In Kiama, we are at a pivotal moment. As our community grows, so must our approach to agriculture, especially dairy farming, which is crucial to our local economy. Recently, some councillors proposed a 'Rural Futures Committee', a necessary step that we need to take seriously.

Let's consider what this could mean for Kiama, particularly if we had properly used available funds after the 2020 Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS). This statement set out our goals such as sustainable growth and protecting our environment — big plans that are now waiting to be brought to life.

Imagine if we had already started a Rural Futures Committee, backed by a simple yet effective communication strategy that kept everyone up-to-date. Picture a Kiama where updates on community projects are shared not just in council meetings but through straightforward articles in the local paper, posts on familiar social media platforms, and easy-to-use websites.

Think about how a straightforward media effort could have helped everyone in Kiama feel more connected and involved. Simple videos showing local farmers at work, easy-to-understand diagrams explaining new farming policies, and regular updates could have made a big difference. This isn't just about sharing information; it's about bringing everyone together to support these initiatives.

Transparency builds trust. If we had a committee focusing on our rural future, we could have shared every small win in improving our dairy operations or conserving our beautiful landscapes. Sharing these successes could help everyone see the value of their support and involvement.

What if you could quickly check a basic website to see the real benefits of the projects happening around you? This could have shown how efforts are improving not just farming but our entire community, allowing everyone to give feedback and get involved.

Too often, it seems councils talk too much without doing enough. A Rural Futures Committee could change this by moving from repetitive discussions to real, impactful community involvement. This means creating opportunities where our farmers and residents are actively engaged in shaping what happens next.

By working together with local businesses, schools, and community groups, we could have made our agricultural projects more effective and beneficial for everyone.

Starting a Rural Futures Committee could really change the game for Kiama, turning our plans into reality. It's high time we match our discussions with decisive actions and clear communication. This isn't about keeping things as they are; it's about making sure our community thrives now and in the future.

Let's not just keep talking about what we could do; let's start doing it. Kiama deserves an approach that really puts plans into action and includes everyone in the process. Let's work together for a prosperous, sustainable future that makes all of us proud.