The Bugle 7 July 2018
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
One year to prepare for planning changes Council has a year to ensure that the worst effects of amendments to the State Government’s Low Rise Medium Density Housing Code, which come into force on 6 July, are mitigated by incorporating minimum lot sizes and other measures into the Kiama Local Environment Plan (LEP). The amendments, reported on in our 12 May edition, will allow more developments to be approved as complying developments, which can be determined without the need for a Development Application (DA). While minimum lot sizes are currently included in
Kiama’s Development Control Plan (DCP), these are trumped by the Code. The LEP, in turn, trumps the Code on this issue. Other local controls contained in the DCP, such as setbacks, can be overridden by the Code. By including minimum lot sizes in the Kiama LEP, Council will be able to prevent the possibility of dual occupancies on 400m2 blocks, as the Code allows. Importantly, the recommended changes propose that the minimum lot sizes for dual occupancy, introduced in 2017 to cover newly zoned R2 land, be extended to cover all land in
the respective zones. “The only mechanisms available to us to manage the application of the Code are through permissibility and minimum lot size provisions in the LEP,” says Council’s Director Environmental Services Linda Davis. The changes to the LEP, to be made through a Planning Proposal, seek to: introduce a minimum lot size of 600m2 for dual occupancies and 900m2 for multi-dwelling houses (terraces) in R2 zones in Kiama, Gerroa and Gerringong introduce a minimum lot size of 800m2 for dual occupancies and 1200m2
for terraces in R2 in Jamberoo make terraces permissible with consent in the R2 zone introduce a minimum lot size of 400m2 for dual occupancies and 800m2 for manor houses and terraces in the R3 zone introduce a E4 Environmental Living zone which prohibits dual occupancies, residential flat buildings and multi-dwelling housing rezone the western portion of the Silver Hill/Cedar Ridge area from R5 to E4. The Minister for Planning has allowed for the twelve month deferral of the new code following intensive
lobbying by Kiama and other councils. “It was what we were after,” says Mayor Mark Honey. “I would have preferred a two year amnesty, but we need to be grateful for small mercies.” Complying developments can be handled by private certifiers rather than going through the DA process. It is interesting to note a Council report that says that in 2017, 83 per cent of complying development certificates issued in the LGA were done by private certifiers. Eighty per cent of construction certificates for building work were also issued by private certifiers.
Inside this issue New solution to coffee cup dilemma p3
New lease of life for squash courts p 4
New series: Spotlight on our hidden businesses p9
James’ dream drive home Win tickets! p2
As a sign of their appreciation for his involvement in the community, Tricia Ashelford of the Kiama Farmers’ Market arranged for 10 year old James Sullivan to be picked up after school in a Ferrari. “For years, James has always been offering to help at the Market, and he’s the one who came up with the idea of the Beanies for Brain Cancer fundraiser,” says Tricia. “He’s a great kid, and the people from Prancing Horse Drive Experiences were happy to help out to give him an experience he’ll never forget.” So bring along your best (or worst) beanie to the Farmers’ Market on 11 July, 2-5pm, at Surf Beach and do your bit to raise much needed funds for research.
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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 Kiama Farmers’ Market Surf Beach 2-5pm
On weekends Live music at The Sebel, Kiama Leagues Club, Gerringong and Kiama Bowlos, Jamberoo Pub and other venues
Til 19 July Jamie Cole’s Art Bar Exhibition Little Blowhole Art Bar, 4 Tingira Cres
Friday 6 July Pics & Flicks: Sweet Country Gerringong Town Hall, 8pm, $10
Saturday 7 July Friends of Kiama Library Talk Ray Thornburn: Family History: It Ain't all Castles and Relationships with Royalty
Kiama Family History Centre, 2.30pm. Following the Friends’ AGM at 2pm. Katandra presents The Big Swing Gerringong Town Hall, 7-11pm SOLD OUT
Gerringong Village Market Gerringong Town Hall 9-2pm
Opening night screening
11-12 August Kiama Artisan Food Festival Kiama Showgrounds. See KiamaShowEvents.com
13-22 July Mary Poppins Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, 2pm and 7pm sessions. Call 1300 788 503
Sunday 15 July Kiama Seaside Markets Black Beach, 9-3pm
Thursday 19 July CMRI Movie Night (see right)
Saturday 21 July Jamberoo Music Festival Tickets $79; $39 conc and u/18; u/12 free with adult. Details: jamberoomusicfestival.com
North Precinct established The first meeting of the Kiama Downs Community Forum (the North Precinct) is being held at the North Kiama Neighbourhood Centre on Weds 11 July, from 7.30pm. Council’s General Manager, Kerry McMurray, will be the guest speaker. All local residents welcome to attend. Get in touch with via nkcommunityforum@ hotmail.com
Jamberoo Music Festival: win tickets The Bugle is pleased to offer our readers the chance to win a family pass to the Jamberoo Music Festival, valued at up to $220. The Festival, on 21 July, is a day long celebration of roots, blues, indie and country music, with thirty acts performing in three venues. old Jamberoo folk festival: One of the performers not see jamberoomusicfestival. to be missed is Roshani, Sri com for details. Lankan born to a musical Details: To win tickets, family and raised by her email buglecompetitions@ adoptive family of musicians gmail.com telling us your in Tamworth. The cross favourite thing about cultural result is, according Jamberoo. Entries close to Triple J, “a harmonica 16 July. wielding songstress with a voice that gives you goosebumps”. The Festival is aiming to revive the hey days of the
The Bugle Editor: Cathy Law t 0412 415 101 Advertising: Steve Law t 0428 662 499
Or email us at emailthebugle@gmail.com Or post to 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.
Page 2 The Bugle 7 July 2018
CMRI Gerringong has organised an opening night screening of the Mama Mia! sequel to help in their continuing campaign to raise funds for medical research. Here We Go Again expands the original star studded cast, to make it even more outrageous fun. Ticket price includes a light supper of sandwiches and slices, with tea or coffee, before the film. Details: Thursday 19 July, Greater Union Shellharbour. Supper from 6.30pm and the film starting at 7pm. Tickets $20 each from Cronin’s Liquor. Enquiries to Lorraine 0427 760 636.
Council to meet with developer Kiama Council’s June Meeting resolved to meet with Mr Nick Daoud to “explain to him why it had made its decision not to extend another option to him” to allow his DA for Akuna St/Mitre 10 to be approved (covered extensively in our 23 June edition). Councillor Warren Steel said, “We owe him the common courtesy of letting him know the reasons for our decision.” General Manager Kerry McMurray said after the meeting that, “Under the contract that was signed there was three options. He had all three of them. Council then decided to extend yet another option in February, outside and over and above the contract, as a put and call option, which had two conditions in it. “Condition one was the signing up of Aldi and two was approval. It still hadn’t happened at the end, and at the end of the day patience runs out.” An Aldi Australia spokesman told The Bugle, “We are committed to opening a new store in Kiama, bringing our high-quality products and outstanding value to more residents in the area. We had been considering several potential locations, including a property located on Akuna Street which is no longer proceeding. At this stage, ALDI is pursuing all available opportunities.”
Werri Beach Holiday Park makeover The number of holiday vans at Werri Beach Holiday Park will be reduced from 229 to 150, following Council adopting a Business Development Strategy and Master Plan for the site. The remaining 150 holiday vans will represent 60% of the total number of sites following redevelopment (250 sites in total). However, approximately 120 holiday van owners will be given 90 days to vacate the site during the staged redevelopment. A meeting to discuss the plan with van owners is being held at Gerringong Town Hall on Sunday 8 July, 2-4pm.
Return those bank surveys The Steering Committee for the establishment of a Bendigo Bank branch in Gerringong is appealing to the community to complete and return the surveys sent to them as part of the procedure for starting a new branch. “It is the next critical step towards having our own community bank,” The reminder comes just after the says Sandra McCarthy. ANZ Bank put the final nail in the “The responses to coffin of its withdrawal from Gerringong, by removing its ATM from the the survey will help main street. Truly a hole in the wall. the Bendigo Bank and the Steering Committee to determine if a community made a pledge as a potential bank has the potential to be investor.” successful here. The confidential survey, “It is therefore essential which takes only a couple to hear from as many of our of minutes to complete, asks community as possible, for no financial information whether or not you have but rather is looking to gauge
the demand for banking services. “People might think it isn’t that important, but it is,” says Mrs McCarthy. “We need to demonstrate to Bendigo Bank that the community is right behind this initiative.” The survey was mailed to everyone with a 2534 postcode, as well as all those who have pledged. If a form did not arrive or it has been misplaced, they may be picked up at Gerringong Pharmacy or you can complete it online now at: www.afsbendigo.com.au/ communitysurveys Details: The closing date has been extended to July 31
Taking the difficulties out of using keep cups
Two Kiama stay at home dads have come up with an idea that they hope will stop a million takeaway coffee cups going to landfill in their first year of operation. Damien Clarke, a former real estate agent, and Martin Brooks, a former policeman, got talking one day about why people find it hard to use keep cups, given the environmental difference they can make. “It came down to remembering to have one with you, and getting around to washing it,” says Damien. “We came up with Green Caffeen as a new way to have the environmental benefits of keep cups without the hassle.” For a small monthly fee, coffee drinkers get access to Green Caffeen’s cups at participating cafes, and are able to return them to that,
Page 3 The Bugle 7 July 2018
or another participating café for washing. An app tracks useage, and makes sure the cups are returned. “Interest in the idea has been tremendous,” says Martin. “We’ve had to extend our pilot program, starting in mid-July, from just the Kiama LGA to other locations in the Illawarra because café owners are so keen to get involved.” Twenty of the 37 cafes in our area are so far committed to being involved in the pilot. Kiama Council is supporting the initiative by providing $5,000 to enable the co-branding of 2500 of the distinctive green cups with the Destination Kiama logo. The cups are made in Australia, from recycled material. One of the businesses keen to be involved is the soon to be opened bakery café, Par-
Parfait Patisserie’s Troy and Sam Hindmarch with Green Caffeen’s Damien Clarke and Martin Brooks
fait Patisserie, on Manning St. Run by Troy Hindmarch, formerly of the iconic Gumnut Patisserie in Bowral and recognised as the best young pastry chef in Australia, the café is on the old Sevbak site. Troy says he and his wife Sam had already been looking at ways to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging, and that the extra washing up was well worth participation. “We think people will love us having clean reusable keep cups on hand to help reduce the landfill problem.” It is estimated that 90 per cent of the 1.2 billion disposable coffee cups used in Australia end up in landfill. The potential for these Kiama dads’ idea is enormous.
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Join the squash revival Wednesday night, and this could expand as new members join. “Squash was one of Australia’s most popular participant sports, but somehow it fell out of fashion and many of the courts were lost to development,” he says. “It’s a great way to keep fit, and it won’t take long for old skills to come back. “We encourage anyone who is interested to come along and give it a go.” He’s hoping to pass the bug onto younger players. “We are thinking of having a kids’ comp on Friday nights if there is enough interest.” Players competing in the weekly competition will get a matrix rating that they can use across Australia. A Masters Tournament is being co-hosted with the The squash courts beside still in their original condi- people wouldn’t even realise Bomaderry club on the last Cronin’s pub in Gerringong tion. Shoalhaven Heads vet, they are still here,” says Mark. weekend in July. Mark Allison, his wife “They were quality built, have had a facelift, thanks Details: Book in for a game to the dedication of a small Lynda and Steve Sammut and after the facelift they at the main bar of the pub. group of enthusiasts, and the have funded and done the look terrific and play well.” Racquets available for hire. new squash club is looking work on the renovation, Mark, who is also involved Wednesday competition for members. which has brought the two with a squash club in Bomastarts at 6.30pm. Contact courts back to life. derry, says they already The courts were built by Mark for further informaMick Cronin’s father in “There was a core group have enough members to tion 0418 233 985 or turn up 1960, and have always been of people using the courts run a social comp for playon a Wednesday night. available for use, but were during the week, but a lot of ers of all standards on a
To the Editor
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For the past 16 months, we residents who live adjacent to the site of the Aged Care Centre of Excellence on Bonaira Street, have had to endure the noise of jack hammers and bulldozers whose main task seem to be digging holes and then filling them up again, and moving mounds of dirt from one place to another. I’m wondering if the people who have shown interest in moving in to the self care units will still be
alive by the time this work is finished! We live in hope! Yours optimistically, Geoff King, Kiama [Editor’s note: see the Mayor’s Column for a different perspective] We welcome letters. Longer ones may be edited. Writer’s names and addresses must be provided. Mailing details on page 2. Letters published at the Editor’s discretion.
Page 4 The Bugle 7 July 2018
No inside pool over holidays The Leisure Centre’s pools, spa and sauna will be closed for maintenance from 7 to 22 July for completion of its five yearly maintenance program. Remaining facilities – the sports hall, gymnasium and group fitness rooms – will still be open. The work has been scheduled for the school holidays to avoid disrupting learn to swim and school activities. All bronze and gold members will receive a 15-day extension of their memberships as a result of the closure. Kiama Council is investing more than $250,000 in capital expenditure at the Kiama Leisure Centre as part of its Operational Plan 2018/2019.
Meet Labor’s candidate for Kiama
July Catalogue Out Now!
Sometimes stories just come knocking. We were both surprised when a knock at the door of our home office led to this interview with the Labor candidate for Kiama.
from them. I’m concerned about the way things are going, with the emphasis on everyone looking out for themselves. “I’m in this for my kids and their future, to give them With the State election just a better society to live in. nine months away, Country “The Liberal Government Labor’s newly endorsed has made too many cuts to candidate, Andy Higgins, health and education. is already doorknocking “Since 2011, there are throughout the electorate 64,000 less apprentices and hoping to unseat the Liberal trainees. The sugar splash in Bomaderry, and increase member, Gareth Ward. the budget [paying for course He is quietly confident he conductivity with Nowra materials] is not doing anyand futher south. can help Labor can get the thing to solve the long term Over 7000 signatures have problem. Ratios of nurses to 7.9% swing needed to win back the seat, formerly held been collected, with the patients is out to 5:1. Somepetition to be presented to by Matt Brown. thing needs to be done.” “The Liberal Government Parliament once 10,000 are Mr Higgins lives in Kiama has its priorities wrong,” he gained. with his wife and two teensays. “All the money is stay- Mr Higgins is from a long age daughters. He works as standing Kiama family, with a supervisor at Mt Kembla ing in Sydney and they’ve his father well known as a forgotten the regions.” mine, as well as utilising his He claims that the various stock and station agent, and original sign writing trade highway projects, completed his grandfather (Jack Carrick) by running Grace & Stone working for the ambulance Collections with his wife. and progressing, in the electorate were the initiatives and Council. The business offers wedding “Pop made the old rocket and event services, as well of the previous Labor Govwhich stood in Hindmarsh ernment. as signs and banners. Park in his driveway,” says He is already collecting The Greens have yet to Andy with a grin. “I got my endorse their candidate for signatures to electrify the strong sense of community the 23 March election. train line from Kiama to
Page 5 The Bugle 7 July 2018
Club news Gerringong Lions Changeover Dinner
Over 25 years in Kiama dealing with disdis-ease of the body. Regular maintenance or repair work on all types of bodies by Greg Smart and Jamie Valk.
4/4 Tingira Cres, Kiama t 4232 1522
Gerringong Lions has farewelled the 2017/18 President and Board at its annual Changeover Dinner. Under outgoing President Karl Kunz’s leadership, the Club was able to disperse over $22,000 in funds to local, national and international causes. Internationally Lions Clubs exist in over 200 countries. President Karl reported on his past twelve months and thanked Lions for their efforts. Karl listed as highlights, the February Car Show that raised money for prostate cancer research, Lion Steve Pottie’s organisation and work on The Kiama Lions’ Carers’ Cottage Project, Lion Bruce Ray’s development of the Return and Earn scheme – organising collection points around town where residents can leave their 10 cent returnable bottles. Karl was also very pleased to provide opportunities for local youth, with the Youth Of The Year Public Speaking event and also sending two young people to the Outward Bound Centre in
Outgoing President Karl Kunz, with a gift from the Club for his past twelve months in the President’s Chair
Canberra. Karl’s role as President is being taken over by Lion, Bob Mark. The Vice Presidents will be Bruce Ray, Bob Wyatt and Peter Jeffrey, Secretary Mark Westhoff and Treasurer Richard Barber.
Kiama Mayor, Mark Honey and his wife Anne, as well as the Rotary District Governor Steve Hill. Two new Paul Harris Fellows, Sue Thomas and Tim Lawrance, were presented with their Certificates by the District Governor. Andrejs Medenis, Sue Thomas, Graham St Clair and Christine Waite were presented Certificates for 10 years service by the outgoing President Graham St Clair. The Club had a very successful year, distributing $58,000 to local groups, and national and international programs, with a big emphasis on helping youth.
Gerringong Rotary Changeover Lunch The Gerringong Rotary Club celebrated its 15th Annual Changeover at a luncheon at the Mercure Resort. Tim Lawrance was welcomed as the incoming President, replacing Graham St Clair who it was noted had performed an excellent job in the past year. The many guests included
Page 6 The Bugle 7 July 2018
New Gerringong Rotary President Tim Lawrance with the District Governor Steve Hill
A Probus Club for Jamberoo? Consideration is being given to the formation of a new Probus Club in Jamberoo, as an avenue for retired and semi-retired people to keep their minds active and expand their interests. Probus Clubs generally meet once a month for fun activities or excursions. They are social clubs and generally include both men and women. There are no fund raising activities. The regular gatherings offer an opportunity to develop new friendships and engage in new and interesting activities. If there is sufficient interest in the Jamberoo area, at least 30-40 people, then a meeting will be held to discuss its establishment. Setting up of Probus clubs is a community service provided by Rotary. Please register your interest with Mal Bracken at mbracken37@gmail.com or by telephone 4232 3828. Name, address and telephone number are requested. Please send news to emailthebugle@gmail.com
Helping women shine Council budget passed unchanged Apart from the minor addition of a footpath at South Bombo Beach to the footpath renewal program, Kiama Council’s Operational Plan for 2018/19 was passed as exhibited. Of the suggestions made by the public for other expenditure, only five have made it to a list of items that may be considered if there are any savings identified at the end of the third quarter of the year. They are: An additional $54,000 be allocated to Shoalhaven and Bong Bong Streets pedestrian safety measures Minnamurra Progress Association – various issues (uncosted) Cameron Boyd Viewing Platform – $7,500 Kiama Downs Surf Lifesaving Club Car Park – $80,000 Sports ground plaques – $6,000. “The Council is very conscious the budget is tight,” says General Manager Kerry McMurray. “The items that eventually got up are all dependent on finding savings at a future point in the financial year
from the capital works in the program.” He says if any money is identified, the Council will have to decide which ones on the list will go ahead, as no priority has been given to them. One item strongly lobbied for by Councillor Mark Way, $45,000 to investigate a mini break wall in Kiama Harbour, did not get support from the other councillors and was dropped from the final motion. $10,000 was already allo-
cated in the budget for the highest priority action recommended in the safety report on the Bong Bong St and Shoalhaven St intersection. Residents campaigned strongly for the full recommendations of the PAMP to be implemented. “Once we undertake the priority action we will be able to assess if anything further is needed,” says Mr McMurray. The RMS has indicated that the site is not suitable for a pedestrian crossing.
ISJO gets official nod
Women have another opportunity to enrol in the highly regarded Shine Women personal development (life skills) program, supported by the Combined Churches of the Kiama area. The free course has an empowering impact on participants, as indicated by these comments on completion: “After completing this course you can’t help treating yourself and others with a deeper sense of respect and understanding.” “It helped me to explore my thoughts, behaviour and emotions.” “It’s like Windex for the soul.” The eight week course is especially relevant to women who are struggling with stress, health issues, relationship breakdown, unemployment, loneliness and other life pressures. It 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. “It is founded on the belief that every life counts and has intrinsic value.” Shine Women is similar to Shine for Girls which has been operating successfully in Kiama High School for six years. The School says Shine is making a significant difference to the girls involved. “Shine Women uses the same themes as Shine Girls, adapted for mature women,” says Jeanine. “It is strengths based, using an inspirational, experiential approach to learning, in a small group setting.” Details: To be held on Fridays, from July 27 – Sept 14,10-11.30am, at St Paul’s Hall,17 Railway Parade, Minnamurra. RSVP to Jessica 0488 706 942 or Jeanine 0418 245 954
If you haven’t yet heard of ISJO, you’ll soon notice references to it popping up everywhere. Following its successful trial run last year, the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation (ISJO) is now a gazetted body, with official recognition and powers. It bands together the Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven councils. The core functions of JOs, which have been set up across the state, are regional strategic planning, intergovernmental collaboration and regional leadership and advocacy. Apart from bi-monthly board meetings, the councils will work cooperatively on a number of common issues. Each council is entitled to two voting members on the board, the mayor and one other (as well as an elected alternate delegate to fill in for either as required). At the June Meeting, Councillor Neil Reilly was elected as the second voting representative for the rest of the Council term, and Councillor Andrew Sloan as the alternate. At the first ISJO board meeting, Wollongong’s Mayor Gordon Bradbury was elected as chair.
Call us on 4237 8280 for a free measure and quote or visit us in our showroom 7 Johnson Street Kiama Downs or online at www.bombo.com.au
Page 7 The Bugle 7 July 2018
Mayoral Column Mayor Mark Honey communicates directly with residents and ratepayers
Every Wednesday, 2-5pm Surf Beach
Join our email list If you’d like to be emailed The Bugle each issue, just drop us a line at emailthebugle@gmail.com
western side where work is being done on the aged care facility. While a picture may tell a thousand words, I’ll provide a few numbers to go with the video. Since construction started in February, 136 workers have been on the site. This includes a range of As I drove past the construc- people, from the numerous tion site of the new Blue people operating the earthHaven facility on Bonaira moving equipment to the Street I realised how hard it civil and structural engineers, is for the passer-by to gauge and the various specialist how work is progressing. consultants focussing on With that in mind Council landscaping, bushfire risk, has posted some time lapse heritage management and video on it’s website interior design. (www.kiama.nsw.gov.au), In all there are 27 different to give you an idea of the types of specialists working scale of the work, how much on this project. has been done and just how So far they have racked up busy it is onsite. more than 24,000 hours of The footage is taken from work, with no time lost due two cameras: one on the to weather. Importantly eastern side where the there have been no major independent living units are injuries either. being built, the other on the Excavation is continuing for the aged care facility but concrete slabs have already been poured for the inde-
pendent living units and the community services offices. So far 10,000 tonnes of rock and soil have been removed from the site with 2,500 tonnes out of a total of 10,000 tonnes of concrete poured. All this has seen $17 million spent of an estimated $104 million dollars. It’s a big project and a big commitment by Kiama Council. But it’s a vital one for our community if it’s to meet the challenges of our ageing population in coming decades. The good news is everything remains on track for completion around September 2019. A final set of numbers for you: Blue Haven has already received 108 expressions of interest for the 58 independent living units at Blue Haven Bonaira. You can lodge your expression of interest online at www.bluehavencare.com.au or by contacting Steve Dawson on 4233 1714.
Kelly misses out on PBS change This week came the good news that the new cancer treatment, Kiscali, is now to be covered by the PBS. This will bring its cost to terminal breast cancer patients down from $60,000/ year to just $40. Unfortunately, the PBS subsidy is only available to newly diagnosed cases, which means Kiama’s Kelly McLean is still faced with the higher cost to extend her life. The generosity of the community has raised just over the $30,000 needed for six months of treatment, and her family has confirmed she will be starting that soon. The Go Fund Me campaign will remain open in the hope of getting the rest of the money needed to take the Kiscali for a year. Details: www.gofundme.com/ Kiscali-for-Kelly or make a direct deposit into BSB: 032689 Account: 210185
Appreciation for melanoma expertise The Rotary Clubs of Kiama and Gerringong, with the support of a local benefactor, have conducted four free skin screening sessions in Kiama and Gerringong on the lookout for melanoma. Local GPs, Dr Robyn Dalley, Dr John McAlpine, Dr Brian Cox and Dr Mark Burgess recently received official recognition for volunteering their services. Of the 270 people screened, so far, almost 30 per cent have been referred to their GPs, leading to two confirmed reports of melanomas, both with good out comes by early detection. The next free screening Local GPs, Dr Robyn Dalley, Dr John will be during the Kiama Car Expo on 11 November. McAlpine and Dr Mark Burgess
After 8 years’ absence, Don & Maree Smith are back at the
WERRI BEACH FISH SHOP We’re looking forward to seeing our old friends and customers, and once more serving our Freshly battered and crumbed fish Hamburgers Coffee Outdoor and indoor seating Friendly service
29 Pacific Ave, Werri Beach Ph 4234 1505 Page 8 The Bugle 7 July 2018
Spotlight on our hidden businesses
Jamberoo’s financial services software powerhouse: FinoComp While some bemoan the loss of traditional industry and retail in the Kiama LGA, behind the scenes technology is enabling new businesses to operate largely hidden from sight. Our new occasional series will introduce them to you.
Ray Tubman says his firm’s clients, major financial institutions in London and Edinburgh, aren’t fazed by the fact that they are based in an Australian country town. “Many large organisations have regionalised in the UK, because there just isn’t enough room in London,” he says. “They recognise that the right people can do their work anywhere. “All of my clients know where Jamberoo is now— they’ve googled it and are fascinated. It is a differentiator we play up to. “They love visiting us.” Ray set up FinoComp three years ago, creating a specialist software development company based on his earlier experience as a head designer for, and contacts in, the wealth management industry. The firm has strategically targeted the much larger UK market, and all of their business comes from there. “Our clients are large financial institutions which provide retail investment products (superannuation and general investment) to the mass market through financial advisers.” They include Aegon, the ninth largest insurer in the world. Its recent purchase of Cofunds now makes it the largest retail wealth manager in the UK. The firm’s development centre is in Jamberoo, with distribution and support provided from their office in Finsbury Square in London. “When you realise we are half way around the world
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FinoComp’s Ray Tubman
from our clients, it doesn’t matter to them if we are in Sydney or Jamberoo. “As long as we have a decent internet connection, we could work anywhere.” Ray chose to base the business in Jamberoo because he has lived on its outskirts since 2006. He and his family wanted to live outside of suburbia, but still within commuting distance. “When we opened in 2015, this was going to be a transition to early retirement job,” he says. “It has been so successful that it is now completely the opposite, with a very strong emphasis on growth. “We have plans to double the size of our operations in Jamberoo over the coming 12 months.” There are currently twenty people working for FinoComp in Jamberoo, with a number of them having moved to town and others living nearby. It operates from the former art gallery next to the pub, and has a conference facility in the nearby old church. “We wanted our office to be an environment that inspires creativity,” he explains. “As much as people think software guys are geeks, there is a mass of creativity
involved. Software development is a design process, like architecture, and we wanted this to be a creative centre. “While they can work at home, most prefer to come to the office for the social interaction.” Their commercial grade NBN connection allows FinoComp to support their UK clients, including backing up their data, without difficulty. “The only problem we’ve had is the rats eating the cable,” he says with a grin. “We can’t blame the NBN for that.” He’s aware that most people in the village have no idea what FinoComp does, even though it is one of the biggest employers. “We’ve had people come and ask us to host their websites and fix their computers.” His growing team make a contribution to the local economy through their use of local shops, and by becoming part of the local community. “Basing ourselves here and enjoying this lifestyle comes at the cost of regular plane trips to the UK to build more business, but I think it is worth it to live somewhere I love.”
Compost giveaway Council is giving away bags of compost made by its OK Organics Kiama initiative, which has seen our food scraps and other organic waste become compost not landfill. The OK Organics Kiama Compost Giveaway is a thank you to residents for making the new organics collection such a success. Seventy six per cent of all waste collected by Kiama Council now being composted or recycled (down from 56 per cent prior to the initiative). Up to four 25 litre bags of certified AS4454 compost per household can be collected once on one of the dates, til stocks run out. The compost is ideal for use as a soil conditioner. Residents do not need to book but must produce proof of residency such as a drivers licence or rates notice when collecting their compost. Details: Saturdays 7, 14 and 21 July, Community Recycling Centre in Minnamurra, 8am-noon.
Susan Spence, Ashleigh Markham, Nadine Johnstone and Debra Murphy
Do you have an investment property that you’re planning to manage yourself in the hope of making more money? If so, you'll need to make sure you are achieving its full market value and not leaving yourself open to risks. Real Estate is a great way to invest your finances. Unlike buying certain types of shares, with property you're almost certain to see your assets appreciate in value over time. But do you know how much you should be receiving in rental payments and what actions to take to avoid potential liabilities or loss of rent? First National Coast & Country Real Estate Senior Property Manager Ashleigh Markham says it is ultimately about maximising your investment whilst minimising your risk. “It is important to be up to date with the current market and property demands as well as having the skills to be proactive to avoid any potential tenancy issues rather than being reactive when the damage is done.”
How a property manager can help Our Property Management Team know all too well that having a property manager on your side is an invaluable resource. With experience and industry knowledge, your property manager can help you with everything from pricing and presenting your investment to legislative requirements and property maintenance. More importantly they have the skills and resources to help you determine if a prospective applicant is going to be an A1 tenant or if they are going to pose a risk of rent loss and property damage. When you contact us, we will start you off with a complimentary appraisal of your rental property and then assist you with any recommendations that would increase your investment yield.
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2/110-112 Terralong St 119 Fern St ph 4232 2888 ph 4234 1911
www.coastandcountryfn.com.au Page 9 The Bugle 7 July 2018
Out & about
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Cleaning up Surf Beach Plastic Free Kiama, in conjunction with the Kiama Farmers’ Markets, organised a clean up of Surf Beach to kick off Plastic Free July. Sarah McGuinness and Jasmine Rapela are the convenors of the group, which is working towards the reduction of single-use plastic in our beautiful town. Get involved in their next effort by contacting them at plasticfreekiama@gmail.com
Left: Never too early to become an environmentalist - Emily Crump with Fletcher & Elyse; and Brydie & Tabbitha Grey
At the Chamber’s Biggest Morning Tea
At the Winter Solstice Swim
The Kiama & District Business Chamber’s members gathered to raise funds for the Cancer Council.
Meryll Faulkner of Making Faces, with Chamber President Marie Beikmanis
Gino Besito, Council’s Director Engineering & Works, with Gavin McClure of Kiama Cabs
Anne Schmidt with Marie Beikmanis
Page 10 The Bugle 7 July 2018
Twice as many people as last year participated in this year’s Kiama Farmers’ Market Winter Solstice Swim. They assured us the water was wonderful. Brace yourself to join them next year.
The Bugle Crossword
Use a local
ACROSS 1. Season coming up soon 6. Large bit of land sticking out into the sea 8. Which Shakespeare play has this line “Double, double toil & trouble, Fire burn & cauldron bubble”? 10. Rockmelon 11. Shade of blue tinged with green 12. Ice crystals on the ground formed after very cold night 13. Scottish form of John 15. Bridge support 16. Moment at the start of the universe (3,4) 19. Triangle of which two sides are of equal length 21. Where did Humpty Dumpty sit? 23. Past, Present, -----25. Cain's bro 28. Computer program for a mobile phone 29. NSW Parliament opposition leader 33. Name of Kiama Rugby League team formed in 1914 35. Use your teeth to chomp on food 36. Dam holding Sydney's main water supply 38. Flowering plant added to beer for taste 40. This period follows night 41. Name of Highway 31 42. Train a shrub to grow on a lattice on a vertical wall 43. Fear of spiders DOWN 1. Person with personality disorder with extreme antisocial attitudes 2. French car manufacturer 3. B group vitamin 4. 24 of these make up one “40 across” 5. Captain Hook's bosun
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in Peter Pan 6. The organisation that Maxwell Smart was fighting 7. Ninth planet from the sun that is no longer a planet 9. Pirate's sword 12. Usual result of 100% humidity 14. How many toes did the Delltones sing about hanging over the end of the Malibu? 17. Number of “15 Across”s on the Sydney Harbour Bridge 18. Home of The Three Sisters 19. Very small item 20. Cause a liquid to change to a gas 22. Drops of water that form on cool surfaces at night 24. To whom is ground control attempting to
Hathaway Gardens: Reliable mowing and gardening service. We service Kiama, Gerringong, Gerroa and surrounding areas. Call Lawrie 0411 888 333 Col Whitehurst: Painter and Handyman Honest, Reliable, Insured. Ph 0400 135 128
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contact in the David Bowie song (5,3)? 26. In which month is the next equinox? 27. On line encyclopaedia 30. In Cricket, how many overs before a new ball can be taken? 31. Neck injury suffered in car accident
32. Who won State of Origin 2018? 34. May Gibbs' Gum Nuts featured Big Bad ------Men 37. Uncouth person of low social status 39. Verbal expression meaning go away
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Crossword by Steve Law
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Home delivered throughout the LGA
Postcard home Tell someone from the eastern states that you are trekking the Bibbulmun Track and it is assumed it is in some far off foreign country. “Is it near the Camino?” No, in fact, The Bibb, as it is known, is here in Western Australia. The Bibb is a fabulous resource more well known to trekkers from other countries than to Australians. Along its 1005km length there are over 60 three sided huts with sleeping platforms, tables, a water tank and a long drop toilet. These are all maintained by volunteers from the Bibbulmun Track Foundation who make it their monthly job to go out to their allocated hut, sometimes kilometres into the bush, and undertake necessary repairs and ensure the Track is clear. Of course, walking 1005km through bushland from Perth to the town of Albany needs a bit of planning. Happily the Bibbulmun Track Foundation has a wealth of information, guide books and maps available to purchase so all we had to do was work out how long we would need and how to keep our packs
as light as possible. In our first few days we were greeted by spectacular wildflowers of every hue, shape and form. This array of flora was to follow us all the way to the south coast, changing with the location, geology and topography. We passed through majestic Karri and Jarrah forests, crowds of giant ancient grass trees, Tingle trees with their buttressed trunks, all sorts of tiny orchids and through the original red flowering gum (Eucalytus ficifolia) forest from which all the hybrids we see in gardens have been grown. But the Bibb is not just for the botanically minded. The changing landscape is also spectacular. The northern end passes through the Darling Ranges with rocky mountains and rolling forested hills. This is then replaced by river valleys with lakes and waterfalls. Finally the last 300km of the Track follows the coast, through
If you’d like to share your travel story, send your postcard home (even when you are back) to emailthebugle@gmail.com
Reflections on a French veggie patch Author Peter Grose, an annual visitor to Kiama from his home in France, has sent us this entry from his blog, inspired by a purchase he made here. An Australian now living in France, Peter uses his journalistic training to investigate and write books on aspects of wartime history - so far, the Japanese submarine attack on Sydney Harbour (A Very Rude Awakening), the bombing of Darwin (An Awkward Truth) and a village in France which rescued thousands of Jews from the Nazi regime (A Good Place to Hide). You can follow his ponderings at www.petergrose.net:
A cautionary tale
dense sand dunes, along cliff edges and the long hard slog along beaches. The track passes through seven small towns where we could grab a shower, a comfortable bed for the night, a delicious pub dinner, restock our depleted larders and do some washing! Fifty six days after we set off, we strode into Albany having met a vast array of fellow trekkers all with dif-
ferent walking speeds, motivations and life stories. So what is the cost to any trekkers who decide to undertake the Bibb taking advantage of the huts along the way? Absolutely zero! No passports or visas required, and you can understand the lingo. So why would you go anywhere else? Just grab those boots and start walking.. Sue Ferguson, Gerringong
I call it the Macron effect, but you will have your own word for it. I’ve been trying to grow beans from seed for the last three years, and this is the first time they’ve actually worked. Last year I planted the seeds in little individual growing pots. Result? Nothing. Not a single plant appeared. The previous year was exactly the same, except that time the beans were planted in the ground rather than in pots. What was different this year? Answer: the seeds. You see, I bought them in Kiama, a beach resort town south of Sydney, Australia, and brought them half way around the world to the island of Oléron to see if imported seeds could be made to work in France. You can see the result. So where does Macron come in? Well, this is exactly what he’s been warning French workers about. If you don’t do the job, there are plenty of foreigners who’ll step in and do it for you. I’m not sure what the original French bean seeds wanted, but it was probably the usual package of early retirement on full pay, six weeks paid leave each year, other perks for the family, two hours for lunch, and no school on Wednesday afternoons. The Kiama beans made no demands beyond receiving the odd dose of water, and simply got on with the job. Sadly, it’s the story of France for the last 50 years or so. Let’s hope Macron can change things.
See Nikki for details: 02 4230 7500 nikki@onefitness247.com Page 12 The Bugle 7 July 2018