Reflecting on this situation, “Jamberoo Pool entry fees create confusion” there’s an important question we, as residents, need to ask ourselves: do we truly understand the real costs of maintaining facilities like the Jamberoo Pool? It’s easy to focus on the new entry fees and feel frustrated by the changes, but the bigger issue may be that we’re not fully aware of the financial burden on the council to keep these services running. Are we being naive to the true costs involved in providing a service that benefits some ratepayers, while others may not have similar facilities, like a library, in their area?The fees may seem unfair at first glance, especially for families who rely on this affordable community resource. However, what we may not always consider is the maintenance and operational costs associated with keeping the pool open, especially if it remains under utilised for a large part of the year. As pointed out in the debate, funding for essential upkeep—like covering the pool to prevent it from becoming a “duck pond”—also requires revenue, and these fees are likely part of that balancing act.It’s also worth considering whether enough transparency and consultation happened before these changes were introduced. If the community feels left out of the decision-making process, that can erode trust. However, as residents, it’s essential that we not only voice our concerns but also educate ourselves on the financial realities facing the council, ensuring that services are equitable for all ratepayers, not just for those fortunate enough to have facilities like the pool in their area.

More seniors would exercise, and exercise better, if classes were subsidised, a recent study by Monash University found.Twelve-week exercise classes of low-to-moderate intensity led to “significant improvements in physical function” and decreased time sitting, a university media release stated.The study primarily aimed to determine which factors made older Australians participate in community-based exercise classes.Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), formerly known as the Australian Association for Exercise and Sports Science, commissioned and ran the classes all over the country. The classes were gym, circuits, yoga, pilates, balance, aerobics and aqua aerobics, with each participant paying an average of $8 per class.“Exercise Right for Active Ageing” program involved 7,000 people over the age of 65 from every state and territory, including regional and remote areas. Many of the older Australians had high levels of comorbidity.“So far, few studies of this scale have been completed in Australia so this research will help cement what we know about the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of exercise for older adults,” said Dr Christina Ekegren of the Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre.She conducted the study together with the Associate Professor Sze-Ee Soh, Associate Professor Darshini Ayton and Professor Helen Skouteris of the School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine.According to the WHO Global Action Plan, up to 60 per cent of older adults around the world do not meet the current global physical activity guidelines. Access and costs have been cited as major barriers, and research suggests that older adults would benefit from receiving financial subsidies for group exercise classes.

A dedicated playgroup for Koori children has opened at Gerringong Public School.A smoking ceremony was conducted with a special assembly today, Thursday 5 September, with parents, teachers and traditional owners present. “It is a very significant event, and it is a historical event…. This school is going to open the Buri Buri Aboriginal Playgroup for all our First Nations students,” Dharawal Elder and Aboriginal Healer Aunty Gwenda said. Supporting staff members will travel to the school from Nowra on Thursdays to run the playgroup programs.The Buriburi Playgroup will be open to children between the ages of 0 - 5. Gerringong Public School also announced the introduction of the Koori Kids Tucker Program, providing breakfast and lunch for kids on Fridays. Aunty Gwenda has lived in Gerringong all her life, she addressed the school today saying most of her work has been in the Shoalhaven and Illawarra. “I’ve been waiting 20 years to work in my community… Today we put Gerringong on the map,” she said. Aunty Gwenda and kids cut the ribbon to the new playgroupKristie Goldthorp, Principal of Gerringong Public School said the name Buriburi is a way to honour the culture of the traditional owners of the land.“Choosing an Aboriginal name for a playgroup is a wonderful way to honour and celebrate the culture and heritage of the local Aboriginal community,” she said, “our little brothers, sisters and cousins can join the Buriburi playgroup and flourish together.”The name Buriburi comes from the significant spiritual figure of a humpback whale for Aboriginal people from Coastal Sydney to the Shoalhaven, the Dharawal people.

Jamberoo’s Barbara Adams has long been a beacon of compassion and dedication in her community, and her recent win at the regional Volunteer of the Year awards is yet another testament to her tireless efforts. As she prepares for the state finals in December, Barbara reflects on her many years of service with the Red Cross and the countless lives she has touched along the way.Barbara’s commitment to volunteering isn’t just about raising money—it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives when they need it most. “When the bushfires hit Batemans Bay, we took $15,000 down there and gave it to the Red Cross to use as needed. I know it helped people who needed something as simple as a washing machine, and it supported one of the Aboriginal settlements down there,” she recalls. The devastation was stark, with some homes completely destroyed while others remained untouched. “It’s hard to imagine what people went through,” Barbara says, her voice tinged with empathy.The community of Lismore also benefited from Jamberoo Red Cross’ fundraising efforts when severe flooding ravaged the area. “We sent money up there, and one of the programs taught all the school children to swim, helping them overcome their fear of water after the floods,” she explains. Barbara and her team’s fundraising has not only provided immediate relief but has also contributed to long-term recovery and resilience-building in communities across Australia.Jamberoo Red Cross’ efforts extend beyond Australia’s borders. “We’ve had special donations from people for causes in Ukraine and Afghanistan, and we send those funds to where they are needed most,” she says. Through the generosity of the people in hometown of Jamberoo, the Red Cross has been able to support disaster relief efforts worldwide, ensuring that help reaches those in need, wherever they may be.One of the services Barbara is most proud of is the Red Cross’s Telecross program, which checks on vulnerable people twice daily to ensure they are safe. “We call them in the morning and evening, and if they don’t answer after three rings, we contact their family or even the police,” she explains. There’s also the Telechat program, where volunteers call people who have no one to talk to, offering companionship and support. “A lot of people out there are on their own, and this service is really beautiful,” Barbara says, highlighting the importance of community connection.While the local Red Cross has around 75 members, Barbara notes that most of them are older, with the average age ranging from 60 to 93. Despite this, she is keen to encourage more people, of any age, to get involved. “We have a parenting program that helps families get off Centrelink and back into the community. It teaches them nutrition, helps them find jobs, and supports them for two years. It’s a wonderful program that we contribute to every three months,” she shares.Barbara is passionate about the sense of community that volunteering brings. “Just come along and enjoy the companionship,” she says warmly. Whether it’s knitting trauma teddies, baking for a stall, or simply offering a listening ear, Barbara believes that everyone has something valuable to contribute. Barbara’s story is not just one of service but of community spirit and global compassion. Her dedication has had a ripple effect, touching lives across the world and inspiring others to join her in making a difference. As she prepares for the state finals in December, Barbara’s focus remains on the people she helps and the impact her work has on their lives.Her story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are always those who will step up, give their time, and offer a helping hand to those in need. Barbara Adams is one such person, and her legacy of service will continue to inspire for years to come.

In a significant boost to community wellbeing, Waminda South Coast Women’s Health and Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation has secured $358,000 in funding from the Albanese Labor Government. The grant, part of the Strong and Resilient Communities Activity (SARC) - Inclusive Communities initiative, aims to reduce isolation and enhance connections to Country for local First Nations women, while strengthening ties to the wider community.Waminda is one of 34 organisations nationwide sharing over $10.3 million under this grant program, which seeks to foster strong and resilient communities. Assistant Minister for Social Security, Ageing and Women, Kate Thwaites, along with Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, visited the organisation on Thursday, September 5, to learn more about the healing and social programs the funding will support.Assistant Minister Thwaites highlighted the important role community organisations like Waminda play in supporting local resilience. "The Albanese Labor Government recognizes the fantastic work that organisations like Waminda do," she said. "That's why we have invested close to $45 million in building strong and resilient communities since 2022. These projects help foster connections and improve overall well being."Fiona Phillips, Federal Member for Gilmore, expressed her excitement about the positive impact the grant will have. “Waminda has been a leader in providing culturally safe and holistic services for Aboriginal women and their families,” she said. “Their programs make a tangible difference in people’s lives, and it’s wonderful to see them receive the support they need to continue their vital work."Phillips praised Waminda’s commitment to culturally appropriate wellbeing initiatives, such as the Dead or Deadly and Bulwul Balaang programs. She also highlighted the importance of the Balaang Gunyah space at Orient Point, where a variety of healing groups, art programs, and women’s gatherings take place.Waminda’s leadership team member, Lisa Wellington, welcomed the funding, emphasising the importance of bringing together women of all ages in a safe and supportive environment. "It’s beautiful to see young women and Elders sitting together, sharing food, and supporting each other,” Wellington said. “This funding ensures that these vital cultural and wellbeing programs can continue, helping women become strong and resilient."Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth underscored the importance of investing in local communities. “Our government is committed to helping Australians who need extra support by building stronger, more resilient communities," she said. “By investing in organisations like Waminda, we can make a real difference for vulnerable groups, including First Nations Australians and women."The funding to Waminda reflects the broader efforts of the Albanese Government to provide essential support to Australians in need, including tax cuts, increased rent assistance, and funding for emergency relief services.For more information about the SARC Activity, visit the Department of Social Services website. .

Australia’s first dedicated Trauma Recovery Centre for women affected by domestic and family violence has officially opened its doors in Shellharbour, Illawarra. The Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre, a pioneering initiative by the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre, offers specialised long-term support to women recovering from the trauma of violence and abuse.NSW Health Minister Ryan Park and Shellharbour MP Anna Watson were joined by staff and stakeholders to mark this significant milestone. The Centre will provide women and families with multidisciplinary, tailored care, addressing the long-term impact of trauma and offering support beyond immediate crisis intervention. The project is the result of collaborative efforts involving women with lived experience, experts, and service providers. The Centre’s approach seeks to improve health and psychosocial outcomes by helping women break free from cycles of violence and intergenerational trauma.The NSW Government contributed $2 million in the 2023-24 Budget for the Centre’s establishment, with additional funding of over $2.7 million as part of a larger commitment to Women’s Health Centres across the state.NSW Health Minister Ryan Park praised the Centre’s opening as a vital step for domestic violence survivors in the region, while MP Anna Watson highlighted the life-changing impact it will have on women in need.For more information about the Centre and its services, visit the Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre website. If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services on 000, or for support with domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732.

By Lleyton Hughes and Neve SurridgeYouth engagement in local council matters is finite in Kiama. Whether it is lack of information, enthusiasm or simply because young people think council matters don’t apply to their everyday lives, it’s something that needs attention. That’s the reason why The Bugle hosted the first Youth Forum meeting with Kiama Community Radio on Thursday, 29 August. The discussion provided hope for the future of young people represented in politics. Three councillor-candidates attended the session, including; Imogen Draisma, incumbent Deputy Mayor and Labor Councillor, Kane Presland, fourth on Matt Brown’s independent group ballot and Harrison Ledger, fourth on the Labor party ballot. Jordan-Casson Jones, second on the Greens party ballot, was also going to attend but got called away to assist with an active bushfire. He was given the same questions as the other candidates but replied to them individually.Housing affordabilityHousing affordability is a known issue in Kiama, especially for young renters who are met with a fraught process of minimal available housing and of those available, far above a feasible weekly price. Cr Draisma highlighted the current situation of shared housing in the town, “at the moment you're at the behest of the market where there are multi-bedroom places in Kiama so you have to pair up with quite a few people to get your foot in the door for a rental.”“Good housing needs to be diverse. It's about utilising existing stock,” Cr Draisma continued. Ledger agreed with the approach, “I think we have to have these intergenerational concerns in our brain. When we have these huge barriers, not just financial but logistical, of getting young people housing and a roof over their head.”Short term rentalsCr Draisma also confirmed that the current council was in talks with the state government to have short-term rental applications (STRA’s) regulated. All three were in agreement that there needed to be controls implemented to limit these STRA’s.Casson-Jones discussed the need to preserve the environment when looking at future housing developments in the area.“There is an amount of housing that needs to be built to ease the pressure, but we also understand that the environment and fertile land around Jamberoo and west Kiama [that] needs to be preserved,” said Casson-Jones.“A lot of people I’m aware of will sign a six-month lease between March and October, and then will get kicked out for the summer so that the homeowners can make big bank over the summer period and then repeat,” Presland said.Six percent of properties in Kiama are registered as short-term accommodation, only falling slightly behind the eight per cent registered in Byron Bay. Casson-Jones has felt the immediate effects of short stay accommodation in the region, he currently lives between two Airbnb properties himself. “Short stay accommodation has put pressure on the housing market, as coined by the University of Wollongong as the ‘Airbnb effect’ where rents in regional and tourist centres have gone up from about $550 a week in 2020 to $800 a week in 2022.”“It changes the tenor of the places, as the services change from servicing a residential domestic population to servicing tourists… The Kiama Greens acknowledges that and highlights in our campaign the need to investigate the policies to free up holiday rentals,” Casson-Jones said.Presland commented on the wealth generated by these short-stays and Airbnbs being used outside of Kiama, “their profits aren’t redistributed to people in the community and they’re more distributed towards shareholders in that group who aren’t necessarily from Kiama.”Kiama nightlifeNightlife is another core concern for young people in the area, with the social areas limited and new business owners fearing closure due to noise complaints, which Council manages.“Everything hits the snooze button [at 4pm] and there’s nothing for anyone to do,” Cr Draisma said. The special entertainment precinct, launched with a petition this July, is an initiative Cr Draisma and incumbent Councillor Stuart Larkins have supported.“Working with state government, Council can identify a particular area in our town centre, which means they can operate louder, sound is permissible, music is permissible… There needs to be real opportunities for artists to occupy spaces,” Draisma said.Whilst all attendees were in agreement that there is work to be done in the nightlife scene, Presland commented on being cautious of going too far.“It’s a real challenge because we need to attract people to that nightlife. But we also need to think about how far we want to go with this because you look at Noosa and Byron Bay and they have great nightlife but at the cost of the town being run out by other people,” Presland said.The forum ran for an hour, with other topics discussed including mental health support services and supporting youth engagement in local council. To watch the full meeting, go to The Bugle's YouTube channel.If you are a young person in Kiama and you are passionate about the town and have ideas that you want to express, please email The Bugle at: [email protected] tuned for the next announcements surrounding the Youth Forum.

Sydney FC will host the Kiama Football Festival on September 14 and 15 at the Kiama Sports Complex which will consist of teams of 8-10 players playing six or more games.The first day will feature Under 7’s and Under 9’s teams and the second day will feature Under 10’s and Under 12’s teams. Event organiser and Fan Engagement Manager for Sydney FC, Billy Kirk, says the day was implemented to counteract the lack of junior football games played this winter due to poor weather.“This Kiama football festival gala day was designed on the back of a really wet and tumultuous winter season of community football,” says Kirk, “the kids are especially the ones who have been missing out with all of their local winter football games. So we thought this would be a nice way to re-engage and reinvigorate what they missed out on as well as ultimately celebrating the end of the season with just a one day gala day.”It costs $300 to enter a team into the competition and there are no restrictions on gender composition or team members who wish to play.The cost for the ticket goes towards the organisation of the event, a ticket offer to an A-League match, a trophy for the winning teams and additional Sydney FC prizes. The day will be a family affair, with children's activities available including hair braiding, glitter, and inflatable activations.Kirk emphasised the importance of big clubs like Sydney FC getting down to small communities like Kiama and giving them more opportunities surrounding football.“It’s about being able to give back and provide smaller communities, like Kiama, opportunities that they’re not normally going to be able to experience compared to clubs and communities in major cities like Sydney and to a smaller extent, Wollongong,” says Kirk.“So, it's good to be able to get down to Kiama and run something for the Kiama community and also to bring people down to showcase what Kiama is all about.”Kirk also hopes that events like these will help grow participation in football in Australia and inspire more events like the gala day in the area.“In terms of the growth of the sport it's a different format to what some would play so it can translate into out of regular season winter competitions and expand on the presence that football has throughout the calendar year,” says Kirk.The Kiama Football Festival is nearing capacity, so registrations are now available by Expression Of Interest only. Email [email protected] to express interest in registering your team.

100,000 people will be taking the plunge across Australia’s beaches over 100 days and Kiama is invited. Cold Nips, in partnership with the Happiness Co Foundation, have announced a nationwide tour from August to November to raise $1 million for mental health initiatives by way of cold plunges across Australian beaches.Kiama Surf Beach will be hosting a cold dip on Sunday 8 September at 6.15am. You can sign up using the QR code below."We aim to break barriers and ignite conversations about mental health through the power of community, connection and nature,” said Cold Nips Co-founder and Director, Jian.Cold Nips is a leading community movement for mental health, the nation-wide tour hopes to foster mental wellbeing by igniting conversations and mental health across the country. They host weekly sunrise beach events across Australia and attract up to 800 participants per week. Join the movement by donating or signing up at here to participate in local community sunrise dips and support mental health awareness.

It looks like the wind is back for more following last week’s storm as the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) issued a severe weather warning today for strong winds. The weather warning has been issued for people in the Snowy Mountains and parts of the Illawarra, South Coast, Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands and South West Slopes districts.Today, you can expect strong winds with damaging gusts along the Southern Tablelands, South Coast and Snowy Mountains until the early afternoon.On Friday, damaging winds will impact the Southern and Central Tablelands, Blue Mountains, Illawarra, South Coast and Snowy Mountains from mid-morning through to mid-afternoon.The NSW SES advises that people should move vehicles under cover and away from trees, secure loose items around their house, keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised and to stay vigilant in motor conditions.You can read the full warning here. For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening emergencies call Triple Zero (000). 

Kiama local, Joan Hughes is playing a vital role in this year's Paris Olympics and Paralympic Games.She is currently in the French capital working as a support volunteer to provide spectators with disabilities, or those who need assistance a helping hand to navigate the venues and events of the Paris Games.When the call out came for volunteers, Joan put her hand up half way through 2023. She has previously volunteered with the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games, which she believes strengthened her application.Joan has developed a keen sense of recognising fellow Aussies around France, the sight of green and gold making her proud.Joan Hughes“I have connected with many Aussies by recognising their accents or those wearing green and gold. Some are supporting athletes, others are working in Paris and I’ve met Aussies who are holidaying in France,” she said.Back on her home turf, Joan is heavily involved with volunteering, mostly on governance boards that focus on ageing issues.“Being a volunteer in any capacity is a way of giving back to the community who have provided me with many educational and professional opportunities throughout my life”, she said.There were 45,000 registered volunteers at the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics responsible for welcoming spectators and guiding them around venues, as well as assisting with sporting events. Her experience has been a fulfilling one, and she is keen to continue volunteering overseas in the future, “‘I will never forget my volunteer experiences in Paris and the privilege of meeting so many wonderful people. Travelling in another country is always an enriching experience and what’s not to like about being in Paris, the city of light…. and love.”

Kiama Council has updated the Jamberoo Pool facilities page to reflect new entry fees for 2024-25.Residents voiced their concerns on Facebook about the fees.“Our family certainly won’t be able to use the pool as much”, a concerned resident wrote. Entry fees are listed as $4 for adult entry, $2 for children and $10 for a family pass. Residents called upon the Council to ask why community consultation hadn’t taken place before fees were finalised. “What does Jamberoo get for the rates we pay? We don’t have a library like Gerringong”, another resident wrote to the Council.Labor Councillor Stuart Larkins responded to the outrage.“It was put out for public consultation in Kiama Council’s Fees and Charges document around May 2024,” Larkins said, “I’m a little surprised to see that the fees were introduced without the changes to the pool opening times.”The fees are outlined in Kiama Council’s Fees and Charges document for 2024-25 which was released in July of this year. A Jamberoo resident conducted a survey eight years ago, asking residents if they would be happy to pay a small fee and prefer longer opening hours, both questions were responded affirmatively.“Council also needs to obtain money for a pool covering, to help stop it turning into a duck pond for the other half of the year,” Larkins said.The Jamberoo Pool is still listed as having free entry on the NSW Government website.The pool is currently closed and scheduled to re-open in December 2024. 

The Minnamurra Progress Association held a candidate forum on Tuesday 3 September to provide residents the opportunity to speak to the councillor-candidates that seek to represent them.In attendance from alphabetical order of Group A to Group H; Cameron McDonald, Alan Smith, Matt Brown, Imogen Draisma, Melinda Lawton, Michael Cains, Gail Morgan and Mark Croxford. All councillor-candidates touched on the fraught housing situation across the local government area. Preservation of the natural environment opened up each of the candidates addresses, Melinda Lawton raised the importance of the Minnamurra River, “we have a duty to protect these waters,” she said. Community members present verbalised their concerns for building small properties on small plots of land. Mike Cains stressed the importance of preserving our landscapes, but the need for sustainable development is ongoing, an outlook many candidates shared.“We also must acknowledge that young people, seniors, and service workers also have the right to live in affordable housing,” said Cains.Matt Brown echoed this notion, “we need a diversity of homes, which we don’t have at the moment.”Imogen Draisma also noted the composition of housing stock in Kiama is heavily skewed towards large plots of land with multi-bedroom homes. Homes that aren’t suitable for many Kiama residents, “I’m a young renter myself. We need two bedrooms, we need one bedroom.”Cameron McDonald addressed the residents core concern for housing that Kiama will be urbanised, “[the community] don’t want to see urban sprawl, they don’t want to see our green rolling hills turned into condominiums.”Gail Morgan provided her stance on development in the municipality, with calls to end high rise development, “we’re calling all the horrible high rise development that we’re planning for central Kiama. We’re calling it infield, that’s a lovely euphemism.”Another topic heavily discussed was the financial position of Kiama Council, and how this will be resolved in the next term.Financial stability and revenue management came into question. All candidates recognised the poor management of the Blue Haven Bonaria site.“Two years of backwards and forwards. Do we sell it? Do we not? It gave a signal to the market that turned it into a fire sell,” Alan Smith said.Draisma said a priority will be “getting back into black”, and the council cannot “survive on rates alone”, with all candidates in agreement that revenue generation will need to be a first concern. “If we cannot live within our means, we shouldn’t be putting our hands in other people’s pockets,” Croxford said. Croxford continued by discussing the dire state of affairs the council was left in when the previous term of councillors were sworn in.“We inherited a situation that no council should ever have to inherit,” Croxford said.Fresh faces on the ballot paper said they want the future council to be a professional one.“I’m not a politician, I stand in because I was tired of seeing the dysfunction that was the previous council. I watched your meetings. They were shocking,” Alan Smith said.“The first thing is to make sure that the next term of council is a professional council… one where people aren’t focused on petty squabbles but rather getting on with business of council, of getting things done,” Cains said. Incumbent Councillor Mark Croxford addressed the comments of dysfunction in the previous council chambers as a result of other councillors refusing to come to agreements. “In the previous term of council, there were far too many who were not willing to compromise,” Croxford said.Residents of Minnamurra pushed the candidates to share their views on the offshore wind farm project, Cains and Smith expressed their distaste for the sight of wind turbines, however, Smith noted it ultimately lies with the federal government.

David Bailey loves cars. He loves racing cars, and he loves fixing cars. He likes refurbishing old cars and he likes building them from scratch. With the Kiama Hot Rod Run coming to Kiama 6 -8 September, The Bugle spoke to Bailey about this insane lifelong passion.Having caught the racing bug, Bailey began his journey riding motocross at 16. From there, he got a job as an apprentice mechanic. It was during the apprenticeship he realised that he loved fixing and toggling with cars.In 1988, a new category called HQ racing was introduced for racers, who wanted to get into racing but couldn’t afford it. The aim was to create a class of racing that was both affordable and exciting. This was Bailey’s first foray into real car racing.“ I thought, well that progresses my next step up into racing cars. So I built, from the ground up, a HQ Holden for this HQ race series which started in 1988 and is still going now,” says Bailey.Bailey pursued HQ racin for a while, before taking a break to start a family. After 10 years away, he wanted to get back into it and began with motocross again. Although he enjoyed it, his body couldn’t handle it longer. This led him to production car racing, which is a racing category where unmodified (or slightly modified) production cars race each other.“This is basically how it was in the 70s. Get them off the showroom, a few modifications and then let's go racing. So I bought a Toyota 86, turned it into a production car in 2012 and did production car racing right up to this year,” Bailey says.A popular race within production car racing is the Bathurst 6 Hour. Bailey has competed in it four times and twice, raced in his own built car, a Toyota 86. He has been most successful in this car.“I was lucky enough to get third in our division in consecutive years. And it felt amazing racing my own car and coming third after a six-hour race around Bathurst. It was really hard work. Then to come back and think I actually built that car and, not only did we race it, but it lasted. When there were bigger teams than us who had issues,” he says.Then Bailey came across a 1970 Ford V6 GT Capri, one of the only cars of its kind still in running order in Australia. It sparked some nostalgia, and he just had to have it.“It combined my two loves: old cars and racing. Also, my very first car when I was 16 was an old Ford Capri, a little 1600, and I had that for a year or so before I sold it and bought the V6 GT. But back in those days, you used to think it was just another car.”He races the Ford Capri in historic races, which are races limited to a specific era. For Bailey that means cars that were used as race cars before December 1985. “This car has been a racecar since 1980, it has a proven history of racing. It raced against Peter Brock and Allen Moffat back in the early 80s. So I could build another car exactly the same beside it, down to the nut and bolt, but it will not be a historic race car because it has no history of racing,” says Bailey.He raced the car down at Victoria’s Winton Raceway but didn’t test its limits too much as, he says, drivers have to get used to new cars. He was also wary of crashing the Ford Capri as the parts for it aren’t easy to find these days.“By the last race on the weekend, the guy who owned it told me that the best time it had ever run around that course was around 1 minute 53s with racing tyres. We ended up going round in 1 minute 52s on non-racing tyres. I told him after, we could find another 2 seconds in this car easily. There's just a few maintenance issues,” says Bailey.As to why he has dedicated his life to cars and car racing, especially historic racing, Bailey confirms that there is a little bit of nostalgia involved in reviving these old cars and bringing them back to life. But he also says that he has an enthusiasm for and appreciation for cars that he can’t explain. He just loves them.“The amount of money that you spend is ridiculous. Some people make a spreadsheet with all of the money they spend on a car and that is the last thing I would ever do. I don’t want to know how much I spend on a car. I love fixing cars just as much as I love racing them. There are just things you can’t put a value on in money. Why do people go rock climbing? Surfing? Hang gliding? Because it's something they love.”Apart from racing and building/fixing cars, Bailey gets to express his passion during car shows, where he meets like-minded people, is able to share his ideas and possibly steal some from fellow car lovers.“Car shows are a great community event, it brings a lot of people into a town. Even people who aren't that into cars, will come because they like looking at old cars. And when you go to any car show, there is such a wide variety of cars. You’ve got everything from maybe a car that's ten-years-old to something that a guy spent ten years restoring, which is 50-years-old. There’s always stories to be told and you’ll find that people at car shows are very open and there’s no secrets, which is way different to racing where everyone has their own secrets,” he says.The Kiama Hot Rod Run takes place in various locations around the Kiama LGA from 6 to 8 September. You can access the schedule via the Bugle app.

By Heather and John McAlpineJust as you maintain your car to keep it running smoothly, you need to take opportunities to give your relationship a boost. We have benefited from learning skills and insights to help our long-term relationship last the distance, and not just survive but actually thrive.Emotional and relationship intelligence helps us get through the tough terrain and sticky patches in our life journey. But we’ve had to learn it. We weren’t born with it, and with all due respect to our parents, we didn’t gain it from our upbringing either.Kiama will host two date nights enabling couples to keep romance alive while juggling the chaos of life. We’re fortunate to have Gil and Brenda Stuart speaking locally as they’re international presenters, who are highly acclaimed marriage educators, coaches and therapists, having appeared on countless national TV and radio programs in America. As relationship educators ourselves, we know that this couple is brilliant.The coffee and dessert date nights will be fun-filled evenings as Gil and Brenda are renowned for their humour, insights and vitality.Credit: Heather and John McAlpine.On Wednesday, 18 September, their focus is on how to keep romance alive while juggling the chaos of life, looking at being intentional in our marriage to create the space for friendship and fun. If you think you’re too tired, too busy or too burdened to attend a mid-week talk… then, this one is definitely for you!On Thursday, 19 September, Gil and Brenda tackle ‘Understanding the joy, challenges, stress and wins that come with a blended family.’ The Stuarts will provide practical and personal insights about the myths of blended families and suggest growth points around dealing with both sets of children’s issues, no matter their age or living at home or not. Whether you’re in, or come from a blended family, fostering, or want a clearer understanding of how to navigate your multi-family gatherings, there is something in this for everyone. You’ll gain deeper perspectives and wisdom into the complexity of families, and how they impact our marriage. Use this opportunity as a couple to have a date night that can be relationship enhancing in ongoing and life-changing ways. What better gift can you give to each other than strengthening your legacy of love.You can register for these events at: kiamabaptist.church/events.

Totem Eco was founded by husband and wife Toby and Katie Gibson, who made the shift to Berry with their family in search of a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. For the second year in a row, Totem Eco has been awarded Gold for Best Sensitive Natural Deodorant for their Honey Myrtle Natural Deodorant Stick at the Clean and Conscious Awards. The brand focuses on providing ethical and non-toxic body-care products in recyclable packaging. They also received a Silver award for Best Zero Waste Body Brand for their Blue Gum Natural Deodorant Stick. “We didn’t want to leave a plastic legacy behind us,” Toby Gibson said. A study by Monash University highlighted that environmental impact is becoming a growing consideration for Australian consumers. 64 percent of participants in the study said that it’s important for the products they are purchasing to be produced locally. 59 percent said packaging made from recyclable materials was also an important factor.“It’s great that the market is moving towards a greener future” Toby said, “with that comes a lot of greenwashing, a lot of brands are trying to jump on that train.”Cosmetics and personal care is one of the leading industries that falsely labels products as sustainable or makes environmental claims. “People are creatures of habit…” Toby continued, “a small change in your daily habit like your deodorant or soap over a lifetime is a massive change.”According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), over 70 percent of cosmetic and personal care businesses involved in a sweep raised concerns about claims they made about their products and were investigated for ‘greenwashing’.Totem Eco are transparent about the ingredients in their deodorant and soap products, which are 100 percent vegan, natural, palm oil free, sustainable and ethically produced. Toby said one of the most important values of their business is their transparency, “your integrity is everything, a savvy consumer will see right through that,” he said. Totem Eco are regulars at the Berry Market hosted at the Showgrounds on the first Sunday of the month, and the Berry Farmers Market held at the Bowling Club on the fourth Sunday of each month.Totem Eco's award winning Natural Deodorant in Honey MyrtleYou can visit Totem Eco to view their full range of products or reach out if you have any questions.

At the local government elections on 14 September 2024, voters in the Kiama LGA will face a referendum question: YES or NO – as to whether they want a popularly elected mayor in the future. Historically Kiama has nine elected councillors who vote for the mayor (and deputy) among themselves. This role is held for two years and then re-voted. Should the method of electing the mayor be changed?Interestingly when The Bugle held the public debate on 31 July on this subject, the Against side were mostly former Mayors, who argued strongly against changing things. In a nutshell, the way they see it was succinctly stated by Brian Petschler, "The mayor needs the support of a majority of councillors, and everyone’s focus needs to be on local issues."They also cited incidents in other councils where administrative intervention was needed when the elected mayor was inadequate or there was a dysfunctional council due to their lack of support from councillors. Councillor candidate Mike Cains is in favour of change, saying, “Not far from us – in recent times Wollondilly Council had 21 changes of Mayor in 27 years. To immunise ourselves against such nonsense a directly elected Mayor is essential.”He also maintains that “A four-year term gives the mayor the authority that comes with the ability to set strategy and see it through, the mayor also carries with them the mandate to lead that is given to them by the residents”.The Bugle has written extensively on this subject in July and August, so please visit the App for the full summary of ideas on both sides of this fence.Should the mayor be directly elected? Results from The Great Debate

The 2024 Volunteer of the Year Awards celebrated our local heroes that put the needs of the community above all else. The ceremony was hosted by Gemma Rygate, Chief Executive Officer of The Centre for Volunteering.Gareth Ward MP, John Knox & Maryanne Stuart MP“It’s fantastic to celebrate the incredible efforts of volunteers who contribute so much to our communities,” Rygate remarked.Over 139,000 nominations were received across New South Wales, a figure that speaks volumes about the vital role that our volunteers play in our communities. Rygate also highlighted that volunteers contribute an astounding $178 billion annually to the NSW economy. Gareth Ward Barbara Adams Judi Sandilands-Cincotta with Ollie and David Abela Among those recognised, a few are familiar faces in our community:Barbara Adams, from Jamberoo, took home the awards for Regional Senior Volunteer of the Year and the overall Regional Volunteer of the Year. Under her presidency, the Jamberoo Red Cross raised over $100,000 and organised community events like the Jamberoo Australia Day celebrations and the town’s Christmas decorations. Barbara will proudly represent the region at the state finals in December.From Gerringong, Joelie Robson was honoured for her work with Disaster Relief Australia. Robson has dedicated her personal time to assisting those in crisis situations.David Abela of Kiama has brought hope and joy to children and families battling cancer through his work with Camp Quality. John Knox from Kiama Downs, a stalwart of the Minnamurra Lions Club, has quietly gone about making the world a better place, one service project at a time. Knox was recognised for his various charitable contributions.Vivienne Marris from Jamberoo, was recognised for her work with the Jamberoo Country Women’s Association including local initiatives and providing support to her community.Finally, Judi Sandilands-Cincotta from Kiama, a volunteer with Guide Dogs NSW who spends her days as a therapy dog handler with five-year-old labrador, Ollie. They attend high schools, courts, libraries, police and ambulance stations across the region to bring comfort and support. Local state Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward took to the stand to share personal stories of his experiences with volunteers.Joelie Robson and Hon Paul Scully MP “Volunteerism can save lives, but it can also change lives,” Ward said, recalling a farmer whose life was turned around by the simple act of joining a Men’s Shed. “As someone who has benefited from volunteer efforts myself, I know firsthand the difference volunteers make in our communities,” Ward continued. “Congratulations to all the nominees and winners. Your work is a shining example of the difference that committed volunteers can make in our society. Let’s continue to spread the word about the importance of volunteering and inspire others to get involved,” Rygate concluded.  Watch this space for interviews with our local heroes.

Kiama Councillors Jodi Keast, Kathy Rice and Karen Renkema-Lang are demanding Kiama Council release a letter from the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) which informs the Council that the ICAC will not investigate them.Kiama Council referred the Councillors to the ICAC in May 2024. The three Kiama Councillors state that they know of no grounds which would justify referring them to the ICAC.Clr Keast said, “We have now been informed in a very brief email from Council that it has received correspondence from the ICAC stating that it is declining to investigate us. We have requested that the Council provides a full copy of the correspondence from the ICAC. We want to know when the Council received the advice from the ICAC, how long it took the Council to inform us, and what the ICAC letter actually said.”Clr Keast continued, “This Council should take steps towards increased transparency and release this correspondence to the Councillors who are personally affected. It is outrageous that Council still has a media release on its website proclaiming that it has referred three Councillors to the ICAC and yet for an unknown period of time has had correspondence from the ICAC that it won’t investigate those Councillors.”The three Kiama Councillors said they really appreciated an earlier letter written by ICAC Commissioner The Hon. John Hazsistergos, that was tabled at the August Council meeting. The letter warned current Councillors and registered Candidates that “public statements that matters have been referred to the Commission… irrespective of whether there is a reasonable basis for such an allegation, may cause political damage, and such allegations should not be used as a weapon to level at a political rival. The weaponisation of the Commission for political advantage… is inappropriate.”Clr Kathy Rice states, “A referral to ICAC should be done silently so that proper process can occur, and the reputations of individuals can be protected should their referral be found to be unsubstantiated. Ever since hearing in the media that I had been referred to the ICAC by Council I have been troubled by the motivation behind the leak and I have experienced unfair public suspicion.”“Without firm evidence, there was little basis for suspecting us of inappropriate behaviour as the ICAC assessment has now shown”.“I urge voters to examine this situation and make up their own minds at this election to determine how the Council swings. Please value transparency and openness in Council. Please value Council candidates who will prioritise the opinions and values of residents in their decision making at Kiama Council.”Clr Karen Renkema-Lang states, “For me personally the ICAC referral was the final straw in a very disappointing experience of local government. I was censured by the Council for simply giving my opinion in a radio interview. Fortunately, I was able to have the NSW Supreme Court declare the Council’s censure of me invalid. Council wasted so much of residents' money just trying to silence me. Anthony Whealy KC (the Chair of the Centre for Public Integrity) described the censure as "an ill-considered measure to silence a dissenting Councillor" and said “this censure motion strikes me as susceptible to an inference that it was really designed to shut her up.” Read the ABC article here.“The ICAC referral seems to me to be in a similar vein, i.e. it was not based on any apparent reasonable evidence and was unjustified.”All three Councillors call for Council to supply them with the official ICAC correspondence, to remove any reference to the ICAC referral from its website, and for there to be an external review of the governance procedures that led to the leakage of this sensitive information.Kiama Council were contacted for comment, and said that they "cannot comment on current Councillors or candidates during caretaker period, as per our Local Government elections (caretaker period provisions) policy."