Christmas is often a time for joy, but it’s also a chance to pause and reflect on the year, our relationships, and our place in the world.These five films go beyond the sparkle and tinsel, offering thoughtful perspectives on life, family, and what truly matters.It’s a Wonderful Life reminds us of the profound impact one life can have, while A Christmas Carol shows that even the most hardened heart can find redemption.For something a little unconventional, The Nightmare Before Christmas explores identity and the search for meaning in our routines.The Family Stone balances humour and drama, delving into the messy beauty of family and acceptance.Finally, Joyeux Noël tells the true story of the 1914 Christmas truce, a poignant reminder of humanity’s capacity for peace even in times of war.If you’re seeking films that inspire reflection, these timeless stories might just be the perfect addition to your Christmas tradition.

On 8 November, Kiama Art Workshops held a Festive Art Day with Kiama Coast Catering, Kbee Macrame, Gerri Kafer Art and Liv Deans. This day was funded by the Kiama Council Cultural Grant with support from the Lions Club.“Over the day we had 8 sessions of functional Christmas art activities,” says Liv Deans. Source: Liv Deans“These included watercolour cards, macrame decorations, chocolate dipped decorated treats and gelli printed wrapping paper. People enjoyed this free event where they got to create and learn something new with family and friends under professional artist guidance,” says Deans.Source: Liv DeansArt events like these are important to the Kiama community, bringing community members together to enjoy and appreciate art.Source: Liv Deans“Families from the park enjoyed walking in to join in on some watercolour card making too,” says Deans.

By Spencer IliasChristmas is right around the corner, and one of the best ways to celebrate is to watch a Christmas movie with your friends and family. But which one? All of the streaming services, each one thousands of movies, have made the act of picking a movie a little bit of a chore.So, to make it easier for you, here are my five most comforting and enjoyable Christmas movies to watch this Christmas.Home Alone:Home Alone is a family comedy about 8-year-old Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on a Christmas trip to Paris. Thrilled at first to have the house to himself, Kevin’s fun ends when two burglars target his home. Using clever traps, he defends the house while his mother races to return in time for Christmas. This timeless classic is a great watch with the family if you are wanting a good laugh and is enjoyable for all ages.How the Grinch Stole Christmas:How the Grinch Stole Christmas, starring Jim Carrey, is a heartwarming Christmas comedy about the Grinch, a grumpy, green recluse who hates Christmas. Living alone with his dog Max, he decides to ruin the Whos’ celebrations by stealing their decorations and presents. But, after meeting kind-hearted Cindy Lou Who, he learns the true meaning of Christmas, but is it too late?While this version is a classic, the Grinch's appearance might be scary for younger children. For a less intimidating option, the animated film The Grinch offers a similar storyline with a gentler tone.Elf:Elf starring Will Ferrell is a christmas comedy about Buddy the elf, a human raised as an elf in the north pole. When Buddy realises he’s not an elf, he travels to New York to find his biological father, who happens to be a grumpy old man who loves to work all day and is on Santa's naughty list.A hilarious feel good story is great for everyone during Christmas.The Nightmare Before Christmas:The Nightmare Before Christmas follows the story of Jack Skellington the pumpkin king of halloween town, who gets bored of his spooky routine. When he stumbles upon Christmas town, he grows curious and decides to take over Christmas. But Jack's attempt to replace Santa leads to chaos as his creepy gifts terrify the real world. With the help of his friends and the kind Sally, Jack realizes his mistake and works to restore Christmas, embracing his true role as Halloween’s leader. It’s a quirky, magical story about self-discovery and the spirit of the holidays.The Polar Express:The Polar Express is a magical animated film about a young boy who boards a train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way he meets other children and experiences different adventures that test his bravery and his belief of Christmas. At the North Pole he is given a special opportunity to meet Santa. It is a heart warming tale about faith, friendship and the spirit of Christmas.All of these movies are great for families to really get into the Christmas spirit and to have an enjoyable heartfelt experience with one another.

Earlier this year, Gerringong Pics and Flicks advertised a scholarship for young directors interested in learning more about the filmmaking world. The scholarship included $1,000, with $960 allocated for short courses at the Australian Film, Radio and Television School (AFTRS). The recipients of the scholarship, Regan Anderson and Lleyton Hughes, were interviewed by Bernie Hems at Kiama Community Radio, although due to conflicting schedules, the interviews took place a week apart.Regan is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Communications in Media, majoring in Screen Production at the University of Wollongong (UOW). She also brings an extensive background in film, photography, screenwriting, stage writing, and acting. “Her project is a comedic short film that showcases the South Coast lifestyle from a young adult’s perspective,” Bernie explained, summarizing their interview. While comedy can be a challenging genre to master, Regan is approaching it with confidence and skill.Lleyton Hughes interviewed by Bernie Hems on Kiama Community RadioLleyton, a familiar face to The Bugle and Kiama Community Radio, studied Journalism and Creative Writing at UOW before heading to Los Angeles for film classes. “I had a great time—it didn’t even feel like I was at school,” Lleyton recalled about his time in LA. “Unfortunately, I could only stay for three months because of COVID.”When asked what motivated him to apply for the scholarship, Lleyton explained that he had always wanted to check out Pics and Flicks but had been unable to due to his sports commitments. When he heard about the scholarship on their Facebook page, he saw it as a perfect opportunity to further his filmmaking knowledge. “To have the chance to learn at a school in Sydney with the people they have there is amazing. It would be great for my development,” Lleyton said.When Bernie asked about his project, Lleyton shared that he wanted to make a film about a boxer. “I recently did a half Ironman, and during the training, I found myself asking, ‘Why do we do this?’ There were days when I didn’t train, and I’d feel guilty,” Lleyton explained. “Why do we feel the need to earn rest? Why do we have to do something big to earn relaxation? That got me thinking about boxing.”Lleyton sees boxing as a powerful metaphor for pushing yourself to the limit, with no breaks or relaxation. He cited Mike Tyson’s recent fight against Jake Paul and Tyson’s attitude of never wanting to stop fighting, no matter the hardship.“I want to explore that mindset in my film,” Lleyton said. Through research—particularly reading about Muhammad Ali’s life—and stepping into the ring himself for two training sessions, Lleyton gained a deeper understanding of the mental and physical demands of a fighter. “I couldn’t believe how much goes into it. There’s so much technique, so much to think about. It’s more than just a fight,” he said. “I’ve tried to make a film before, but it was a mess. It was a good learning experience, but I’m so grateful for the opportunity to learn and improve through this scholarship.”Regan and Lleyton’s films are expected to be completed by May 2025 and will be screened at Gerringong Pics and Flicks.

“A small but quality turnout,” is how Kiama Icons and Artists' Linda Birchall described the recent Orry-Kelly drinks event at the Sebel.Held on 1 December, the event drew members of the Kiama community interested in supporting Kiama Icons and Artists as they plan a major celebration of Kiama-born, Hollywood fashion designer Orry-Kelly.All photos sourced through Kiama Icons and ArtistsKiama Icons and Artists is a group dedicated to fostering art and cultural activities in the Kiama region. The Orry-Kelly celebration is scheduled for 26 July 2025, and the group is currently in the early stages of planning.For more about Orry-Kelly, check out the articles The Bugle has published about his life and legacy. If you'd like to support Kiama Icons and Artists, you can find more information on their Facebook page.

SEVENMARKS Gallery’s annual group exhibition, titled Unbalanced, will open on 7 December, showcasing work from nine distinguished artists. The exhibition, which runs through 1 February 2025, explores the theme of Unbalanced, described by the gallery as:“A feeling of unease, a visual hurdle, a tipping point. Contributing to many monumental events and great artworks, it is a physical and visual element that holds potency. Challenging comfort and known order, we ask the featured artists to explore the parameters of balance and convey understanding through their chosen materials.”The nine featured artists include: Cesar Cueva, Chick Butcher, Cinnamon Lee, Cobi Cockburn, Gabrielle Adamik, Mat Heaney, Mikey Freedom, Phil Spelman, and Scott Chaseling. The Bugle spoke with three of the artists ahead of the exhibition’s opening.Cinnamon LeeCinnamon Lee's work. Source: Cinnamon Lee.Sydney-based artist Cinnamon Lee is known for her finely crafted contemporary jewellery and lighting. For Unbalanced, Lee has created a series of works she refers to as “drawings in metal.”“They’re two panels made from industrially perforated aluminium—the same material used for security doors,” Lee says. “I’ve used stainless steel ball bearings to create pixelated images. One panel features a 3D cube, and the other a sphere. They are suspended in space, appearing as though they’re disintegrating, caught in a state of compromise.”When SEVENMARKS introduced the theme, Lee began to reflect on imbalance in the broader world and within herself, contemplating how the two might be connected.“The two forms represent my feeling of being in between—trying to find balance in a world that feels increasingly unbalanced. I think the forms are symbolic of nature and intellect,” she says.Gabrielle AdamikGlass is the medium of choice for Gabrielle Adamik, whose fascination with the material stems from its unique ability to capture and preserve moments in time. The way the glass flows downward and dips, makes Adamik’s work in the SEVENMARKS gallery resemble a waterfall. Almost as if, if you were to touch the glass, it would be a liquid. Adamik has literally frozen a moment of unbalance and put it on display.“Glass has this amazing ability to exist between liquid and solid states, and that gives me the chance to freeze a fleeting moment,” Adamik says. “I start with recycled glass, including smashed work, and fuse it into a solid form. Then, I slump the piece in the kiln, allowing it to droop and overbalance. I freeze that moment of falling, capturing the essence of unbalance.”The work of Gabrielle Adamik. Source: Gabielle Adamik.Mat HeaneyMat Heaney, an artist from Narooma, draws inspiration from three different artists for his contribution to Unbalanced. The first is the 16th-century painter Pieter Bruegel the Elder, specifically his painting Children’s Games, which depicts children playing various games in the street.“From that, I created two paintings, Children’s Games (Day) and Children’s Games (Night),” Heaney says. “One is light, the other dark, and both focus on the feet and shoes of the characters—my work often features floating or falling feet or shoes.”Mat Heaney's work. Source: Mat Heaney.Heaney’s work also incorporates influences from Phillip Guston, known for his cartoonish style, and George Baselitz, a German painter who often portrays shoes in his work.“The paintings look much better in person than in photographs. The texture and movement in the paint really come to life up close,” Heaney notes, encouraging visitors to experience the works at SEVENMARKS Gallery in person.A Regional TreasureAll three artists praised SEVENMARKS Gallery for its contribution to the regional arts scene. Each expressed excitement about supporting the gallery and the opportunity to showcase their work to the public.The Unbalanced exhibition is free to the public and will run from 7 December to 1 February 2025. The opening event, on 7 December from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., will offer an opportunity to meet the artists and learn more about the creative processes behind their works. Those interested in attending can register via Eventbrite.

In the lead-up to the Kiama Icons and Artists’ Orry-Kelly-themed event scheduled for 2025, The Bugle is planning a series of articles to share the story of Orry-Kelly and his impact on the world. If you missed the first article, you can find it here.Orry was born in Kiama on New Year’s Eve in 1897. His father, William Kelly, was a well-known figure in the community. William is credited with founding the Kiama Progress Association and the Kiama Swim Club, serving as its captain for many years.He also reportedly would perform the popular ‘Monte Cristo’ stunt at swimming carnivals which involved being tied up in a sack and thrown into deep water. Kelly would then surface after quickly disentangling himself from the sack. Kiama Historical Society president Sue Eggins, a researcher on Orry-Kelly’s life, provides further insight into William’s active role in the community: “Orry’s father was an outdoor man who was famous for swimming and running. His father reportedly saved a ship back in the day.”William Kelly's Watch. Source: Kiamalocalhistory's weblog.According to Eggins, William used his deep water diving skills to plug an open porthole on a ship which was sinking. He was given a medal inscribed “To William Kelly in recognition of services rendered on the occasion of the accident to HMCS Ajax.”An article in the Kiama Independent, and Shoalhaven Advertiser on August 2, 1898 about an incident with the HMCS Ajax in Kiama on the night of Dec 4, 1888 confirms this theory, stating:“The accident in connection with the Ajax … occurred during rough weather when … by some means one of the portholes opened or was left open. The after part of the vessel filled with water. The captain … after making preparations in case of emergency, gallantly steered the vessel into the safety afforded by the Kiama basin.“Pilot W. Fraser had a big share in the saving of the Ajax and was also presented with a watch … And so was Mr Kelly for diving and plugging up the porthole.”By all accounts, William Kelly was an active and respected man around town, deeply involved in physical activities. However, Eggins suggests that his vigorous lifestyle may have created some tension between father and son.“Orry’s father always tried to make him more manly. Orry used to make stage theatres at home with little dolls and his father would throw it against the wall and smash it up,” says Eggins.William Kelly's gentleman tailor shop. Source: Kiamalocalhistory's weblogWilliam seemed less than impressed with Orry’s dreams of designing dresses and costumes. Ironically William was a tailor and had a business in Kiama for many years. So, although they were quite different they ended up doing very similar things with their careers.“I think he learnt a lot of skills from his father and I think he definitely learnt his craft from his father,” says Eggins.His father passed away in 1924 after suffering from a stroke and never got to see his son’s success. Orry was in New York at the time of his father’s death, and didn’t get back to Kiama in time to say his final goodbye. It was only a year after his father passed away that Orry met actor Cary Grant who, at the time, was 21 and not yet famous. The pair lived together for a time and briefly ran a speakeasy in Manhattan and a casino in Nevada - and Orry’s road to stardom began.Sue Eggins expresses a hope that, by the time of his passing, William had come to accept Orry’s career choices. “Although Orry never made it back to see his father before he died, I like to think his father had softened and would have accepted Orry for who he was,” she says.And perhaps she is right, William Kelly’s entry in Obituaries Australia states:It was a strange thing, however, that Mr. Kelly, just before his seizure, had a vivid dream that his youngest son was on his way home and it seemed to comfort him greatly. Kiama Icons and Artists are still in the planning stages for their Orry Kelly-themed event, but are holding drinks at the Sebel on December 1 for anyone who wants to support the project. You can find their Facebook page here.

Kiama is a gorgeous place, but what makes it loveable is the sense of community and kindness that comes from everyone. Everyone is open to share, and to help build one another. Frances Smith is one of those people. Her knowledge and skill in ceramics is something she loves to share with our community, and to teach amongst her students.For 40 years Frances has been experimenting with her hobby in ceramic artworks, and teaching what she has learnt for five of those years in Kiama. Frances describes it as a “therapeutic experience” for those who take a liking to the art form, her students range from HSC students to women in their 60’s. But her work is not limited to those willing to learn, it is presented with pride to the active community.Kiama Fire Station is currently hosting the studio’s fourth showcase, displaying a variety of ceramics from Christmas bowls to beautifully detailed vases. There, it is open to the public to view and purchase pieces. The sale gives the students an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and understanding of which ceramics will sell, while also allowing for adequate feedback on their works. Additionally, Frances Smith’s intricate artworks are available for the community.“The Council has been great to give us this space, especially at this time, leading up to Christmas,” Frances explains, grateful for the wonderful opportunity presented. The success of the showcase has been significantly impactful for her studio, and a fun experience for all the foot traffic who wander through.Though, she assures that it won’t be the last showing of her and her student's “obsession”, there's no time to waste in getting down to the Old Fire Station and showing these ceramic artists some love. Frances Smith’s Ceramic Art Studio’s exhibition is on display at Kiama’s Old Fire Station until 4PM 27 November.

The Kazador Festival is sadly coming to a close for 2024, but it’s not going out quietly! After already bringing a diverse and high-quality lineup to Kiama, featuring big names like Geraldine Hickey, Tom Ballard, and Imogen Kelly, the festival still has some exciting performances lined up for its final weekend from November 22 to 24.The last weekend promises to be action-packed, with a mix of comedy, music, vaudeville, and magic performances.Friday, November 22 kicks off with local split personality Kiki Bittovabitsch, aka Tamara Campbell, presenting her brand new show The Demasking of Kiki Bittovabitsch at 7pm, followed by internationally recognized bluesman Frank Sultana at 8:30pm.On Saturday, November 23, the comedy continues with Peter Berner at 6pm, followed by The Thin White Ukes, a ukulele tribute band performing the music of David Bowie, at 8pm. Earlier in the day, there will also be a family-friendly Vaudeville/Comedy/Circus show, Vaudevillawarra, at 4pm.The festival will close on Sunday, November 24, with Kiki and Pascal presenting their brand-new magic show, A Kind of Magic, at 2pm, followed by the final performance of the season—Kay Proudlove, a local singer-songwriter, at 6pm.In addition to the ticketed events, there will be two free wine-down sessions. On Friday, November 22, enjoy The Saskia McIntyre Trio, a jazz group from the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music, performing at 5pm. On Sunday, November 24, Cha Cha Del Mar, local favourites, will play the final wine-down at 3:30pm.Dave and Tamara from Laughter House Entertainment, the organisers of the Kiama-based festival, are thrilled with the event’s success.“We’re so proud to have brought a program that rivals any major city theatre. The Kazador Festival will be back in 2025, and we urge people to check out some of the hidden gems in the program that they might have missed—every show this season has been fantastic,” they said.The organisers also expressed gratitude to Kiama Council for their support through the community grants program.Tickets for all shows are available HERE.

Local resident Darren Parlett has been a dedicated member of the Roo Theatre Company since December 1991. From his first performance as the lovable Scarecrow in The Wiz, Parlett has delighted audiences in over twenty productions. Now, he is thrilled to be part of the cast in the Roo Theatre's latest pantomime, The Little Mermaid.This lively show follows the classic story of Ariel, the Little Mermaid, as she dreams of exploring the surface world. True to pantomime tradition, the production is packed with humour for all ages - there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.Parlett will take on two roles in this production: the sailor, Mac Erol and the understudy of the villainous Jones, one of the henchmen. He will be taking the stage as ‘Jones’ in three out of the ten shows. In one of the show’s musical highlights, Parlett will belt out the iconic Killer Queen by Queen. As anyone who has tried knows, Freddie Mercury’s vocals are notoriously challenging, but Parlett is undeterred. "What a challenge it is... I'm nailing it!" he laughs.But the spotlight might not only be on Parlett—his award-winning dog Charly could make a surprise cameo. “My dog Charly might be in the show too,” Parlett said. “I’m taking him to rehearsals, and so far, he’s doing really well… We’ll just have to see how he goes." One of the directors even told him, “I think this might be Charly’s big stage debut!”Charly is no stranger to the limelight, having already earned accolades in the local dog show circuit, winning Best Groomed at the Kiama Show in 2024 and Best Dog in Show at the Port Kembla Fear Fest as well.Charly, Best Dog in Show at the Port Kembla Fear Fest As a long-time member of The Roo Theatre Company, Parlett is passionate about encouraging others to get involved in the arts. "Get involved, meet new friends, and you never know—doors might open," he says. "You don’t have to be a ‘NIDA graduate’ to perform. We’ve had people walk through our doors who have gone on to have professional careers in the arts." For anyone wondering where to start, Parlett is clear: "The Roo is for you."In addition to his theatre work, Parlett has branched out into film, making appearances as an extra in shows like Return to Paradise on ABC, season 2 of NCIS: Sydney, and even sharing the screen with American comedian, Will Forte, in Sunny Nights.Parlett’s dedication to the arts is truly inspiring. For locals who’ve always wanted to get involved in theatre, this may be the sign you’ve been waiting for. As Parlett puts it, "At the Roo is where your dreams can come true."The Little Mermaid will hit the stage from the 10th to the 25th of January 2024 at The Roo Theatre, you can find information and tickets here. It would make a great Christmas present for someone!

The biblical story of the Tower of Babel tells of a time when all humans spoke the same language. But when they attempted to build a tower that reached the heavens, God caused them to become unable to understand one another, leading to the tower’s collapse.Chinese-Australian artist Jiawei Shen’s new four-panel work, titled Tower of Babel, spans 130 square metres and stands 7.5 metres tall. The title borrows from the biblical story and resonates deeply with the ambitious scale of his art. This title is also shared by James Bradley’s documentary Welcome to Babel, which chronicles the creation of this monumental piece over seven long years, and it was this wild ambition that immediately drew him to the project.James Bradley. Source/ Bonsai Films.“It was the grandeur of the project, the fact that he was an artist with a crazy dream, this ambition to do this massive project that was going to take years. I mean, that's always a good story,” says Bradley.Jiawei’s artwork attempts to depict the history of communism, a subject deeply personal to him due to the profound impact communism has had on his homeland. What began as a documentary to explain the artwork’s meaning evolved into a deeper exploration of Jiawei’s life, his motivations, and the people closest to him.“The piece is so complex that it needed explanation. Jiawei spent hours explaining it to me before he even started. From his descriptions, I could tell the work would be fascinating, but it quickly became clear that the film was about more than just the artwork. It was about why he was doing it,” says Bradley.As Bradley delved deeper into Jiawei’s story, he began to learn more about Jiawei’s wife, Lan Wang, an artist in her own right. Though Lan initially wanted to stay in the background, her personal history became an integral part of the narrative.“She didn’t want to be in the film much—she was content to stay in the background. But as we went along, we realised that her own story, particularly her difficult childhood during the Cultural Revolution, was crucial to understanding Jiawei’s work,” says Bradley.Lan’s story adds an emotional depth to the film. Her contrasting experience to Jiawei’s provides a richer perspective on their shared history. For example, she confesses that she cannot even look at her husband’s immense artwork in their home because it brings back painful memories of the past. Her own work, by contrast, focuses on the harmony of nature, a stark contrast to the intense, politically charged themes of Jiawei’s art.Lan Wang provides a balanced perspective in the film. While she is vital to Jiawei’s work—driving him everywhere, preparing meals, raising their daughter, and doing all the housework—her presence also raises thought-provoking questions. Is it fair that a man should be neglecting all of his duties to create a singular piece of art that actually is painful for his wife to look at? But, on the other side of the coin does this pain reflect the immensity and potential impact of this singular piece of art?In addition to Jiawei and Lan’s story, Bradley’s own personal connection to Chinese culture adds an emotional layer to the film. His late wife, who was from Hong Kong, played a key role in bridging the gap between Bradley and Jiawei. Tragically, she passed away in 2019 after a long battle with cancer, an experience that deeply affected Bradley as he continued work on the documentary.“My wife was Chinese, from Hong Kong, and she introduced me to China and its people. She and Jiawei’s wife got along very well. It was incredibly difficult when she passed away during the making of this film. The process of creating Welcome to Babel became even more personal for me,” says Bradley.It seems that whilst Bradley was recording an artist attempting to create a hugely ambitious project, Bradley may have been doing the exact same thing with the documentary - which took him 12 years to complete. “It’s part of the human condition to set challenges for ourselves, and meeting those challenges affirms our existence and gives us some sort of power. This was my first feature documentary, and one of my ambitions was to have it screened at the Sydney Film Festival. Not only did it screen, but it won the Best Documentary prize,” says Bradley.“It's that sort of sense of achievement that I felt I needed, especially after going through some pretty difficult times with Kathy being sick for three and a half years and being her carer. So it's just interesting how these things happen. I started the project with her, and of course, the film is dedicated to her.” Welcome to Babel is a moving, fascinating, and beautiful exploration of human ambition. It captures the deeply personal and complex histories of Jiawei Shen and Lan Wang, and the artwork that encapsulates so much of what shaped their lives. It shows the best and worst of human ambition—the capacity to build monumental creations, but also the potential to destroy them.Welcome to Babel is out in select cinemas on November 14, you can find the screenings of the film here.Welcome To Babel. Source_ Bonsai Films

Ian Darling’s The Pool is a film about just that, a pool. It is a 90 minute examination of a singular place - its community, individuals, rituals, obsessions, stories, connections, quirks, emotions, history and much more. It is a film that aims to simply observe a place, a place which encapsulates so much of what makes life, life that it becomes much more than a place - it becomes a world.Ian DarlingSource Shark Island ProductionsThe world at the centre of The Pool is the Icebergs Ocean Pool in Bondi. If you were to visit the Icebergs Ocean Pool you would be given a small idea of this world - a mere outline in plain pencil. Darling’s film fills in these lines with intricate details, colour, dimension and ultimately life.The film grew out of Darling’s desire to create a documentary that would explore community—a theme that became all the more relevant during the isolation of COVID-19. Initially uncertain of the subject to explore, Darling’s inspiration arrived unexpectedly.“I was down at the pool having coffee one morning, after a swim, with one of the champion swimmers. And I said, I'm looking for this uplifting film about community. And she said, How about here? Sometimes the best ideas are right under your nose. I thought, actually, that's great. It’ll let me explore everything I wanted to—this beautiful location and a broad spectrum of community members. It was the perfect opportunity,” Darling says.The Pool is unconventional in that it doesn’t follow a traditional plot or focus on any one main character. The pool itself is the protagonist. As you watch, you find yourself sinking into the rhythms and patterns of the pool’s community.This is enhanced by the film’s unique structure, which doesn’t adhere to chronological order. Instead, the documentary is divided into sections that showcase different facets of the pool’s life. These segments are separated by meditative montages or continuous shots of waves, swimming, and water—a deliberate choice to create a calming atmosphere.“We thought, let's just make a film that encourages people to watch the waves and stop looking at their phones, just settle into it,” says Darling. “All of the films I’ve made have tried to get into the rhythm of the subject, and swimming is inherently meditative. The pool is such a beautiful place. We need to spend more time looking at the ocean. So we’ve incorporated a lot of moments where people can just dream about their next swim, or their next surf, or even reflect on their own lives. I want people to think about how they feel about their community, and what they’re yearning for.”Throughout the documentary, we meet several of the pool’s regulars: a group of squad swimmers who train every morning, a woman who is terrified of the water but keeps swimming, and another who swam daily during her cancer treatment, imagining that the bad stuff was leaving her body out of the top of her head. One of the most poignant moments features two friends who meet every morning for a swim and a coffee.“They’re a couple of friends who meet at the pool at exactly 6:47 every morning. They just came alive on screen. They represented everything we wanted. You couldn’t have scripted it. One says, ‘I like to use a bit of talcum powder after the swim.’ Then they both dive in at exactly the same time at opposite ends, get out at the same time, and head up for coffee—ordering exactly the same coffee every day,” Darling says.The touching exchange between Russell and Adrian encapsulates the film’s themes of friendship and routine:Russell asks, “Can you imagine a time when we’re not coming here every morning?”Adrian replies, “No.”Russell nods and says, “Good answer.”Darling reflects, “In that two-minute exchange, we captured so much about what we yearn for—why friendship is important, why routine matters. Swim squads exist because people don’t want to let each other down. Two friends rely on each other to show up at 6:47.”Darling says these types of moments weren’t scripted or anticipated - they just happened.“We didn't exactly know what we're getting on any day, but we just knew that we would keep coming back, and eventually we'd get what we wanted to tell the full, comprehensive story of what that consciousness was in the pool.”The Pool is a fascinating, feel good, beautiful documentary which simply observes and attempts to encapsulate a tiny, microscopic location on this enormous round sphere we’re all floating on. And it shows just how much life and energy and complexity can be held inside one tiny location.The Pool is showing in select cinemas around Sydney now, visit this website for all showtimes.Ian Darling and his crew. Source Shark Island Productions

The Country Women’s Association marked a grand 25th anniversary of ‘Opera in the Valley’ last night at Jamberoo School of Arts, led once again by the talented Maestro Glen Amer. This year’s program was dedicated to the works of Puccini, commemorating the centenary of his passing, and featured a line-up of vocalists who breathed life into each piece with stunning precision and charisma.This is my second year covering this remarkable event, and once again, Glen Amer delivered a top-tier performance. Known for his engaging commentary, Amer provides insightful introductions to each piece, offering the audience both context and humour - transforming the night into an experience that’s as educational as it is entertaining. His warmth and wit create a comfortable atmosphere, making each artist’s performance even more memorable.One standout aspect of ‘Opera in the Valley’ is the complete absence of microphones. The singers’ voices fill the hall with clarity, every note resonating beautifully, unaided by technology. Dressed in elegant attire - either classic tuxedos or glamorous gowns - the performers exude star quality.The ticket, priced at only $60, includes an extraordinary level of entertainment and the CWA’s signature spread of treats at the supper that follows the performance. In a moment of pride for the event, Amer mentioned that soprano Catherine Bouchier, a newcomer to Jamberoo, will soon perform at the Opera House on New Year’s Eve - a performance commanding hundreds of dollars per ticket!Catherine Bouchier’s presence was both powerful and electrifying, with her statuesque form and striking voice captivating the audience. Another debut in Jamberoo, baritone Gennadi Dubinski, originally from Russia, won the crowd with his rich tones, especially during his lively rendition of “If I Were a Rich Man” from Fiddler on the Roof.Catherine BouchierGennadi DubinskiReturning favourites also graced the stage. Mezzo-soprano Michaela Hodgson (formerly Leisk) brought her expressive face and vibrant personality to each song, drawing particular applause for her rendition of “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina.” Tenor Matthew Reardon, known for his warm stage presence, enchanted the audience with his rich tones, delivering each piece with heartfelt precision.Michaela HodgsonMatthew ReardonThe event concluded with a breathtaking performance of ‘Amigos Para Siempre,’ involving all four singers, but the encore, Nessun Dorma, from the Turandot opera, brought the audience to their feet. Although traditionally a tenor piece, the female vocalists joined in parts, adding a fresh dimension to this much-loved aria.Special commendation goes to Glen Amer, who skilfully accompanied every piece on piano, and even sang two selections himself. The performers - Bouchier, Hodgson, Reardon, and Dubinski - were spectacular, each bringing their unique flair to the evening. Acknowledgement and thanks also go to MC Brian Petschler, Vivienne Marris, Alan Fowlie, Trevor Fredericks, the Jamberoo Rural Fire Services, and of course, the CWA, whose tireless members make this event possible. A special mention goes to Cathy Delhaas, who has organised ‘Opera in the Valley’ since its inception.Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the next gathering on the first Saturday in November 2025, confident it will continue to inspire and entertain. Until then.Sue Good, Melissa Matters and Jenny JuddBrad Wenzel and Jenny JuddChris Bergman, Florence Rankin, Graeme Lock LeeEliza & Gloria Dalla ValleJohn & Helen Francis, Anto & Felicity Brocca, Jane & Piers ParburyLynn & Malcolm BedfordLynne Strong and Belle WoodVanessa & Liv Talbot, and Anne Hattersley

The KISS Festival is back and better than ever this year.Circus Warehouse at the Little Big Stage.Despite losing 40% of its funding earlier this year, the festival has plenty of free family entertainment on offer this weekend and it’s kicked off with a bang. Black Beach is currently buzzing with excitement and the best news is there’s still plenty of time to join in the fun. Check out a show, grab some food, and soak up the sun before the fire show finale tonight at 8pm. Audrey & Audrey from CocolocoSo far we’ve seen some great acts from the Circus Fireman, Rubber Band Boy, Cha Cha Del Mar and heaps more. Check out the full schedule online. With a second day lined up tomorrow, including the much anticipated Ray White Raft Race, an exciting spectacle that’s sure to rouse the competitive spirit. The Circus Drop Zone is a hit with the kids, offering the chance to test out those circus skills and for the adults there are still tickets left for the KISS Kabaret performance at the Kazador tent tonight. Secure your spot here. Skye, Luke, Rhys, Harper, & Lachlan Check out what the KISS Festival has to offer, head down to Black Beach and get the KISS experience for yourself. The Rubber Band Man at the Kazador Tent Princess Penny the VIP Do you have any shots of the fun at KISS Festival? Send them in to [email protected] for your chance to be featured in The Bugle.Kiki & Pascal at the Kazador Tent.

Two of Kiama’s prime music festivals have received significant support thanks to nearly $180,000 in funding from the Federal Government. This funding will benefit four music festivals in the Gilmore region, with a notable emphasis on events in Kiama.Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, announced the funding through the Australian Government’s Revive Live program, highlighting its importance for engaging local music fans and boosting the local economy.“Live music venues and festivals make a large contribution to our local economies, with many tourism and hospitality industries leveraging off the success of the live music scene,” says Phillips.“This funding will benefit these four great local events and help grow Gilmore’s ecosystem of live music for the future.”The upcoming Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival in March 2025 will receive $40,000 to cover artist fees and equipment costs. Additionally, the Clearly Music, Art & Wellness Festival, also hosted in Kiama this November, will benefit from a significant $75,000 grant to assist with fees for Australian artists.“These events are so wonderful for locals as well as visitors to our area. They offer an opportunity for local musicians to showcase their talent in front of a live audience, and also bring some big names to our region, which is really fantastic for music lovers,” says Phillips.In addition to these two festivals, the NelliJam Music Festival in January 2025 will receive $24,168, while the Culburra Beach Festival and Burradise Bash, planned for Easter and September 2025, will get $39,000.As Kiama gears up for these exciting festivals, the community can look forward to a thriving live music culture that benefits both local artists and audiences.

Kiama knows the names Kiki and Pascal, but who are the people behind this hilariously cheeky duo? Tamara Campbell and Dave Evans have a rich performing history and have created opportunities for themselves and local artists. They’re bringing “The Kazador Experience” back to Kiama from October 31st to November 24th. With talents ranging from kids' shows to magic, burlesque, and plenty of comedy, there’s something for everyone.Making a career in performance is no easy feat. Dave noted, “When we first moved to Australia, we’d come here from the European festival circuit where there is a rich, rich source of work, everywhere, almost all the time…“When we came here, there’s a lot less work… So we decided fairly quickly that we should create our own company.”The duo loved the freedom of running their own shows without having to compromise artistically to please councils or sponsors.Tamara agreed, saying, “It’s kind of in our DNA, I guess… I always used to say that I didn’t want to be a waitress waiting to be an actor.“I think both of us just came from a background of creating our own opportunities rather than waiting for someone else to discover us.”The pair are dedicated workers. Tamara has a vast network across Europe, from when she arranged three to nine-month tours, managing everything from accommodation to bookings and travel. Remarkably, they even completed a nine-month tour with their then four-year-old and newborn. “It was freaking bonkers,” they both agreed.They branched into running their own festivals 13 years ago, shortly after they started ‘The Kazador Experience’. Tamara reflected, “It’s quite scary to take those risks and produce your own stuff because you don’t have anything to fall back on. No one’s paying you.”The duo has always been committed to ‘bringing the arts and theatre to the people’. “That’s what the Kazador is… It’s bringing it here to Kiama, to a small place, so that people don’t have to travel to have a high-quality arts and culture experience,” said Tamara.“The idea that the arts and culture are elite or not for everyone is a misconception. “Art and theatre are great community builders, just like sport. Australians often connect through sport, but we’re still in the process of teaching people that the arts are not scary or elitist—they’re actually really fun and a great way for people to come together.”One initiative they started to achieve this goal is ‘Friday Wine Downs’, a free performance outside the Kazador Tent. Dave explained, “The first one was quite well attended, and by the end, it was heaving with people—a wonderful community gathering.“It wasn’t like a concert where people had to sit and listen… It was really relaxed…. If you wanted to get up and dance, you could. It was just the community hanging out in a lovely location.” During the upcoming Kazador Experience, they’ll be hosting Friday and Sunday Wine Downs for the Kiama community.The Kazador tent is specially curated to create an electrifying and portable performance space. This space gives smaller towns the opportunity to see dazzling theatre without the hassle of going into a big city. Dave said, “you're taking a theatre to the people as opposed to trying to get the people to the theatre.”“And so a whole lot of people who would never normally step through the door of a theatre were like, oh, yeah, give it a go. It's my local festival or whatever. They’re dedicated to providing opportunities for local talent to perform close to home. “We don’t have a theatre here (in Kiama). We don't have a cinema, or even many dedicated music venues.“We don't have all those trimmings and wonderful things that you have in a city.“It’s important to have a theatrical space,”Tamara reflected on the differences between performing in Europe and Australia. “Sometimes, when I mention I’m a performer, people ask, ‘Where would I have heard of you?’ “In Germany, they celebrate the ‘kleine Künstler’—the little artist—just as much as anyone on TV.“I feel like in this country sometimes it's like, well, you're either famous or you mustn't be any good. “I suppose I want to demystify or just encourage people to engage with creative stuff. It's the kind of people who are way more into cars or horses or whatever they're into, and yet they'll walk into a tent and experience a show and leave going, oh, that was awesome. And then they'll come back to see another one, another one. And it's that sort of it's that little chipping away, I suppose, at how, how great this, this can be.”Tamara has a personal philosophy that the arts can save the world. Her thinking is that coming together through arts could actually decrease a lot of tension and problems by engaging people more with creative pursuits. “Laughing together is a magical thing.” she said. She explains that comedy is like holding up a mirror to yourself “It gently asks you to look at yourself in the way you think. It puts things under the spotlight for you to think about. And it's so interesting that comedy is now becoming a thing that's quite difficult, because you can't say that. You can't say that. You can't say that, when in actuality, I think we need to keep pushing through and keep holding up that mirror because it helps us to be better people.”Tamara and Dave are well known for their hilariously cheeky characters Kiki and Pascal. The characters were born out of a need for growth in their performance and it took a while for them to fully round out the characters. Originally the characters were going to be French, Dave explained that the names Kiki and Pascal were born when trying to think about the most cheesy magic names they could. However when he said this during a radio interview in France, he put his foot in his mouth when the translator for the interview revealed his name was Pascal.. And his wife's name was Kiki!Despite this slip up, Kiki and Pascal persevered and have been entertaining for over 15 years of laughs. Kiki is set to undergo her final evolution in this upcoming season. “I’m doing a show called The De-masking of Kiki, where Kiki will start the show, and I’ll transition from her into myself… sharing my life story.” says Tamara. To support local artists and talent, make sure to buy your tickets and catch some shows. There’s truly something for everyone. “It’s a great thing. If it’s not supported, it won’t keep happening” said Tamara. To show your support for local arts visit The Kazador Experience for a line up of the shows and tickets. The duo will also be hosting the Kiss festivals ‘Kabaret’ again this year, to see more and get your tickets, check it out here - https://www.kissartsfest.com.au/kabaret-2024.

The Kiama International Seaside (KISS) Arts Festival is coming back to Black Beach over October 25-27.“With a lineup of performers reminiscent of the pre covid KISS and the biggest ever KISS adults-only Cabaret, 2024’s KISS is on and banging. The organisers promise you the best, the most hilarious and the most ‘get involved’ festival fun this state has to offer. All right here in our gorgeous town of Kiama,” says organiser Tamara Campbell. KISS is a celebration of street theatre, circus, comedy and entertainment in one location. A blend of international acts, local talent and unique performances will be on offer for all ages to enjoy. The three-day-event kicks off on Friday 25 October with the first of two adults-only cabarets in the Kazador tent. Saturday 26 will see street theatre performances who will “blow your little socks off and intimate tent shows that will leave you oohing and aahing, so many changes to get involved you’ll feel like the star of the show,” Campbell continued. KISS is a free event for all ages to attend. Artists will pass the hat, so make sure to pack some cash and bring your card to support performers. The opportunities to take part are another thing that sets KISS apart from your average festival. Build a raft, have your say at the Unity project, flex your comedy muscle in stand up for kids, make a lantern and play along to be part of the fun. Don’t forget to get your tickets to the unforgettable and unexplainable delight of the KISS Arts Fest adults only cabaret. You don’t want to miss it, because everyone will be talking about it, but no one will know how to explain it.Check out the program here:

Bill Mousoulis is an Australian indie film veteran with approximately 100 films credited to his name. Mousoulis first picked up a camera in 1982 and he hasn’t looked back since - also founding an online journal, a film group and a film website. His latest film, My Darling in Stirling, follows a young woman studying at university, quite bored with her life. When she falls in love with a charming young man from the picturesque town of Stirling in the Adelaide Hills, she finds herself enchanted by both him and the town itself. But there’s a twist: every line of dialogue in this film is sung.“This film is really all about the form, the form of the musical,” says Mousoulis. “And there's something so strange about seeing ordinary people doing ordinary actions like asking each other to pass the coffee or the salt shaker and singing it,” Mousoulis draws inspiration from French director Jacques Demy’s groundbreaking 1964 musical The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, which also features entirely sung dialogue.“The Umbrellas of Cherbourg inspired my film; it’s like a local Australian version. Essentially, this musical is alternative in a few respects: there’s music throughout the entire film, with no breaks. And the other is that the film is set in a very ordinary world, so - the Adelaide suburbs and Adelaide City, and then branching out to the Adelaide country town of Stirling,” says Mousoulis.Mousoulis says he had been living in Adelaide for a while when he found the small town called Stirling. He was drawn in by its beauty, its atmosphere and its people.“Stirling has a certain flavour to it, because it's also a little bit alternative. A lot of artists live there and it's got the bookstores and cafes, as can be seen in my film,” says Mousoulis.“It also has all these little laneways here and there, and a lot of trees and bushes and so, you don't know where anything is. Nothing looks plain and neatly laid out. It's a bit of a mix of things.”In the film Stirling is presented as some sort of magical town that has everything that our main character was looking for. All of her worries and anxieties are fixed by this magical town and it reflects poetically on that first love you have as a young person.But, of course, the town and the love she makes in the town come crashing down on her, which was always inevitable. Mousoulis says the film is about the idea of finding happiness and peace within.“It’s about your inner feelings and resolving them and being strong within yourself and not letting a place or a person determine how you feel about yourself or how you feel about life, and this is the lesson that the young woman learns, basically,” says Mousoulis.The film balances reality with a dreamlike quality, a result of its unique musical structure. Mousoulis believes this approach encourages viewers to perceive everyday life from a fresh perspective.“The fun of the film and the excitement in the film is in its form, is that the music and the singing creates this strange thing on screen. And a lot of people have found the film a little strange. And a lot of people who are familiar with this kind of alternative form love the film,” says Mousoulis.Bill Mousoulis. Source: ACMIUltimately, the film’s impact depends on the viewer's willingness to engage with its style. It might take time to adjust to what you’re seeing, but once you accept the film’s premise, you can easily become immersed in its world.And if you are to look at Mousoulis’ long career it is clear he is not going to change who he and his films are to fit everybody’s different tastes and preferences. Mousoulis is an artist who is going to make things that he is passionate about even if they aren’t going to be universally adored.“The important thing is to make the film you want to make, and make the artwork you want to make. I could be a different kind of person with a different set of cultural qualities to me, and maybe I'd be able to fit in and be more accepted,” says Mousoulis.“But because what I'm doing is a bit more alternative and experimental, it means that I'm not quite part of that, and that's okay. We do these things for the love of doing them. And so I'm happy.”My Darling in Stirling is playing at the Ritz Cinema in Randwick on Wednesday October 16 with a Q&A with Mousoulis himself. If you’re seeking a unique film experience, be sure to check it out.

The Kiama Vintage Fair is back from 9am — 3pm on Sunday 3 November at the Masonic Hall.With an array of stalls showcasing unique vintage finds and live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.Best of all — the event is completely free for all attendees, so don’t miss out!If you have a vintage collection you would like to sell items of at the upcoming fair, you can contact Barb to secure a stall on 0423 748 948.