The Group 7 Jamberoo Rugby League Club (RLC) have officially got a new name, the Jamberoo Golden Valley Superoos. The announcement comes alongside the introduction of their 2025 inaugural sponsor: the developers behind the Golden Valley subdivision.Jennifer Macquarie, Director of the Fountaindale Group, the developers of the Golden Valley  subdivision, says the partnership with the club is an honour and a great opportunity for both parties.“We’re very excited to be doing this because we know that clubs like this are the backbone of small towns,” says Macquarie. “This subdivision will bring 50 new families to Jamberoo, and what better way for them to integrate into the community than by getting involved with and joining the football club?”Trevor Dallas, President of the Jamberoo RLC, describes the partnership as a significant financial relief for the club, adding that it strengthens the connection with the community.“As a small community trying to field a first-grade side, there’s a lot of pressure. There are cost constraints, and having the Fountaindale Group on board to support us really gives us a vote of confidence. It’s reassuring to know that the community is behind us and wants to see us succeed,” says Dallas.Jamberoo has produced a number of outstanding rugby league players over the years, but Dallas acknowledges that, due to the town’s size, the club must rely on recruiting players from outside the area—something that can be financially challenging. The new sponsorship will help address this.“While we’ve been fortunate to have junior players progress to higher levels, we’re a club that needs to bring in outside players to remain competitive, and that’s costly,” says Dallas.David Hall, Vice President of the club, highlights that the new subdivision will not only bring in new families but also new contributors to the club, helping to sustain its growth.“This is great for both groups – Fountaindale and us. They’re bringing more people into Jamberoo, which means more potential supporters and contributors to our club, and that’s something we really appreciate,” says Hall.Macquarie agrees, adding, “We hope to deliver new young players, volunteers, and bring a fresh energy to the community.”After a challenging 2024 season, where the team secured only two wins, the Jamberoo Golden Valley Superoos are optimistic about the 2025 season. With a number of new players already signed, Dallas is confident the squad will be much stronger.“We’re shaping up pretty well so far. It was a tough year last year – our long-term coach retired, and we lost a lot of players. But this year, the same coach is back after 12 months of preparation, and Jono Dallas is coaching alongside him. We’ve got a competitive squad, so we’re feeling pretty confident,” says Dallas.The Jamberoo Golden Valley Superoos will wear jerseys and club apparel featuring the Golden Valley logo, and their clubhouse will also be known as the Golden Valley Clubhouse.

Orry-Kelly was a three time Oscar winner who worked with celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Bette Davis and Katherine Hepburn. He has credits on 300 films which include titles like Casablanca, 42nd Street and Some Like It Hot. When he died in 1964 his pallbearers included Cary Grant, Tony Curtis, Billy Wilder and George Cukor and his eulogy was read by Jack Warner.You would expect a man like this to be widely celebrated and known in his home country, especially his hometown. And yet, ask the majority of people in Kiama if they know who Orry-Kelly is and they would be hard-pressed to give you an answer.Yes, Orry-Kelly was born in Kiama in 1897 and lived here until he moved to Sydney at age 17. He won three Academy Awards in 1951, 1957 and 1959 and he is known for the way he would tailor the clothes toward the actor and the character.Other than a few artefacts featured in the Pilot’s Cottage Museum and the Orry-Kelly stage in Hindmarsh Park - Orry has not had much prominence in his hometown.President and Secretary of the Kiama Historic Society Sue Eggins says that this is an improvement as when she joined the organisation in the middle of the 1980’s they had no record of Orry-Kelly at all.“No one knew or had heard of Orry-Kelly, I hadn’t heard about him and we didn’t even have a file on him in the museum. We had a file on his father William Kelly, but nothing on Orry. All they had was that they thought his name was Horace,” says Eggins.Eggins first found out about Orry in 1994 when she was handed an 8 page Vogue Magazine article written by Karin Upton Baker.“That was just a wonderful article,” says Eggins. “And from that I started talking about him. I’ve probably done a hundred talks all over - some for the historic society, the library, Probus clubs, the Lions club, Apex clubs, lots of bus groups that come to the museum - so I’ve been preaching about him but still no one seems to have heard of him.”In 2015, Australian Director Gillian Armstrong (Little Women) released the film Women He’s Undressed, a documentary film about Orry’s life. Eggins is credited as a researcher for the film.“The producer Damien Parer came down a number of times and then Gillian Armstrong contacted me and she came down a number of times with Katherine Thompson, who was the scriptwriter for the film,” says Eggins.“I drove them around the town, showing them the different places. I picked a lot of spots that they could film from, they wanted photos without the highway and the trainline so I showed them that. I picked out a dozen photos from the archive, which were photos of the town around 1890 and the 1900s as that’s when Orry would have lived here.”Eggins felt the film might have brought Orry-Kelly back into the spotlight, but she still feels he hasn’t got enough awareness in the local area. As a result, Eggins and a group of individuals called Kiama Icons and Artists are planning a major event to celebrate Orry in July, 2025 at The Sebel.“He was a little boy in Kiama who went off to become a Hollywood star. He was the only Australian for a long time with three oscars. It’s been ten years since the film, so anything to get Orry back into the spotlight,” says Eggins.“This event will celebrate Orry’s life, his movies, fashion, art, plays - everything. And I just hope that he finally gets that recognition he deserves.”If you're interested in supporting this celebration, join Kiama Icons and Artists on December 1 at 3 PM at The Sebel. Together, we can honour Orry-Kelly and ensure his legacy is remembered. More information about the event can be found here.

Champagne flowed, fashions wowed and some were lucky to win a sweepstake as Melbourne Cup Day was celebrated in style at various venues.This group of ladies from Kiama had every intention of catching the train, but as plans often go, they found themselves hopping on a bus instead – and what a fabulous entrance they made! Decked out in outfits that radiate personality and flair, they caught more than a few glances as they made their way to the Gerringong Co-op to celebrate Melbourne Cup Day with a luncheon. It’s not every day you see such a vibrant gathering on public transport, and each of these women had a story to tell about her outfit.True to their values, no one here dashed to the shops for a new dress. Instead, they chose from their existing wardrobes, pulling out pieces that have stood the test of time – some even decades old. For these ladies, fashion is as much about memories as it is about style.Their bus driver even joined them for a quick photo, making it a moment to remember. Together, they embody the spirit of the day – celebrating friendships, sustainability, and the fun of dressing up for an occasion. The bus journey might not have been part of the original plan, but with this group, every moment is part of the adventure.Lizzie Souter, radiant in her red fascinator and flowing purple shawl, stands out at the Gerringong Co-op Melbourne Cup luncheon. She raises her glass with a wide smile, embodying both elegance and playfulness. Today, her outfit is more than just a stylish choice – it’s a tribute to the Red Hat Society, a movement she recently joined that celebrates the joys of aging with friendship, humour, and a dash of rebellion.The Red Hat Society encourages women over 50 to embrace life in a bold, unapologetic way. Its members wear red hats and purple attire as symbols of their commitment to living life on their own terms, free from societal expectations about how they “should” act or dress. For Lizzie, the society wasn’t just about the outfits or gatherings; it was about connecting with like-minded women who find joy in each other’s company and who believe that age should never dull one’s spirit.Today, Lizzie raises her glass not just to the Melbourne Cup but to the society that has brought her laughter, connection, and a renewed zest for life. Her attire, much like her spirit, shines brightly – a perfect reflection of the Red Hat Society’s joyous and enduring message.Fashion show at Gerringong CoopYves at the Sebel celebrated with a bottomless champagne brunch Kiama Leagues Club attracted some well dressed puntersKiama Leagues Club celebrationsYves celebrations

On Thursday, November 7, at 5pm, a local Renters’ Forum will be held at the Dapto Ribbonwood Centre, offering renters the chance to share their experiences and help shape the future of renting in New South Wales.Renters’ forums have been highly successful in the past, with over 200 renters participating in five forums recently held across the state. Together, they have been instrumental in securing historic rental reforms, including the abolition of no-grounds evictions and steps towards more pet-friendly tenancy laws.“Renters had some big wins recently, especially with eviction reforms being passed in the last few weeks. But there is still a lot of work to do,” said Jemima Mowbray, Policy and Advocacy Manager at the Tenants' Union of NSW.“This is a critical moment for renters to share their experiences and insights. We want to ensure renters’ voices are heard on what more needs to change, as well as share their thoughts on how we go about doing it.”The Illawarra Renters' Forum will provide a space for local renters to connect, discuss challenges, and propose solutions. The NSW Rental Commissioner, Trina Jones, will be in attendance to ensure renters' perspectives are considered in upcoming rental reforms.“This is a chance for renters to come together and build momentum for a better rental system,” continued Jemima from the Tenants’ Union.“We want to bring renters together to talk about the challenges they are facing, but also the solutions they want to see. Renters should be at the centre of efforts to design and implement responses to the housing crisis, including what’s needed to address the impacts of climate change.”The Forum is open to all renters in the Illawarra who want to contribute, but registration is essential. Renters in the community can register until 12pm Thursday November 7, but places are filling fast! Register here.Forum DetailsDate: Thursday, 7 November 2024Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PMLocation: Dapto Ribbonwood Centre, Dapto NSW

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has announced that significant progress is being made on the Jervis Bay Road interchange, with key developments set to occur this month as the project advances.The Jervis Bay Road interchange will complete the extensive upgrade of the Princes Highway, which has seen over $2 billion invested from Albion Park Rail to Jervis Bay Road.“Making the Princes Highway safer has been a career obsession for me. We worked with our community and the government and now a grade-separated interchange at Jervis Bay Road is rising out of the ground and I am so pleased that the project is on track,” Mr. Ward said in a press release.“Many people thought this would never happen or that it was all too hard. But when I make a promise, I always get it done.”In November, construction will ramp up with the commencement of the bridge foundation, the new entrance to Willowgreen Road, major earthworks, and the import of materials for embankment construction. Work will also include building road surfaces on the Princes Highway, Jervis Bay Road, Old Princes Highway, and Willowgreen Road, along with the construction of the eastern roundabout and ongoing utility work.During work hours, there will be some temporary traffic changes to ensure worksite safety. Lane and shoulder closures, as well as reduced speed limits of 60 km/h or 40 km/h, may be in place on the Princes Highway, Old Princes Highway, Willowgreen Road, Jervis Bay Road, and Gardner Road during these times.“Whilst there are 10 night shifts planned as required, hours of work remain between 7AM to 6PM Monday to Friday and 8AM to PM on Saturdays,” said Mr Ward.In response to this, Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips expressed excitement for the work to be completed.“I’m really delighted to see work progressing on the Jervis Bay flyover. Every time I drive past, I feel so proud that I secured $100 million in federal funding for this major project which will significantly improve the road safety and reduce travel times for local residents,” says Phillips.Phillips revealed that the Federal Government is also injecting $400 million into the upgrade of a six kilometre stretch of the Princes Highway between Jervis Bay Road and Hawken Road.“Two lanes in each direction, separated by a median barrier, will improve driver safety, as will the upgraded intersection at Hawken Road, Tomerong, with an overpass connecting Hawken Road to Blackbutt Range Road,” says Phillips.

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips has championed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s weekend announcement that, under the Albanese Government, fee-free TAFE would continue in Australia.Mrs Phillips, who was a TAFE teacher for over a decade, says that her Labor Government will legislate to guarantee over 100,000 fee-free TAFE places a year from 2027.Since the initiative launched in 2023, the Albanese Government has delivered 180,000 fee-free TAFE places this year alone and promises to provide 300,000 places over the next three years. Mrs Phillips emphasises the tangible impact of this program.“Since fee-free TAFE started in January 2023 to 30 June 2024, we’ve seen more than 508,000 enrolments in courses in priority areas, including disability and aged care, digital and tech, construction and early childhood education and care,” says Mrs Phillips.Mrs Phillips said fee-free TAFE was helping people from priority cohorts, with 170,000 young Australians, 124,000 job seekers and 30,000 First Nations Australians enrolling in the program.“It’s also really great to see six in 10 places have been taken up by women, and one in three have been in regional and remote Australia, including Gilmore,” she says.With housing shortages becoming an issue in our country, Mrs Phillips said fee-free TAFE was helping fill gaps in industries with high need.“Since coming to government, I have witnessed how our fee-free TAFE is making a real difference locally - at Nowra, Moruya and Ulladulla TAFE campuses. Trade courses such as carpentry and electrical are booming in Gilmore,” says Mrs Phillips.Mrs Phillips also took the opportunity to contrast the Albanese Government’s approach to TAFE with that of the previous Liberal government. “Under the Libs, the TAFE Nowra Campus was looking more like a morgue. Under the Libs, campuses were closed, courses were slashed, enrolments dropped and more than 5000 teachers were cut from TAFE. “So, it should come as no surprise that the Liberals labelled our fee-free TAFE ‘wasteful spending’,” says Mrs Phillips.

In 2025, Australia’s longest running and largest national day of environmental action, Clean Up Australia Day, will celebrate 35 years of bringing local communities together to Clean Up and help to improve and conserve our environment. To commemorate this milestone, Clean Up Australia is calling on all Aussies to register for the 2025 event which will be held on Sunday March 2 and join their local communities in making this year the biggest one yet.  Clean Up Australia was founded in 1990 by Ian Kiernan AO. Since its inception, over 22 million Australians have registered as a volunteer for Clean Up activities within their local community year round. The 2024 Clean Up Australia Day campaign alone collected an estimated 140,000 bags of litter nationally, highlighting the continued importance and relevance of Clean Up events and volunteers. Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia said: “Clean Up Australia has a rich history of mobilising Australians to take practical action to clear up the mass amount of litter and waste that makes its way into our beautiful waterways and other natural surroundings. We know that 35 years on from when my father, Ian Kiernan, started this iconic organisation, our fight against litter is nowhere near over, but we also know that as a society we need to shift our habits to consider litter prevention and best practice to stop it from entering our environment in the first place.”  The FY23 Clean Up Australia Litter Report which provides an annual snapshot of litter collected by volunteers in a calendar year, highlighted that plastics continue to dominate, marking 81% of all surveyed litter. The report also showed that 44% of all litter was cleared from waterway sites, 16% from parks and 11% from bushland, demonstrating the need to encourage as many Australians as possible to glove up and get out into the community on Clean Up Australia Day and events throughout the new year. “I truly hope that in 2025 we can rally as many Aussies as possible to get behind Clean Up Australia and make it the biggest year of action to date. Nothing makes us prouder than to see communities from all walks of life and generations coming together with a common goal of making a difference for our precious environment,” Pip said. Registrations for Clean Up Australia Day 2025 are now open. Volunteers can receive a free Clean Up kit, containing gloves, bags and other resources, with packs for individuals, families and community groups available (businesses are asked to pay a small fee to cover costs).  If you are unable to participate, donations to Clean Up Australia are welcome, with 100% of funds raised going directly to empowering Australians to take positive action for the environment and providing Clean Up kits. Register now at cleanup.org.au for Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday March 2, 2025. Business Clean Up Day on Tuesday February 25, 2025 and Schools Clean Up Day on Friday February 28, 2025.

Did you enjoy the KISS festival? Wish the fun could last longer? Well why wish when you have the Kazador all month long! Tamara and Dave, the power couple behind Laughter House Entertainment and by extension, the Kazador, have put so much love and effort into bringing diverse entertainment and talent into the heart of Kiama.Tom Ballard, an Australian comedian, broadcaster, actor, and writer, brought his sharp, bold, and cheeky comedy to Kiama on Friday, November 1. He took aim at local MPs, the monarchy, and HelloFresh, but the brunt of his jokes landed on himself. The audience embraced his crowd work, actively participating and enjoying the laughs together in the intimate setting of the Kazador tent.If comedy isn't your style, there are upcoming shows to fit everyone's taste. From paint and sips, to daring stunts, to their ‘wine downs’ on weekends. Particularly exciting is Tamara and Dave's ‘A kind of magic’ show performed by their alter egos, Kiki and Pascal. By now, Kiama locals are familiar with their mix of humour, magic, contortion and more. Their new show, "A Kind of Magic," is sure to keep the energy high and the fun rolling.With 20 more days of talent to go, make sure to check out the upcoming shows here and get your tickets fast. Support local talent, arts and entertainment by buying a ticket this season and your support will go towards bringing the KISS festival back for years to come. The KISS festival, a free event for the public, is an invaluable asset to our town. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Tamara and Dave for their dedicated efforts in bringing the arts to the community through KISS and the Kazador. 

The Country Women’s Association marked a grand 25th anniversary of ‘Opera in the Valley’ last night at Jamberoo School of Arts, led once again by the talented Maestro Glen Amer. This year’s program was dedicated to the works of Puccini, commemorating the centenary of his passing, and featured a line-up of vocalists who breathed life into each piece with stunning precision and charisma.This is my second year covering this remarkable event, and once again, Glen Amer delivered a top-tier performance. Known for his engaging commentary, Amer provides insightful introductions to each piece, offering the audience both context and humour - transforming the night into an experience that’s as educational as it is entertaining. His warmth and wit create a comfortable atmosphere, making each artist’s performance even more memorable.One standout aspect of ‘Opera in the Valley’ is the complete absence of microphones. The singers’ voices fill the hall with clarity, every note resonating beautifully, unaided by technology. Dressed in elegant attire - either classic tuxedos or glamorous gowns - the performers exude star quality.The ticket, priced at only $60, includes an extraordinary level of entertainment and the CWA’s signature spread of treats at the supper that follows the performance. In a moment of pride for the event, Amer mentioned that soprano Catherine Bouchier, a newcomer to Jamberoo, will soon perform at the Opera House on New Year’s Eve - a performance commanding hundreds of dollars per ticket!Catherine Bouchier’s presence was both powerful and electrifying, with her statuesque form and striking voice captivating the audience. Another debut in Jamberoo, baritone Gennadi Dubinski, originally from Russia, won the crowd with his rich tones, especially during his lively rendition of “If I Were a Rich Man” from Fiddler on the Roof.Catherine BouchierGennadi DubinskiReturning favourites also graced the stage. Mezzo-soprano Michaela Hodgson (formerly Leisk) brought her expressive face and vibrant personality to each song, drawing particular applause for her rendition of “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina.” Tenor Matthew Reardon, known for his warm stage presence, enchanted the audience with his rich tones, delivering each piece with heartfelt precision.Michaela HodgsonMatthew ReardonThe event concluded with a breathtaking performance of ‘Amigos Para Siempre,’ involving all four singers, but the encore, Nessun Dorma, from the Turandot opera, brought the audience to their feet. Although traditionally a tenor piece, the female vocalists joined in parts, adding a fresh dimension to this much-loved aria.Special commendation goes to Glen Amer, who skilfully accompanied every piece on piano, and even sang two selections himself. The performers - Bouchier, Hodgson, Reardon, and Dubinski - were spectacular, each bringing their unique flair to the evening. Acknowledgement and thanks also go to MC Brian Petschler, Vivienne Marris, Alan Fowlie, Trevor Fredericks, the Jamberoo Rural Fire Services, and of course, the CWA, whose tireless members make this event possible. A special mention goes to Cathy Delhaas, who has organised ‘Opera in the Valley’ since its inception.Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the next gathering on the first Saturday in November 2025, confident it will continue to inspire and entertain. Until then.Sue Good, Melissa Matters and Jenny JuddBrad Wenzel and Jenny JuddChris Bergman, Florence Rankin, Graeme Lock LeeEliza & Gloria Dalla ValleJohn & Helen Francis, Anto & Felicity Brocca, Jane & Piers ParburyLynn & Malcolm BedfordLynne Strong and Belle WoodVanessa & Liv Talbot, and Anne Hattersley

Work has officially started to transform the historic Nowra Bridge into a dedicated pedestrian and cycling path, thanks to a $20 million investment from both the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments. This iconic community landmark, over 140 years old, will undergo a four-stage renovation over the next three years.Stage one, commencing on Monday, 11 November, will involve extensive repairs, including:- Truss repairs and lattice work on the end trusses,- Concrete bridge deck repairs,- Removal of old handrail connections, and- Replacement of rosette-style bracing washers.Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips expressed excitement for the project. “This transformation has been discussed for years, and it’s the Albanese and Minns Governments that are making it a reality,” said Phillips. “Our community can look forward to a renewed, active transport option once the work is complete.”State Member for South Coast Liza Butler echoed the sentiment, adding that the bridge has long needed “tender love and care.” NSW Labor’s Kiama spokesperson, Dr. Sarah Kaine MLC, also thanked community members who have advocated for this project, highlighting its importance as a regional asset.The first stage is expected to take around six months, with work carried out between 7 am and 6 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. The historic bridge will remain closed during the work, with temporary fencing, signage, and security measures in place for public safety.Further updates on future stages, including the removal of the cantilevered footpath, repainting, and new lighting installation, will be provided as the project progresses.

Gerringong Library is one of the oldest free public libraries in the state and this month it will celebrate 150 years of literary glory, when it launches its Sesquicentennial Exhibition on November 7. The library was built in 1874, after Gerringong council decided Kiama library was too far away for locals to access. The council voted to house a collection of books in the town's Fern St grocery store and owner Mary Ann Scott charged £14 a year for the space and her librarian duties. The library moved into the Soldiers Memorial Hall in 1921, before shifting to Gerringong’s Town Hall when it was built in 1950. In 2021 it moved into its new premises on Blackwood St, which includes the Gerringong Museum and GLam Gallery.To mark the library’s 150th celebrations, Gerringong & District Historical Society will host 'A night at the museum' with Caroline Baum from 5.30-7.30pm on November 7.Baum, a well-known journalist and radio and television broadcaster, will discuss the history and importance of libraries in shaping the nation’s literary landscape.Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through the library website. The GLaM Gallery will also host a free Sesquicentennial Exhibition from November 8-23.

When John Hansen first thought about restoring the historic Kiama boat, the MV Signa, he had no idea what he was getting himself into. After 14,000 hours of work by seven dedicated volunteers in their 70s and 80s - they’re almost there.The MV Signa has been selected to participate in the International Timber Boat Festival in Hobart in February 2025, and they are looking to raise $10,000 to fund the voyage.“In April we were selected as one of the boats. There will probably be something like 1,500 pieces of craft down there and we hope to be one of the 187 in the Harbour as a festival exhibit which is a big honour,” says Signa owner John Hansen.On July 17 2022, the historic Signa boat was lifted out of Kiama Harbor to be transported to Albion Park for its restoration and then on May 8 of 2024 it returned to its home in the harbour and has since had some more work done on it.But what compels 7 seniors, all retired, to take on an insane task such as this one? They all could be kicking their feet up and taking the relaxation they’ve earnt, but instead they were stressing and sweating and hurting for 2 years over the restoration of an old boat.According to Hansen, the project was driven by love rather than profit. The crew—Hansen, Rex Jones, Rob “Hoff” Hoffmeister, Peter “Rookie” Rook, Richard “Don” Romanczukiewicz, Lawrie Lovegrove, and Geoff “Smokey” Farrah—became like family, with Graham Williams and Craig Jones providing significant help.“To see that boat come back from where it was to where it is now, I just felt so much pride, not only in the fact that I've done a lot of work, but also that a group of us could work so well together, without a blow, without a fight, without an injury, to make that boat come alive again,” says Hansen.“It changed our lives. The team were looking for purpose; they played golf on Saturdays and Thursdays, but this project became the glue that kept us together.”Hansen says that the time spent together with the crew was cherished everyday. They’d always eat breakfast together and they would often get together outside of work for barbecues.“Every morning, I made tea, bread, cakes, and coffee. Lunchtime meant fresh salad sandwiches with different meats, and once a week we’d have a proper barbecue with steak or sausages,” he shares.The French writer Antoine De Saint Exupery has a quote which goes, “Once we are bound to our brothers by a common goal that is outside us, then we can breathe. Experience teaches us that to love is not to gaze at one another but to gaze together in the same direction.”This quote encapsulates the massive two year project that these seven Kiama locals embarked on to restore the Signa, and the climax for that project would be for them to sail it to Tasmania and present it at the festival. Hansen is asking for support from the local community to help fundraise the $10,000 needed for fuel and other expenses for their journey. The Bugle will be organising this fundraiser, so if you would like to pledge, please contact us at [email protected].

By Carol Goddard So there we were, our last night in Montmartre, before a very early start the next morning, the beginning of our trek home to Australia after a glorious European holiday.Hubby, knowing my penchant for making any situation into a celebration, gives me warning:“Carol, we’re having a quiet night tonight. Just a few bevies at the pub down the street, a meal and an early night- got a 5am start tomorrow.”Off we walk down Rue Lepic, in the heart of Montmartre, a stones throw from naughty Pigalle, teeming with cocktail hour activity, and only minutes away from the Moulin Rouge.Lux BarSo we take up our stools at the bar in the little pub called The Lux, to do all our “lasts”; last drinks, last food, last people watching.We have sampled the delights of the Lux on a few previous nights, and the very outgoing waiter Max found us Aussies quite delightful.So much so that he had talked about us to a group of his regulars, who happen at this moment to be sitting at a nearby table , ensconced in drinking aperitifs , and playing a card game.These regulars are students from the nearby Sorbonne, 5 young men and women aged in their late 20s. And they apparently find us Aussie oldies to be quite fascinating.From their table they strike up a conversation with us. They introduce themselves; they are extremely articulate, and friendly.We are polite in our responses, and Max assures us they are “good kids”.They ask us to join them at their table.We respectfully decline, telling them we were only there for The One.A few minutes later, 2 little blue shots are brought to us by Max.Our new friends have shouted us.And they are now going on a Parisian pub crawl , and would we like to join them?I sense that this is potentially going to be the start of one of those travel adventures we would long remember. And I so want to join these kids.But: we have that early start looming.And, more to the point, are we being reckless, going off with a bunch of kids we’d just met? In a bar?? In a foreign country?We throw caution to the wind.And so begins a surreal, memorable, crazy pub crawl through the streets of Montmartre, which I still remember to this day with a smile and a happy heart.We go from bar to bar. All of them are student haunts, none we as tourists would have found on our own, let alone frequented.Some are so packed with bodies it is almost impossible to move. Music pumps, lights flash, and conversation due to noise is impossible.And at each place we have a different drink, bought for us by our new friends.I recall one drink which has smoke emanating from it , intriguing!Fortunately, David, one of our new friends, summons up some cheese, meats and cornichons with bread to accompany the cocktails, and in the ensuing conversation he tells me his family owns a vineyard in Bordeaux, and wants him to join the family business, which he has no interest in doing.This was just one of many tales that night.Over the next hours , we learn so much about the lives of these kids we’ve only just met. One is a local radio DJ, one has recently been released from jail, crime unspecified.And at 1am, it is time to eat.This is Montmartre. You can find a meal at any time. And so we eat pizza, their choice, drink Amaretto , as you do at 1am, and finally say goodbye to our young French friends.And of course ,we pay for everyone’s meal, before staggering back to our hotel at 3am.Yes: that early start is in 2 hours time.Much the worse for wear, we are soon on our way back to Australia.And the memories of that “quiet night” still make me glow all these years later.

When Ian Clifford glances out of his window after dark he always checks to make sure Kiama Lighthouse is shining bright.An electrical engineer who has worked in radio and television and now does contract electronics and communications work, Mr Clifford has made it his mission to try and ensure all 142 heritage lighthouses across Australia are maintained and preserved.Source: Kiama Historical SocietyMr Clifford is president of Lighthouses of Australia, a volunteer-run organisation tasked with promoting, protecting and preserving the hundreds of lighthouses that dot Australia’s coastline. It is a lifelong passion that started when he was a young boy growing up near the famous Cape Byron lighthouse.“We would roam the headland as free-range kids and annoy the keeper to take us up,” he recalls. When Mr Clifford moved to Kiama more than 30 years ago he was delighted to discover the lighthouse, which he can see shining in his windows, was an integral part of the community. One day he noticed Kiama’s iconic beacon wasn’t lit up, so he “went to some pretty great lengths” to contact the relevant custodians to ensure it was fixed. When it happened again NSW Transport and Maritime Services entrusted Mr Clifford with its maintenance.“I’m almost like a modern-day keeper,” says Mr Clifford. “The custodians handed me a key and said ‘we’ll call you if it doesn’t work’. So on the rare occasion it needs to be fixed, I sort it out. But it’s very reliable these days.”When lightning struck the tower in 2017, Mr Clifford was part of a team tasked with removing the electronic system installed in the 1970s. It was replaced with an LED conversion system that turns off at sunrise and on at sundown.Mr Clifford still checks nightly to make sure the iconic lighthouse burns bright. “I automatically glance at it every night and say ‘yeah it’s working’,” he laughs. Kiama is one of 350 working lighthouses across Australia. Built in November 1886 for £1350 pounds, it was lit up for the first time on New Year’s Day, 1887. For more than three decades a keeper would continuously light an oil-burning wick throughout the night to ensure the beacon - originally a green light - alerted ships to the dangers of Blowhole Point. Gas replaced oil in the early 1900s and by 1920 the lighthouse was unmanned. Kiama Lighthouse was electrified in 1969. “Kiama, like many heritage lighthouses, still has its original glass lens manufactured in 1886,” says Mr Clifford. “A UK company developed an LED array that could be retrofitted to the optic lenses of heritage lighthouses, some dating back even earlier than the 1880s. The heritage of these lighthouses might be a legacy from the past, but I see it as a gift for the future.The Iconic Kiama Lighthouse“Lighthouses are such a visible and rich part of Australia’s maritime heritage. They are a symbol of safety, strength, resilience and security and remain an exceptionally reliable navigational tool, even with the invention of GPS.“Many lives were saved because without lighthouses there was nothing for ships to navigate by at night, especially when it was cloudy. It is our job to preserve and protect that history and to share those stories.”Earlier this month Mr Clifford was invited to speak to experts from around the world at the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities meeting in Sydney. Kiama Lighthouse got a mention in his speech. So did Point Perpendicular, whose light was deactivated in 1994, 95 years after it was first turned on. Mr Clifford and the team from Lighthouses of Australia have worked tirelessly for the past 25 years, lobbying to have the Jervis Bay lighthouse returned to a heritage site and the lights switched back on permanently.Kiama Lighthouse's optic lens“Hopefully we are successful," says Mr Clifford. "The area where I can really make a difference is working with the custodians to try and achieve conservation of heritage lighthouses as much as is practical. Lighthouses of Australia have come to realise the public is very interested in the heritage of our lighthouses. Kiama is a great example of that, it has an incredibly high visitation rate and there is always someone in front of it taking a photo.”

I’ll admit it: I’m going to a Melbourne Cup luncheon—not because I’m a racing enthusiast, or I have a vested interest in fascinators but for the chance to meet people and catch up with friends. When I invited a few others, two of them gave a firm, polite "no," explaining that horse racing doesn’t align with their values. And I thought kudos to them!There’s something refreshing about people who make decisions based on principles. It reminded me how small, simple actions can bring our values to life without needing a megaphone. Social justice doesn’t have to mean shouting in the streets (though, sometimes, that’s necessary too). For those of us looking to make a difference in quieter ways, here are a few ideas:Make your dollars count by choosing ethical businesses. Even small purchases matter, and by supporting brands with fair practices, you nudge things in the right direction. And while we’re all glued to our screens, let’s use social media to amplify voices on issues we care about. Avoid tokenistic posting, and instead share thoughtfully to inform and engage others. It might even spark productive conversation.You can also make a difference by supporting local groups that align with your values.There are plenty of ways to make an impact without much effort, from donating blood to the Red Cross (a single donation can save up to three lives!) to volunteering with Meals on Wheels, where just an hour or two helps deliver meals to elderly neighbours. For those who want to get outside, Landcare runs local conservation projects—think tree planting and park clean-ups—that keep our green spaces thriving. Organisations like Little Free Pantries let us add a few non-perishable items to stock community shelves whenever we can. It’s proof that sometimes, the smallest actions bring the biggest impact!Learning and listening are powerful too. None of us know everything, but by reading widely on issues like homelessness, affordable housing or environmental justice, we become more informed, and it’s easier to live out our values in everyday choices.And don’t underestimate the ripple effect of small actions within your circle. So, next time you’re faced with an invitation that doesn’t feel quite right, remember that it’s okay to say “no” when it matters. And if you’re a “yes” like me, you can still bring your values along for the ride.#SocialJustice #CommunityAction #MakeADifference #GivingBack #VolunteerOpportunities #BloodDonation #MealsOnWheels #Landcare #ShareTheDignity #LittleFreePantries #SmallActionsBigImpact #CommunitySupport #DoGood #HelpingHands

Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, Marie Curie - step aside. Nine Year 11 students from Kiama High School (KHS) have been selected to attend the prestigious National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) which is to be held in January 2025.The NYSF is a nine-day program held at either The Australian National University in Canberra or The University of Queensland in Brisbane. Ruth Power, a science teacher at KHS, is thrilled about the opportunities it presents for the students.“They’ll participate in a whole range of activities, including lab visits and collaborations with industry partners, lecturers, and leading scientists,” says Power.The selection process was rigorous, requiring students to submit 1700 word formal applications which also included their Year 11 report. Power notes to have nine students chosen from one school is an outstanding achievement“As part of the application process the students had to write a formal application. I’m not sure how many students across Australia are chosen, but to have 9 selected from one school is amazing,” says Power.Power says that the program has been immensely successful in the past even causing some students to completely reconfigure their ideas for the future.“Every time we’ve had students attend a NYSF, they’ve always come back and said it was the best experience of their life. For some students, it causes them to totally pivot from a direction they thought they might be interested in, to something that they never realised was even available,” says Power.The nine selected students include Nicola Porritt, Claire Hayward, Jade King, Macey Guy, Emma Trudgett, Delmyr gee Crockford, Phoebe Glaessner, Sam McLean and Tiana Darragh.Macey Guy is particularly eager to explore her passion for science and its potential career paths. “I love the science subjects I’m studying at school, but I’m not sure what opportunities are out there. I wanted to attend to learn more about the careers available and to make connections in those fields,” says Guy.Similarly, Sam McLean is looking forward to meeting like-minded students and exploring scientific areas not covered in his school curriculum. “I’m curious about different areas of science that we don’t explore at school. We’ll have the chance to conduct experiments using university equipment, and there will be plenty of people there to meet and network with,” he shares.Kiama High School would like to extend a big thank you to the local Rotary Clubs and the generous community of Kiama for their support in the students’ fundraising efforts.The Bugle eagerly anticipates the remarkable contributions these future scientists will make after participating in such a distinguished program!

By Dr Jill MillerGerringong council’s free library, established in 1874, was intended to improve the minds of locals rather than entertain them. In July 1874 the Governor authorised the issue of a sum of £200 for the institution. The Department of Justice and Public Instruction subsequently approved the list of books proposed for purchase by the council, except for the works of fiction. The Gerringong correspondent for the Kiama Independent in February 1874 hoped the council would ‘make provision for the intellectual improvement of the residents of their district’ by approving a library. In May 1874 he trusted, ‘that the books selected will be of such a character as will interest and enlighten, so that by a careful perusal the ratepayers … may learn how better to exercise their judgment in the choices of their representatives.’ Despite lamenting the fact ‘the class of books most in request are the lighter of the fictitious and pictorial works,’ he soon after conceded that the library was ‘felt to be a great boon in the present dearth of public entertainment or instruction …’The first proposal for the library came in 1869 from M. E. Robson, as a candidate for the Kiama Municipal elections. He favoured using rates on public works in the same locality they came from. His bugbear was that money from Gerringong was unjustly appropriated for facilities located in Kiama. Robson became the first mayor of the Gerringong municipality from 1871 to 1872.The Gerringong council voted to create the library in April 1874, concerned that the two-year old Kiama library was not accessible for many Gerringong people. Alderman Lee recommended Mrs. Scott as a competent custodian for a library whose collection could be housed in a room in her general store on Fern Street. The room was also deemed ‘suitable in every way for a council-chamber.’ The lady requested an annual fee of £14 for the space and her librarian duties.   Mayor Robert Miller noted that the Mutual Improvement Society of Gerringong, part of the School of Arts, might offer about £12 worth of books ‘to form the nucleus of the proposed library.’ This led to a somewhat heated exchange of letters in the Kiama Independent criticising the council for delays in access to the library. The council waited for the society to bring the books and book shelves offered by the School of Arts Committee while the committee waited for the council to arrange to collect them, with both sides saying the other was in the wrong.The library finally began lending to locals around the end of October, beginning of November of 1874. No rules had been established for borrowers, who were not sure whether they could keep books for one or twelve months. On 10 December council was informed that ‘the librarian had been subjected to annoyance and put to unnecessary trouble by parties coming to the library at irregular hours, some as late as 11 o’clock at night.’ This led to the hours of attendance being advertised.In 1875 a letter writer to the Illawarra Mercury lamented the fact that the Borough of Wollongong had not managed to open a library due to disagreement over where it should be located while libraries had been established successfully at nearby Gerringong and Kiama. By 1876 there were 18 free libraries in the colony of New South Wales, with the Gerringong library having 429 volumes in its collection and 703 readers over six months. The Kiama library had 1,245 volumes with 874 readers while the Shellharbour library had 1,050 volumes and 112 readers. The amount of money spent on books for Gerringong was considerable in terms of the council’s total budget. This led to some angst over what books should be purchased for the collection. A number of prominent local men were invited to help in the selection, including the Member for Kiama in the Legislative Assembly, S. W. Gray.In 1877 the free library and the librarian Mrs Scott, as well as council meetings, shifted to a new building that was described in the Kiama Independent as ‘void of architectural beauty’ and not suitable for ‘the requirements of Gerringong as a public building for public meetings, lectures, &c. The council made an unwritten agreement for Mrs. Scott to use the space for free in return for acting as librarian. This arrangement proved satisfactory for both sides until amended in 1891 to have Mrs. Scott pay some rent. Alderman James then noted that the librarian’s duties were very light as library records showed that borrowers themselves made the entries for taking out and returning books. When Mrs. Scott died at 85 in 1927, after over 40 years at Gerringong, her obituary noted that as librarian for many years, ‘she was brought in touch with all classes to the community, and by her fine character won the respect of all with whom she came in contact.’ Clive Emery recollected that she used to give children sweets while their parents were choosing books.The library was moved to the new RSL Memorial Hall in November 1921 and then to the Town Hall in 1959 where it remained until 2021 when it moved into our grand new library in Blackwood Street along with the new museum. GLAM!

Local MP Gareth Ward has officially presented the Business Conservation Champion Award to Crooked River Winery in Gerringong, celebrating their outstanding achievements in sustainability and environmental conservation.Joining the winery’s Managing Director Roger Lloyd and Sustainability Manager Dr. Joel Walsh, Mr. Ward praised the team’s dedication to biodiversity, environmental tourism, and landfill reduction efforts.“I’m thrilled to recognise Crooked River Winery’s commitment to environmental sustainability,” Mr. Ward stated. “Their work in reducing landfill and boosting biodiversity is essential for our region's future.”Mr. Lloyd expressed his gratitude: “It’s wonderful to receive this acknowledgment from our local Member. This award highlights the significance of the conservation work we’re doing here.”Crooked River Winery's Key Achievements:- Land for Wildlife Certification- Partnerships with Landcare Illawarra, WIRES, and Gerringong Lions Club- A 10-hectare biodiversity area to protect the Illawarra-Shoalhaven Subtropical Rainforest community- Nature Walk Tour with Landcare Illawarra for environmental tourism- Planting 2000-2500 trees through NSW Local Land Services- Transition to 100% carbon-offset energy and onsite solar power for winery operations- Sponsorship of Gerringong Surf Club- Enhanced waste management to minimize landfill- Improved sustainability reporting“Crooked River Winery has become an industry leader in conservation, setting a high standard for local tourism and hospitality businesses in our area,” Mr. Ward concluded.

The latest update by Kiama Council on the stalled 'sale' of Bonaira, is both concerning and not unexpected. It would appear that the 'sale' may be very much a 'Claytons' sale - you know - the sale you have when you haven't really got a sale. Two delays in settlement now, and remember, this is only the down payment - $1 million, as we have been led to believe, the balance payable 18 months later. That pushes back the final settlement to almost 2027. So how will the remaining T-corp debt be funded? One cannot help think that yet again the community has been sold a pup. I have also asked Council the question on what basis has the commission to Stuart Brown Advisory been calculated? You know, they belong to the same stable as Stuart Brown Chartered Accountants who were given the task of advising Council whether it should sell, retain or lease both Bonaira and the Terralong facility. No prizes for guessing what their recommendation was, and again unsurprisingly in accord with the recommendation given to Council by the General Manager. Of course the response by Council to my query was far from transparent - but then again just about everything else this Council has done in this whole sorry mess, has suffered from the same problem. Good luck to our newly elected Councillors in sorting out this debacle!A. Holder