Gerringong Men’s Shed (GMS) have released a cookbook with 50 recipes designed to help men gain skills in the kitchen.Mike Walker, said the book became the brainchild of himself and Graham Hanna, who illustrated the book, after noticing a number of members had begun neglecting their own nutrition after losing a wife or partner, or becoming a carer for a partner.  “Graham and I, who consider ourselves competent cooks, decided to start cooking lessons with basic, and some not so basic, recipes for those members who showed interest in learning some general cooking skills.”Most of the recipes in the cook book can be made within 20 to 60 minutes, and were developed to be simple to follow. Each recipe has a utensil list and hints to suggested products found on supermarket shelves to assist in the preparation of each meal.“The recently printed cookbook is a collation of recipes from all those lessons that we have conducted in-house over the last 5 years,” Mike said. Three sponsors helped bring the project to life, the Gerringong Bowlo, Robson Building and Gerringong Rotary Club Sunrise.Copies of the cookbook are available to purchase now, a book retailing for $25 each.You can place an order for the cookbook by emailing [email protected], all proceeds go to finance the Men’s Shed and ongoing Gerringong community projects.

Over two weekends, 19-20 October and 26-27 October, at Huskisson Pictures, Screen it Again Sam will present the ocean themed film series OCEAN1.The film series includes the films: Jaws, Morning of the Earth, The Lighthouse, Puberty Blues, Bait and The Big Blue.The series is supported by Gerringong surf shop Natural Necessity who helped bring the two surf films, Morning of the Earth and Puberty Blues, into the lineup.Screen it Again Sam is a collaboration between Shoalhaven residents Jane Johnston and Kerry de Fluck, along with Bruce Isaacs, Chair of Film Studies at Sydney University.Johnston and de Fluck explain that the idea came to them while streaming films at home. They felt the urge to watch these films as they were meant to be seen—on the big screen.“Almost all directors, except those working specifically for television, envision their films on a large scale with a proper sound system to enhance the viewing experience. The emotional connection that develops in a dark cinema, surrounded by others, is a powerful feeling you can't replicate at home,” says de Fluck.They hope the series will encourage people to support local cinemas and bring back the communal experience of watching a film, followed by meaningful discussions.“Cinemas offer something special to the community. We often take for granted that they'll always be there, but they need our support,” says Johnston.“One of our main goals is to spark conversation about films, their culture, and themes. This is best achieved when watching films as a group and discussing them immediately after. It’s also important for regional communities to have opportunities to come together,” adds Johnston.For the selection, they wanted a diverse lineup that spans different genres and styles, including blockbuster hits like Steven Spielberg’s Jaws and smaller films like Robert Eggers’ black-and-white drama The Lighthouse.“So, we wanted a whole set of films that would be able to have a variety of different feelings, thoughts, and stories about the ocean. We wanted films that were mainstream and films that were avant garde,” says Johnston.The film series will be held at Huskisson Cinema, chosen for its beautiful location and the charm of the old cinema.“It’s truly a special venue. The cinema, originally a community hall from the early 20th century, was transformed into a modern space in 1990. It’s comfortable and set in the stunning surroundings of Huskisson,” says Johnston.Tickets are available for individual films or as weekend packages. Purchase tickets online via Humanitix.

Tilley Wood’s exhibition, titled Equinox, opens at the SEVENMARKS art gallery on September 21, the day before the 2024 equinox, when the sun is directly above the equator, marking the beginning of longer days in Australia. “I live in Tasmania, where our lives are deeply influenced by the sun. Winter here is long and dark, making me acutely aware of the seasonal changes. The equinox is powerful because it signals the shift to a time of year with more sunlight than darkness. To me, it marks the start of my most active, happiest, and brightest season,” says Wood.Wood is an artist who enjoys looking at landscapes at different times of the year to see how the different seasons affect the colours and lighting of a particular place. A lot of her paintings in the Equinox exhibition feature similar landscapes that evoke vastly different emotions.“I like how similar times of year look in different environments. Last equinox I was in the Northern Territory and since then I’ve been back in Tasmania, so comparing what spring is like there to here, there’s something really interesting in contrasting those two landscapes,” says Wood.Wood’s process often begins with mixing colors on the canvas, allowing shapes and landscapes to emerge organically. “I usually start with whatever colors are in front of me, playing with them until memories and shapes appear. The painting Big Hill, lutruwita / Tasmania originated from dark colors and circular shapes, gradually evolving into the landscapes I know so well,” says Wood.Wood went to the University of Newcastle for Natural History Illustration and she says that the degree taught her technical skills and how to paint realistically, but ultimately she has found herself departing from this style of painting.“I started learning how to paint and draw in a super realistic, hyper fine way. That was a starting point for me in oils - to paint more realistic, but then working in the medium, what I love about it is the textures and how the colours sort of do their own thing when I mix them together,” says Wood.“I find that there is more interesting stuff to me in my paintings when I let it come out a bit more freely without trying to control it or represent anything precisely. In the past when I’ve tried to produce things that are more realistic, I get further and further away from the feeling of what inspired me about it to begin with.”On top of her paintings in her SEVENMARKS exhibition, Wood also has created sculptures working with wood and dried flowers. She says that all of these works were inspired by the same feeling, and that when she set out to create the exhibition she wanted to do all sorts of different things to make the experience more interactive.“I really didn’t want to just create a room with pictures on the walls that people are just looking at. I wanted to make a more physical space that people are a part of, rather than looking at something that was outside them,” says Wood.With her exhibition, Wood sets a milestone for the SEVENMARKS gallery as she becomes the first early-career artist to hold a solo exhibition in the space. Being originally from the South Coast, Wood says it was a no-brainer for her to present her work at the Kiama gallery.“Being from NSW I’ve always wanted to come back there and have more of a life there and present my work. So when the opportunity came up I thought, absolutely I can’t say no. It feels really good to be asked to exhibit in a space that is a really contemporary gallery that does work across all mediums,” says Wood.Wood’s work is very immersive and satisfies all of the senses. After viewing her paintings for an extended period of time you begin to hear and smell the environments and even see them moving through time.The opening night for Tilley Wood’s exhibition Equinox is Saturday, September 21 and her work will be featured in the gallery until October 12. 

Tilley Wood’s exhibition, titled Equinox, opens at the SEVENMARKS art gallery on September 21, the day before the 2024 equinox, when the sun is directly above the equator, marking the beginning of longer days in Australia. “I live in Tasmania, where our lives are deeply influenced by the sun. Winter here is long and dark, making me acutely aware of the seasonal changes. The equinox is powerful because it signals the shift to a time of year with more sunlight than darkness. To me, it marks the start of my most active, happiest, and brightest season,” says Wood.Wood is an artist who enjoys looking at landscapes at different times of the year to see how the different seasons affect the colours and lighting of a particular place. A lot of her paintings in the Equinox exhibition feature similar landscapes that evoke vastly different emotions.“I like how similar times of year look in different environments. Last equinox I was in the Northern Territory and since then I’ve been back in Tasmania, so comparing what spring is like there to here, there’s something really interesting in contrasting those two landscapes,” says Wood.Wood’s process often begins with mixing colors on the canvas, allowing shapes and landscapes to emerge organically. “I usually start with whatever colors are in front of me, playing with them until memories and shapes appear. The painting Big Hill, lutruwita / Tasmania originated from dark colors and circular shapes, gradually evolving into the landscapes I know so well,” says Wood.Wood went to the University of Newcastle for Natural History Illustration and she says that the degree taught her technical skills and how to paint realistically, but ultimately she has found herself departing from this style of painting.“I started learning how to paint and draw in a super realistic, hyper fine way. That was a starting point for me in oils - to paint more realistic, but then working in the medium, what I love about it is the textures and how the colours sort of do their own thing when I mix them together,” says Wood.“I find that there is more interesting stuff to me in my paintings when I let it come out a bit more freely without trying to control it or represent anything precisely. In the past when I’ve tried to produce things that are more realistic, I get further and further away from the feeling of what inspired me about it to begin with.”On top of her paintings in her SEVENMARKS exhibition, Wood also has created sculptures working with wood and dried flowers. She says that all of these works were inspired by the same feeling, and that when she set out to create the exhibition she wanted to do all sorts of different things to make the experience more interactive.“I really didn’t want to just create a room with pictures on the walls that people are just looking at. I wanted to make a more physical space that people are a part of, rather than looking at something that was outside them,” says Wood.With her exhibition, Wood sets a milestone for the SEVENMARKS gallery as she becomes the first early-career artist to hold a solo exhibition in the space. Being originally from the South Coast, Wood says it was a no-brainer for her to present her work at the Kiama gallery.“Being from NSW I’ve always wanted to come back there and have more of a life there and present my work. So when the opportunity came up I thought, absolutely I can’t say no. It feels really good to be asked to exhibit in a space that is a really contemporary gallery that does work across all mediums,” says Wood.Wood’s work is very immersive and satisfies all of the senses. After viewing her paintings for an extended period of time you begin to hear and smell the environments and even see them moving through time.The opening night for Tilley Wood’s exhibition Equinox is Saturday, September 21 and her work will be featured in the gallery until October 12. 

Folk by the Sea kicks off this evening with a schedule jam-packed with 15 events starting at 5pm. Friday will be a taster of what to expect before a massive 55 event day on the Saturday of the festival. There are still 3-day full price tickets available online so if you want to grab some last minute, head to the Folk by the Sea website. You won’t want to miss out!If you’re strolling out and about on Terralong street you can pick up a copy of the three-day program schedule from Edessa Arcade. For the digitally-savvy, Friday’s schedule can be viewed below.

Fathers’ Day RaffleThe Lions’ Fathers’ Day raffle came and went. The four winning tickets were all held by locals.Ray Worboys won first prize of a set of TVS Ear Buds valued at $680 from Sound Solutions in Kiama.Second prize of a Makita Recipro saw and a Makita hammer drill donated by Gerringong Hardware and a Stoic Brewery voucher, was won by Ross Wraight.Ross Wraight receiving his second prize in the Fathers Day Raffle from Lions President Steve PottieThird prize of a hand made, single bed throw quilt, donated by Janice Mark and a voucher from Stoic Brewery, was won by Marion Hinkley.Fourth prize went to Clare Arnie, a $100 voucher from the Seahorse Oceanview Bistro at the Gerroa Fisherman’s Club, a $50 voucher from Bambinos in Gerringong and a Stoic Brewery voucher.Over $2000 was raised by ticket sales and The Lions Club boosted it to $3000. These proceeds went to SALT at Nowra, a charity for assisted housing for the homeless, the socially disadvantaged and young people at risk.SAHSSI (Supported Accommodation and Homeless Services Shoalhaven and Illawarra)Lions have formed a small committee to support SAHSSI. Collection points are being set up for donated items of need for the Women’s Refuge group in Nowra. You may have noticed a trolley at Khan’s IGA at Gerringong, near the checkouts, where items could be donated.This will be an ongoing project with items donated, being regularly collected and every 2 – 3 months delivered to the Nowra refuge. Prior to these deliveries, SAHSSI will be contacted to ascertain if they have urgent items of need and The Lions Club will endeavour to purchase a reasonable supply of these items.Items for donation include, women’s clothes and shoes (new or used condition), new underwear, socks, feminine hygiene products, toiletries, children’s books and non perishable food and grocery items.Upcoming EventsIt’s back!! The Gerringong Xmas Street Parade. Lions have committed to resurrecting the once famous event. Hopefully it will not have the notoriety it achieved, when Lions were previously involved with it, when a parachuting Santa missed the School Park and was taken by the famous Werri Nor/Easter to smash through the rear window of the car that was first prize in that year’s Xmas Raffle!So mark down Saturday 21st December in your calendar and suss out a good viewing point in Fern St - you never know who you are likely to see in this year’s parade.Planning has also commenced for next year’s MotorFest / Car Show at Cronin Oval on Saturday 15th February. Invitations have been sent out to numerous car clubs and Lions are anticipating about 400 cars of all makes and vintages to come along.Lions President Steve Pottie presenting a cheque for $1000 to Harper Payne to assist with her Rugby Tour to Japan.Junior Sport AssistanceLions have committed to help fund two young Rugby players, Harper Payne and Charlotte Gamero, who have been selected in The Australian Raptors 14 yrs Female Rugby Union Tour of Japan.

Thursday 19 September, 4:30pmA waste fire broke out at the Minnamurra Recycling Centre yesterday afternoon.The fire has since been extinguished by Fire and Rescue firefighters and has been re-opened for public use tomorrow ahead of the Saturday Household Chemical Clean Out. The Up4Grabs shed remains closed to the public.Council has engaged a consultant to undertake an investigation into the root cause of the fire, and have reported the incident to the Environmental Protection Agency for review. Wednesday 18 September, 4:30pm Fire and Rescue NSW have responded to a fire at the Kiama Community Recycling Centre in Riverside Drive, Minnamurra. A waste pile caught alight in the household bulky waste drop off zone of the facility and the centre has been closed to the public while emergency services attend to the fire.There are no reported injuries as a result of the fire."An investigation into the cause of the fire will occur once the current situation is dealt with," a spokesperson for Kiama Council said.A structure broke out at the facility earlier this year in February, firefighters from the Albion Park and Dunmore Rural Fire Service and Shellharbour Fire and Rescue well called upon to extinguished the blaze.

Members of the Australian Religious Response Climate Change (ARRCC) met in Coronation Park on Tuesday to discuss their beliefs on the future of renewable energy in the region.The meeting is a part of a nationwide multi-faith Week of Action, running between 14 - 24 September and calls upon people of all faiths to advocate for federal investments in clean energy.The Anglican Archbishop of Brisbane, Jeremy Greaves has called for a stop to government investment in fossil fuel industries.“We must stop giving around $11 billion of public money annually to the coal and gas industries. They have enough of their own.”State and federal governments spent an enormous $14.5 billion on subsidies to fossil fuel producers and major users last financial year.The federal government election will be taking place this time next year, and ARRCC hope their advocacy will result in decision-makers transitioning away from fossil fuels.“We are in a climate crisis in Australia and globally people are dying, losing their homes and livelihoods because of floods, fires and droughts,” says Rabbi Jonathan Keren-Black OAM.The turbulent climate debate has been front and centre after the offshore wind zone was declared between Wombarra and Kiama in June of this year.Religious figures around the world are taking a public stance on the climate crisis, most notably Pope Francis’ declaration of Vatican City’s plans to run entirely on renewable energy. The Dalai Lama recently declared he would back an environmental party if he were to vote in an election.“There is nothing sacred or holy about this. Taking care of our planet is like taking care of our houses.”

The Sydney FC Football Festival was held at Kiama Sports Complex on September 15 and 16. It achieved great success, drawing 60 teams and nearly 600 players from across the Illawarra, Sydney, and Southern Highlands.Kiama Junior Football Club president Andrew Wales says the weekend was so successful that many are already eager to register for next year. “The weekend was an outstanding success. Despite the wind on Sunday, all teams had fun, and many have already commenced planning to attend the 2025 Festival. The partnership between Kiama Junior Football Club and Sydney FC has grown even stronger, and we’re also grateful to Destination Kiama and Kiama Council for their support,” says Wales.The festival was introduced to counteract the lack of junior football games played this winter due to poor weather.Event organiser and Fan Engagement Manager for Sydney FC, Billy Kirk, says festivals like this are crucial for maximising opportunities for young players in smaller communities.“It’s about being able to give back and provide smaller communities, like Kiama, opportunities that they’re not normally going to be able to experience compared to clubs and communities in major cities like Sydney and to a smaller extent, Wollongong,” says Kirk.“So, it's good to be able to get down to Kiama and run something for the Kiama community and also to bring people down to showcase what Kiama is all about.”The festival was a great way to top off a successful year for the Kiama Junior Football Club.

The Kiama Quarriers Football Club (KQFC) will conclude an impressive year with grand finals for two of their men's teams on September 20 and 21.Of the six teams, four KQFC squads advanced to the semi-finals held on September 15. The teams included the men’s over 45’s, the men’s all-ages, the women’s over 30’s and the women’s all-ages.Unfortunately, both women’s teams, who play in division 1, were unsuccessful in their pursuit of a grand final. The women’s all-ages team lost 2-0 in a competitive match against Fairy Meadow United FC, while the over 30’s team lost against Albion Park 6-1.The over 45s men’s team, playing in division 2, faced Woonona, a team they had previously faced twice, resulting in a 0-0 draw and a 2-1 win for Kiama.It was a fast-paced game with Kiama holding the ball well and dominating the play. s the match progressed, fatigue set in for both teams, but Kiama capitalized on their opportunities, scoring two unanswered goals in the second half to secure a 2-0 victory.Whilst the men’s all ages team, who play in division 4, managed to stun the minor premiers, Coniston, pulling off a remarkable comeback from behind to win 5-4. The team had lost both regular season games against Coniston and when the score got to 3-1 Coniston’s way - it seemed like the semi-final would follow suit.But goals to Bryeson Lloyd, Adrian Meta, Conor Plataniotis and Ethan Summers brought the score to 5-3. ​​The Quarriers managed to maintain their lead, even amidst a brawl that resulted in a red card for a Coniston player, ultimately winning 5-4.KQFC Secretary Nerissa Peterson says of the team, “They came in fourth and they beat the top team, and I think there were a few top quality additions to that team this year and when you get a couple of good players they lift the whole team and you attract more players.”Kiama Quarriers men's all-ages team. Photo source: Nerissa Peterson.The Quarriers used to compete in the district league but now play in the community league and Peterson says this change in competitions has contributed immensely to the club’s success in 2024. “We’re in the community league and I think that has just made everyone very happy. We’ve had big turnouts at social events, and we’ve become quite a family orientated club. Everyone is playing just to be a part of a team sport and for the enjoyment of it. I think a happy team makes you more successful,” says Peterson.The men’s over 45’s will play Gerringong in the grand final on Friday, September 20. The all-ages men’s team will play their Grand final on Saturday, September 20 against Woonona.Peterson is quietly confident that both teams will rise to the occasion and take home the glory for the Kiama Quarriers.“I think they’ve both got good chances to win. The all-ages team defeated the minor premiers so I think they feel like they can beat anyone and the over 45’s have been strong all year,” says Peterson.Additionally, the RMB Kearns & Garside Lawyers 6-A-Side summer competition will kick off on October 10 at the Kiama Quarry Sports Complex. This relaxed social competition is open to the men’s and ladies’ teams, with one more men’s team still needed. Interested parties can contact Secretary Nerissa Peterson at [email protected].

Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward moved a motion in Parliament on Tuesday 17 September to ban the distribution of electoral material within one kilometre of a polling booth.Under the motion, how-to-vote cards handed out at pre-polling and polling day will be prohibited. “People aren’t stupid, and most people have made up their mind by the time they arrive at a polling booth”, Ward says. How-to-vote cards display suggestions in relation to the casting of votes and are given to voters during pre-polling and election day to promote a particular candidate.At the recent election, candidate volunteers urged passers-by to bring the cards back to be recycled for the next day. Ward says the environmental detriment that single-use cards have can be avoided through digitisation of campaign material. “How-to-vote material can easily be distributed electronically and how-to-vote material could be on display inside each polling booth…Think of the trees we’d save.”Leading up to the local election, the town was plastered with a sea of event signage on corrugated plastic material made from polypropylene, or corflutes, that usually display a candidate’s headshot and slogan. Corflute signage contaminates mixed recycling bins and does not break down in landfill, according to Monash University. “Given that other jurisdictions have done the same without challenge, I don’t envisage any constitutional issues given that this isn’t a case of limiting speech but regulating an electoral process,” Ward says. 

Level 33 have submitted amended plans and design documents for the controversial Akuna Street development, open for public exhibition and comment now. The application for the multi-storey residential and commercial Akuna Street development was met with public debate, many residents calling for a reduction in building height, others praising the introduction of more retail options in the town centre.Residents have voiced their opinion on the development application online, some against the location and some viewing it as an opportunity to enhance Kiama's central business district. “I believe the number of proposed apartments is however excessive. The height is too high and will ruin the feel of a village. It will look more like a mini Bondi,” one resident wrote.“This is a great proposal, looks good, and relative to alternative places for development, this is an attractive and sensible location in terms of proximity, amenity and infrastructure,” another resident wrote.The amended plans submitted by the developer attempt to address key concerns raised over the public consultation period, this includes accessibility, height variations, acoustic privacy, traffic, vehicle access and parking, open space management, apartment design and other details.The proposed development encompasses a multi-storey, mixed-use structure, featuring 344 basement car parking spaces, 24 retail premises, 2 supermarkets, and 82 shop-top residential units.The amended Development Application is now on public exhibition for our community to review and make submissions on the Kiama Council website.Submissions must be made by 15 October.

As the bushfire season draws near, Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is urging households to visit their local Rural Fire Service (RFS) during the annual Get Ready Weekend to better prepare for potential fire threats.“Our wonderful Rural Fire Service volunteers are helping local residents prepare with their annual Get Ready Weekend events being held across Gilmore,” said Mrs Phillips.While the majority of RFS stations will host events on the weekend of September 21 and 22, some stations will hold theirs the following weekend, and a few won’t take place until October. “We’ve already had some hot, windy weather and a few bush fires in the region, so it's crucial for residents and landowners to be aware of their risk and take steps ahead of the summer season to protect their homes and properties,” Mrs Phillips emphasised.The Get Ready Weekend provides residents with vital information and resources to ensure they are prepared for the bush fire season. “Our RFS volunteers are gearing up for summer and welcome this opportunity to connect with local residents, especially those who may be new to the area, and unsure about the fire risk,” she added.“They can provide information, advice and ensure you're well-prepared for the bush fire season,” said Mrs Phillips.The RFS advises that having a bush fire survival plan is essential. This plan should ensure that all household members know what actions to take on days of heightened fire danger, and what to do if a fire threatens their home.Residents are also encouraged to prepare their properties by removing flammable materials from their yards, clearing leaves from gutters, and ensuring hoses can reach all parts of the house.Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips talks to Manyana RFS volunteers.Mrs Phillips noted that the Albanese Government is committed to enhancing the nation’s preparedness for future fire emergencies. Through the 2024-25 Budget, the Government has allocated an additional $35 million over the next two years to the National Aerial Firefighting Centre (NAFC), which supports national, state, and territory fire and emergency services with aerial firefighting assets.“This investment will deliver a broader range of aerial assets, moving from specific firefighting aircraft to a mix of fixed-wing and rotary multi-use assets, significantly strengthening protection for communities in Gilmore as they continue to face a more natural disasters into the future,” Mrs Phillips explained. Reflecting on the devastation of the 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfires that ravaged the South Coast, Mrs Phillips acknowledged the community's calls for stronger government support.“Our community has been calling for a greater capability to respond to disasters since the region was impacted so badly by fires, and again by flooding, so it’s really good to see the Government continuing its commitment to keeping us safe,” she said. “These assets will be invaluable in protecting lives and property, halting the spread of fires, and supporting efforts on the ground, especially in difficult-to-access areas of our region,” Mrs Phillips continued. “This is a fantastic step forward to ensure we are prepared for whatever comes our way in the future and will be welcome news to disaster-prone communities.” In the past year, the Albanese Government has convened 75 National Coordination Mechanism meetings, including briefings with key sectors such as aged care, disability services, media, and local governments.“We have also delivered Crisis Appreciation and Strategic Planning training across Australia, and delivered Exercise Aurora, which brought together governments and industry for a space weather simulation,” Mrs Phillips added.“We have launched the National Emergency Management Stockpile Standing Offer Panel and continuing to build on the physical stockpile and committed more than $3 billion towards risk reduction and resilience.”Local Get Ready Weekend events in the Kiama council area will be held at:Gerringong RFS 21/9/24 from 10am – 1pm Jamberoo RFS: 29/9/24 from 9am – 2pm

By Donna Portland & Lynne StrongCampaign signs are inevitable in any election and one can drive around the LGA to see them dotting the kerbsides during election times. While some candidates opt for small corflutes that are nearly impossible to read, a few colour choices stand out: vibrant shades of orange, red, and green.Marketing experts will tell you that there is a strong correlation between colour and brand recognition, especially in political campaigns. Colour acts as a visual shortcut, helping voters identify a party or group before even reading the text. Research in both marketing and psychology suggests that colours are powerful tools for triggering recognition, association, and emotion.The possible impact of colour on campaigns in our LGA’s latest electionGroup A’s orange:Orange is a vibrant and energetic colour, often associated with enthusiasm, innovation, and action. Its warm tone can create feelings of friendliness and approachability, which appeals to voters looking for community-minded candidates. Group A's choice of orange may convey the energy and forward-thinking mentality they want to project.Labor’s red:Red is traditionally linked with strength, passion, and urgency. It's a bold and powerful colour, perfectly aligning with Labor’s advocacy for workers’ rights and social justice. Red’s intensity suggests a commitment to decisive, bold action – qualities that Labour hopes to project to voters.The Greens’ green:Unsurprisingly, green is a clear nod to environmentalism and sustainability. The colour immediately signals The Greens’ core focus on ecological preservation and a connection to nature. Green's soothing, natural associations perfectly align with their policy platform and appeal to environmentally conscious voters.Why does colour recognition work?Speed of recognition: Colours are processed by the brain faster than words, enabling quick identification of campaign materials even when passing by a sign at speed.Emotional impact: Each colour carries its own emotional weight. Red, for instance, evokes urgency and passion, while green suggests calmness and environmental awareness. This emotional trigger is crucial in influencing how voters feel about candidates.Consistency across materials: By maintaining consistent colour use across all campaign materials—banners, leaflets, and digital ads—a campaign strengthens voter recognition and builds trust. The repeated exposure to these colours helps voters quickly associate them with specific parties or candidates.In political campaigns, a carefully chosen colour, paired with a clear message, can have a significant effect on voters' ability to remember and identify with a party or candidate.Beyond colours, familiarity plays an essential role in earning voter confidence. Voters are naturally drawn to candidates they know and trust. Group A’s candidates - Cameron, Erica, Melissa, and Mark - are not just names on a ballot; they are long-standing members of the Kiama community. Their active involvement in local initiatives showcases their commitment to the region's growth and well-being.These candidates have built trust over the years by focusing on balancing the budget, supporting local businesses, and promoting sensible development. These practical, down-to-earth policies resonate with voters who want to preserve Kiama’s unique character while ensuring it thrives economically.Group A’s success in the election isn't just about strong policy positions - it’s about the trust and connection they’ve cultivated with the community. Their balance of business acumen and community service has clearly struck a chord with Kiama’s voters, making them trusted leaders in the area.Become a Good Neighbour Support your local by giving great journalism a helping hand

Lotus Dining Group, renowned for its modern Asian cuisine, has brought a fresh dining experience to the Southern Highlands with the opening of Lotus at the Park Proxi Hotel Gibraltar in Bowral. The restaurant’s philosophy centres on showcasing seasonal produce, with an emphasis on sourcing ingredients from local suppliers, further boosting the region’s vibrant food industry.Offering a unique blend of Asian flavours with a contemporary twist, Lotus is a haven for food lovers seeking something beyond traditional Chinese fare. The dishes are subtle yet complex, delivering a refined fusion of flavours that will appeal to a wide audience. Dumpling enthusiasts, in particular, are in for a treat.I had the pleasure of attending the restaurant’s official launch on Wednesday, September 11, where I sampled a thoughtfully curated menu. From delicate dumplings to fresh seafood and signature dishes like Kung Pao chicken, the offerings celebrated the region’s finest ingredients. The menu struck a perfect balance, providing enough variety to satisfy diverse tastes without overwhelming diners with endless options.For those struggling with the age-old dilemma of what to order, Lotus offers two banquet options, allowing diners to sample a range of dishes and enjoy the full culinary journey. With carefully selected choices across each category, there’s something for everyone.Although the restaurant’s physical renovations are still underway, it’s easy to envision Lotus becoming a sought-after destination. The pricing is particularly appealing, offering exceptional value for the quality and craftsmanship behind each dish.Next time you find yourself in the Highlands, be sure to visit Lotus at 7 Boronia Street, Bowral, for an unforgettable dining experience.

Gerringong Public School (GPS) students dazzled at the 2024 Southern Stars event, taking place over Friday 30 and Saturday 31 August. Two choirs and two dance groups (Berkley and WEC) from Gerringong assembled at the high school ahead of the event, 19 students involved in the choir performances and 39 across the two dance groups. Gerringong Public School Teacher, Michelle McPhillips said her favourite part of the event is seeing the students come together.“Watching the joy on the students' faces during show week and how excited they are to perform…How the students mix with others and learn new skills, and students push themselves even though they are scared of performing and their excitement when they do it.”One student tried out for the Southern Stars performance company and one for the First Nations Dance group Yanggaa Garaba Dance Group.“I loved the community aspect of it and how the children got to talk and make friends from other schools and how we could see the kids shine in a way that NSW Public Education does so well on a large scale”, says Kate Egan, GPS teacher.Southern Stars began in 2001 with a determination to provide students in the Illawarra area and beyond with performing arts opportunities. The event has since grown into a spectacular that has seen over 50,000 public school students perform since its inception. Schools, students, and communities were all encouraged to be part of Southern Stars, the annual event is held at the WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong and all public school students across NSW are invited to showcase their dance, drama and musical performances.“It was amazing and fun as we could watch the show, and I could see my parents when I performed,” GPS student Leesha says.  With an annual audience of around 12,000 people, Southern Stars has cemented itself as a highlight in many schools’ annual calendar.The Bugle congratulates the children on a job well done, and also their dedicated teachers for all the coaching that went into it.

Almost exactly one year after they defeated the Shellharbour Sharks in the 2023 Group 7 grand final, the Gerringong Lions have done it again.On September 15, the Gerringong Lions became back-to-back premiers when they defeated the Shellharbour Sharks 28-10 in the 2024 Group 7 grand final.Gerringong were first to score early in the match when hooker Nathan Ford, who was playing in his 250th game, put second rower Corey Mulhall over for a try.Shellharbour managed to strike back a few moments later, with a near mirror image play on the opposite side of the field, when hooker Brody Rigg put veteran centre Ryan James over to level the score at 4-4.It seemed Shellharbour were destined to take the lead with a few repeat sets, but Gerringong’s defence was too strong.In the 20th minute Gerringong went over for their second of the day when a wayward pass from lock Jake Taylor was picked up by Toby Gumley-Quine who was untouched on his way to the line. Taylor converted to make the score 10-4.Quickly after, young fullback Wes Pring broke through the line and was caught with a swinging arm by Shellharbour’s Ryan James who was sent to the sin-bin for ten minutes as a result. Gerringong opted for a penalty goal that Taylor converted to make it 12-4.Just before half time Gerringong crossed again through Jordan Chandler who took advantage of a rebounded kick. Gerringong led 16-4 at half time.Shellharbour had to be first to score and, off the back of an offload, Kade Sampson managed to draw the last man and put Nicholas Hay over to get the Sharks back into the game and make it 16-10.Not long after that though, Gerringong were back on the board with a beautiful try off the back of a kick that led to Rixon Russell diving under the sticks to make it 22-10.In the 65th minute the Lions sealed the game with some individual brilliance from Gumley-Quine that brought the score to 28-10, which was what it remained until the final hooter sounded.Rixon Russell (left) and Nathan Ford holding the premiership trophy. Source: Gameface Photography.The Lions have been in every single first grade grand final since 2020 (there wasn’t a grand final in 2021 due to COVID) and have only lost only one of those four. The Lions’ reserve grade team also went back to back making Gerringong Lions the second club, the other being Albion Park in 1998 and 1999, in Group 7 history to win back to back premierships in the top two grades.

The Shell Cove PromenART Sculpture Walk is back this year with an even more captivating display, featuring over 50 artworks along the scenic Shellharbour Marina at The Waterfront, Shell Cove. The exhibition will be open to the public until October 30.Building on last year’s success, the number of sculptures has been expanded by 25%, offering visitors a more immersive experience. The artistic trail, presented by ARTPark, winds its way through the picturesque marina’s pathways and boardwalks, with each sculpture accompanied by a QR code providing details about the piece and its artist.Many works reflect the stunning oceanside setting of Shell Cove. Notable pieces include three bronzes from Mela Cooke’s The Swimmers series, capturing women preparing to dive into the water. Also on display is Tobias Bennett’s striking Hungry Egret, a towering 4.5-metre sculpture made from steel pipe, which stands as the tallest piece in the exhibit.One of the standout highlights is Michael Van Dam’s Earth’s Custodian, a massive 900kg stainless steel and chain sculpture valued at $224,000. At the more accessible end of the price range, Andrew Kasper’s 105kg Fire, a weathered steel work standing at 195cm, is priced at $8,890.All sculptures are available for purchase, catering to both private collectors and corporate buyers. In addition, several artists are open to creating custom, bespoke pieces for interested patrons. Proceeds from the sales go directly to the artists, further supporting the creative community.Beyond the sculptures, the PromenART Sculpture Walk, sponsored by Frasers Property Australia and Shellharbour City Council, offers a lively program of live music every Saturday from 11am to 2pm, featuring talented local musicians like Mark Crotti, Glenn Whitehall, Jack Willis, and Blessie Pica.The event also boasts large-scale murals created by local community groups and artists along the eastern edge of the marina. Among the muralists is Claire Foxton, renowned for her 14-metre depiction of Matildas’ star Caitlin Foord on Wollongong Central. Foxton will be adding a new piece to this year’s mural collection.During the October school holidays, the Make Your Mark Youth Mural Painting Sessions will give young artists aged 8 to 18 the chance to contribute to a new mural at the northern end of Shellharbour Marina. The concept, developed by aspiring artists during July’s holiday program under the guidance of local artist Tegan Georgette, will come to life over three days between October 2 and 10.Students from Shell Cove Public School and Stella Maris Catholic Primary School will also collaborate on a mural in Shellharbour Village, showcasing the community’s youthful creativity.According to Mathew Gulliver, Development Director of The Waterfront, Shell Cove, the PromenART Sculpture Walk is well on its way to becoming a signature event on the NSW arts calendar, attracting both locals and visitors alike.“Shell Cove has natural beauty in abundance and now it’s also fast developing its own cultural identity through events like this along with the likes of markets, community groups and programs. It’s all part of what makes this community the full package,” Gulliver said.For details about the Youth Mural Painting Sessions email [email protected] more information about the Sculpture Walk and its surrounding events visit www.promenart.com.au Become a Good Neighbour Support your local by giving great journalism a helping hand

Melbourne Cup Luncheon 2024Tuesday 5 November is Melbourne Cup day and the CMRI Melbourne Cup Luncheon will be held at Gerroa Boat Fisherman’s Club from midday. The cost is $60 and includes a glass of bubbles, cheese board, main course, tea, coffee and slices. There will be live coverage of the Cup, sweeps and a raffle, TAB run and drinks at bar prices. Experienced judges will award a prize for the Best Dressed Female and the Best Dressed Male. Dress up, and enjoy a fun day out at the same time as you are supporting a great cause!The courtesy bus can pick up from Gerringong station - train arrives from Kiama at 12.09. Please book with the club for the bus.Tickets from Trybooking : www.trybooking.com/CUTDP from 7 October.Come on your own, bring a friend, organise a group! Remember some cash for sweeps, bets and the raffle.32nd Quilt & Craft ShowA photo from a previous Quilt and Craft Show event by CMRIThe 32nd Quilt & Craft Show is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the CMRI Gerringong Committee. It will be held on Friday 8 November (10am – 4pm), Saturday 9 November (10am – 4pm) and Sunday 10 November (10am -2pm) at Gerringong Town Hall. Entry is $5 and visitors will be, once again, impressed with the variety of quilts and wall hangings on display. Entries close 2nd November (contact Rhonda Bailey: [email protected])Tickets in the quilt show raffle will be on sale at the IGA late October/early November and at the door. The prize is a beautiful wall hanging (127cm x 127cm) made and donated by national and international prize winning quilter Merelyn Pearce. It is one of Merelyn’s classic pieces based on Margaret Preston’s woodcut entitled Cinerarias c1927. It is featured in the current poster and the raffle is drawn on Sunday afternoon, 10 November.The CMRI Craft Stall will showcase the fabulous creations made by the Monday sewing group. Purchase unique Christmas presents and indulge yourself from a vast range of handmade products. A range of stalls includes quilting supplies, fabric, jewellery and handmade felt and wool will be trading. The Quilting Group and Wollongong Embroiderers will have demonstration tables with members sharing their skills.Refreshments including tea, coffee, sandwiches and slices will be on sale. Sit down, relax and have a cuppa then continue viewing and shopping all in the Town Hall.There will also be a cake stall selling cakes, sweets and slices made by CMRI members. Christmas cakes will not be available at this time but there will be a Christmas Cake Stall in Fern St on Saturday 7 December. Next Meeting: Monday 14 October, 7pm Gerringong Town Hall. New members are always welcome.Become a Good Neighbour Support your local by giving great journalism a helping hand