Kiama photographer Linda Fury has achieved significant success with her photos of Bombo Quarry, earning a top 10 entry in Australian Photography Magazine’s Best Landscape 2024 competition.Linda’s striking photos of Bombo Quarry, edited in monochromatic black and white, make the familiar Kiama landmark appear otherworldly. She believes it’s the power of the landmark itself that made the photos so successful.“They were just so raw, and that, combined with the power of the sea, really pushed them across the line, I think. There’s a certain force in those photos. They're all black-and-white, all monochrome, and they’ve got that moody look,” says Linda.Linda entered several photos taken at the same landmark into the competition. While they were all shot at the same place, each one conveys something unique - a dynamic she particularly enjoys about landscape photography.“I do all sorts of photography, but landscape is my passion,” Linda says. “Every day is different. We can go to the same location day in and day out, and you’ll always get a different photo.”One of Linda's photos of Bombo Quarry entered into the competition. Photos supplied.One of Linda’s photos, titled Full Surge, won first place and a perfect score in the Landscape/Seascape category at the 20th Pakenham National Photographic Exhibition 2024. It also earned a Top 5 Placement at the Mosman Photography Awards and was awarded Best Monochrome Image of the Year at the Kiama-Shellharbour Camera Club’s end-of-year awards.“Every now and then, you fluke a really good photo, and it does really well no matter what competition you put it in. But other times, you think you’ve got a great shot, and it doesn’t perform as well as you thought. This one has been really amazing,” says Linda.Linda has been passionate about photography for as long as she can remember. Beyond capturing images, she also enjoys the journeys she takes to get the perfect shot.“I’ve been fortunate enough to travel around the world on photography trips. It gets you out there, seeing different parts of the world - places you probably would never have visited otherwise. You can discover these places and end up with some really amazing images that people haven’t seen before. I try to go off the beaten path to find something unique,” she says.For Linda, being recognised in a nationally read magazine was a true honour. “It is so nice to open up a magazine and see your work printed in a nationwide publication. It’s something a lot of photographers dream of, and I’m so happy it has happened,” says Linda.Another one of Linda's photos of Bombo Quarry entered into the competition. Photos supplied.Linda is also the president of the Kiama/Shellharbour Camera Club and encourages anyone interested in photography who wants to improve their skills to join.“It’s a great community because you meet like-minded people. A lot of them are on the older side of retirement, but we still get out and have a great time,” says Linda. “It’s also really helpful. I know it’s helped my own photography journey - meeting like-minded people who mentor you and help you with your photography.”“It puts you in a good position. They give you tips and tricks, and I’m always open to any of our members reaching out to me for feedback on their photos or asking how they can improve. It’s a great way to enhance your photography skills if you’re interested.”If you are interested in joining the Kiama/Shellharbour Camera Club, visit their website and get in touch with Linda.

The 4th Annual Kiama Beach Oztag Tournament took place on Saturday, March 1, at Kendalls Beach, drawing a crowd of over 3,000 people, including players, local businesses, and supporters.With the sun shining brightly, seven fields were in action, and many players took the opportunity to cool off in the water. Tents and vans set up by local organisations, including the Kiama Lions Club, Kiama SLSC, and Kiama Knights Junior Football Club, contributed to the vibrant atmosphere.Tournament Director Keiron Duncan was thrilled with the turnout. “I’m super excited! What a turnout, and just look at the weather! We’ve got 71 teams here at Kendalls Beach - what better way to showcase this beautiful area?” says Duncan. “We’ve got 71 teams from all over the state, including Canberra, Sydney, the Inner West, Sutherland, and Cronulla. They’re competing for over $20,000 in cash and prizes,” he adds.A try in the Kiama Beach Tag. Photo: Brian Scott.Early in the day, Duncan predicted that the Touchdown Helicopters team would take out the Men's Opens tournament, while also forecasting a tight contest in the Mixed Opens.The overall winners included:Girls 13s: Sydney Dolphins def. Cobras 3-0Boys 13s: 2541 def. Cloudbreak Calves 4-3Girls 15s: Spirit Taggers def. JAWS 4-3Boys 15s: The Boys def. SCP Boys 5-2Mixed 18s: Gentlemen’s Cut def. Kumquats 2-1Women’s: Sand Slayers def. Dream Team 1-0Men’s 35s: CHUR def. Mindful Movement 3-2Mixed Opens: Vibe Tribe def. Hungry MonkeyMen’s Opens: Touchdown Helicopters def. Pengwen 4-3Action from 2025's Kiama Beach Tag Tournament. Photos: Brian Scott.In addition to the intense matches, the event featured some great community moments. A surf craft was donated to the Kiama SLSC for their involvement in the tournament. Another highlight was the NRL Legends game, in which the NRL Legends, including James Maloney, played against the Kiama Australian All-Stars team, made up of Australian Oztag representatives from the Kiama Association.Kiama Beach Tag also gave three lucky participants the opportunity to play in this showcase game by entering a special draw. Two local girls won the chance to play alongside NRL and NRLW stars, making for an unforgettable experience.The success of the event was a testament to the immense support from the local community. Duncan emphasised, “This event would not be possible without Kiama’s outstanding local businesses, our major sponsor Harrigan Ford, Big River Group, Kiama Leagues Club, Kiama Council, and Australian Oztag.”Overall, the 4th Annual Kiama Beach Oztag Tournament proved to be one of the biggest and most exciting days of the Kiama season, bringing together players and supporters in the spirit of sport and community.

Nominations are now open for the NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Awards, with Member for Kiama Gareth Ward encouraging the community to recognise outstanding local seniors before the deadline on 7 March 2025.The awards, part of the 2025 NSW Seniors Festival running from 3–16 March, celebrate seniors who make significant contributions to their communities through leadership, service, and dedication.“Seniors are the backbone of our communities, contributing through volunteering, mentoring, and supporting local organisations,” Mr Ward said. “From community groups and sporting clubs to charities and small businesses, older Australians continue to make a phenomenal impact. These awards are an opportunity to acknowledge their invaluable efforts.”The Kiama Seniors Local Achievement Awards are open to seniors in the Kiama electorate who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to their community—whether through decades of service, lifelong volunteering, or simply going above and beyond to help others.“This year’s festival theme is ‘Time to Shine,’ and we want to shine a light on the remarkable seniors in our electorate,” Mr Ward added.Nominations close at midnight on 7 March 2025, with Mr Ward set to present the awards at the end of the festival.For more information and to obtain a nomination form, click here.

Lithium-ion batteries, used to power e-bikes and e-scooters, are the fastest growing fire risk in the state according to NSW emergency services. To combat the growing issue, Kiama Council is running a community awareness campaign and providing additional safety training for its waste team after its believed the batteries sparked two blazes in the past year.No-one was injured in the fires, one at the Minnamurra waste depot and another on a recycling truck, but Kiama Council’s waste services manager Guy Stearn says “incidents such as this are always learning opportunities”.“Many people may not realise that a Li-Ion battery is embedded in something like a children’s toy, an electric toothbrush or even their Christmas lights,” Mr Stearn says.“People think they’re doing the right thing by getting rid of battery-powered items once they get old or stop working, which they are, but it’s a big no-no to throw them in with your kerbside bins.”To combat the steep increase in waste fires Kiama Council is working with residents to raise awareness about correct battery disposal. The council’s waste team will also undergo safety and awareness training in preparation for the Household Bulky Waste Drop Off at Minnamurra Depot from March 8-16.“We’ve improved processes in and around how we handle our waste and conduct our jobs at the Minnamurra Depot,” says Mr Stearn. “This includes better risk assessment procedures and incident reporting.”He has urged community participants booking a timeslot for this year’s event to read the updated terms and conditions on what can and can’t be disposed of. For more information visit: https://www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/Council/News/Be-battery-aware-for-Bulky-Waste-Drop-Off

On Sunday, 2 March 2025, the Kiama Lions Club hosted their second consecutive successful free eye screening event for 36 Little Nippers.This marks a continuation of their important work as the first club in the district to roll out the Children’s Vision Screening program.Held in partnership with the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club, the event saw Lions Club members screen the children in the Surf Life Saving Clubhouse. The screening process included tests for visual acuity, colour vision, and stereo depth perception.Lions Club member Janet Bruce at last years eye testing.The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed, with Lions members making everyone feel at ease throughout the screening. While they can't provide diagnoses, the Lions were able to refer those who needed additional care to specialists.This year, 36 children participated in the screening, with only 8 being referred for further follow-up with an eye specialist. The process was quick and efficient, designed to identify potential vision issues early on to prevent future problems. The Lions Club wanted to thank the parents of the young nippers as well as the surf club for helping them make the day happen! They hope it is the second of many in the Lions Eye Health Programme.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has called for a state wide ban on e-waste in landfill, using the story of a local entrepreneur to highlight the need for reform in New South Wales.Speaking in NSW Parliament, Mr Ward praised Wade Cawley, a former Shoalhaven Young Citizen of the Year and founder of Rekindle Me, a successful e-waste recycling business. He described Mr Cawley as an inspiration and a driving force behind his push for legislative change.“Wade is an example of a young person running a small business while making a positive impact on both the environment and the disability community,” Mr Ward said.However, Mr Ward noted that Rekindle Me was at risk of closure when Mr Cawley’s van required a new electric battery - an expense he could not afford. The local community stepped in with financial support, allowing Mr Cawley to continue operating his business.Mr Ward used Mr Cawley’s experience to highlight a broader issue, pointing out that NSW lags behind other states in banning e-waste from landfill.“Unlike other states, NSW does not prohibit e-waste in landfill,” he said. “This week, I shared Wade’s story in Parliament to advocate for a ban and to ensure these valuable materials are properly recycled.”He underscored the urgency of the issue, citing statistics that show e-waste is being generated five times faster than it can be recycled globally.“In Australia, only 22 per cent of e-waste was collected and recycled in 2022. Yet, Australians generate around 20 kilograms of e-waste per capita - more than double the global average,” he said. “In 2022 alone, $62 billion worth of recoverable resources were buried as e-waste worldwide.”Mr Ward said he had recently visited several e-waste recycling businesses and believes NSW has the capability to process these materials sustainably.“We have the capacity to turn finite resources into infinite ones, and I look forward to continuing to push for reform in Parliament,” he said.

As the housing crisis continues to hit hard, particularly in communities like Kiama where demand is high, MP Gareth Ward has invited the NSW Rental Commissioner to visit the electorate to discuss affordability in the region. Mr Ward wrote to the Rental Commissioner earlier this year after an increase in inquiries and complaints about landlords, tenants and the lack of affordable rental rental properties in the area. He says he is yet to receive a response.“Be you a first home buyer or a person in the rental market trying to keep up, housing pressure is the main driver of the cost-of-living crisis,” Mr Ward said. “I have invited the NSW Rental Commissioner to visit our community and see first-hand the pressures being experienced in the Illawarra and South Coast. I want to see how the Rental Commissioner can help us and press the government for more than just targets. We need outcomes.” Mr Ward says the government is failing its own housing targets, with 60 proposed affordable housing units in Bomaderry, but more than 300 new frontline staff expected to be working at Shoalhaven Hospital once the redevelopment is complete.“Where are all these workers going to live?” asks Mr Ward.  “I am disappointed that the Rental Commissioner has yet to acknowledge my invitation. The lack of response is concerning but I will continue to pressure the government to ensure it provides the investments and reforms that make it easier for renters and first home buyers in our region.”

Survey results released this week show the majority of the community want health and wellness services to continue at the David Berry Hospital.The hospital’s services will relocate to the $448 million redeveloped Shoalhaven Hospital in 2026, with the David Berry site taking on a new role.The Have Your Say survey gathered community and stakeholder responses on potential future uses for the site, its historical and cultural value and partnership opportunities.More than 80 per cent of survey respondents supported continued health-focused services, with many calling for community-led initiatives over commercial or residential developments and for the site’s history and green spaces to be preserved. The NSW government says feedback from the survey will inform future discussions, working groups and broader consultation opportunities with stakeholders.  “The nearly 1200 responses reflect the community’s strong interest in the site's future, and we will ensure stakeholders are listened to and kept well informed about next steps,” says Health Minister Ryan Park. “Although no longer suitable for its original purpose, this government will ensure the David Berry Hospital site will continue to serve the community.”The report is available for the community to review on the Have Your Say website. Meantime Kiama MP Gareth Ward has claimed a win in his bid to obtain documents, under the Government Information (Public Access) Act, outlining the government’s plans for David Berry Hospital once services move offsite. After his request for the documents was refused, he appealed the decision through the NSW Information and Privacy Commission, which ruled the Government’s decision to deny the application was not reasonable.“David Berry Hospital should continue as a health facility, and the public have a right to know what our government is up to,” says Mr Ward.“I have long had concerns that the government’s consultation isn’t genuine. I look forward to seeing what’s in these documents.”

By Katie LouttitLeadership plays a vital role in schools, helping to foster responsibility, teamwork and confidence in students. Across our local schools - including Kiama Public School, Jamberoo Public School, Minnamurra Public School, Gerringong Public School and Kiama High School - student leadership takes on different forms. Some schools appoint school captains and vice captains, while others establish leadership teams to encourage shared responsibility.School leaders serve as role models for younger students, demonstrating positive behaviour, resilience and commitment to school values. They are often the face of the student body, representing their peers at official events, welcoming visitors and speaking at assemblies. Their role extends beyond public appearances, as they actively contribute to school initiatives, organise fundraising events and support younger students through buddy programs.The impact of these leadership roles is far-reaching. Not only do they help build confidence and decision-making skills in the students who hold them, but they also strengthen the school community as a whole. Younger students look up to their leaders, gaining inspiration from their dedication and enthusiasm. Teachers and staff benefit from the additional support and student-driven initiatives that enrich the school environment.Congratulations to our 2025 School Leaders across our Kiama Community of Schools.Jamberoo Public School - L-R: Sienna Murphy (Captain), Luca Marzini (Captain), Indi Probert (Vice Captain), Zane McArthur (Vice Captain) Kiama Public School - L-R: Tane Searle (School Leader), Nate Braham (School Leader), Grace McInerney (School Leader), Maddison Perricone (School Leader)Minnamurra Public School - L-R: Darcy Delahunty (Vice Captain), Jarrahna Davis (Captain), Lucy Trist (Captain), Penny Gordon (Vice Captain)L-R: Owen W, Hamish B, Islah S, Ivy P, Laylah C, Trinity D, Ethan K, Wally S

By Katie LouttitLeadership plays a vital role in schools, helping to foster responsibility, teamwork and confidence in students. Across our local schools - including Kiama Public School, Jamberoo Public School, Minnamurra Public School, Gerringong Public School and Kiama High School - student leadership takes on different forms. Some schools appoint school captains and vice captains, while others establish leadership teams to encourage shared responsibility.School leaders serve as role models for younger students, demonstrating positive behaviour, resilience and commitment to school values. They are often the face of the student body, representing their peers at official events, welcoming visitors and speaking at assemblies. Their role extends beyond public appearances, as they actively contribute to school initiatives, organise fundraising events and support younger students through buddy programs.The impact of these leadership roles is far-reaching. Not only do they help build confidence and decision-making skills in the students who hold them, but they also strengthen the school community as a whole. Younger students look up to their leaders, gaining inspiration from their dedication and enthusiasm. Teachers and staff benefit from the additional support and student-driven initiatives that enrich the school environment.Congratulations to our 2025 School Leaders across our Kiama Community of Schools.Jamberoo Public School - L-R: Sienna Murphy (Captain), Luca Marzini (Captain), Indi Probert (Vice Captain), Zane McArthur (Vice Captain) Kiama Public School - L-R: Tane Searle (School Leader), Nate Braham (School Leader), Grace McInerney (School Leader), Maddison Perricone (School Leader)Minnamurra Public School - L-R: Darcy Delahunty (Vice Captain), Jarrahna Davis (Captain), Lucy Trist (Captain), Penny Gordon (Vice Captain)L-R: Owen W, Hamish B, Islah S, Ivy P, Laylah C, Trinity D, Ethan K, Wally S

For Jon Phipps and Hilton Bloomfield, making a difference starts with something as small as a postage stamp. Through the Kiama Lions Club, they have been raising funds for the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF), helping provide walkers and mobility aids for children who cannot walk unaided.“These kids, often with cerebral palsy, can’t move around freely, but when they get these devices, they can experience a sense of independence,” Jon explains. “They love it. The challenge is that as they grow, they need new devices every few years, and each one costs around $7,500.”To meet this ongoing need, Jon and Hilton have turned to an unexpected fundraising method, collecting and selling used postage stamps. “I didn’t even know there was a market for used stamps,” Jon admits, “but there is, and there’s a coordinator in Sydney who helps sell them.” The club also accepts old stamp collections, with the proceeds going directly towards funding mobility devices for children.While modern digital communication has made it harder to source stamps, Jon and Hilton are determined to keep the initiative going. They have been visiting local schools, encouraging them to include information in their newsletters to raise awareness. Community support is also growing, with local businesses stepping up. RMB Lawyers, Kiama Pharmacy and Blooms Pharmacy are all local collection hubs, while Chris Mills from Kiama Health Destination Pharmacy has made a significant donation, recognising the life-changing impact of the walkers.Jon and Hilton’s passion for the cause is evident, and they hope more people will get involved. “It’s a simple way to help, if you come across old stamps, don’t throw them away. Drop them at one of our collection points at RMB Lawyers, Kiama Pharmacy and Blooms Pharmacy and know that you’re contributing to something truly meaningful.”As the Lions Club continues its work, Jon and Hilton remain committed to ensuring that every child in need has the opportunity to move freely, explore, and experience the joy of independence.

The Kiama Lions Club held a special presentation on 27 February to honour Hilton Bloomfield and Jon Phipps for their efforts in raising funds for the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. The Foundation is currently working to provide a mobility walker for a five-year-old child in Kiama Downs, with support from local clubs, including Minnamurra, Shoalhaven Heads, Jervis Bay, and Bomaderry. These walkers, which cost approximately $7,500, offer children the freedom to move independently.Foundation National Registrar Danny Richardson presented the awards in recognition of Jon and Hilton’s commitment since 2023 to collecting and auctioning stamps to support children in need of mobility walkers.Jon and Hilton, affectionately known as the stamp men of Kiama, have worked together to collect stamps and played a vital role in this initiative. Receiving recognition for their efforts was unexpected for Jon Phipps and Hilton Bloomfield, but they see it as more than just an award. Acknowledgments like these provide a platform to highlight the importance of the cause, attract volunteers who share their vision, and raise awareness of the impact the stamp drive has in funding mobility walkers for children. Through their dedication, they have not only raised essential funds but have also inspired broader community involvement in this life-changing initiative.Adding to the significance of the evening, Hilton and his wife Jan celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, a milestone that deserves recognition in its own right.Hilton and Jan Bloomfield celebrated both their 60th wedding anniversary and Hilton's recognition of services During the event, Lions Club members inducted a new member, Cheryl Emin, into their ranks. Additionally, the club is preparing for a vision screening initiative this Sunday, demonstrating their continued commitment to supporting the community.One particularly exciting development is the upcoming auction of a rare stamp, a Penny Black from 1840, which could potentially raise more funds in a single sale than the club has ever achieved through barbecues.This highlights the significant impact that the stamp collection initiative could have on future fundraising efforts - so don’t be slow! Check out those stamp collections lying around your place and donate them to the Lions club to further their cause in the community.

By Brian Petschler Kiama Rotary Club helped fund four young Kiama students to attend the National Youth Science Forum in January 2025. Macey Guy, Nicola Porritt and Emma Trudgett are year 12 students at Kiama High School. They attended the forum at the Australian National University, Canberra. Lauren Moss, a student at Smith’s Hill High School, went to the forum at the University of Queensland in Brisbane.All four young women attended the Rotary meeting on 17 February to tell the Rotary members of their exciting experiences accompanied by parents. Rotary, a founding partner of NYSF, helps run these forums at Australian universities. Since 1983, the 9 day programs have expanded students' knowledge of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) career opportunities. Over 14,000 young Australians have participated to date. Kiama Rotary has successfully nominated students for many years, including the four 2025 nominees. All four students indicated the forum was an amazing experience. They were able to investigate a wide range of career and study options, some of which they had not considered to date. Medical research, nursing, museum conservation, forensic chemistry, biology, super computers, astrology, astrophysics, Antarctica research, the study of DNA and auto-immune issues were all on display, as well as many other STEM areas of interest.All emphasised how the NYS Forum had opened their eyes to so many careers they had not considered – so many things they could study and do! They also remarked on the great new friends they had made among the 300 students attending NYSF this year, and all looked forward to expanding those friendships and their future options after completing school.Kiama Rotary’s Youth Director David Russell thanked the students for being great ambassadors for Kiama at the 2025 NYS Forum and gave special mention to Ms Ruth Powell, science teacher at KMC, for her continuing support to Kiama Rotary in its youth programs. David also outlined the two other major youth projects Kiama took part in each year, the first being the Rotary Youth Leadership Assembly (RYLA), aimed at developing leadership skills in young people between 19 and 25 years of age. It involves a Rotary subsidised, week-long live-in personal development program at Stanwell Tops. The second youth support scheme is called RYPEN (Rotary Youth Personal Enrichment Program) aimed at students in years 9,10 and 11. Successful nominees attend a Rotary subsidised weekend of personal growth and development.“Kiama Rotary looks forward to helping young people in our area to gain the skills and confidence to meet this challenging world”, Director David Russell said,” and we invite students from the municipality to consider applying through their schools for these sought after programs. President Phillip White supported David and encouraged any person interested in the Club’s youth programs or in joining Rotary to contact the club via the club’s website.For further information, contact Brian Petschler on: 0421902815 or by email at [email protected]

Liberal candidate for Gilmore, Andrew Constance, has told Sky News that he will stand behind Peter Dutton’s decision to only stand in front of the Australian flag if elected Prime Minister.Constance made the comments during an appearance on Sky News on 25 February, where he was joined by Kate Dezarnaulds. The segment, hosted by Paul Murray, allowed both candidates to share their ideas and solutions for the Gilmore electorate ahead of the upcoming election.An audience member asked both candidates if, if elected, they would display the Australian flag in their offices or shopfronts.Both Mr Constance and Ms Dezarnaulds replied yes, and then Mr Constance continued.“We have one national flag and I am very proud that my leader has indicated that he will only stand in front of the Australian flag as the Prime Minister,” Mr Constance said.Since elected in 2022, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stood in front of all three flags - the Australian flag, the Australian Aboriginal flag, and the Torres Strait Islander flag.Mr Constance refers to Peter Dutton’s comments late in 2024, where he stated that he would only stand in front of one flag - the Australian flag - as it was “dividing our country unnecessarily.”In response to this, current Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips, who was absent from the Sky News talk, stated that she has always supported all three flags and that it is important Australia continues to do so.“On 14 July 1995, the Australian Aboriginal Flag and Torres Strait Islander Flag were proclaimed as flags of Australia under section 5 of the Flags Act 1953 (Commonwealth of Australia Gazettes S259 and S258),” says Mrs Phillips.“As an Australian, I am always proud to display all three flags, including in my electorate office and official functions as the Federal Member for Gilmore. We are lucky to live in the most beautiful place with a diversity of people, rich in history and culture with our First Nations people - that is something I am immensely thankful for,” she adds.Mrs Phillips says she was unable to attend the Sky News event because she was at a large Shoalhaven Business Chamber event at Bundanon.“I was supporting local businesses and workers, which also included an excellent Welcome to Country,” says Mrs Phillips.What are your thoughts? Email the Bugle: [email protected].

Sometimes, road signs give clear instructions. Sometimes, they leave you scratching your head. And then, occasionally, they deliver a comedy gold moment like this one in the Kiama local government area.At first glance, it looks like your standard stop sign – an unmissable red octagon commanding you to hit the brakes. Nothing out of the ordinary there. But then, underneath, there’s a second sign. It says, in no uncertain terms: No Stopping.Well, which is it? Should drivers stop or not? Are we caught in some sort of bureaucratic paradox? A Schrödinger’s stop sign, if you will? The road rules demand compliance, but compliance with what?Perhaps this is a philosophical challenge for Kiama’s drivers. A test of wit, reflexes, and interpretation skills. Or maybe it’s a message from a local prankster-turned-signage official who just wanted to see how long it would take for someone to notice. Either way, it’s a brilliant example of how even the most well-intended infrastructure can end up delivering a belly laugh.We may never know the true story behind this sign’s creation.But one thing is certain – it’s the perfect visual representation of modern life. Confusing, contradictory, and slightly ridiculous.Welcome to driving in Kiama.Is this Kiama’s most confusing sign?

At its 24 February meeting, Kiama Council supported Councillor Draisma’s urgency motion to advance plans for a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP), ensuring the council can apply for the Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant before applications close on 12 March.Councillor Draisma emphasised the importance of moving forward with the process, stating, "We need to strengthen our application and get a good outcome for the community." While staff confirmed that the council’s existing resolution met the threshold for application, Councillor Draisma highlighted the need for councillors to discuss which areas should be included in the draft precinct to support the bid.Proposed Locations - Kiama Town Centre and GerringongThe primary focus of the proposed precinct is Kiama’s town centre, including Terralong Street, Shoalhaven Street, and the Harbour Precinct.However, the draft motion also acknowledged Gerringong as a potential satellite precinct. A review of Gerringong town centre’s planning framework could allow for the inclusion of additional sites or lots, pending community consultation.A working group of local creatives and businesses has already provided input on the proposed areas, and further consultation will be essential in shaping the final precinct boundaries.Grant Funding and Development ApprovalCouncil staff confirmed that if successful, the grant, ranging from $50,000 to $200,000, would fund essential planning work, including an acoustic report and community engagement.However, they clarified that establishing an SEP would not override the need for development approvals.“This does not give retrospective approval to venues,” staff noted. “Businesses will still need to comply with existing planning processes.”With council’s endorsement, the application process will now proceed, with further community consultation to follow if funding is secured.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has called for statewide reform to ban e-waste from landfills, citing the inspiring efforts of local entrepreneur Wade Cawley.Cawley, a former Shoalhaven Young Citizen of the Year, runs a successful e-waste recycling business called Rekindle Me, which motivated Mr. Ward to push for this change.“Wade’s work highlights the fact that unlike other States, NSW does not have a ban on e-waste to landfill. This week, I told Wade’s story and used Parliament to explain why NSW should ban e-waste in landfills and ensure these elements are recycled here,” said Mr. Ward to NSW Parliament in a private members statement.Cawley, who had a double foot reconstruction 12 years ago and still feels some residual pain, wanted to start his own business to avoid potentially disappointing employers because of his foot pain.“Wade is an inspiration. He’s an example of a young person who is running a small business whilst doing something positive for our environment and people with disabilities,” said Mr. Ward.Currently, the world generates e-waste five times faster than we can recycle it, and Mr. Ward believes we have the capacity to address the issue.“In Australia, only 22 per cent of e-waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022, but Australians generate around 20 kilograms of e-waste per capita, which is more than double the global average. In 2022 alone, across the world, we collectively buried $62 billion worth of recoverable natural resources as e-waste.”“I’ve recently visited a number of businesses that recycle e-waste. We have the capacity to ensure that once finite resources become infinite and I look forward to pressing this issue further in Parliament,” Mr. Ward concluded.

Kiama Council is inviting the community to have Your Say on the future of local library services with the release of the draft Kiama Library Strategic Plan 2025-2029.Manager of Library and Cultural Hubs, Michelle Hudson, said the Kiama and Gerringong library branches provide a highly respected and vibrant service, complemented by a strong online presence.“Our libraries are at the heart of our community – safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces where people can come together to learn and share creativity through our programs and events,” Ms Hudson said.“Our dedicated and creative library staff are passionate about the essential services we provide, from fostering reading and increasing digital literacy to preserving our cultural history and strengthening social connections.”The Kiama Library Strategic Plan 2025-2029 outlines key recommendations to adapt and enhance library services as the community evolves. These include:Exploring potential layout improvements at Kiama Library to create a more flexible and dynamic space.Activating outdoor spaces at both Kiama and Gerringong libraries.Investigating alternative service models to better connect with satellite communities.Integrating the Local Studies Collection and Kiama Family History Centre into a single collection and service point.“Bringing together the Local Studies Collection and Family History Centre will create a stronger narrative around our local history, incorporating personal stories and genealogical records to deepen our community’s understanding of its identity,” Ms Hudson said.The draft plan has been developed through consultation with library members, staff, and the wider community, drawing on feedback from surveys, program evaluations, and workshops.Residents are encouraged to review the draft Kiama Library Strategic Plan 2025-2029 and share their feedback by Sunday, 23 March at yoursay.kiama.nsw.gov.au/library-strategic-plan.

On Friday, 21 February 2025, John Micallef was presented with the Kiama Electorate Bravery Award by Gareth Ward MP in recognition of his extraordinary courage in rescuing a woman from a dangerous rip at Gerroa.His quick thinking and selfless actions exemplify the spirit of heroism that strengthens our community.Heroism can come naturally to some, but is there a way to encourage it in others?The story of John Micallef’s rescue has resonated with many, what makes a person act without hesitation in such moments?And how can communities create an environment where people feel confident to step in and help?Gareth Ward MP posed the important question:"How do we ensure that more people feel confident to act in emergencies like John did? Is it through training, community spirit, or simply having the right role models?"Programs like volunteer surf lifesaving, rural fire brigades, and emergency response teams provide people with training and the opportunity to develop courage in controlled environments.More participation in these groups helps create a culture where stepping in to help is the norm.John’s granddaughter, Amelia Beahan, believes his lifelong commitment to fitness and activity has shaped his ability to respond under pressure."He's always been incredibly active, and I think that’s a huge part of why he was able to react so instinctively. Whether it was playing touch footy, sailing, or surfing, he has always shown us the importance of being prepared and staying calm in challenging situations," she said. "His attitude towards life has definitely influenced all of us."Is heroism an innate quality, or can it be learned?Exposure to emergency situations, first aid training, and rescue skills can give people the confidence to act decisively when it matters most.When John saw the woman struggling, his response was immediate - not because he had trained for it, but because his active lifestyle had prepared him to remain calm and problem-solve under pressure.John Micallef bravely rescued a woman caught in a rip at Gerroa, showcasing quick thinking and ocean awareness. Photo Credit Bob McMillanHaving role models like John helps shape a culture of courage and selflessness."I've always admired my grandfather’s mindset," Amelia said. "He doesn’t hesitate to help others, and he’s shown us that staying active and engaged in life means being ready to handle whatever comes your way."By highlighting stories like John’s, we reinforce the idea that heroism is not just for trained professionals - it’s something anyone can aspire to.His selflessness reminds us that everyday people can become heroes in unexpected moments.Some people have natural instincts to help, but for most, heroism is a learned behaviour.The more we train, normalise, and reward heroic acts, the more likely it is that people will step up when the moment calls for it. Communities can foster this by recognising bravery, providing opportunities for training, and sharing stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.Heroism starts with awareness, grows with encouragement, and becomes a community value when people like John Micallef lead the way.