Ah, the festive group chat, the digital space where plans are made, jokes are attempted, and chaos reigns. Every family or friend group has one, and it’s as much a part of the holidays as pavlova and sunscreen. But these chats aren’t for the faint of heart. Here are the classic characters that make your notifications ping louder than Christmas carols:The Over-Planner: This person treats every holiday catch-up like a military operation. Their messages are filled with spreadsheets, itineraries, and questions like: “Should we do Secret Santa with a $47 budget this year?” Their energy is unmatched, but their 17 reminders about arrival times might send you straight to the “mute” button.The Ghoster: They were added to the group chat months ago but haven’t said a word since. Are they reading the messages? Are they even alive? No one knows—until they suddenly reply on Christmas Eve with “What’s the plan?”The Emoji Enthusiast: This person can’t send a message without decorating it like a Christmas tree. “Who’s bringing prawns? 🎄🍤🦐✨🎅” Their festive spirit is contagious, but their overuse of the eggplant emoji in a conversation about fruit platters is... questionable.The Meme Master:They contribute nothing to the actual planning but flood the chat with holiday-themed memes. “Santa after eating all those cookies 🎅➡️🍪➡️🤰😂” is their idea of helpful input. Do they make you laugh? Yes. Are they slowing down the chat? Also yes.The Food Critic: Every suggestion about what to bring is met with scrutiny. “Pavlova? Don’t you think that’s overdone? How about a deconstructed trifle?” By the end of the thread, they’ve volunteered themselves for dessert duty—just as they intended.The Calendar Confuser: No matter how many times the date and time are confirmed, they’ll still ask, “Wait, are we doing this on the 25th or the 26th?” Their inability to read previous messages is a holiday tradition in itself.The Late Arrival: They always respond hours (or days) after everyone else. By the time they chime in with “I can bring sausages!” the menu has already been sorted, leaving them to bring... napkins.The Over-Sharer: The chat is about who’s bringing salad, but they somehow segue into a detailed story about their dog’s latest vet visit. Nobody asked, but now you know more about Fido’s digestion than you ever wanted to.This year, spare a thought for the poor soul tasked with managing the holiday group chat chaos. It’s a tough gig, but without them, there’d be no BBQ, no cricket, and definitely no plan. So maybe resist the urge to mute, and instead, reply with a thumbs up, and maybe a festive meme or two.After all, what’s the holiday season without a little digital drama?

Domestic violence is an ongoing evil in our world, while victims suffer in silence, conviction rates for domestic violence abusers are low compared with other crimes in NSW. Zonta club of Kiama/Shellharbour will be holding a ceremony of remembrance for the lives taken by violence. You can join them in solidarity at Coronation park in Kiama, November 25th at 6:30 for a 7pm start.This solemn event will honour victims of domestic violence and raise awareness for the prevalence of these crimes. A shoe display will show one pair representing each life taken by domestic violence in NSW this year. “Through shared stories, reflection, and a peaceful sound healing session, we will remember those lost, support survivors, thank first responders, and stand united against domestic abuse.” Attendees are invited to bring a flower to place by the shoes, to honour our fallen brothers, sisters and children. In Australia on average, one woman a week is murdered by her current or former partner and one man every month is killed. One in six women and one in sixteen men have experienced physical or sexual violence by a partner since the age of 15. Indigenous women are 32 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence than non-Indigenous women.It's easy to read these facts and not understand the weight of these words. But these facts unearth a shocking revelation that you probably know many who are dealing with this devil everyday. You may unknowingly be a friend to an abuser, or a victim. As a collective community, we need to demand change. As of now, more than 80 women have been killed due to domestic violence this year in Australia. No more silencing victims, no more protecting perpetrators and no more violence. Join Zonta in a ceremony of remembrance, grieving and demand for change. Support Services Support is available through organisations like 1800RESPECT (Australia’s national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service), which provides resources, crisis counselling, and assistance in accessing safe housing.

Gerringong Public Schools Parents and Citizens' Association (P&C) hosted an event to help fathers become more hands-on with parenting.Held at Stoic Brewery in Gerringong on September 5, the night featured popular parenting expert Maggie Dent, whose warmth and insight encouraged meaningful discussion. Stu Brunsdon, a P&C member, participated in the event in an effort to get fathers more involved and proactive in their parenting roles. "I think sometimes, Dads don’t dive into the key issues around raising kids, and often, that burden falls on mums," says Brunsdon. "We want to change that narrative and get more dads involved." The event marked the second ‘Dads at Stoic’ gathering, and Brunsdon observed that while the fathers were timid at the beginning of the night, Maggie Dent's charisma gradually helped them open up."Maggie can hold a crowd so well—she’s funny and very knowledgeable," says Brunsdon."At the start, it's a little quiet, and the dads are a bit standoffish, but by the end, some are laughing, some are in tears, and they’re asking amazing questions. The conversation really starts to flow." By the end of the evening, the dads were sharing stories about their children, discussing books and podcasts they’d been reading or listening to, and exchanging parenting ideas. "They’re all talking about modern-day parenting, sharing both successes and failures," Brunsdon adds. The event has proven to be a success, as Brunsdon has noticed a positive shift in how dads are engaging with their children. "I definitely see more dads stepping up—not just coaching soccer, but doing the pick-up and drop-off, and handling other day-to-day parenting tasks," says Brunsdon. "It’s even becoming a topic of conversation, with people saying, I read that book, or I tried that podcast." Participation in events hosted this year grew significantly, with more dads contributing by asking questions and offering ideas. “One guy talked about organising screen-free activities like board game nights, another mentioned gardening projects with his kids, and someone else wanted to plan a camping adventure," Brunsdon says. "In a world full of risk assessments and declining school camps, it was great to see so much enthusiasm for these ideas." All money raised from the event went toward the Gerringong Public School and Brunsdon hopes the event will continue to grow in the future, building even more engagement and conversation around fatherhood.He concluded by thanking the dads who attended and Maggie Dent for donating her time, encouraging other fathers to get involved. “If you’re a dad wanting to engage more with your kids and connect with other parents, join your local P&C, look out for events like this, and check out Maggie Dent’s podcast, Parental As Anything."

Hindmarsh Park upgrade works have been completed and the brand new playground and picnic facilities are now open to the public.The park upgrades, announced in January of this year, saw Kiama Council invest $4.5 million in the new playground and picnic area with state funding and support from the NSW government. “The park is great - it caters for the older kids but there’s also things for the little ones to do,” Mum of Jasmine, Mina says.Families can enjoy an impressive playground, fitted out with a trampoline, seesaw and swings, to name a few. The upgrade includes the rejuvenation of the Orry Kelly stage, with a new canopy installed and an upgraded accessible ramp and side stairs for presentations and events. A new lane has been added to aid pedestrians and equipment to the railway pathway.  “I have a friend and her little boy who has outgrown the park at Surf Beach, so this park is great for that,” Mum of Pippa and Loni, Megan says. Hindmarsh Park also has been boosted with additional picnic settings, platform seating, benches, a barbecue and drinking fountains for everyone to enjoy ahead of warmer weather. The grand reveal has come ahead of schedule by a month, with the official opening originally expected in late October. 

Foster children in New South Wales are in a ‘critical’ situation, with the number of active foster carers slowly decreasing across the state. From 8 September until 14 September is Foster and Kinship Care Week and highlights the importance of foster carers and the vital role they play in keeping vulnerable children safe and secure. CareSouth Illawarra is a community-services organisation that focuses on foster care, NDIS, early intervention, youth support and therapeutic residential accommodation services. CareSouth, Julie Heck and Karen HooperThe organisation currently has 44 young people in their foster care program, Karen Hooper, CareSouth Illawarra Carer Engagement Team Leader says de-stigmatizing the role of a foster carer is crucial to rebuilding the available homes for children in need.“Foster Care Week is not only an opportunity to thank our wonderful carers but to encourage people to have a conversation about what it’s like to be a foster carer and break down any myths or barriers to becoming a carer,” says Ms Hooper. According to the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, 23 children were in out-of-home care in the Kiama local government area in 2023. The number jumps to 903 across Wollongong, Shoalhaven, Shellharbour and Kiama combined, which accounts for four percent of the total population of children living in the Illawarra region. Over the past five years, the number of foster carers in NSW has decreased by 15 per cent, leaving the system vulnerable and children in foster care to be moved around constantly in stressful environments. Illawarra foster carers Julie and Peter Heck joined CareSouth as foster carers in 2019 and say it’s the best decision they ever made.“We’ve got so much love to give, so thought we would go down the fostering path after considering it for a fairly long time,” says Julie. “Then one day we just took the plunge and I made the phone call and we’ve never looked back. Now I can’t imagine life without these two little people in it.”There is an urgent need for more foster carers like Julie and Peter to provide a loving home for children and young people who are unable to live with their own families. If children are not able to be placed into a stable foster care environment, the effects are alarming.A harrowing report into the dire alternative care arrangements young people are living in across NSW was released by the Office of the Advocate for Children and Young People (ACYP) earlier this year.The NSW Government responded with an urgent review into the foster care system looking into how taxpayer finances are being spent in the industry and use of emergency accommodation for children in out-of-home care.Children placed in these living arrangements recounted their lack of access to ongoing schooling, constant relocation, living in pest-infected rooms and a 12-year-old reported experiencing sexual assault during a stay in a hotel.Earlier this month, the government announced a ban on all alternative care arrangements for vulnerable children across the state. Alternative care arrangements can cost upwards of $2 million per child, per year. These arrangements place children in hotels, motels and caravan parks with rotating shift workers instead of registered foster carers. These arrangements are provided by non accredited agencies who are not required to meet NSW Child Safe Standards for Permanent Care.“As a mum I’m horrified to hear that there are children in the child protection system who feel like they’re animals, being moved from cage to cage,” says Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington.“Under our government, unaccredited emergency accommodation will become a thing of the past, which is long overdue,” Washington continued.Those interested in becoming a foster carer are encouraged to contact CareSouth on 1300 554 260 or visit www.caresouth.org.au. You can also visit the NSW Government website for more details on how to become a foster carer.

Welcome to the second instalment of our three-part series aimed at providing essential tips for young people who have recently left home. Today, we'll delve into the basics of housekeeping and laundry - areas where many young people may have gaps in knowledge. This article focuses on practical advice and useful tips to help you be economical, efficient, and avoid costly mistakes. Drawing from my experience as a professional superyacht stewardess in the 1990s, I’ve learned the finer points of housekeeping, and laundry. While it’s not my goal to turn you into a steward or stewardess, I can certainly share highly useful tips that will equip anyone at home.Let's start with laundry, an area where many people are particularly clueless, and it shows! Before anything else, sort your clothes and linens into dark, white, and mixed piles. This prevents dyes from dark or coloured clothes from greying or staining your whites and keeps lint off your black clothes. Always wash new clothes separately to avoid dye transfer, especially next to whites.Next, sort your laundry into 'like' items. Towels should be washed in the same load and never with darks. Dirty cleaning cloths or tea towels should be washed separately on a hot cycle to remove grease. All other washing can be done warm or cold since modern detergents are designed for cold washing. Never wash woollens in hot water, as they will shrink.When choosing between powder or liquid detergent, I used to prefer liquid for darks and powder for lights to save money. However, I've since discovered laundry sheets, which dissolve in the wash and are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and lightweight to carry home, that’s what I’d recommend. An obvious, but strangely overlooked task is to check pockets before washing clothes. Stray tissues will cause lint to spread, and items like phones, money, gum, notes, receipts, pens, can be damaged if left in pockets. One last important tip: look for stains whilst you search pockets and treat with the appropriate stain treatment. Not doing this will mean that stains will set and be impossible to remove later.Now for drying, even if you’re going to hang the clothes on the line, dry them first for 10 minutes and they’ll be soft and wrinkle free. Then hang them straight. They cannot possible dry straight if not pegged properly. I prefer to use coat hangers. If using a dryer only, make sure not to ‘cook’ the clothes. High heat settings can damage clothes. Always clear the lint filter for quicker and better results, and safety! You could also half-dry and then hang inside – straight – on the hanger! I have literally written a book on housekeeping – a training manual in fact - but I'll spare you the long version. Here’s a streamlined sequence to clean properly:Start with emptying rubbish, then approach the dusting.Begin at the top and work your way down, as dust falls.Microfibre cloths are great since they trap dust.Long-handled dusters made from microfibre will help you to reach walls and ceilings.Bathrooms come next:Start at the far end and work your way out.Vacuum the floor to remove hairs and dust, then mop.Open windows and doors to allow circulating air to dry the room.In the kitchen:Begin with the heavy jobs, such as cleaning the stove and oven, as grease can cause fires.Wipe the benches.Clean the fridge next. With clean benches, you can place the fridge food down while you wipe the inside with a vanilla-based product to handle food smells.Discard anything that doesn't pass the smell test but remember that some items may still be good even if they are past their use-by date.Reorganise your fridge thoughtfully identify items that need to be used up soon, to avoid waste.Re-wipe the benches and sink, making sure to clean the underside of the plug.Clean your bins regularly to avoid smells.Descale and clean dishwasher filters regularly to remove caught food. Rinse plates before placing them in the dishwasher for better results.General cleaning tips:Opt for eco-friendly products and use them sparingly.Elbow grease* works well in most cases. [In Gen Z speak this means ‘make an effort’.]Avoid air fresheners, which only mask smells. Identify and address the source of odours. Open windows to get fresh air inside; it’s much more effective than a costly spray. Flowers, indoor plants, lemons, or baking can create a pleasant aroma.Once in a while vacuum underneath the lounge cushions, and under the furniture. When I was growing up, we had a formal Sunday lunch once a week. This was when mothers taught their children how to set the table and cook a meal – the basics of ‘entertaining’. Since that happens far less these days… stay tuned for the final part of this series, where we’ll cover basic cooking and table setting.

Did you spot an army of 6-year-olds dressed like cliched pensioners roaming around Kiama? On 30 July, local schools - and schools across the country - celebrated an important milestone for Kindergarten students: 100 days of Kindy (or 100 Days of Prep, depending on where you’re based).Kiama Public School studentsIt’s hard to pinpoint where this tradition came from, but in schools in Australia (and the UK and America), it’s celebrated in an unconventional way. Kindergarten students dress up as 100-year-olds and take part in a range of 100-themed activities. (Did we mention, the teachers dress up too?)This isn’t just about dressing up like Grannies from Bluey (parents will get that reference!). It’s a way to reinforce an important milestone in Mathematics. It just so happens that 100 days of Kindergarten falls around the time, 6-year-olds start to explore triple-figures in their Maths curriculum. Kiama Public School students As part of the day, students explore 100-themed literacy, numeracy and craft ideas, including threading 100 Cheerios on a necklace and then eating it.There is some push-back to the tradition on the internet. The fancy dress theme has been criticised for being ageist and ableist. One mum, writing on the website Disabledparenting.com, bristled when her little boy asked if he could “take one of my wheelchairs to school” to pretend to be elderly.But, you could also argue, it’s a chance to have open conversations with your children around ageist stereotypes. “Let’s talk about the older people we know? What about Grandpa who loves to go surfing? Instead of a walking stick, how about taking a fishing rod or a golf club?”Minnamurra Public School StudentsControversy aside, 100 Days of Kindy is all about celebration. This is an important milestone for Kindergarteners, who have traversed the anxiety of starting school and learnt so much in such a short time.As part of the celebrations at Kiama Public School, Kindergarten students reflected on their school highlights so far."My favourite thing in Kindergarten is going to the library and reading books," said Tiana. Meanwhile, Charlotte shared, "I loved performing our class play at assembly" and Charli said, “My favourite day in Kindergarten was Pyjama Day.”As Minnamurra Public School said in an email to parents, “We are so proud of our Kindergarten students and all they have achieved so far this year.”Congrats to all Kindy students (and their care-givers) on 100 amazing days so far!

Sydney FC are hosting the Kiama Football Festival at the Kiama Sports Complex for children aged 6-12, on September 14 and 15. Teams of 8-10 players are encouraged to enter and will play a minimum of six games each on the day.The Kiama Council wrote in a press release, “This festival is a fantastic way for players to celebrate the end of the winter season and experience the thrills and excitement of a football gala.”The day is open to all mixed boys and girls teams with a cost of $300 per team. You can register your team at the My Sydney FC Website here: https://my.sydneyfc.com/kiama-football-festival.

Young people embarking on an independent life, outside of the family home will not only need to successfully secure a job but also begin navigating the myriad aspects of adult responsibility. Observations of young people in this age group reveal a significant gap in basic life skills essential for adulthood. These include understanding the rental market, budgeting, employment and taxation, entering contracts, and general self-care.To bridge the gap in life skills education, ideally, schools would incorporate practical "how-to" lessons for students in their final years. However, the focus often remains on achieving high HSC marks. Consequently, the responsibility of teaching these essential skills falls to parents. Yet, many parents might not realise just how unprepared their young adults are for life outside the home.One crucial area for those who have left home is navigating the rental market and applying for a rental property. Quite apart from finding a suitable place in the current market, and being accepted by the landlord or agent, you would have had to save for the bond, equivalent to four weeks' rent, which is lodged with the Rental Bond Board. Additionally, you'll need to pay two weeks' rent in advance and set up a system for regular rental payments. Tenants and landlords both have rights and responsibilities, and it's beneficial to familiarise yourself with these by visiting the various government websites. An easier option is often to share accommodation, and this can be quite easy via various share house websites, such as Flatmate Finders or Flatmates. Also bear in mind that some financial assistance can be obtained for students in certain circumstances. Another aspect of adulthood is pet care. Many find that their new rental does not allow pets, leaving parents to care for their animals. Before taking on the responsibility of a pet, it's crucial to consider whether you have the means and stability to provide long-term care.Budgeting and understanding employment are other areas where young people often lack knowledge. For instance, you need to factor in taxation when calculating your income and budget. This isn't intuitive if you've never been employed before. For example, a gross annual salary of $55,000 translates to a weekly income of $1,058, but after taxes and Medicare, the take-home pay is approximately $876. This discrepancy significantly impacts budgeting. From the net weekly income of $876, you need to allocate funds for rent, food, utilities, phone, internet, streaming services, transport, clothing, HECS debt, credit card or personal loan repayments, and entertainment etcetera.One critical skill I had to teach my son was how to shop effectively. While it may seem obvious to those of us with experience, the value of weekly grocery specials can be eye-opening for the uninitiated. Understanding that buying products on sale or switching brands when they are significantly cheaper can help stretch a budget further is a valuable lesson.A key strategy is to stock up on non-perishable items when they are half-price. However, it's equally important to avoid overbuying perishable goods, which can lead to waste if they spoil before being used. Learning to balance these aspects is crucial for efficient and economical food shopping.Similarly, clothes shopping requires a strategic approach. Instead of focusing solely on brands and logos, it's wiser to prioritise style, fabric quality and value for money. This shift in perspective can lead to better purchasing decisions and a more versatile wardrobe. We're still working on perfecting these skills but starting to adopt this mindset sooner rather than later makes a significant difference.Legal responsibilities and voting: Upon turning 18, young adults can have their own Medicare card, and also need to register with the Australian Electoral Commission to vote in elections. This is often overlooked but is an essential civic duty. Additionally, as legal adults, they can enter into contracts for mobile phones, internet, streaming services, health insurance, and utilities. While car ownership offers independence, it also comes with expenses like repayments, insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Understanding these responsibilities is crucial to avoid legal and financial pitfalls.Personal safety is another critical consideration. Simple security practices, such as not being alone with strangers, locking windows and doors, not leaving valuables in plain view, and using strong, unique passwords, can help prevent many potential issues. These practices may seem like common sense but often need to be explicitly taught and reinforced.Basic household cleaning and maintenance is not something that young people have ever had to shoulder responsibility for, yet are essential for safety and hygiene. In a nutshell: Clean filters on hair dryers, vacuums, clothes dryers, and air conditioners regularly. Ensure oil and grease are cleaned from barbeques, ovens, and stovetops to prevent fires. Regularly clean range hoods, check smoke detectors, and never leave appliances on unattended. Avoid quick fixes on electrical appliances and ensure outdoor vents are clear of debris.Preparing for adult life is multifaceted and requires a combination of practical skills and knowledge that are often overlooked in traditional education. By filling these gaps, whether through parental guidance or self-education, young adults can navigate their new responsibilities more effectively and confidently.

Young people embarking on an independent life, outside of the family home will not only need to successfully secure a job but also begin navigating the myriad aspects of adult responsibility. Observations of young people in this age group reveal a significant gap in basic life skills essential for adulthood. These include understanding the rental market, budgeting, employment and taxation, entering contracts, and general self-care.To bridge the gap in life skills education, ideally, schools would incorporate practical "how-to" lessons for students in their final years. However, the focus often remains on achieving high HSC marks. Consequently, the responsibility of teaching these essential skills falls to parents. Yet, many parents might not realise just how unprepared their young adults are for life outside the home.One crucial area for those who have left home is navigating the rental market and applying for a rental property. Quite apart from finding a suitable place in the current market, and being accepted by the landlord or agent, you would have had to save for the bond, equivalent to four weeks' rent, which is lodged with the Rental Bond Board. Additionally, you'll need to pay two weeks' rent in advance and set up a system for regular rental payments. Tenants and landlords both have rights and responsibilities, and it's beneficial to familiarise yourself with these by visiting the various government websites. An easier option is often to share accommodation, and this can be quite easy via various share house websites, such as Flatmate Finders or Flatmates. Also bear in mind that some financial assistance can be obtained for students in certain circumstances. Another aspect of adulthood is pet care. Many find that their new rental does not allow pets, leaving parents to care for their animals. Before taking on the responsibility of a pet, it's crucial to consider whether you have the means and stability to provide long-term care.Budgeting and understanding employment are other areas where young people often lack knowledge. For instance, you need to factor in taxation when calculating your income and budget. This isn't intuitive if you've never been employed before. For example, a gross annual salary of $55,000 translates to a weekly income of $1,058, but after taxes and Medicare, the take-home pay is approximately $876. This discrepancy significantly impacts budgeting. From the net weekly income of $876, you need to allocate funds for rent, food, utilities, phone, internet, streaming services, transport, clothing, HECS debt, credit card or personal loan repayments, and entertainment etcetera.One critical skill I had to teach my son was how to shop effectively. While it may seem obvious to those of us with experience, the value of weekly grocery specials can be eye-opening for the uninitiated. Understanding that buying products on sale or switching brands when they are significantly cheaper can help stretch a budget further is a valuable lesson.A key strategy is to stock up on non-perishable items when they are half-price. However, it's equally important to avoid overbuying perishable goods, which can lead to waste if they spoil before being used. Learning to balance these aspects is crucial for efficient and economical food shopping.Similarly, clothes shopping requires a strategic approach. Instead of focusing solely on brands and logos, it's wiser to prioritise style, fabric quality and value for money. This shift in perspective can lead to better purchasing decisions and a more versatile wardrobe. We're still working on perfecting these skills but starting to adopt this mindset sooner rather than later makes a significant difference.Legal responsibilities and voting: Upon turning 18, young adults can have their own Medicare card, and also need to register with the Australian Electoral Commission to vote in elections. This is often overlooked but is an essential civic duty. Additionally, as legal adults, they can enter into contracts for mobile phones, internet, streaming services, health insurance, and utilities. While car ownership offers independence, it also comes with expenses like repayments, insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Understanding these responsibilities is crucial to avoid legal and financial pitfalls.Personal safety is another critical consideration. Simple security practices, such as not being alone with strangers, locking windows and doors, not leaving valuables in plain view, and using strong, unique passwords, can help prevent many potential issues. These practices may seem like common sense but often need to be explicitly taught and reinforced.Basic household cleaning and maintenance is not something that young people have ever had to shoulder responsibility for, yet are essential for safety and hygiene. In a nutshell: Clean filters on hair dryers, vacuums, clothes dryers, and air conditioners regularly. Ensure oil and grease are cleaned from barbeques, ovens, and stovetops to prevent fires. Regularly clean range hoods, check smoke detectors, and never leave appliances on unattended. Avoid quick fixes on electrical appliances and ensure outdoor vents are clear of debris.Preparing for adult life is multifaceted and requires a combination of practical skills and knowledge that are often overlooked in traditional education. By filling these gaps, whether through parental guidance or self-education, young adults can navigate their new responsibilities more effectively and confidently.

Taking time off isn't just for adults; it's just as crucial for children, especially in today's tech-heavy world. Here's why you should consider taking your kids on a journey to discover the wonders of our planet:Nature Nurtures the Mind - Engaging with nature has profound effects on mental well-being. Research shows that outdoor activities can calm the mind, elevate moods, improve focus, and stimulate cognitive functions. There's something magical about watching children play outside, trading their screens for the joy of a hike or a beach day.Cultural Connections - Travel introduces children to a variety of cultures and people, fostering gratitude and empathy. Experiencing how children in different parts of the world live, often with fewer material possessions, can teach our youngsters valuable lessons in appreciation and compassion. These encounters can profoundly shape their worldview and understanding.Strengthening Family Bonds - In our busy lives, quality family time often gets sidelined. Travel provides a unique opportunity to eliminate distractions and bring families closer together. Many parents notice how siblings bond better and create lasting memories during holidays, reinforcing family ties.The World as a Classroom - Travel is an exceptional educational tool, offering lessons in geography, languages, history, and more that far surpass what a textbook can provide. It's a learning experience that sparks curiosity, broadens horizons, and enhances understanding.Three Great Places to Travel with KidsAt Travel Focus Group, we have first-hand experience of taking our kids to the following incredible destinations, and we highly recommend them:Morocco - Morocco offers an exciting blend of cultural experiences, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes. Families can explore the bustling souks of Marrakech, ride camels in the Sahara Desert, and visit the historic city of Fes. The diverse scenery, rich history, and unique cultural experiences make Morocco an unforgettable destination for children.Dubai, UAE - Dubai is a city of contrasts, combining ultramodern architecture with traditional Arabian culture. Kids will be thrilled by the futuristic skyline, enjoy the world's largest indoor theme park, and experience a desert safari. Visiting places like the Global Village, Palm Jumeirah, and the Burj Khalifa offers a mix of fun and educational experiences.Malaysia - Malaysia is a family-friendly destination with diverse attractions. Explore the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, take a trip to the beautiful islands of Langkawi or even take the kids to Legoland. Malaysia's rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural scenery provide a well-rounded travel experience for kids.Travel not only enriches the minds of children but also strengthens family bonds and creates lifelong memories. If any of the reasons or destinations resonate with you, it's time to plan your next family adventure. Contact Travel Focus on 4209 2044 for personalised ideas that will educate, entertain, and connect your family in unforgettable ways.

As controversy surrounds the Illawarra offshore wind zone blows on, the University of Wollongong (UOW) has been awarded a $2.5m grant from the Australian Government to teach local children and visitors about future energy sources.The money will be used to create an ‘Energy Futures Zone’ at the UOW Science Space —  a fun-filled science centre housed on the University grounds which, since opening in 1989, has become the number one indoor attraction in the Illawarra.The Future Energy Zone will feature 25 “vibrant and interactive” exhibits focusing on technologies such as hydrogen, wind, solar, wave and gravity, according to the University.The goal is to “educate visitors about the importance and mechanics of energy generation”, while also “highlighting potential careers in the growing field of energy futures”. Many UoW faculty members are supporters of the Illawarra offshore wind zone — a declared area of 1022 km2 off the coast from Wombarra to Kiama.In an UoW blog, Ty Christopher, Director of the Energy Futures Network at University of Wollongong, wrote offshore wind farms were “crucial for Australia’s industrial decarbonisation efforts.”In 2022, the Australian Government announced $10m to establish an Energy Future Skills Centre at UOW. When completed, it will offer courses, jointly designed by UOW and TAFE NSW, to “train the energy workforce of the future” and offer “clean energy support” for businesses to operate more sustainably. This Science Space aims to start this education early, with more than 68,000 visitors — largely school-age — visiting the centre annually.Director of Science Space, Stuart Creal, said the Energy Futures Zone will be the most significant transformation for the centre in 35 years.“This new gallery will not only provide a deeper understanding of sustainable energy technologies but also inspire future generations to pursue careers in this vital field,” he said. “By showcasing innovations from leading companies such as Hysata and Green Gravity, we aim to highlight and showcase the cutting-edge advancements that are shaping our energy future.”A local mother, whose partner works in one of the Wollongong collieries, said, “It sounds like a great addition to the Science Space. My kids always wants to know what daddy does for work but we talk openly about the pros and cons of coal mining.” “They’re probably going to grow up seeing a wind farm on the horizon. If they want to work in energy that’s great but let’s give them a more environmentally-friendly option.” 

Every carer knows, the Winter school holidays can be challenging (rainy days + energetic kids = stressed-out parents). Fear not, as we’ve put together a boredom-busting list of activities for kids and teens, which will make time fly — and earn you serious brownie points.Code CampCode Camp offers in-person and online workshops for young people, aged 7+, in coding, animation, video creation, robotics and more. Their most popular camp, Spark Coding, teaches kids to design a game with amazing features, including invisibility cloaks and mythical creatures. Virtual camps run for a week with self-paced content, which is delivered daily. Cost: $129, various dates. codecamp.com.auGiant Chocolate Freckle WorkshopBook your kids in for a chocolate-making workshop at The Treat Factory in Berry, where they’ll make their own personalised Giant Freckle with an assortment of delicious toppings, including freeze-dried strawberries, caramel popcorn and, of course, sprinkles. Whilst the Freckles are setting, they’ll learn about the art of chocolate making and be treated to a chocolate tasting. Cost: $35. 12 July, 3 – 3.45pm. treatfactory.com.auWinter Book SaleWollongong City Libraries’ book sale is back. Head to any of seven library locations, including Dapto, Unanderra and Wollongong from Monday 8 July to Saturday 20 July to grab yourself a bargain. Books are all priced at just $0.50 and can be purchased with cash or card at the library customer service counter. wollongong.nsw.gov.au HARS Aviation Museum Tarmac DayTarmac Days are held outside the HARS hangars on the second Friday, Saturday and Sunday of every month, displaying some of the unique aircraft held at its headquarters at the Illawarra Regional Airport at Albion Park. Visitors of all ages will be able to board and sit in some of the aircraft cockpits. Cost: $15 per child. 12 – 14 July, 9.30am – 3.30pm. hars.org.auFlying Rockets Stem CraftPart of the popular school holiday program at Kiama and Gerringong Libraries, children aged 8+ can design and make their very own rocket from a cardboard tube and then launch it across a string orbit — all fuelled by balloon power. Other holiday events include a kids knitting workshop and Lego boardgames. Cost: $5. Various dates. library.kiama.nsw.gov.auArt Hub for KidsA favourite with the kids of The Bugle staffers, Art for Kids Hub is a free YouTube channel that makes screen-time more creative, with a huge library of drawing tutorials for all ages and skill levels. From Disney characters to Pokémon, videos are easy to follow and self-expression is encouraged. With over 8 million subscribers, it will have kids hooked. Cost: free. youtube.com/@artforkidshub  Ultimate Ninja ChallengeA fun-filled, full-day activity where parents can drop and leave, MyFirstGym in Shellharbour offers a range of action-packed school holiday camps in their purpose-built, inflatable-filled kid’s gymnasium. Classes include the ‘Ultimate Ninja Challenge’, the chance to learn child-friendly parkour skills and even a Kid’s Olympic Games for kids aged 5+. Cost: $80 (or $75 for members). Various dates, 9am – 3pm. myfirstgym.com.au/shellharbour   

Within the health sector, backflips performed by the Chiropractic Board of Australia (CBA) around parameters relating to spinal manipulation of infants has caused a stir. An interim ban, initially implemented in 2019, was revoked in late 2023, which triggered a public outcry. The interim ban has now been reinstated, following requests for further investigation by the Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler.The CBA initially placed the ban on chiropractic care on infants under the age of two following release of a video, revealing a two-week-old baby being suspended upside down by Melbourne-based chiropractor, Andrew Arnold, who was performing spinal manipulation. Arnold also applied a spring-loaded device, an ‘activator,’ to the baby’s spine.Victorian Health Minister, Jenny Mikakos, considered this footage ‘deeply disturbing’, and called for an investigation into Arnold’s practice by CBA and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Despite ongoing concerns, CBA released a statement on 29 November 2023, permitting chiropractors to resume providing paediatric care. It was stated that the reinstated practice must adhere to specified guidelines, including providing “the parent/guardian with information about the risks and benefits of the proposed treatment and the risks of receiving no treatment.”However, scientific research yields inconclusive evidence around risks and effectiveness, inhibiting the ability for guardians to provide informed consent. Recent studies by Safer Care Victoria (2019) and Cochrane Australia (2022) revealed inconclusive results, which raised questions from Australian health ministers regarding on what grounds the ban was revoked. “Health Ministers have now written to the Chiropractic Board, seeking an urgent explanation on their decision to allow a resumption of spinal manipulation of infants under two, in spite of two reviews concluding there was no evidence to support the practice,” Minister Butler released in a statement shortly after the ban was lifted.Following discussion at the Health Ministers’ Meeting on 14 June, the decision was again reversed. A statement released by CBA on 17 June confirmed restrictions inhibiting chiropractors to perform spinal manipulation on infants under two has been reinstated, “until further consultation with Health Ministers can allow for developing a final position.”Board Chair Dr Wayne Minter stated that while there has been no evidence of serious harm to infants, the Board has a duty to protect the public.“We look forward to working with Ministers to develop an evidence-based final policy on paediatric care that balances the paramount need to protect patients, with the right for parents and other patients to have a say in the care they choose,” said Dr Minter. “The Board is committed to ensuring the public has access to, and receives, safe, ethical and competent care from registered chiropractors.”The CBA confirmed that the “Board will consider its obligations under the National Law and any further decisions by Health Ministers in developing a final position.”Until then, the interim policy remains in place. Minister Butler concluded that, “this is the right decision by the CBA”.

It’s a thought that parents of teens have daily: “What is my teenager thinking?” A new survey of Year 12 students across Australia offers some helpful, and surprising, insight.  In its biggest survey yet of school leavers, the University Admissions Centre (UAC) asked nearly 17,000 students what matters most to them — and the results were revealing. The main takeaway: Year 12s are resilient but they’re feeling the pinch like their parents. Overall, the report found, mental health concerns are down. Students feel stressed less frequently in 2024 compared to 2023. This marks the best mental health score in the survey’s four-year history.But the cost-of-living crisis is traversing generations. In 2024, “cost” is an issue for 43 per cent of students choosing where to study, up from 34 per cent in 2023. When asked what mattered most to them, 42 per cent answered with “supporting my family”, followed by affordable housing and job security.Holly Pastor, Careers and Transition Advisor for Bomaderry High School, says the report rings true for local schoolchildren. “Many of our students indicate they are worried about supporting their families and about securing affordable housing post-school, highlighting the need for careers education in schools to equip young people with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions about their future,” says Pastor. “The ongoing support of Careers Advisers and teachers more broadly is vital to help students build resilience and confidence as they transition to higher education and the workforce.”Young people are working more, eating less, avoiding medical support and borrowing money to cope with the rising cost of living, according to data from the Advocate for Children and Young People (ACYP); 31 per cent of young people are skipping meals and 27 per cent have avoided seeking medical services. Chris Scobie, School Counsellor for Kiama High School, says students are concerned about the economy, and practical support is crucial.“Firstly, I encourage students and young people to know and utilise their support network — older personal and professional contacts that can help guide them to educated decisions on career, wellbeing and financial pathways,” he says. “This could include parents, carers, teachers, counsellors, careers advisors.”Instead of downplaying the cost-of-living crisis, he says it’s important to teach young people the skills to cope with a challenging economy.“Acknowledging and practising the wellbeing benefits of time management, organisation and budgeting can help instil a sense of confidence, life competence and an ‘I got this’ attitude,” says Scobie.“Monitoring and budgeting money spent on eating out, socialising and entertainment can be a vital factor in ‘staying on top’ of the financial challenges of modern times — no matter what age you are.”To read the full version of the Student Lifestyle and Learning Report 2024, visit: uac.edu.au

A new report highlights the ongoing challenges faced by working parents, with Australia criticised for not challenging gender norms when it comes to parenting responsibilities. The National Working Families Report 2024, which looked at the impact of work and care on Australian families, has found that gender inequality is still placing a strain on working mothers, whilst working fathers are judged unfairly for taking advantage of flexible working opportunities.“Our survey of 6,000 Australian working parents and carers has brought to light the growing issue of work-related stress and its detrimental effects on family life, including the wellbeing of children,” said Anne Sherry, the chair of UNICEF Australia, who partnered with a number of organisations to release the data.“The survey findings also highlight the urgency to challenge and change persistent gender biases and outdated norms that continue to impede equality and wellbeing in our workplaces,” she added.The survey found that the level of stress felt by working parents and carers is higher compared to 2019, which is felt more acutely among women. Despite working similar hours to men, women continue to bear the majority of the caring load and household duties — nearly double that of men.The biggest challenge in balancing work and family commitments continues to be the ability for working parents and carers to look after their physical and mental health. There is still a perception that it is less acceptable for men to take time off or access flexible work, with men feeling less supported by their employer to take time off to care for their family.Emma Walsh, CEO of Parents at Work, which provides family-friendly advisory to workplaces, says policymakers need to “rapidly invest in and promote family-friendly policies that de-stigmatise, respect and normalise caregiving as something most employees will need to do in their working lifetime, regardless of gender.”The survey also highlighted the ongoing challenge of accessing affordable childcare in regional and rural locations. In 2021, Parents at Work partnered with UNICEF Australia to create the Family-Friendly Workplaces certification program. Any business that employs people can apply to be certified as a ‘Family Inclusive Workplace’ via familyfriendlyworkplaces.com.“We celebrate the companies that have already embraced this journey,” says Anne Sherry. “By joining forces, we can cultivate workplaces where families flourish, and businesses thrive, creating a brighter future for all.”

With a tee-pee and cubby house, hopping logs and sandstone seats, a fort and a jetty, the new nature playground at Minnamurra Public School, which students have patiently watched being built over the past six months, is now open for playtime. The state-of-the-art playground started life as a hand-drawn sketch by teacher, Miss Ruby Maccabei. Now, thanks to a funding boost and the determination of the P&C Committee, it’s a brand new space for students to explore and develop their imaginations.  The upgrade is part of the NSW Government’s plan to rebuild essential services, with a historic $1.4 billion delivered in the 2023-24 Budget for new and upgraded schools in regional NSW. Labor candidate for Kiama, Katelin McInerney and Councillor Stuart Larkins visited the School to open the new playground area. “The parents and teachers battled hard to create this [playground],” said Mclerney, who went to Minnamurra Public School when she was a child. In her speech, she encouraged the students to use the space with kindness.For now, the students will use the playground on a staggered system to promote safety, with Kindergarten students having time on the playground first and then each age-group following afterwards. In their classes, students worked on a list of expectations for what responsible play looks like in this setting. It’s the latest playground upgrade for the local area, with the completion of Old School Park Upgrade in Gerringong on 30 June 2023, thanks to $162,000 in grant funding, and the Hindmarsh Park Upgrade, currently in process, which has a project value of $4.5 million.After the opening, we asked students to share their thoughts on their new playground, which were heart-warming. “Thank-you builders for the playground,” shared Hamish from Kindergarten. “I really loved the slide; I played all lunch with my friends.” His classmate, Kita added, “I liked playing the Floor is Lava with my friend and buddy.”Year three student, Uea, summed it up perfectly: “It made me feel confident, peaceful and joyful, and I liked that it was a place where I could sit back and relax.”

When Noura Shoukry and her husband, Mahmoud Ahmed, who met at dental school, brought their children to watch the Kiama New Year’s Eve fireworks nine years ago, they turned to each other and said, “I think this is the place.” Within a year, they had relocated from Sydney and, five years ago, opened Dentocalm Dentist on Manning Street. Describing herself as a ‘cheerful dentist’, Shoukry is on a mission to make dental care a more positive experience for children, breaking the cycle of dental anxiety experienced by one in seven adults. A new report, commissioned by the Senate, has found that tooth decay and gum disease have increased across Australia, with a lack of care during the pandemic leading to ‘covid cavities.’Around 40 percent of Australians avoid or delay visiting a dentist, and around 23 percent forgo recommended treatment – and this fear can trickle down to our children.“As a mum of five, I noticed that, in all the kids cartoons or movies, the dentist is always portrayed as really scary,” says Shoukry. “This ideology of making kids scared of the dentist, even in a comical way, needs to change.”Instead, she focuses on building trust and sharing information in a way that is relatable. With teenagers, she talks to them about the link between dental hygiene and bad breath; with younger kids, she is calm but always honest.“You have to treat children like little grownups and never lie to them,” says Shoukry. “If you explain everything to kids, they will accept it and surprise you. Lying to kids makes them lose trust in you.” With one anxious adult, Shoukry met him first on the beach, then at the park, then the coffee shop opposite the clinic, then finally in the chair. Now, he’s so relaxed, he sometimes falls asleep during appointments. “I didn’t think that was possible, until I saw it,” she exclaims.If a child doesn’t like the sounds of the surgery, they provide headphones. Netflix plays on a screen attached to the ceiling, also offering a ready distraction. For parents, it’s important to be positive before an appointment, especially if it’s your child’s first time. “Tell them it’s fun,” says Shoukry. “The dentist will count your teeth and make sure everything is fine. A first appointment can just be an ice-breaker.”If any dental work is needed, Shoukry is passionate about eliminating ‘mum guilt’. “I’m a multitasking mum too and I’m here to tell you: don’t you ever feel guilty,” she says. “Teeth are fixable. Habits are fixable. Your victory will be when you find a problem and solve it. I’d never make any fellow mum or dad feel guilty. We are trying our best; we learn from our mistakes and try again.” Photo Credit : Dentocalm

The Kiama High School P&C Association is excited to announce our major fundraising event, Comedy for A Cause, which will be held on Friday, 31 May at 7:30 pm at the Kiama Leagues Club. Tickets are $40 each, which includes a free raffle ticket and can be bought at: https://comedyforacause.net/tc-events/kiamahs/. We are raising money for our school, and we need your help! The KHS P&C don’t often host fundraisers as we run the high school canteen. The profits from the canteen provides funding to students for representative sports and to the school directly, for items such as the COLA, school murals and arts programs.In recent years, our number of canteen volunteers has been critically low and we’ve had to employ more staff to cover the workload, which impacts our canteen profits and ultimately reduces the funding that we have available to offer the school.Just as importantly, we also need volunteers on our P&C committee in order to keep it (and the canteen) thriving as sadly, we have a number of retiring committee members this year. If we can’t keep the P&C operating, we risk losing the school canteen.This will have a huge impact on our kids because they love the canteen. In the words of our students:“I love the canteen because it’s open for everyone. If it’s a cold day, you can come and eat something warm.” “The canteen is a friendly, welcoming space where you can spend time at recess and lunch.”“The canteen team is always a highlight of my day! They always make me feel seen, comfortable and supported during the times when I’ve really needed it. Not only that, but the food is the BEST!” The welcoming atmosphere, which is mostly due to the wonderful Janelle, who works full-time preparing delicious meals for our students in the canteen. She’s a shoulder to lean on, a listening ear and a helping hand. Janelle really embodies the values of the school: respect, responsibility and excellence. She’s created not just a canteen but a positive space that enhances the well-being of our students, where all students and volunteers are welcome. It’s such a great space for our young people.We’re looking for people to join the P&C committee in the roles of President, and Vice-President. General members are also encouraged to join. We’d love you to join us! Whether it’s by attending our Comedy for A Cause evening or becoming a volunteer. We welcome all volunteers, whether you have a grandchild at the school, a neighbour or a friend, we encourage everyone who can spare a little time to reach out and help, either as a canteen volunteer or a P&C member.We look forward to seeing you at our fun Comedy for A Cause night on 31 May, or at our annual general meeting, which will be held in the high school library on 4 June at 6:30 pm.