I don’t think our community is well informed about the extent of the potential impact the Kiama Draft Housing Strategy on our town of Kiama (currently on exhibition).Originally it proposed to increase the municipality’s population by a third, but with the addition of the State Government mandated Springside Hill development and the inclusion of existing land available for development, we will see nearly 5000 lots available for development in Kiama alone, doubling both its size and population. This will mean that most of the land west of the bypass in Kiama will be covered in houses, including the land behind Spring Creek and Bombo, south Kiama adjoining the high school, and the ridges and valleys of west Kiama.I think that most people would accept the need for housing growth, but this Strategy crosses a line and is truly excessive.The most alarming aspect of the Strategy is that the Springside Hill development at West Kiama was opposed by both Council and the community, but the State Labor government imposed it anyway without consultation or regard for environmental impacts. This development alone will significantly impact our scenic landscapes, heritage listed stone walls, high quality agricultural lands, Spring Creek wetlands and biodiversity.    I know that times are changing but is Kiama going to accept this without a whimper?? Howard H Jones(Secretary Gerroa Environmental Protection Society The image below taken from the Strategy does not include South Kiama

Sometimes, road signs give clear instructions. Sometimes, they leave you scratching your head. And then, occasionally, they deliver a comedy gold moment like this one in the Kiama local government area.At first glance, it looks like your standard stop sign – an unmissable red octagon commanding you to hit the brakes. Nothing out of the ordinary there. But then, underneath, there’s a second sign. It says, in no uncertain terms: No Stopping.Well, which is it? Should drivers stop or not? Are we caught in some sort of bureaucratic paradox? A Schrödinger’s stop sign, if you will? The road rules demand compliance, but compliance with what?Perhaps this is a philosophical challenge for Kiama’s drivers. A test of wit, reflexes, and interpretation skills. Or maybe it’s a message from a local prankster-turned-signage official who just wanted to see how long it would take for someone to notice. Either way, it’s a brilliant example of how even the most well-intended infrastructure can end up delivering a belly laugh.We may never know the true story behind this sign’s creation.But one thing is certain – it’s the perfect visual representation of modern life. Confusing, contradictory, and slightly ridiculous.Welcome to driving in Kiama.Is this Kiama’s most confusing sign?

There is a noticeable shortage of Public Transport servicing Kiama; WHY!With the demise of the original Taxi Service, it seems full public transport for the residents is nonexistent.Or, if it exists it is well hidden from the citizens of Kiama.There is no dedicated Taxi Service that can be called for servicing the immediate area that can be contacted for example pick up and drop off to trains and other essential services in the town.Companies advertising their services don't actually seem to exist and have no real point of contact.Just the simple trips like a pickup from the train are not available, trips to medical facilities and supermarkets are not serviced in anyway.This obviously is an inconvenience to everyone in the area.In addition, the bus service leaves a lot to be desired as there is no set formats and times available. A regular bus service taking in the main areas of Kiama would be invaluable using the Train Station as a starting point.Kiama sets itself out as a progressive town, somehow Public Transport has been ignored.A well-grounded Transport system can only be an asset in service for the residents and a well set up Taxi Service.It is a matter for the Local Council to address urgently and push this forward.What a business opportunity for a progressive operator.B Christian.

Thank you and Ms England for Disobedience! No apologies needed to Mr Milne I am very certain he would have loved it.K.

What a shame for the future of Berry that the hotel expansion has not been accepted ("'Sydney-looking': uproad over $10m pub plans", February 12). The old pub is crying out to be reinvented.Compared to some of the plans for the future of nearby Kiama, the architectural concept seems quite acceptable, and the trees in Princess Street will soon grow higher than the three storeys planned for the new build.I am sure the locals also said the Berry pub itself was "too Sydney" when it was first planned about 160 years ago.Things do change. New ideas must be embraced for the good that will follow. The area desperately needs more tourist accommodation. At the moment, Berry is like a ghost town after 5pm, when all the day trippers have gone.I well remember this community was equally divided as to what side of town the new bypass should be routed. Now that's finally up and running it's hard to imagine life in Berry without it, no matter what side of town it ended up on. It seems the NIMBY approach to any sort of change continues to create a very predictable stumbling block for those with fresh, imaginative visions.G. Vale

Just wanted to say thank you for publishing the article about Alan Swan and how Kiama SLSC now recognise that all forms of volunteers are valued. This has inspired me to reconnect with the club, after a couple years away. I strongly believe in and value their contribution. So hopefully can still contribute, even in a less hands on way than I was a few years back, as much as I would love to. Just not possible right nowK.

A huge round of applause to the Jamberoo Football Club team for their outstanding organisation and professional delivery of another fantastic Jamberoo Sevens. From seamless scheduling to ensuring everything ran smoothly on and off the pitch, the effort and dedication of the club’s volunteers made this tournament a huge success.A special shoutout to Club President Alan Smith - a man who, despite not making it to Manchester United (thanks to an untimely haircut), still brings Premier League-level passion and commitment to local football. Born in Manchester, Alan is one of the rare United fans actually from Manchester! These days, he’s just as well known in the community as the man in the middle, keeping matches in check as the club’s senior referee.A big thank you also to Vice President Kristin Nisbet, who has poured years of dedication into the game. From coaching junior teams to managing women’s squads and playing in three grand finals (winning none, by her own admission!), Kristin’s passion for the sport is unmatched. Now, she’s found her football home at Jamberoo, balancing her role as a player, manager, and advocate for female participation in the game—all while occasionally sharing the field with her daughter.The success of the Jamberoo Sevens is a testament to the hard work of Alan, Kristin, and the entire Jamberoo Football Club team. The community spirit and love for the game were on full display throughout the weekend, making this tournament yet another unforgettable one.Well done to all involved - see you next year!

This Valentine’s Day, why not celebrate a different kind of love - the love of nature? Instead of chocolates and roses, why not give back to the environment we all cherish?Join us on Friday, 14 February, for the Jerrara Wetlands Community Meeting, where we come together to shape the future of this beautiful natural space.Start your afternoon with a leisurely walk through the wetlands at 1:00 pm, soaking in the serene beauty of native wildlife and thriving bushland.Then, at 2:00 pm, gather at Jamberoo Youth Hall to share ideas, connect with fellow nature lovers, and discuss how we can protect and enhance this vital ecosystem.Whether you’re passionate about conservation, eager to volunteer, or simply want to learn more, this is your chance to show your love - for Jerrara Wetlands, for community, and for the future of our natural spaces.Register via the QR code or call Meredith on 0499 027 770 to confirm your attendance. Your input matters - we’d love to see you there!💚 Fall in love with nature this Valentine’s Day! 💚

Letter to the EditorThank you for the great coverage of the Kiama Show. The Bugle has been providing interesting background stories, and it feels like the paper is returning to the style of The Independent. I used to look forward to picking up the local paper each Wednesday to see what had been happening in town and what events were coming up.Until recently, I was happy just reading The Bugle on the app, but now I really want a printed copy!I’ve also noticed a couple of funeral notices in recent editions. This is such a valuable service, as it has become increasingly difficult to know when people have passed away. These days, most announcements are made on Facebook or shared only with close family and friends. Sometimes, I hear about a passing months or even years later. I hope more people use the paper to notify the community about funerals. Is it expensive to place a notice? Perhaps you could advertise the rates.Birth announcements used to be included in local papers as well. I really think you should promote a Personal Notice Section - Hatches, Matches, and Dispatches!Congratulations on making The Bugle such an interesting read. I love reading people’s stories, and I’ve particularly enjoyed the articles about days gone by. The old photos are fascinating! It’s a welcome distraction from council news.We live in a beautiful town, full of interesting people—both locals and blow-ins. It’s wonderful to read about them.Sue Cox

A concerned pet owner visited The Bugle to share a troubling discovery outside his home on Thomson Street. After taking his finding to two veterinarians, it was identified as Just One Bite - a highly toxic rat poison. Disturbingly, similar bars have also been reported in Terralong Street and Hindmarsh Park over the weekend.Just One Bite is an agricultural-grade bait containing bromadiolone, a fast-acting poison lethal to rodents. However, it is also extremely dangerous to humans and non-target animals, as it has no antidote. Due to its potency, its use is restricted to agricultural settings.The product is available in chunks, pellet packs, and bars.The pet owner, and others who have come across these bars, are concerned that someone may be deliberately targeting dogs in the area. When the matter was raised with the Council, they reportedly stated it was out of their jurisdiction, and the local police station was closed at the time.How to dispose of hazardous chemicals Kiama Municipal Council offers residents a safe and environmentally-friendly way to dispose of hazardous household chemicals, including rat poison, through their Household Chemical Clean Out events. These events are held periodically, providing an opportunity to dispose of unwanted chemicals responsibly. Visit kiama.nsw.gov.auIf you cannot attend the scheduled event, consider reaching out to the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Facility at 446 Riverside Drive, Minnamurra to inquire about alternative disposal options. Additionally, neighbouring councils may offer similar services that you can utilise. We urge the community to stay vigilant. If you come across these baits, please ensure they are safely bagged and disposed of and report any findings to the police online or by phone. You can also contact us at The Bugle via email: [email protected]’s work together to keep our pets, children, and community safe.

Message:I was wondering as The Collective is closing, does that mean the plans have been finalised and that work will be starting soon. Or do you have an update when demolishment will start?Ed note: A spokesperson for Level 33 stated that the plans are under review by Kiama Council, and while the approval process has taken longer than anticipated, they remain optimistic about gaining clarity on timelines soon, which will be shared with the Kiama community. They also confirmed that The Collective will be the site of their new Display Centre in Kiama 

Ahh ... the wonder of renewables! We now have a diesel generator operating 24/7 in Cathedral Rocks Ave supplying electricity. Here's hoping the government "has a plan" to eventually take it away. Keith Dedden Kiama Downs

If You.. (A Prayer for Kiama) If you ride your ebike or scooter at crazy speeds on the footpath or road, you are not an eco-warrior, you are a life-endangering fool. If you use a supermarket trolley then dump it hundreds of metres away, you are not a clever innovator, you are a thief. If you walk two abreast with your strollers so others can’t pass or share the pathway, you are not yummy mummies, you are bad examples. If you park your vehicle in a way that makes two spaces into one, you are not an efficient time-saver, you are a selfish pariah. If you are headed home after drinking and you scream and swear at all hours, you are not a carefree reveller, you are an immature hedonist. If you overfill public bins with your personal domestic rubbish, you are not a user of common goods, you are a putrefying health risk. If you allow your kids or grandkids to run riot and disturb others, you are not a modern, ‘Cool Dad’ you are a lazy, selfish incompetent. If your vehicle makes excessive noise by design, you are not a high-tech car guy, you are a pathetic wannabe. If you tag public buildings or private property, you are not a self-expressing artist, you are an attention seeking, cowardly vandal. If you are doing this type of thing, you are not a welcome tourist or valued resident, you are a vexation to our beautiful town. NP

Dear Bugle TeamOn behalf of the Kiama Show Society Committee we would like to acknowledge and thank the team for their efforts to ensure the 2025 Kiama Show was extensively covered in the Bugle.It was fantastic to have wonderful photos and complementary stories which showcase the talents and also the history of the show. This definitely assists in building awareness and engagement within the local community. This year in 2025 we have received a lot of positive feedback and also seen record numbers of entries in our Pavilion competitions this year from the local community which I am sure would not have happened without your support.We look forward to working with the team in the lead up to and for the 2026 Show.Kind RegardsEm HowardSecretary, Kiama Show Society

 Lately, I’ve been writing a lot of articles that appear in the media. It’s a fulfilling part of what I do, sharing stories that matter and offering perspectives on issues I believe deserve attention. But as anyone who’s put their work into the public eye knows, it doesn’t come without its challenges, especially on platforms like social media. I’ll be the first to admit it: I’m a bit oversensitive. It’s one of those things I’ve always known about myself, but it becomes especially apparent when someone comments on my work in a way that feels personal rather than constructive. It’s that quick sting, that little knot in the stomach, that reminder of how vulnerable it can feel to create something and share it with the world. It’s not just me who feels this way, either. Being part of The Bugle team has shown me that these challenges are universal for those of us in the media. Whether it’s a biting comment on social media or a reader critique that misses the point, we’ve all felt the sting of public feedback at some point.We talk about it sometimes, how easy it is to dwell on one negative comment when so many others are positive. It’s a shared experience, and one that reminds me that I’m not navigating this alone.When we engage with personal attacks, we risk giving them more weight than they deserve. We allow them to distract us from our work, our goals, and the many people who appreciate what we do. The truth is, not everyone will agree with or like what you write, and that’s okay. It’s part of being visible, part of putting yourself out there. What I’m learning, and trying to remind myself, is this: not every comment needs a response. Not every battle is worth fighting. There’s strength in restraint, in recognising when to step back and let a comment pass without letting it rent space in your mind. If you, like me, find it hard to let these things go, maybe this is a reminder we both need. Focus on the voices that build you up. Keep writing, creating, and sharing what you believe in. The people who truly value your work are the ones who matter, and they’re far more plentiful than the ones who don’t. So here’s to letting it go, to keeping our heads high, and to trusting that our work will speak for itself. And if you’re reading this and struggling with similar feelings, know that you’re doing just fine. Let’s both try to let it pass through to the keeper next time.

Community calls for accountabilityThis week’s letters to The Bugle address pressing issues of governance and transparency at Kiama Council, urging elected representatives to foster trust, accountability, and leadership as the community looks towards 2025.Dear Councillors,Hopefully this letter finds you fit and well for the New Year. It will undoubtably have some big challenges.However, I am hoping that you all as the newly elected Councillors for Kiama can foster community confidence for 2025 by releasing the letter from ICAC detailing the findings against the three elected Councillors of our previous Council.This would reinforce and display the newly elected Councillors commitment to transparency and fairness.Regards,V. SteeleThe letter from former Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang highlights an uncomfortable truth about governance at Kiama Council. At the recent local government elections, I spoke with several councillors about the need for an apology to Councillor Lang. One councillor’s response was particularly revealing: they claimed they had acted on the information provided to them, presumably by the CEO.This raises a critical question: who is steering the ship? Councillors are elected to represent the community, not to simply rubber-stamp information handed down to them. What steps have been taken to review the accuracy of the information they relied on, especially given the public fallout?This isn’t just about Councillor Lang. It’s about ensuring that those we elect stand up, speak out, and scrutinise decisions that affect the community. Weak-kneed responses to flawed advice aren’t good enough. Ratepayers expect—and deserve—better.It’s time for Kiama Council to reflect on its role, its responsibilities, and its accountability. Leadership means standing up for what’s right, even when it’s uncomfortable. The community is watching.Alan Holder

I sat through the council debate about Jamberoo Community Preschool and couldn’t believe my ears when the CEO addressed Councillor Mike Cains. Her remark, “Because you’re new, I allowed it to go through,” felt condescending and dismissive. Here was someone passionately advocating for a vital community resource, only to be undermined by bureaucracy.The CEO explained Cr Cains’ motion didn’t follow the council’s rules. Motions requiring additional funding must identify a budget source or fit into an approved budgetary cycle. The CEO noted that the motion failed to meet these requirements, making it technically non-compliant. She argued that under the council’s code of meeting practice, the motion should not have been included in the business papers at all.Fair enough—rules are rules. But the way this was handled seemed less about guiding a new councillor through procedural nuances and more about putting him in his place. The debate was bogged down in amendments and technicalities, overshadowing the heart of the issue. A preschool built with the blood, sweat, and tears of the Jamberoo community is at risk, and the council needs to help.Councillor Cains stood his ground saying "The Jamberoo preschool is such an important asset to the community. We must provide them with every assistance we can to get them to the point where they have a shovel-ready project that can be submitted for grant applications. This is about supporting a community resource that is so vital to families in Jamberoo."The preschool serves 67 children, with over 100 families on its waiting list. Yet, its future hangs in the balance due to flood risks and a lack of funding for long-term planning. While Cr Cains pushed for tangible action, the motion’s most significant element—developing a “shovel-ready” project plan—was ultimately removed. The CEO insisted that without identifying a funding source, the motion couldn’t proceed as written.What frustrates me most is the contrast between priorities. The council has allocated $260,000 for council building renovations, yet the preschool struggles for support. As Councillor Cains rightly pointed out "We’re flagging to them that they’ll have to vacate the very premises they built with their own contributions. Where are the council’s priorities?"This isn’t just about the rules—it’s about leadership. Watching the debate, I was struck by the difference between Cr Cains’ heartfelt advocacy and the bureaucratic tone used to justify inaction. The preschool doesn’t need another lecture on procedure. It needs real support and a clear path forward.The amended motion was passed, committing to advocacy for grant funding and ongoing flood mitigation efforts, but the issue of long-term planning remains unresolved.M - Concerned citizen

Recommendations for Kiama Council:Visitors who drive into Kiama, park, bring their own food, and either dispose of their rubbish in bins or leave it behind, often contribute little to supporting local businesses or the town's economy. Meanwhile, Kiama residents are left to bear the cost of the substantial clean-up efforts required after these visits.To address this imbalance, a small fee could be introduced for visitors to access and enjoy local attractions, such as the Blowhole. This would ensure that tourists contribute directly to maintaining these wonders while alleviating the financial burden on local residents.K Greeff - Local Resident

LETTER TO KIAMA BUGLERe. Letter from Karen Renkema-Lang Sharing her Reflections on a Long Legal Process Involving Kiama Council  (Bugle 17 December )Thank you for printing this letter in its entirety. Ms Renkema-Lang’s departure from Council is a great loss to our Community.  Her determination throughout her tenure, to uphold principles of honesty and integrity, will be missed.Ms Renkema-Lang was vindicated by the Supreme Court, but still incurred great losses, both personally and financially.In contrast, those within Council who were instrumental in the decision to Censure, and then defend Council in court, did not incur ANY financial or personal cost.Then, the deplorable referral of Ms Renkema-Lang to ICAC was rightly dismissed as having no substance.  This was a vengeful and intimidatory act designed to silence not only Ms Renkema-Lang but two other Councillors who tried to stand up for open and transparent debate.All this at huge expense to ratepayers, yet NO-ONE in Council has been called to account.Linda BrazierGerroa