If you happen to enter a church in parts of Europe, you’re probably amongst a crowd of tourists taking in the sights and sounds of far-flung places in buildings hundreds of years old.

No doubt there’ll be more than a murmur of chatter and in places of worship that are rightly revered, the leader of the church will bellow: SILENCIO! SILENCE!

Figures within Kiama Council are positioning themselves as the spiritual leaders of our fair town and when there is more than a murmur, a dissenting voice, an opportunity for members of the public to speak out – they want silence.

We have other ideas.  When the so-called leaders and prominent people of our community try to shut down debate and stifle any difference of (their) opinion, it means that supporting freedom of speech, reporting the facts and shining a light on this abhorrent behaviour is more important than ever. 

News that the Blue Haven Bonaira saga is (hopefully) finished is somewhat welcome news. To hear that Council is going to enter yet another legal saga with the builder of the facility is not so welcome. The Bugle does not know the intricacies of the legal action, but we do know that the builder would have had to engage multiple sub-contractors who will likely become involved in this legal battle. That means (potentially) millions more of our rate payer dollars going to lawyers.

As the draft Growth and Housing Strategy demonstrates, the Kiama local government area is preparing for significant growth. Significant growth requires significant investment and significant leadership.

Leaders who shut down dissent aren’t just stifling debate; they’re eroding trust and stalling progress. 

Good leadership, in contrast, welcomes dissent as valuable feedback. It’s the difference between fostering a culture of fear and one of innovation and growth.

Kiama Council’s move to refer The Bugle to the Australian Press Council over baseless rumours was framed as fostering a constructive relationship. In reality, it looks like an attempt to control the narrative and silence criticism. This approach is counterproductive. True leadership embraces diverse perspectives and values every voice.

Personal attacks derail dialogue and damage trust. Constructive criticism, backed by facts and a genuine desire to solve problems, is far more effective.

Kiama Council’s recent actions show the dangers of leadership that silences dissent. Instead of shifting blame, leaders should embrace transparency and authenticity, listen to dissenting voices, and involve them in decision-making. This builds trust and empowers the community.

We are two months away from one of the most important local government elections in living memory. 

It’s the worst it’s ever been – this is now undeniable.

The Bugle’s View is that the community deserves leadership, and a leader who ensures that every voice is heard and valued. Not just a vocal minority, not just their mates, not some councillors’ and not others.

We hope they’re listening.