The Bugle 31 March 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
K-J RSL: ANZAC Day funding crisis Each year, members of the Kiama-Jamberoo RSL Sub-branch have financed ANZAC Day commemorations by passing around a bucket and selling pins and pens. This year, however, they can’t do that and real anxiety is being felt about how the costs are going to be met. In the aftermath of the recent Bergin Inquiry into the management of the State RSL, the organisation has lost its charitable status and sub-branches are no longer allowed to engage in fundraising or accept donations of any kind. Kiama Sub-branch Treasurer Barrie Proctor told The Bugle that unless the limbo ends soon, they would be very close to running out of money by the end of the year. “Even though we get tremendous support from Kiama Municipal Council, it still costs us several thousand dollars to print programs, install a PA system, obtain firearm permits, provide overnight security at the Blowhole for the 5am Dawn Service equipment, and provide floral tributes for all of our events,” he says. Vice President of Kiama-Jamberoo Sub-branch retired Lieutenant Colonel Gary McKay, MC, says the ban on fundraising has severely hamstrung all sub-branches across the state. The President of Gerringong RSL and former CEO of the RSL NSW, Glenn Kolomeitz, says that while the situation in his sub-branch is not as dire, they are drawing down on their investments to sustain their operations. “We have already been approached by Nowra to help them, and we will do what we can to help Kiama-Jamberoo if asked but there is only so much we can do.” Gary McKay says, “I think people will be shocked to hear how bad things are. There is no way our community isn’t going to have the
Inside this issue Meet Kiama’s new General Manager p 3
Debate over Jones Beach planting p3 Our representative goes to Lincoln p 5
ANZAC Day ceremonies they deserve - we just don’t know how we are going to pay for it.” Kiama-Jamberoo Sub-branch President Lindsay Delamont is adamant about keeping the traditions alive. “We will still be having our service out at Jamberoo on Saturday 21 April and the Dawn Service at Blowhole Point and the Main Service with the March on Wednesday 25 April”, he says. Asked if there was any way the public could assist in resolving this dilemma, Gary McKay says, ‘We as a Sub-branch are strictly forbidden from soliciting donations, but if anyone wanted to pick up the tab for some our expenses it would take a great deal of stress off our meagre funds and the RSL as a whole.” He says Kiama Council already provides much more support than other councils, and the Sub-
branch does not feel it can ask for any more. “They do a superb job in so many ways, for which we feel so blessed.” Glenn Kolomeitz says it would be a great solution if the community could come forward to help. “ANZAC Day is a community event, by and for the community, that the RSL has the honour of hosting. “We cannot not conduct ANZAC services. “Paying for certain aspects of the events in Kiama and Jamberoo is a good way for the community to say this is our event and we appreciate the work you put into organising it.” Details: If any organisations or individuals are in the position to offer help covering the overheads, please contact The Bugle on 0412 415 101.
Remembering Uncle Wally p 7
New sculpture for Gerringong p9
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
Thurs 5 April
Kiama Farmers’ Market Surf Beach 3-6pm
The Australian Decorative & Fine Arts Society talk: The Venerable Venues Berry School of Arts, 7.30-9.30pm $25
On weekends Live music at The Sebel, Kiama Leagues Club, Gerringong and Kiama Bowlos, Jamberoo Pub and other venues
30 March - 4 April Botanica exhibition Kiama Fire Station
Fri 30 March Kiama Makers & Growers Market Black Beach 9-2pm
Sat 31 March Gerroa Market Morning Gerroa Neighbourhood Centre, 37 Stafford St, 8.30-12.30pm
Fri 6 April Pics & Flicks: Mountain Gerringong Town Hall, 8pm
Sat 7 April Friends of Kiama Library Talk: Brad Norrington Kiama Family History Centre, 2.30pm $5 members or $8
7-8 April
The Farm’s Market Killalea State Park, 10-3
Kiama Arts Trail Various studios around the district Kiama Leagues Club Blowhole Big Fish Classic Weigh in at Kiama Harbour
Mon 2 April
Sat 14 April
Kiama Seaside Markets Black Beach, 9-3pm
Red Hot Summer Tour Kiama Showgrounds
4-15 April
Sun 15 April
Seniors Festival (see right)
Sing Australia Free Concert (see right)
Sun 1 April Easter Sunday
Kiama Seaside Markets Black Beach, 9-3pm
27-29 April KISS Arts Fest
Sun 29 April Kiama I Do Wedding Trail The Pavilion Kiama, 10-3pm
4-6 May Gerringong Surf Music Festival
11-12 May Kiama Readers Festival The Pavilion Kiama
Sat 12 May CMRI Mother’s Day High Tea & Fashion Parade Gerringong Town Hall Tickets $20 from Cronins Liquor
Meditation on mountains For a change of pace, Pics & Flicks’ movie for April is an Australian documentary in praise of mountains. Mountain is a cinematic and musical collaboration between acclaimed director Jennifer Peedom and the Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO). Shot by the world’s best adventure cinematographers and narrated by Daniel Dafoe, it explores our fascination with mountains. Details: Fri 6 April, 8pm Gerringong Town Hall. $10 or invest in a deal.
Free concert by Sing Australia
Kiama’s Sing Australia Choir is holding a free concert featuring songs from John Lennon, Leonard Cohen, The Carpenters and The Seekers as well as featuring some great Australian composers. Gareth Ward MP will make a guest appearance, playing the violin. The Choir is eight years old, and has 50 members. Bookings are not required but seats may be reserved by phoning Ross on 4234 1764. Details: Sunday 15 April, Joyce Wheatley Community Centre, Hindmarsh Park from 2.30-4pm.
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 31 March 2018
Seniors take centre stage Once again Kiama Council has put together a local program for the annual NSW Seniors Festival. There are events for seniors of all ages, including a cycling ride through the Jamberoo Valley, free exercise sessions at the Leisure Centre, a drop-in Silver Fox computer session at the Kiama Community College, an open day at the Kiama Community Garden and a special Storytime session for juniors and seniors at Kiama Library. Seniors will also be treated as VIPs at the Kiama Farmers’ Market on Wednesday 11 April, with cooking classes, free tea and coffee, gifts of special Boomerang bags and more. Note the Market’s winter hours are 2-5pm. Details: 4-15 April. Full program available from Council, the Library or Council’s website. Bookings required for some events.
Massacre to be remembered annually
Standardising planning processes
New policies for Planning Proposals and Development Control Plans (DCPs) have been adopted by Kiama Council, to both clarify the processes and contain associated costs. Council has agreed to a Planning proposals are necessary in various circumrequest from the Tharawal stances to amend the Local Environment Plan (LEP). In Local Aboriginal Land just over a year, Council has completed nine planning Council to lower the Aboproposals, some generated by staff as housekeeping riginal flag flying outside amendments and others by landowners. Council’s administration The Report to Council by the Director of Environmental office to half mast each 17 Services, Linda Davis, said, “The proposed changes to the April, and that a minute’s Planning Proposal Policy seek to standardise Council’s silence be held at 10am. preparation and review of both internally and externally The request was made driven Planning Proposals.” to show respect to the 14 In recognition of the difficulty the public has had in unDarawal people who were derstanding the steps in the Planning Proposal process, the massacred at Appin in 1816. changes also provide additional guidance and clarification Governor Macquarie orderon Gateway Determinations, Rezoning Reviews and the ed a punitive expedition to round up Aboriginal people Minister’s plan making delegations. Drawing on the experience of devising the Jamberoo thought to be responsible for chapter of the Kiama DCP, where there was effectively conflict with settlers in the two exhibition periods when only one could be charged area. The massacre included for, a new policy has been adopted to standardise the men, women and children. preparation of DCP chapters and amendments. It is hoped all Aboriginal Public consultation will be conducted once draft plans flags on Dharawal land will are drawn up as a starting point. be at half mast that day.
Debate over Jones Beach planting The March meeting of Kiama Council has given the Jones Beach Landcare Group permission to replace the dead, probably poisoned, vegetation on the dune area (as reported in The Bugle 15 Feb) with its choice of native species identified in the 2014 Plan of Management for the beach. The group is to be given $3000 per quarter, for up to a year, to buy the plants. The General Manager’s report on the issue recommended that the dead vegetation be replaced with similar native species, which includes large Banksias. It said, “An inspection of the area with Illawarra Landcare
representatives revealed that the pattern and nature of plant death strongly suggested that a form of poison which is more likely significantly stronger than Roundup has been sprayed over an extensive area.” A reward is to be provided for information leading to the identification of any persons deliberately damaging vegetation on the dune system. Howard Jones, of the Gerroa Environmental Protection Society, disagrees strongly with this interim measure, which has been agreed to while funding is sought for a coastal management study covering both Jones and
Werri beaches. “The NSW Coastal Dune Management Manual outlines accepted practice in dune planting and the recommendations in this Manual differ greatly from the unorthodox and untested planting strategies set out in the Jones Beach Plan of Management,” he says. “The Manual recommends a zonation of dune vegetation, where plantings range from low growing in the fore dune to larger trees in the hind dune area. “Without the taller trees much of the sand will be lost and blown inland over time, but there is no doubt the views will be better.”
Meet Kiama’s new General Manager After a nationwide search, Kiama councillors have chosen an internal candidate, Kerry McMurray, to replace General Manager Michael Forsyth when he retires on 6 April after 17 years in the top job. “I congratulate Kerry on his selection and look forward to working with him,” says Mayor Mark Honey. “While at Kiama Council he had been responsible for a broad range of services, including financial and administrative services, Council’s Leisure Centre, holiday parks and tourism. “He has shown sound financial management and process improvement to ensure Council services are efficiently and effectively delivered. “He is also very keen to engage with the community and to address priorities.” Mr McMurray joined Kiama Council as Director of Finance, Corporate and Commercial Services in January 2016, shortly after the proposal to merge Kiama and Shoalhaven councils was announced. “I signed my contract a week before the announcement, and couldn’t believe that a merger was being considered,” he says. “It just didn’t make sense.” Ironically, the council he was working for at that time, to help it avoid amalgamation, was spared in the
Page 3 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
announcement. He was able to take that experience of working to save a council and use it to help mount the case for Kiama staying independent. He played a pivotal role in ensuring that Council met, and continues to meet, its Fit for the Future targets. “Through the merger experience, I not only gained a strong understanding of every aspect of the organisation, but was blown away by the level of community support and engagement,” he says. “Other councils are very envious of what we’ve got here.” He has become a familiar figure at community meet-
ings, including doing presentations to precinct meetings on the recent rate rise. His hands-on style was shown last New Year's Eve, when he donned a hi-viz vest for the night to help ensure the new format went smoothly. Mr McMurray says that since the merger debate, he senses a change in the relationship between Council and the community. “The community has increased its level of expectation and are looking to be more empowered rather than being involved by the traditional notification and engagement process,” he says. “The challenge is managing Continued on page 4
Join our email list If you’d like to be emailed The Bugle each issue, just drop us a line at emailthebugle@gmail.com
KIAMA TV & VIDEO SERVICE Government Approved Antenna Installer Antenna installations & repairs • Tune In & Installations Quality Leads, HDMI Cables + Much More
Over 30 Years Experience Ph 4232 3780 kiamatv@optusnet.com.au 5/2 Brown St Kaima
FOR PRIVATE SALE
CENTRAL KIAMA TOWNHOUSE Two storey townhouse boasting elevated, never to be built out, coastal views. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, courtyard, garage, gas appliances, air conditioned. Priced to sell Ph 0403 839 404 for further details
Community College makes a difference The Kiama Community College used the occasion of its AGM to announce the finalists and winner of its inaugural VET Student of the Year Award. The innovative College is one of Kiama’s quiet achievers. Based in Kiama, it operates campuses in Kiama and Nowra, and had almost 1200 students enrolled in 2017. Most of these were vocational training students (VET) preparing for work or up-skilling. Its profile differs from other training providers in that 26 per cent of its students have a disability, 42 per cent were unemployed
and seeking work, and 10 per cent were of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent. “This student profile reflects the College’s critical role in empowering vulnerable people,” says Executive Officer Helen Zwicker. The College has an impressive track record of partnering with agencies and schools (including Kiama High) to tailor make programs for particular situations. The winner of the 2017 VET Student of the Year Award, Bulli’s Noah Rymaszewski, is someone who has benefited from these innovations.
Meet the new GM these expectations because we only have so much money and can’t be everything to everybody.” These expectations often do not take into account the legislative constraints on what councils can, must and can’t do. “I expect to spend a fair bit of time in the next twelve months talking to community groups and understand-
ing what they see as the big issues and what their expectations are. Then I’ll be working with them to reach agreement on what can and can’t be managed. “It is about communicating what is our rightful sphere of influence, and what we can advocate for, but not control.” Mr McMurray has spent his career in local government, starting as a cadet with Baukham Hills Council, which he credits as giving him a firm grasp of all areas of council operations. He soon found his niche in finance and corporate strategy, and has since worked for nine councils including in GM roles. His focus on organisational development and systems improvement has been evident from the time he arrived at Council. “There is always an opportunity to do better. With continuing shrinkage of our revenues, the bottom line is we need to work smarter.” He is a firm believer in involving staff at all levels in improving systems. “It has got to be part of our culture to be constantly improving. “This Council has delivered high quality services for a long period of time, but are those services delivered in the form the community would like to see them delivered in, or is there a better, different way to deliver the service?” To this end various departments are already working through their processes from the user’s perspective. Asked what made him apply for the job, Mr McMurray says, “The org-
Page 4 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
Kiama High and the College. It connects local small business with talented young people for mutual benefit of enhancing local business’ online presence and simultaneously address youth unemployment. Noah has gone from being someone who was disengaged after completing Year 11, to top of his NextGEN class, in casual employment and now enrolled in a CertiStar student Noah Rymaszewski ficated III in Business AdHe is a graduate of the ministration at TAFE. He NextGEN Digital Business says he has gained confiProgram, which began dence, motivation, employas a local collaboration ability skills and a strong between Kiama Council life plan and direction. kcc.nsw.edu.au Economic Development,
continued from p3 anisation has so much potential. It has delivered high quality services for a long period of time, so imagine what we can achieve by doing things better. “The other thing that attracted me to the role was the staff. The staff here have a pride in delivering services to the community. “We've been working on engaging all staff with what we are trying to do. It won't be the managers that identify the biggest opportunities for improvement, it will be people at the coalface. They just need to be provided with the culture and the tools to turn that into reality.” As part of this push, Mr McMurray championed an organisation wide uncovering of the values underpinning its culture: Respect, Integrity, Innovation, Teamwork and Excellence. “There wouldn’t be a member of staff who isn’t aware of these values and their importance to the way we work,” he says. During the two years he has been with Council, his already broad areas of responsibility have expanded to include community services (which takes in areas such as the Library and community development). It is as yet unclear as to whether this structure will continue when recruiting his replacement. Mr McMurray and his partner plan to move down to live in Kiama (from The Shire) as part of his commitment to his new role. “I think it is important for a council of this size that the General Manager lives and breathes the community,” he says.
His son and daughter are at school and university in Canberra. During his time at Council, Mr McMurray quickly developed a reputation for getting things done. “I do like to get things done, but I also like to take my time so that once a decision is made it is a sustainable one. “I don’t like rework and I don’t like non-value adding work. I’d rather have staff spend more time getting it right the first time. “When you do it in haste there is the risk of: was it the best option or was it the one that could happen the quickest?” With the generational change in top management over the last few years, Mr McMurray is well aware that over the next 5-8 years Council will see 25-30% of its staff leave as babyboomers reach retirement age. “The challenge will be to find suitably qualified people to fill those roles,” he says. “I’m committed to try and grow our own, by increasing the numbers of apprenticeships and traineeships available.” He is also committed to documenting processes, so that the corporate knowledge isn’t lost along the way. Outgoing General Manager Michael Forsyth has also congratulated Mr McMurray on his selection. “Kerry has been an important part of our executive during what has been a very challenging time for the Municipality. “I know after 17 years as General Manager, I am leaving the job in very good hands.”
Our representative at Lincoln When you soon see on the TV news stories of the dedication of a memorial in Lincoln to the men of Bomber Command, take a moment to remember this Kiama connection. In their darkest hour, the British formed Bomber Command to take the fight back to the enemy. British factories churned out hundreds of planes such as Wellingtons and the legendary Lancasters, and night after night thousands of men flew them across Nazi Europe to target and destroy the myriad weapons factories of the Axis powers. This was very dangerous and Bomber Command suffered huge losses. Most planes lasted for less than 10 missions, with very few making the complete 30 mission tour of duty. It needed a constant supply of brave men from across the Allied forces, including Australia. One of these was Richard (Dick) Pratt. Described by his son as a proud Australian but a humble person, Dick volunteered for the RAAF in 1942 when he was 20. He joined a Lancaster aircrew, based at an airfield at Skellingthorpe near Lincoln, as radio operator. Their plane, Lancaster QRX, endured 27 missions before being shot down by a German night fighter. Dick survived his capture, interrogation and internment as a Prisoner of War until finally being freed by the
Vegetarian Cooking Class - 8 April Learn how to make real, healthy, Asian food in a restaurant setting. $65pp includes cooking class, food + drink and wonderful people. 11am-1.30pm advancing Allied army in 1945. He was 23 by then. Back in Australia after the war, Dick came to Kiama to raise a family. His wife, Elaine, still lives at Blue Haven and two of his sons are locals. Dick was well known for his community involvement around the town. The official opening of a longoverdue memorial to the many thousands of brave men who were part of Bomber Command has sparked worldwide interest, with many more people wanting to attend than they have space for. Dick’s son, Geoff, entered the ballot and luckily gained a place at the
The crew of Lancaster QRX, with Kiama’s Dick Pratt on the right
ceremony on 12 April. “My father would have moved mountains to go to Lincoln if he had been able to,” says Geoff. “I’m honoured to represent him, his crew, and the other Bomber Command aircrew who lived around Kiama. You can see some of their names on the wall at Hindmarsh Park. “Without the selfless actions of these and the many thousands of brave men like them, World War II may have ended very differently. Our world is here because of them.”
Page 5 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
Dragon Garden Restaurant 113-115 Terralong St, Kiama t 4233 1799
Use new parking with care As negotiated last year when moves were afoot to build a new ambulance station near the netball courts, 25 extra car parks are now available at the Leisure Centre, with another 51 on the way soon. “It is pleasing to be able to provide the additional spaces in time for the netball season, when there is the heaviest demand for car parking,” says Council’s Director Engineering and Works, Gino Belsito. He urges people using the Leisure Centre, especially netballers, to be aware of the changed traffic condiThe Festival will be held over 2 days with the launch at Kiama Library on Friday 11th of May from 7pm and a full day of authors at The Pavilion Kiama on Saturday 12th of May. The full program will be available at www.library.nsw.gov.au shortly. Phone Kiama Library for more information on 4233 1133.
Meet Nikki Gemmell The 2018 Kiama Readers Festival will be launched by author Nikki Gemmell on Friday evening at Kiama Library. Nikki is the bestselling international author of thirteen novels, including the international bestseller, The Bride Stripped Bare, and four works of nonfiction. Nikki was born in Wollongong and has lived in London for many years, but has now returned to Australia as a columnist at the Weekend Australian. Launch tickets are on sale now $20, which includes a light supper.
Meet Catherine McKinnon Catherine McKinnon will be one of the local authors joining us on Saturday 12th of May at The Pavilion. Catherine, a senior Lecturer at Wollongong University, will be talking about her latest book Storyland, an ambitious and moving novel about who we are: our past, present and future, and our connection to this land.
tions in the precinct. “The new car parking arrangements and the construction of the nearby ambulance station, means changes to how you access and leave the area, particularly if you are using the netball courts.” The traditional access road to the courts, alongside the new ambulance station, is now one-way only, allowing cars to enter the area. Motorists wishing to leave the courts must continue around the rear of the Leisure Centre and exit via Havilah Place. Road Safety Officer
Kiama to star again
Janelle Burns, says drivers should exercise caution entering the netball courts off Terralong Street. “When you drive in past the new ambulance station, please take your time, as people will be unfamiliar with the new buildings, car parking and traffic flow.” Council has provided a map to the Kiama Netball Association to help drivers. The map is also available from the Leisure Centre and online: kiama.nsw.gov.au The building of the new ambulance station at the end of Terralong St is well underway.
Following Kiama’s success as a location for Rip Tide, now on Netflix’s most popular list in many countries, we are set to be the backdrop for a new film, Back of the Net. Made by an international film company, the film is targeting the same teenage market and stars another Disney actress, Sofia Wiley. Council has agreed to provide sponsorship of $10,000 for the project, in return for tourism promotion opportunities.
To the Editor
Thoughts on a rainy Market day
Prize money difference explained
Well done to Steve for directing the traffic out in the rain and wind today, and to Tricia and all who helped at the Kiama Farmers’ Market. A huge thank you to the stallholders who put in the time and effort on a cold wet day to support the Kiama community with their fresh local produce. Finally, well done to all the faithful shoppers who turned out and supported the sellers. It’s a great feeling to
have this happening here in Kiama. Trevor Brooks, Kiama
over time. The Men’s Country Cup, the Men’s Bowl and the Thank you for The Bugle’s Women’s Vase competitions coverage of the Morgans are eight team comps, with Kiama Sevens. the winner of each pool Just a quick explanation on playing in their respective the allocation of prize mon- finals. ies and in particular, “hardly The winners of the Men’s seems fair” comment from Country Cup and Men’s a non-rugby follower who Bowl receive $2,500 while “doesn’t know the finer points the Women’s competition of the game”, Thelma winner receives $3,000, the Bracken (The Bugle, Letter higher prize money for an to the Editor, 17 March eight team comp. 2018). It is also the highest prize With a pool of $32,000 in money for any domestic prize money and trophies sevens women’s competithe tournament is split into tion. The trophy of a vase five separate competitions. separates the competition The Cleary Bros Kiama as does the Plate and Bowl Sevens Cup: 16 teams and trophies. the winner receives the Mark Bryant $11,000. Morgans Kiama Sevens In this competition the Tournament Director men play an extra game, and as it has been in place since 1973 so the prize money has increased accordingly
Magestic Chapel Lane tree felled I thought Kiama Council was supposed to be the guardian of our majestic trees in public spaces. Obviously not, as I watch one slowly being brought to its knees, under instruction from Kiama Council. When will we learn?? Helen Plowman Jamberoo
Book today for your FREE Blow Dry with any Colour Situated in a peaceful and private little corner of Kiama, at the end of the Edessa Arcade
8/88 Terralong St Kiama
t 0401 946 690
Set on the banks of Lake Illawarra and spanning four centuries don’t miss out on what should be an interesting talk from a talented local author.
Tickets available at www.kiama.library.nsw.gov.au or Kiama Library 4233 1133
RED HOT SUMMER CONCERT KIAMA SHOWGROUNDS Saturday 14 April 2018
Friday Launch $20 Sat am Sessions $20 Sat pm Sessions $25 Saturday all day Sessions $40 Saturday Gala Dinner $65
ROAD CLOSURE NOTIFICATION BONG BONG STREET FROM SHOWGROUNDS TO ROUNDABOUT IN MANNING STREET 11am to 10.30pm If you require any further information contact:
Gala Dinner guest: Wendy Harmer
Deb Alexander on 0414 857 738 Page 6 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
Remembering Uncle Wally One hundred years to the day since his death, Gerringong’s Sharpe family and its church took the time to remember Wallace Sharpe, who was killed in Palestine during the last year of the Great War. His five surviving nieces and nephews (right) and the extended family gathered together to honour the memory of someone they never knew in person, but have always known in their hearts. “My Dad Ron Sharpe was the youngest of a family of ten and was 18 when Uncle Wally was killed,” says niece Barbara Pearse. “We grew up knowing all about him. He was very popular and a natural leader of men, which is shown by him reaching the rank of sergeant so quickly. “Dad missed him a lot.” One of the ten children of James and Mary Sharpe, Wallace (known asWally by the family), didn’t go into the family business of dairy farming but worked with his uncle in the Gerringong General Store. He was said to be of fine moral character, was a member of Gerringong
Colin Sharpe, Don Sharpe, Ken Miller and Barbara Pearse, with Pam Whalan and Wally’s great, great, great nephew Levi
Tennis Club, was a committed member of his church, and was said to have ‘fine manly qualities’. Wally enlisted on 29 July 1915 at age 24, joining the 6th Light Horse Regiment, 16th reinforcement. “Men from farms were sought after by the Light Horse as they could ride and shoot,” says Mrs Pearse. “Our country towns lost so many good men to the cause.” He left Sydney in May 1916 for the Middle East. In early 1918 the 6th was
involved in the Amman raids in the Jordan Valley. It was there on 28 March 1918 that he was killed by machine gun fire. He is buried there. The memorial service replicated the detail of that held for him all those years ago, when nearly a year after his death the family finally received official confirmation. It was held in the same little white church on Fern St, then the Gerringong Congregational Church (now the Uniting Church). Lest We Forget.
Page 7 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
Mayoral Column Mayor Mark Honey communicates directly with residents and ratepayers
Burnetts are local people employing locals to serve locals in all things landscape You’ll be surprised what you can find at the Barney Street Quarry in the hub of Kiama TRY BURNETTS= for soils, sands, mulches and pebbles TRY BURNETTS= for cements and hardware products TRY BURNETTS= for the only independent Plant Nursery and Garden Centre in the Southern Illawarra TRY BURNETTS= for professional tree care and arborist services TRY BURNETTS= for key cutting, salt and chlorine sales, industrial gas and bbq gas, plus firewood.
BURNETTS ON BARNEY and BURNETT TREES 80 Barney St, Kiama t 4233 1322 Open six days
essential elements of community leadership. It was also a great opportunity to hear of other councils’ issues and how they are dealing with them. Last week I was invited to attend the South East Local Land Services breakfast. I spoke on the tension that exists between retaining prime agricultural land and I have just been to a Mayproperty development – something that I think is a ors’ weekend seminar in Sydney that was very worth- big challenge world wide. while and emphasised how The need to identify prime fortunate we are to live in agricultural land and balance the Kiama area. It is appar- farming with development ent that the positive relation- is a regional priority. The ship and interaction that our Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Council, Councillors and the Organisation have given the community have is missing highest priority and commitin other Local Government ment to future planning Areas. principles that ensure our The seminar was facilirural land remains viable tated by Local Government and not overdeveloped. I also recently addressed NSW and covered an array of interesting topics such as the South Coast Food Industhe emerging challenges for try Dinner about the signifiNSW councils and commu- cance of encouraging and supporting new or alternanities particularly with coastal councils and the pressure of population growth versus lifestyle, tools for good governance and
tive agricultural activities. It is important that we develop markets for locally grown and produced foodstuffs. Local and regional producers, landowners and food consumers need to work together towards a strong Agribusiness sector. In recent times food security issues have gained more and more attention. The impact of climate change, urban sprawl, population growth, water insecurity, developer interest for residential and lifestyle uses, and foreign ownership of Australian farms have all been in the spotlight. One of the aims of the Kiama Local Environmental Plan 2011 is to protect agricultural land for long term agricultural production. It is also a very high priority in our Community Strategic Plan to increase food production from rural lands and to protect the rural environment.
The Kiama Municipality contains high quality rural land with an excellent potential for food production. A sustainable, diversified agricultural industry will realise production potential, add to the local economy, provide jobs at a skilled and semi skilled level, provide fresh produce and enhance the local environment. Another highlight from last week was attending the presentation by Local Member, Gareth Ward MP of $50,000 funding to the Gerringong Rugby League Club towards the upgrade of their facilities. It was great to see the work that has already been completed. I am sure the Gerringong community is looking forward to the start of the season on 7 April when they host the Berry-Shoalhaven Heads Magpies.
Club news Tennis anyone? On Sunday, 8 April 2018 the Jamberoo Tennis Club is holding their annual social mixed tennis day, the Grainger Cup, at their courts on Sunday 8 April, 9-3pm. Like the Club itself, this competition has a history play for the Shield, as well Shield brought dating back 100 years. It is as raising money for worthy open to all club members. to Gerringong Lions’ charities. If you have ever thought Recently Gerringong Lions Fortunately, Gerringong’s about playing tennis, either Club sent a team of very team of (from left) Bob Mark, on a social or competitive capable bowlers to take part Roger Berry, Mark Westlevel, the Club welcomes in the inaugural Woonona hoff and Steve Pottie played you to drop in on the day. Lions Club Friendship Shield. very well and the Shield Alternatively, contact the Played in extreme heat, now holds pride of place in President, Ross Douglas, on Lions Clubs from all over Gerringong. 0408 878 393. the Illawarra were invited to
Page 8 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
Sculptor donates wind homage Gerringong has a piece of public art in its main street thanks to the generosity of local sculptor Michael Greve. He created Homage to the Offshore Wind to show respect to the elements that shape the waves and our lives. The sandstone work reflects the important role surfing and yoga play in his life, and also how lucky our lives are, to be living in Australia. “I always intended the sculpture as a public work. To ensure that, and to gain some Karma in the surf, I donated the work to Kiama Council,” says Mr Greve. He worked with Councillor Neil Reilly to gain the necessary approvals and to direct the project. Cllr Reilly is very pleased with how smoothly the installation went, through collaboration between Council, local business owner Kent Ladkin and the sculptor. “The community were kept in touch via the South Precinct and now we have another highly valued work of art by a respected and award winning artist on display,” he says. The location of the work outside Gerringong’s Natural Necessity Surf Shop was the artist’s choice. “I preferred a place in the commercial centre of Gerringong, rather than a headland, as I did not want to change what might be a special or sacred spot for someone else,” he says.
Local Real Estate News FIRST NATIONAL COAST & COUNTRY
Would you pay more for a pool? Recent research from home loan brokers Lendi has revealed nearly half (39.8%) of Australians wouldn’t pay more for a property with a pool, followed by 15.7% who are happy to allow $10,000 in the budget, and 10.8% would stretch to $20,000 more for a house with a pool. One in seven Australians admitted they would be happy to part with $50,000 or more, with 5.8% responding with valuations upwards of $200,000, which approximately returns the cost of the pool and its installation. Councillor Neil Reilly, Kent Ladkin of Natural Necessity and sculptor Michael Greve
Health & Sustainability grants Three applications for Health & Sustainability grants have been successful in the second round of the program this year. Council will give $1000 to each of the following projects: Live Long: Play Ping Pong A project of U3A to purchase tennis tables for use by existing and new members Fascinating Fungi & Magnificent Mushrooms Kiama Community Garden will run a workshop on home cultivation of mushrooms The Nature Weekend A camping trip for teenagers by Landcare Illawarra.
$50,000 for Lions RL facilities upgrade Gerringong Lions Rugby League Football Club has received $50,000 from the State Government to help upgrade their facilities. The money will go towards a new gymnasium room and visitors’ change room incorporating new shower and toilet facilities. “This project began in earnest a couple of years ago and was to be completed in stages. We are now in the later part of completing stage two and three of five stages,” says Club President Daryl Hobb. “The current project was initiated to address a number of issues including to relocate the existing gymnasium and build a new and larger gym and exercise
area for the players and other users of the facility, as well as upgrade and relocate the visitor’s dressing room away from the canteen area. “This project will also expand the upstairs area to accommodate the increased number of users who frequent the clubhouse and to make the facility more accessible and user friendly for those who are disabled. “Without the continued support from our local Member Gareth Ward, who has witnessed firsthand a lot of the work our club has achieved in recent projects over the past few years, we as a smaller club would find it very difficult to finance this project.”
KIAMA BLINDS & CURTAIN DESIGNS
The research also revealed men are happier to pay more for a house with a pool than women, with 44.9% of male respondents who said they would pay up to $20,000 more for a house with a pool compared to 34.6%. Research also uncovered that younger generations are happy to pay extra for a property with a pool, with nearly half (47.7%) in the Generation Y demographic comfortable with spending up to an extra $20,000 compared to 31.6% who were 55 years and older. This reinforced that younger people value pools more, less than one in three Generation Y respondents declared a pool added no value to a house, versus more than half of over 55 year-olds.
Local highlights – Record price Meanwhile, First National Coast and Country Kiama sales agent Marnie Beauchamp has created a new sales record for Meehan Drive, Kiama Downs, selling for $830,000. The property was only on the open market for one week before it was snapped up. RECENT SALES Kiama: 58 Bong Bong St, 48 Irvine St, 23 Bonaira St, 11/129 Terralong St, 302/2 Minnamurra St Kiama Downs: 12 Meehan Drive, 36 Barton Drive NEW LISTINGS Kiama Downs: 46 Alexander Avenue Kiama: 13 Boanyo Avenue, 2/15-17 Meares Place Kiama Heights: 33 Elanora Rd, 98 Attunga Avenue
Formerly Kiama Curtains Free Consultation Full & Partial Dentures Relines & Repairs Sports Mouthguards Area Health Service Vouchers Veterans Affairs
Personal service No jobs sent overseas Greg Shanahan Dental Prosthetist 4232 2999 kiamadentureclinic.com.au
Growing on: Customer Service Quality Products Value for Money Reliability
We come to you and allow you to choose and select from our extensive range of samples a style that suits your needs.
The First National Coast and Country Kiama sales team: Marnie Beauchamp, Celina Gregory, Claire Nunn, Alana Hampton, David Hall, Terry Digger and Andy Wharton
For an obligation free quote call 4232 2864 Follow/Like Us on Facebook and Instagram @KBCDesigns
124A Manning St, Kiama (opp Stan Crapp)
Kiama
Gerringong
2/110-112 Terralong St 119 Fern St ph 4232 2888 ph 4234 1911
www.coastandcountryfn.com.au Page 9 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
Out & about
If you’d like to share your social event on this page, contact emailthebugle@gmail.com (preferably in advance)
Kiama SLSC’s 110th anniversary On Saturday 17 March, Kiama SLSC held a cocktail party at the Pavilion Kiama to celebrate its 110th Anniversary. Throughout the night those present heard about the various aspects of the Club from members past and present. It was a great way to celebrate the Club. There are not many organisations that have members from 5 to 87. Nick McInnerney
Pat Sutton, Chris George and Chris Moore Adam Newcombe, Jonathon Britten, Rob Lawrence, Daryl Smith, Dave Laird, Aaron Shelley and Scott Rogers
Kylie and Scott Rogers
Abby and Mitch Ford Martin and Corrina Walker, Andrew and Denita Smee, and Naomi George
Marg Raison, Anne Honey, Karen Poole and Helen Rogers Above: Gary Rogers, Peter Raison and Greg Poole
Left: Tom Daly, Josh Douglas and Rhys Dawson
Right: Sarah Parkinson, Karen Poole, Peter Parkinson and Rebecca Poole
Page 10 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
The Bugle Crossword
Use a local
ACROSS 1. A state of armed conflict 2. Shot of coffee in a small cup 5. Hot drink made by infusing dried crushed leaves 7. Bowl for washing 10. Length X breadth 11. NSW State floral emblem 13. French for ‘and’ 17. Where clothes are washed 18. Genus for Toads 20. Village next to Katoomba 22. Instrument used for launching arrows 24. A person who grapples and attempts to pin their opponent to the ground 26. Thick sourish food prepared from milk 29. Brief fall of rain 30. Soft rich ice cream containing little or no air 31. Substance used with water for washing and cleaning 32. Disgraced former Australian cricket captain 34. Opaque white fluid produced by female mammals 36. Dog used for racing 40. International Civil Aviation Organisation (1,1,1,1) 41. Large primate (Not an archbishop!!!) 42. Edible seed 43. A common pachyderm 48. Name of the mare whose colt escaped in The Man from Snowy River 49. Banjo Patterson poem character “------ 's gone to Qld droving” 51. Pugilist 52. Consume food 54. Pole with a flat blade used to row a boat 55. Food made from the pressed curds of milk 57. 1970s haircut or fish 58. Precious stone DOWN 1. Pocket sized flat case for holding paper money 2. Go down below the surface, especially ships 3. A number not divisible by 2 4. Caribbean island with a long term communist regime 5. Prime Minister with 29 nega-
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
Builders Burrell Builders: Cracked brickwork, underpinning, insurance/structural repairs. All building work. Ln3281c t 0419 378 000
Handymen Athol Handyman: No job too small. Free quotes. t 0481 095 090 Kiama Property Maintenance & Carpentry: Decks, Pergolas, Windows, Painting, Plaster repairs. All your maintenance needs & carpentry. John O’Donnell LIC#R77219 t 0401 301 620 Handyman South Coast: Trade qualified - Painting, carpentry, plastering, pressure cleaning, all repairs & renovations. Property Maintenance Specialist Fast, fixed, fabulous! Danny Fagan t 0407 118 311
Painting Col Whitehurst: Painter and Handyman Honest, Reliable, Insured. Ph 0400 135 128
Last issue’s solution
tive News polls in a row as at 27th March 6. Airline with direct flights from Perth to London 8. Baby sheep 9. Baby cow 12. Aust. outdoor clothes dryer 14. Main constituent of chromosomes and carrier of genetic information (1,1,1) 15. Found in laundries and used for heating and tumbling clothes 16. A place where a wild animal lives 19. Female Ogre 21. Hot drink made from the roasted and ground seeds of a tropical bush 23. You breathe and smell through these openings in your nose 25 You hear with these 27. Long pointed tooth, usually one of a pair 28. Large container of water used for immersing and washing the body 33. Devices by which the flow of water can be controlled 35. Baby goat
Plumbing Etto's Plumbing: your local blocked drain and maintenance plumbing specialists. Call Mark 0404 009 999
Stonemasonry & Heritage Services For all aspects of stonemasonry, contact Brad Rimmer at BR Stonemasonry & Heritage Services Lic 292667C t 0401 337 629
TV Services
36. Intense mournfulness: “ Oh, --- is me” 37. Baby dog 38. Written test for a student 39. Animal food trough located in and around stables 42. Hole or tunnel dug by an animal and used as a dwelling 44. Style of horse harness racing 45. Heated gaseous water vapour 46. Number system having 8 as its base
47. Rises to the top of milk when allowed to stand 50. Where bird eggs are laid and nurtured 53. Water vapour that has condensed on a cool surface overnight 55. Curriculum Vitae (1,1) 56. Latin abbreviation meaning for example (1,1)
Kiama TV & Video Service: Govt approved antenna installer. Over 30 years experience. t 4232 3780
Just $10/line + gst to advertise. Contact Steve on 0428 662 499
Crossword by Steve Law
Get noticed in
The Bugle Local stories and local readers creates a great opportunity for local businesses Prices start from $79
Home delivered throughout the LGA
Find out how to grow your business by sending a message to emailthebugle@gmail.com or calling Steve on 0428 662 499 Page 11 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
Winter trading hours 2-5pm from Weds 4 April Surf Beach
Varanasi is the twelfth oldest city in the world, but its claim to fame is not its longevity but its status as the holiest site for Hindus. Every devout Hindu hopes to visit the city at least once in their lifetime. To wash away their sins, they immerse themselves in the sacred waters of the Ganges, or Ganga as it known in India. Hindus believe in the concept of ‘moksha’, which means if their ashes are consigned to the Ganges, their soul will be transported to heaven and they will avoid reincarnation. 20,000 pilgrims a week visit Varanasi including many older people who travel to Varanasi in the twilight of their lives to await their death.... such is the assurance of heavenly bliss. Needless to say the Ganges is front and centre of all of the pilgrimages. By 4am each day the Ghats (steps leading to the river) are ablaze with lights, flags flutter in the pre dawn breezes and bells ring out. Shops selling all manner of memorabilia are well and truly
open by this time. Before dawn, Brahmin priests set up under large umbrellas with one every 50 metres or so along the river’s edge. Some families travel to Varanasi from all parts of India carrying the ashes of their loved ones. After prayers are said with a priest, the ashes are then scattered in the Ganges. While all this is happening, women and men of all ages are entering the water. The fact that the Ganges is
reportedly the eighth most polluted river in the world seems quite inconsequential to the pilgrims who appear to be exhilarated by the experience. The other activity that continues all day and all night, 365 days a year, are the cremations, which typically happen within 12 hours of death. After the cremation any remains are collected and disposed of in the Ganges. The Indian people with
whom I came into contact in Varanasi were friendly, helpful and more than happy for a photo to be taken even in circumstances that most people would regard as private moments. Varanasi probably isn’t the sort of place that everyone wants to visit. Although I found it confronting at first it was, nevertheless, fascinating. Ross Harrison, Werri Beach
Page 12 ♦ The Bugle 31 March 2018
Boomerang Bags celebrates 1st year Last year a group of local volunteers began meeting every Wednesday – with the exception of Christmas week – to make reusable shopping bags, produce bags and bees wax wraps. Their Boomerang bags were launched at the Kiama Farmers’ Market – and over the last eight months over 3,000 ‘borrow and bring back’ reusable shopping bags have been circulated. The group’s President, Camilla Kerr-Ruston says, “The interest and support has been beyond that which I imagined. “We could not have done this with the support of the EPA, Kiama Council, especially Josephine St John, the
Kiama Farmers’ Market and the Kiama community. “We are also very pleased that this has started so many conversations about plastic and other waste in our beautiful area and look forward to working with Plastic Free Kiama in the near future.” The attractiveness of the reusable shopping bags as presents, mementos and even as gift wrapping has led the not-for-profit group to sell special bags to funds to service the group’s sewing machines and purchase threads and screen-printing supplies. These bags are available at the Kiama Farmers’ Market, The Collective and My Room in Kiama.
Photo: Rebecca Rosconi Photography
Postcard home
If you’d like to share your travel story, send your postcard home (even when you are back) to emailthebugle@gmail.com