Kiama has welcomed six new councillors, with Labor councillors Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins, along with former Labor Minister Matt Brown—who ran as an independent this term—being the only returning members.The new council includes Cameron McDonald, Erica Warren, and Melissa Matters (Independent Group A), Matt Brown (Independent), Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins (Labor), Melinda Lawton (Greens), Mike Cains (Independent), and Yasmin Tatrai (Independent).The Cameron McDonald ticket led the polls with over 5,000 votes. McDonald has pledged to prioritise getting the council coinpurse in order.“With the current financial strain that council is under, we need to be financially acute and aware.”Ratepayers have put their support behind independent candidates, a decision backed by Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward.“The surge in the independent vote shows locals want people who don’t have divided loyalties between their community and their party,” Ward says.Melinda Lawton expressed her disappointment at young Greens candidate Jordan Casson-Jones not acquiring a seat on council, but says she will continue to seek his advice around youth issues. She plans to attend community meetings with fellow councillors to make sure neighbourhood issues don’t fall by the wayside.“It’s not just the big things we need to look at, it's a lot of the small things as well that will make up the big picture.”Ward has congratulated the councillors, but warns them not to be complacent with decision making.“The most important currency in politics is trust and I know the community has invested that trust and confidence with their vote with these councillors...It’s important to not be anyone's rubber stamp.”Returning Labor councillor Stuart Larkins wants to continue with his initiatives from last term, including management plans across safety, traffic, parking and pets in the municipalityKiama has rejected the idea of popularly electing the new mayor, with almost 55 per cent of voters against the change. Councillors will continue to be responsible for making the decision. When asked if they would put their hand up for mayor, Cameron McDonald said he will be a contender in the race and Stuart Larkins said he would consider the position. Matt Brown, Erica Warren and Imogen Draisma were unavailable due to conflicting commitments. The first meeting of the full Council on October 15 will see the swearing-in of councillors and the election of a new mayor and deputy mayor. 

Former journalist Helen Signy will speak about her debut novel Maya’s Dance at the Friends of Kiama Library (FOKL) Author Talk on October 12.Helen is an Australian writer who grew up in England and spent much of her youth travelling the world before becoming a print journalist at Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post and then the Sydney Morning Herald (SMH). Her first book (about a chipmunk) was written when she was 6, photocopied at work by her mum, stapled together and handed out to family members. She’s been writing ever since.“During my twenty years as a print journalist, I reported on the genocide in Rwanda and famine in Sudan, worked as an editor on the foreign desk, edited sections across the newspaper, and supported the early transition from print to digital at the SMH,” says Helen.“I have never lost my passion for telling a good story, whether it’s a breaking news item or an expertly crafted novel. I still love the process of writing; the whole dreamy business of allowing the characters to come alive and create their world, the chipping away at a sentence to find the right word that will make the cadence work.”Maya’s Dance is Helen’s first foray into fiction and is based on the real-life story of Lucie Pollak-Langford who as a young girl was interned in the Sawin Labour Camp in Poland. The debut novel tells the story of sixteen-year-old Maya Schulze, who is struggling to survive in a brutal Nazi labour camp. Despite days filled with hunger, fear and despair, she is able to find courage and beauty in dancing – it is only then that she feels free. Maya falls in love with Jan, one of her Polish guards, and he risks his life helping her to escape. The novel centres on Maya’s search for Jan, with the help of struggling journalist Kate Young, 50 years after the fact.Maya’s Dance is a book about survival, resilience and enduring love. Helen will talk about her novel on Saturday October 12 at 2pm at the Auditorium Training Rooms under Kiama Library. Afternoon tea will be provided. Tickets are $8 for FOKL members and $10 for guests.Book online at library.kiama.nsw.gov.au/Events/Adults-events/Helen-Signy-Mayas-Dance

In September, family-owned aged care provider Hall & Prior were granted a one-month extension for the settlement of the $95 million Blue Haven Bonaira aged care facility, which, after significant adjustments, saw the sale price plummet to an expected $26 million.Further delays have now been announced. In a joint statement, Council and Hall & Prior attributed the setback to continued “due diligence” and anticipated closures over the end-of-year holiday period.The new settlement date is expected to be in February next year.Graeme Prior, CEO of Hall & Prior, explained the delay, saying it was to ensure all preparations are complete before finalising the agreement."We are dedicated to ensuring everything is in place, and our teams are working hard on-site to meet these objectives."The decision to sell was driven by the substantial debt accumulated by the Council from the construction and expansion of Blue Haven Bonaira, which has resulted in a loss of $3.5 million each year for the Council since the facility began operating.Funds made from the sale will go towards settling Council’s debt.  Blue Haven Community Transport will be divested by Transport NSW. Coast and Country Community Services have been named the preferred provider to take over the program. Coast and Country operate in Shoalhaven, Bega Valley, Young and Weddin Shires.“This will ensure our community continues to receive reliable and high-quality transport services, supporting both residents and staff across the region,” Joe Gaudiosi, Chief Operating Officer for Kiama Council said.

Double demerit points have been brought into action to deter dangerous driving as the state celebrates the long weekend.Double demerit points have come into effect from midnight (12.01am) Friday 4 October until the end of Monday 7 October (11.59pm) in New South Wales. Police have launched Operation Labour Day 2024 to combat dangerous driving by an increased police presence on NSW roads over the long weekend. Two years ago, eight people lost their lives in separate crashes on New South Wales roads over the Labour Day long weekend. Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner David Driver has asked drivers to not get complacent with road safety. “I’m urging all road users to be responsible on the road and encourage passengers to call out driving behaviour that they are uncomfortable with, or if it is unlawful – it could save someone’s life, including your own.”Mobile phone detection cameras operate across the state and any reckless drivers caught using their phones during the double demerit period will be slapped with a $410 fine, or $544 in a school zone, and 10 demerits.To date 254 people have died in crashes on NSW roads – 184 of those in regional areas.State MP Gareth Ward says research shows a reduction of casualty crashes by 30 per cent when double demerits are in place, and urges his constituents to plan your trip and be responsible.“So whether you are going for the Penrith Panthers or the Melbourne Storm in this Sunday’s NRL Grand Final decider, make sure you have a ‘Plan B’ and don’t drink and drive.”

State MP for Kiama Gareth Ward has launched a petition to reverse speed limits on Jamberoo Road back to 80 km/h.Transport for NSW announced the speed limit would be reduced from 70 or 80 km/h to 60 km/h in September to improve the safety of motorists and make the road a safer place for cyclists and pedestrians. Ward has said he has been inundated with negative feedback on the new limits by Jamberoo residents and believes the reduction won’t improve safety.“Simply lowering the speed limit will not address offending drivers, particularly tourists and motorcyclists. The road requires better maintenance and significant improvements.”The petition calls for additional road works and maintenance, a review on overtaking options, vegetation removal and an increased police presence which the Kiama MP believes will tackle the safety issues more appropriately. “I am also concerned that this change will result in more locals getting fined on their daily commute and that scenario just simply isn’t good enough.” The reduced speed limit will come into effect on Jamberoo Road 8 October and will increase travel time along the seven kilometre road by one minute and 39 seconds. Residents in Minnamurra will have already seen a reduction in speed along Riverside Drive which came into effect on 30 September. 

By Cameron McDonald With two board members of the Kiama District Business Chamber being elected to council - Michael Cains and Cameron McDonald, there are vacancies to fill. Cathy Lyall has been acting as President of the KDBC until the AGM on 22 October.  KBDC recently continued a traditional invite to members of the business community interested in becoming Board members to attend a meeting and understand the functioning of the KDBC.Mathew King (The South Coast Kook) and another prospective Board member attended the latest meeting and the Board looks forward to their official appointment should they seek election at the AGM. The KDBC Board is a group of leaders in the local business community who provide their time voluntarily for the local business community, and we as members are proud of the extensive skill set and continued efficient and effective functioning of the KDBC Board. As two of our Board members are Councillors elect, the KDBC looks forward to developing further its strong relationship with the Kiama Council.The KDBC is currently sponsoring the ‘Buy Local’ campaign in our area. If your business would like to join the membership, please contact them directly. 

Friday, October 17, marks the start of a new summer swim club season, and the Kiama Swimming Club is encouraging all local swimmers to get involved. The summer season, which runs from the beginning of Term 4 to the end of Term 1, takes place weekly on Fridays at the Kiama Leisure Centre. Swimmers of all ages and abilities are welcome to join. Corinna Walker, who has been involved with the swim club for 14 years, says the best part about Kiama Swim Club is its focus on fun and personal improvement rather than competition.“It’s not about being competitive or racing each other. It’s simply for the kids to get up and have a go,” says Walker. “Each week, the kids race against their own times, earning points based on their personal improvement.” Although the heats are set up so swimmers with similar times race together, Walker emphasises that the real competition is with themselves. “They’re racing their own time, not the other swimmers,” she explains. Walker encourages anyone interested in an individual sport, or simply looking to improve their swimming skills, to come along and give it a try.“Swimming is great for kids who aren’t necessarily drawn to team sports or don’t want to commit to one. Plus, our membership fees are affordable, so missing a few sessions isn’t a problem,” she says. “It’s also fantastic for kids to practise starting on the blocks and listening for the starter gun, which is great preparation for school carnivals. We have two technical officials present every night to offer guidance on proper technique and explain disqualification rules, as they would in a race.” Coming off the back of the 2024 Olympics, where swimming was Australia’s most successful sport, Walker hopes the excitement will inspire locals to dive into the new season. “Swimming has always been one of Australia’s strongest sports, especially at the Olympics. Hopefully, this motivates both kids and adults to come and join the fun,” she says. Membership costs $199 and covers both the summer and winter seasons, but new swimmers are welcome to attend two free trial nights to see if they enjoy it before committing. If you’re interested, send your name and age to the Kiama Swimming Club secretary at [email protected], and they’ll provide more details.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological disorder characterised by an overwhelming urge to move the legs, often triggered by uncomfortable sensations. These sensations typically occur in the evening or at night, especially when a person is sitting or lying down. Although moving the legs temporarily relieves the discomfort, the symptoms often return, making it difficult to relax and sleep.RLS can begin at any age and tends to worsen as a person grows older. Its impact on sleep can significantly interfere with daily activities and overall quality of life.Symptoms of Restless Legs SyndromeThe primary symptom of RLS is the persistent urge to move the legs, accompanied by sensations such as:Discomfort during rest: Unpleasant feelings often emerge after periods of inactivity, such as sitting in a car, airplane, or movie theatre.Temporary relief with movement: Symptoms usually subside with activities like stretching, jiggling the legs, pacing, or walking.Increased symptoms in the evening: The discomfort is typically more intense at night.Nighttime leg twitching: RLS is sometimes linked to periodic limb movement of sleep, a condition causing involuntary leg twitching and kicking during sleep.People commonly describe RLS sensations as crawling, creeping, pulling, throbbing, aching, itching, or electric. These feelings usually occur on both sides of the body and are felt deep within the legs, though they can also affect the arms.Impact on Daily LifeThe severity of RLS symptoms can vary widely. For some, the condition is mildly uncomfortable, while for others, it can severely impact their quality of life. Difficulty falling or staying asleep is common, leading to excessive daytime drowsiness. In severe cases, the disruption of sleep can contribute to depression and other mood disorders.While the sensations of RLS are challenging to describe, they are distinct from muscle cramps or numbness. The hallmark of the condition is the irresistible need to move the legs, which may improve or worsen over time. In some cases, symptoms may even disappear for a period, only to return later.Causes and Risk FactorsThe exact cause of RLS is often unknown, but research suggests it may be related to an imbalance of dopamine, a brain chemical responsible for controlling muscle movements. The condition sometimes runs in families, particularly when it begins before the age of 40. Genetic factors have been identified on certain chromosomes that may contribute to RLS.Pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, or hormonal changes can exacerbate RLS symptoms. However, these symptoms typically subside after childbirth. While RLS can develop at any age, it becomes more common as people age and is more prevalent in women.Although RLS is usually not associated with serious underlying medical conditions, it can co-occur with other health issues such as peripheral neuropathy, iron deficiency, kidney failure, spinal cord conditions, and Parkinson's disease.Managing Restless Legs SyndromeFor those with mild RLS that isn’t linked to an underlying health condition, simple lifestyle changes can often provide relief. These may include:Avoiding evening stimulants like caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol.Quitting smoking.Engaging in regular daily exercise, while avoiding strenuous activity close to bedtime.Practicing good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding naps, and relaxing before bed.During an RLS episode, the following measures may help alleviate symptoms:Massaging the legs.Taking a hot bath in the evening.Applying a warm compress to leg muscles.Engaging in distracting activities like reading or watching television.If RLS symptoms interfere with your sleep, cause daytime drowsiness, or significantly impact your quality of life, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They can offer medications and other treatments to help manage the condition.

In Andorra, roundabouts are adorned with striking sculptures that not only catch the eye but also celebrate the local culture. These artistic installations bring a sense of identity and pride to their towns and serve as landmarks for visitors. It got me thinking: could we do something similar in Kiama? At our main roundabout on Terralong street we do have our memorial arch to the side which is iconic and widely celebrated as a Kiama landmark and the fabulous seasonal garden plantings.While it’s not something I have seen in Australia, placing iconic statues on our roundabouts could be a wonderful way to showcase our unique heritage. Imagine a sculpture of a cow, paying homage to our rich dairy history. It would reflect the importance of agriculture to our community and stand as a proud symbol of our past and present.These installations could also offer a great point of interest for tourists, giving them an extra reason to stop and explore. Much like in Andorra, where the sculptures depict aspects of local life – from sport to wildlife – we could celebrate our own story through art.Roundabout sculptures could be designed in collaboration with local artists, ensuring the pieces are not only beautiful but also meaningful to the community. From historical figures to natural elements, these statues would enhance the visual appeal of our town while fostering a deeper sense of connection to our roots.The initiative could become a tourist attraction in itself, making our town more memorable to visitors and creating a talking point that could draw people from everywhere to experience what we have to offer. There’s also an environmental benefit. Instead of the usual advertising boards, roundabouts would become a space for creativity and reflection, showcasing art that both locals and tourists can appreciate.While the idea of roundabout statues may be new to Australia, it’s worth considering. It could celebrate our heritage, and create a welcoming landmark for all who pass through. What are your thoughts? Could we follow Andorra’s example and embrace the potential for art to reflect who we are?

Construction on the new Shellharbour Hospital has begun, marked by an official sod turning ceremony nearly a decade after the hospital redevelopment was announced. During the 2015 election campaign, the NSW Government promised $251 towards the redevelopment of the Shellharbour Hospital. Jillian Skinner, former NSW Health Minister quietly announced in 2016 that five major hospitals will be redeveloped under public-private partnerships, including Shellharbour Hospital. The idea was scrapped the following year after union rallies broke out and a petition with over 12,000 signatories was tabled in Parliament by Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson.In May, Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward scolded Labor for failing to include the construction of a helipad and lack of a dedicated maternity ward, calling both an oversight on critical care for the Illawarra community.Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park stated that the $700 million hospital will be designed with a helipad in mind for future construction, not as a part of the original build.Kiama MP Gareth Ward has again criticised the decision, calling for the helipad to be built now rather than retrofitted later. “Rather than posing for photo opps, NSW Labor need to explain why the existing Shellharbour Hospital has a helipad and a brand-new hospital will not. This is just madness.”Ward condemned the Labor government for “politicising” the hospital project, stating Labor are taking credit off the former Coalition government. “Let me be very clear, in Cabinet I fought for and secured $720 million for Shellharbour Hospital,” Ward says, “Labor turned a second sod, took a photo and took all the credit.”Ward has also called out Illawarra Labor for his and re-elected Mayor of Shellharbour, Chris Homer's, lack of invitation to the event.“It’s one thing to ignore me, but to ignore Mayor Homer who was overwhelmingly re-elected just days ago smacks of political games by Illawarra Labor who are desperate to look like they have delivered something. They haven’t.”It is expected the construction of the hospital will generate around 800 jobs in the Illawarra region.Additional services and upgrades to expect include; emergency department expansion, increased surgical capacity, rehabilitation and aged care facilities, mental health services, renal dialysis, outpatient services, improved parking and public transport connections. “[The hospital] will cater for local population growth into the future and relieve pressure on other parts of the Illawarra Shoalhaven health network, including Wollongong Hospital,” Park says. Park says there will be no delays to the completion of the hospital, despite a lengthy tender process resulting in BESIX Watpac being chosen as head contractor in August of this year.The Shellharbour Hospital construction is expected to be completed in 2027.  The project is a part of the wider Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services Project which includes expanded sub-acute services, meaning more than basic at-home care but less than hospital intervention, new rehabilitation and palliative care beds at Wollongong Hospital and a new community health centre in Warrawong.

Kiama Oztag is set to begin its 15th season on October 14, with over 2,000 players registered across various age groups, making it the biggest participant sport in the Kiama LGA. Oztag is a non-contact version of rugby league that focuses on speed and agility, making it accessible to everyone. Kiama Oztag Association Coordinators Keiron Duncan and Ross Thomas say they never expected the game to grow so large, but they believe its accessibility and fun atmosphere are key draws. “A great part of the competition is that we have that duality. You have competitive players who want to win and play at representative levels, and then you have those who just want to have fun. You don’t need a rugby league background; players come from soccer, AFL, netball—it's all about having a go and running around with your mates,” says Duncan. Thomas emphasises another valuable aspect of the competition: the opportunity for individuals without teams to inquire about joining others. “There have been around 70 individuals who expressed interest in joining teams, and we’ve successfully placed about 56 of them. We hope to find spots for the remaining 12 before the competition starts. It’s a fantastic way to get active, socialise, and meet new people,” Thomas adds. The competition will run through early January and will be played across four venues, including the newly added Kiama Sports Complex fields next to the Kiama Leisure Centre. “We play on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Mondays are for over 35s and senior divisions, Tuesdays are for juniors and some seniors, and Wednesdays feature mixed and men’s teams at the Kiama Leisure Centre, which is a change from previous years,” says Thomas. “This setup allows us to utilise more fields and better lighting, enabling later games, and the parking and facilities are significantly better than at Gainsborough.” In addition to local competitions, Kiama has its own representative team, the Kiama Phantoms, which competes in the State Cup. Players from this team can be selected for national and even international competitions, with both young and older players proudly representing Australia. Duncan and Thomas are optimistic about continued growth, especially in age groups where participation in sports is less common. Since introducing an over 35s men's group and a women’s competition two years ago, participation has surged—from four teams each to eight teams this season. Both coordinators commend each other for their dedication to managing the league, which includes over 150 teams. They also express their gratitude to volunteers, referees, local photographer Brian Scott from The Bugle, and the Kiama District Support Council for their unwavering support. As the season approaches, there’s still time to join in! Interested individuals can contact Kiama Oztag at 0404 204 518. Whether you’re looking to compete or simply have fun with friends, now is the perfect time to get involved!

Kiama is gearing up to host its first triathlon in more than 10 years, with the event set for October 13 and all spots already sold out.The race will kick off with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Minnamurra River followed by a bike ride out along Swamp Road and back and finishing with a run from Minnamurra, up into Kiama Downs and then back.There are two races: the standard race (1.5 km swim, 38 km bike and 10 km run) which begins at 8am and a sprint (750 m swim, 20 km bike, 5 km run) which begins at 8:30am.Kiama Triathlon Club Vice President Geoff Besnard says the event will be very good for the community of the Kiama LGA and he hopes that if it’s successful, the event will become an annual occurrence.“I think it’s great for the town, it’s an event that promotes health and fitness and it will bring a lot of people into town. The race will probably only go for a few hours, but people will come down for the whole weekend. They’ll go out for dinner and drinks and go into the local businesses,” says Besnard.“This year is a bit of a trial run, but hopefully if all goes well, we will be able to run this event annually.”While the excitement is building, one concern is the potential for traffic congestion and limited parking in Minnamurra. To address this, Elite Energy, the event organisers whomanage multi-sport events along the East Coast, have devised an incentive for participants to use public transport.“Elite Energy has introduced an idea where racers who use public transport to get to the event will receive a $50 credit toward their next event, which is a nice perk since triathlons can be a costly sport,” says Besnard.Although they aren’t running the event, many of the Kiama Triathlon Club members will either be participating or volunteering to help.“I think we have about 15 of our members participating in it, but a majority of the rest will be helping out on the day. It takes a lot of people to run an event like this,” says Besnard.For those interested in spectating, Besnard recommends watching from the transition areas, particularly the transition between the swim and bike portions, and of course, the race finish.“If anyone wants to catch the action, the best spots will be along the Minnamurra River early on, especially to see the athletes transition from swim to bike,” he says.The Kiama Triathlon Club has had a highly successful 2024, recently winning their fifth state championship in seven years. Between August 15-25, 11 of the club’s members competed in various events at the National Championships, with Tanya Fraser, John Dormandl, and his partner Dan Merange all making it onto the podium.

This month, it’s all about spreading awareness for breast cancer.Breast cancer affects thousands of Australian families each year, but together, through research and funding, we can make a significant difference.Did you know, breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and tragically nine Australians lose their lives to this disease every day.Each year, over 21,000 people, including about 200 men, are diagnosed with breast cancer. Daily, 58 Australians receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Annually, over 3,300 people, including 33 men, succumb to the disease.Your support can change lives. To donate and contribute to vital research and prevention efforts, please visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation at the link below:Donate NowSo pretend everyday this month is a Wednesday and wear your pink to spread awareness. Together, we can combat breast cancer and support those affected. 

Today marks the beginning of the bushfire season in Kiama.If you want to conduct a burn, you will need a fire permit from your local rural fire service brigades. Fire permits are free, and ensure household burn offs remain safe and controlled. Rural Fire Service Inspector David Bartlett says the new processes are easy to follow, it’s about knowing what has changed.“Anyone on a rural property who wants to do some pile burning or light a fire, they're going to need a fire permit from the rural fire service,” “Apply online through the Rural Fire Service website… we’ll have a volunteer come out and do an assessment to ensure the fire you’re looking at is going to be safe.”  You can also obtain a permit from local rural fire service stations or from the Illawarra Fire Control Centre on Airport Road in Albion Park.The permits go through digitally, and once that has been obtained, households will need to reach out to Kiama Municipal Council for further approval.Council has a no burn policy, which means they will consider burn-off applications for properties over one acre that ‘carry out rural activities’.If both applications are approved, you must notify your local fire authority and neighbours of your intention to burn at least 24 hours in advance. David says the best way to prepare your property for a bushfire is getting a plan in order that will suit you best. “The best thing they can do is ensure they’ve got a bushfire survival plan in plan, whether they’re looking to stay and defend their property or leave.”Keeping up to date with road closures and active bushfires is crucial to leaving safely.David suggests monitoring fire activity, planning out the trip to make sure you’re not driving into bushland and doing all of this without delay. “If they’re leaving, they’ve got to leave early.” If the plan is to stay put, the bushfire survival plan will help ensure your home is well prepared. The Bush Fire Danger Period runs from 1 October until 31 March.For more information on the Bush Fire Danger Period and requirements around safe burning, visit the RFS website. For Council applications, visit their website.

Joyce Wheatley Community Centre will be receiving upgrades and refurbishment worth over $190,000 through an initiative by Kiama Council and the NSW Government.The upgrades announced by Council include a new kitchen, audio-visual system and a new accessible bathroom. Upon completion, the centre will provide sitting options for up to 120 people.The Centre will be closed from the end of September until works are completed, which is expected by December. Kiama Council recently unveiled the new and improved park facilities at Hindmarsh Park, a project that was completed a month before schedule. This project is being funded by Kiama Council from their capital works budget and the NSW Government through a Creative Capital Minor Works and Equipment Grant.

Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW) volunteers assisted two men after their catamaran capsized on St Georges Basin over the weekend. Radio operators received a call from a member of the public alerting them to the accident on Saturday afternoon.MRNSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said a vessel from Sussex Inlet was deployed for the rescue mission. “[A volunteer crew] immediately deployed to assist the sailors at Erowal Bay while NSW Ambulance was called’, Sullivan said, “thankfully, the two men made their way to shore.”Rescue jet skis also responded to the event, the two men were assessed by paramedics and MRNSW crew righted the capsized catamaran as it posed a navigation hazard.Hobie catamaran capsized on St Georges Basin this weekend.MRNSW have also completed a recent refurbishment of Shoalhaven’s largest vessel, extending its operational life for another decade. As a part of the extensive works, Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin said volunteer safety and crew comfort has been improved to manage fatigue.“We have changed the seating arrangements on the vessel to shock-absorbing Salti Bliss seats, making it much more comfortable for the crew to use.”A volunteer crew have set sail on the revamped vessel today, departing south of Newport this morning and are expected to arrive home on the Shoalhaven River around 2pm this afternoon.Parkin has said the vessel passed the extensive sea trial yesterday with ‘flying colours’ and the vessel will now be able to provide many more years of service to rescue operations. “Shoalhaven 30 is a solid Steber vessel and she has served the unit extremely well over the years. We look forward to another good decade of service from her,” Parkin said.

The Kiama International Sea Side (KISS) Arts Festival is coming back to Black Beach over October 25-27. “With a lineup of performers reminiscent of the pre covid KISS and the biggest ever KISS adults-only Cabaret, 2024’s KISS is on and banging. We promise you the best, the most hilarious and the most ‘get involved’ festival fun this state has to offer. All right here in our gorgeous town of Kiama,” says organiser Tamara Campbell.KISS is a celebration of street theatre, circus, comedy and entertainment in one location. A blend of international acts, local talent and unique performances will be on offer for all ages to enjoy.The three-day-event kicks off on Friday 25 October with the first of two adults-only cabarets in the Kazador tent. Saturday 26 will see street theatre performances who will “blow your little socks off and intimate tent shows that will leave you oohing and aahing, so many changes to get involved you’ll feel like the star of the show,” Campbell continued.KISS is a free event for all ages to attend. Artists will pass the hat, so make sure to pack some cash and bring your card to support performers. The opportunities to take part are another thing that sets KISS apart from your average festival. Build a raft, have your say at the Unity project, flex your comedy muscle in stand up for kids, make a lantern and play along to be part of the fun. Don’t forget to get your tickets to the unforgettable and unexplainable delight of the KISS Arts Fest adults only cabaret. You don’t want to miss it, because everyone will be talking about it, but no one will know how to explain it.

Kiama has spoken. The NSW Electoral commission has confirmed the results of the 14 September local government elections. Kiama’s nine councillors are: Cameron McDonald, Erica Warren and Melissa Matters (from Independent Group A), Matt Brown (Independent), Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins from Labor, Melinda Lawton (Greens), Mike Cains (Independent) and Yasmin Tatrai (Independent).That means that only three from the former group of Councillors have been retained, and there are six new members. Kiama voters have spoken loudly to elect a very different group of councillors for the four-year term, and there seems to be a bias towards Independents and people with solid business experience.  Labor councillors Draisma and Larkins have already come out with a statement: “We want to thank the community for allowing us the opportunity to represent them on the council, and the hardworking volunteers and members who have backed us all the way.”Newly elected councillor Mike Cains said, "It's a great honour and a privilege to be elected. We ran a short sharp policy rich campaign and have been rewarded by the community," adding, "I have said many times that I can't wait to roll up my sleeves and represent our community diligently, sensibly and thoughtfully. To everyone who supported us, I can't thank them enough."As of 2:51 PM this afternoon, there is a 24-hour period for anyone to object and request a recount. The councillors will be officially sworn in by the CEO, Jane Stroud, at the first council meeting on Tuesday, 8 October. This meeting will also see the new council members voting for a Mayor and Deputy Mayor.Regarding the constitutional referendum on changing to a direct (popular) election for the Mayor, the decision was closely contested, but Kiama chose no with 54.67% of votes.Cameron McDonaldErica WarrenMelissa MattersMatt BrownImogen DraismaStuart LarkinsMelissa LawtonMike Cains Yasmin Tatrai

As we await the final vote count for the new councillors in Kiama, it is not just the councillor roles that are changing. After the August departure of Jessica Rippon from her Director of Planning, Environment and Communities role at Kiama Council, now another Director has also called it quits. Michael Malone, Director Infrastructure and Liveability has resigned.No reason has been given, only a post on Council’s website giving a ‘farewell’ to Mr Malone.Mr Malone said that he was proud of the things that he has achieved during his tenure, including a new play zone at Hindmarsh Park that opened a week before the school holidays, and the re-opening of Jamberoo Mountain Road.It’s fair to say that Mr Malone has had a challenging set of circumstances to work within, including the Council’s financial position and the various extreme weather events that have affected the community, plus operating under the NSW Government issued Performance Improvement Orders.CEO Jane Stroud announced that Seren McKenzie, who has worked in engineering and management roles for the last 18 years, will step into the Acting Director’s role in the interim to assist in leading the team. Prior to joining Kiama Municipal Council in June this year, Ms McKenzie was the Director Infrastructure and Operations at Townsville City Council where she led a team of 1,000 staff delivering across various service areas including Engineering and Asset Infrastructure Planning; Property, Fleet and Emergency Management; Resource Recovery; Construction Maintenance and Operations; and Water.Ms Stroud said, “Given Seren’s strong skillset and the imminent swearing-in of our new Councillors, I wanted to ensure the role was filled immediately. We will consider when is the best time to conduct permanent recruitment for this role.”Here is a link to Council’s website post.