The Kiama Spring Garden Competition 2024 held its presentation on Friday November 22 at Kiama Baptist Church. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming as Kiama’s garden enthusiasts gathered in their shared passion for all things gardening. With a morning tea to kick off the event, and a plant sale well underway, attendees caught up to discuss the season’s best blooms.Diane & JennyCouncillor Stuart Larkins was present, showing his support for the club, as this year’s competition showcased a variety of gardens across several different categories. Collin Holis & Clr Stuart LarkinsThe competition was a celebration of creativity, nature and the joy of gardening. Each category recognised the hard work, dedication and love that went into creating beautiful unique spaces from children’s gardens to grand estates.  Winners were chosen over several categories, and include: Children’s Garden: A Growing Future3rd place: Jamberoo Public School, Jamberoo2nd place: Hugo Raffy and Ian Harvey George, Kiama1st place: Kiama Preschool, KiamaKiama Preschool rep, Jamberoo Public School rep & Vivienne Marris Predominantly Native Garden: Celebrating Local Flora3rd place: Tony Boothroyd, Kiama Downs2nd place: Heather Stuart, Kiama1st place: Wayne Richardson, KiamaParticipation award: Sharon Holz, KiamaVivienne, Tony & WayneSenior Living Complex Garden: Nurturing Spaces for All Ages 3rd place: Diane Westgate, Kiama2nd place: Keith Adams, Jamberoo1st place: Sproule Crescent Community Garden, Kiama Sproule Community Garden, Diane Westgate, Colin Hollis & Keith Adams Courtyard, Balcony, or Indoor Garden: Green Spaces in Small Places3rd place: Diane Westgate, Kiama2nd place: Gloria and Elisa Dalla Valle, Jamberoo  1st place: Greg Vale, Kiama Jeff Wilson, Gloria Dalla Valle, Diane Westgate, & Greg ValeEdible Garden: Growing for the Future3rd place: Shirley Elfes and Paul Bunn, Kiama Downs2nd place: Kathleen Gannon, Gerringong1st place: Gloria and Elisa Dalla Valle, JamberooSpecial recognition was given to Sue Daniels from the Gerringong Bowling Club Community Garden, pictured with a blackberry bush kindly donated by Erin. Erin Cooper, Kathleen Gannon, Sue Daniels, Shirley Elfes, & Gloria and Elisa Dalla ValleGarden Over 1000sqm: Expansive Landscapes 2nd place: Karlee Matthews, Jamberoo1st place: Vivienne Marris, JamberooVivienne Marris & Denise LimbrickGarden Under 1000sqm: Compact but Stunning 3rd place: Sue Daniels, Kiama Heights2nd place: Jhett Warner, Jamberoo1st place: Denise Limbrick, KiamaParticipation award: Leone Traeger, JamberooJane Parbry, Sue Daniels, Jhett Warner, & Denise LimbrickThe awards were presented by garden club members Vivienne Marris, Colin Hollis, Denise Limbrick, Jane Parbury, Erin Cooper and Jeff Wilson.Valerie SherlockThe Kiama Spring Garden Competition has wrapped up for another year in a celebration of nature and community spirit with beautiful gardens and dedicated gardeners at every turn. The Bugle congratulates 2024 participants and winners alike. The Kiama Garden Club always welcomes new members and fresh competition for their 2025 contest. Contact [email protected] for more information.

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

SADDLEBACK CUP GROUP 5

In a significant boost for our local communities, a group of 10 passionate leaders have completed an intensive leadership training program, equipping them with the skills to spearhead Active Mindsteps—an innovative initiative designed to drive positive change for senior citizens.Active Mindsteps aims to maintain cognitive and physical function, while enhancing the existing skill sets of residents aged 60 and over. Held in group settings, the workshops foster social interaction among like-minded peers, reducing the risk of social isolation.“Our perception of ageing has evolved dramatically,” explained Dr. Christa Wood, program director. “With advances in medicine increasing life expectancy, today’s seniors are more focused on staying active, engaged, and living life to the fullest. However, alongside these advancements, cognitive decline has become more prevalent, with dementia-related diseases now the second leading cause of death in Australia.”Research shows that cognitive and physical activities, combined with social engagement, can delay the onset of cognitive decline and lessen its symptoms. Active Mindsteps directly addresses these factors through regular workshops featuring cognitive exercises, physical movement, and social interaction.The program draws inspiration from SelbA (short for selbstaendig und activ or "independent and active"), a highly successful initiative in Upper Austria that has been running for over 30 years. With more than 255 workshop leaders and 7,000 participants, SelbA has demonstrated its effectiveness in a longitudinal study by Professor Oswald from the University of Erlangen in Germany. The study confirmed that group-based cognitive and physical activities are more effective than individual exercises.The training for Kiama's Active Mindsteps leaders was conducted by experienced SelbA trainer Ursula Hirscher from Austria. Over the course of four weeks, the 10 leaders—hailing from diverse professional and community backgrounds—were trained to deliver engaging, impactful workshops starting February 2025 across the Kiama region, Illawarra, and Shoalhaven areas.Workshops will run in 90-minute sessions over 8–10 weeks and will be held multiple times a year. A small fee will cover hall hire and other operational costs.“This training has been an eye-opening experience,” said Sandy Ruecroft, one of the newly trained leaders. “It’s equipped me with the tools to organise workshops and facilitate activities that will have a real and lasting impact.”Fellow leader Mark Wilmott echoed her sentiments, saying, “This project gives me a chance to give back to the community. It’s about creating opportunities for our ageing population to stay active and enjoy their senior years.”Dr. Wood added, “Our goal is to develop a network of leaders who are not only skilled but also deeply passionate about making a difference. These workshops are designed to be fun, engaging, and targeted to meet the needs of our senior community.”Active Mindsteps is set to empower seniors to stay independent, active, and engaged, helping them live younger, longer, while continuing to contribute meaningfully to their communities.For more information, email [email protected] or contact Dr. Christa Wood at 0416 202 678.

Kiama Council is taking a stand against Transport for NSW’s recent decision to reduce the speed limit on a seven kilometre stretch of Jamberoo Road from 80km/h to 60km/h. The change, implemented in October 2024, has sparked frustration among residents and Councillors, who argue that the decision lacked adequate consultation and may not effectively address safety concerns. Transport for NSW cited 23 crashes in the past five years, including one fatality and 12 serious injuries, as the basis for the speed reduction. However, locals have questioned the transparency of the crash data analysis, particularly regarding the types of accidents and whether speed was a significant factor. “There’s disbelief in the community,” said Councillor Erica Warren. “Simply reducing the speed limit doesn’t address the real dangers of the road.” Critics also warn that the lower speed limit may lead to increased risk-taking by drivers, including unsafe overtaking. Instead, Council advocates for infrastructure improvements, such as road widening and the addition of overtaking lanes, to enhance safety. With the Golden Valley housing development poised to increase traffic on Jamberoo Road, Council believes that proactive infrastructure investments are crucial. “We need to plan for safer roads now, not wait for the situation to worsen,” added Councillor Mike Cains. Kiama Council resolved to oppose the speed limit changes and will request a meeting with the NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads to discuss the decision. Council also seeks support from local MP Gareth Ward in advocating for a review of the speed reduction and greater investment in road improvements. “Our community deserves safe, well-maintained roads that reflect their needs and expectations,” Councillor Warren said. “We’ll continue to push for answers and action.” Council aims to apply maximum pressure on state decision-makers to reconsider the speed limit changes and prioritise infrastructure upgrades, ensuring the road meets safety standards without undermining efficiency for motorists.  

Kiama is a safe and thriving community, but the latest crime data reveals one area where we can all make a difference: car theft and theft from vehicles. This is one of the few offences where Kiama’s crime rate is higher than the NSW average, making it a clear priority for action.Theft from vehicles remains an ongoing issue, with simple mistakes like leaving cars unlocked or valuables visible creating easy opportunities for thieves. Many of these crimes are preventable, and by taking a few small steps, we can work together to reduce the numbers.Authorities have shared practical advice to help protect your vehicle and make Kiama a safer place:Lock your car every time, even when parked in your driveway or at home.Remove valuables like wallets, phones, or bags from view—out of sight means out of mind for thieves.Park in well-lit areas whenever possible to deter opportunistic crime.Install basic deterrents, such as steering wheel locks or dash cameras, which can make your car a less attractive target.Consider installing CCTV at your home or business to provide an added layer of security and deter potential offenders.While car theft is an area for improvement, Kiama’s crime rates for many other offences are impressively low:Break and enter – dwellings: This offence is uncommon in Kiama, with the area ranked 84th in NSW, well below the state average. Robbery: With a rank of 61st, robbery is rare in Kiama, making it one of the safest communities in this category.Stealing offences: Other stealing offences, such as shoplifting and petty theft, have decreased by almost 10% over the past decade, showing a long-term positive trend.Domestic violence-related assault: Kiama ranks 115th in the state, with significantly fewer cases compared to most NSW LGAs.These strong results reflect the community’s vigilance and proactive approach to safety.For more detailed statistics on crime trends in Kiama and NSW, visit the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) at bocsar.nsw.gov.au. Their comprehensive data provides insights into offence types and trends, helping communities like ours stay informed and proactive.Let’s Take Action TogetherKiama has an opportunity to lead the way in community safety. Reducing car theft and theft from vehicles is something every resident can contribute to, and together we can make a real difference.What steps will you take to protect your car and your community? Let’s work together to ensure Kiama remains one of the safest places in NSW.

Carly Austin from Emvy Design has won the Commercial Interior Award at the 2024 National Building Designers Association of Australia Awards for her design of Kiama Leagues Club’s sports bar. Kiama Leagues Club CEO Jesse O’Brien expressed his pride in Austin’s achievement, noting that the award is not only a recognition for her but for the entire club and community.“It’s an incredible honour for us at Kiama Leagues Club,” says Mr O’Brien. “Having the designer of our sports bar recognized with such a prestigious award reaffirms the vision and effort that went into creating this space. It’s not just a win for Carly, and Emvy Design, but for our entire community - it highlights how special the Kiama Leagues Club is as a destination for locals and visitors alike.”The association praised Austin’s unique combination of marble and brick in the sports bar design, which creates a welcoming space for conversation. Mr O’Brien echoes this, saying the space is perfect for creating lasting memories.“From the layout that ensures there’s no bad seat in the house to the attention to detail in lighting, finishes, and flow, it’s all about creating an unmatched experience,” says Mr O’Brien. “It’s more than just a bar; it’s a place where great memories are made.”Looking ahead, Mr O’Brien anticipates that the space will be open to the public by Christmas, alongside the completion of Stage 2 upgrades, which were also designed by Emvy Design. He also revealed that the celebrated local designers will return for future upgrades.“Looking ahead, we are excited to have re-engaged Emvy Design to begin working on Stage 3,” says Mr O’Brien. “This next phase will transform the club’s Main Lounge and Entertainment Area into a modern, welcoming space for our members and the broader community to enjoy.”The Bugle would like to congratulate Carly Austin, Emvy Design, and Kiama Leagues Club for this outstanding achievement.

The Kiama Spring Garden Competition 2024 held its presentation on Friday November 22 at Kiama Baptist Church. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming as Kiama’s garden enthusiasts gathered in their shared passion for all things gardening. With a morning tea to kick off the event, and a plant sale well underway, attendees caught up to discuss the season’s best blooms. Councillor Stuart Larkins was present, showing his support for the club, as this year’s competition showcased a variety of gardens across several different categories. Colin Hollis & Clr Stuart LarkinsThe competition was a celebration of creativity, nature and the joy of gardening. Each category recognised the hard work, dedication and love that went into creating beautiful unique spaces from children’s gardens to grand estates. Winners were chosen over several categories, and include: Children’s Garden: A Growing Future3rd place: Jamberoo Public School2nd place: Hugo Raffy and Ian Harvey George1st place: Kiama PreschoolPredominantly Native Garden: Celebrating Local Flora3rd place: Tony Boothroyd2nd place: Heather Stuart1st place: Wayne RichardsonVivienne Marris, Tony Boothroyd & Wayne Richardson.Senior Living Complex Garden: Nurturing Spaces for All Ages 3rd place: Diane Westgate2nd place: Keith Adams1st place: Sproule Crescent Community GardensCourtyard, Balcony, or Indoor Garden: Green Spaces in Small Places3rd place: Diane Westgate2nd place: Gloria and Elisa Dalla Valle  1st place: Greg Vale Jeff Wilson, Diane Westgate, Gloria Elisa Dalla Valle, & Greg ValeEdible Garden: Growing for the Future3rd place: Shirley Elfes and Paul Bunn2nd place: Kathleen Gannon1st place: Gloria and Elisa Dalla ValleSpecial recognition was given to Sue Daniels from the Gerringong Bowling Club Community Garden for her blackberry bush donation.Garden Over 1000sqm: Expansive Landscapes 2nd place: Karlee Matthews1st place: Vivienne MarrisGarden Under 1000sqm: Compact but Stunning 3rd place: Sue Daniels2nd place: Jhett Warner1st place: Denise LimbrickJane Parbury, Sue Daniels, Jhett Warner, & Denise LimbrickThe awards were presented by garden club members Vivienne Marris, Colin Hollis, Denise Limbrick, Jane Parbury, Erin Cooper and Jeff Wilson.The Kiama Spring Garden Competition has wrapped up for another year in a celebration of nature and community spirit with beautiful gardens and dedicated gardeners at every turn. The Bugle congratulates 2024 participants and winners alike. The Kiama Garden Club always welcomes new members and fresh competition for their 2025 contest. Contact [email protected] for more information.

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

Kiama Council is escalating its advocacy efforts for the NSW Government to resume ownership and maintenance of Jamberoo Mountain Road, following ongoing issues with landslips, closures, and financial burdens on local resources. At the November 20 Kiama Council ordinary meeting, Councillors Erica Warren and Mike Cains presented a motion highlighting the challenges posed by the road, which connects Kiama to the Southern Highlands. Originally managed by the state government, the road was handed over to Council without adequate compensation for its upkeep. Jamberoo Mountain Road has faced frequent closures due to landslips, with the most recent incident in May 2024. These disruptions have affected commuters, businesses, and tourism, with the road often viewed as unreliable. Council Chief Executive Officer noted that while disaster restoration funding covers emergency repairs, the process is resource intensive. The $702,000 annual state funding allocated for all regional roads in the municipality is insufficient for significant upgrades, leaving Council struggling to maintain the road. “Jamberoo Mountain Road is a vital connection for our region, and it’s simply too significant a burden for a council of our size to manage,” Councillor Warren said. The motion reaffirmed Council’s longstanding position that the NSW Government should resume responsibility for Jamberoo Mountain Road. Local MP Gareth Ward has expressed his support for the proposal, which Council hopes to present directly to the NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Hon Jenny Aitchinson, in a future meeting. Council also emphasised the road's strategic importance as an alternative to Macquarie Pass, especially during closures. “This isn’t just about local traffic—it’s about ensuring a reliable and safe connection for the entire region,” added Councillor Cains. The motion seeks to pressure decision makers to address the road’s maintenance and reliability issues, alleviating the strain on local resources and ensuring safer, more dependable infrastructure for the community.  

Kiama’s newly installed electric vehicle (EV) chargers at The Pavilion have sparked debate and action at the recent Council meeting. While initially set to remain free until the end of the 2024/2025 financial year, a revised motion means drivers will soon need to pay to use them, addressing concerns about costs to the Council.The four chargers, funded by the NSW Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water (DCCEEW) through EV Destination Charging Grants, were installed earlier this month. The grant, approved in June, left the Council unable to incorporate fees into its 2024/2025 Fees and Charges schedule, prompting the initial decision to offer free charging for seven months.Councillor Brown charging his car with the EV chargersHowever, at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on November 20, Councillors voted to expedite the introduction of fees, citing potential reputational risks and financial burdens. Council business papers estimated that providing free electricity for seven months would cost up to $7,000. A revised fee schedule, including a 50-cent connection fee, 65 cents per kWh charge, and a 50 cents per minute idle fee, is expected to be implemented by early next year.Councillor Matt Brown clarified that users would need to bring their own charging cords.“I thought I’d give it a go today - so I went out to the Kiama Pavilion with my car and I noticed that it didn’t have a plug or hose that would usually come out of the charger to put in your car,” said Cr Brown.At this point, Brown humorously pulled out a bag, using a prop to emphasise his point. “But luckily for me, I’ve got a box of tricks,” said Cr Brown.“And inside there was a double-ended plug, which is what you’ll need for the EV charger. You put one end into the EV charger and one end into the car, and you’ll need one of these to use the chargers,” said Brown.Brown also revealed that there is a slight cost involved, which goes to Exploren, the electrical charging company.“After a good ten minutes of charging I was charged by Exploren about $1.50 for that use. I’d encourage people to go and give it a go,” said Cr Brown.The new EV chargers are part of the NSW Government's Electric Vehicle Strategy, aiming for EVs to make up over 50% of new passenger vehicle sales by 2031. Councillors Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins expressed strong support for the EV chargers and hoped this would be a sign of more to come. “I think it’s great that we were successful in getting a grant to have these EV chargers placed in our municipality,” said Councillor Draisma. Kiama’s initiative reflects the growing demand “Kiama has one of the highest percentages of EV users in NSW. This is a much-needed step for our community.” “I’m very happy we received grant funding from the NSW government for EV chargers. There’s many more that need to be put up, there’s been a lot of community feedback for some in Gerringong and the Kiama Leisure Centre and it’s something I will continue to advocate for,” said Councillor Larkins.While the chargers won’t remain free as initially proposed, the Council is optimistic about their impact on sustainability and the convenience they offer to EV drivers. The installation of EV chargers across NSW is part of the state government’s Electric Vehicle Strategy, which aims to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles in NSW. Under this strategy, EV sales are forecast to make up more than 50% of all new passenger vehicles by 2031.The new EV chargers at Kiama Pavillion

What if Kiama didn’t just consult? What if we truly co-designed its future - a bold, transformative vision that puts quality of life, innovation, and well-being at the centre?The report on the Council’s Draft Growth and Housing Strategy, discussed at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 20 November 2024, offers Kiama a chance to move beyond the ordinary. It’s an opportunity to rethink traditional approaches to housing and urban planning - and let’s face it, we need to. Kiama’s future demands more than ticking boxes and business as usual.Kiama’s residents are extraordinary. Whether tackling youth and male suicide, dementia care, or even placemaking, this community consistently punches well above its weight. We’re engaged, committed, and deeply passionate about our home.So why is it that so many residents stay silent during consultation processes? It’s not apathy, it’s exhaustion. People are tired of participating in systems where their voices seem to go nowhere. And that’s the real loss here - a loss of faith in being heard.Let’s name the problem: too often, housing solutions are stuck in a developer-led, middle-income-focused model. It’s a formula that prioritises a profit-centric housing model over well-being and narrows the field of possibilities.But around the world, communities like ours are breaking that mold. They’re pairing local knowledge with fresh funding models and innovative ideas. Think Birmingham’s IMPACT model, where councils, experts, and communities come together to co-design solutions that reflect local needs and values.This is our moment. Kiama’s residents are the urban stewards of this region, not here for a quick profit but for systemic innovation that uplifts well-being and builds a legacy for generations to come.If we’re serious about leading in housing and innovation, here’s what needs to happen:Wrap it up and roll it out: Finalise the housing strategy and take it to the community for real, meaningful consultation.Team up for success: Partner with state authorities and developers to align local priorities with regional opportunities.Set the clock ticking: Establish clear deadlines and deliver diverse, affordable housing options without delay.Engage, don’t just inform: Move from telling residents what’s happening to genuinely involving them, with transparent feedback loops that show how their input drives outcomes.This isn’t just about housing. It’s about who we are as a community. Do we want to stick with the same tired playbook or dare to reimagine what’s possible?The Draft Growth and Housing Strategy is a starting point, but it’s not enough on its own. Its success will depend on whether council and the community are ready to embrace change and collaborate meaningfully.Let’s make Kiama the benchmark for community-driven solutions and innovation. Because when Kiama cares, Kiama leads.

Kiama MP Gareth Ward is championing a Private Members Bill aimed at ensuring all new and upgraded hospitals with emergency departments include a helipad as a standard feature.  The proposal comes in the wake of controversy surrounding the new $780 million Shellharbour Hospital, currently under construction, which will lack a helipad upon its opening — a downgrade from the existing facility that has one.  Mr. Ward described the omission as “madness,” arguing that helipads are vital for rapid emergency care. “The current Shellharbour Hospital has a helipad. The new hospital, which is costing taxpayers $780 million, will not. When seconds count, a helipad isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity,” he said.  His bill seeks to make helipads mandatory for all future hospital developments and renovations involving emergency departments. “It’s common sense, but the Minns Labor Government and Health Minister Ryan Park seem to disagree,” Mr. Ward added.  Criticism was also levelled at the government’s alternative plan, which involves airlifting critical patients to Albion Park Airport and transporting them via road to the new hospital. Mr. Ward called the approach “completely impractical,” citing potential delays along key routes, including Dunmore Road and the Princes Highway.  “What makes this even more absurd is that the government prioritised a cycleway strategy for the new hospital but couldn’t secure a helipad. Heart attack patients don’t need cycleways — they need immediate critical care,” he argued.  Mr. Ward also criticised the Minns Government’s funding priorities, pointing to investments in events like UFC while essential infrastructure remains underfunded. “The Health Minister, who is also the Minister for the Illawarra, is failing our region. He can fix this now,” Mr. Ward said.  The bill, Mr. Ward claimed, is not about political posturing. “If Labor confirms funding for a helipad at Shellharbour and commits to including helipads in future hospital builds and upgrades, I’ll withdraw this bill tomorrow,” he said.  The debate over hospital infrastructure comes as healthcare services in the Illawarra face increasing scrutiny, with residents and advocates calling for improvements to meet growing demand.

Do you find it difficult to know how to help the environment? Are you unsure how to recycle organic waste? Many people find it challenging to understand how they can make a meaningful impact on climate change in their daily lives. But John McKew from the Australian Organics Recycling Association says there is a straightforward and effective action we can all take to combat climate change: recycling organic waste in our green bin. “Many households recycle garden organics, but an increasing number are now including food organics in green bins,” he says. Putting organic waste in the red bin sends it to landfill, where its decomposition produces methane - a greenhouse gas that’s 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, contributing to global climate change. When households put organic waste in the green bin, it’s sent to an organics processing facility to make compost, mulch, and soil conditioners, significantly reducing methane emissions. Mr McKew says organics recycling prevented almost four million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from entering the atmosphere in 2021-22. This is the equivalent to almost six million trees being planted to absorb the same amount of CO2, according to the association.Households can do their bit to reduce the impacts of climate change by separating and recycling organic waste correctly, but Mr McKew says it’s crucial to keep rubbish and contaminants out of the green bin. “Plastics are the most common contaminant, but many other items like bagged household waste, glass, metal, leather, rubber, cardboard boxes, and even food still in its packaging are frequently found,” he says. “These contaminants must be removed, often by hand, before the organics can be effectively recycled.” Mr McKew says the benefits of organics recycling extends beyond emission reductions at landfills. “The compost, mulch, and soil conditioners can enhance soil health and improve the growth of crops, gardens, and trees,” he says. “This reduces the need for inorganic fertilisers and irrigation, and increases plant survival creating a favourable outcome for both the environment and our communities.”Mr McKew says Australia’s organics recovery rate sits at just 52.3 per cent.“There’s still room for improvement and the Australian Organics Recycling Association encourages everyone to recycle their organic waste thoughtfully and to celebrate the environmental benefits of these small, everyday actions.”

Labor Spokesperson for Kiama, Sarah Kaine, is encouraging early childhood education and care providers to apply for funding through the Minns Labor Government’s new initiative aimed at creating additional spaces for children across NSW.The Building Early Learning Places Program includes $20 million in funding to support eligible not-for-profit community preschools and long daycare centres in 31 targeted areas across the state, including Minnamurra and Gerringong.“We know that early childhood education offers long-term benefits for both children and families, but there simply aren’t enough places in local preschools and daycare centres for the Kiama community,” said Kaine. “I strongly encourage local services in Minnamurra and Gerringong to apply for funding, so we can expand childcare services in the region.”The new program is expected to create at least 300 additional spaces each week for children aged 0 to 6 in areas with a shortage of early childhood education and care, ensuring that every child has access to a strong educational foundation, regardless of where they live.Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car, highlighted the critical role of early education in a child’s development. “We know that high-quality early childhood education in the years before school sets children up for success in their education. That’s why the Minns Government is committed to increasing access for families across NSW,” said Car.This initiative is just one part of the government’s broader efforts to improve early childhood education in the state. Last year, the government announced plans to build 100 new public preschools, providing fee-free preschool education for more than 9,000 children, with new locations in Kiama’s Bomaderry and Nowra.

Kiama Council’s Councillor Stuart Larkins has been awarded one of the Councillor Pat Dixon Memorial Scholarships for 2024. Cr Larkins received the scholarship of $5,000 to support his Master of Public Policy studies at the University of Canberra.This award supports eligible Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students councillors and council staff in NSW, enabling them to pursue further education, professional development, or research.“Receiving the scholarship in remembering Cr Dixon means a lot to me, as an Aboriginal councillor, continuing and paving the way for Aboriginal people who contribute to the work of local government and the community,” says Cr Larkins. “I believe that education and professional development are lifelong, as it does not start and end at school and I’m always trying to learn new things.” The annual scholarships were created in recognition of Cr Dixon, who was the first Aboriginal woman elected to local government in Australia. “Cr Dixon was a pioneer for Aboriginal people in local government, being elected to Armidale Council in 1983 and a Labor member,” Cr Larkins says.The late Cr Dixon serves as an inspiration for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, thanks to her outstanding contributions in local government. The goal of the scholarship is to encourage more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to pursue careers in local government and serve their communities. It also aims to provide opportunities for building technical and leadership skills, empowering participants to mentor others and promote First Nations culture within local government.“As the first Aboriginal person elected to Kiama Council, I’ve been really pleased to advocate for local reconciliation and for greater awareness of our shared history and culture both in Kiama and along NSW South Coast,” says Cr Larkins. “I’m driven by a passion to help people, and I believe local government should be able to work for everyone.” Cr Larkins’ achievement reflects the ongoing impact of Cr Dixon’s legacy, encouraging future generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders to pursue careers in their local governments. 

Adults and kids alike came together to enjoy the annual One Music Festival at Kiama Pavilion and showground on Saturday, November 16. One Music Festival is an interdenominational music and arts festival for people of all ages, run by local churches in partnership with Scripture Union. The festival, now in its third year, aims to bring together people of different ages and backgrounds to celebrate Jesus through live music, arts, hope, and community. Musician Anna BeadenThe festival featured musicians, comedians, speakers, lawn games, food and drinks and gave festivalgoers the chance to create connections with friends, both new and old.Mother Nature turned on perfect weather for the outdoor activities, which included a visit from Shoalhaven Zoo animals and arts and crafts. Live music was held across two venues, indoors at the Pavilion Stage and outdoors at the Lighthouse Stage. Entertainment included Jarryd Hoffman, Sam Hornshaw, Ben Pakula, Seraph Music, River Movement, Aslandia, Zoe Elliot, Hope Resounds, Anna Beadon, Amity Gilmore, and Fern Johnston, as well as guest speaker Grant Wilson and comedian Uncle Nath.

As the NSW Government moves forward with its review of the regulatory framework for short-term rental accommodation (STRA), State Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has highlighted the importance of community input on this complex issue. “I’m very excited to hear the community wants to provide feedback around short-term rental accommodation,” Ward stated. “I look forward to hearing the outcomes of the forum at Gerringong Town Hall on 5 December 2024 at 7:30 pm and would be more than happy to pass these views onto the Minister responsible.”Ward acknowledges the two-sided nature of the STRA debate. On one hand, he recognises concerns that short-term rentals reduce housing availability for locals and contribute to noise disturbances. On the other hand, he emphasises the economic benefits. “Without larger hotel accommodation like the Central Coast, short-term accommodation fuels our local economy and generates jobs and employment. Many of our small businesses rely on tourism, and short-term letting brings a high-value, low-volume tourist.”Finding a balanced solution is challenging. “We need to balance the various interests—from homes for locals to jobs for locals, and there is no one simple solution,” Ward remarked. His stance supports the idea of requiring a Development Application (DA) for short-term letting. “A DA consent condition could address issues like noise, and if owners don’t have clear rules or if these rules are repeatedly broken, the DA could be cancelled, and the property prohibited from short-term accommodation use.”Ward’s comments align with the NSW Government’s broader review of the STRA regulatory framework, which began in early 2024 with extensive community and industry consultations. The government sought public feedback through workshops, a discussion paper, and an online questionnaire, gathering over 430 submissions and 2,400 survey responses from councils, booking platforms, property owners, and the tourism sector.According to a NSW Government statement, “The feedback received will help ensure we strike the right balance between the benefits of short-term rental accommodation and the need to encourage more long-term rental options.”The NSW Government is considering this feedback alongside other housing initiatives announced in the 2024-25 Budget, including:$5.1 billion to build 8,400 new social homes.$1 billion to repair 33,500 existing social homes.$655.1 million for key worker accommodation in metro areas and rural health worker housing.$555.5 million to expedite the planning system and housing infrastructure.$527.6 million for emergency housing and homelessness support.In tandem with these initiatives, new rental laws aim to enhance tenant protections, including ending no-grounds evictions, increasing notice periods, and introducing a Portable Rental Bonds Scheme to ease tenant mobility between properties.As the community awaits further updates, Ward’s commitment to represent the views of Kiama residents underscores the importance of local input in shaping a balanced approach to short-term accommodation that supports both the tourism economy and the need for long-term housing.To learn more about the review of STRA and the public feedback, visit the NSW Planning Portal.

Opinion by Lynne StrongAs individuals, our voices may seem small, easily lost in the noise of bureaucracy and decision-making. Yet, when we come together, our collective strength can be transformative. In our local communities, where development and planning decisions impact everything from liveability to affordability, the power of unity has never been more crucial.The recent announcement by the NSW Government to streamline development approvals has opened the door for us all to realise this. By challenging the long-held control of councils over these processes, the state government has not only addressed inefficiencies but also created a space for broader conversations about how development should be managed. This shift reminds us that when systems are challenged, so too is the silence that often stifles dissenting voices.Too often, single voices—calling out inefficiencies, advocating for transparency, or questioning decisions—are silenced or dismissed. It’s a lonely and disheartening experience. But this announcement shows us that change is possible, and it invites us to think about how much more we could achieve if those voices united. Together, we can amplify the wants and needs of the broader community, demanding processes that prioritise people over politics, ensure sustainable growth, and protect the character of our towns and regions.When we speak collectively, we speak from a place of authority, drawing on the shared knowledge and experiences of our community. This solidarity not only strengthens our voice but also insulates us from the fear of reprisal. Unified, we cannot be ignored. We create a force capable of holding decision-makers accountable, shaping policies that reflect the real needs of the people they serve.This announcement has shown that when inefficiencies are exposed, change can follow. Whether it’s about ensuring transparency in planning processes, advocating for affordable housing, or preserving the essence of our communities, our combined voices can create the change we want to see. Let’s seize this moment and speak out—together.