Did you know that each month the Illawarra Flame publishes many unique stories on our website? The joy of digital versus print is it gives us the space to report on not just what is happening locally, but why. Here are three must-reads from last month. And wherever you see a QR code in the magazine, scan it to enjoy the long-form in-depth article.
Our city’s flood crisis is set to become a flood calamity, but who cares?
In this opinion piece, questioning if Council is allocating enough resources to address flooding and stormwater drainage and vulnerability, journalist Jeremy Lasek writes: “Let’s not wait for the tragic loss of lives for our council to give flood protection the urgent priority that’s needed … We get to vote this month. We should be asking all those seeking our vote what they’ll be doing to urgently respond to this potential flood calamity.”
Does it pass the CRAAP Test:
A guide to spotting misinformation
In the final article in her fascinating series explaining how our brains work, psychologist Jo Lunn shares tips to help us critically analyse information so we can avoid getting tangled up in targeted disinformation and/or groupthink and make up our own minds on important issues.
How much can solar power?
Ty Christopher, Director of UOW’s Energy Futures Network, an electrical engineer with four decades industry experience, explains fundamental laws of physics and why solar has its limits. “80% of the carbon footprint of the Illawarra is BlueScope Steel. So you could take all of the CBD, every single home, every business, the port, everything in the Illawarra to net zero carbon. And if you do nothing with BlueScope, at the end of all of that, you’ve still got 80% of your emissions.”
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.
Meet Our Contributors
Tyneesha Williams is a journalism student at the University of Wollongong. Raised in Central West NSW, Tyneesha fell in love with the Illawarra’s stunning scenery and local community. She runs her own business, Neesh Photography, and in her spare time enjoys taking pictures, attending gigs and going to the beach.
Dr Rebecca Goodman is a GP at Bulli Medical Practice. She has an interest in Women’s and Children’s Health, a Certificate of Reproductive and Sexual Health and can provide Implanon and IUD insertions. In her free time, when not chasing after her own children, she likes to travel, read and spend time with family.
Janice Creenaune is a retired English teacher. A wife and mother of three, she sees the life of a retiree as an evolution, something to be cherished, enjoyed. Janice is a volunteer for PKD Australia and her interests include travel, letterpress printing and film study.
Harley Mangham is a trail runner originally from NZ. He is also a keen hiker and works as a track and trail builder in the Royal National Park.
A Helensburgh resident and parkrun organiser, Harley thought the local event would be a great way to support the running community and all residents in living a healthier lifestyle.
COVER Gardening class at Coledale Public School. Photo: Anthony Warry
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.
KANE DOWNIE
Get Ready! Take the quiz
By Helensburgh Volunteer Fire Brigade volunteer Iris Huizinga
On Saturday September 21, RFS brigades will open their doors for Get Ready Weekend. Local volunteer firefighters will provide valuable information and resources to ensure you’re ready for the bushfire season.
Please come and visit Helensburgh Volunteer Fire Brigade’s station at 185a Parkes St on the 21st, contact (02) 4294 1188 and follow our Facebook page. And test your bushfire safety knowledge with our quiz!
1) When the Fire Danger Rating is coloured orange, the Fire Danger Rating is:
a) Extreme
b) High
c) Severe
d) Very High
2) Which of these is false?
a) Grassfires will pose a risk in NSW this fire season.
b) Lots of rain means lots of fuel for bush and grass fires.
c) If there is a fire in my area, I will be told when to leave.
d) Only 6.9 percent of NSW was impacted by bushfire in the 2019/2020 season.
3) During a Total Fire Ban you cannot...
a) light, maintain or use a fire in the open
b) turn on outdoor lights
c) carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.
d) Answer a and c combined.
4) What happened during the 2001 Christmas Day bushfire?
a) No electricity
b) No water
c) No petrol
d) No water, no electricity
5) From which direction did the fire front approach in the 2001 Christmas Day Bushfire in the 2508 area?
a) North-west
b) West
c) North
d) South-west
6) The helmet of a captain of an RFS NSW volunteer firefighting brigade is:
a) White with red stripes
b) Red
c) Red with white stripes
d) White
7) Where can you check your fire plan?
a) Online at myfireplan.com.au
b) Ring the RFS NSW at the bushfire information line 1800 NSW RFS (1800 678 737)
c) Contact your local Fire Brigade
d) All of the above
8) Which of these is false?
a) Your safest option is to leave early.
b) If there is a bushfire, the NSW RFS will send a fire truck to save your house.
c) Grass fires can move three times as fast as a bushfire
d) In dangerous conditions you may not get an Emergency Alert in time.
9) What should you do when the Fire Danger Rating is catastrophic?
a) Leave early from work and school, stay inside at home with kids.
b) Leave early, even if you don’t know what it means
c) Leave early, mow the lawn, play online games, have a drink, take it easy.
d) Leave early, it is the only option. Do not wait and see. Homes are not designed to withstand fires in catastrophic conditions. Roads may be affected and blocked off.
10) The radio emergency frequency for the area is:
APP: Hazards Near Me NSW free smartphone app is a mobile app on IOS and Android to keep you up to date on bush fires and other hazards. It replaces Fires Near Me NSW WEBSITES: www.myfireplan.com.au, rfs.nsw.gov.au
SOCIAL: Facebook.com/nswrfs
RADIO: ABC Illawarra 97.3 FM
PHONE: In an emergency – call Triple Zero (000). Bush Fire Information Line – 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)
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Auctioneer Kane and organiser Marion. Below, the Harts.
Time tohelp
Janice Creenaune meets Marion Cook, who, after a career as a project administrator in railway construction, recently used her skills to raise muchneeded funds for Thirroul’s Gary and Bronwyn Hart after this year’s April 6 flood.
On Saturday, April 6 this year Hewitts Creek burst its banks after heavy rainfall, flooding houses at the lower end of Lachlan Street.
Gary and Bronwyn Hart lost their family home and everything in it.
“We almost also lost our lives too,” Bronwyn said. “Gary called at me to get up and get moving after I slipped when the water came rushing through. He grabbed my arm, or I would be gone. It was a horrific situation and just destroyed our lives.”
Gary pulled Bronwyn to safety and up the back steps. “It was the only refuge amongst the swirling torrent around and through the house.
“Bronwyn had tumbled in the melee into the water and the mud and everything else. She was eventually rushed to hospital with cuts and abrasions. But she really was lucky to be alive.
“We were left with nothing, except each other, when the water receded.”
Marion Cook, a long-time resident of northern Illawarra and Wollongong, has known the Harts for many decades through local rugby league teams and their children growing up together.
She contacted Gary and Bronwyn with an offer to help them.
“I knew I had to do something to help and I knew how to do it,” Marion said.
“Bronwyn was very supportive of me as a young mother and I always appreciated it so I knew I could help them. I approached them to get things moving and, together with my own family and friends Dick and Sandra Smith, we pulled together a Barefoot Bowls Day at Thirroul Bowling Club [Club Thirroul] that also brought the community together for Gary and Bronwyn.
“Michelle Lipscombe[Club Thirroul manager] was very helpful in assisting with Club premises and Henry Urbanski was a great co-ordinator of the bowls on the day.
“My own family offered their expertise. Shannon Jarvis helped in the planning, Bianca Jarvis created the flyer and local FB pages advertisements and Joel and Belle Jarvis printed 1000 flyers. Others like Margaret Ryan and Sandra Smith and I handdelivered them letterbox by letterbox.”
Rugby league clubs were approached and 13 responded: Collegians donated $2500, South Sydney hand-delivered a lithograph of the 2014 Grand Final team, and other clubs, such as St George/Illawarra, donated signed jerseys.
Daniel Perkins offered a golf package and Luke Campbell offered a holiday in Indonesia. All the meat and bread for lunch on the day was donated.
“So many people contributed and reached out to help,” Marion said. “Kane Downie is another to thank for offering his services for a most entertaining auction. I am very grateful.”
Marion said the bowls day “was a beautiful day for Gary and Bronwyn and all of us”.
Gary said he felt humbled by the community response and the help they have received.
“We are now looking for a place to live, at our age, and move forward, but we have renewed friendships we thought were long lost and am grateful for the community support and love.”
If you’d like to help the Harts, contact Marion Cook via email: mazza1307@hotmail.com
Janice Creenaune is a volunteer for Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation Australia. Email janicecreenaune@gmail.com for more info.
In Need of a Food Truck
Q&A with Shaz Harrison, founder of local charity Need a Feed
Tell us about Need a Feed.
Shaz Harrison and her volunteers at work
Need a Feed was founded in 2012, and one of our greatest achievements has been evolving from simply providing food and food parcels to becoming a true community family.
and we’re seeing younger people with mental health issues. People are getting desperate, and when that happens, they can end up doing desperate things. The challenges our community faces are getting tougher.
What does Need a Feed need?
We need a food truck to reach out into the community and make a lasting impact by providing consistent meals for people who can’t get to us. This will help us build stronger relationships and offer the support people need. We need the community’s support. With our BIG fundraiser coming up in September, we need people to rally behind it and actively participate.
Business support and sponsorships are crucial to making a lasting impact in the community. We need a community that embraces inclusivity, brings understanding and sticks together without judgement. By coming together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, making sure no one is left behind.
We connect with the community through food, using it as a way to build relationships and offer support in a non-judgemental environment where everyone feels included. We’re genuinely here for them, building a strong community and offering real support. We also partner with organisations and individuals who share our goal: to help people.
How great is the need at the moment?
The local need has really changed, and right now, it’s bigger than ever. We’re seeing new faces every day, and it’s not just the usual groups anymore. We’re talking about people who own their homes but are still struggling – the working poor. There seem to be more lonely people out there,
How can readers help?
We depend on community support as we are not government funded. We need financial backing and passionate sponsors to make a difference. By setting up a regular monthly or weekly donation – tax deductible – you play a key role in sustaining our efforts and drive the success of our food truck fundraiser. The support is crucial and impactful.
Donate at www.gofundme.com/f/need-afeed-mobile-food-truck
Ma meets Matisse workshop
Prue Watson shares an event at the Clifton School of Arts
The Clifton School of Arts is presenting ‘Ma meets Matisse’, a two-day drawing workshop with well-known local artist Jennifer Johnson from 10am-2pm on September 28 and 29. This workshop is for everyone, from beginners to experienced practitioners. On day 1 participants will be introduced to the Japanese concept of Ma. Ma revolves around the appreciation of negative space or empty space, the space in-between that creates harmony and balance – pauses in acting or oratory, the paring back of architectural elements, unpainted areas in a painting. Through examination of a Still Life work, participants will explore and develop their drawing works using the
concept of Ma and then finally move to Cut-outs, made famous by Henri Matisse in the final chapter of his career. The Cut-outs in the workshop will be made using painted paper in the participants’ personal colour palette, using the Still Life as reference.
Jennifer Johnson is an experienced Fine Arts Teacher who has taught at The National Arts School, TAFE and Redpoint Arts Community.
Book via Humanitix. $230 or become a CSA member for $30 and save on all workshops. Inquiries: pruewat2@gmail.com
Slumber Parties
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Range Anxiety – It’s Just Different
Part 9 in Peter Aubourg’s Diary of an EV Driver
I am convinced that range anxiety is something you have before you buy an EV. Or at least before the first week of owning an EV. I had range anxiety on day one when I drove out of the showroom with only 30% charge, 40km from home. The dashboard showed that I had over 100km of range available, but somehow it seemed like going out on a limb.
You soon get used to being more relaxed about it, just like you become relaxed about not having to have your mobile phone fully charged before you leave home. You do not have to be fully charged; you just need to have comfortably enough. So it is just getting used to a slightly new way of thinking.
The thing is, almost all the charging of EVs is done at home with your own charger. So, your personal service station is open 24/7, and all you have to do is take 30 seconds to plug the car into the charger when you get home. Easy!
Imagine you were around 100 years ago when cars were starting to take over from horses. You would probably have range anxiety. If the car starts to run out of petrol, will I be able to find a petrol station? You could, of course, have a bob each way and buy a model T, but tow a float with a horse, just in case. I guess you could call it a hybrid, with both sides of the hybrid being a bit smelly.
Now the hybrid EV with a petrol engine is not quite as ridiculous as a Model T towing a horse float, but there are a lot of similarities.
The reason you buy a hybrid EV instead of a full Battery EV is that you are anxious about running out of electrical power away from home and
Hybrid Vehicle circa 1910
without access to a charger. This range anxiety is the driving force that is nudging you towards the decision to buy a car that has all the complexity and service issues of a petrol car. This overwrites the simplicity and low maintenance of an electric car. The hybrid just does not give the savings that the Battery EVs give, in fuel savings or maintenance. The long and the short, if you want to reduce emissions and save money, a hybrid is not going to cut it.
My MG4 has just rolled over 10,000km and has cost $269 in electricity from my home charger. (with help from our solar panels). Pretty impressive compared to the $1380 it would have cost to run our old Nissan Qashqai diesel the same distance. And, the first service for the MG is in 15 months and will cost less than $300. So, for me, I am much better off reducing my cost-of-living anxiety and learning to avoid range anxiety.
Discover Sue and Jim’s Mini World
By Pateena Donnelly of the Northern Illawarra Art Trail
The Northern Illawarra Art Trail is back in November, with Stanwell Tops residents Sue and Jim Roach excited to exhibit their miniature houses.
Sue and Jim’s Miniature World has a variety of classic, historic and fictional buildings created and furnished by Jim and Sue. For about 15 years, they have been producing these incredible works of art.
Jim builds these mini abodes as if they were full-sized houses with standard materials like wood, brick, and sandstone. Sue (who is also a watercolour and sketch artist) decorates them with
items created by herself or from a variety of suppliers. The majority of buildings are constructed using a 1:12 scale.
Clifton School of Arts commissioned Jim and Sue to build a model of the CSA and its proposed extensions. Being a larger public building, this model is in 1:24 scale and Jim is now enjoying using this scale for other buildings. The completed model is usually on display in the front window of the School of Arts but will be back at Stanwell Tops for the Art Trail. Sue and Jim have recently finished constructing a new miniature display centre at their house. See @SJminiatureworld on Facebook.
The Northern Illawarra Art Trail features open studios from Helensburgh to Thirroul, 10am-3pm, Nov 2 & 3, www.niarttrail.com
Gina Holland. Photo: Bridgett Godden
Champion fundraiser at PCYC Bulli
By Zachary Houtenville
Gina Holland has won the PCYC’s Outstanding Fundraiser of the Year award for her efforts to improve PCYC Bulli.
Gina is the senior activity officer at the Bulli club, which is one of 66 Police Citizens Youth Clubs empowering teenagers in NSW.
“They’re safe there and they meet new friends,” Gina said. “We show them respect, in turn they will respect us.”
PCYC Bulli provides a variety of activities, including arts and crafts, basketball, boxing, taekwondo, gymnastics, soccer, and more. The club also offers programs aimed at skill development, such as a driver’s course designed to help L-platers.
PCYC relies on fundraising for facility and equipment improvements. In 2023, from March to April, they ran their annual StarJump Challenge, urging participants to do 100 star jumps a day.
Gina helped PCYC Bulli to stage the challenge. The club raised $7000 while Gina raised $3000, mostly on her own. She achieved a similar total in 2022 and helped the club to raise $10,000 in 2021. Her efforts in 2023 stood out state-wide, earning her the Peter Gerrie Award, also known as the Outstanding Fundraiser of the Year award.
“I’m just the voice, I know I get the award but really it’s the community,” Gina said.
“If they don’t put their hand in their pocket, then I don’t get any awards.”
This isn’t the only recognition Gina’s received: she was awarded the Star Award for her work in 2021, the 2022 Star Jump Fundraiser Award, and a lifetime membership with the PCYC.
Gina has lived in Bulli all her life. When she’s not working at PCYC, she spends time with her friends or works as a crossing guard 10 minutes away.
Her history with the PCYC Bulli goes back to when she was young, when she regularly attended after school with her friends.
“We used to go there every Friday night, muck around on the trampoline, the basketball court.”
In 2002, Gina started volunteering at PCYC Bulli a few hours a week while her kids played afterschool sports at the centre.
The club offered her a full-time position after recognising her value. Even off-shift, she continues to volunteer her free hours.
Gina handles administrative tasks, including organising basketball competitions and matching players with teams, among other duties. She helps to place kids on teams if they can’t find one and cleans the facility if needed.
PCYC Bulli is at 253 Princes Highway. Contact 4284 3878, www.pcycnsw.org.au/bulli
Panto auditions, workshops and a party!
By Stanwell Park Arts Theatre (SPAT) president Sonia Westwood
SPAT is not stopping! In August, we presented RISE, a fabulous evening, showcasing three original plays. Congratulations to playwrights Leo Metzker, Dell Brand and Will York. All plays were very well received and enjoyed by everyone present. But on we go, and here are some diary dates:
• Panto auditions – Sun 15th Sept 2-4pm and Wed 18th Sept 7-8.30pm at the CWA Hall. An original script for this year’s pantomime, written by the talented Sage McAteer. Performance dates in December.
• Children’s School Holiday Theatre Workshop – Tues 8th Oct to Fri 11th Oct – targeted for primary ages, Year3 to Year 6. This four-day
workshop led by Danielle Ives will focus on performance, stagecraft and play production and will prepare a short performance piece for SPAT’s 50th celebration on 19th October. Register at www.spat.org.au
• 50 years of SPAT! – Sat 19th Oct and Sun 20th Oct – a weekend of celebration will be held at the CWA Hall, marking this milestone with all sorts of entertainment, fun and activities. Let’s go back to the 70s and party! More info on our website.
Everyone is always welcome, but remember to get in early!
Visit spat.org.au
Dust Theatre comes to Coledale
By Slade V Mayer
A new theatre company has launched in the Illawarra! Dust Theatre Collective held their launch at Coledale Community Hall (soon to be home of the company) on August 31, with performances from talented local artists offering a sample of the exciting things to come.
Dust (standing for a ‘Dawn of Untold Stories’) was formed by a group of local creatives, who are passionate about offering performance and development opportunities for artists in the Illawarra. Together, Adam Parkes, Isabella Franklin, Nurina Simpson, Kelly-Maree Michael and Slade V Mayer have decades of collective experience. After many years of working in the local theatre community, we saw a gap for an inclusive and open theatre space that focused on giving emerging creatives a chance to gain experience.
Dust follows the motto of “Love, Trust and Pixie Dust”, aiming to create a safe and accessible environment for all that centres on stories, new and old, that have been swept to the margins, allowing these stories to be told by the people that should be telling them. Dust will create a variety of opportunities including children’s drama classes, adult improvisation, cabarets, festivals, and more.
The first chance to get involved is a new original pantomime, written and directed by Nurina Simpson, Slade V Mayer and Kelly-Maree Michael, which will be performed at the Coledale
Community Hall in December. Back to Neverland is a mash-up of the cult classic 80s film Back to the Future by Robert Zemeckis and beloved children’s book (and popular panto subject) Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie. Our wacky and fun production will bring these iconic characters to life with a sprinkle of pixie dust, touching on themes of time, growing up, family and societal expectations with a pumping 80s jukebox soundtrack, live science lessons and lots of magic and heart. All are welcome to get involved –auditions will be held at Bulli Senior Citizens Centre on Tuesday, September 3 at 7.30pm and at Coledale Community Hall on Sunday, September 8 at 1pm.
Follow @dust_theatreco on Instagram or email dusttheatreco@gmail.com
Migrant Heritage on show
By Local Studies librarian Jo Oliver
Italian Centre Stewart Street Wollongong. 1950-1970. Photo: Migrant Heritage Project, MHP02150, Wollongong City Libraries
Wollongong City Libraries have partnered with the Migrant Heritage Project to mount an exhibition of photos for History Week 2024. A launch of the exhibition and presentation of the Local History Prize 2024 will take place at Wollongong Library on
Monday, September 9 at 5pm.
The exhibition includes 40 images showing life for migrants to the Illawarra. Illawarra’s migrant settlers and refugees coming from diverse cultural backgrounds have enriched our present society.
From the 1940s onwards many people were initially housed in Nissen Huts as hostels at Balgownie, Berkeley, Coniston, Cringila, Helensburgh, Unanderra and Warrawong. The steel and related industries were big employers of the migrant population. People also started their own businesses including cafes, produce supply, manufacturing and service industries. They formed clubs and brought music, dance, community events, religious festivals, foods and great coffee!
The exhibition can be viewed on Level 1 of Wollongong Library from 9 September or at https://illawarrastories.com.au/exhibitions
We invite you to apply for Year 11, 2025.
Why Boarding? Why Frensham?
• In the 2023 HSC, Frensham was the top performing school outside the Sydney area.
• Our Class of 2023 ranked 46th in NSW with a median ATAR of 89.9.
• A broad range of subjects with personalised learning and small class sizes.
• A caring and supportive boarding community with a 24/7 program including supervised study time in the evenings.
• State-of-the-Art facilities, a stunning campus in a rural location and only 70kms from the Illawarra.
Tradies: Heroes of our Homes
By Kristen McDonald of Electrify 2515
When we think of professionals acting on climate change, we may think of scientists or policymakers. But it is our local plumbers, electricians and air conditioner installers who are some of the true heroes of the energy transition. They’re the ones helping thousands of Australians move away from polluting gas to electrifying their homes and cars. So this is a shout-out to our local tradies.
In trying to retrofit my home, it has been overwhelming thinking about the various products on offer, warranties, government rebates and financial options. Engaging supportive and knowledgeable local tradespeople has been crucial.
I’ve really appreciated a local solar electrician who patiently explained the importance of considering future electricity consumption, such as an electric vehicle, and who helped me time my hot-water system to maximise my daytime solar production. This simple act reduced energy bills by about 35% for our household of five.
At Electrify 2515, we often hear stories of plumbers who have supported householders with the installers who take the time to explain that, despite the added upfront cost, an electric heat pump uses about three-quarters of the energy of a standard gas system. Air-conditioning (HVAC) technicians are also helping to make homes more comfortable and energy efficient by installing reverse-cycle air conditioners.
Hi Neighbour!
But the value of tradespeople extends beyond their technical expertise. As members of the local community, they understand our regional climate and energy needs and can recommend solutions tailored to our specific area or individual homes. They are important educators, explaining the benefits and operation of new technologies, and enabling householders to take practical action to reduce household emissions and energy bills.
As we move towards an electric future, the importance of skilled tradespeople cannot be overstated. Retrofitting thousands of homes from gas-powered to electric appliances will also create hundreds of more local jobs and support our local economy. We’d love to see more young people, women and career changers consider these
So please join us as we say a collective thanks to our local tradespeople who are on the frontline of the home energy transition. Thank you for supporting our community!
Electrify 2515 are always on the lookout for quality local tradies who are on board with helping homes electrify. Get in touch if that sounds like you: electrify2515@gmail.com
Photos: AG Solar
Saya inspires mural maker
By Genevieve Swart
A week before BMX champion Saya Sakakibara made her hometown of Helensburgh proud at the 2024 Paris Olympics, local artist Sarah Rowan spotted a suggestion for a mural on social media.
“I was super excited for the opportunity to capture a local hero and immortalise them in paint and immediately sought out a wall,” she says.
Sarah rang Tony, the owner of the pet food store on the corner of Walker and Short streets in Helensburgh, to ask permission. “I immediately got a text back going… Go for it.”
Donations for the mural have topped $7000 and Sarah is also planning to sell 100 limited-edition prints, with $30 from each sale going towards fixing tracks at Helensburgh’s mountain bike park.
She is grateful for the support as it’s been quiet in the events industry, where she works as Australia’s first keynote speaker/speed painter. “Speed painting is literally taking a canvas and painting it super fast in front of a live audience. So sometimes I have three minutes, sometimes 30,” she says.
Until last month, Sarah had never met the Sakakibara siblings, whose journey we have followed since she and her older brother, Kai, were talented teenagers, rising up through the world rankings, to Kai’s terrible race crash in Bathurst in 2020, Saya’s fall at the Tokyo Olympics and ultimately to her triumph in Paris.
“Their story is riveting,” Sarah says. “It is fascinating. Their resilience, [the challenges] they had to overcome, that was relatable in a sense, because I overcame 20 years of conversion therapy.”
Sarah was raised in the Bible Belt in South Carolina, where having an attraction to the same
sex was “unthinkable”, she says. “By the time I was 20, I had pastors trying to cast demons out of me.
“We all go through things. And it might not look the same, but you see someone overcome and come out with gold, you’re like, ‘oh, I can get through this tunnel myself, this dark tunnel’.”
Sarah moved from America to Otford in 2016, but lost touch with the area “after coming out of the closet and leaving a 12-year marriage, and just trying to figure out who the hell I was”.
It hasn’t been easy, returning to live in a small town. “I was kind of sad when I decorated the miner [statue] for Mardi Gras and it was torn down within hours. I’m hoping that just by being full of love, I can help cancel out the darkness in a sense and just show them that, hey, I’m a human too, and I don’t want to be known as a lesbian.
“I want to be just known as a loving human that likes to get covered in paint and cover walls and paint murals and homes and brighten people’s lives.
“I’m now in the most beautiful relationship with a local who I met in Helensburgh during lockdown. She helped me paint till one in the morning, the night before the news arrived. And we were freezing and loving life.”
Even for a speed painter, the mural was a tight turnaround, taking about 32 hours. It was finished shortly before Saya sped to victory at 5.50am local time on Saturday, August 3, winning Australia’s first Olympic gold medal in BMX Racing.
The atmosphere was “electric”, Sarah says. “People came up to me crying. I’ve never had so many messages and likes and comments on anything in my career.”
6 Ways To Make An Outstanding Impression
By Ian Pepper of Ray White Helensburgh
1. Store Personal Items
To make sure your house appeals to the largest segment of likely buyers in order to secure the best price, let the buyer picture themselves in your house by safely storing personal items.
2. Minimise Furniture
Rearranging and even storing furniture will allow your house to appear more spacious.
3. Go Easy on Scents
One buyer might love the smell of a candle or freshly baked cookies, another might not. It’s best to keep scents neutral and minimal.
4. Show off Storage
Clearing out closets and other storage areas will show off their size and capacity.
5. Create a Hotel-like Space
Some of the best hotels invite guests to feel at home – and that is precisely what a buyer should feel when viewing your house.
6. Street Appeal
house’s distinctive style. Our commitment is to be there for you, every step of the sale. Call us today so we can sell your house for the best price and with the least hassle.
First impressions count. We will help you Ian Pepper 0403 570 041 | ian.pepper@raywhite.com Josh Pepper 0437 790 052 | joshua.pepper@raywhite.com ianpepperraywhite
Part fun run, part colour explosion!
The Rainbow Run is returning to Helensburgh, writes Susan Wardle
Otford Public School and 1st Helensburgh Scouts are partnering to present the Rainbow Run at Rex Jackson Oval, Helensburgh on Sunday, September 22.
The event is a fun run in which runners have colour powder thrown at them at different points on the course.
The event was a hit with the local community in the three years before Covid, and this year it’s back with new tracks and activities.
Dean Hunter, from the event organising committee, said this year the course will look a little different.
“This year we’re running a simple 1.5km loop around the ovals. The first race of the day will kick off at 9am and be a 3km run for adults and kids who want to challenge themselves. We’ll follow this with a 1.5km single loop at 9.30am and then a 400m loop for the families with little kids at 10am.”
“We’re going to finish the day with some novelty races which are entry by gold coin donation – so there’s something to fit every budget.”
The event will also feature a BBQ with bacon and egg rolls and sausage sandwiches, a cake stall and a camping display from the Scouts. There’s lots of reasons to hang around after the Rainbow Run, with Cricket NSW and Helensburgh Cricket Club rolling out some free coaching for kids from 11am.
The initiative to bring Otford Public School and 1st Helensburgh Scouts together grew from a need for more volunteers.
Dean said Otford is a small school with less than 40 families. “We’ve had great support from the community in the past to help us with volunteers. This year it made sense to join together with 1st Helensburgh Scouts.”
“We’ve got Otford kids participating in Joeys, and Cubs. I think this is a great example of community coming together to present something for our broader community. It’s also an opportunity for both of us to promote ourselves in our local community.”
Scouts offers fun activities to help build resilient and confident children, adolescents and young adults from age 5 to 25.
Otford Public School is a small community school made up of three classes, which consistently achieve big results in STEM subjects.
The event is supported by some wonderful local businesses including our Gold sponsors (Ray White Helensburgh, Peabody and Tradies), Silver Sponsor (Wollongong City Council) and Bronze sponsors (The Painter and Co and Reclaim Your Space) as well as support for the BBQ from Christian’s Premium Meats.
All money raised will be divided evenly between Otford School Parents and Citizens Association and 1st Helensburgh Scouts.
Tickets to run can be bought on the day or pre-purchased (for a discount) via Eventbrite at https://rainbow2508.eventbrite.com.au
Proud to support public education
By Ewen Neild and Annaye Chisholm of Helensburgh Public School
In August, we celebrated Public Education Week, a time to reflect on and take pride in the shared achievements and excellence of public education across NSW. This year’s theme was, “Proud to Belong”.
This was beautifully demonstrated during our open classroom sessions where families were welcomed into rooms for students to proudly showcase their work and play educational games.
This showcased the strong partnership between parents, students and teachers, highlighting the shared dedication to ensuring every student receives the best possible education.
In addition to opening our classrooms, we held our Book Week Parade. It was wonderful to see so many families here, cheering on the students and teachers as they paraded in their book-themed
costumes and shared their favourite books.
We are proud to belong to the Helensburgh Public School community that values and supports public education.
Sparks fly and melodies soar when Richard Tognetti directs music close to the ACO’s heart including Mendelssohn’s Octet and Bach’s Violin Concerto in A minor.
Thirroul Village Committee Update
By TVC secretary Annette Jones
Thirroul Plaza
The TVC contacted Solid Void, the consultant firm employed by the developers of Thirroul Plaza, to find out how things were progressing and received the following response:
“Over the past 3 months, Solid Void and Urban Concepts have been engaging with residents, business owners and other integral stakeholders to understand local attitudes to the redevelopment of the Thirroul Plaza Site.
“We have created a community information website, called the UrbanTalk Project Listing to keep the community informed about the project through the design and master planning phase. Since going live, the website has been viewed 2,939 times and has received 85 emails through the feedback form.
“Many of you have expressed concern about the present condition of the Plaza, particularly the car park. We have shared these views with the site owners, Thirroul Plaza Developments Pty Ltd, and they are committed to repairing the pot holes as an interim measure while we work on the master plan. Solid Void can confirm that contractors will undertake this work in coming months. We are also looking at other ways to improve the existing asset and will provide and update once we have finalised.
“We are delighted with how the Thirroul Community rallied and participated in the Big Ideas Community Survey. We can report that 827 people completed the survey. We are busily analysing the results and expect to publish them in the coming weeks on UrbanTalk.
All Change
By Bob Pymm of Helensburgh Men’s Shed
The Men’s Shed shed is under new ownership. Yes, the shed workshop, which is a commercial space rented by the Helensburgh Men’s Shed (the Shed
“Solid Void is sourcing proposals from Urban Design Consultants for the master planning process. Once the urban design consultant is appointed, we will start the next phase of the consultation process. We anticipate this to occur mid-October 2024.
“Please be assured that we are committed to a community-inclusive master planning process.”
For further updates, visit www.urbantalk.com. au/projects/thirroul-plaza/
Anglicare, Sandon Point
The Community Engagement Team representing Anglicare has informed the TVC that the Concept Design phase of the Sandon Point Seniors Living Development is continuing to progress, under a State Significant Development (SSD) application. This follows a submission to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) in late 2023, known as ‘Modification 6’ which proposed a series of changes. The project team continues to prepare a response package to DPHI’s request for additional information in response to Anglicare’s Modification 6 submission.
Approval of Modification 6 will provide the basis for an SSD application, which remains on target for submission later this year. Environmental and social studies required by DPHI as part of its Environmental Impact Assessment also continue to be undertaken.
The TVC next meets at 4pm on Sun, Sept 22; thirroulvillagecommittee@gmail.com
gets no financial support and so has to raise the necessary funds itself) is about to change ownership after the recent sale of the property. It is not clear yet what this may mean for the Shed but we are looking to tidy things up, finish off odd jobs and chuck out stuff – a challenging task… one man’s junk is another’s ‘can’t live without’!
We are also building up our inventory of hand-made items that make great gifts – how about a hand-made pen or chopping board for Father’s Day? These are always available in the Shed shop – open on Mondays and Tuesdays. (Pictured are some items for sale.) And look out for our stall at the Helensburgh Spring Fair in October. The local Lions Club does a great job in organising this and we always enjoy being part of the day.
Visit Helensburgh Men’s Shed at 199A Parkes St any Monday or Tuesday, 9am to 3pm.
Open Street Festival Open Street Festival
SAT 5 OCT, 1-10PM•
MAIN STAGE: MAT McHUGH
THE STRIDES • AZURE RYDER • RUBY JACKSON • CIRCADIA
ILE ILU • FRANK SULTANA • THE GROOVE • KUGANG DJARMBI
ROVING: CURIOUS LEGENDS • JERRY HATRICKS • STREET BEATZ
PLUS: LIGHT PROJECTIONS • ART EXHIBITION • MAKERS MARKETS
FOOD STALLS • MARKET DJ'S: DISCO NONNA
SULTANS OF SPIN • CHELSEY DAGGER
Presented by Wollongong City Council. Proudly funded by the NSW Government.
partnership with Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce. With support from Illuminart.
Discover How to Speak Whale
True Story Festival returns to Coledale hall from November 15-17, writes Genevieve Swart
Book lovers can look forward to a deep dive into whale tales at 2024’s True Story Festival, with a conversation about animal science and Aboriginal sea kin set to be a highlight.
Thanks to regular festival guest Dr Jodi Edwards, True Story will be welcoming its first international star, Tom Mustill, a British nature documentary maker who has worked with David Attenborough.
Tom will be talking to Jodi about his bestselling book, How to Speak Whale, an extraordinary investigation into animal communication.
Tom’s book was inspired by an accident in 2015, Jodi explains. “He and his friend were out on Monterey Bay in a sea kayak doing a whale tour. A humpback breached – it landed on the front of their canoe and flipped it. The two people had a very different experience.”
This sparked Tom to go on an amazing adventure, exploring his curiosity about whales, and how a relationship with a whale might unravel. Research took Tom in many directions; he learned of whales’ vast Arctic travels – and that each family has its own route based on its ancestral line.
Jodi and Tom plan to take us on a wave of learning that spans Cultural connection, through story, song and uncertainty, as we join them on a migration pathway, gliding along the currents in a playground of happiness, while incorporating the science of feeding, resting and birthing.
Jodi is excited to yarn with Tom and explore knowledges. Over the next two years, Jodi and marine scientist Dr Chelsea Marshall are travelling along the Australian coast to reconnect Aboriginal knowledges as part of their groundbreaking ‘Unbroken Whispers: The ripples connecting sea
kin’ project. Jodi has recently written two more Dharawal storybooks, and is working on her autobiography, as well as poetry.
“With all my poetry, in some way or form, it’s related back to either star stories, songlines, whales, and the passing on of knowledge,” she says.
Jodi is also working with Nicole Smede from Red Room Poetry on ‘Whale Song’ and looks forward to extending this program to share knowledges with young people about Sea Country and Sea Kin, including whales. They have successfully completed three local Whale Song projects, including Elders and Custodians sharing stories about whales with students, inspiring them to write new poems, songs, and dances. Passing on knowledge is key to connecting kids to culture and to considering marine science as a career pathway.
“We know that it works and they take the knowledge of our cultural sharing home,” Jodi says. “And it’s with them for the rest of their lives.”
Allyship Summit celebrated ‘6.2 million friends’
By Jeremy Lasek
“Stay true to Uluru.” Those four words were the rally cry coming from a gathering of 200 people in Wollongong to mark World Allyship Day.
World Allyship Day was created on the eighth day of the eighth month to celebrate and promote the power of allyship across the globe.
Following a moving smoking ceremony in the crisp early morning on the University of Wollongong (UOW) campus, our 2024 Citizen of the Year, respected elder Dr Aunty Barbara Nicholson, provided the Welcome to Country at the first National Allyship Day Summit.
Gutted by the result of the 2023 Voice referendum, Aunty Barb confessed that she’d asked
herself why she should continue to accept invitations to do “Welcomes”.
Over time she realised “to not do Welcomes just keeps us invisible”, Aunty Barb said.
In her keynote address, First Nations leader, Uluru Dialogue co-chair Aunty Pat Anderson AO, reflected on a lack of commitment from the federal government since the “heartbreaking” referendum defeat. Aunty Pat said the greatest thing to come from the referendum was discovering “we have 6.2 million friends we didn’t know we had”.
Scan the QR to read the full story on our website
Help fund women’s refuge
SAHSSI is seeking partners, corporate sponsors and community members to make this project a reality, writes Marlowe Richards
The domestic violence and homelessness support agency SAHSSI is determined to help more women and children flee abuse throughout the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.
They have plans to build an innovative new women’s refuge using the ‘Core and Cluster’ model. This design provides private, selfcontained units (cluster) around a central support facility (core), offering both security and community for vulnerable women.
Core and Cluster offers greater privacy and independence for women while still providing access to communal support services, reducing the sense of institutionalisation found in older models. This approach allows women to maintain a sense of normalcy and dignity, which is crucial for their recovery and empowerment.
SAHSSI currently has five refuges from Helensburgh to Ulladulla, but with over 160 women on their waitlist, the need for additional capacity is urgent.
The organisation has applied for government
PARTNER CONTENT
Immerse yourself in an evening where the richness of the human voices of the con voci Vocal Ensemble and Wollcon Chamber Choir take center stage with with your local chamber orchestra, Steel City Strings.
funding, but other projects are in the queue ahead of them, making community support crucial. SAHSSI is seeking partners, corporate sponsors and community members to help make this project a reality.
Domestic violence is a community problem, and we need a community solution. To get involved, please contact SAHSSI (Supported Accommodation and Homelessness Services Shoalhaven Illawarra): (02) 4229 8523 or visit our website: www.sahssi.org.au
For bookings scan the QR code or go to: steelcitystrings.com.au/events-calendar/
Tender in name and nature
By Susan Luscombe
As a community we tend to keep death and dying at arm’s length, until we experience the death of a close friend or family member. Commonly, with little or no experience, we outsource the whole process to the for-profit funeral industry.
In 2009, a group from Port Kembla Community Centre developed their desire for deeper participation in death and dying through the idea of community-led funerals. Tender Funerals Illawarra, a not-for-profit registered charity, officially opened in 2016.
Tender operates out of the former fire station in Port Kembla and offers affordable, personalised, meaningful funerals. The Tender model has been replicated in Wauchope, west of Port Macquarie, with several other locations in development.
The aim is to change the culture around death and dying, and to work with family and friends to provide an experience according to their needs and the wishes of the person.
I experienced this first-hand following the death of my mother last year.
I first heard about Tender years ago through my friend and Tender’s artist-in-residence, Michele Elliot. The Tender team gently assisted with the care of my mum, offering as much involvement as we wanted, including decorating the coffin and preparing our mum for the funeral.
Tender has 12 paid staff and more than 20 volunteers.
“Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at Tender, from assisting on a funeral service, administrative tasks, gardening, transport or assisting the funeral directors to care for someone in the mortuary,” manager Nadine Giles says.
Nadine began as a Tender volunteer in 2017 after the death of her best friend, Suze. Nadine then left the Illawarra, working as a funeral director in
Try Toastmasters
By Matthew Derbridge
Toastmasters will help you master the art of public speaking in a supportive and friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where members are inspired, challenged and rewarded. And it all began on 1 August 1957 with Wollongong Toastmasters –the first club in Australia!
The first meeting was held at the Grand Hotel, with the group founded by local businessmen.
Our members are very proud to be part of such history. As we celebrate its milestone as Australia’s
Melbourne, before returning to Tender in 2021.
“We are thankful to receive donations from the community of sheets and cushions, or pillows to assist with the personal care for everyone we look after at Tender,” Nadine says.
A benevolent fund, supported through donations, allows Tender to offer concession rates to families experiencing financial difficulties.
Recently, Tender assisted with the first interment in the natural burial site at Wollongong Lawn Cemetery, Kembla Grange.
Every year, Tender hosts a memorial picnic to honour loved ones. The first one since Mum’s death was on a sunny winter’s day at Mt Keira Scout Camp surrounded by rainforest and calling black cockatoos. Attendees were invited to share food influenced by the memories of their loved one.
Tender also hosts a community choir and a sewing circle. The choir, led by Malika Elizabeth, meets every second Tuesday evening and performs at funerals and other events, including the annual picnic. Artist in residence Michele Elliot supports a sewing circle, which meets every second Saturday.
Visit tenderfunerals.com.au
first club, we continue to look towards the future. Today Wollongong Toastmasters meet fortnightly on a Wednesday evening at the Wollongong Golf Club. There are now more than 600 Toastmaster clubs in Australia – search for your local at www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club
Local clubs to try include Helensburgh (7pm 2nd and 4th Mondays), Northern Illawarra (7:30pm 1st and 3rd Tuesday) Wollongong (Fortnightly-Wednesdays, 7:15 pm).
Come along and be a guest, see what members do at a Toastmasters meeting. At the end of the month, these clubs will be having this year’s first round of competitions.
Memorial picnic. Photo: Susan Luscombe
See Side ptical
With blooming flowers and increased pollen in the air, many people experience allergies that can lead to itchy, watery & irritated eyes. Our team of optometrists is here to help you manage these symptoms with personalized eye care solutions. One effective solution we recommend is Systane eye drops. These drops provide long-lasting relief from dryness and irritation. If you need advice on how to protect your eyes from allergens, See Side Optical is your trusted partner for all your eye care needs this spring. Visit us to ensure your vision stays as vibrant as the season!
Left: A male strepsipteran (in USA). Below: Head of a strepsipteran poking out from the tail end of a bee (in Germany). Images CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Beetling About
With entomologist Dr Chris Reid of the Australian Museum
Continuing in the theme of obscure insect orders that I tend to ignore, this month it’s Strepsiptera (literally ‘twisted wings’). It’s one of the least diverse of the 28 insect orders, with only about 600 species known, including 160 in Australia. I suspect that none of you have heard of them but that’s not surprising – they are tiny, the males cannot feed, so die within a few hours, and most of the females live as maggots inside other insects, with only their heads sticking out of the hosts.
demolishing everything.
Strepsiptera males have only one pair of wings, like flies but, unlike flies, the back pair of wings is fully developed, with the front pair reduced to a small stub – in flies it’s the other way round. They are feeble fliers. To find a female, the males have enormous (relatively) candelabra- or antler-like antennae full of sensory cells to pick up the smell of the female. Males also have weird eyes, which are multiple fully functional eyes on the same stalk.
I’ve seen males in flight twice – the first time was inside an insect flight trap and I was so excited to see it I fell over the trap guy-ropes,
Tree of the Month
By Kieran Tapsell, of Banksia Bushcare
The strepsipteran life cycle is pretty crazy. Males mate with females by stabbing them around the head, to release sperm randomly into the female body. The thousands of tiny eggs hatch inside the mother (who is inside the host insect) and the larvae eat the mother’s insides, hollowing her out. They emerge from the dead mother’s head as very active normal-looking larvae with long legs. These run around until they find the correct host, then dissolve a hole through the host’s body. They then change into legless maggots. Males emerge from the host but females remain embedded. Parasitism causes the host insect to become sterile.
Altogether yucky.
Strepsiptera parasitise a wide variety of hosts, including silverfish, leaf hoppers, ants, cockroaches, crickets, flies and bees. Just recently the first bee-parasitising type has been discovered in Australia, showing how little we know about these strange creatures – see https://onlinelibrary. wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aen.12704
Archontophoenix alexandrae
(The Alexander Palm)
The Alexander Palm is indigenous to northern NSW and Queensland, but it thrives in frost-free areas further south, and has been planted widely in the Illawarra. It is a cousin of the Bangalow Palm and, from a distance without flowers and leaves to identify it, they appear identical. The Alexander palm sometimes is wider at the base of the trunk, but not always. In contrast to the lilac flowers of the Bangalow, Alexander Palm’s flowers are white. The seed is also red and indistinguishable from the Bangalow’s. Alexanders can be distinguished from Bangalows by the underside of the leaf, which has a whitish tinge, different to the leaf’s top side. The underside of the Bangalow is the same as the top.
Become part of the NINA team, and volunteer today to help make a difference in your community!
Northern Illawarra Neighbour Aid (NINA) are on the search for enthusiastic individuals to join our team of volunteers.
If you want to help make a difference in your community, be a part of a group of like minded individuals and want to assist those who need it most, then get in touch today!
NINA NEEDS YOU!
As a NINA volunteer, you can help assist our clients by pa rticipating in our social support group outings and Cafe Club program.
We are also on the lookout for volunteer drivers who are located from Thirroul - Wollongong and are capable in assisting our clients in attending appointments and personal outings.
If this sounds like you, please visit us in the office or call to find out about our volunteer program.
Phone: 4294 1900
Address: 18 Walker Street, Helensburgh
Putting the fun into Italian
By Cathy Law
Matt and Cassie Bugeja.
Photo: Cathy Law
Having honed their craft at restaurants in Sydney and Europe, Cassandra and Matthew Bugeja always knew what sort of place they wanted to open.
Their love child, Ain’t Nonnas at the western end of Market St in Wollongong, recently celebrated its second birthday, having built up an enviable reputation and loyal following despite the tough conditions facing the industry.
“We wanted it to be like a mamma and pappa trattoria in Italy, where you feel you are being welcomed into someone’s home,” says Cassie.
“They sit you down, put food on your plate, and share their passion.
“We had a clear vision, we kept with it, and we have found our people.”
The chefs met while working at Justin North’s acclaimed Bécasse restaurant in 2011, and their CVs since then include Bilsons, Quay, Three Blue Ducks and Bourke St Bakery in Australia, and Michelin-starred The Clove Club and top cheap eat Balls & Co in London, as well as stints at leading restaurants in Copenhagen.
Their love of travel has seen them seize every opportunity to have new food experiences, with Italy’s all-embracing food culture winning their hearts. The dream was always to open a place of their own, and on returning to Australia they gravitated back to the Illawarra (where Cassie grew up) eight years ago.
Biding their time, most notably at Kneading Ruby and the Postmans at Thirroul, they eventually tested their idea of a family trattoria by running the kitchen at The Throsby Wine Bar for a year as a pop-up of the Ain’t Nonnas concept.
“We were looking to build our confidence and make sure the brand worked before launching into our own space,” says Cassie.
Originally they were looking for something on Crown or Keira to get more foot traffic, and were expecting to do just nights, but they just couldn’t
go past a new space they found in Market St.
“We added a cafe because we really liked the site with its sunken courtyard, and the owner wanted the ground floor to be activated,” says Cassie.
“Without the success of the pop-up I don’t know if we would have had the confidence to do a space this big, off the main street.”
Instead of a 40-seater dinner venue, they ended up with a space for 70, open six days from morning till night. “It is a fun challenge and I think the success we have had comes from having so many elements,” says Cassie.
It is hard not to be envious of nearby office workers who call this their local during the week, given their access to housemade focaccia (Roman pizza style with toppings such as potato and gorgonzola, and broccoli and fennel) and pasta, and small plates of deliciousness (don’t miss the arancini). Not to mention the cakes and the drawer of tiramisu.
“Our regulars know you can come in and ask for a cabinet sandwich – just say meat or vegetarian and the chefs put on whatever they like,” says Cassie.
Evenings broaden their client base, turning it into a lively dinner venue that regularly serves 80 to 100 people on Fridays and Saturdays. The open kitchen adds to the atmosphere, with the skill of the small team (often only two chefs) on show.
“Having that interaction, getting to talk to your customers, is part of the fun,” says Matt.
The small but perfectly formed menu changes with the seasons, and the quieter mid-week dinners are more likely to offer specials as the chefs have more time to play.
While the occasional fusion dish makes an appearance, they mostly keep true, in a nontraditional way, to their Italian inspiration.
“We always put little spins on our dishes. That’s why we’re Ain’t Nonnas,” says Cassie.
Still leading hospital helpers at 92
Tyneesha Williams meets Janice Puddle, president of Bulli Hospital Auxiliary
The Bulli Hospital Auxiliary has welcomed five new members and the group’s 92-year-old president, Janice Puddle, says the fresh injection of support is “wonderful”.
“This auxiliary is a family auxiliary. Our new members range from teenagers to mature-age ladies and we’re very, very happy about that,” Janice says.
“I’ve been involved with Bulli Hospital for half my life, since 1969, and we’ve been working with about 10 members for years, so this is wonderful.”
The oldest group in the Illawarra, the auxiliary has supported Bulli Hospital for 94 years.
“It’s a different hospital than what it used to be. It is still a very community-driven hospital. But the role of the hospital now is geriatric, palliative care and urgent care,” Janice says.
In 2020, staff and patients of old Bulli District Hospital were moved across the road to the new Bulli Hospital and Aged Care Centre.
“We’ve lost maternity, we’ve lost general nursing, the X-ray department, that all went. A friend of Bulli hospital started the palliative care off, then that went off Port Kembla,” Janice says.
“Urgent care is open now on the weekends as well as through the week, and it’s open until 4 o’clock on
Saturdays. That’s good, instead of people having to go to Wollongong and sit for hours.
“Anyway all our beds are full now and the hospital is lovely. Each person has a room of their own, and their own bathroom, so they’re quite comfortable.”
Local auxiliaries provide funding and support for patients in hospitals across Australia.
“What people don’t realise is that a lot of medical equipment are things that the government does not supply to hospitals,” Janice says.
“At the moment, we’re raising money to give the hospital an ultrasound and two blood scanners.”
Bulli residents can support fundraising efforts at the auxiliary’s stalls at Coles, the hospital and community events. “We’re doing nicely at the moment, we do very well on the stalls we have in Coles. It’s a very generous shopping centre down there, and at the hospital too,” Janice says.
“The amount of money that the auxiliary has raised is amazing. But we haven’t got the business behind us out here like we used to, because everything’s changing.”
“We’re not getting the people in because people have to work. Young people today have to work to survive. There are new people moving in who don’t know the area, and lots of people didn’t know that the hospital existed.”
Janice said the group supports other auxiliaries by attending their events. The United Hospitals Auxiliaries (UHA) 91st Annual State Conference 2024 will be held on October 22, 23 and 24 in Bankstown. “We always have somebody going to the conferences ... we never miss out on anything. You’ve got to put it out there!”
To join or help Bulli Hospital Auxiliary, contact Raylene Fletcher on 0406 657 354 or visit the Facebook page.
Bulli Auxiliary members Heather Friend, Marion Cook, Raylene Fletcher, Bruce Poole, Rose Lakalaka, Janice Puddle. Photo supplied
It’s PCOS awareness month
By Dr Rebecca Goodman of Bulli Medical Practice
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects around 10% of women. It is associated with increased levels of androgens in your body. It often has a range of symptoms and a risk of long-term health conditions including type 2 diabetes, infertility and endometrial cancer. Early diagnosis is important.
Symptoms
PCOS symptoms can include:
• excess hair growing on your face, chest, stomach or back (sometimes hair loss)
• irregular periods
• difficulty falling pregnant
• acne on your face and/or body
• anxiety and depression
• weight gain, especially around the belly (only 50% of women overweight).
Diagnosis
It is important to seek help early as PCOS can increase your risk of other medical problems including infertility, high blood pressure and diabetes.
Your doctor will organise a blood test to check your hormone, cholesterol and glucose levels. They may also organise an ultrasound to check your ovaries for the presence of multiple cysts.
Treatment
An early diagnosis can help you manage the symptoms of PCOS and reduce the risk of long-term effects on your health. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help many of the physical and emotional problems caused by PCOS and reduce your chance of complications.
Your doctor can prescribe a number of different medical therapies to help manage PCOS symptoms, such as period problems, infertility, excess hair growth, acne and weight gain.
The diagnosis of PCOS is based on a range of symptoms. You should see your doctor if you are concerned or have any of the symptoms listed above.
Open 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 - accredited Yellow Fever vaccination centre
y Skin cancer checks
As PCOS is a chronic condition, you may be eligible for a General Practice Management Plan. This can include subsidised visits to allied health professionals to help improve health outcomes.
Book online* via the website: www.bullimedicalpractice.com.au or scan QR code:
*Please call 4284 4622 for an appointment if you have any respiratory symptoms 74 Park Road, Bulli 4284 4622
Secrets of the Blue Zones
By Ben Wollen
Do you and your friends always update each other on their latest Netflix show?
Pre-interweb, these discussions would be about the latest movies showing at the cinema. Times have changed – and I do lament the loss of local cinemas – but we’re lucky to still have somewhere like the Gala Cinema. I enjoy the cinema experience so much that a friend and I have started an annual film festival celebrating the greatest movies of all-time, starting with Pulp Fiction (see ad, opposite page).
What has this all got to do with Blue Zones?
Well, my latest Netflix recommendation is a series called Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones by Dan Buettner. It charts places in the world with the highest proportion of centenarians and looks into their lifestyles to see how we might adopt similar practices elsewhere.
After watching this series, I reflected on how the Illawarra has strong potential as a Blue Zone. It has many positive natural characteristics – such as bush and beach – but there are also architectural factors that may contribute to a place becoming a Blue Zone, so I thought I’d cover a few of these.
1. Move Naturally
There’s a cluster of villages on the hills of Sardinia that have one of the earliest discovered Blue Zones. The urban design in these villages encourages (almost requires) one to walk. Being on slopes and having been built prior to the motor vehicle, the streets are more suited to a pedestrian scale. This means integrating exercise into one’s lifestyle. When it’s more convenient to walk to the shops, church or your mate’s place, it means you get that daily dose of moving we’ve been told is so critical to being healthy. Most homes are more than a single storey and therefore require inhabitants to further increase their everyday exercise. Anyone see the comparison to our neck of the woods? More footpaths and bike paths, please Council!
2. Connect
One of the main insights Buettner discovered is connection with community – family, friends, and your ‘tribe’ beyond. We are so lucky to have tight-knit wellconnected communities in the Illawarra. Where a Sardinian village might have a town square in which everyone can socialise, we have beach pools and pavilions. It’s near-impossible to not run into someone you know at the Austi beach pavilion and the same goes for any of Illawarra’s other ocean pools – they are our “town squares”. We can bring the same urban communal space into our homes by designing carefully curated living indoor and outdoor spaces that allow for those all-important family and friend get-togethers.
3. Outlook
Another pillar of Buettner’s Blue Zone insights is an outlook which encompasses things like life purpose, religion and being part of something bigger than oneself. This one manifests in different ways in our area: we have churches and their communities, but also community gardens, bush walks, volunteer groups and men’s sheds. By contributing to something beyond your personal zone of influence and experiencing something bigger than yourself, i.e. God or nature or wherever your belief system takes you, these will contribute to your overall chances of reaching 100. I’ve seen this manifesting architecturally in some buildings in our area, from the simple maker’s studio to Japanese-inspired meditation pavilions. One of my favourite spots is the Bells Point chair on the cliff between little Austi and main Austi beaches. Inside our homes this can be a perfectly placed window that draws one’s gaze outside to nature.
C’mon Illawarrans, my challenge to you all is to become the next Blue Zone. First step –leave your car at home!
New to Pilates? Enjoy this intro offer, which includes a 1 on 1 private lesson with one of our qualifed instructors, this will allow you to feel comfortable and confident with the reformer and how it works, touching on the fundamentals and basics, this pack also includes 3 group classes.
For more information or to purchase your Self Love Starter Pack, please scan the QR code or head to our webpage.
Studying humans is truly shark smart
By Genevieve Swart
Every September, along with wildflowers, sunshine and spring babies, come shark nets.
Since it began in 1937, the NSW Government’s Shark Meshing (aka ‘Bather Protection’) Program has run annually through spring and summer, with nets set to drop back in at 51 beaches between Newcastle and Wollongong on September 1.
Year after year, the program is called into question. Conservationists criticise it for killing rays, turtles and dolphins as well as sharks. Beach-safety experts – including local scientist Rob ‘Dr Rip’ Brander – think the money would be better spent on lifeguards. Even the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) admits the nets – about 150m wide, 6m high, set in water 10-12m deep – are no safety guarantee, as sharks can swim around them.
“They’re not effective,” says Teaniel Mifsud, a PhD candidate exploring human-shark encounters on the NSW South Coast at the University of Wollongong’s School of Geography and Sustainable Communities.
“Chris Pepin-Neff from Sydney University said 40% of sharks that are captured in those nets are on the beach side of the nets when they’re caught.
“It’s not this big protection wall that I think some people imagine … And there’s a lot of collateral damage.”
Of the 255 marine animals caught in the nets in
the 2023/24 meshing season from September to April, only 15 were target sharks (12 whites, 3 tigers). Most of the remaining 240 animals were rays, turtles and dolphins, and 64% percent of them died, the Department of Primary Industries’ Shark Meshing Program 2023/24 report said.
“They’re endangering already endangered species,” Teaniel said of the nets.
If logic fails us when it comes to shark nets, then this is a decision made on emotion. Which is why Teaniel’s research is so valuable – it puts the focus on people and their interactions with sharks, making groundbreaking use of geographic information systems, including digital mapping.
“I’m looking at understanding shark encounters and how people use the ocean and how to map that, and use that technology in a way that it hadn’t really been used before,” she said.
Being a life saver inspired Teaniel’s PhD research, which has been supervised by Dr Leah Gibbs and Dr Chris Brennan-Horley.
Her first encounter involved having to close the beach after a shark “literally just jumped up through the waves”. The second time she was on an early board paddle out the back of Fairy Meadow Beach. “It wasn’t a very big shark, but it just swam straight onto my board. It did not care about me. It was more of a really cool experience.”
Teaniel has crowd-sourced more than 120 stories of shark encounters and done 23 long-form interviews. “It’s been a really nice, fun project and I’ve learnt a lot,” she said.
In Wollongong, the netted beaches are Coledale, Austinmer, Thirroul, North Wollongong and Wollongong.
“The majority of people that I spoke to were not in favour of the nets. But things like the tracking apps that they have for the tagged sharks, that’s not something that a lot of surfers are in favour of using either. A lot of the quotes I got from people were, ‘I know sharks are in the ocean’.”
Considering the number of people in the sea, fatal shark attacks are rare. “A lot of people that I’ve spoken to who have had encounters with sharks, they accept that that’s part of entering the water. It’s their territory. You enter the water and you take that risk, but that risk itself is really minimal. So why are we doing something that is so harmful when the risk is so small?”
In 2025, for the first time, nets will be pulled out one month early on 31 March, in response to increased turtle activity in April.
Scan to read the full story and find a link to Teaniel’s shark encounters map.
Being a life saver inspired Teaniel Mifsud to study sharks. White shark, pictured off Bulli in 2020. Photo: Heath Edwards @due.south.gallery
Unexpected spring garden visitors
By Amanda De George
Spring has sprung and you’re probably getting your plants in, ready to attract native bees, bugs and butterflies. By encouraging these invertebrates you’re encouraging other native animals, those a little higher up the food chain, to also visit.
Tawny Frogmouths
Is it a bird? Is it a stick? While you might not have tawnies roosting in your yard (or you might, look closely!) it’s possible that while you’re sleeping they are dropping by. Active at night, Tawnies love to feast on cockroaches, moths, crickets and even frogs, small birds and reptiles.
Eastern blue-tongue lizard Gardens with rocks and logs are the perfect location for a blue-tongue lizard to call home. This gives them lots of shelter overnight and a place to stay safe from predators but also a great spot for sun basking. And with shelter and native plants come snails, beetles and insects, which the blue tongues love to feast on. They also love to eat native flowers and berries but, don’t worry, they’ve earned their keep getting rid of your other garden pests.
Bandicoots
If you’ve heard what sounds like a dog toy being squeaked at night and found small, conical holes in your garden the next day, you’ve been visited by bandicoots! They eat everything from earthworms and beetle larvae to roots.
And who loves to hunt for bandicoots? Owls and quolls and up the food chain we go!
Build it and they will come. Native gardens attract more than just native bees and butterflies. Pictured are two Tawnies in Amanda’s garden
Grevillea Park Spring Open Days 2024
Saturday Sept 7th and 14th, 10am-4pm; Sunday Sept 8th and 15th, 10am-4pm
See the Grevillea Park at its best. Wonderful display of Australian native plants showcased in expansive display gardens. Enjoy the rainforest and sensory trail and the newly renovated vine forest walk featuring the giant blackbutt. Huge range of natives for sale including difficult to obtain plants plus hundreds of books. Want advice? – bring your questions and we will do our best to help!
NIRAG/NF3 update
By NIRAG secretary Ross Dearden
The Northern Illawarra Residents Action Group (NIRAG) supports preservation of open space and the retention and enhancement of our Natural Environment, European and Indigenous Heritage.
Since 2020 Neighbourhood Forum 3 (Woonona, Bulli, Thirroul and Austinmer) has not had a convenor and residents have attended NIRAG quarterly meetings to discuss and contribute to local community issues.
Country and played the didgeridoo. KerrieAnne Christian, the president of the museum, and former councillor Dave Martin who had both been involved since 1984, were also there to add their recollections of the past 40 years.
The highlight this month was the celebration of 40 years since NIRAG was formed as a result of the campaign to ensure that 40m high coal bins were not built at Sandon Point. On Sunday, 18th August at 4.30pm, we gathered at the Black Diamond Bulli Heritage Museum for a presentation of archival records to Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery for the Local Studies Library at Wollongong Council.
The day began with NIRAG President, John Croker introducing Uncle Peter Button, a long-time Sandon Point Tent Embassy member, and partner with NIRAG, who gave a Welcome to
Olympic spirit
By Isla, Helensburgh Girl Guides
Following the presentation of four large folders of newspaper records to the mayor about 50 people regrouped at 5.30pm for a social opportunity at the Resin Brewery with a comprehensive slideshow of old photos and memorabilia. There have been many changes since 1984 and we enjoyed remembering the good times and the trials and tribulations.
The next quarterly meeting (and the AGM meeting) will be on Wednesday, 13th November 2024 at 7pm at the Bulli Community Centre (in the upstairs meeting room). All welcome.
The minutes of the August meeting are on the Illawarra Flame website.
For more details or to add items to the agenda email Ross Dearden: nirag@bigpond.com
Last month, the Helensburgh Girl Guides gathered at our hall for a special event celebrating the Olympics in Paris. Eight enthusiastic girls – Isla, Josie, Annabel, Noelle, Maddie, Roxanne, Freya, and Adara – participated in an evening filled with French culture and cuisine.
The highlight was learning a traditional French dance and song. Brolga taught us how to sing Alouette, gentille alouette and showed us all the actions, it was interesting to see Brolga dancing and singing the song. She made it look so easy!
We then prepared a classic French snack. We baked Croque Monsieur, a baguette filled with ham and cheese, in the oven. We also enjoyed chocolate scrolls. The evening wasn’t without its moments of laughter. Brolga kept asking if we wanted to dance again, and we kept saying ‘No’ while giggling.
Sat 7 Sept 7-9pm, Wollongong Town Hall, in aid of Royal Flying Doctors Service. Annabel Wouters on flute presents ‘Flights of Fantasy’ and Paul Nicolau on harp presents ‘From Darkness into Light’ including a World Premiere of a new work dedicated to the Flying Doctors.
International/Australian pianist Vivian Choi Milton performs with Annabel and Paul. $40/$15/$12, merrigong.com.au
Crime writer launches new book
By Tyneesha Williams
Wollongong author Hayley Scrivenor launched her eagerly anticipated second novel, Girl Falling, on August 21 at Ryan’s Hotel in Thirroul. After the success of her debut novel and best-seller Dirt Town, Hayley delves into complex friendship dynamics and self-discovery in her latest crime fiction.
“Girl Falling came about because I wanted to write a story in the Blue Mountains. There’s a beautiful writing retreat there called Varuna, The National Writers’ House,” Hayley says.
“I was interested in exploring what happens when a complicated, very close friendship goes bad. I was also interested in that classic triangle… when you meet someone new and someone else in your life is like ‘oh, hold on, like you’re no longer paying attention to me’.
“It’s a book that’s quite interested in psychology.”
Girl Falling tells the story of Finn, who navigates a complicated friendship with her best friend, Daphne, after falling in love with student Magdu.
“Finn is a character that has a lot of shame,” Hayley says. “So when she meets a character, like Magdu, she enters a new world of someone who
understands her in a way that her closest friend didn’t. I think bisexual women across the world can understand very deeply that experience with a straight high school best friend.”
Hayley enjoyed exploring Daphne’s character.
“She’s not anybody’s favourite character but I actually really love her… Magdu is probably most like me. She’s a reader and she’s goofy and she is actually not that much of an outdoor person.”
Readers like crime fiction as it helps make sense of the world, Hayley says. “What crime [fiction] gives you is an answer. We don’t get an answer in life … But in crime, the promise is that at the end, everything will come together.”
Local landscapes to love
By Melissa Barnard of the Scarborough Art Show team
Kate and Peter Broadfoot have been Bulli residents for over 50 years, raising four children and working as teachers at Bulli High school before establishing Bonn Accord Arts and Crafts in Bulli. After 18 years operating this art supply shop and painting studio Kate now pursues her love of plein air painting.
Tell us about your artistic journey.
After a career as a high school art teacher and then 18 years as proprietor of an art shop and teaching studio, I have at last found the time to pursue my love of plein air landscape painting.
From where do you draw your inspiration? My inspiration is drawn from my local environment… and wherever we travel.
How do your art practice and your life intersect?
I paint almost everyday. It is such a calming activity and challenges my brain.
Now I have the time in my life that I have always craved, I go out painting whenever I can.
What will you be bringing to the Scarborough Art Show this year?
This year I am bringing to the art show a few works featuring the Clifton School of Arts building, as it is such an iconic local site. The other paintings will be of our Northern Illawarra coastal views.
The work done by the P&C to put on this annual show is absolutely amazing. Thank you so much for showcasing the work of local artists.
The annual event will return to Scarborough Public School on October 12 & 13, www.scarboroughartshow.com
What’s On at the Writers Centre
By Elizabeth Heffernan
Calling all poets, memoirists, fiction writers –the South Coast Writers Centre has upcoming workshops for everyone!
‘Performing Your Poetry’ with Adara Enthaler has been rescheduled to Sunday, 15 September, with new times and prices. With the host of Enough Said Poetry Slam, learn everything you need to know about taking your poems from page to performance, from stage presence, the use of a microphone, and controlling your breath and nerves while performing. Participants will have the chance to record their poems for the SCWC poetry blog after the session at Coledale Community Hall, from 11am-1:30pm.
Join women’s fiction author Pamela Cook in ‘Page Turning Fiction’, a half-day workshop on 5 October that will explore how to create hooks in your story opening, structuring your plot for maximum impact, creating tension through conflict, and establishing character secrets, backstory and psychology. Learn what it is that keeps readers turning pages all the way to the end, and how to implement it in your own writing. At Coledale Community Hall, 10:30am-3pm.
‘How to Edit, Publish and Promote Your Memoir’ with Mike Cavanagh and Anne Howell will start on 10 October. This seven-week, online intensive will take you through the three stages of editing from structural to proofreading; examine publishing options, and explore practical, cost-free ways to promote your book and attract more readers. Suitable for those with a draft memoir completed or one underway. Weekly Zoom meetings on Thursdays with coursework delivered via the WetInk platform.
And True Story Festival is back for 2024. This non-fiction festival, now in its third year, will be held from November 15-17 at Coledale Hall with workshops, in-conversations, and a keynote address. Super early bird tickets go on sale 3 September, when first guests will be announced. Visit southcoastwriters.org/upcomingevents
Happy Spring
With the team at Collins Booksellers Thirroul It’s spring and aside from the release of COMFORT, the highly anticipated new Ottolenghi, there are some beautiful new books celebrating the great outdoors. Flora: Australia’s Most Curious Plants highlights and extols the diverse and curious plants of Australia, looking into the history, quirks and uses of our native plants, and how vital they are for our unique ecosystems. And to further encourage you to look up and grow your knowledge of Australia are two new books, Eucalyptus – An illustrated guide to identification (updated) and Lonely Planet’s The Joy of Birdwatching. You never know, your family might be inspired to embark on a new spring hobby together. These are just a taste of what’s instore for your reading pleasure. Happy Spring & Happy Reading!
Shop 5/264 Lawrence Hargrave Drive
www.collinsbooksthirroul.com.au
@collinsbooksellersthirroul
collins BOOKSELLERS thirroul
feature Cover
Kitchen garden program coordinator Joanne Chilton with her junior gardeners at Coledale Public School
Photos: Anthony Warry
By Genevieve Swart
GROW, COOK,
Learn
The children at Coledale Public School are busy in their garden this spring – running around with watering cans, carrying armfuls of mulch for veggie beds and rounding up the chickens. In November, the community will be invited inside to see the fruits of their labour as part of the second Illawarra Edible Garden Trail.
“Students have been enjoying participating in kitchen garden classes, with their freshly harvested produce they have grown for about 12 years,” says kitchen garden program coordinator Joanne Chilton, a School Learning Support Officer (SLSO) at Coledale.
This school by the sea – also known for its whale-watching platform and hosting the monthly Coledale Markets – is about as idyllic an environment as anyone could wish to grow up in. Even the chickens have been lovingly named: Misty, Darth Vader, Princess Layer and Houdini.
Joanne’s own family has close connections with the school going back generations.
“It was my primary school,” she says. “My children were the fourth generation to go through the school, now I am a SLSO teacher at the school and coordinate the kitchen garden program.”
Coledale’s award-winning permaculture garden is now older than most of the children working in it. Building the garden has been a team effort by students, teachers and parent volunteers, who have transformed a small veggie patch into a wonderful outdoor classroom.
This spring Joanne’s students will be planting lettuce, eggplant, tomatoes, cucumber, silverbeet, spring onions, beetroot, zucchini, potatoes, herbs and Warrigal greens, the native leafy green herb used as an alternative to spinach.
After harvesting their veggies for September’s cooking classes, Coledale students will be making
zucchini fritters, pizzas, salads and beetroot dips. These classes provide practical lessons in where food comes from and the work involved in producing it, and promote the rewards of a healthy lifestyle and sustainability. Children grow, cook and eat food from their garden (making them more adventurous eaters, Joanne says), then they turn leftovers into compost and worm food. Even recycled plastic has its place in their yard, with decorations made as part of the Connecting Threads program hanging in the trees.
“We are an environmentally friendly school who are continually striving to add and improve our sustainable practices at our school, so we can help reduce our carbon footprint,” Joanne says.
Thanks to Joanne for welcoming us into the garden and taking the time to tell us more.
Why did you become involved in the garden?
I am passionate about the outdoors, gardening and caring for the environment. I wanted to share this passion with the students. I am always striving to extend our gardens and sustainable practices as we work towards reducing our carbon footprint.
The program was started because families and teachers in Coledale were very passionate about caring for the environment and educating the students about this. Parents and teachers worked together to build this garden and introduce students to a variety of practical organic, sustainable practices that they will be able to use all their lives. We have also found through our programs the students are sharing their knowledge with their own families, empowering them to become the teachers in helping to reduce their own carbon footprint.
How has the program grown?
It started as a small garden, then in 2012 the school received a grant and we built this garden. In 2014 we joined the Stephanie Alexander program. This helped us to extend students’ learning to care for an organic garden and introduce a variety of sustainability practices and cooking while linking to the school curriculum.
What are some of the garden’s greatest achievements?
The school has won several environmental awards including the overall winner and best ongoing environmental initiatives at the yearly Wollongong Rise and Shine School Environmental Awards.
Through our year 5 leadership program we introduced chickens to our garden program.
In 2023, we introduced Connecting Threads to our program – students learn about textile waste and ways to reduce this.
We recently joined OzHarvest FEAST (Food Education and Sustainability Training), extending students’ understanding of how they can help with reducing food waste.
We participate in the Edible Garden Trail –sharing our knowledge and hopefully inspiring other gardeners and schools to set up gardens.
What do the kids love about it?
They love getting outside and connecting with the outdoors and environment. They love growing their own fruit and vegetables, caring for the chickens and their favourite part is cooking and eating the fresh organic produce they grow.
Do they eat their veg now?
It has had a positive influence on students’ eating habits, their health and well-being. They are trying new foods, flavours and textures. Parents regularly comment how they wouldn’t eat them at home but do at school. Which is great. We share recipes with families, so children can cook at home too.
Have you had any problems and how have you solved them?
The school is taking part in 2024’s Illawarra Edible Garden Trail. Photos: Anthony Warry
Recipe for Banana, Warrigal greens or Spinach Pancakes
Prep Time: 5 min; Cook Time: 15 min
Ingredients
• 2 small very ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup Self Raising Flour
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other favourite milk)
We’ve issues with rabbits – we had to introduce some raised garden beds and netting over all the vegetable beds. This helped.
Like all gardens we have issues with snails, slugs and slaters – we use egg shells and protective barriers (recycled bottles) around new seedlings.
What can visitors following the Edible Garden Trail expect in November?
They can enjoy exploring our organic garden where we practise various sustainable and organic practices, such as composting, organic pest control, no-dig beds, worm farms, chickens, native bee gardens, bee hotels, bush tucker gardens, frog ponds.
A diverse showcase from Helensburgh to Windang, the 2nd Illawarra Edible Garden Trail will be held on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th November, 10am-3pm. Early bird tickets are on sale via Humanitix; scan the QR above.
1. Blanch Warrigal greens for 3 minutes. 2. Add all ingredients to a blender except the flour.
3. Blend on high until very well combined, about 20-30 seconds, or until you no longer see any noticeable flecks of spinach.
4. Stir or pulse in the flour and thoroughly combine without over-mixing.
1. Warm a non-stick or cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat and coat with oil or butter. Pour small rounds of batter onto the hot surface — the batter should spread fairly thinly on its own — and let cook until bubbles form on the surface and the surface is mostly set, about 3-4 minutes. 2. Flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until fully cooked.
3. Continue to prepare the rest of the batter, keeping the finished pancakes warm in an oven if desired.
What’s On
More events at theillawarraflame.com.au
Council Elections
Local government elections for 12 Wollongong City Councillors and a Lord Mayor will be held on Saturday, September 14. Wollongong has 3 Wards: 1 (northern), 2 (central) & 3 (southern), with 4 councillors per ward. Voting is compulsory.
Ward 1 Candidates Group A: The Greens (Jess Whittaker (Port Kembla), Martin Cubby (Corrimal), Stephen Young (Thirroul), Kathryn Broadfoot (Bulli). Group B: Labor Richard Martin (Russell Vale), Daniel Hayes (North Wollongong), Karen Fairbairn (Helensburgh), Iskra Spencer (Helensburgh). Ungrouped candidates: Independent Ryan Morris (Austinmer); Independent Suzanne de Vive (Corrimal).
7 Sept Pre-poll voting opens
9 Sept 5pm, postal vote applications close
13 Sept Pre-poll voting period closes
14 Sept 8am-6pm Election day
More information: elections.nsw.gov.au
@ Thirroul Library
Tues 10-10.45am, Preschool Storytime (3-5 years)
Wed Wriggle & Jiggle (birth-2 years) 10-10.30am
2nd and 4th Wed LEGO Club, 3.30-4.30pm
Thurs Baby Bookworms, 10-10.30am
Thurs Drop-in Duplo, 10am-12pm
Fri Toddlertime (2-3 years), 10-10.30am
11 Sept Author Talk with Barbara Lepani
@ Helensburgh Library
Every 2nd Mon Wriggle & Jiggle, 10.30-11am 1st and 3rd Wed Lego Club 3:30-4:30pm in school term, ages 5-12. Free.
Bookings essential via Wollongong.nsw.gov.au/ library/whats-on/events
• Spring Movie. Ages 5+. Helensburgh Library on Thur 3 Oct, 10.30am-12noon
• LEGO Build Competition. Ages 5+. Helensburgh
on 9 Oct and Thirroul on 8 Oct, 10-11.30am
• Lanterns. How creative can you be when decorating your own Chinese Lantern? Ages 5+. Helensburgh Library on Fri 4 Oct and Thirroul Library on Thur 10 Oct, 10-11am
• Paint and Plant. Ages 12-17. Helensburgh Library on Wed 2nd , 10.30-11.30am
Read and Write For Life
Would you like to improve your reading or writing skills? The library offers a free one-on-one tutoring for adults. Email library@wollongong.nsw.gov.au
Compassionate Friends NSW gathering
Sat 28 Sept For bereaved parents, siblings, grandparents, and their families, at Illawarra Yacht Club, Warrawong, 10:30am-4.30pm. Presentation by Grief Australia. $30, includes lunch, refreshments, book via www.thecompassionatefriends nsw.org.au/ events/wollongong-gathering. Enquiries: admin@ tcfnsw.org.au or 02 9290 2355. Organised by Clifton resident Jody Dunning, who found comfort in the group after the loss of her daughter, Jaime.
Women’s Adventure Film Tour 2024
Thu 26 Sept Hosted by local adventure woman Rebecca Dunning, of Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour, at the Gala Cinema Warrawong, 7-9pm, www.galacinema.com/movie/waft24
Stanwell Park University of the Third Age (U3A) 2 Sept A Lighthearted look at the English Language With Reference to the Police, Proverbs, Politicians, and Lawyers – John Watson 9 Sept Canadian National Parks – Phillip Laird 16 Sept Amritsar & the Punjab – David Christian 23 Sept Saudi Arabia – Roy Lawrie
Talks are on Mondays during the school term, at 9.30-10.30am followed by morning tea, then Music Appreciation from 11am until about 12pm. All welcome to attend. Contact Jenny, 0406 350 025.
Congratulations to all the Book Week Art Competition winners, including Bethany, Sadie and Velvet. Photos: Wollongong City Libraries
Look out for locals
By Tyneesha Williams
Screen Illawarra lent a helping hand to the BBC’s new locally filmed murder-mystery, Return to Paradise. The six-part series will be released on September 8 at 7.30pm on ABC iView and ABC TV as an Australian spin-off in the British Death in Paradise franchise.
The chair of Screen Illawarra, Nick Bolton, was excited to get involved.
“It was our job to point them in the direction of all the beautiful beaches and little spaces that we knew for locations that could be good for filming.
“I’m really happy that we played that role of introducing them to the area and convincing them to invest in the area.”
Return to Paradise is produced by BBC Studios Productions Australia and Red Planet Pictures and its makers needed help finding local resources.
“During the production, [extras casting assistant] Holly [Trenaman] and I were getting texts almost daily asking ‘Where can I get scaffolding from?’ ‘Oh, I need some bollards’ or
Rufous Fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons)
Rufous Fantails occur along eastern and northern Australia and will migrate south in early spring becoming common in rainforest areas of the Illawarra from September through to autumn. They can often be seen flitting around with other small insectivorous birds in the upper and lower canopy catching insects on the wing. Their high-pitched ascending thin whistle call makes them fairly easy to distinguish.
Rufous Fantails are a challenge to photograph as they rarely stay still. I spotted this individual on the new Bald Hill track at Stanwell Park. I was lucky when it stopped on a branch suddenly close to me and sat completely still for a few seconds.
‘We need a minibus’ – all those little peripheral things that a film needs,” Nick recalls. “They’ve spent a lot of money down here. It’s very good for the economic development of the region.”
Earlier this year ‘outdoorsy’ locals were invited to sign on as extras, with no acting experience required. Screen Illawarra aimed to get as many local people as possible involved as cast and crew.
“Holly looked after all the extras,”Nick says.
“On some days there were 50 extras required – in pub scenes, there was a beach scene with surfers, and the Wombarra Bowlo, the day I went along – loads of extras on that day.
“It was really lovely that we got a load of locals some really good experience and portfolio work by working on the show.”
In recent years Screen Illawarra has given locals a chance to get involved with several productions.
“After [Kingdom Of The] Planet of The Apes, One Night and Exposure, the number of sizeable productions a year is increasing,” Nick says.
The group aims to organise a local screening of Return to Paradise in September.
Film events in September
3 Sept At Warrawong’s Gala Cinema, Screen Illawarra hosts a screening of the award-winning Kaugere: A Place Where Nobody Enters and a Q&A with director Stephen Dupont and producer Elizabeth Tadic. Book via Humanitix.
7 Sept Wollongong City Council and Screen Illawarra will host the Creative Wollongong Short Film Festival at Lakeside Reserve, Kanahooka.
“We’ve got five films in that festival, so that will be lovely! I encourage people to come along. It’s a free event, it’s outdoors… bring your picnic out at Lake Illawarra and have a nice night under the stars watching all locally made films,” Nick says.
Bird Watch
By Ewan Auld
Cameron
Walters, Gordon Bradbery, Tania Brown and Kerry Hunt at 53-55 Walker St and, at left, the current ‘temporary’ library site next door.
‘Win for community’
By Genevieve Swart
After five decades in a temporary building, Helensburgh Library can look forward to a new permanent home.
The long-awaited new Helensburgh Community Centre and Library will be built across two blocks of land at 53-55 Walker Street, next door to the current library, Wollongong City Council announced on Friday, August 9.
Council’s Community Services Director, Kerry Hunt, said it would be a great addition to Walker Street. “You can expect more books and more space,” she said. “Libraries and community facilities are not just buildings, they are places of community gathering, they are opportunities for people to engage with each other, and having it in a location like this, where it’s connected to the heart of Helensburgh… is really exciting.”
Community consultation will start in October and construction in autumn 2027.
Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery AM said “extensive consultation” drove the decision and the site “ticks the boxes” as it’s centrally located on the main street and close to the shops.
It has been three years since Wollongong City Council bought the 1858 square metre double
Country Fair update
By Fran Peppernell, Helensburgh Lions Club
Finally Spring has sprung! We’ll all look forward to the weather starting to warm up and the afternoons getting lighter. We’ve had a busy month fundraising and are pleased to let you know the Brick Fair was again a huge success and we were able to donate these funds to our locals for their learning projects. The generosity of the community is to be applauded for coming along to support. We continue to support the Perry Cross
block, which is zoned B2, for $3.6 million.
The new centre’s design will have to take into account bushfire constraints, which the Lord Mayor said had delayed the decision on a location.
Council spent time considering a site on Crown Land near Helensburgh Pool, but ruled it out due to people preferring a more central spot.
The Lord Mayor said the building would likely be single storey and include space for parking. “It’s very much a model very similar to the Corrimal and Thirroul community centres and libraries.
“We are looking at a project that could cost up to $20 million, heading north… So we are looking at possibly even going to a more manufactured module type of construction.”
Council plans to sell the current library site to help finance the new centre.
Neighbourhood Forum 1 convenor Warwick Erwin said the decision to build the centre on Walker Street was “a win for the community”.
However, Warwick said he was frustrated by the slow process. “It should have been in design a year and a half ago. It should be construction starting this year. That’s what it should have been. But it’s been delayed and delayed and delayed.”
Foundation and Salvation Army. We were also able to donate to the Rural Fire Service Childhood Cancer Foundation, a worthy cause in its own right.
Happily and importantly, and with a degree of excitement, the Helensburgh Country Fair is steadily approaching! We are pleased to announce a great line-up of entertainment, rides, lots of stalls to peruse. A great family day out so save the date for Saturday, 26 October 2024.
Have a great month everyone and we’ll see you outside Coles for a sausage sizzle, which in turn helps us fund all these activities.
NF1 Report
By Neighbourhood Forum 1 (2508 area) convenor Warwick Erwin
New Helensburgh Community Centre and Library
Council announced that the location would be in Walker St, Helensburgh on the two properties purchased by Council next to the current Library where the community wanted the new centre.
The community has suffered a two-year delay due to Council’s attempt to locate the new centre in front of Helensburgh swimming pool. The Walker St location is a win for the community.
To be similar to the Thirroul and Corrimal combined centres, as stated by Council in their press release, with a suitable amount of parking the centre would have to be over all three councilowned blocks of land and not just the two next to the existing library. Thirroul centre has parking beside and across the road while Corrimal centre has substantial parking either side of the centre.
The only parking the new Helensburgh Centre will have will be around the centre. Suggested car park entry/exit has been the roundabout at Lilyvale St.
Dates released by Council are construction start in Autumn 2027 with ground testing this year and community engagement starting in October 2024.
Be involved with the design and details of your new Community Centre and Library and get involved with the community engagement. Make your comments to the Council candidates for Ward 1 and Lord Mayor. NF1 will endeavour to keep the community informed of the engagement.
The Council will restore the front of the existing Community Centre (referred to as Youth Centre) so the community will have “something” to use until the new centre is constructed.
There is still no details on when the main hall will be demolished due to the health hazard within the building.
Proud Park Dog Park in Helensburgh Council announced the recent completion of minor park upgrades at Proud Park in Helensburgh, including a new fenced off-leash dog area, shelters and picnic facilities, water refill station with dog bowl, as well as park landscaping improvements.
The project was also boosted by a $45,340 grant under the NSW Government Local Small Commitments Allocation (LSCA) funding program. On Saturday, 31 August from 10am, all local community members (and their four-legged friends) were warmly invited to attend a small community opening of the park’s recent upgrades.
Lord Mayor Retires
Lord Mayor, Cr Gordon Bradbery AM is retiring at the end of this session of Council after 13 years in office. Cr Bradbery was voted as Lord Mayor in 2011 with the return to an elected Council after council’s period in administration. NF1 has been privileged to have the Lord Mayor attend and participate in meetings approximately twice a year during his time in office and wishes him the best for the future. His retirement also brings to a close his Australia Day Committee, who were responsible for the selection of Australia Day awards including Senior Citizen of the Year, which have been awarded to two local residents, Dr Annette Beaufils and Jim Powell.
Helensburgh Cemetery Portico consultation Council is seeking feedback from the community about their preferred option for Helensburgh Cemetery’s Portico. The community is being asked to share their preference of two options.
The first is to demolish the damaged portico completely (option A), and the second is to repair it and reconstruct a new access road (option B). Option A being the cheaper. Go to Council’s website, email council engagement@wollongong. nsw.gov.au or phone council 4227 7111 to make a submission.
Council Elections in September Council is in caretaker mode until after the Council election on 14 September 2024.
There are 13 Councillors including Lord Mayor – you are voting for 4 Councillors for Ward 1 and separately for Lord Mayor. That means two ballot papers: Ward 1 Councillors and Lord Mayor.
You must vote at a venue that is located within your enrolled council area.
Voting is compulsory at all NSW local government elections.
14 September: Election Day 8am-6pm polling 2508 area venues: Helensburgh Anglican Church 77 Parkes St; Helensburgh Public School; Stanwell Park Public School on Stanwell Avenue.
Neighbourhood Forums
Neighbourhood Forums are organised and run by volunteers and need the support of Council and the community. NF1(2508 area) does not have a Co-Convener at present.
Next NF1 meeting will be 11 Sept 2024 at Thistle’s Club Room (behind Swimming Pool) at 7pm
System ‘failed us’: Liberal councillor
By Genevieve Swart
Proud Park is one of Cameron Walters’ greatest achievements, a place he loves to visit with Nala, his border collie. Having delivered Helensburgh’s popular off-leash area is a source of some solace after the Liberal Party’s failure to lodge paperwork on time crushed his hopes of being re-elected to Wollongong City Council in the September 14 local government elections.
“Proud Park, in Helensburgh, wasn’t on the budget until 2021,” Cameron said. “I put the upgrade on there. It was only meant to be a fence, but if you go there now, it’s a lot more than that.
“It ended up with shade, facilities – overall, it’s now a gem in Helensburgh. And it’s moments like that you obviously cherish.”
In fact, the dog park has become so popular that Cameron prefers to visit in the quiet times with Nala, named after Simba’s queen consort in Disney’s The Lion King. “They say in politics, if you want a friend, get a dog,” he said, laughing.
Speaking the day after his councillor career was dealt a devastating blow, Cameron put his positive attitude down to the outpouring of support.
“I didn’t expect so many people to call. I’ve had hundreds of phone calls over the last 24 hours.
“We thought it was a sick joke, to be honest,” he said of first hearing that the NSW Liberal Party had missed the nominations deadline and about 140 Liberal candidates’ names would not appear on council election ballots across the state.
The deadline for nominations via the NSW Electoral Commission was at noon on Wednesday, August 14. “I was in Canberra, but I made sure before I left I had everything done. We were ready to go … We tried to help, but in the end, best intentions unfortunately didn’t work.”
Eight councils, including Wollongong, Camden and Shoalhaven, will not have any Liberal candidates on the ballots as a result of the party’s
administrative error. The party has since sacked state director Richard Shields.
“There’ll be a lot of apologies thrown around,” Cameron said.
Wollongong’s would-be Liberal mayoral candidate John Dorahy – who had planned to run a ‘Back to Basics’ campaign looking at what a council can and should be doing for the city – will be forced to retire after 13 years as a city councillor. Ward 3 councillor Elisha Aitken is another incumbent affected.
“There is no mechanism for appeal here,” Cameron said. “There is a hard deadline. The party knew about this.”
Cameron said he had been worried and started calling head office early on Wednesday morning. “That had gone dark. There was no return calls or feedback at all. So unfortunately, in the end, basically the system we had faith and trusted in, that we were told to trust, had failed us.
“We only needed, probably, to be honest, an hour … I could probably have lodged them pretty quickly.”
Nothing like this has happened in the modern era of local politics, he said. “It’s very disappointing. It’s not sadness, it’s more anger that, you know – we were told to trust the system that has ultimately let us down. And not just let us down, let the community down, of fair representation and choice at the ballot box.
“You want everyone to participate in democracy, but when you turn up on election day and you’ve only got two parties to choose from, being Labor and the Greens, it’s not going to be a good choice for some who would’ve voted for us.”
The result will be a setback for democracy, he believes. “It’s going to make people, once again, not trust the system.”
Cameron was 25 when first elected to council in 2017, representing Ward 3, where he grew up. He later moved to Helensburgh and has represented Ward 1 since 2021. He is well known for his regular attendance at meetings, including Neighbourhood Forum 1, Thirroul Village Committee and NIRAG/ NF3. “Residents up here are extremely passionate and they definitely respect outcomes,” he said.
Cameron said he’ll stay with the Liberal Party but expects reforms.
“I love Helensburgh and I’m not going anywhere anytime soon, but I look forward to actually having a little bit of time back, after the election, and obviously get time to spend with my wife, who I only married back in February this year … I’ll still be out in the community. I’ll be still helping in places, but I’ll just be in a different capacity.”
Cameron and his dog, Nala. Photo supplied
Thanks to ‘movers and shakers’
By Jeremy Lasek
Our departing Lord Mayor was in a jovial mood as he signed off in his final week after 13 years in our city’s top job.
On Monday, August 12, the current Council met for the last time. The following night, at the city art gallery, dressed in the mayoral robes, Councillor Gordon Bradbery performed his last official duty before retirement, recognising nearly 100 of our city’s ‘movers and shakers’ at the Lord Mayor’s Recognition Reception event.
Among those thanked and presented with certificates of appreciation were all of the most recent recipients of Australia Day and King’s Birthday Honours. Also honoured were volunteers from the Wollongong Art Gallery.
Elspeth McCombe has given an incredible 30 years’ service, while her colleagues, Cathy Briand James and Judy Goodley, were recognised for a decade of volunteering at our city’s cultural hub.
The Lord Mayor thanked the efforts of the Australia Day Committee, which he chairs. He paid a special tribute to Robyn Hampton, who for more than 20 years has “had responsibility for our Australia Day baby” (the first baby born in our city each year on January 26).
Others recognised included SES volunteer David Bere, Aunty May Button for Aboriginal initiatives, and Ian Garling, the leader of Whipbird Bushcare at Balgownie.
Voting? Look for CWA cake stall
By Jan Johnston of Stanwell Park CWA
The CWA ladies have hosted an international day with local school children. Our country of study was France, an excellent choice given everyone’s interest in this year’s Olympic venue.
Our hall was beautifully decorated with ornaments and photos borrowed from a member with a passion for all things French. Lunch began with homemade French onion soup. After delving into our cookbooks, we also served macaroons, croissants, quiche, baked French onion potatoes and pinwheels. Dessert followed with glazed fruit tarts and chocolate mousse. Our guest speaker provided an excellent commentary.
Then the children arrived in their berets, striped tops and believable moustaches to perform a very humorous show and dance. Their efforts were greatly appreciated and rewarded with medals, sweets and an origami jumping frog.
On another note, September’s CWA Awareness Week is focusing on domestic and family violence. CWA is ideally placed to take a leading role due to our ongoing advocacy in this area. Keep an eye out for us at a cake stall at Stanwell Park Public School for the election on 14 September. Proceeds will go to a local domestic violence service.
Join meetings at 10am on the first Tuesday of the month at the CWA hall, 15 The Drive. Email stanwellparkcwa@gmail.com
Read more local politics online
When asked about his greatest achievement, Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery replied, “Stability”. Scan the QR to read how our Lord Mayor for the past 13 years would like to be remembered for “good governance” – and why he believes council is no place for activists.
Plus, read mayoral candidate Q&As with Tania Brown (Labor), Jess Whittaker (Greens) + Independents Andrew Anthony, Suzanne de Vive, Ryan Morris.
Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery with ‘baby finder’ Robyn Hampton. Photo: Jeremy Lasek
Bushwalk: Wilson’s Creek
Explore a forest trail in Helensburgh, thanks to Geoff Whale, author of Northern Illawarra Beachwalks (bcw.grwpub.info)
DISTANCE 4km to 8.5km, climb 100 to 200m
DIFFICULTY Moderate, requires concentration
SUMMARY Interesting and varied forest walk, using old and new (often bike) tracks.
HAZARDS Bike riders; slippery after rain.
TRANSPORT Helensburgh station, or park as shown at or for shorter walks.
From the station take the steep steps and turn right at to continue behind houses, past the gate and into the park. Follow the track for 1.4km, climbing steadily. Swing left past a short link track and join the wide fire trail. Just before the gate there’s a bush track on the right, running uphill parallel to the road . Continue ascending until you meet a wider, dry ridgetop track. Ignore the many side paths; after 0.8km you reach a major junction Continue straight ahead.
Flat Rock Trail is signposted, but is badly eroded in places. A more interesting route to Wilsons Creek passes through a network of unauthorised bike tracks (though in good condition and excellent walking); locate the third exit and follow the inset map. You’ll need to concentrate on navigating 1 to 7.
Either way you’ll reach the ford, where Wilsons Creek flows mostly in rock crevices. Cross carefully and walk up the hill. Try to ignore the M1 motorway noise, now prominent. Before a left turn uphill, look for a track on the right. It leads into casuarina forest; the mostly rocky path can be
slippery as it crosses three minor creeks in 300m. After crossing another creek that flows under rocks, you reach a junction where the canopy opens out. Continue straight uphill; the route downhill is quite dangerous as it’s steep, treacherous clay. The next junction is with the wide Garawarra Ridge Trail . Turn right, downhill. When you reach the powerline, look for a path on the left. This passes through wonderful, dry open forested slopes, emerging eventually at Wilsons Creek Dam .
Have a rest, explore the dam, weir and creek downstream if you like, then return to the northern end of the wall. Now turn left along the level path above the dam (regrettably without views). Pass the bottom end of the unsafe link track, veer left down to the creek crossing . Again be careful after recent rains; in dry conditions step across.
The uphill return leg joins part of an extensive mountain bike network. Ignore side tracks and keep alert for riders. The 4km circuit emerges at the ridgetop; then retrace.
Photo: Tyneesha Williams
Trio honoured for saving swimmers from rip at Austinmer Beach
By Zachary Houtenville
Adam Turner and William and Adrian Kors have been awarded a Group Bravery Citation for saving the lives of seven people caught in a rip at Austinmer Beach.
On January 18, 2021, after finishing a swim at Austinmer Beach, Adam noticed seven people on a shallow sandbar at the beach’s northern end. Suddenly, a set of waves knocked them off the sandbar and pushed them into a rip.
Adam sprinted to the swimmers and Adrian Kors, who had just left the water after his own swim, joined Adam. They saved two swimmers, but Adam noticed two others had been swept further behind the rocks, where they were in danger of being smashed. Adam managed to reach them, but holding onto them proved challenging.
That’s when William Kors ran the length of the rocks and dove into the water with a boogie board, providing crucial flotation for the rescue. Together, the three men rescued all seven swimmers.
As part of the Australian Bravery Decorations of 2024, Governor-General of Australia Sam Mostyn awarded the three men the Group Bravery Citation.
“It’s a huge honour, it’s very humbling,” Adam said.
For Adam, a surf lifesaver since 2017, stepping in felt like his duty. However, he emphasised that Will and Adrian, who aren’t surf lifesavers, showed extraordinary courage and selflessness.
“It’s members of the community that didn’t think twice,” Adam said. “I couldn’t have done that without them.
“That’s where the real excitement sits with me, seeing those two guys being recognised and it doesn’t get much higher than the GovernorGeneral.”
Stories like these are all too common in the Illawarra – since the 2021 incident, Adam has been involved in an eight-person rescue.
“We see way too many people trying to enter the water or go in for a swim after-hours at a beach that’s not got a patrol up,” Adam said.
“The whole messaging out of this that we’ve been trying to push, you don’t do that.
“Do only swim at beaches that are patrolled in patrol hours in the flags.”
Since the 2021 mass rescue, Austinmer Surf Life Saving has implemented rapid-access initiatives, such as wristbands for emergency equipment instead of the key-and-lock system, and has encouraged quicker response times, especially at dusk when visibility is low. Visitors are advised to ask surf lifesavers or lifeguards for advice about beach conditions before they enter the ocean.
“Ask them about the conditions, they’re more than willing to educate people on what rips look like and how dangerous they can be and where not to swim,” Adam said.
Adventures with Probus
By Yvonne Bryce of Thirroul Probus Club
What a busy couple of months Thirroul Probus Club has had! So many outings, activities and events to cater for the diverse interests of the members of our club.
Some highlights include our Christmas in July celebration at Camden Valley Inn, a two-night stay at the Manly Quarantine Station, a group tour to Perth, a Garden Island tour, a trip to the theatre to see Death of a Salesman and a Riverboat Postman cruise on the Hawkesbury River. All events were well attended and enjoyed by all!
Friendship, fitness and fun continue with our monthly activities, including golf, bike rides, book club, walking club, coffee club, trivia, buzzer lunches, small group dining in the local area and barefoot bowls. As you can see there is something for everyone. If you are a retiree, looking for
friendship and fun, there are a small number of membership vacancies to join our wonderful club.
If you are interested, please contact Ros McCaughtrie at thirroulprobus @gmail.com
Cracking day had it all
By Ian Pepper of the Scarborough Boardriders
Our July pointscore was delayed a week and ran on Sunday, August 4 at our local Scarborough Beach. The cracking day had it all – waves, sunshine, even a spit roast on the beach, surely you can’t beat that!
Josh Pepper was coming in hot as he made it two from two in A-Grade, taking out the final in sizzling form edging out Will Clark in 2nd and Harrison Agnew in 3rd. And, speaking of sizzling, with his brother out with a broken arm, Sam Kornek stepped up to record one of the highest heat totals of the day to take out the 12s.
The battle for the 18s was as fierce as ever with Ashton nudging out Finn O’Connor this month.
The Open Women was a closely fought battle between the Short sisters, with Shyla taking the win from Zhalia. Despite decent solid sets throughout the day, it was great to see the junior girls and parental assist divisions take to the water with some fearless displays from these young surfers.
The 35s perhaps ended up as the closest battle with less than half a point separating Jeremy Povey, Dave Hyslop and El Presidente Christian, with Jeremy taking the win, much to the delight of his
family on the beach. Surfing was definitely the winner of the day!
Reminder – future dates for your diary: We will hold our 40th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, September 28 at Headlands Hotel, Austinmer – tickets on sale now for $70 per head. Visit our Instagram or Facebook page for further details and to purchase tickets.
Next pointscore: Sunday, 8th September.
Ready, set, parkrun!
By Harley Mangham of Rex Jackson parkrun
Spring is in the air and the Rex Jackson parkrun is looking forward to welcoming you and the warmer weather to Helensburgh!
Over the past three months, after a shaky start with the wet weather in June, and some course issues, we have managed to keep Rex Jackson parkrun going.
We have had a dedicated team of core volunteers who have really been the key to this, along with people visiting to volunteer or participate.
This is typical of the spirit and the great vibe of parkrun people.
There are many benefits to volunteering and I can say from experience the main one is the good feeling you get being a part of it.
For both the participants and the volunteers, it’s also about the vibe and being part of something bigger. Some of the volunteer roles are Marshalling, Timekeeping, Tailwalking and you can even be a Race Director!
Come along – run, walk or volunteer and get your hit of endorphins! We are always looking for new volunteers and they are crucial to having this great event in the town.
We are expecting more people participating as we go into the spring/summer season.
Like parkruns around the world, Rex Jackson parkrun is 5km and on every Saturday. It starts at 8am, but please arrive earlier for the briefing at 7:55am. See our webpage for location details and more about parkrun.
To volunteer, please express your interest on our Facebook page via Messenger or at the website parkrun.com.au (type Rex Jackson Oval parkrun in the search) or you can email at rexjacksonoval@ parkrun.com
See you there.
Josh Pepper taking the A grade win.
Photo: Nick McLaren
Doug Hamill (at left) with his Iron Person relay patrol. Photos supplied
New leader at Scarborough Wombarra
By Zachary Houtenville
Scarborough Wombarra Surf Life Saving Club is ready for a big safe summer with a new president.
Doug Hamill, the club’s vice-president since 2020, has taken on the role of president ahead of the 2024/25 summer season.
Doug has been involved in surf life saving for more than 15 years and with Scarborough Wombarra – a small club known for its inclusive attitude – for four years.
“It’s something that I’m really passionate about,” he said. “The surf life saving movement as a whole for me is just a wonderful community.”
A Woonona resident for three decades, Doug moved to Scarborough in 2020 and joined his local club, soon becoming an active member and earning his SLSA Bronze Medallion at age 52. Doug has been patrolling alongside his oldest son, Ben, who is club captain and Doug’s patrol captain.
Scarborough Wombarra SLSC has seen a big turnaround in the past three years, going from 17 adult patrolling members to 65.
“While not the biggest SLSC, as patrol members we spend 3.5 hours every five weeks with a club of eight patrols,” Doug said.
Outgoing club president Ant Ritter led the club’s revitalisation in 2020 with a publicity campaign that included a cover story in this magazine. A surf club member for two decades, Ant has served a total of 15 years in the top job, and will remain an active member.
Doug said: “I’d really like to congratulate Ant Ritter for the incredible amount of time, energy and leadership he has contributed to this club and the community – 15 years in total in any role is such a wonderful achievement and not only Ant but his wife, Celeste, and three sons who have all been heavily involved, making the club better and what it is today.
“The club’s running really well at the moment.”
It’s a small club of high achievers, including Rachelle Balez, winner of Patrol Captain of the Year at the 2023 Surf Life Saving Illawarra Awards of Excellence, and Peter Rafferty, who runs free swim lessons for refugees and asylum seekers and has been praised his “stalwart and sustained support” by Heathcote MP Maryanne Stuart in a Community Recognition Statement to NSW Parliament.
Doug said club culture is key to its success, with members creating an environment that makes people eager to return and contribute.
“We want members to enjoy coming and not make it a chore, it’s a break from technology from the rush of life.
“I can’t think of many better ways of switching off than spending 3.5 hours under a tent on the beach on a sunny day enjoying the company of new and old friends and enjoying the surf.
“It’s a huge effort outside of your own life and family to come and volunteer, but being part of a surf club and the community makes it so worthwhile.”
On September 14, Scarborough Wombarra SLSC will join Surf Life Saving Illawarra’s Open Day, which offers club tours and information for all.
Scarborough Wombarra SLSC will put up their flags and stage their first patrol on September 29. Doug hopes to see members old and new then.
“Our numbers are smaller and kids spend more time in activities over waiting around on hot days,” he said. “Our patrol members help with water safety and with a growing Bronze Medallion base we can give kids one-on-one teaching to grow confidence in the surf.
“We have a really welcoming and inclusive club.”
To find out more, attend the Open Day or email info@scarboroughwombarraslsc.org.
TIMES AND HEIGHTS OF HIGH AND LOW WATERS LAT 340 29’ LONG 1500 55’
Helensburgh Sunday Social Golf Club
Golf news
Robert ‘Indy’ Jones reports Bad weather didn’t interrupt our two August events. First up, we played at Hurstville on August 4th, with the Burgh Bowl as the trophy on offer.
Well-rested members were rewarded with some good stableford scores, and Ben Clarke put up 40 big ones to take the Christian’s Premium Meats voucher for 1st place. Rosco (39) was runner-up and Blake (38) was in 3rd on a count-back.
On-course over the water at 13 (the “Strike it Lucky”), all four of the group, including the NTP winner, mastered the demon of all holes. Winners including my 13th were Blake, Rob “Hollywood” Carter, Rob Aspromonte, and Frank Zuccala.
When we returned to Hurstville on the 18th, fortunes changed for many.
On the day, Frank Zuccala headed the field with 37 stableford points and won the Christian’s Premium Meats voucher, leaving three players to fight for the minors all with 34. In the end, Greg Ford, Frank Morgan and Jordan Munro placed 2nd, 3rd, and 4th.
On course we had a big winner in Ben Gersback, who landed 100mm from the cup on the 11th (“The Eagles Nest”), well within a putter’s length, to receive 15 balls for his efforts. Frank Zuccala, Tony Gersback, Luke Hatcher, Frank Morgan, Ryan Carter (giving rise to the naming of Dad “Hollywood”) all scooped up prizes. The 13th returned to form with no one landing on the green.
Back to the future now as the HSSGC returns to Boomerang Golf Course: Sept 15th, Tee Time 8:20am; Oct 6th, 8:30am; Nov 3rd, 8:20am; and Dec 8th, 9am – all with BBQ and refreshments.
Contact Tony, 0418 863 100, for more details and register your attendance and cart requirements on the Tuesday ahead of the date of our next event. Indy signing off … Fairways? Where we’re going, we don’t need fairways.
Wait a minute. Wait a minute, are you telling me there is a golf course … on the escarpment…
Tradies Social Golf
Barry Thompson reports
We had 19 members play the second round of our Championships at Boomerang with Hayden Overton showing how it is done by carding 62 off a 26 handicap. Hayden receives the Helensburgh Butchery award.
Geoff Hammond recorded 63 to appear as a contender for the C grade title. Pizza for tea, Geoff,
compliments of Gallardo’s Pizzeria. Paul Morahan found himself in unfamiliar territory when he claimed the Bradman’s, and Roger Hendry won the Helensburgh Driving Range voucher.
In Matchplay, Iain Birss beat Mick Carroll 5 and 3. This result means that Dave Tipping plays Aaron Griffiths in our September round with the winner to play Iain in the October grand final.
Gavin Sinclair didn’t bother to go to the ATM, he just picked up the $100 5th hole Eagles Nest prize off the table. It’s been a long time since that went off – great shots, Gavin!
By now, Dave will have distributed details of the Nowra weekend away. We will hold our Presentation night at Tradies on Saturday, 7th December, so please keep the date open.
Our next swing fest is at Boomerang on September 21st. We tee off at 7am and we will be playing a Stableford event. Please arrive early to aid our starters.
KITCH NEEDS A HOME!
Friendly, desexed, vaccinated & registered. For more details, email ccarpetrehoming @tpg.com.au Country Companion Animal Rescue
