Community, connection and kindness. These are the things that helped Kiama Council Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters find moments of light in the darkness that descended after her son’s suicide four years ago.They are also the things she brings to her new role where she wants to promote cultural change, to hear all points of view and to weigh up what’s best for the greater good. “I believe in supporting each other, working as a team, I believe in connection, not division,” says Cr Matters who will never forget the kindness, compassion and support the community showed her family after her 18-year-old son Sam’s death.It’s why she stepped up to be a voice for the people.“I want to support the community that supported us,” Cr Matters says. “It took me a couple of years to come out the other side of Sammy’s suicide. But the community was there for us when we needed it. Now that I’ve adjusted to the reality of life without Sam, this is my chance to give back.” A third generation member of Gerringong’s Miller farming family, her community roots go deep. So do her connections. Cr Matters has been serving Gerringong locals since her first job as a teenager at Honey Surf Shop (now Natural Necessity) more than 40 years ago.From the age of 23 to now, the mother of three boys has run several successful businesses, first in Gerringong, then in Sydney, before returning home to open The Hill Bar and Kitchen seven years ago, with husband Dean. “When I opened my first business in town my son Josh was 10 weeks old,” Cr Matters says. “He grew up in the shop. I’d be working with him by my side and realise he was missing again. He would bum crawl down the arcade to the chemist to ‘help out’.” Helping out appears to be a family trait. Cr Matters joined the Independent ticket to garner support for close friends, Cameron McDonald, who was elected mayor in October, and Erica Warren. “When I signed up for this, Cameron told me I was safe at number three (on the ballot ticket) and wouldn’t get into local council,” she laughs. “So I saw myself as a support for Cameron and Erica, people I strongly believe in. I’m still wondering how I made that leap from running safely at number three, to becoming deputy mayor.”But Cr Matters is never one to shy away from a challenge. She was voted in as deputy by her fellow councillors, a testament to their faith in her ability to get the job done.“Since Sammy died I decided I was going to make the most of every opportunity I’m given,” she says, fighting back tears. “I’m like a sponge, I love to learn, I want to soak it all up. I find the council business papers fascinating and I read every one of them. I really respect the time and effort that goes into them.”She admits she can get frustrated by the “slowness” of decision making in local government.“In business you have to be quick on your feet, local government is a different process,” she says. “I’d like to see things done a little more efficiently, but I’m getting better at being patient.” Kiama Council was placed under a performance improvement order two years ago for failing to meet its legislative responsibilities in relation to its financial management. The council is now a step closer to having this order lifted. The NSW Audit Office, responsible for overseeing the council’s financial improvements, this month gave the organisation’s 2023-24 financial statements the tick of approval.With the council’s finances back on track and a new team of councillors, Cr Matters believes this could be a “turning point” for the council. “We are all quite young, six of the nine of us went to Kiama High School and many of our teachers were there to support us on election day,” she says. “We all have strong community connections. It is an opportunity for us as councillors to work together with council and the community to service the community’s short-term and long term infrastructure needs in an area that is rapidly growing, like all coastal towns.”Housing development is a key issue for both local and state government and Cr Matters is keen to start working on strategies to “get the balance right”.“We can’t say ‘oh no not in my backyard’ there needs to be considered and sustainable growth for new families moving into the area, and for retirees who want to downsize but still want a small yard or garden,” she says.“I would love to look back, down the track, and say ‘we got this right’, we kept the village, the community and the connections while also making space for new families to join it.”Cr Matters’ biggest concern is not having enough time to achieve all the things she would like to do for the community in her four-year term.“There is a lot to do in four years and I hope we can fit it all in,” she says. “But I am confident councillors can work together as a team, with the council, to get the best outcomes for the community.” 

On Tuesday night, an arsonist targeted the children’s playground in Reid Park, Jamberoo, leaving it severely damaged. John Friedmann, Vice Chair of the Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers & Residents Association Inc. (JVRRA), voiced the community’s collective shock and disappointment over the reckless destruction of playground equipment that many families rely on.“We hope Council will prioritise the repair of this damage, so this important part of our village can once again be a safe and welcoming space for children and families to gather,” John said. “Acting quickly on vandalism is vital, not only to restore community morale but to send a clear message that such actions won’t be tolerated.”The playground, situated in an area covered by CCTV, gives the community confidence that those responsible will be identified and brought to justice. While JVRRA acknowledges the funding constraints Council faces, they emphasise the importance of swift repairs to prevent vandalism from becoming an unwelcome norm.

Domestic violence is an ongoing evil in our world, while victims suffer in silence, conviction rates for domestic violence abusers are low compared with other crimes in NSW. Zonta club of Kiama/Shellharbour will be holding a ceremony of remembrance for the lives taken by violence. You can join them in solidarity at Coronation park in Kiama, November 25th at 6:30 for a 7pm start.This solemn event will honour victims of domestic violence and raise awareness for the prevalence of these crimes. A shoe display will show one pair representing each life taken by domestic violence in NSW this year. “Through shared stories, reflection, and a peaceful sound healing session, we will remember those lost, support survivors, thank first responders, and stand united against domestic abuse.” Attendees are invited to bring a flower to place by the shoes, to honour our fallen brothers, sisters and children. In Australia on average, one woman a week is murdered by her current or former partner and one man every month is killed. One in six women and one in sixteen men have experienced physical or sexual violence by a partner since the age of 15. Indigenous women are 32 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence than non-Indigenous women.It's easy to read these facts and not understand the weight of these words. But these facts unearth a shocking revelation that you probably know many who are dealing with this devil everyday. You may unknowingly be a friend to an abuser, or a victim. As a collective community, we need to demand change. As of now, more than 80 women have been killed due to domestic violence this year in Australia. No more silencing victims, no more protecting perpetrators and no more violence. Join Zonta in a ceremony of remembrance, grieving and demand for change. Support Services Support is available through organisations like 1800RESPECT (Australia’s national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service), which provides resources, crisis counselling, and assistance in accessing safe housing.

Nestled in amongst the hustle and bustle of the shops on Collins Street, Embellish sets itself apart with its unique clothing and gifts.Owner Liz Lindsay and her daughter Amy, have been running the business for 21 years, with the support of the local community being the key to their success. Liz will be holding birthday celebrations all weekend on Saturday 30 November as a way to get the community involved and give back after achieving such a huge milestone. Opening Embellish in 2003, Liz and Amy wanted to provide products that weren’t available in Kiama, including shoes, hats, and evening wear. “We were hoping we’d be adding something to the Kiama landscape with this shop because there wasn’t anything like it at the time,” says Liz. “We try hard to have quirky little things that are unusual, not too expensive, and something for everyone.” Embellish is a business that has adapted to their clientele’s wants and needs, now stocking more practical and versatile clothing that suits what customers are looking for. “We try to listen to what people want and provide what they ask for, I’m happy to try and get things for people.” “It’s satisfying to be able to ring someone and say ‘we have got a dress that you’d love’ or ‘we’ve got you that gold evening bag’, I enjoy that sort of personal service that we can offer,” Liz says. Liz and Amy’s dedication to quality and community ensures that this respected local shop will continue to thrive for years to come. 

Winners of the 2024 Sydney Blues Challenge, Nathan Beretta and Kiama local Dan Sullivan, are raising money to compete in the 2025 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, USA.The Duo, Beretta & Sullivan, are holding a fundraiser at Kiama Bowling Club on Friday 6 December at 7:30pm with live music, raffles, and prizes, before they travel to the International Blues Challenge (IBC). The IBC is being held from January 7 to 11 2025, and is run every year in Memphis, it’s a showcase of blues music and talent, and a great opportunity for musicians. “We went in the Sydney Blues Challenge and the winners get sponsored and sent over there as a representative of the Sydney Blues Society,” says Dan. “We got talked into going into this challenge and we went up and won it luckily enough, and it all just sort of developed from there.” The last time Dan competed in the Sydney Blues Challenge was at least ten years ago, next year will be his third time at the IBC. “It’s gonna be great, but we’ll just be taking it as it comes, we won’t be getting too wound up about it, because you’re sort of playing against the whole world,” says Dan. Dan is no stranger to getting involved in the community, previously he was heavily involved in the Kiama Jazz Club and Kiama Jazz Festival. “Some of the people I met through the Kiama Jazz Club were huge influences,” he says. Dan has been working with the Kiama Bowling club for over ten years and says they’ve always helped him, with hosting the fundraiser being a great support.  “A big thanks to Kiama Bowling Club for taking it on … they just dropped everything to help me out and put this night on,” he says. Some of Australia’s biggest blues acts will be at the fundraiser, including Ray Beadle and Frank Sultana. Tickets for the fundraiser can be found at South Coast Tickets.

Kiama & District Business Chamber hosted the annual Mayoral Breakfast at the Sebel Hotel 14th November. Eighty chamber members and invited guests attended to hear the inaugural address from the newly elected Mayor Cameron McDonald.  Mayor McDonald opened his address by sharing how his role now demands balancing addition responsibilities alongside his business and family commitments - a true juggling act. However, he declared emphatically that he is up for the challenge, a sentiment echoed by other councillors. Mayor McDonald stated that he is committed to making Kiama the best place it can be.With six of the councillors having gone to school locally, it does feel that the sentiment is shared by the whole team. A betterment of our local community to continue for the next generation - which includes infrastructure to sustain thoughtful development. To that end, Mayor McDonald shared with the business community some breaking news. A unanimous vote by the councillors two weeks ago which led to the purchase of the Big River site on Shoalhaven Street for $6.3 million, the terms to be paid over 3 years. This site backs on to the Kiama Council Depot covering an area of about 1.5 hectares between Shoalhaven Street and Belvedere Street.Being ensconced in a residential area, this site will now be combined and developed to create residential dwellings to fall in line with the state government’s mandated quota targets for new housing developments. The land will first have to be rezoned and then repurposed. As Mayor McDonald noted, the site previously housed a gasworks, which has left contamination issues to address—potentially at a cost of $8 million. However, he considers this investment worthwhile, given that the development could bring in estimated revenues of $50 million for the council through the sale of residential units.The Kiama Council Depot, operational since the 1960s, has served as a focal point for staff but is now considered unsuitable for current needs. Plans are underway to amalgamate this facility with the Minnamurra Depot, which will be upgraded to provide a purpose-built, safer working environment. The cost of this relocation has yet to be determined.So it is bold, strategic moves for our new Councillors - just off the ranks! 24 days in! The Mayor McDonald continued to say that there will be further sites studied to determine best fit for purpose - for example the leisure centre.  Councillor Mike Cains acknowledged that the councillors have put great faith in the CEO Jane Stroud and Mayor McDonald for leading these initiatives.The mayor also confirmed the council satisfaction with the audited financial statements which will be presented in the ordinary Council meeting on 20 November with the Auditors Report for the year ending 30 June 2024. (These can be viewed on the Council’s website and any person can make a submission in writing to Council with respect to them. The closing date for Council to receive public submissions is 27 November 2024.)Cllr Melinda Lawton with Michelle Springett and Rita Sullivan at the business chamber breakfastThe mayor is meeting with Minister Scully when he is attending the Country Mayors Association meetings in Sydney this week with Council CEO Jane Stroud. The advocacy programme is key and the Council is determined to get a share of the financial injection on offer as infrastructure is paramount for the growth of our area. This includes our sewerage capacity and road capacity. Cllr Melissa Matters with Rita Sullivan from Knickerboxes and Cllr Stuart LarkinsMayor McDonald also shared that the Councillors would be releasing a roadmap of where they want to go for the next two years. As Councillors the document is a way to hold themselves accountable moving forward and to create an open and transparent approach to their roles.Mayor McDonald declared that the team as a group was relishing the challenge before them and he was deeply proud to represent the community.  Catherine Lyall hosting the Councillor panel at The Sebel Mayoral BreakfastHe was joined by fellow Councillors in a panel discussion after the address - Councillors Mike Cains, Melinda Lawton, Melissa Matters, Stuart Larkins and Erica Warren in attendance. Their hidden gems in the LGA highlighted the fabulous spots we can boast of and showed a personal side of them. Questions relating to their goals and legacies, support of local business, a recurring theme, with a suggestion of Brand Kiama to underpin our services and products. With a plethora of business acumen in the make up of the new Council, one would hope for an improved outlook for Kiama Council and the community. The mood at the Sebel was light and celebratory with an air of expectation of great things to come. 

As NSW councils face growing calls for transparency and accountability, former Kiama Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang has urged reforms that extend beyond councillor conduct to include all council officials, including senior staff. Her submission to the NSW Office of Local Government’s review of the Councillor Conduct Framework highlights that misconduct isn’t confined to elected officials.This call for greater accountability aligns with recent upheaval at Shoalhaven Council. Shoalhaven City Council CEO Robyn Stevens recently resigned amid reported conflicts with Mayor Patricia White and other councillors. Stevens’ resignation, allegedly following pressure from council members, may trigger further high-level resignations and raised serious concerns about workplace culture and accountability among council leadership.Renkema-Lang argues that the NSW Government’s review should not be limited to councillor conduct. “It’s not just councillors who behave badly,” she stated. “An internet search reveals many instances of senior Council staff acting inappropriately or engaging in corrupt conduct, even fraud. The scope of the review needs to cover complaint management for all council officials to ensure it is managed consistently and holistically.”Renkema-Lang’s perspective resonates with experiences at Shoalhaven. Former Shoalhaven Councillor Professor Tonia Gray recently spoke about the challenges of speaking out within a culture that she described as “toxic” and intimidating. Her presentation at the Berry Ignite Festival highlighted incidents of online harassment and defamation threats used to silence dissenting voices, illustrating the persistent issues council officials face in such environments.According to reports Stevens’ departure from Shoalhaven Council followed a tense “ambush” meeting with Mayor White and other councillors regarding her employment. This action brought into focus the power dynamics in councils, where senior staff can face termination without grounds, resulting in costly severance payouts and a disrupted work environment.The Shoalhaven situation reflects Renkema-Lang’s concerns about unchecked power within council structures. She warned against the proposed expansion of mayoral powers, which would allow mayors to expel councillors from meetings and impose financial penalties. "Giving mayors this authority creates a largely unchecked avenue for abuse,” Renkema-Lang cautioned, noting that mayors already wield considerable influence over council operations.The experiences of Renkema-Lang, Gray, and Stevens suggest that the issues go beyond councillor behaviour, pointing to a broader cultural problem within local councils. Gray, in her Berry Ignite presentation, described the “blood sport” nature of council politics and the weaponisation of defamation threats, which often isolate or intimidate those who speak up.Both Kiama and Shoalhaven examples underscore Renkema-Lang’s push for reform that includes Safework NSW standards and fraud prevention policies as benchmarks for council conduct. She proposes a unified framework that holds all council officials accountable and supports the proposal to replace private investigators with independent committees for more objective oversight. As a further measure of transparency, she advocates for public access to councillor briefing sessions rather than banning them outright.As Shoalhaven seeks stability after Stevens’ resignation, it serves as a reminder that transparency, oversight, and consistent standards are essential in rebuilding public trust. Renkema-Lang’s recommendations and the lessons from Shoalhaven offer NSW councils an opportunity to create a more resilient, accountable local government framework.In Renkema-Lang’s words, “If we want real accountability in our councils, we need councillors and council officials alike to demonstrate higher standards of integrity and better behaviour.” Shoalhaven’s recent challenges and insights from advocates like Renkema-Lang and Gray suggest a broader, more inclusive approach to governance reform is crucial for councils to truly serve their communities.

The Linen House Outlet Kiama has opened up their doors to start  collecting fabric for the volunteers from The Simple Gift of a Bag.For one month you can bring in your pre-loved clean cotton sheets and doona covers to the Kiama Linen House for collection.They will be transformed into beautiful after breast cancer surgery drainage bags for patients to use during their Post Op Recovery.Ask the staff about what type of fabrics can be donated while you are browsing around the store for your next purchase.

Gerringong’s South Precinct is calling on residents to discuss the growing impact of short-term rental accommodation (STRA) on local communities. Scheduled for 7:30 pm on December 5 at the Gerringong Town Hall, this meeting will provide a platform for locals across the Kiama Local Government Area (LGA) to share experiences and voice concerns about the rapid expansion of non-hosted STRA, particularly through platforms like Airbnb.In recent years, coastal communities like Kiama have seen an influx of STRA listings, with up to 6.5% of housing stock dedicated to short-term rentals. In 2021 in Kiama alone, 498 properties were registered as STRA, with the largest concentrations in Kiama and Gerroa, followed by Gerringong, Werri Beach, and Kiama Downs. The community is concerned that STRA’s are transforming formerly quiet neighbourhoods into bustling, high-occupancy tourist zones. Once family homes some now accommodate groups of 10 or more people, far exceeding their original residential intent.STR listing “density” in Kiama in 2018 was 6 times the Australian average Source Sydney University 2018Residents are alarmed, especially as some STRA properties are purpose-built to function as high-occupancy tourist accommodations. As one South Precinct member stated, “We bought homes in a residential area, not expecting businesses and hotels as neighbours.”Kiama Council has also expressed concern over this shift, particularly when new developments, approved as residential properties, are marketed as tourist rentals upon completion. In a submission to the NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, the Council noted the troubling trend of residential housing increasingly being repurposed for short-term tourist stays, which, over time, reduces the availability of permanent housing and drives up costs for local families.Source Kiama Council Report Evidence Base Short Term Rental Accommodation Across NSW, eight councils have implemented various restrictions on STRA, from capping the number of days non-hosted rentals can operate to requiring special permits and enforcing stricter compliance. Can Kiama Council consider similar measures—such as introducing a day limit for non-hosted STRA or requiring mandatory registration and annual fees? Could this offer residents some relief and discourage investors who prioritise profit over community well-being?The NSW Fair Trading Code of Conduct for the STRA industry outlines responsibilities for hosts, guests, and booking platforms, including occupancy limits, noise regulations, and penalties for non-compliance. However, local residents report limited monitoring of this code, with disturbances from overcrowded, noisy STRA properties often left unchecked. The community meeting will discuss ways to navigate this Code and how it could be enforced more effectively to protect local neighbourhoods.What You Can DoResidents are encouraged to attend the South Precinct meeting to:Voice Concerns: Share experiences about noise, overcrowding, and safety issues related to STRA.Discuss Solutions: Explore how local council or state government actions could address the rising density of STRA in residential areas.Understand Regulations: Learn about the Code of Conduct and discuss ways to ensure better compliance.“Politics is the Art of the Possible” This meeting isn’t just for those immediately affected, it's for everyone who wants to learn what is in council’s control and who we can lobby for change —anyone within the Kiama LGA is encouraged to participate, as proactive engagement can help prevent future disruptions in all neighbourhoods. With STRA affecting housing, affordability, and quality of life, action is crucial. The meeting offers a valuable opportunity to gather community input, with the aim of supporting the council in future decisions to balance tourism and community needs.

If you missed the November 9 steam train event—which had a memorable few moments coinciding with Kiki's performance in the Spiegel tent—don’t worry! The next special heritage trip to Kiama, featuring a vintage diesel locomotive and historic carriages, will roll into town on Sunday, November 17.The scenic ride begins in Sydney’s suburbs, winding through the Royal National Park and treating passengers to breathtaking coastal views en route to Kiama. Once here, travellers can enjoy the seaside markets and all that Kiama has to offer. Perfect for groups, the picnic train offers a BYO option, along with an onboard Buffet Car where drinks can also be purchased. Be prepared for festive groups arriving on the next one - a unique way to celebrate the holiday season! 

In the current economic climate, building a successful business comes with added challenges, particularly around managing rising costs. To support local businesses, The Bugle, in partnership with the Kiama & District Business Chamber, continues its six-part series on critical success factors. After covering Strategic Focus, Finances, Operations, People, and Marketing, this edition focuses on practical tips to address the pressures of business expenses, helping you stay on track for growth.Work on your business, not just in it: One of the most valuable pieces of advice for business owners is to step back occasionally and assess the bigger picture. Working on your business rather than just in it can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and profitability. With that in mind, here are some actionable tips to help you manage costs more effectively and avoid unnecessary spending.Streamline systems and processes: Having efficient systems in place is essential for saving both time and money. Review your existing processes to identify areas where you can introduce greater efficiency. Consider using productivity apps like QuickBooks or Xero for bookkeeping, Asana for project management, and Canva for affordable design needs. For social media, scheduling tools can help you plan ahead and avoid the rush of last-minute content creation.Even simple automations, such as sending automated emails to request Google Reviews, can save you time while improving your SEO. Track client projects or job sheets electronically to reduce the flood of emails in your inbox. Additionally, developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will make onboarding and training new staff much more straightforward, increasing productivity while reducing training costs.Foster a positive workplace culture: A great company culture can work wonders for your bottom line. A supportive and respectful environment not only improves staff morale but also boosts productivity and reduces employee turnover - both of which directly impact your profitability. As leaders, focus on trusting and delegating more to your team, empowering them to take ownership of their roles. A strong culture fosters loyalty, reduces recruitment costs, and improves overall business performance.Outsource to the experts: As the saying goes, sometimes you have to spend money to save money. Outsourcing non-core tasks - like accounting, marketing, or administrative functions - can free up valuable time for you to focus on growth. The key is knowing your profit margins and understanding what areas make the most sense to outsource. If you’re unsure about where to start or how to calculate profit margins, consider seeking advice from a business coach. Kiama is home to many knowledgeable coaches who can provide tailored advice to suit your specific needs.Leverage Artificial Intelligence: Artificial Intelligence (AI) may sound intimidating, but it’s a powerful tool that can save your business both time and money. Whether you need help crafting a challenging email, brainstorming social media content, or generating copy for marketing materials, AI programs offer cost-effective solutions. With many free and affordable options available, AI can provide quality results quickly, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.Prioritise self-care: Amidst the hustle of managing business pressures, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters - your well-being. Self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for long-term productivity and success. Setting personal boundaries is critical. Schedule time for activities that make you happy, whether it’s a swim at the beach, enjoying a coffee at your favourite café, working out, or simply unwinding with Netflix. Make sure to block off "you" time in your calendar, just as you would for business meetings, to ensure it actually happens.In conclusion, running a successful business is a multifaceted journey that demands strategic focus, financial discipline, operational excellence, and a deep understanding of people and marketing. As we've explored in this series, the key to thriving in today's competitive environment lies in balancing these elements while adapting to the evolving pressures of the marketplace. Whether you're refining your systems, embracing new technologies, or focusing on self-care, each step you take brings you closer to long-term success. Remember, the most resilient businesses are those that are proactive, continually learning, and always ready to innovate. Stay focused, stay flexible, and your business will continue to grow, no matter the challenges ahead.

Dear Members and FriendsWe are excited to share details of our upcoming concert featuring the Southland Choir at Gerringong Town Hall at 2pm on Sunday 17 November 2024.Southland is an occasional performing choir from New South Wales, formed by friends with diverse musical backgrounds who love choral singing and travel. They’ve toured internationally since 2012, performing in places like Budapest, Iceland, and the iconic Palau de la Musica Catalana in Barcelona. As they mainly perform overseas, Southland’s repertoire focuses on 20th and 21st-century Australian composers, bringing uniquely Australian harmonies, styles, and traditional songs to audiences abroad.As a special treat, the concert will include an opening act by some talented local performers. We won’t spoil the surprise, but it’s sure to be a heartwarming start to a wonderful afternoon of music.We look forward to seeing you there to support Southland and celebrate the joy of live music together! Secure your tickets today at https://www.gerringongmusicclub.com.au.Members, children and students are free. Visitors $30.

In today’s world, trust is a precious and sometimes fleeting thing. We're constantly being urged to “trust” in public figures based on big promises and catchy rhetoric. But, as I was reminded recently, there are institutions—quiet yet powerful—where trust is built not on words but on decades of reliable actions. Libraries are among these places, and in a world of grandstanding and spin, they offer us a timeless lesson on what genuine trust looks like.During the Gerringong Museum’s 150th-anniversary celebration, I had the privilege of speaking with Caroline Baum, celebrated author, journalist, and passionate library advocate. I asked her to choose a book on the spot for our photo shoot—a tough task with only a few seconds to decide! She quickly selected The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre, an intriguing choice that hints at her interest in themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of trust. It’s hard not to wonder what she might have chosen with a little more time to think about it.In her talk, Caroline delved into the ways libraries and librarians cultivate trust, not with rhetoric or promises, but by being steadfast pillars of knowledge and privacy. Libraries don’t need to ask for our trust—they earn it. They stand firm against censorship, advocate for open access to information, and create inclusive spaces for all. In these spaces, the kind of trust we yearn for in other areas of public life is built quietly and authentically, with actions that speak louder than any slogan ever could.Caroline highlighted a powerful contrast. While politicians often ask the public to “trust” them without necessarily backing it up, libraries have spent generations proving their commitment to the communities they serve. In a world where we often feel let down by once-trusted institutions, libraries remind us that true trustworthiness is about showing up, day after day, to serve the public without fanfare.For readers of The Bugle, Caroline’s insights offer a timely reminder. If we’re looking to place our trust in public figures, let’s seek out those who, like our libraries, consistently “walk the talk.” The lesson from libraries is clear: the most trustworthy institutions aren’t the ones that ask for trust; they’re the ones that quietly earn it, every day.Next time you step into your local library, consider the values it upholds. And perhaps, take a moment to think about which book you’d choose in just a few seconds—you might be surprised at the insight it brings.

The ‘Great Gong Clothes Swap’ at The Kazador at Black Beach on Sunday, 10 November, was a blast. Shane ‘Lady Moon’ and her hard-working team are passionate about upcycling clothes and making it easy to find new treasures without breaking the bank.This event was a little different from The Kazador's usual lineup of performances. Attendees were encouraged to bring in clothes they no longer wear and swap them for something new-to-them. There was a great selection of preloved items to browse.Dianne Barkus in her new outfitTicket holders were welcomed with a drink on arrival and a warm greeting from the team. The sunny weather made it the perfect day to relax with a post-shoppping beverage in the seating area after a fun shopping session. Hard to beat the views here! Shane and her team run these events regularly, so be sure to check them out on Facebook or Instagram for updates.If you missed it, don’t worry! There’s still plenty happening at The Kazador for the rest of the month, including ‘Paint and Sips,’ magic shows, and their free Friday and Sunday ‘Wine Downs.’

After years of anticipation, students at Bomaderry High School in the Shoalhaven are set to benefit from a significant investment as work begins on a multi-million dollar upgrade of their campus. This project will transform the school with modernised facilities, designed to better equip students with practical skills and enhance their learning environment.The upgrades will include the refurbishment of 46 existing classrooms, the addition of six new classrooms, upgraded restroom facilities, and improved accessibility features. New administration spaces and advanced Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) workshops will also be created, featuring a wood and metal workshop and a fully equipped food technology classroom.This investment is part of the Minns Labor Government's commitment to improving public education across New South Wales. The 2024-25 budget includes a record $1.4 billion allocated to school infrastructure in regional areas, underscoring the government’s dedication to enhancing educational resources outside of metropolitan centres.Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car, expressed her enthusiasm as construction commenced: “The Bomaderry community has waited far too long for improvements to be made to their school, but today we can celebrate progress. We are focused on delivering for regional communities, so all students can access high-quality schools in their local areas.”Dr. Sarah Kaine, Duty MLC for Kiama, highlighted the value of the new facilities in preparing students for diverse career pathways. “This isn’t just about building classrooms; it’s about building futures – equipping our students with practical skills that can lead them to meaningful careers. The upgrades to the school’s existing kitchen will allow students to complete VET courses, providing them with more choice and opportunity both during and after their schooling.”Bomaderry High School Principal, Ian Morris, praised the upgrade as a boost to student potential. “A modern school environment will inspire creativity and innovation, empowering our students to reach their full potential. This upgrade is a commitment to excellence in education and to the strength of our community.”The school’s Careers Advisor, Holly Pastor, highlighted the impact of the upgrade on local industry partnerships and career pathways. “The Bomaderry High School upgrade enhances career pathways through facilities that align with industry needs, particularly in hospitality, engineering, and trades, which are vital for our region. With hands-on learning, apprenticeships, and programs like the Bomaderry Employment, Skills, and Training (BEST) Pathways Program, students gain skills that prepare them for the demands of today’s workforce.”As construction progresses, Bomaderry High School is set to become a stellar institution for regional education, providing students with modern facilities that support academic achievement and practical skill development essential for future careers.

Congratulations to Dementia Inclusive Kiama who celebrated their 10th anniversary on 7 November,, a significant milestone in advocacy and learning for our community. The initiative has successfully paved the way forward in creating dementia-friendly environments.Kiama has emerged as a leader in developing and fostering a community that embraces and supports individuals living with dementia, setting an example for towns and cities across the country and beyond. The anniversary event highlighted the core principles of the initiative: building awareness, creating trusted relationships, and prompting environmental, intellectual and emotional support within the community. Dementia Inclusive Kiama’s vision goes beyond just providing services - it is about creating a dementia-friendly culture that encourages inclusion and participation. This approach involves educating the community, from local business to schools, on how to support individuals living with dementia. The project also promotes intergenerational collaboration, bringing together young and old to create a deeper understanding of dementia and its effects on the individuals and families. The project has seen incredible success in driving awareness through national and global collaboration. Earlier this year, Dementia Inclusive Kiama welcomed a group of healthcare professionals  from South Korea to explore innovative strategies and implementation into the community. Held at Kiama Anglican Church, the celebration kicked off with a free educational workshop and talk given by Kate Swaffer and Dennis Frost, who both live with dementia. The key speakers shared stories about their involvement in the project and how the project contributes to their work and community impacts. The afternoon session shifted focus to celebrating and sharing stories around what the project had achieved over the decade-long effort, followed by the cake cutting. The speakers went on to discuss the success so far as well as the next steps. Dr. Lyn Phillipson and Kate Swaffer were crucial to establishing the project in 2014, at the time Kate was the first person with dementia to be employed by Alzheimer’s Australia (now Dementia Australia)The second phase now involves graduating from ‘dementia-friendly’ to ‘dementia enabling’. The project will continue to engage people living with dementia and increase membership of the Dementia Advisory Group.  As Kiama continues to lead the way in creating dementia-inclusive environments, the 10th anniversary serves as a celebration for the work already done to create truly inclusive communities where everyone, regardless of age or ability, is valued and supported. 

On 11 November, Jamberoo Public School held a Remembrance Day service, with students, families and staff gathering to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The school captains and vice captains led the ceremony with grace, guiding everyone through moments of reflection and remembrance. Special guest Mr Michael Souter from the Jamberoo RSL Club attended, sharing in the community’s tribute.As part of the ceremony, students placed flowers on the stage, symbolising respect and remembrance for those who have fallen in service to our country. This gesture reminded all present of the enduring legacy and bravery of those who served. Jamberoo Public School is proud to continue this tradition, fostering a deep sense of respect and gratitude in our students for generations past and present. The flowers were taken back to the Jamberoo Memorial Arch by Mr Souter. 

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is encouraging all locals to take a day trip to Kangaroo Valley following the completion of 38 major landslip remediation projects surrounding the village.“The businesses of Kangaroo Valley have done it tough following a series of landslips that restricted access for locals and visitors alike,” Mrs Philips said.“The completion of works, including the opening a section of Wattamolla Road at Barrengarry, means people can now take a scenic drive from Berry to Kangaroo Valley and enjoy everything the village has to offer.“I really hope people will head over the hill and support the small businesses in Kangaroo Valley where you can enjoy morning tea at one of the cafes, lunch at the pub and shop till you drop in the variety of local specialty shops.”So – it sounds like a road trip is in order! Combine it with a round of golf at the Kangaroo Valley golf course and it sounds like a fabulous, destressing day!The completion of the final landslip road works on Bunkers Hill Road signals the end of a $59 million remediation package targeting of 38 major landslips in Kangaroo Valley and surrounding communities, and more than two years of major reconstruction works in the Shoalhaven.Declared a natural disaster area following severe weather and flooding in March 2022, the work was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.The completion of the last landslip on Bunkers Hill Road, Barrengarry signalled the end to major work, putting the local community well on track to recovery.Mrs Phillips said the completion of works would come as a huge relief for local residents."I saw firsthand the devastating impact these landslips had on our local communities,” Mrs Phillips said."People were often isolated and had to undergo huge changes to their circumstances just to go about their day-to-day lives.“There was a time when stock feed had to be choppered into local properties for cattle. It really was devastating."I’m really happy to see this final landslip fixed and I thank everyone involved in the repair works.”Mrs Phillips said the record-breaking rainfall, the terrain, the widespread damage and the risks associated with the landslip works across the region provided a logistical challenge for geotechnical engineers and work crews.“The task to fully remediate 38 landslips has been a mammoth undertaking resulting in the delivery of robust and fully remediated roads,” she said.“The opening marks an incredible milestone that is testament to the resilience of our community and the dedication of the project team to get the job done.”Construction group Symal carried out the contract to repair the Shoalhaven’s 38 worst landslips.The scale of the job is highlighted by the people-power and materials it took to repair the region:1,000 bored concrete piles (7,700 metres drilled total)1.6 km of capping beams formed and poured (capping beams tie the piles together to reduce movement)3,600 cubic metres of concrete (used for piles, capping beams and shotcrete)1,050 soil nails (steel bars used to reinforce slopes)19,500 tonnes of imported quarry product (stone, shale, crushed rock, ballast etc.)225,000 worker hours.

The Cabbage Tree Palm stands tall among Kiama’s green landscape, an iconic symbol to locals and tourists alike. Landcare Illawarra’s new community project aims to future proof these palms to protect and preserve this unique species. Member of the Landcare Illawarra committee, Alison Windsor, is encouraging the community to attend the event launch on Thursday 14 November to learn more about the project. “It’s open to anyone in the community that would like to come in and hear about what we’re planning to do, it’s also for the community to give us ideas of what they would like to see,” says Alison. The Cabbage Tree Palm once thrived in the rainforest in the Kiama area, now the palms are dispersed across farming land, struggling to regenerate naturally.  “There’s no future trees coming back up and that is due to either the cows eating the seeds that are falling from the parent trees, or they’re trampling them into the ground.“There’s no new generations, once those trees have died that will be it, there'll be none left in the Kiama Municipality,” Alison says. The palm can grow up to 30 metres in height, with the tallest trees being 100 to 200 years old, they’re a slow growing species. Landcare Illawarra has received interest from farmers in the community who would like palms planted on their properties, with Landcare supplying trees and fencing to help the species thrive. “We want to future proof them so people can drive down Mount Pleasant or drive from Kiama to Jamberoo, and have all those beautiful Cabbage Palms that you can still see,” says Alison. The event launch will be held at the Gerringong Library and Museum from 6pm to 8pm, and will include more information on the Cabbage Tree Palm and its many purposes in Kiama’s history and natural landscape.