Christmas is a time of joy, togetherness, and unique traditions that reflect the rich diversity of cultures around the world. Each country adds its own special touch to the festive season. In Germany, the Christmas markets are a quintessential part of the holiday season. Town squares transform into winter wonderlands with twinkling lights, charming wooden stalls, and the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread. Visitors can find handmade ornaments, enjoy bratwurst, and sip on Glühwein as they bask in the fairytale atmosphere. Moving to the Philippines, the festive spirit is embodied with Simbang Gabi, a series of nine pre-dawn masses leading up to Christmas Day. Communities come alive with carol singing, vibrant lantern festivals, and sumptuous feasts featuring delicacies like bibingka and puto bumbong. The tradition reflects the deep faith and warmth of Filipino culture. In Mexico, the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without Las Posadas, a lively re-enactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Neighbourhoods join together for candlelit processions, festive street parties, and breaking colourful piñatas filled with sweets. This blend of faith and festivity brings families and communities closer. Over in Japan, Christmas has a distinctly commercial flair. Though not traditionally a religious holiday, it’s celebrated with enthusiasm. Families often mark the occasion by enjoying KFC dinners, a quirky custom that has become a national phenomenon. Illuminated streets and romantic light displays add to the festive charm. In Iceland, the season takes on a playful tone with the arrival of the Yule Lads. These mischievous holiday figures visit children over 13 nights, leaving small gifts in their shoes if they’ve been good—or a potato if they haven’t! This whimsical tradition is steeped in Icelandic folklore and adds a touch of magic. In Italy, Christmas is a time of deep religious significance. The Feast of the Seven Fishes, celebrated on Christmas Eve, features an elaborate meal of seafood dishes. Italians also enjoy nativity scenes, midnight mass, and La Befana, the kindly witch who brings gifts to children in early January. Wherever you are in the world, Christmas brings a universal sense of joy and togetherness. At Travel Focus Group, we extend our warmest wishes to all our loyal customers. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your travel adventures this year. From our family to yours, may your festive season be filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

Earlier this year, Gerringong Pics and Flicks advertised a scholarship for young directors interested in learning more about the filmmaking world. The scholarship included $1,000, with $960 allocated for short courses at the Australian Film, Radio and Television School (AFTRS). The recipients of the scholarship, Regan Anderson and Lleyton Hughes, were interviewed by Bernie Hems at Kiama Community Radio, although due to conflicting schedules, the interviews took place a week apart.Regan is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Communications in Media, majoring in Screen Production at the University of Wollongong (UOW). She also brings an extensive background in film, photography, screenwriting, stage writing, and acting. “Her project is a comedic short film that showcases the South Coast lifestyle from a young adult’s perspective,” Bernie explained, summarizing their interview. While comedy can be a challenging genre to master, Regan is approaching it with confidence and skill.Lleyton Hughes interviewed by Bernie Hems on Kiama Community RadioLleyton, a familiar face to The Bugle and Kiama Community Radio, studied Journalism and Creative Writing at UOW before heading to Los Angeles for film classes. “I had a great time—it didn’t even feel like I was at school,” Lleyton recalled about his time in LA. “Unfortunately, I could only stay for three months because of COVID.”When asked what motivated him to apply for the scholarship, Lleyton explained that he had always wanted to check out Pics and Flicks but had been unable to due to his sports commitments. When he heard about the scholarship on their Facebook page, he saw it as a perfect opportunity to further his filmmaking knowledge. “To have the chance to learn at a school in Sydney with the people they have there is amazing. It would be great for my development,” Lleyton said.When Bernie asked about his project, Lleyton shared that he wanted to make a film about a boxer. “I recently did a half Ironman, and during the training, I found myself asking, ‘Why do we do this?’ There were days when I didn’t train, and I’d feel guilty,” Lleyton explained. “Why do we feel the need to earn rest? Why do we have to do something big to earn relaxation? That got me thinking about boxing.”Lleyton sees boxing as a powerful metaphor for pushing yourself to the limit, with no breaks or relaxation. He cited Mike Tyson’s recent fight against Jake Paul and Tyson’s attitude of never wanting to stop fighting, no matter the hardship.“I want to explore that mindset in my film,” Lleyton said. Through research—particularly reading about Muhammad Ali’s life—and stepping into the ring himself for two training sessions, Lleyton gained a deeper understanding of the mental and physical demands of a fighter. “I couldn’t believe how much goes into it. There’s so much technique, so much to think about. It’s more than just a fight,” he said. “I’ve tried to make a film before, but it was a mess. It was a good learning experience, but I’m so grateful for the opportunity to learn and improve through this scholarship.”Regan and Lleyton’s films are expected to be completed by May 2025 and will be screened at Gerringong Pics and Flicks.

Anyone taking a stroll around our beautiful harbour on Tuesday morning would have been surprised to come upon a pipe band playing. Kiama Pipe Band was joined by members of the Shoalhaven City Pipes and Drums in a performance for the Homestead of Hope Christmas Party function being held in the Kiama Scout Hall.The Kiama Pipe Band. Source: Kiama Pipe Band.Band secretary and piper John Kenny said, “We always enjoy playing at this Homestead of Hope function to show our support for the wonderful work of this local charity which is dedicated to providing care for the disadvantaged, lonely or homeless members of the community.”Mary Spillane, on behalf of the charity, thanked the band for its support. “This is the second year running that the band has put on a performance for us and we appreciate it very much.”“This has been a very busy year for the Kiama Pipe Band. As well as playing at events such as the Berry Celtic Festival, and the Kiama by the Sea Folk Festival, we also played at a number of Kiama Rotary Club events,” said John. "Kiama Rotary Club is our biggest single sponsor," he added. “Of course we always provide our services for more solemn occasions during the year such as ANZAC events.”The Kiama Pipe Band’s last event for the year is at the recently revived Gerringong Christmas Parade due to be held on Saturday 21 December. After that, they will be back again practicing hard from mid January, so if anyone is interested in learning the pipes or drums they would love to hear from you. The Kiama Pipe Band offers free tuition to anyone young or old who would like to become involved and they are also open to individuals or groups who would like to book the band.Contact details: John Kenny Mob. 0434 989 253

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is awaiting results of testing on debris balls which washed up in Kiama in November and Silver Beach at Kurnell earlier this month.As well as in these locations, the EPA has been notified by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the discovery of ball-shaped debris on 1080 Beach and Pooles Beach at Mystery Bay near Narooma on the South Coast.  The balls are reported to be spread across 200 metres of the beach and vary in size and shape. Staff from NPWS attended the site on 11 December and inspected nearby beaches. Around 20 debris balls were also found at Pooles Beach however, there were none observed on any other nearby beaches.  Both 1080 Beach and Pooles Beach have been closed while NPWS staff undertake clean-up. Signs have been put in place to advise visitors of the contamination.  Officers from the EPA also attended the beaches today and collected samples for analysis. Over the coming days, NPWS will continue to monitor beaches in the Mystery Bay area.  The EPA has finalised testing on ball-shaped debris that washed up on beaches in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs in October, confirming earlier results that indicate their origin is likely a source that releases mixed waste. Experts could not determine where the balls originated from as no source samples were available for comparison.  

For over 30 years, Chris O'Connell has been the name locals trust for everything pools.Operating in Kiama for 15 years, Chris is known for his motto, “we do it all,” setting Spot On Pools apart from others in the market. While many pool services focus on one specific area, Chris offers a comprehensive range of services, including pool renovation, maintenance, cleaning, building, and painting.As the sole operator, Chris brings a hands-on approach to every project, ensuring the highest quality of work and customer satisfaction. Source: Chris O'ConnellWhether it’s a pool renovation, a fresh coat of paint, or ongoing maintenance, Chris handles it all with professionalism and care. Chris’s extensive background in building has given him the skills and expertise to tackle even the most challenging pool issues. From repairing pool floors to fixing solar heating systems damaged by pesky cockatoos, there’s no problem he can’t handle. One of his most unique challenges involved repairing a pool that had been hit by a car. For Chris, the true reward is the repeat business. He takes great pride in knowing that his clients trust him with multiple pools or ongoing maintenance needs.Source: Chris O'ConnellChris’ focus remains on continuing to offer exceptional value, friendly service, and outstanding customer care. After all, it’s the satisfaction of his customers that keeps him going.Living in the beautiful town of Kiama, Chris enjoys the lifestyle and the opportunity to serve a community that appreciates good, reliable service.Chris’ service is unique because, as he says, “We do it all.”

By Spencer IliasRecent data from Homelessness NSW has revealed that over 67,000 people sought help from homelessness services in the past year. This correlates with data released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare that found the number of people seeking help between July 2023 and June 2024 remained almost the same as the 68,000 from the previous year.The primary reasons people sought out for help were housing crises, financial difficulties, and family or domestic violence. The data has also shown us that Indigenous Australians remain disproportionately affected, accounting for 33 percent of all clients in NSW compared to the national average of 29 percent.“The overrepresentation of Aboriginal Australians in these figures is a national shame,” said Ms Rowe. “Governments must work with Aboriginal-led organisations to address this glaring inequity”.There have been reports of a tent set up overlooking Storm Bay, opposite the entrance of the Anglican Church. Cameron Potter informs us that this tent has been sitting there for several months and he is quite concerned about the owner of the tent and where they may go to the toilet, amongst other things. “I am quite concerned about the ongoing impact on the amenity of the area for residents and visitors,” says Cameron. But this may not be the only long term resident of this area, as Cameron has also seen others continually living in the Storm Bay area. Cameron also tells us that he spoke to the council about this issue and received quite a poor and unsatisfactory response.Cameron's call to action should inspire us to address this issue urgently and help the homeless people in the Storm Bay area.

The future of Jamberoo Community Preschool remains uncertain following Kiama Council’s 10 December meeting, where Councillor Mike Cains presented a motion seeking assurances for the preschool’s continuity. Serving 67 families and with over 100 students on the waiting list, the preschool is a vital service for the village, but its current flood-prone location presents significant challenges.The motion called for extending the preschool’s lease until an alternate site is available and ready for occupation. Despite efforts to identify new premises, including local churches and community facilities, no viable alternatives have been found, leaving the preschool dependent on its current location.For now, the preschool remains an essential service for local families, with the added benefit of fostering strong community connections among Jamberoo’s youngest residents. Parents have stressed the importance of their children forming early friendships that support them to transition seamlessly into Jamberoo Public School, reinforcing the village’s social fabric.Community support has rallied around linking the preschool’s relocation to the Golden Valley Way Stage 2 proposal. The developer has pledged to donate land for a new preschool if the project proceeds, but the Council’s housing strategy categorises the site as a long-term development, creating frustration for locals seeking immediate solutions.The community has urged the Council to prioritise upgrades to the preschool building, a council-owned asset that is currently in a flood-prone location. These upgrades, essential for the building’s safety and readiness for future tenants, must begin now rather than waiting until the preschool relocates.“The preschool is more than an education facility—it’s the heart of our community,” said a local parent. “We need the Council to provide certainty so families and children can continue to thrive.”Extending the lease and upgrading the current facility while pursuing long-term solutions will be critical in supporting Jamberoo’s families and preserving its vibrant community spirit.

From December 1, the almost 1 million Australians living with endometriosis will have access to a new drug, Visanne, through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making this essential treatment more affordable for many. This daily tablet containing the progestogen hormone dienogest, helps to manage the symptoms of endometriosis by preventing ovulation and menstruation, thereby shrinking and suppressing the growth of abnormal tissue.This long-awaited subsidy will significantly reduce the cost, from over $800 per year to just $90 annually for pension and concession card holders, and $380 for general patients.Professor Jason Abbott, an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the University of NSW, joined EndoActive and Bayer in welcoming the subsidy. He prefaced the rise in hospital admissions due to endometriosis over the past decade, with more than 40,000 hospitalisations each year.“Subsidised access to this medicine will be very welcome news for a large number of women living with this invisible disease,” said Professor Abbott. “Endometriosis can last for decades, and there is no cure. Access to affordable treatments that help control symptoms is crucial for a patient’s quality of life, especially after surgery when ongoing medication is often necessary to manage pain and other issues that can affect work, school, and social participation.”Endometriosis causes tissue similar to the lining of the womb to grow in other parts of the body Endometriosis is a chronic, debilitating condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the womb, often affecting the reproductive organs, bowel, and bladder. The condition causes inflammation, scarring, and painful adhesions, which can severely impact daily life.Despite its prevalence, endometriosis remains widely misunderstood. Around 1 in 7 women and teens are affected by the condition, yet it often takes over six years to receive a proper diagnosis. It's also important to understand the significant cost of being officially diagnosed with endo. A laparoscopy across both private and public systems can be anywhere between $2,000 and $15,000, without factoring in the time needed to be excused from work, finding child care and other responsibilities one may have. Lesley Freedman, Co-founder of EndoActive, explained that delays in diagnosis are often due to a lack of awareness, both among patients and healthcare professionals.“Misconceptions about endometriosis being just period pain or a matter of pain threshold undermine the experiences of those affected,” said Freedman, whose daughter, Syl Freedman, was diagnosed at 21 after suffering from chronic pelvic pain for 10 years.In addition to chronic pain, patients may also experience heavy periods, fatigue, and fertility challenges. Around 30% of women undergoing IVF have endometriosis, and half of all patients with the condition experience infertility.Syl Freedman, Co-founder of EndoActive, expressed her gratitude for the new subsidy “This is wonderful news for endometriosis patients. We commend the Federal Government for supporting Australians living with endo.” She added that access to affordable treatment is essential, as endometriosis affects many aspects of life, including employment, relationships, physical and mental health.“Endo remains taboo and continues to be shrouded in mystery,” Syl added. “Although awareness has improved, there are still significant gaps. We need ongoing education and support to ensure women are not continuing to suffer in silence.”Manoj Saxena, CEO of Bayer ANZ, applauded the government’s decision to list Visanne on the PBS. “Efforts by organisations like EndoActive have been pivotal in raising awareness of endometriosis and putting the disease at the top of the government’s agenda,” Saxena said. “The PBS listing is an important step towards addressing inequalities in women’s health access. Bayer is proud to have played a role in this achievement and remains committed to partnering with patient groups and the government to meet reproductive health needs.”As with all medications, the drug may have side effects. The most common include headache, breast discomfort, depressed mood, and acne. It should not be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or by individuals with certain medical conditions, such as clotting disorders or a history of cardiovascular disease. Patients should consult their doctor to discuss any concerns and determine the most appropriate treatment.EndoActive is a Not-For-Profit Health Promotion Charity founded in 2014 by Lesley and Syl Freedman. The organisation’s mission is to raise awareness, provide information, and advocate for better treatment options for women, girls, and people assigned female at birth with endometriosis. EndoActive also works to promote early intervention and informed treatment, drawing from evidence-based research to address the significant gaps in understanding and care for endometriosis.Bayer, a life sciences company with a 150-year history, has been present in Australia since 1925. With a focus on health and agriculture, Bayer continues to address some of the greatest challenges of our time, from climate change to improving health outcomes. The company has been a leader in women’s health, from the launch of its first oral contraceptive over 60 years ago to its continued work in areas like endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding, menopause, and pregnancy nutrition.Bayer is committed to advancing sustainable development, particularly in empowering women and girls through access to reproductive health and family planning.

The long-awaited Milton-Ulladulla Bypass project has reached a critical milestone, with contracts signed for the concept design and environmental assessments. Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips expresses her excitement over the progress of the $940 million bypass project, which the community has campaigned for, for over 30 years. “This is a significant point in the bypass project that has been made possible thanks to the $752 million that I have delivered from the Australian Government,” says Mrs Phillips.“I know how important this bypass is for the community, which is why specialists have been engaged to ensure we get it right. I want to ensure this project is delivered on time and on budget.” Mrs. Phillips acknowledged the frustrations caused by traffic congestion, particularly during holiday periods, and the lengthy wait for this project to come to fruition. The bypass planning is moving forward, with Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd awarded the contract to develop the concept design and carry out the environmental assessment, including an Environmental Impact Statement.  The concept design will outline key features, such as lane configurations and intersections connecting to the existing highway. It will also establish the project’s footprint, boundaries, and local access routes during construction and operation.Mrs Phillips has also secured $400 million in Federal funding for the Princes Highway upgrade between Jervis Bay and Hawken roads, $100 million for the Jervis Bay flyover and $97 million for the Nowra bypass planning.“I’m pleased that I was recently also able to officially open the $35 million federally funded Far North Collector Road, which was only able to open after I secured additional federal funding,” says Mrs. Phillips. “This also comes on top of over $100 million in federal-state disaster recovery funding provided to local councils to help fix land slips and local roads impacted by natural disasters.” Mrs. Phillips reaffirmed her commitment to improving the region’s infrastructure.  “There’s more to do, but as a true local, I’m getting on with providing federal funding to fix our roads and making sure our major roads are fit for the future.” With the Milton-Ulladulla Bypass now advancing, the region is set to benefit from improved traffic flow, safer roads, and enhanced connectivity, addressing long-standing concerns for both residents and visitors.

By Jett SilvaOn Thursday, 5 December, 150 Year 10 students from Telopea Park School were unexpectedly evicted from Jamberoo Action Park after a booking error. The students, who had arrived for a fun-filled day at the water park, were told to leave the premises, located in Kiama LGA.The incident occurred after a mix-up by Jamberoo staff, who had allowed the school to book the excursion three months in advance. However, the park had turned the day into a primary school day and didn’t have a risk assessment in place for the older students. In some cases, students were even asked to depart without their belongings, such as shoes.In response to the incident, Jamberoo Action Park’s Managing Director, Jim Eddy, reached out to Telopea Park School Principal Michelle Mothorpe on Friday, 6 December, offering a sincere apology. In the email, Eddy expressed regret over the situation, acknowledging the distress caused by the mistake.“We are writing to sincerely apologise for the upset, distress, and inconvenience that we caused as a result of Telopea Park School’s visit to Jamberoo. We have all been seriously affected by this mistake. We want to assure you that we will do everything possible to make it right,” the email stated.Eddy further confirmed that the park would be issuing a full refund to the school, including transport costs.Some of the students voiced their dissatisfaction with the situation. The Year 10 Captain of Telopea Park commented, “It was not a satisfactory solution.” The student highlighted the issue of belongings being left behind but also acknowledged that Jamberoo had taken responsibility for the error and offered complimentary tickets to affected students.In addition, some social media comments surfaced regarding the behaviour of the students at the park, though Jamberoo Action Park declined to comment on these reports.As a gesture of goodwill, Jamberoo has promised to provide each affected student with two free tickets, valid until April 2025.

Kiama Municipal Council has unanimously endorsed a revised agreement for the sale of Blue Haven Bonaira to Hall & Prior Aged Care, lowering the gross sale price from $95 million to $89 million. The decision, made during a confidential session of this week’s extraordinary Council meeting December 10, raises questions about the handling of the process and the financial implications for the community.The adjustment follows findings during due diligence, which identified building issues requiring rectification. However, with the sale still expected to settle in February 2025, some residents and stakeholders may question whether this outcome truly represents the best value for the community.Council initially celebrated the $95 million agreement in July 2024, but the $6 million reduction has now been attributed to building issues that were reportedly known since the facility’s completion in 2019.Mayor Cameron McDonald acknowledged the price adjustment but defended the move. “The adjustment to the price was necessary to reflect the reality of the building’s condition and the work required to address these issues,” he said.The Council projects a $19 million surplus from the sale, primarily to clear its $15 million TCorp debt, which Mayor McDonald described as crucial for the Council’s financial recovery.“This divestment is critical to our path toward financial sustainability,” he said. “It allows Kiama Council to refocus on our core responsibility of delivering municipal services.”Building defects have been a known issue at Blue Haven Bonaira since its completion in 2019, and the Council has reportedly worked to address them over the years. The due diligence process uncovered additional problems, further reducing the facility’s valuation.Council has initiated legal action against the contractor responsible for the construction, but is this too little, too late? Many residents may question how such defects were allowed to persist and what accountability measures were in place to ensure the project met expectations.Hall & Prior CEO Graeme Prior visited the site this week, pledging a seamless transition and a commitment to resolving the building issues. “We are focused on ensuring the sale process is handled with care, transparency, and professionalism,” he said.Mayor McDonald conceded that the Blue Haven project offers lessons for the future, including the need for improved project management and oversight.“Our new Council came into office with a good awareness of the issues involved with the Blue Haven Bonaira build,” he said. “We are focused on putting the past behind us and moving forward for our whole community.”Kiama Council has emphasised transparency throughout the divestment process, offering updates via its website, newsletters, and meetings. But key decisions, such as the price adjustment, were made in a confidential session. As the sale moves toward settlement, some in the community continue to question whether this decision truly represents the best path forward given the precarious nature of Council finances and operational issues. 

Terry Nicoll is onto his next glory, after a lifetime of Olympic triumphs and community service.Kiama is mourning the passing of one of its most prominent locals, Terry Nicoll, who died on Tuesday 9 December at the age of 90. Terry was a well known member of the community, a decorated athlete, and a man of unwavering dedication and spirit.Born and raised in outback NSW, Terry's journey to Olympic glory began amidst the rugged landscape of sheep and cattle stations, where he developed exceptional horsemanship. His natural affinity for riding became the foundation for his success in the modern pentathlon, a challenging event combining fencing, swimming, show jumping, shooting, and running.Terry’s Olympic story began when Australian swimming coach Forbes Carlisle noticed his potential and encouraged him to train for the Melbourne 1956 Olympics. After refining his skills in fencing and pistol shooting, Terry excelled at the Pre-Olympic Pentathlon trials, earning a coveted spot on the Australian team.Though his Olympic career was brief, Terry went on to compete in World Championships in Mexico City and Leipzig, continuing to make his mark on the international stage.After retiring from competitive sport, Terry dedicated himself to public service, joining the NSW Police Force in 1957. Over two decades, he served with distinction - mentoring and inspiring others. He also represented NSW in Police and Emergency Services games, adding to his collection of accolades.In his later years, Terry and his wife Gloria settled here in Kiama, where he became an integral part of the community. Active in the Kiama Men’s Probus Club and Probus Choir, Terry remained a vibrant and inspiring presence.Terry Nicoll’s life was a testament to perseverance, discipline, and community spirit. His legacy will endure in Kiama and beyond, inspiring future generations to reach for their dreams. He is survived by his wife Gloria and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The Kiama community is mourning the loss of Norma Stead OAM, a valued member of the Kiama & Shellharbour District Tennis Association and an extraordinary local icon. Norma passed away on December 10, at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, sportsmanship, and community spirit.Norma’s association with the Kiama Tennis Club spanned more than seven decades, beginning in 1948. She served as the club's Treasurer for an incredible 50 years and was its caretaker for over 70 years, a testament to her unwavering passion and commitment to the sport and its community. Her contributions earned her Life Memberships at both the Kiama Tennis Club and the Kiama & Shellharbour District Tennis Association, as well as the prestigious Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her outstanding service.On the court, Norma’s achievements were equally remarkable. A formidable competitor, she claimed numerous titles in the Kiama & Shellharbour District Tennis Championships across several decades, earning the admiration of her peers and inspiring generations of players with her dedication and sportsmanship.Norma’s impact extended far beyond tennis. She was an active member of the Kiama Evening View Club for over 50 years and a Life Member of the Kiama Knights Rugby League Club, where her contributions made a lasting difference.Norma’s passing leaves a profound void in the Kiama community, but her legacy will endure in the hearts of those she inspired and served. Her selfless dedication to the betterment of others is a shining example of what it means to give back.Our thoughts are with Norma’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we say goodbye to an extraordinary woman, we celebrate her life and the indelible mark she has left on Kiama.🎾 Game, Set, Match 🎾

By Jett SilvaEvery year, typically in early December, Spotify gives users a chance to reflect on the soundtrack of their lives through Spotify Wrapped—a unique look back at your listening habits from the past year. It's more than just data; it’s a personalised snapshot of who you were, based on the music you played.Using the data it collects throughout the year, Spotify Wrapped reveals your most-played songs, top artists, favorite genres, and total listening time. With eye-catching visuals and interactive content, it turns your listening history into a memorable, audio-visual experience.Spotify Wrapped also provides a global perspective, showcasing worldwide trends in music. For example, in 2024, the top-streamed song was “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter, and Taylor Swift was the most-streamed artist. This global view connects you with millions of other listeners, showing how your tastes align with worldwide music trends.For many, Spotify Wrapped is a nostalgic moment—a time capsule capturing the soundtrack of their year. Whether the music represents happy memories or difficult times, it’s a reminder of the experiences that defined the past 12 months.But Spotify Wrapped is more than just a personal reflection; it’s a celebration of music and the role it plays in our lives. It’s a journey that’s shared by millions of people around the world, all connected by the power of music.

Royal Far West, a leading national charity dedicated to the health and wellbeing of rural and remote children, celebrates a century of service this December. Established in 1924, the organisation has transformed countless lives by providing essential health services to children in Australia's outback regions.Initially founded as the Far West Children’s Scheme by Reverend Stanley Drummond, the charity began as seaside respite camps for country kids in Manly. Over time, it evolved into a comprehensive health and development service that now supports children across four states through in-person, virtual, and community-based care.Today, with an estimated 190,000 rural children in need of developmental and mental health support, Royal Far West remains a lifeline. Its innovative services include telehealth programs, award-winning disaster recovery initiatives, and partnerships with schools and communities, ensuring no child is left behind due to their postcode.CEO Jacqueline Emery said, “From humble beginnings, we’ve grown into a beacon of hope, delivering critical services to ensure every child can reach their full potential.”As part of the centenary celebrations, Royal Far West will host events and fundraisers throughout 2025. To get involved, visit www.royalfarwest.org.au.

Opinion By Lynne StrongBecoming a new councillor must feel a lot like stepping into the lyrics of Johnny Nash’s "I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,I can see all obstacles in my way,Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind,It's gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day."That’s the vibe most councillors start with—optimism and determination to fix what’s broken and make their community better. They arrive ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work, thinking the hardest part was winning the election. But just as they settle into their new roles, the clouds roll back in, and they find themselves humming the Rolling Stones instead:"You can’t always get what you want,But if you try sometimes,You just might find,You get what you need."What you want is to dive into the big, transformative projects—housing, public spaces, sustainability. What you get? A mess. You inherit issues you didn’t see coming, like Kiama Council’s $1.5 million developer overcharging scandal. A software glitch led to inflated contributions, and now the council has to refund $623,000. That’s a lot of money that could have gone to basics like playgrounds, sports fields or “mowing public spaces more than once every six weeks.” Instead, councillors are left scrambling to explain it to a furious public.And the spending controversies don’t stop there. Refurbishing the council chambers will cost $280,000, including $170,000 for AV equipment, $30,000 for new carpets, and $15,000 for painting. The Westpac building will swallow another $154,000 for new partitions, carpet, and desks. Meanwhile, the mayor’s office is also being done up, which hasn’t gone unnoticed.What’s often overlooked is our councillors aren’t full-time politicians. Most councillors have other jobs. They don’t take these roles for the money—their stipends barely cover the time they put in. And yet, the demands are relentless. The public sees them as punching bags for every council decision, inherited or not.Take a look at what residents are saying:“Stop wasting money on fancy offices. Just get on with governing,” says one comment.Another adds, “Finish Gerroa Park already. It’s been sitting without play equipment for years while money is wasted on desks and carpet!”And then there’s this: “Councillors are supposed to represent ratepayers. You can’t hide from this waste.”It must feel impossible to move forward when you’re constantly stuck in reverse. Councillors didn’t sign up for this. They came in with big ideas: affordable housing, sustainability, community-building. But instead of progress, they’re dealing with angry ratepayers, blown budgets, and never-ending roadblocks.And really, who would sign up for this? The pay is small, the workload enormous, and the criticism relentless. Yet, somehow, these people keep showing up, trying to make a difference. They’re not perfect. They make mistakes. But they’re trying to steer a ship that’s often leaking from every corner.I started out wanting to write a positive piece, to showcase the incredible aspirations of our councillors. Instead, I find myself wondering how they even stay afloat. We demand so much of them—vision, integrity, resilience. But maybe we need to ask less and support more.Because while “You can’t always get what you want” might be true, councillors didn’t come into these roles expecting perfection. They just want to get us what we need. And that deserves a little more understanding from all of us.

Local churches are once again hosting a variety of festive events this Christmas season, bringing joy and fun for all. Here’s your guide to what’s on in Kiama:Tuesday, December 10th – Join the community at Jamberoo for the annual Community Carols, hosted by the Red Cross, Rural Fire Brigade, and the Anglican Church. It’s sure to be a night of festive music and celebration for all ages.Wednesday, December 11th – The Community Carols: Songs of Joy event will take place at St. Peter’s and Paul’s Church, featuring performances from local choirs. The event is by donation, with all proceeds going to charity—a wonderful opportunity to give back this holiday season.Sunday, December 15th – The Kiama Combined Churches will gather for a special combined service at the Town Hall, bringing together Anglican, Uniting, and Catholic communities for a shared celebration.December 19th, 9 AM to 4 PM – Head to Kiama Baptist Church for the kidsFEST Christmas Edition, packed with activities and fun for children of all ages.Saturday, December 21st – As part of their holiday traditions, the Kiama Combined Churches will present a "Live" Nativity Scene outside the church, featuring real animals. This event will coincide with the Gerringong Street Parade, making it a festive spectacle for all to enjoy. Church members will also be busy preparing shortbread, which will be packaged and handed out to passersby as festive gifts. Children are invited to take photos 'in the nativity' for a memorable holiday keepsake.Sunday, December 22nd – Don’t miss The Art of Christmas, an evening of carols paired with beautiful Christmas artwork. The Traditional Eve Service will follow at 7:30 PM, offering a peaceful and reflective way to celebrate the season.December 22nd, 5 PM – Join the Family Christmas Event at Kiama Baptist Church for an afternoon of festivities and celebration.Christmas Eve (December 24th) – Celebrate with an all-ages service at Gerringong Anglican Church at 5 PM in the church hall, perfect for families to come together and enjoy the Christmas spirit.Christmas Day (December 25th) – The Christmas Day Service at Gerringong Anglican Church will be held at 9 AM, followed by an all-ages service at 10 AM. Activity packs will be provided for children to keep them engaged throughout the service.Sunday, December 29th – Wrap up the Christmas season with an Australian Christmas service at Gerringong Anglican Church, featuring contemporary Australian carols in a relaxed and joyful setting.Pop-up Carols Around the Streets – Keep an eye out for surprise Pop-Up Carol Singing performances around Kiama. These spontaneous carolers will spread extra holiday cheer throughout the community.Whether you're looking to join a traditional Christmas service, enjoy a family-friendly event, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere, there’s something for everyone this Christmas season in Kiama. Bring your friends and family along to celebrate the joy of the season, connect with the community, and create lasting memories.For more information on these events, visit your local church websites or follow them on social media for updates. 

It's hard to believe that over 50 years have passed since Trevor White and Jon English first brought the iconic roles of Jesus and Judas to life on the Australian stage in Jesus Christ Superstar. This groundbreaking rock opera, written by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber in 1970, has firmly secured its place in musical theatre history and remains beloved by audiences worldwide. As part of its 50th anniversary tour, the show is currently playing at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre until January 26th, before heading to Perth. With its unforgettable music, powerful performances, and timeless themes of power, betrayal, and redemption, the hype around Jesus Christ Superstar is as strong as ever. Michael Paynter’s portrayal of Jesus in this production has completely redefined the role for me. As a lifelong John Farnham fan, (Jesus in the 1992 production), I never thought I'd feel such a deep emotional connection to this performance, but Paynter’s rendition was nothing short of extraordinary. His delivery of "Gethsemane" was so vocally stunning, I found myself in awe, struggling to keep my jaw from hitting the floor. The sheer power and emotion he brought to the song earned him a well-deserved mid-show standing ovation. Michael, if you’re reading this—please, for the love of all things musical—release your version of "Gethsemane" so I can listen to it on repeat! Javon King’s portrayal of Judas was a strikingly clean and nuanced interpretation. His voice was technically flawless, and the emotion he conveyed through his eyes was hauntingly powerful. One of the most memorable moments was the use of liquid silver to symbolise the blood money on his hands, a visual choice that was both haunting and beautifully executed. Unlike previous portrayals of Judas, such as Tim Minchin’s and Jon English’s more rugged, rock-inspired takes, King’s version presented a more polished, almost aristocratic Judas—one who carried the weight of his betrayal with an air of dignified torment. Regardless of which interpretation of Judas you prefer, there’s no denying that King’s vocal performance was absolutely unmatched. I’d like to make a special mention of someone who didn’t have a main role but truly stood out: Darcy Eagle, who played the mob leader and main dancer. Every time she stepped onto the stage, she commanded attention with her expressive facial expressions and impeccably clean movements. Whether portraying a devoted follower of Jesus or leading the chaos of the mob, Eagle transitioned seamlessly between these contrasting roles, maintaining an infectious energy throughout. What impressed me most was her ability to sustain such high energy and precision, especially considering she was dancing full out for most of the show. Her performance added so much depth to the production, proving that sometimes the most memorable moments come from those in supporting roles.The choreography in this production was both modern and wonderfully unconventional, yet it all came together in perfect harmony. There was a unique flow to the movements, with elongated, smooth gestures performed at a quick pace, making full use of the dancers' bodies. Bree Tapoki, the resident choreographer, brought a distinctive style to the piece, blending contemporary elements with creative, bold choices that kept the choreography fresh and engaging. I truly enjoyed seeing her imaginative vision come to life on stage.The costume design was fairly minimalistic, opting for a muted, "Yeezy-inspired" palette of greys and sage, with oversized clothing that gave the characters a somewhat contemporary, yet understated look. However, the one truly show-stopping outfit came courtesy of Reuben Kaye, who played King Herod and delivered the only comedic break in the show. Draped in gold, paired with stilettos and a studded gock strap, Kaye’s larger-than-life presence was hard to miss. His perfectly timed rendition of "King Herod’s Song" was a highlight, with his extravagant costume and bold performance adding a touch of fabulousity to the otherwise intense atmosphere of the show.Mahlia Barnes brought a strikingly different energy to the role of Mary Magdalene, offering a more rugged and raw portrayal than we typically see. While Mary is often depicted with clean, sweet vocals, providing comfort to Jesus, Barnes used her belting range to bring a grittier, more complex dimension to the character. This Mary felt less like the traditional nurturing figure and more like a woman hardened by her past (a prostitute and victim of the societal abuse of her time). I appreciated this fresh take, as it gave a new depth to the role. However, while Barnes powerful vocals were impressive, I did feel there could have been more vocal variation. Showing her raw power was compelling, but I would have liked to hear her dial it back at times to create more dynamic contrast, allowing the quieter moments of Mary’s character to shine through as well.  The staging was haunting and impactful, with a large corrugated metal cross dominating the stage, drawing immediate attention. Unlike previous productions, where scaffolding is often used to create dynamic levels and allow for more interaction between performers, this set opted for a simpler approach. The focus was on a staircase with a platform at the top, reminiscent of the one used in Hamilton last year. While it was visually striking, I did miss the usual complexity of scaffolding that adds depth and movement to the space. The staircase, though effective in its own right, didn’t quite offer the same variety of shapes and levels, but it still worked within the overall mood of the production.The musicians were top-notch, seamlessly sharing the stage with the performers and showcasing their incredible talent. The opening moment was especially memorable, with a single spotlight on the electric guitarist, expertly jamming the iconic Jesus Christ Superstar riff, setting the tone for what was to come. This smooth transition led straight into Javon King’s standout performance of "Heaven on Their Minds," which was nothing short of electrifying. The synergy between the live band and the cast elevated the entire experience, blending the raw power of rock with the emotion of the story.I highly recommend seeing this production, especially as we approach Christmas. It's a thrilling, thought-provoking experience that will stay with you long after the curtain falls, leaving you in awe of the performances, the music, and the emotional depth of the story and portrayal of the characters. 

Warm weather is here, and so are the mosquitoes. With unseasonably large swarms causing headaches in parts of Sydney, it’s clear we’re in for a buzzing summer. But there’s a way to turn this pesky problem into a fascinating project for the whole family – citizen science!Be part of Mozzie MonitorsMozzie Monitors is a citizen science program where every day Australians help track mosquitoes to assist health authorities. All you need is a simple mosquito trap, a smartphone, and a bit of curiosity. Participants set up traps in their backyards, photograph their catches, and upload the images to researchers via platforms like iNaturalist. The data collected helps scientists identify mosquito species and monitor their populations.Since 2018, more than 200 citizen scientists have joined this effort, capturing over 15,000 mosquitoes and uploading thousands of photos. Their work has provided critical insights into mosquito behaviour and improved community understanding of these insects and the diseases they carry.Why join in?Aside from contributing to valuable research, participants have found the program surprisingly educational. Families learn to identify common mosquito species, improve their photography skills, and discover ways to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like Ross River virus.Kids can enjoy the thrill of being “real-life scientists,” while parents appreciate the program’s simplicity and impact. It’s also a great way to get outdoors, engage with the environment, and learn how small actions—like tipping out standing water—can reduce mosquito risks for the whole neighbourhood.Get started this summerIf you’ve spotted mosquitoes in your backyard, why not join the Mozzie Monitors movement? Share your photos and observations on iNaturalist and contribute to this nationwide effort. It’s a fun, educational way to stay informed about the health risks mosquitoes pose – and to keep your family safer from their bites.This summer let’s turn backyard buzzing into scientific discovery. Because the best way to beat mosquitoes might just be learning all about them!