The Bugle 9 March 2019
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
Inside this issue
Storm brewing on Seven Mile Beach safety on the road and beach, and issues of public access and amenity. She too wants to see an end to Zone A. “Expanding the activity of commercial surf schools at this end of Seven Mile Beach would seem to be promoting business at the expense of public access and amenity,” she says. The issue has arisen as the surf schools have submitted DAs to Council as part of a new process to obtain a short term allocation of the surf school places on Seven Mile Beach (see box, page 6). as a surf school area has The activation of Zone A become an issue with some locals since Rusty Moran’s Gerringong Surf School was granted a licence to use the beach late last year. This finally legitimised an activity he had been conducting there for around a year. Prior to his arrival, despite having permission to do so, other surf schools have only used Zone A on the odd occasion. The sub-committee has issue with the way Council’s Surf School Policy was replaced by Interim Surf School Guidelines in October last year, without community consultation, when each of the three surf schools were given interim licences (Gerringong Surf Will Kiama finally take out the state-wide title? See page 4 School, Surf Camp and
Sarah’s off to the Showgirl Finals
Will Boral fill come via Riverside Drive? p3
Photo: Surf Camp
A sub-committee of the Gerroa Community Association (Roy Schmidt, Brian Pickett and Stephen Brazier) and the Werri Boardriders are calling on Council to remove Zone A, the area of the beach between the river and Track 1 from Gerroa Road, as a designated surf school area. “We think allowing three surf schools in Zone A is too much of an imposition on the general public and we’d like to see Zone A abolished,” says Mr Brazier. Dr Leoni Degenhardt, a long term resident of Gerroa, also has concerns about
Boardwalk concerns aired p 3
Lands Edge). “The old policy was devised after years of consultation,” says Roy Schmidt. “It has been replaced with an abbreviated version that has taken out some very important aspects, and even changed the zone boundaries, without the community being involved.” The Interim Guidelines extend Zone A south by 150 metres, so it now stretches south from the river to Track 1, and includes the most popular take-off point for windsurfers. The Zone had previously stopped at the footbridge. Council says the Interim Guidelines will be replaced by a Plan of Management, the development of which will include community consulta-
tion (see box on page 6). With the Plan of Management not expected to be ready until June 2021, the sub-committee is concerned about what may happen in the meantime. While the surf schools say they are not looking to expand, Stephen Brazier says he can only go on what is allowable in the Guidelines. “The previous policy has been revoked and the Guidelines allow for significant expansion. “For example, the old policy said only three surf schools could operate on the beach, but now it says three schools can operate in each of the three zones, allowing for the potential of nine schools.
New Ambulance Station opens p7
Meet the candidates for Kiama P10-11 Find out more about the people wanting to get your vote on March 23.
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What’s on? Every Wednesday
Saturday 16 Mar
Kiama Farmers’ Market Surf Beach 3-6pm
Gerringong Village Market In and around Gerringong Town Hall Kiama & District Historical Society Talk See right
On weekends Live music at The Sebel, Kiama Leagues Club, Gerringong and Kiama Bowlos, Jamberoo Pub and other venues
Until end of March Colin Harwood Exhibition (see right) Strong Women Exhibition (see right)
Sunday 17 Mar Kiama Seaside Market Black Beach, 9-3pm
20-24 March SCARF Hand in Hand Exhibition See page 9
8-10 March
Saturday 23 March
Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival Various venues around the Kiama area. All for free. See kiamajazzandbluesfestival. com.au HARS Tarmac Days Albion Park Airport
Second Hand Saturday Black Beach, 8-noon Kiama Makers & Growers Market Black Beach, 9-2pm
9-10 March Kiama Woodcraft Group exhibition Masonic Hall, Collins St NSW Wavesailing Competition Gerroa
Saturday 9 Mar
23-24 March Inaugural Football Writers Festival See right
Sunday 24 March Jamberoo Village Market Reid Park, 9-2pm Steel City Strings Celebration of Youth concert Kiama Pavilion
FOKL and KDHS Talk: David Dufty on The 26-28 March Secret Code-Breakers Kiama Matinee Theaof Central Bureau tre: The 39 Steps Kiama Library Auditorium More next issue 2.30pm. $5/$8 6-7 April
14-20 March
Kiama Shellharbour Camera Club Exhibition Old Fire Station
Blowhole Big Fish Classic More next issue
26-28 April KISS Arts Festival
Learn of past scandals Kiama and District Historical Society’s March presenter is accomplished speaker and historian Lorraine Neate, who may be known to readers from her monthly history spot on ABC Radio with Mark Matthews. She will be talking on her most recent book Scandal, Slander and Interfering with our Neighbours. This novel history of the Illawarra includes runaway teens, farting convicts and a wedding luncheon brawl – Illawarra residents of days gone by were far more interesting than you might have thought. These tales and more than 40 others make up her book. Lorraine was born in Wollongong and her earliest
Pub talk The next meeting of Spirituality in the Pub will consider the topic, The time is now and we are here. The guest speaker is Fr John Crothers, author of the book, The Clergy Club. He is the former parish priest of Penshurst and now lives in semiretirement in Kiama. All welcome. Details: Monday 11 March, Jamberoo Pub, 7.30pm
Illawarra connections are from the 1820s (at Jamberoo). She is a descendant of a number of families with Northern Irish roots who came to Kiama Municipality through chain migration. Lorraine is President of the Illawarra Historical Society and a member of the Royal Australian Historical
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March exhibitions Two very different exhibitions are on in Kiama over the month of March: an exhibition by local artist and printmaker Colin Harwood as part of the Art@the Library series, and the annual Strong Woman exhibition at the Little Blowhole Art Bar. On retiring from a career in chemical research, Colin Harwood attended art school and now uses his chemical knowledge to produce etchings, relief prints, and mono prints using a variety of materials. His principle subject matter is Kiama and its surrounding countryside. The Strong Woman opening coincided with International Womens Day, and 50 per cent of the proceeds of the sale of the artwork is being donated to SAHSSI, a specialist domestic violence and homelessness service for women and children in the Illawarra/Shoalhaven District.
50 piece orchestra concert
The restaurant Kiama has been waiting for
Society Affiliated Societies Committee. In 2018 she was a joint winner of the Friends of Wollongong Library History Prize.
Music lovers are in for a treat when a 50 piece ensemble orchestra, combining the talents of Steel City Strings and the BlueScope Youth Orchestra, plays in Kiama. In addition to playing suites and dances by Purcell, Boyce, Greig and Piazzolla, the concert will feature Peter Lavilles, winner of the 2018 Wollongong Con Concerto Competition, performing Weber’s virtuosic Bassoon Concerto; Cedar Newman on her return from violin studies in New York playing Saint-Saens’ Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso; and other new works by talented young locals. Details: Sunday 24 March, Kiama Pavilion, 2pm. Tickets $45 or less. Book at www.steelcitystrings.com.au
The Bugle Editor: Cathy Law t 0412 415 101 Advertising Manager: 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 9 March 2019
A weekend talking about soccer The inaugural Football Writers’ Festival will give enthusiastic fans and industry insiders the chance to immerse themselves in their favourite topic for a whole weekend. The celebration of football, writing and ideas has attracted speakers of the calibre of Jens Weinreich, an award winning investigative journalist and author from Germany; Gwen Oxenham, who played for Santos FC in Brazil and has written a book on the untold stories of women’s soccer; veteran journalist Ray Gatt, who has covered every Socceroos World Cup qualifying campaign since 1985; Chris Nikou, FFA Chairman; and Craig Foster, who needs no introduction. Details: 23-24 March, Jamberoo Pub. $10 for one day; $15 for both, with Festival Dinner and Sunday Lunch as optional extras. Full details at www. footballwritersfestival. com.au
Boardwalk concerns aired instead of a full Environmental Impact Study (EIS), Cardno representatives explained the ‘significant impact triggers’ required for an EIS were not there. The audience were reminded that REFs do not require public consultation, but Council choose to involve the community in the process. The environmental reasons At the meeting, Cardno gineering & Works, Darren Brady, was also on the panel behind choosing an overexplained its methodology and defended the REF’s and the General Manager the-water route for Stage 2, conclusion that the BoardKerry McMurray was on include: avoiding removal of seawalk will be unlikely to have hand to clarify Council’s a significant impact on the position. grass and mangroves surrounding environment. In responding to questions avoiding the use of bulk The Acting Director of En- about why REFs were used earthworks within the tidal areas preventing changes to flood conditions and direct impacts to private property minimising potential shad“The noise and dust from Boral is to lodge its appliing of the riverbed. the trucks is going to be un- cation, to modify its existing The proposal to place Stage consent to allow it to bring bearable.” 2 along the riverbank instead material onto the site for the He’s also worried that an was rejected when selecting accident will block access to rehabilitation, in mid-March. a preferred route, as it would the residential area. Community information involve the likely destrucsessions will be held during Mr McAuley says Boral tion of 1,000m2 of protected has told him that if trains are the exhibition period. mangroves and damage to used to move the fill, they “We’d like to have the seagrass beds. will operate between midconsent by the end of the “The constraints have narnight and 6am, so as not to financial year and potenrowed down our options,” tially start getting the mateinterfere with passenger said the project’s manager, timetables. rial by the end of 2019,” James Olsen. “If the trains are used, says project’s manager, “We are also using higher there will be at least one big James Belford. grade materials to help reA spokesman for Sydney one at night. duce further maintenance Eric McAuley fears Riverside Dr “There are so many people Trains said, “Sydney Trains Bombo resident Eric McAuley not used, Boral will have will be a route for fill trucks costs.” whose sleep will be affected recognises community conis calling on the State Gov- to use its existing access in The REF has been done at “Instead of turning right by this, over years. cerns regarding access to the ernment to ensure that Boral Panama St. the 35 per cent detailed deformer commercial quarry is able to deliver the fill it “I don’t think people real- when they exit the highway, “We have to get it on the sign milestone, and considneeds to rehabilitate its Bombo ise this will mean that over they will be turning left and road, and delivered through site. ers a worst case scenario. “We are negotiating with travelling down Riverside the Sydney Trains’ site.” quarry via the Sydney Trains 100 trucks full of rock will The meeting heard that As reported in the last Bugle, the commercial quarry’s be coming down from Syd- Drive, under the overpass quarry access point. although the plans indicate the fill is to come from inowner on the possibility of If this access via the ney each day, throughout the and on to Panama St. where parking could be, roundabout exit from the day, for at least five years,” “This is a sloping curving frastructure tunnelling work providing access for their Continued on p 16 remedial work.” highway at North Bombo is he says. road with a difficult camber. being done in Sydney.
A community consultation meeting by Council’s consultants on the Minnamurra River Boardwalk project, Cardno, did not satisfy the concerns of opponents to the overwater section of the track and revealed total project costs are likely to be even higher. Council’s extraordinary meeting on 26 March will consider endorsing the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the project. As reported in our last issue, the estimated cost of the project has blown out from $4.5 million (obtained
in a grant from the State Government) to $9.5 million. Design and assessment work so far by Cardno is in the region of $600,000. If the REF are not endorsed, changes to the law will mean a full Environmental Impact Study (EIS) will be required, at a cost estimated by Cardno at another $600,000. As General Manager Kerry McMurray pointed out at the meeting, “At this stage Council has not resolved to put any money into this project. “I would be surprised if Council would commit $5
million to the project. We simply don’t have it.” The community consultation meeting was held to answer questions about the REF for Stage 2 of the proposed boardwalk, the northern portion which includes an overwater section. This latest REF considers the project in its entirety, by including an updated version of plans for Stage 1. For example, the initial assessment that 66 trees may need to be removed to build Stage 1, has been revised to 56. The REF exhibition period closes Friday 15 March.
Call to stop fill trucks using Riverside Dr
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Our Sarah off to the Showgirl finals
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Kiama’s Young Citizen of the Year in 2018, and this year’s Kiama Showgirl, Sarah Young, has been selected to represent our zone in the Showgirl finals at the Royal Sydney Show. The Competition aims to find a young female Ambassador for rural NSW and the agricultural show movement. In the 56 years of the competition, none of our Showgirls have won the state title. Ellen Downes was the last Kiama Showgirl to win a place at the Royal, in 2000. Sarah, from Kiama, was selected along with Nicole Sandrone, the 2019 Camden Showgirl, to represent Zone 2. Her family have long been lynchpins of the Show Society, and she is excited by the opportunity to represent Kiama at a state level. “During my week in Sydney I will be undertaking a mentor program, attending a reception at Government House, visiting Westmead Hospital and being assessed at a number of judging events. “There will also be many
more opportunities for self development and networking. “I hope to learn more about myself and the world around me from this experience, as well as meet some incredible people from around the state. “I am honestly just looking forward to getting in and completely immersing myself in the week in order to get the most out of the opportunity as possible!” The Land Showgirl Competition encourages the participation and awareness of issues faced by women in rural NSW. Contestants are judged on rural knowledge, general knowledge, presentation and speech, personality, confidence, ambition and life goals. Finalists must also demonstrate knowledge of their local community and current affairs. In addition to their potential ambassadorial qualities, contestants are also judged on their involvement in and experience of rural affairs. Details: The Sydney Royal Easter Show is being held on 12-23 April.
Page 4 The Bugle 9 March 2019
Red Cross to come calling through March Last year, the generosity of the Kiama community led to the Kiama branch of the Red Cross winning an award for the most money collected by a country branch. The money raised will help people in crisis both at home and overseas. “Red Cross are usually first on the scene during any humanitarian crisis throughout the world,” says Judi O’Brien. “This time last year we were able to support people in the Tathra area who were impacted by fire, and unfortunately this year the Red Cross is now needed down at the Victorian fires.” In the background, the Red Cross assists elderly or socially isolated people in our communities through daily contact by telephone and regular home visits. Its programs also provide support for young families as they re-enter education or the workforce; and offers guidance to vulnerable people on drugs, alcohol, nutrition, food
Red Cross President Judi O’Brien and branch members with representatives of Minnamurra Lions and Kiama Lions.
preparation and budgeting. “We would like to thank both Minnamurra Lions, Kiama Lions and the Girl Guides for supporting us once again by volunteering to help in the collection,” says Ms O’Brien. “We want to do our bit so the Red Cross is able to answer the call when someone is in need.” Details: The Red Cross Calling appeal will be coming to your door some time in March.
Talking about life and death The Illawarra Centre for Enablement (ICfE), founded by Kiama local Dr Diann RodgersHealey, is launching an Enabling Conversations Program. “The aim to create a platform in the Illawarra to consider issues that matter to us, share our insights, listen to others and enable each other to reach new levels of sensemaking,” she says. The topic of the first Conversation is What makes a good life and a good death? A panel of leaders from the Illawarra and a national leader have been invited to consider this question based on their own unique lived experiences and insights. Panellists Catherine McGregor; Professor Gordon Wallace; Eugenia Pyne; Dr Michael Barbato; and Gareth Ward MP will consider this question based on their own unique lived experiences and insights. The discussion will be followed by a Q&A with the audience. Details: Thursday 4 April, Kurrajong Hall, Dapto Ribbonwood Centre, 6pm. More information and tickets ($20/$12) from www.illawarracfe.com
Death of local historian Given his staunch belief in local newspapers as a source of local history, it is fitting for The Bugle to report that Graham Mackie died in his sleep in Perth on 3 March. Despite living away for many years, he never lost his love for Kiama and was a prolific researcher and writer on many local history projects. Inspired by his mother’s book of recollection of a bygone era, My Kind of Town, he self published a number of books, including The Chronology of Kiama in 2011, Blowhole Point - My Kind of Icon in 2014 and the life story of Eleanor Weston, mentor to Academy Award winner Orry Kelly, in 2016. Who will take up his mantle? Page 5 The Bugle 9 March 2019
The response was clear, “There are three short term licences allocated to Zone A “The Guidelines are poorly The way that Gerringong tional signs he shouldn’t,” with a total number of 40 written, but we ignore them Surf School has been operat- says Roy Schmidt. participants shared between at our peril.” ing in Zone A is also con“His classes don’t keep to these licences. Each short Brian Pickett agrees, “We cerning residents, particuthe 40 metre operational term licence has an individcan’t take assurances it will larly a perceived lack of area or to maximum numual maximum number of never happen when it is al- compliance with the guide- bers, he periodically utilises participants. lowed. As businesses grow lines and safety issues. Little Beach and Crooked “Surf schools are required they generally want to maxi“He never puts up the op- River which are exclusion to operate under the terms of mise the potential to its full erational flags he should, zones, and he often has his their individual licence.” extend.” and always puts up promo- vehicles on the beach. In his DA, Mr Moran has “The old policy had a three applied for one third of the strikes and you’re out rule, allocation of 40 places in but this is missing from the Zone A (increasing to half in Interim Guidelines.” February to November when Mr Moran rejects criticism Lands Edge is not operatof non-compliance, saying ing), half of the 60 person the lack of flags required to allocation in Zone B and a mark the edge of his opera- 30 person allocation in the tion was an oversight which new Zone C, where the total is being rectified. number of participants is yet “The Ranger has told me to be decided. I should park on the beach, He believes the South Preand I’ve been told that if no cinct has deliberately misother surf school was using represented the effect of the the zone I could have up to DA process as creating an 40 people and still be in the expansion of the surf school allocation. places. He says only one “People should refer their zone can be used at a time concerns to the Council and only three schools are Ranger if they have any is- permitted, not the nine sugsues. It sounds like people gested by the Precinct. are complaining for the sake “I believe they have exaggerof it.” ated the impact to get more The Bugle did check with support for their petition. Council whether Mr Moran “Zone A is the best place could utilise the full alloca- for my surf school, and I tion for Zone A if no other want to continue to mainly school was using it. operate from there.
Surf schools
from page 1
Page 6 The Bugle 9 March 2019
“It is the best place because it has the smallest waves and provides the most convenient access for the parents of my young students. “My DA has 120 letters of support from my customers.” Guy Olbourne has been operating his Surf Camp at Gerroa for twenty years, and over that time he says he has rarely used his Zone A licence. “As a local, I know how sensitive the community is about using that busy end of the beach, and we use it only occasionally for private lessons.” Credited with founding now worldwide surf camp industry, Mr Olbourne is proud of building a business that last year attracted around 6000 learner surfers to the area, as well as teaching young locals, and his use of other local businesses to provide goods and services. For ten years, he was the sole approved year round surf school operator on Seven Mile Beach (Lands Edge operates seasonally). While Mr Olbourne is uncertain of how the licences will be allocated in this new process, he hopes his track record as a professional operator will play a part in the assessment. Prior to this, he has ob-
tained his allocation through a tender process, and most recently had a licence for five years. His DA is applying to use Zones A and B with the maximum capacity that is allowed (40 and 60), and has nominated for 60 places in Zone C. In the application, it states that Zone A and Zone C will only be used when Zone B does not have the appropriate conditions. “This is not about expansion, but allowing us to keep the business we have worked hard to build.” Council is unable to charge the schools commercial rents until the Plan of Management is approved, and is restricted to charging a oneoff licence fee of $438. Surf Camp has previously paid in excess of $30,000 p.a. to use the beach.
The Plan of Management Council is unable to comment while the DAs are being assessed, but it has issued the following statement to clarify the process: Kiama Council has started drafting plans of management for Crown Land parks and reserves as required by the new Crown Lands Act introduced in 2018. Drafting of these plans of management will involve community consultation. These plans of management are due to be finalised by June 2021. Council has introduced interim arrangements to assist surf schools operating at Seven Mile Beach. The surf schools are currently operating on interim permits, using interim guidelines, since the changes to the Crown Lands Act last year. Council is assessing applications from surf schools for short-term licences, as prescribed under the new Crown Lands Act, to allow them to operate until the plan of management for Seven Mile Beach is finalised. These short-term licences involve standard fees and charges as a commercial based expression of interest process cannot be undertaken within the timeframe for plans of management to be in place. This plan of management will replace the interim guidelines. It will also allow Council to issue long term licences for surf schools. This transition process was endorsed by Council in September 2018.
New Kiama ambulance station opens After being introduced as someone who was at the opening of the old Ambulance Station some 45 years ago, retired ambulance officer Bill Carey shared some of his recollections:
The vision to co-locate all of the emergency services near the Highway, at the end of Terralong Street, is now a reality, with the Kiama Ambulance Station now officially opened. The shed-like structure has room for up to four emergency ambulance vehicles, and the adjoining building has office areas, staff facilities, a supply room and more.
Emergency calls can be answered from anywhere within the building. “The Kiama Ambulance Station was delivered as part of the $122 million Rural Ambulance Infrastructure Reconfiguration (RAIR) project to enhance NSW Ambulance’s regional and rural infrastructure to meet the future needs of communities across NSW,” says Gareth Ward MP.
Gareth Ward MP (second from left), with the Commissioner of NSW Ambulance Dr Dominic Morgan, the Kiama Station Officer Kelvin Milne and Bill Carey (see right)
The Kiama Station Officer Kelvin Milne told The Bugle that initial problems with the gate have been overcome. It is understood the large gate and a raised Telstra pit in the driveway were of concern to staff.
When the old Ambulance Station was opened, we had two ambulances and a staff of two. Kiama covered the area from Lake Illawarra bridge to Broughton Creek in the south and as far as Robertson to the west. Things were different in those days. Any new Ambulance Station had to have an open entry where you could get an ambulance out in the event of a mechanical failure and the door could not be opened. You had to leave the key in the ignition and ambulances could not be locked. The petrol tank had to be full until it ran over onto the ground. Our two ambulances in Kiama were a 7 litre Ford Galaxy that on a flat-out trip to Wollongong used that much petrol you had to fill up there to get back to Kiama. On a hard drive it got four miles to the gallon. A bit different to today, where I am told the Mercedes Sprinter only get filled up every three days.
Page 7 The Bugle 9 March 2019
The other ambulance was a Ford Fairlane with a highperformance Mustang motor. This was my own personal Ambulance and in seven years I never lost a patient. I delivered a baby and brought a person back from the dead all on my day off. On your day off, if you were around you just hopped in an Ambulance and went. I even went to an accident bare footed and in just a pair of shorts. I cleared the airway and the patient started breathing. The Station Officer at the opening was Eric Schweitzer. Both Eric and I were married to nurses. Both wives were unpaid helpers. They gave a hand out in the casualty room. Everything from handing out a couple of aspirin to dressing small wounds. The wives operated the telephones and a two way radio base station. They took money for subscriptions to the Ambulance fund. They never received a cent for their work but that was
part of the love for the community. There was only one person manning an Ambulance. If you needed help you just parked over the road and stopped traffic, or if there was no traffic you pulled the siren on and people came running. One night I took a patient to the hospital with a broken arm. The staff were busy so the Sister told me I would have to X-Ray the arm and handed me a hand written instruction book on how to do it. The nurse developed the X-Ray and I took it with me when I transported the patient to Wollongong hospital. The casualty registrar said, “This is a good X-Ray, who took it?” A few nights later the doctor rang and asked if I could take a patient of his to Kiama Hospital, X-Ray and bring him back, which I did, without any bookwork. The rule was never do anything you couldn’t explain to the Coroner.
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Sebel’s Blue Diamond makes way for Yves After 12 years, at the heart of Kiama’s social scene, Sebel Harbourside Kiama’s Blue Diamond bar and bistro is closing on 24 March for an almost $1 million refurbishment. The space will re-immerge as Yves less than three weeks later. “It will be a more sophisticated venue, still with a beverage focus but with more options and dedicated areas for dining,” says the Sebel’s General Manager, Craig Hardy (right). “It will be a contemporary take on a French bistro, with a coastal vibe.” While the external structure isn’t changing, the whole internal space is to be transformed, with matching changes to the menu and drinks offerings. In the period of the closure, a brasserie-style space will be opened upstairs. The creating of Yves is the start of a $2.8 million refurbishment of the hotel, which was purchased by a consor-
tium in March 2017. “It is a credit to the new owners that they are committed to finishing off all the areas of the hotel to make it indisputably the best hotel on the South Coast,” says Mr Hardy. “All the work is focused on bringing a sense of place.” The conference facilities of the historic Infants School will be upgraded, the
reception area redeveloped, and the Quarry Room revamped. “It is an all encompassing concept,” says Mr Hardy. The redevelopment is coinciding with three year highs for the hotel’s food and beverage operations. “We’ve focused a lot on customer training, and that has really paid off. Having a new look and feel will only
enhance the experience. “The whole team is very motivated by the changes.” After listening to concerns from neighbours, the hotel has withdrawn its application to extend its opening hours. The Sebel will be farewelling the Blue Diamond, and offering glimpses of the new design, over 22-23 March. Yves will open on 12 April.
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Page 8 The Bugle 9 March 2019
Local woman chosen as new CEO for SCARF Jamberoo’s Pippa Rendel has been made CEO of a community organisation founded to help refugees settle in the Illawarra. SCARF stands for Strategic Community Assistance for Refugee Families. It has a 14 year track record of providing support to refugee entrants by creating connections that build a sense of belonging, promote social and economic inclusion, and empower individuals and families to lead independent lives. SCARF services include befriending; education and tutoring programs for primary, secondary and tertiary students; continuous learning activities for adults (eg. citizenship studies, job readiness support, CVwriting/interview skills); a learner driver mentor program; youth leadership initiatives; and social inclusion events. Importantly, SCARF provides support for people with a refugee background long after the 18 months of government support ends. Ms Rendel worked with SCARF for eight months as a Program Manager before being chosen for the new CEO role. The daughter of prominent Kiama citizens, Sandy and Diane Rendel, Ms Rendel returned from London to Jamberoo in 2015 to start a family with husband Guy. As part of the Rutledge family, she is a 6th generation Jamberoo resident. With a background in communications and social research, Ms Rendel has a strong track record in delivering social change
The new CEO of SCARF, Pippa Rendel (right), with outgoing Executive Officer Sherryl Reddy
programs and services. “As a volunteer-powered organisation, SCARF is quite unique in its approach to welcoming refugee entrants and establishing friendships between people from refugee and nonrefugee backgrounds as a foundation for successful settlement,” she says.. “I’m really looking forward to working together with the SCARF community - made up of so many inspiring people from refugee backgrounds, more than 250 dedicated volunteers, and a whole host of fabulous partners and supporters - as we continue SCARF’s mission of creating connections that celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and strengthen community.” Find out more about SCARF at www.scarfsupport.org.au
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Support SCARF’s art exhibition SCARF’s long-standing charity art exhibition, know formerly as Art4Refugees, continues in 2019 under the new name of Hand in Hand. The exhibition is a celebration of community, art and culture and is the organisation’s major annual fundraiser. Emerging and established artists generously donate original works for sale. The Opening Night on Friday 22 March is a ticketed event and will include an auction of three artworks by artists originally from Myanmar, Syria and Iran. Details: 20–24 March, Project Contemporary Artspace, 255 Keira Street, Wollongong. Tickets for the opening night from www.scarfhandinhand. org.au
Page 9 The Bugle 9 March 2019
Use a local
Inventing restaurants
Appliance Repairs
The Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society Shoalhaven’s next talk will see Sylvia Sagona present Acquired Taste: The Invention of the Restaurant in 19th century Paris. It is hard to think that the first restaurants were for the fastidious, who did not even like eating. They were served a restorative broth or ‘restaurant’. It was for such delicate stomachs that the first establishments in the Palais Royal opened up new dining rooms with separate tables, a menu, fixed prices and flexible opening hours. With the French Revolution 20 years later, the unemployed cooks and maitres d’ of exiled royalty began introducing the paying public to the delights of aristocratic cuisine. The restaurant as we know it was born. The lecture will investigate the first great restaurants, chefs, patrons and gastronomes, and the invention of modern cuisine by Escoffier at the Ritz.
CVC Appliances: Repairs to washing machines, stoves, dishwashers, dryers etc. t 0401 294 810
Carpentry King Carpentry: Decks, pergolas, maintenance, renos. No job too small. Call Wayne 0411 639 233 L/N 69526C
Concreting Lay 1 4 U Concreting Services: Slabs, house and sheds, footing, paths and drives, colour stencil, stamp exposed. 40 yr exp. t Ron 0414 724 221 Fully insured. No job too small! LN139098C
Clean-up Services Rubbish/Junk removed - Tip runs. Also High Pressure cleaning & Flyscreens. Call Ian 0497 042 441
Handymen 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
Lock Services Illawarra Security Lock Service - Lock Outs, Lock Supplied and Fitted. Free consultation. No automobiles. t 4232 3255 or 4236 1783
Stonemasonry & Heritage Services For all aspects of stonemasonry, contact Brad Rimmer at BR Stonemasonry & Heritage Services Lic 292667C t 0401 337 629
Tennis Coaching Beg to Adv Tennis Coaching @Iluka Reserve courts by Michael Phipps, Adv. Lvl 2 coach with ATPCA. From $10 onestoptenniscoaching@gmail.com or 0413 996 516
If you’d like to advertise your trade service here, contact Steve on 0428 662 499.
Details: Thursday 28 March, Berry School of Arts, 7.30pm. Free for members or $25 at door, including supper. Information on the society and the 2019 program is at www.adfas.org.au/ shoalhaven
NSW Election
Meet your With the State Election on 23 March fast approaching, we are taking this opportunity of continuing our tradition of giving you an insight to the three main candidates. They may surprise you. vast wall really inspired me that peace is possible in the world. Favourite beach in the Kiama LGA?
fare system, schools, housing, transport – everything. Inaction on climate change, our oceans and biodiversity pushed me hard too.
Bombo – I love Bombo, it List three personal qualities really feels like home to me. you have that will make you
Nina Digiglio, The Greens Favourite sport? Player or spectator?
Running is my favourite sport. I run 10km every morning to set me up for the day. I have also been a long term soccer mum and club vice president for Southern branch soccer club and I have learned to love soccer over the years. My favourite football player is Kyra Simms. Best subject at school?
History – it is such a fascinating subject, and I love the lessons it teaches us about the leaders who have succeeded and failed.
Cat or dog?
a good representative?
Cat
a) Work ethic and high energy b) Good listener c) Flexible
Most admired world leader, past or present?
Martin Luther-King Jr – he stood for justice and equality, and was a truly courageous person who spoke out, and cared about the people. Favourite style of food?
Italian – just like my Grandmother cooked, it’s such a healthy food base. Favourite movie?
Mary Poppins and the Sound of Music Best concert you've ever been to?
Paul Kelly – when he is in the zone he has such a powerful presence. What lured you into politics?
Working as a nurse, with vulnerable sick people, children and their families and with the Indigenous commuBest holiday you've ever taken? nity highlighted the atroBerlin – I travelled to Berlin cious way our governments on a working holiday and treat people and communiseeing the remains of the ties. The health system, wel-
12. Most important issue for Kiama?
Planning is a big issue for the Kiama community. People are concerned about overdevelopment, protecting the areas high value agricultural land, and maintaining the character of our coastal and historical towns. People are worried about the rapid rise of Shell Cove, and now Caulderwood Valley sensing that Kiama is next. Our infrastructure is already stretched. Our hospitals lack crucial services and resources, our transport system, local roads and parking is inadequate, and our schools are growing too large. The community’s concern for climate change feeds into planning with homes needing to be cool, and sustainable; and solarised reducing energy costs.
Exercise your brain The next guest at the popular and thought provoking Berry Conversations series will be Lenore Taylor, Editor of The Guardian. Given the run up to the Federal election, and the challenges facing the media, it’s likely to be an interesting afternoon. Proceeds from the event will be donated to a notfor-profit community organisation. Saturday 6 April, Berry Public School, 3-5pm. Tickets $30, including refreshments, from the Berry Music Centre or trybooking.com.au
Help us know what’s going on If you have any hot tips, please get in touch with us at emailthebugle@ gmail.com Page 10 The Bugle 9 March 2019
Kiama candidates Best concert you've ever been to?
Most admired world leader, past or present?
I took my mum to see Elton John in Wollongong last year (Don’t tell anyone – but I liked it as much as she did).
So many inspirational leaders, but to keep it in Australia, Bob Hawke. Favourite style of food?
I'd eat a Sunday roast, seven days a week.
What lured you into politics?
Gareth Ward MP, Liberal Favourite sport? Player or spectator?
I love going to the Cricket. In spite of my results, frustration and occasional profanity, I love playing golf. Best subject at school?
Legal Studies.
Shoalhaven Council was trying to sell public land behind our home that had always been set aside for public open space. I was involved in the grassroots movement to stop the sale, which we won. However, the need to upgrade the Princes Highway was why I stood for State Parliament. List three personal qualities you have that will make you a good representative?
Works hard, gets real results and loves our community. Most important issue for Kiama?
One of the reasons I stood for Parliament was to fix the Princes Highway. I’ve I think the best holiday is a delivered on my promise to stay-cation. I love spending upgrade the Princes Hightime at home and around way at Gerringong and our region with family and Berry and work is underway friends. between Berry and BomadFavourite beach in the erry and the long-awaited Kiama LGA? I’m going to be a politician Albion Park Rail Bypass is under construction. Working and say “all of them”. with our community, we’ve Cat or dog? doubled the number of train Dog Most admired world leader, carriages on the 4:24, 3:54 and 3:24 Central to Kiama past or present? Martin Luther King Jr Services with more new Favourite style of food? trains to come. I’ve delivItalian ered on my promise for a Favourite movie? new Kiama Ambulance Any James Bond film but Station and Kiama Primary Casino Royale would be top Health Care Centre and I of that list. won’t support any plans to Development Blowhole Point. Best holiday you've ever taken?
Favourite movie?
Anchorman Best concert you've ever been to?
Andy Higgins, Country Labor
Bob Dylan, not so much for the performance, but to see a living icon perform songs that have changed the world. What lured you into politics?
Kiama is a jewel on the coast. The lack of transparFavourite sport? Player or ency and consultation from spectator? the current liberal governKelly Slater, 11 time world ment is dismantling the surfing champion. A natural character and heritage of our talent, an effortless artist of unique community. We the waves. must invest in future generaBest subject at school? tions and give them the Always design and art, I'm same opportunities that we still intrigued how different have had. “What’s real and elements and colours comwhat's for sale?” pliment and balance to List three personal qualities achieve a message or func- you have that will make you tion to improve and inspire a good representative? our lives. Practical, Creative, and Best holiday you've ever taken?
Through my cousin’s sponsorship of a village in Vanuatu we had the opportunity to experience the day to day life in the local community.
Dedicated. Most important issue for Kiama?
Development without transparency or consultation.Due to the erosion of local council's power by the Liberal Favourite beach in the government. A developer Kiama LGA? can be knocked back by I grew up in Chapman St, Kiama Council 8-to-1, but so Kendalls and Surf Beach then gain approval through hold many early memories the back door in Macquarie for me. However Bombo Street. A Dailey government and Boneyard have a certain will close this back door to magnetism I’m drawn to. developers, giving power Cat or dog? back to local government Dog and community.
Local Real Estate News FIRST NATIONAL COAST & COUNTRY
Join our 2019 NRL Tipping Competition Free entry - $700 prize money 1st prize $500, 2nd $150, 3rd $50 Competition starts March 14 Here’s your chance to test your tipping skills and get some handy cash into the deal by joining the First National Coast & Country Real Estate 2019 NRL Tipping Competition. The competition will kick off on Thursday, March 14, when the Melbourne Storm host Brisbane Broncos, so time is quickly running out to join the competition. Prizemoney is $700, with $500 to the winner, $150 for second and $50 third, so the competition for the top three will be fierce. The competition will be run under NRL.com Tipping rules and managed by that site. To register all you have to do is email David Hall on david.hall@ccfn.com.au with your name, address and contact number and he will send you all the information you need to join.
Welcome to Erin Brown We would like to welcome our newest member of the First National Coast & Country Property Management team, Erin Brown. Erin has already made a very smooth transition into our office implementing strategies for our valued landlords that have streamlined some of our processes. We are working towards delivering an extra service giving our landlords direct access to their properties via an online portal. We look forward to an exciting year ahead!
Protecting your rental property We would like to provide a timely reminder to all landlords of how important it is to have landlord’s insurance and undertake regular plumbing maintenance. The damage that can be sustained due to a burst water inlet flexi hose a underneath a sink can have significant flooding consequences to your property. It can happen any time day or night and the call out fee from late night/weekend trades, water extraction or replacement of carpets and the potential loss of rent from tenants who are unable to live in the property during restoration can put a big dint in your back account. We encourage you to check your Landlord policy is current, talk to your insurance provider to ensure you have the right cover and undertake regular plumbing maintenance checks.
Kiama
Gerringong
2/110-112 Terralong St 119 Fern St ph 4232 2888 ph 4234 1911
www.coastandcountryfn.com.au Page 11 The Bugle 9 March 2019
Mayoral Column Mayor Mark Honey communicates directly with residents and ratepayers
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You can also make submissions regarding Cardno’s Review of Environmental Factors until 15 March, before Council considers Cardno’s report and public submissions at our meeting on 26 March. As to the cost of this project, which has changed significantly, I want to be clear: The Minnamurra Boardwalk Not one dollar of ratepayer project has received a lot of money has been spent on attention lately for a variety this project. of reasons, with lots of The work so far has been information and opinions funded by a NSW Governflying around. ment grant. Also, Council I found it very useful to has yet to decide whether to join others at the recent proceed to the construction community information ses- phase. It would be irresponsion at Kiama Golf Club to sible to do so without securlisten to council’s consulting all the necessary funding. ants explain their assessA project that has been ments of the environmental progressing with less attenimpact of the project and tion is the new Gerringong answer questions. Library and Museum. The consultants from The project team has been Cardno did a great job working away at developing explaining their work and the detailed designs. handling the wide variety The Gerringong School of of questions. Arts Hall is soon to become If you couldn’t make the the new home of the Gerrininformation session the gong and District Historical briefing from Cardno is on Society Museum. Council’s website The project team is after (www.kiama.nsw.gov.au). photos of the old hall over
its long life to help with their designs for its future role. If you had a party or wedding there, or were a scout when they used the Hall, maybe you have a photo from that time? If you do, please contact Kiama Library. They’d love to scan your old photos to help with this great project. Importantly your photos will also be preserved in the Library's local history collection. You can email the Library via library@kiama.nsw. gov.au or phone 4233 1133. Council is also after suggestions for replacement
Club news Chamber contributes to on-going drought relief
The Kiama & District Business Chamber has donated just over $3,600 to the Jamberoo CWA’s Drought Relief Appeal to help local farmers. Money raised by collections at the Chamber’s monthly Seaside Market was topped up with a $2000 donation from the Chamber itself. The Chamber intends to keep gathering collections at future markets to keep adding to the total raised. The CWA expressed their thanks for the contribution, and said it would be put to good use.
Page 12 The Bugle 9 March 2019
play equipment at Jubilee Park in Gerringong. The new playground would be similar in size, but there is the opportunity to look at new ideas. If you have any suggestions please email: council@ kiama.nsw.gov.au before 22 March. This playground is the last of five slated for replacement this financial year. I’m happy to report the playgrounds at Hillview Circuit, Croft Place and James Muir-Miller Reserve have been completed, and Reid Park in Jamberoo is next in line.
Chamber President Marie Beikmanis (left) with Treasurer Greg Langford and Jamberoo CWA President Kathy Delhaas
Want to be a better public speaker? Kiama Toastmasters improves public speaking confidence and enhances leadership skills. The group meets fortnightly at Kiama Leagues Club. Contact Noelene on 4232 2573 to find out
Around the schoolgrounds Encouraging young readers
INFLUENZA VACCINE Eleven eager readers from Minnamurra Public School are extending themselves this year with an exciting new learning opportunity. In 2018, a Year 5 student, Cassandra Horley, suggested to me that she’d love to start a student book club. Not long after, the Eager Readers book club was launched. Students from grades 3 to 6 attended the first chat session, to eagerly share their thoughts and opinions on the first text, Jessica Town-
send’s Nevermoor. Since then, the group has enjoyed some historical fiction with Megan Rix’s The Bomber Dog and a charming triumph over adversity drama in Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s Fish in a Tree. This year, the Eager Readers has taken on a new format, where some students work in class time, rather than in their own time, to share complex novels. Eleven high achievers in literacy have been selected to join the group to study Trenton Lee Stewart’s The
Mysterious Benedict Society, a fantastical narrative about gifted students on a path to self-discovery. Students work on advanced literary content within the group and strive to broaden their vocabulary and enhance their own writing skills. Now in Yr 6, Cassandra is still an Eager Reader, “I love the way the Eager Readers has grown. I like being in a group with friendly people who enjoy reading just like me.” Emma De Heaume Teacher Librarian
AVAILABLE IN-STORE NOW! Our pharmacists can now administer vaccinations in store for patients over 16 years. Apart from vaccinating against Influenza, we can also help protect you against:
Measles, Mumps and Rubella
Diptheria, Whooping Cough and Tetanus
Diptheria, Whooping Cough and Tetanus is particularly important for last trimester pregnancies and for close family contacts to a newborn child.
BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.KIAMAPHARMACY.COM OR CALL 4232 2532 TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
88 Manning St, Kiama
Page 13 The Bugle 9 March 2019
Opposite Surf Beach
Out & about At the Red Hot Summer concert
If you’d like to share your social event on this page, contact emailthebugle@gmail.com
Kiama is firmly established as an annual venue for the Red Hot Summer tour, attracting locals and visitors to see their favourite performers from their youth. Suzi Quatro headed the bill this year.
With 6 Swim Spas and 22 Portable Spas on show, and over 100 in stock, we have something for everyone! You can relax and know you are in good hands when you deal with our professional family-run business. We can help you through the whole buying process. No Pushy Sales People!
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The Bugle Crossword ACROSS 1. Australian native bird 6. Australian Ambassador to Washington 10. Industrial harbour of the Illawarra (4,6) 11. Stinging flying insect: White Anglo-Saxon Protestant 12. Person in control of a car 13. Devout Muslim women’s clothing 17. Small stream 18. Ex-NSW Premier and Foreign Minister 19. What Jack broke when he fell down with Jill 21. Aust golfer based in USA, born in Mt Isa 23. Australian Cardinal in hot water 25. Hand held device that controls a computer 26. Leading Sydney newspaper and descriptor of singing angels 28. Seat on a horse 30. Tourist bus and sports trainer 35. Australian national rugby team name going back to 1908 36. Cardboard container of wine 37. Snake associated with Cleopatra
may be time to have a drink 10. Price on Application (1,1,1) 14. Very salty water used in cooking 15. Recently retired Foreign Minister who is not restanding for her seat (5,6) 16. American name for hot chips (6,4) 20. Biblical Tower 22. Flowers at the forefront of Valentine’s Day 24. What does one eat on Shrove Tuesday? 27. Roman goddess of the hunt; The Phantom’s girlfriend 29. Male dress code for eve-
ning events (6,4) 31. Large body of ice moving down a valley 32. She Oak 33. Damage to the liver caused by alcohol 34. Common name for sheep liver served for breakfast (5,3) 35. Closest relative to a koala; has a backward facing pouch 39. Village in Southern Highlands near Moss Vale 41. Pub 44. Pixie, fairy, sprite, imp Crossword by Steve Law
Last issue’s solution
38. Name of pass climbing the escarpment behind Albion Park 40. Speaker in Federal Parliament involved in Helicoptergate 42. Body part on side of the head in which one puts earrings 43. Rooster one day ------------ the next (7,6) 45. Yacht with two masts
46. What day number in March is the Ides? 47. Which emperor was killed on the Ides of March. Last name only. DOWN 2. Judge in a lower law court 3. New ABC Chairwoman’s first name 4. Not Old
5. PM who reintroduced knighthoods and made Prince Phil an Australian Knight 6. Another name for the Underworld across the River Styx 7. Does anybody know why this animal crossed the road? 8. Female adult sheep 9. The sun is over this and it
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Postcard home Hello from Hiroshima, the site of one of humankind’s worst examples of how break-through technology, massive government overspending and political PR in the name of seeking peace came to see the USA drop an atomic bomb on this city. We’re currently sitting in the centre of the Peace Park, about 20m from the Memorial Hall, which lists the names of those estimated 140,000 people who died here in Hiroshima either immediately from the bomb that was dropped at 8.15am on August 6, 1945, or by end the of December 1945, from their injuries. The Memorial also recognises the estimated 70,000 who also lost their lives in Nagasaki on August 9, after the US dropped another bomb on Japan when the first one didn’t exact an immediate surrender. I entered the Peace Park, the Memorial Hall and the Museum with mixed thoughts... my grandfather had fought in WWII and directly against Japanese forces in the jungles of PNG. The history we learn is Allied forces based, but it’s
important to remember there’s always two sides to a story, and neither side is innocent in war. Walking through the Hall and the Museum and coming face to face with the horrors the people of Hiroshima experienced on that morning made me sick to my core. Yes there were Government and Military buildings in Hiroshima, but there were also primary schools, high schools, hospitals, homes and people going about their day. Try to take a moment and imagine if this occurred in your local neighbourhood... the reality of heat, radiation and then the force of the blast, whilst instantaneous, is horrible to witness via photos and artefacts almost 74 years later. You could be forgiven for being angry at the people who dropped the bomb, but instead I have been humbled by the Japanese peoples’
If you’d like to share your travel story, send your postcard home (even when you are back) to emailthebugle@gmail.com
self-reflection and ownership, for lack of better term, of what happened here and how their government’s decisions and ambitious national policy literally put them, the civilians, in the firing line. As one mother said, she was angry at Japan for putting someone in a position that this was their only an-
swer. And with that, it sadly opens another door to question the options the US and Allied forces had before them. I’m off to take another walk through the Peace Park to pay my respects. Geraldine, Kiama
Boardwalk concerns from p 1 these costs do not include any amount for the design or construction of car parks for users, as it is not within the scope of the project. The Acting Director, Mr Brady, said that Council would need to monitor the traffic and usage of the boardwalk over an extended period before it could assess the on-going need for extra parking. “Some people think it will be a new Seacliff Bridge, but we need to see how many people it attracts in reality before we build infrastructure,” he said. As a ballpark figure, he said each car space would cost $3000 to construct. The Friends of the Minnamurra River (FOMR) also contend that Cardno has significantly underestimated the cost of necessary repairs to a 240 metre rock retaining wall near the jetty at $100,000. They have had an assessment done by a geotechnical engineer that considers a more structural solution is called for than shoring the wall up with more rock, and
he estimates the work to fix the wall will cost $1 million. “Not only that, neither Council nor Cardno has told the people of Kiama about the environmental destruction that the repairs to this retaining wall are going to cause,” says FOMR’s Will Chyra. “If the Cardno engineering solution is followed, the advice to FOMR is that it will destroy one of the largest remaining seagrass beds in the Minnamurra River estuary. These are highly protected and it is illegal to destroy or harm them or their habitats. “The Department of Fisheries and the Office of Environment and Heritage should be enforcing their protective environmental legislation at this time, but they are nowhere to be seen – even in an election campaign.” As part of the REF process, the State Department of Primary Industries, Roads and Maritime Service and the Office of Environment and Heritage need to sign off on the report.
131 Manning St, Kiama t 4232 3230 Page 16 The Bugle 9 March 2019