The Kiama Lions Club was pleased to welcome well-known artist Ken Tucker to a recent meeting. When they reached out to discuss their Cancer Care Fund, Ken, known for his charitable work, generously offered to donate a piece of his artwork to raise funds.During the meeting, Ken live-painted a scene of Blowhole Point, completing most of the artwork on-site and finishing the details at home. The 800 x 800 artwork will be raffled, with 200 tickets available at $20 each. Ken Tucker is a local artist known for his charitable contributions. Originally from Bathurst, he has lived in Kiama for the past 15 years, drawing inspiration from the town's coastal and forest landscapes. He has received several awards, including Best in Show at both the Shoalhaven Art Exhibition and the Kiama Art Exhibition.The Cancer Care Fund was established in 1994 by the Lions Club after they sadly lost several members to cancer. The fund provides anonymous financial assistance to Kiama residents in palliative care. Referrals typically come from healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. Only cancer patients or their carers who live in the Municipality of Kiama are eligible. Friends or neighbours who know someone who might qualify can contact Geoff Heinecke at 0431 100 622.The raffle will be drawn on November 28 at the Lions Club Christmas party, where Ken Tucker will be a special guest. To purchase tickets or donate to the fund, contact Geoff Heinecke at the number provided.

On September 16 Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips met with Kiama District Sports Association President Craig Scott and Secretary John Dawson to discuss future upgrades to the Kiama Sports Complex.Kiama Council was recently awarded a federal grant under the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program to support the renovation of this important facility.“With over 3,000 players plus school groups using the Kiama Sports Complex, there is no doubt that it is a much loved and utilised facility, however it is in dire need of an upgrade,” says Phillips. The upgrades are now awaiting the appointment of the new Kiama Council so that they can work out the masterplan for the future of the complex “I look forward to working with the new Kiama Council, Kiama District Sports Association and community, to progress the masterplan and proceed to a shovel-ready project that can obtain further grant funding,” says Phillips.The Kiama Sports Complex is home to a wide range of activities, including Little Athletics, cricket, soccer, Oztag, netball, and features a skatepark and the Kiama Leisure Centre. 

Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward has called upon the government to prohibit foreign investors and developers from purchasing properties on Australian soil, arguing the ban could help alleviate the housing affordability crisis.Ward says foreign investment is a significant factor driving up housing costs for both renters and potential homebuyers. While acknowledging that such a ban wouldn’t be a “silver bullet,” he emphasised that it could exert “downward pressure on prices and take the heat out of housing costs.”The population of the Kiama local government area is projected to grow by approximately 3,000 people over the next two years, further straining the already-tight housing market.“Housing affordability is one of, if not the most important issue, particularly for younger Australians,” Ward says.Responsibility for regulating foreign property investment falls under the Albanese government, which maintains that foreign investment is crucial to Australia’s economic prosperity. Last year, the federal government introduced higher fees for foreign buyers and increased penalties for homes left vacant, aiming to boost the supply of affordable housing nationwide.Ward said constituents from his Kiama electorate had urged him to bring the matter before parliament, but stressed that it was an issue of personal conviction as well.“Parliament has an opportunity to press the Commonwealth to do what other nations have done and pause foreign investors from profiteering at the expense of our citizens who are struggling to pay their rent and their mortgage.”Ward also criticised the NSW government for setting development targets without adequate consultation with local communities. He pointed to the Toolijooa Passing Loop project as an example, claiming it was included in a secretive infrastructure audit that was under review to be cut last year.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward is in the spotlight today after national media outlets reported on a visit he took to parliament at 4am in his underwear, maintaining that he was collecting a spare key after being locked out of his apartment.The Daily Telegraph reported on Wednesday that a parliamentary security report claimed Ward arrived at Parliament on 21 July around 4am wearing only a t-shirt, underwear and socks.The Bugle spoke directly with Mr Ward, who expressed that the incident has been exaggerated. He denied there being any alcohol involved and no gash on his forehead as reported. Ward says the incident was a simple case of being locked out of his home. “Having been awoken by a noise at the rear of my apartment, I inadvertently locked myself out of my property in the early hours of 21 July.”Ward claims he made the trip to parliament in an attempt to regain access to his home by means of a spare key left there in case of emergencies. “Given it was freezing at around 4am in July, with no prospect of getting a locksmith, not having my phone, and with my property around eight minutes walk to Parliament, I went to Parliament to get my spare key.”Ward encountered a security guard on arrival who he claims provided him access to the building.“The imputation that I was drunk is wrong,” Ward said today addressing the accusations. “The imputations in these questions are defamatory. This is the kind of gutter journalism that causes public trust in some journalists to reach an all-time low.”Ward dismissed the situation as an overblown media spectacle, stating, “I will be making no further comment.” For him, it’s back to business as usual.Gareth Ward has represented the seat of Kiama in the NSW Legislative Assembly since 2011. The Bugle has heard that the matter is being referred to the Privilege and Ethics Committee, since the story was leaked to the media.

The Kiama District Sports Association (KDSA) held their annual general meeting at the Kiama Leagues Club on the evening of 23 September.The KDSA acts as a conduit between the Kiama Council and sporting associations on booking sporting fields and awarding grants to affiliated clubs.With 40 years of operation, the association has built strong relationships with local clubs and Kiama Council to promote sporting competitions and meet the significant and growing demand of the local sporting community.Retiring Mayor of Kiama and KDSA Patron, Neil Reilly, attended and congratulated the newly elected life Members; Craig Scott and Paul Condon. “Craig and Paul [have] been long time servants of sport in the Kiama LGA and the Kiama District Sports Association,” Secretary John Dawson said on the night.Craig has been a stalwart supporter of the Kiama Little Athletics Club and has spent countless hours tending to his beloved athletics track at the Kiama Sports Complex. He is the current serving President of the Kiama Little Athletics Club, and has previously served as the President for the state division of the organisation. Paul has been a member of the Gerringong sporting community since birth. He has been a player, coach and office bearer at Gerringong Rugby League Club for Juniors and Seniors and the Gerringong Touch Association. Paul is the go-to for anything sport related in Gerringong.“Craig and Paul have served the association with distinction over the many years of their involvement and were worthy nominees as the second and third Life Members after Col Rathbone was awarded Life Membership four years ago,” Dawson continued.The sporting community in Kiama relies heavily on the support of Council grants that the KDSA award to clubs. Council increased their annual grant from $30,000 to $60,000 and over the past seven financial years more than $270,000 in funding has been awarded to affiliated clubs of the association. This funding has gone on to purchase replacement football goalposts, refurbish canteens including the purchase of new refrigerators, point of sale systems and replacement turf wicket covers and defibrillators on the grounds. The association has commented on their eagerness to work with newly elected councillors and Mayor this term to see the completion of the long-awaited Strategic Plan for Outdoor Space and Recreation and the Masterplan for the Kiama District Sports Complex. The executive team were announced as; President Craig Scott, Vice President Ross Thomas, Secretary John Dawson, Treasurer Gail Gaynor and Trust Fund Coordinator Craig Scott. 

In the coming weeks, we will be sitting down with local dairy farmers to better understand the challenges they face, and more importantly, how our community and local government can step up to support them. Our dairy farmers are the lifeblood of our region, providing fresh, milk for Australian families while operating on prime agricultural land that sits just 10 minutes from the coastline – land that many desire to live on.The reality is that much of this prime land is now owned by lifestyle farmers, making it increasingly difficult for our working farmers to grow their businesses by acquiring more land. However, despite these challenges, our dairy farmers continue to innovate. They are adapting and leveraging opportunities that arise, making the most of the resources available to them.What is particularly remarkable about our region is that our dairy farmers are among the youngest in the state, and they are doing more than just maintaining their farms – they are employing young people from the community and embracing cutting-edge technology. This forward-thinking approach ensures the future of local dairy has the potential to be bright.But with the mounting pressure of developers purchasing prime agricultural land, finding ways to ensure our dairy farms can continue to operate and grow is vital. The solution is not as simple as stopping development. Instead, we should look at encouraging developers to give long-term leases to our dairy farmers. This gives farmers the confidence they need to plan for the future and continue contributing to the local economy.We have a lot to be proud of in our local dairy industry, and through collaborative efforts, we can support it to thrive in a changing landscape. Stay tuned as we explore how, together, we can help ensure the longevity of dairy farming in our region.

Jamberoo CWA’s Opera in the Valley is on again.This special event is on Saturday, 2nd November.Maestro Glenn Amer will once again be working his magic at the piano.This year’s program will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the death of one of the greatest operatic composers of all time, Giacomo Puccini.Mark your diary: tickets go on sale at Elders Real Estate: 4236 0891 on 2 Oct.  Get in early as tickets sell out fast. The Bugle will be publishing an article in the Oct 19 edition about the line-up of talent for the evening.

Volunteer lifesavers and council lifeguards will begin their patrol season on Saturday 28 September, marking the start of the spring school holidays. With Spring bringing warmer weather, patrolled beaches are the best place for a swim with the added safety of the protective eye of a lifeguard.Surf Beach will be patrolled all week, from 10 am until 5.30 pm on weekdays and an earlier finish to the day with patrol wrapping up at 4 pm on weekends. Jones and Werri Beach will be patrolled on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm.Supervising Beach Lifeguard Craig Bowley warned beach-goers to remain vigilant of our waters and keep between the flags.“We have some of the most beautiful beaches on the South Coast but we also have some of the most dangerous,” Bowley said.Kiama Council and Surf Lifesaving NSW have installed an Emergency Relay Beacon (ERB) at South Bombo Beach, and at other drowning black spots at Kendalls Beach and Blowhole Point. In an emergency, the beacon can be activated by someone needing assistance in the water and connects them to the Surf Lifesaving NSW Operations Centre. A text message is also sent to alert the nearest lifesaver or lifeguards. Surf Life Saving Australia released concerning statistics in their 2024 National Coastal Safety Report. 258 coastal deaths were reported across the country over the past 12 months, 58 percent due to drowning. Surf Life Saving Australia CEO, Adam Weir, wants visitors and residents to continue to enjoy the beach as the coast heats up, but not to forget the risks involved.“We want to ensure everyone can enjoy our coastline safely and return home to loved ones.” Surf Life Saving Australia completed over 8,800 rescues over the past 12 months, each one a near-miss and a life saved. “Our message remains simple: swim at patrolled locations, know your limits and be aware of your actions and decisions around the water,” Weir said.Summer lifeguards will increase beach patrols when they begin work on 23 December.

Kiama Municipal Council (KMC) is in the middle of the Housing Strategy process and is assessing potential growth areas against a set of good planning principles, enabling it to filter and prioritise the best options. The Springhill project should be part of this process and assessed according to the same principles to determine whether it is appropriate and necessary to meet Kiama’s housing requirements.On 23 September KMC notified the Southern Regional Planning Panel (SRPP) of several recommended amendments to the Kiama West/Springside Hill planning proposal. KMC expressed its strong concern that the SRPP decision is in fact not in accordance with the Local Environmental Plan Making Guidelines of 2023 that govern such matters. They have requested that the Minister of Planning, the Hon. Paul Scully “immediately intervene in the SRPP decision, call in the matter’ and to allow time for the polls to be declared and the elected body of Kiama Municipal Council to take office”. KMC maintains that once this occurs the sensible outcome should be that the applicant provides a new planning proposal to council, completing all steps and addresses concerns raised by council and the SRPP.Their view is that the Record of Decision is that the Planning Proposal should proceed to Gateway with a total of 14 broad areas of significant change that require further work by the applicant prior to proceeding to gateway. This is a highly unusual request for a revised planning proposal. The unresolved issues which go beyond “qualifying changes” and are substantial in nature.The Guidelines insist that before the SRPP makes this type of decision it should seek the Council’s and the proponent’s view at the panel meeting, and KMC are saying that this did not occur and there will be no opportunity for this to occur.A big issue for KMC is that since the election polls are not declared until 4 October 2024, the newly elected councillors won’t have time to be sworn in and meet to consider the matter before the date issued by the SRPP for action. Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud expressed her deep concerns following the recent planning decision, stating, “Any time planning decisions and powers are taken out of the hands of local government, it undermines the planning profession. Instead, these crucial decisions are made by others.”She highlighted the local engagement efforts currently underway, noting, “We have over 300 recent submissions on our draft housing strategy that we are currently working through and many focus on this development. Local voices are not being listened to in this process.”“Our previous council voted unanimously against this proposal, for nearly the same reasons the SRPP now wants 14 issues addressed," she added. "When presenting to the SRPP Council noted real concerns with issues like roads, water and sewerage, schools, a lack of childcare, shortages of employment lands and flooding issues.”Despite these concerns, Stroud emphasised that the SRPP’s decision disregards the issues raised. " Today’s SRPP decision throws those concerns to the wind. Instead, the community is left pondering a decision on its future being made by a panel, whose views were split, with the ultimate chairman’s call."She further criticised the approval process, remarking, “Like a lot of people, I am curious, that even when the applicant refused to submit a basic scoping proposal or provide essential reports that adequately address issues such as Geotech, flooding and bushfire, it still gets a green light.”Ms Stroud pointed out that the Kiama Council's draft housing strategy already outlines sufficient growth to meet NSW Government housing targets without the need for this large greenfield development. “This proposal, which squeezes in over 1500 lots and sends thousands of cars onto the existing road network every single day. That is not the legacy that good planning seeks to leave.”Ms Stroud emphasised that community creation extends beyond housing targets. “The creation of communities is more than just housing and target numbers, it’s about schools, water, sewerage, parks, open spaces, good urban outcomes supported by essential funded infrastructure.”While acknowledging the challenge of balancing growth and sustainability in a highly desirable and unaffordable coastal area, she warned, “grabs for land and cash shouldn’t come at the expense of sensible planning for new greenfield communities.”Despite her frustrations, Stroud remains committed to working professionally with the developer in the community’s best interests. “I have personally met the applicant several times and will continue to collaborate with them professionally in the interests of the whole community. I understand the proponent has done much good work here and in other LGA’s, but it is essential that due process and political representation is afforded on this decision too.”Ms Stroud concluded by reiterating the need for balance in development. “All developments have merit, but balance must be found. Without an elected body, without community engagement, I worry that it’s simply agreeing to growth at all costs and I hope the Minister helps end this most unusual circumstance”.In a statement in response to SRPP recommendation that Springside Hill rezoning proposal proceed to Gateway Determination, Mr George Geagea, Director of Traders In Purple has said, “Traders In Purple is delighted for the hundreds of locals who have registered their interest to become future residents at Springside Hill. This decision means that Springside Hill will progress to the next stage of assessment. We look forward to working through the decision and providing the additional information that is required.”“This is the planning system delivering positive outcomes, based on merit, not local politics, to address the housing crisis and a desperate need for the entire community. Kiama is the most unaffordable place in regional NSW and this decision to move forward is a welcome one for key workers, nurses and those who are struggling to find housing in the region. It delivers an outcome to benefit the broader community.”Mr Geagea said, “Premier Chris Minns and Planning Minister Paul Scully have been very clear about the need to address the housing crisis, and we look forward to working with the NSW Government as we progress Springside Hill.”“We have had more than 400 individual conversations with the community, held drop-in sessions and briefed the previous Council on multiple occasions. And we will continue to engage with the community, and all levels of Government including the new Council, throughout this process.”“Contrary to the statement issued by Council, the independent Planning Panel does not require any material changes to the Springside Hill proposal. Rather, it has asked Traders In Purple to consult with Government agencies and provide clarifications. This is a normal part of the planning process where further information is often required.”“Kiama Council was fully aware of this process when it made its decision to oppose Springside Hill in April 2024. Rather than working with us, the Council chose to outrightly refuse the proposal and put this decision in the hands of independent experts. As part of the onboarding process, I am sure Council staff will inform new Councillors of the impacts of the decision of the former Council.”Remarking further on the background of the issue at hand, Traders in Purple have said that the planning system has allowed for the review of Council decisions on planning proposals since 2012. This pathway is specifically to allow for proposals that do have merit, to progress, when obvious political decisions, or decisions made in error, have occurred.“This takes the politics out of planning and allows an independent panel to make decisions on merit. So, when Council made their assessment in early 2024, they were well aware of this process and the fact that their rejection would likely lead to this outcome and their forfeiture of any future decision making on the proposal,” he pointed out. The ‘rezoning review’ process requires both the local council and the proponent to present their case for the rezoning to the independent panel. Council and Traders In Purple presented to the independent panel on 12 September 2024. Mr Geagea maintains that “Traders in Purple were successful in demonstrating the merits of Springside Hill versus Council’s position of rejection. And, contrary to the statement from Kiama Council, the rezoning review decision does not require “broad and significant changes”.Rather, he says, “The decision has asked Traders in Purple to provide further information and clarifications. This will require consulting with NSW Government agencies over the next four months and ensure that the independent panel is satisfied with the additional information.”Local state MP Gareth Ward has commented: “NSW Labor has a big growth agenda. They don’t care about village character, our local environment or consulting our community.“Whilst I appreciate we need more homes, we also need infrastructure to support this growth. I’ve spent a large part of my political life funding for major infrastructure that should have been built decades before. Whilst we do need to have a conversation around housing growth, this must be supported with real funding for infrastructure. “Whilst the Government says it wants to have this conversation, I can’t take them seriously whilst NSW Labor is cutting projects like the South Coast Rail Line upgrade south of Kiama. “Everything from car parking to school and hospital capacity must be considered when proposing huge growth targets. It seems the Government just want more homes, but they don’t want to build better and stronger communities,” he concludes.The relevant planning documents for PP, including the decision of the SRPP are available here: www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/rezoning-reviews/under-assessment/planning-proposal-rezone-land-long-brush-road-jerrara-and-greyleigh-drives-and-jamberoo-road

Transport for NSW has announced speed reductions along Riverside Drive and Jamberoo Road effective from next week. Riverside Drive will have a new speed zone set at 60 km/h between Fig Hill Lane and Federal Street, a scale down from 80 km/h.The new speed will make the entire stretch of Riverside Drive a 60 km/h zone, increasing the travel time minimally by 27 seconds. “The speed zone review was initiated by the community and found that the reduced speed of 60 km/h is necessary to improve the safety of motorists and other frequent road users including cyclists and pedestrians,” a spokesperson for Transport NSW says.Jamberoo Road will also adopt a 60km/h speed from Jamberoo Mountain Road in Jamberoo to Terry Street in Albion Park. Originally 70 km/h and 80 km/h, the reduced speed limit will increase travel time along the seven-kilometre road by one minute and 39 seconds.“There have been 23 crashes within this length of road in the past five years, one of which resulted in a fatality and 12 which resulted in serious injuries,” the spokesperson continued. The speed zones are expected to be installed from 30 September on Riverside Drive and 8 October on Jamberoo Road. Electronic signs will be on display to advise of the speed zone changes to allow for an adjustment period.

Kiama Council put out a press release on 23 September announcing Right to Know Week NSW which runs from 23-29 September 2024. It’s about ‘Mainstreaming Access to Information and Participation in the Public Sector in NSW’, as transparency is a core pillar for supporting public participation in the public sector.In NSW, members of the public can seek information directly from many public sector agencies such as NSW government departments, councils, universities, state-owned corporations and ministerial offices.The release states, “Mandated openness under legislation is one reason the GIPA Act in NSW is a world-leading example of how to mainstream transparency in the public sector,” adding “Legally protected rights to access government information make public participation both possible and meaningful,” and further that, “Successful public participation can help create more responsive and effective policies and increase trust between community and public institutions.”These statements seem at odds with the reality from Kiama Council, who have chosen to suppress the letter from ICAC that says they will not pursue an investigation on the three former Councillors, Keast, Rice and Renkema-Lang who were referred to ICAC from Kiama Council. They still have the post on their website that publicises the referral but have claimed that since they are in ‘caretaker mode’ they cannot make the exoneration letter from ICAC available. The press release makes it clear that “Some of this information is proactively available on websites or other publications, while other information needs to be requested,” and further that, “The public has a right to access information from Kiama Council.” Despite the request being made by the three councillors, there has been no access to the letter provided by Kiama Council. Since Kiama Council have stated, “Kiama Council is a proud Champion of Right to Know Week NSW 2024 and is committed to supporting public participation through greater transparency,” it is time for them to make good on that claim.

Hindmarsh Park upgrade works have been completed and the brand new playground and picnic facilities are now open to the public.The park upgrades, announced in January of this year, saw Kiama Council invest $4.5 million in the new playground and picnic area with state funding and support from the NSW government. “The park is great - it caters for the older kids but there’s also things for the little ones to do,” Mum of Jasmine, Mina says.Families can enjoy an impressive playground, fitted out with a trampoline, seesaw and swings, to name a few. The upgrade includes the rejuvenation of the Orry Kelly stage, with a new canopy installed and an upgraded accessible ramp and side stairs for presentations and events. A new lane has been added to aid pedestrians and equipment to the railway pathway.  “I have a friend and her little boy who has outgrown the park at Surf Beach, so this park is great for that,” Mum of Pippa and Loni, Megan says. Hindmarsh Park also has been boosted with additional picnic settings, platform seating, benches, a barbecue and drinking fountains for everyone to enjoy ahead of warmer weather. The grand reveal has come ahead of schedule by a month, with the official opening originally expected in late October. 

A new aviation course will be offered at TAFE NSW Nowra for the first time this semester offering locals the opportunity to jumpstart a career in aviation mechanics.The course being offered is the Certificate II in Aeroskills which is a practical six month course that will equip students with job-ready skills in welding and fabrication, including repairing and overhauling aircraft electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electro-hydraulic, and electro-pneumatic components.  This forms part of a wider strategy, enacted by the NSW Government, to future-proof industry in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region by attracting more workers to meet in-demand roles, including Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. Sarah Kaine, Government Spokesperson for Kiama, said, in a media release, that this new course is a win-win for local industry."Investing in education to address skills gaps is a win-win. It strengthens our industries, drives economic growth, and ensures our workforce remains competitive and capable. This new course will provide local industries with the skilled workers our state needs, while equipping students with the expertise needed to meet industry demands,” said Kaine.New South Wales employs the most Aircraft Maintenance Engineers of all states and territories, at over 30% of jobs, and 17 per cent of aircraft maintenance engineers in Australia will pass retirement age in the next decade. Head to Tafe NSW Nowra website for more information.

The annual Gunji Origin Reconciliation Cup will begin on September 23 with students from across Lake Illawarra joining NSW Police officers for a mixed Oztag competition at Myimbarr Park, Shellharbour.The competition was launched in 2022 and aims to help bridge the gap between the Indigenous community and non-indigenous community and police.Around 90 students in years 7-10 from schools in Oak Flats, Warilla, Lake Illawarra, Dapto and Albion Park will compete with Police officers from the Lake Illawarra District for bragging rights.Lake Illawarra Police District Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer, Glen Sutherland said in a press release that previous competitions have been a great success.“The event is a great opportunity to come together on Dharawal Country Land and be active, while also breaking down any barriers that exist between the community and police, particularly the Indigenous communities,” said Sutherland.“We have seen incredible success in the previous years, with students seeing police officers in a different light and building relationships in a more relaxed environment. They now feel more comfortable to reach out if they need police and the benefits go well beyond the field, with spectators turning up throughout the day to cheer on their friends and family and engage with local police.”The event will run throughout the day.

Acne has plagued humanity since ancient times, with evidence suggesting that even King Tutankhamun suffered from it. The young pharaoh was entombed with patchouli leaves, believed to strengthen the skin and balance oil production. The Ancient Egyptians also turned to sour milk as a remedy, while the Greeks favoured honey and sulphur. A Greek physician named Theodosius even recommended watching a falling star while wiping one's spots, in the hope that the acne would vanish along with the star.Fast forward to today, and while the causes of acne - like genetics, skincare habits, and lifestyle factors - remain the same, our understanding and treatment options have advanced significantly. Acne occurs when excess oil production clogs pores, trapping bacteria that lead to inflammation and breakouts. However, the good news is that with the right approach, acne can be effectively managed and even cured.Modern approaches to acne treatmentThe complexity of acne treatment reflects the complexity of the condition itself. The American Academy of Dermatology recently updated its guidelines for managing acne vulgaris, following a systematic review published in January 2024. This review produced 18 evidence-based recommendations and five good practice statements, highlighting the most effective treatments available today.Topical treatments: Benzoyl Peroxide and RetinoidsBenzoyl peroxide is widely regarded as one of the fastest-acting acne treatments. Dermatologists often recommend starting with a product containing 2.5% benzoyl peroxide to minimise the risk of side effects like dry, irritated skin. This treatment is particularly effective for mild acne and works by killing the bacteria responsible for breakouts.Retinoids, another cornerstone of acne treatment, work by unclogging pores, making other medicated creams and gels more effective. Retinoids, like isotretinoin, address the four main causes of acne: bacteria, clogged pores, excess oil, and inflammation. While potent, these treatments often require a prescription and a course of four to five months.Oral treatments: Antibiotics and Cortisone injectionsFor more severe cases, oral antibiotics such as tetracyclines (minocycline, doxycycline) or macrolides (erythromycin, azithromycin) are commonly prescribed. These antibiotics reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne, though they should be used for the shortest duration possible to avoid antibiotic resistance. Combining antibiotics with topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide can further reduce this risk.For deep, painful pimples, dermatologists may recommend a cortisone injection, which can rapidly reduce inflammation. It's crucial to avoid picking or popping pimples, as this can exacerbate inflammation and lead to scarring.Cutting-edge treatments: Sebacia and AviClearResearch into acne continues to evolve, with exciting new treatments emerging. One such innovation is AviClear, a 1726-nanometer laser that offers a safe, drug-free approach to acne treatment. This technology, which specifically targets oil glands while sparing the surrounding skin, has recently become available in Australia after receiving clearance from the US FDA for treating mild to severe acne.Another groundbreaking option is Sebacia, a treatment designed to target sebaceous glands using a combination of light-based therapy and gold microparticles. This treatment is typically administered in a series of three sessions over 14 days. This is not yet available in Australia, however.The Future of Acne TreatmentAs research into the genetic and biological underpinnings of acne advances, we can expect even more effective treatments on the horizon. The ongoing exploration of new medications, as well as laser and light therapies, promises to provide those suffering from acne with even more options to achieve clear, healthy skin.

Marking Time is the theme for this year’s History Week. What people, events and histories will our school children want to celebrate and remember in the future? A highlight of the year at the Gerringong Museum is the visit by students from Gerringong School. During Book Week over 200 children glimpsed into the past through exhibits which revealed what our past community considered important to commemorate. We asked the students to suggest what they would put into the museum. From school and sports uniforms, ballet shoes, a 2024 newsletter and iPhone to, "it would be a picture of the old surf club. It represents many people who volunteer from the community and the families who gather there on Sunday for Nippers.”How do you personally mark time? If you have photographs, stories or memorabilia which you would like to donate to our collection please contact us at: [email protected] or drop in on Friday or Saturday 11am to 3pmOur Gerringong Scout, Guide, Brownie and Cub Exhibition is still open.

On November 9-10, Australia’s leading biodynamics educator, Hamish Mackay, will present a two-day workshop titled Introduction to Biodynamics in Kiama, alongside Douglas Ross from Nambruc Natural Farms and Mahlah and Kel Grey from The Pines Farm on Saddleback Mountain.Biodynamics is a core principle of regenerative farming, focused on enhancing soil health and vitality and Douglas Ross wants more people to know about it.“Biodynamics is two words: bio which is life and life force, and dynamics is processes. This concept has been around for many years. Biodynamics is just that practice of looking after your soil and making sure that everything you can do, and manage, in that soil is about creating and enhancing life. That is the key message,” says Ross.Ross began his career as a chemical farmer, following traditional agricultural education. But at age 45 he realised that something was wrong with his soil.“When I was 45, I suspected that my soil wasn’t being looked after and I did some courses outside the traditional educational field and talked to soil scientists and through this I got the gist that there are other ways of looking at it. So, I changed to regenerative agriculture and biodiversity, I don’t use poisons anymore,” says Ross.Ross says that when he was making the switch at 45, the information wasn’t as easy to access as it is now through podcasts and news outlets. But Ross emphasises that workshops like this are vital for bridging theory and practice.“I remember when I first started to learn, trying to dispel the myths that I’d grown up with and was practicing as a chemical farmer, and I found it hard. I found it a long-term process to go through and read and get the information. I believe that in the last 5-10 years, through social media and other outlets, it has really taken off. People are listening to podcasts and publications which makes it easy to see what’s possible,” says Ross.“I believe a course like this is about getting on the ground and getting people to actually practice some of the modalities that can actually work on day one. You can listen to all the podcasts you want and read all the books, but you have to then get down on the ground and get dirty and actually produce the food. And I think that’s what I am best suited to in helping with this education process.”The workshop will be held at The Pines Farm, where participants will learn the theories of biodynamics and regenerative agriculture while getting their hands dirty. They will learn to make preparations, biostimulants, and compost that add vitality to the soil. The course will also feature lunches prepared by inspirational chef and regenerative farmer, Emma Jane, from The Still Room in Moss Vale. The workshop runs from November 10-11, 8:30 AM to 5 PM. Tickets cost $600, with an early bird discount of $100 for purchases made before September 30. Tickets can be bought at Humanitix - (https://events.humanitix.com/introduction-to-biodynamics).

For over 45 years, 78-year-old Clive Pickering has been a resident of Kiama Downs, known not just for his long-standing community ties but also for his extraordinary passion for clock collecting and restoration. With a collection of over 70 clocks, including many towering 6-7½ foot grandfather clocks that he has painstakingly restored or built himself, Clive has earned a global reputation as being well versed in the field of horology. Clive's story begins in Middlesbrough, Yorkshire, England, where he was born before emigrating to Warrawong, Australia, with his parents at the tender age of three. Growing up in the Illawarra, he nurtured a deep connection to craftsmanship, a passion encouraged by his carpenter father. This early influence laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong dedication to the art of restoring clocks and building for them period style replacement cases. A familiar name among readers of the UK-based CLOCKS magazine, Clive has, for the past four decades been a regular contributor. His expertise as a period casemaker and restorer is highly regarded, with his insights reaching a global audience through the magazine's extensive distribution. Clive specialises in the restoration and recasing of early Circa 1700 orphaned English longcase movements - mechanisms that have outlasted their original wooden cases, which often deteriorate after centuries of exposure to the elements. Over the course of ten trips to the UK, Clive meticulously tracked down and brought a significant number of these difficult to locate orphaned movements to Australia, where he recased them in the traditional manner.He frequently uses well-figured local native Australian Red Cedar, Toona Ciliata, for his case-building projects, a timber renowned for its magnificent grains and admired by clock enthusiasts worldwide.Interestingly, many grandfather clocks brought to the Australian colonies arrived as movement-only pieces, with their cases constructed locally by convict woodworkers using Red Cedar and other native timbers. Clive’s work continues this historical tradition, breathing new life into these horological treasures. Remarkably, Clive's expertise was self-taught, honed through years of hands-on experience and guidance from his father. “For 38 of the past 55 years, I combined my passion for clock restoration, case building, and writing with a full-time career as a high school teacher,” Clive shares. As the Head of the Physical Education and Health Department at Kiama High for 11 years, he balanced his professional responsibilities with his deep-seated love for horology. Clive’s journey into clock restoration began in 1987, when he stumbled upon an Ingraham American gingerbread clock in a junk shop in the Hunter Valley. Its case was in pieces, but Clive, a keen restorer of early cedar furniture, was captivated by the challenge. “From that day on, I was hooked on clocks,” he recalls. To date, Clive has constructed 90 replacement cases for orphaned clock movements and restored countless others. His work often requires him to master various restoration arts, from crafting replacement parts to fretting out period-style clock hands, constructing brass-cased weights, and fabricating the myriad components needed for these intricate mechanisms - many of which are unobtainable in Australia. Each project is a labour of love, with an average of 200 hours dedicated to constructing a high-quality replacement “period style” grandfather clock case. Among his most cherished restorations is a circa 1675 William Grimes “Londini” movement. Clive recounts, “Purchasing and restoring this rare early movement and then building a replacement period-style case in early hand-cut, thick English walnut veneer for the magnificent 1675 ten-inch engraved brass dial eight-day movement was just the most rewarding experience for me. It now features in horological texts and is the centerpiece of my collection.” Clive Pickering’s dedication to his craft is not only a testament to his remarkable skill but also a celebration of the timeless beauty and intricate artistry of clockmaking. His work ensures that these historical treasures continue to tick on, preserving their legacy for future generations.

Last month Kiama’s favourite pooch Ollie, won the 2024 Oz Tog Dog with a Job, beating hundreds of other hard working canines across the nation. Judges praised Ollie’s ability to “transition herself across the different areas of her jobs” including as a therapy dog in schools, courts, supporting first responders and at Lifeline. It is the second time this year that Ollie has earned the honour of top dog. She was also named one of the Top 10 Hardest Working Dogs in Australia, as part of the Dogs Down Under TV series. Ollie, along with handler Judi Sandilands-Cincotta, was hard at work again recently, walking more than 9km as part of Lifeline’s Out of the Shadows Walk on September 10 to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention.The walk, on World Suicide Prevention Day, called on the community to walk 9km for the nine people in Australia who die every day by suicide. Ollie and Judi were among 12,449 Australians who joined the Out of the Shadows Walk, and the pair raised more than $1500 for Lifeline’s critical crisis call support service.“I just want to say thank you to the Kiama community who helped Ollie and I raise enough money for Lifeline’s crisis call staff to answer 40 calls,” says Judi. “I know times are tough in this current economic climate and I couldn’t be more grateful to those who have supported this important cause. “Tragically, every year over 65,000 Australians attempt to take their own life and over 3000 Australians die by suicide, which has a devastating impact on friends and loved ones.”The Out of the Shadows walk is a way for people to remember loved ones, pay tribute to a friend or family member, or to show support for those experiencing emotional distress or mental illness.“Lifeline receives over 1 million contacts from people in crisis each year,” says Judi. “Staff who are at the coalface taking those crisis calls also need assistance sometimes.”Judi, who is well aware of the benefits of therapy dogs through her work as a clinical nurse consultant in mental health, began volunteering at Lifeline Sutherland with Ollie in June.Therapy dogs are an important support for frontline staff, first responders, and school students with research proving that patting a dog can release the feel-good chemicals serotonin and oxytocin, and reduce stress chemicals like cortisol. “It’s wonderful to see how much Lifeline staff and volunteers look forward to cuddles with Ollie,” says Judi. As well as volunteering at Lifeline each month, the pair work in Campbelltown’s Canine Court Companion Program, where Ollie supports women and children escaping domestic violence in a joint initiative between Victim Services and Guide Dogs. Ollie also visits police and ambulance stations in the Illawarra and is a “rockstar” at Warilla, Bomaderry and Kiama high schools where Ollie and Judi work with school wellbeing staff to support students. Ollie and Judi even have their own special uniforms for schools, court and library visits with Kiama local business owner Esther Keenan, from Known Design & Print, printing them free of charge for the pair.“I could not do what I do without the support of the community and people like Esther who give of themselves and their business so generously to help out,” says Judi.  The Out of the Shadows Walk has raised more than $2million for Lifeline’s crisis support and suicide prevention services.