A packed public meeting in Gerringong this week laid bare growing frustrations over the impact of non-hosted short-term rental accommodation (STRA) on the local community. Councillor Melinda Lawton listened as resident after resident described the strain the accommodation is placing on their once-quiet streets.The message from residents was clear: something has to change. Many expressed concerns about absentee landlords turning homes into high-capacity party houses, disrupting neighbourhoods and pushing permanent residents to breaking point.“We need to assess how we can better balance tourism with preserving the rights of permanent residents to live peacefully in their neighbourhoods,” Cr Lawton said. Her commitment to addressing the issue was welcomed, but attendees emphasised the need for urgent action.Residents highlighted specific challenges, including large groups of up to 18 people staying in single-family homes, traffic congestion, and overcrowded parking on rural roads. Many called for stricter local regulations, including caps on guest numbers and mandatory development applications for all short-term rental properties."Byron Bay has set the standard with a 60-day cap on STRA, and it’s working," said one resident. "We need to send a message to investors who see Gerringong as nothing more than a money-making opportunity that this community won’t stand for it."Cr Lawton acknowledged the depth of concern.“Tonight’s discussion highlights how important it is to get this balance right. Tourism is a vital part of our economy, but not at the expense of the residents who live here year-round,” she said.The meeting ended with a renewed call for community action, with residents pledging to keep the pressure on council to ensure their voices are heard. As one attendee put it: “We’re not asking for the world. We’re asking for respect - for our homes, our streets, and our community.”Gerringong has made its frustrations known. Now it’s up to the council to listen and act.

We would like to offer our compliments to Kiama Council on the delightful Christmas decorations adorning our town.Congratulations to all involved for keeping Christmas alive and making our town such an appealing place to visit! Christopher Minehan

Puppy Tales Unveils the Australian Dog of the Year 2025 AwardsGot a paws-itively amazing pooch? It’s time to celebrate their tail-wagging awesomeness! The hunt is on for the Puppy Tales Australian Dog of the Year 2025, shining a spotlight on Australia’s most courageous, loving, and inspiring four-legged companions.Unleashing its fifth edition, the award seeks to honour dogs who embody the Aussie spirit of loyalty and friendship. From hardworking farm pups and heroic rescue hounds to cuddle champions who lift their humans’ spirits, every story deserves to be told.“Let’s be real—where would we be without our furry mates?” says Kerry Martin, founder of Puppy Tales and renowned pet photographer. “They don’t just fill our homes with joy—they change lives.”A Special Bark-Out for RescuesThis year’s event welcomes a new category: the ARAS Medal (All Rescues Are Special), sponsored by The Saltiest Dog, to celebrate rescue dogs who’ve overcome tough beginnings to transform lives.“Rescue dogs are the ultimate su-paw-stars,” Kerry says. “They teach us resilience and unconditional love.”What’s in the Goodie Bag?Winners will fetch prizes worth over $20,000, including professional photography sessions, donations to their favourite charities, personalised trophies, and more! There’s even a People’s Choice Award, so the whole community can get involved.Key dates to note:Nomination Deadline: Sunday, 12 January 2025Finalists Announced: Tuesday, 14 January 2025People’s Choice Voting Ends: Thursday, 25 January 2025Winners Revealed: Australia Day, 26 January 2025Who Can Enter?Nominate dogs who’ve gone above and beyond, whether it’s comforting a human in tough times, helping protect wildlife, or being a life-saving hero. “All dogs are amazing in their own way, and every wagging tail has a story,” Kerry says.So, if your pup deserves the spotlight, head to Puppy Tales and enter today! Let’s give our furry legends the recognition they deserve. 🐶Australian Cattle Dog - photo by Puppy Tales Photography

As the weather heats up and we hurtle towards the silly season, spare a thought for the region’s volunteer firefighters who will be giving up their Christmas to keep communities safe.Today is International Volunteer Day and the Rural Fire Service Association has given a shout out to Kiama’s volunteer firefighters who are ready to protect their community from bush fires and other emergencies over the festive period.With a November heatwave sparking fires across the state, Rural Fire Service volunteers are on high alert as the threat of more fires over the holiday period looms. Association president Scott Campbell praised volunteer firefighters for their dedication to their communities no matter the time of year or the emergency response required. “We have already seen bush fires this season and although we hope we don’t see more, the reality is we will,” Mr Campbell says. “Over the Christmas period, spare a thought for volunteers who will be donating their time and effort to help others.“International Volunteer Day is a day to recognise the sacrifice that volunteers make, giving up their time purely for the benefit of others … putting their lives on the line to save others and protect their communities. “I want to take this opportunity to thank volunteer firefighters who always stand ready to protect lives and livelihoods. We are incredibly grateful for their courage and commitment.”

As of Monday 2 December Coast and Country Community Services has taken over the operation of Kiama Council’s Blue Haven Community Transport program.Coast and Country Community Services has established a local office in Kiama to oversee its operations, building on its success across the Shoalhaven City LGA, Bega Valley Shire LGA, and the Young/Boorowa and Weddin areas.Kiama Council Chief Operating Officer Joe Gaudiosi welcomes Coast and Country Community Services to Kiama as a new provider for community transport clients.  “It will ensure our community continues to receive reliable and high-quality transport services, supporting both residents and staff across the region,” says Mr Gaudiosi. Blue Haven Community Transport was operated by Kiama Council on behalf of Transport NSW, and has been divested separately from the rest of Blue Haven Bonaira. The divestment includes five vehicles, three staff, and the majority of its volunteers. The vehicles will temporarily be garaged at Kiama Council’s Works Depot. All Blue Haven Community Transport clients have been informed about the switch over to the new service provider. For further information on the divestment, please visit the Blue Haven FAQs page.

Ziggy’s Pizza in Gerringong celebrated its first anniversary in style last weekend, transforming the occasion into a convivial community gathering. The vibrant celebration featured delicious food, live music by rising local talent Bobbi Smith in her professional debut, and plenty of smiles.Guests enjoyed sampling Ziggy’s latest pizza creations and menu items, soaking in the welcoming atmosphere the restaurant has become known for. Ziggy’s opened its doors in December 2023, following a major rebranding, refurbishment, and menu overhaul of the beloved Zoobs Pizza. Under the leadership of 20-year-old owner Damon Zwicker and his dedicated young team, the restaurant has earned a reputation for its high-quality food and service, becoming a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike.“This celebration was more than just an anniversary; it was our way of saying thank you to the community for their incredible support over the past year,” Damon shared. “We wouldn’t be here without them.”The event also marked a moment of resilience for Ziggy’s, following a disheartening break-in just two weeks earlier. “The break-in felt personal, it was a bit of a kick in the guts after all the hard work the team has put in,” Damon admitted. “But this celebration, with its energy, music, and laughter, was the perfect antidote.”Damon praised his team’s dedication and the community’s encouragement throughout the year. “We’re excited to keep serving the best pizzas in town and to remain a part of this amazing community,” he said.As the night ended, Damon extended his gratitude to everyone who attended the celebration and supported Ziggy’s journey. “Here’s to many more birthdays, pizzas, and shared moments,” he said with a smile.The anniversary celebration was not just a milestone for Ziggy’s—it was a testament to the power of community spirit and the resilience of a young team determined to succeed.

Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward, has urged political parties to unite in supporting calls from legal and social service experts to establish a Drug Court in the Illawarra. With the NSW Drug Summit underway, Mr. Ward emphasised the effectiveness of Drug Courts in reducing crime and aiding rehabilitation."The data from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Reporting speaks for itself," Mr. Ward said. "Drug Courts reduce reoffending, with 37% of participants less likely to be convicted of any offence, and significant reductions in violent, property, and drug-related crimes."He criticised the lack of a Drug Court in the Illawarra, stating, "Other regions benefit from this proven system, yet Illawarra residents are left without access to these life-changing programs."Drug Courts, which combine legal oversight with wraparound support services, aim to help offenders overcome addiction and reintegrate into society. Mr. Ward stressed they are not about leniency but about cutting crime and turning lives around.“Throw the book at drug dealers, but where we can rehabilitate, we must. People make mistakes; they deserve a chance to recover without losing their future,” he said.While welcoming the NSW Government's $47.8 million funding for drug and alcohol treatment services, Mr. Ward argued that systemic reforms like Drug Courts are crucial. "We need fences at the top of the cliff, not just ambulances at the bottom," he concluded.PR Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has called for all political parties to unite and back calls from lawyers, social services, judicial officers and psychologists to establish a drug court in the Illawarra. Mr Ward said the statistics speak for themselves with Bureau of Crime Statistics and Reporting data making the case clearer than ever. With the NSW Drug Summit underway, Mr Ward said that a Drug Court was an important piece of the puzzle in getting people off drugs and turning lives around. “If you have been addicted, or you know someone who has, you would know and appreciate the devastating impacts drugs can have on individuals, families, and communities. Drug Courts work, and it makes absolutely no sense that other regions have Drug Courts and the Illawarra doesn’t,” Mr Ward said.  “BOCSR statistics show that 37% of people receiving treatment through a Drug Court program are less likely to be convicted of an offence. 65% are less likely to be convicted of an offence against a person, 35% are less likely to be convicted of a property offence and 58% are less likely to be re-convicted of a drug offence. What more does this government need than its very own data? “Drug Courts are not about soft-touch penalties. Drug Courts are about getting people off drugs, re-integrating people into our community and cutting crime that is often associated with drug dependency which can range from theft to serious assault. “People make mistakes, but why should people lose their careers because they made one bad decision? By all means, throw the book at those selling and peddling drugs, but where we can turn someone’s life around, we should. Drug Courts may not be the earliest of interventions, but for people at this point in their justice journey its better late than never. “Whilst I welcome the $47.8 million announced by the NSW Government for drug and alcohol treatment services in our region, when it comes to social services, we need fences at the top of the cliff rather than ambulances at the bottom. “Drug Courts are specialist courts that establish wraparound services, get people off drugs, and help charter a pathway back in collaboration with local support services. “It’s a no-brainer and whilst I welcome the conversations being had at the Drug Summit and additional funding, all of this falls short if the right systems aren’t in place. I say this as a former FACS Minister and local MP who wants to work with the government to back sensible reforms that change lives for the better; everything else is just hollow ‘talk’,” Mr Ward concluded.

By John LarkinsThe Kiama Lions Club hosted their annual Christmas party at Olive and Vine, bringing together members and supporters for a night of fun and festive cheer. The event was a lively occasion, as evidenced by the snapshots of attendees enjoying the evening.A highlight of the night was the much-anticipated draw for the Ken Tucker painting raffle. The coveted artwork was won by Rick Norris, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebrations.The Lions' efforts paid off significantly, raising over $5,500 for the Kiama Lions Cancer Care Trust. The funds will go towards supporting vital cancer care initiatives in the local community.Kiama Lions extended their heartfelt thanks to the following businesses for their generous support in making this fundraiser a success:Kiama Downs PharmacyGerringong PharmacyKiama Health Destination PharmacyBlooms PharmacyKiama Medical PracticeGerringong Medical PracticeBoat Harbour Medical PracticeKiama Golf ClubKiama Leagues ClubThe club also expressed its gratitude to the broader community for their ongoing support and wished everyone a joyous and safe festive season.

A new report from the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) reveals that over half (54%) of young Australians aged 16 to 19 experienced sexual harassment in the past 12 months. Unfortunately, these findings are unlikely to surprise anyone.The research is based on data from Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC), which has been tracking 10,000 children since 2004. Managed by AIFS on behalf of the Department of Social Services, LSAC is the largest and longest-running study of Australian children.Sexual harassment is defined by the study as including unwanted touching or grabbing, sexual remarks, and showing explicit images. It is when a person behaves in a sexual manner that is unwelcome, making another person feel intimidated, uncomfortable, degraded, humiliated, or offended.The study found that young females are more likely to experience sexual harassment (65%) compared to young males (43%). For females, harassment is mostly perpetrated by strangers, while for males, it is more likely to come from friends.The report also highlights that LGBTQ+ individuals are at a higher risk of sexual harassment than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. Among LGBTQ+ members aged 18-19, 49% reported experiencing harassment, compared to 31% of non-LGBTQ+ people. The proportion was even higher for LGBTQ+ females aged 18-19, with 59% reporting harassment.The study examined where harassment occurred, finding that 48% of 18–19-year-olds who had been harassed in the last 12 months reported it happening at a bar, club, or party. Other common locations included online (27%), at work (18%), and at a place of study (12%). Disturbingly, 40% of 16-17 year-olds experienced sexual harassment at school or university.Dr Neha Swami, lead author and Research Fellow at AIFS, said the findings indicate the need for stronger measures to prevent sexual harassment, especially online and in public spaces."Of the older teens we surveyed who had experienced sexual harassment, 53% of females and 39% of males experienced it at a party, club or bar – showing many young people have extremely negative experiences when trying to enjoy themselves on a night out," Dr Swami said.“Given more than one-quarter of young people experienced sexual harassment online, programmes and policies that support healthy interactions online – making it clear that certain comments and images can make people feel degraded and humiliated – could help.“Strong mechanisms for reporting and responding to harassing behaviours in bars and clubs could also be a focus for helping reduce rates,” Dr Swami said.The report also found a significant link between social media use and sexual harassment. Among those who posted or shared content on social media several times a day, 53% of females and 33% of males reported experiencing harassment in the past 12 months. In contrast, only 35% of females and 17% of males who posted or shared on social media once a month or less faced similar experiences."Sharing content on social media shouldn’t increase a young person’s risk of sexual harassment. That is a clear signal to governments and social media companies that more needs to be done to prevent perpetration and protect teens online," Dr Swami said.The study also suggests that fostering healthy relationships with family and peers may help reduce the likelihood of experiencing sexual harassment later in life. “While sexual harassment is always the fault of the perpetrator, programmes that help adolescents foster healthy relationships with parents and peers at ages 16-17 years may help to reduce the likelihood of them experiencing sexual harassment later on,” Dr Swami said.“As a parent, building a strong, trusting relationship with your child when they’re young, and nurturing that all the way through to early adulthood could be highly beneficial.”However, it's important to recognise that not all young people have access to such support systems. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 17% of young males and 15% of young females aged 15-24 reported feeling lonely in 2022. The findings from this study provide strong evidence to inform the development of policies and programmes to address sexual harassment. Dr Swami believes that stronger mechanisms for reporting harassment in public spaces like bars and clubs could help reduce rates of sexual harassment.“We also need to support young people in navigating online spaces in a way that promotes respect and safety,” she said. “There needs to be a clear message that sexual harassment in any form, whether in person or online, is unacceptable.”With upcoming changes to age restrictions on social media, it will be interesting to see whether these statistics will shift and whether social media companies can enforce these new rules effectively. The study represents the first Australian evidence from a nationally representative sample on the experience and nature of sexual harassment among young people, including those under 18 years old.The findings show the urgency of taking a comprehensive approach to tackling sexual harassment, both online and offline, and the critical role of public policy, community support, and individual responsibility in addressing this issue.

Gerringong Rotary has had a busy October and November, continuing its community work and social activities. Day Out at Shoalhaven Heads Botanical GardensIn late October, members enjoyed a sunny day at the Shoalhaven Heads Botanical Gardens. A volunteer guide took the group on an informative tour, and the outing included morning tea prepared by member Graham, chef extraordinaire, and lunch at the Shoalhaven Heads Hotel.The visit also provided an opportunity to reconnect with Denice, a former Rotary exchange student from Taiwan, who was hosted by the club in 2019-2020. Denice, now studying at ANU in Canberra, returned to Gerringong to visit her host family and the Rotary members. The club also made a donation to the gardens as thanks for the tour.Supporting Local SchoolsGerringong Rotary continues to support local students, presenting the Outstanding Achievement Award at Kiama High School’s Year 12 graduation. Member Kerrie Lindsay represented the club at the ceremony and was impressed by the students’ achievements.The club also contributed $1,000 each to four Kiama High students selected for the 2024 National Youth Science Forum (NYSF). This year marks a record number of successful applicants from the school, and the club is proud to support their participation in this national program.International Project: Ultrasound Machine for NairobiGerringong Rotary is helping fundraise for an ultrasound machine for a maternity clinic in Nairobi. The clinic operates in a slum area, providing essential healthcare services. With help from the Rotary Club of Nairobi, Gerringong Rotary has assessed the clinic’s needs and is working with other local clubs to explore funding options for this important project.Through local markets, school support, and international projects, Gerringong Rotary continues to make an impact. Get involved and help make a difference! New members and friends are always welcome—visit www.gerringongrotary.com.au or email [email protected] to find out more.

By John Kenny Kiama warmly welcomed Jay Allen OAM, cancer survivor and CEO of the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation, on Wednesday, 27 November. The visit was part of Jay’s Mission Melanoma Walk, a 333km journey from Parliament House in Canberra to Bondi, Sydney, to raise funds for skin cancer research and prevention. The walk coincided with National Skin Cancer Action Week (20–26 November).Jay and his team stopped in Kiama for rest and refreshments before continuing their trek. They were greeted by Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald, members of the Kiama Rotary Club, and families from the community who have lost loved ones to skin cancer.Speaking to the group, Jay emphasised the importance of the initiative:“Every step we take is a step towards saving lives. By walking, we’re not only raising critical funds but also spreading awareness about skin cancer prevention and ensuring no one faces a diagnosis alone.”Mayor McDonald thanked Jay and his team for their dedication and for including Kiama in the walk, acknowledging their efforts to honor those in the municipality lost to skin cancer.Kiama Rotary Club President Phil Whyte echoed the sentiment, highlighting the club’s long-standing commitment to skin cancer detection through free skin check programs supported by local benefactors Tennille Shelley and her family, alongside medical staff.“We’ve been committed to supporting skin cancer detection in our community for years,” said Mr. Whyte. “We are pleased to donate $3,500 to the Foundation to further its work in reducing melanoma’s impact in Australia, which unfortunately has the highest rate in the world.”In response, Jay expressed gratitude, noting that funds from the walk will help finance a second mobile National Skin Check Truck. The first truck, launched in June 2023, provides free skin checks in communities with limited access to such services.Before heading to Wollongong, Jay and his team enjoyed refreshments provided by Tennille and her family, a testament to Kiama’s support for this vital cause.

The Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School came together Tuesday 3 December to donate food for the Vinnies Christmas Appeal to help those in need. The Mini Vinnies team at the school organised the promotion of the appeal and collected the food donations, whilst also getting to experience eating out of the Vinnies Van. The school received a large amount of donations, all of which will be made into Vinnies Christmas hampers and given to those in need. “It helps ensure that all the families who need help or might be struggling, or homeless, this Christmas they will be fed and have a nice Christmas dinner,” says a Mini Vinnies volunteer. “The school community really came together on this one and produced something good … it’s good to see how much people care and are willing to donate.” These young volunteers are enthusiastic about helping the local community and are very aware of the struggles other people go through. Michael Douglas, President of the St Vincent de Paul Conference in Kiama, attended the day and highlighted how the appeal effectively raises awareness of the challenges people face.“There’s a lot of people in Kiama who fly under the radar, people think this community is well off but there are a lot of people who live day-to-day in tents and in their cars that other people just don’t even know about,” says Michael. The dedication by Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School and the Mini Vinnies team is an timely reminder to give generously, to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience joy and support at Christmas. 

People in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region affected by alcohol and drug-related harm will soon benefit from an unprecedented $47.8 million funding boost from the NSW Government, aimed at expanding support and treatment services over the next four years.This significant investment will enhance the capacity of local services, including the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District and several non-government organisations. Waminda - South Coast Women’s Health and Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation will receive $11.3 million to establish a residential rehabilitation and withdrawal management service for Aboriginal women, including those who are pregnant or have young children. The facility will feature 10 rehabilitation beds and two withdrawal beds, along with spaces for children, providing a culturally supportive environment.Lives Lived Well will deliver day rehabilitation and counselling services for youth aged 12–24, with $2.1 million allocated to support up to 200 young people annually. Directions Health will receive $2 million to provide counselling, case management, and virtual care for individuals dealing with mental health and substance use challenges. Additionally, the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District will benefit from a $12 million injection to increase access to specialist treatments, including methamphetamine case management and expanded support for families impacted by substance use.A new four-bed Safe Assessment Unit at Shellharbour Hospital, backed by $20.4 million, will offer a secure environment for individuals facing acute behavioural health crises linked to substance use or mental health issues.Health Minister Ryan Park highlighted the transformative potential of these services, saying, “This investment will provide life-changing support to those most in need, ensuring better health outcomes for individuals and families affected by drug and alcohol issues.”Local representatives praised the funding as a crucial step for the region. Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson stated, “The new Safe Assessment Unit at Shellharbour Hospital will save lives and provide essential care close to home.” Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart added, “These services reflect a dignified and holistic approach to tackling dependency.”This funding follows the NSW Government’s Drug Summit, which brought together health experts, community leaders, and people with lived experiences to inform policies addressing substance-related harm. The $47.8 million investment marks a new chapter in the region’s fight against substance abuse, fostering a healthier, more resilient community in Illawarra Shoalhaven.

Kiama Rotary made a generous contribution on Wednesday to support "Jay’s Mission" Melanoma Walk, a journey undertaken from Canberra to Sydney raising funds for the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation. The initiative aims to drive advocacy, education, fund research, and provide support for individuals affected by melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.The walkers arrived at Kiama Lighthouse at 10 AM, where they were warmly welcomed by Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald, members of Rotary Kiama, and representatives of the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation. After enjoying morning tea and a well-earned rest, the group prepared to continue their trek.In a gesture of community spirit, Rotary Kiama President Phil Whyte presented a $3,500 cheque to the walkers. The donation will aid the Foundation’s vital work in combating this life-threatening disease.This inspiring event highlighted the power of collaboration and the importance of supporting initiatives that raise awareness and funds for skin cancer prevention and treatment.

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is encouraging local community groups to apply for a Volunteer Grant to help foster community connections and enrich our society.“I am delighted to invite expressions of interest for the Australian Government’s 2024-2025 Volunteer Grants program,” Mrs Phillips said.“Volunteers play such an essential role in our community, and these grants aim to support the incredibly important work they do. “I love all of our local community groups, from scouts and theatre groups, to choirs, social clubs and of course our many, many sporting organisations, and I’d love for them to apply.“The grants support the work of community organisations by reducing barriers for volunteers and increasing participation in volunteering.”Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to help community organisations to support the efforts of their volunteers.Mrs Phillips said grants could be used to purchase items or services that assist volunteers or volunteer-run activities that support the well-being and development of children under 18.“Thanks to the last round, 25 community organisations across the Gilmore electorate shared in more than $66,000 to buy small equipment and cover the cost of training courses, fuel and transport,” she said.“I was thrilled that every grant application in the electorate was successful in securing funds.”Previous recipients have included a number of RFS units, the 1st Batemans Bay Scouts, the Moruya Surf Life Saving Club’s Special Nippers Program, the Berry and District Historical Society and the North Nowra Girl Guides.Funds were also awarded to the Conjola Stingrays Outrigger Canoe Club, the Jervis Bay and Community Men's Shed, the Nowra Town Band and the Albatross Musical Theatre Company.The Gerringong District All Sports, the Lions Club of Gerringong and the Kiama Central Netball Club were also among grants recipients.“It’s fantastic that we were able to provide a boost for these organisations, whether sporting, arts, social or cultural to help cover the costs of storage sheds, scissors and even a new lawn mower,” Mrs Phillips said.“At the end of the day, we want volunteers to know that I am backing them, and I will continue to support their work in assisting our South Coast communities.”Expressions of interests are open until Wednesday 8 January 2025 and the expression of interest form can be found here.“I encourage groups to apply and if they need more information, they should call my office on 4423 1782 or email me at [email protected]

The Minnamurra River is more than just a local icon. It’s a lifeline for native wildlife, a sanctuary for biodiversity, and a cherished destination for those who swim, paddle, and picnic along its shores. Protecting it should be non-negotiable. Yet, Kiama Council’s plan to relocate its works depot to the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Depot, situated alarmingly close to the river, has raised serious questions about the environmental risks—and whether they’re being taken seriously enough.Industrial depots are not known for their harmony with fragile ecosystems. Even with best-practice safeguards like advanced stormwater management, runoff capture, and vegetated buffer zones, the reality is that runoff can and does happen. When pollutants like chemicals or heavy metals find their way into the water, the damage is often irreversible.Council might argue that their plans will meet environmental standards. But this isn’t just about meeting minimum requirements. This is about ensuring the Minnamurra River—the lifeblood of our region—remains as pristine tomorrow as it is today. And there’s already significant pressure to get it right, particularly given the ongoing scrutiny of other major projects in the region, such as the new Shellharbour Hospital, which has faced tough questions about runoff management.Adding to this, newly elected Councillors Matt Brown, Melinda Lawton, Mike Cains, Imogen Draisma and Mayor Cameron McDonald attended the August 2024 Minnamurra Progress Association meeting and committed to protecting the river's ecosystem. Their pledge resonated strongly with the community, which is deeply invested in safeguarding this vital natural resource. The question now is whether that commitment will translate into meaningful action.The community deserves reassurance that this depot relocation won’t turn the Minnamurra River into a cautionary tale. That starts with transparency. What independent assessments have been conducted? Have alternative locations been fully explored? What long-term monitoring and accountability measures are planned?Every decision Kiama Council makes here will set a precedent. If this project prioritises cost-cutting over environmental care, it sends the wrong message—not just to the people of Kiama but to anyone who treasures the Minnamurra River. And if there’s one thing this community has made clear, it’s that the river is worth protecting.Kiama Council has a choice: to lead with integrity and foresight or to risk the very asset that defines this region. Let’s hope they choose wisely—because once the damage is done, no plan will undo it.

Kiama’s Music in the Parks event is set to return on Sunday, December 15th, offering an afternoon of live music, family-friendly fun, and community spirit. The free event will run from 2pm to 6pm at the newly refurbished Hindmarsh Park stage, with a diverse line-up of local musical talent.The call for performers this year attracted an overwhelming response, with musicians of all ages, from teenagers to seasoned professionals, eager to take the stage. However, due to the large number of applicants, organiser Charlie Damico said some tough decisions had to be made.“We actually feel terrible that we had to knock back so many people this time around but really hope that we can convince council to keep funding the event into 2025 so that we can get more artists up on that beautiful stage.” Damico said.This year’s line-up includes Jacob Henry, a talented 14-year-old guitarist and drummer from the Sentral Youth Centre, and Benn Gunn, an acclaimed country singer-songwriter. The event will also feature The Swamp Critters, a Blues & Roots band, The Ramoans, a high-energy tribute band playing classic Ramones hits and Unofficial Distilled, singing all the rock classics you know and love.In addition to the music, a professional face painter will be available under the park’s fig tree.While the event is free, organisers encourage visitors from outside Kiama to take the train, as parking can be limited on Sundays. Hindmarsh Park is just a short walk from the station, with coffee shops and ice-cream stands along the way for those wanting to grab a snack before the show.With a diverse range of performers and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, Music in the Parks promises to be a highlight of the summer calendar. The event is open to all, with locals and visitors invited to come along and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Kiama’s beautiful parklands.

By Amanda Large The Jamberoo Rural Fire Brigade’s annual Food Drive to support the work of the Salvation Army will be kicked off on Monday 2 December. There is a collection trolley placed outside Fredericks IGA in Allowrie St, Jamberoo, where members of the public can leave donations of canned and non-perishable packaged foods to make life easier for those less fortunate over the Christmas season. On the morning of Sunday 15 December, the Brigade’s volunteer firefighters will don their yellows to take the fire trucks around the streets of Jamberoo, calling on residents door to door to collect donated food items. Anyone who’s not home but would like to assist with a donation large or small, is welcome to leave a bag or box of items to be picked up by their local firies. After the food drive, all food items donated will be delivered to the Salvation Army for distribution. The Brigade has always had a very generous response from the people of Jamberoo to this initiative, with a great tradition of giving being established over the years. The Brigade’s volunteers hope that 2024, when many people are experiencing financial hardship, will be no different.

“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.