Anglicare has recently opened a new op shop on Terralong Street in Kiama, and it has quickly become a popular spot for the community. Operating for just over four weeks, the store is open seven days a week and offers a welcoming space for locals and visitors. The store’s friendly staff and inviting atmosphere ensure that every visitor feels welcome. Catering to a variety of needs, the shop reflects Anglicare’s commitment to serving those in need and enriching lives. With the growing demand for sustainable, quality, second-hand items, the Anglicare Op Shop is well aligned with current trends. The store is thoughtfully curated, with a great selection of homewares, jewellery, and second-hand clothing for women, men, and children. Buying second-hand items offers a sustainable alternative to the fast-fashion industry and concerns about its climate impact. Beyond its environmental benefits, it’s also a chance to discover unique and quality items at an affordable price.One local employee of the shop, Liz, says the shop is a great addition to Kiama, it not only sells clothing and homewares but also provides resources to people in need. One of those resources is Anglicare’s food pantry, which is available to anyone experiencing financial hardship. Liz explains that anyone needing assistance can come into the shop. They don’t have to be referred from an agency, there are no questions asked. “You could just walk in and say ‘I’ve got too many bills this week and I can’t afford any food’ and we’ll give you a bag of food,” says Liz. While there is a small cost for the food pantry, Anglicare’s Pay It Forward scheme ensures that no one is turned away. If someone can’t afford it, they will provide the service for free. The store is also asking for more locals to join their cause and volunteer to support the running of the shop and contribute to the community. The Kiama Anglicare Op Shop accepts donations, with a simple recommendation that items are given a second thought and they are ‘things that you would give to your friend’.  Whether you are looking for assistance, or to shop, donate or volunteer, the friendly staff are there to help. 

Consumers and producers call for urgent reforms to tackle price gouging and unfair practices. Coalition proposes stricter measures to protect farmers and families.The cost of living crisis continues to weigh heavily on Australian families, as farmers and suppliers accuse major supermarkets of unfair practices and price gouging. A year after Labor appointed Dr. Craig Emerson to review the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct, significant change remains elusive, and frustrations are mounting.Leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud, criticized the government’s lack of action, citing the ongoing absence of the 2023 - 24 Annual Report from the Independent Reviewer. He highlighted that fear of retribution remains a significant barrier for suppliers, stifling complaints about supermarket practices.“Farmers and suppliers still fear repercussions from complaints, and families are paying the price at the checkout,” Mr. Littleproud said. “Labor has wasted time and failed to implement real change, even as the cost-of-living crisis worsens.”The Coalition has proposed a suite of reforms to address these issues, including granting the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) stronger auditing powers and establishing a Supermarket Commissioner. The Commissioner would act as a confidential channel for farmers and suppliers to report grievances without fear of retaliation.“The Coalition’s plan will empower the ACCC to audit supermarkets anytime and introduce penalties that actually deter misconduct. This is the cultural shift our farmers and suppliers desperately need,” Mr. Littleproud added.While Labor’s updated Food and Grocery Code of Conduct is set to take effect in April, critics argue that it is too little, too late. The Coalition plans to introduce stronger measures, such as sector-specific divestiture powers for the ACCC and courts, and on-the-spot fines of up to $2 million for non-compliance - significantly higher than Labor’s current $198,000 penalty.Jeremy Griffith, a member of the National Farmers’ Federation Horticulture Council, testified at a Senate inquiry, emphasising the urgent need for meaningful changes to protect both consumers and producers.“Our national fruit and vegetable industries are at risk without stronger tools to deter supermarket misconduct. Divestiture powers should be on the table to influence behavior and ensure sustainability,” Mr. Griffith said.As the debate continues, Australian families and farmers are left grappling with rising costs and a lack of transparency in supermarket practices. The call for decisive action grows louder, with many pinning their hopes on stronger policies to deliver the relief they desperately need.

As Kiama grows, the challenge is clear: how do we balance the need for development with preserving what makes this region special? The answer lies in having a clear, community-driven plan, one that gives developers certainty while ensuring that growth aligns with the values of the people who live here.Shoalhaven’s recent struggles offer a timely reminder. Councillors initially voted to include “character” protections in planning laws, aiming to ensure that developments reflected the unique identity of towns like Culburra and Berry. But just two weeks later, the decision was paused, leaving communities and developers alike in limbo. The lesson? Without clear, consistent planning, everyone loses.For Kiama, a proactive approach is essential. A strong plan doesn’t pit developers against the community; it sets clear expectations for everyone. It ensures that if you want to develop here, you know what matters to the people who call Kiama home.So, what does liveability mean for Kiama? It’s not just about stunning beaches and scenic views - though we’re lucky to have them. It’s about creating a place where people want to live now and in the future. This includes:Enjoyment and quality of life for all residents.Affordable housing for families, young people, and older residents.Local job opportunities that let people work close to home.Safe, vibrant spaces where people can gather, play, and connect.Access to essential services, including health care, public transport, and education.Cultural richness, with events, activities, and programs that bring people together.Developers have an important role to play in building this future. With clear guidelines, they can create projects that meet Kiama’s housing needs while respecting its identity. Community driven planning ensures development enhances our shared spaces, supports local jobs, and prioritises sustainability.This isn’t about putting up roadblocks or saying no to growth. It’s about growing with purpose. By setting clear, consistent rules, we can ensure that every new development contributes to this vision. Developers gain certainty, residents gain trust, and the council gains a framework for making decisions that benefit everyone.Kiama’s future is being shaped today. With a strong plan, we can ensure that growth complements, not compromises, our liveability. Together, we can create a Kiama where everyone thrives.

Gerringong-based business, the PROPPR, owned by entrepreneurs Zhenya Gerson and Jacqueline Clark, is expanding its mission to improve gut health with the launch of PROPPR-tea. Already celebrated for their multi-award-winning PROPPR toilet foot stool, this new range of therapeutic herbal teas is designed to offer natural digestive support while being a pleasure to drink.The idea for PROPPR-tea emerged from Zhenya’s extensive experience as a colonic hydrotherapist and gut health specialist. At her clinic, she often recommended specific herbal teas to clients to help stimulate digestion, and ease symptoms like constipation and bloating. When a favourite tea was discontinued, Zhenya and Jacqueline partnered with a naturopath to develop their own certified organic blends. Collaborating with the Berry Tea Shop, renowned for its commitment to quality ingredients, they perfected two signature teas in small batches:MoVE: A gentle bowel-support blend crafted to encourage natural movement with ease.SooTHE: A calming tea designed to alleviate bloating and support digestion after indulgent meals.“Our goal was to create teas that not only worked effectively but were also enjoyable to drink,” says Jacqueline. “Herbal remedies can sometimes taste medicinal, but we wanted PROPPR-tea to feel like a treat.”With an emphasis on therapeutic benefits, high-quality ingredients, and great taste, PROPPR-tea is crafted for regular, long-term use. Small-batch production ensures freshness and maintains the premium quality of the ingredients.Currently, PROPPR-tea is available online through their website, with pick-up or drop-off available for local customers (select local pick up at the checkout), and they also offer a subscription for regular deliveries. The pair are working with local health practitioners, including physiotherapists, nutritionists and wellness clinics. Future plans include further expansion in Australia and the US, for both their PROPPR-teas and original award-winning foot stools.With the holiday season approaching, PROPPR-tea and the PROPPR stool make thoughtful and practical gifts for anyone focusing on wellness. The teas provide a simple way to incorporate therapeutic benefits into everyday life, while the stool remains an enduring bestseller, even featured on Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop Guide and the New York Times Wirecutter ‘top pick’ list for toilet foot stools for four years running.Visit their website – theproppr.com - to learn more about this dynamic local business making waves in gut health innovation or email [email protected].

The winners of the 2024 Buy Local Campaign have been announced with many local businesses winning over $5000 in prizes. The campaign was imposed to celebrate the local businesses within the Kiama area, along with supporting local industries. Over 1100 local businesses participated in the campaign which aims to highlight the importance of supporting local businesses.The Buy Local Campaign has aimed to economically support local businesses by rewarding winners with vouchers which can be spent at participating local businesses allowing for the prize money to be spent within the local community. The vouchers allow local businesses to support each other and boost local commerce.1st place winners were rewarded with a voucher of $500 which can be redeemed at any of the 1100 participating businesses. 2nd place winners were rewarded with a voucher of $300, whilst 3rd place winners received a voucher of $200. 1st place winners of the campaign consisted of:Michelle - Toyworld, 2533Shanon - Deer Willow, 2226Megan - The Collective Beat, 3437Ruby - Selective Nails, 2533Rebecca - Wellness and Recovery Haus, 2435.2nd place winners of the campaign consisted of:Kelly - Silica, 2533.3rd place winners of the campaign consisted of:Marilyn - Wildflower Studio, 2533.The Buy Local Campaign has stated that, “We’re already brainstorming ways to make the 2025 campaign even more inclusive and impactful-...It’s incredible to see the positive impact this initiative has had on our local economy!”

On Kiama's main street, you'll discover the family-owned Toyworld, where locals and tourists are welcomed with open doors to explore a store brimming with toys from floor to ceiling. Toyworld Kiama has been locally owned and operated by Peter and Melissa Judd for 39 years, the vibrant store has become a beloved community fixture, open seven days a week, except for Christmas. The store is jam-packed full of a great variety of toys for all ages including beach toys, board games, scooters, puzzles, and water and outdoor entertainment. Toyworld offers great service to customers in-store as well as behind the scenes where Peter and Melissa pride themselves in curating a unique selection of products tailored to their customers needs. “You’ve got the owners of the store, you’re talking to us and we’re pretty particular of what we carry, if we think an idea is not going to work, we won’t carry it,” says Melissa. “One good thing is we get exclusive products, because we’re a small retailer, so we get some exclusives that don’t go out to major suppliers.” The couple’s hands-on approach sets their store apart, they engage directly with customers, offering personalised advice on the best toys and what they think people will enjoy the most.“When people come in to discuss a toy, we can say whether it suits them or not, the age of the kid, indoor or outdoor,” says Peter.“You could buy ten toys and they’re all wrong, so you’ve wasted a lot of money, so we can say ‘that’s not going to suit’ or ‘the quality’s not right’.” For Peter and Melissa, running Toyworld is more than a job - it’s a way to stay connected with the community. Over the decades, they’ve served generations of families, many of whom return to share fond memories of their visits as children. With their passion for play and commitment to the community, Peter and Melissa continue to make Toyworld Kiama a cherished destination where memories are made every day. Check out their top 5 picks in the last edition of The Bugle. It will be a very big few weeks for the store in the lead up to Christmas!      

For over 30 years, Chris O'Connell has been the name locals trust for everything pools.Operating in Kiama for 15 years, Chris is known for his motto, “we do it all,” setting Spot On Pools apart from others in the market. While many pool services focus on one specific area, Chris offers a comprehensive range of services, including pool renovation, maintenance, cleaning, building, and painting.As the sole operator, Chris brings a hands-on approach to every project, ensuring the highest quality of work and customer satisfaction. Source: Chris O'ConnellWhether it’s a pool renovation, a fresh coat of paint, or ongoing maintenance, Chris handles it all with professionalism and care. Chris’s extensive background in building has given him the skills and expertise to tackle even the most challenging pool issues. From repairing pool floors to fixing solar heating systems damaged by pesky cockatoos, there’s no problem he can’t handle. One of his most unique challenges involved repairing a pool that had been hit by a car. For Chris, the true reward is the repeat business. He takes great pride in knowing that his clients trust him with multiple pools or ongoing maintenance needs.Source: Chris O'ConnellChris’ focus remains on continuing to offer exceptional value, friendly service, and outstanding customer care. After all, it’s the satisfaction of his customers that keeps him going.Living in the beautiful town of Kiama, Chris enjoys the lifestyle and the opportunity to serve a community that appreciates good, reliable service.Chris’ service is unique because, as he says, “We do it all.”

The South Coast is in the international spotlight this week as Consuls-General from 13 nations embark on a NSW Government trade mission to explore the region’s business and investment opportunities.Delegates from Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Switzerland, and the UK will spend three days touring the area. The visit highlights the South Coast's strengths in aquaculture, food and beverage, manufacturing, tourism, and clean technology.Key stops include Killalea Regional Park, Bega Cheese, and the Alkath Group, as well as visits to innovative local businesses such as PhycoHealth and Recycling Technologies Group. Delegates will also experience the South Coast Ale Trail and learn about Aboriginal heritage at Jigamy Farm and Snug Cove.Ian Smith, Executive Director of Regional Economic Development for the NSW Department of Primary Industries, called the trade mission a chance to showcase the region’s potential. “The South Coast is ripe for investment in both existing and emerging industries,” he said.The initiative, part of the NSW Government’s Regional Investment Activation Program, aims to drive growth and create jobs in regional areas.

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

The Kiama and District Business Chamber unveiled exciting changes at its spectacular Christmas Party, marking a new chapter for the organisation.Recently rebranded as the Kiama Business Network, the Chamber's new name reflects a commitment to inclusivity, particularly for online and remote businesses that are becoming an integral part of the region's economy.A fresh logo and colour scheme, crafted with Brenna from Summerland Studio, will soon debut, symbolising this forward-thinking approach.Led by newly appointed President Cathryn Lyall and supported by an enthusiastic team of directors, the Network is set to launch workshops tailored to members' needs in the coming year.Vice President Matt King emphasised the importance of connecting directly with members through personalised conversations to understand their challenges and aspirations. Plans also include partnerships with organisations like Headspace to bring youth mental health initiatives to the forefront, benefiting local businesses and their families.The festive event celebrated not only these milestones but also the vibrant business community of Kiama, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.Sally McCallum and Donna Ryan from Macey Insurance BrokersPhotographer Peter Izzard with Meryll Faulkner from Making Faces Makeup StudioTrish Fallon, Mayor Cameron McDonald and Leanne Brookes the Kiama Business Network Engagement OfficerSheree Harris from Collective Beat with Cressida Cains of Pecora Dairy, Cr Mike Cains and Cathryn Lyall President of KBNDr Astin Lee in the Christmas spirit with partner Cr Matt BrownTerry and Michelle Douglas from Smith and Sons Kiama

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

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

The Kiama & District Business Chamber held its Annual General Meeting last week,and the Chamber is pleased to announce the 2025 Executive and Board appointments:Executive Team:President: Cathryn LyallVice President: Mathew KingTreasurer: Gregory LangfordSecretaries: Rachel Edwards & Tanya EmmettBoard of Directors:Marie Beikmanis (Immediate Past President & Life Member)Michael EmmettAnthony HouriganAnne-Marie EslerElizabeth BurnettThe Chamber extended heartfelt thanks to Cameron McDonald for his invaluable contributions as a Board member and congratulated him on his appointment as Mayor of Kiama. Recognition was also given to Mike Cains for his significant contributions and his new role as Councillor for Kiama Municipal Council, serving alongside Cameron.A special acknowledgment was made to Cameron Thomas, who concluded his term on the Board. His dedicated work, particularly supporting Kiama’s retail sector, has been vital to the Chamber’s progress.The Chamber warmly welcomes its new and returning members, expressing enthusiasm for the year ahead. With fresh leadership and a strong foundation, the Kiama & District Business Chamber looks forward to continued success and growth in 2025.

Fitness enthusiasts in Kiama are celebrating the highly anticipated opening of Snap Fitness, which officially opened its doors on Monday 2 December. Snap fitness member working out Owned by Mark Jacobs and managed by Sam Baskerville, the gym has already become a hit within the community, with premium facilities and equipment available 24/7. Snap Fitness offers personal training, and group classes - including Pilates, yoga, strength and conditioning, and mobility training. Members can also enjoy flexible memberships, private bathrooms, and a welcoming space filled with natural light. One member remarked how refreshing it was to work out while enjoying the sunny view. The gym experienced a busy opening day, with Sam sharing that over 300 people had signed up prior to the opening, and many more joined on opening day, eager to explore the facilities before committing. New matrix equipmentMark added that the team has gone “above and beyond” and they’re exceptionally happy with the great feedback they’ve received from the community. Snap Fitness is hosting a members’ night on Friday 6 December from 5-7pm, offering light refreshments and a chance to meet the team and fellow members. New gym equipmentSnap Fitness is hoping to establish itself as a vibrant hub for health and wellness, bringing a new energy to Kiama’s fitness community. 

This Christmas, celebrate the season with thoughtful gifts that prioritise comfort, confidence, and style. At Knickerboxers, Kiama's go-to lingerie store since 2003, on offer is a curated selection of bras, sleepwear, swimwear, and accessories - perfect for the women in your life. The team at Knickerboxers makes it easy to find the perfect present, so here are our top picks for this Christmas season. The cozy sleepwear sets found at Knickerboxers are the perfect blend of comfort and style, made with soft fabrics to ensure a restful night’s sleep. Whether it’s a matching pyjama set or a robe, these pieces offer relaxation and luxury to her bedtime routine. Beach ponchos are a stylish and practical cover-up that are perfect for after a swim, offering comfort and sun protection. Made from absorbent, lightweight fabric, so easy to slip on and off, making it ideal for lounging by the water. Gift vouchers are the perfect thoughtful present, giving her the freedom to choose exactly what she wants and get fitted by experts for a perfect fit. A Knickerboxers gift voucher lets her enjoy a personalised shopping experience at her convenience.Slippers are the ultimate comfort item, providing support and luxury to tired feet after a long day. They’re lightweight and comfy, featuring bright colors and quirky designs that add a touch of festive cheer. Knickerboxers has a fun range of toiletry bags that make a great practical gift or stocking stuffer. Whether for travel or everyday use, these bags offer convenience and functionality with a chic design. No matter what you choose, each gift from Knickerboxers is designed to make her feel special, confident, and comfortable this holiday season.

Visiting the My Menopause clinic in Jamberoo was an absolute pleasure. From the moment I stepped in, it was clear that this clinic is designed to be as inviting and compassionate as Dr Melissa Cave and Nurse Kelly Clarke themselves. They’ve created not just a medical space, but a sanctuary for women navigating the often-overlooked stage of menopause.I’m thrilled they’ve chosen my little village of Jamberoo for their clinic, offering a specialised service grounded in both expertise and personal experience. Their approach is a testament to the power of empathy in healthcare—they’re not just practitioners; they’re women who have walked or are walking this path themselves.The clinic, at Shop 5, 18 Allowrie St, is accessible to a broad community of women who are seeking tailored, compassionate care. Menopause care is critical, not only for individual health but also for the community and the healthcare system. By addressing issues like osteoporosis, heart disease, and mental health early, women can lead healthier, more fulfilling lives while reducing the strain on hospitals and aged care services.My Menopause clinic practitioners focus on body-identical hormones. These treatments mimic the hormones naturally produced by the body, offering a safe and more effective alternative to older synthetic options. Delivered via patches or gels, these treatments can have transformative effects - reducing hot flushes, joint pain, and the long-term risks of chronic diseases.What sets this clinic apart is their holistic approach. Beyond prescribing hormones, staff emphasise the importance of resistance training, pelvic floor health, mental well-being, and lifestyle changes. Their message is clear: menopause isn’t the end of a chapter; it’s the start of a new one, and women deserve to feel strong, confident, and informed during this transition.Equally the economic implications of menopause care shouldn’t be overlooked. Preventing fractures, heart disease, and hospital admissions saves significant healthcare costs. Supporting women to remain active in the workforce, especially in essential professions, also boosts economic productivity.Dr Cave and Nurse Clarke believe this care should be accessible to all women, regardless of income. While their service is partially covered by Medicare, out-of-pocket costs remain a barrier for some. They are hopeful that future government action will make menopause care more affordable and accessible, recognising its long-term benefits for women and society.I feel proud that Jamberoo is home to such a forward-thinking and compassionate service. This is not just healthcare; it’s a revolution in how we approach women’s health, accessible to women across our local government area and beyond.For more information:My Menopause Clinic is located at Shop 5, 18 Allowrie St, Jamberoo.Contact:Website: mymenopause.net.auEmail: [email protected]: 0494 139 983

Kiama has recently been hit by a concerning wave of criminal activity, leaving residents and business owners on edge. From break-ins at local businesses like Ziggy’s Pizza and Trinity Jewellers, to thefts at Cakes on Collins Lane, the town is grappling with a string of incidents. Ziggy's smashed doorZiggy’s Pizza in Gerringong was among the latest victims of a series of break-ins. On Monday 11 November, owner Damon Zwicker was left shocked after discovering the restaurant's front door had been smashed overnight."It was a pretty shocking way to start the week," says Damon. The break-in resulted in the theft of two iPads, a couple of speakers, and several hundred dollars in cash.Despite the setback, Damon said the business was able to rebound quickly, with the door repaired and stolen items replaced and they were able to reopen after only a brief closure. This was not the only incident, on Sunday 17 November at approximately 3am thieves broke into Centrepoint Arcade and smashed the front door of Trinity Jewellers, stealing jewellery, and other valuable items leaving the owner devastated. Police have issued a warning about an increase in car thefts and break-ins, urging Kiama residents to prioritise their home and vehicle security. On the home front, Kiama local Marion Rattray fell victim to theft when an intruder entered her house and stole her handbag and laptop. The incident unfolded around 7pm when Marion had just returned home from a neighbours, heard a noise and upon investigating, found someone in her kitchen leaving with her laptop. At first, she didn’t realise the extent of the theft -, the intruders had already taken her handbag and keys and attempted to steal her car before returning for her laptop.“When I realised that they’d taken all of that, I went out the back garden and shouted ‘help’... and I saw them driving off about two or three hundred metres up the street, without their lights on,” says Marion. Marion was forced to change her locks and upgrade her home's security, and her neighbours have been prompted to take greater care in securing their homes and vehicles. “People ought to know we don’t live in paradise, and that we do need to lock our backdoors, even when we’re in,” says Marion. Marion revealed that a neighbour had noticed a suspicious vehicle driving slowly through nearby streets on the afternoon of the incident, likely scoping out homes for an opportunistic crime.Authorities are urging residents to always lock vehicles, remove valuables and spare keys from cars, secure garage remotes and house keys to avoid unwanted access into homes, park in well-lit areas, and consider installing and maintaining CCTV around homes. Alarmingly, 8 out of 10 stolen cars are accessed using the owner's keys, highlighting the need for security, locking all doors and windows, and keeping keys out of sight.In addition to these events, a series of troubling incidents occurred on November 16 at Werri Beach Holiday Park, involving a group of up to 20 teenagers and parents. Residents reported disturbances from the visitors, including possible property damage and harassment, creating uncomfortable situations for locals and other visitors. Amidst this, The Bugle’s newspaper stand was not spared, having been burned on Terralong Street sometime on the weekend of 24 November. With the increase of troubling events, locals are questioning the apparent lack of police presence in town with often long response times according to victims. Police are urging residents not to become complacent and to report any suspicious activity immediately. Non-urgent matters can be reported to the Police Assistance Line at 131 444, while emergencies should be directed to Triple Zero (000).

Michael Koziol, departing Sydney Editor of The Sydney Morning Herald, recently delivered a blistering critique of the NSW planning system:"The more I’ve learnt about the planning system, the more I am convinced the entire apparatus should be dismantled. It is essentially a cottage industry for academics and bureaucrats whose raison d’être is to restrict, not enable,,, "It’s a damning assessment—and one that resonates deeply in Kiama.Leslie A. Stein, an Adjunct Professor of Planning Law at the University of Sydney, offers further validation for this critique. In his extensive research across 80 countries, detailed in Comparative Urban Land Use Planning: Best Practice, Stein described NSW’s planning system as one of the worst globally. He noted that traditional planning tools—such as zoning maps and development controls—fail to address core urban challenges and instead impose restrictions that stifle solutions. His findings align with the Housing Industry Association’s Planning Blueprint Scorecard, which gave NSW’s planning system a mere 1.5 out of 5, citing delays and inefficiencies that impede housing development.The message is clear: NSW’s planning system is not just flawed—it is fundamentally broken.But the solution isn’t reform. It’s change—to both regulations and regulatory culture.The Miller Review of Kiama Municipal Council's Draft Growth and Strategy Housing Strategy and broader recommendations from planning experts make it clear: the current system cannot be tweaked into functionality. Incremental improvements will only perpetuate a system that stifles growth, delays housing, and prioritises bureaucracy over outcomes. What’s needed is a wholesale shift—a streamlined, simplified system that enables development while maintaining the checks and balances communities expect.In its critique of Kiama’s draft Growth and Housing Strategy, the Miller Review pointed to systemic failings emblematic of broader issues in NSW’s planning apparatus. After nearly a decade, Kiama’s Growth and Housing Strategy is still incomplete, housing targets remain unmet, and key actions lack timelines or accountability measures. The process has been bogged down by delays, over-regulation, and a culture of policy-making designed to avoid criticism—stifling innovation and adaptability.These issues are not unique to Kiama. Across NSW, planning has become a bottleneck, discouraging small and medium developers, frustrating communities, and failing to deliver housing in the quantities needed to address the state’s growing crisis.To move forward, Kiama Council—and councils across NSW—must adopt bold measures. The first step is to abandon piecemeal fixes and focus on building a new system from the ground up. This includes clear timeframes for all stages of the planning process, including rezoning and DA approvals, with automatic approvals if deadlines are not met. It requires empowering decision-makers to enable growth rather than restrict it, and removing unnecessary layers of review that serve little purpose beyond delaying outcomes.Kiama’s experience highlights the urgent need for structural change. Eight years to produce a draft strategy that still fails to meet housing targets is unacceptable. Councillors must lead the charge by asserting their authority, challenging bureaucratic inertia, and committing to building a planning process that prioritises outcomes over endless procedures.This isn’t about abandoning oversight or community input. It’s about simplifying processes, holding decision-makers accountable, and ensuring that the system delivers what it promises: housing, infrastructure, and development that benefits everyone.Koziol’s critique and Stein’s findings resonate because they reflect the frustrations of communities across the state. But Kiama has a chance to demonstrate what change looks like. By adopting a new approach—one that replaces dysfunction with efficiency, restriction with enablement, and delay with action—it can become a leader in rethinking what local planning can achieve.The time for reform has passed. It’s time for change.

The festive season is just around the corner, and Toyworld Kiama is your one-stop shop for bringing joy to the children in your life. With a wide range of toys to spark imagination and fun, Peter and Melissa Judd have helped us create a list of this year's top five must-have kids toys. Whether it’s for budding builders, creative minds, or game enthusiasts, these picks are sure to light up Christmas morning.The right toy can create lasting memories, encourage learning and development, and keep kids entertained long after the wrapping paper is gone. These toys have been carefully selected for their fun factor and popularity this year, making them the perfect picks for ChristmasLEGO 43249 Disney Classic Stitch - $119.99Build and display the lovable Stitch with this LEGO® ǀ Disney set, featuring his Hawaiian shirt, movable parts, and fun accessories like an ice-cream cone and flower, perfect for kids aged 9 and up!UNO Show 'Em No Mercy Card Game - $16.99UNO Show 'Em No Mercy amps up the classic game with tougher penalties, wild new rules, and two ways to win, delivering ruthless fun for players aged seven and up. Play-Doh Marvel Playsets - $34.99Play-Doh Spider-Man and Hulk toys let kids aged four and up unleash their creativity, combining superhero fun with sensory play to shape exciting Marvel-inspired adventures.Furby Interactive Toy - $99.99Furby is an interactive and playful companion that responds to your voice, dances, lights up, and speaks over 600 phrases, making it the perfect gift for girls and boys aged six and up to chat, laugh, and create fun memories.ZURU 5 Surprise A-Lot-A Axolotls - $12.99Unbox your A-Lot-A Axolotls to discover one of 15 adorable amphibians, each with unique looks and fun accessories. These collectables have mix-and-match possibilities for endless creative play, and are suitable for ages three and up. This year, let Toyworld Kiama help you create magical moments at Christmas with their expert selection of fun, quality toys for every child.