When the waves breach the seawall and soak the park behind Kiama Surf Life Saving Club, even the most seasoned locals take notice.Kiama SLSC executive member Dave Griffin, a long-time patrolling volunteer, said this week’s swell was the biggest he has ever seen.“We had a few east coast lows in 2021 and we sandbagged the club then,” he said.“But, back then I didn’t see waves breaking over the beach retaining wall and into the park like this is definitely the biggest I’ve seen.”The swell was so strong that a wave burst through the lifeguard door at the front of the club. Locals recall the water reaching Manning Street in the 1970s, making this likely the biggest surf event in 40 years.“Even when the beach is closed, we still have a responsibility to be here,” Griffin explained.“During the week, that’s the council lifeguards, and on weekends it’s our Kiama Surf Club volunteers.“Most of the time, it’s people unfamiliar with the ocean who get into trouble – they don’t realise how unpredictable and dangerous these conditions can be.“Some are fishing off rocks where waves can suddenly surge much higher than expected. Others are chasing the perfect action shot, then find themselves in real danger.”When that happens, it is not just the individuals who are in danger.“In conditions like this, it’s not just your own safety on the line,” he said.“Lifeguards and lifesavers are here to help people stay safe – not to put themselves in danger rescuing someone who ignored the warnings.”Griffin has been part of the club’s executive for several years, running the nippers program and now working with cadets aged 14 to 18.“Our team of volunteers all contribute in different ways. And you don’t have to be a great swimmer or even go in the water. There are so many ways to be part of the club.”As the surf peaked just after high tide, Griffin was already helping the Kiama Council team with the next task.The beach closed warning flag had been knocked over again and the sandbags were running low. But the commitment from this volunteer crew remained as steady as the tide.KSLSC Gym and Nippers Storage

Only one final of the NSW South Coast Junior Regional Titles was able to take place last weekend due to unsafe conditions.Held at Kiama’s Jones Beach on Sunday, Surfing NSW South Coast Regional Director Jo Collinge said the day began quite well.“Although the weather was rainy and windy, the morning started off with plenty of waves and some excellent surfing on display,” Collinge said.Collinge says the 14s, 16s and 18s boys’ heats were particularly impressive with most competitors getting consistently well-scored waves.“A very high quality of surfing was showcased throughout the boys’ heats, with standout performances from Jackson Fraser, Jet Bradley, Bowie Gray, and Lennox Lindsay, all of whom consistently posted excellent scores,” Collinge said.Around midday, the conditions began to deteriorate and the water was deemed unsafe, and as a result only one final was able to go ahead.Photo: Leonie Murphy“The only final that could be held was the Under 14 Girls, with Rubylee Neill taking first place and receiving an Urban Surf voucher, while Abigail Woods claimed runner-up, earning $100 worth of gift vouchers from Natural Necessity and their in-store café, The Perfect Break,” Collinge said.Collinge says the call was made for safety reasons and that the finals will still go ahead at a later date.“Competitors will be advised via Surfing NSW and also through the South Coast Surfing Instagram account.“Thank you to all the judges and crew, particularly water safety, as well as the dedicated parents from up and down the coast who braved the wild weather conditions.“Special shout-out to natural necessity who kindly and generously donated over $1000 worth of prizes for the event. It will be a big finals day and worth coming down to watch,” Collinge added.Photo: Leonie Murphy

The Ulysses Club’s inaugural Ride for Rheumatoid Arthritis recently rolled into Kiama, with Gerringong’s own Cheryl and Patrick Maheady leading the charge.The South Coast members of the Ulysses Club met up with the Melbourne riders in Marulan, before riding through Bundanoon, Kangaroo Valley, and down Cambewarra Mountain into Kiama.A total of 43 Ulysses Club members stopped for dinner in Kiama, and on Friday, 21 March, a smaller group gathered at Kiama Harbour before heading north for the next leg of the journey.The ride was dedicated to raising funds for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) research, a chronic condition that affects approximately 514,000 Australians each year. RA causes pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints, as the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues lining the joints.It is estimated that the ride has raised between $10,000 to $15,000 for RA research.Gerringong local Cheryl Maheady, who was diagnosed with RA seven years ago, became the face of the ride for South Coast members of the Ulysses Club. She and her husband, Patrick, were part of the crew that assembled in Kiama.The Ulysses Club in front of the Kiama Lighthouse. Photo: Supplied“I’m very pleased to say that with the help of the local Gerringong community, we’ve raised just over $3,600,” she said.She expressed heartfelt thanks to all the local businesses and friends who had donated and purchased raffle tickets, including: Natural Necessity Surf Shop, Oak Home Gerringong, AMX Warrawong, Core Store Gerringong, Beyond the Beach Gerringong, Bunnings South Nowra, First National Gerringong, Gerringong Pharmacy, Gerringong Physiotherapy, Gerringong Family Medical Centre, Gerringong Post Office, Gerringong Rotary Sunrise, Soulfit Co Gerringong, Rosemary Rolles, and all the wonderful friends who generously supported the cause.

When you sit down to hear from Andrew Wilson, the historian at Kiama Golf Club, about the history of the course, his passion for Kiama and its history is immense.Andrew turned up for his interview with The Bugle holding a portable filing cabinet filled with hundreds of documents, as well as a laptop. “People value the history of the golf club, and it’s important to make its most significant parts accessible to everyone,” says Andrew.To celebrate the club's 90th anniversary (at Minnamurra), Andrew thought it was about time more people knew about the history, not just of this particular piece of land, but of a sport and a way of life for Kiama residents.The story begins in 1903: a nine-hole links course was laid out at Chapman Point in Kiama, spanning the paddocks of local residents Mrs Caird, Mr Kendall, and Mr Holden. Thus, the Kiama Golf Club was born.Six years later, Kiama produced a champion woman golfer, Miss Nell Caird, who won the 1909 NSW Ladies' Amateur Championship.In 1916, the golf club ceased operations for reasons that remain unclear. “A photo with rows of army tents spanning the site of the golf course may give us a clue. There is also anecdotal evidence that stray bullets from the rifle range on Kendall’s Beach were a problem,” says Andrew.Nell Caird in 1907. Photo: SuppliedGolf was re-established in Kiama in 1927, the year Leon Trotsky was expelled from the Soviet Communist Party, and a new course was laid out at the site of the existing Kiama High School.In 1934, the golf club tried to improve the course and remove the need to crawl under a barbed wire fence after driving from a certain tee. The request was rejected by the Council, and the golf club advertised for persons with land suitable for a new course.Mr Cyril Boyd, a keen golfer who had carved out a few holes on his property in Minnamurra, made land available, leased for 10 shillings per week.Mr Eric Apperley, a renowned amateur golfer and course designer, laid out the new course, and the first competition round was played on 11 August 1934. It was officially opened by WJ Rumble, president of the Suburban and Country Golf Association of NSW, on 16 March 1935.Kiama Golf Club in the 1950s. Photo: SuppliedThe 1935 edition of Golf in Australia praised the course, stating that Mr Rumble was “most eulogistic concerning the course and its designer, the clubhouse and its facilities, and also those responsible for the enterprise.”Andrew has been using Trove to find articles referencing the golf club, as well as reading through old issues of Kiama Independent.“I ended up going through old Kiama Independents - they're on microfilm at the Kiama Library in the family history centre. I started in 1960 because I knew that was around the time they extended the course to 18 holes, and I’m still going through all the 1970s editions now,” says Andrew.Golf continued into the early years of World War II, but by 1943, things were becoming increasingly difficult. The annual meeting in April 1943 reported on problems with the supply of golf balls and machinery parts for the greenkeeper.The course in 1982. Photo: SuppliedThe associates’ annual meeting in November 1943 reported on the “non-attendance of associates” and that, “There is no doubt that the lack of interest is due to the times through which we are passing.”Golf was discontinued at the club from 1943 to 1946 and at the annual meeting in July 1946, it was reported that: “The meeting decided that an effort should be made to have the course in a condition to commence play on 1st September.”It is not clear whether the 1 September date was achieved, but a golf event staged at the Kiama links on 20 October was reported in the local press. The event involved players from Berry, Gerringong, Nowra, Port Kembla, and Kiama. The main event was won by Cyril Boyd with a net 73.Sorting through anecdotal stories, beliefs, and occasional false information about the golf course has been a challenge for Andrew. “You get a lot of conflicting reports, so you really have to check your information. For example, the club celebrated 100 years of golf in 2005. At the time, the earliest known record of golf in Kiama was from 1905, although we now know that the golf club started in 1903,” says Andrew.The 1984 flooding. Photo: SuppliedIn 1961, Kiama Golf Club’s first 18-hole course was completed under the guidance of Al Howard. The course incorporated seven of the 9 greens from the old course. Only the 8th (now 3rd) hole remained unchanged.The first game was played on Saturday, 21 October 1961, and a new course record of 72 was set by club champion Laurie Kelley. That score was bettered by Bill Peck two weeks later with 69, and he backed it up with a 67 the following week.In 1963, the annual meeting authorised the committee to raise £40,000 to build a new clubhouse. There was a debate over whether the club should enter into an arrangement with Millers Brewery, which was prepared to finance the building, subject to their beer being sold exclusively at the club.Andrew Wilson. Photo: SuppliedA majority of the club members were not fond of Millers beer, and so the option was declined. Instead, funds were raised by issuing debentures. Clubhouse extensions costing £15,000 were opened in November 1966.In the late 1970s, treated sewage from the new subdivision at Gainsborough became available for the course. Members were levied $40 each to cover the cost of a fully automated fairway watering system. A large batch of low-priced Radiata Pine seedlings was procured and planted.The clubhouse was renovated in 1983 and the course was flooded the following year before a number of greens were rebuilt during the 1990s. The last 15 years have seen the pine trees reach maturity and start to die off, one by one. The greens staff now spend a large part of their winters removing dead trees, which are being replaced with mostly brush box. Stage 1 of clubhouse renovations was completed in 2015. Stage 2 is due to start shortly. The Kiama golf course managed to stay open for all but a few days during the COVID-19 pandemic and the club ended 2024 with 984 playing members.The history of Kiama Golf Club illuminates the stories, passions and interests of generations of Kiama residents as well as shaping the identity of Kiama Golf Club and its place in the town’s heart.

Are you like me and use emojis without really knowing what they mean? You’re not alone. And you might want to tread carefully, because the little zipped-mouth face can pack quite a legal punch.Back in the day, LOL meant “lots of love”, not “laugh out loud”. A single smiley could brighten someone’s day, not launch a courtroom drama. But in 2025, our new hieroglyphic language - those innocent-looking emojis - is getting more complicated by the day.Just ask Sydney lawyer Zali Burrows. As reported in the Sydney Morning Herald she is currently in a legal standoff with fellow barrister Adam Houda over a single emoji he posted on Twitter (sorry, X). No insults, no caption, just that zipped-mouth face. 🤐Burrows claims it was defamatory. The judge says emojis can indeed convey serious meaning, especially if the context is juicy enough. So now, one zipped mouth might be enough to open a whole can of legal worms.But forget the courtroom for a moment. This story is about us. The emoji enthusiasts. The accidental over-sharers. The digital optimists who throw hearts into group chats, thumbs-up our way through work threads, and nervously guess our way around Gen Z’s “crying laughing skull” emoji.We thought we were being friendly. But what if we’ve been sending mixed signals all along?Maybe it’s time we brought back words. Or at least kept one eyebrow raised next time we hover over a cheeky monkey or aubergine.Just saying.

Wild wearther has lashed South Coast shorelines with Kiama Council warning residents to steer clear of strong and dangerous surf conditions with waves and water washing into adjacent parks and across footpaths.Surf Beach has been closed after Coronation Park experienced significant water washing over the beach into the park, creating huge puddles and putting several footpaths under water.Residents are reminded to keep a safe distance from the shoreline and do not drive, walk or cycle through floodwaters.Council is also advising carers to prevent children from playing in parks near water as conditions are potentially hazardous, with the tide coming in and large waves continuing to wash over the beaches and into shoreline areas.Hazardous conditions are also occurring at Jones, Bombo, Kendalls, Easts, Werri, Surf and Seven Mile beaches, the Minnamurra River, Crooked River and other watercourses.For emergency assistance, please contact the SES on 132 500.

Volunteers removed 14 fallen trees and responded to multiple emergencies during extreme weather on 30 MarchAs winds gusted over 105km/h in the early hours of Sunday, the Jamberoo Rural Fire Service swung into action. Overnight rain had already softened the ground, setting the stage for trees to topple across the region. By sunrise, calls were coming in thick and fast.“Even though some parts of the region received up to 400mm of rain, our biggest issue wasn’t flooding, it was wind,” said Hannah McInerney, captain of the Jamberoo brigade.“We had trees coming down across the entire area. Hot spots included Barren Grounds, Curramore, Jamberoo Mountain and Knights Hill.”Over the course of the day, the Jamberoo brigade removed 14 trees, while others were cleared by Kiama Council and the SES. On top of that, they responded to a triggered fire alarm, flat car batteries, and oil spills.While some areas like Swamp Road experienced flooding, the wind’s persistence posed the greater threat. “The gusts started early and stayed with us until about lunchtime,” Hannah said. “It was the combination of rain-loosened soil and ongoing wind that made conditions so tricky.”The Jamberoo crew were busy on Sunday. Photo: Linda FaiersThe Jamberoo brigade volunteers had been up since 5am and didn’t finish until well into the afternoon. “The last crew stood down after 1pm, after restocking gear and supplies,” she said.In some cases, RFS members couldn’t even get to the station. “It works both ways,” said Hannah. “Some of our team were cut off by flooded causeways. Others of us got out and then couldn’t get back in.”The brigade also relies heavily on public reports during events like this. “We do try to post updates on social media, but the same people doing the updates are also out on the trucks,” said Hannah. “There’s no app that tracks every fallen tree or closed road in real time. It really is a community effort.”Hannah McInerney. Photo: Linda FaiersShe emphasised the RFS depends not only on the public to notify them of hazards, but also on the community to help spread the word.“We see locals sharing updates, starting shuttle threads, alerting others. We rely on that just as much as they rely on us. Everyone plays a part.”Shuttle threads are informal message chains, often shared in local Facebook groups, where residents offer each other lifts or real-time updates when roads are blocked. “Someone might say, ‘Tree down on Jamberoo Mountain,’ and that can make a real difference,” said Hannah.Residents are urged not to hesitate when it comes to calling for help. “Please call Triple Zero even if it’s just a tree down,” Hannah said. “It may not be a fire, but it’s still a hazard. A blocked road can lead to an accident.”She also offered a reminder to those living in tree-dense areas. “Make sure overhanging branches are checked and trimmed. If you’re concerned about access or safety, now’s the time to act.”Despite the challenging conditions, Hannah remains proud of her team and the community they serve. “We’re here to help. And we’re grateful when people call in hazards. It’’s how we know where we’re needed.”Show your support: attend the Jamberoo RFS charity concert The volunteers who protect our community need our support too. Join them for a night of live music, food, and fun — and help raise funds to keep the brigade strong and ready.📍 Jamberoo School of Arts Hall 🗓️ Saturday 24 May 🕕 7 pm till late 🎤 Live music, singing and dancing 🍷 Food and drinks at bar prices 🎟️ $40 tickets from Humanitix

Jamberoo local Alice Peel’s new book aims to tackle mental health earlyAlice Peel, a Jamberoo local and co-founder of the ground-breaking wellbeing program Grow Your Mind, hopes her new book can help children confront mental health challenges at an early age and promote resilience, emotional regulation and friendship skills.Her new book, How to Be a Fantastic, Sensational, Good-Enough Kid, was released on Tuesday.Grow Your Mind is already making waves in over 500 Australian schools, including Ss Peter and Paul Catholic School and Jamberoo Public School. The program evolved from her time as a primary school teacher, where she noticed students who could emotionally regulate and form lasting friendships tended to perform better academically.“I was working as a teacher, and it was clear that the kids who could manage their emotions and build friendships were also the ones feeling more connected and excelling in their schoolwork,” Peel said.With a background in public health, she became increasingly interested in understanding why some students performed better than others. This curiosity led her to study psychology and neuroscience.“I was really excited about teaching wellbeing to kids, but I was the only one who seemed to share my enthusiasm.“So I started thinking of ways to make it engaging. I introduced stories and animals that represented key parts of the brain, and the kids really got into it.”The success of the program, which she co-founded with Christina Freeman, alongside the Grow Your Mind podcast, caught the attention of a publisher who encouraged her to write a book. It is structured into 10 chapters, each beginning with a mini comic strip that sets the tone for the chapter’s lesson. “I thought, if that’s the only thing a kid reads, they’ll still get the moral of the whole chapter,” Peel added.Every chapter starts with a question, which she answers in a way that’s like having a teacher right there with the reader. Each chapter ends with a true story from a child, a “practice makes progress” section, and space for kids to write down their thoughts.“One of the fun parts is that each chapter has an animal helper who represents a key part of the brain. For example, the guard dog represents the amygdala, and we explore how the brain reacts to threat responses. It’s all about combining brain facts with real-life stories and lessons,” she said.Each chapter also includes a “Shine a Spotlight” page, encouraging kids to learn about important figures in Australian history, such as Adam Goodes or Gina Chick. “We want the book to feel interactive - like a living, breathing resource for kids,” Peel said.One of the chapters specifically addresses the challenges children face with their devices. It encourages kids to “be the boss of your device” and to replace screen time with “green time,” helping them to disconnect and reconnect with the world around them.“Technology is here to stay, but we don’t want kids to miss out on the present moment. This chapter encourages them to think about their digital health and balance it with real-world experiences,” Peel added.She believes mental health education must begin early, and that the concepts in her book should become normalised for children. “Prevention is much easier than cure. It's important for kids to understand that taking care of their mental health is as normal as brushing their teeth.“My goal is for kids to ask themselves, ‘What have I done for joy today?’ or ‘Who have I spent time with that makes me feel great?’ I want them to understand that mental health is just as important as physical health.”Peel hopes the book will be a valuable resource in both classrooms and homes, helping kids and teachers to engage with mental health in a fun and meaningful way.

The Federal Government has today announced plans to merge the names of Kiama, Gerringong, Jamberoo and Minnamurra.Under a barely believable plan which has been kept under wraps until April 1, The Bugle has been informed by an anonymous bureaucrat in Canberra that the proposal has the approval of both Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton should they win the election next month.The combined name of the four towns would be known as Kiamberringmurra.Signposts will need to be updated and the Federal Department for Place Names has allocated $12.34567879 million for the project.The government spokesperson said: “It is an ambitious project and you would have to be a fool on this date to believe that this will happen.”They can't be serious.P.S: Our newsroom has been contacted by a "local government organisation" about the money that washed up on Kendalls Beach and is making a claim to the missing millions.Happy April 1, everybody.

When Greg Brown picks up his guitar, it is not just for the love of music. It is for his father, for families facing cancer, and for communities that believe in coming together for a cause.He has called Kiama home since 1985, having spent over three decades running his local business, Kiama Landscaping and Mowing. These days, he has traded in the whippersnipper for a six-string and is on a mission to raise money for cancer charities through music.“My dad died of bowel cancer at 47. I was only 14 at the time,” Greg explains. “I just want to make as much money as I can for the Cancer Council.”Over the past year, he has begun performing live at local venues, with proceeds directed straight to cancer research.“I did a gig here in April last year and made a bit over $2000. Another one before Christmas brought in about $500,” he says. “It depends on how much notice I get. The more build-up, the better the turn-out.”Brown travels with his full kit, including amps, PA system and two guitars, and invites venues to donate what they would usually pay him to a Cancer Council QR code. Others attending the gigs are welcome to scan and contribute as well.Having recently purchased a van, he is now preparing to take his show on the road. “I want to travel around Australia in my van and do as many gigs as I can. I would love to perform at events that raise awareness and funds for cancer. That is what is on my bucket list.”He is also eager to connect with other musicians along the way. “I have been doing this mostly on my own, and it would be great to meet others who are out there playing and sharing their music. I’d love to learn how others organise their gigs, what equipment they use, how they manage recordings and sound, and maybe even collaborate on a few performances. "It’s not just about the music, it’s about building connections and being part of something bigger.”Though his hands are no longer full of mulch and mower fuel, he still volunteers where he can, at Landcare when time allows, and at the Kiama Men’s Shed, where he has been a regular for three years.His message is simple: “Let us use what we love - music, conversation, community - to make a difference. If I can raise funds and awareness, then it is all worth it.”For anyone who wants to support his journey, invite him to perform or help him connect with fellow musicians, he is just an email away: [email protected]

The Albanese Government has pledged an additional $14 million to extend critical community Wi-Fi services at evacuation centres across Australia to prioritise safety and resilience measures for natural-disaster prone communities.Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said the extra funding would add community Wi-Fi capability to a further 500 emergency sites, and extend services at 18 existing sites in Gilmore for an additional four years, beyond 2025.“Since coming to office, the Albanese Government has made significant investments to improve mobile coverage and the resilience of communications networks against natural disasters. “We have delivered more than 900 resilience projects just this term, including across Gilmore, with many more to come. “Our Government will work closely with the NSW government to prioritise disaster-prone areas that do not have emergency connectivity solutions to ensure this investment delivers where it is most needed.”  The Strengthening Telecommunications Against Natural Disasters (STAND) program has already installed NBN Co. Sky Muster satellite connections to 1068 locations Australia-wide.  This also includes emergency sites across areas in northern New South Wales and south east Queensland which were impacted during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. 

This is not just a walk. It’s a chance to restore the land, learn from local experts and join a movement that’s quietly regenerating our coastal future.The Kiama Coast Walk is already one of our most cherished natural assets. But this April, it becomes something more: a classroom, a nursery, and a place for connection. Supported by a grant from the BUPA Healthy Cities Landcare Australia program, five of Kiama’s volunteer Landcare groups are inviting locals and visitors to join them in a series of guided walks and community planting days, aimed at restoring native vegetation and reviving ecosystems long under stress.“The walk connects you to nature, but also to the people doing the quiet, consistent work to protect it,” said Meredith Hall, Landcare Coordinator with Landcare Illawarra. “This project is about showing the community what’s already happening along the track and inviting them to be part of it.”The program begins on Saturday 12 April with a guided walk from the Little Blowhole to Minnamurra Headland, led by local plant specialist Carl Glaister, who will highlight remnant species clinging to the cliffs and share stories of the landscape he has known since childhood.Carl, who spent decades working at Wollongong Botanic Garden and now runs a native nursery from his Kiama Downs home, believes learning about the plants fosters a deeper sense of place. “I get a real kick out of rediscovering little plants growing out of rocks that I remember from childhood,” Carl said. “Once you know their names, once you hear their stories, they become part of your own. It changes how you see the coast.”Little Blowhole.The social aspect is just as important. “As much as it’s about ecology, it’s about connection,” Carl added. “We’ve got people joining for the first time who just want to give back. Others come for the chat and stay for the friendships.”That sense of purpose resonates with Michael Forsyth, former general manager of Kiama Council and now a volunteer with the Little Blowhole Landcare group.“There’s a deep satisfaction in contributing to the restoration of degraded landscapes and seeing them returned to the community as places of shared value and beauty,” Forsyth said.“For me, it’s good for the soul and the mind, and it’s also a great way to meet people you might not otherwise cross paths with. That social connection is really valuable.”Throughout May, Landcare groups will host five community planting days across Bombo Beach, Kendalls Beach, Minnamurra, Werri Beach and the Little Blowhole, each aiming to plant 300 native seedlings. The goal is to bring back coastal plant communities such as Bangalay Sand Forest, Littoral Rainforest and Themeda Grassland.The program is supported by Kiama Council and open to everyone, whether you’re a long-time local or simply visiting.“You don’t need to be a plant expert,” Hall said. “You just need curiosity and a willingness to dig in.”Visit Landcare Illawarra website here to view the flyer, full schedule, and registration links.Guided walks• Saturday 12 April – Little Blowhole to Minnamurra Headland, guided by Carl Glaister• Saturday 3 May – Werri Beach  Guided by local Landcare leader and plant expert Ailee Calderbank.Planting days• Saturday 10 May – Bombo Beach (North End)• Saturday 17 May – Kendalls Beach (South End)• Sunday 18 May – Minnamurra• Saturday 24 May – Werri Beach• Saturday 31 May – Little Blowhole, Kiama

KIAMA MEN'S HOCKEY 4TH GRADE KIAMA 2 d ALBION PARK 1

KIAMA MEN'S HOCKEY2ND GRADEKIAMA 2 d ALBION PARK 0

OpinionNearly 60 years ago, residents of Kiama Downs were sounding the warning about beach erosion. In 2025, are we still just warning?The Kiama Downs Ratepayers’ Association raised concerns that sound all too familiar today in an article from the Kiama Independent in March 1967 titled Kiama Downs conference on erosion.Locals warned that “more intensive subdivision of the beach estate will ruin Boyd’s Beach.”Their concerns included heavy rain, poor drainage, outlet pipes discharging into the beach and confusion over who was responsible.It could have been written this week.The Minister for Conservation at the time, WJ Beale, acknowledged: “Drainage is not an easy problem to handle” and urged that it be addressed early.Yet many of those early warnings were never followed through.In the Kiama Downs Beach Erosion Ratepayers Survey, residents documented a tide of over six feet with drainage pipes submerged in sea water.“Commonsense dictates that these levels must be raised if we are to avoid tragedy in the future,” they wrote.Soon after, in an article titled Height limit raised at Boyds Beach, Kiama Council lifted the maximum building height from 15 to 22 feet after developer pressure.In Do stilts hit standards, debates continued about elevated homes that disrupted the coastal character and increased environmental risks.And in Statement on drainage at Kiama Downs, Council and developers were locked in a stalemate.Engineering firms confirmed beach drainage had not been completed. Yet development applications kept rolling in.The Kiama Downs subdivision appeal made it clear that drainage and erosion were still unresolved.Fast-forward to 2025 and we're still hearing about leaking sewer pipes, concerns over development near sensitive coastal zones and the protection of our rolling green hills.These headlines are not just fragments of the past. They are reflections of conversations we are still having.So it raises the bigger question: What do we want our community to look and feel like 20 or 30 years from now?One idea involves using a strong visual symbol, like a crystal ball with the question: “What does our LGA look like in 20 to 30 years?”, to prompt imagination and invite community input.These conversations will be grounded in lived experience and informed by our own history - not as nostalgia, but as a guide for better decision-making.By asking how we got here and where we want to go, we have an opportunity to shift the conversation.The pipes, the beach, the green hills and the decisions of the past are not just background.They are the foundation of the future we build from here.

If you've recently been down Terralong Street, you may have spotted new artwork on local bins. The photos, taken by local photographer Rowan Hollingworth, show his stunning nature inspired work.Throughout his life, visual arts - especially abstract art, Asian art and ceramics - have piqued Hollingworth's interest. A Kiama local since 2006, Hollingworth took up photography as a new hobby, building on his years of artistic experience. His photos are now on display on bins along Allowrie Street and Terralong Street until June.Hollingworth draws inspiration from Kiama’s natural surroundings, particularly the lichens and rocks near the famous blowhole. "I like the idea of sort of abstract in nature's patterns," he said, evident in his photos of leaf veins, seafoam bubbles, and lichens stretching over rocks.His work has received a positive response from locals, both online and in person. The eye-catching artwork.While driving down Terralong Street, a woman noticed the artwork on the bins and told Hollingworth: "I really like seeing that as I drive past." He responded, "I hadn't thought about, you know, people driving past and seeing it ... it's very well placed, I think."He extends a special thank you to Kiama Council for funding this initiative to support local artists and photographers. "It gives the photographers a little boost and makes the place look a bit more interesting," he said. "I hope they'll do it again next year."If you've enjoyed seeing his photography, you can purchase it - from April 4-9, Hollingworth and his photography group will host an exhibition at the Old Fire Station in Kiama. Featured pieces, such as his photo of yellow lichens on display outside the Kiama Presbyterian Church, and his image of leaves on a pink background shown in Jamberoo, will be available for sale during the exhibition. 

Dylan Egan is the toast of St George Illawarra after the Gerringong forward made a barnstorming NRL debut in Saturday’s upset win over competition favourites Melbourne.Egan came off the bench at Kogarah and played 49 quality minutes, making several strong runs and pulling off some powerful hits on his Storm opponents.He made four tackle breaks and got through 34 tackles in a performance which caught the eye of co-captain Damien Cook.The former Illawarra Steelers SG Ball Cup captain was not the only Gerringong product on the field with teammate Hamish Stewart also playing strongly in just his third NRL game while Tyran Wishart started at halfback for Melbourne."I was excited to watch him debut, just seeing how hard he works at training," Cook said."I didn't know anything about him before getting to the Dragons (this season). “But he's an effort-based player, all the boys love him in the team as well and he never lets anyone down."And that's one of the best debuts I've seen from a young guy, too. He came in against a quality side in Melbourne. In the end, getting that penalty was definitely a big reason why we could close it out."St George Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan was equally impressed with the 20-year-old second-rower."He is going to have a long future in the NRL, he trains so hard, he knows his footy, he moves well. His determination and attitude is top shelf, so a long career for Dylan Egan," he said.Egan was swamped by a huge group of family and friends when he walked over to the Kogarah hill after the game with many of them wearing T-shirts adorned with his name and photos to celebrate the occasion.

Kiama Oztag took seven Kiama Phantoms representative teams to the Oztag State Cup in Coffs Harbour from last weekend , with the Senior Mixed Opens team making it to the quarter-finals before bowing out.The Kiama Phantoms entered teams in the omen’s 20s, Men’s 20s, Mixed Opens, Men’s 30s, Men’s 40s, and, for the first time ever, a Women’s 37s side - something Kiama Oztag coordinator Keiron Duncan described as “unreal”.“It’s amazing to see women deciding to play representative tag in their 30s. It just proves that it’s never too late to start,” Duncan said.Duncan said while all teams were competitive, the state competition is about more than just winning.“For a small association like ours, it’s important to get away and enjoy the experience. It’s about having fun with your mates and making lifelong friends. When you walk around the fields and catch up with people you haven’t seen in a long time, that’s what makes it special,” he said.The senior mixed team. “You get to have a beer, socialise, and enjoy the friendly rivalry. Winning is great, but it’s the mateship and camaraderie that really make the experience worthwhile.”Duncan is in New Zealand with several other Kiama locals who are representing Australia in the Australian Tagaroos.“I don’t even know the exact number, but the local talent here in New Zealand is amazing. Local Paul Emerson has also been named as the Australian Tagaroos ambassador for the tournament, which is fantastic,” he added.He encourages people of all ages to try out representative competitions, stressing that they are truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences - and as the Women’s 37s team proves, it’s never too late to get involved.“I don’t know anyone who’s participated, whether junior or senior, and hasn’t had a positive experience. Especially with our association, we’re doing things right and creating an environment where everyone can compete while having fun. Whether you’re 10 or 40, I recommend giving it a go,” says Duncan.

Greyleigh, the crown jewel of Kiama’s hinterland, set the stage for a spectacular evening of elegance, connection and purpose as guests gathered for The Man Walk’s premier fundraising event. From roaming canapés and a dessert bar to a silent auction and heartfelt speeches, the formal garden party drew supporters from Kiama, Jamberoo, Sydney and beyond, all united by one goal - keeping men walking and talking. And talk they did.Among those speaking was Glenn “Ernie” Wright, a poet, former soldier and long-time supporter of The Man Walk. His poem, written on the morning of the event, moved the crowd to tears.“No one is immune to the pressures of life,” Ernie said. “Sometimes just walking beside someone is enough to help them keep going.”Founder and CEO Mark Burns also addressed the gathering, reflecting on how far the movement has come and the people who helped shape his thinking along the way.One of those people is Judy Henderson, who also spoke that night. Judy held Mark in her arms when he was just three days old. Her decades-long career in international policy and change management has made her a trusted voice in his life.“She’s a voice of intelligent reason,” Mark said. “When I’m unsure, Judy is one of the first people I call. She reminds me what matters, and how to keep going with care and purpose.”When Judy stood to speak, she didn’t say much, but her words landed with weight.“Their pride in him was shining when he was three days old,” she said, speaking of Mark’s late parents. “And I know it would be just as strong if they could see him now.”Derek McMahon Alan Threlfall Joe Cato and Paul TurnbullThe Man Walk, which began humbly in Kiama, now operates in more than 80 locations across Australia and internationally.Its quiet success stems from its simplicity: regular walks, no judgment, just conversation and connection. The ripple effect touches not just the men who walk, but their families and communities.One of the longstanding board members helping to steer that growth is property developer Charlie Daoud. On this night, he was simply one of many giving his time and energy to a cause that has quietly changed lives.“The mental health crisis can affect anyone, at any point of their lives, and that’s the scariest thing,” Charlie said. “When we hand over the keys to a new homeowner, there is a level of satisfaction, of course."But nothing compares to the feeling of knowing you’ve genuinely helped someone, or a large part of the community, through the Man Walk. This kind of satisfaction does not fade. It only grows stronger with time. And I hope we can continue to increase the scope and influence of the Man Walk for years to come.”Robert and Rhonda Williams, Fiona Phillips and Stuart Larkins.Chairing the board is Alex Wade, a former finance executive who once called Kiama home and now lives in the UK.He joined The Man Walk during a difficult period in his life and has helped expand its reach globally, including a new walk in a small village in Wiltshire.While the gala was dazzling, the message was grounded. “We do need more support from the big end of town,” Alex noted. “But we’re building something powerful here, and people want to be part of it.” Perhaps, in time, the Kiama community will begin to see some familiar names in a new light, not just for what they build, but for how they show up.Because at the heart of this movement is something simple. A man walking beside another man. And that, in the end, is how change begins.Gareth Ward, Mick Emmett, Nathan Strong and Lance Cross.