When the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics kicks off in less than two weeks, ten local athletes will compete on the biggest sports stage in the world.
The Australian Olympic team also features the highest percentage of women in Olympic history, almost 56 per cent. Two of them who’ll don the green and gold are Hockeyroos’ co-captain and forward Grace Stewart, and tennis player Ellen Perez.
This will be Grace’s third appearance after Rio 2016 where she made her Olympic
debut and Tokyo 2020.
“I think Paris is going to be incredible with everyone’s friends and families here, especially compared to Tokyo where we had no crowds,” the Gerringong-native says over the phone from Perth.
Twenty-seven-year-old Stewart moved out west in 2016 after being awarded a Hockey Australia Scholarship to train with the senior team.
The Hockeyroos hope “to
come home with a medal this time,” she continues. In Rio, the team lost to New Zealand in the quarter finals, and at Tokyo, India put an end to their Olympic dreams.
But since then, they have worked a lot on the mental side of things. Because if it’s one thing that Stweart has learned from previous Olym-
pics, it’s that, “nothing else matters until you turn up and perform on that day”.
Stewart’s sister Lilly and Demi, along with her parents, will be watching from the stands in Paris. Both of her sisters are former hockey players, having represented NSW.
“They like to tell me that
they could definitely have been in the Hockeyroos if they stuck to it, so I tell them to come back and we can all play together,” she laughs.
Playing with her sisters, cousins and best friends in Gerringong is how it all began.
“That’s why hockey was so fun. Then I was lucky enough to continue down this path and get to where I am today. But it wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t
started playing in Gerringong on the grassfields and fallen in love with the game there,” she says.
Ellen Perez grew up a bit further north of Gerringong, in Shellharbour. As a junior, she played for Oak Flats Tennis Club.
Currently, 28-year-old Perez ranks as the seventh best female doubles player in the world, having won her biggest WTA (Women’s Tennis Association) doubles title this year.
The Tokyo Olympics, her first, saw Perez partnering continued on p 2
Allez, Allez continued from p1
in the women’s double event. The team advanced to the quarter finals.
“It was a huge honour,” she says over the line from Wimbledon.
“Also, a huge responsibility. She was putting a lot of trust in me and she saw me as someone that she could do well with. Yeah, it was nerve-wracking but it was really exciting.”
“It’s a very open field. But that’s the thing, the Olympics isn’t even always about who’s the best tennis player but about who handles the occasion the best.”
Ahead of her second Olympics, Perez says growing up in a smaller, more rural area has given her a sense of pride.
It wasn’t always the easiest though. “Not so many opportunities, not so many girls to train with.”
But now, it’s become a source of motivation.
“I want to show people that you don’t have to come from everything, in order to make it. Hopefully, it inspires other kids to see that you can
The United Services Union (USU) wants the NSW Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, to appoint an administrator to stop the Kiama Council selling assets to cut debt.
The USU fears Blue Haven Bonaira will be sold to Hall and Prior Aged Care well below the $107m it cost to build the state-of-the-art retirement centre. It is expected the Council will release the sale figure and terms on July 16 in a confidential meeting with the media.
The USU believes the council is ‘blame shifting’ on
to the Green councillors who voted against the sale to minimise reputational damage if Bonaira is sold at a ‘bargain basement’ price.
A union spokesperson said the council had, “gone out of its way by notifying the media of their actions to cause political damage to those who are standing up for their community.”
The union states the council is planning to sell off other services including its waste services, leisure centres and tourist parks.
“We have been notified of confidential reports seeking support for this wholesale
sale of community assets which will be put to a council meeting in August for implementation after the council election in September,” a USU spokesman said.
“While selling these services may reduce existing debt, it will leave the council destitute of assets and without the ability to raise capital outside of rates. This will also lead to further job losses and an overall collapse of the council’s workforce.”
The council has already flagged a review into a number of assets such as the leisure centre but it will be up to the new councillors if assets will be sold.
Council will record an operating deficit of $5.4 million in 2024-25 (excluding capital grants and assets sales). This may improve to an operating deficit of $2.7 million in 2025-26 before returning an operating surplus of $700,000 in 2026-27.
Chief Executive Officer Jane Stroud said returning an operating surplus by 2026-27, without relying on asset sales or capital grants, was required by the NSW Government.
Malcolm King
Is it okay to wear ready-mades?
Readymade glasses are readily available and cheap, but are they safe to use? Is there a reading glasses?
Yes. Readymades are mass-produced, cheap glasses that help people see up close. They are not as good as reading glasses, which take into
Will wearing readymade glasses cause me harm?
Just like wearing thongs occasionally won’t harm occasionally won’t hurt your eyes. However, just like a cross-country run in thongs would cause
Tips for safe use of readymade glasses:
away you should come in and let me look at your eyes.
Jean Anderson
EyeQ Optometrists
124 Terralong St, Kiama 4232 2610
Convenient online bookings eyeq.com.au
Mayor Neil Reilly won’t contest next
Kiama Mayor Neil Reilly won’t contest the upcoming council election and will step down at the end of the current council’s term in August.
Councillor Reilly, who has been on the council for 17 years, was tasked with pulling the council’s finances into shape – alongside the CEO and administration team.
"At the age of 71 the time has come for me to embrace a new chapter of life,” said Cr Reilly. “The road ahead for Kiama is bright, and while I may no longer be at the helm, my commitment to our community remains unwavering. I look forward to watching Kiama continue to flourish, albeit from a different vantage point.
Cr Reilly will chair his final council meeting on August 13, before council elections on September 14.
“I am eager to explore new horizons, indulge in neglected hobbies, and perhaps finally have the time to perfect my grandfathering skills,” says Cr Reilly. “I leave with a heart full of memories, pride in our achievements, and excitement for the future. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of the people I’ve shared this journey with, especially the many council staff and of course my fellow Councillors,” he said.
Cr Reilly said his legacy is “one of stability and accountability.”
"One of the things that we have done from day one was to reveal to those people who are concerned – the Audit Office, TCorp and the Office of Local Government – that we were in strife,” he says. “I think that all of those agencies … have recognised the work that we've done and know that we're on the right course for improvement and prosperity."
Under Cr Reilly’s leadership, the council conducted several financial reviews, over-hauled governance structures and developed a strategic plan for Blue Haven.
While Cr Reilly suffered health issues earlier this year and took leave to recover from treatment for cancer related to a melanoma, he said that wasn't a factor in his decision to step down.
He returned to the mayoral job in early April and, while he said his health had improved since the hospital stay, he wondered whether the job was good for his health.
"My health is excellent," he said.
Mayor Reilly told the media a few months ago he was considering his future.
“I'm still tossing up whether it would be beneficial to the community if I stayed
on. Or it may be better to the community if I decided not to run again,” he said. Kiama is the only Illawarra council that doesn't have a directly elected mayor. The position is chosen by the councillors.
Cr Reilly said at the time that serving as a councillor after leaving the mayoral position wasn't an option.
"I think it would be difficult for anybody after having been the mayor to go back to being a councillor," he said.
"My age is 71, I've been in council 17 years ... it's time to take a curtain call, take a bow and move into the background.”
Storm clouds once again gather over the Kiama Council as Councillor Renkema-Lang rejects media statements about her ICAC referral and infers the action was politically ‘weaponised’ by Council.
In a prepared statement, Clr Renkema-Lang said when the abattoir Development Application came to Council in September 2022, she had “nothing to declare in relation to any of the parties involved.”
It was previously reported that Clr Renkema-Lang had allegedly failed to declare a donation from Mr Sandy at the same meeting, which triggered the ICAC referral. In response to recent media releases and social media posts about ICAC referrals,” Clr Renkema-Lang said, “I categorically reject any suggestion that I have acted inappropriately.”
“I was dismayed to learn that I was one of the Councillors involved in the ICAC referral via a Mercury Illawarra news article, and I was shocked to read statements in the article that were plainly wrong.”
“In this matter, as always, I have declared and managed conflicts of interest in accordance with the Councillor code of conduct and the relevant legislation,” Clr Renkema-Lang said.
Back in 2013, when Kiama Council received a Development Authority (DA) for the building of a small abattoir on a Rose Valley Road, for a property owned by Gerhard and Maria Baden of Schottlanders Wagyu, the Baden’s neighbours, Ken and Debra Sandy complained.
Nine years later, an envi-
ronmental impact assessment was conducted and the Baden DA was refused on environmental grounds but The Bugle understands the matter is ongoing.
“I have been transparent in declaring that in December 2023, Ken Sandy contributed to my fund-raising campaign to fight the unfair and unjust resolution of Council to censure me, which Anthony Whealy KC, a retired Supreme Court Judge said was "an ill-considered measure to silence a dissenting Councillor."
In a thinly veiled attack on Council, Clr Renkema-Lang said, “I am also reminded of the ICAC Commissioner's John Hatzisitergos' comments two years ago in the lead up to the NSW 2023 election in the 21-22 Annual Report.”
"As we approach the 2023 NSW election, it is once again timely to remind candidates for public office that they should act properly in making referrals to the Commission,” ICAC Commissioner Hatzisitergos said.
“Investigations into allegations of corrupt conduct are rarely if ever assisted
by premature publicity. It is inappropriate to weaponise a referral to the Commission for attention or political advantage,” he stated.
Clr Renkema-Lang stated the Council needs to fix its outstanding finance and governance issues detailed in the Performance Improvement Order, stop escalating court costs, and instead address flood issues across the municipality.
Clr Kathy Rice has also accused unknown individuals in the council of leaking confidential information to the media, just two months before council elections.
“This matter appears to have arisen from a leak of confidential information which until that time I was appropriately excluded from,” Clr Rice said.
“All such matters should be kept confidential, but in contrast to previous leaks, Council has not expressed any concerns about this one. This information is now being widely circulated in the lead up to the Council elections,” she said.
Malcolm King
The Green Party Councillor Kathy Rice has accused people unknown in the Kiama Council of leaking confidential information to the media, just two months before the council elections.
“This matter appears to have arisen from a leak of confidential information which until that time I was appropriately excluded from. All such matters should be kept confidential, but in contrast to previous leaks Council has not expressed any concerns about this one. This information is now being widely circulated in the lead up to the Council elections,” Councillor Rice said.
prop-
erty owned by Gerhard and Maria Baden of Schottlanders Wagyu, the Baden’s neighbours, Ken and Debra Sandy complained.
meeting, which triggered the ICAC referral.
During a recent Land and Environment Court hearing, Kiama Council lawyers received a document that included an email Ken Sandy sent to his legal representative in 2021, outlining tactics to "impede" the abattoir DA until after the council elections of that year.
A
“Most of the time I have been a Councillor, issues pertaining to the abattoir development application were being assessed by Council staff.”
“As with any development I knew my responsibilities, and I took care not to be involved beyond asking a question or two when the matter arose at Council meetings.”
“Ken Sandy never asked nor expected me to intervene, because he would also have known that was inappropriate. When Ken ran for Council, it was from an unwinnable number 6 position on the ticket. As part of the team, he put his energies into assisting the campaign and he kept his private business to himself,” Clr Rice said.
Back in 2013 when Kiama Council received a Development Authority (DA) for the building of a small abattoir on a Rose Valley Road, for a
“If this planning proposal is allowed,” Sandy said at the time, “we are alarmed this would set a serious and dangerous legal precedent that could allow more abattoirs or any other totally unsuitable development …”
Nine years later, an environmental impact assessment was conducted and the Baden DA was refused on environmental grounds.
On 20 September 2022, the council voted on whether the DA should proceed.
Councillor Rice and Councillor Keast declared a “less than significant non-pecuniary interest in this item.”
At the start of the meeting, both councillors declared they knew Mr Sandy and they "communicate regularly” but had a “less than significant non-pecuniary interest” in the matter.
They voted with the other seven councillors to reject the DA.
A third counsellor, Karen Renkema-Lang had allegedly failed to declare a donation from Mr Sandy at the same
In an email, Mr Sandy stated he was working with the Kiama Greens "to ensure we have a progressive council that are more likely to reject an abattoir DA, while the current council as you know will support it. We need to delay for two more council meetings - September and October."
His plan was to ask for information from the Health Department, Environment Protection Authority and other government bodies, "with a view to the applicant blowing a gasket."
Clr Keast said she had always, “declared potential, perceived and actual conflicts of interest and managed these appropriately, including this particular instance in 2022. Those who know me know that I make decisions thoughtfully and always act with integrity. I welcome any oversight by the ICAC that is deemed necessary.”
Clr Rice said she rejected any suggestion that, “I have acted inappropriately and welcome any oversight to confirm that I maintain my commitment to improving governance and transparency in decision making on Kiama Council.”
Malcolm King
Households and businesses throughout the Gilmore electorate will benefit from the Federal Government’s new cost-of-living relief measures, says local Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips. Ms Phillips says the Albanese Labor Government is committed to providing financial relief to Australians while tackling inflation and building a Future Made in Australia.
According to her media release, the measures, effective from July 1 include:
• Tax Cuts: All 13.6 million Australian taxpayers will receive tax cuts, with an average reduction of $1,405 for those in Gilmore.
• Energy Bill Relief: Australian households will get $300 off their energy bills, and one million
small businesses will see a $325 reduction.
• Commonwealth Rent Assistance: Nearly one million households will benefit from increased rent assistance.
• PBS Medicines Cost Freeze: The cost of PBS medicines will be frozen for all Australians.
• Housing Investment: Increased funding to build more homes nationwide.
• Student Debt Waiver: $3 billion in student debt will be waived for over three million Australians.
• Deeming Rates Freeze: The freeze on deeming rates will be extended for 876,000 income support recipients. Additionally, this follows a third consecutive pay rise for 2.6 million workers, supported by the Government.
Ms Phillip emphasised the significance of these measures, which build on previous relief efforts such as cheaper childcare, feefree TAFE, and expanded bulk-billing.
“We know that people in Gilmore are under pressure right now,” she said. “That’s why the Albanese Labor Government is delivering this help now, while delivering on our responsible economic plan to fight inflation and invest in future growth.”
“We are delivering tax cuts for all Australian taxpayers, including 64,000 in Gilmore, and providing $300 energy bill relief for every household and $325 for small businesses. Additionally, the freeze on PBS medicines costs will benefit many local families and seniors in Gilmore.
“We’re also delivering a third consecutive pay rise for 2.6 million workers and more funding for housing, including projects on the South Coast. This is in addition to the already implemented cheaper childcare, fee-free TAFE, and the significant expansion of bulk-billing services.
“These efforts are part of a long-term economic strategy aimed at providing immediate assistance, reducing inflation, and planning for a Future Made in Australia. I am proud to support these initiatives that aid local families, seniors, and small businesses.
“I recognise that there is more to be done, and I remain dedicated to working every day to deliver for the people of Gilmore.”
Donna Portland
contacted The Bugle in the past couple of months.
Graeme Kelly, General Secretary of the USU, maintains, "This is an attempt to blame others for their own incompetence.
Kiama Council has deliberately mismanaged their aged care services, engaging in economic vandalism that shortchanges their community and involves selling off the largest public aged care provider in Southern NSW."
"The fact that the Mayor, Labor Councillors, and Matt Brown opposed an amendment removing references to community opposition to the sale demonstrates a complete abandonment of the values they claim to uphold.
"Particularly, the sitting Labor Councillors should be ashamed and look for the real culprits within the council's management.
and conditions by the new owners for five years! I see this as a win for the work the union did to protect its members and am proud that I also fought for this."
Labor Councillor Stuart Larkins maintains, “The most recent statement by the USU is incorrect. The amendment moved by Kiama Greens Councillor Kathy Rice to remove references to some opposition to the sale of Blue Haven Bonaira was ruled out of order by the Mayor based on the code of meeting practice. This was because the amendment had not been circulated to councillors prior to the meeting.” As a result of the procedural ruling by the Mayorthe amendment was not put to a vote.
"The union believes that with this privatisation, the community is at serious risk of service degradation, especially if it is bought by a for-profit provider, which were deemed the worst type of provider in the aged care royal commission.
“I do find it very bizarre, that we have had two years of campaigning by some to stop any action being taken by councillors to address the financial situation at Council, and that when it is referenced in a formal document of Council acknowledging that campaign - that some want to see it removed,” said Cr. Larkins.
Located in the heart of idyllic Kiama, Cedar on Collins is a unique retirement residence offering a range of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.
Residents can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with exclusive concierge services and on-site amenities including a gym, lounge, wine cellar, roof-top terraces and more.
Kiama Council has initiated a process of blame shifting as they face an impending financial loss from selling their aged care services significantly below market value, according to the United Services Union (USU) which represents workers at the council.
In an extraordinary meeting on June 27, the council presented a report that included a statement blaming the union and political opponents for the reputational damage affecting the sale of their aged care services.
"This council's action at their extraordinary meeting was disgraceful and demonstrates to the entire Kiama community that their primary interest is their personal reputation, not the welfare of their community," said Mr Kelly.
“You only have to look online or on social media to see a consistent pattern of misinformation and, I think disinformation, that has been spread in regards to this significant issue.”
This move appears to be an attempt to deflect responsibility for the anticipated significant loss in selling off valuable ratepayer services, as predicted by various concerned citizens that have
Cr. Matt Brown has said, "There was legitimate concern from the USU for the sale of Blue Haven Bonaira, especially about staff pay and conditions. I respected those concerns and made representations to Council staff and my fellow Councillors for us to take this into consideration. We did. We moved to make a condition of the sale to include the preservation of all staff pay
“The Health Services Union (HSU) represents the bulk of Blue Haven employees and have engaged respectfully and constructively with councillors and council executive. We are very happy to have advocated for the staff rights and awards will be transitioned over a 5 year period following the sale of Blue Haven Bonaira,” said Cr. Larkins. Donna Portland
On Friday, June 28, The Bugle staff sat down at Central Perk café in Kiama to talk with Andrew Constance, the Liberal candidate for the seat of Gilmore, and Sussan Ley, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party and Deputy Leader of the Opposition.
Over the previous two days, they had been engaging with the Kiama community, speaking directly with residents to understand their opinions and concerns.
From Wollongong to Bomaderry, the South Coast has been blitzed with some of the nation’s most senior politicians in recent weeks. They include Minister for Climate Change Chris Bowen, Leader of the National Party David Littleproud and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton.
All of this attention from Australia’s political class is for one reason only: the
seats of Whitlam, currently held by Stephen Jones, and Gilmore, currently held by Fiona Phillips, both for Labor, are now in play ahead of the next Federal election.
Constance, who is set to contest the seat of Gilmore in the upcoming Federal election, emphasised his commitment to the wellbeing of families and small businesses during these challenging times.
"I worry that people are feeling forgotten and that their real, everyday issues are being overshadowed by large national ideological debates,” Constance said. "We can all talk about energy transition, but the fact that businesses and families can’t meet their next power bill obligation can’t be lost at this time.”
Both Constance and Ley expressed their enthusiasm for Peter Dutton’s nuclear
energy plan. While acknowledging that the plan still needs formalisation, they see it as a potentially cost-effective solution that could work alongside renewable energy sources.
The public, according to national polls, appears open to the idea, provided safety concerns about nuclear waste and reactor stability can be addressed.
The population wants to see feasibility figures, including costs, household coverage, and project timelines for nuclear power and renewable energy projects.
Constance shared insights from his conversations with the public, emphasising the need for quick economic stimulus and the fast-tracking of regional public infrastructure projects.
"I am super keen for the Kiama Harbour project to be put back on the agenda.
It’s such a stunning place, and yet the opportunities are boundless. I drove the Port of Eden revitalisation, and I want to drive success in Kiama," Constance said.
Sussan Ley commented, “We need to get back to basics when it comes to supporting the South Coast, we need to focus on bringing prices down and getting construction going, and we need to make sure the government in Canberra doesn’t overlook this amazing region.”
“The South Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of our country, and when I joined Andrew, I heard many in the community are doing it tough with cost of living and housing - areas of real pain,” Ley said.
Donna Portland
Due to work by Telstra at the Saddleback Mountain base station, mobile reception from Jerrara to Rose Valley will be offline from 7.00am on Wednesday 17 July to 5.00pm on Tuesday 23 July.
Then from Wednesday 24
July to Friday 26 July, testing will put the network offline for four hours at a time.
The Telstra upgrade hopes to give customers better service and to prepare the network for 5G coverage.
A week is a long time in politics. Especially local politics in Kiama, it seems. Over the last week we have witnessed one of the most objectively shocking episodes in the history of our town.
As disclosed on Kiama Council’s website, the CEO Jane Stroud referred Councillors Karen Renkema-Lang, Jodi Keast and Kathy Rice to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), under Section 11 of the ICAC Act.
Referring a public official to ICAC to the Independent Commission Against Corruption is a relatively simple matter. According to the ICAC Act, when a principal officer (like a CEO of Council) makes a referral against a public official they do not need proof –they only need to ‘suspect on reasonable grounds that corrupt conduct has occurred or may occur’.
As such, referrals are supposedly quite commonplace in Sydney where dirty deeds are done, not on the cheap. However, for our fair town, this is not common at all, and is symptomatic of the dysfunction that the community has experienced for the better part of three years since this Council came in.
With representatives like these, no wonder there have been multiple calls from the community for Minister Hoenig to call in an Administrator.
Glen Humphries at the Mercury said it best:
“Now, if all that doesn’t make this time the worst in the council’s history, it’s hard to imagine what else has to happen to make it so”.
Mayor Neil Reilly points to a lot of angst between councillors which has bled into the operation of Council.
Take for instance, these ICAC referrals. Whilst a referral to ICAC does not constitute guilt or corruption, and all three councillors have come out and vigorously denied the allegations, the fact that we even know about the referrals is the most curious part of this sordid saga.
The Bugle does not dispute that the CEO had a duty to report to ICAC and make the referral.
If all goes well, the update will be completed by 26 July.
“We’re continuing to expand our 5G network and
“There’s never a good time to undertake this sort of work,” said Telstra Regional General Manager Chris Taylor. “But once it is complete, it will mean better mobile service for local residents.”
adding new sites to the network every week. Upgrades like these continue to demonstrate Telstra’s ongoing commitment to regional Australia,” said Taylor.
Lleyton Hughes
In addition to these ICAC referrals, how can we forget: Councillor Mark Croxford and Councillor Renkema-Lang being censured over breaches of conduct with a third under investigation, Councillor Renkema-Lang taking Council to court over the aforementioned censure, which was eventually ruled invalid,
The enormous budget blow out and eventual sale of Blue Haven Bonaira (with settlement to occur within two months, the sale price still remains undisclosed)
A revised Performance Improvement Plan (as a result of the botched Bonaira affair) from the NSW Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig which undoubtedly foreshadows more asset sales, possible special rate levies and a perilous financial situation,
A $5 million legal bill.
It’s quite a CV from a bunch of individuals who are supposedly representing us with our best interests in mind.
However, when ICAC states that it ‘generally prefers’ that referrals are not made public ‘as it may prejudice any action (ICAC) take. Furthermore, a failure to handle reports to the ICAC confidentially may cause unnecessary damage or embarrassment to individuals’.
It seems that to someone in Council, causing damage or embarrassment was entirely necessary and intentional.
“It’s Time” was a highly successful political campaign during the 1972 federal election where Gough Whitlam led the Australian Labor Party to victory, after 23 years of a conservative Coalition government.
Whilst the time period is only three or so years, and Labor councillors are part of this debacle at Council, The Bugle’s View is that it’s time:
It’s time for a completely new direction for our Council and representatives, It’s time for more current councillors to announce they will not run for re-election, It’s time for change.
14 September 2024 is the local government election for Kiama – it’s time.
JasonStalgis 0403648375 jason.stalgis@ccfn.com.au
KimVaux 0403204969 kim.vaux@ccfn.com.au
AngieRitchie 0403134813 angie.ritchie@ccfn.com.au
RyanStalgis 0423593149 ryan.stalgis@ccfn.com.au
YourdesignatedCommercialManager
AspartoftheFirstNationalRealEstatenetwork,wecombinethestrengthofanational brandwiththelocalexpertiseofourdedicatedagentsandnowwewelcomeTreenato ourteam.Treenapossessesextensiveexperienceandakeenbusinessacumen,making herwell-versedintheintricaciesofcommercialproperty.
Whetheryou'relookingtoleaseofficespace,purchasearetailproperty,orsellindustrial land,FirstNationalCommercialisheretohelpyouachieveyourcommercialrealestate goals,contactustoday0242322888.
A highly controversial development overlooking the dramatic landscape of Loves Bay will proceed, despite numerous objections from local residents, who have strenuously objected to the upmarket proposal.
A judgement on the matter was handed down by the NSW Land and Environment Court on 10 July.
For those who have never been there, the development is at the end of Elanora Road in Kiama Heights covering two blocks which look down upon the turbulent waters of Loves Bay and the Kiama Coastal Walk which threads along the steep cliffs and headlands down to Gerringong.
Commissioner Timothy Horton upheld an appeal by the Forte Kiama Heights Development Pty Ltd against a decision by the Kiama Municipal Council to block modification of the development, which was originally consented to in 2022.
The developer sought to modify the roof shape, height, internal layout, balcony projection, pool shape, landscape and driveway contained in the original consent.
A mandatory conciliation conference was presided over by the Land and Environment Court at the end of May, beginning with
an onsite meeting between representatives from both the developers and the representatives of the Council.
The conciliation conference continued in the Court, where an agreement was hammered out.
In terms of the height of the proposed development, which exceed the standard 8.5 metres by 450 millimetres, Commissioner Horton declared: “I have considered the Visual Impact Statement and photomontage analysis and I have considered the additional height to be reasonable when regard is had to the elevated views from properties on the opposite side of Elanora Street, and
from a position below the site, closer to the foreshore.
From both vantage points I accept the development as proposed to be modified is in keeping with the desired scale and character of the street and local area.”
Controversy over the Council’s original approval of the development escalated after celebrity architect Tony Owen posted on the Forte Sydney Property Group’s site: “Kiama Tourism Accommodation approved. Inspired by the Art of Matisse, this oceanfront hotel will push the boundaries of luxury.”
As the area is zoned residential, Councillor Jessica
Rippon declared: “In reviewing this information it clearly suggests that the applicant and associated consultants have potentially been deceitful in their interactions with Council through the application process.”
Residents of Elanora Street have previously recorded their upset over the upscale nature of the development clashing with the nature of the area, including increased visitation and parking problems. Residents spoken to by The Bugle earlier this month remain hostile to the development.
One local, who did not wish to be named, said: “The
Council pushes conditions against the locals, makes them adhere to rules and regulations, but for foreign developers they seem to approve anything. I hope it doesn’t go ahead. It is going to destroy my amenities in the street. If one developer breaches the regulations, it sets the precedent that they can be breached by anyone.”
Although approached, the Forte property group declined to comment, and the Kiama Council did not provide any comment by our deadline.
John Stapleton
Everything is on the table as Kiama Council aims to achieve financial sustainability by the 2026/27 fiscal year, according to its Long Term Financial Plan 20242025 to 2033-2034.
It seeks to return the council to a surplus, fund new assets and hit financial targets.
While the recent Performance Improvement Orders (PIO) bans the sale of Blue Haven Terralong as long as it is in effect, there will be an investigation into the true operational cost of the aged care centre and whether rate revenue is
subsidising it.
Council will also make public a building report on Blue Haven (Terralong) and the vacant Havilah Place property and decide whether it will subdivide and sell Havilah Place
The council will explore paid parking to create revenue and pursue federal and state government grants.
In April 2022, Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang conducted a survey of 144 people in the Kiama and Gerringong town centres. It found even if residents and businesses were given permits, 59 people voted ‘yes’,
78 voted ‘no’ and 7 were ‘undecided’.
Last month The Bugle conducted a vox pop of business owners in Terralong Street and most wanted parking policed rather than permits.
The Long Term Financial Plan has three scenarios which depends on a high number of variables.
The three scenarios
Scenario 1- is what the council anticipates achieving and is its preferred option. It meets the minimum financial goals.
Scenario 2 - is the implementation of a Special
Rates Variation (SRV) of 10 percent in 2026/27 on top of the normal rate peg. This isn’t council’s preferred option, and the focus is on achieving efficiencies and service reviews before considering a SRV.
Even so, as council states, some adjustment of rate income will need to be made to account for inflation. In 2024-2025 the rate peg was 4.5 per cent but the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 5.1 per cent.
Scenario 3 - is the ‘do nothing’ strategy with no budget savings at all.
Below is the council’s
projected calculations of surpluses and deficits in brackets () before capital grants and contributions.
Note in scenario 3, from 2027-2028 and on, the council posts a raft of deficits, which means even with grants, it is barely solvent.
Scenario 1 provides short term pain for long term gain.
The council recognises that the scenarios are hypothetical but necessary as a financial compass.
The council has picked a number of sites which, through sale, development and leasing may provide
extra revenue. They are the:
• Council Administration Centre, 11 Manning Street, Kiama
• Old Retirement Village, Havilah Place, Kiama
• Council Works Depot, Belvedere Street, Kiama
• Council Waste Depot, Riverside Drive, Minnamurra
• Blue Haven Terralong precinct, Kiama
• Spring Creek precinct, Kiama
The future of these properties will be determined by the newly elected council. Malcolm King
Council’s three projected scenarios year-on-year
On Monday 1 July, Mitchell (Mitch) Rosser was awarded the NSW State Award for Bravery and Heroism for saving a man's life in the flash floods that occurred in April.
Kiama MP Gareth Ward presented the award to Rosser at his house in Jamberoo, where the event took place.
As Ward handed him the award, he said, “I’m very pleased to award you a premier’s commendation today. It’s a very special award and it's for special people. You did something that was quite extraordinary and our community is very grateful. So, on behalf of the government of NSW, thank you for showing bravery - for running into the face of it, rather than away from it.”
Rosser isn’t the first one in his family to receive
such a prestigious award. His grandfather, Thomas Murphy, was awarded an Order of Australia in 2014, a Fairfield City Citizen of the Year in 2021 as well as a Meritorious Service Medal also in 2021.
Then there’s also Murphy’s daughter, and Rosser’s aunt, Alannah McGregor who won the Fred Hollows Humanitarian of the Year Award in 2021.
“I was on the phone with my grandfather and he joked that this country owes him a lot,” says Rosser. “He has an award, two of his kids have awards, and now I’ve got one. ‘I bred them good’ he told me.”
Rosser was reluctant to receive such a grand award, as he says he was only doing what was necessary, and
Ward believes this is a testament to his character.
“He ran into danger rather than away from it, by highlighting his example it not only celebrates his extraordinary act, but it also reminds people that when these events occur you need to roll up your sleeves and help out. And he didn’t flinch. You can see today by his reticence in actually getting the awardwhat a beautiful and humble guy he is and that just makes him even more deserving,” says Ward.
Three months after the incident there remains no flood warnings and flood water depth indicators on the road where the incident occurred.
Lleyton
Hughes
Local businesses are petitioning for a Kiama entertainment precinct to drive the night time economy.
Kiama traders, community advocates and the Labor representative, Dr Sarah Kaine MLC, met in front of the Central Perk Cafe to launch the petition.
The petition calls on the state government to support the development of a 'Special Entertainment Precinct' in the Kiama Town Centre.
It encourages the Kia-
Fillmore’s, one of the few establishments within the town centre offering a space for local and visiting artists, provides a venue for people to enjoy live music.
Special entertainment precincts are a NSW Government initiative, which assists local councils to support live entertainment through extended trading hours and favourable noise controls.
Enmore Road in Sydney was the first established entertainment precinct for
saddened to see that the venues and opportunities I had growing up really haven't grown in our town since then,” she said.
The Dr Kaine supports the initiative, recognising the lack of dedicated spaces and protections for Kiama businesses to offer year-round events and performances.
“This initiative promises not only to enhance the local cultural vibrancy, but also holds tremendous potential for job creation and econom-
NSW. After a two-year trial, the results have been overwhelmingly positive.
On Tuesday 2 July, an 18year old male was arrested at a home in Dapto and has been charged with 13 offences.
the aggravated break and enter and the theft of two vehicles from Mount Kembla in May.
The man was refused bail and appeared before Wollongong Local Court on Wednesday 3 July.
ma Local Council to take actions to create a 'Special Entertainment Precinct' that will allow for the reinvigoration of the night time and creative economy in Kiama Town Centre.
The petition comes after numerous attempts from local businesses to encourage live music and extended trading.
Two hundred and seventy visitors were surveyed, and 91 percent of punters called for the entertainment precinct to be finalised
Participating venues said they had experienced an increase in customers as a result of the precinct plans.
ic development,” Kaine said.
The initiative hopes to reduce the barriers for local businesses wanting to offer local performances and hold extended trading hours, to grow the culture and arts sector within the town, and to boost employment and revenue within the industry.
Police allege that in June, the man broke into a house in Shellharbour, stole a car and drove the stolen car to Kiama Downs and attempted to break into more vehicles.
Police also allege that the same man was involved in
Sails Bistro Open 7 days
Lunch 11.30am—3pm Dinner from 5pm
Two Children’s Play Areas
Scan for menu
The man was charged as a part of Operation Regional Mongoose, which tackles serious property-related crime committed predominately by young offenders. Lleyton Hughes
Morgan Lewis, owner of local music venue Fillmore’s, is no stranger to battles over live entertainment.
“We’ve constantly been under threat because we offer entertainment, it’s a real sticking point,” Lewis said.
The drive to petition for an entertainment precinct in Kiama started with community advocate Katelin McInerney.
“As a live music-loving teen and young person in Kiama in the 90s and 00s, I've been
Members of the community can sign the petition at: Central Perk Cafe, 84 Terralong Street Kiama. Fillmore’s Cafe, Unit 2/3840 Manning St, Kiama. Neve Surridge
Industrial action by Endeavour Energy workers has stopped the building of the Snap Fitness 24/7 on Terralong Street.
A pay dispute between Endeavour Energy and its workers means the mult-imillion dollar gym with no roof or walls on the newly completed Woolworths site, will stay unfinished until the strike is resolved.
Snap Fitness 24/7 owner Mark (name withheld) said that he had hoped the new gym would have been finished by Easter and then by June, but the completion date is being pushed back and back.
Mark says he is at his “wits’ end” because he has a contract with both Endeavour Energy and the builders, and he has a large number of members already signed up.
“I can’t say much except I am losing money big time. I have tried every avenue but there’s not much I can do about a strike.”
Mark is losing $6,000 a week to the scaffolding company alone but he is determined to get the gym built.
Endeavour Energy offered its workers an upfront payment of $1,000, followed by fair pay increases of 5.25 percent from 1 July 2024, a 3.25 per cent increase from 1 July 2025 and a 2.75 percent increase from 1 July 2026.
The Electrical Trades Union (ETU) rejected the offer and took industrial action in February, which included work stoppages.
The unions are seeking an eight per cent pay increase year-on-year and have included a log of 65 other claims.
The most recent offer from Endeavour Energy was voted down by workers in March and ETU members ramped up industrial action. Endeavour Energy said
discussions on the enterprise agreement will continue and it is “committed to working constructively with employees throughout this process.”
This doesn’t help Mark or the gym members who have signed up but he is determined to get the gym built.
The new gym offers flexible membership options, 24-7 access, free weights, cardio and functional training zones, personal training, heart monitoring and more.
According to the gym’s website, membership installments will commence once the gym has opened.
In 2004, Snap Fitness started franchising in the US. Locations were added in Australia and New Zealand in 2009. As of 2008, Snap Fitness has 910 clubs with 400,000 members in 46 states in the US.
Malcolm King
At the independent living units at Blue Haven Terralong (BHT) there are 23 vacant units in the complex and buyers are being told there are no available units, according to some residents.
Some renovations are being worked on - mainly those needing extensive rectification work, but the units with basic renovation - a quick turnaroundare not being worked on.
Council has indicated that renovations for these vacant units won’t begin for months.
In the midst of a housing crisis, particularly for the aged, it's baffling that these units remain unoccupied while there is significant interest from potential residents.
The units vary in price and go up to $1.2 million. Normal turnover of units is 10 percent, which would fund the bottom line. The renovation costs are borne by council as the sale proceeds are separate.
The Bugle was told that the income from levies sustained the running costs of the complex.
Graham Touhy, a current resident and former contractor at BHT for more than 21 years said, “Terralong ILU is 100 percent self-funding - with no cost to the community. This year will be its first loss in 40 years as it is not being run to its true potential.”
Several residents told The Bugle that they overheard a council officer telling a group of businessmen, "We are preparing Blue Haven Terralong for sale."
This contradicts the Council’s resolution from an extraordinary meeting on 13 October 2022, when it decided to sell Blue Haven Bonaira Residential Aged Care Facility, Bonaira Independent Living Units, and Blue Haven Community Services, but would retain the Blue Haven Terralong Independent Living Units.
Lynda Henderson sought clarification on the Kiama Community Facebook page about the status of the Terralong Street units.
Graham Touhy said, “Blue Haven Terralong has been put in limbo. There are 21 units empty Mr Touhy said with council not actively turning them over for months. That’s over TEN MILLION DOLLARS that are not being sold. Why?” Touhy said.
“Because they (council) can say as of this financial year, ‘Terralong lost money’. Then cry SELL. Next financial year will show a huge profit for an easy sale. BHT has been profitable for the community every year, contributing to community works. Once sold these funds are no more and lost forever,” Touhy said.
In that thread Councillor Stuart Larkins said there was a lot of “misinformation and disinformation on social media regarding this topic.”
Clr Larkins said that council’s position was to retain BHT but also said, “pending dilapidation and subdivision reports”
Police have appealed to the public for information after a man was robbed at knifepoint on Terralong Street.
On Saturday, June 29th, at approximately 8:30 PM, a 30-year-old man approached a vehicle occupied by three men on Terralong Street in Kiama
“The man was held at knifepoint before a small sum of cash was stolen and the car fled the scene,” a NSW Police spokesperson said.
separate the Kiama Community Garden from the BHT site in case of future changes to Council’s position.”
Does this mean that as soon as the Performance Improvement Order is lifted, and with a new council in place, they will then push for a sale?
It is understood that BHT’s finances have not been separated from council's finances but is underway.
The resale of vacated units minus costs is considerable and partly funds community assets. How long can we run this way at a probable loss when the problem has been known for a long time and the rectification process is still ongoing?” he asked, adding, “Is it the State Government holding it up? I don't know.”
In light of this question, The Bugle asked State MP Gareth Ward for his thoughts. “I am not aware of any state government policy that could be slowing the renovation of units controlled and managed by Blue Haven. Further, I have not been approached by Blue Haven or Council about any NSW Government policy causing a delay. Given The Bugle has raised this with me, I have now approached the council and made further inquiries,” he said.
“Council resolved to keep Blue Haven Terralong and I support its retention. The independent living units actually make money for council and I would be opposed to any sale given they are self supporting and sustainable.
“I am concerned to hear reports that there may be several units vacant. These should be renovated and filled as a matter of priority. We have a shortage of housing options for older people and we need to provide these homes to people who urgently need them,” Mr Ward added.
Coinciding with the start of the new financial year, renovations are now being started The Bugle understand.
The Kiama community, along with current and prospective residents of Blue Haven Terralong, seek transparency and clarity on the future of these independent living units.
Donna Portland
“Police are searching for three Caucasian males that were travelling in the car at the time of the incident.”
Officers from Lake Illawarra Police District attended the scene and commenced an investigation, Strike Force Awinya was established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the robbery.
Police are urging witnesses or anyone with information to identify a vehicle and men they believe may be able to assist with inquiries.
The vehicle is described as a grey dual cab Isuzu utility, with black wheels, black steel canopy and bullbar. If you have information about this incident, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
Neve Surridge
At 2:35am Tuesday July 8, the Kiama Fire and Rescue team responded to a report of a house fire in Kiama Downs.
The Dunmore Fire Brigade, NSW Police Force and NSW Ambulance also responded to the report at a one storey house with large amounts of smoke coming from the roof.
“The fire was brought under control, however the house sustained a large amount of damage. Luckily the smoke alarms in the premises alerted the residents who evacuated safely,” the Kiama Fire and Rescue team wrote in a Facebook post.
An initiative enforced by the NSW Government allows
people to book a free Home Fire Safety Visit where Fire and Rescue will ensure your smoke alarms are in working condition.
Look for the booking page on the Fire NSW website or call the Kiama Fire Station on 4224 2046 Lleyton Hughes
Gareth Ward recently congratulated three exemplary members of the community for their dedication as Justices of the Peace (JP’s), each spanning five decades.
- “We serve”
The Bugle attended the Kiama Lions Club's 54th Changeover Dinner on Thursday, June 27, 2024. Over 70 members and guests gathered for the event. Mayor Neil Reilly toasted Lions International, and Gareth Ward thanked the club for their efforts. The new 2024-2025 officers were installed, and the outgoing President John Larkins and the incoming President Cheryl Moses addressed the audience. Mr. Larkins expressed his honour and privilege in serving as President over the past year, stating, "I joined Lions because I enjoy helping people. Thank you, Kiama Lions, for giving me that opportunity, your friendship, and the chance to serve."
This was in fact the second time Mr Larkins has served as President, the first being 2018-19, and he said that “it has been quite different from last time.” Mainly that everyone is older, including himself, and he is aware that this has impacted on some of Lions’ capacity and desire to tackle objectives that in past years, they wouldn’t have thought twice about.
Reflecting on the differences, Mr Larkins emphasised aligning the club's purposes and ethics with the Pillars of Lionism to make a difference in the community, district, state, nation, and world. He reiterated that Lions is a
vital service organisation, crucial to the community's well-being. He also acknowledged the challenges posed by the numerous volunteer organisations competing for support and stressed the need for the Lions Club to adapt and innovate. Mr Larkins advocated for initiating and facilitating activities in partnership with other community organisations. He expressed optimism about initiatives like the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF), the Lions Eye Health Program, and community partnerships, believing they would yield successful outcomes for the club in both the short and long term.
He thanked the Kiama Lions board, specifically Jim Webb (Secretary) and Rick Scott-Murphy (Treasurer), for their assistance and guidance. Tony Grainger and Veronica Dzelde were also acknowledged for their contributions, and past President Peter Scifleet was thanked for providing guidance and a strong foundation for the year.
Incoming President Cheryl Moses expressed her enthusiasm for her new role. She is the second woman to hold the position, following Veronica Dzelde (2020-2022). She thanked John Larkins for his leadership and expressed her hope to continue his legacy by developing new ideas and approaches to community
service.
Ms Moses shared a personal story about joining the Lions Club after her husband's passing, stating, "Lions was the obvious choice for me. I already knew a lot about Lions due to working with Ralph on many occasions and attending social events together over the years. Kiama Lions members were very welcoming and supportive when I joined, and I look forward to that continued support during my year as President and beyond."
Ms Moses highlighted the Lions' longstanding humanitarian efforts, from providing vision care and supporting disaster relief to funding research into cancer and other diseases. She emphasised that Kiama Lions is committed to making a tangible difference in the community.
In the coming year, Ms Moses aims to lead with a focus on collaboration, inclusivity, and enjoyment. She encouraged open and constructive discussions about service projects and membership growth to generate renewed enthusiasm within the club.
"Thank you for giving me this opportunity – I look forward to working with you. Together we can truly make a difference," Ms Moses said, also thanking her family and friends for their love and support.
Donna Portland
Bruce Cole-Clarke, Rex Leighton, and Andrew Pitt were recognised for their service and commitment to the community.
Bruce Cole-Clarke, originally sworn in as a JP in Wagga, has spent the last 15 years in retirement in Berry, and continues to serve predominantly elderly citizens.
Reflecting on his tenure, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to assist those in need, particularly in aged care settings. He will retire as a JP this September.
Rex Leighton, now residing in Cambewarra, fondly reminisces about his introduction to the JP role in Wollongong, which has become a humorous anecdote.
“My fondest memory was being sworn in. I was wearing short sleeves, socks and a tie. I remember going to the Wollongong Courthouse and being looked up and down for my clothing. It was quite funny,” he said..
Leighton's career spans more than 50 years and he has witnessed significant changes in the JP's responsibilities.
“I worked in aged care for 30 years. 10 to 15 years ago the government tightened up the role of a JP. It was probably a good thing. It lifted the need for the work, and changed things for good.”
Andrew Pitt, who began his JP service in Newcastle before relocating to Wollongong and working at Wollongong High. He has been a Kiama local for around 40 years and is involved with the sporting community.
Andrew Pitt, who com-
menced his JP service in Newcastle before settling in Wollongong and taking up a teaching position at Wollongong High School.
He has been a proud Kiama resident for around 40 years. He integrated into Kiama’s sporting community and in November 2023 was recognised with a National Medal for 15 years of long standing service with Kiama SLSC.Gareth Ward MP commended the trio.
"I'm delighted to recognise Bruce Cole-Clark, Rex Leighton and Andrew Pitt for their commitment and contribution to our community as JPs over the past 50 years - what a wonderful achievement,” Ward said.
“Just think how many witnessed documents and services these three volunteers have serviced over a combined time of 150 years!
“Anyone can apply to become a JP and I encourage anyone interested in volunteering in the domain to jump online and apply at Justices of the peace | Communities and Justice (nsw.gov.au).
“What a fantastic milestone. Congratulations again Bruce, Rex and Andrew, and the community thanks you for your service and dedication to our community,” Ward said.
Former Kiama High School student Danielle Heinecke, has recently taken up residence at the High Commissioner’s residence in Kuala Lumpur, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career. As a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Heinecke was most recently the First Assistant Secretary of the Pacific Melanesia Division and now serves as the High Commissioner to Malaysia. Danielle Heinecke's academic credentials are as impressive as her career trajectory. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of New South
Wales, a Master of Arts in International Relations from the Australian National University, and a Master of Economics from the University of New England. Heinecke entered the Australian diplomatic corps and has since served in various roles in Timor-Leste, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. She is proficient in Tetum and Tok Pisin, languages spoken in these regions.
Australia and Malaysia enjoy robust economic ties. In 2022, Malaysia was Australia’s second-largest trading partner in ASEAN and the second-largest source of foreign investment from the
region. The two countries are also close defence and security partners, collaborating under the Five Power Defence Arrangements and the Malaysia–Australia Joint Defence Program.
In her role as High Commissioner, Ms. Heinecke oversees 46 departments, including Agriculture, Financial, Tourism, and Intelligence. Her extensive experience and leadership skills make her a pivotal figure in maintaining and enhancing the Australia-Malaysia relationship.
On a recent overseas trip with his partner, Councillor Matt Brown took the opportunity to visit his old friend
and former schoolmate Danielle Heinecke in Kuala Lumpur. During his visit, he reminisced about their shared history, including memories of Danielle’s mother, Ros Thomas, who was his science teacher at Kiama High School. Brown maintains regular contact with the Heinecke family, noting that Danielle’s father continues to work in Kiama.
Danielle Heinecke’s journey from a local high school student to a diplomatic role serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating how local roots can lead to global influence.
Donna Portland
Opinion - Lynne Strong
There is an ongoing campaign by our council to discredit dissenting voices, and this trend is deeply concerning for several reasons.
Firstly, the message being sent to potential candidates for the upcoming elections is clear: you either toe the line or face significant repercussions. This creates an environment where genuine debate and diverse perspectives are stifled, undermining the very foundation of democratic governance.
Secondly, those who choose to stand up and question the status quo are finding themselves in precarious situations. They are forced to spend considerable amounts of money defending their reputations or endure significant stress in protecting their integrity. Such tactics are not only unfair but also discourage capable individuals from running for office, ultimately depriving our community of fresh ideas and robust representation.
Cllr Karen Renkema-Lang’s recent experience exemplifies this troubling pattern. Despite her transparent and principled approach, she has faced baseless allegations and an ICAC referral that many believe was politically motivated. Her situation underscores the dangers of using such referrals as a weapon to silence dissent.
Anthony Whealy KC, Chair of the Centre for Public Integrity, criticised the handling of the investigation. He pointed out that councillors were not informed about the investigator’s conflict of interest, which tainted the entire report.
Whealy remarked, "It does strike me as foolish that that matter wasn't drawn to the council's attention when it came to consider the report and whether it should approve the censure motion." He further described the censure motion as "an ill-considered measure to silence a dissenting councillor."
Moreover, during a recent extraordinary meeting, Cllr Renkema-Lang’s attempt to update the council’s long-term financial plan was defeated, despite its focus on reducing reliance on asset divestment. This proposal, which aimed to ensure sustainable financial management, was supported by only two other councillors, both of whom also find themselves subject to ICAC inquiries. The rejection of such a sensible amendment raises questions about the council’s commitment to financial prudence.
The council’s projection of a $5.4 million operating deficit for 2024-25 and the plan to sell additional blocks on Attunga Street and Iluka Street to improve cash flow further highlight the urgency of having diverse and independent voices in our council.
As the election approaches, it is crucial for our community to reflect on the kind of leadership we want. We must support candidates who prioritise transparency, accountability, and constructive debate. Only by doing so can we ensure that our council serves the best interests of all its constituents, rather than a select few.
The current campaign against dissenting voices is not just a disservice to those individuals but to our entire community. It is imperative that we stand against such tactics and advocate for a council that welcomes diverse perspectives and upholds the principles of democracy.
In the last edition, The Bugle published an article that introduced the topic of the upcoming referendum question that locals will be asked to vote for: whether Kiama should directly elect its mayor in the future. It was an important question The Bugle felt that locals needed to be informed about, so we are holding a public debate on Wednesday 31 July at 6pm at the Kiama Leagues Club.
There are always two sides to every story and the speakers that The Bugle has assembled are knowledgeable and opinionated, so it will be an informative and entertaining evening.
We particularly thank Kiama Leagues Club for providing the space for this event and encourage
everyone to come along to listen. We also thank Kiama Community Radio for live streaming, and Bernie Hems in particular, for adjudicating.
Speakers on the “For” side:
Stuart Larkins: A current first term Kiama Councillor, who is the first Aboriginal person elected to Council, and has family heritage
connected to Kiama and the South Coast of NSW. Clr Larkins has grown up and lived in the Kiama area for his entire life and went to the local schools of Minnamurra Primary School and Kiama High School. Clr Larkins has undergraduate degrees in Law and Arts (Politics/Indigenous Studies) from the University of Wollongong, a
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the Australian National University and recently completed an Executive Certificate for Elected Members by Local Government NSW Association (LGNSW) and the University of Technology Sydney. Clr Larkins states that he is driven by a passion to help people and advocate for those that need it most.
Chris Homer: is the current popularly elected Mayor of Shellharbour. He is the Chairman of the Killalea National Surfing Reserve, and a competitive and free surfer. Mr Homer led the ‘Save Killalea’ environmental campaign. Despite having no prior political experience, he secured 52.8 percent of the total vote to replace the Labor incumbent Marianne Saliba at the last council elections. He promised to deliver a non-partisan and cooperative council. Homer’s vision is for the city to evolve, and he is passionate about inspiring progressive and proactive service delivery, which is focused on public interest first and foremost. Chris works in the finance industry as a Mortgage Broker, and he has qualifications in Nutritional Medicine, Fitness and Recreation, as well as being a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Michael Cains is the founder and director of the award-winning Pecora group, a vertically integrated dairy and hospitality enterprise. A pioneer in renewable energy within agriculture, he co-founded a peer-to-peer trading community to improve the economic viability of renewables for farmers. A Nuffield Scholar, he has focused on value-adding within the dairy industry to enhance profitability. Michael's career includes executive roles and board member-
ships in various companies. He is actively involved in the local community and food industry, volunteering for several non-profits and industry associations. His roles include President of the Liberal Party in Kiama/ Jamberoo, board member of the Kiama Business Chamber, and President of the Robertson Business Chamber. He studied at Edmund Rice College in Wollongong and the University of Sydney.
Karen Renkema Lang: a current Kiama Councillor, elected as an independent for her commitment to protecting the most precious assets in our municipality now and for future generations; the distinctive qualities and inclusive and friendly culture of our towns and villages; our farmlands, waterways, and beaches; and our flora, fauna, and wildlife corridors.
She has shown her commitment by volunteering on Council’s planning committee, as chair of Kiama Central Precinct, and during my involvement with the Kiama Community Radio and Kiama’s contribution to the Australia-wide AUSMAP micro-plastic initiative which gained international attention. With an extensive background in IT and communications she served in the Royal Australian Navy and worked for the Australian Government. She holds a Bachelor of Information Technology and a Masters of Science (earth and environmental science).
Speakers on the “Against” side:
Neville Fredericks: former Kiama Mayor who served for seven years as Mayor of Kiama from 1974-77 and from 1987-91. He was also the Director of The Housing Trust from 2007-12. He is widely credited for bringing Ccouncil back from the brink of insolvency and contributing to staving off amalgamation with Shoalhaven Council back in the day.
Mr Fredericks has 14 years of experience as a Councillor and was a recipient of the prestigious Emeritus Mayor Award in 2002. He has made significant contributions to local government and his impact reaches beyond the realm of local politics.
Brian Petschler: has
had two careers in local government, initially as a professional manager and later as an elected councillor. He served on five councils in NSW for almost 40 years, including as CEO/General Manager of three councils, retiring in 2001 from Kiama Municipality. Upon retirement, he received the Public Service Medal. In 2008, he was elected to Kiama Council, becoming Deputy Mayor in 2011 and Mayor in 2012, serving until 2016. Petschler has held various roles in state and regional local government bodies, including chairman of Statewide Mutual and president of the South Coast branch of the Institute of Municipal Management. He also chaired Metro Pool and United Independent Pools.
Matt Brown: is a current Kiama Councillor, who established and chairs ‘Destination Kiama’ He was raised in Kiama and former Captain of Kiama High School. Mr Brown has been a corporate lawyer, business operator and employer, and a local Member of Parliament. He understands the links between private enterprise and government. He has a proven record of success in negotiating, lobbying and securing grants and infrastructure for the local community, and extensive experience in public administration.
Sandra McCarthy OAM: is the longest serving former Kiama Mayor who served between 2000 and 2012. She has vast expertise in community planning, governance and partnership-building, and has leveraged her position to drive substantial improvements in community health planning. Ms McCarthy was bestowed the honorary title of Emeritus Mayor in 2012 in recognition of her enormous contribution and impact. She was also named NSW Local Government Kiama Woman of the Year in 2012. She is a Fellow of the University of Wollongong and Life Member and former President of Healthy Cities Illawarra.
Kiama real estate agent Marnie Beauchamp has returned to the industry, and the town she loves, after stepping away for several years “to heal emotionally, physically and spiritually”.
Several years ago, the successful business woman moved from Kiama to Sydney. A series of traumatic events and a mid-life evaluation prompted her to take stock of her life and make some changes, including writing a book, Unread Pages: The Silent Struggles Behind Every Success.
The book is a raw account of her struggles, including losing both her parents, surviving financial ruin and two divorces, battling an eating disorder, undergoing spinal surgery and helping bring a stalker to justice, “which was pretty
scary”.
It is little wonder then that the self-confessed workaholic needed some time out from the daily grind of 15 hour days, seven days a week.
“I went overseas, did solo road trips, I laid on the beach and I basically hid away from the world,” she laughs. But the break proved life-changing and reminded her how much she missed Kiama and the real estate industry. “It wasn’t the place that was the problem, it was the place I was in. By giving myself some space I was able to get clarity around where I wanted to be and it’s definitely here in Kiama. Sometimes you need to move away from something to really appreciate it.”
Marnie had been working ridiculous hours “her whole adult life,” buying her first real estate agency at 27 while nursing a newborn. She juggled running a business and raising two young children for the next five years until her marriage broke down. When she decided to sell the business, the transaction went pear shaped and ended up in court. Marnie was being sued for damages and came
out of the process “hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt from having to fight the claim”.
“I lost everything,” she says. “Financially as well as physically, as my health deteriorated.”
Marnie put her company, named after her daughters, into voluntary administration. But she couldn’t bring herself to declare bankruptcy or liquidate her business.
“I’m a fighter, I didn’t want to take the easy way out,” she says. “I decided to get back into it and pay every cent back. At the time, I had $1.76 to my name, that's how bad it was. I was sitting in the park and I couldn't even buy my girls an ice cream. It took me about five years to pay off the debt, but I did it.”
Around the same time, Marnie’s beloved father passed away suddenly, at just 58 years old. Her dad was her inspiration to find the strength to rebuild her career and her life. Despite vowing to never open another business or franchise again, she did both in 2009, “starting from scratch”.
Over the next several years she won a raft of awards, including business person of the year, most outstanding real estate agency, number one agent of the year, and business of the year. Marnie successfully “clawed herself out” of both debt and despair.
“You only fail if you give up,” she says. “Failure has been the catalyst for the biggest successes in my life. If you want something bad enough you find a way. A lot of it is about
mindset, you just have to be willing to do the hard yards.”
Resilience is the underlying theme for Marnie’s book, a project she began working on after taking a career break from the real estate industry and moving away from Kiama in 2019.
“For the last few years I haven’t done much at all,” she says. Not much at all for Marnie includes writing her book, industry coaching and business mentoring, guest appearances on business podcasts and, most recently, developing a performance-based app for the real estate industry.
“Writing the book was cathartic and very emotional,” says Marnie. “Revisiting all the things I’ve been through was hard, but the book gave me the opportunity to breathe, reflect and think.”
Marnie
recently signed on with Belle Property and is back home in Kiama, her “happy place”.
Marnie will officially launch her book at Kiama bookshop Bouquiniste on July 25 from 5.30pm and at Belle Property Berry on August 8 at 5.30 pm.
All are welcome for book sales and signings.
Danielle Woolage
In a proud milestone for RMB Lawyers, Kiama locals Claire Osborne and Tanya Emmett, have been appointed as Partners at the firm, marking a significant achievement in their careers. Their promotions underscore RMB Lawyers' commitment to fostering talent and recognising dedication, leadership, and expertise within their ranks.
Claire Osborne's journey with RMB Lawyers began in 2007 when she undertook a work placement as part of her double degree in Arts and Law at the University of Wollongong. She officially joined the firm in May 2008 as a graduate lawyer and steadily advanced through various roles, including associate, senior associate, and divisional leader managing RMB Lawyers’ Family Law team. In 2016, Claire achieved the position of salary partner, a notable promotion that coincided with her maternity leave. Today, she leads the Wills & Estates team, exemplifying her versatility and dedication.
Reflecting on her new role, Claire said, "I think it's a recognition of hard work and
commitment but also a big responsibility to continually help the business by mentoring and supporting our staff and delivering results to our clients. Personally, it's about showing my daughters that you can do anything you set your mind to and achieve financial security as a woman."
Managing Partner Craig Osborne OAM commended Claire's exceptional blend of legal and business acumen, noting her generosity, community leadership, and clear communication skills. "Claire Osborne has an outstanding mix of legal and business skills, she is generous with her time, is a community leader and a clear communicator. She is trustworthy, has a great personality, and cares very much about her clients and the community she lives in. Claire has consistently earned and maintained the respect of her legal colleagues and clients over a long period of time," he said. Claire attributes her success to consistent hard work, dedication to the team and the Firm, and caring for colleagues and clients.
"I also think having interests outside of work, whether it's sport, family, fitness, or meditation, is important to give you some reprieve, balance, and perspective to what a high-stress and demanding job can be," she added. She also encourages aspiring female lawyers, saying, "You can do it. There will be choices and sacrifices, and you may have to be patient as you juggle family life and the law, but if you want to be a Partner, you can do it."
Raised in Kiama, Claire now raises her own family here. She acknowledges the support of her husband and parents, her fellow partners at RMB Lawyers, and past and present colleagues who have guided and inspired her.
RMB Lawyers was equally delighted to announce Tanya Emmett's promotion to Salary Partner. Craig Osborne highlighted Tanya's exceptional technical skills and rapport with clients. "Tanya has an excellent skillset from a technical point of view and a wonderful manner with people – clients love her. Tanya
gets outstanding results for her clients’ time after time; leaving aside her glowing skills as a lawyer, she is also an outstanding person," he remarked.
Expressing her gratitude, Tanya said, "I’m extremely grateful to the partners and my colleagues for their support over the years. I am very lucky to be able to live and work in a community that I love. Reaching this level in my professional career hasn’t come easy but I have managed to maintain a healthy work/ life balance which has been really important."
RMB Lawyers proudly congratulates Claire Osborne and Tanya Emmett on their new roles. Their promotions not only reflect their individual achievements but also signify the firm's dedication to nurturing and celebrating exceptional talent. RMB Lawyers looks forward to their continued success and leadership within the firm and the broader legal community.
Donna Portland
The conversation was brief but it was one Berry horse trainer, Terry Robinson, will never forget.
His daughter, human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson, was just about to land on Australian soil. Julian Assange was by her side when Terry video-called Jennifer, telling her how proud he was of her for bringing the Wikileaks founder home.
Ms Robinson said negotiations for Assange’s plea deal began more than a year ago but it was the Australian Government’s push for a resolution with the US that got the deal over the line.
Terry said when Jennifer - by now a household name and world-famous barristertook the call her smile, “just lit up the screen. Jen was very excited to be landing with Julian”.
And for good reason. The United Kingdom-based lawyer had just pulled off a herculean feat, 14 years in the making.
Ms Robinson, alongside Assange’s wife Stella (a Swedish lawyer) was instrumental in his release.
Please note: This is paid content
Jamberoo is set to gradually expand with the upcoming Golden Valley Jamberoo subdivision, a project creating 50 new lots while respecting the village's established character.
The Fountaindale Group’s Jennifer Macquarie, leading the development alongside her brother Lawson Fredericks, emphasises their role: "We're preparing the land and infrastructure, then selling individual lots. This gives buyers the freedom to design homes that suit their needs while complementing Jamberoo's style."
The project adheres to the Kiama Council's Development Control Plan, which includes specific controls for Jamberoo. While buyers can choose their own builders and designs, the developers strongly encourage respecting the village's traditional architecture, characterised by colonial-style weatherboard cottages with high-pitched roofs and wide verandahs.
Currently in the infrastructure design phase, Golden Valley Jamberoo expects to offer a small stage of lots offthe-plan in early 2025.
The majority of homesites will be made available once subdivision construction is complete in late 2025. This timeline allows potential buyers to plan their ideal homes.
Macquarie added, "We would be more than happy to facilitate introductions to reputable local builders for those of our buyers who need assistance."
The project represents a significant addition to Jamberoo's housing options, potentially attracting new residents while aiming to preserve the village's architectural heritage.
Local businesses and service providers have expressed delight in the prospect of welcoming new families and therefore an economic boost to the village.
For more information about Golden Valley Jamberoo and to join the interest list, visit goldenvalleyjamberoo.com.au. Residents can also find details about the Kiama Council's Development Control Plan on the council's website, providing insight into guidelines for new homes in Jamberoo.
The two women had been fighting his extradition to the United States for the past five years, with Jennifer calling for criminal proceedings against him to be dropped since 2010.
In a plea deal on June 26, brokered by Ms Robinson, her US co-counsel Barry Pollack, and with the help of the Australian government, on the the Island of Saipan, a US territory in the Pacific Ocean, Assange pleaded guilty to a single espionage charge. All other charges were dropped and Assange landed in Canberra a free man, due to jail time already served.
Ms Robinson maintains the journalist, publisher and advocate for free speech should, “never have been charged in the first place” and “no crime was committed”. But Assange’s guilty plea was the only way to guarantee his return home.
“It’s just an incredible result for both of them,” said Terry. “Especially due to the fact he's been persecuted for so long. I’m just so very proud of my daughter for her persistence. She never gave up and worked tirelessly with politicians to get the deal done. And credit to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, whose work behind the scenes made all this happen as well.”
Shortly before touching down, Assange “popped his head in to say a quick hello” to Terry before his barrister daughter had to end the call to speak to the Prime Minister.
“The Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, US Ambassador Kevin Rudd, Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Mark Dreyfus, our Attorney General, proved the turning point in this battle,” she said. “If it wasn’t for them pushing for this to be done, raising it at the highest level at every opportunity, we would still be out there fighting.”
Ms Robinson watched on with tears in her eyes as Assagne stepped off the plane into the arms of his wife. It was an emotional moment, years in the mak-
double degree in law and Asian Studies at Canberra’s Australia National University, that cemented Ms Robinson’s passion for human rights law. She was just 21 when her legal work helped activist Benny Wenda and his family escape West Papua. Ms Robinson considers them life-long friends and will soon write a book about her work alongside Wenda, the Chairman of the United Liberation Movement for
ing, borne of blood, sweat, tears and very little sleep.
Shortly after Assange’s long-awaited reunion with his family, Ms Robinson described the moment as “the highlight of my career” - although there have been many.
Ms Robinson was named International Pro Bono Barrister of the Year in 2019. She has worked with human rights lawyer Geoffrey Robertson to expose child abuse in the Catholic Church and defended Amber Heard in the infamous Johnny Depp deflation case (Ms Robinson received death threats while advocating for the Hollywood actress).
The vitriol Heard experienced, along with the mistreatment of many other women Ms Robinson had represented, led her to co-write a book How Many More Women?, exploring how the law fails victims of gender-based violence.
But it was her first legal case, while still studying a
about how women are mistreated, she’s very passionate about changing that.”
“Jen takes a lot on. I don’t know how she does it,” said Terry. “She had to work hard to get where she is today, coming from a small country town. But Jen never shied away from hard work. She got her first job at 15 at the local pub, The Berry Hotel. All my kids did, and it taught them a great work ethic.”
While most teens might have blown their money on clothes or make-up, Robinson saved up for a class trip to Indonesia, while studying the language at Bomaderry High. It proved to be life changing, opening her eyes to the injustices in the world, and setting her on a career trajectory that has seen her reach incredible heights, including having the honour of being the youngest Australia woman to appear before the International Court of Justice.
One of her many legal specialties, outside human rights law, is advising media organisations, journalists and whistleblowers on all aspects of media law. Terry said if his talented first-born didn’t pursue a law degree she would have become a journalist.
West Papua.
Not bad for a girl who grew up in Berry, went to Bomaderry High and worked at the local pub to fund her first overseas trip to Indonesia.
“Human rights is Jen’s passion, and has been from a young age,” said Terry. “If she sees there’s an injustice she will pursue it and keep going for as long as she can, as we’ve seen with Julian Assange. She just never gives up.”
Terry said his daughter was surrounded by strong female role models throughout her life and credits them with instilling in her a strong sense of social justice. Jennifer’s mother, Lyndy Cracknell, was a schoolteacher who taught her the value of education. Her maternal grandmother worked in women’s refuges in Sydney to support those fleeing domestic violence.
“That bears out in a lot of what Jen does,” said Terry.
“She wrote her first book How Many More Women?,
“I think Jen actually would have been a really good journalist,” he said. “She's so eloquent and articulate, that comes across in all the media interviews she’s been doing. She’s intelligent and a great writer and she's just discovering the power of the pen with her first book. I can’t believe what she does in a day and how she juggles things.”
Just days after freeing Assange, Ms Robinson was back at the coalface advocating for Hong Kong media mogul and pro-democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai at the National Press Club.
Ms Robinson’s family waited almost two weeks to celebrate with the high-flying legal eagle, but popped the bubbles when she returned to the family property “for a big party”.
“Despite what Jen’s achieved she’s always so down to earth, always keen to catch up with her family and friends when she comes home,” said Terry. “She really relishes seeing everyone. She misses the coast and loves coming home.”
Danielle Woolage
For nearly half a century, Blue Haven Terralong has been a sanctuary for Kiama's elderly residents. Now, this institution faces an uncertain future as the council debates its future.
The Blue Haven project was a cornerstone of Kiama's residential aged care and independent living amenities. Some of the land it occupies was gifted to the community by a prominent local family in the 1970s.
This article tells the history, financial impact, and community sentiment surrounding Blue Haven, highlighting the significance of preserving its legacy.
Blue Haven Terralong is the independent living residential development at the top of Terralong Street, opposite Woolworths.
Local businessman Tony Freedman, who owned the quarry site opposite, donated the land for the former nursing home and Stage 2 of Blue Haven, to provide residential aged care and independent living amenities for the community.
Several town clerks played instrumental roles in establishing aged and residential care in the municipality. Among them, Tony Mater-
son was pivotal. Successive Mayors including Neville Fredericks, Brian Petschler, and Sandra McCarthy and General Manager Michael Forsythe, paved the way for Blue Haven Terralong.
Local resident Allan Holder raised his concerns to The Bugle: “Driving this community’s finances into a perilous state by previous poor decisions, for which no one has taken responsibility, and with a mayor who refuses to investigate, Council is now considering selling this gifted asset to shore up its bottom line.”
The old Havilah Place nursing home has been vacant since November 2019, when its residents were moved to the newly built Bonaira Nursing Home, as planned.
Mr Holder finds the idea of selling this donated asset morally unacceptable, as do many in the community. He advocates for demolishing the Havilah Place buildings and constructing more Residential Independent Living Units, ie. Stage 6 of Blue Haven.
In April, The Bugle's front page story, “Old Blue Haven Care – site empty as rents soar”, highlighted the
need for more residential aged care units for Kiama.
The story cited Clr Karen Renkema-Lang, stating that the Council would investigate how the land could be used for crisis accommodation. So far, there has been no news on this front.
Mr Holder pointed out that Stage 5, completed in 2009, was a success due to the foresight of a competent council. The sale of units in Stage 5 yielded a $3 million profit for the council, which, combined with a government grant, funded the construction of the Pavilion on the Showground headland.
This profitability has continued, with each resident entering an Independent Living Unit paying between $200,000 and over $1 million, and the council retaining 30 percent of that payment over five years. The council also benefited from the capital increase when units were resold.
Despite these financial benefits, some councillors are pushing to sell the asset, especially with the nearly completed redevelopment of Woolworths, making the land more valuable. This land is prime real estate and attractive to developers.
Tony Freedman, who originally donated land for the nursing home, remembers the excitement around the land acquisition, despite the challenges of its quarry location. The Council's strategic purchases and grants enabled the project's progress.
Fast forward to 'Stage 5', when General Manager Michael Forsyth and Mayor Sandra McCarthy decided to construct the 88-unit complex in one go, rather than in stages, to expedite unit availability and avoid prolonged construction. At that time Ms McCarthy emphasised, “We built it in one hit and made it higher to free up more land for beautification and gardens. Stage 5 elevated Blue Haven to another level.”
Remarkably, Stage 5 was completed during the 2007/08 Global Financial Crisis, yet Manager Steve Dawson successfully filled the units.
“It is a shame that the Freedman family's generosity might be sacrificed because a few councillors prefer aiding developers over preserving a 50-year legacy that has served this community so well,” concludes Holder.
This article underscores
the need for preserving community assets and respecting the original intent behind such generous donations,
ensuring that decisions made today honour the past and benefit future generations.
Kiama Village's Kiama newest gem newest gem
The newly refurbished Kiama Village has a new addition that’s quickly becoming a local favourite - The Spot Café. Conveniently located with easy parking, it's a must-visit for coffee lovers and anyone seeking a cozy spot to relax.
Owned by Luke Gamble-Smith, The Spot Café is more than just a place to grab a coffee. Luke is passionate about sharing what he calls a "piece of heaven" with both the visitors and the local Kiama community alike. His enthusiasm for creating meaningful relationships with customers, staff, and suppliers is at the heart of his business philosophy.
“The little conversations you have with people each day can make a big difference in their life,” Luke shared. Through these interactions, he has formed lasting friendships and connected with many on a personal level.
Despite his youth – ‘under
name "The Spot Café" reflects Luke's vision of a welcoming local hub where people can enjoy great food, excellent coffee, and quality time with friends. His goals are straightforward: provide an exceptional customer experience and consistently deliver high-quality food and coffee.
To Luke, customer service goes beyond a simple transaction. He often feels like a friend or counsellor to many of his patrons, sharing advice and brightening their days. His favorite part of the job is mentoring his staff, watching young employees grow into responsible community members and succeed in their careers.
He said, “I believe in giving back to people, treating everyone with respect and aiming to have a positive influence on them. A business is nothing without the people who are a part of it in any capacity,”
The chasm between rich and poor is widening as people are now working two or three jobs to pay mortgages, rent and put food on the table as inflation grows.
Over the past year, according to media reports, the number of people holding down more than one job, has climbed by 30,000 to a record 974,000.
Many Kiama people are asset-rich but cash poor and their belts are being pulled in a notch.
Michael Douglas, a member of the St Vincent de Paul Conference in Kiama, said he is seeing people with rental arrears, an inability to purchase food, medical needs or prescription medication.
“We also have people fleeing domestic violence, who are homeless and have no income. Some of the families we assist have lived in Kiama for a number of years but are finding it difficult to make ends meet. It is no better in Gerringong and Jamberoo,” Mr Douglas said.
year high of 4.6 per cent.
As repayments have climbed, rents have risen by about 15 per cent nationally over the past two years.
Currently, there are only five rental properties in Kiama under $700 per week.
Tania Clarke from the Consumer Action Law Centre said housing costs were the single largest issue.
“A couple of years ago, the people we were hearing from had something go wrong, like they’d lost their job and there had been a death or something like that,” she said.
“We’re now seeing low and middle-income people, they’ve reached the end of the road and they need help.”
Courtney Moore, from Lifeline South Coast said the centre was seeing more clients in financial stress and this was reflected in the rising number of calls.
due to having larger financial commitments or at the prospect of losing some of the things they used to have access to and enjoy.”
Apart from housing costs, callers to the Debt Helpline report a growing number of problems paying council rates, utility bills and credit card or ‘buy now, pay later’ debts.
While the $300 energy relief payment, reduced medicine prices and paid parental leave will help, using interest rate hikes to try and beat inflation hasn’t worked.
While the overall GDP managed a meagre 0.1% increase in March, a deeper concern lies with the ongoing per capita recession – a measure that shows each person’s share of economic output.
30’ - Luke is no stranger to the hospitality industry. His journey began at McDonald's, where he honed his hospitality skills and learned the intricacies of running a business. Growing up in public housing with a mentally ill single mother, Luke faced significant challenges but remained determined to create a better future. Positive role models instilled in him a strong work ethic and a desire to give back to his community.
Luke's first business venture, Naturally Tasty in Shell Cove, launched in October 2018. His passion for the Illawarra region has only grown since then.
A place to connect: The
The Spot Café serves Toby’s Estate specialty coffee and offers an inviting space for group meetings. Regular food specials and all-day breakfast are available, with trading hours from 7:30 am to 3 pm daily, extending during the warmer months. Seniors can enjoy a 10% discount with a senior card, and special deals are frequently offered.
For convenience, you can order ahead online via Hey You, LOKE (Our website/ App), and Uber Eats. With ample parking at Kiama Village, visiting The Spot Café is easy and enjoyable. You definitely need to experience the welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service that Luke and his team provide.
Donna Portland
“The number of clients we see now compared to last year has more than doubled. We have had more than 180 client interactions already this year and our resources have been really stretched as we depend entirely upon donations of money and food. Kiama is becoming more and more unaffordable through high rents and the increasing cost of food and fuel in particular.”
Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows households are slashing expenditure, often on necessities, to deal with the cost pressures.
“Financial stress can contribute to poor mental health and exacerbate existing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and substance misuse,” Courtney Moore said.
“While there are some groups more vulnerable to financial stress, it can affect anyone at any time. For example, people on higher incomes can feel distressed
Where GDP measures the total market value of all goods and services produced in a country, GDP per capita divides the GDP figure by the country’s population.
GDP per capita fell for the fifth consecutive quarter, falling 0.4% in March and 1.3% through the year. The slice of the pie for the average person has been declining for 15 months.
King
NSW households have cut their spending on discretionary goods and services by 3 per cent. In the last year to June, the most significant price rises were dairy (+15%), housing (+7.4%), bread and cereals (+10%) and food and non-alcoholic beverages (+7.0%).
Thousands of people across Australia are calling financial counsellors - many for the first time - with National Debt Helpline calls up by more than 40 per cent since the Reserve Bank started lifting official interest rates in May 2022.
Online chats, favoured by younger people, have hit record levels, climbing 40 per cent in the past year.
Middle class is just hanging in there as inflation and interest rates bite. Credit Michael Osbone
Financial market analysts said there’s a one-in-three chance the Reserve Bank will use its August meeting to lift the official cash rate to a 13-
Kiama locals, the Sheaff family, is devoted to providing their six-year-old daughter, Myla, with a better life since her diagnosis with Cystic Fibrosis (CF).
Myla's mother, Kristen has become a NSW Community Ambassador for the Cure4 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CF).
CF is the most common life-limiting genetic condition affecting Australians. According to Cystic Fibrosis Australia, more than 3,730 Australians live with CF, and one in 25 people carry the recessive gene that causes the condition.
Myla was born on Boxing Day 2017, weighing just five pounds.
the family discovered the problem.
Dr Keith Ooi, a gastroenterologist specialising in CF, diagnosed Myla with Cystic Fibrosis. The diagnosis was a mix of relief and devastation for the family, bringing clarity but also an uncertain future.
Individuals with CF require ongoing medical treatments and physiotherapy from birth. It primarily affects the lungs and digestive system due to a malfunction in the exocrine system, which produces saliva, sweat, tears, and mucus.
While there is no cure, advancements in treatment have significantly improved the quality of life for those with CF, allowing many to live well into adulthood.
dangerous bacteria. Kristen is amazed by Myla's resilience and positive attitude towards her treatments.
"She inspires me every day," Kristen says.
Determined to help her daughter, Kristen became involved with the Cure4 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Established in 2009, Cure4CF is a registered not-for-profit charity dedicated to finding a cure by funding medical research.
"Cure4CF’s goal is to see the research we support translated into clinical benefits. We prioritise projects with a clear translational path and researchers committed to bringing their innovations to patients," Kristen said.
People with CF develop an abnormal amount of thick and sticky mucus in their lungs, airways, and digestive system. This impairs the digestive functions of the pancreas and traps bacteria in the lungs, leading to recurrent infections and irreversible damage.
Myla, now six years old, has endured a rigorous medical regimen, including multiple blood tests, two bronchoscopies, numerous throat swabs, and the daily intake of 20 tablets.
It’s an ongoing debate within early childhood education.
Some parents love being sent photographs of their little ones throughout the day. Others would prefer educators to focus on caring for their children.
Across daycare centres and preschools, it has become normal — even expected — for parents to have access to an online app, such as Xplor or OWNA, which allows educators to post a feed of snapshots showing what their child is learning, playing and eating.
But is it necessary — and what about digital safety?
Now, the Federal, State and Territory Governments have come together to clarify guidelines for taking photos of children in childcare.
Working with the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), long daycare centres, preschools and kindergartens are encouraged to adopt the new National Model Code and Guidelines. These are an interim measure while government child-care safety reforms are being
worked out.
The guidelines include restrictions on using personal electronics to take photographs of children — instead a “service-issued device” must be used.
Personal electronic devices that can take or record images, including smartphones and smartwatches, should not be carried when providing early childhood care, unless for “essential purposes”, such as emergencies and health reasons.
The guidelines also dictate how images are stored and the use of ‘inappropriate’ images. For example, if a child is in a state of undress.
The ACECQA notes, there are benefits to taking photos of children to share with their families.
“This type of communication can and does play a role in engaging families and carers in a child’s education and care experiences, particularly where there may be low levels of literacy or English is not a first language.”
There are downsides.
Constant documentation can ‘reduce educators’ ability to supervise, interact and engage with children.
In Kiama, early childhood education services have already begun exploring their electronics policies, with the support of families.
The Kiama Preschool use the OWNA childcare app to share updates but not to post photographs. Instead, every child has a scrapbook, which contains printed photographs of their activities. At the end of term, kids take the books home to show their families.
Dido Street Early Learning Centre (ELC) road-tested a “no technology day”, during which the educators did not take any photographs of children, even on service-issued devices. The feedback from educators and children was positive.
Staff reported feeling calmer without the distraction of needing to take photographs and were able to facilitate more meaningful interactions with the children.
Dido Street ELC is exploring further opportunities to promote a healthy balance of technology-use in the centre with input from families.
Amy Molloy
"She was our third child. Ryan and I already had two beautiful, healthy boys, Reilly (20 months) and Lachlan (3 years). Myla was given a clean bill of health, and we took her home a couple of days later," Kristen said. Kristen noticed that Myla was different from her brothers. She had sleepless nights and frequently cried. It wasn't until she was two and a half years old that
This April, she was hospitalised for two weeks and received IV antibiotics after a throat swab revealed
$2.5 million
Since Cure4CF receives minimal financial support from the government, the Sheaff family is organising a fundraiser at the Kiama Surf Club on 9 November 2024 – so SAVE THE DATE. The event aims to raise funds to support research efforts towards finding a cure and advancing care for those affected by CF. Your support is needed and appreciated. If you wish to make a donation, the fundraising page link is https://mylas-cf-warriors-2024.raisely.com/ or use this QR code: Donna Portland
As controversy surrounds the Illawarra offshore wind zone blows on, the University of Wollongong (UOW) has been awarded a $2.5m grant from the Australian Government to teach local children and visitors about future energy sources.
The money will be used to create an ‘Energy Futures Zone’ at the UOW Science Space — a fun-filled science centre housed on the University grounds which, since opening in 1989, has become the number one indoor attraction in the Illawarra.
The Future Energy Zone will feature 25 “vibrant and interactive” exhibits focusing on technologies such as hydrogen, wind, solar, wave and gravity, according to the University.
The goal is to “educate visitors about the importance and mechanics of energy generation”, while also “highlighting potential careers in the growing field of energy futures”.
Many UoW faculty members are supporters of the
Illawarra offshore wind zone
— a declared area of 1022 km2 off the coast from Wombarra to Kiama.
In an UoW blog, Ty Christopher, Director of the Energy Futures Network at University of Wollongong, wrote offshore wind farms were “crucial for Australia’s industrial decarbonisation efforts.”
In 2022, the Australian Government announced $10m to establish an Energy Future Skills Centre at UOW. When completed, it will offer courses, jointly designed by UOW and TAFE NSW, to “train the energy workforce of the future” and offer “clean energy support” for businesses to operate more sustainably.
This Science Space aims to start this education early, with more than 68,000 visitors — largely school-age — visiting the centre annually.
Director of Science Space, Stuart Creal, said the Energy Futures Zone will be the most significant transformation for the centre in 35
years.
“This new gallery will not only provide a deeper understanding of sustainable energy technologies but also inspire future generations to pursue careers in this vital field,” he said.
“By showcasing innovations from leading companies such as Hysata and Green Gravity, we aim to highlight and showcase the cutting-edge advancements that are shaping our energy future.”
A local mother, whose partner works in one of the Wollongong collieries, said, “It sounds like a great addition to the Science Space. My kids always wants to know what daddy does for work but we talk openly about the pros and cons of coal mining.”
“They’re probably going to grow up seeing a wind farm on the horizon. If they want to work in energy that’s great but let’s give them a more environmentally-friendly option.”
Amy Molloy
On Monday July 1, Kiama community members united in urgent solidarity when a patron at Penny Whistlers stopped breathing.
Voytek Lewandowski, a regular diner at the cafe, was having lunch when he began choking. A tourist applied the Heimlich manoeuvre whilst customers rang emergency services, and Penny Whistler barista and local surf instructor, Kane Presland courageously stepped in to apply CPR.
Fellow diners helped Kane keep rhythm on his compressions until an ambulance arrived. Bhanu Rathore, owner of Penny Whistler provided support to those impacted by the traumatic event.
Tragically, Voytek could not be revived.
Voytek Lewandowski grew up in Poland under communist rule and emigrated to Australia on a whim, and immediately set about learning English and establishing his own business. He trained in Film and Television Production in his home country, but was unable to break into the industry in Australia.
He moved into the food technology industry and opened his own factory producing roasted capsicum long before it became popular, and was a passionate proponent of yoga and Vipassana meditation. In 2011, he suffered a traumatic brain injury from a car accident.
In 2015, Voytek moved to Kiama and wished he had made the move earlier, having a deep appreciation for the Australian birdlife, animals and the ocean.
The south end of Kendalls Beach, the Continental Pool, the sauna at the Leisure Centre, and Penny Whistler were places he frequented and felt at home.
His sparkling eyes and open smile were easily recognisable, and inviting to those who knew him or strangers that he would meet along his journey.
Voytek passed unexpectedly at a place he loved and frequented regularly.
July 4th was his 63rd birthday, and his loved ones celebrated enthusiastically and passionately at Penny Whistler to remember him and honour his life.
Voytek’s partner Madeleine wishes to hear from anyone who was present or provided help to express her gratitude and support. You can reach out to The Bugle to get in contact with her.
Neve Surridge
On the weekend of 5-8 July, the Kiama Netball Association (KNA) competed at the HART Junior State Titles, with both teams performing really well.
The U13’s team won the title while the U12’s team came close and were the runner-ups.
“It’s been a little while since we’ve had that success, particularly with more than one team. Usually we might get one team out of the five or six that we send away, so to get the two of them being so successful is a pretty big thing for us,” says a thrilled KNA president Michelle Gregory.
Gregory attributes the success to the hard work put in
by the players and the team spirit within the group.
“I think they've trained really hard, even with all the rain and everything that we’ve had, they kept training through it all. The coaches have worked hard on creating a really nice team spirit across the two different teams so that helped when games were close or tough. I think the girls really rallied around each other and helped get themselves over the line,” she says.
The U13’s team were completely undefeated over the three days, even though they had a brief hiccup just before the weekend.
“They had a last-minute change due to illness, and
we had to withdraw a player on the Monday before they left and add in a training partner,” Gregory says.
She explains that the whole weekend was successful, not only the results but also the relationships and the memories that the players made.
“They were in the tents together the whole time, and on the court at the same time, so they did spend an awful lot of time together hearing from each other about how the games were going. I think there will be lots of netball memories for them.”
The girls wore Destination Kiama caps, which they wrote messages on and gave
to other teams.
Councillor Matt Brown says that the success of the teams and this tradition of sharing caps is a great way for people to learn about the great place, which is Kiama.
“I’m really pleased that our netball team are not only promoting their sport and their prowess, but they’re supporting visitors coming to Kiama. These girls are sharing their Kiama caps with girls from right around the state, and I think that is a wonderful thing that our sport is doing to promote Kiama as a destination.”
Minnamurra Progress Association (MPA) held its 60th Annual General Meeting recently, attended by thirteen members.
It was a very positive meeting with a local resident, Brent Rollings, speaking on the need to keep home and car insurance policies up to date, especially in the light of a recent house fire in Minnamurra.
The MPA finished the financial year with 67 residences as financial members, or close to 20% of Minnamurra properties represented, and plans for the year ahead.
The MPA is looking for a new President after Jeremy Martens moved out of Minnamurra last year. It re-elected two Vice-Presidents, Graeme Collinson-Smith and Cliff Mason to share the responsibility, and re-elected Iain Scott as Secretary and Aapo Skorulis as Treasurer and Public Officer.
The MPS will host a Local Government Election Forum on Tuesday 3rd September at 7:15pm and invites all candidates and groups to be represented. Prospective candidates should contact the Secretary on minnamurrapro-
gressassn@gmail.com for details.
The meeting also congratulates Kieran Woolley, the young Minnamurra skateboarder who will represent Australia in Paris at his second Olympic Games.
At our next meeting on 6th August, we’ll be inviting Mark Emerton to speak about the planned Minnamurra Triathlon to be held in our streets and river later in the year.
Other on-going projects include the impact of the proposed new Shellharbour Hospital at Dunmore, the recent grant to Kiama Council for rehabilitation of the Minnamurra Waste & Recycling Centre, the Draft Masterplan for the Bombo Quarry and the Killalea Plan of Management.
All local Minnamurra residents are invited to join the Association to ensure new developments which may affect the village are in keeping with the beauty of the area.
Mr. Cliff Mason
V/President & Publicity Officer, Minnamurra Progress Association Inc.
The Plastic Free Foundation’s global initiative, ‘Plastic Free July’, will see millions of people refrain from using single-use plastic items.
Yet despite increased awareness, plastic wastage is on the rise.
“The problem is worsening, because we are consuming so much more plastic in our products and packaging than ever before,” said Helen Lewis, Chair of Circular Plastics Illawarra.
“In 2020-21, Australians generated around 2.6 million tonnes of plastic waste. This is double the amount we generated 20 years ago. Only 14 percent was recycled.”
Lewis said that a major source of plastic pollution in the Illawarra region results from thoughtless disposal of items such as plastic bags, packaging and cigarette butts. These items can break down into smaller pieces and litter beaches, oceans and other waterways.
“They are extremely hazardous to birds and marine life, which consume or get entangled in plastics. Fishing nets and fishing lines are another source of plastics that can be extremely hazardous in the marine environment.”
Lewis suggests some easy changes to reduce plastic use and pollution:
• Bring a reusable cup for takeaway coffee
• Take a reusable water
bottle out and about
• Ask your local grocers if you can bring your own container
• Always have reusable shopping bags on hand
• Buy fruit and vegetables as loose items (not pre-packaged)
• Place food waste directly into your green bin (no need for a compostable plastic bag)
• Place residual waste directly into your red bin (no need for a plastic rubbish bag)
• Check out your local council website to discover what can be recycled in your yellow bin
• Look for businesses that sell reusable alternatives to single-use plastics.
“Apart from changing your own habits, think about becoming more actively involved in community efforts to reduce plastics
– for example, by volunteering at a food coop, picking up litter or joining a group of like-minded people such as Circular Plastics Illawarra,” said Lewis.
“We’re working with our local councils, the Environment Protection Authority, recyclers and others to provide more opportunities for locals to recycle materials such as soft plastics.”
Look up Circular Plastics Illawarra to join or to get more information.
Diana Timmins
1 million trees, sowing the seeds of environmental sustainability
The Kiama community are eagerly preparing to participate in the year’s National Tree Day, a celebrated annual event that encourages community members to come together for environmental conservation.
This year National Tree Day is on 28 July.
Established in 1966, National Tree Day has since grown into Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care initiative. More than 5 million volunteers have contributed their time and energy to plant more than 27 million native trees, shrubs and grasses.
This year, Planet Ark aims to plant a million new trees across the country, reinforcing the importance of biodiversity and environmental control while strengthening community bonds through hands-on participation.
Key themes for this year’s event include ‘planting hope’, to encourage engagement
with nature and to inspire younger generations to work toward a more sustainable future amidst climate challenges. Additionally, the event will address the urgent need to protect threatened plant species, which constitutes over 70% of Australia’s endangered species.
Local schools, councils, community groups and residents are encouraged to participate, National Tree Day for schools will be undertaken on 26 July. For any unable to lend a hand in person, donating to The Seedling Bank supports environmental projects nationwide, ensuring a lasting impact beyond the event. You can find local planting sites and volunteer opportunities through the National Tree Day website.
Brooke Pittman
Member for Kiama Gareth Ward met with members of the Mens Shed to announce additional funding for the community group.
Ward announced a state government grant totalling $38,208 for the facility including; a new shade sail for metal work area, equipment to fit out the metal workshop, the installation of a 3D router and printer and dementia friendly signage to improve accessibility.
President of the Kiama Mens Shed, Ian Yabsley, expressed his gratitude for the funding.
“We have been looking forward to this for 12 months… We’ve seen great support from the Kiama community over our 14 years.”
adopts the motto ‘working shoulder to shoulder’ of the wider Australian Mens Shed Association (ASMA). The community group provides an accessible and safe space for men of all ages to share ideas and support each other through their network.
“For me, what I’m about to announce is not a cost to government but an investment…I’m pleased to announce we’ve been able to secure just shy of $40,000 for the Mens Shed,” Ward says.
The Kiama Mens Shed has around 50 active projects, the additional funding will provide extra resources to allow members to complete their projects.
Neve Surridge
Taking time off isn't just for adults; it's just as crucial for children, especially in today's tech-heavy world. Here's why you should consider taking your kids on a journey to discover the wonders of our planet:
•Nature Nurtures the Mind - Engaging with nature has profound effects on mental well-being. Research shows that outdoor activities can calm the mind, elevate moods, improve focus,
thing magical about watching children play outside, trading their screens for the joy of a hike or a beach day.
•Cultural Connections - Travel introduces children to a variety of cultures and people, fostering gratitude and empathy. Experiencing how children in different parts of the world live, often with fewer material possessions, can teach our youngsters valuable lessons in appreciation and compassion. These encounters can profoundly shape their worldview and understanding.
•Strengthening Family Bonds - In our busy lives, quality family time often gets sidelined. Travel provides a unique opportunity to eliminate distractions and bring families closer together. Many parents notice how siblings bond better and create lasting memories during holidays, reinforcing family ties.
•The World as a Classroom - Travel is an exceptional educational tool, offering lessons in geography, languages, history, and more that far surpass what a textbook can provide. It's a learning experience that sparks
curiosity, broadens horizons, and enhances understanding.
Three Great Places to Travel with Kids
At Travel Focus Group, we have first-hand experience of taking our kids to the following incredible destinations, and we highly recommend them:
1.Morocco - Morocco offers an exciting blend of cultural experiences, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes. Families can explore the bustling souks of Marrakech, ride camels in the Sahara Desert, and visit the historic city of Fes. The diverse scenery, rich history, and unique cultural experiences make Morocco an unforgettable destination for children.
2.Dubai, UAE - Dubai is a city of contrasts, combining ultramodern architecture with traditional Arabian culture. Kids will be thrilled by the futuristic skyline, enjoy the world's largest indoor theme park, and experience a desert safari. Visiting places like the Global Village, Palm Jumeirah, and the Burj Khalifa offers a mix of fun and educational experiences.
3.Malaysia - Malaysia is a family-friendly destination with diverse attractions. Explore the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, take a trip to the beautiful islands of Langkawi or even take the kids to Legoland. Malaysia's rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural scenery provide a well-rounded travel experience for kids.
Travel not only enriches the minds of children but also strengthens family bonds and cre-
ates lifelong memories. If any of the reasons or destinations resonate with you, it's time to plan your next family adventure. Contact Travel Focus on 4209 2044 for personalised ideas that will educate, entertain, and connect your family in unforget-
On February 16, 2013, writer and filmmaker Bill Bennett wrote this sentence in his blog: “I have a particular need to walk the Camino in Spain. And yet, I’m not sure what that need is.”
Exactly 11 years and 3 months later, The Way, My Way – the film based on Bennetts’ experience of walking the Camino – was released in Australia.
The Camino de Santiago, or The Way of St. James, is an ancient pilgrimage route ending at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. There are many different starting points but Bill, at almost 60 years of age, decided his route would be more than 800 kilometres long.
Bennett completed the walk in May 2013 and then wrote a book on the adventure.
“Writing the book was the completion of my walk,” says Bennett. “Because when I was doing the walk in Santiago I was so confused as to why I had done it. So, I wrote the book to make sense of it all.”
The memoir The Way, My Way (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2014), based on the walk,
was a bestseller.
Initially, Bennett had no ambitions of making it into a film. But a film distributor named Richard Becker, who had loved the book, brought it up with Bennett and wouldn’t take no for an answer.
“It had a very, very deep impact on him and he came to me and said, I think there’s a movie in this, and I said, No, there’s not. I don't think enough happens. It’s just one bloke walking across Spain, that’s all. And he said, no, if you can get what's in the book into the film then it will find an audience,” explains Bennett.
And Bennett ended up creating almost the exact same conditions of his walk. Every bit of Chris Haywood’s (who played Bill) costume was the exact same as what Bill wore. Every geographical location was obsessed over in terms of their accuracy and order in the story, and none were picked just for their beauty.
And all of this authenticity ended with a fitting moment of catharsis for Bill as he watched himself (played by an actor), at the end of his walk, have a very vulnerable phone call with his wife
(played by herself).
“The conversation I had with my wife toward the end of the film. That was where I couldn’t separate myself from myself anymore – that was surreal. It was like I was standing outside of myself looking at myself,” says Bennett.
The Way, My Way has been a big success, it just passed $2 million dollars at the Australian and New Zealand Box Office. And Bennett believes there are many factors contributing to this.
“I think there's a confluence of factors that have a lot to do with the fact that people are searching for more meaning in their life at the moment. In the same way that the character of Bill is in the film,” says Bennett. And in the same way that Bill Bennett, the director, has been ever since he wrote those first words in his blog eleven and a half years ago. He is still exploring what compelled him to walk more than 800kms in a foreign country, even now as he begins work on the sequel ‘The Way, Her Way’.
Lleyton Hughes
To celebrate NAIDOC week, two First Nations artists showcased their work at the Old Fire Station in Kiama. The exhibition entitled Keep the Fire Burning, was based on the theme of this year's NAIDOC week Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud. It presented the work of artists Richard Campbell and Kay A.
Richard Campbell was born in Kiama NSW, from Yuin Nation South Coast Australia and his paintings are influenced by stories and symbols passed down through time.
“My paintings are all passed down from generation to generation, every single one of my pieces tell a story. My paintings depict everyday life of the past and present. They’re about saltwater country, garden country, the south coast and
what it means to our people,” says Campbell.
Kay A is a proud Wiradjuri Woman of the Galari Clan, Cowra. She was born on Gadigal Land and now lives on Dharawal Land in Gerringong and this informs her paintings as she is more concerned with the present day connection with the land.
“Because I’m off-country and because I’m a guest of the Dharawal people here, I’m based in Gerringong so I tell stories based on my experiences with the land here. A lot of my stories are explaining how the work is inspired by the connection to country,” says Kay A.
Both artists believe the exhibition is a great opportunity to educate people about their culture and their history.
“The benefit for me is that it actually explains to people
in a nice quiet way what the difference is when we step on country, how we connect to country, how we introduce ourselves to new country when we stand on country, when we introduce ourselves to spirit and we acknowledge the people on country. So, for me it's like getting those stories out and educating the public,” says Kay A.
“Aboriginal people have got to shine. If we don’t shine through football we shine through art, dance and song,” says Campbell.
The exhibition was from July 4 to July 10, but if you missed it you can get in touch with Richard Campbell through his website: www. gumaraa.com.au, and Kay A through her website: https:// andonopouloskay.wixsite. com/.
Lleyton Hughes
member, especially when it came to public open spaces.
Pe-
Stuckey, the former Manager of Parks and Gardens at the Kiama Council, passed away on Wednesday, 26 June.
Peter was a well-loved member of staff and across
the Kiama community. He will be remembered for many things, including environmental initiatives for the region and contributing to the Illawarra Biodiversity Strategy and the Lake Illawarra Authority.
At council, Peter led a team that established Kiama’s reputation for having some of the best parks and gardens in the Illawarra.
Following his retirement in 2010, Peter continued to be an active community
He most recently campaigned for the extension of the Coast Walk to Gerroa, which is now in its early stages.
Peter’s funeral was held at St Matthews Catholic Church in Jamberoo, on Monday, 8 July.
For those who are unable to attend, you are invited to view Peter's service via a link on: funeralannouncement.com.au.
King
A popular remark during the 1960s and 70s was, “Apart from that, Mrs Kennedy, how was your trip to Dallas?” – a cruel reference to the assassination of John F Kennedy on 22 November 1963.
In 1996, my father and brother joined me on a trip to Scotland to do genealogical research on the Orkneys, the home of our forebears. Because it was Dad’s first and only trip overseas, we allowed him to choose the stopover. To our surprise (and dismay), he chose Dallas.
This was because he was an old cattleman from North Queensland who was raised on the black and white movies of the 30’s 40’s and 50’s, featuring the wild west of America with lots of cowboys wrangling longhorn cattle.
Little did he know that Dallas is now an IT centre and the cattle were chased from the streets a long time ago.
We set out to see ‘the sights’. When we asked at reception where we could catch the bus, the African American concierge looked condescendingly down his nose and said, ‘white folk don’t take the bus!’
On finding out the fare of a cab to the CBD we informed him that ‘these white folk do take the bus’.
When we clambered onto the bus it was clear that we were the only white folk. The locals were astonished and delighted at the same time. All on board were singing and rocking so of course we joined in, even Dad in his North Queensland Stetson. It was such a delightful trip.
When we got to the Tourist Information Centre, it was smaller than a doctor’s surgery and manned by two very
weary women. We were told that Dallas doesn’t actually need tourists.
Begrudgingly, they gave us the option of seeing either the Book Depository from where JFK was assassinated, or the film site of the TV show Dallas. Dad chose the latter as he wanted to see a REAL Texas ranch.
We arrived at the ranch, which was deserted, only to find that all the horses, cattle and ranch buildings were fake! They were made of plastic. Dad was appalled.
At the plastic bar he asked for a genuine Texas steak. All they could deliver was Mexican bean soup.
By this stage I was looking for a green space to run in, something like Hyde Park or Central Park with trees and grass. I could only see a patch of green from the top of the hotel around 10 km away; I set out for it.
I eventually found the ‘park’ and commenced a jog on the grass when I saw a cavalry of golf buggies charging toward me, somewhat reminiscent of the Charge of the Light Brigade.
When they reached me, they very politely but firmly pointed out that this was a private golf club. They also told me that there was ‘no such thing’ as public open spaces in Texas. When it came time to leave, I felt we hadn’t connected with the iconic cowboy culture… but I could certainly feel the ‘Live large. Think big’ way of life. The people we met were generous and amicable, and they actually loved the Australian accent, the last thing I expected anywhere.
Trish Griffi
We are 12 minutes into Australian directors Jack Clark and Jim Weir’s debut feature film Birdeater when the title finally appears on screen. In those masterful first 12 minutes we are introduced to a couple.
Most nights he, Louie, lies and says he is going to his dad’s place when really he is going to a golfing range. And she, Irene, for some reason never leaves the house at all, and is sleeping most of the time.
All of this is conveyed through little dialogue, repetitive sequences, montage and spectacular cinematography. And even though not much is happening in the film, you’re on the edge of your seat. Something is off here…
“We started with this relationship. Having a relationship where the couple had separation anxiety … We have this couple that need to be around each other and eventually you separate them and see what happens,” says Weir. And what better way to separate a couple than at a buck’s party. So the main plot of Birdeater unravels as Louie, breaking tradition, invites girls to his bucks party. And the film basically roars on from there.
“As soon as we had the buck’s party element then we had almost a new genre of film that we were looking at and that's when it really became what it is. Taking a close look at how groups of men behave and how groups of men react to bad
male behaviour,” says Weir.
In April, The Australian Institute of Criminology’s National Homicide Monitoring Program found that 34 women were killed by an intimate partner in 202223, an increase of 28 per cent on the previous year.
And although Birdeater doesn’t concern itself with these extreme cases, it aims to explore the problem of toxic male behaviour as its root. With murderers, it is easy for men to detach themselves from the behaviour of those characters whereas with Birdeater the duo wanted to force men to confront themselves.
“We wanted to try and hit closer to the bone, go after the more kind of insidious types of abuse that we think is actually common with guys that we grew up with and went to school with,” says Weir.
“So we wanted basically a shifting scale of different kinds of men in our ensemble in a way where, hopefully, no guy watching this would feel totally safe. Everyone would be able to see themselves in some way depicted on screen and have to reckon with that.”
Birdeater was filmed in the small village of St Albans in Hawkesbury, NSW and despite exploring such universal themes, the film still feels very Australian and this is a translation of the duo’s individuality and identity which is daring in a film culture that is led by other countries.
“We have this idea of
mateship in Australia which is something that we build a lot of our identity around,” says Clark. “But it does feel like it's somewhat exclusionary to women - it feels like it's structured around men being friends.”
“So the film was a little bit about how that makes people outside of that circle feel, and people are able to really easily translate that into a similar part of their own culture. So by finding something specific to Australia, which I think it is, that specificity helps.”
Weir and Clark met each other whilst studying at AFTRS, a film school in Sydney, and they say that it is through their collaboration, that this film was such a success.
“Often we will be arguing about something and we
essentially never compromise - we never really meet in the middle we try and work out which idea is better and quite often that means that there's actually a third idea that neither of us have thought of and it ends up being what we go with,” says Weir.
The film will be released in cinemas on July 18. The characters are interesting, the ideas are thoughtful, the score is inventive and the overall look of the film is mesmerising. Even though it is Clark and Weir’s first feature film, Birdeater shows that they have a strong command of their ideas and know how to communicate them visually in creative and stunning ways.
Lleyton Hughes
Get out of the house and come to The Werri Beach/ Gerringong Garden Club on Wednesday, July 10. Andrew Koster from The Rose Tree Garden Centre will talk about what we can do to add extra pizazz to our gardens at this wintry time of the year. The Rose Tree Garden Centre in Berry is a local favourite, with plenty of plant options including flowering plants, succulents, natives and edibles.
Andrew Koster has many years experience in horticul-
retail nurseriesanditshows
eries, and it shows. He will regale us with tales of his personal experiences in the industry, and will also highlight what we can do at this time of year to spark
up our winter gardens. Andrew will be bringing plants to sell too.
Time: Morning tea served from 9.30am. Meeting starts promptly at 10am.
When: Wednesday, 10 July. Where: Uniting Church Hall, 28 Fern St Gerringong Cost: $5
For further information, email us at wbggcgerringong@gmail.com or phone Barb Khalifa at: 0419 498 072.
The Gerringong Music Club is thrilled to welcome talented local pianist, Luke Bowen, back to the Gerringong Town Hall to play at 2pm, Sunday 21 July 2024.
This award winning local pianist returns to our stage with a concert featuring works by Beethoven, Liszt, Grieg and a set of silent film style pieces by Professor Robert Constable AM.
"We are delighted to welcome Luke Bowen back to the stage at Gerringong Town Hall," said Imogen Stewart, Musical Director of the Gerringong Music Club.
"Luke is a talented local known for his engaging recitals and the Gerringong Music Club is committed to creating opportunities for local talent to thrive.”
Luke, who started playing when he was eight years old and earned his Licentiate in Music at 15, performs extensively in the Shoalhaven and Illawarra regions.
“My advice to aspiring young pianists is to define your goal and establish clear success criteria,” Luke said.
“This could be passing a specific grade level, mastering a particular piece, or even becoming a professional pianist. Once you have a clear target in mind, seek
out a qualified teacher who can provide guidance and support.
“Consistency is key, so commit to regular practice and be patient - it may take several years, but with perseverance, you'll get there,” he said.
Expect to hear Luke perform a technically demanding repertoire featuring works from his favourite composer, Franz Liszt. Between pieces, he'll share his insights and personal reflections, offering a deeper connection to the music and his artistry.
Join us for an afternoon of exceptional music and witness the extraordinary talent of Luke Bowen. Book your tickets online or buy them at the door. Get your tickets at https://www.gerringongmusicclub.com.au/concerts.
What: Luke Bowen
When: Sunday 21 July 2024 2pm - 3.30pm. Doors open at 1.30pm. Where: Gerringong Town Hall, 106 Fern Street, Gerringong NSW
How: Book tickets online or at the door
Members, children and students are free. Visitors $30.
Kell Woods knew she wanted to be a writer from a young age. The voracious reader and self-confessed nerd spent all her spare time either reading books, or writing them.
“If you asked me what I wanted to be at eight, I would’ve said an author, I was one of those annoying kids that read too much and probably talked too much,” laughs Kell.
Fast forward a decade or two and the Jervis Bay local has achieved her dream, releasing her debut novel After The Forest in October. Set in Germany’s Black Forest in 1650, the historical fantasy reimagines the story of Hansel and Gretel, blending fairy tales and folklore to create a “gritty, real and dark story that is also really beautiful”.
Kell will join a host of other talented writers at this weekend’s South Coast Readers and Writers Festival to discuss her novel and her journey to becoming a published author.
“I’m so excited to be a part of this festival,” says Kell. “I’m going to be talking fairy tales with Melbourne writer Michael Earp, who I recently joined at the Supanova Comic Con and Gaming festival last month. We had so much fun together at Supanova so there will be lots of laughs this weekend.”
Kell studied English literature, creative writing and librarianship at Macquarie University and worked as a reference librarian for 13 years. She was always surrounded by stories, whether
sourcing them, reading them or writing them. Five years ago Kell began devoting “serious time and focus” to writing, completing After the Forest in 2020. Then the real hard work began: picking up a literary agent and finding a publisher.
“I finished the book and started pitching to agents during COVID, so a lot of agencies were closed and weren’t taking submissions,” says Kell. “Most Australian agents weren’t interested in fantasy at all, I didn’t get very far in Australia.”
Kell tried her luck overseas and sent through first chapters of her book to agents in the United States and United Kingdom. She was picked up by UK agent Julie Crisp and offered an acquisitions deal with US publishing powerhouse TOR books.
“I had to go out of Australia to get published in Australia, which is funny,” says Kell. “Now there are a lot more fantasy books out there, thanks to ‘romantasy’ books like Fourth Wing and A Court of Thorns and Roses.”
“I was at the beginning of that wave of popularity, so it was really good timing for me. Luck and timing often play a big part in whether or not a book gets published and I was writing the kind of books publishers wanted at the time.”
Kell is now paying that good fortune forward, sharing industry insights and secrets to success with advanced English students
from high schools across the South Coast, including Kiama High.
“It’s been such a privilege to have the opportunity to work with high school students, to show them that what they are learning is relevant to their future professions,” says Kell. “It’s linking the curriculum with real jobs in the industry and I’m more than happy to share insights and learning with the next generation of creatives.”
The question and answer sessions with industry professionals like Kell are the brainchild of Shoalhaven Head Teacher Careers, Shanna Fuz.
“I love helping students to develop their own skills and employability,” says Shanna. “Nothing gives me a greater thrill than students discovering what motivates them to develop their perfect career, and then help them create experiences that link to that.”
Kell held writing sessions at Kiama, Nowra, Ulladulla and Vincentia High Schools (Vincentia also happens to be Kell’s alma mater) and Shanna organised for each student to receive a signed copy of After the Forest.
“Hopefully I provided some inspi-
ration,” says Kell. “I really wanted these kids to know that anything is possible, even if you go to a small high school on the South Coast like I did. One of the Kiama High School students in the workshops, Olivia Cunningham (pictured), was doing work experience at HarperCollins when my book was being worked on and she was involved in that which is very exciting.”
Kell is putting the finishing touches on her second novel, Upon A Starlit Tide, which combines elements of The Little Mermaid and Cinderella and will be available early next year. She will take part in the South Coast Readers and Writers Festival Modern Fairytale session on Saturday July 13. Danielle Woolage
“Ask nothing of it and the soul retires, the flame of life flickers, burns lower, expires for want of air. Here, in the midst of all our difficulties, Life Burns High. Though it seems sometimes that we make no progress towards the ideal, yet the ideal exists, and our energies are directed towards it.” - Charmian Clift in ‘Peel Me a Lotus’ (Muswell Press, 2021)
When writer/director Rachel Lane first read Nadia Wheatley’s The Life and Myth of Charmian Clift (HarperCollins Australia, 2002) it was 2002. She fell in love with Charmian and the “amazing, courageous heart that she had,” and she felt she needed to make a film about it. Unfortunately, someone else had the rights
to the story, and so that idea was filed away.
Twelve years went by, it was 2014, the idea had sat there picking up dust, but also aged with wisdom. The rights to the book suddenly became available and, feeling the same way she felt more than a decade earlier, Rachel snatched them up and began work on a feature film.
Another five years went by, it was 2019, and Lane realised she didn’t have the money, traction or interest to make the film in the way that she wanted. And then she was hit with a thought: Why don’t I make it as a documentary? And so, she and co-producer Sue Milliken began work on a documentary about the life of Charmian Clift.
Now we are in 2024, 22 years removed from the initial moment of conception, and we finally have the documentary film Life Burns High. Written, directed and produced by Rachel Lane, the film follows Clift’s life from the early days in Kiama all the way to her tragic death in 1969.
Lane has since read that book which started it all, The Life and Myth of Charmian Clift, multiple times. Not to mention she has read every article, novel and essay that Charmian ever wrote. She also watched obscure documentary films which feature Charmian in a few scenes, laboured over photos from her family archives, watched the miniseries that she helped write based on My Brother Jack and more. She consumed everything.
“In my spare room,” Lane says. “The whole wall is covered with the excerpts (from
Charmian’s writings) as I was trying to gure out where they all fit. I promised my partner I’d take them down, but I haven't yet.” Life Burns High had its premiere at the 2024 Sydney Film Festival, and Lane introduced it by thanking everyone that helped her. And then she added a special thanks to her partner.
“I then said, ‘on a personal note I’d like to thank my partner Jay for his love and support and being my sounding board.’ And I said, ‘I think he can relate to Princess Diana because there’s been three of us in the marriage: Me, Jay and Charmian.’ Because obviously I’ve carried her with me for a hell of a long time. She’s never far from my thoughts,” said Lane.
The two showings that were advertised for the Sydney Film Festival sold out immediately and Life Burns High ended up being chosen for an encore screening.
“So out of 200 odd films, there were only five that had quickly sold out and we were one of them. So, off the back of that they do an encore screening for 16 films, and we were selected for one of those encore screenings,” says Lane.
Life Burns High chronicles all the major parts of Charm-
ian Clift’s life. Her childhood in Kiama, her first child that she was forced to give up, her time in the war, her affair with writer George Johnston, their marriage, their family, their time in Greece, their move back to Australia and, finally, Charmian’s death.
All of this is told through interviews, old images and videos of Charmian, as well as excerpts from Clift’s various pieces which are presented through creative visuals and a voice actor. Lane admits that it was difficult making a documentary about someone who isn’t alive, but she says that once she found a way to put Charmian’s actual words into the film, everything began to click into place.
“I always wanted to do it from Charmian’s perspective,” says Lane. “It was about her and it’s from Charmian’s perspective which is why her essays drive the narrative because that’s her voice.
“I really wanted to give her her rightful place in life. Because she was always very much overshadowed a little by George’s career, so I guess one of the things I was trying to do was put her forward, and give her her time in the light as she rightly deserves.”
As well as bringing Clift’s life to the front, Life Burns High also seeks to possibly deal with the tragic question of her suicide. And one of the ideas it successfully translates is that Johnston, through the act of writing his novel Clean Straw for Nothing (HarperCollins Australia, 1969), committed a double betrayal.
In the novel George uses
the character that Clift created as an alter ego for herself, Cressida Morley, to illustrate her infidelities in their real-life relationship. Through this act, not only is he informing the public of her sins, but he is also stealing the character that she created and uses her in his own piece, essentially putting her creation under his control.
“It’s all about art imitating life and vice-versa and she (Clift) obviously just felt that no one would be able to differentiate, and she was so fearful of what people would think of her. Back in those days that would've been the most horrendous thing you could do,” says Lane.
Life Burns High does a terrific job at translating Clift’s fascinating and empowering life to the screen. Lane’s obvious obsession and passion for Clift and what she has done is felt through the screen. And, after a long 22 years of thinking about it, Lane says she is so happy it’s finally moved from her head out into the public.
“It’s been a labour of love, but it feels so good to get it out there and now it’s exceeding expectations and as I’ve always suspected there’s a very interested audience in this story which I’ve been trying to tell people for years,” says Lane.
Life Burns High will be playing at the Gala Cinema in Warrawong on Friday the 26th of July as part of the traveling Sydney Film Festival.
Lleyton Hughes
On Friday 28 June, Kevin Sullivan launched his new album Threeways at the Kiama Leagues Club.
Threeways is Sullivan’s second album and comes after a two year tour of Australia and an audition on The Voice Generations with his young children.
Sullivan’s wife Belinda, who acts not only as his road manager but also his sound engineer and muse, says that they felt indebted to the Kiama community for all the support they have given to them over the years.
“The local community here have been phenomenal for the last six years. I think there’s nothing like thanking your own town by launching in your own town,” says Belinda.
“We’re bringing a lot of people into the town this weekend, people are coming from Victoria, South Australia and Queensland. So that’s the premise of why we chose to do it here.”
Kevin, Belinda and their youngest children; KJ, ChaCha and Jet, spent two years during the COVID pandemic touring Australia together.
Living in their van they call the ‘Sulli-van’ they traveled 170,000 kilometres and performed more than 250 shows.
“It was just me and we had another musician who ended up having to leave and go home to Brisbane. So our young children stepped up. And that’s where Kevin Sullivan and the Sulli-Vans was born. So this album Threeways is a continuation of that musical journey.”
The album is named after the Threeways Roadhouse in the Northern Territory which made a huge impression on Sullivan and his family. So much so, that on the first of July the family will fly to the Northern Territory to do a ten-day residency at the roadhouse.
“The Threeways Roadhouse is like something off Route 66; it's right on the highway. There’s the road trains and travelers and locals and there's a caravan park out the back of it. It’s in the middle of nowhere in the red dirt. And they were so hospitable and friendly and welcoming to us,” says Kevin. The album cover is a
picture of the intersection which joins the Stuart and Barkly Highways and is a peaceful and beautiful image of the red, lifeless Australian landscape.
“It’s (the Threeways Roadhouse) like an oasis in the desert and for us that’s what it was,” says Belinda. “We were just in the middle of nowhere, we had nothing and as Kevin said we came to a crossroads which is the artwork, and it depends at that point on which direction you go.
“And because Kev writes about people and places, they’re usually real stories and events. Threeways really epitomises that because it brings people from everywhere into one place. It’s like a melting pot.”
The album features a range of different genres and subjects as well as different musical influences. There are songs about people Kevin’s met, his past experiences and what he is doing now. The album is also very personal at times.
“My mum passed away a few years ago and I’ve written a song about Mum
called Dianne, that was her name, about the loss of a loved one,” says Kevin. “And I’ve also written a song about my Dad called The Piano player… My Dad is 94 and he was a Dixieland jazz pianist.”
It is also about Kevin’s experience being a mature aged member of the music industry. And the songs Against the Tide and Journey both detail his dedication to his dream in spite of the fact that he managed to get there a little later than most of his peers.
“I am a mature aged musician who has chased his dream later in life and it hasn’t been easy and a lot of people have told me it's a young person’s game now and I just don’t accept that,” says Kevin.
“I think this second album is so much better than my first album. I used to dream of chasing my creative dream of becoming a full-time musician but mortgage and kids and life sort of got in the way, but I never gave up on it,” says Kevin.
Due to Kevin’s long, luscious red hair there’s a joke amongst his old police
friends where they tell him they’re all losing hair while he is gaining his and this is a fitting image for how Kevin has blossomed as a result of risking it all for his dream.
“It’s like I’ve been reborn,” says Kevin. “And I think I’m just immersing myself and have now accepted that I am a fulltime singer/songwriter and I just want to write more and release more songs. My
passion is just growing.” Kevin’s new album Threeways is out now, and if you couldn’t catch him at the Kiama Leagues Club he is playing at the Threeways Roadhouse in the Northern Territory from 3 July to 14 July. To follow his journey, check out his website: kevinsullivanmusic.com Lleyton Hughes
Coolangatta Floor Sanding
(CFS), a family-owned and operated business, has proudly served the Shoalhaven region for 26 years, establishing itself as the premier local floor sanding and polishing company. Under the new leadership of Dane Hamill, who recently took over from his father Glen following his retirement, the business continues its tradition of excellence and quality service.
Dane, who has been perfecting his craft since graduating high school in 2006, brings extensive expertise in floor sanding, cleaning, and timber maintenance. His proficiency includes providing valuable advice and performing restoration work to repair scratches and recoat floors, significantly enhancing their longevity and overall lifespan.
CFS collaborates with contractors, builders, and architects across Shoalhaven and its surrounding suburbs, including Berry, Nowra, Shoalhaven Heads, Kiama, Kangaroo Valley, and Jervis Bay, to deliver exceptional service and expert guidance. Dane proudly notes their use of state-of-the-art European sanding and buffing equipment, which features large belt sanders for expansive areas and smaller edging sanders for intricate work
in corners and alongside boards.
"I have witnessed remarkable transformations in the homes we've worked on," Dane shares. "The results significantly enhance the property's value, as polished floors are a highly sought-after feature in real estate marketing."
Homeowners not only seek to improve their living spaces for aesthetic appeal but also to protect their investments.
"Our entire team takes great pleasure in seeing our clients' reactions to the finished product," Dane adds.
Dane is also knowledgeable about the 'whitewash' technique, which can be applied in various ways.
Floors can either be painted with full coverage white paint followed by a clear coat in matte, satin, or gloss finish, or a light tint can be added to the coating to prevent sun-induced discoloration.
Additionally, other colour options are available.
Whether for domestic or commercial applications, Dane and his team at CFS are invaluable resources for expert advice and floor improvement potential. It is highly recommended to get in touch with them for a quote and experience their exceptional service firsthand.
Donna Portland
It’s taken Helen Laidlaw nearly ten years to research and write her book about the Wadi Wadi people, the First Nations who once lived in the area on the South Coast now boarded by Kiama and Gerringong. On Wadi Wadi country – From the mountains to the sea, explores a little known part of Kiama history. But it’s a story well-worth telling.
Putting a face, and a history, to the name
“I come from a line of old ladies who like to make cakes,” remarks 85-year-old Laidlaw as she rummages around in her kitchen and brings out a lemon and blueberry.
With the cake at hand, she sips her coffee and begins talking about the book, which traces the lives of several local First Nations people. Their destinies, still mostly unknown – both to indigenous and non-indigenous Australians, are deeply intertwined with that of Kiama and the surrounding areas.
“It’s about stitching pieces together, and I’ve managed to stitch these families together,” she says.
Just the other day Laidlaw spoke to a descendant of the Longbottom family, who had read the book. There’s a whole chapter on them as well as the Dixon, the Weston/Johnston and the Pike families.
“It was hidden from them. You see, people didn’t know,” she says, referring to a time not too distant when one’s Indigenous heritage was never openly discussed.
For the relatives, and there are quite a few around, Laidlaw wanted to make the people real as opposed to just being a name. “So many were valued by the rest of the clan,” she emphasises.
With a keen interest in indigenous history and the Pacific, Laidlaw, a former university librarian and teacher who’s also worked in Tonga, set out to capture these stories before they are lost.
“Aboriginal people have been treated quite badly. That’s why they’re all so excited about this book. Because it details their stories,” she says.
Laidlaw included the line, From the mountains to the sea, three years ago when she named the book. It comes from the Wadi Wadi/Dharawal language place name for Illawarra (or Elourera, Allowrie), which means “where the mountains meet the sea.”
“We’re all equal”
When asked what she hopes readers will take away from the book, Laidlaw goes quiet. Then she says softly, “Surprise.”
“Because I think Australia is a racist country, still. Anyone who has grown up with Aboriginal people knows that it is.”
Her father, the headmaster of Bomaderry Public School, immediately desegregated the school when he began in 1947.
“He was respected for it,” Laidlaw says. “Because he was a strong Christian, he just quoted Saint Paul in the Bible, we’re all equal.”
Laidlaw says that she thinks the town of Kiama has wanted to acknowledge its Aboriginal heritage for some time.
The younger generation, such as her grandchildren, embraces it while she finds that outdated views about Indigenous people still exist among some of the older generation.
“But surely they realise, well I make that point in the book, that in 1917 these guys went off and got shot for being Australians,” she states. “They didn’t get recognised and they didn’t get a vote for fifty years.”
One Jimmy Carlson
The book, which spans from the first settlers to WWII to the Kiama tornadoes in 2013, came about through six degrees of separation.
Julie Farquhar Nicol, a teacher at the Noogaleek Children’s Centre, an Aboriginal preschool at Berkley – and also Laidlaw’s good friend – enjoyed talking to Jimmy Carlson, an Aboriginal Elder, who
drove the bus for the children’s centre.
One day, while chatting about Carlson growing up in Kiama, they realised that the small farm cottage where he used to live in the 1930s was close to Laidlaw’s house in Willow Gully.
Tucked away in a beautiful corner of Kiama, featuring native vegetation and still frequented by echidnas, wallabies and ringtail possums, Willow Gully holds a rare area of original sub-tropical rainforest, unique for this area.
Laidlaw invited Carlson over, who then in his seventies, began sharing memories of his parents and grandparents along with photos and newspaper clippings.
Carlson’s grandmother was a Dixon from Crooked River, and before too long, Laidlaw found herself trying to find out everything she could about the family.
“I discovered one of his grandmother’s brothers came and lived here.
There’s a whole chapter on that crazy guy,” she says.
In the process of researching, she discovered several other local Indigenous families and their ties to Kiama’s past and present.
The “queen of research”
Laidlaw became intrigued by some of the descriptions, such as that of Captain Brooks (Muhhag), a local poet and singer.
“Someone described him, very impressed, he didn’t look like a lot of others. He was so dark with aquiline features. Suddenly, you got a picture of somebody that you wouldn’t have otherwise.
That’s why it’s all been included in the book” she says.
As far as stories go, she found the most amazing ones to be about King Mickey and Queen Rosie.
“She was such a character,” Laidlaw notes.
Queen Rosie, the last surviving member of the Illawarra tribe, also features on the front cover of the book. The Sydney Morning
Herald took the black-andwhite portrait of Rosie, smoking a pipe, in 1927. Laidlaw is upset that her English publisher chose to cut some of the images out because they weren’t clear enough.
“I tried to explain to them, these were people who didn’t have anywhere to store photos. And the ones I got, of Aboriginal people, were miraculous,” she says.
Because the photos depict Indigenous people who have passed away, Laidlaw received permission from their relatives to use them.
“Jimmy is now in his 80’s, and the photo is of his mother as a child. It’s remarkable that they were still available,” adds Laidlaw.
It’s raining hard now, streaming down the windows, on her house in Willow Gully – a special space where this truly remarkable story began.
Book launch
Date: Sunday, 28 July Time: 3pm
Place: Kiama Uniting Church Hall, Manning Street
To be launched by Julie Farquhar-Nicol (former teacher at Noogaleek Aboriginal Preschool). Followed by a glass of wine, nibbles and book sales & signing.
Date: Saturday, 17 August Time: 2pm
Place: The Kiama Library, hosted by the Kiama Historical Society.
To be launched by Bruce Elder (author of Blood on the Wattle). Followed by a glass of wine, nibbles and book sales & signing.
Extract from a review by Bruce Elder:
“I have lived in Kiama for over 40 years and thought I knew most of the important things about town and yet, page after page, left me gasping as I found new and fascinating things about the town and the surrounding area. It is a book that everyone who lives in, and cares about, this area should devour.”
From Greek mythology to rock music, fairytales to family drama, the South Coast Readers and Writers Festival has it all, including an insider’s look at the publishing business for aspiring scribes trying to break into the industry.
The festival, at Thirroul Community Centre from July 13-14, features award-winning local novelist Helena Fox, lawyer-turned-author Bri Lee discussing her debut as a fiction writer, legendary Australian music writers Stuart Coupe and Jeff Apter and journalists Caroline Baum, Malcolm Knox and Mitch Jennings.
The jam-packed weekend, with over 22 sessions, will cover genres including poetry, literary fiction, suspense, biography, memoir, historical fiction and First Nations writing, says festival director Sarah Nicholson.
Dr Nicholson, who is head of the South Coast Writers Centre and a University of Wollongong academic, says 60 percent of writers talking at the festival are locals.
“We are excited to show-
case more than 40 authors, poets, academics and journalists, who will cover everything from the literary classics to the pressing issues of current affairs," she says. "It will be a weekend filled with captivating stories, thought-provoking discussions, and inspiring conversations. We encourage people to come along and discover some of the local literary talent hiding on the coast."
Australian historical fantasy author Kell Woods, Emma Darragh, who has a PhD in creative writing from the University of Wollongong, and Illawarra Mercury journalist Mitch Jennings will all debut new books at the festival.
Established award-winning writers including Catherine McKinnon, Kirli Saunders and Helena Fox will also host talks. Dr Nicholson, co-author of Heroines An Anthology of Short Fiction and Poetry, will discuss her writing in the Crimes of the Cross session.
The festival will be held in the Thirroul Community Centre for the first time this year.
On a city bus or train? On a bus or train?
“For most of history, Anonymous was a woman.”
So goes the famous quote by author Virginia Woolf, one of the few writers of the time who didn't use a male pseudonym to get her work published. Even JK Rowling used a gender-neutral name for fear young boys wouldn’t buy her best-selling Harry Potter books.
“It’s close to a public transport hub and gives festival guests easy access to Thirroul’s great cafés,” she says. “We’ve partnered with Wollongong City Libraries to present two free Young Readers and Writers sessions in Thirroul Library and Collins Booksellers will also feature festival books for sale.”
Dr Nicholson said the festival is a community event, with organisers giving it a rebrand in its third year to include readers in the title.
“We renamed ourselves the South Coast Readers and Writers Festival so that it is clear to the many readers in our community that this festival is for them,” she says.
“This isn’t a festival only for writers; it is a festival with writers that is designed for their readers. It’s a place for book lovers to hear writer’s insights, to learn about and find new books, and to hear about the process behind their creations.”
The full festival program and tickets are available online at southcoastwriters. org/festival
Danielle Woolage
Stella Maria Sarah 'Miles' Franklin was the most famous Australian female author to publish under a male pseudonym. While she may not have known it at the time, Franklin went on to change the landscape of Australian publishing.
Her feminist masterpiece and autobiographical book My Brilliant Career resulted in two of Australia’s most prestigious writing awards - The Stella Prize and The Miles Franklin - being named in her honour. Franklin’s legacy also includes the Stella Count; a statistical analysis of gender bias in book reviewing which gives an industry-wide snapshot of gender equality, or lack thereof, in the Australian media.
Both the Stella Prize and Stella Count are initiatives of the Stella organisation, named after the famous author and founded in 2012 as a voice for equality and cultural change in Australian literature.
While the annual Stella Prize - the organisation's flagship program celebrating female writers - is a well known platform for championing women and tackling gender bias, the Stella Count is less known.
Since 2012 the Stella Count has collated data on the gender of authors and reviewers, as well as the genre of books reviewed, to get a snapshot of industry equality across 12 major Australian media outlets.
Analysis stalled in 2020 due to COVID-19, but media monitoring company iSentia, in partnership with Stella, will again begin collecting data next month to track statistics on the gender of authors and reviewers for 2023.
Ngaire Crawford, Isentia’s Director of Insights and Research, said the latest Stella Count will cover the threeyear period from 2021-2023 and continue to focus on the representation and equality of female authors in media book reviews.
“Our research team analyses the reviews for space and depth and key details about the authors,” she says.
“We know that this type of work helps provide evidence to celebrate success and to shine a light on where things can still improve.”
Stella CEO Fiona Sweet says, “in a pleasing trend” the latest data collected for the Stella Count in 20192020 found female authors received equal attention in Australian book reviews for the first time in the count’s history.
In a bid to continue with this positive uptake, Stella recently launched a national initiative to promote female literature - ‘Stella on the Go’.
“Stella on the Go is designed to get people off
screens and reading by leaving free books written by Australian women and non-binary authors on trams, trains, buses and ferries across the country,” says Sweet.
“Once readers finish the book, they can decide if they keep it or pass it on to a friend, put it in a public space or leave it on public transport.”
Stella on the Go includes more than 140 titles which have made the Stella Prize's longlist since it started in 2013. The winner of the 2024 Stella Prize, Alexis Wright’s Praiseworthy, is among the titles to be found in cities across the nation. Sweet hopes to expand Stella on the Go to other parts of Australia, including regional areas like Kiama.
“With Stella on the Go, we want to ensure diverse stories reach as many people as possible and inspire new generations of readers,” she says. “There is so much scientific research to back up the health benefits of reading. We also want to help break down the financial barrier between readers and reading.”
If you are lucky enough to come across a Stella on the Go novel, The Bugle would love to hear your thoughts about it. Let us know if you passed it onto a friend or placed it in shared space (clues are encouraged) in Kiama, the Illawarra or Shoalhaven. Read, review, renew.
Danielle Woolage
Way back last century I was a councillor in Kiama. We had 9 adults in the room. We had very robust debates about different ideas but we treated each other as we would like to be treated.The great late Joyce Wheatley and Ruth Devneny made sure of that.
So recently, we had the Messiah from the Shire who was apparently abducted by aliens and we must not speak his name.
Not even Bethlehem has claimed two in 2000 years. Next we have a CEO from Queensland (a state of mind Thanks Gough).
Interviewed by a panel of the council, we were told (we hope) that our retirement system is second to none and goes straight into sale mode when things get a little precarious.
Selling assets that last forever, stressing people out, is the wrong option. The longer you have been on the Council, you ought to resign in shame and not contest the next election.
As for the Mayor, you need to fall on your sword. It’s the only thing to do.
Neil Bell
Ex-councillor
I applaud the courage of Councillor Renkema- Lang and her integrity in facing the challenging situation she finds herself in. It takes bravery to stand up and ask the hard questions, especially when those questions are inconvenient for others. It is disheartening to see that people who seek transparency and accountability are often targeted,
simply because they refuse to shy away from the truth. Her steadfast commitment to honesty and unwavering dedication to principles are commendable. In times like these, it is important to remember the legacy of individuals who have also stood up for integrity and faced undue consequences.
Heroes like Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistan human rights activist, who, despite facing life-threatening opposition, continues to advocate for girls' education and rights. Her resilience and commitment to her cause, even in the face of extreme adversity, have made her a global symbol of courage and integrity.
Councillor Renkema-Lang’s actions remind me of Malala’s resilience. Her work and clear, consistent declarations of interest, reflect a deep commitment to ethical conduct. The priorities she has outlined for the Council are essential, and her focus on resolving financial and governance issues, court costs, and flooding problems is crucial for community well-being.
Stay strong Councillor Renkema-Lang and know that your integrity will always be recognised and valued by those who understand the importance of the difficult path you have chosen.
Lynne Strong Jamberoo
I was very interested to read your on line 'review' of the performance of our current Council and it's paid officials. It is interesting that you call on several Councillors to fall on their sword/s. I would extend that call further. Consider the performance of the General
Manager of this Council. She has assiduously advocated for the sale of all retirement and aged care assets since arriving from sunny Queensland around 3 years ago. She was asked, around 2 years ago to commission a report about whether Council should retain, lease or sell these assets. What a surprise that a consultant was commissioned (Stuart Brown) to come up with a report (presumably by the General Manager), which said 'sell everything'. Now the beneficiary of that advice, just happened to be the same company that provided it! But hey, no conflict of interest here, according to the mandarins running our Council! So as this whole process ground towards its inevitable sale, our General Manager took to market a facility that had nearly 300 defect notices attached. Most of those defect notices have been in place for the entire 3 years of her incumbency (and well before, as well). How did that effect the eventual sale price? I would say, if the rumour mill is even half accurate, very poorly indeed. It is my understanding that Council spent around $125 million on building Bonaira, which is sitting on land conservatively worth around $50 million. If the sale price is around the $70 million mark as I understand it to be (and dont forget Stuart Brown still has to take his commission from this), then this community has been absolutely dudded! I seriously believe the General Manager needs to reflect on her performance in relation to this - an absolute disgrace!
Allan Holder Kiama
Part of Wollongong Comedy Festival, on June 28 at the ‘Side Door Theatre’, an intimate venue tucked away behind Crown Street in Wollongong, 50 or so friends, relatives and comedy-lovers gathered to hear 'The Queen of Oversharing' do her thing.
Diana McLaren has a unique flavour of sassy standup comedy. She provides a captivating monologue that could be described as a commentary on society, with themes mostly revolving around how flawed she is – we all are – and how misogyny and dysfunction reign supreme in the modern world.
Her jokes aren’t for people who are looking around at society thinking, “This is perfect.”
Diana says, “My shows are filled with secondhand therapy, and it's definitely cheaper than seeing an actual therapist!
“If you're looking around the world right now and you're like, ‘yep this is exactly what I think we should be doing’, then my comedy is not for you. But if you're looking at the world and thinking 'this isn't right' and 'I don't feel right in it' then please come to my shows, I've got some laughs and love waiting for you.”
This is the essence of Diana McLaren.
“Every time I’m on stage I have the time of my life, that’s where I’m happy.”
“There’s no greater silver lining in life than being in an awful situation and there’s a tiny part of my brain thinking ‘I can write a joke about this’.”
which is where I currently reside”.
Diana tried moving to Melbourne last year, but it didn't go well, life-wise saying that “everything went wrong”, but “the comedy scene down there was awesome”.
How did she start off in stand-up comedy?
Diana studied acting and television production at school so has always been a performer and a storyteller. She loved to tell jokes so always wanted to try stand-up comedy. She reveals, “One night I was in a bar telling stories from my day and the table behind me laughed. They asked where they could come see my comedy and I was like, ‘I'm not a comedian’”.
A ‘very long story short,’ she lost a bet to that group of friends and ended up trying stand-up comedy and was immediately addicted.
ground of an individual and how their world experience may affect their outlook, it ends there.”
Diana maintains that the classification of different generations is used by the media to make us think that we're enemies or we need to fight each other when in fact we need to unify and create change.
“I think I get a full range of people because my humour is about being human, it's about our collective current experience and hopefully it's comforting, whether it’s because you're glad you're not me or because I've shared something that you have felt and now you feel less alone in the world. Plus, everyone loves a naughty joke and I never run out of those!”
HAVE YOUR SAY, EMAIL US
HELLO@THEBUGLENEWSPAPER.COM.AU or 'CONTACT' ON THE APP - 150 words
Note these are readers opinions and do not represent the Bugle View
As an Australian with an American accent, Diana uses her varied life experiences and unique viewpoint to fuel all of her creative endeavours.
Born at Shellharbour hospital, Diana lived in Kiama Heights till she was four, when her family moved to Riversdale Road, a small farm on the border between Kiama and Jamberoo. They lived there till she was eight and then they moved to a small town called Armonk outside New York for her mother's work with IBM.
Moving back when she was 12, Diana went to school in Sydney but spent all of her weekends in Kiama until she left for university in Wagga Wagga.
“I came home to Kiama every summer to work and when Uni was done, I moved to Kings Cross for work,” Diana informs. “When I was 25, I came back to Kiama and was just planning on moving away when Covid struck and instead I ended up staying in Kiama for the last lock-down and moving in with my dad in Jamberoo,
“I loved every second of it,” Diana said. “Unlike acting and music where there is a gap between you and the performance, or it's someone else's writing, or maybe the audience doesn't like this kind of music, standup comedy is just you, your humour, your words, your performance, and it's raw –you can't rehearse it as you can the others!”
One particularly clever joke she told was about the Amish: “If you could get rid of the organised religion, rampant misogyny and matching outfits I'd be in. But then again, I say that about our society!”
Of her mixed audience Diana says, “I get 20-somethings right up to retirees and everything in between. I do probably slightly skew towards women but only by a percent or two.”
She captures such a large breadth of audience members because her subject material is very relatable and very unifying.
“I'm opposed in many ways to the concept of generations, I think it's just one of the many ways we unnecessarily divide ourselves and create opposition,” Diana declares. “We have a lot more in common than we have differences and while generational grouping is a helpful tool for marketing or understanding the back-
Diana reveals that she has had quite a few fans tell her that she’s helped them recognise that they are bisexual, “which is always fun”.
“Lately I get the feedback a lot that I've inspired people to seek a support group or go to therapy because a lot of my current jokes are very targeted at addressing these insane ideas we have as a society that those things aren't normal and often essential to our ability to function and be happy.”
She’s had a lot of people tell her that she’s helped them feel seen. Today, Diana says, “My phone was inundated after the show last night with messages from other ADHD types and those in therapy telling me that my current show makes them feel seen and ‘got’ in a way that they haven't before, which is lovely.”
Across the board in all of her shows the feedback she gets is, “you’re wild”, “you’re hilarious”, “tell me that didn't actually happen” and “I can't believe you'd tell that story on stage!”
Diana’s friend Bryce Roberts sent her this, "Solid show tonight thanks for sharing all of you. It really does make us all feel less alone and sometimes even a less bit crazy. Who wants to be normal anyway?"
Thanks Bryce – I think that really sums up Diane’s particular brand of comedy and humour!
Donna Portland
As parents, we often find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities, and never more so than during school holidays.
Between work, household chores, and caring for our children, it can be challenging to prioritise physical activity.
However, being a positive role model for our kids and maintaining our own health are essential. Here are some easy ways to help you stay active while spending quality time with your small people these holidays:
1. Children learn by watching us. When they see us moving, they’re more likely to join in. Whether it’s a morning jog, a silly dance-off, or a yoga session, involve your kids and make it enjoyable.
2. Find a park with outdoor fitness equipment. While your kids play on the swings or climb the jungle gym, you can sneak in a workout. Try pull-ups on the bars, stepups on the benches, or even squats using your child as a weight!
3. If you’re near a pool, take advantage of it. While your kids splash around, swim laps. It’s a fantastic full-body workout, and your kids will
see that swimming isn’t just for play—it’s a valuable skill.
4. When your kids ride their bikes or scooters on the track, join them - run alongside or power-walk. It’s an excellent way to get your heart rate up while enjoying the outdoors together.
5. You don’t need expensive equipment to stay active. Grab a frisbee and head to the park. Frisbee is not only fun but also great for agility and coordination. Kick a footy or hit a tennis ball against a wall – turn it into a competition and see who can keep it going the longest. These simple activities engage everyone.
6. Organise family games that involve movement. Tag, hide-and-seek, or a mini obstacle course in the backyard—these games keep everyone active and laughing and strengthen family bonds. Remember, consistency matters more than intensity. Even short bursts of activity add up over time. So, whether it’s a quick sprint or a leisurely walk, embrace the opportunity to move with your kids. Your health and their well-being will thank you.
Heidi Gilchrist
So, your children are complaining about how hard life is nowadays. Get them to compare their life with this account, written by Clive Emery, from when he was a child about 100 years ago: The education of a country boy or girl is not limited to the classroom. In my own experience, a lot of learning took place beyond textbooks and school curriculum. Experience, a great teacher
This is an area where the country child had an advantage over their city cousin, as we discovered when they were visiting us during school holidays. Some of the duties we performed filled them with horror, like the killing and skinning of calves and the beheading, plucking and cleaning of roosters for the baking pan, but a quite ordinarily part of life in the country. The milk they drank came out of a bottle, and they shook with excitement or terror to be asked to touch a cow's teat and draw forth a few drops of milk. There were farm duties, which simply had to be done: the milking, the washing, the cleaning, the gathering of the cattle, the feeding of cows, of calves, of pigs and horses and the ploughing of land and the sowing of crops all done in all weathers. Not just on one day, but every day in rain, hail or sunshine.
count, every minute of every day. And so apportion time to my greatest and smallest task, which led me to believe there was not a minute to be lost and life was too short to waste a day, forever timing myself in all occupations.
The understanding schoolmaster
Calf-feeding time, with a dozen heads poking through bars of a gate, straining, eager, hungry. Two heads to a bucket of frothy separated milk: The bunting, the sucking of ears or fingers
to repair, ferns to brush, tussocks to dig or cattle to muster – perhaps all four, depending on the day and the urgency. We had a boundary of about eight kilometres of fencing to maintain, and it fell to me most Saturdays to service these fences, carrying hammer and staples and a small roll of barbed wire, in case of need.
Adventures in the mountains
Sundays between breakfast and lunch were often spent climbing the mountain
room, mostly not for our troop of four or five was too large. After the psalms, it was back to bring the herd in for milking.
The world at our feet
We always ran a garden throughout the year, learned the vegetables and their seasons for cropping and harvesting, and were applauded for our results by the household in general. We participated in exhibitions and competitions with moderate results, always striving for excellence in type and taste.
We fished the creek for perch, mostly at night, with tiny lanterns with light enough to see to bait the hook, while the owls hooted, and the flying foxes screeched as they fed in the big Moreton Bay Fig nearby.
There was much self-discipline in getting out of bed at the crack of dawn each morning and dressing oneself ready for work. When the milking was finished, there was the separation of cream from the milk, the turning of the separator, 55 turns per minute exactly – almost one per second – or the butterfat test would be low. That was where I learned to
afterwards, the satisfaction of feeling you were needed. The calves were dependent upon your ability to satisfy their appetite, you were their master and that was a responsibility, a trust if you like, and also a joy! It was the same with all the animals and poultry. Each boy was allotted his own tasks to manage and to discharge. Breakfast on school mornings was usually eaten as the school bell was ringing. Neither my brother nor I was ever in the playground to hear it ring, despite our efforts. The schoolmaster never demanded a note when we sat in class late, and we were given time to copy the chalked message from the board. The only notes taken were to explain our reason for missing school days, and they were exceptional.
Saturdays may be a holiday from lessons at school, but it was not a holiday on the farm. There were fences
forests. If the farm work was up to date, we scaled the cliffs for rock lilies in the spring, called the Wongas in the dank forest, or listened to the shrill calls of the lyrebird, or sat by a mountain stream to wait for the birds or foxes or native cats coming to slake their thirst. In the grassland, we set snares where the hares had their running tracks and trapped the rabbits on their favourite mounds. We sat by the mountain moses watching the bees watering, and then followed them to their nests, often trying the methods the black used. That of attaching a piece of thistledown to the sucking bee to make it more visible on its way to the nest, with little success, however. Then it was back home for a quick wash and dress for Sunday school before milking time, walking another mile to the church; perhaps a chance ride with Mr. Rankin in his Sulky, if there was
Kiama Seaside Probus Club visit the Capricorn Coast
Plenty of warm sunshine was what 26 members of Kiama Seaside Probus got when they recently took a trip to the Capricorn Coast in Queensland.
Two flights and a bus trip delivered us for a five night stay at Yeppoon, from where an amazing itinerary of activities and sights was organised.
We explored local scenes and towns, visited amazing limestone caves, observed live cattle auctions, making sure no one accidently emerged with a pen of bulls.
We attended a very enter-
Before we left school, we were ploughing fields, erecting threerail fences using axe and adze and mortising axe, riding horses and laying concrete.
We could identify birds by their call, if not by sight, and trees by their fruit, if not by their flower. We collect the eggs of the water goanna and hatched them on the verandah floor in the sun for a lark, saw the leathery egg begin to wriggle then split open and the lively youngsters make immediate haste to the shelter of a garden bed of flowers within seconds of their birth.
The world was at our feet in the valley! It was alive with life, possibilities and places for experiment and achievement. We indulged in family and competition sports at every opportunity and read books by E.S.Ellis and Zane Grey, which whetted out appetites for adventure, believing everything was within reach if one only stretched out one's hand for it.
Clive Emery
and
wonderful times eating delicious food.
Mark your calendars for Friday, August 2nd, as Gerringong gears up for Jeans for Genes Day with an exciting Trivia Night and Denim Quilt Raffle. Hosted by the Children’s Medical Research Institute Gerringong Committee, this event aims to raise crucial funds for research into genetic diseases affecting 1 in 20 children. Enjoy a lively evening of trivia, music, and community spirit.
Don’t miss your chance to win fantastic prizes in the multi-draw raffle, including a stunning denim quilt crafted by the Kiama Quilters Guild and quilted by Carol Tabone of Shoalhaven Quilting, generously donated to CMRI. Supporters can also purchase Jeans for Genes pens, badges, and quilt raffle tickets at IGA Gerringong on July 26th, 27th, August 1st, and 2nd.
Local students from Gerringong Public School and Kiama High are pitching in with a mufti day and gold coin donations. Additionally, businesses throughout the community are contributing to the cause through raffle donations and merchandise sales.
This event isn’t just about fun and games—it’s about funding research that could lead to cures for devastating genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, and metabolic disorders, among others.
Learn more about the science behind genetic diseases and the promising advancements in gene therapy, which aims to correct DNA errors and restore normal cellular function. Researchers at CMRI are at the forefront, pioneering gene therapy treatments that could revolutionize medical care worldwide.
Your participation and support at the Jeans for Genes Trivia Night make a direct impact on ongoing research efforts. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children facing genetic diseases.
Details: Gerroa Boat Fisherman’s Club - Tickets are available at http://www. trybooking.com/CSVVD for $30 per person. Enjoy nibbles, drinks at bar prices, and take advantage of the courtesy bus service (book through the club).
Maintaining a positive outlook on life can sometimes feel like a challenge, but incorporating small, everyday actions can make a significant difference in lifting your mood. Here are some practical tips and insights on how to boost your happiness and well-being.
A little activity every day: Engaging in small activities daily can greatly enhance your mood. Opt for the stairs instead of the lift or take short breaks to stretch your legs if you're seated for long periods. These minor adjustments not only improve your physical health but also boost your mental well-being.
Connect with friends: Meeting a close friend for a walk or making a phone call if they are far away can work wonders for your mood. Conversations with someone you care about can make you feel supported and less stressed. According to research, such interactions can strengthen your immune system, improve heart health, and overall enhance your mood.
John Hopkins Medicine emphasises that taking steps to improve physical health can help boost mood and ward off depression.
Here are some quick tips to lift your mood:
1. Chat! – Engage in a real conversation with a cheerful friend.
2. Smile! – Simply smiling can lead to a positive mood.
3. Laugh! – Find something that makes you laugh.
4. Think positively! – Focus on positive thoughts.
5. Meditate – Take time to relax and clear your mind.
6. Get moving! – Physical activity is a great mood booster.
7. Look at old photos! –Reminisce happy memories.
8. Listen to happy music! – Play your favourite upbeat tunes.
9. Play with your pet! (or some else’s) – Spending time with pets can be very uplifting.
10. Have a little dark chocolate – A small treat can improve your mood.
11. Go outside and exercise – Fresh air and exercise are vital.
12. Eat something healthy – Nourish your body with healthy foods.
13. Have sex – Physical intimacy can boost mood.
14. Rest – Ensure you are getting enough sleep.
15. Take a break or a holiday – A break can rejuvenate your spirit.
How to fix a low mood and overcome sadness:
1. Acknowledge what’s happening: feel and observe
the sadness – It’s okay to feel sad. Acknowledge your emotions and your feelings. Identify what makes you unhappy. Share with friends, family, or a health professional.
2. Take care of yourself –Prioritise self-care and make simple lifestyle changes in order to feel happier. Physical activity can improve mood.
3. Embrace the present – Live in the moment. This removes anxiety.
4. Maintain connections with others – Stay in touch with loved ones.
5. Raise your self-esteem and be kind to yourself –Practice self-compassion and be gentle with yourself. Work on feeling better about yourself.
6. Perform regular aerobic activity – Keep your body moving. Great for the circulation too!
7. Seek professional help – If sadness persists, consult a professional. Make an appointment with a counsellor, because talking through your concerns can provide relief.
Ways to increase joy:
1. Do something joyful! – Engage in activities that bring you joy.
2. Develop gratitude – Appreciate what you have. This is powerful indeed!
3. Dedicate yourself to others – Helping others can bring joy. Mum lived by that maxim and was one of the happiest people I’ve ever known.
4. Connect with your spiritual side – Explore spiritual practices.
5. Discover something new – Learn and grow.
6. Take moments of pleasure – Enjoy little moments of happiness.
7. Pay attention to the good – Focus on positive aspects of life.
8. Limit negativity – Reduce exposure to negative influences.
By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can significantly enhance your mood and overall quality of life. Remember, small steps can lead to big changes.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, please contact Lifeline for immediate help (13 11 14).
Donna Portland
1 It snows metal on Venus
2 The first artificial satellite in space was called Sputnik
3 Earth is the only planet not named after a god
4 There is no wind on the moon
5 The Milky Way is a barred spiral galaxy
Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.
1 Who wrote the Harry Potter book series?
2 What colour feathers, berries, shells and flowers does a satin bowerbird decorate its nest with?
3 True or false: when a kitten is born it is both deaf and blind?
4 What is the capital city of New Zealand?
5 Typically, how long does a peacock live: 5 years, 20 years or 80 years?
6 In the movie The Polar Express, on what special day does the boy board a magical train?
7 What sport do sisters Venus and Serena Williams (pictured) play?
8 Is an ancient Egyptian preserved body called a mummy, daddy or granny?
9 Which game series features a tanuki named Tom Nook?
10 How many people are in The Wiggles?
Can you find five differences between these two images? 1 Displeased, unhappy
2 Citrus fruit
3 Fish and — 4 Utensil for cutting 5 Yell 6 Something we put vegemite on 7 — oil is common in Italian cooking 8 Person who makes bread
Party blower 5. Streamer
ANSWERS: ANGRY, LEMON, CHIPS, KNIFE, SHOUT, TOAST, OLIVE, BAKER, (ANCESTOR).
Can you find all of the words listed below? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message. BARNEY BEWITCHED CHANDLER CHUCK LORRE FRASIER FRIENDS HOMER KRAMER MOM MOTHER
Secret message: How rude
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 News. 12.30 Ladies In Black. 1.20 Sister Boniface Mysteries. 2.00 Books That Made Us. 3.00 Gruen. 3.35 Spicks And Specks. 4.10 The Greek Islands With Julia Bradbury. 4.30 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission. 5.25 Landline. 5.55 Stuff The British Stole. (PG) 6.25 I Was Actually There. (M) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PG) 8.20 Van Der Valk. (M) 9.50 Ladies In Black. (M) 10.40 Shetland. (M) 11.35 Rage. (MA15+) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 World This Week. 11.00 Compass. 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Love Your Garden. 2.20 Grand Designs: The Streets. 3.05 Simply Nigella. 3.35 Extraordinary Escapes. 4.25 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. 5.05 The Platypus Guardian. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 News. 7.30 Spicks And Specks. 8.00 Austin. 8.30 Ladies In Black. 9.20 The Split. 10.20 Shetland. 11.15 Annika. 12.05 Miniseries: Des. 12.55 Rage. 3.05 Classic Countdown. 4.00 Landline. 4.30 Art Works. 5.00 Insiders.
6.00 WorldWatch. 8.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Motorcycle Racing. Superbike World Championship. Round 5. Highlights. 3.00 Gymnastics. Rhythmic World Challenge Cup. Highlights. 4.30 Tour De France 2024 Highlights Review. 5.30 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis. 6.30 News. 7.30 Amazing Railway Adventures. 8.30 Spike Milligan: The Unseen Archive. 9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 20. 1.55 Blinded. 3.40 Peer To Peer. 4.40 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Late Programs.
6.00 WorldWatch. 8.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. ProMX Championship. Round 6. 4.00 Sports Woman. 4.30 Tour De France 2024 Highlights Review. 5.30 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis. 6.30 News. 7.30 The Secrets Of Mount Olympus. 8.30 Mysteries Of The Cosquer Cave. 9.35 Curse Of King Tut. 10.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Final stage. 4.15 Bamay. 4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Van Der Valk. 2.30 I Was Actually There. 3.00 Restoration Australia. 3.55 Martin Clunes: Islands Of Australia. 4.45 Grand Designs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 7.55 Stuff The British Stole. 8.25 Four Corners. 9.20 Media Watch. 9.35 Monday’s Experts. 10.05 Gruen. 10.40 News. 10.55 The Business. 11.15 Planet America. 11.45 You Can’t Ask That. 12.15 Grand Designs. 1.05 Martin Clunes: Islands Of Australia. 1.50 Rage. 3.40 Late Programs. 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 WorldWatch. 10.10 WorldWatch. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Destination Flavour. 2.10 Wildlife ER. 3.05 Trail Towns. 3.35 The Cook Up. 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. 5.00 Tour De France 2024 Highlights Review. 6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 News. 7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 8.30 The Great Climate Fight. 10.25 SBS News. 10.55 Sisi. 12.45 Tokyo Vice. 3.05 The Autistic Gardener. 4.00 Make Me A Dealer. 4.50 Destination Flavour. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 The
In
3.00
2.00
3.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. 4.45 Grand Designs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 I Was Actually There. 8.30 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission. 9.30 The Art Of... 10.00 Brush With Fame. 10.30 News. 10.45 The Business. 11.05 Four Corners. 11.50 Monday’s Experts. 12.25 Media Watch. 12.40 Grand Designs. 1.30 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. 2.15 Rage. 3.10 Late Programs.
6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 2.05 Wildlife ER. 3.00 Living Black. 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 3.35 Destination Flavour. 3.45 The Cook Up. 4.15 Tony Robinson: Britain’s Greatest River. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 News. 7.30 Railway Journeys UK. 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS News. 10.30 Living Black. 11.00 The Point. 12.00 The Man Who Died. 1.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.35 Media Watch. 2.00 Ladies In Black. 3.00 Restoration Australia. 3.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. 4.45 Grand Designs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 QI. 8.30 QI. 9.05 Austin. 9.30 Spicks And Specks. 10.05 Planet America. 10.35 News. 10.50 The Business. 11.05 Aunty Donna’s Coffee Cafe. 12.00 Grand Designs. 12.50 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. 1.35 Grantchester. 2.25 Rage. 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Landline. 5.00 Art Works. 5.30 7.30. 6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 3.35 Destination Flavour. 3.45 The Cook Up. 4.15 Tony Robinson: Britain’s Greatest River. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 News. 7.30 Moulin Rouge: Yes We Can-Can! 8.40 Zelenskyy: The Story. 9.45 DI Ray. 10.40 SBS News. 11.10 Headhunters. 12.55 Faking Hitler. 3.30 Make Me A Dealer. 4.20 Peer To Peer. 4.50 Destination Flavour. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00
7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Foreign Correspondent. 8.30 Grand Designs: The Streets. 9.20 Fake Or Fortune? 10.20 News. 10.35 The Business. 10.50 The Art Of... 11.20 Talking Heads. 11.55 Grand Designs. 12.45 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. 1.30 Rage. 3.15 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Landline. 5.00 Art Works. 5.30 7.30. 6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Such Was Life. 2.10 Animal Einsteins. 3.05 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 3.10 The Cook Up. 3.40 Magic In The Mountains. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 News.
6.00 Better Homes. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Horse Racing. Winter Challenge Day, VRC Members Race Day and Eagle Farm Raceday. 1.30 Football. AFL. Round 19. GWS Giants v Gold Coast Suns. 4.30 Border Security: Int. 5.00 News. 5.30 Border Security. 6.00 News. 7.00 Border Security. (PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Titanic. (1997) 11.30 To Be Advised. 1.10 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 7. Sydney SuperNight. Day 1. Highlights. 2.30 Shopping. 4.00 Drop Dead Weird. 5.00 House Of Wellness.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Football. AFL. Round 19. Brisbane Lions v Sydney. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 News. 7.00 Dancing With The Stars. 9.05 7NEWS Spotlight. 10.05 The Latest: Seven News. 10.35 Granny Killer: The Unsolved Murders. 12.15 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 7. Sydney SuperNight. Day 2. Highlights. 1.15 Lipstick Jungle. 2.30 Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 My Greek Odyssey. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Secrets In The Snow. (2020) 2.00 Catch Phrase. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 The Hunters. 9.10 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (M) 10.10 S.W.A.T. (M) 11.10 The Latest: Seven News. 11.40 Code Blue: The Killing Of June Fox-Roberts. (MA15+) 12.40 The Event. (M) 1.40 Business Builders. 2.30 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Trouble In Suburbia. (2021) 2.00 Catch Phrase. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) 9.30 The Good Doctor. (M) 10.30 The Latest: Seven News. 11.00 The Chernobyl Disaster. (M) 12.00 The Disappearance. (MA15+) 1.00 Criminal Confessions. (M) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Daughter In Disguise. (2021) 2.00 Motorbike Cops. 2.15 Catch Phrase. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG) 8.30 The Front Bar. (M) 9.30 Kitchen Nightmares Australia. (MA15+) 10.45 Seven News. 11.15 Talking Footy. 12.15 Dracula. (MA15+) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Late Programs.
7.30 Chernobyl: The Lost Tapes. 9.20 Rise And Fall: The World Trade Center. 10.50 SBS News. 11.25 The Head. 12.25 The Head. 1.20 Blanca. 4.20 Peer To Peer. 4.50 Destination Flavour. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Her Last Will. (2016) 2.00 Motorbike Cops. (PG) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Home And Away. 8.30 Starstruck. (PG) 9.45 ABBA Forever. 10.45 Air Crash Investigations. (PG) 12.45 The Goldbergs. (PG) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Destination WA. 1.30 Bondi Vet. 2.30 Getaway. 3.00 Rugby Union. International Test Series. Game 3. Australia v Georgia. 5.40 Test Rugby: Wallabies V Georgia Post-Match. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: The Magnificent Seven. (2016) 10.10 MOVIE: The Mechanic. (2011) 11.55 MOVIE: Everybody Wants Some!! (2016) 2.05 The Incredible Journey. 2.35 Getaway. 3.00
Shop. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 David Attenborough’s Frozen Planet II. 1.00 Space Invaders. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 8.00 Beyond The Dream: Race To Paris. 9.10 100% Footy. 10.10 Limitless With Chris Hemsworth. 11.30 La Brea. 12.20 Tipping Point. 1.10 Pointless. 2.05 Hello SA. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 Destination WA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.10 Mr Mayor. 1.40 My Way. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 8.00 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 9.00 To Be Advised. 10.00 Outback Opal Hunters. 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 Chicago Med. 12.20 Tipping Point. 1.10 Pointless. 2.05 World’s Greatest Natural Wonders. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Paris 2024: Let The Games Begin. 9.20 Beyond The Dream: Boiling Point – Swimming’s Greatest Rivalry. 10.30 Beyond The Dream: Matildas –The Rise. 11.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Men’s Rugby Sevens. Includes: Australia v Samoa. 2.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Men’s Rugby Sevens. Includes: Australia v Kenya. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s
Springside Hill is a proposed masterplanned community in Kiama, offering a range of homes suited to all lifestyles.
We are working with local and state governments to progress a planning proposal that will make it easier for locals to buy their own home. It comes with a 25 per cent guarantee to set aside homes for key workers, first home buyers and locals looking for affordable rental housing.
Working together we can deliver our first homes at Springside Hill by 2027.
To be the first to hear about this exciting new address, register your interest at springsidehill.com.au/contact
The Shoalhaven Dressage Club is deeply saddened by the passing of CP Dresden, a much loved and celebrated horse in Grand Prix dressage.
Under the ownership and guidance of Life Members Jane and Maurice Bruce, CP Dresden - affectionately known as ‘Desi’ - was a champion.
Initially trained and competed by Jane Bruce, Desi's career blossomed under her watchful eye. His exceptional talent provided two young riders from the Shoalhaven region, Alycia Targa and later Charlotte Phillips, with unprecedented opportunities.
Alycia Targa's partnership with Desi spanned eight years, marked by numerous
triumphant Grand Prix and Grand Prix Freestyle performances, which earned them legendary status in Australian equestrian circles.
Charlotte Phillips continued Desi's legacy, forging a graceful partnership that culminated in a memorable qualification for the 2023 World Cup in Omaha, USA. Their final performance together at the 2024 Sydney CDI, showcased their prowess in the Grand Prix Freestyle, and consolidated Desi's enduring legacy on the sport.
Reflecting on Desi's influence, Alycia Targa expressed gratitude for their journey together. She said Desi was a steadfast companion and a source of inspiration.
Charlotte Phillips recalled
how Desi's exceptional abilities and Jane Bruce's guidance turned a distant dream into a reality, describing their partnership as a life-changing experience akin to ‘flying’.
Tragically, Desi's life was cut short at the age of 16 due to complications from colic. The Shoalhaven Dressage Club extends its deepest condolences to everyone touched by Desi's remarkable spirit.
Jenifer Symes, Media Liaison for the Shoalhaven Dressage Club, said Desi was a once-in-a-lifetime horse.
Two of Kiama’s biggest junior sporting clubs embraced the NSW Government’s ‘Shoosh for Kids’ program, which urges spectators to remain positive whilst watching junior sport.
Both the Kiama Knights Junior Rugby League Club (JRLC) and the Kiama Netball Association (KNA) are supporting the campaign,
which ran for June.
President of the KNA, Michelle Gregory, says the program reminds people they’re watching junior sport, and that it’s more about creating a fun atmosphere than competition.
“It's a good reminder to parents and spectators about what the essence of junior sport is, which is just for the
kids to come along and get some exercise and make some friends and have some fun,” said Gregory.
The program involves making announcements on game day, spreading awareness through social media and having signage at the sporting venues.
“We just make some announcements on Satur-
days to remind people that it's ‘Shoosh for Kids’ month.
And we're provided with a lot of social media materials that we can put on Facebook,” said Gregory.
Leticia Olivera, whose son plays for the junior Kiama Knights, said the campaign was a successful reminder for parents.
“I think it’s a good pro-
gram, it’s important to give these kids a fun atmosphere and to not put so much pressure on them. I don’t think it’s too big of a problem, but it’s a nice little reminder that we’re not watching the NRL here,” said Olivera.
President of the Kiama Knights JRLC, Carl Middleton, is passionate about junior sport and he believes the campaign will help in making a child’s sporting career something to remember.
“I want our club to be a memory for these kids when they grow up so that they can look back on their time playing junior sport and reflect when they're young adults and basically say to themselves ‘We had a really
good time playing with that club,’” said Middleton.
But Middleton and Gregory said the program was not about having complete silence at games, more that people should think before they speak.
“It comes down to being respectful. A lot of people go to our games with the intention of just being there to support the kids, so we don't ask people to silence themselves because the majority of people are just there to support the kids and have fun,” said Middleton.
The Kiama Knights JRLC and the KNA are two of the 250 sporting clubs and associations supporting the ‘Shoosh for Kids’ program. Lleyton Hughes
Pickleball is now on at the Kiama Leisure Centre every Sunday, from 2-4pm. Players of all levels are welcome. Bookings are essential as numbers are limited. Cost is $15 per person.
Pickleball junior camps will be held on Tuesday, 16 July from 1:30-4pm. The camps involve fun, fitness
and the chance to learn a new sport, which is exploding in popularity. Cost is $30 per person and all equipment is provided on the day.
Pickleball for beginner adults will be held on Thursday, 18 July from 1:30-4pm. A fun new sport, which provides fun, fitness and energy in a social environ-
ment. Spots are limited and bookings are essential. Cost is $30 per person.. For Pickleball programs and bookings, contact Paul Summerside on: 0437430731 or email: kiamapickleball@outlook.com. Paul Summerside
For the story on the upcoming tournament, go to the The
app or find it in the 15-29 June print edition.
John Domandl, a 64-year-old visually impaired athlete, will represent Australia at the Multisport World Championship in Townsville this August.
Domandl is a member of the Kiama Triathlon Club, despite living in Newcastle, and he praises the Kiama club's support and other visually impaired athletes.
“There’s several people in the Kiama Club who have supported me and volunteered themselves to help, whereas at other clubs I’ve struggled,” says Domandl.
“And I don’t blame them because I think triathlons are a very selfish sport and a lot of people who do this sport want to be individuals and not team players. But I’ve just found that to be different at Kiama.”
John suffers from a condition called Retinitis pigmentosa (RM) which is a rare eye disease that affects the retina and slowly causes the eyesight to decline. He is now down to five per cent vision and needs a guide with him when racing.
At the Townsville race he will be guided by Dan Merange, a fellow member of the Kiama Triathlon Club. The event will be a 3km swim, 120 km bike ride and a 30 km run.
This is the longest race that Merange has done as a
guide, and he outlined how he will steer John through the course.
“In the swim we wear a tether with a 900mm bungee cord. Guiding him around the course is quite challenging in the swim as there’s no way to communicate. On the bike we ride tandem which is a lot of fun … John’s on the back but sometimes I forget he’s on the back,” says Merange.
“There’s so much trust that you put into your guide, he has to be on the top of his game 110% of the time because he’s not looking after one person, he’s looking after two people. So, he has to do that, and do the event too, and if he doesn’t it could be catastrophic,” says Domandl.
John has been participating in the sport since 1986, starting his career as a ‘sighted’ competitor, and believes he is now faster than he was when he started because of guides such as Dan.
“I'm actually faster now than I was 30 years ago. 30 years ago I was scared to go fast, but now, when someone ‘is my eyes’, I can push myself and I don’t have to worry,” says Domandl.
“As soon as I put him on the tandem I thought, this guy is loving it, and I just said to Dan ‘If you give me one season, we’ll have a good time’ and he said ‘Right,
I’ll give you a season,’ and that’s gone from a season to another season to a worlds championships and now he’s also going to pilot and help run with me at Ultraman in 2025,” says Domandl.
Domandl hopes that in the future there will be more clubs like Kiama, who will support visually impaired athletes, as there are many more out there who want to get involved.
The Townsville Multisport World Championships take place between 15 and 25 of August, and John and Dan will be hoping to beat out the other visually impaired team.
“We’ve got this deep seated rivalry for each other. Like State of Origin. He’s from Queensland, mate versus mate and state versus state. He is ten years younger than me, so on paper he should beat me. But I’m confident because I’ve got Dan, and Dan is one of the best guides going around. And he doesn’t know about that, so he’s my little secret,” says Domandl.
Overall, 11 members of the Kiama Triathlon Club will be participating in Townsville: Amelia Alexander, Caroyln Dews, Mary Street, Peter Pike, Tanya Montomery, Cherly Freeman, Tanya Sampson, David Lawrence, Steve Byrne as well as John and Dan.
LLeyton Hughes
Local Kiama woman, Joan Hughes, will volunteer at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in August and September. Joan will be an access coordinator at the Grand Palais, which will host a number of events including fencing and taekwondo.
Joan volunteered at the Sydney 2000 Olympics and Paralympics, which she says, “it was a life changing event.” Joan applied for the Paris Olympics and Paralympics when she heard that the Olympic Committee was seeking volunteers from around the world. There was no requirement to be a French speaker as Joan only has ‘school French.’
“Being a volunteer is a wonderful way of giving back to the community. Being in my early 70s, I have been able to take advantage of many educational and employment opportunities,” Joan said. “I have done many volunteer jobs,
even during my paid employment. Giving back to society is very satisfying.” She will travel to Paris in early August and will also take the opportunity to travel within Europe and to the UK to see friends.
The Kiama and Shellharbour District
Tennis Association (K.S.D.T.A) stepped into a time machine at their annual ladies presentation night, rocking the night away in poodle skirts and varsity jackets.
The annual presentation night was held on Friday 28 June at the Warilla Bowls and Recreation Reserve and it was a party to remember.
The Inspired Unemployed, debuted their new band, the ‘Retired Gentlemen’s League’.
South Coast boys Jack Steele, from Minnamurra and Matt ‘Falcon’ Ford, from Gerringong, along with their band, played the hottest hits from the 50s to liven up the dancefloor.
A number of awards and accolades were presented to teams and individuals for their efforts during the tennis competitions:
Grace Wyatt – Ladies Mid-Week Division 1 –Sportsmanship & Consistency
Holly Fogarty – Kiama
Local identity Norma Stead OAM celebrates her 99th Birthday on 25th July
Norma is well known to the Tennis community through her many years of dedicated support. She has also been a stalwart of Kiama Day VIEW Club having been an active member for the past 57 years and remains so to this day. Norma has been involved in all levels of the Club’s Committee over the years and has personally maintained a photographic history of Kiama Day VIEW Club, having put together many albums
of photos of memorable Club events. VIEW Clubs sponsor the Smith Family’s Learning For Life Programme. Kiama Club meets once each month and welcomes new members.
Club
Margaret Harding
Ladies Mid-Week Division 2 – Sportsmanship & Consistency
Michelle Mullan – Jamberoo Club
Val Brunker – A Grade Ladies Night Comp –Sportsmanship & Consistency
Anne Herbert – Jamberoo Club (DSC-0011)
Mavis Morphett – B Grade Ladies Night Comp –Sportsmanship & Consistency
Nicole Hensman – Kiama Club
Hazel Lewis – C Grade - Sportsmanship and Con-
sistency
Elaine King – Jamberoo (DSC-0012)
Helen Jones – Encouragement Trophy
Hanna Hansson-Blackwell –Kiama
Margaret Edmonds – C2
Most Improved Player
Megan Collins – Jamberoo (DSC-0013)
Most Outstanding Team Effort
Oak Flats 4 – Div 7 (DSC0014)
Outstanding club of the Year Kiama Club (DSC-0015) The Bugle congratulates all the winners. Neve Surridge
