Local resident Darren Parlett has been a dedicated member of the Roo Theatre Company since December 1991. From his first performance as the lovable Scarecrow in The Wiz, Parlett has delighted audiences in over twenty productions. Now, he is thrilled to be part of the cast in the Roo Theatre's latest pantomime, The Little Mermaid.This lively show follows the classic story of Ariel, the Little Mermaid, as she dreams of exploring the surface world. True to pantomime tradition, the production is packed with humour for all ages - there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.Parlett will take on two roles in this production: the sailor, Mac Erol and the understudy of the villainous Jones, one of the henchmen. He will be taking the stage as ‘Jones’ in three out of the ten shows. In one of the show’s musical highlights, Parlett will belt out the iconic Killer Queen by Queen. As anyone who has tried knows, Freddie Mercury’s vocals are notoriously challenging, but Parlett is undeterred. "What a challenge it is... I'm nailing it!" he laughs.But the spotlight might not only be on Parlett—his award-winning dog Charly could make a surprise cameo. “My dog Charly might be in the show too,” Parlett said. “I’m taking him to rehearsals, and so far, he’s doing really well… We’ll just have to see how he goes." One of the directors even told him, “I think this might be Charly’s big stage debut!”Charly is no stranger to the limelight, having already earned accolades in the local dog show circuit, winning Best Groomed at the Kiama Show in 2024 and Best Dog in Show at the Port Kembla Fear Fest as well.Charly, Best Dog in Show at the Port Kembla Fear Fest As a long-time member of The Roo Theatre Company, Parlett is passionate about encouraging others to get involved in the arts. "Get involved, meet new friends, and you never know—doors might open," he says. "You don’t have to be a ‘NIDA graduate’ to perform. We’ve had people walk through our doors who have gone on to have professional careers in the arts." For anyone wondering where to start, Parlett is clear: "The Roo is for you."In addition to his theatre work, Parlett has branched out into film, making appearances as an extra in shows like Return to Paradise on ABC, season 2 of NCIS: Sydney, and even sharing the screen with American comedian, Will Forte, in Sunny Nights.Parlett’s dedication to the arts is truly inspiring. For locals who’ve always wanted to get involved in theatre, this may be the sign you’ve been waiting for. As Parlett puts it, "At the Roo is where your dreams can come true."The Little Mermaid will hit the stage from the 10th to the 25th of January 2024 at The Roo Theatre, you can find information and tickets here. It would make a great Christmas present for someone!

The biblical story of the Tower of Babel tells of a time when all humans spoke the same language. But when they attempted to build a tower that reached the heavens, God caused them to become unable to understand one another, leading to the tower’s collapse.Chinese-Australian artist Jiawei Shen’s new four-panel work, titled Tower of Babel, spans 130 square metres and stands 7.5 metres tall. The title borrows from the biblical story and resonates deeply with the ambitious scale of his art. This title is also shared by James Bradley’s documentary Welcome to Babel, which chronicles the creation of this monumental piece over seven long years, and it was this wild ambition that immediately drew him to the project.James Bradley. Source/ Bonsai Films.“It was the grandeur of the project, the fact that he was an artist with a crazy dream, this ambition to do this massive project that was going to take years. I mean, that's always a good story,” says Bradley.Jiawei’s artwork attempts to depict the history of communism, a subject deeply personal to him due to the profound impact communism has had on his homeland. What began as a documentary to explain the artwork’s meaning evolved into a deeper exploration of Jiawei’s life, his motivations, and the people closest to him.“The piece is so complex that it needed explanation. Jiawei spent hours explaining it to me before he even started. From his descriptions, I could tell the work would be fascinating, but it quickly became clear that the film was about more than just the artwork. It was about why he was doing it,” says Bradley.As Bradley delved deeper into Jiawei’s story, he began to learn more about Jiawei’s wife, Lan Wang, an artist in her own right. Though Lan initially wanted to stay in the background, her personal history became an integral part of the narrative.“She didn’t want to be in the film much—she was content to stay in the background. But as we went along, we realised that her own story, particularly her difficult childhood during the Cultural Revolution, was crucial to understanding Jiawei’s work,” says Bradley.Lan’s story adds an emotional depth to the film. Her contrasting experience to Jiawei’s provides a richer perspective on their shared history. For example, she confesses that she cannot even look at her husband’s immense artwork in their home because it brings back painful memories of the past. Her own work, by contrast, focuses on the harmony of nature, a stark contrast to the intense, politically charged themes of Jiawei’s art.Lan Wang provides a balanced perspective in the film. While she is vital to Jiawei’s work—driving him everywhere, preparing meals, raising their daughter, and doing all the housework—her presence also raises thought-provoking questions. Is it fair that a man should be neglecting all of his duties to create a singular piece of art that actually is painful for his wife to look at? But, on the other side of the coin does this pain reflect the immensity and potential impact of this singular piece of art?In addition to Jiawei and Lan’s story, Bradley’s own personal connection to Chinese culture adds an emotional layer to the film. His late wife, who was from Hong Kong, played a key role in bridging the gap between Bradley and Jiawei. Tragically, she passed away in 2019 after a long battle with cancer, an experience that deeply affected Bradley as he continued work on the documentary.“My wife was Chinese, from Hong Kong, and she introduced me to China and its people. She and Jiawei’s wife got along very well. It was incredibly difficult when she passed away during the making of this film. The process of creating Welcome to Babel became even more personal for me,” says Bradley.It seems that whilst Bradley was recording an artist attempting to create a hugely ambitious project, Bradley may have been doing the exact same thing with the documentary - which took him 12 years to complete. “It’s part of the human condition to set challenges for ourselves, and meeting those challenges affirms our existence and gives us some sort of power. This was my first feature documentary, and one of my ambitions was to have it screened at the Sydney Film Festival. Not only did it screen, but it won the Best Documentary prize,” says Bradley.“It's that sort of sense of achievement that I felt I needed, especially after going through some pretty difficult times with Kathy being sick for three and a half years and being her carer. So it's just interesting how these things happen. I started the project with her, and of course, the film is dedicated to her.” Welcome to Babel is a moving, fascinating, and beautiful exploration of human ambition. It captures the deeply personal and complex histories of Jiawei Shen and Lan Wang, and the artwork that encapsulates so much of what shaped their lives. It shows the best and worst of human ambition—the capacity to build monumental creations, but also the potential to destroy them.Welcome to Babel is out in select cinemas on November 14, you can find the screenings of the film here.Welcome To Babel. Source_ Bonsai Films

ANZ KIAMA SENIOR TENNIS TOURNAMENTMEN'S SINGLES

GERRINGONG NIPPERS UNDER 6 GIRLS

Today, 11th November marks the anniversary of the Armistice that ended fighting with Germany in World War I.Every year at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, millions around the world pause in silence to remember the sacrifices many have made so we can enjoy life today.Warwick Sporne playing The BugleMember for Kiama Gareth Ward said today Remembrance Day is a time for our region to honour those who gave their lives in service to Australia.“Today we pause to honour and remember our service personnel who have lost their lives in the service of our nation,” Mr Ward said. “This Remembrance Day, we remember the fallen, we remember those they left behind and all who have served in Australia’s uniform over more than a century in war, in conflict and as keepers of peace. “On this day 106 years ago, the guns fell silent on the Western Front. An Armistice was signed, leading to the end of the First World War. “Last year, we marked the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, the longest conflict Australia was involved in during the 20th century. “Today, we remember the 60,000 Australians who never returned from the Great War and we remember the Australians who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in serving our nation. “And we also remember those who are currently in uniform serving Australia in current deployments overseas. Lest we forget,” Mr Ward concluded.The ceremony at The Kiama War memorial Arch today, Monday 11th November at 10:45am, was a solemn and peaceful event. President of Kiama Jamberoo RSL, Gary McKay, led the event, alongside Mayor Cameron Mcdonald. Many wreaths were laid at the foot of the arch and Warwick Sporne played 'The Last Post' on the Bugle. Wreaths placed at the ArchwayAfter the ceremony, a 'Lone Pine Tree' was planted by the archway to replace the previous pine which was lost after flooding. The pine is the same as the ones found in Gallipoli, serving as a tribute to remember our fallen soldiers.Mayor Cameron Mcdonald, after planting the lone pine treeRemembrance Day is a time for all Australians to unite in solemn respect and remembrance for all those who served and died for our nation. There are also local RSL Sub-Branches who are hosting commemorative services across the Kiama electorate to pay respects to and to pause to remember the heroes who served our country.  

At Jamberoo Public School, students recently participated in a meaningful initiative called 'Draw to Remember,' organised by the Wollongong RSL Club. This program aimed to deepen students’ understanding of Remembrance Day and pay tribute to those who have served. Each class received a pack of chalk and a Remembrance Day pamphlet, which became a canvas for students to illustrate their visions of remembrance. After discussing the significance of the day, each student created a unique design on their pamphlet, reflecting their personal understanding of Remembrance Day.The initiative fostered both creativity and collaboration. Once each student completed their design, classmates voted on a favourite piece, and together, they recreated this design as a larger artwork, blending their talents and ideas.On Thursday, November 7, Terry Stamp from the Jamberoo RSL Club visited the school to view the students’ artwork and speak with them about Remembrance Day. Mr. Stamp joined Miss Louttit, Relieving Principal, to witness the students' heartfelt tributes. His visit provided a personal connection to the historical event, giving students insight into the significance of honouring those who have served.Each class had the opportunity to share the meaning behind their drawings, expressing a level of respect and understanding that moved Mr. Stamp. Beau, a student from Kookaaraa, read the poem In Flanders Fields, adding a reflective atmosphere that captured the spirit of the day.Mr. Stamp was visibly touched by the students’ knowledge and care. “The children’s words and drawings reflect a deep understanding and respect,” he said. “I am impressed with their commitment to honouring Remembrance Day.”Jamberoo Public School students’ participation in the 'Draw to Remember' program highlights the school’s dedication to fostering awareness and respect for significant historical events. As they continue to engage in meaningful initiatives, students learn not only to appreciate the past but also to carry forward its lessons with pride and honour.Jamberoo Public School will hold a special assembly on Remembrance Day to commemorate November 11. Katie Loutit

By Lesley Berry Roger and Denis sporting their colour matching ties celebrating Probus MonthGuest Speaker Peter Lacey, Founder of the South Coast History Society, thanked by Probus member, Marilyn. Based in Bega, Peter travelled up to speak to us about his latest book Extraordinary Histories some of the stories in the book relate to women of the south coast who had fallen through the cracks of history.Combined Probus Club Luncheon, held at the Warilla Sports Club The luncheon was well represented by members from thirteen Probus clubs from around the area. Congratulations to the organising club this year which was "Shellharbour Probus Club". Well done! Margaret Carmichael from Kiama Harbour Combined Probus with members from the Gerroa Combined Probus Club, Glenice, Jackie and LaurieMargaret also had the honour of cutting the cake. A fun time was had by all.All enjoyed the Vallies concert at the SEC followed by lunch Robyn’s 10 minute talk on her favourite hobby, photo books 

At Gerringong’s “Night at the Museum” celebration, distinguished journalist and author Caroline Baum delivered an evocative speech, sharing reflections on the importance of libraries, her personal journey as a lifelong reader, and the crucial role libraries play as spaces of knowledge, freedom, and trust.Baum began with an ode to libraries, describing them as more than just shelves of books. “Libraries are a place to share secrets; they’re the guardians of our stories,” she said, capturing the emotional resonance libraries hold for many. Her journey with libraries began when she and her mother, a French immigrant, discovered the UK’s vibrant public library system. “In France, libraries were slow to stock new titles and limited in scope. But in England, the library opened up an entire world for her,” Baum recalled. For her mother, libraries became not just a place to borrow books but a source of social connection, education, and self-discovery.Baum drew a poignant comparison between Indigenous storytelling traditions and modern libraries. “For First Nations people, country, nature, and family are their libraries,” she noted, adding that these sources of knowledge have withstood the test of time, offering resilience that digital or physical media sometimes cannot. This perspective echoed throughout her speech as Baum highlighted how libraries remain vital, democratic spaces—places not influenced by commercial interests, unlike most public spaces today.One of the evening’s most powerful themes was Baum’s discussion of libraries as defenders of free speech. She described alarming censorship trends in the United States, where librarians in certain states could face jail time for stocking books deemed “obscene.” This alarming trend, she cautioned, has spread internationally, even reaching local libraries in Australia. “A library is a democratic space where you’re free to borrow a book or pass by it and choose something else,” she argued. Baum’s belief in the right of adults to choose what they read underscored her broader call to protect these spaces from censorship and to respect the diversity of thought they nurture.Baum also honoured the resilience of librarians, both past and present, whom she affectionately dubbed “women with spine.” She recounted the courageous efforts of the American Library in Paris, which stayed open during WWII, even lending books to soldiers on the front. The library’s leaders, particularly Dorothy Reeder, kept it functioning against the odds. This theme of resilience continued with stories of Australian librarians who went beyond traditional roles to support social justice and freedom of speech, such as New York’s Radical Reference Collective, a group of librarians who offered protestors resources and legal information. Baum declared, “When it comes to standing on the barricades, librarians will be there to protect your rights.”In a world where many institutions have lost the public’s trust, Baum emphasised that libraries remain beacons of reliability and openness. “We are constantly being told these days that data is more valuable than oil, but I would argue that trust is more valuable still,” she said. As Baum sees it, libraries, free and open to all, are one of the last public spaces that uphold trust as a core value, fostering communities by providing access to knowledge without commercial motives.Her speech closed with a heartfelt tribute to librarians everywhere who have dedicated themselves to supporting their communities, protecting free speech, and offering spaces where people can learn, reflect, and grow. Baum’s powerful words left the audience with a renewed appreciation for libraries and the important social, cultural, and democratic values they represent.

Gerringong Pics and Flicks Incorporated, a community-run not-for-profit organisation that has hosted monthly film screenings at Gerringong Town Hall for 24 years, continues to support the cultural life of the local community through various outreach programs. This year, the organisation has awarded film training scholarships to two young adults residing in the Kiama LGA: Regan Anderson and Lleyton Hughes.The scholarship, valued at $1,000, provides up to $960 in financial assistance toward fees for two Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) short courses, along with a $40 membership for Screen Illawarra.Regan Anderson, one of the awardees, is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Communications and Media with a major in Screen Production at the University of Wollongong. With experience in film, photography, screen and stage writing, as well as acting training from Newtown School of Performing Arts, Regan plans to produce a comedic short film that highlights the beauty and lifestyle of the South Coast from a young adult’s perspective. This concept is drawn from her own experience moving from Sydney to Kiama, and she intends to collaborate with local filmmakers and actors. The University of Wollongong has offered Regan access to film and editing equipment.Lleyton Hughes, the second scholarship recipient, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Creative Writing and works part-time as a journalist with The Bugle, Kiama’s local community newspaper. He covers arts, film, and leisure topics, with a film column and interviews with directors. Lleyton’s project focuses on creating a short film exploring the motivations behind challenging sports like boxing, using Kiama locations and local actors. The Bugle has committed to supporting his project by providing camera operator support and camera practice, which will enhance his AFTRS training.Gerringong Pics and Flicks has partnered with AFTRS, Australia’s premier screen arts and broadcast school, to subsidise these short courses, and with Screen Illawarra to provide networking and support opportunities. Awardees will have the chance to create individual profiles on Screen Illawarra’s website, connect with industry professionals, and attend educational events. The scholarship also includes a mentoring session with filmmaker Nick Bolton, President of the Screen Illawarra Board.Gerringong Pics and Flicks invite local professionals with skills in filmmaking, screenwriting, directing, production, or editing to support Regan and Lleyton on their projects. Those interested can email their contact information and a brief bio of relevant skills to [email protected] for potential collaboration.Visit AFTRS short courses for more information. 

As part of The Bugle's support for the MV SIGNA making its way to Tasmania, we’re excited to bring you a weekly series of stories about the ship and its dedicated crew.The first series of stories will focus on the six crew members who are manning the ship as it embarks on a journey across the South Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea to reach Tasmania for the International Timber Boat Festival.Peter “Rookie” Rook is a retiree who found himself roped into helping with the SIGNA refurbishment when a friend asked him for a little help.What started as a couple of days ‘here and there’ soon turned into much more.“So I started there a day or two a week, and then it just kept going and going, and they haven’t let me go since. There’s no real expertise in any one area, just a lot of sanding, painting, and doing what you can,” says Rookie.Rookie enjoyed the camaraderie of the crew and admits he learned quite a bit along the way.“It takes up a lot of time, and I like getting out to fish myself. I haven’t had the chance to get away for a while. But all the boys were really good, and I’m actually surprised by how much I picked up. A lot of skills and knowledge, particularly in carpentry and other areas,” he adds.For Rookie, the turning point came when they were finally able to lower the boat back into the water. That moment marked the realisation of just how much hard work they’d all put into the project.“Once we got it back in the water, it was a great feeling. It meant we could get it moving and into the water, and the work had started to feel a little monotonous because it was the same sort of thing every day. It’s quite enjoyable being on the boat down here,” says Rookie.When asked if he’d consider doing something like this again, Rookie’s answer was simple: “If John gets another boat, no.”For Rookie, the greatest reward will come when they finally sail the boat they’ve poured their hearts and souls into all the way to Tasmania. He’s excited to represent Kiama at the festival.“We’re representing Kiama – it’s a boat from Kiama, and the whole crew is from Kiama. You need a crew to run the boat, and it makes sense that the ones who brought it back to life would be the ones sailing it,” says Rookie.The MV SIGNA crew is still seeking fundraising support to help get their boat to Tasmania and they need the community’s help. If you’d like to pledge, please get in touch with us here or email [email protected]

Ian Darling’s The Pool is a film about just that, a pool. It is a 90 minute examination of a singular place - its community, individuals, rituals, obsessions, stories, connections, quirks, emotions, history and much more. It is a film that aims to simply observe a place, a place which encapsulates so much of what makes life, life that it becomes much more than a place - it becomes a world.Ian DarlingSource Shark Island ProductionsThe world at the centre of The Pool is the Icebergs Ocean Pool in Bondi. If you were to visit the Icebergs Ocean Pool you would be given a small idea of this world - a mere outline in plain pencil. Darling’s film fills in these lines with intricate details, colour, dimension and ultimately life.The film grew out of Darling’s desire to create a documentary that would explore community—a theme that became all the more relevant during the isolation of COVID-19. Initially uncertain of the subject to explore, Darling’s inspiration arrived unexpectedly.“I was down at the pool having coffee one morning, after a swim, with one of the champion swimmers. And I said, I'm looking for this uplifting film about community. And she said, How about here? Sometimes the best ideas are right under your nose. I thought, actually, that's great. It’ll let me explore everything I wanted to—this beautiful location and a broad spectrum of community members. It was the perfect opportunity,” Darling says.The Pool is unconventional in that it doesn’t follow a traditional plot or focus on any one main character. The pool itself is the protagonist. As you watch, you find yourself sinking into the rhythms and patterns of the pool’s community.This is enhanced by the film’s unique structure, which doesn’t adhere to chronological order. Instead, the documentary is divided into sections that showcase different facets of the pool’s life. These segments are separated by meditative montages or continuous shots of waves, swimming, and water—a deliberate choice to create a calming atmosphere.“We thought, let's just make a film that encourages people to watch the waves and stop looking at their phones, just settle into it,” says Darling. “All of the films I’ve made have tried to get into the rhythm of the subject, and swimming is inherently meditative. The pool is such a beautiful place. We need to spend more time looking at the ocean. So we’ve incorporated a lot of moments where people can just dream about their next swim, or their next surf, or even reflect on their own lives. I want people to think about how they feel about their community, and what they’re yearning for.”Throughout the documentary, we meet several of the pool’s regulars: a group of squad swimmers who train every morning, a woman who is terrified of the water but keeps swimming, and another who swam daily during her cancer treatment, imagining that the bad stuff was leaving her body out of the top of her head. One of the most poignant moments features two friends who meet every morning for a swim and a coffee.“They’re a couple of friends who meet at the pool at exactly 6:47 every morning. They just came alive on screen. They represented everything we wanted. You couldn’t have scripted it. One says, ‘I like to use a bit of talcum powder after the swim.’ Then they both dive in at exactly the same time at opposite ends, get out at the same time, and head up for coffee—ordering exactly the same coffee every day,” Darling says.The touching exchange between Russell and Adrian encapsulates the film’s themes of friendship and routine:Russell asks, “Can you imagine a time when we’re not coming here every morning?”Adrian replies, “No.”Russell nods and says, “Good answer.”Darling reflects, “In that two-minute exchange, we captured so much about what we yearn for—why friendship is important, why routine matters. Swim squads exist because people don’t want to let each other down. Two friends rely on each other to show up at 6:47.”Darling says these types of moments weren’t scripted or anticipated - they just happened.“We didn't exactly know what we're getting on any day, but we just knew that we would keep coming back, and eventually we'd get what we wanted to tell the full, comprehensive story of what that consciousness was in the pool.”The Pool is a fascinating, feel good, beautiful documentary which simply observes and attempts to encapsulate a tiny, microscopic location on this enormous round sphere we’re all floating on. And it shows just how much life and energy and complexity can be held inside one tiny location.The Pool is showing in select cinemas around Sydney now, visit this website for all showtimes.Ian Darling and his crew. Source Shark Island Productions

At the recent “Night at the Museum” celebration, marking the 150th anniversary of Gerringong Library and Museum, former Mayor Sandra McCarthy took to the podium to highlight the remarkable journey that brought the current facility to life. Her speech acknowledged the long-standing efforts that began in 2009, finally culminating in the building’s opening in 2021.McCarthy emphasised that public libraries are "more than books" and that Gerringong’s library is one of the most used services provided by the council. “Libraries provide free and equitable access to information and are a safe, convenient community space for learning, heritage, and cultural activities,” she noted. McCarthy’s remarks underscored how essential libraries are to the social and cultural fabric of Gerringong, reflecting the town's commitment to learning and community connection.McCarthy’s focus shifted to the vision and commitment of Kiama’s council executive team in the early 2000s. In 2005, council began a planning exercise to assess the need for expanded library facilities, noting the library’s limited hours and small collection that no longer met the needs of Gerringong’s growing population, particularly with young families moving into the area.She gave special recognition to then-General Manager Michael Forsyth, whom she credited for his foresight in recommending a new library and museum centre. “Forsyth’s plan was clear,” McCarthy said, outlining his points on community needs and the potential of a centrally located facility at the old School of Arts. Forsyth identified the heritage building as a fitting site, and his vision was to co-locate the library and museum, creating a dual-purpose space that would offer expanded resources and greater accessibility.The council accepted Forsyth’s proposal and established a steering committee that included representatives from the South Precinct Historical Society, library staff, and council members, with McCarthy herself as mayor. This committee was responsible for selecting an architect and working with the community to bring the project to life. In 2011, the design plans were approved, and after several funding applications, $1.25 million in federal funding came through in 2016, followed by state support. McCarthy acknowledged the persistence needed, saying, “Nothing ever happens fast in local government, but it’s important that you get it right, and this plan was the right plan.”The building which was officially opened in 2021, she noted incorporated the latest technology enabled by the NBN rollout, offering features like ocean views and natural light that brightens the library space. Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs, McCarthy concluded, “This building represents the heart of Gerringong’s community spirit—a place where heritage meets future generations, a testament to the vision of the council and the community’s commitment to making it happen.”McCarthy’s heartfelt account highlighted the importance of collaboration, determination, and a shared vision that made the new Gerringong Library and Museum possible, ensuring it remains a vital, vibrant part of the town for years to come.

Gerringong marked a historic milestone with a “Night at the Museum” event, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Gerringong Library and Museum. The evening drew a crowd of 130 community members, local leaders, and dedicated supporters, all recognising the significance of this cherished institution.Sandra McCarthy, former mayor and a key advocate for the project, spoke passionately about the library’s transformation. “The School of Arts is our oldest heritage public building, and preserving it as part of this library and museum complex truly connects past and present,” she said. “It’s a beacon of community resilience and growth, embodying everything we value here in Gerringong.”Emeritus Mayor Sandra McCarthy and Stephanie Kemp Adding her unique voice, Caroline Baum, journalist and founding editor of Women's magazine, brought sparkle to the evening with reflections on the enduring role of libraries in community life. “I love a good acronym, and ‘GLAM’ is memorable and clever—bringing a bit of bling when you don’t expect it,” she shared, referencing the library’s new nickname. Baum also noted the profound role of libraries in storytelling and connection, drawing from her experiences as a lifelong library user. “Libraries are a place to share secrets; they’re the guardians of our stories,” she said, adding, “Visiting a library also helps to see what makes a place tick—it’s a privilege to see this library be such a vibrant centre for Gerringong.” Baum fondly recalled her early visits to the Wimbledon Library in London with her mother, capturing the audience with her heartfelt personal history and love for libraries.Guest Speaker Caroline Baum The event showcased new exhibitions and renovations, highlighting the hard work of library staff and volunteers. Community members wandered through displays, recognising items from the past and celebrating the museum’s evolution. Reflecting on Gerringong’s commitment to heritage, McCarthy concluded, “This library stands as a testament to the spirit of our town. We’ve preserved the past, but we’ve also created a dynamic space for the future.”With over a century of history and a bright future ahead, Gerringong’s GLAM facility remains a treasured community asset, embodying the town’s commitment to history, learning, and community.Celebrating the event - Front LR Melissa Matters (Deputy Mayor) Cr Stuart Larkins Emeritus Mayor Sandra McCarthy. Bk Mayor Cameron McDonald Cr Melinda Lawton, Geoff Webb, Cr Mike Cains

Cakes on Collins, a local bakery in Kiama, was the target of a robbery on Wednesday, 6th of November, at 8:30 AM. Kelly Morgan, the owner, was opening the shop when an unknown male suspect seized the opportunity to steal two pink bags containing her grey macbook, cards, and other personal items.Morgan had left her handbag visible to a delivery driver and an artist who was working on a mural outside the shop. With her back turned, the thief quickly grabbed the bags. "That's when he came in and grabbed it. I heard a noise… but the fridges crack and make noises all the time so I just thought it was that," Morgan said.It wasn’t until Morgan realised her handbag and one of the bags were missing that she asked if anyone had seen anything. "No one else saw it happen. It was so quick," she added. Fortunately, she had her phone and keys on her at the time.Shortly after the incident, Morgan received a notification from her banking app, alerting her that one of her cards had been used at a Woolworths store. Staff at the store flagged the transaction, and Morgan and a friend confronted the suspect. "I think that's my card," Morgan's friend said to the man. When Morgan locked eyes with him, he fled the scene. Despite chasing after him, he managed to escape. Woolworths is reviewing store footage in an effort to identify the thief. The stolen card was later discarded by the suspect and found by a member of the public, who contacted Morgan to return it.Despite the traumatic experience, Morgan has expressed her gratitude for the support from the Kiama community. "Lots of people from the community that I never met, just wanted to give me a hug and it was very nice," she said. The support continued throughout the day, with many people visiting her shop, and her cupcakes selling out.As I visited Cakes on Collins this morning, a thoughtful local dropped off a potted plant to express their sympathy and support, a beautiful reminder of how the Kiama community comes together in times of need. 

The Group 7 Jamberoo Rugby League Club (RLC) have officially got a new name, the Jamberoo Golden Valley Superoos. The announcement comes alongside the introduction of their 2025 inaugural sponsor: the developers behind the Golden Valley subdivision.Jennifer Macquarie, Director of the Fountaindale Group, the developers of the Golden Valley  subdivision, says the partnership with the club is an honour and a great opportunity for both parties.“We’re very excited to be doing this because we know that clubs like this are the backbone of small towns,” says Macquarie. “This subdivision will bring 50 new families to Jamberoo, and what better way for them to integrate into the community than by getting involved with and joining the football club?”Trevor Dallas, President of the Jamberoo RLC, describes the partnership as a significant financial relief for the club, adding that it strengthens the connection with the community.“As a small community trying to field a first-grade side, there’s a lot of pressure. There are cost constraints, and having the Fountaindale Group on board to support us really gives us a vote of confidence. It’s reassuring to know that the community is behind us and wants to see us succeed,” says Dallas.Jamberoo has produced a number of outstanding rugby league players over the years, but Dallas acknowledges that, due to the town’s size, the club must rely on recruiting players from outside the area—something that can be financially challenging. The new sponsorship will help address this.“While we’ve been fortunate to have junior players progress to higher levels, we’re a club that needs to bring in outside players to remain competitive, and that’s costly,” says Dallas.David Hall, Vice President of the club, highlights that the new subdivision will not only bring in new families but also new contributors to the club, helping to sustain its growth.“This is great for both groups – Fountaindale and us. They’re bringing more people into Jamberoo, which means more potential supporters and contributors to our club, and that’s something we really appreciate,” says Hall.Macquarie agrees, adding, “We hope to deliver new young players, volunteers, and bring a fresh energy to the community.”After a challenging 2024 season, where the team secured only two wins, the Jamberoo Golden Valley Superoos are optimistic about the 2025 season. With a number of new players already signed, Dallas is confident the squad will be much stronger.“We’re shaping up pretty well so far. It was a tough year last year – our long-term coach retired, and we lost a lot of players. But this year, the same coach is back after 12 months of preparation, and Jono Dallas is coaching alongside him. We’ve got a competitive squad, so we’re feeling pretty confident,” says Dallas.The Jamberoo Golden Valley Superoos will wear jerseys and club apparel featuring the Golden Valley logo, and their clubhouse will also be known as the Golden Valley Clubhouse.

On Thursday, November 7, at 5pm, a local Renters’ Forum will be held at the Dapto Ribbonwood Centre, offering renters the chance to share their experiences and help shape the future of renting in New South Wales.Renters’ forums have been highly successful in the past, with over 200 renters participating in five forums recently held across the state. Together, they have been instrumental in securing historic rental reforms, including the abolition of no-grounds evictions and steps towards more pet-friendly tenancy laws.“Renters had some big wins recently, especially with eviction reforms being passed in the last few weeks. But there is still a lot of work to do,” said Jemima Mowbray, Policy and Advocacy Manager at the Tenants' Union of NSW.“This is a critical moment for renters to share their experiences and insights. We want to ensure renters’ voices are heard on what more needs to change, as well as share their thoughts on how we go about doing it.”The Illawarra Renters' Forum will provide a space for local renters to connect, discuss challenges, and propose solutions. The NSW Rental Commissioner, Trina Jones, will be in attendance to ensure renters' perspectives are considered in upcoming rental reforms.“This is a chance for renters to come together and build momentum for a better rental system,” continued Jemima from the Tenants’ Union.“We want to bring renters together to talk about the challenges they are facing, but also the solutions they want to see. Renters should be at the centre of efforts to design and implement responses to the housing crisis, including what’s needed to address the impacts of climate change.”The Forum is open to all renters in the Illawarra who want to contribute, but registration is essential. Renters in the community can register until 12pm Thursday November 7, but places are filling fast! Register here.Forum DetailsDate: Thursday, 7 November 2024Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PMLocation: Dapto Ribbonwood Centre, Dapto NSW

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has announced that significant progress is being made on the Jervis Bay Road interchange, with key developments set to occur this month as the project advances.The Jervis Bay Road interchange will complete the extensive upgrade of the Princes Highway, which has seen over $2 billion invested from Albion Park Rail to Jervis Bay Road.“Making the Princes Highway safer has been a career obsession for me. We worked with our community and the government and now a grade-separated interchange at Jervis Bay Road is rising out of the ground and I am so pleased that the project is on track,” Mr. Ward said in a press release.“Many people thought this would never happen or that it was all too hard. But when I make a promise, I always get it done.”In November, construction will ramp up with the commencement of the bridge foundation, the new entrance to Willowgreen Road, major earthworks, and the import of materials for embankment construction. Work will also include building road surfaces on the Princes Highway, Jervis Bay Road, Old Princes Highway, and Willowgreen Road, along with the construction of the eastern roundabout and ongoing utility work.During work hours, there will be some temporary traffic changes to ensure worksite safety. Lane and shoulder closures, as well as reduced speed limits of 60 km/h or 40 km/h, may be in place on the Princes Highway, Old Princes Highway, Willowgreen Road, Jervis Bay Road, and Gardner Road during these times.“Whilst there are 10 night shifts planned as required, hours of work remain between 7AM to 6PM Monday to Friday and 8AM to PM on Saturdays,” said Mr Ward.In response to this, Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips expressed excitement for the work to be completed.“I’m really delighted to see work progressing on the Jervis Bay flyover. Every time I drive past, I feel so proud that I secured $100 million in federal funding for this major project which will significantly improve the road safety and reduce travel times for local residents,” says Phillips.Phillips revealed that the Federal Government is also injecting $400 million into the upgrade of a six kilometre stretch of the Princes Highway between Jervis Bay Road and Hawken Road.“Two lanes in each direction, separated by a median barrier, will improve driver safety, as will the upgraded intersection at Hawken Road, Tomerong, with an overpass connecting Hawken Road to Blackbutt Range Road,” says Phillips.

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips has championed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s weekend announcement that, under the Albanese Government, fee-free TAFE would continue in Australia.Mrs Phillips, who was a TAFE teacher for over a decade, says that her Labor Government will legislate to guarantee over 100,000 fee-free TAFE places a year from 2027.Since the initiative launched in 2023, the Albanese Government has delivered 180,000 fee-free TAFE places this year alone and promises to provide 300,000 places over the next three years. Mrs Phillips emphasises the tangible impact of this program.“Since fee-free TAFE started in January 2023 to 30 June 2024, we’ve seen more than 508,000 enrolments in courses in priority areas, including disability and aged care, digital and tech, construction and early childhood education and care,” says Mrs Phillips.Mrs Phillips said fee-free TAFE was helping people from priority cohorts, with 170,000 young Australians, 124,000 job seekers and 30,000 First Nations Australians enrolling in the program.“It’s also really great to see six in 10 places have been taken up by women, and one in three have been in regional and remote Australia, including Gilmore,” she says.With housing shortages becoming an issue in our country, Mrs Phillips said fee-free TAFE was helping fill gaps in industries with high need.“Since coming to government, I have witnessed how our fee-free TAFE is making a real difference locally - at Nowra, Moruya and Ulladulla TAFE campuses. Trade courses such as carpentry and electrical are booming in Gilmore,” says Mrs Phillips.Mrs Phillips also took the opportunity to contrast the Albanese Government’s approach to TAFE with that of the previous Liberal government. “Under the Libs, the TAFE Nowra Campus was looking more like a morgue. Under the Libs, campuses were closed, courses were slashed, enrolments dropped and more than 5000 teachers were cut from TAFE. “So, it should come as no surprise that the Liberals labelled our fee-free TAFE ‘wasteful spending’,” says Mrs Phillips.

In 2025, Australia’s longest running and largest national day of environmental action, Clean Up Australia Day, will celebrate 35 years of bringing local communities together to Clean Up and help to improve and conserve our environment. To commemorate this milestone, Clean Up Australia is calling on all Aussies to register for the 2025 event which will be held on Sunday March 2 and join their local communities in making this year the biggest one yet.  Clean Up Australia was founded in 1990 by Ian Kiernan AO. Since its inception, over 22 million Australians have registered as a volunteer for Clean Up activities within their local community year round. The 2024 Clean Up Australia Day campaign alone collected an estimated 140,000 bags of litter nationally, highlighting the continued importance and relevance of Clean Up events and volunteers. Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia said: “Clean Up Australia has a rich history of mobilising Australians to take practical action to clear up the mass amount of litter and waste that makes its way into our beautiful waterways and other natural surroundings. We know that 35 years on from when my father, Ian Kiernan, started this iconic organisation, our fight against litter is nowhere near over, but we also know that as a society we need to shift our habits to consider litter prevention and best practice to stop it from entering our environment in the first place.”  The FY23 Clean Up Australia Litter Report which provides an annual snapshot of litter collected by volunteers in a calendar year, highlighted that plastics continue to dominate, marking 81% of all surveyed litter. The report also showed that 44% of all litter was cleared from waterway sites, 16% from parks and 11% from bushland, demonstrating the need to encourage as many Australians as possible to glove up and get out into the community on Clean Up Australia Day and events throughout the new year. “I truly hope that in 2025 we can rally as many Aussies as possible to get behind Clean Up Australia and make it the biggest year of action to date. Nothing makes us prouder than to see communities from all walks of life and generations coming together with a common goal of making a difference for our precious environment,” Pip said. Registrations for Clean Up Australia Day 2025 are now open. Volunteers can receive a free Clean Up kit, containing gloves, bags and other resources, with packs for individuals, families and community groups available (businesses are asked to pay a small fee to cover costs).  If you are unable to participate, donations to Clean Up Australia are welcome, with 100% of funds raised going directly to empowering Australians to take positive action for the environment and providing Clean Up kits. Register now at cleanup.org.au for Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday March 2, 2025. Business Clean Up Day on Tuesday February 25, 2025 and Schools Clean Up Day on Friday February 28, 2025.