A Kind of Hush - The Magic of Karen Carpenter: Anita’s Theatre Thirroul, April 26. The enduring magic of The Carpenters’ music is the combination of Karen Carpenter’s beautiful voice, which had an unusual range of three octaves, and the songs that her brother Richard wrote for her. Unusually, a female singer who decides to sing a Carpenters song must set the key by the lowest note, not the highest. A Kind of Hush - The Magic of Karen Carpenter was billed as a concert rather than a tribute, and clearly that was necessary because none of the headliners could match the range or quality of Karen Carpenter's voice. The show was put together by Katie Noonan, and she was joined on stage by Melinda Schneider, Abby Dobson, newcomer Layla Havana and an ‘all-female’ backing band, which had turned half-male, by this the second last of a 16-show tour. Katie Noonan displayed by far the best trained and controlled voice, but the least suited to the Carpenters’ songs, excelling as she does with precision and control in her highest register and bringing with it her own musical style. Melinda Schneider’s songs by contrast were delivered unceremoniously, completely straight and unadorned but she is such an accomplished performer that I was most relaxed when she was centre stage. Abby Dobson was having a bad night; at least, I choose to believe that because surely she would not have been included in the line-up had she sang that badly all the time. She did mention that she was exhausted and hungry but as an audience member that’s not what I want to hear, implying that the effort she had invested in earlier audiences was impacting on her current performance. At the start the number of notes she missed was jarring to the ear but she did warm up towards the end, singing an unexpectedly sweet version of “The Rainbow Connection.” Ironically, 15-year-old Layla Havana was the only one of the four singers, who hit the mark without fail, with her beautifully clear warm voice. She can only get better as her voice and her confidence matures. The banter between the three headliners was full of in-jokes and shared knowledge, which actively excluded the audience while we assume that their intention was to do the opposite, to include us in their private world. It did not help to be told that half the promised ‘all-girl’ band was absent because they got a better offer. At the end, Noonan gave a speech about how important it is to support independent musicians but in context it sounded more like an apology that everything was a bit amateurish. The audience was generous; however, and eagerly participated in the curated singalong opportunities (“On top of the World” and “They Long To Be (Close to You)”), which was well suited to the community hall vibe of Anita’s Theatre.It was an enjoyable evening but in the end the pips that got stuck in my teeth ended up detracting from the sweetness of the fruit. 

Mother’s Day has ancient beginnings and a good place to start is with the Romans, who honoured Cybele (the Great Mother).She was the goddess of nature, fertility, mountains and wild animals. Raucous celebrations were held in spring, which included games, feasts, sacrifices and eunuchs.The early Christians held a celebration on the fourth Sunday of Lent for the Virgin Mary, although with less sacrifices and eunuchs. This was called Mothering Sunday and it’s still part of the Catholic tradition.The modern celebration of Mother's Day grew out of calls for peace after the American Civil War (1861-65). The writer and women's rights activist, Julia Ward Howe, wanted women to unite and bring peace throughout the world.The idea didn’t take off until 1908, when Anna Marie Jarvis, an American woman, held a church memorial to honour the legacy of her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, a pacifist and abolitionist.Anna pushed to have a day set aside to honour all mothers. Her campaign paid off when in 1914, US president Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May to be Mother's Day.Mother’s Day was captured by commercial interests in the 1920s in favour of a more benign celebration of mothers, with breakfast in bed, a card and a red rose.The Suffragette vision of women rising as a political class with important political and social roles to play outside the home was bypassed - but not forgotten by women in the 1960s and 70s.UK Suffragettes in actionIt wasn’t until 1924, following the slaughter of World War I, that the first Mother's Day was held in Australia.Sydney woman Janet Heyden started the tradition after seeing so many poor and lonely women in the Newington State Hospital. Many were left widows after the Great War.Historian and Emeritus Professor Richard Waterhouse from Sydney University says Christmas Day, Easter Sunday and Mother's Day, still bring people together.“In a secular society, those days have lost their importance as occasions for religious celebrations but (they) are still significant for the purpose of family gatherings,” Professor Richard Waterhouse says.“Mother’s Day will continue to be important but the role of mothers will be celebrated in different ways. Women are no longer regarded as the moral guardians of the home but equal workplace participants with their husbands.”“Mother's Day is not just about thanking women for their domestic contributions to families but also their wider contribution as wage earners and equal partners in family life.”

Mother’s Day RaffleThe Lions continue to sell tickets in their Mother’s Day raffle each Saturday on Fern St and outside the IGA. There are four great prizes. First prize is a $300 voucher from Blue Swimmer restaurant at Gerroa; a $100 voucher from 34 Degrees Gerringong and a $30 voucher from The Collective Beat at Gerringong. Second prize is a $200 voucher from Norfolk & Co Gerringong and a $100 voucher from Tilda and Cacao Gerringong. Third prize a $150 voucher from Tonic Facial Gerringong and a $100 voucher from Curries and Spirits restaurant, Gerringong. Fourth prize is a rug valued between $200 and $300 from Holy SpiritYarn Group in Sydney. All proceeds from the sale of tickets are going to the SAHSSSI Women’s Refuge in Nowra.Training Day for the LionsIncoming President, Steve Pottie, along with incoming Secretary, Peter Jeffries recently attended a training day at Dapto to bring them up to date with their obligations and procedures as they prepare to take over the administration of the club for 2024/25. Outgoing President Peter Jeffrey joined them and all three commented on what a positive experience it had been.Steve Pottie, Peter Jeffrey, Peter Jeffries at Lions WorkshopNew MemberGerringong Lions welcomed a new member last week. Greg Schultz, who relocated from Sydney was welcomed into the best Lions Club in Gerringong by President Peter Jeffrey and was inducted by Lion Mark Westhoff.Peter Jeffrey, new member Greg Schultz, and Mark WesthoffAnzac Day CeremonyA very moving ceremony was held at the Dawn ANZAC Service on the headland last Friday with MC Mike O'Leary doing a great job and the very large crowd appreciated the singing from Merryn Lee Perez & Chris Cutting, plus the Gerringong Public School Choir. Many groups and organisations laid commemorative wreaths, including the Lions Club of Gerringong, which was represented by President Peter Jeffrey.Lions Club President Peter Jeffret with wreath at the Anzac Day CeremonyThe return of the Rugby BoysMarc Booker, (left), Henry Cleare (centre) and Jacob Booker (right) had come straight from training, to attend a recent Lions meeting at The Blue Goose to report back on their representative Rugby tours.In April 2023, Marc, Jacob and Henry along with other Junior Rugby Union players from all over the state and interstate were selected in The Australian Raptors Academy Rugby sides.Marc Booker, Henry Cleare, Jacob BookerThe three local boys had collected recyclable items and utilised the Tomra Return and Earn reverse vending machines to aid in their efforts to raise funds for this journey in their lives. The Lions Club of Gerringong, through their own Return and Earn project, thought it fitting that funds from this project be utilised to donate $1000 to each boy to assist in their quest to raise sufficient funds for their sporting adventure.Marc was selected in the Under 15 boys side and embarked on a life-altering journey through the rugged terrains of the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, North England and Scotland. This wasn’t just a rugby tour, it was a cultural exchange and a chance to form bonds with peers from lands steeped in rich rugby traditions. Similarly, Jacob and Henry were part of the U16 Men’s team, and journeyed to California to experience international competition. They played in San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego.It was obvious to the Lions present that their assistance had been well worth it, as the boys impressed with the way they spoke and related what this journey had meant, not only for their playing careers but also for their personal development.

National Volunteer Week (20 to 26 May 2024) is just around the corner, and Kiama Council urges any local volunteer organisations wishing to take part in this year’s Volunteer Expo to ensure their registration is submitted by 5:00pm on Friday 10 May 2024. The Volunteer Expo will take place at the Kiama Farmer’s Market on Wednesday 22 May from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. No doubt this event will showcase the region’s strong community spirit and compassion similar to the 2023 event. “Last year, we had nearly 30 volunteer-based organisations take part in our first-ever expo, which was an amazing turnout for such a small community,” reflected Deputy Mayor, Imogen Draisma. “The vibe on the day was unbelievable, both from the community groups, not-for-profits, service groups and charitable organisations, as well as the locals turning up to see the many and varied ways they could lend a hand for a worthy cause. The Volunteer Expo is an outstanding example of how a small council such as ours can play a large role by helping our local community groups and charities recruit more people to support the important work they do.”Local organisations who are keen to spread the word about their heartfelt mission, and perhaps recruit some new volunteers or recipients, are encouraged to head to the Kiama Council website to register by 5:00pm on Friday 10 May 2024!

On 19 May, Jones Beach will once again host the 2024 NSW Junior Regional Series (South Coast). The cut-off date for entering is Friday 10 May, and young surfers in particular are encouraged to register.The South Coast region covers Minnamurra in the north to Lake Tabourie in the south.“Many athletes from this region have gone on to compete at Aussie titles and World Juniors, such as Keira Buckpitt from Ulladulla Boardriders. I would encourage every young surfer to enter this event via the Surfing NSW portal,” says Jo Collinge, who has recently taken on the voluntary role of Surfing NSW Regional Director for the South Coast. “Numbers in each division are small, and Ocean and Earth are donating some great prizes,” she continues.Lani Cairncross, who went on to place third at Australian Titles after progressing through State Titles. Photo credit: Kirsten Cairncross.The 2024 NSW Regional Series serves as the initial pathway to the 2024 NSW State Titles Junior Surf Series and the 2024 Australian Junior Titles.“Traditionally, this region has had a strong presence progressing to Aussie titles. Often, these surfers have had to work harder for that success because we don’t have access to elite coaches and opportunities that are available to Sydney and North Coast athletes,” says Collinge.Collinge has enjoyed putting on the event for three consecutive years with the help of Jones Beach Boardriders, where she previously served as secretary for the past eight years.“I’ve been driven to provide a professional event for our local surfers to test their surfing skills at an entry-level competition on their own beach,” she says. “Generally, surfers need to travel to Sydney and even further up the coast to Northern NSW to get a taste of competition surfing, which comes at quite a cost to parents for travel and accommodation.” Enter online at 2024 NSW Junior Regional Series (South Coast). Registrations close on Friday, 10 May at 5:00pm AEST.SponsorsSurfing South Coast is also looking for sponsors wishing to support surfing in the local community to ensure this event can continue in its current format for future years. “I want to continue to create and provide opportunities for young surfers that weren’t available to my kids five to six years ago, and build an inclusive community that provides equal access for surfers of all abilities,” Collinge explains.For more information, please contact: [email protected].

The popular Mother’s Day Weekend High Tea is sold out! Thank you to all of our wonderful supporters for buying tickets for this fundraiser. Also, many thanks to The Bugle for helping us to promote the event. It will be lots of fun and the roster is out, the cooks are planning ahead and the Gerringong Town Hall will, once again, be transformed into a sea of colour.With Mother’s Day approaching, everything that being a mother entails is recognised and celebrated. It is not always an easy experience. The following story is from the CMRI 2023 Year in Review publication. This is a true story:Teddy’s storyWhen a child is diagnosed with a genetic condition, it can be overwhelming for parents to understand the science involved. But young mum Lucy found it extremely reassuring to meet the researchers.At five months, Teddy was diagnosed with CTNNB1 Syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs randomly and is not usually inherited. Teddy was one of the faces for Jeans for Genes last year and Lucy was so grateful for the support the campaign received from the public.“The best part about being part of the Jeans for Genes 2023 campaign was getting to tour the labs at Children’s Medical Research Institute and meeting the incredible scientists who are working to find a cure for Teddy,” Lucy says.“I think that our participation in Jeans for Genes brought genetic diseases to the forefront of our friends’ and family’s minds. They also learnt that research gives Teddy hope for a better future, thanks to incredible scientific breakthroughs that are difficult to imagine.”Discovery Day is a regular event at CMRI. Members of the public are taken on a tour of the labs, meet the scientists and learn about the many research projects that are underway.Contact CMRI on 1800 436 437 or via email: [email protected].

Wednesday 8 May, the Werri Beach Gerringong Garden Club, will welcome two very interesting speakers, Emma Rooksby and Ailee Calderbank. They will talk about native plants of the Kiama district, and the many advantages of including them in your garden.  So which plants are native to the Illawarra? And why should you grow them in your garden? There are many, many reasons, as you’ll find out at our meeting. Did you know that a lot of our native insects and native birds rely on specific local plants? So, it’s no surprise that growing Illawarra natives helps support our local biodiversity.  Many locally native plants are also just beautiful, another reason for growing local natives.  Emma Rooksby is from Growing Illawarra Natives, a wonderful resource for identifying and learning more about growing our locally native plants.  Ailee Calderbank from Landcare Illawarra will enlighten us on projects about caring for our local habitats (including Werri Beach Dunecare’s work).     There will also be native plants available for sale (cash only). Details: Wednesday 8 May.  Meeting starts promptly at 10:00am, morning tea is served from 9:30am. Cost: $5 Location: Uniting Church Hall, 28 Fern St, Gerringong. Enquiries: Call Barb on 0419 498 072 or email [email protected]

As Mother’s Day approaches, shops are full of gifts for mothers: bubble bath products, chocolate and scented candles. But there is a ‘must-have’ that more mums need in their lives — affordable mental health support. Perinatal depression and anxiety impacts around 100,000 Australians each year (estimates for anxiety and depression are combined because many new parents experience symptoms of both.) In the first year after birth, postnatal depression (PND) affects one in five women, with symptoms including a sense of sadness or hopelessness, crying frequently for no clear reason, loss of interest in life, and not feeling attached to or bonded with their baby.Despite the prevalence, an Australian study found that parents are still reluctant to seek help early enough due to a, “societal expectation on mums to be able to keep it all together.” There’s also the cost factor and a sense that finding a therapist is overwhelming. This is where the Gidget Foundation wants to bridge the knowledge gap.Gidget Foundation Australia is a not-for-profit organisation, which exists to support the emotional well-being of expectant and new parents to ensure they receive timely, appropriate and specialist care. Since opening a ‘house’ in Shellharbour, they have been providing free, individual psychological counselling sessions for expectant and new mothers in the area.Local mum of three, Lisa Carrick, has benefited from their services — which have no out-of-pocket charge for clients. After the birth of her third child, which coincided with the death of her grandmother, her mental health began to decline.“I remember having a bath with my son,” recalls Carrick. “I was looking at him and felt nothing. I didn’t want to hold him. I was still catching up with friends, putting on a brave face, that everything was okay. But at home I was far from it. Why did I feel so empty?” After experiencing a panic attack whilst she was breastfeeding, she sought the advice of her GP, who referred her to a Gidget therapist.“My psychologist was incredible,” says Carrick. “We discussed coping strategies, I started practising mindfulness, prioritised family time and started prioritising my own physical and mental well-being. How can we look after others when we are struggling ourselves?”To access the Gidget Foundation’s free program, a mother needs to be registered with the service before their child is 12-months-old (although, as long as you are ‘on their books’ before your child is one, you can continue to access their services afterwards).What about the parents of older children? The mental health charity, Beyond Blue provides a free and confidential mental health coaching program called NewAccess, which has recently increased its eligible areas to include Kiama. Katie Peterson is a Clinical Psychologist with the Gidget Foundation. She explains, “Mother’s Day celebrates the relationship between mothers and their children, and the joy parenting can bring but it is important to also acknowledge the challenges inherent in the motherhood journey, including the significance of grief and loss.”As Mother’s Day approaches, one of the best gifts you can give a mum is reassurance that help is available and that she’s not alone.For more information, visit gidgetfoundation.org.au.

A delegation of healthcare professionals from South Korea's Public Health and Sanitation Division located in our sister city, Gwangju City visited Kiama on 26 April to assess Australia’s approach to aged care.The group met with the Dementia Inclusive Kiama Project at the Kiama Uniting Church, where they explored the innovative strategies the members of the project are implementing in our community. The Dementia Inclusive Kiama Project was established in 2014 and has a focussed dedication to fostering dementia inclusive communities, pioneering research and initiatives that have earned national and global recognition. The project prioritises the involvement of people living with dementia in the decision-making processes, ensuring a specific look at the social implications of dementia. The visit offered the South Korean group insight into the project’s community health promotion strategies. Their specific interest lies in understanding how these initiatives enhance community understanding, skills, and capacity to support their own increasingly ageing population.Majority of these strategies are developed from research that indicates strong social implications for the wellbeing of people living with dementia, recognising that remaining active and engaged in their community is a crucial component of their overall health. Kiama has a long record of engagement with South Korea through the International Alliance of Healthy Cities. Although Kiama Council has withdrawn from the International Alliance and Dementia Inclusive Kiama Project, the project continues with support from the Gerringong Rotary Club. Emeritus Mayor Sandra McCarthy recently joined the steering committee for the project. McCarthy expressed anticipation for the visit, highlighting her previous collaborative efforts with South Korea on public health promotion initiatives. This exchange represents a continuation of fruitful partnerships aimed at advancing dementia care and community health promotion efforts globally.

The exciting news about town is that Kiama has been crowned as a finalist for the title of NSW’s Top Tourism Town – and deservingly so, as a rare gem boasting stunning beaches and lush rolling hills. Kiama is admittedly against some stiff competition from other areas in our beautiful state, including Ballina, Bathurst, Grafton, Newcastle, Murwillumbah, Orange, Shellharbour and Ulladulla. However, Destination Kiama is confident we have what it takes to win the fitting title … but community backing is needed to help bring this dream to life. As such, Destination Kiama has pledged for all to lodge their vote. “If you’ve ever experienced the magic of this town, whether it’s been through memorable beach holidays, day adventures to the blowhole, indulging in ice-cream by the harbour, strolling along the iconic coastline, or exploring its historic streets, we invite you to share your love by casting your vote.”Tourism and Marketing Lead, Belinda Williams, said the Top Tourism Awards required Destination Kiama to submit a comprehensive ‘bid’.“This ‘bid’ includes a detailed application, with an itinerary for a specified target visitor market and a video that encapsulates the essence of the destination,” said Williams. “Happily, we are now a finalist in the 5,000 plus population category. This stage is more of a popularity contest, where the public can vote, which counts as 25 percent of our overall score.”So, jump on board and vote now for the gorgeous town many of us are lucky to call home. Voting is open until 13 May 2024 at 5:00pm and can be registered via the Business NSW website. 

One of the fondest memories I have of growing up as a kid is the floral scent of Mum's fresh sheets on the bed or the towels in the bathroom.When I left home, it was a way to combat homesickness, and I would often cruise the supermarket aisle, sniffing many fabric softener bottles, looking for that lavender scent. I am surprised that I wasn't arrested for opening so many bottles.I don't mind admitting that throughout my adult life I have poured litres upon litres of fabric softener into my washing machine compartment until I heard a radio interview.The caller to the radio show was chastised for not only using a full scoop of washing powder but also fabric softener due to the adverse effects it has on towels, reducing moisture absorbency, coating them in chemicals and leaving a build-up in the washing machine.From that life-changing day in the car, I vowed to replace my fabric softener with vinegar and reduce the scoop of washing powder with two tablespoons of bicarb soda.Ashley Iredale is the team leader of whitegoods at CHOICE and says: "Fabric softeners are largely unnecessary, expensive and have a number of downsides."As far as we're aware, all fabric softeners reduce the fire retardancy of clothing, reduce moisture absorbency and don't make your clothes cleaner."For years, this advice has stuck with me, forcing me to close my eyes and resist the temptation when I venture down the supermarket's washing aisle.I have been adding two drops of essential oil to my vinegar to squash my desire for a bouquet cemented in my clothes, but it's just not cutting it.Over the last 12 months, a feeling has been growing inside me: a desire to seek out those coastal scents of Kiama on my towels, a Tasmanian lavender-scented field on my bed sheets, or the exotic aroma of an unnamed tropical fruit on my dressing gown.The last month, I have felt tempted, as if there were a vanilla and patchouli-scented carrot dangling in front of my face. Softener beads are all I can seem to think about.These little balls of goodness promise in-wash scent boosting that will last up to 30 days, and in return, I need only take out a small personal loan each time I visit the supermarket.As we approach winter, and I look towards a summer-smelling scent to remind me of the warmer month, I am torn between the eye-watering cost of scent beads, reflective moisture-absorbing fabric softener, or the gentle approach of vinegar and essential oils.The quest for that childhood scent lingers, and I fear I may succumb to temptation at any moment. Am I going soft in my battle against fabric softener?

Despite ongoing discussions surrounding the need for greater diversity within Australian politics, young women reportedly remain reluctant to engage at various levels due to primary concerns regarding inequality and misogyny.  A recent study conducted by Monash University revealed that women were reluctant about becoming a Member of Parliament (MP) due to stereotypes surrounding the male-dominated profession, and subsequent self-doubt in their ability to execute the role and associated tasks.  This study utilised information gathered from 47 Queensland-based 28 to 29-year-olds in the weeks leading up to the May 2022 election. The 27 females and 20 males were questioned about their views on Australian politics, particularly regarding representation and ambitions among young women. Alleged sexual misconduct within parliament leading up to elections was a frontrunner regarding safety concerns for women, and subsequent disinterest in engaging.  A particularly troubling revelation was that whilst participants expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of play and subsequent avoidance, there was no desire to actively stand up for correcting such concerns to create an equal playing field.  As such, Head of Politics and International Relations at Monash University, Dr Zareh Ghazarian, concluded that gender-based inequality of opportunity continues to decrease the drive for young women to enter politics. “This highlights a deeply unhealthy element in Australian politics, whereby individuals, especially women, are choosing not to participate in democratic processes. It is critical that greater efforts be made to advance the political ambitions of women to stand for election to the Australian Parliament,” said Dr Ghazarian.   Ultimately, the research cemented what many already assume: more must be done to create a safe environment which demonstrates equality to entice women to enter the profession with longevity. Promoting confidence and opportunities for active participation is vital, alongside challenging negative attitudes and stigmas regarding diverse political involvement.  Monash University suggests this shift may be achieved through school-based education programs and empowering advocacy projects. “Without addressing these entrenched issues, women’s politics under-representation and an exclusionary masculine culture will continue to mar young people’s political ambitions and the practical operation of Australia’s liberal democracy,” says Dr Ghazarian. It is important to recognise that many males working within the sector encouragingly mirror Dr Ghazarian’s sentiments regarding the  crucial role of women in politics, including Director of Places and Strategy at Locale Learning, Steve Thompson. “A representative spread of people from all walks of life is critical. This is particularly the case at the local council level,” says Thompson. “Young women bring practical, real-life experiences that directly relate to key service areas such as open spaces, community facilities and services that are not always experienced in the same way as men.” According to Women for Election, women remain under-represented in every level of Australian government, considering 37 percent of across State and Territory assemblies are female, 44 percent within Federal Parliament and 38 percent within councils nationally.  Founder of Locale Learning, Emma Broomfield, believes change is happening but slowly. “In the last local government elections in New South Wales (NSW), women accounted for 39.5 percent of all councillors. This was an 8.5 percent jump on the proportion of women elected in 2016/17. Whilst this was a positive shift in the right direction, there is still some way to go to reach gender parity in representation within local government in NSW,” she says. Broomfield also identified common barriers experienced by women which prevent gender parity, such as feeling unqualified, difficulties juggling family and work commitments, lack of paid parental leave, and investment of time and money. Additionally, perceived culture of council conduct remains a primary concern, with female candidates and elected councillors reportedly experiencing more negative behaviour compared to male colleagues.  “This includes receiving offensive emails, texts or social media posts, and being subject to demeaning, rude or derogatory remarks about their gender during election,” Broomfield elaborates.  “In local government, like other levels of government, there has been a long-standing belief that some behaviour is excusable because it is ‘politics’. However, there is growing recognition that this approach is not consistent with the expectations of modern workplaces, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to dysfunctional and toxic cultures.” Broomfield urges women to not allow political dreams to be thwarted by common concerns, and maintain awareness of the vast benefits of embarking on leadership roles such as a local councillor.  “This includes being a part of creating change and having a positive impact on your local community. Especially on issues that directly affect women, young women and girls, parents and families that may otherwise have an underrepresented or skewed representation,” she encourages.  “There are also opportunities to learn new skills and acknowledge it can be a stepping stone to a future political career at a state or federal level.” Broomfield, however, is not just about rallying for women to enter politics, but also offers education and guidance throughout their journey. Women considering running for civic office can gain immense clarity from Locale Learning’s free of charge 7-day candidate launchpad challenge. Following that, coaching for appointed councillors to thrive in their role is also available.  With the next local government election in NSW taking place on 14 September 2024, opportunity awaits to help curb the underrepresentation of young women in politics. For localised information, Kiama Council is hosting a pre-election candidate information session on 14 May 2024. Perhaps you or someone you know could be part of creating the change?

Probus is all about fun, friendship and fellowship. There is nothing more fitting for that criteria than Barefoot Bowls at the Gerringong Bowling Club, topped off with some excellent coaching instruction from several of our champion bowlers.Lorraine JolleyAt the April meeting: Jennifer Philps – Community Relations Manager - Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI)Peter Jeffrey with Jennifer Philps CRMI Jennifer made the CMRI community of Gerringong feel very appreciative of their service for raising funds for Children’s Medical Research since 1959. Jennifer has been awarded a medallion by the Governor-General David Hurley – as well as being made a Life Member of CMRI for her tireless work supporting volunteers and advocating for their scientists. Jennifer is the heart and soul of CMRI. The realisation that we are on the cusp of changing the lives of millions of children and adults through gene therapy and DNA repair is phenomenal. The next decade will see profound changes to medical health.

Make a lifesaving difference this National Volunteer Week, 20-26 May 2024, by rolling up your sleeves and donating blood. Local resident, Lynne Strong, has launched the Volunteers to Lifesavers - Every Drop Counts Initiative to inspire more people to donate blood in support of the many recipients in need. Their lives might depend on it. “In partnership with Lifeblood, we are proud to launch a special campaign aimed at first-time blood donor volunteers,” says campaign manager, Strong.“We are calling on healthy individuals aged 18 and above who have never volunteered before to join us in a powerful act of community service: donating blood. With just one hour of your time, you can help save up to three lives.”During National Volunteer Week, the Volunteers to Lifesavers Initiative will offer education sessions about the blood donation process and its immense impact and support to first-time donors to ensure their experience is both rewarding and comfortable. Appointments to donate at Wollongong Lifeblood can be made via their website.Unable to commit to donating during National Volunteer Week? Volunteers to Lifesavers have you covered, also conveniently providing the opportunity to donate blood via a Mobile Donor Centre in Kiama which can be booked via Lifeblood’s website for the following dates and times:Tuesday 11 June: 12:30pm - 7:15pmWednesday 12 June: 12:30pm - 7:15pmThursday 13 June: 12:30pm - 7:15pmFriday 14 June: 9:30am - 4:00pmSaturday 15 June: 9:30am - 2:00pmGrateful individuals who may benefit from your donation include accident and trauma survivors, surgical and cancer patients, pregnant women and new mothers, babies and young children, and those impacted by medical conditions such as anaemia, fractures and joint replacements. So, please, grab your friends, family or colleagues, and make a heartfelt contribution today - it only takes one hour to potentially save a life. For further information regarding this initiative, contact Volunteers to Lifesavers - Every Drop Counts campaign manager, Lynne Strong, via [email protected] . 

Local resident and Director of Ecosystems Development at Moo & Co., Lynne Strong, is offering a refreshing framework for how the community as a whole can work together in positively shaping our region’s future. Strong is advocating for camaraderie and collaboration to achieve strategic and inclusive community development, presenting the CommUnity Alliance Framework proposal at the recent Kiama Community Precinct meeting on Tuesday 23 April. With a handful of councillors present, Strong reiterated her intention was not to work in competition with council, but as a cohesive network.As population within the region increases, subsequent pressure is placed on services and systems. Strong identifies the following primary areas that she calls on community members of all ages to collaboratively assess and drive informed action: Infrastructure and utilities: focus on water management, energy supply and digital infrastructure.Environmental and sustainability: address green spaces, biodiversity and climate resilience. Transport and accessibility: explore public transport, traffic congestion and accessibility. Social and community development: look into social cohesion, community consultation and crime prevention.Housing and urban planning: discuss housing affordability, urban design and historical prevention. Health and safety: consider healthcare services and emergency response planning. Cultural and recreational needs: evaluate cultural facilities, recreational activities and public space design. These key factors formed the basis of two short anonymous online surveys created to ascertain expertise and aspirations of the community across all age groups; one aimed at the younger generation aged under 25, and another for remaining demographics. Once this preliminary data has been collated, Strong hopes to unite community members - and their skills and interests - to be active participants in the region’s development. The CommUnity Alliance Framework may allow the community to regain a sense of their voices being not only heard, but also valued and thoroughly considered. “This framework offers a holistic, flexible, transparent, inclusive and accountable approach. It is a framework that values local insights, promotes community ownership, and encourages empowerment,” explains Strong.“Most crucially, it emphasises grassroots-driven engagement as the cornerstone of community planning, ensuring that the community is not merely a subject but an active participant in the narrative of its own development.” Strong reiterates, however, that this framework is centred around one very crucial component: a triad of trust. “Trust is the backbone of any thriving community,” declares Strong.  “The community must place its trust in the processes that guide their collective future. Trust in the process means believing that the system of planning, decision-making and feedback is designed for the common good, allowing for comprehensive and adaptive planning that incorporates the ever-changing tapestry of community needs and priorities.” Of course, the concept of trust does not end at processes, but must extend to people as well. This means having confidence that those at the helm are capable of taking well-informed action in navigating community development.  “It's trusting that they will listen, understand, and act with integrity, holding themselves accountable for the outcomes and ensuring that resources are allocated in alignment with community-identified priorities,” defines Strong. “And trust in ourselves? It is foundational. It is knowing that within the community lies a wealth of knowledge, diversity of perspectives, and an inherent resilience that is more than capable of surmounting the challenges ahead. It's the collective empowerment that comes from the realisation that the people, not just the processes, shape the future of where they live. “By fostering this triad of trust - trust in the process, people and ourselves - the community becomes more than a collection of individuals. It becomes a united force capable of driving change, shaping its destiny, and building a future that resonates with the voices of all its members.” Perhaps this broad notion of trust and community cohesiveness might eliminate – or even simply reduce – the fear some may feel around having no say, power or control in how our community develops; providing a sense of empowerment to step up and unite in the strive for positive change.  Do you want to get involved with the CommUnity Alliance Forum? Start by having your say via the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KMCNextGen for those aged under 25 and https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KiamaLGA for remaining age groups. For further information, contact Lynne Strong on [email protected] .

Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang has finally felt some reprieve following a public battle with Kiama Council over comments she made on a radio interview with ABC Illawarra on 21 June 2023. In the interview at the centre of the storm, Cr Renkema-Lang openly discussed her opposition surrounding Council’s intentions to reclassify land that the controversial Blue Haven Bonaira site occupies to enable it to be sold.Based on allegations that Cr Renkema-Lang had acted unethically and improperly, and that her comments had potentially brought Kiama Council into disrepute, Council subsequently made the decision to censure Cr Renkema-Lang on 21 November 2023. At a Supreme Court directions hearing on 22 April 2024, Council agreed that the resolution to censure her is invalid. Cr Renkema-Lang had sought orders from the NSW Supreme Court in February 2024 to revoke Council’s intentions to censure her based on the grounds of failure to follow the procedures for assessing allegations of misconduct, denial of procedural fairness and apprehended bias.In the court orders issued on Tuesday the conduct reviewer also agreed that the final investigation report, and recommendations and determinations within it, is invalid. Kiama Council has undertaken to remove the public statement regarding the censure motion originally published on their website on 22 November 2023. The proceedings are listed for a hearing on 30 May 2024 in order for the NSW Supreme Court to consider each parties’ evidence and submission and formulate a final determination regarding how the matter will be settled. In the meantime, all parties have agreed that the Court may make orders without a hearing if it rendered it appropriate. Kiama Council currently have no comment regarding the matter.

The iconic Penny Whistlers cafe is well known for its delicious food and stunning outlook across Kiama’s colourful harbour. A firm favourite amongst locals and tourists alike, the beloved establishment has been serving patrons for close to a decade. Last month welcomed the cafe’s new owners, Bhanu Rathore and his family. Born in the vibrant city of Jaipur in India, Bhanu, along with his wife Vertika and their two children, bring with them vast experience and a vision to further enrich the community through their commitment to excellence. "Our native place Jaipur (Pink City) is known globally for its warmth, rich art, culture and heritage, along with its iconic palaces and forts which are standing examples of the royalty and honour of the people of the state,” reminisced Bhanu. Following their move to Kiama, Bhanu admired the beauty of the region whilst finding the strong sense of community increasingly familiar to that of his hometown. "When we came to Kiama, we were mesmerised by the picturesque beauty of the place. As we started spending some time here, we were pleasantly surprised by the extremely positive vibes of the place and the warmth of the community," shared Bhanu. "I had read somewhere that Kiama is one of the best places to live in NSW. Now I am an advocate of this theory and claim."Bhanu recognises the legacy of the café and aims to build upon its foundation of excellent food and hospitality. "A business is as good as its team, and Penny Whistlers’ is a classic example," remarked Bhanu proudly. "Most of our team members have been with us since inception and have been continuously working towards targeting an outstanding customer experience."With a keen eye for promising ventures in hospitality, Bhanu was drawn to Penny Whistlers’ historic performance and its commanding position in the local area. "A combination of excellence in its segment and adorable scenic views of Kiama harbour make it a unique business opportunity, which I could just not miss out on. It struck my heart and mind both at once," he affirmed.Backed by their commitment to quality and community, Bhanu and his family along with the management duo, Eddie and Nick, are ready to infuse new energy into Penny Whistlers Café, promising an unforgettable dining experience for all. Penny Whistlers cafeSunday - Wednesday: 7:00am to 3:00pmThursday - Saturday: 7:00am to late (10:00pm)Now available on UberEats

The Albanese Government recently announced that Manildra Group’s Shoalhaven Starches food manufacturing facility in Bomaderry will receive a $44.45 million helping hand to undergo energy efficiency upgrades thanks to the Powering the Regions Fund. The fund will allocate $330 million in total across nine clean energy and emissions and reduction projects at heavy industrial sites around the country. One of those sites being Shoalhaven Starches, which processes wheat to produce flour. The Bomaderry facility also produces gluten, starch, ethanol, animal stockfeed and syrups.Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, believe the grants will future-proof Australia’s heavy industries in a decarbonising world, with nation-wide projects cutting 830,000 tonnes of emissions annually. This equates to removing over a quarter of a million cars from Australian roads.Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, explained that the goal of the Shoalhaven Starches project is to recover heat to enable transformative emission reductions.“The project will deploy a suite of heat recovery upgrades and enabling infrastructure to reduce gas demand,” she said.“It’s estimated that emissions will be reduced by 95,266 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per annum.”Mrs Phillips also praised the project for creating new jobs during construction and securing existing roles at the plant, which will continue to support local families and the community. Shoalhaven Starches has 510 employees and 400 independent contractors. Additionally, upward of 80 temporary jobs will be created during the project.

The Kiama Coast Holiday Parks team has had a whirlwind performance at the Sydney Caravan and Camping Supershow, spruiking our special slice of the South Coast.The team members were literally on their feet all day, every day of the six-day Supershow, selling the attractions of our beaches, mountains, towns and villages to the estimated 45,000 people who flooded through the gates at Rosehill Racecourse.The Supershow is a must-visit hotspot for anyone with a passion for camping and caravanning, with more than 250 exhibitors selling the latest motorhomes, campervans, caravans, camper-trailers and an amazing array of the newest and best camping gear.The show also provided daily seminars with invaluable insights and information across various aspects of camping and caravanning. With five parks across Kiama, Gerroa and Gerringong, Kiama Coast Holiday Parks team was able to sell potential guests on their great range of locations and accommodation types.However, these shows are as much about selling the whole destination, including local businesses, as the Holiday Parks themselves. This includes offering specials such as a ‘Winter Warmer Package’ to those visiting the Kiama Coast stall at the Supershow, in partnership with the Kiama Farmers’ Market.Industry expos remain an important part in competing for the holiday maker dollar, even in the modern world of social media influencers and online marketing.After nearly 50 hours of ‘putting their best foot forward’, the team has had little time to rest their legs, with bookings already rolling in.That’s shoe leather well spent.Kiama Coast Holiday Parks operates five holiday parks in the area, including Harbour Cabins, Seven Mile Beach, Werri Beach, Kendall’s Beach and Surf Beach and are currently offering winter 2024 specials: https://www.kiamacoast.com.au/specials/