Growth in Kiama is inevitable, but how we grow is a choice. I recently asked Cr Matt Brown about his thoughts on growth in Kiama. He envisions a future where we find balance—a mix of “going up” and “going out.” This, he says, could help us avoid a high-rise skyline while preserving Kiama’s unique character. But Matt also made an important point: growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about housing diversity. Kiama should be a place where everyone feels welcome and can afford to live - from young families to retirees, renters to homeowners.Achieving that vision requires careful planning and collaboration. Housing diversity means creating spaces for people at all stages of life and income levels. It means considering models like Build to Rent, which has been gaining traction across Australia. With new federal tax reforms aimed at boosting this type of development, Build to Rent could offer Kiama a pathway to add moderate-density housing while keeping the community inclusive and environmentally sustainable.What is Built to Rent?Build to Rent developments, managed by institutional investors rather than individual landlords, focus on long-term rental income rather than quick sales. This often translates to better-quality, more secure housing for tenants. The new federal legislation even requires that 10% of units in such projects be set aside as affordable housing, with rents capped at 74.9% of market rates or based on household income. For Kiama, this could provide a practical way to diversify housing options without sacrificing the character of the town.However, housing diversity doesn’t stop with Build to Rent. We also need to rethink density. Moderate-density developments like townhouses or low-rise apartments can help accommodate growth without sprawling into our green hills. These options can offer a mix of affordability, sustainability, and accessibility—provided they’re designed with the community in mind.Matt’s emphasis on inclusivity highlights a broader challenge: how to ensure Kiama remains a place for everyone, not just those who can afford premium housing. This requires a strategy that prioritises affordability, energy-efficient design, and connection to public transport. It also means preserving green spaces and protecting the agricultural land that forms the backbone of our identity.The path forwardGrowth is inevitable, but how we grow is a choice. If we embrace housing diversity and innovative models like Build to Rent, we can create a Kiama where new residents feel welcome and existing residents see their values reflected in every development. By going up in some areas and out in others, we can strike a balance that supports the needs of the community while keeping Kiama uniquely itself.The challenge isn’t just about accommodating numbers; it’s about shaping a future where everyone has a place to call home. That’s a future worth building.

At just 21 years old, Kiama local Amelia Beahan has traded the world of wedding planning for a new venture - Acai Fix. This vibrant new shop, which opened on Sunday 1 December, has taken over the space formerly occupied by Bouquiniste and welcomes customers seven days a week.Acai bowls, the shop's specialty, feature the nutrient-packed superberry blended into a smooth, creamy base, ready to be topped with your favourites. Whether you're after breakfast or a guilt-free treat, Acai Fix offers something for everyone.  Amelia says the support from the Kiama community has been overwhelming, and with such a warm reception, Acai Fix is quickly becoming a go-to spot. 

Jamberoo’s Barbara Adams is set to represent our community at the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards Gala on Tuesday, 10 December. Barbara’s win at the regional Volunteer of the Year Awards recognises her decades of selfless service with the Red Cross and her enduring dedication to making a difference.Barbara’s contributions span local, national, and international efforts. During the devastating Batemans Bay bushfires, she and her team raised $15,000, providing vital support for affected families. Similarly, their fundraising helped Lismore children overcome fears of water following severe floods by supporting swimming programs. Beyond Australian shores, Barbara has coordinated donations for disaster relief in Ukraine and Afghanistan, underscoring the global impact of her work.A cornerstone of Barbara’s service is the Red Cross’s Telecross and Telechat programs, ensuring vulnerable community members feel connected and safe. “A lot of people out there are on their own, and this service is making a real difference,” she shares.As the average age of the Jamberoo Red Cross team ranges from 60 to 93, Barbara encourages people of all ages to join. “Whether it’s knitting trauma teddies, baking for a stall, or simply offering a listening ear, everyone has something to contribute,” she says.Barbara’s story is one of resilience, empathy, and global compassion. As she heads to Sydney for the state finals, our community stands proudly behind her. The 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards is hosted by the Centre for Volunteering, with support from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, ClubsNSW, and other partners.

Volunteering is the lifeblood of any community, and here in Kiama, it’s no different. From delivering meals to helping with wildlife rescues, volunteers are making a quiet but powerful impact. Councillor Matt Brown has often said he’s proud of how our region comes together to lend a hand, but connecting potential volunteers with organisations has been an ongoing challenge.Despite the abundance of local initiatives, finding a comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. Council doesn’t maintain a central database, leaving many to rely on word of mouth or scattered resources. But there are ways to get involved.The Centre for Volunteering NSW and Healthy Cities Illawarra both connect people with organisations in need. Online platforms like SEEK Volunteer and GoVolunteer list opportunities ranging from wildlife rescue to community support.Reaching out directly to local groups like St Vincent de Paul or WIRES can also be a great starting point. Even a scroll through social media or a visit to the local library might uncover a group looking for help.Volunteering isn’t just about giving back; it’s about building connections and keeping the spirit of community alive. As Cr Matt Brown once said, “The strength of our region lies in its people.” Sharing this information and encouraging others to step forward will only make our community stronger. So, whether you have an hour or a day to spare, there’s a place for everyone to make a difference.Read about some of our local volunteering heroes here.

Blood supply levels across Australia are under strain, with critical shortages in several key blood types, including O+, O-, A- and B-. The need for blood donors is greater than ever, and the Mobile Blood Bank is coming to Kiama from Tuesday 10 December to Saturday 14 December, offering locals the perfect opportunity to help save lives.For me, giving blood is my favourite way to volunteer. It’s simple, impactful, and connects me to something much bigger than me. Each donation has the power to save up to three lives—what could be more meaningful than that? Knowing that a small act like this can make such a difference gives me a sense of purpose and community.Every donor makes a difference. Whether you’re O-, the universal blood type, or have a rarer type like AB-, your contribution is critical. Hospitals rely on blood supplies daily for surgeries, cancer treatments, trauma care, and more. Without consistent donations, lives are put at risk.The Mobile Blood Bank will be at the Anglican Church, 1 Terralong St, Kiama, from 10 to 14 December 2024. Booking is easy, and even if you don’t know your blood type, your donation is invaluable.Don’t wait for someone else to step up—this is your chance to help stop the drop. Book your appointment today and be part of the solution

Opinion by Lynne Strong The decision by Kiama Council to challenge Transport for NSW’s move to reduce the speed limits on Jamberoo Road has sparked debate. On one hand, there’s the claim of standing as “the voice of the community.” On the other, there’s the question: who truly represents the community’s voice? Is it the loud voices on social media, or does it lie in the quieter consensus of evidence and shared values?My experience tells me that science often tells a clearer story than social media ever can. And in this case, the science is blunt: speed kills. Every kilometre faster increases the risk of an accident and its severity. The evidence behind speed limit reductions isn’t about inconvenience—it’s about saving lives.We’ve all felt the frustration of slowing down on roads we know well, especially when they feel safe. But accidents don’t announce themselves; they happen in the split second it takes to lose control or miss a turn. Jamberoo Road, with its curves and changing conditions, is no exception.This isn’t about caving to bureaucracy or giving up freedoms. It’s about stepping up as a community and acknowledging that safety must come first. Reducing speed limits might not feel popular, but popularity doesn’t bring back lives lost in preventable accidents.So, the real question isn’t whether council decisions reflect the loudest voices but whether they reflect what’s right for the whole community—especially its most vulnerable. Slowing down isn’t easy, but if it means fewer accidents and saved lives, isn’t it worth the adjustment?As the debate continues, let’s hope our councillors focus less on noisy opinions and more on the science and safety that should guide us all.Join us in saving lives. Slow down today

Opinion by Lynne Strong The decision by Kiama Council to challenge Transport for NSW’s move to reduce the speed limits on Jamberoo Road has sparked debate. On one hand, there’s the claim of standing as “the voice of the community.” On the other, there’s the question: who truly represents the community’s voice? Is it the loud voices on social media, or does it lie in the quieter consensus of evidence and shared values?My experience tells me that science often tells a clearer story than social media ever can. And in this case, the science is blunt: speed kills. Every kilometre faster increases the risk of an accident and its severity. The evidence behind speed limit reductions isn’t about inconvenience—it’s about saving lives.We’ve all felt the frustration of slowing down on roads we know well, especially when they feel safe. But accidents don’t announce themselves; they happen in the split second it takes to lose control or miss a turn. Jamberoo Road, with its curves and changing conditions, is no exception.This isn’t about caving to bureaucracy or giving up freedoms. It’s about stepping up as a community and acknowledging that safety must come first. Reducing speed limits might not feel popular, but popularity doesn’t bring back lives lost in preventable accidents.So, the real question isn’t whether council decisions reflect the loudest voices but whether they reflect what’s right for the whole community—especially its most vulnerable. Slowing down isn’t easy, but if it means fewer accidents and saved lives, isn’t it worth the adjustment?As the debate continues, let’s hope our councillors focus less on noisy opinions and more on the science and safety that should guide us all.Join us in saving lives. Slow down today

On December 6, Peter Dutton, leader of the opposition, visited the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) to announce that, if elected, a Liberal government would allocate $512,000 to upgrade and repair the club's facilities and equipment.Dutton was joined by Andrew Constance, the Liberal candidate for Gilmore, and Senator Andrew Bragg, Shadow Assistant Minister for Housing. They met with Kiama SLSC members, including President Phil Perry, as well as Kiama’s Mayor Cameron McDonald and Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters, for the announcement.“Our announcement today is that an elected Liberal government will give $512,000 to Kiama SLSC to help address some of the ailing infrastructure here, and the need to establish a fit-for-purpose facility for young kids to train in and spend their social time in,” Dutton says.During his visit, Dutton spoke with young members of the Kiama SLSC, citing them as a perfect example of the reason why he believes surf life saving is so essential.Peter Dutton and Phil Perry speaking with young members of the Kiama SLSC“You (Kiama SLSC) give an incredible amount back to the community here, you save lives and provide an opportunity for people to enjoy a day at the beach and enjoy an Australian way of life. And it’s only right that we give back to clubs that provide that support to our community,” Dutton says.“Australia is the greatest country in the world and a big part of that culture is the surf life saving network. I think for the young people who we’ve met this morning, a couple who have saved some lives themselves, and they have really changed their lives for the better because of their involvement in the surf life saving club,” he says.Peter Dutton in front of the Kiama SLSC clubhouseIn response to Dutton's announcement, Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips expressed doubts about the Liberal government's promise of funding. Mrs Phillips questioned the sincerity of the funding commitment and drew attention to the work she has already done with both the Kiama and Gerringong Surf Clubs.“As we’re not in an official election period, I guess anyone can promise anything with ‘funny money’ as we’ve seen today, " says Mrs Phillips noting there has been no mention of the grant funding program."I have previously provided multiple federal real funding grants to Kiama SLSC, supported them in their successful grant application to fix their roof, and on 8 October 2024 supported their application under the NSW Surf Facility Program 2024/25 for upgraded amenities and infrastructure," says Mrs Phillips."I’m also proud to have delivered $5.5 million for the fantastic new Gerringong Surf Club which will be open in the new year. I always consider shovel ready DA approved funding requests and look forward to receiving a written proposal from Kiama SLSC and any other organisations within the Kiama LGA that might genuinely need funding."Mrs Phillips also encouraged Kiama Council to release the results of the Open Spaces and Recreation Strategy from more than two years ago."I also encourage Kiama Council, in the best interests of community members, to not be political in the lead up to the federal election. It would also be helpful if Kiama Council would release the much awaited outcomes from over two years ago, of their 'Open Spaces and Recreation Strategy' which is reviewing the infrastructure needs of sporting facilities in the Kiama local government area, so that transparency and greater surety can be provided for all sporting and recreational groups," says Mrs Phillips.Dutton also used the occasion to comment on the firebombing of a Melbourne synagogue, which occurred in the early hours of December 6.“The firebombing of a synagogue, a place of worship, is something that has no place in our country. Today we should double down on our support of the Jewish community,” Dutton says.“There are armed guards protecting kids at Jewish schools on this day and that is unacceptable in our country. There is a lot of work and leadership that needs to be provided to make sure people with Jewish faith and people across the country can be given assurances around basic safety requirements,” he says.Two people have been injured as a result of the attack, but fortunately, at this stage, no deaths have been reported.

Gerringong’s Lucy Darragh was officially ranked the number one under-16 female surfer in Australia after her efforts at the Australian Junior Surfing Titles, held from November 25 to December 1.The 14-year-old was trying to put rankings out of her head as she surfed at the Junior Surfing Titles, but after winning her semi-final heat and advancing to the final, her mother couldn’t resist telling her that she had already secured the top spot.“I just wanted to surf my heats without having too much pressure about where I placed in the rankings. After I won my semi-final heat, my Mum told me that I had won the rankings by getting through that heat,” says Lucy.Although she didn’t win the final, losing to Olive Hardy by 2.29 points, she had already done enough to guarantee first position overall.“I was disappointed not to take the win in Nationals, but overall, I was still stoked,” says Lucy.The event was held in Wollongong, which is almost home for Lucy, and she was grateful for the added support from her local community.Some young Lucy Darragh fans. Source: Aaron Hughes/Surfing Australia.“I felt so lucky to be competing so close to home and have so many people from my local boardriders being able to come and support me on the beach. It was really good not having to travel so far as we usually do for comps,” says Lucy.Lucy announced her major achievement on Instagram, where she received a congratulatory message from Gerringong surfing royalty, Sally Fitzgibbons - a moment Lucy was thrilled about.“Sally is one of my biggest role models because she is a nice person and an incredible surfer. I'm honoured to be recognised by her as she is such a famous name in surfing and one of my favorite female surfers,” says Lucy.Lucy ripping it up in the Aussie titles. Source: Aaron Hughes/Surfing Australia.The number-one ranking means that Lucy will represent Australia at the International Surfing Association (ISA) World Titles. She has also been nationally identified by both Surfing Australia and the ISA for 2025, making next year a significant one in her career.“It is an honour to be nationally identified by Surfing Australia, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity. With the help of the Surfing Australia coaches, one of my goals is to improve the weaknesses in my surfing,” says Lucy.“I want to work on airs, backhand barrel riding, and my rail game in 2025. Another big goal I want to accomplish is to get a medal at World Juniors next year.”Lucy’s 2024 has been outstanding. She won the U16 title at the 2024 Billabong Occy Grom Comp and at Taj’s Small Fries event in Western Australia. She also placed equal third at the World Surf League Junior Pro event, competing against surfers much older than her.The Bugle can’t wait to see what she does in 2025.

A packed public meeting in Gerringong this week laid bare growing frustrations over the impact of non-hosted short-term rental accommodation (STRA) on the local community. Councillor Melinda Lawton listened as resident after resident described the strain the accommodation is placing on their once-quiet streets.The message from residents was clear: something has to change. Many expressed concerns about absentee landlords turning homes into high-capacity party houses, disrupting neighbourhoods and pushing permanent residents to breaking point.“We need to assess how we can better balance tourism with preserving the rights of permanent residents to live peacefully in their neighbourhoods,” Cr Lawton said. Her commitment to addressing the issue was welcomed, but attendees emphasised the need for urgent action.Residents highlighted specific challenges, including large groups of up to 18 people staying in single-family homes, traffic congestion, and overcrowded parking on rural roads. Many called for stricter local regulations, including caps on guest numbers and mandatory development applications for all short-term rental properties."Byron Bay has set the standard with a 60-day cap on STRA, and it’s working," said one resident. "We need to send a message to investors who see Gerringong as nothing more than a money-making opportunity that this community won’t stand for it."Cr Lawton acknowledged the depth of concern.“Tonight’s discussion highlights how important it is to get this balance right. Tourism is a vital part of our economy, but not at the expense of the residents who live here year-round,” she said.The meeting ended with a renewed call for community action, with residents pledging to keep the pressure on council to ensure their voices are heard. As one attendee put it: “We’re not asking for the world. We’re asking for respect - for our homes, our streets, and our community.”Gerringong has made its frustrations known. Now it’s up to the council to listen and act.

We would like to offer our compliments to Kiama Council on the delightful Christmas decorations adorning our town. Congratulations to all involved for keeping Christmas alive and making our town such an appealing place to visit! Christopher Minehan

Puppy Tales Unveils the Australian Dog of the Year 2025 AwardsGot a paws-itively amazing pooch? It’s time to celebrate their tail-wagging awesomeness! The hunt is on for the Puppy Tales Australian Dog of the Year 2025, shining a spotlight on Australia’s most courageous, loving, and inspiring four-legged companions.Unleashing its fifth edition, the award seeks to honour dogs who embody the Aussie spirit of loyalty and friendship. From hardworking farm pups and heroic rescue hounds to cuddle champions who lift their humans’ spirits, every story deserves to be told.“Let’s be real—where would we be without our furry mates?” says Kerry Martin, founder of Puppy Tales and renowned pet photographer. “They don’t just fill our homes with joy—they change lives.”A Special Bark-Out for RescuesThis year’s event welcomes a new category: the ARAS Medal (All Rescues Are Special), sponsored by The Saltiest Dog, to celebrate rescue dogs who’ve overcome tough beginnings to transform lives.“Rescue dogs are the ultimate su-paw-stars,” Kerry says. “They teach us resilience and unconditional love.”What’s in the Goodie Bag?Winners will fetch prizes worth over $20,000, including professional photography sessions, donations to their favourite charities, personalised trophies, and more! There’s even a People’s Choice Award, so the whole community can get involved.Key dates to note:Nomination Deadline: Sunday, 12 January 2025Finalists Announced: Tuesday, 14 January 2025People’s Choice Voting Ends: Thursday, 25 January 2025Winners Revealed: Australia Day, 26 January 2025Who Can Enter?Nominate dogs who’ve gone above and beyond, whether it’s comforting a human in tough times, helping protect wildlife, or being a life-saving hero. “All dogs are amazing in their own way, and every wagging tail has a story,” Kerry says.So, if your pup deserves the spotlight, head to Puppy Tales and enter today! Let’s give our furry legends the recognition they deserve. 🐶Australian Cattle Dog - photo by Puppy Tales Photography

As the weather heats up and we hurtle towards the silly season, spare a thought for the region’s volunteer firefighters who will be giving up their Christmas to keep communities safe.Today is International Volunteer Day and the Rural Fire Service Association has given a shout out to Kiama’s volunteer firefighters who are ready to protect their community from bush fires and other emergencies over the festive period.With a November heatwave sparking fires across the state, Rural Fire Service volunteers are on high alert as the threat of more fires over the holiday period looms. Association president Scott Campbell praised volunteer firefighters for their dedication to their communities no matter the time of year or the emergency response required. “We have already seen bush fires this season and although we hope we don’t see more, the reality is we will,” Mr Campbell says. “Over the Christmas period, spare a thought for volunteers who will be donating their time and effort to help others.“International Volunteer Day is a day to recognise the sacrifice that volunteers make, giving up their time purely for the benefit of others … putting their lives on the line to save others and protect their communities. “I want to take this opportunity to thank volunteer firefighters who always stand ready to protect lives and livelihoods. We are incredibly grateful for their courage and commitment.”

As of Monday 2 December Coast and Country Community Services has taken over the operation of Kiama Council’s Blue Haven Community Transport program.Coast and Country Community Services has established a local office in Kiama to oversee its operations, building on its success across the Shoalhaven City LGA, Bega Valley Shire LGA, and the Young/Boorowa and Weddin areas.Kiama Council Chief Operating Officer Joe Gaudiosi welcomes Coast and Country Community Services to Kiama as a new provider for community transport clients.  “It will ensure our community continues to receive reliable and high-quality transport services, supporting both residents and staff across the region,” says Mr Gaudiosi. Blue Haven Community Transport was operated by Kiama Council on behalf of Transport NSW, and has been divested separately from the rest of Blue Haven Bonaira. The divestment includes five vehicles, three staff, and the majority of its volunteers. The vehicles will temporarily be garaged at Kiama Council’s Works Depot. All Blue Haven Community Transport clients have been informed about the switch over to the new service provider. For further information on the divestment, please visit the Blue Haven FAQs page.

Ziggy’s Pizza in Gerringong celebrated its first anniversary in style last weekend, transforming the occasion into a convivial community gathering. The vibrant celebration featured delicious food, live music by rising local talent Bobbi Smith in her professional debut, and plenty of smiles.Guests enjoyed sampling Ziggy’s latest pizza creations and menu items, soaking in the welcoming atmosphere the restaurant has become known for. Ziggy’s opened its doors in December 2023, following a major rebranding, refurbishment, and menu overhaul of the beloved Zoobs Pizza. Under the leadership of 20-year-old owner Damon Zwicker and his dedicated young team, the restaurant has earned a reputation for its high-quality food and service, becoming a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike.“This celebration was more than just an anniversary; it was our way of saying thank you to the community for their incredible support over the past year,” Damon shared. “We wouldn’t be here without them.”The event also marked a moment of resilience for Ziggy’s, following a disheartening break-in just two weeks earlier. “The break-in felt personal, it was a bit of a kick in the guts after all the hard work the team has put in,” Damon admitted. “But this celebration, with its energy, music, and laughter, was the perfect antidote.”Damon praised his team’s dedication and the community’s encouragement throughout the year. “We’re excited to keep serving the best pizzas in town and to remain a part of this amazing community,” he said.As the night ended, Damon extended his gratitude to everyone who attended the celebration and supported Ziggy’s journey. “Here’s to many more birthdays, pizzas, and shared moments,” he said with a smile.The anniversary celebration was not just a milestone for Ziggy’s—it was a testament to the power of community spirit and the resilience of a young team determined to succeed.

Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward, has urged political parties to unite in supporting calls from legal and social service experts to establish a Drug Court in the Illawarra. With the NSW Drug Summit underway, Mr. Ward emphasised the effectiveness of Drug Courts in reducing crime and aiding rehabilitation."The data from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Reporting speaks for itself," Mr. Ward said. "Drug Courts reduce reoffending, with 37% of participants less likely to be convicted of any offence, and significant reductions in violent, property, and drug-related crimes."He criticised the lack of a Drug Court in the Illawarra, stating, "Other regions benefit from this proven system, yet Illawarra residents are left without access to these life-changing programs."Drug Courts, which combine legal oversight with wraparound support services, aim to help offenders overcome addiction and reintegrate into society. Mr. Ward stressed they are not about leniency but about cutting crime and turning lives around.“Throw the book at drug dealers, but where we can rehabilitate, we must. People make mistakes; they deserve a chance to recover without losing their future,” he said.While welcoming the NSW Government's $47.8 million funding for drug and alcohol treatment services, Mr. Ward argued that systemic reforms like Drug Courts are crucial. "We need fences at the top of the cliff, not just ambulances at the bottom," he concluded.PR Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has called for all political parties to unite and back calls from lawyers, social services, judicial officers and psychologists to establish a drug court in the Illawarra. Mr Ward said the statistics speak for themselves with Bureau of Crime Statistics and Reporting data making the case clearer than ever. With the NSW Drug Summit underway, Mr Ward said that a Drug Court was an important piece of the puzzle in getting people off drugs and turning lives around. “If you have been addicted, or you know someone who has, you would know and appreciate the devastating impacts drugs can have on individuals, families, and communities. Drug Courts work, and it makes absolutely no sense that other regions have Drug Courts and the Illawarra doesn’t,” Mr Ward said.  “BOCSR statistics show that 37% of people receiving treatment through a Drug Court program are less likely to be convicted of an offence. 65% are less likely to be convicted of an offence against a person, 35% are less likely to be convicted of a property offence and 58% are less likely to be re-convicted of a drug offence. What more does this government need than its very own data? “Drug Courts are not about soft-touch penalties. Drug Courts are about getting people off drugs, re-integrating people into our community and cutting crime that is often associated with drug dependency which can range from theft to serious assault. “People make mistakes, but why should people lose their careers because they made one bad decision? By all means, throw the book at those selling and peddling drugs, but where we can turn someone’s life around, we should. Drug Courts may not be the earliest of interventions, but for people at this point in their justice journey its better late than never. “Whilst I welcome the $47.8 million announced by the NSW Government for drug and alcohol treatment services in our region, when it comes to social services, we need fences at the top of the cliff rather than ambulances at the bottom. “Drug Courts are specialist courts that establish wraparound services, get people off drugs, and help charter a pathway back in collaboration with local support services. “It’s a no-brainer and whilst I welcome the conversations being had at the Drug Summit and additional funding, all of this falls short if the right systems aren’t in place. I say this as a former FACS Minister and local MP who wants to work with the government to back sensible reforms that change lives for the better; everything else is just hollow ‘talk’,” Mr Ward concluded.

By John LarkinsThe Kiama Lions Club hosted their annual Christmas party at Olive and Vine, bringing together members and supporters for a night of fun and festive cheer. The event was a lively occasion, as evidenced by the snapshots of attendees enjoying the evening.A highlight of the night was the much-anticipated draw for the Ken Tucker painting raffle. The coveted artwork was won by Rick Norris, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebrations.The Lions' efforts paid off significantly, raising over $5,500 for the Kiama Lions Cancer Care Trust. The funds will go towards supporting vital cancer care initiatives in the local community.Kiama Lions extended their heartfelt thanks to the following businesses for their generous support in making this fundraiser a success:Kiama Downs PharmacyGerringong PharmacyKiama Health Destination PharmacyBlooms PharmacyKiama Medical PracticeGerringong Medical PracticeBoat Harbour Medical PracticeKiama Golf ClubKiama Leagues ClubThe club also expressed its gratitude to the broader community for their ongoing support and wished everyone a joyous and safe festive season.

A new report from the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) reveals that over half (54%) of young Australians aged 16 to 19 experienced sexual harassment in the past 12 months. Unfortunately, these findings are unlikely to surprise anyone.The research is based on data from Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC), which has been tracking 10,000 children since 2004. Managed by AIFS on behalf of the Department of Social Services, LSAC is the largest and longest-running study of Australian children.Sexual harassment is defined by the study as including unwanted touching or grabbing, sexual remarks, and showing explicit images. It is when a person behaves in a sexual manner that is unwelcome, making another person feel intimidated, uncomfortable, degraded, humiliated, or offended.The study found that young females are more likely to experience sexual harassment (65%) compared to young males (43%). For females, harassment is mostly perpetrated by strangers, while for males, it is more likely to come from friends.The report also highlights that LGBTQ+ individuals are at a higher risk of sexual harassment than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. Among LGBTQ+ members aged 18-19, 49% reported experiencing harassment, compared to 31% of non-LGBTQ+ people. The proportion was even higher for LGBTQ+ females aged 18-19, with 59% reporting harassment.The study examined where harassment occurred, finding that 48% of 18–19-year-olds who had been harassed in the last 12 months reported it happening at a bar, club, or party. Other common locations included online (27%), at work (18%), and at a place of study (12%). Disturbingly, 40% of 16-17 year-olds experienced sexual harassment at school or university.Dr Neha Swami, lead author and Research Fellow at AIFS, said the findings indicate the need for stronger measures to prevent sexual harassment, especially online and in public spaces."Of the older teens we surveyed who had experienced sexual harassment, 53% of females and 39% of males experienced it at a party, club or bar – showing many young people have extremely negative experiences when trying to enjoy themselves on a night out," Dr Swami said.“Given more than one-quarter of young people experienced sexual harassment online, programmes and policies that support healthy interactions online – making it clear that certain comments and images can make people feel degraded and humiliated – could help.“Strong mechanisms for reporting and responding to harassing behaviours in bars and clubs could also be a focus for helping reduce rates,” Dr Swami said.The report also found a significant link between social media use and sexual harassment. Among those who posted or shared content on social media several times a day, 53% of females and 33% of males reported experiencing harassment in the past 12 months. In contrast, only 35% of females and 17% of males who posted or shared on social media once a month or less faced similar experiences."Sharing content on social media shouldn’t increase a young person’s risk of sexual harassment. That is a clear signal to governments and social media companies that more needs to be done to prevent perpetration and protect teens online," Dr Swami said.The study also suggests that fostering healthy relationships with family and peers may help reduce the likelihood of experiencing sexual harassment later in life. “While sexual harassment is always the fault of the perpetrator, programmes that help adolescents foster healthy relationships with parents and peers at ages 16-17 years may help to reduce the likelihood of them experiencing sexual harassment later on,” Dr Swami said.“As a parent, building a strong, trusting relationship with your child when they’re young, and nurturing that all the way through to early adulthood could be highly beneficial.”However, it's important to recognise that not all young people have access to such support systems. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 17% of young males and 15% of young females aged 15-24 reported feeling lonely in 2022. The findings from this study provide strong evidence to inform the development of policies and programmes to address sexual harassment. Dr Swami believes that stronger mechanisms for reporting harassment in public spaces like bars and clubs could help reduce rates of sexual harassment.“We also need to support young people in navigating online spaces in a way that promotes respect and safety,” she said. “There needs to be a clear message that sexual harassment in any form, whether in person or online, is unacceptable.”With upcoming changes to age restrictions on social media, it will be interesting to see whether these statistics will shift and whether social media companies can enforce these new rules effectively. The study represents the first Australian evidence from a nationally representative sample on the experience and nature of sexual harassment among young people, including those under 18 years old.The findings show the urgency of taking a comprehensive approach to tackling sexual harassment, both online and offline, and the critical role of public policy, community support, and individual responsibility in addressing this issue.

Gerringong Rotary has had a busy October and November, continuing its community work and social activities. Day Out at Shoalhaven Heads Botanical GardensIn late October, members enjoyed a sunny day at the Shoalhaven Heads Botanical Gardens. A volunteer guide took the group on an informative tour, and the outing included morning tea prepared by member Graham, chef extraordinaire, and lunch at the Shoalhaven Heads Hotel.The visit also provided an opportunity to reconnect with Denice, a former Rotary exchange student from Taiwan, who was hosted by the club in 2019-2020. Denice, now studying at ANU in Canberra, returned to Gerringong to visit her host family and the Rotary members. The club also made a donation to the gardens as thanks for the tour.Supporting Local SchoolsGerringong Rotary continues to support local students, presenting the Outstanding Achievement Award at Kiama High School’s Year 12 graduation. Member Kerrie Lindsay represented the club at the ceremony and was impressed by the students’ achievements.The club also contributed $1,000 each to four Kiama High students selected for the 2024 National Youth Science Forum (NYSF). This year marks a record number of successful applicants from the school, and the club is proud to support their participation in this national program.International Project: Ultrasound Machine for NairobiGerringong Rotary is helping fundraise for an ultrasound machine for a maternity clinic in Nairobi. The clinic operates in a slum area, providing essential healthcare services. With help from the Rotary Club of Nairobi, Gerringong Rotary has assessed the clinic’s needs and is working with other local clubs to explore funding options for this important project.Through local markets, school support, and international projects, Gerringong Rotary continues to make an impact. Get involved and help make a difference! New members and friends are always welcome—visit www.gerringongrotary.com.au or email [email protected] to find out more.