Gerringong Music Club is scheduled to bring Duo Histoire to the Gerringong Town Hall at 2 pm on Sunday 15 September 2024.Remarked as one of Australia’s most unique and engaging chamber duos, Nick Russoniello (saxophone) and Murilo Tanouye (classical guitar) have used their diverse repertoire to engage and transport their listeners to tango halls in Argentina, the streets of Sāo Paulo, salons of Paris and the laneways of Sydney.  Featured at Sydney Festival and regularly aired on ABC Classic FM, their most recent album, Autumn/Winter will make its way to visit Gerringong remarked as a standout event in the region's musical calendar. Make sure you mark your calendars!​​Event details:What: Duo Histoire When:  Sunday 15 September 2024 2pm - 3.30pm. Doors open at 1.30pm.Where: Gerringong Town Hall, 106 Fern Street, Gerringong NSW How: Book tickets online or at the door (Members, children and students are free. Visitors $30)

Jamberoo’s Barbara Adams has been awarded the Regional Senior Volunteer of the Year. She will go to the state finals in December.The Bugle’s Belle Wood will interview Barbara tomorrow, so ‘watch this space’.

It’s been a long time coming but on Saturday, 30 August, Kiama RUFC made it to the grand final. They did it in spectacular fashion, beating Campbelltown 26-24, in a nail-biting thriller that’ll be sure to go down in local rugby history.It was the kind of game that’s hard to explain unless you were fortunate enough to experience it first hand. For starters, it was a beautiful, balmy spring day and a huge number of Kiama supporters had made it to the Vikings Rugby Club in Wollongong to watch the first grade battle it out against Campbelltown in a do-or-die semi-final.Campbelltown, as expected, came out hard and fast, taking an early lead.Then around ten minutes into the first half, Kiama’s Atu Taufa was tackled and his head got caught, after which he remained laying on the ground. He had had his shoulder injured the previous weekend.After being assessed, a neck brace was put on and an ambulance called to take him to the hospital. “Taufa was in good spirits throughout,” says Smith.He also sends a special thank you to the nurse from Campbelltown, who quickly came out on the field to help assess Taufa’s condition and who stayed with him and the team until the ambulance arrived.It definitely wasn’t the start that Kiama had hoped for. Yet, returning to the field, the team played like there was no tomorrow and began scoring try after try, creeping closer and closer on the scoreboard. But Campbelltown, a potential final spot in their sights, wasn’t ready to give in and with ten minutes to go, it looked to be a sealed deal.Unless, you asked the Kiama supporters, that is. “Go Ki! One more try!” echoed around the ground. The team heard the call and kept pushing. With around 1:30 minute left of regular time, Kiama scored a try and had a successful conversion. All of a sudden, it was 26-24 to the Cow’s favour. After holding on for the last nerve-wracking minutes of the game, Kiama won and the ground erupted in a sea of black and white – family, friends and fans – all there to celebrate a well-deserved, magnificent and simply put, epic win.“Yeah, good. Hard game. Tough game. But this is what you want, you want these tough games at this time of the year,” says a moved coach James Patrick.“I was just happy we didn’t make any mistakes. We’re right on our line and the boys, I’m just so proud of them. Happy over what they’ve done. We got one more game, and against the best team in the comp. I feel sorry for the Campbelltown guys because it could have gone either way. And again, I’m just proud of our guys that we were on that side of it. We’re not winning these types of games so it’s very satisfying. I love it.”The grand final is on Saturday, 7 September, 3 pm at Collegians sports stadium against Shoalhaven. We can’t wait to see you there.The Kiama second grade fell short against Shoalhaven in their semi-final with 48-26 but congratulations on a great 2024 season!

The Kiama Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) rallied their partners for a night of square-dancing to raise funds for the club.“Whether folks were seasoned square dancers or complete greenhorns, everyone had a fantastic time,” said club president Phil Perry. The SLSC are made up of volunteer lifeguards who patrol the busy Surf Beach between September and April every year. They provide a safe place to learn surfing, health and life skills powered by their volunteers. Held on Saturday, the inaugural square dance saw community members band together and don their ‘best cowboy hats and boots, kicking up their heels for an evening of boot-scootin’’. “It was a night of laughter, dancing, and community spirit, all while supporting Kiama’s beach heroes”, Perry said. Images: Kiama SLSC

The Kiama Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) launched a new patrol roster on August 29 in an attempt to make life easier for existing members and to try to inspire more people to volunteer.The new roster will make it easier for patrol volunteers to pick different hours and will make the overall process more flexible to accommodate for busy schedules. Kiama SLSC club captain Natasha Osmond-Dreyer has been captain for just over a year and she says one of the biggest issues she has found is navigating around people’s busy lives and she hopes this new roster will fix this issue.“Because our numbers are relatively small for how many hours we have to fill out throughout the season. It means that the impost on each person is quite high. In the past people would say to me, Natasha I'm only available on 5 weekends before christmas, 4 weekends after christmas and I can only do 4 hours on this day and 4 hours on a different day and I can’t do a full day of patrol,” says Osmond-Dreyer.“We have never been able to accommodate that. So we’re looking at giving greater flexibility for existing members of patrol and to try and bring in new members.” This flexible roster has been successful for both Bermagui and Killcare SLSC and Osmond-Dreyer utilised aspects of both of their systems to try and create the perfect solution for Kiama SLSC. “Members can now go onto a website and self-select their patrol teams, look at their shifts, choose to do a morning here and an afternoon here or a full day,” says Osmond-Dreyer.“It's really designed to increase participation, reduce the stress on each person. We want to really ensure that we maintain the highest quality of safety and service on the beach for the season. I’m hoping that it will increase overall engagement and be a more efficient distribution of time and resources on the beach.”To patrol the ocean for your local SLSC you need to have your bronze medallion, but Osmond-Dreyer says that they also need more volunteers on the sand and this only requires a first aid certificate.“Most people think that you have to have a bronze medallion to patrol. But you don't. The base qualification you need is a first aid certificate. Most other people on the beach will have a bronze medallion because we need people to be rescuing people in the water, but we also need people on the sands to deal with whatever comes in. There’s multiple ways to get involved with surf life saving,” says Osmond-Dreyer.In terms of why you should volunteer to be on the patrol teams, Osmond-Dreyer says it is a rewarding and fun experience. You are both giving back to the community and improving your own beach knowledge so that you can always feel confident in the many beaches Kiama has to offer.“For your own benefit you will get all the necessary training and skills to supervise yourself and your family on the beach. You would be more comfortable going in the water and knowing where to find a rip and what to do in an emergency. From a community point of view it's about meeting new people, making new friendships and giving back to the community,” says Osmond-Dreyer.“I genuinely believe that people feel safer, enjoying the water and the beach when they know that there's somebody to help them if they need help. You only have to look at the number of people who get into problems in rips at the beach to know that it is so well needed.”If you are interested in volunteering for the Kiama SLSC please contact Natasha at [email protected]. There are no minimum hours required, and Natasha is open to anyone who is interested.

As the community of the Illawarra prepares for the annual Volunteer of the Year Awards, we take a moment to recognise the extraordinary individuals, who quietly yet powerfully shape our lives. Among them is Jamberoo resident, Vivienne Marris, a name synonymous with dedication, generosity and the joy of giving back.Vivienne is no stranger to the volunteer scene. A successful businesswoman, Vivienne has long believed in the power of community support, channelling her resources to uplift local initiatives. From junior soccer teams to the performing arts, Vivienne’s contributions are as varied as they are impactful.“I’ve always felt that supporting young people is crucial,” Vivienne said. “Whether it's through sports or the arts, it's about fostering the next generation and ensuring we have a strong foundation for the future.”One of Vivienne’s most important initiatives is the Creative and Performing Arts Scholarship, a program she established to support young talents in the community. The scholarship, now in its fifth year, has already helped several young people pursue their dreams, from attending dance schools to joining esteemed programs like NIDA.“It’s not just about the financial support,” Vivienne explained. “It’s about acknowledging the commitment these young people put into their passions. That recognition can make all the difference.”Vivienne’s philosophy on volunteering is refreshingly simple yet profound. “Volunteering is like smiling,” she said. “It’s contagious. When others see the joy it brings, they want to be a part of it too.”

The battle for an appropriate taxi service continues with the announcement of a petition for the NSW Government to support and fund a taxi trial that could see the services return to Kiama. Barry, 84, said without a reliable taxi service in Gerringong, many residents at his aged care facility struggle to maintain their independence, “If I want to go up to Kiama to see my doctor, my daughter has to travel to come and take me,” he said.Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward, called upon the Minister for Transport to increase public transport in the region in May of this year.Ward continues to appeal for a stable taxi service to return to the Kiama region, with a recent announcement that he has joined forces with local council candidate Yasmin Tatrai with a petition calling upon the NSW government for the return of cabs to the community.“Yas and I want to see taxi services return to Kiama. I have been inundated by locals who need public transport and really rely on this service. As a person with a visual impairment, I understand this frustration very personally”, Mr Ward said.Barry believes the existing options are not good enough. Neighbouring residents with greater mobility issues aren’t able to use the existing public transport options within Gerringong, and must find their own alternatives through loved ones providing a helping hand. Not only are the options limited, with the available bus service requiring a volunteer driver when someone wishes to go outside of the aged care facility. The closure of Kiama Cabs in May of last year resulted in community outcry for the essential service being removed from the town. “Kiama taxis used to come, but now we don’t have a reasonable taxi service”, Barry said. Over 25 percent of Kiama’s population falls between the age range of 60 - 85 and above. A study showed that the transport needs for older people vary, Kiama is known as being a car-dependent area with limited use of public transport by local residents. Residents that are unable or no longer able to use a car for their personal transport, the range of mobility options are crucial to reducing social exclusion.Older people who are required to decrease or cease their driving can cause a ‘significant decline in mobility and increase in physical and mental health risks if appropriate transport alternatives are not available.’“From older people, people with disabilities or people who don’t drive, we need a taxi service and this petition will help pressure the NSW Labor Government to stop cutting services and start investing in our community”, Ms Tatrai said.

Our local candidates stepping forward for election           Group A: INDEPENDENT “Community minded, business focused”Cameron McDonaldCameron, a Kiama native, is a partner at Culleton Lawyers with a Master’s in Property Law and Business Law Transactions and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance. He is President of the Kiama & District Business Chamber, a member of the Destination Kiama Tourism Committee, and a founding member of the Kiama & District Stronger Community group. Cameron also coaches the U11 Girls Kiama Power AFL team. With a strong family tradition of community service, he is dedicated to improving the Kiama LGA, supported by his wife Leah and their children. Erica WarrenErica, a Jamberoo local with 46 years in the Kiama area, has over 35 years of experience in hospitality. She is the General Manager of The Co-Op Gerringong and has won several awards as the former Licensee of Jamberoo Pub. A member of the Kiama & District Business Chamber and Destination Kiama, Erica is passionate about supporting local businesses, tourism, and youth employment. With a Bachelor of Social Science, she advocates for common-sense decisions that balance development and environmental preservation. Erica is running for council to continue making a positive impact on the community. Melissa MattersMelissa, a third-generation Gerringong native, owns and operates The Hill Bar and Kitchen with her husband Dean, employing 60 locals. She has a deep connection to the community, rooted in her family's farming legacy. Melissa is committed to preserving Gerringong's heritage and natural beauty while fostering economic growth. Her businesses sponsor local sports clubs, reflecting her dedication to supporting youth development. Melissa’s leadership, innovative mindset, and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to the community as she works to address the challenges and opportunities facing local enterprises. Mark BurnsMark, with over 20 years as an owner and clinician at Gerringong and Kiama Physiotherapy, is dedicated to community wellbeing. He founded The Man Walk Charity, encouraging men to connect through meaningful conversations. Mark also leads the Building Young Men mentoring program, guiding Year 10 boys into adulthood, and serves as a director of the Kiama and District Stronger Community charity. His commitment to health, connection, and community development makes him an ideal candidate for local office.Derek McMahonDerek, a lifelong Kiama resident now in Gerringong, operates two local businesses—McMahons Transport and Lumberjacks Firewood—employing locals and supporting community events. He chairs the Gerringong Bowling Club, is active in Gerringong All Sports, and co-founded Gezza Cares and the Kiama & District Stronger Community group. Awarded the Australia Day Award for his charity work, Derek is passionate about future planning, employment, and financial sustainability for the LGA. He is a decisive leader committed to community improvement. Group B: INDEPENDENT “A reasonable voice for the community”Alan SmithAlan pursued a law degree to resolve issues with Kiama Council but realized effective communication was key. He advocates for open dialogue and common-sense decision-making in council, emphasizing the impact of decisions on community well-being. Alan is committed to preserving the unique character of local villages while supporting appropriate development. As President of Jamberoo Football Club and owner of Jerrara Creek Farm and Amaki Cafe, he is deeply involved in the community. His corporate experience equips him to navigate complex challenges in the council. Alan holds an MBA, a Bachelor of Laws, and several project management certifications. Noel Killmore“Gaffa” a Kiama local is the owner of Killmore Plant and Services. A business which has provided heavy duty mechanical services since 1992. Belinda Camarda“Bindi” is a strong advocate for conservation and the preservation of our history. Bindi saved “Marks Cottage” from a Council demolition order. Built in circa 1860, the cottage housed the workers who built both Culwalla and Terragong Houses in Jamberoo.John Trevenar“Head” is the driving force behind the renovations at Gerry Emery Reserve in Gerringong. John has secured over $800,000 in grants and donations to upgrade this much loved and utilised community facility. Narreda GrimleyNarreda is an extremely experienced senior executive. Having recently retired from corporate life, she volunteers at Aging with Grace, a charity which supports our elderly residents.Group C: INDEPENDENT “Your Sensible Choice”Matthew BrownMatt has deep roots in Kiama, from being Kiama High School Captain to co-owning Amigos Mexican Restaurant. A former local MP, and corporate lawyer for 12 years, he has volunteered as a surf lifesaver and served on the council since 2016. As the founding Chair of Destination Kiama, Matt bridges private enterprise and government, securing funding for projects like the Kiama Coastal Walk. With expertise in public administration, he is dedicated to keeping the Council “Fit for the Future,” enhancing local facilities, and supporting sustainable housing. Matt holds degrees in Mathematics, Law, and an Executive MBA.Danielle SteelDanielle has a lifelong connection to Kiama, from her childhood and schooling at Kiama High School to her family's longstanding local businesses and her father's 25 years as a councillor, giving her a profound understanding of the community's needs. With extensive experience in the hospitality and tourism industries and a senior business development role in a multinational building materials manufacturer, Danielle offers a unique perspective on local business challenges. Her vision focuses on fiscal responsibility and driving value for residents while ensuring the council operates efficiently. Brendan RussellBrendan was born in Kiama, and his involvement in local sporting clubs and success in the 1995 Australian Championships highlight his active community participation. As a business owner of multiple small enterprises, including restaurants and a legal firm, Brendan is passionate about creating opportunities for young families. His commitment to sensible council decisions aims to provide value for ratepayers and residents. Kane PreslandKane is a distinguished Kiama High School graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Kane is dedicated to improving mental health in the community. His involvement in the Veteran Surf Project and Waves of Thinking underscores his commitment. As the manager of Penny Whistlers, one of Kiama's busiest cafés/restaurants, Kane understands the housing and employment challenges faced by his generation. He is eager to address these issues on the Council. Joan ComberJoan is a long-standing Kiama Downs resident and former independent optometry practice owner with BOptom and MOptom qualifications She continues to serve the community even in retirement. As a scripture teacher and active member of the Kiama Anglican Church, Joan's dedication is unwavering. Her leadership in the Zonta Club of Wollongong and decades of healthcare service position her to address the needs of local businesses and ageing residents effectively.Group D: LABOR Imogen DraismaImogen has served as Deputy Mayor for four years, emphasising the need for financial sustainability and strong governance in Kiama's future. Raised in Kiama, she attended local schools and earned a double degree in Arts and Law from the University of Wollongong. As a student activist, she focused on student safety and pandemic-related support services. Imogen has worked for members of NSW and Australian parliaments, bringing her legal and political expertise to her role. She is dedicated to ensuring that the council remains financially stable and well-governed. Stuart LarkinsStuart has served as a councillor for four years and is running for re-election to maintain local government independence and democratic control in Kiama. A lifelong resident of Kiama with deep family roots in the South Coast, Stuart identifies as a Wodi Wodi man. He is passionate about representing the community's interests and continuing to help people. Stuart attended Minnamurra Primary School and Kiama High School, and he holds a double degree in Law and Arts, along with a graduate diploma in legal practice. He is committed to tirelessly serving the Kiama community. Lucy AboodLucy is a mother of two young children, and wants to ensure that we have quality early childhood education, affordable housing options, and a liveable environment for families – which she feels is extremely important. “I will be a strong voice advocating for these issues and more if elected to council." Harrison LedgerHarry is 19 years old, which makes him one of the youngest candidates to ever nominate for Kiama Municipal Council. He is currently studying Law. Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of NSW. Clare McInerneyClare has lived in Kiama for the past 35 years. As a retired high school teacher and deputy principal she is a strong advocate for public education.Group E: GREENS Melinda LawtonMelinda leads this diverse and committed group. She is an accomplished executive leader and design specialist with a wealth of experience in project management, design and construction sectors. She is a team player, specialising in finding creative solutions to complex problems. Melinda is currently working with Waminda, a dedicated Aboriginal female-led organisation ensuring services and wrap-around support for their Shoalhaven community. Jordan Casson-JonesJordan, the 2021 Kiama Young Citizen of the year, brings youth to the team as the youngest candidate to be endorsed by the Greens. He is acutely aware of the impact of cost of living and lack of housing options for young people and has been involved in the campaign for more mental health services in Kiama LGA. Mark WhalanMark has grown up in Kiama. His experiences in local journalism and social media, gives him an astute awareness of the concerns of the local community. With a keen knowledge of local heritage and character, he sees preserving the best of the old with the best of the new is important as Kiama experiences the impacts of growth and change. Andrew SloanAndrew is well known and respected as a previous councillor and Deputy Mayor. He is a civil engineer specialising in water infrastructure. He has a passion for the expansion of renewable energy into powering local communities as they switch to an electric future.Stuart HallStuart, a retired schoolteacher from Werri Beach, is well respected by the many local kids that have been in his care. Stuart has specialised in integrating the natural world with his work and has qualifications in permaculture, horticulture and “Green” education. Group F: INDEPENDENT “A Fresh Start for Kiama”Mike CainsMike is a farmer, owner of Pecora Dairy, 2021 Nuffield Scholar & 2024 Royal Agriculture Show Presidents Medal recipient. He is on the board of the Kiama & District Business Chamber and a founding member of the Wednesday Kiama F armers Market. Dad to two adult children and husband to Cressida for over 20 years. Before returning to the area he grew up in, Mike carved out a successful corporate career with senior executive roles at companies like Fairfax Media and CoreLogic. In corporate Australia and in small business he acquired the skills to a) bring people together b) solve problems and c) get things done - if elected he will work with other councillors to create a more productive council. Marcus HewittMarcus, a Kiama cattle farmer for over 15 years, has 30+ years of experience running fitness centres in Sydney. A father of three, he understands the challenges faced by families and businesses in Kiama and advocates for better amenities in the region's growing towns. Marcus supports the development of functional accommodation for farm and local business workers. An avid fisherman, he is passionate about preserving the area's natural beauty. As part of the Mike Cains team, Marcus aims to leverage his business experience and local knowledge to support jobs, growth, and investment in Kiama. Eric McAuleyEric is a 20-year Bombo resident. His career encompasses environmental remediation, but he currently runs his own business recycling batteries and other materials. He is an exponent of the circular economy and its benefits to society. Eric is deeply passionate about the future of the Bombo quarry. He believes that we have the perfect opportunity to promote a world class urban design to create a new state of the art community close to beach, electrified train and highway. James CahillJames has lived in Kiama for the past 43 years, raising a family. He has enjoyed career employment in information technology and communications at senior management level working for multi-national corporates. Jim is a keen Christian and surfer, with community volunteering experience including previous lengthy involvement with junior football as coach. Jim is pleased to support Michael Cains to provide a fresh start for Kiama Council.Cressida CainsCressida has a passion for supporting women in rural and regional Australia. She is the 2020 Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award winner for NSW and ACT and National runner up. She is on the board of Australian Women in Agriculture and is a fierce advocate for helping rural and regional women achieve positions of influence. She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Bachelor of Business. Together with Mike she founded Pecora Dairy and has been on the organising committee of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers market. She is mother to two adult children. Group G: INDEPENDENT “Energy and Experience: Getting CounciI back on track”Yasmin TatraiYasmin and her husband Roger live at Kiama Downs. Yas has run a large-scale event production business which has included running large events at venues all over the country including venues like Eastern Creek. Yas has managed a security business and worked in NSW Health for over 10 years with a specific focus in working with people with disabilities and their carers. Yas' business, government and corporate experience provide a diverse background and she will bring these skills to the council chamber. Gail MorganGail is a long-term Kiama resident, poet and acclaimed author. Gail has lived and worked all over the world, from Sydney, Alice Springs, London, France and New Guinea. Gail is a lover of music and is passionate about seeing more live music in the Kiama CBD. Henry Clyde StreamerHenry is a life-long Kiama local. He attended local schools and graduated from Wollongong University with a Bachelors of Economics and Finance and holds a Certificate of Executive Management and Development from UNSW Business School.Henry works for the banking and finance industry in Wollongong and previously in a local bank branch in Kiama. He is keen to use his experience and expertise to help fix Kiama Council’s finances. Henry has also previously worked for Surf Life Saving Australia, assisting with the aerial patrol of Surf Beach and Kendalls Beach - keeping our community safe. Suzanne MansfieldHaving lived in Kiama for more than 60 years, Sue is a passionate about our local community. A local business owner, mortgage broker and bank manager by trade, Sue has the experience to help get Kiama’s finances back on track. An active member of the Kiama community, Sue has even taught Sunday school at local churches. Married to Allan, Sue has six children including twins who attended Kiama High. Daniel HillDan Hill is a long-term Kiama Downs resident and teacher with the Department of Education. Dan has a young family and understands the cost-of-living pressures facing our community.Dan cares deeply about our local environment and is strongly opposed to the offshore wind farm proposal. Andrew ProsserOwner of Gerringong small business Stoic Brewery, Andrew wants to see council run efficiently like any business. Andrew wants to see council cut red tape and encourage more locals to go into business in the Kiama area. Andrew is a passionate believer that people with skills and real-life experience are required as part of the leadership of Kiama Council. Group H: INDEPENDENT “Back to Basics”Mark CroxfordMark, 62, is a semi-retired corporate and public affairs consultant, mental health advocate for veterans, and incumbent Kiama councillor. A 20-year Navy veteran with service in Bosnia-Herzegovina, he has worked as a senior ministerial adviser in the Howard Government and as a consultant lobbyist. Before his 2021 election, Mark chaired Kiama’s Combined Community Advocacy Group and led the Kiama High School P&C Association. Married to Cath with four children, his leadership is driven by a deep commitment to community service. Robert BartlettRob, 31, is a Chartered Accountant who started his career at Ernst & Young before moving to the South Coast in 2021 to run his family’s business. Engaged in promoting tourism and hospitality, he collaborates with local businesses to boost the region's growth. Rob is an active member of the Gerringong Bowling Club and enjoys exploring Kiama's natural beauty with his family, balancing professional dedication with community involvement. Darren OrmsbyDarren, 59, is a Kiama small business owner and Country Manager for an international supplier. He brings leadership experience from his time as a Logistics Manager and General Manager for Sydney Rugby Clubs. A former sommelier, Darren supports the Kiama Rugby Club and advocates for the NDIS, driven by his experience as a parent of children on the Spectrum. He is dedicated to building a supportive, inclusive community in Kiama, where he has lived for five years.Michael O'TooleMick, 60, is a former Superintendent with a 29-year career in the NSW Police Force, primarily serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra areas. A Business Degree holder, he was the Region Sponsor for Domestic and Family Violence and the last 'lock up keeper' at Gerringong Police Station. Active in the community through the Gerringong Lions Club and Surf Life Saving Club, Mick is dedicated to fostering safety and well-being in the region he has served for decades.

Since last October, when The Bugle reported that Gerringong Community Garden had a new president in Sue Daniels, the garden has doubled in size, offering a bounty of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and bee-friendly flowers.Daniels, who previously spent eight years with the Kiama Community Garden, brought her self-taught gardening skills from the UK, where she managed an acre of garden. She now leads the Gerringong group focusing on sustainability and permaculture principles. The garden avoids harmful pesticides, relying instead on natural methods like banana peels, eggshells, and garlic spray to deter pests.Composting plays a crucial role in the garden’s success. The group maintains ten compost bins, supplemented by organic waste from the local Perfect Break Café and seaweed collected from the beach. This rich compost reduces the need for store-bought fertilisers.The group, consisting of about 12 members, meets every Tuesday morning to work in the garden. After a few hours of toil, they enjoy tea and homemade cake. Daniels keeps the team motivated with charming, poetic texts outlining the day's tasks, adding a touch of fun to their routine.One of the members, an engineer, designed an irrigation system to keep the plants hydrated during warmer months, addressing the challenges of weather fluctuations. The garden yields a variety of produce, including bananas, blueberries, and blackberries, and the group hopes to expand to raspberries, avocados, and olives.However, the garden's expansion has brought financial challenges. Every year, the group needs new soil, seed-raising mix, and protective nets, but as they are not a registered Not-For-Profit organisation, they struggle to secure funding. This raises the question of whether they could join a larger NFP to access grants.Beyond gardening, the Gerringong Community Garden group is a close-knit community. If you're interested in joining or just want to see the garden, you're welcome to visit the Gerringong Bowling Club on a Tuesday morning after 10am to meet the group.

The Kiama Knights under 16’s girls tackle team were crowned the Illawarra Group 7 Rugby League Merged Competition premiers on Saturday August 24 when they defeated Corrimal 14-10 at Wollongong’s Win Stadium.The Knights’ had a very impressive final series considering that when the regular season wrapped up they were in 3rd position on the ladder and couldn’t afford to lose any of their final series matches.Their first semi final was a do or die game against the 4th placed Collegians. Their next final was a preliminary final against the 2nd placed Western Suburbs and the grand final was against the 1st placed Corrimal team.They miraculously won all three games and president of the Kiama Knights Junior Rugby League Club (JRLC) Carl Middleton says the keys to their success was enjoyment and how close-knit they were as a team.“Whenever you saw those girls run out they were just having fun and enjoying their footy. They were really cohesive and they got along well as a team and a group. And when a footy team is like that and they gel like these girls did then the rest will just follow,” says Middleton.The girls celebrating after the hooter. Source: Kiama Junior Knights FacebookSome of the players in the team were new to tackle rugby league and both Middleton and coach Craig Simon say their improvement from the start of the year to now has been astounding.“Their skill level has been outstanding which is a big factor in why they win. It’s a credit to those girls because for anyone who starts rugby league it usually takes a little bit to build up your skills, but it appears that these girls just picked it up quickly. So it's a credit to Craig and the team around him, but mostly it's a credit to those girls,” says Middleton.“With half the side new to the team, some completely new to tackle rugby league, they all improved out of sight. By the end of the season they were coming to me asking to start the games because they were enjoying it so much,” says Simon.Simon says he is very impressed with how the Illawarra girls tackle competition has developed and advanced since its inception and believes this year was as good as he’s seen it.“Girls tackle is improving every week and it will continue to improve. The ball movement and reading of the game is getting better. But the defence, especially the tackling techniques, are standouts and it just makes the comp very competitive,” says Simon.The Knights won their grand final 14 - 10 and scored three tries. These were scored by Ella Churchill, Ella Greatz and Noa Lindsay. Their one conversion was kicked by Neve Higgins.

Labor Councillors Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins have made the commitment to improve road safety with the development of a Local Road Network Safety Plan ahead of the upcoming local election.Residential roads such as Farmer and Taylor Street were pointed out as areas where the speed limit should be lowered to 40-km/hour for “consistency of speed limits in town centres.”A traffic calming and safety meeting was held on the corner of Farmer and Taylor Street on Tuesday 20 August, with community members and councillors present.“We recently met with residents and their concerns and feedback are very clear - they want a safer local road,” said Clr Draisma.30 concerned residents in the area have formed the ‘Taylor Street Traffic Action Group’ to advocate for traffic calming in the area.“We’re hoping for traffic calming as soon as possible, it’s a narrow street and has become a traffic hazard”, a spokesperson for the group said. The group has been campaigning for a safer street for years, reaching out to Gareth Ward, local Councillors and the Minister for Regional Transport to voice their concerns over speeding cars and buses that “fly down the street at breakneck speed.”Kiama Council voted on the motion, with all council members supporting making the safety along Taylor Street a priority but one; Clr Mark Croxford objected. “It feels like no-one is communicating with each other, we raise the issue over and over and over again. What do we have to do to raise the flag?” a spokesperson for the group urged.It’s indisputable that the faster a car is travelling, the longer it takes to come to a complete stop. According to the NSW Department of Transport, if a car is driving at a speed of 50-km/h it will take 37m to stop, the distance cuts down to 27m if the car is travelling at a speed of 40-km/h.Clr Larkins emphasised the importance of speed reductions across urban-residential areas in keeping pedestrians safe.“The research has made it clear the connection between pedestrian safety and vehicle speeds. There is a 10 percent chance of survival for a pedestrian impacted at 50-km/h. A reduction even to 40-km/h would increase the chance of survival to 60 percent” said Clr Larkins.Parents of Kiama Public School have experienced first hand the safety risks of insufficient traffic measures near the school's entrance during pickup and drop off. Kiama Council manages over 308-km of roads. Recent upgrades to local roads have included upgrades to Minnamurra Public School, Gerringong Public School, Kiama High School,new pedestrian crossings and the expansion of ‘kiss-and-drop’ zones. 

Kiama was hit with one of the wildest wind storms over the past 24 hours, with wind gusts reaching peak speeds of 89km/h.The NSW SES Kiama unit worked tirelessly to attend to calls for help including fallen trees, damaged cars, broken roofs and blocked roads. The volunteers were called out to 54 incidents across the region as a result of the damaging winds. Source: Jamberoo Rural Fire ServiceJamberoo Rural Fire Service (RFS) were out on the ground from 6am yesterday morning, assisting with fallen or arcing power lines that sparked grass fires across Jamberoo. “We are working our way through the jobs, but please help by not driving unless you have to, not trying to drive over or around downed power lines and following the instructions of emergency service personnel,” a spokesperson for the Jamberoo RFS said.The weather has since eased with a calm day expected today. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of the potential for damaging winds tomorrow, Friday 30 August.  Fallen power lines have caused outages across the region. Over 140 properties across the Kiama area remain without power. Source: Jamberoo Rural Fire Service“Work will continue throughout today to safely restore power as quickly as possible to the remaining 3,000 homes and businesses currently without supply. These customers are mostly in the Macarthur, Illawarra & Shoalhaven regions,” a spokesperson for Endeavour Energy said. For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500 or if life-threatening call 000.

Blood Cancer Awareness Month is marked each year during September to raise awareness of one of the most prevalent and dangerous cancers. 140,000 Australians are living with blood cancer, a type of cancer that typically doesn’t get the attention that other cancers receive. Kiama resident, Sandra Bottrell, was diagnosed with blood cancer 32 years ago.Sandra, who works as a wellness coach and grief counsellor, said her diagnosis doesn’t make up who she is. “Blood cancer doesn’t have to be a death diagnosis,” she said. The journey to Sandra’s diagnosis began when she noticed something wrong, and went to the doctor to see what was happening.“I didn’t feel like myself, I had blood work done and it came back abnormal, I was referred to get a bone marrow test to see if I had bone cancer, it came back negative. I was diagnosed with blood cancer,” Sandra said. She received treatment but felt there was more she could be doing for her mind and body. Sandra began her business Raw Love Superfoods Foods making clean, raw, organic food to fuel her body and share her new-found love with others in Melbourne. After a series of significant traumatic events in her life, Sandra has dedicated her time to learning about the ways we can take charge of our health without relying on mainstream medicine.“A lot of organisations focus purely on the medical side. I think health and wellness is just as if not more important,” Sandra continued.Sandra’s resilience is a testament to her today, she speaks about her condition openly, and wants to channel her experiences into helping others.Sandra operates her holistic wellness business out of Kiama and offers support in topics of pet loss, death of a loved one, health-related changes and assisting others to support their loved ones going through grief.For more information about her services, visit sandrabottrell.com.au or Sandra Bottrell Holistic Counsellor

The Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong have given a $180,000 donation to the Peterborough School for a new school bus fitted out to suit their students needs.Peterborough School, located in Warilla, provides supported, individualised programs for students from Kindergarten to Year 12 with a disability.“Principal, staff and students at Peterborough School would like to thank Bendigo Bank for their kind donation of the bus and ongoing support,” said Gabrielle Sheather, Principal of Peterborough School.The Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong hosted a Community Connect Evening where local not-for-profit groups joined together to showcase what they have going on in the community and pitch their grant proposals. The Peterborough Foundation, on behalf of the school, pitched for funding to repair their existing school bus. The Community Bank committee later announced they would be donating a brand-new bus to the school.“The Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong are so proud to be supporting the Peterborough School - Peterborough provides supported individualised programs for students with a disability,” a spokesperson for the Community Bank said.The 2024 Toyota Coaster school bus was delivered to the school this month. The Community Bank Oak Flats and Gerringong officially opened its doors to the public in2000 and have reinvested over $5 million in the local community. 

On 28 August, the Paris 2024 Paralympics opens, which will be the first-ever summer Paralympic Games to be hosted by France.From 28 August - 8 September, over 4,400 athletes from all over the world will compete in 549 medal events. Co-captained by Angie Ballard, eight-time Paralympic medallist in athletics, and Curtis McGrath, triple gold medallist in para-canoe, the 2024 Australian Paralympic team consists of 160 athletes. Out of those athletes, 61 will be making their Olympic debut.On Monday 26 August, in the lead-up to the games, the Minister for Sports, Anika Wells, announced that the Federal Government will reward Paralympians who win medals at the Paris 2024 and Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games.“The investment by the Australian Government recognises the importance of Paralympic sport in Australia,” said Alison Creagh, Paralympics Australia President, in a media release.Creagh said that medal rewards, which Paralympians first received during the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, was a timely boost.“Knowing that their achievements are valued equally to their Olympic colleagues will give our athletes more confidence and motivation to compete at their best.”Tokyo dual gold medallist Madison De Rozario will be carrying the Australian flag along with Para-swimmer Brendan Hall during the Opening Ceremony.“Paralympians aren’t here in Paris for money – we’re here in the green-and-gold because of what it means to us to compete for our country,” De Rozario said.“But this support tells us as Paralympians that we are valued. It also tells the public that athletes with a disability are equal with non-disabled athletes.”

The Dementia Choir - Alchemy Chorus South Coast - is set to unite with their inspiration and sister choir, Alchemy Chorus Canberra, for a heartfelt musical event. The Canberra choir played a crucial role in supporting the South Coast group when it first began in Gerringong in October 2022.Alchemy Chorus is a unique ensemble that brings together individuals living with dementia, along with their relatives or close friends, volunteer musicians, and singers. Together, they create an atmosphere of joy, storytelling, and community through the power of music. The name 'Alchemy' perfectly encapsulates the choir's mission: blending diverse elements into something truly valuable. The choir is inclusive, welcoming those with dementia who can still participate and benefit from singing, as well as their care partners. There are no auditions - every voice is treasured, and every participant is embraced.Dr Christa Wood, Founder and Manager of Alchemy Chorus, expressed her excitement about the upcoming event, saying, “We are thrilled to join forces in a combined concert in Goulburn to showcase the beautiful voices of those living with and alongside dementia.”The essence of the Alchemy Choirs is about leaving dementia at the door and immersing in a few hours of singing, camaraderie, and joy. As working choirs, they focus on vocal and breathing exercises, harmonizing, and even performing canons, all while ensuring that they hold at least two public performances each year.The much-anticipated concert will take place on 14 September at St Nicholas' Church in Goulburn, a convenient midpoint between the two choirs. The performance is set to begin at 1pm, and the choirs are hopeful that the local community will come out to support this inspiring event.Alchemy Chorus South Coast operates as a program under the Rotary Club of Gerringong Sunrise Inc., embodying the spirit of service and community through music.

Waminda, the only Indigenous all-female-led Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) in Australia, is set to host its inaugural Waminda National Conference from September 17-19, 2024, at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre in Nowra. This landmark three-day event, themed “Celebrating 40 Years of Aboriginal Women in Leadership,” promises to be a groundbreaking gathering. The conference is a celebration of resilience, community strength, and visionary leadership, with a focus on honouring the past, examining the present, and shaping the future of Waminda. Attendees will engage with a rich tapestry of discussions and reflections, highlighting the profound impact Waminda has had over the last four decades.The event will feature an impressive lineup of over 30 keynote speakers, including prominent figures such as Aunty June Oscar AO, Waminda’s Chief Executive Leadership; Cleone Wellington; Melanie Briggs; Professor Yvette Roe; Professor Roianne West; Maddy Hodgetts; Dr. Janine Gertz; Dr. Jackie Huggins and Professor Juanita Sherwood, among others.The conference will delve into a variety of critical and thought-provoking topics, such as Health and Mob Wellness, Social and Emotional Wellbeing, Spirituality, Institutional Systems, Matriarchal Leadership and Decolonisation, Birthing on Country - Our Way, Media and Blak Business Leadership, The Voice Referendum, and Treaty - Where to from Here? Additionally, attendees will explore the future of Waminda and its community over the next 40 years, the concept of Imperfect Allies - Non-Indigenous women learning how to walk alongside Indigenous women and the community, and the premiere of the Waminda Documentary on Self-Determination and Matriarchal Leadership.In addition to the panel discussions and keynote addresses, the conference will offer healing sessions, including Weaving, Spiritual Healing, and Being Workshops, providing a holistic approach to well-being and cultural connection.Waminda, now celebrating 40 years of unwavering dedication and leadership, stands as a beacon of empowerment for Aboriginal women. It is home to Australia’s first-ever Capital Construction Project Birthing on Country Community Hub, where culture leads, not institutions. Waminda’s unique model of care, healing framework, and thriving social enterprise, the Blak Cede Gunyah Café, continue to surpass expectations, expanding rapidly within just three months of operation.With a growing staff of over 170 dedicated individuals, Waminda continues to serve as a pillar of health, well-being, and inspiration to the community—proof that it is not just surviving, but thriving.Tickets for the Waminda National Conference are available for purchase on the Waminda website. See full information: https://waminda.org.au/40 Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a historic event that honours the strength and leadership of Aboriginal women.

The Wild Weekend at Bundanon: A Journey Back to the 1980sBundanon’s latest offering, The Wild Weekend on 7-8 September, is an immersive celebration that invites visitors to step back into the vibrant, eclectic world of the 1980s. The weekend promises a rich blend of activities, from wild bush foraging and queer storytelling sessions to contemporary theatre, live art, and the crowning event—the quirky and unpredictable (Not So) Blue Light Disco.A Retro Extravaganza: (Not So) Blue Light DiscoOn September 7, prepare to dance the night away with Aunty Jonny, Glenn Twenty, and a lineup of special guests at the (Not So) Blue Light Disco. This event is a full-throttle homage to the 80s, featuring classic tunes, dazzling homage performances, and exciting prizes for the best-dressed attendees and those with the fanciest footwork. The disco promises a true 80s experience with food trucks, fire pits, crimping stations, and yes—the punch is definitely spiked!Join Aunty Jonny and their mischievous crew for a night where no effort means no entry, ensuring that everyone who steps onto the dance floor is ready to embrace the wild spirit of the era.Meet the Hosts:Jonny Hawkins brings their unique flair as an actor, writer, and DJ. A WAAPA-trained performer, Hawkins is renowned for their Shakespearean prowess, having won the prestigious Burton Award. Their acting credits span acclaimed productions such as Mr Inbetween, Stan’s The Other Guy, and the award-winning RIOT. As a writer, Hawkins’ short film Joy Boy garnered accolades, including Best Film at Melbourne’s Queer Film Festival. Hawkins is also a celebrated DJ and founder of The Dollar Bin Darlings, spreading disco love across Australia.Duncan Fellows, the co-host of the event, is a seasoned actor based on Darkinjung land, with over 20 years of experience in Australian TV, theatre, and voice-over. Known for his roles in Deadloch, The Letdown, and Home and Away, Duncan also moonlights as Glenn Twenty, sharing his love for drama with students on the coast and in Sydney.A Weekend to Remember: event rundownSaturday, September 72:00 PM: Wild Queer Times with William Yang – A performance lecture.6:00 PM - 10:00 PM: (Not So) Blue Light Disco – A night of 80s music, dance, and fun.Sunday, September 811:00 AM: HELIOS – An award-winning modern retelling of an ancient myth by Australian storyteller Jamie MacDowell.12:30 PM: Breaking Bread with Friends with Bonita Ely – A long lunch and discussion on performance art in the 1980s.1:00 PM: Wild Bush Foraging with Diego Bonetto – Explore the bush with a celebrated food expert and author of Eat Weeds.HELIOS: A modern myth reimaginedOne of the highlights of the weekend, HELIOS, is an internationally acclaimed modern retelling of an ancient myth. Performed by Jamie MacDowell, this intimate, cinematic storytelling experience takes audiences on a journey through the life of a young boy navigating the challenges of growing up. Set against the backdrop of rural England and the towering cityscape, HELIOS is a tale of life, pride, and the invisible monuments we build in our lives.Created by the award-winning duo Wright & Grainger, HELIOS blends spoken word and live music, offering a unique theatrical experience that has captivated audiences worldwide. With performances in prestigious venues like The Sydney Opera House and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, this is a must-see event that promises to be both powerful and poignant.Throughout the weekend, visitors can also explore Bundanon’s Art Museum and enjoy a visit to the Ramox Café, both of which will be open for the duration of the event.The Wild Weekend at Bundanon is more than just an event - it's a nostalgic, creative, and immersive experience that celebrates the vibrant culture of the 1980s. Whether you're a fan of disco, theatre, or the great outdoors, there's something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to relive the past and make new memories at this unforgettable weekend event.Visit the Bundanon website for details: www.bundanon.com.au

In a world awash with political slogans and campaign promises, it is worth asking: do we really need the glitz and glamour of catchy phrases to understand who we are voting for? While local elections in Australia often lack the dramatic flair of their international counterparts, does this make it harder for us to feel connected to or informed about the candidates vying for our votes?The contrast with the United States could not be starker. Take the recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Outside the venue, a bold sign proclaimed, “A New Way Forward,” echoing Kamala Harris’s campaign trail rhetoric. It was a phrase designed to inspire hope and signal change, reminiscent of the slogans that have defined U.S. presidential campaigns for decades. By the time Barack Obama took the stage, urging the crowd to chant “yes she can,” it was clear the audience felt swept up in the fervour—a reminder of the powerful role that well-crafted messaging can play in shaping political narratives.Meanwhile, back home, the press handles our local elections in a vastly different manner. Coverage tends to be more subdued, focusing on practical, community-based issues rather than the grandiose visions we see splashed across American headlines. But this quieter approach raises an important question: does the lack of intense media scrutiny and political commentary impact our ability to truly get to know the candidates?Without the spectacle and saturation coverage, it can be challenging for voters to form strong impressions of who is standing for office. The issues may be closer to home, but are we as informed about them as we could be? It is a question worth pondering, especially when local elections determine who will be making decisions that directly affect our daily lives.It is not about the catchphrase, but about who is genuinely prepared to represent our best interests.