The Bugle 22 April 2017
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
Ambulance move hastens Arts Centre Kiama Ambulance Station is to move to a site next to the Fire Station, at the Highway end of Terralong St. The move from its current Terralong St site has been long anticipated, and is expected to proceed with haste now the decision has been made. The relocation will free up two sites adjacent to the Old Fire Station Art Gallery, for the construction of an arts centre for Kiama. The first step in allowing
this to happen involves negotiations for Council to sell the land at the end of Terralong St to the Area Health Service, and buy both ambulance properties adjoining Hindmarsh Park (one is in Shoalhaven St). The DA for the new station is expected to be lodged as soon as the acquisition of the site from Council is finalised. NSW Health Infrastructure is keen for this to happen by mid-June. The site near the Fire Sta-
tion is currently used as a carpark for netball players, and initial concerns by the Kiama Netball Association have been overcome through talks with Gareth Ward, and Kiama Council, Health Infrastructure and NSW Ambulance working through the issues. The negations have resulted in commitments to improve safety and parking organisation. The move will bring all of Kiama’s emergency
response teams (fire, ambulance and SES) to a location where they can quickly service the whole LGA. The relocation is part of the NSW Government’s Rural Ambulance Reconfiguration Program, which is investing $122 million to ‘reorganise and enhance NSW Ambulance stations and service models to meet the future needs of communities across rural and regional NSW’. Without a timeframe for
the ambulance move, draft planning for the Kiama Arts Centre has until now factored in a staged process, to allow for the expansion to initially involve just the temporary toilet site without being dependent on the whole site being available. After extensive community consultation, architects recently presented a draft floor plan to the Kiama Cultural Board. “It is very early days with the design, but we are very excited about the possibility of the Centre happening sooner rather than later,” says Nick Guggisberg, Manager of Community and Cultural Development at Kiama Council. “The opportunity to design and build the site as a whole will make a real difference.” He says consultation has shown clearly that people want the Arts Centre to be multifunctional, and include performance spaces, gallery space (to regional gallery standard), workshop areas, equipment and more. “It needs to be a building building’s heritage value, that adds to the streetscape the number of car spaces, as well as adding to Kiama’s and lack of sufficient inforcultural life and health. mation to ensure compliance “It will not only encourage with a number of planning local artists but attract exhirequirements. bitions and performers.”
Inside this issue What’s on at this year’s KISS Arts Festival p 7-10
Gerringong Co-op gets new life p 3
Redevelopment too grand? The redevelopment of the Grand Hotel has been rejected by Council, following the Salim Group’s decision to seek approval higher up. Rather than respond to the queries of Council planners, the owners of Kiama’s Grand Hotel in Manning St deemed the process a refusal and chose to go to the Land & Environment Court to seek approval for their DA. Subsequent to this action, Council has formally refused the development, citing a number of reasons for this move. The ambitious plans for the $7.5 million redevelopment, outlined in The Bugle
last October, would see the accommodation move to a new four storey block at the rear of the old building and the old hotel’s verandahs restored as part of a reorganisation which would
result in new bars, a bistro, function rooms and the like. Amongst other things, Council has concerns about breaches of the height limit and the floor space ratio, negative affects on the
Continued page 12
Opportunity for local creatives p4 Lagoon may get crossing p6
Panel to investigate Golden Valley Rd p 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, but at the editor’s discretion
What’s on? Every Wednesday
Tues 25 April
Sun 7 May
Kiama Farmers’ Market Surf Beach 2-5pm
ANZAC Day Services See page 11
On weekends
28-30 April
Live music at The Sebel, Kiama Leagues Club, The Mecure, Jamberoo Pub and other venues.
KISS Arts Festival See centre pages
Gerringong Music Club presents Ensemble Aspherical Town Hall, 2.30pm Kiama Colour Fun Run/Walk See below 12-14 May Berry Jazz Festival www.berryjazz.com.au
20-23 April City v Country Cup Kiama Tennis Club
Sat 22 April
Sat 29 April Kiama Historical Society Talk: Mark Honey. See page 4
Sun 30 April Jamberoo Village Markets, Reid Park, 9-2pm
Kiama Makers & Growers Market Kiama Harbour, 9-2pm 6-7 May Jamberoo & District Wings over the Illawarra Historical Society Talk See page 13 Bobbie Miller on enduring Sat 6 May colonial buildings, Werri Slash and GerrinGerringong Museum, 1pm gong Surf Music Festival See right
Sat 13 May Gerringong CMRI High Tea & Fashion Parade More next issue
13-14 May Healthy Livin Festival Black Beach
Sunday 14 May Mother’s Day Everywhere
Taking surf music to the Town Hall For its third year, the Gerringong Surf Music Festival is stepping up a notch with founder Adam Loxley devising an expanded format to help it develop into a self-funding destination event. In a nod to its roots, the opening and closing events will feature live music at the Gerringong Bowling Club. However on the Saturday the action will move to in and around Gerringong Town Hall. “The Festival has really grown on the back of last year’s amazing success. “It was such a great night of music and a huge crowd. This year we are building two stages for 14 bands, and have local food, beer and wines stalls inside the hall, jumping castles and face painting. It should be great afternoon and night.” Held to coincide with the Werri Slash, in this year’s celebration of surf music the best bands from Gerringong, Kiama and the Illawarra are being joined by two bands from Sydney, including the headlining Mitchell Anderson Organic Orchestra. “We really want the Surf Music Festival and Werri Slash to be a weekend long destination event for tourists, and with support from Kiama Council and the Bowling Club we have managed to achieve that. It should be great for local business and a great weekend of music and surfing.” The program will see the bands alternate between the stages, one of which will be outside the Town Hall. That stage will wind down at sunset, with the action moving inside.
Kiama Colour Run As part of her commitment to raising $10,000 for the Bravehearts Charity, Susan Hawley has organised Kiama’s first Colour Run for 7 May. The route from Black Beach to Surf Beach and return will be even more spectacular with the runners doused in coloured powder. Starts 7.30am. Details: Tickets available from trybooking.com/ kiamabravehearts. $30 from 23 April; $35 cash on the day.
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Local band Mac Tango
Ticketholders will be able to move between the two areas. “Until now we have been relying on the generosity of sponsors to provide a totally free event,” says Adam. “They have been great, but that is not a sustainable model. The ticket sales and other income we can make will allow us to raise some funding so the event can grow to reach its potential.” Details: Friday 5 May, Gerringong Bowlo. Live music 7-10pm (free event) Saturday 6 May, Gerringong Town Hall: Live music, stalls, jumping castle, face painting, Noon-11pm (tickets $20) Sunday 7 May, Gerringong Bowlo. Live music 3-8pm (free event) Werri Slash Surf Competition: 6-7 May, 7am-4pm each day
The Bugle Editor: Cathy Law t 0412 415 101 Advertising: Steve Law t 0428 662 499
Email us at emailthebugle@gmail.com Mail: PO Box 304, Gerringong 2534 Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, but we are only human.
Kiama to ask for New life for the Gerringong Co-op its money back Kiama councillors have voted unanimously to ask the State Government to refund it the $150,000 Council paid to the State Electoral Commission to hold a plebiscite last year. The plebiscite was held as the final sally in the campaign to save Kiama from a forced amalgamation with Shoalhaven City Council. The plebiscite showed 95 per cent of voters were against the merger. Kiama was successful in retaining its independence while most other proposed mergers (not under legal challenge) went ahead. However, since then there has been a change of policy by the State Government, with rural amalgamations unwound and successful court cases against aspects of the Government’s plan. Continued on page 6
Foxground bypass
opens for Easter The upgrading of the Princes Highway through the Kiama Municipality has been completed, with the opening of the Foxground bypass just prior to Easter. The five kilometres of new highway between Toolijooa Road and Austral Park Road cuts out the bends via a 900 metre long and 25 metre deep cutting at Toolijooa Ridge. It also has climbing lanes for heavy vehicles. “It turns the Foxground bypass from being one of the worst sections of the Princes Highway into one of the best,” said Gareth Ward MP. Those curious to try the new road had best do it during the week, as the Berry bottleneck is still causing extensive delays. The Berry bypass will be open to motorists before Christmas 2017, six months ahead of schedule. The last piece in the jigsaw, the Berry to Bomaderry upgrade, will result in four lanes of divided highway between Waterfall and Jervis Bay Road at Falls Creek.
The long neglected Gerringong Co-op building, near the railway station, is getting a new lease of life. Its owner, and local distiller, Ian Field has teamed up with wine distributor Leigh Dryden to open a cellar door tasting room, as the first step in unlocking the potential of the old industrial site. The cellar door will sell vodka, sour mash whiskey and rum produced on site, as well as craft beer from Five Barrel in Wollongong, premixed cocktails from Croakers in Nowra and a range of wine Leigh imports, largely from Europe, through his company Decante This. Ian began his distilling career in the building in 2006, so jumped at the chance of buying the complex when it came up for sale just over a year ago. “I just love the industrial heritage of the building,” he says. “We are going to keep it in its original condition, and see how it develops. “There is so much potential to bring together artisan producers and create a precinct in the great spaces that are already here. “Lots of ideas are being considered.” These include a craft brewery, using the space for pop-up events, and artisan food production and outlets. The site includes the old Country Store site, and the space between the buildings can easily be envisaged as a village hub. “The reaction of people to the space has been fantas-
Ian Field and Leigh Drydon at The Siding Gerringong
tic,” says Ian. He was one of the first of a new wave of Australian boutique distillers, and continues to develop his craft and product range. He’s currently working on a gin incorporating the local botanicals of finger lime and lemon tea tree, and aging a rum. Until now, Ian has sold
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most of his spirits wholesale or on-line. Leigh started Decante This in Switzerland in 2009, and moved to Gerringong in 2015. He is excited about being able to run his wine importing business from here. “We’ve only just finished clearing things out and setting up, and already you can
feel that the old girl (the building) is so much happier. She was feeling sad and neglected before,” he says. “It is the perfect place to showcase the best local and international offerings.” Details: The Siding Gerringong, Friday 3pm-6pm, Saturday 10-4pm, Sunday 11-3pm. Opposite Gerringong Railway Station.
Opportunity for local creatives Thanks to a Kiama Council Cultural Grant, and the experience and enthusiasm of a new resident, local performing and creative arts practitioners are being given the opportunity to develop confidence in performance and presentation. Carmel Liertz, who moved to Kiama last year, has an international reputation as a performance coach and researcher on the interrelationships between stress, health and performance. “Though we acknowledge that the act of successful performing or presenting is the equivalent of that of an elite athlete for mental, physical, emotional strength, we forget that elite athletes have four people managing their preparation for successful performance – a sport coach, a sport psychologist, a nutritionist, and a physiotherapist,” she says. “My particular training applies the concept of this holistic mind-body fitness preparation with training for the whole creation to performance process, assisting one to stay focused on each step on the path, and remain
‘in sync’ with oneself and one’s work.” The book from her original research for her Masters of Education, Performance Confidence – A Training Program for Musicians, is used by professional musician teachers and students at London’s Royal Academy of Music and The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, to name but a few worldwide institutions. “Now I’ve made Kiama my home, I want to share my experience with 20-25 local aspirational performing and creative arts practitioners, who would not normally be able to afford coaching,” she says. With funding from the Cultural Grant, she has developed Project ‘Ignite’ as a highly subsidized eight session weekly training program. She is looking forward to selecting partici-
Carmel Liertz
pants from across cultures and age groups - a mixed group of musicians, theatre performers, authors, poets, and visual artists. The sessions will use her mind-body strategies framework, with opportunity to develop personalised application. “It is easy to burn oneself out in the process of preparation, without a personal safeguard of a mind-body,
health-oriented structure for daily balance,” she says. The course will begin in June and be held during the day. Details: Those interested in being considered for the project should contact Carmel on 0407 301 189 to begin the application process. Find out more about her work at www. performanceconfidence.com
Fun Night for Karen The Kiama Preschool community is rallying around to help Karen Douglas and her family, as she undergoes cancer treatment. Karen (formerly Karen Best) is a teacher at the school, and she and her husband Neil have two children. Her colleagues and the Preschool's parents are holding a Fun Night to assist Karen and her family with the additional expenses at this time. “Please come along for some music, laughs and dancing - a fun night to celebrate Kaz's love of life and positive attitude,” says Lindy Verryt, a friend and colleague. “Carefactor, Joe Mungovan, comedy acts and other local talents will be providing
entertainment throughout the night and there will be a silent auction, a raffle and other fun activities. “The event is BYO food, drink and friends - so invite them all!” Details: 13 May 2017, Kiama Surf Life Saving Club, from 5pm. Tickets are $25 each and are available from Kiama Preschool or by transfer of funds to the bank account listed below (please include your name as a reference). BSB: 062 562 Account number: 1028 8777 For any further information or enquiries karendouglasfundraisingcommittee@ yahoo.com.au
Mayor to share history and recollections Mayor Mark Honey, will share many aspects of his family’s long history in this district at the next talk organised by the Kiama and District Historical Society. There was a time when an early census recorded the Honey’s Riversdale settlement as having more residents than Kiama. “Mark’s family’s involvement in this district dates continuously from 1835 and this is certain to be a most informative and entertaining afternoon,” says the Society’s Gillian Spooner. “In addition to a long term involvement in our farming community Mark and his forebears have also contributed significantly in other forms of civic endeavour.” His talk will include many reminiscences of his own as he reflects upon the huge changes that have occurred in Kiama over his own lifetime. Gillian’s tip? Be early to get a seat. Details: Saturday 29 April, Kiama Family History Centre, 2.30pm. No charge. Afternoon tea provided.
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Mayflower to upgrade residential care facilities A $20 million redevelopment has been approved for Gerringong’s Uniting Mayflower aged care complex. The four level building is to accommodate 100 residential care beds, based on a ‘household’ model of care, where each household has its own kitchen, dining and lounge areas, creating familiar, homelike environments. The provider has gone with quality of care over quantity, with the change resulting in 10 less residential care beds than currently available on site. The 25 dementia specific beds will remain at Boronia Lodge, within Mayflower. Eleven independent living units are to be demolished, and 41 trees removed, to make way for the redevelopment, which is to be
located on the Greta St side of the complex. The building was approved despite breaching height restrictions, because its distance from the street and the topography of the site. Uniting’s original exterior design was altered to better suit Gerringong’s character, through the addition of balconies, the relocation of external stairs, the reorientation of red cedar louvres and exterior palate changes (see right for approved design). A café, chapel, a community and wellness centre and a range of adaptable activity areas will also be housed in the redevelopment, with the main construction work expected to be completed in late 2018. Plans for other parts of the site are still being developed.
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Lagoon crossing to be investigated
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Club News Kiama Mixed Probus meets on the 3rd Thursday of the month in the Kiama Leagues Club Auditorium at 11am for 11.30am. The meeting is followed by interesting speakers and lunch. Details: For more information contact Annette on 42322550
The spectacular section of the Kiama Coast Walk from Loves Bay to Gerringong is deservedly earning a reputation as one of the best walks in Australia. However dry access to Werri Beach can be problematic, depending on the status of Werri Lagoon. While regulars know it is usually a relatively shallow wade across when the lagoon is open to the sea, for many visitors, the more cautious and the less prepared it means they can’t complete the walk. At the suggestion of the Kiama Walking Tracks and Cycleway Committee, Council is to investigate the feasibility of installing a footbridge or other crossing to provide an all weather and tide connection from the Kiama Coast Walk to Werri Beach. Councillor Mark Way, who is on the Committee, says, “The Walk is a great asset for our area, and having no crossing at the end is detracting from its potential. It would be great if we could have one like the footbridge at Gerroa.” Once plans are developed, funding could be sought for the project. Another suggestion by the Committee, that directional signage be installed at Darien Ave leading to the headland, was also approved by the Council meeting.
Golden Valley Kiama to ask for its money back Continued from p3 Rd: Panel to “Other councils are recouping some of their costs in taking the Government to court,” said Councillor Matt assess merit Brown when proposing the motion at the April Meeting.
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The issue of whether or not land on the eastern outskirt of Jamberoo village can begin the process of being rezoned residential is to be decided by the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel. Following the knock back of the planning proposal by the December meeting of Kiama Council, the owner has requested a rezoning review from the Department of Planning. The Panel is scheduled to meet on 11 May to assess and determine if the proposal should be submitted for a Gateway Determination. Councillors Reilly, Watson and Sloan will present Council’s reasons for rejecting the planning proposal to the Panel. The Panel will assess the strategic and site specific merit of the proposal, and determine whether it should be sent to the Department of Planning for a Gateway Determination. Page 6 ♦ The Bugle 22 April 2017
While not a councillor at the time, Cllr Brown said he supported the action, which was only passed by one vote. “I don’t see why rate payers of our Municipality should be out of pocket for having to state the bleeding obvious – that we shouldn’t have been amalgamated with Shoalhaven.” Councillor Andrew Sloan agreed. “If the Government had followed the usual procedure, the Boundaries Commission would have had something like a plebiscite. If they had done that and asked the people what they wanted to do, the State would have been funding it. It is just more evidence that supports the motion.” Councillor Neil Reilly said, “The result really showed that this community supports this Council and we have to go into bat for them to see if we can get this money back.” Gareth Ward MP, who strongly opposed the merger, said that while he would be happy to look at the proposal by Kiama Council, the plebiscite was something initiated by them at what they knew was their cost. “Council chose to engage in that tactic. It was a good move as far as I’m concerned, but it will be up to the Minister as to whether she would support a refund,” he said. “Call me cynical, but the move comes from Councillor Brown who sat in a Cabinet that merged 44 councils without any consultation. He did one thing in Parliament and another thing when he now is on Council. “If it had been moved by anyone else maybe I would take a different view.” The motion received unanimous support from the councillors. After the meeting, Mayor Mark Honey was toying with the suggestion of simply sending the Government a tax invoice.
FREE 2017 KISS ARTS FESTIVAL PROGRAM
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FREE 2017 KISS ARTS FESTIVAL PROGRAM
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FREE 2017 KISS ARTS FESTIVAL PROGRAM
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FREE 2017 KISS ARTS FESTIVAL PROGRAM
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Louise to turn Local ANZAC her head into Day Services a work of art Jamberoo
Those who know Louise Croker, who has long been Kiama’s Community and Cultural Development Officer, will not be surprised she has found a way to make her cancer experience into a fundraising art project. “The Illawarra Cancer Carers have provided me with a much appreciated smiling face, a kind word and food and drink each time I have been in for my three hour chemotherapy treatment,” she says. “But what I have also seen them do for others is provide transport, hold hands and show unwavering support and kindness. “I have been blessed with wonderful practitioners and supportive and caring family and friends. I have a beautiful community of people around me.
Volunteers needed Now you’ve had a chance to read about this year’s KISS Arts Festival, why not help put it on? Many hands make light work, and the organisers have all sorts of jobs for all sorts of people, from helping put up a tent to helping sew costumes. Get involved in our community festival! Contact Dave on 0422 914 713
Saturday 22 April March from Reid Park at 10.30am up Allowrie Street to Jamberoo School of Arts for service
Appliance Repairs CVC Appliances: Repairs to washing machines, stoves, dishwashers, dryers etc. t 0401 294 810
Beauty Services Love Beauty & Tanning Studio: by appointment. Call Renai 0412 277 072
Kiama
Builders
Tuesday 25 April Dawn Service at Blowhole Point at 5am. March from Old Council Chambers at 10.30am, up Terralong Street for service at Memorial Arch. Service at Kiama Bowling Club at 12.15pm.
Burrell Builders: Cracked brickwork, underpinning, insurance/structural repairs. All building work. Ln3281c t 0419 378 000
Gerringong “Not everyone has that level of support to turn to. “For those that don't, the Illawarra Cancer Carers step up to help provide support, caring, information and services for free.” As well as raising awareness of the work the volunteer group does, and encouraging people to donate to the cause, Louise has organised her artist friends to help her make a personal statement. “I will be having my currently boring, baldy head painted with henna by three amazing Kiama-based artists: Belinda Brooks, Jamie Cole and Becky Guggisberg. The result will be photographed, framed and auctioned in July 2017.” Details of the auction will be in a later Bugle.
Use a local
Tuesday 25 April Dawn Service at Gerringong Headland, at the eastern end of Belinda Street, at 6am. Service at Gerringong Bowling Club at 11am.
Gerroa Tuesday 25 April Service at Gerroa Boat Fishermans’ Club at 7.30am. A note from the organisers: All veterans and other participants in marches are asked to arrive early so the parade marshall can assign march locations. The RSL has also asked that medals be worn, with those wearing relatives’ medals to wear them over the right hand side of chest. Those marching are also asked to wear respectful attire.
Horticultural services Burnett Trees: Kiama Municipality’s own tree care service - skilled, insured professionals for all tree care, pruning, removal, stump grinding and mulching. t 4233 1311
Lawnmowing Hathaway Gardens: Reliable mowing and gardening service. We service Kiama, Gerringong, Gerroa and surrounding areas. Call Lawrie 0411 888 333
Painting Col Whitehurst: Painter and Handyman Honest, Reliable, Insured. Ph 0400 135 128
Plumbing Etto's Plumbing: your local blocked drain and maintenance plumbing specialists. Call Mark 0404 009 999
Removalists For a competitive quote ring Anywhere Removals on 0430 376 890
Stonemasonry & Heritage Services For all aspects of stonemasonry, contact Brad Rimmer at BR Stonemasonry & Heritage Services Lic 292667C t 0401 337 629
TV Services Kiama TV & Video Service: Govt approved antenna installer. Over 30 years experience. t 4232 3780
Details: To donate, go to www.gofundme.com/ IllawarraCancerCarers. To find out about the group’s work, go to www. illawarracancercarers. org.au
Just $10/line to advertise. Contact Steve on 0428 662 499.
Page 11 ♦ The Bugle 22 April 2017
Local artists’ works explore the abstract The latest Kiama Art Society exhibition is by 15 member artists who attended a two day abstract workshop by noted Australian artist, Peter Griffen. Each has been invited to hang two works created at or after the workshop to show how they’ve built on the techniques learnt. “Peter took us through a series of exercises and techniques to help us free our minds and look at the world in a new way” says workshop Coordinator, Helen Pain. “He asked us to leave realism at the door, and be free to use our intuition and imagination, to create and explore. It was challenging, and great fun.” Peter is one of Australia’s best known abstract artists, having had over 60 solo exhibitions in Australia and Europe. He is currently represented by galleries in Australia and Denmark, and by agents in the UK and France. “It’s a bonus for us that Peter will open our exhibition, and an even bigger plus that he will hang two of his own works in the show,” says Helen. Peter Griffen conducting the workshop
Details: 4-10 May, Old Fire Station, Kiama. Meet the Artists, 5 May, 6pm. All welcome.
Grand Hotel continued from p1
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Council’s report on the DA says that both the designs for the old hotel and the new accommodation building need to lose a floor to meet planning and heritage requirements. It notes that the consolidated site has a floor space ratio of 2.2:1 compared to the 1.5:1 allowed, and that the new level on the old hotel would bring the height to 15.5 metres when only 12
metres is allowed. “Due to the overall excessive bulk, scale and height of the proposed development it is not considered to be suitable for the site and therefore is considered to be inconsistent with the public interest,” the report said. The existing Grand Hotel needs upgrading to comply with fire safety requirements.
Helping women shine Following its successful introduction last year, two more Shine Women courses have been scheduled to help local women who are struggling with stress, health issues, relationship breakdown, unemployment, loneliness and other life pressures. The free nine week personal development (life skills) program, supported by the Combined Churches of the Kiama area, aims to strengthen confidence, improve relationships, and to find new purpose in life. “It is about equipping women with the knowledge and skills to discover their worth, find the strength and courage to make healthy choices, and fulfil their potential,” says Jeanine Maxwell, Coordinator of Kiama Shine “It is founded on the belief that every life counts and has intrinsic value. “It is strengths-based, using an inspirational, experiential approach to learning, in a small group setting, run by trained women.” Details: First Course Tuesdays from 2 May–27 June, Point Ministry Centre, 2 Terralong St, Kiama 7-8.30pm Second Course Fridays from 21 July–15 Sept, Minnamurra Anglican Church Hall, 17 Railway Pde, 10–11.30am Registration and info: Jessica 0488 706 942 or Pam 0427 738 468
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Combating domestic violence with Safer Pathways Residents experiencing domestic and family violence will be able to receive tailored, multiagency support with the roll out of Safer Pathway program to the Lake Illawarra Local Area Command from this September. Safer Pathway brings together local representatives including Police, Health, Corrections, Family and Community Services and Education along with local specialist non-government domestic and family violence services, creating a streamlined, integrated referral pathway for victims who are ‘at threat’ or ‘at serious threat’ to their life, health or safety. Upon the announcement the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Pru Goward said, “Courageous victims who have been left traumatised and terrified will have easier access to the services they need. They will no longer have to re-tell their story to a multitude of government agencies.” Lake Illawarra is one of six new Commands selected to join the $53 million program, following its success within the 21 locations where it already operates.
Squares add up to wraps Local Wrap With Love coordinator Rae McClymont reports knitters have been very productive in Kiama and Gerringong, in addition to contributions from the Bombo Buskers and the Oak Flats Library Knitting Group. “Sixty lovely wraps have been sent for distribution,” she says. Rae would welcome any odd balls of yarn, 8 ply for squares and 12 ply for crochet edges. She reminds knitters to ensure the squares are 10” (25cm) to match up with all squares donated and to leave 40cm of yarn when casting on and off for sewing up. Donations can be left in the Kiama Library. For any information call Rae on 4237 7984.
$200k for proposed Gerringong Library $200,000 has been secured from the State Government for the library component of the much anticipated Gerringong Museum and Library complex, to be built in Blackwood St. The Museum is to be rehoused in the renovated School of Arts, and a new connecting library built on the site of the current museum, built 25 years ago. The Council initiative has been plagued with funding disappointments since it was first mooted 12 years ago, but the last Federal election saw Ann Sudmalis, Member for Gilmore, secure $1.25 million in infrastructure funds which will be matched dollar for dollar by Kiama Council. The false starts have meant a new DA has to be lodged for the project, which will happen after the land has been consolidated. Helen Sharpe of the Gerringong District Historical Society hopes that they will also be able to secure funding to help with setting up the new museum space. “The new space will be
smaller than we have at the moment and a different configuration,” she says. The current museum building and its displays were built by society members and the local community to house the growing collection. Margaret says some of that community spirit will have to be called upon again to make the move a success. “There is a great sense of excitement and anticipation, but we also know a lot is going to have to happen to get us there. “Our preference is for the School of Arts to be done first, so we could move the collection straight in, and then do the new build.” Budget constraints may not allow this. The Society has already begun consulting experts on the best way forward. “We are looking for advice on how to handle and preserve precious things that capture the story of this town,” says Margaret. “We are just volunteers, and are going to need professional help.”
Wings Over the Illawarra: planes converge for Show Not one, but two, RAAF F/A 18 Hornets are amongst the star attractions at the 2017 Wings Over the Illawarra airshow. Unlike last year, when one participated in the flying program before heading home, this year both will be landing and aviation buffs will be able to get up close for a good look. When the Hornets take off at the end of Saturday to go back to Williamstown, they will put on a spectacular Wall of Fire in farewell. In a short time, Wings Over the Illawarra has become Australia’s largest annual air show. This year it is expected to attract 30,000 people over two days, with strong backing from Destination NSW. Over 40 planes will be participating in the two day flying program, featuring a mix of vintage and modern aircraft. They include the RAAF’s biggest plane, the C17 Globemaster, a Sabre (which will do the Wall of
Fire on Sunday), a Mustang and acrobatic display teams. The latter include the ever popular Roulettes, which are opening the Show on Saturday morning. Australian Red Bull Air Race Pilot Matt Hall will be making a return as well. The full flying schedule is at wingsovertheillawarra. com.au There will also be over
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Details: 6-7 May, 70 old school planes from Albion Park Airport HARS and others on static A variety of ticket options display, along with vintage are available, with car and motorbike displays, online pre-purchases children’s rides and other offering discounts. Go to activities. wingsovertheillawarra. For the first time, ticketcom.au for details. holders will also have entry Tickets at the gate for an to a new trade show component, Aviatex 2017, focusing adult are $45 for single days and $72 for the two days. on the light sport and recreaFamily and age concessions tional sectors of the aviation available. industry.
Out & about
If you’d like to share your social event on this page, contact emailthebugle@gmail.com (preferably in advance). We’d love to share more weddings, births and other important milestones.
At the Combined Churches Easter Dawn Service Blowhole Point provided a stunning backdrop for the first Combined Churches Easter Dawn Service. Hundreds of people from five local churches enjoyed watching the sun rise on a perfect autumn’s day, while taking in the Easter message. After the service, they shared hot drinks and hot cross buns.
Local ministers Mark O'Keefe, Rob Buchan, Steve Stanis, Grant Wilson, Chris Roberts, and Rod Harding
Roger Fyfe, Rod Cork, Sophie Pocknall, Judy Cork and Josh Pocknall
Rachel and Scott Aitken with Pippa and Jack
Meg Matthews, Judy McCumstie and Bic Rigby
Mary Bramley, Elizabeth Fisher, Russel Riethmuller, Gordon Fisher, Max Dundas, Pastor Grant Wilson, Jenny Dundas, Jillian Wilson and Ian Wilson
Glen and Kathy Grigg
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Ben King and Rev. Chris Anstiss with Jed King, Arlen King, Joel Mion and Dash King
The Bugle Crossword ACROSS 1. Royal Air Force (1,1,1) 7. Hipsters have one of these on their face 10. Railway station next to aerodrome for Wings over the Illawarra 12. Body of water partially closed by land 13. Slang for 15 fl oz beer in NSW (approx 425 cc) 15. Salary 16. Dried, smoked, cured, thinly sliced pig 18. Native or resident of Greece 20. Colour between black and white. Spelt with an “E” 22. Local railway station very close to the Tasman Sea 23. Australian flightless bird 24. Number between one and ten 25. Smell 26. Yell loudly 28. Title and name of woman on new $5 note 31. Federal police of Canada 33. Mechanism for disconnecting engine and manual gearbox usually foot operated 35. Island in northern Tasman Sea noted for its pine trees 38. Colour of Council vegetation bin lid 39. Bird of prey 40. Name of plant associated with a character named Jack in a fairy story 42. Perceive with eyes 43. Piece of thick stiff paper or plastic 44. Supplier of Kiama's drinking water 47. Motorized transporter of people 48. Large ape DOWN 2. Australian and NSW governments’ credit rating (1,1,1,) 3. Netted wire over windows to keep out insects (3,6) 4. Ten appendages on feet 5. Circle above head of saint 6. Capital of Egypt 7. Noun plural. Strong wind. 8. Word spelt by rearranging another word or phrase 9. First name of Councillor
Watson of Kiama Council 12. Top part of apron covering the chest 14. (2 x Pi x R). This formula defines a characteristic of a circle 17. Punctuation mark used to indicate possession or omission of letters 19. Name of river with outlet at Gerroa 20. Australian newspaper cartoon strip with red headed boy as lead 21. River around which Melbourne was built 26. Last name of Kiama councillor who does not have the first name of Mark 27. Australian Prime Minister during WW2 29. Bring in goods from overseas 30. Style of motor vehicle tyre without an inner tube 32. Conjunction 34. Attachment point for trailer on a car
Last issue’s solution
Join in the weekly celebration of food and community Surf Beach 36. Cause to appear in a new form 37. Unit of work equal to a thousand ERGS 40. Institution with which you deposit your money 41. Thought or suggestion
45. Non-standard spelling of You 46. Preposition: motion towards a location
Now 2-5pm
Every Wednesday
Crossword compiled by Steve Law
St de ill liv ho er me ed !
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Postcard home
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Mayoral Column Each edition, Mayor Mark Honey uses this column as a way of communicating directly with residents
No, this postcard is not from Tasmania, but Taralga, a picture book NSW country town on the way from Goulbourn to Oberon and beyond to the Central West. The first sign you are approaching the historic town is the impressive wind farm to the north. That touch of the future is a great contrast to Taralga itself, which somehow has managed to avoid change in other ways.
John McArthur’s son and nephew were the first settlers here. Taralga was originally planned as a private village for the Macarthur family and their employees. Convicts cleared the land, landowners helped pioneer Australia's wool industry and tenant farmers began dairy farms. The wide main street is lined with beautifully crafted stone buildings, both domestic and commercial.
Many of the buildings were constructed in the 1860s to 1890s, accounting for the Georgian/Tasmanian feel. Its population peaked at 723 in 1891. While always a small town, it served an important district and must have had many generous benefactors, even in the 20th Century, given the size of two of its community buildings. The RSL Hall in the main street is enormous, and it
would have been great to have a look within. And as for the Catholic Church of Christ the King, it is the largest small town church we’ve ever seen. Like many weary travellers over the years, we chose to stop for a refreshing beer at the Taralga Hotel. Great place to chat with some locals and appreciate the view. Jane, Kiama
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The run of dry weather over a long hot summer seems a very distant memory now. For months our farms and gardens were desperate for rain but unfortunately we cannot turn off a tap when we think we have had enough. The Bureau of Meteorology reports that Kiama had 351 millimetres of rain in March - that is three times the median amount over the last decade. On the 16th March we measured 167mm of rain on the farm and while it is challenging for our farmers to manage their properties during heavy rains and flooding, but it is worth reflecting how much work it means for Council’s outdoor crews. The crews have to maintain 573 hectares of land, which in itself is a huge area, even before you consider what is on that land. It includes 133 parks and open space areas, 29 playgrounds, 22 sports fields, 64 car parks, 22 tennis courts, five outdoor basketball courts, nine outdoor netball courts, four skate parks and
six ocean pools. There are 268 kilometres of roads, 77 kilometres of footpaths and cycle ways, 41 road bridges and 33 bus shelters. Most critically when it comes to heavy rain, they also have to manage our 80 kilometres of stormwater infrastructure. Dealing with all this (come rain, hail, and occasionally shine) are 87 outdoor staff, including the waste depot crews who make sure your rubbish gets collected no matter the weather. We are really lucky to have such great people working for our community, often under very stressful situations. I often hear stories of how they go ‘above and beyond’ for residents, with broken rubbish bins replaced without being asked or helping someone change a tyre on their car. I know they’ll be glad things have dried up a little in recent days and will be enjoying working in the wonderful weather we are now having.