A power outage shut down a large part of Kiama Downs for over an hour this morning at around 6:20am Thursday 18 January 2024.Endeavour Energy told The Bugle that the cause of the outage was a magpie on the high voltage mains on Riversdale Road that caused the short circuit. Residents on Facebook described a loud flash and bang before the power went out. The posts indicated power was out on Brown St and Oxley Avenue. All power was restored by 8am.An incident also occurred this morning at around 6:45am on the South Coast Rail Line where a train hit an unknown object on the line and was damaged. Transport NSW told The Bugle that two buses were sent to be used to transfer passengers from the train so they could continue their journey to their destinations. No injuries have been reported.Transport NSW said it was possible the incident was caused by a wild animal, and the train was taken to Sydney for repairs. Buses are replacing trains on the South Coast line. The Bugle will update this article with any further developments. 

Fire and Rescue NSW has issued a warning over the Summer to caravan owners to check that they have a working carbon monoxide detector as well as a working smoke alarm. The sensors in a carbon monoxide and gas leak degrade over time and require replacement every five years or as per manufacturer instructions. An incident occurred at an Eden Caravan park on 5 January 2024 where Fire and Rescue 286 Eden attended a local caravan park at 2pm when a family with two young children were forced to flee their caravan after the piercing alert of their carbon monoxide alarm woke them up.While the battery was found to be overheating, the incident highlighted that even low levels of carbon monoxide when inhaled can be dangerous.In other Summer safety advice for Kiama residents and visitors, Craig Robert, the Drowning Prevention and Education manager for The Royal Life Saving Society has warned against complacency for swimmers over the summer.“Last summer, 100 per cent of drowning deaths were in un-patrolled areas, and of all drownings, 83 per cent were men. Last summer’s drowning toll set a tragic record, and this summer is already on track to surpassing that, with 42 tragedies in Australian inland and coastal waterways since 1st December,” Mr Roberts said.“Older adults - represented a 64 per cent increase in drowning deaths last year. For over 65s, get to know your health and fitness levels in different conditions, check medications and any medical conditions before you go.”“Men - are still at the greatest risk of drowning, representing 83 per cent of the drowning toll.Understanding your swim and survival skills, avoiding alcohol and any water activity, wearing life jackets their swim and survival skills may be different on land, in water, and between pools, surf and rivers (men are still 83 per cent of the drowning toll).Of people born overseas, 35 per cent identify as non or poor swimmers. Even if you don’t intend to swim, adult swimming lessons are key to keeping yourself and your family safe around the water.Alcohol is involved in 16 per cent of all drowning fatalities. Swimming pools are still the leading site of drowning among children and adults over 75 years.Beach safety in particular is a safety concern around Kiama over the summer.Last year, Kiama was a hotspot for near drownings as the beaches filled up with visitors. Phil Perry, President of Kiama SLSC confirmed to The Bugle that a couple of successful rescues occurred at Surf beach on the weekend of 6 and 7 January 2024.“Stay within the flags and avoid known rips, which are signposted,” Phil said. At this time of year last Summer, the recently installed Emergency Relay Beacons (ERBs) were activated for the first time over the 7/8 January 2023 weekend, twice at Bombo Beach and once at Kendalls, the latter due to a shark sighting.Craig Bowley, Kiama’s head lifeguard, has reminded beachgoers to avoid this dangerous spot.“I know it looks like an appealing stretch of water – and many people spot it as they turn off the highway to drive into Central Kiama. But the warning signs are there for a reason. South Bombo is one of the most dangerous stretches of coastline in the Kiama Municipality.”Mr Bowley advises people to instead swim at the patrolled section of North Bombo between the flags. “Or explore one of our other patrolled beaches – besides North Bombo, we have Jones, Surf Beach, Easts, Kendalls, Werri and Seven Mile.”Mr Bowley also warned of rough conditions, rips and currents, including in the Minnamurra River, where the tidal current can be very strong at times.“If you do get caught in a rip, the best thing to do is try not to panic, float and conserve your energy, rather than fighting against it. A rip will often take you out but then bring you back around to a sandbar or shallow area, from which you can return to shore or wait to be rescued,” Mr Bowley said.If you see someone who is in distress, Council urges people to alert the lifeguards and/or use the ERBs rather than going in yourself.

Kiama’s Little Nippers will be the first young people in the district to receive free vision screening tests on Sunday 3 March as part of the Lions Club’s Australia-wide Children’s Vision Screening program.The program, which runs under Lions Eye Health Program Australia, will see members of the Kiama Lions Club carry out screenings for kids in the Little Nippers Club in partnership with the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club.Children will be tested on three different criteria: visual acuity, colour vision, and stereo depth perception. Screens will use a camera standing a metre away that takes a photo of the eye and can look for astigmatisms, near and farsightedness, anisometropia and other visual issues.It’s important to note that Lions members won’t diagnose children for any conditions. They’re results will be sent home and, if necessary, a visit to an eye specialist will be recommended.The screening process is simple enough that anyone can be trained in a relatively short amount of time to perform screenings. Anyone interested can learn online, and it only takes about an hour to become certified. John Larkins, President of the Kiama Lions Club said the club is aiming to have at least six screeners, but preferably half a dozen. Participants will have the opportunity to get trained up on the morning of the first screening on 2 March, and the Lions Club will begin screening around lunchtime.The Children’s Vision Screening is an Australia-wide initiative, but Kiama will be the first club in the N2 district to roll out the program.The Lions Club has made vision one of its core priorities at an international level, and in Australia, the Lions Eye Health Program has been running since 2000. The screening tests are a vital service when you consider that one in five children has an undetected vision problem, which can have a profound impact on their entire lives, especially education. You can learn more about the program here. 

Shine Women has announced its upcoming seminar next month which will address the topic dealing with disappointment. It will be a chance to hear from real women who have dealt with disappointments in their lives and learn strategies to help overcome them. The seminar will be held on Thursday 15 February at 7-8:30pm at Church Point Centre, 2 Terralong St, Kiama. The group was established in Kiama eight years ago and thrives with the local support of Kiama Council and local Kiama churches. It is a volunteer run group with a strong focus on supporting and improving the mental wellbeing of all women in the community. The group is also hosting a free eight week course to encourage women to discover their worth, value, and purpose.The seminar begins on Friday 3 May at 10am. The course is designed to appeal to many women of all ages. With several skills to learn, it is designed to empower women in their various roles at work, home or family. All programs that Shine Women offer are free and welcome women over the age of 18 either alone or you can bring a friend. Please register your interest for the seminar. All women over the age of 18 are welcome either individually or with a friend. Please register your interest, RSVP is essential, [email protected] or 0242 322 066

The Christmas and New Year holidays have resulted in disaster on NSW waters for some. Royal Life Saving NSW (RLS NSW) has warned people to be more prepared in the summer months of 2024. It is crucial to know the risks and limitations around the water to ensure water safety is a priority. Last Summer, 17 per cent of all drownings occurred during heatwaves and on weekends, and 100 per cent of fatalities happened in unpatrolled areas. Men form 83 per cent of that number. RLS encourages men to check in with their fitness levels, know their abilities, check in with their mates and consider learning CPR or first aid.“Last Summer’s drowning toll set a tragic record, and this summer is already on track to surpassing that, with 42 tragedies in Australian waterways since 1st of December.” said Craig Roberts,  RLS General Manager of Drowning Prevention and Education.The RLS NSW provide five key safety messages for staying safe in the water:Know your limitations and the risksNever go aloneWear a life jacket when on the water and fishingAvoid alcoholActively supervise children at all times Knowing your limitations applies in many different ways, and certain ages and stages of life. Different health and fitness levels, different weather and water conditions, medication and medical conditions must all be taken into consideration. Preparedness is key.Older adults account for a 64 per cent increase in drowning deaths in 2023. Men represent a greater risk of drowning - making up 83 per cent of the total fatality tollFive per cent of deaths that occurred last year were rescue attempts that involved bystanders, family or friends. Acknowledging your ability to help someone in trouble and considering learning CPR and water safety and rescue skills is imperative to staying safe in a crisis.Pools are the leading location of deaths for children under five years old and adults over 75.Providing children with ongoing and regular swimming lessons helps to cultivate and maintain their skills in the water. It is crucial to keep young children under constant supervision and within arms reach. “We are lucky to have so many ways to enjoy the water in NSW - whether fishing, cooling off in a pool, gathering at a river, lake or beach, you can make the most of these wonderful community assets by learning the risks.” Though if you are socialising in and around the water this Summer, you must be prepared.Who is most at risk:Men represent 83 per cent of all drownings in AustraliaAlcohol is involved in 16 per cent of all drowning fatalitiesLong weekends account for a spike in the drowning tollOver 65s are represent a 43 per cent increase in drownings over a 20 year averageFour out of 10 primary school leavers are unable to tread water for two minutesRegional areas experienced a 1.7x increase in drownings compared to metro areasMore statistics can be found in The National Drowning Report from September 2023 which can be found here. To find out more and ensure you are Summer ready you can find more information at the Royal Life Saving website.

Expressive Art continues with the Wall Trail journey this year by adding a third venue to their list of local exhibitors. The Wall Trail has been exhibiting since last September with Minnamurra Cafe joining as the newest addition to the venues that Expressive Art use to exhibit a range of artworks from local artists. Exhibits can currently be found in Wild Patch Cafe and Smoothie Bar, Kiama and Stoic Brewing, Gerringong where the art can be purchased by the public. The exhibits rotate every six weeks and some featured local talents so far include Phil Winterton, Gay Emmerson, Darren Parlett, and Kathy Karas. Expressive Art is always looking for local artists who want the opportunity to display and sell their work in the area. Expressive Art is offering a discount of 24 per cent off for 2024 for any artist who books and finalises their exhibition dates before the end of January. The Wall Trail has also announced the exciting news that they are the winners of a grant from South Coast Arts which will ensure they can build an independent website for the Expressive Art Wall Trail. The growth of the Wall Trail is ongoing as not just an exhibition of art but a community-driven celebration of creativity. For any further enquiries please contact Expressive Art, Michelle & Tiffany Springett at [email protected]. 

The Kiama Lions Club would like to thank the organisers of the Red Hot Summer Tour held at Kiama Showground over the weekend. The club was given the opportunity to participate in its Kiama Lions Environmental Program run by dedicated member, Mick Fox.Proceeds from the program will go to the Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club (SLSC) to help repair the damaged roof. The club would also like to extend its appreciation to all members and volunteers who got involved. The task was completed successfully and The Lions Club reported a huge 20,000 recyclables cleared with a resulting $2000 donated to the Kiama SLSC.Kiama Lions is looking for people to join the team. The club is for people who strive to make a difference in their local community. More information on volunteering and The Lions Club environmental programs can be found here.

This is an appeal to the community, especially around Gerringong, for any details or history of these gates. Quite close to the Gerringong Museum, and on the way to Cronin Cval are the remains of the Jubilee Park Gate on either side of Blackwood Street, north and south.The gate is now about 88 years old. No remains of the actual fate seem to exist, just the pillars on either side of the road.The Bugle is asking the local community if they have any details on the Jubilee Park Gates and the early history of Jubilee Park which was obviously bigger when created as the park must have included Blackwood Street where the gate was situated.The Silver Jubilee of King George V was held on 5 May 1935 and marked 25 years since he took the throne. He was succeeded a year later by his son Edward VIII, who abdicated within the year and was replaced by Queen Elizabeth II’s father, George VI.The Gerringong Museum is currently researching our question on the history of these gates, and would love to add more of the gate’s history for the Gerringong and wider community to their files.Apparently, the Kiama Independent covered the installation of the Gates in an article published 15 August, 1936. This can be found on a search on Trove, the free online research portal operated by the National Library of Australia in Canberra.Further notes via Trove say that the gates and the new sports pavilion were officially opened on Saturday 14 November, 1936 by H. J Bate MLA.The article stated the reconstruction of the sports ground was undertaken by Kiama Council with emergency relief work and much voluntary assistance by the citizen’s committee.One little known fact is the porcelain drinking fountain that was erected in 1939 was famous across Australia after being featured in the iconic Aussie film “Dad and Dave.”

A distressed Wattlebird pair and their nesting fledgling have been endangered in a severely pruned Crepe Myrtle tree near the IGA Gerringong front door entrance by the severe pruning of their tree and surrounding trees along the car park outside the IGA. Local and Former Gerringong residents have raised concerns to The Bugle over the severe pruning of the trees; none of the branches have been observed with any new branch growth or leaf growth. Staff at IGA say the pruning happened about 2 months ago.Wattlebird nest in overpruned crepe myrtle treeThe aggressive pruning has left the nest exposed, putting the mother bird at risk from potential predators like crows and magpies.When The Bugle visited the nest on Friday 1 December it was clear the nest is within a few metres of the front door of the IGA, and quite close to the pole where shoppers will normally tie up their dogs.Two Bird rescue organisations contacted by The Bugle (WIRES and WRSC Wildlife Rescue South Coast) confirmed that by the size of the baby wattlebird was a fledgling very close to trying to fly.“By the size, the bird will start learning to fly under the anxious eyes of its parents within a few days. The crisis will occur if the fledging falls so close to so many humans and dogs. The parents will do their best, but survival chances sadly are not good.”The organisations confirmed there was no way to move the nest successfully, as the fledgling would be abandoned by the parents, and it would be moved into other birds’ territories.However, they said the fledgling was most at danger to dogs and a sign could be possibly put on the tree to alert those passing by.Residents who approached The Bugle emphasised the need for greater awareness regarding the challenges faced by Wattle Birds. They stressed that individuals involved in tree pruning must conduct thorough checks to avoid endangering innocent birds.Little Wattlebirds are native to south-eastern and south-western Australia, including Tasmania. They thrive in dry, scrubby environments like banksia heaths, forests, woodlands, as well as urban parks and gardens.The core message is a plea for community awareness about the local fauna and the importance of preserving their habitats. Responsible tree management is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of these vulnerable birds in our midst.

The act of gift-giving is a universal practice deeply rooted in human culture. We all enjoy receiving a gift and there is a certain satisfaction when you hit the mark with a well-chosen gift. There is a multifaceted psychology behind gift-giving, revealing its profound impact on emotional bonds, mental health, and societal connections.  In our locality we are fortunate with such a range of retail and home grown gifts available through our shops and markets. According to Survey Monkey, people allocate various budgets for holiday gifts, reflecting the significance of this tradition. Most people (32 per cent) spend $100-300 on gifts, and 29 per cent spend less than $100 and 7 per cent spend over $1000. Gifts serve as tangible expressions of emotions, allowing individuals to convey love, appreciation, and gratitude. Thoughtfully chosen presents demonstrate understanding of the recipient's interests, fostering emotional bonds and strengthening relationships. This act of kindness not only benefits the recipient but also positively impacts the giver's mental and physical well-being.Research indicates that the act of giving activates the brain's reward centre, releasing dopamine and contributing to increased overall well-being. Gift-giving not only induces pleasure but also provides a sense of purpose and meaning, enhancing self-esteem. Data from ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ supports the idea that expressing kindness through gifts can lead to increased energy, happiness, and even health benefits.Regardless of the recipient, the act of giving a gift signifies recognition and value, fostering strong bonds and building lasting relationships. From customers to friends, the gesture enhances a sense of connection, creating a positive impact on social dynamics.Beyond material exchange, gifts serve as reflections of the giver's identity and values. The choice of a gift communicates information about the giver's personality, allowing for self-expression and creativity. Societal norms and cultural expectations also influence gift selection, reinforcing social roles and projecting desired images.Empathy plays a crucial role in the psychology of gift-giving. Choosing a thoughtful gift demonstrates an understanding of the recipient's needs and interests, promoting empathy and strengthening relationships. Dr. Gary Chapman identifies giving as one of the five love languages, emphasising its role in expressing gratitude and fostering emotional connections.Reciprocity, an innate human tendency, plays a significant role in gift-giving. Receiving a gift creates a social obligation to reciprocate, reinforcing social bonds and maintaining balance in relationships. Understanding the reciprocal nature of gift-giving encourages conscious and meaningful engagement in this age-old tradition.By delving into the intricate psychology of gift-giving, people can approach this practice with greater awareness and sincerity. Thoughtful gift-giving not only strengthens relationships and creates lasting memories but also serves as a reminder of shared humanity and a powerful tool for fostering connections.

Adaptive Tennis is arriving at Gerringong Tennis Club (near the Gerringong Bowling Club) this Saturday 16 December 2023 from 11am to 2pm, and it's free.Tennis is one of those sports that can be adapted so that everyone can participate. The Adaptive Tennis program was developed by City Community Tennis with the mission to get players of all ages and levels of ability learning and playing the game. This includes wheelchair, blind & low vision, deaf/hard of hearing, intellectual disability and adaptive stand up.Photo supplied by Arato Katsuda BLVThe program will run on wheelchair friendly hardcourts at the Gerringong Tennis Club with equipment such as sport chairs available to try on the day.Jones Co. Tennis will be facilitating this program at the Gerringong Tennis Club, the first location on the South Coast. They can be contacted on 0413 225 431.The session will be open for anyone with a disability (physical, intellectual, blind and vision impairment, autism, and deaf) as well as any member of our community wishing to know more about the program and see what Adaptive Tennis is all about.The session will include coaching for all levels and is perfect for beginners. The sessions will include games, match play, cardio tennis, strength and conditioning as well as the chance to meet people and socialise.Marita Morgan City Community Tennis Adaptive Tennis Hub Coordinator said: "It is fantastic to see that the Adaptive Tennis Hub is coming to Gerringong. It has given so many people with a disability the chance to play tennis in Sydney and opportunities they have never had before! ““Sport is a big part of helping people with disabilities feel included and part of a community. I'm excited to see the program develop and excited to be working with Daniel and his team again.”The Adaptive Tennis program will kick off in the new year with regular sessions facilitated by Jones Co. Tennis at the Gerringong Tennis Club, the first location on the South Coast. 

Uncle Tom Slocklee and Tony Gilmour have launched a book called “An Aboriginal Voice in Housing” at a talk hosted by the Friends of the Library on Saturday 2 December 2023.The guest speakers were introduced by Sue Eggins, President of the Kiama Historical Society.Tom is a respected local elder who has helped pioneer and guide the movement for secure and affordable housing for Aboriginal people across six decades. He founded and remains chairperson of SEARMS (South Eastern Aboriginal Regional Management Services), and was runner up at the 2023 NAIDOC award for Male Elder. On their 20th anniversary, Uncle Tom asked Kiama-based Housing consultant Tony Gilmour to write the history of their movement. “This is the history of the very successful SEARMS where Aboriginal controlled housing for Aboriginal residents has shown to be a great success, and a model for both growth in similar social housing but possibly a model for future social and affordable housing projects as Australia faces a growing affordable housing crisis. When the government looks towards ambitious social housing projects through NSW and Australia, including building to rent, it can look towards the successes of such projects as SEARMS.”SEARMS has gone from starting with five or six houses to now managing well over 600 homes through southern NSW.Tom said: “In the 70s and 80s Aboriginal Leaders took the lead and founded community-based local housing organisations run by Aboriginal people for Aboriginal people respecting culture, country, and family ties.”Uncle Tom in his remarks paid tribute in particular to the strong female leadership within SEARMS throughout its history. He also referenced how Aboriginal people were living at the time of the 1967 referendum.“I asked Tony Gilmour to write a book so we could record and respect the wisdom of elders, pass knowledge to the next generation of both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, and learn from the successes and failures of the past.” he said.Tony was Founder and President of The Housing Action Network in 2012. The Housing Network helped clients deliver high quality affordable housing to disadvantaged communities through contracting for providing short term employees for up to three months on a project or general consultancy to industry leaders providing affordable housing. While their clients have been mainly in Australia, they have also had partnerships in New Zealand and Britain. Tony GilmourHe is also Treasurer of the Kiama Historical Society.Tony said: “There are very different definitions for social housing, community housing and build to rent. Build to rent is still part of the private sector, still driven by seeking the top market prices, where the successes for housing have been in the not-for-profit sector.”“We need a chorus of Aboriginal voices - local, regional, state-wide and national if we are to better address seemingly intractable Aboriginal housing issues dating back to colonisation.”  SEARMS is mostly based in Batemans Bay and started with five Aboriginal Housing owners in Batemans Bay, Bugawant, Cobowra, Mogo, and Ulladulla. It became an Aboriginal Corporation in 2011 and now extends its services to Yass, Nowra, Goulburn, and Queanbeyan.Uncle Tom was the first speaker and outlined the discrimination he received after leaving the army seeking his own home and being refused to either rent to buy because of his heritage. He introduced the writer of the book Tony Gilmour and the SEARMS CEO Kim Sinclair. Sinclair made references to the differences between the way Maori housing is done in New Zealand compared to the way Aboriginal housing is managed in Australia.President of the Friends of the Kiama Library Perrie Croshaw conducted a lively and interesting Q&A panel with the speakers and then allowed one question from the public. Though The Bugle attended in-person, general questions from the media attending were not allowed. All proceeds from book sales will go to the Aboriginal organisation, SEARMS and you can buy a copy via the link below. Four events have been held, in Brisbane, Canberra, Kiama and Batemans Bay.

As the festive season approaches, the desire to spread joy and goodwill becomes heightened. What better way to embrace the true essence of the holidays than by engaging in meaningful volunteer opportunities?Meet John Stott, a dedicated volunteer at the Kiama Visitors Centre. With over a decade of residence in Kiama, John, even while working part-time, sought to deepen his connection with the community, particularly within the realm of "Destination Kiama." Leveraging his proficiency in French and Spanish, John has become a valuable asset in the tourism sector. Reflecting on his experience, he shares, "I cherish the camaraderie with my team and the diverse interactions with people from around the globe."You too can explore the profound impact of giving back during this special time, fostering a sense of community, compassion, and shared joy.Blue Haven, with the help of its team of volunteers, contributes to enriching the lives of others and giving back to the community. Volunteers provide assistance for seniors (65+) and those under 65 living with a disability, people without access to transport and support for their carers. Roles may include assistance with shopping, helping with travel on public transport – for appointments, groups or events, providing respite for carers, helping on and off the community bus, reading to the visually impaired, supporting with basic IT, such as using an iPad, or a simple cup of tea and a chat! Anyone interested can contact [email protected] or call (02) 4203 4055The Bugle interviewed Jan Dodge, a dedicated volunteer who has generously given her time for the past two decades at Blue Haven. When Jan initially relocated from Sydney to Kiama after retiring, she experienced a bit of loneliness. However, once she immersed herself in volunteering, she found immense joy in the grateful smiles of those she assisted.Jan expresses her passion for giving back, highlighting the minimal time commitment of just half an hour to an hour per day. According to her, this small investment of time can make a significant difference in the lives of others. "It's one of the most gratifying things you could ever do," she shares.Christmas Day Lunch at Kiama Uniting Church. The church hosts a Christmas lunch on Christmas Day for anyone who may be on their own on Christmas Day – it’s an open invitation! Help would be appreciated beforehand or on the day. If people show up to help on the day, it would be nice if they also joined in for lunch. If you would like to get involved, please call (02) 4232 1677, or email [email protected] Homestead of Hope NSW Inc. is a Kiama Christian-based charity that cares deeply for the disadvantaged, lonely, homeless and those who don’t fit into society. This Registered Charity assists people with emergency, short-term accommodation, and this work is done without any government assistance. Relying on donations and fundraising efforts, all money raised is used to help needy people and people in crisis who need support. A popular regular activity includes a weekly drop-in centre at the Scout Hall where anyone is welcome to come and be served tea, coffee and a hot, home-cooked lunch free of charge. Regular guests have formed friendships making the meal a time of camaraderie in a warm atmosphere. Guests are served by members and volunteers who come mostly from the churches in Kiama. More volunteers are always welcome. Please contact [email protected] or call 0478 963 059.Meals on Wheels is a not-for-profit organisation that provides nutritious meals for those who need it, and they rely heavily upon their wonderful team of volunteers, who are in fact the backbone of the organisation. Kiama Meals on Wheels says, “We simply could not operate without their ongoing contribution to our meal delivery service and other ad hoc activities.” Anyone interested can call 02 4232 3735 or email [email protected]. Financial donations are always welcome.Red Cross needs helpers from time to time, so if you have interest you can head to the volunteer website and have a look to see what is available, and applications can be submitted there.The Nurtured Village Hampers Ltd is a registered maternal mental health charity that seeks to advocate for and prevent mental health disorders in Aussie mums. This charity is looking for individuals who are passionate about maternal mental health and have the capacity to volunteer as an area hamper coordinator. They are currently looking for two individuals located all over the South Coast to volunteer, you can find out more here.Vinnies in Kiama: The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW provides an exceptional shopping experience for their customers who benefit from preloved items at great prices. Volunteering is a great way to interact with like-minded people and build friendships. You can feel satisfied knowing you are working for an organisation that really makes a difference for those in need. Vinnies retail shops are a much-loved shopping destination for customers who value good quality, affordable and sustainable items. Phone (02) 4232 2656 to express your interest. Donations are always welcome too.Other volunteering opportunities: Animal Shelters, Hospitals, Food Bank, Local Parks.The Christmas period is often challenging for organisations to maintain their services adequately and they often need volunteers over this time and beyond. To find opportunities to get involved and help out it will be necessary to do a web search. This is how to search:This holiday season let's come together as a community to create lasting memories and make a positive impact. Explore these volunteer opportunities and be a beacon of joy for those in need.

Physiotherapist and wellness services provider Bai Med has hosted a workshop for people in the community living with Parkinson’s Disease who want to get out and socialise while strengthening their physical and mental skills.The team at Bai Med started off with a warm-up exercise, with the team throwing the ball to one another and counting as they threw to each other. Then, increase the difficulty by counting and combining a Christmas theme. “Okay! We’re going to count Christmas items! Try to think of something Christmas-y as you throw it to the next person.” Mia Bia Med’s physio explained to the group. The group, during their warm-up After the warm-up, everyone jumped into action for their next set, with Matt from Bai Med demonstrating the Christmas-themed sets, which were appropriately named, such as rope slams, which were renamed "Ride the Slay" and crab walks dubbed "Geese-A-Laying". These workouts are engaging both mentally and physically, which gets the participants moving and thinking.Physiotherapist Matt's demonstrationThe participants really enjoy these workouts; you can really see the joy and happiness that this class brings to them. The team and physios (Matt and Mia) did a great job organising and demonstrating.  Mia and her group performing In 2020, exercise physiologist Sarah Clemm and physiotherapist Ryan Parker joined forces to establish the PD Power Program, aiming to address the regional gap in health services for individuals living with Parkinson's disease. Initially launched in Kiama, the program garnered support from BaiMed Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinics, along with the local Kiama PD Support Group.Following PD Warrior training, the program's inaugural group therapy class took place in mid-2021 with five dedicated participants. Empowered by the addition of PD Warrior-trained exercise physiologist Ashleigh, PD Power expanded its reach to BaiMed clinics and community spaces in Figtree, Wollongong, and Nowra. The program offered personalised assessments, individual consultation management plans, and community engagement with local support groups, establishing itself as a vital resource.In just one year, PD Power transformed into a strong evidence-based program, serving the Parkinson's communities in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions. The multidisciplinary team, including neurologists, PD nurses, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, and administrative staff, grew from five initial participants in Kiama to over 200 across three regions, operating in five BaiMed clinics."Ride the Slay" aka rope slams The success of PD Power can be attributed to the support of the integrated communities and the dedicated multidisciplinary team. The team's commitment to patient-centred care has allowed participants to achieve remarkable milestones, from maintaining employment to engaging in activities such as travel, piloting aircraft, local sports, bushwalking, and socialising at cafes and restaurants.By 2022, PD Power had become a beacon of advocacy, highlighting the need for ongoing support from the government and Parkinson's organisations at the state and national levels. The program not only provided access to quality healthcare, information, and care support but also fostered social engagement. PD Power stands as a regional model, enhancing the quality of life for those affected by Parkinson's disease and urging continued support for vital services in rural areas.

Elders Real Estate Jamberoo is helping bring the Christmas cheer to people doing it tough in the Illawarra this year, donating a massive haul of presents to the Salvation Army.Vivienne Marris from Elders Jamberoo has organised the massive gift-giving to the Salvation Army for the past 24 years each Christmas time. She estimates last year there were around 350 gifts donated from members of the community, and there are even more this year.Karen Walker from the Salvation Army said the organisation has been inundated with requests for support this year. “We have a lot of single men and women that come in and ask for assistance, sometimes it’s a really lonely Christmas. If they can get a hamper with some goodies in it, they can bring a bit of joy.”Vivienne also reminded us that families are made up of more than small children - there’s also teenagers and parents who could do with some joy this holiday season.'Anyone who wants to donate to the Salvation Army’s gift appeal can still do so at its Shellharbour or Wollongong centres, or drop them off to Elders Jamberoo and Vivienne will make sure the gifts get to where they are needed most.

The charming corner store Corner D’Or Homewares on Belinda Street Gerringong had its last day of trading on Sunday 10 December, 2023 and is now closed.Corner D’Or (The Corner of Gold) was operated by proprietors Bronwyn and Wayne Dorsett, who also live next door.Brownyn told The Bugle that the couple originally had planned to run the store for only five years… then it became twelve.“It is time for us to slow down. We may open from time to time in the store space for pop-ups, but it is time for us to have a quieter time of it.”The store specialised in Australian vintage and antiques, but often more in the quaint style of a feature or talking piece, something that comes with a story and a history.Adding to the quaint and quiet charm were the well-known shop dogs Bailey and occasionally Joey.Brownyn said “They are not even our dogs but visit from next door, mainly to enjoy the air conditioning, especially on a day as hot as it was today.”The style of Corner D’Or always suggested the style of shop you could see in Paris or a small French Provincial town and was the first local shop visitors when they came off the freeway to enter Gerringong va Belinda Street.Some of the tributes on social media in regard to the closing include:Susan who said ‘So sad to hear you are closing. You are one of our favourite shops. Good luck for your next adventure for both.’Another said ‘We will miss you and your lovely creative shop’Yet another post said ‘ It has always been a pleasure looking at your window displays.’Gerringong and visitors will miss its quaint charm, as Corner D’Or sinks with quiet dignity into its own French golden sunset, and it is sad to see Gerringong lose yet a little more of its small-town charm. 

The Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) conducted its yearly training event on 6 December 2023. This event brought together participants from ISLHD Emergency Departments (ED) in Wollongong, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, and Milton Ulladulla Hospitals, alongside personnel from NSW Ambulance, NSW Ambulance Medical Retrieval Service, and NSW Police Rescue.The training day offered a valuable platform for representatives across the health and emergency sectors to practise their skills through simulations involving critically unwell patients. From left to right: Kent, Chiahni, Andrew, Heidi, Lachlan, Ritvik, Josh, Annette and MelissaThese simulations covered various aspects such as retrieval, triage, treatment, and team coordination, challenging participants in new ways. Over 100 coordinators and participants were involved in this immersive educational experience. The training day took place on a property at Rose Valley, drawing attendees from the community and media eager to witness these uncommon scenarios. One of the highlights involved a staged tractor and car collision, realistically portraying an accident unfolding in real-time on the field.Since its inception in 2018, simulations in previous years have occurred at various locations within the district, encompassing sites like Jerrara Dam and Killalea State Park. These simulations entailed diverse scenarios such as adult and paediatric trauma, burns, and drowning incidents.

This article talks about suicide. If you or anyone you know is struggling with this, help is always available. Life Line 13 11 14A free suicide prevention workshop was held in Kiama on Monday, 4 December, at the Kiama Library. This workshop was designed to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills needed to support friends or family members who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. LivingWorks Education has been providing suicide intervention training for more than 35 years and wants to share how their programs can help save lives in our community. Margie Jirgens & David BrinsonDuring the comprehensive workshop, participants learnt how to:Recognise subtle signs indicating someone may be contemplating suicideGain insights into practical ways to approach and communicate with individuals in need.Explore the importance of dispelling common myths surrounding suicide, enabling proactive intervention.This training is accredited for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points and is highly relevant for professionals such as teachers, nurses, psychologists, and others. It was open to individuals aged 15 and above. LivingWorks safeTALK prepares participants to raise and respond to concerns about suicide in everyday relationships. Participants play a vital connector role in the Network of Safety, connecting those seeking help with those ready and able to provide it.Any enquiries contact 1300 738 382

Jill Millburn of Kiama has been given the esteemed Bert Mulley Award, the highest honour presented by the NSW Rose Society, in a celebration of community spirit. The annual award recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and contributions to the society, and Jill's tireless efforts have rightfully earned her this prestigious accolade.The 2023 Bert Mulley Award was announced by the NSW Rose Society President, Colin Hollis, during the Illawarra Rose Society's annual Christmas function on Saturday, 2 December. Surrounded by fellow enthusiasts, Jill graciously accepted the award, marking a momentous occasion in her longstanding connection with the world of roses.Jill's journey with the Illawarra Rose Society began in early 2007, and since then, she has been an invaluable asset to the organisation. From her role as Treasurer from 2008 to 2017 to her current position as Illawarra Secretary, Jill's commitment and passion for roses shine through. As a delegate to the State Council, the governing body of the NSW Rose Society, Jill actively contributes to the broader rose community.A highlight of Jill's involvement was her pivotal role during the Australian Rose Championships held in Kiama in 2009 and again in 2022. Her enthusiasm extends to local agricultural shows, where she competes passionately in the Rose Section. Notably, Jill dedicates her time to nurturing the love for roses among children, embodying the spirit of an exceptional Rose Ambassador, as acknowledged by State President Colin Hollis.Beyond her involvement with the Rose Society, Jill is an active member of The Friends of Peace Park, where she dedicates Tuesday mornings to park maintenance. Her commitment extends to annual pruning demonstrations in Peace Park, showcasing her dedication to community engagement and horticultural education.Kristin Dawson, Chair of the Illawarra Rose Society, expressed admiration for Jill's generosity and active participation, noting her as a worthy recipient of the NSW Rose Society's most prestigious award.For those seeking further details, Kristin Dawson can be reached at 0422 157 353, Colin Hollis at 0408 295 223, and Jill Millburn at 0409 849 534. This recognition of Jill Millburn's contributions underscores the power of community engagement and the beauty that blooms when individuals come together to celebrate shared passions.