The Bugle 16 January 2016
A fortnightly celebration of people and places on the Upper South Coast of NSW
Serving the communities of Kiama, Gerringong, Jamberoo, Kiama Downs, Minnamurra and Gerroa and now at www.thebugleonline.com
Community says NO to forced merger
Inside this issue Focus on the merger debate p 6 & 7
ALEX ARNOLD
More than 1000 Kiama residents declared their strong opposition to the NSW Government’s proposed merger of Kiama and Shoalhaven councils at a public meeting. It was a meeting which had just about everything, including a declaration of a political uprising, passionate speeches, a few heated exchanges and even an old fashioned protest song. The huge crowd overflowed out of the Kiama Pavilion and onto the grass of the Kiama Showground to hear proceedings. On the night, a lot of the frustration was directed towards Kiama MP Gareth Ward, who was publicly warned by many - including councillors he had endorsed
- that his job as the local member was on the line should the merger proceed. The evening commenced with an extraordinary meeting of Kiama Council. Councillors formally resolved to oppose the proposed merger of Kiama and Shoalhaven Councils “based on the lack of community interest between the two areas, the loss of democracy which would result, the strong community opposition to such proposal and the strong financial position of the Kiama Municipal Council”. The Council also supported a mayoral minute from Brian Petschler which declared “a serious lack of confidence” in the NSW
Duck Derby makes a splash p4
Kiama’s biggest public meeting ever voted to oppose the merger proposal
Government’s decision. Cr Petschler said the proposal from the Premier Mike Baird and Local Government Minister Paul Toole
had been met with “shock and dismay”. The Premier announced plans to merge the two councils prior to Christmas with a supporting document justifying the proposal published in early January. The Government claims the merger has the potential to generate a net saving to the two council areas of $38 million over the next 20 years, with a newly merged council to be given an assistance funding package of $15 million. The proposal states a merged council would result in improved strategic planning and economic development “to better respond to the changing needs of the Gareth Ward takes picture of the protesters to send to Premier Mike Baird community” and that a com-
Ward promises to fight the merger Kiama MP Gareth Ward said the message that the Kiama community was opposed to amalgamation was received loud and clear at Tuesday night’s meeting. He said he understood the community's disappointment and that he himself had been shocked by the proposal handed down by his own government before Christmas. “I have always said that Kiama Council can stand alone,” Mr Ward said. “That was the position of the Samson review and the IPART review, neither of which recommended Kiama merge with Shoalhaven City Council. “This had never been mooted prior to cabinet presenting this recommendation. “Kiama and the Shoalhaven are beautiful, but Continued page 7
Photos: David Finlay
bined council would provide a “more effective voice for the area's interests”. However the document was slammed for its lack of substance, contradictions and mistakes. Wearing a placard declaring Kiama had been ‘stabbed in the back’ by the NSW Government, Cr Dennis Seage declared that the Baird Liberal Government was “the enemy at the gate”. He warned his friend Mr Ward that “Jesus might forgive, but voters won't forget”. Kiama Greens councillor Andrew Sloan said council amalgamations in other states had shown mergers did not save money as they
2016 Kiama Show p 8
Australia Day Awards and celebration guide p3
continued on page 6
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Let us know if there’s an event you’re organising. Just email the details to emailthebugle@gmail.com or phone 0412 415 101 Listings are free, and at the editor’s discretion
Every Wednesday
16 January
22-23 Jan
31 January
Kiama Farmers’ Market Kiama Harbour 3-6pm
Shimano Children's Charity Fishing Comp Kiama Harbour Gerringong Village Market In and around the Town Hall
Kiama Show (see p 8)
Jamberoo Village Markets Reid Park, 9-2pm
On weekends Live music at The Sebel, Kiama Leagues Club, The Mecure, Jamberoo Pub and other venues.
Til 18 January Dynamic Earth photographic exhibition (see below)
14-17 January Illawarra Folk Festival Bulli Showground See below
16-17 January Kiama Rotary Antiques & Retro Fair Kiama Leisure Centre, 9.30-5pm on the Sat and 10-3pm on the Sun. $10/$7
23 January
Kiama Seaside Markets Black Beach, 9-3pm
Gerroa Market Morning 8.30-12.30, Gerroa Neighbourhood Centre, 37 Stafford St Kiama Makers & Growers Market Kiama Harbour, 9-2pm
19 January
25 January
21 January
26 January
Gerringong Twilight Markets Anglican Church Grounds, cnr Fern and Blackwood Sts, 2.30-7pm
Australia Day Festivities held across the district, ending with a jazz & blues concert in Hindmarsh Park from 6-9pm (see page 3)
17 January
5 February Pics and Flicks Tanna (see right) Gerringong Town Hall, 7.30pm $10
Pics & Flicks even better value Pics & Flicks is introducing a ten ticket pass available at the door for $75. This not only gives a 25% reduction on the door price of $10, but also can be used by more than one person. Use them all on the one night for a group of friends or use them over a series of night. The regular membership ticket of $60 (valid for a year from the date of purchase) is still available, but is not transferable and has one ticket for each session.
11 February
Kiama Bush Dance Lego Lake Summer Outdoor Movie: Joyce Wheatley CommuKiama Library, 6-7.30pm Australia nity Centre, Hindmarsh Come along and see what Hindmarsh Park, Park, 7.30-10.30pm $5 you can build 8 for 8.3pm. Free. 12 February Summer Outdoor Movie: Red Dog Hindmarsh Park, 8 for 8.30pm, free
Young photographers show their perspective
Details: 13-18 January, Old Fire Station, Kiama
Dynamic Earth is a photographic exhibition showcasing the beauty of the natural world surrounding Kiama, as seen from the perspectives of Ryan North and Jack Parkinson, two seventeen year old awardwinning photographers. The exhibition will also feature live music, supporting the young, local musicians of Kiama. The project is a finale to the Young Entrepreneurs Program – an eight week business and marketing course held by SENTRAL Youth Services in Kiama in early 2015. Ryan and Jack worked for the rest of year together with experienced artists and mentors to finalise the planning. Drop in and show your support to these young artists.
To market, to market.. to buy seeds and plants..
Editorial: Cathy Law t 0412 415 101
Burnetts On Barney, your local Landscape and Garden Centre, brings healthy veggie seedlings, heirloom seeds, organic gardening additives and loads of flowering colour to the Kiama Farmers’ Market.
Sales: Steve Law t 0428 662 499 Ian MacDonald t 0422 736 582
Visit us at our stall at our first Kiama Farmers’ Market for 2016 on Weds 20 January Or drop into at 80 Barney St Kiama t 4233 1322 Open 7.30-4.30 Mon-Fri
The Bugle
7-4 Saturdays
Or email us at emailthebugle@ gmail.com Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, but we are only human.
4 Tingira Cres, Kiama 2533
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The film selected as the first for 2016 is Tanna, a Romeo and Juliet story set within a tribe in Vanuatu whick premiered at the Venice Film Festival last year. The drama shows that love, not war, takes genuine courage and that even the oldest traditions must contain the flexibility to evolve and bring about change. Details: Friday 5 February, Gerringong Town Hall, 7.30 for 8pm
Folk lovers heading to Bulli Hope you get to read The Bugle in time to get to this year’s Illawarra Folk Festival at Bulli. This year, the volunteer organising committee has put together its biggest program yet, with over 160 performance acts from all over the world and Australia coming together for four days to offer 500 concerts, dances, workshops and sessions. It is definitely the largest ever contingent of international acts, with folk musicians from the UK, the USA, Canada, Italy and Japan. These include The Poozies, one of the longest-standing UK folk groups. Their four-part harmonies and instrumentals effortlessly fuse folk with pop, soul, country, Gaelic and 'any enticing genre'. Details: Check out the full program at www.illawarrafolkfestival.com.au To give an indication of a wide selection of ticket prices, two day weekend passes are $135, and a Sunday pass is $75
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Kiama honours its own Australia Day: something to celebrate “Australia Day is a great day to join with friends, family and neighbours and celebrate what makes Australia a wonderful and culturally-diverse place to live,’’ says Mayor Brian Petschler. This year’s official Australia Day celebrations start the night before, with a free screening of the epic movie Australia, in Hindmarsh Park. The next morning, the tradition of local surf clubs organising community breakfasts on the beach continues, with events at Surf Beach, Kiama Downs and Gerringong (see box for details). Jamberoo will also have its traditional breakfast, with a visit from our Australia Day Ambassador Najeeba Wazefadost. She will then accompany Mayor Brian Petschler and Australia Day Committee Chairman Neil Reilly to the 11am Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony in Hindmarsh Park, where she will address the audience. Ms Wazefadost fled Afganistan with her family when she was 12. As president of Hazara Women of Australia, she is a vocal advocate for the rights of women, refugees and children in detention. She is a writer, a regular panelist on the ABC’s Q&A, a finalist in the 2013 NSW Woman of the Year Awards and has also established her own childcare business. For this week only, the Kiama Farmers’ Market is moving its regular Wednesday market to Tuesday and staying open until 7pm to add to the atmosphere. While the market is on, there will be a surf rescue demonstration by local surf life saving clubs on the harbour at 3.30pm. There will also be buskers and games on the beach. The day will end with a Twilight Concert in Hindmarsh Park, from 5 til 9pm. The bill includes Jamberoo Public School Singers, the PlaySpace Vocal Ensemble, Triple Clef and Cohlaj, featuring Alicia Quinn. Later in the evening, the Kiama Jazz & Blues Club will present Dr Don’s Double Dose, The Jacky Howellers and Sound of Koko. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, a previously-advertised evening lightshow has been cancelled.
Where will you breakfast? Enjoy a BBQ breakfast, play some games and generally celebrate being Australian.
Kiama: Coronation Park, from 7am Featuring live music by Out of the Blue, free jumping castle, facepainting and beach volleyball. Presented by Kiama Rotary and Kiama SLSC. Kiama Downs: Jones Beach, 7am-11am Presented by Kiama Downs Surf Club and Minnamurra Rotary. Featuring flag-raising, sand modelling, treasure hunt, a brickies’ relay & thong-throwing. North Kiama Dr will be closed between Merindah Ave and Johnson St, 6.30-11.30am. Gerringong: Gerringong Surf Club, 7.30-11am Presented by Gerringong Surf Club, Gerringong Lions and Gerringong Sunrise Rotary Club. Guest speaker will be Kimberley Abbott (8am) and local band Rusty Hinges will perform. All proceeds to the Gerringong Bush Fire Brigade and Gerringong Primary School. Jamberoo: Kevin Walsh Oval, 8-11.30am Children’s games, jumping castle, classic cars and Born and Bred Vs Blow-ins touch football game at 10.30am. Ambassador Najeeba Wazefadost will speak at 9am.
Congratulations to Jamber2016 AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD WINNERS oo’s Geoff Boxsell on being Citizen of the Year Geoffrey Boxsell named Kiama’s Australia Young Citizen of the Year Hannah McInerney Day Citizen and Hannah Sportsperson of the Year Brandon Sosoli McInerney, our Young Citi- Community Arts Award Merelyn Pearce zen of the Year for 2016. ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNERS From his youth, Geoff Service to the Environment Debra Moore has had active involvement Community Achievement Kiama SES National Rescue across a variety of areas. Competition-winning Team The former manager of the Youth Achievement Imogen Bakewell Jamberoo Dairy Factory and Dairy Farmers’ employee Centre, Hannah is an enernous students to continue has long been a vocal advo- getic and dedicated commu- their education through cate for the industry and for nity member involved as school and university. Club Captain of Kiama Surf Kiama Mayor Brian Life Saving Club as well as Petschler praised the comthe Brigade Training Officer mitment and dedication of for the Jamberoo Rural Fire the winners and nominees Service. She is also a volun- and commended their teer for AIME - the Austra- community spirit. lian Indigenous Mentoring “Once again we had an Experience - which aims to extremely strong field of help and encourage indige- nominees, any one of who would have been deserving of the awards Geoff Boxsell in the seven categoJamberoo itself through the ries,’’ he said. Jamberoo Ratepayers’ Asso“Each nominee had ciation. He is also a member an impressive list of of Jamberoo Golf Club, involvement and Kiama Men’s Probus Choir, achievement detailing Kiama/Jamberoo Uniting their commitment to Church, Terralong Drainage our Municipality and Union and Wollongong the wider community. University Cricket Club. These sorts of people A University of Wolloninspire us all and help gong Nursing student and to make Kiama the worker at the Kiama Leisure wonderful place it is.” Hannah McInerney
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Keep your brain active with U3A Classes for U3A’s first term of 2016 include Tai Chi Qigong, computing for beginners, dancing, classes on various types of music and art appreciation, and more. In addition, another program of its popular Monday Talks, held 2-4 pm at The North Kiama Neighbourhood Centre, has been organised: 1 Feb
8 Feb 15 Feb
22 Feb
29 Feb
7 Mar
14 Mar 21 Mar
Gallipoli – Then & Now by Dr Jen Roberts Why does Gallipoli hold an important place for Australians? Stories Cathedrals Can Tell by Simon Duffin Tales from some of the UK’s 110 Cathedrals. An Architectural Vision for Kiama by Harry Sprintz Enriching, optimistic and forward looking. Who are the Digital Natives? by Prof Sue Bennett Considering the implications of technology. Australian Frogs: Their Biology, Threats and Conservation by Michael Fox How to win Kermit’s affections. The Last Great Frontier: Ocean Governance by Prof Robin Warner Be made aware of the need to govern the conservation of our oceans. No talk - Visit to Joadja Creek Heritage and Eco Tour for members Death Decomposition and Detector Dogs by Prof Shari Forbes The training of cadaver dogs.
Details: Class enrolments are on the Mon 25 January, 2-4 pm, including a welcome sausage sizzle (free for members) and Tuesday 26 January, 2-3 pm, The North Kiama Neighbourhood Centre, Meehan Drive. Membership fees are $25/year plus a gold coin donation for tea/ coffee and biscuits. People may attend two talks for a gold coin donation before having to become a member.
Inaugural Duck Derby a real quacker Gerringong Men’s Shed’s inaugural Duck Derby was well supported by the community and a large crowd was on hand to cheer their ducks to the finish line at Gerroa. The ducks, which were registered to those who adopted them for the race, were launched from the footbridge at Crooked River. The winner was Reece Masling, who collected $350 for first duck past the post, with the two runners up Denise Ottey and Brodie Miller received $100 and a voucher for dinner for two at the Mercure Gerringong Resort respectively. The proceeds from the event will help to build the men’s much needed new shed. “Due to the success of this event we are already busy organising for next year and hope to incorporate more races in our program and make this an annual event,” says Graham St Clair. “All the members of the Men’s Shed would like to say thank you for the support of the Gerringong Lions Club and the local businesses who made the event possible - Gerringong Auto Bob Waite, First National Real Estate, Gerringong Pharmacy, Gerringong Medical Centre, Mercure Resort Gerringong, Trivium Restaurant and Gerringong Automotive.”
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Local children helped launch the ducks off the Crooked River footbridge for their race westward. It was such fun that next year will feature a number of races. Below: Reece Masling with the winning duck
Bill and Anne Chambers were the lucky winners of the Minnamurra Lions Club Trailer Raffle for 2015. The raffle was an outstanding success and all proceeds will be allocated in 2016 to support local community and youth projects.
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Given Jamberoo’s strong association with football (soccer) it isn’t so surprising that the Jamberoo Golf Club is the first club on the South Coast to hop on board with the latest sport from Europe Footgolf. “It’s golf played with a soccer ball,” explains one of the Club’s board members, Sue Paul. “The object of the game is to complete a round of 9 or 18 holes in the fewest number of kicks, using separate larger holes.”
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Digital detox in the offing Professional life coach Eva Kokkelmans is wanting to gauge interest in staging an Unplug Kiama Challenge. “The idea is to detach ourselves from technology for one full week, and with that grasp the opportunity to destress, recharge and spent more time outdoors,” she says. Other communities around the world have taken up the challenge with rewarding results. People can choose how the challenge looks for them: anything from no phones in the bedroom to no social media during the working hours, or even just no social media when you have somebody next to you to be really social with. Details: If you are interested in getting involved in this initiative (free to everyone), probably in early March, contact insightoutsidecoaching@gmail.com
Join Probus The Beachside Ladies Probus Club is looking for new members. We are assured that Beachside Ladies is a fun and friendly club with great interaction and interesting speakers.
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Details: Meetings on the first Monday of each month at the North Kiama Community Centre, 9.45-noon. For further information call President Pat McInerney on 4237 7714 or 0412 521 727.
Call 4234 4880 or 0408 625 071 Email: info@BluewatersDentalCare.com.au Web: BluewatersDentalCare.com.au Address: (Shop 2) 24/25 Noble St, Gerringong
Kiama welcomes comedy star
Reported sightings of Matt Lucas, from the cult comedy show Little Britain, continue to grow. He spent ten minutes talking with Jess Arroyo and her husband Matt Counsell, telling them he had just flew in from LA.
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Does Kiama meet the merger criteria? In his report to Council, and a 10 year long term assets including the Blue the long term host of the General Manager Michael financial plan and asset Haven Retirement Village Joint Regional Councils Forsyth highlighted the management plan and Aged Care Facility, and effectively collaboterms of reference of the rates with the other Coun• Consultants Morrison Low residential land at Spring decision-making process Creek and key commercial cils on regional programs have reviewed Council’s (see box below), and offered sites and resource sharing proposal to be fit for the the following response to • Kiama Council has had • Kiama Council employs future and show that the criteria: Council is able to meet a long period of good approx 280 staff • Council is financially the IPART financial critegovernance and political (including Blue Haven sound with approximately ria by 2019/2020 stability and WasteServices) $42 million in reserves providing a high level of • Council has substantial • Kiama Council has been service and underpinning the local economy • 40% of local residents The matters required to be considered as considered relevant in relation to work in the Municipality by the Delegate, Boundaries Commission the past and future patterns of elected while 50% travel north to and NSW Government are listed as folrepresentation for that area Shellharbour, Wollongong lows: • the impact of the proposal on the abiland Sydney for work. • the financial advantages or disadvanity of the council to provide adequate, Only 10% of residents tages of the proposal to the residents equitable and appropriate services and travel to the Shoalhaven for work. and ratepayers of the areas concerned facilities • the community of interest and geo• the impact of the proposal on the em- • Kiama Council is part of the Sydney Water region. graphic cohesion in the existing areas ployment of the staff by the council Shoalhaven City Council and in any proposed new area • the impact of the proposal on any ruis not. • the existing historical and traditional ral communities in the resulting area • Kiama Council is in the values in the existing areas and the • the desirability (or otherwise) of dividLake Illawarra Police impact of change on them ing the resulting area or areas into Command. Shoalhaven • the attitude of the residents and ratewards City Council is in the payers of the areas concerned • the need to ensure that the opinions Shoalhaven Police • the requirements of the area conof each of the diverse communities of cerned in relation to elected representhe resulting area or areas are effectation for residents and ratepayers at tively represented the local level, the desirable and ap• any other factors relevant to the propropriate relationship between elected vision of efficient and effective local representatives and ratepayers and government in the existing and proresidents and such other matters posed new areas.
The issues that will decide the matter
Command. • Kiama Municipal Council provides a green waste service. Shoalhaven City Council does not. • Kiama Council provides a range of aged care services. Shoalhaven City Council does not. • Kiama Municipal Council has had excellent relations with and provides funding support for local emergency service groups including the Kiama State Emergency Services and local bush fire brigades • The unemployment rate in Shoalhaven City Council is 9.5% compared to 4% in the Kiama LGA • The Kiama Municipality has a very strong community of interest which is different and separate to surrounding local government areas. Council has engaged Morrison Low to assess the cost benefit of any merger.
Community says NO promised, but were purely ideological. Cr Neil Reilly warned the community that the fight to save Kiama would not be a points decision but a fight won by a knockout punch. “We are more than a quarry with a view,” he said. “We are a community, a community and a council that others would do well to emulate.” The formal council meeting was followed by a community meeting conducted by the newly formed committee of the group Keep Kiama Council Local. The group's chair, former councillor Rob McKinnon slammed the timing of the Government's proposal as “sneaky”. Among those from the Keep Kiama Council Local committee to address the meeting were former Kiama mayor Sandra McCarthy, Cliff Mason from Minnamurra Ratepayers Association, music writer Bruce Elder, former Illawarra Mercury editor Nick Hartgerink, Ian Pullar from the Kiama-Jamberoo RSL and Werri Beach resident Andy Farrell who spoke about the Municipality’s healthy community and services sector. Concerns were expressed
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for the future of Kiama Council's prized asset, the Blue Haven aged care facility, should it be placed in the hands of Shoalhavenbased councillors. There were also fears that Kiama would feel the brunt of council job losses, with the new council's administration to be centred in Nowra. There was also disbelief that the NSW Government would think that Kiama was bound to coastal communities more than 180kms to the south when most residents of the Municipality looked north for services. At the end of the meeting a motion was passed calling on the NSW Government to abandon the proposed merger and allow the Kiama community to run its own affairs as it has done since 1859, with just one dissenting voice. Kiama Mayor Brian Petschler said he had not seen a meeting like that in Kiama since he arrived here in 1986. “This meeting was very important,” Cr Petschler said. “We needed to gauge how the community feels and it was clear that the vast majority of residents do not want the merger.
Meet our Delegate The Government has appointed Greg Wright as the Delegate to examine the proposal to merge Kiama and Shoalhaven councils.
The role of the Delegate is to examine and report on the merger proposal. Submissions on the matter will be reviewed by the Delegate and used to inform the examination and reporting process. Once the Delegate has completed their examination, they must prepare a report and provide that report to the Minister and to the independent Boundaries Commission for ultimate decision by the Minister. Greg is the Principal of Wright Associates and has extensive experience in the local government sector through his role as former General Manager for Camden Council and as interim General Manager for Broken Hill City Council, where he prepared the council for significant cultural and financial changes. The closing date for written submissions to the Delegate is 28 February. Details: He can be contacted on Greg.Wright@ dpc.nsw.gov.au Phone: 1300 813 020
“To have so many people attend was astounding.” Keep Kiama Council Local spokesman Nick Hartgerink said the committee would continue to make its message heard in the six weeks until submissions close, with more public meetings planned. “People are determined to take the fight the the Premier ... we want to keep the momentum going,'' he said. In the coming weeks, the Council will organise and support a number of public meetings throughout the Municipality to provide information on the proposal and gather community feedback.
Ward promises to fight
Community urged to get involved
the proposed merger until more information was provided and feedback from the community received. A group of residents Shoalhaven Council was formed Keep Kiama assessed by IPART as ‘fit Council Local shortly for the future’ both in scale after the proposal was and capacity and financial announced to oppose sustainability, but this was on the basis that the council the forced merger. would raise its general rates The protest group through a two-year special organised the public rate variation of 21 per cent meeting after the from 2017/18. Council meeting, and Cr Gash said with the is spearheading efforts State Government proposing to galvanise the comto freeze the rates of a Emeritus Mayor, Sandra munity to fight the merged council for the first McCarthy at the meeting proposal. four years, early estimates Its committee members are drawn from throughsuggest Shoalhaven City Council could be up to $11 out the LGA and includes people with a record of million worse off annually. community involvement and activism: “From a Shoalhaven perJamberoo: Rob McKinnon (Chair), spective we are concerned Vivien Marriss, Ian Pullar Photo: David Finlay
different places ... Kiama does not have a lot in common with a council that runs down the coast to just north of Batemans Bay. “I will be making a submission to the Delegate and I am asking the community to send me their views which will be attached to the submission.” Mr Ward said it was his understanding that where amalgamations are proposed by the Government, they are obliged to conduct a poll of the community. Mr Ward said he was “not anti-amalgamation'“. “I am not against amalgamations per se, but there needs to be a business case and reasoned and rational arguments and I can’t see
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Photo: David Finlay
Kiama:
Gareth Ward attended the meeting, as did the Mayor of Shoalhaven Joanna Gash and the Federal Member Ann Sudmalis
that here in Kiama. “I am not against considering expanding the Kiama Council boundaries but at this point there is not an alternative proposition on the table. “I think that Kiama Council can meet the Fit for the Future criteria, in many respects the new Blue Haven site will provide a steady stream of income “I think right now Kiama is a victim of a snapshot in time, rather than a longer term view of the council’s financial viability.” Mr Ward called on Shoalhaven City Council, which was yet to take a position on the NSW Government proposal, to make its opposition to the merger clear. Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash, who represented the Kiama area for 17 years in her role as the Federal Member for Gilmore, told The Bugle that she would not be taking a position on
that we will lose funding,” Cr Gash said. “We have gone through a process with staff cuts that the council is now running on the smell of an oily rag. “We want to hear from our community. Our community has not been as vocal as Kiama's as most of the area is still in holiday mode and people away are away, but we will make a submission to the delegate by Feb 28. “This is a challenging time and we just have to wait and see what the outcome is.” However the current Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis, a former Kiama councillor, and business owner in both areas, said Kiama and Shoalhaven were two quite different communities. “It beggars belief why Shoalhaven, Kiama and Shellharbour for that matter have been proposed for amalgamation ... it seems unnecessary and unpopular.”
Let’s talk about rates While Shoalhaven’s average rates are lower due to lower average land value, comparing like with like shows Shoalhaven’s rates will soon outstrip Kiama’s. Land value $300k Kiama Shoalhaven $500k Kiama Shoalhaven
Current $1850 $1739 $2280 $2195
2018/19 $1923 $2095* $2370 $2645*
* after 15.9% rate rise
2020/21 $2164** $2150 $2668** $2714
** after 9.7% rate rise
Bruce Elder, Kim Elder, Peter O’Neill, Rod Cork Gerringong: Sandra McCarthy, Darrell Clingan, Andy Farrell Kiama Downs: Nick Hartgerink Minnamurra: Cliff Mason They are encouraging all of Kiama to register their opposition to the forced merger by: • Writing to the Premier and our local member Gareth Ward • Signing the petitions circulating around the area • Registering to talk to the Delegate when he comes to Kiama (see right) • Talking to your friends about the issues involved.
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Decision expected by mid-year Following the shock announcement of the merger proposal, the process is continuing apace. At time of print, this is the timeframe that is known: • Delegate to meet with councils – imminent • Public Inquiry: 3 February - two sessions in Kiama for verbal submissions (see below) • Written submissions: closing date Sunday 28 February • Submissions reviewed: Delegates examine proposals and submissions and prepare reports • Boundaries Commission: Reports provided to the Boundaries Commission for comment • Minister: Delegates report to Minister Toole for decision • New councils commence: Decision announced by proclamation of the Governor (expected around mid-2016) • Elections for new councils: Expected April 2017
Will six hours be enough? Public hearings by the Delegate have been set down Wednesday 3 February in both Kiama and Shoalhaven. Unlikely, judging by the crowd They will be 9amnoon and 7-10pm at registering for the first public meeting Kiama Leagues Club, with session in between in Nowra . Call 1300 813020 to register or do so online - go to www.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au, search for Kiama and click on the Public Inquiry tab. Written submissions can also be lodged via this site.
Kiama set to put on its 168th Show
Photo: Brian Scott
The organisers of this year’s efforts. Exhibits must be Kiama Show are looking the original work of the forward to the usual busy exhibitor, completed in the lead up to the two day event, previous twelve months. Details: Entries in the as competitors lodge their Pavilion sections must by entry forms and then bring registered by 5pm on in their items for judging. Tues 19 January Last year, there were more (apart from cut flowers, than 2000 entries in the Paventries for which close at ilion categories - everything noon on Thurs 21 Jan). from vegetables, cut flowers, Steward Anne Honey puts The exhibits need to be baking and craft to painting, the prize certificates on last delivered by 11am Thurs photography and home brew. year’s winning entrants (apart from Art and Junior While some competitors Art due by 10am; and cut flowers - due are veterans (some would say legends), by 8.30am Friday). Get full details from each year sees more people begin their the Schedule or www.kiamashow.com.au show careers by displaying their creative
Packed program of entertainment
Kiama’s equestrian events are an important precursor to the Royal Sydney Show
Photo: Brian Scott
Photos: Brian Scott
Minnamurra wetlands needs your help
The entertainment line-up for this year’s Show brings back the popular and impressive D-Max Isuzu Utes, Australia’s only precision driving team. There are three opportunities on Saturday evening to see the team’s close formation driving, high speed drifts and slides, crossovers and ramp jumps, and two wheel driving (5.30pm, 7pm and 9pm).
Friday night will feature ShowMow Racing, the crowning of this year’s Show Girl and an action packed rodeo. Out of the ring there will be a gardening demonstration with the Compost Heap’s John Gabriele,
the South Coast Scouts’ Climbing Wall, Matilda’s Farmyard and Kiama’s own Dave Evans and Tamara Campbell with their La Petit Grande Circus. As usual, Chittick Oval will be transformed into sideshow alley. The two days of the Show will culminate in fireworks at 9.30pm.
Kiama Courthouse reduces hours
Following the completion of the works at Wollongong Court, which have seen Kiama Courthouse used as a temporary venue, Kiama Local Court will now only be open on Mondays and Tuesdays from Monday 25 Details: 22 & 23 Jan, Kiama Show January. If you have any queries Ground. Day ticket $15 adult/$5 conc; $35 family of 4. contact the NSW Court Service on 1300 679 272
Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) and Kiama Council are partnering on two weed control projects in the Minnamurra River wetlands; at Trevethan Reserve and in the swamp oak and saltmarsh area at the northern end of Charles Ave. CVA groups work in these areas at least twice a month, and welcome new members on a regular or occasional basis. If you are interested in participating in a worthwhile environmental initiative and increasing your knowledge of wetland areas. Details: Contact wollongong@ conservationvolunteers. com.au or call 4228 9246 for more information.
Use the Library for printing The days of being caught out when your printer isn’t working or you are away from it are over. Kiama Library now has a MobilePrint service, which allows anyone to have their pages printed by the Library printer. Smart phones and tablets use the Printeron app, and pc or laptop users print via the Library website. Print jobs will be held at the Library for 48 hours, and normal printing charges apply.
www.greenbox.org.au for convenient on-line access to regional and local food Greenbox is a non-profit, regional food co-op based in Gerringong, run by a team of passionate volunteers
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Out & about At the Kiama Show Ball
Forty years of fundraising
The Gerringong Village Craft Shop, on Fern St at the side of the Memorial Hall, recently celebrated 40 years of community service. The craft shop sells a large range of handmade goods which include baby items, knitted items, jewellery, kids clothing, cards, jams and so much more. Profits raised are donated to various organisations including Gerringong Public School and Gerringong Fire Brigade. They welcome new members and their handmade craft. If you are interested come in and have a chat to one of the members.
Kiama’s Show Ball lived up to its reputation as being a social highlight of the year. Over three hundred attendees enjoyed the Carnival theme, and danced to music by Woody and Care Factor. The three entrants in this year’s Kiama Show Girl competition were introduced and judged at the event. The winner will be announced at the Show.
Above: left side nearest Catherine Hayward, Betty Richardson, Jen Thompson, Deb Ford, Pam MacIver, Judith Redding right side nearest Glenys Kelly, Yvonne Tyler, Sandra Hamblen, Pat Southwell, Anne Gallagher and Jeanne Evans.
Above: Gareth Ward MP with last year’s Show Girl Georgie Picton, Courtney Sopher, Ameila Murphy and Lucy Marsden Top right: Andrew and Fiona Wilkinson Bottom right: Michelle Young with Sue Granger-Holcombe
At Kiama Harbour on New Year’s Eve
This year’s New Year’s Eve on Kiama Harbour was the most popular yet, with a large number of people lining the foreshore from the afternoon on to have a great vantage point for the largest fireworks display between Sydney and Melbourne. The fireworks were presented by Kiama Tourism and Kiama Council. The Kiama Business Chamber then hosted a well attended after-concert in Hindmarsh Park. Photos by David Finlay
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The Bugle Crossword Across 1. A dedicated poem meant to be sung (3) 3. Y2K (10, 3) 10. Goddess of the hunt and twin sister of Apollo (7) 11. Provide for (5) 14. Left out detail purposely (4) 15. Noisy breath, often in surprise or terror (4) 19. Capital of Turkey (8) 20. Warm cloth (6) 21. Consumed (5) 22. Daughter of Byron; ___ Lovelace (3) 23. Not moving; type of electricity that makes your hair stand on end (6) 24. Professional maker of clothes (6) 26. In addition to (5) 27. Sob (3) 28. “____ in your pants” – expression describing excitement (4) 30. Pro-gambler (4, 5) 33. Space probe launched in 1977 (7) 34. Alias of Tony Stark (4, 3) 35. Queensland swimming costume (4) 36. “Bill of ____” outlines the legal and civil rights of citizens; missing from Australian Constitution (5) 37. The action of damaging the good reputation of someone (10) Down 2. Pyne is unsuccessfully trying to get University ________ through the Senate (12) 4. Geek (4) 5. Alien (1. 1. 1.) 6. Malicious gossip about someone (3, 5)
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Postcard home
One of my favourite places to visit in Switzerland is the Ballenberg Open Air Museum. On the drive up to the museum we were greeted with picturesque mountains and lakes. ‘All roads lead to Ballenberg,’ because the museum is located in the heart of the country, nestled between two snowcapped mountain ranges. This is not an ordinary museum, more a village, and visitors should come prepared for a hike. Once through the gates, we entered the past. Many different buildings from across Europe have been carefully relocated to the Ballenberg, so that we could wander from a rope-maker’s barn and into a classic Swiss chalet from the 18th century! Some of the exhibits come alive with interactive demonstrations, and their house-made cheeses are delicious! There is also a play area, where children and adults alike could
If you’d like to share your travel experiences, send your postcard home to emailthebugle@gmail.com
test their skills at a variation of bowling or ride on the merry-go-round. Around midday we wandered into the town square and feasted on traditional Swiss meals of risotto and meat platters. Local artisans set up stalls within the square, and roving musicians liven the museum with folk songs. We ate in a small clearing with a clear and spectacular view of the mountains, next to a softly bubbling stream. I could have spent all day wandering from building to building, but we had to leave after lunch. On the way out we visited the Ballenberg chocolate factory, where we bought chocolate bark and truffles as souvenirs. All in all, a wonderful day spent strolling through history in the shadow of mountains. Jess Yarrow, Kiama
Methold on books Noel Beddoe is a truly local author. Resident in the Illawarra, he was at one time the Principal of Warrawong High School. He has been writing for many years. His two recent books, however, mark his arrival in the highly competitive world of adult fiction. They are both excellent of their kind. Cringilla Hill is a tough, tautly written account of gang warfare and the youth drug culture in the Warrawong district. The Yalta Crossing is an evocatively and movingly written historical novel set in NSW in the 1830s. It is the absorbing story of the attempt of a father and son, and the father’s ‘new’ woman and her daughter, to establish themselves on an isolated rural property. Apart from admiring Beddoe for the quality of his writing, I admire his courage. He is clearly determined to write only the books he wants to write. I must assume that he is willing to ignore the marketing wisdom of publisher’s sales people. They do not like authors who write different kinds of books.
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They prefer authors who write the same kind of book. Most crime writers produce only crime novels, often with the same main characters. Historical novelists usually write only historical fiction, often set in the same period. Those of us who like to try our hands at whatever genre takes our fancy commit commercial suicide. In my own case, for example, I have had six novels published, commercially, each of which has been in a different genre. Partly as a result I have failed totally to establish any kind of a reputation as a novelist. I hope Noel Beddoe continues to be brave – and commercially unwise – and to write whatever genre of novel appeals to him. The result is sure to be worth reading. He’ll find it easier, though, to establish a reputation as an adult novelist if he produces more Cringilla Hill kind of fiction. His grasp of contemporary life in such places is so perceptive that he will be doing Australian
literature a favour by producing more of this kind of thing. Most of us need to know what life is really like ‘down the line’. He knows and tells it grippingly like it is. A Kiama resident, Ken has been a full-time writer for almost 50 years and is an elder statesman of the publishing world. The Bugle is honoured to have him as an occasional columnist. He is the instigator of a monthly lunch group of local male readers and/or writers of crime which meets on the last Thursday of the month. There are currently a few vacancies. Contact ken@kenmethold.com