Grand pub on the market Director shares vision

Michael Malone, the newly appointed Director of Infrastructure and Liveability, is enjoying overseeing Kiama’s engineering, roadworks, public services and parks.

He’s clear-eyed about what’s ahead, not just because of his previous experience with Wollondilly and Wollongong councils but, as a long-term resident.

“I’m prone to noticing potholes and drive my family nuts taking detours to see newly installed traffic calming devices,” he says.

It’s been a difficult few years on the engineering front with rains severely impacting roads, ongoing weather conditions, and contractor availability, meaning extended delays. The good news is the imminent reopening of Jamberoo Mountain Road means attention can be redirected towards other areas of concern.

Council’s financial issues resulted in severe cuts to last year’s infrastructure budget. However, acknowledging that the financial challenges have been unsettling for the community, Mr Malone is pleased to share there’s a $9.7m budget for capital works for the next financial year.

The public will be seeing that money, from grants and reserves, in action on roads, the Hindmarsh Park development, paths, cycleways and car parks. Money is also being set aside for implementing the recommendations of the Jamberoo and Gerringong flood studies.

In addition, a refresh of the traffic management plan; and reviews on the Holiday Parks and Waste Commercial Services, are underway.

‘The holiday parks are a continued page 10

Kiama’s iconic Grand Hotel is for sale for the first time in 20 years and is already attracting large amounts of interest.

This historic, centrally located pub has been popular with locals and tourists alike since 1891.

The same family has operated the pub for the last 20 years but as of late May, the hotel was put up for sale by Wollongong-based hotel brokers, Tourism Property.

The Nova next door will not be sold with The Grand and will continue to be maintained by the Salim Group.

According to broker Matt Davidson, there has been an enormous number of enquiries for the pub.

“Obviously, Kiama is an iconic seaside town and lots of people like to be here so we’re seeing a strong interest at the moment,” Mr Davidson says.

“We are getting people particularly from Sydney, but certainly some local interest which is great. We would love