By Dave Peade

Gerringong Lions' Christmas Parade

Yes, it’s back! Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 21, at 10 a.m., when the Gerringong Christmas Street Parade returns. Organised by the Gerringong Lions Club, the event is generously sponsored by Kiama Council through the Signature Event Funding Program and The Gerringong Bowling Club.

Community groups, local businesses, and organisations are invited to join the parade by entering a float. The Hill Bar and Kitchen will be sponsoring an award for the “Best Float,” with a $100 gift voucher prize. Wave FM 96.5’s Jade, from Illawarra’s Fun Breakfast, will be this year’s MC, while the Hot Potato Roving Band will entertain the crowd.

Confirmed floats include Shoalhaven City Pipes and Drums, Kiama Pipe Band, Natural Necessity Surf Shop, State MP Gareth Ward, Federal MP Fiona Phillips, Mayor Cameron McDonald, Gerringong Men’s Shed, Illawarra Pipe Band, Ray White Real Estate, Gerringong Junior Rugby League Football Club, Gerringong Dogs’ Group,

Gerringong Rural Fire Brigade, Gerringong Netball Club, Gerringong Auto, Mayflower Village, and Gerringong Breakers FC.

To participate or learn more, email [email protected]. If you have questions about float requirements, call Liz Atkins at 0410 578 111, or visit the Gerringong Christmas Parade Facebook page. The parade starts and finishes at Cronin Oval, Blackwood St., proceeding down Fern St.

Weeding boat harbour

Whether you're new in town or a longtime resident, come out to enjoy this community celebration.

Community Defibrillator at Lloyd Rees Reserve

Last year, Bendigo Bank of Gerringong and Oak Flats donated a defibrillator (AED) to the Gerringong Breakers Football Club. Initially intended for travel with the All Age teams, the AED has now been donated for community use at the north end of Werri Beach, thanks to a joint initiative by the Breakers, the Lions, and other local clubs.

Location of the AED (defibrillator) on the amenities block at Lloyd Rees Reserve Nth Werri Beach

The Lions funded and installed an all-weather cabinet for the AED, with ongoing maintenance supported by the Werri Beach BoardRiders, Gerringong Surf Club, Gerringong Netball Club, and Gerringong Rugby League Club. Positioned on the amenities block at Lloyd Rees Reserve, this AED serves a critical need for the many locals and visitors in the area, including beachgoers and those using the Kiama to Gerringong Coastal Walk. It’s Gerringong’s second AED with 24/7 public access.

Lions’ Ongoing Community Work

The Lions remain active in maintaining local landmarks. Their recent efforts at Boat Harbour include mowing, weeding around the large tree, and re-mulching the Commemorative Garden overlooking Werri Beach. 

Refurbished Commemorative Garden on the Werri Headland

They are also preparing for their Christmas delivery to the Supported Accommodation and Homeless Service Shoalhaven/Illawarra (SAHSSI) in Nowra. A trolley at Gerringong IGA is available for community donations, with suggested items including pantry goods, children’s toys, gifts for teens, and petrol vouchers. Donations will be accepted until November 30, and the Lions have committed $1,000 in items to add to community contributions.

Lions Christmas Raffle and Goodies

The annual Lions Christmas raffle is underway, with tickets sold on Fern St. most Saturday mornings until the draw on parade day. Prizes include:

1. Three nights' accommodation in Kiama (value $1,000)

2. A Makita rotary hammer drill (value $600)

3. A Gerringong Golf Club package (value $500)

4. Core Store and Blue Goose vouchers (value $250)

5. Two tickets to the Ash Grunwald concert at the Co-Op (value $100)

Lions pudding & cakes, with President Steve Pottie

Lions Christmas cakes and puddings are also available for purchase. Support a great cause while treating yourself to festive goodies!