000 humpback whales are moving north to warmer waters to breed and calve. While they can be seen from around May through to August, we are in the peak of the northern migration right now. This means more whales, more chances to see them and so less time you’ll need to spend on a cold blustery headland. Win-win, right?

For big animals, whales can sometimes be difficult to spot, especially in the higher swell winter waters. Spend some time looking for the presence of ocean birds who often take advantage of any fish that whales might displace during feeding. Also keep an eye out for the blow, the misty, snotty exhalation as the whale breathes out.

Where: Fave spots include Bushrangers Bay, Shellharbour to get nice and close and Stanwell Tops for its expansive views.

Saturday

Come

Enjoy

Want

Bird Watch

With Ewan Auld

July’s bird of the month is the Green catbird (Ailuroedus crassirostris), a species commonly found in rainforests from south-east Queensland to south-east New South Wales, including the rainforest areas around the Illawarra escarpment. The Green Catbird is often identified by its wailing, cat-like call, which sounds surprisingly similar to a crying baby and echoes through the forest. These birds primarily feed on fruits and other plant material, and they can regularly be seen foraging in suburban backyards with fruiting trees, where they are sometimes mistaken for female Satin Bowerbirds.

I managed to capture a fleeting photo of this individual foraging high in the canopy along the Phillips Street fire trail in Thirroul before it was hastily chased off by a nearby Pied Currawong. This particular fire trail is a great spot for observing several of our rainforest bird species.

Tree of the Month

By Kieran Tapsell, of Banksia Bushcare

Venturers go hiking

By Paul Rustomji of Austinmer Scout Group

June Long Weekend saw Daniel and Josh lead the First Austinmer Venturer Scouts on a three-day hike in the Blue Mountains, from Victoria Falls to Perrys Lookdown. Getting a fire going in the wet ground conditions tested all 117 years of Scouting experience, but we got there in the end, with some fierce blowing from Josh!

In February the group hiked from Wondabyne railway station – the only station in NSW inaccessible by car – to Woy Woy via Pindar Cave, a massive rock overhang.

In the weeks between, the Venturers did a range of activities including clearing rubbish from Fairy Creek by canoe, having a night out at Vivid, and going to the Banff Film Festival. Austinmer Venturers would also like to thank Energy Australia for awarding us a $1200 grant from their community grants program to buy emergency personal locator beacons and two-way radios to improve safety during activities. Venturer Scouts meet at the Austinmer Scout Hall on Mondays at 7pm during school term, and welcome new members between 14 and 18 years of age.

Try Venturers: phone Martin, 0416 247 613

Archontophoenix cunninghamiana (Bangalow Palm)

Bangalow Palms can be found in colonies along the escarpment, but they are not as common as the Cabbage Tree Palm. That may be because they are generally killed by fire. Cabbage Tree Palms survive fire very well and are one of the first things to sprout green after everything else is turned black. As with the Cabbage Tree Palm, the Aboriginal people ate the Bangalow’s “cabbage”. They grow from Queensland to NSW but are known to survive in gardens as far south as Melbourne. Bangalows have lilac flowers and red fruits visited regularly by bowerbirds, catbirds and many others.

What’s On

More events at theillawarraflame.com.au

South Coast Readers & Writer Festival

13-14 July Thirroul Community Centre & Library, southcoastwriters.org/festival

Free holiday activities at your library

Wed 10 July Winter Movie (ages 5+), 2-3.30pm, Helensburgh Library, bookings essential

Fri 12 July Wooden Sneaky Snakes (ages 5+), 10-11am – Thirroul & Helensburgh Libraries

Thu 18 July Cookies and Canvas: Paint Your Pet (ages 8+), 10-11.30am – Thirroul Library

Fri 19 July Bangle & Twining workshop (ages 12+), 2-2.30pm – Thirroul Library

Upcoming Library Events

Thu, 4 July Justice of the Peace, 10am-1pm at Thirroul Library.

Thur 4 July Parenting Workshop: Sleep and Settling, 10.30am. Thirroul Library, Free.

8-20 July Winter Book Sale. All proceeds go to support the Indigenous Literacy Foundation

Sat 13 July Author Talk with Liv Lorkin (ages 8+).

South Coast Readers & Writers Festival

Sat 13 July Talk with author Helena Fox (ages

Donate old glasses

By Fran Peppernell of Helensburgh Lions

We are now in full swing in planning our annual Helensburgh Fair in Charles Harper Park for Saturday, 26 October. To book a stall, go to Helensburghlions.org.au and complete an application form. To volunteer on the day, email info.helensburghlions@gmail.com.

Lions Recycle for Sight Australia

One of our local Helensburgh projects is to collect used spectacles. We pass these on to Lions Recycle for Sight Australia, who are part of the Lions Clubs International Worldwide Eyeglass Recycling Program. Over the 26 years that the Australian program has operated, it has delivered more than seven million pairs of refurbished quality spectacles to people in need around the world. In the past 10 years, several members of our Marine Branch have been able to use their yachts to reach remote villages and deliver spectacles to them.

If you have some old glasses you no longer need and would like to donate them to this worthy cause you can drop them off in the box at NINA’s office in Walker Street.

12+), 11.30am – Thirroul Library

Mon 15 July French Film Night, Helensburgh Library, free, bookings essential.

Tues 30 July Stories in the Park – Towradgi Beach Park, free. BYO picnic blanket

Free Bulli Hospital Shuttle Bus

Mon-Fri Every 15 mins 6:45am-12noon, resuming 1-4:45pm. Free service for staff, visitors and carers from Bulli Showground to Hospital. Pickup available for Bulli residents, call 0493 066 060.

Barefoot Bowls Fundraiser

Sun, 14 July 10am-3pm at Club Thirroul. $40 includes bowls and a sausage sizzle. All proceeds to helping Gary and Bronwyn Hart of Lachlan St after April’s floods.

Illawarra Police Charity Ball

26 July At UOW, raising funds for MCCI. Tickets $150 via TryBooking.com.

Coledale Waves 30 Year Anniversary Dinner Sat 27 July At Coledale RSL, three-course dinner, 6.30-10pm, tickets $40. Dress code: formal/cocktail.

SPAT is busy, busy

By SPAT president Sonia Westwood

After a fantastic production of Things I Know to Be True, we are not stopping! Our next event is Chansons d’Amour on July 6th presented by the SPAT Singers – a lovely afternoon of song and music followed by afternoon tea. This will be at historic Hillcrest House in Stanwell Park, but numbers are limited so please check our website or call Sonia on 0418 200 029.

In August, SPAT is proud to announce that we are showcasing three original one-act plays that were submitted to SPAT as part of our RISE festival. On August 17 – for one night only – we will present rehearsed readings of the plays followed by a Q&A session with the authors. One of the writers is even coming from Darwin for the event. If you want to learn more about the creative writing process and support new works, please come along. It will be a relaxed evening and tickets will be on sale via our website soon.

And our 50th celebration weekend on October 19-20 is getting closer! So save the dates and it is LIGHTS UP! everyone.

Visit spat.org.au

Rambling FREE

By John Groom, president of the Illawarra Ramblers

feature Cover

The Illawarra Ramblers was founded under the auspices of the WEA in 1991. Bushwalking was a course subject at the college. Over the years, cycling and paddling were added to regular activities. Since becoming a separate entity in 2015, the Illawarra Ramblers has grown and often offers activities on all seven days of the week.

There are a variety of walks each week. On

most Wednesdays a walk of around 10 kilometres, be it a beach walk, suburban walk taking in the view line, a National Park foray along the escarpment or in the Royal National Park, or a train trip to Sydney or the Shoalhaven – there is always an adventure awaiting. Often on either a Saturday, or Sunday or both, opportunities to get further into the bush abound. These are usually more energetic

Photos: Tyneesha Williams, supplied

walks for fitter, experienced venturers.

On some Fridays we do ‘5k and Koffee’ walks for time-poor or less-energetic walkers. These may be bush, beach, street or parklands walks and are very popular with Illawarra newcomers who want an introduction to their new life.

Solid friendships grow from shared healthy adventures and bush experiences which are led by leaders who really know their way around, like Sam Garrett-Jones.

“I moved from Canberra in 1994 and, of course, instantly loved the beaches – all my kids were Thirroul Nippers,” Sam said.

“But it didn’t take long to discover the spectacular local walking in the Royal National Park, Heathcote NP and up and along the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area.

“After becoming ‘geographically challenged’ – i.e. lost – a few times, I joined the Ramblers. The leaders had invaluable local knowledge that you didn’t find in books.

“Learning from them I went on to lead walks for the Ramblers and the National Parks Association.

“I’m always on the lookout for new walking adventures and am excited about the development of the Great Southern Walk from Kamay Botany Bay NP to the Illawarra Escarpment.

“At the moment the GSW ends at Bulli Tops, but walkers would love to see it connect through to Mt Keira and beyond.”

Another hobby horse of Sam’s is the stalled shared pathway around Lake Illawarra.

“Honestly, like the Illawarra Escarpment, Lake Illawarra is a natural gem on our doorstep.

Sitting in a kayak on the lake (with the Ramblers) you can really appreciate the beauty of both; they have huge potential for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors.

“But we do desperately need more direct and safer walking and cycling tracks between Berkeley and Kanahooka, and between Tallawarra and Albion Park Rail. This would complete a truly ‘round the lake’ path and would be a tourism drawcard.”

With winter here, warm the body up, see some new sights, make new friends or just enjoy the bush. Walking, cycling or kayaking with a club is safer and just more fun!

See our program online at www.illawarraramblers.com.au

FURTHER READING

There are many published walking guides covering the Illawarra. For the latest information on local walks why not try the free brochures from the National Parks Association (npansw.org.au)

Local walking tracks have been affected by the unusually wet weather and required maintenance. Always check park and track closures before walking at www. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/alerts/alerts-list

For more information about the Great Southern Walk – a 67km walk from Kamay Botany Bay National Park, through Royal National Park and into the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, set to be completed in 2025, scan the QR code.

Common Ground: ‘Bring people back together’

By Genevieve Swart

On Saturday, June 15, the day the Illawarra’s wind zone was declared, Good for the Gong founder Sean Moran was celebrating a “good thing for the environment” but also focused on healing the rift in the community – possibly over a beer.

Sean has not met anyone from Responsible Future (Illawarra Chapter), but he’d like to.

“We have a bit of back and forth online,” he said. “I haven’t met anyone in person. I’d actually like to sit down – you know, at the pub, over a coffee or something – and chat to some of the members.

“I know there’s people opposed to this that are very reasonable and I think we share a lot of the same ideals.

“I care deeply about the environment and everyone I’ve spoken to in Good for the Gong does too. So I think we actually have some common ground around that stuff.”

Sean said he’d be open to meeting Responsible Future’s leaders. “I would actually, because I think one of the big things when we started with Good for the Gong was we were seeing division in the community. It’s a small, tight-knit community and I think one of the things we actively want to avoid, if it’s not too late, is that division.

“Trying to bring people back together, finding common ground would be good.”

A Bulli local, Sean works as an environmental engineer (in a field entirely unrelated to offshore wind) and volunteers with the Red Cross. He started the Good for the Gong Facebook group in October 2023 and, while running it does take time, he said it’s less work than flying solo.

“Before Good for Gong, I was spending a lot more time just keyboard warrior-ing it up in my own time. It was having quite a negative effect on me and my personal life, taking energy. I’m finding I’m enjoying it a lot more and it’s actually taking less energy now than it was before we started.

“We’ve seen a real shift in the narrative around offshore wind in the community since creating the group. And we’ve turned it from what was quite a toxic discussion with a lot of disinformation to something that’s a lot more science and evidence-based … and kind, actually. I think we’ve been able to change the nature of the discussion. We feel good about that.”

Stretching from Stanwell Park to Kiama, the Illawarra’s final wind zone is 20km from shore at its closest point and reduced by a third to 1022 sq km.

Feasibility licence applications are open until August; no projects have been approved. The

Federal Government said the wind zone – the fourth to be declared in Australia – could generate about 2.9 GW of electricity and create 1740 new jobs during construction and 870 ongoing jobs, with roles for everyone from engineers to administrators.

To wrap up declaration day on June 15, Good for the Gong supporters gathered at Thirroul Beach for a photo shoot, holding signs including “Clean Energy – Good for the Gong” and “Renewable Energy is Climate Action”.

“It feels like the day of celebration for us,” Sean said. “We’ve been working really hard to make sure that positive community voices are heard. And I think today’s a reflection of that. I’m looking forward to the area where I live being part of the action on climate change and protecting nature.”

No to ‘tribalisation’

On Monday, June 17, after protestors gathered with signs reading “No coastal wind factory” for Nationals leader David Littleproud’s press conference at Wollongong Harbour, Responsible Future media spokesperson Alex O’Brien told the Flame that, while the group opposed wind turbines in sensitive marine environments like the Illawarra, he did not want to see the “tribalisation of our communities”.

“That’s not what the Illawarra is,” Alex said. “We’re a great group of diverse people that have enjoyed that coastline and, you know, we should be looking at ways to heal the community, not further divide it.”

Last month Responsible Future had two major events planned: public forums in Fairy Meadow on June 25 and Kiama on July 9. Everyone – including politicians from all parties – was invited to attend. Alex said the events would be a chance for the group to share its research.

“The community has a right to know how much of a gamble offshore wind is for the Illawarra,” he said. “I’m not against renewables and nor is the association, but we need a better way – from the energy options, from the way they’re rolled out, from the way communities are consulted – and we need to stop the division in the community.

“It’s important – we all want to live here. We don’t want to be angry with our neighbours because they hold a different view.”

Alex himself is a Wollongong local, attracted to the city four years ago by family ties and the coast’s natural beauty. “We decided that, a few months

after our daughter was born, we wanted her to grow up not in a city, but in a natural environment. So we relocated, as many in our community have, to our beautiful coastline.”

Alex previously lived in Newtown for several years where he transitioned to a plant-based diet, a decision he made for the sake of the environment and his love of animals. He has also campaigned against the captivity of animals and unethical pet breeders. It was his career in wealth management – where he’s worked for 15 years at a senior level – that drove him to become involved in the campaign against offshore wind: “I have seen how profit drives investments. I have seen how investors profit off people and the environment.

“So when this project came about, I could see all the hallmarks of it being greenwashed, being profit driven. And that’s why I got involved. I could not sit and see that type of process being followed.”

Call for collaboration

In an opinion piece for the Flame titled ‘Navigating the Illawarra Offshore Energy Debate: A Call for Collaboration’, the University of Wollongong’s Michelle Voyer and Ty Christopher wrote: “It’s imperative to start to bridge the divergent views between these two positions. Dismissing concerns

from opponents as uninformed or self-interested or disregarding supporters’ perspectives risks deepening rifts within our community. Genuine progress requires respectful dialogue and a commitment to finding common ground.”

The UOW Blue Futures experts said moving forward demands a concerted effort. “We feel there is more work to do to support this – and there are some great ideas contained within the submissions.

“Firstly, the report documents concerns about the adequacy of current consultation methods and notes that a numbers of submissions advocated for a community taskforce to enhance engagement and guide research priorities. There is still scope to do this now the zone is declared and we feel that this step could bolster inclusivity and coherence in the approach to feasibility licensing.

“Secondly, environmental concerns unite both supporters and opponents, with 77% of submissions citing worries about potential impacts. Addressing these concerns through robust, independent research is vital. We had hoped to see a strong commitment from the Federal Government to support independent research to underpin the future development of this industry, including creative approaches to how this might be funded. Regrettably, this did not occur, but the opportunity for independent environmental research remains.

“Thirdly, the issue of community benefits from future wind developments remains unresolved.”

Clockwise from top: Sean Moran; young people giving Chris Bowen a symbolic surfboard; Amanda De Lore and Alex O’Brien; Ty Christopher and Michelle Voyer. Photos: Anthony Warry, Mikey Matthews, Mel Russell

Thirroul Village Committee Update

By TVC secretary Annette Jones

Thirroul Plaza

Thirroul Plaza Developments Pty Ltd has hired development manager SolidVoid to oversee the community consultation process. Part of this involved the ‘Big Ideas Community Survey’, which ended on June 10. Analysis of the data resulting from this survey will take about 4 weeks. Upon completion the findings will be presented to the community via a range of channels including a face-to-face presentation, the date of which is to be advised.

McCauley Lodge

The TVC has been informed by the lawyers acting for Council, Marsdens, that the Conciliation Conference was unsuccessful and was terminated by the Land and Environment Court (LEC). As a result, a hearing before the LEC is scheduled to take place on 23, 24 and 25 October 2024. This will commence at 9.30am on 23 October on the site of McCauley Lodge before moving to the Land and Environment Court in Sydney for the rest of the proceedings.

Anglicare, Sandon Point

The TVC has been informed by Anglicare that the Concept Design phase of the Sandon Point Seniors Living Development is continuing to progress under a State Significant Development (SSD) application. A submission was made to the

NIRAG/NF3

Report

By NIRAG secretary Ross Dearden

The Northern Illawarra Residents Action Group (NIRAG) supports preservation of open space and retaining and enhancing our environment, European and Indigenous heritage. NIRAG held a Special General Meeting on 12 June and voted unanimously to voluntary cancel NIRAG Inc incorporation. This will simplify administration by removing the fees and reporting requirements of the Dept of Fair Trading. The group will continue as “NIRAG” with the same aims and objectives.

Celebrate NIRAG’s 40th

It is almost 40 years since NIRAG first formed to ensure that the proposed 40m-high coal bins were not built at Sandon Point. On Sunday, 18th August at 4.30pm, we will celebrate by gathering at the Black Diamond Bulli Heritage Museum, followed at 5.30pm by a social opportunity at Resin Brewery

Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) in late 2023, known as ‘Modification 6’, which proposed a series of changes including the reconfiguration of building layouts and an increased number of independent living units to allow residents to receive care in their own home as their health needs change. The DPHI has since requested additional information in response to Anglicare’s submission, with the project team preparing a response package.

Approval of Modification 6 will provide the basis for an SSD application, which is targeted for submission later this year. In the meantime, Anglicare has reported that it is continuing to undertake the relevant environmental and social studies required by DPHI as part of its Environmental Impact Assessment.

Meet the Candidates

The TVC is to hold its Annual General Meeting at 4pm on Sunday 21st July. As part of this meeting there is to be a ‘Meet the Candidates’ forum. All declared candidates for the upcoming council elections for Ward 1 have been invited to attend. This is a perfect opportunity to meet those wishing to represent residents in our Ward.

The next TVC meeting is at 4pm on Sunday, July 21 at TRIPS Hall, Railway Parade, Thirroul. Email thirroulvillagecommittee@gmail.com

to have a drink or a meal. There have been many changes since 1984 and we want to remember and share this moment in history. To attend, reply to nirag@bigpond.com (by end of July, if possible).

10 Years of Bushcare

August 2024 will mark 10 years of Hewitts Creek Bushcare meeting on Monday mornings. Our Bush Regeneration skills and efforts have been rewarded with a WCC Community Grant, and we have planned an “Open Morning” to show our achievements to neighbours and the curious. Meet at Hewitts Creek Bridge, south side, on Sunday 25th August at 10am for site tour, drink & snack.

AGM on August 14

The next quarterly meeting (and the AGM) will be on Wednesday, 14 August at 7pm at the Bulli Community Centre (in the upstairs meeting room). All welcome.

Email nirag@bigpond.com

Butchers in hunt for back-to-back premiership

By Brian Kelly

Last year’s premiers are looking to overcome a patchy start this year. Photo supplied

Thirroul Butchers remain a strong chance to defend their 2023 first-grade premiership victory as pressure builds in the 2024 Illawarra Harrigan Premiership rugby league competition.

The Thirroul side defeated Collegians 24-18 in a nail-biting Grand Final last September to win their first Illawarra title since 2014.

This year five other teams – Corrimal, Collegians, Western Suburbs, Dapto and De La Salle – are vying for premiership honours.

The Butchers’ form strengthened after an unstable start to the season in April, but wavered as recently as round 8 in a 20-12 loss to Collegians.

Club president Brett Jones said first grade’s patchy progress had been expected as there had been a high turnover of playing staff since last year.

“With several new faces, it was always going to take time for the side to gel,” he said.

“While we were very close to getting the win in the first round against West, who have a very strong side this year, it was promising to see our improvement to get a comprehensive win against them at their home ground.’’

The blue-and-whites kicked off the year with a 16-12 loss to Wests, who climbed off the canvas after remaining scoreless until half-time. The 22-12 win over Collies, also at Gibson Park, followed before a third-round 16-all draw with Dapto as Thirroul searched for consistent form.

Thirroul bounced back and finished May strongly at home with a 40-8 win over Corrimal before beating Wests 26-12 in their showcase win of the season so far in round seven.

Two tries in that match came from clever kicks from five-eighth Jarrod Boyle behind Wests lines which Butchers centre Nelson Sharp swooped on.

Winger Jye Patterson crossed against Collegians in round eight to add to his tally and share the lead on the competition try-scorer ladder with five. Thirroul’s former NRL centre Steve Marsters has four tries for the season.

Leading the first grade competition recently were Sydney raiders De La Salle with eight points, with Thirroul a close second and Collegians and Wests locked in third.

In Harrigan plate reserve grade, the Butchers have been sharing second spot with Berkeley and Avondale while Wests rule the roost. Early wins this year came over Collegians, Dapto and Corrimal before a two-point loss to Wests in round 7 and a convincing 22-2 win over Collegians in round eight.

Brett says the club’s strong depth has helped the reserves sit high on the ladder.

“A very satisfying point for us has been the progression of several players from lower grades into first grade, which is what our club prides itself on,’’ Brett said.

“We have a great bunch of talented players coming through in our under 18s side – the most satisfying point of the side is their team work and commitment to each other, having to come from behind on a couple of occasions to get the win.

“Coach Michael Scott along with Phil Ostwald is doing a tremendous job.”

Thirroul’s under 18s side is leading their competition at the half-way mark.

Fresh challenge at wave pool

By Ian Pepper of the Scarborough Boardriders

A number of local boardriding clubs, including Scarborough, were invited to participate in the inaugural Ryde Heavyweight Rumble at Urbnsurf Sydney. The wave pool has only been open a few months and seems to have attracted a lot of local surfers. The fun day was held on Sunday, June 16 with 32 clubs from around NSW attending.

We had the sunshine and we had the waves, and the team made the most of it, though the groms seemed to adjust to the conditions a lot faster. Hats off to Fin, Ashton and Macey for stepping up and unleashing in the small but powerful and often tricky waves. There were a lot more wipe-outs than expected, even from the old pros as the lack of salt in the water maybe makes a difference?

Our power surfer Nic Squiers also stepped up to the challenge as usual with a tight little backhand barrel in the quarters, probably booking our spot in the semis. Mannix took to the air but fell after landing as he upped the stakes. Kasey took a bit to find her feet but smashed a 6.17 in the semis. Will got slotted while Fin smashed a few off the top. We all shouted from the sidelines, coming away with equal 5th finish out of 32 wasn’t too shabby.

Coalcliff honour

By Club Captain Rob Deacon

Coalcliff SLSC received the Community Education Award at the Illawarra Surf Life Saving Awards of Excellence for the “Surf Life Saving Dreams Take Flight” program. This initiative has seen trainers Dave Winner, Peter Cugaly and myself help students and teachers from Ashcroft High School to pursue Surf Life Saving Awards to become active patrolling members of Coalcliff SLSC.

Ashcroft High School, near Liverpool in south-western Sydney, serves students from

Thanks to Christian DeClouett for organising, all the supporters who turned up, Surfing NSW and Urbnsurf for putting on such a great event

Congrats to North Narrabeen Boardriders for taking the win, Sandon Point 9th and Woonona 17th.

Dates for your diary:

• 40th Anniversary Celebration Saturday, 28th September at Headlands Hotel Austinmer.

• Next point-score: 30 June.

socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Students come from diverse cultural backgrounds, many with poor literacy skills and limited aquatic experience in still-water and surf.

The challenge for trainees and students is immense. The club developed a new, patient training method that extends over a longer time-frame due to the students’ unique needs.

Sessions have been held at Coalcliff Beach and Ashcroft High School and training will continue over the winter. The students have earned their Radio Operators Certificate and are qualified to join the club’s patrolling teams in the new season.

They will also complete their CPR Certificate over the winter and continue training for their Aquatic Rescue Awards next season.

They are a dedicated group who have shown a real desire to become surf lifesavers. The staff at Ashcroft HS and the training team from Coalcliff have supported the students to help them achieve this goal. It is an example of thinking outside the square in an effort to broaden the club’s patrolling base and strength.

The Ashcroft HS staff Lucas Marsden and Deputy Principal Belinda Pekovic, who is a patrolling member of Coalcliff SLSC, are exceptional school teachers. The students are also in awe of Dave Winner and his life story. Dave is an outstanding educator and an inspiration to all.

L to R: Macey Jolley, Ashton Mekisic, Fin McLaren, Nic Squiers, Mannix Squiers, Christian De Clouett.

Photo Nick McLaren

Anne-Marie Lawless) met to discuss establishing a junior football team at Coledale. There had been a Coledale football club at St James Park for many years, but it ceased to function in the 1980s.

According to the then Illawarra Junior Football Association, the zone for a football team based at Coledale was available. The team applied to enter the junior competition and, with support from many other clubs such as Balgownie and Figtree, we joined in 1994. Our first jerseys were in the red and black of Figtree (thanks, Figgie, for the loan).

We quickly established the Coledale Waves and introduced our maroon and white jerseys with foundation funding from Mr Walker’s father, an avid Heart of Midlothian supporter (Scottish Premier League).

In the first years we started with a basic shed, including toilets and a storage room. From these sheds we ran a small canteen, held barbecues and fairs, round-robins, sponsored the under 7s tournaments, raffles and trivia nights at the RSL. We also held our end-of-year presentations outside the sheds with the trophies on the card table with a velvet cloth covering. The ‘Polystyrene Cup’ was a favourite family round-robin end-of-season soccer

the Breast Cancer Council of NSW, which led to our teams now playing in the distinctive pink jerseys.

Many of the first junior teams such as the ‘Pippies’ (yes, we did have a northern beaches focus) are still good friends today and some players are still in the men’s and women’s teams and introducing their children to junior football.

In the early days we established a ‘boot box’, anyone with a pair of boots that didn’t fit their daughter or son could leave them in the box for another player to take up.

Coledale Waves now has more than 400 players registered from under 5s to the under 18s, two senior women’s teams, two senior men’s teams and teams for over 35s and 45s.

Now it’s time to celebrate. We’ll be holding a 30th Birthday on Saturday, 27 July at the Coledale RSL from 6.30pm. Please come and enjoy meeting past and present players, coaches, managers and best of all your friends. Bring your old photos and help make this night a special time.

Tickets: events.humanitix.com/coledalewaves-30-year-anniversary-dinner

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© Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2023, Bureau of Meteorology. Datum of Predictions is Lowest Astronomical Tide. Times are in local standard time (UTC +10:00) or daylight savings time (UTC +11:00) when in effect. The Bureau of Meteorology gives no warranty of any kind whether express, implied, statutory or otherwise in respect to the availability, accuracy, currency, completeness, quality or reliability of the information or that the information will be fit for any particular purpose or will not infringe any third party Intellectual Property rights. The Bureau’s liability for any

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resulting from use of, or reliance on, the information is entirely excluded. Scan the QR to download a fresh Tide Chart each month

Helensburgh Sunday Social Golf Club

Golf news

Robert ‘Indy’ Jones reports Campbelltown June 2nd was hampered by the weather. Members were driven to decide against walking the course, splashing out of bunkers and very slow putting. We all look forward to the monthly outing, leaving all those perfect shots on the practice range, so rest up for our next events at Hurstville and the September offering.

Next events, Hurstville: July 7th – 7.45am and August 4th – 8am.

Thanks to our sponsors Christian’s Premium Meats and Helensburgh Golf Range.

Call Tony, 0418 863 100, for membership details. Register your attendance and cart requirements on the Tuesday ahead of the date of our next event. Join us to enjoy a game of golf, the great outdoors and good company. Indy signing off …

Things to say the next time someone is:

Just off the edge of the green – “Just a chip and two putts from there.”

Just missing a short putt – “Other than speed and direction that was a great putt.”

Conveyancing

Office: 32 Walker Street, Helensburgh

Phone: 02 4294 9980 Email: lynda@babisterlegal.com.au www.babisterlegal.com.au

Tradies Social Golf

Barry Thompson reports

Once again, heavy rain dampened our spirits and the Boomerang course was unplayable. I prefer my spirits dampened by Tonic, but you can’t have everything. The lay-off gives our match-play titans time to polish their games before next month’s tournament.

The combatants for that date are: Aaron Griffiths vs Rod Vaughn, Dave Tipping vs Shane Wilson, John Towns vs Iain Birss and Blake Collins vs Mick Carroll. Hope we can provide a good carpet for the round.

Time is galloping away, so be sure to keep your diaries open for the Gold Jacket away weekend on the 24th and 25th of November. We will be staying and playing in Nowra.

Our next round is on Saturday, 20th July at Boomerang. We Tee-Off at 7am and will be playing the individual Stableford format.

I certainly saved The Flame some ink this month. Surely, we can return to normal next month and I can produce some scandal.

For more details, email ccarpetrehoming @tpg.com.au Country Companion Animal Rescue