94 year old Grace Anstey was shocked when she found out that she had won first prize at the Kiama Show for knitting - especially since she didn’t even know she had entered.Grace, who has been knitting since 1935 when her bedridden grandmother first taught her, stopped entering the Kiama Show after the passing of her husband in 2016. However, in 2025, a volunteer from her retirement home, Blue Haven Bonaira, was determined to help her make a comeback.“After my husband passed away, I felt a bit disheartened and didn’t bother,” Grace says. “This is the first year back. It was only because one of the volunteers asked if I wanted to enter anything. I said no, I didn’t have anything good enough because I can’t see very well and didn’t think it was good enough.”But when Grace’s great granddaughter attended the Kiama Show and saw her great grandmother’s name listed as a winner, she couldn’t wait to tell Grace.“I’d forgotten the show was even on,” says Grace. “My great granddaughter said, You never told me you entered anything in the show. You got a first prize! One of the volunteers had entered it for me. I couldn’t believe it. I had to wait until they brought the award back before I could believe it!”Grace’s prize-winning creation - a beautifully crafted and incredibly warm-looking knitted owl - took first place in the ‘residents from a retirement home’ category. And having lived in Kiama since 1982, this wasn’t the first time Grace had won at the Kiama Show.“I’ve won quite a few prizes at the Kiama Show,” she says. “My husband also won a few for making model ships out of wood.”One of the most memorable moments for Grace was when she and her husband competed in the same knitting category.“I used to spin a lot of wool and won several prizes for that,” she recalls. “When my husband retired, he said he wanted to learn how to spin, so I taught him. That year, we both entered wool in the show - and he won first prize. “I told him, That’s the last time I’ll teach you anything!” she laughs. “He was very particular and very good at things. He liked things done properly.”These days, Grace spends a lot of her time knitting at Blue Haven Bonaira, where she’s a member of the Knit and Knatter group. She’s already knitted 50 woolen poppies for ANZAC Day, 120 Christmas stockings, and contributes to the “Knit with Love” charity by knitting squares.Grace’s room at Blue Haven Bonaira is filled with her creations, from patchwork blankets and rugs to knitted animals.“I have to give Bonaira a lot of credit - they do such a great job,” says Grace. “There’s a group on Wednesdays called Knit and Knatter. We do a lot more ‘knattering’ than knitting, but we knit squares for charity.”Grace’s room at Blue Haven Bonaira is filled with her creations, from patchwork blankets and rugs to knitted animals. It’s clear she has a deep passion for the craft.“It’s creative and it passes the time,” Grace explains. “During the war, my mum, my two sisters, and I had to knit socks for the army. The government would provide the wool, and we’d knit them. I like knitting little things that give people pleasure.”Although Grace suffers from arthritis, she continues to find ways to knit. She’s even been knitting knee warmers to ease the pain in her knees.“I’m finding crocheting a bit difficult because of the arthritis in my thumb, but I have an ergonomic crochet hook that really helps,” says Grace. “I’ve got arthritis in my knees, and the only way to ease the pain is with warmth. You can’t have a heat bag on your knees all the time, so I thought I’d make some knee warmers.”“I knit for a while, then crochet, then do a jigsaw. I have to keep going and do something every day.”Grace has already crafted 50 poppies for ANZAC Day, and we can’t wait to see what she creates next.

Just like many other kids, River is starting school this week. But unlike some who may feel a little nervous, she is more than ready for her first day and can’t wait to make new friends. She’s already made a friend at kindergarten orientation, a boy who, coincidentally, is also named River. “I already have a friend at this school…I just met him and his name is River too,” she says.On the other hand, River’s mum, Sheona, is feeling nervous for her eldest child to head off to school for the first time. She’s certain she’ll be the one shedding tears as River goes to school.“We had orientation and I was fighting back tears when she had to walk away to her classroom,” says Sheona.River is bright and enthusiastic and she's made it clear that she has a very specific birthday present that she wants, a “real-life unicorn”. One of River’s favourite things to do is go fishing with her grandad, who she calls ‘Popcorn’. She proudly explains that just this morning she caught seven fish, but then whispers “Guess what? A pelican ate one of the fish”. As an extroverted and chatty young girl, River is particularly looking forward to singing at school, as well as playing sports. When asked if she was nervous at all for her first day of school, River quickly responded, “no.” While she has been waiting with anticipation, she is helping mum at her salon - The Hairy Tortoise in Edessa Arcade! With her confidence, River will have a great start to her school journey. The Bugle hopes all the young ones get off to a great start embarking on the 2025 school year. 

For the Baines family, the Kiama Show is more than just an event, it is a cherished tradition, a marker of seasons, and a celebration of creativity passed down through generations.Belinda Baines beams with pride as she recounts the journey of her daughter, Liberty, whose talent in baking has earned her top honours in the sponge cake competition. What started as a summer pastime has blossomed into a passion, carefully nurtured throughout the year."Libby loves to bake, but it's not a last-minute thing. She practices all year round, always with the show in mind," Belinda says. "She’s also into flower arranging, and we’re lucky to have neighbours with stunning gardens. We trade cakes that don’t make the cut for their beautiful flowers."Liberty Baines has been entering cookery, handcrafts, and decorative flower competitions since she was a tiny tot, and despite her age, she regularly triumphs in the open section. Her latest win includes a stunning bag crafted from the prize ribbons she has collected over the years. A true family tradition, Liberty and her grandmother have competed together in the intergenerational cookery class every year since its inception, keeping the spirit of the Kiama Show alive across generations.Liberty’s success is no surprise given her family’s deep connection to agricultural shows. Belinda herself grew up on a dairy farm in Nowra, where showing cattle at the local fair was an annual highlight. "We were always involved in the Nowra Show, washing cattle, preparing them for judging, and soaking up the atmosphere. It was just what we did," she recalls."Now, our family tradition continues in a different way, but the heart of it remains the same, participation, community, and a little healthy competition."But the preparation for the show is no solitary effort. It’s a family affair, with everyone playing their part. Belinda’s mother encourages all the grandkids to enter the show, keeping the tradition alive. Many of the recipes they use have been in the family for generations. Liberty bakes her award-winning sponge using her great-grandmother’s recipe, which calls for fresh eggs straight from the chook house. "It’s great that there are classes in the show to encourage intergenerational baking, as the grandparents hold all the baking, gardening, and sewing tips and tricks!"Belinda’s father, now retired from dairy farming, takes his role as chief taste tester very seriously. "My dad always says, ‘Is this show quality? You can’t put it on the table unless it is.’ Of course, he’d eat it whether it’s show-worthy or not, but it has to be top-notch to enter."As a primary school teacher, Belinda is passionate about encouraging children to enter the show, not just for the competition, but for the invaluable skills they develop. "At school, I try to get kids to think about what they could enter, whether it’s woodworking, art, or cooking. It’s about having a go, learning patience, and seeing their work displayed with pride."The Kiama Show isn’t just about showcasing skills, it’s about community. Belinda is quick to acknowledge the dedication of volunteers who make the event happen year after year. "It’s incredible how the show just comes together. Everyone knows their job and gets it done, and that’s what makes it special. If we want these traditions to continue, we have to be involved and pass them on."For the Baines family, the show is a reminder of where they come from and the values they hold dear. Whether it’s Liberty’s sponge cakes, Henry’s scarecrow designs, or the countless conversations and exchanges along the way, the spirit of the Kiama Show runs deep in their family.And with each passing year, new memories are made, ensuring that this time-honoured tradition continues for generations to come.

Got old batteries or rechargeable devices sitting in a drawer? It’s time to recycle them properly and keep our community safe!Quick action by the Kiama Council driver and the RFS contained this recent fire, which was caused by the improper disposal of lithium batteries.Instead of tossing them in your household bin - where they can cause fires and harm the environment - drop them off at the Kiama Community Recycling Centre.📍 Location: 446 Riverside Dr, Minnamurra NSW 2533🕗 Hours: Monday – Saturday, 8am – 4pmThis simple action makes a big difference. Batteries contain harmful chemicals that can leak into the environment if not disposed of correctly. By recycling them at the Kiama Community Recycling Centre, you’re helping to reduce waste and protect our local ecosystem.Making responsible recycling easyWe know that habits stick when they’re simple, visible, and part of a shared effort. That’s why the best way to encourage responsible recycling is to make it easy and normal.✔ Clear action - Just drop them off, no fuss.✔ Community effort - When we all do our part, it becomes second nature.✔ A safer Kiama - Keeping batteries out of household bins reduces fire risks.Why not make battery recycling part of your routine? Next time you’re heading out, take a moment to check if you have any old batteries to drop off. It’s a small step that adds up to a big impact for Kiama!For everything you need to know visit the Correctly Disposing of Batteries: A Guide for Kiama Residents here Let’s keep our community clean, safe, and sustainable - recycle responsibly.

Barb Khalifa Werri Beach/Gerringong Garden Club will be enjoying the beauty of succulents when Rachel Gardner of Succulents by Rachel speaks at our next meeting at 10am on Wednesday 12 February. Members and visitors are welcome to come join us as we admire and learn about succulents in a relaxed friendly environment. We’ll have the opportunity to buy plants and pots from Rachel’s extensive selection. EFTPOS available. Succulents by Rachel specialises in creating succulent arrangements, cacti planters and air plant displays, as well as selling a wide range of succulents, cactus, air-plants and funky pots. Rachel is quite the expert! As well as collecting and selling beautiful plants, plant arrangements and pots, she recently won 6 potted plant awards at the Albion Park Show. Her terrarium exhibit was particularly exquisite! Werri Beach/Gerringong Garden Club meet at the Uniting Church Hall, 28 Fern St Gerringong, at 10am on the second Wednesday each month. Our next meeting is Wednesday 12 February.$5 attendance fee helps us cover hall hire, etc. Members and visitors are welcome. Morning tea is served from 9.30am before the meeting, and the meeting itself starts promptly at 10am.  For further details please contact Barb Khalifa on 0419 498 072 or email [email protected]. Or just come along on 12 February and see for yourself!

I was out to lunch on Saturday when the conversation turned to the recent surfing tragedies along our coast. A couple of people at the table said something that got me thinking."We’re a tourism destination," one of them pointed out. "We invite people here. A lot of them come from Western Sydney, where they don’t grow up with the ocean. They don’t get the same chance to understand the surf or learn beach safety."They were right. We do invite people here. Kiama, Gerringong and Gerroa are magnets for visitors, particularly in summer, and many of those visitors have little experience with the unpredictable nature of the ocean. Rips, changing tides and shifting sandbanks aren’t things you necessarily think about when you haven’t grown up near the beach.We proudly tell the world that Kiama is the destination. The question is, what can we do to ensure visitors enjoy it safely?Some councils and surf clubs in coastal areas have started partnerships with inland communities, delivering beach safety education before people even set foot on the sand. Could Kiama do the same? Imagine a program where lifesavers visit schools in Western Sydney, giving kids a practical understanding of rips and surf safety before they even book their summer holiday.Technology could play a big role in preventing tragedies. ResQVision, an emerging real-time monitoring system, could be a game-changer. QR codes at beach entrances could link to live surf conditions, warnings in multiple languages and expert safety advice. Visitors could scan a code and instantly see the latest updates on rips, tides and swimming conditions before stepping onto the sand.But nothing beats human interaction. Should we have more visible surf safety ambassadors, volunteers or trained staff at our busiest beaches during peak times, approaching visitors before they enter the water? Could a combination of ResQVision technology and face-to-face guidance make a real difference in reducing preventable drownings?What if we partnered with a city like Penrith, where many of our visitors come from? A structured program between councils, surf clubs, St John’s Ambulance and schools could create a pipeline of education that doesn’t just reduce risk but builds long-term awareness. Perhaps even exchange programs where young people from Western Sydney spend time with surf lifesavers here, learning firsthand.The ocean belongs to everyone, but so does the responsibility for keeping people safe in it. We can’t put all the pressure on lifeguards and volunteers when the reality is that prevention is the best tool we have. If we’re inviting people to our coastline, we need to make sure they have the knowledge to enjoy it safely.Kiama is the destination - but are we doing enough to make it a safe one?

When powerful institutions limit media access, the need for independent, community-driven journalism becomes even greater. The recent decision by the Trump administration to remove major news outlets from Pentagon workspaces may seem like an issue confined to the United States, but the principle at stake is access to information, which affects everyone. Local journalism plays a vital role in holding power to account. When governments make controversial decisions, whether it is large-scale public spending, allocating funds for discretionary projects, or restricting public input, journalists step in to ask the tough questions. Without a free and fair press, authorities could operate with little scrutiny, making decisions that impact communities without challenge. This is not just a theoretical issue. The Trump administration’s move to replace established media outlets with pro-Trump platforms reflects a broader attempt to control the narrative rather than encourage transparency. When journalists lose access, the public loses too. History shows that when governments sideline independent journalism, trust declines and misinformation fills the void. That is why independent journalism remains essential to ensuring communities stay informed and engaged. If governments seek to replace independent scrutiny with more favourable coverage, they should expect the opposite. A strong and independent press, whether local or national, exists to serve the public, not those in power. We will keep asking the hard questions. 

Compassionate Communities Illawarra-Shoalhaven, in collaboration with the Kiama Municipal Library, is set to host four Death Café events in 2025. These gatherings provide a welcoming space for open, relaxed discussions about death and dying, accompanied by cake and coffee.Local resident Carolyn Vaughan says, “Many times, we might have thoughts on the subject swirling around in our minds but don’t give ourselves the space to talk about it. What we offer is that space, and we’re grateful for our partnership with the Kiama Municipal Library. I highly recommend everyone attend when they can.”The Death Café events will be held on the following dates:Friday, 14 March, at Gerringong LibraryThursday, 19 June, at Kiama LibraryThursday, 18 September, at Gerringong LibraryThursday, 20 November, at Kiama Library All events will run from 2 – 4 pm.There is no agenda at these gatherings. Participants can share a story, listen, or simply observe, depending on their comfort level. With diverse experiences and expectations surrounding death, the Death Café offers a chance to discuss this inevitable life phase in a supportive, sacred space.The initiative encourages community members to take a more active role in supporting one another through life’s challenging moments.Please note: The Death Café is not a grief support or counselling session and may not be suitable for those grieving a recent loss.To book your spot, visit www.library.kiama.nsw.gov.au/events or call 4233 1133. For more details, contact Carolyn Vaughan at 0418 480 690. We look forward to seeing you there!

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.

Sharon Lewis, the producer and director of the impactful short film Frances, will be interviewed by host Bernie Hems on "Chat Tuesday" this Tuesday at 9:00 AM on KCR. Tune in to kcr.org.au to listen live.Frances is a 40-minute film produced by Illawarra filmmakers Sharon Lewis and Richard Jones that delves into the housing affordability crisis, portraying how a situation can quickly lead to homelessness. The narrative follows Frances, a university lecturer who, after a recent divorce, faces housing instability. Her journey highlights the vulnerabilities many experience in today's competitive housing market.Shot across various locations in the Illawarra region, Frances has garnered significant acclaim, winning Best Australian Film at the Titan International Film Fest.Don't miss this insightful conversation about the film's inspiration, production challenges, and the pressing issues it brings to light.Folow The Bugle's previous coverage of how the film relates to Kiama here

Every year, events like the Kiama Show, the Jamberoo (Soccer) Sevens, and the Kiama (Rugby) Sevens bring our community together. They showcase our region’s history, entertain locals, attract visitors, and inject money into our local economy. But there’s something even more important at the heart of these events - they are entirely run by volunteers. Without these dedicated individuals, these events simply wouldn’t happen. And yet, instead of getting easier, organising these events is becoming increasingly difficult. Volunteers are battling red tape, rising costs, and logistical challenges - many of which could be alleviated with better support from local government and the wider community. Why these events matterThey boost our local economy - These events bring in thousands of visitors, filling our cafes, restaurants, accommodation, and shops. That money stays in the community, helping local businesses thrive.They provide entertainment for locals - From the classic agricultural events of the Kiama Show to the fast paced action of the Sevens, these events bring people together and create memories.They teach children the value of volunteering - When kids see parents, neighbours, and friends stepping up to run these events, they learn first-hand about community spirit, teamwork, and giving back.They help kids build friendships and resilience - Sporting events like the Sevens encourage kids to push their limits, work as a team, and form friendships that can last a lifetime.They showcase the best of our region - Whether it’s agriculture, sport, or just good old fashioned country hospitality, these events put Kiama and its surrounds on the map. What’s at stakeYesterday, I spoke with Mark Bryant, who runs the Kiama Sevens, and he laid it out plainly - running these events takes an enormous amount of time, and nobody gets paid. Across the country, other rugby sevens competitions have folded. Kiama’s event has survived because of the extraordinary dedication of volunteers, but that alone is not sustainable. If we, as a community, don’t actively support these events - not just by attending, but by recognising and reducing the hurdles for organisers - we risk losing them altogether. How we can helpTurn up - Bring your family, bring your friends, and be part of these events.Volunteer - Even a small commitment - setting up, selling tickets, or cleaning up - makes a huge difference.Spread the word - These events thrive on community buzz. Share them on social media, encourage your networks to attend, and celebrate the people making them happen.Challenge the barriers - If local government processes are making it harder for these events to run, we need to advocate for solutions. Our council should be making it easier, not harder for volunteers to put these events on. It’s time for a strategic planThis isn’t just about one event - it’s about a broader issue. If we want these traditions to survive, we need to get smarter about how we support, protect, and sustain them. I believe we need to sit down with key stakeholders, including event organisers, community leaders, and council representatives, to map out a plan that ensures these events have a strong future. Let’s start a real conversation about what needs to change and how we, as a community, can ensure that Kiama’s heritage events continue to thrive for generations to come.

When Wolfgang Reinhard arrived in Australia in 1982, he was a fresh-faced German backpacker with no plans to stay. But fate had other ideas. Just three weeks after his arrival, he met Josephine, the woman who would become his wife. That meeting changed the course of his life. Now, 43 years later, Wolfgang has finally become an Australian citizen. But not in the way anyone expected.Wolfgang was supposed to attend his citizenship ceremony at Jamberoo on Australia Day, but instead found himself in the ICU at St Vincent's Hospital, battling a severe blood infection. Determined that Wolfgang would not miss this milestone, Josephine launched a behind-the-scenes campaign to move the ceremony to the hospital. With support from their doctor, Gilmour MP Fiona Phillips' office, Kiama Council, and hospital staff, the impossible became possible. On 23 January, just days before the official ceremony, Wolfgang was granted his Australian citizenship via a Zoom call from his hospital bed. The room was decorated with an Australian flag, and nurses celebrated with lamingtons, an unexpected but deeply moving moment for Wolfgang and everyone involved.Wolfgang was granted his Australian citizenship via a Zoom call from his hospital bed.Wolfgang's Australian journey began with adventure. Born in Munich, he grew up skiing and exploring the world. In the early 1980s, he embarked on a backpacking trip through Asia, with Australia as his final destination. He never intended to stay, but a job in a ski warehouse in Sydney changed everything.Josephine, his future wife, was his boss at the warehouse. In a clever bit of matchmaking, she placed him on the lunch roster with her and none of the other women. A romance blossomed, and the couple went on to build a life together, filled with travel, career success, and a deep love for Australia.Once Wolfgang decided to stay, he had to rebuild his career. With German qualifications that weren't immediately recognised in Australia, he took matters into his own hands. He went through the yellow pages, calling every German company in Australia until he landed a role at Krupp, a major engineering firm. From there, he quickly rose through the ranks, proving himself in the highly competitive field of mining and quarrying machinery.By the late 1990s, Wolfgang had built his own successful business Ground Tec Equipment, manufacturing specialised rock-cutting machines. He employed a diverse team, including refugees and workers from various cultural backgrounds, creating a workplace that was like “the United Nations.” His business thrived and three years ago, a French company made him an offer to buy it, the perfect timing for retirement.After years of city life, Wolfgang and Josephine moved to the South Coast, first to Berry and then to Kiama. They immersed themselves in the local community, working on bush regeneration projects and participating in the Royal Flying Doctor Service fundraising treks. Their love for Australia is evident in their extensive travels across the country, from the Kimberley to the Outback, long before these destinations became tourist hotspots.For Wolfgang, becoming an Australian citizen was about more than just paperwork. Despite his deep ties to Germany, he felt more Australian than German.The change in German laws allowing dual citizenship was the push he needed, but the decision was made from the heart. His story is one of love, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that home is not just where you were born, it's where you choose to belong.

The MV SIGNA has reached a significant milestone on its way to the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, with the crew successfully arriving in St Helens on the northeast coast of Tasmania after 38 and 3/4 hours at sea. The crew departed Bermagui at 6am on Wednesday, 29 January, and made it to St Helens on Thursday, 30 January, at 8:45pm local time.While the weather was generally manageable, the crew faced some challenges, including sloppy seas from 6am on Thursday and strong currents that slowed their progress. Despite these setbacks, they reached St Helens - though, due to their late arrival, they were unable to be guided into the shallow waters of the port. Instead, they spent the night at a swing mooring.Sandra Hansen, wife of the project’s leader John Hansen, shared the update via Facebook, saying, “It was a long journey, and they had a drink or two to celebrate before getting some much-needed rest.”The following morning, Friday, 31 January, the crew made their way into St Helens at 10am greeted by a stunning, clear day. John described the location as “beautiful” and mentioned they were looking forward to a well-earned break.John reflected on the long stretch at sea, saying, “It’s a bloody long way, and it was totally black out there at night. We had to dodge a lot of oil rigs, but thank God for technology - it’s been a lifesaver out here.”With no set timetable for their return journey, the crew is now focusing on taking shorter hops and enjoying the journey at their own pace. “We’ll take it easy for a bit, maybe do some fishing tomorrow, and then head to Wine Glass Bay and Bruny Island before making our way to Hobart,” says John.The view of St Helens from the SIGNA, must have been a great sight! Source: Sandra Hansen.The next leg of the journey is entirely dependent on the weather. The crew may spend an extra day in St Helens to relax and fish before continuing south. After that, their plan is to head to Wine Glass Bay and Bruny Island, where they have a mooring arranged. The final destination is Hobart, where the MV SIGNA is due to arrive at Constitution Dock by Thursday, 6 February, at 11am to register for the Australian Wooden Boat Festival.Stay tuned for further updates as the SIGNA crew makes their way to Hobart!

For the third consecutive year, Shellharbour Council took home the coveted title at the annual Lifeguard Challenge, held on Thursday, 30 January at Kiama Surf Beach.From 7pm Thursday night, teams of lifeguards from Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour, and Shoalhaven faced off in the highly anticipated competition. Despite the fierce waves and dwindling daylight, the lifeguards, aged between 17 and 70, demonstrated incredible resilience as they navigated a 600-meter course around a buoy and back.Some of the competitors on the start line. Source: Veronica BardsleyEach team consisted of six competitors, with the race structured like a relay. Race organiser Blair Day explained the different legs of the race:“We start with nipper boards - the foam boards - and then move to longboards, which are the rescue boards lifeguards use to save people. After that, we have a swimmer, followed by two swimmers with rescue tubes - another tool we use to rescue people. The race ends with a runner,” says Day.Shellharbour’s A team took first place, completing the course in around 19 minutes. Shellharbour’s C team secured second, while Wollongong’s C team claimed third. Day says there were a couple of upsets due to the rough conditions.This year's event marks three consecutive years since Day revived the competition, which originally began in 2006.“It started in 2006 but stopped in 2012. I moved away from Kiama for a while, but after returning a few years ago, I decided to bring it back in 2023,” says Day. “So, this is the third year of the revived challenge.”The coveted trophy. Source: Veronica BardsleyDay created the event as a way for lifeguards to come together at the end of the busy summer season to celebrate their hard work. Given the challenging summer Kiama had experienced, including three drownings, the event held even greater significance.“The idea was to bring everyone together after a hectic summer. It was a pretty sad summer for some of the people that work in Kiama - so it felt especially important to gather everyone from different councils because we don’t get many opportunities to do that,” says Day.Crew from Culburra. Source: Veronica BardsleyDay also emphasised the importance of encouraging young people to become lifeguards. “It’s vital for the future of our community, and it’s an incredibly rewarding and fun job,” he says. “I’ve been doing it for 20 years now. I’ve traveled the world with it, and it’s one of the few jobs where you get paid to stay fit and train.”He added, “Every day is different. You’ll have busy days, quiet days, but you’re always surrounded by like-minded people who are passionate about their health and fitness. That was clear at the challenge, with competitors ranging from 17 to almost 70 years old.”A competitors getting ready to hit the water. Source: Veronica BardsleyLooking ahead, Day hopes to expand the event in the future, with plans to include more councils and build on the fun, competitive spirit that makes the Lifeguard Challenge such a unique and meaningful tradition.

By Stephanie LittleThe Kiama Show once again demonstrated its strong local connections and commitment to showcasing the versatility of ex-racehorses, with a special event dedicated to Off The Track Thoroughbreds. A highlight of the weekend was the remarkable performance of Scallopini, proving there is indeed life after racing for these beautiful animals.Scallopini’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. After an illustrious racing career spanning seven years, from age two to nine, he amassed over one million dollars in prize money and secured thirteen wins, including at Group and Listed level. Bred from the legendary sire Snitzel, his name is a nod to his racing pedigree and his quality as a competitor. Sold for $200,000 as a yearling and managed by leading syndicators Proven Thoroughbreds, Scallopini was a force on the track.When the time came for retirement, his owners took every precaution to ensure he found the perfect home. After thorough vetting, the reins were handed over to Isabella Tyson, a veterinary student with a passion for retraining and rehoming ex-racehorses. Just twelve months later, Scallopini entered the show-ring at the Kiama Show and performed like a seasoned professional, winning his class and impressing judges and spectators alike.Local professional photographer Stephanie Little, who works with Racing Australia, was on hand to capture the moment. She praised the Kiama Show Society for their efforts in promoting second careers for Off The Track Thoroughbreds. “It’s incredible to see the work that goes into ensuring these horses have bright futures beyond racing,” Stephanie said. “Scallopini’s success is a testament to the dedication of his former owners, Isabella’s care, and the wonderful opportunities provided by our local show.”The Kiama Show’s support for Off The Track Thoroughbreds not only highlights the adaptability of these animals but also the deep connection between the equestrian and racing communities. Events like these reinforce the message that retired racehorses can go on to achieve greatness in new disciplines, ensuring they enjoy long, fulfilling lives beyond the racetrack.With such a promising start to his second career, there’s no doubt that Scallopini’s future in the show-ring will be just as impressive as his time on the track.

Kevin Sullivan and the Sulli-Vans had an unforgettable few days in Tamworth during the Tamworth Country Music Festival. They performed the National Anthem to a packed stadium crowd and took home the award for Best Independent Country Band at the Independent Country Music Association Awards.The family band, made up of Kevin, his wife Belinda (their road manager), and their children KJ, Jet, and Cha-Cha, were thrilled to receive the award. “It was amazing. It was the first time we’d won an award as a band. They even gave each of us a trophy with the Sulli-Vans and our individual names engraved on it. Our son Jett, who’s 9, was so excited,” says Kevin. “Recognition like this is really rewarding. We put in so many miles and so much hard work, so to be acknowledged in the industry means a lot.”During their nearly two week stay in Tamworth, the band performed at a variety of events, including a sold out show called Music for McGrath at Tamworth Town Hall, which supported the McGrath Foundation.However, the most memorable performance came at the Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association (ABCRA) National Rodeo Finals. “We got to sing a few songs, and the National Anthem, on the back of a truck, right in the middle of this massive stadium. It was a first for us, and it was awesome!” Kevin says.Kevin also released his new album, Threeways, on June 28, 2024. The album spent 10 weeks in the top 10 of the ARIA Country Albums chart and ended up in 9th place overall for 2024. “When we got to Tamworth, I did a radio interview, and someone in the industry told me my album was in the top 10 best-selling country albums for 2024. It was the first time I’d heard that, because they only publicised the top 5. My album was ranked 8th,” Kevin explains.He continues, “I asked if there was anyone ahead of us I’d know, and he said, Probably not - have you heard of a guy named Keith Urban? Keith Urban was in front of us, and I thought, to be in the top 10 as a small independent artist from Gerringong is just amazing.”Adding to the excitement, Kevin won a Brumby Award at Tamworth for High Country Snows, a song from Threeways that he co-wrote with Bill Chambers, the father of country music legend Kasey Chambers. The song earned the award for Best Collaboration of the Year.Although their schedule was packed with performances, Kevin says their road manager makes sure they carve out time for fun. “No matter where we are, she always makes sure we have at least one day to see the sights or participate in something fun in the town. We make sure to have a little downtime,” he says.And the fun doesn’t stop there. The Sullivan family’s next stops include Queensland for another show, followed by Tasmania for more performances and some recording sessions.The Sulli-Vans singing the National Anthem. Source: Kevin Sullivan

Kiama Surf Beach saw a season high of 21 rescues in one day, a sobering reminder of the ocean’s unpredictable nature. Between 12 and 2 pm, when the tide was changing, flash rips caught swimmers off guard, leading to repeated incidents despite the surf appearing calm.With over 150 swimmers in the water and more than 400 people on the beach, Kiama Surf Life Saving Club’s patrolling members worked tirelessly to ensure everyone made it home safely. Thanks to their vigilance, all rescues had positive outcomes, with each swimmer guided safely back to shore. Club Captain Natasha Osmond-Dreyer explained that these kinds of days are a reminder of the critical role of preparation and teamwork.Patrolling the beach involves more than reacting to emergencies. Osmond-Dreyer shared how every patrol begins by assessing the strengths of each team member, assigning the strongest swimmer to water rescues, while others take on roles such as first aid and resuscitation. This preparation allows the team to act swiftly and effectively.On the day of the rescues, the team carefully monitored swimmers in groups, continuously counting heads after waves and scanning for subtle signs of distress, such as someone drifting further out or struggling against a current.While swimming between the flags is the safest option, Osmond-Dreyer stressed that swimmers must still be aware of their own competency. “Even if you are in the flagged area, you need to be honest about your ability. If you are not confident in the surf, do not go out too far. Stay close to shore where you can stand,” she said.Most of the rescues on the day occurred within the flags but involved swimmers who lacked the skills to handle deeper water.Lifesavers did not wait for a raised hand before taking action. Osmond-Dreyer explained that patrol members could see people struggling before they had a chance to call for help.“We were proactive. We rescued them before they even had time to signal for assistance. By the time we reached them, they were already in trouble. If we had waited for them to raise their hands, the outcome could have been very different,” she said.Photographs and footage from beach cameras also play a vital role in monitoring conditions. These cameras, part of a national coastal monitoring system, allow lifesavers to assess beach and surf conditions throughout the day. The images provide critical information on rip currents, wave patterns, and how weather conditions impact the safety of swimmers.Osmond-Dreyer explained that these visuals are essential for understanding the dynamics of the ocean and for planning patrols effectively.Photographs and footage from beach cameras also play a vital role in monitoring conditions.She added that the photographs are also valuable for public education and training. “We share these images on our Facebook page to show how deceptively calm the water can look when dangerous rips are present. They’re also useful for training purposes, helping us review how we responded to rescues and what we could do better in the future,” she said.While the lifesavers were able to guide all swimmers to safety, some individuals needed to be rescued multiple times, highlighting the importance of understanding what to do in a rip.Osmond-Dreyer emphasised that the most important thing is to avoid panicking. Floating on your back to conserve energy is critical, and raising one arm straight in the air is a clear signal to lifesavers that you need help. She explained that rips are not going to carry you all the way to New Zealand, andt fighting against them will only exhaust you.“Floating is your best friend,” she said, adding that waiting for assistance or swimming at an angle to the rip’s direction will improve your chances of staying safe.She also stressed the importance of swimming between the red and yellow flags, where patrols monitor the conditions most closely. “We position our team to cover this zone because it is the safest place to swim,” Osmond-Dreyer said. “If you are unsure about the conditions, always talk to the lifesavers on duty. We are here to share local knowledge about hazards and rip conditions, and we would much rather give you advice upfront than have to rescue you later.”The 21 rescues at Surf Beach are a reminder of the vital role of both patrol teams and personal responsibility. Osmond-Dreyer’s advice is simple but life-saving: respect the ocean, swim at patrolled beaches, stay calm if caught in a rip, and always speak to the lifesavers.

A recent survey by the NSW Government revealed the most common names for licensed hotels across the state in 2025, with familiar names like Royal Hotel and Commercial Hotel topping the list. These pubs, scattered across New South Wales, have long been staples of community life. Closer to home, Kiama once had its fair share of pubs with similar names – though only The Grand Hotel and Tory’s remain today. Are you like me and remember the Brighton Hotel? The Grand Hotel and Tory’s have survived while others have faded into memory. Photos Kiama Library What happened to the others? Why have these two endured while so many others disappeared?Pubs were once central to Kiama’s daily life. They were places where people could gather after a hard day’s work, share a laugh, or even quietly enjoy a drink without judgement. They weren’t just buildings, they were places of connection, with names like the Imperial Hotel or Railway Hotel conjuring images of a different time.The Grand Hotel and Tory’s have survived while others have faded into memory. Is it their location, their character, or perhaps something intangible that keeps them standing?These two pubs now serve as living relics of a time when Kiama’s streets were dotted with places to pull up a stool and share in the town’s stories.We’re calling on the community to help us remember the names and stories of Kiama’s lost pubs. Were they places for celebration, or just a quiet refuge?If you have memories, photos, or even theories about why The Grand and Tory’s have outlasted the rest, we’d love to hear them.Kiama Library has the back story of Tory's Hotel. Here is a little snippetWe all know the iconic 'Tory's Hotel' in the centre of Kiama, but did you know that it is the oldest continuously operating business in Kiama? The licence was appointed to Irishman Jimmy Barton and his wife Elizabeth on 6 April 1853, originally for 'The Fermanagh'. (Two other inns in town predated the Fermanagh, although they have not survived.)

Crooked River at Gerroa is one of the area’s most popular spots for fishing, kayaking, and bird watching. However, its recent closure to the ocean has sparked debate among locals, with some taking matters into their own hands to reopen it. While their efforts may be well-meaning, experts warn that such actions could do more harm than good.Crooked River is part of an Intermittently Closed and Open Lake and Lagoon (ICOLL) system. These systems alternate between being open or closed to the sea depending on natural conditions. When rainfall is heavy, water levels in the river rise, breaking through the sand barrier at the entrance. This creates a channel and allows the river to flow freely into the ocean. When tides and waves push sand back into the entrance, the channel gradually closes again. Studies show that Crooked River spends around 15% of the time closed, with periods of being open lasting anywhere from one week to five years.Recent attempts by community members to reopen Crooked River involved shovels and possibly machinery, but the resulting partial opening was ineffective. Local resident Warren Holder explained, “The slower outflow didn’t dredge enough sand out to sea. The river remains shallow, and much of the sand is still there.” The sand that remains in the river creates slow water movement, making it harder for the river to stay open. This disrupts the natural balance of sand redistribution, which replenishes beaches and raises the sand height above the high tide mark. Without this process, sand is more likely to wash back into the river, leading to further closures.There are also environmental risks associated with premature openings. Improper actions can disturb acid sulphate soils, which release harmful substances into the water. This can cause fish kills, damage marine ecosystems, and leave the water unsuitable for recreation.Kiama Council has a policy to allow Crooked River to open naturally unless there are extenuating circumstances. This policy aligns with state guidelines, which prioritise natural openings to protect fish habitats and water quality. The Council’s policy also recognises that flooding is not a significant risk for permanent dwellings near the river. While monitoring continues, the Council has no plans to interfere unless conditions become extreme.Crooked River’s natural cycles are essential for maintaining its ecosystem and protecting the surrounding environment. Intervening at the wrong time can create more long-term issues than it solves. Holder added, “People need to understand that this is a natural process. We’ve seen it dozens of times - if you let nature take its course, the river will eventually correct itself.”The best thing the community can do is to support evidence-based management and trust the natural process. Kiama Council is working within established guidelines, and local groups like Landcare are excellent resources for understanding the complexities of ecosystems like Crooked River. By allowing nature to take its course and avoiding unnecessary interference, we can ensure that Crooked River remains a vibrant and healthy part of our community for years to come.