Renowned essayist and famous Kiama resident Charmian Clift will be honoured with a prestigious Blue Plaque.

The Blue Plaque Program is led by Heritage NSW who recognise the lives and contributions of famous characters and personalities from across the state.

Kiama & District Historical Society President Sue Eggins nominated Charmian for the award for her significant contributions to Australian writing and journalism. Sue told The Bugle she was absolutely thrilled about Charmian’s Blue Plaque, which is expected to be installed on Kiama Library’s staircase pillar which leads to the entrance of the library. Kiama Library is also home to the largest collection of Charmian’s work.

Charmian is just one of 14 famous NSW residents selected in this round of the Blue Plaques NSW Program out of 117 nominations. 

Born in Kiama in 1923, Charmian is best known for the more than 500 essays and columns she had published in the Sydney Morning Herald which were considered to be some of the earliest feminist essays in Australian history. Charmian’s life will soon be portrayed on the big screen in the documentary “Charmian Clift: Life Burns High” which is in the final stages of post-production and scheduled to air on FOXTEL in March 2024.

NSW Labor’s Duty MLC for Kiama Dr Sarah Kaine said they were not just honouring a writer, “but a woman who faced adversity with grace, turning her life’s chapters in an inspiring narrative that continues to resonate.”

“Charmian's early struggles shaped her, but it was her courage and words that defined her. From Bombo Beach to the battlefields of journalism, she faced life head-on.”

“Charmian's journey from a small coastal town is part of the rich history of both Kiama and NSW, and it will be wonderful to see a Blue Plaque installed in her honour for both locals and visitors to see.”