In a recent interview with Kiama Community Radio’s Bernie Hems, Councillor Melinda Lawton provided important insights into the ongoing discussion around the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club (GSLSC) kiosk. The conversation clarified key concerns regarding approval processes, zoning rules, and the future management of the facility.During the interview, Cr Lawton praised the efforts of the surf club and its volunteers, acknowledging the significant work that has gone into the redevelopment of the state-of-the-art clubhouse. However, she also noted that some steps in the approval process had not been followed, leading to the current situation regarding the kiosk’s operation.One of the key issues is how the facility is classified under zoning regulations.The site is zoned RE1 (Public Recreation), which permits a kiosk of up to 10 square metres but does not allow for a larger café-style operation without additional approvals.Cr Lawton clarified that the difference between a kiosk and a café is not just about size but also function, with a kiosk limited to selling pre-prepared food and refreshments, while a café is designed for meal preparation and service.This zoning distinction is important because previous operations at the site did not have the necessary approvals.Moving forward, Cr Lawton emphasised the need for clear processes to ensure that decisions align with governance requirements and community expectations.Another issue discussed was the public’s strong attachment to the previous kiosk operator. Many locals have expressed frustration over the change, given the long-standing presence of the café in the area.However, Cr Lawton reinforced that compliance with leasing rules is essential, and that Council had to draw a line in the sand to ensure proper processes are followed.Despite the challenges, a pathway forward has been established.The surf club has been granted a 12-month licence to operate the facility while a longer-term lease arrangement is determined. This ensures that the building remains active and that all stakeholders, including the surf club, Council, and the broader community, have time to assess what works best for the space.Cr Lawton also noted that the surf club has the option to operate the kiosk themselves using volunteers.If they choose not to do so, Council will initiate an expressions of interest (EOI) process to find a suitable business operator.This approach maintains transparency and fairness in the management of the public asset.The discussion also touched on public amenities and accessibility. While there were initial concerns about the availability of toilets for the broader community, Cr Lawton confirmed that Council stepped in to ensure these facilities remain open and accessible to all.The interview reinforced the importance of following proper procedures in managing community assets. Cr Lawton expressed hope that with clearer processes in place, future issues can be minimised, allowing the community, Council, and the surf club to work together in ensuring the best outcomes for the facility and the people who use it.This issue remains a highly discussed topic in Kiama, but the conversation highlighted that with collaboration and adherence to proper governance, a positive resolution can be reached.With The Bugle and Kiama Community Radio continuing to provide reliable coverage, the community remains informed and engaged in these vital discussions. Tune into Bernie Hems show at 9 am on Tuesdays on KCR.

By Councillor Melissa MattersThe newly completed Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club facility is a significant community asset, made possible by public funding and the dedication of volunteers.Its activation presents an opportunity to enhance community engagement and financial sustainability, ensuring it remains accessible to the broader public. To support ongoing sustainability, the facility has been granted 52 Sunday Sippers fundraising events and an opportunity to operate the kiosk through its volunteer members.If this option is not taken up, Council will initiate an expression of interest (EOI) process to lease the space, ensuring a fair and transparent approach to the management of this public asset. There has been some confusion regarding the new kiosk and the kiosk that has been operating previously in a shipping container. These are separate matters.  The new kiosk operates within a Council-owned facility on community land, and leasing arrangements must align with governance and regulatory requirements. In line with these obligations, the correct process has been implemented to ensure future operations comply with leasing conditions. As a publicly funded facility, the venue must remain open and accessible to the entire community. Expanding opportunities for community involvement beyond patrolling members would further reinforce its role as a shared space.  Public advocacy played a key role in securing toilet facilities, which were not included in the original plans. These are now open for community use, consistent with other surf club facilities across the region. At a recent Council meeting, it was noted that the kiosk has the capacity to employ multiple staff members, highlighting its ability to contribute to local employment and community engagement.  Moving forward, a formalised leasing process will ensure the kiosk operates within established guidelines, aligning with lease conditions and community expectations. While surf lifesaving remains the primary function of the venue, the club also participates in sporting competitions. Like all community sporting organisations, there is a need to balance operational costs with financial sustainability.Volunteers play an essential role across all community groups, from surf clubs and sporting associations to service organisations. Ensuring this facility remains a shared and inclusive community asset will be key to its long-term success. With Council now responsible for the building’s maintenance, the costs will be covered by the broader community through public funds. However, as a Council asset, the facility is also expected to generate revenue to contribute to its own upkeep, ensuring it does not rely solely on ratepayers for ongoing maintenance. Across the region, sporting groups operate under financial constraints, with the Kiama District Sports Association managing 20 clubs on an annual budget of just $60,000. This highlights the need for fairness in the distribution of community resources. This publicly funded facility was built for community benefit and must serve all members of the public. By embracing a community-focused approach, the venue has the opportunity to ensure it remains sustainable, inclusive, and accessible for years to come.The views expressed here are the personal views of Councillor Matters and do not represent those of Kiama Municipal Council 

 With the Draft Local Housing Strategy Version 2 now on public exhibition, many residents are asking how it differs from previous drafts and what it means for the future of housing in Kiama.The updated strategy reflects community feedback and aims to address feasibility concerns that have slowed the uptake of certain housing types.It also revisits growth potential in Jamberoo and Bombo, responding to new infrastructure discussions and planning considerations.Council has refined the housing strategy in response to community feedback, with a stronger emphasis on housing feasibility and infrastructure planning.One of the biggest shifts is recognising that while zoning allows for mid-rise and multi-dwelling housing, market conditions often prevent these developments from happening.Council’s Director of Planning, Ed Paterson, has highlighted that simply allowing townhouses or apartments in certain areas is not enough if the financial viability is not there.The cost of land in Kiama, combined with high construction costs, means developers often find that smaller-scale projects do not stack up financially."If you buy a block in Kiama and the planning controls allow you to only build three terrace houses, the rate of return is not there for anyone," Paterson explained.Instead, many homeowners are choosing to renovate and extend their existing homes rather than redevelop their properties for multi-dwelling use.The updated strategy acknowledges this reality and includes actions to review zoning controls to ensure they align with what is realistically achievable.In earlier versions of the strategy, Jamberoo was largely considered unsuitable for significant growth due to infrastructure limitations, particularly water supply and wastewater management.However, new conversations with Sydney Water have changed this perspective.Sydney Water has now committed to a capacity analysis of the entire network, scheduled for this financial year.This study will help determine where additional housing could be supported without overburdening existing infrastructure.This is a significant development because if water and wastewater infrastructure can be expanded, certain areas around Jamberoo that were previously off-limits for growth could now be reconsidered.Bombo is another area where planning discussions are evolving. The Draft Housing Strategy estimates a capacity of 2,100 dwellings in Bombo, but this number is based on traditional lot sizes. In reality, if higher-density housing is encouraged, the number of homes could be significantly greater.One of the key advantages of Bombo as a growth area is that it does not have the same view loss concerns as other parts of Kiama.This makes it a strong candidate for higher-density housing such as apartments or mixed-use developments.Council is working with the NSW Department of Planning and landholders to ensure that any proposals align with broader infrastructure plans and do not proceed in isolation."We do not want individual landowners rushing ahead with their own plans without considering the bigger picture," Paterson said. A coordinated structure plan will ensure proper transport links, infrastructure and public spaces are factored in before development begins.With the Draft Local Housing Strategy Version 2 on public exhibition, residents have an opportunity to review the updates and provide feedback. Council is also working to improve access to planning information, making it easier for the community to engage earlier in the process.Understanding the real constraints and opportunities in Kiama’s housing market is key to ensuring future developments are both achievable and aligned with community expectations.Would you like to see more housing diversity in Kiama?Do you think Bombo should be a high-density precinct?Have your say while the strategy is on exhibition. The draft Local Housing Strategy is on public exhibition from 21 February until 22 April.You can view the Strategy and make a submission via the ‘Your Say’ portal:You can also discuss the Strategy with Council staff at their next community pop-ups:Kiama Farmers Market - Wednesday 26 March (2pm to 5pm)Gerringong IGA - Thursday 27 March (4pm to 6pm)

Lithium-ion batteries, used to power e-bikes and e-scooters, are the fastest growing fire risk in the state according to NSW emergency services. To combat the growing issue, Kiama Council is running a community awareness campaign and providing additional safety training for its waste team after its believed the batteries sparked two blazes in the past year.No-one was injured in the fires, one at the Minnamurra waste depot and another on a recycling truck, but Kiama Council’s waste services manager Guy Stearn says “incidents such as this are always learning opportunities”.“Many people may not realise that a Li-Ion battery is embedded in something like a children’s toy, an electric toothbrush or even their Christmas lights,” Mr Stearn says.“People think they’re doing the right thing by getting rid of battery-powered items once they get old or stop working, which they are, but it’s a big no-no to throw them in with your kerbside bins.”To combat the steep increase in waste fires Kiama Council is working with residents to raise awareness about correct battery disposal. The council’s waste team will also undergo safety and awareness training in preparation for the Household Bulky Waste Drop Off at Minnamurra Depot from March 8-16.“We’ve improved processes in and around how we handle our waste and conduct our jobs at the Minnamurra Depot,” says Mr Stearn. “This includes better risk assessment procedures and incident reporting.”He has urged community participants booking a timeslot for this year’s event to read the updated terms and conditions on what can and can’t be disposed of. For more information visit: https://www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/Council/News/Be-battery-aware-for-Bulky-Waste-Drop-Off

As the housing crisis continues to hit hard, particularly in communities like Kiama where demand is high, MP Gareth Ward has invited the NSW Rental Commissioner to visit the electorate to discuss affordability in the region. Mr Ward wrote to the Rental Commissioner earlier this year after an increase in inquiries and complaints about landlords, tenants and the lack of affordable rental rental properties in the area. He says he is yet to receive a response.“Be you a first home buyer or a person in the rental market trying to keep up, housing pressure is the main driver of the cost-of-living crisis,” Mr Ward said. “I have invited the NSW Rental Commissioner to visit our community and see first-hand the pressures being experienced in the Illawarra and South Coast. I want to see how the Rental Commissioner can help us and press the government for more than just targets. We need outcomes.” Mr Ward says the government is failing its own housing targets, with 60 proposed affordable housing units in Bomaderry, but more than 300 new frontline staff expected to be working at Shoalhaven Hospital once the redevelopment is complete.“Where are all these workers going to live?” asks Mr Ward.  “I am disappointed that the Rental Commissioner has yet to acknowledge my invitation. The lack of response is concerning but I will continue to pressure the government to ensure it provides the investments and reforms that make it easier for renters and first home buyers in our region.”

This report covers Item 18: Late Items from the 24 February Ordinary Council Meeting, where Kiama Council resolved several key operational decisions.A major development was the further two-week delay of the Blue Haven Bonaira sale, after the buyer requested a final 15-business-day extension to settlement. Council approved the extension but confirmed that Clause 28.4 of the contract remains in place, meaning penalties may be imposed if settlement is not finalised.Industrial Relations Dispute ResolvedCEO Jane Stroud confirmed that an industrial relations dispute involving Blue Haven staff was resolved through a by-consent application lodged by Kiama Council and five unions. Council reiterated its commitment to protecting staff rights, ensuring that entitlements and working conditions remain no less favourable during the transition.Key Resolutions Passed – Item 18: Late ItemsCouncil made significant decisions based on business cases for key community services:Waste Services: Council endorsed Option 2, restructuring the operation of hire services. The CEO will oversee implementation and consultation, with quarterly progress reports to follow.Kiama Coast Holiday Parks: Council chose Option 2 for the future management of local holiday parks, delegating the CEO to manage consultation and execution.Kiama Leisure Centre: Instead of committing to a single model, Council resolved to investigate the commercial viability of both Options 2 and 3, exploring different ways to manage the centre while ensuring financial sustainability.Tourism and Events: Council adopted Option 2 and extended the current trial period to 18 months, allowing further assessment of the best operating structure.The Pavilion Kiama: Option 2 was approved, setting the direction for enhanced operations and service delivery at The Pavilion.Parks and Gardens Maintenance: Council selected Option 2, aiming to improve efficiency and service quality within the Parks and Gardens unit.Each resolution includes quarterly reporting requirements to ensure transparency and track progress.What This Means for the CommunityThese decisions shape the future of essential community services, balancing financial sustainability with maintaining service levels for residents and businesses.The Blue Haven sale delay reflects council’s commitment to upholding contract terms while allowing time for settlement.The resolution of the industrial relations dispute ensures that staff remain supported throughout the process.

At its 24 February meeting, Kiama Council supported Councillor Draisma’s urgency motion to advance plans for a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP), ensuring the council can apply for the Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant before applications close on 12 March.Councillor Draisma emphasised the importance of moving forward with the process, stating, "We need to strengthen our application and get a good outcome for the community." While staff confirmed that the council’s existing resolution met the threshold for application, Councillor Draisma highlighted the need for councillors to discuss which areas should be included in the draft precinct to support the bid.Proposed Locations - Kiama Town Centre and GerringongThe primary focus of the proposed precinct is Kiama’s town centre, including Terralong Street, Shoalhaven Street, and the Harbour Precinct.However, the draft motion also acknowledged Gerringong as a potential satellite precinct. A review of Gerringong town centre’s planning framework could allow for the inclusion of additional sites or lots, pending community consultation.A working group of local creatives and businesses has already provided input on the proposed areas, and further consultation will be essential in shaping the final precinct boundaries.Grant Funding and Development ApprovalCouncil staff confirmed that if successful, the grant, ranging from $50,000 to $200,000, would fund essential planning work, including an acoustic report and community engagement.However, they clarified that establishing an SEP would not override the need for development approvals.“This does not give retrospective approval to venues,” staff noted. “Businesses will still need to comply with existing planning processes.”With council’s endorsement, the application process will now proceed, with further community consultation to follow if funding is secured.

The Bugle would like to congratulate the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club (GSLSC) on their new clubhouse, which has raised a lot of community discussion.The facility was a key topic at the Kiama Council Meeting on 18 February, where councillors examined issues concerning the club’s lease, kiosk operations, and accessibility compliance.Gary George, Building and Property Manager at Shoalhaven City Council, addressed councillors during the public access session in his role as Club President. He clarified the club’s stance on its temporary 12-month licence agreement and sought guidance on the future of the clubhouse’s kiosk. Following discussion, councillors supported an amendment from Cr Draisma, accepted by Cr Brown, which included:Congratulating GSLSC on securing funding to build a new clubhouse and acknowledging its ongoing commitment to the community.Working with GSLSC to ensure the club can fully occupy the facility to patrol Werri Beach and run its training programs.Receiving a report on the history of the kiosk, including its compliance under the current lease, land classification, and zoning.Facilitating construction of a concrete footpath from Pacific Avenue to the public toilet facilities to improve accessibility.One concern raised was the operation of the kiosk, which exceeds the 10 sqm size permitted under the Kiama Local Environmental Plan 2011. Another issue was unauthorised subletting. Under the Local Government Act 1993, subletting council-owned facilities requires prior approval, which the surf club had not obtained.GSLSC President Gary George stated they were unaware of this requirement and sought a resolution allowing the kiosk to continue operating.The council also discussed why a lease had not been finalised upon completion of the clubhouse, noting the facility currently operates under a temporary 12-month licence.Additionally, councillors highlighted accessibility concerns, particularly the lack of a compliant pathway to the accessible toilet.GSLSC has offered to build the footpath, and Council is reviewing the planning requirements to facilitate this.Council has approved the 12-month licence agreement to allow time for a full review of the site’s planning, lease, and compliance requirements.A Plan of Management review will be placed on public exhibition, allowing community feedback before a final decision is made.