On Saturday July 20, The Bugle went to two author talks, held at the Kiama Pavilion, as part of the Kiama Readers’ Festival 2024.Both talks were filled to the max with interested festival goers, reflecting the festival’s success. The first talk was with Andra Putnis, who recently released her book Stories My Grandmothers Didn't Tell Me: Two women's journeys from war-torn Europe to a new life in Australia (Allen and Unwin, 2024). It’s about the secret lives of her two grandmothers who lived in Latvia during the Nazi and Soviet occupation during WWII.Putnis’ engaging and introspective talk analysed the reasons why older generations feel unable to share their past lives with the younger generation.One of the highlights was the story of how one of her grandmothers would mail scarves from Australia to her mother in Latvia so that she could sell the scarves for money.Putnis talked about how she imagined her grandmother spending hours at the stall trying to find the perfect scarf, which would bring her mother the most money, and how the other people at the stall had no idea what her grandmother was doing.“Writing this book has made me far more interested in hearing people’s stories,” said Putnis. “What don’t I know about the person standing next to me at the shops?”The second talk featured journalists-turned-crime fiction writers Michael Brissendon and Chris Hammer, mediated by The Sydney Morning Herald book reviewer Sue Turnbull.The talk mainly centred around the two writers’ switch from journalism to crime fiction. They both spoke of how crime fiction brought them more freedom, allowing them to do things they couldn’t within the confines of journalism.“In fiction, you can touch on greater truths then maybe you can in journalism,” said Hammer.“You can resolve things and put the world right,” said Brissendon.Hammer’s novel The Seven (Allen and Unwin, 2023) and Brissendon’s Smoke (Affirm Press, 2024) are both available for purchase.

The Werri Beach/Gerringong Garden Club reports that this winter season has brought massive winds, cold temperatures, and plenty of rain, necessitating extra care for both gardens and gardeners. Recently, the club was thrilled to host Andrew Koster from The Rose Tree Garden Centre at their meeting, where he showcased a variety of plants that thrive during the chilly months.Andrew shared his extensive industry experience and highlighted numerous winter-flowering plants he brought along. Among the admired selections were cheerful bright bidens flowers, winter-flowering grevilleas, dwarf philothecas, and fabulous flowering ground covers. The delicate Pretty n Pink protea was another popular choice, adding attractiveness to winter gardens. Additionally, the array of differently colored lavenders, which endure winter beautifully, captured the interest of many attendees. By the end of the meeting, Andrew’s trolley of plants was significantly depleted as members eagerly made purchases.Delicate Pretty n Pink ProteaThis week, the club’s coffee morning in Berry included a visit to The Rose Tree Garden Centre, where members anticipate discovering more tempting offerings from Andrew.Winter need not be a dreary season in the garden, as demonstrated by the vibrant displays of flowers and plants from members’ own gardens at the meeting. This month’s striking showcase featured gorgeous orange aloe arborescents, pretty pink bottlebrush, hibiscus, stunning heucheras, and more. The snowdrops and begonias from Janice’s garden were especially charming.Vibrant Bidens flowersThe Werri Beach Gerringong Garden Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Uniting Church Hall in Gerringong. The next meeting will be on Wednesday, August 14, featuring speakers Ros and John from Zephyr Lavender. Morning tea will be served from 9:30 am onwards, with the meeting starting at 10 am.

If you have aspirations to run for local council, and you reside in the Shellharbour LGA, you may want to mark your calendar for the Candidate Information Session on Thursday 25 July 2024. Shellharbour City Council invites community members that are interested in running for councillor or mayor in the 2024 Local Government Election to attend.  The session will take place from 6 pm to 7.30 pm, Thursday 25 July at the Shellharbour Civic Centre Auditorium. Attendees will be provided with information about the roles, responsibilities and commitments required as a Mayor and Councillor, as well as the nomination process.  The newly elected mayor and eight councillors (two from each ward) will assume office following the election on 14 September and will serve a four-year term. To attend, please visit https://events.humanitix.com/2024-local-government-candidate-information-session, or contact Customer Service on 4221 6111.  To learn more about becoming a Councillor visit www.shellharbour.nsw.gov.au/council/election2024/becoming-councillor

Kiama Community Radio welcomes John ‘Coco’ Comber as he brings two exciting shows: 'The Old Schoolyard' and 'Coco's Outback Club.' These programs will delight listeners with a diverse selection of music spanning decades and genres, curated by Comber himself. Join us as we tune in to 'The Old Schoolyard,' where Comber takes us on a nostalgic journey through classic hits and forgotten gems. And don't miss 'Coco's Outback Club,' where Comber shares his passion for country and roots music, transporting us to the heart of the Australian outback with every tune.Comber’s journey in radio began in 1978 when he was appointed the first music director of Sydney's 2WS. Over the years, he held various roles, including the position of music director at 2DAY-FM. However, it was his time as the afternoon announcer at Nowra's 2ST during the 1980s and 90s that earned him the affectionate nickname, Coco.After a hiatus from the radio industry, Comber returned in 2015 as a member and presenter of Shoalhaven Community Radio. Hosting programs under his old moniker, Coco, he quickly became a beloved figure among listeners.

The Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club has secured funding to upgrade their facilities at the Quarry Sports Complex.The grant was acquired by Local MP Gareth Ward through the NSW Government Community Building Partnerships grant program.“These upgrades mark a significant milestone for Kiama Cricket Club and reflect thededicated support from the local community. This was reflected in the petition thatwas collected in support of this grant,’’ says Ward.The money will help the club fix the shed and nets at the Quarry Sports Complex which will allow for safer and better quality training and matches.“These grants will help deliver two much needed projects to support cricket in Kiamaand our club is thankful for the support,’’ says Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club Secretary Mark Burgess.The Community Building Partnerships grant program is focused on delivering positive social, environmental, and recreational outcomes, while also promoting community participation, inclusion and cohesion.  

Kiama Downs (NSW) won three gold medals in a close Masters Competition Final in the 2024 SHARKSKIN Australian IRB Championships on Saturday, 20 July.The Illawarra club also bagged two silvers and a bronze to finish atop the overall podium on 38 total points.  Broadbeach SLSC (QLD) came in second with 27 points and Alexandra Headland (QLD) third with 25 points.  Key to Kiama Downs’ success was Stephen Strong, who after 40 years of competing for the club, has announced his retirement from the sport of IRB racing.  “To retire on a win like this, you can’t script it,” he said to Surf Life Saving Australia. “People dream about it and I’m very lucky. “I’m just over the moon.” Adding to the occasion was getting the win over rivals Broadbeach. “There are only two clubs on the trophy, us and Broadbeach,” Strong said. “We’ve had a bit of a battle for the last couple of years, we won it, then they held onto it for a few years. “But it's nice to get it back, that’s pretty special.” In his swansong National IRB Championships, Strong added another gold (Male Teams Rescue) and a silver (Male Surf Race) to his medal cabinet.  2024 Masters Championship PointscoreKiama Downs – 39 points Broadbeach – 28 points Alexandra Headland – 25 points Caves Beach 22 – points Bondi 14 – points Kurrawa 13 – points Queenscliff 7 – points Thirroul 6 – points Port Noarlunga 4 – points Kirra 3 – points Nobbys (NSW) 3 – points Brighton 2 – points Barwon Heads 13th Beach 1 – point 

This is an opinion article written by Lynne Strong.As we approach another election cycle, it’s a good time for our community to pause and reflect on the values we hold dear and the qualities we admire in those around us. In a world often overshadowed by divisiveness and conflict, it becomes ever more critical to consider the kind of leadership we want to guide our community forward.Think about the individuals in your life whom you truly admire. These might be family members, friends, mentors, or even public figures who have made a positive impact on your life. What is it about these people that makes them stand out? Is it their integrity, their compassion, their unwavering commitment to doing what is right? Perhaps it’s their ability to listen, to bring people together, or to inspire action in others.These qualities—integrity, compassion, commitment, and the ability to inspire—are not just admirable traits; they are essential for effective leadership. As we reflect on these values, we should consider how they translate into the realm of politics and governance.In the political arena, we often see a different set of behaviours. The noise of personal attacks, sensationalism, and divisive rhetoric can overshadow the more substantive qualities that we should prioritise. Yet, it is precisely during these times that we must strive to identify and support candidates who embody the values we admire.Integrity and accountability:Look for candidates who have a track record of honesty and transparency. These individuals are not afraid to be held accountable for their actions and decisions. They are the ones who, even when no one is watching, will do the right thing.Compassion and empathy:Compassionate leaders understand the struggles and challenges of their constituents. They listen with empathy and make decisions that consider the well-being of all community members, especially the most vulnerable.Commitment to community:True leaders are deeply committed to the community they serve. They are involved in local issues, advocate for positive change and work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for everyone.Ability to inspire and unite:In times of division, we need leaders who can bring people together, inspire hope and foster a sense of unity. These people build bridges rather than walls, finding common ground and encouraging collaborative solutions.As we head to the polls, let’s remember that our votes have the power to shape the future of our community. By choosing candidates who reflect our shared values, we can ensure that our leaders are not just politicians, but true representatives of the people.Take the time to research the candidates. Attend community meetings, ask questions, and engage in discussions with your neighbours. Look beyond the campaign slogans and scrutinise their actions, their histories, and their commitments.I invite everyone in our community to reflect on the values you hold dear and the people you admire. Let these reflections guide your choices in the upcoming elections. By supporting candidates who embody integrity, compassion, commitment, and the ability to inspire, we can build a stronger, more united community. Our collective future depends on the choices we make today. Let’s choose wisely, holding our leaders to the highest standards and ensuring they reflect the best of us. Together, we can create a community that thrives on respect, understanding, and shared purpose. Thank you. Probing questions you could ask of candidates: Transparency: Can you provide examples of how you have demonstrated transparency in your previous roles or in your current campaign?Accountability: How do you ensure accountability for your actions and decisions? Can you describe a time when you had to take responsibility for a mistake or difficult decision?Ethical challenges: How do you handle ethical dilemmas? Can you share an instance where you had to make a tough ethical decision?Community understanding: How do you stay informed about the issues facing different segments of our community? Can you share a story where you helped someone in need?Inclusive decision-making: How do you ensure that the voices of marginalized or vulnerable groups are heard and considered in your decision-making process?Supportive policies: What policies or initiatives have you supported or proposed that directly benefit the most vulnerable members of our community?Local involvement: Can you describe your involvement in local community organizations or initiatives? What have been your key contributions?Advocacy and action: How have you advocated for change in our community? Can you provide examples of successful initiatives or programs you’ve led or supported?Long-term vision: What is your long-term vision for our community? How do you plan to achieve it?Leadership style: How would you describe your leadership style? Can you provide an example of a time when you brought people together to achieve a common goal?Conflict resolution: How do you handle conflicts within the community or among your team? Can you share a specific instance where you successfully mediated a conflict?Building consensus: What strategies do you use to build consensus and encourage collaboration among diverse groups with differing viewpoints?Motivation: What motivates you to run for this position? What do you hope to accomplish if elected?Values and principles: What core values and principles guide your decision-making process? How do these align with the needs and aspirations of our community?Community feedback: How will you gather and incorporate feedback from the community into your policies and initiatives? Can you provide an example of when you successfully did this?

Power has been restored to more than 16,000 customers across the Endeavour Energy network after gale force winds of up to 100km/h brought down powerlines and trees and caused significant damage. Work will continue throughout on Sunday, 21 July to safely restore power as quickly as possible to the remaining 9,000 customers currently without supply. Most are expected to have power back by late Sunday evening, although due to the extent of the damage, some in outlying areas may remain without power on Sunday night. As the recovery continues, Endeavour Energy crews are asking people to put safety first by staying at least 8 meters from any fallen power lines and other damaged electrical equipment, and to be especially careful of damaged infrastructure hidden by fallen trees, branches, and other storm debris. Endeavour Energy is proactively contacting affected customers via SMS (where the contact details are available) to provide them updates on estimated restoration.Thank you for your understanding as the storm recovery continues. STAYING SAFE: Treat all powerlines as 'live' and dangerous by keeping at least 8m clear of them. Never drive across fallen powerlines! Report fallen powerlines immediately by calling us 24/7 on 131 003.Avoid all contact with wires that are hanging low, on the ground or tangled in trees and other storm debris. If you’re using a portable generator for power, stay safe and avoid deadly exhaust fumes entering your home. For life-threatening emergencies call 000. For emergency and rescue assistance call NSW SES on 132 500

Following a recent article in The Bugle, “Kiama community wants answers on Blue Haven Terralong vacancies amid housing crisis”, which stemmed from concern among locals who overheard Council officers discussing the potential sale of Blue Haven Terralong independent living units, Kiama Council has moved to clarify the situation. On 19 July, they issued a statement via their website: “Council is not seeking to divest Blue Haven Terralong Village.” This should provide some reassurance to concerned residents.The Council website reported that there are currently 17 vacant units with four under renovation. They explained that a slowdown occurred following the retirement of the last Independent Living Unit (ILU) Manager, a role crucial for sales, coordination, and daily management of over 250 ILUs and their residents. The Council is actively seeking a replacement for this position.They also noted that due to the age of the units, significant repairs such as waterproofing, plastering, and bathroom and kitchen refurbishments are necessary for some units. These repairs are taking longer than expected due to difficulties in securing tradespeople. Additionally, some units and common areas require fire safety compliance work.With 17 vacant units now available, those who previously inquired and were declined might find this an opportune moment to reapply.In contrast, Havilah Place, the former Residential Aged Care facility, is in an advanced state of dilapidation and has been deemed unsafe to enter or occupy. The Council will be installing security fencing around the premises to ensure the area is secure and inaccessible to the public and Council staff, except for official purposes.In line with the NSW Government’s varied Performance Improvement Order, the Council is preparing subdivision plans to explore options for subdividing and divesting the former Residential Aged Care facility at Havilah Place. However, they have not yet indicated whether the original purpose of the facility will be retained.The Council has promised to keep the community informed throughout these processes, including master planning, subdividing, and rezoning land at Havilah Place and the Kiama Sports Precinct. Residents can hopefully expect more regular communication moving forward.For more details, visit the Council’s website and look for the post entitled “Blue Haven Terralong facts.”

When the winds howl through Jamberoo, bringing down power lines and plunging us into darkness, it's easy to feel isolated. This week was a reminder to me that when you live in villages like Jamberoo, adversity only seems to draw us closer together. Like over 40 people living on Saddleback Mountain and Wallaby Hill, I'm now on my third day without power, and in my case, without water. A situation that can test anyone's patience and resilience, yet it's during these times that the true spirit of Jamberoo shines through.I've spent these days journaling, writing blog posts, and immersing myself in crime novels on my Kindle. But with each passing hour, the battery on my devices has dwindled, leaving me feeling more disconnected. In desperation, I called one of our local business owners to ask if I could charge my devices at their premises. Their immediate "yes" was a lifeline, a simple act of kindness that meant the world to me.This morning, I headed down to collect my recharged devices. On my way, I decided to treat myself (and get a much-needed coffee) and dropped into my local patisserie. To my surprise and delight, the patisserie was bustling—not just with people buying pastries, but with neighbours collecting their charged devices, just like me. It was a scene that perfectly captured the essence of Jamberoo: a community where we look out for one another, especially in tough times.Standing in line, waiting for my turn to grab a pie (yes, I thought mega calories were justified), I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Here we were, a small village facing a significant challenge, yet everyone was doing their part to help out. Local businesses had become makeshift charging stations, and neighbours were checking in on each other, ensuring no one felt alone.When the winds tear through our town, causing chaos and disruption, they also bring to light the extraordinary care that binds us together. Living in Jamberoo, you know that you are part of a community where everyone genuinely cares for each other. It's this spirit of solidarity and compassion that makes our village not just a place to live, but a place to belong. Special shoutout to Elders and Kings Patisserie. When I accidentally left all my now-charged devices behind in the patisserie, I was reminded how grateful I was to live in a place where your belongings are safe.

For the third time in as many weeks, volunteers tending to Peace Park on Manning Street found rose bushes they had planted had been stolen. The Coordinator of the Peace Park Volunteers, Mr Colin Hollis, said, “This selfish, illegal act deprives all residents of enjoying the rose display in the park in the coming months.” The group was about to commence this season’s planting but are now reconsidering their future involvement. Colin can't believe that the rose bushes have been stolen“It seems pointless to purchase new rose bushes just to have them stolen,” Mr Hollis added. Among the latest roses stolen were a rare miniature donated by the late Robert Curll and a Pierre de Ronsard, donated by Elizabeth Burnett to replace an earlier stolen bush. The motivation behind these thefts remains perplexing. Unfortunately for Kiama, if the rose bushes continue to be stolen, the volunteers may see little point in continuing their work at Peace Park.If anyone in the community has any information, please call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Caffeine is a stimulant and the most commonly used drug in the world. Data from a survey on attitudes towards coffee conducted in Australia in 2022 showed that coffee culture is deeply embedded in the Australian lifestyle, with coffee being the main mode of caffeine consumption for over half of the people surveyed. Amid myths and controversy about whether caffeine is good or bad for us, evidence suggests that moderate coffee consumption can bring both benefits and risks.Caffeine is considered to be both a drug and a food additive. The widely accepted recommendation is a maximum intake of 400mg a day - about 4 or 5 cups of coffee. This amount is not associated with negative effects. There is no set limit for children, but the consumption of caffeine and other stimulants by children and adolescents is discouraged by medical professionals.Seventy-five per cent of survey respondents claimed that they enjoy at least one cup of coffee a day. Twenty-eight per cent of Australians reported that they enjoy three or more cups of coffee a day. Benefits can include increased alertness, energy, and concentration, so every day, millions of people consume caffeine to increase wakefulness, alleviate fatigue, and improve concentration and focus.Caffeine features in tea, coffee, and chocolate, and it is regularly added to gum, jellybeans, waffles, water, syrup, marshmallows, sunflower seeds, and other snacks. Caffeine occurs naturally in the leaves, seeds, or fruit of more than 60 plant species, including coffee beans, tea leaves and buds, kola nuts, cacao beans, guarana seeds, and yerba mate leaves.Caffeine may have some wide-reaching health benefits, but not all of these have been fully confirmed by definitive research, including:Easing certain types of headaches or migrainesBoosting weight loss or preventing weight gainIncreasing attention and alertnessImproving physical performanceEnhancing some thinking skills and slowing mental declineReducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s diseaseBoosting long-term memoryDecreasing the risk of cirrhosisHelping protect people from an eye disorder known as blepharospasmPotentially protecting the lens of the eye against damage that could lead to the formation of cataractsGuarding against certain skin cancersLowering the risk of developing kidney stonesLowering the risk of death from oral cancer, and reducing the risk for other cancers (endometrial, prostate, head and neck, breast, liver)Lowering the risk of strokeLowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.In some types of headaches, the blood vessels in the brain dilate or swell, expanding into the surrounding tissues, which triggers pain. Consuming caffeine, which narrows the vessels, can ease or even reverse some headache pain. Ironically, a sudden lack of daily caffeine can cause a headache.Caffeine may boost weight loss or prevent weight gain by suppressing the appetite and temporarily reducing the desire to eat, and by stimulating thermogenesis, so the body generates more heat and energy from digesting food. Weight loss products that are marketed as thermogenic may contain caffeine and ephedra, or ephedrine. Research has not confirmed long-term results.In prescription and over-the-counter medicines, caffeine is used to treat tiredness and drowsiness, and to improve the effect of some pain relievers. It belongs to a group of medicines called central nervous system stimulants. A 75mg serving of caffeine can increase attention and alertness, and a 160-600mg dose may improve mental alertness, speed reasoning, and memory. However, caffeine is not a substitute for sleep and should not regularly be used for this purpose. If overused it can also lead to insomnia and headaches.Caffeine can improve physical performance during endurance exercise. The Australian Institute of Sport recognises that caffeine can increase endurance performance, endurance capacity, and reduction in perceived exertion. However, the effects on short-term, high-intensity exercise remain inconclusive.Studies have suggested that drinking coffee may help enhance some thinking skills and slow the mental decline that comes with age. However, more research is needed to confirm this. Research has found that lifelong caffeine consumption may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have also reported that people with higher coffee consumption have a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease.Research from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore suggests that a dose of caffeine after a learning session may help boost long-term memory.It has been suggested that caffeine enemas may help prepare the colon for an endoscopy or colonoscopy by supporting the excretion of bile through the colon wall. Advocates claim that a caffeine enema increases the levels of glutathione, an antioxidant, and so supports the natural processes of detoxification in the liver. However, at this time there is little evidence to support this theory.Coffee consumption may help decrease the risk of cirrhosis and slow the rate of disease progression in hepatitis C infection. Observational studies have found that coffee may have protective benefits for people with hepatocellular cancer.There is some evidence that caffeine may help protect people from an eye disorder known as blepharospasm. This condition, caused by abnormal brain function, makes people blink incessantly and can leave them functionally blind.Researchers have found that caffeine may help protect the lens of the eye against damage that could lead to the formation of cataracts.Some scientists have suggested that caffeine may guard against certain skin cancers. One team found that caffeine applied directly to the skin of mice helped prevent damaging ultraviolet light from causing skin cancer. Others have linked the consumption of three cups of coffee a day with a 21 percent lower risk of developing basal cell carcinoma in women, and a 10 percent lower risk in men, compared with drinking less than one cup per month.A study of 217,883 participants analysed the association between caffeine intake and the risk of developing kidney stones. Those who consumed more caffeine had a lower risk of developing kidney stones.In a study of 968,432 men and women, participants who drank more than four cups of coffee a day had a 49 per cent lower risk of death from oral cancer, compared with those who drank no coffee at all or only an occasional cup.Other possible cancer-related benefits include:A lower risk of endometrial cancerA reduced risk of prostate cancerProtection against head and neck cancerProtection against the recurrence of breast cancer.Data for 34,670 women in Sweden without a history of cardiovascular disease indicated that women who drank more than one cup of coffee per day had a 22-25 percent lower risk of stroke compared with women who drank less. Low or no coffee drinking appeared to be linked to an increased risk of stroke.One longitudinal study found that participants who increased their coffee intake by more than one cup a day over a four-year period had a 1 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared with people who did not change their intake. People who lowered their daily consumption by more than one cup of coffee showed a 17 per cent higher risk for type 2 diabetes. A study published in Diabetes Care in 2004 linked high coffee consumption over a period of four weeks with increased fasting insulin concentrations. However, the reasons for the link were unclear. It may be due to lowered insulin sensitivity, meaning the body does not use the insulin produced efficiently. The team called for more investigation before asserting that high coffee consumption lowers the risk for type 2 diabetes.These prospective benefits stated, it is important to note that high consumption of caffeine may not be healthy. It may have a negative impact on pregnancy, fertility, glucose control, and other aspects of health.The recent trend of adding caffeine to drinks and snacks that do not naturally contain it has raised new concerns, such as the question of energy drinks, and whether caffeine overdose could occur. Having said that, caffeinated energy drinks are unlikely to be hazardous unless consumed with alcohol.Caffeine is unsafe when used in very high doses, as it can cause irregular heartbeat and even death. Products with very concentrated or pure caffeine have a high risk of being used in doses that are too high, which is why pure and highly concentrated caffeine food products (including pure caffeine powders) are banned from retail sale in Australia.Despite its widespread use and numerous benefits, caffeine is a powerful substance that should be consumed with caution. Moderation is key, as excessive intake can lead to adverse health effects. Understanding the balance between benefits and risks can help individuals make informed choices about their caffeine consumption. As research continues to unfold, staying updated on the latest findings will ensure that we maximise the positive effects of caffeine while minimising potential harms.

How can you prepare for an important job interview?Congratulations! You’ve been invited to interview for a job role that you’ve applied for, showcasing your mastery of the application process. Now, it’s crunch time. How well will you stack up verbally against the other candidates?We've all been there – facing a panel of interviewers throwing questions to see how well you can think on your feet. Instead of being stumped by curveballs, you can prepare ahead of time for the likely questions you’ll be asked. This preparation can make you stand out as the preferred candidate over others, who might hesitate and cobble together responses on the fly.Deducing likely questionsOne effective strategy is to examine the job advertisement carefully. Look for sections like “About You,” which describe the qualities the employer seeks. You've already met the educational requirements, as evidenced by the invitation to interview. Now, focus on the other attributes mentioned. Here are some common qualities employers look for and how you can prepare to discuss them:1. Leadership experience If the job ad mentions “a broad range of previous leadership experience,” prepare to give an overview of your leadership roles. Reflect on your professional experience and list the industries you’ve worked in (e.g., hospitality, recruitment and business). Then, identify the leadership skills you have utilised in those roles. Some examples include:Keeping the team focused on their goalsEncouraging team members to share views and ideasUpskilling colleagues and fostering their talentsProviding counsel, advice, and maintaining an open-door policyInspiring, guiding, and motivating individuals and the teamPracticing collaboration, openness, respect, and empowerment.Tie these skills to specific occasions where you demonstrated them, making them more accessible during the interview.2. Attention to detail is the basis of another likely question. For qualities like “high attention to detail in both written and verbal communication,” recall roles and examples that showcase your meticulousness. For written communication, think about drafting, reviewing, and editing documents. For verbal communication, focus on preparation, practice, eye contact, and a measured tone of delivery.3. Ability to work under pressure is a classic. When asked about your ability to work under pressure, provide examples from your current and past roles. For instance, meeting deadlines, staying calm and focused, prioritising tasks, and assisting others can all illustrate this ability.4. Customer service excellence is highly likely to elicit a question. If “proven experience offering a high level of customer service” is a requirement, reflect on what good customer service means to you. As someone who has walked more than five decades on the planet and been the recipient of both good, bad and ugly customer service, I don’t think you can beat three simple rules/skills at the crux. These are ‘listening skills’, ‘politeness’, and ‘timeliness of response’, assuming of course that the response is also accurate. When I think back over my hospitality career, success also came from having good observation skills, empathy and a friendly demeanor. No one wants to wait, and wait, and they expect to get what they asked for, with a smile. If workers are not focused on each customer during the transaction, then mistakes are made. It happens all too often. I also consider it rude if the server also doesn’t look me in the eye and provide basic ‘professional warmth’.So your focus needs to be on key elements such as listening skills, politeness, and timely, accurate responses. Draw on your experiences from various roles to highlight these skills. In hospitality, focus on empathy, observation skills, and maintaining a friendly demeanour. In financial services, emphasise timeliness, accuracy, and politeness. In health and wellness, highlight empathy, patience, and building trust.Additional tip: To further prepare, enlist the help of a clever friend to brainstorm possible questions and practice your responses. Here are some additional questions to consider:How have you improved efficiencies in the workplace?Can you provide an example of leading a team to achieve a specific goal or project?What drives you to become a successful leader? How do you measure your success?Wishing you the best in your interview! Remember, preparation and practice are key to success. By anticipating questions and reflecting on your experiences, you can confidently demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the job.

Many coastal residents may not be aware of the delightful offerings just up the hill in Robertson, a charming township on the edge of the Southern Highlands. For day-trippers from the Illawarra and South Coast, Robertson is a treasure trove of experiences, particularly the unique and multifaceted Moonacres. This enterprise encompasses a regenerative fruit and vegetable farm, a successful bakery and café, and a cooking school, both in the heart of "Robbo," plus a satellite café called Hearth situated next to Ngununggula, Southern Highlands Regional Gallery in Bowral.As someone who is passionate about cooking and nutrition, I've attended several classes at the Moonacres cooking school. My most recent experience was a session on Japanese home cooking led by Emiko Davies, an Australian/Japanese/Italian chef and food author. Alongside 20 fellow enthusiasts, I delved into the intricacies of Japanese home cooking, from preparation to cooking to enjoying our culinary creations. Whether you're a hands-on participant or prefer to observe with a glass of wine, Moonacres offers a personalised and engaging experience.Moonacres cooking school continuously curates inspirational classes and guest chef sessions to keep things exciting. Popular offerings include sourdough breadmaking and various cultural cooking classes, such as the recent Mexican class and the upcoming Vietnamese class (which I can't wait to attend). The Guest Chef experiences are also a highlight, where chefs share their stories and culinary motivations.Ange Clarke, the school manager, emphasises the school's mission: “Our school is about empowering individuals with the awareness about where their food comes from, and how to approach cooking, as well as the understanding and tools needed to foster sustainable living, improve their health and well-being.”The school's philosophy is straightforward: To raise awareness about food origins, educate about the SLOW food movement, and promote cooking with organic, locally-grown, seasonal, high-quality produce with zero waste – all in a relaxed, informal setting. For those unfamiliar, SLOW stands for Seasonal, Local, Organic and Whole. The movement prioritises food quality over quantity, aims to preserve local food cultures and traditions, and counters the rise of fast-food culture, aligning perfectly with Moonacres Farm's principles. Owner Phil Lavers describes his approach as, “working with nature, not against it.”Phil's journey began in Tokyo, where he worked as a financial trader. Inspired by an experience involving the incredible taste of organic mandarins, he decided to return to Australia with his family to start an organic farm on 140 acres of rich red basalt soil. Committed to sustainable farming practices, Phil and Lisa Lavers have created a farm that produces flavourful fruits and vegetables, surprising many visitors to their cafés and school.Moonacres produce is renowned for its taste and quality, earning accolades and becoming a favourite among top Sydney chefs and regional favourites alike. Restaurants such as Don Peppino’s, Lankan Filling Station, Fred’s, Ragazzi, Poly, Moxhe, Firedoor, and Clove Lane, as well as Babyface Kitchen in Wollongong and The Press Shop in Bowral, are just some of the establishments that prize Moonacres' produce.To explore upcoming cooking school courses and make bookings, visit the Moonacres’ website.

On 17 July, former Olympians Kaarle McCulloch and Michelle Ford, honoured the memory of the late Cecil Healy, the only Australian Olympic gold medalist to die in combat, at a ceremony in France.The pair laid wreaths and flowers on Healy’s grave at a war cemetery in the small French village of Assevillers, an hour north of Paris.Freestyle swimmer Cecil Healy, who won gold and silver at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics Games, was killed in France just 73 days before the end of World War One. A member of the 19th (Sportsman’s) Battalion, 2nd Lt Healy and the other Australian soldiers had come to liberate the villages of the Somme area when he was gunned down on 29 August 1918. His death was keenly felt in the Australian Olympic movement, not only because of his exceptional qualities as a swimmer, but particularly for the extraordinary act of sportsmanship he displayed at the Stockholm 1912 Games.Cecil Healy in Paris. Photo courtesy: John Devitt and Larry WriterHealy denied himself a certain gold medal by insisting the race favourite Duke Kahanamoku be allowed to compete in the 100 metres freestyle final, despite the American champion missing his semi-final due to an apparent mix-up.His stance led to officials holding a special semi-final, which included Kahanamoku. The American went on to win the final with the Australian picking up the silver.Healy felt that without Kahanamoku in the race, any gold medal would be tarnished.“What stands out is his leadership, his bravery and his sportsmanship. And of course, he was such a wonderful athlete. Accounts of his life paint a vivid picture of a great Australian who lived his Olympic values. What a tragedy that he lost his life at a young age with the First World War coming to an end,” said Kaarle McCulloch, Australian Olympic Team Deputy Chef de Mission and dual Olympic track cyclist.Cecil Healy in uniform. Photo courtesy: John Devitt and Larry Writer.“He and Duke Kahanamoku were obviously great friends with the Duke’s visit to Australia in 1914 putting surfing on the map in Australia. And now surfing is an Olympic sport – something that Cecil and Duke Kahanamoku could not have imagined back then.”Dual Olympian and Moscow 1980 gold medallist swimmer Michelle Ford joined the commemoration honouring Cecil Healy’s courage, as did Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister Patrick Gorman MP, Australia’s Ambassador to France Ms Gillian Bird PSM and the Mayor of Assevillers Didier Jacob.

By Antoinette RaynalKatandra Women's A Cappella Choir held two musical events on June 29th. The ‘South Coast Sings’ day included workshops in learning to sing, Singing Jazz latin, Salsa and Tango Dancing and Music Theatre. The evening “Big Swing'' featured the Beachside Big Band and it was a fabulous night of dancing and singing. We were able to raise $12,000 for our focus charities; The Children's Medical Research Institute and Salt Ministry. Currently, we are having a well-deserved break and will be back for Term 3, on 23 July in Berry and 25 July in Kiama. Katandra are looking forward to encouraging new members in our community to join us in Term 3 and we are also promoting our free high school and uni student sponsorship programme. This is a chance for young singers to learn vocal technique and build their vocal skills and performance confidence.

Rising young sports star Koffi Brookfield signed a development contract with St George Illawarra Dragons in May.“She has been in the state school teams and we see a bright future for her. She’s a young hooker who’s going to play some Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership this year, so we wanted to reward her and get her into our NRLW system as possible,” said Dragon NRLW head coach Jamie Soward in a Dragons’ press release.Brookfield found out that she’s been signed with the Dragons close to the end of the Steelers Rep season. Soward pulled her aside during one Monday training session and chatted before handing her a piece of paper and asking if she’d like to become a development player for the NRLW 2024 season.“It was an awesome feeling,” says Brookfield.“I had trained so hard the previous season in and around the NRLW squad and Sowie. I was prepared and ready for a good season.” “Unfortunately, I injured my knee and worked twice as hard physically and mentally to get back to my best during and after my injury. That moment when he handed me the Development Contract made the struggles, frustrations and extra efforts all worth it. It refilled the tank to keep my focus and keep chasing my goal of playing NRLW.”Photo credit: Koffi Brookfield.Brookfield got into rugby, thanks to the enthusiasm of the male members of her family.“I remember playing in the backyard with my brother Jeff, how we would just tackle each other, and how it would be Jeff and I against my dad. I remember just having so much fun.”She played junior football with the Kiama Junior Knights, which began with the League tag and progressed into the Tackle Rugby League, once it became available for girls to play when Brookfield was 13. She loved it.“We all had the same interests in playing tackle, and for Kiama,” she says.She also pursued rugby league through school, having represented South Coast, Greater Southern and NSW CHS at the highest level.During the last week of May, Koffi joined the Dragons Rookie Camp where her 2024 season with the NRLW team began. There were two things that stood out in particular. “Definitely the mindset and self-confidence by Dan Haesler and female health by Jessica Stoll,” she says.Close to 23,000 people attended the Women's State of Origin III at Queensland Country Bank Stadium at the end of June. That can be compared with the around 7,000 people who saw the first Women's State of Origin at North Sydney Oval six years ago.“There’s been a bigger look on women’s games, which is amazing,” Brookfield says. “My experience has been great, as a player you have your highs and lows. I’m definitely thankful for my mum, dad and brother who got me through that. Overall, I don’t think I would change my experience for the world. I’ve loved it and can’t wait for more.”

On 16 July Kiama Council released a statement claiming that the $4.5 million Hindmarsh Park development will still be completed on schedule despite the poor weather.“Growth Civil Landscapes have been moving heaven and earth (including a significant amount of mud) to ensure the new Hindmarsh Park playground is ready for the Spring school holidays,” wrote the Kiama Council.The major features of the development are beginning to take shape in the playground as well as a new set of swings and a rock climbing wall.Adding to this there is also new street furniture, a bike locker and repair station by the bus stop and, around the stage, the stairs and perimeter path has been completed.The development is scheduled to be completed by October.

On Monday July 15, Kiama MP Gareth Ward met with players, coaches and other members of the Kiama Netball Association (KNA) to congratulate them on their success at the State Championships.Meeting at the Kiama Netball Courts, Ward spoke with players and coaching staff from the U13’s, who were winners at this year's state championships, and the U12’s, who were runners up, praising Kiama’s sporting ability.The U13 winners with Gareth Ward“Kiama is a little town but we continue to punch well above our weight and I'm so proud, and the community is so proud, of what the team has achieved. It's a huge success to be recognised for your accomplishments and your skill at this level,” says Ward.Both teams believe it was the close-knit culture and their team spirit which got them through the gruelling 19 game weekend and was the secret to their success.“We were all in a hotel with each other so there was lots of time where we could have fun games and bond with each other. We had breakfast and dinner every morning and night together and got a big bus in from Kiama together,” says Manager of the U12’s team Anne Marie Esler.U12 runners up with Gareth Ward“We just had a lot of bonding, so the team spirit between each other meant across the court each girl stood by each other, they did their role and knew their role, it's like nearly a year's preparation and it all pulled off,” says Coach of the U13’s team Dave Whitchurch.Ward says that he finds so much joy in days like these where he gets to go and congratulate, in person, the people of this community who are doing so well.“I love saying well done to people who have represented our community well and we as a community can be proud of each and every one of the members of this team,” says Ward.“And I also want to commend, not just the coaches but also the parents who have supported them through this journey.”While he was at the Kiama Netball Courts on Monday, Ward also addressed concerns that the club had about the quality of their facilities.“Having good facilities locally is really important and I know that we need to look at an upgrade of the netball courts here and I’ve been talking to the club about that today and I look forward to supporting them in seeking funds to do that so that we can continue to see a new generation of netballers come along, succeed and continue to blast away the competition into the future,” says Ward.The Bugle wants to congratulate all players, coaching staff and members of the KNA as well as the parents who made it all happen.