Kiama local, Joan Hughes is playing a vital role in this year's Paris Olympics and Paralympic Games.She is currently in the French capital working as a support volunteer to provide spectators with disabilities, or those who need assistance a helping hand to navigate the venues and events of the Paris Games.When the call out came for volunteers, Joan put her hand up half way through 2023. She has previously volunteered with the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games, which she believes strengthened her application.Joan has developed a keen sense of recognising fellow Aussies around France, the sight of green and gold making her proud.Joan Hughes“I have connected with many Aussies by recognising their accents or those wearing green and gold. Some are supporting athletes, others are working in Paris and I’ve met Aussies who are holidaying in France,” she said.Back on her home turf, Joan is heavily involved with volunteering, mostly on governance boards that focus on ageing issues.“Being a volunteer in any capacity is a way of giving back to the community who have provided me with many educational and professional opportunities throughout my life”, she said.There were 45,000 registered volunteers at the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics responsible for welcoming spectators and guiding them around venues, as well as assisting with sporting events. Her experience has been a fulfilling one, and she is keen to continue volunteering overseas in the future, “‘I will never forget my volunteer experiences in Paris and the privilege of meeting so many wonderful people. Travelling in another country is always an enriching experience and what’s not to like about being in Paris, the city of light…. and love.”

David Bailey loves cars. He loves racing cars, and he loves fixing cars. He likes refurbishing old cars and he likes building them from scratch. With the Kiama Hot Rod Run coming to Kiama 6 -8 September, The Bugle spoke to Bailey about this insane lifelong passion.Having caught the racing bug, Bailey began his journey riding motocross at 16. From there, he got a job as an apprentice mechanic. It was during the apprenticeship he realised that he loved fixing and toggling with cars.In 1988, a new category called HQ racing was introduced for racers, who wanted to get into racing but couldn’t afford it. The aim was to create a class of racing that was both affordable and exciting. This was Bailey’s first foray into real car racing.“ I thought, well that progresses my next step up into racing cars. So I built, from the ground up, a HQ Holden for this HQ race series which started in 1988 and is still going now,” says Bailey.Bailey pursued HQ racin for a while, before taking a break to start a family. After 10 years away, he wanted to get back into it and began with motocross again. Although he enjoyed it, his body couldn’t handle it longer. This led him to production car racing, which is a racing category where unmodified (or slightly modified) production cars race each other.“This is basically how it was in the 70s. Get them off the showroom, a few modifications and then let's go racing. So I bought a Toyota 86, turned it into a production car in 2012 and did production car racing right up to this year,” Bailey says.A popular race within production car racing is the Bathurst 6 Hour. Bailey has competed in it four times and twice, raced in his own built car, a Toyota 86. He has been most successful in this car.“I was lucky enough to get third in our division in consecutive years. And it felt amazing racing my own car and coming third after a six-hour race around Bathurst. It was really hard work. Then to come back and think I actually built that car and, not only did we race it, but it lasted. When there were bigger teams than us who had issues,” he says.Then Bailey came across a 1970 Ford V6 GT Capri, one of the only cars of its kind still in running order in Australia. It sparked some nostalgia, and he just had to have it.“It combined my two loves: old cars and racing. Also, my very first car when I was 16 was an old Ford Capri, a little 1600, and I had that for a year or so before I sold it and bought the V6 GT. But back in those days, you used to think it was just another car.”He races the Ford Capri in historic races, which are races limited to a specific era. For Bailey that means cars that were used as race cars before December 1985. “This car has been a racecar since 1980, it has a proven history of racing. It raced against Peter Brock and Allen Moffat back in the early 80s. So I could build another car exactly the same beside it, down to the nut and bolt, but it will not be a historic race car because it has no history of racing,” says Bailey.He raced the car down at Victoria’s Winton Raceway but didn’t test its limits too much as, he says, drivers have to get used to new cars. He was also wary of crashing the Ford Capri as the parts for it aren’t easy to find these days.“By the last race on the weekend, the guy who owned it told me that the best time it had ever run around that course was around 1 minute 53s with racing tyres. We ended up going round in 1 minute 52s on non-racing tyres. I told him after, we could find another 2 seconds in this car easily. There's just a few maintenance issues,” says Bailey.As to why he has dedicated his life to cars and car racing, especially historic racing, Bailey confirms that there is a little bit of nostalgia involved in reviving these old cars and bringing them back to life. But he also says that he has an enthusiasm for and appreciation for cars that he can’t explain. He just loves them.“The amount of money that you spend is ridiculous. Some people make a spreadsheet with all of the money they spend on a car and that is the last thing I would ever do. I don’t want to know how much I spend on a car. I love fixing cars just as much as I love racing them. There are just things you can’t put a value on in money. Why do people go rock climbing? Surfing? Hang gliding? Because it's something they love.”Apart from racing and building/fixing cars, Bailey gets to express his passion during car shows, where he meets like-minded people, is able to share his ideas and possibly steal some from fellow car lovers.“Car shows are a great community event, it brings a lot of people into a town. Even people who aren't that into cars, will come because they like looking at old cars. And when you go to any car show, there is such a wide variety of cars. You’ve got everything from maybe a car that's ten-years-old to something that a guy spent ten years restoring, which is 50-years-old. There’s always stories to be told and you’ll find that people at car shows are very open and there’s no secrets, which is way different to racing where everyone has their own secrets,” he says.The Kiama Hot Rod Run takes place in various locations around the Kiama LGA from 6 to 8 September. You can access the schedule via the Bugle app.

As the community of the Illawarra prepares for the annual Volunteer of the Year Awards, we take a moment to recognise the extraordinary individuals, who quietly yet powerfully shape our lives. Among them is Jamberoo resident, Vivienne Marris, a name synonymous with dedication, generosity and the joy of giving back.Vivienne is no stranger to the volunteer scene. A successful businesswoman, Vivienne has long believed in the power of community support, channelling her resources to uplift local initiatives. From junior soccer teams to the performing arts, Vivienne’s contributions are as varied as they are impactful.“I’ve always felt that supporting young people is crucial,” Vivienne said. “Whether it's through sports or the arts, it's about fostering the next generation and ensuring we have a strong foundation for the future.”One of Vivienne’s most important initiatives is the Creative and Performing Arts Scholarship, a program she established to support young talents in the community. The scholarship, now in its fifth year, has already helped several young people pursue their dreams, from attending dance schools to joining esteemed programs like NIDA.“It’s not just about the financial support,” Vivienne explained. “It’s about acknowledging the commitment these young people put into their passions. That recognition can make all the difference.”Vivienne’s philosophy on volunteering is refreshingly simple yet profound. “Volunteering is like smiling,” she said. “It’s contagious. When others see the joy it brings, they want to be a part of it too.”

Blood Cancer Awareness Month is marked each year during September to raise awareness of one of the most prevalent and dangerous cancers. 140,000 Australians are living with blood cancer, a type of cancer that typically doesn’t get the attention that other cancers receive. Kiama resident, Sandra Bottrell, was diagnosed with blood cancer 32 years ago.Sandra, who works as a wellness coach and grief counsellor, said her diagnosis doesn’t make up who she is. “Blood cancer doesn’t have to be a death diagnosis,” she said. The journey to Sandra’s diagnosis began when she noticed something wrong, and went to the doctor to see what was happening.“I didn’t feel like myself, I had blood work done and it came back abnormal, I was referred to get a bone marrow test to see if I had bone cancer, it came back negative. I was diagnosed with blood cancer,” Sandra said. She received treatment but felt there was more she could be doing for her mind and body. Sandra began her business Raw Love Superfoods Foods making clean, raw, organic food to fuel her body and share her new-found love with others in Melbourne. After a series of significant traumatic events in her life, Sandra has dedicated her time to learning about the ways we can take charge of our health without relying on mainstream medicine.“A lot of organisations focus purely on the medical side. I think health and wellness is just as if not more important,” Sandra continued.Sandra’s resilience is a testament to her today, she speaks about her condition openly, and wants to channel her experiences into helping others.Sandra operates her holistic wellness business out of Kiama and offers support in topics of pet loss, death of a loved one, health-related changes and assisting others to support their loved ones going through grief.For more information about her services, visit sandrabottrell.com.au or Sandra Bottrell Holistic Counsellor

As I contemplate running as an independent candidate for Council, I know that executing a housing strategy that serves our community must be right up there as a priority. The draft housing strategy has given me pause to reflect that in the last 16 years, since I returned to the area I grew up in, the Kiama LGA has changed a lot. It is certainly bigger, more vibrant and dynamic and I wouldn’t wish to turn back the clock.Expansion however brings challenges too - for transport and parking, water and sewerage and pressures on schools and community facilities not to mention the impact on the extraordinary natural and agricultural environment we have around us. So, it’s natural that we want to protect what we have. After all, the last thing we want to see is a degradation in the character of our district. On the other hand, change will happen whether we like it or not. We are indeed left with a choice - either to lead change or to allow change to happen to us. We are required by the Minns government to build at least 900 dwellings by 2029 or risk being stripped of planning powers by an administrator. The Kiama Municipal Council Local Government Area (LGA) is expected to grow by over a third in the next twenty years! With a projected 3,456 new dwellings required. Clearly, careful and strategic oversight is required by our community so that we get the infrastructure and services we need, so that we balance out the competing interests for land use, so that we meet the diverse needs of the community.We can’t make the same mistakes of the past. For instance, we simply haven’t been constructing the types of dwellings that our community needs. Small households such as couples without children comprise 49 percent of the total. Yet only 17 percent of the dwellings are 2-bedroom or smaller. The effect is that this chokes out young starters, elderly, people living on their own and service workers from having more affordable housing options to consider. So, it’s clear that one challenge is that we need more smaller dwelling styles that meet the needs of the community. In addressing another challenge, there is the opportunity to assist smaller villages like Jamberoo to become more resilient, independent and self-sufficient with a population that provides better scale. Thus, supporting a more stable business community, such as a pharmacist for instance and providing for better childcare, jobs and services.In my opinion, the draft housing strategy is high level and conceptual but is a great start to providing our community with the strategic direction it needs. I think we would all agree that ad hoc development should be a thing of the past. It has resulted typically in a highly politically charged planning process involving rolling bouts of proponent vs opponent - it must be a thing of the past.Like many, I have found the over-politicised nature of planning decisions quite tedious. Accordingly, if elected I would give deep consideration to the establishment of a Kiama specific Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel IHAP to take the politics out of planning decisions for high value and/or sensitive developments. The aim would be to de-politicise potentially contentious projects so that they can be assessed on their merits such as technical compliance, efficiency, consistency with housing strategy, community benefit, fairness and transparency. Council would still have charge of regular straightforward DAs and overall strategic planning.If we are to grow, critical infrastructure is key. However, through a lack of strategic planning in the past, we have too often been left with the dregs of State and Federal funding. It is expected that NSW Councils will receive $1 billion over 10 years to provide infrastructure but we are currently hopelessly underprepared to take our fair share. We are going to need extensive planning and preparedness to provide transport, electricity, sewer, reticulated water and social infrastructure that a growing region needs for its future.This Council needs a priority-list of critical community infrastructure that needs focus and funding because new infrastructure won’t happen by itself. We need to follow the lead of councils like Shellharbour in a strategic plan of essential infrastructure projects for our LGA and advance them to shovel ready status. Its typically referred to by other councils as an “advocacy plan”, it may not surprise you to learn that Kiama Council has no such plan, but we do have some resolutions with dot points. It’s not good enough. We need to be at the front of the queue with the work done and our hand out ready to pounce on State and/or Federal funding when it is announced and be competitive in those assessment processes. We must put ourselves in a position to win because it is important that development and infrastructure are built, planned and delivered concurrently.My number is 0413 584 464 if you have thoughts or suggestions, I am all ears.Mike Cains

After 25 years in the high-pressure corporate world, self-made businessman Jamie Lobina traded the hustle of Sydney for the tranquillity of Jaspers Brush/Kiama. Leaving behind the corporate stress, he sought a ‘semi-retirement’ that would allow him to give back by mentoring medium-sized business owners. Now, Lobina focuses on guiding others, helping them navigate the complexities of business. “It’s like having another lens or set of eyes on your business – like a non-executive board member,” Lobina explains.Lobina’s rise in the corporate world was meteoric. After a challenging upbringing, he began his career as a truck driver at 18. By 21, he had become Area Manager, and by 22, State Manager, working with major companies like PepsiCo and Arnott’s. By 26, he was National Account Manager, a testament to his passion and drive.At 27, Lobina launched Superior Sales Force, specialising in FMCG field sales and marketing with over 250 employees. His company worked with industry giants like Schweppes, Kellogg’s, and Procter & Gamble, helping to elevate several brands. After 19 successful years, he sold the business to Clemenger, a large ad agency, which turned it into an in-house hub for field marketing and merchandising.Moving south and away from the ‘blue-chip world’ was Lobina’s way to regain balance and avoid working himself into an early grave. His plan was simple: to help other businesses thrive. Today, he manages a number of companies and works six days a week—still busy, but with far less stress compared to his former life in Sydney.Lobina’s current ventures include a business mentoring company, a property maintenance business, a national franchise where he holds a 50 percent stake, and a real estate investment portfolio. With over 25 years of experience, he understands the unique challenges faced by small-to-medium businesses, where owners often wear many hats - boss, HR, marketing, finance, logistics, and more.These days, Lobina prefers to coach and work with small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), imparting what he calls “an inspiring entrepreneurial mindset.” He believes in ‘disruption’ - challenging business owners to think differently and adopt innovative approaches.“It’s critical for any business owner to understand their ‘what’ and ‘why,’” says Lobina, emphasising the importance of motivation and clarity in driving success.Currently, Lobina is mentoring an engineering firm, a real estate agency, and a grass manufacturing company in Sydney and Wollongong. His sweet spot, however, is working with businesses capitalising between $2-10 million. For Lobina, practical experience is the key to providing valuable insights - there’s no textbook or handbook that can replace it.One of his core philosophies is building a positive culture of engagement and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of employees - knowing “who is on the bus.” He points out that different roles require different mindsets and skill sets. For example, a sales representative and an accountant need distinct skills and personality traits.To better understand key staff members, Lobina employs tools like D.I.S.C. profiling, which identifies Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness traits. Interestingly, only 3 percent of business owners exhibit high Dominance and high Conscientiousness, a combination Lobina finds crucial for leadership.At the heart of his work, Jamie Lobina simply wants to make a difference. His coaching regimen typically involves one-hour sessions every fortnight, held in-house at the client’s premises. Initially, these sessions are with the CEO, gradually expanding to include senior staff. Between sessions, Lobina maintains momentum with bi-weekly phone calls, ensuring accountability and progress.When asked about the common pain points for businesses, Lobina highlights that it’s not just about external factors like the economy. The real challenge lies in how businesses approach growth and expansion - timing, strategy, and sometimes, downsizing or preparing for sale to improve their financial standing.Lobina’s top five tips for business owners:Work vs. Home Balance: Keep work at work. Home should be a safe space, not an extension of your office. The ‘work-from-home’ trend has blurred these boundaries.Mental Fitness: Recognise when you need help. Small practices like daily meditation can help manage stress and improve well-being.Passion: If you lack passion for what you’re doing, it’s time to reassess. Understanding your ‘why’ is crucial to staying motivated.Physical Habits: Movement is essential. Physical activity stimulates the brain and boosts creativity. Find at least 30 minutes a day for exercise.Team Building: To drive momentum, ensure you have the right people on board. Identify who’s committed, and don’t hesitate to make changes if necessary.Jamie Lobina’s transition from a high-powered corporate executive to a business mentor in the quiet surroundings of Kiama reflects his commitment to helping others succeed. His hands-on approach and deep understanding of the challenges faced by SMEs make him a sought-after mentor. As he continues to guide and inspire, Lobina remains focused on making a lasting impact on the businesses he works with, one entrepreneur at a time.

Bestselling romance author and former midwife Fiona McArthur will visit Kiama Library on 3 September for a free author talk to celebrate her new book Back to Birdsville.McArthur’s latest novel honours the resilience of families living not just in Birdsville, but remote towns all around Australia. It celebrates the women who are always there for each other and the men who stand by their side, painting a vivid picture of a place where community spirit thrives against all odds.The author looks forward to returning to the region where she spent cherished childhood holidays visiting family.“I have so many wonderful memories of visiting my grandparents in Gerringong.” “We always visited the blowhole in Kiama, which was exciting for kids. As an adult, I just love the scenery, the hills and the green that runs to the sea.”Back to Birdsville is the 13th book in McArthur’s Aussie Outback Medical Romance Series, which includes the bestselling As the River Rises. The prolific author has also written five books in the Aussie Doctors Series, four novels in the midwives of Lyrebird Lake Series, three novels in the Outback Brides Series and one in the Outback Babies Series.McArthur’s non-fiction book Aussie Midwives, features interviews with 20 midwives who reflect on their practice with the passionate former midwife. McArthur was awarded the NSW Excellence in Midwifery Award in 2015, the Australian Ruby Award for Contemporary Romantic Fiction in 2020, and was shortlisted for the same award in 2023.McArthur will be at Kiama Library from 10.30-11.30am on 3 September. She will also talk at Nowra Library from 5.30-6.30pm later that night. Books will be available for signing and purchase.

Kiama’s own Mark Foster is one of the most experienced and professional barbers on the South Coast. In his time he has mingled with the rich and famous in the fish and chip shop.Mark is a die-hard Manchester United supporter and when he lived in Manchester, he used to chat with Gary Neville, the captain of Manchester United and David Beckham, over a spread of haddock and chips.People come from Gerroa to Wollongong to sit in the chair and let Mark and Master Barbers Charlotte Powell and David Azevedo, practice their art.Mark opened Premier Barbers in Terralong Street in 2007 and he reckons since he started the business in Kiama, he has cut more than 100,000 heads of hair.“Being a part of the Kiama community for almost two decades, I have seen some of my customers go from their first haircut to starting school, first girlfriend, first car, getting jobs and starting families of their own,” Mark said.The team create all the latest styles from the latest Amsterdam and Korean cuts, textured crops, skin fades to spiky mullets. They do beard trims, razor shaves and more.There’s air conditioning, music, a relaxed ambiance, and white glove cleanliness.Mark has barbering and styling in his blood. His family in England has been cutting men’s hair since 1886. He’s a 6th generation master barber working at the top of his game.“I started my career in the family trade in 1987 and owned three salons overseas before I moved here from sunny Manchester, England.”Mark has employed scores of young local people who want to learn a trade.“It gives me a sense that I’m keeping the town’s economy going and growing.”If you want to know what’s going on around town, take a seat, because all the stories come out at Premier Barbers.“I had a chap in one time said he’d just been into a barbers that said $10.00 haircuts. He then asked me to put up a sign in my window to say we fix $10.00 haircuts.”Premier Barbers. You’ll leave better looking.

Kiama author Ryan Butta will officially launch on Tuesday July 30 The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli at Bouquiniste Cafe, where he spends time writing, reading and drinking coffee with owner, good friend and fellow author Clayton Comber.The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli is based on the life of Harry Freame, the first Australian soldier to win the distinguished conduct medal at Gallipoli. Telling Harry’s story is right up there as one of Ryan’s proudest achievements, not just because it was the second of his non-fiction books to be picked up by a commercial publisher. “I always wanted to be commercially published. That's like a validation thing for a writer for some reason,” explains Ryan.His pride is linked to the fact Ryan was able to give Harry Freame the recognition he deserves as one of Australia’s most decorated soldiers. Renowned war correspondent and historian Charles Bean called Freame the “finest scout at Gallipoli” and “the most ubiquitous soldier on the peninsula”. But Harry doesn’t feature in your typical ANZAC histories. Freame was born in Japan and had an Australian father and Japanese mother. He was raised as a Samurai, under the Bushido code - the seven principles of righteousness, loyalty, honour, respect, honesty, courage and consistency which samurai warriors live by. “Harry was loved by the troops he fought alongside,” says Ryan. “Men rallied behind him, he was a leader of men. When it came down to it, our troops relied on his intelligence to launch attacks. Harry would crawl around on his belly and map the Turkish trenches, their defences, the number of machine guns they had. He was captured in the trenches at one point and managed to escape. He was wounded so many times his body was covered in scars.”Harry, who died in 1940 just before WWII broke out, was buried in an unmarked grave in Sydney. But thanks to Ryan, and his meticulous research, people are now able to hear Harry’s story and understand that the ANZAC legend is much richer and more nuanced than the historical snapshots we often hear about.“It was tragic and very emotional to read about what these young men went through when I was researching this book,” says Ryan. “They had no idea about the horrors they would face. And it wasn’t just young British Australians out there on the battlefields of Gallipoli. There were Africans from the French colony fighting alongside ANZACs, there were Indigenous soldiers, Maori soldiers, Sikh soldiers, there was the Zionist mule regiment doing all the transport. So it was a very multicultural fighting force, I’m not sure that comes through when we talk about the ANZAC legend.”Ryan was not only able to tell Harry’s story in The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli but he was also able to ensure that Harry received the recognition and burial that he deserved as a decorated war hero.Ryan wrote several emails to the Australian government, including petitioning the Prime Minister, to push for Harry’s service to be recognised. Last month his long fight to honour Harry came to fruition. Thanks to Ryan, Harry now has a plaque honouring his sacrifices on his gravesite. “I hope I have done his story justice,” says Ryan.  You can hear Ryan speak about The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli from 5.30pm at Bouquiniste for a Q&A with Clay. Stay tuned to hear more about how Ryan “amplified” the Anzac legend in the next print edition of The Bugle on August 9.

The Australian Traveller magazine’s renowned 100 Aussie Wonders list names the Kiama Blowhole among the country’s 2024 top wonders. For the must-see attractions in New South Wales, the blowhole ranks third overall, only beaten by Sydney Harbour and the Hunter Valley.When part of the Kiama Headland, composed of volcanic rock known as latite, collapsed because of erosion over millions of years, it created the blowhole – the world’s largest. When seas are high, it can hit a peak of more than 30 meters up in the air.No wonder, this South Coast landmark has drawn visitors to the area since the late 1800s. An article in the Kiama Independent, published on October 23, 1888, hints as to why:“The visitors who had arrived in Kiama by the Saturday’s train had ample opportunity on Sunday’s morning of witnessing great volumes of water being forced up higher than the lighthouse, through the huge crater which bears the somewhat singular, through nevertheless applicable cognomen of ‘blowhole.’ “The Kiama Blowhole before the safety fence was installed. Several people are there to view the blowhole. Credit: Kiama Library.Let’s jump ahead 136 years to the present day, where at 09:45 a.m. on a sunny and warm autumn Saturday, crowds are already gathering at the blowhole. With every eruption, there’s big cheers.Knowing there’s a big swell at the moment, ocean lover Jess Hyland has come down from Wollongong. It’s the best time to see the blowhole erupt, she says.What does she think of the blowhole making the 100 Aussie Wonders list?“I think it’s pretty cool. A quiet, little coastal town getting the recognition.“But I feel bad, the little blowhole around the corner doesn’t get as much attention but it’s just as cool,” she says.Robyn and Bruce Moresi in front of the Kiama Blowhole.For Ram Krish, it’s his first time here. He made the trip from Paramatta after his friends told him about the blowhole. Standing in the perfect spot, just in front and across from the lighthouse, he’s ready to capture the next whoosh of water. “I’ve seen it erupt once,” Krish reveals.A little bit further up the track along the security fence stand Bruce and Robyn Moresi. Driving up from Melbourne, Robyn Moresi’s sister-in-law called to say that the blowhole had made it on the list. “It’s amazing,” Robyn marvels. “I got a photo too,” says Bruce. “You hope you did,” jokes Robyn. But he sure did, as he shows off an image on his phone of the blowhole making an almighty splash. The same splash, in a sense, that has been drawing visitors for more than a century.Kiama Blowhole and crowd circa 1950's. Credit: Kiama Library.

In a ceremony held this week to celebrate Education Week in the Hunter, Lynne Strong, a local resident and former Kiama Electorate Woman of the Year, received the prestigious Community Person of the Year Award. This accolade recognises Lynne's significant role in strengthening relationships between schools, parents, and the broader community, a connection proven to greatly enhance young people's chances of thriving.Lynne has a distinguished history of designing and delivering programs for schools and teachers that ensure students are engaged and aware of the real-world impact of their education. Upon receiving the award, Lynne expressed her gratitude, noting the importance of her work in today’s polarised world."Schools are in crisis; teachers are overwhelmed, students are disengaged, and mental health and well-being issues are on the rise. It is so important to give young people hope," Lynne stated. "The programs my team and I design and deliver give young people the opportunity to investigate the world, appreciate diverse perspectives, communicate confidently, and take action on issues that matter to them and their community. It has been a great pleasure to support schools in the Hunter in achieving this."Lynne's dedication to creating educational programs that build school networks and demonstrate the real-world impact of classroom learning has been a cornerstone of her efforts. Her work ensures that young people are not only academically prepared but also equipped with the skills and confidence to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Mike Cains, board member of Kiama & Districts Business Chamber, is running for the Kiama Council, bringing with him extensive experience and a deep connection to the region. Mike has lived in the Kiama Local Government Area since 2008. He's a local businessman, farmer, and passionate community advocate. From corporate executive roles to founding the successful Pecora Dairy with his wife, Cressida, Mike is dedicated to sustainable business practices and community engagement. His vision for Kiama is shaped by strategic thinking, financial literacy and a profound love for the area.Can you share a bit about your history and connection with the Kiama LGA?I have lived on a farm in Knights Hill since 2008. I have been married for over 20 years to Cressida and we have two grown children. Together we started the Pecora Dairy in 2011. I am also a 2021 Australian Nuffield Scholar, which aims to increase farmers’ technical and management skills. It gave me a global perspective on how to effectively advocate for the region's agriculture and bring ideas and solutions to local farming challenges.Kiama is the best place to raise a family and start or grow a business. Born and raised in Southern Illawarra, I returned to the region with my young family after a corporate career in Sydney. I've been involved in outstanding community groups, including being one of the founding stallholders of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers Market. I'm also proud to serve on the board of the Kiama Business Chamber and support the Kiama Show.Could you tell us about your professional background and current occupation?Currently, I'm known for my work as a businessman, farmer, and cheesemaker. Before returning to Kiama, I held executive roles at Fairfax Media, Herron Todd White Valuers, and CoreLogic Australia. Our family business, Pecora Dairy, is a national brand known for sustainability and has won the prestigious Royal Agricultural Society Presidents Medal.What inspired you to run for Kiama Council?  I'm proud of what Kiama has achieved, but there's still much to do. I bring strong financial management skills, strategic thinking, networks and corporate sensibility to the table. My expertise in agriculture, housing, and renewable energy can help address key issues. With a mature business and great staff, I have the time and energy to give back to the community that has supported my family and business from the start.What are your ‘qualifications’ to sit as a councillor? My corporate career and running a successful startup have given me vital skills. I've learned to bring people together, solve problems, and get things done. People want professionalism and corporate sensibility to ensure the Council serves all citizens effectively. What is your political persuasion, philosophy and ideology? What motivated your decision to run as an independent candidate?I'm practical, sensible, and centred. I'm passionate about finding solutions to climate change and promoting efficient local government. Council should deliver effective, friendly services without strident politics. Running as an independent shows my commitment to sensible and practical decisions based on community needs, not party interests.What key issues do you intend to address if elected, and what are your primary goals for the community?The top priority is maintaining a sound balance sheet and pursuing a sustainable operating surplus to avoid administration and rate hikes.We need a sensible housing strategy that addresses community needs while preserving our streetscape, green space, and agriculture. Ensuring smaller villages retain their character and become more viable is crucial. We must also fast-track the harbour revitalisation program and integrate it with the foreshore and showground.Additionally, we need a strong, diverse local economy providing high-quality jobs. Engaging with the community and ensuring effective services for everyone is essential. A stronger focus on arts and culture, including visual arts and live music – can be the bedrock of our identity and something I feel passionate about.How do you plan to engage with the community to ensure residents’ voices are heard?There's no substitute for talking to people from all walks of life. For example, I've spoken to parents in Jamberoo whose pre-school has been flooded twice recently. They have 100 children on the waiting list and need a plan for the future. Listening to these concerns ensures Council provides effective services for the whole community, not just the most vocal.What previous experience do you have in public service or community involvement? How will you prioritise and balance the diverse needs and interests of various groups within the LGA?I'm proud to serve on the Kiama Business Chamber board, which has grown to over 200 members and plays a significant role in advocacy, education, and boosting economic activity. As a founding member of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers Market, I've seen it become a community institution. I believe in collaborating with community groups and am keen to find new ways to ensure their voices are heard after the precinct groups were dissolved.What is your stance on managing growth and development in an environmentally sustainable way?We need to build dwellings that meet our community's needs. Currently, 76% of our homes are stand-alone houses, but only 49% are occupied by no more than two people. We must address the demand for smaller dwelling types. Promoting waste reduction, renewable energy, and a circular economy is vital. I propose an opt-in council-wide Virtual Energy Network for effective energy trading among residents.How do you approach to fiscal responsibility, budget and funding for key local initiatives and community projects?I believe in kick-starting community projects and actively pursuing grant monies. Council should create an “Advocacy Plan” such as the one Shellharbour council has. Essentially a wish list of projects, prioritised and advanced to 'shovel-ready' status to give them the best chance to succeed in competitive grant processes. I am looking forward to working with the CEO, her council team and fellow councillors to bring critical projects to fruition. What partnerships or collaborations would you pursue to benefit the community? How do you intend to support local businesses and the local economy? Building the Kiama brand should drive economic activity beyond tourism, promoting the production and manufacturing of goods and services. We need to strengthen off-season tourism and develop regional attractions, such as bushwalking and coastal trails. Revitalising the night-time economy is also important for Kiama's growth.How will you address the need for improved local infrastructure and public services for residents? Firstly, Council needs to review its functions and services to determine and focus on what is needed. When organisations have a clarity of purpose and eliminate waste and inefficiency – extraordinary things happen. This is the only way to direct and allocate resources to the areas where our community will derive the most benefit.Mike Cains presents as a candidate who understands the importance of both preserving Kiama's unique character and driving forward-looking development. His approach to Council appears rooted in collaboration, practicality, and a genuine desire to serve the community. By focusing on sustainable growth, enhancing local infrastructure, and fostering a thriving local economy, Mike aims to ensure that Kiama remains a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive place for all its residents. His candidacy offers a promise of dedicated service, practical solutions, and a deep commitment to the well-being of the Kiama community.

On a chilly and windy winter evening, Mayor Neil Reilly announced the nine winners of the Local Government Awards 2024, against the backdrop of a packed Pavilion Kiama.Family, friends, colleagues, team and club members had turned out in full on Tuesday, July 30, to celebrate the recipients.The Local Government Awards are part of Local Government Week, which runs from 29 July-4 August, and which also coincides with the anniversary of the founding of the municipality. Aunty Gwenda Jarrett gave a beautiful Welcome to Country, saying "To receive a nomination is as good as receiving an award."This weekend, on 27 July, the winners of the Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards 2024 were celebrated at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, hosted by the Shoalhaven City Council in collaboration with the councils of Kiama, Shellharbour and Wollongong.Mayor Neil Reilly and Citizen of the Year recipient Michael Gleeson. Credit: Kiama Council.Werri Beach resident Michael Gleeson won the Citizen of the Year award for his over 40 years of community service, including his environmental advocacy work.“I’m being recognised for doing good things for the town, making it a better place to live in,” he replies as to what it means to win the award.But Gleeson admits being a bit embarrassed by it all, although “my family is so pleased.”“I can live with having my photo taken a couple of times,” he adds with a smile.Senior Citizen of the Year recipient Rhonda Bailey and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Rhonda Bailey of Gerringong received the Senior Citizen of the Year award for her long-standing contributions to community organisations such as the Gerringong Tennis Club and the Children’s Medical Research Institute.Bailey found out that she had won a couple of weeks ago but had no idea that she had been nominated.“It came as a huge surprise,” she says. Although it didn’t take long, more like “two seconds,” to figure out who had put her forward.But she’s feeling embarrassed over the nomination since there are “lots of people who do great volunteer work in Gerringong.”Grace Stewart's brother Hamish and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Grace Stewart, the triple Olympian born and bred in Gerringong, was added to the Sports Honour Roll for her exceptional achievements in field hockey. With the Hockeyroos co-captain currently at the Paris Olympics (where she’s scored two goals so far), Stewart’s brother Hamish received the award on her behalf.“She thanks the Kiama Council and community. It doesn’t go unnoticed, it’s greatly appreciated,” he said.Complete list of recipients of the Local Government Awards 2024: Citizen of the Year: Michael Gleeson Senior Citizen of the Year: Rhonda Bailey Community Group of the Year: Country Women’s Association Kiama Evening Branch Arts Honour Roll: Tamara Campbell Sports Honour Roll: Grace Stewart Sports Achievement Award: Nardia Guillaumier Sports Volunteer Award: Karon Dawson Robert East Memorial Award: Berbel Franse Megan Dalley Award: Hallie Le Maître.Country Women's Association Kiama Evening Branch's Katherine Brennan accepting the Community Group of the Year award on the group's behalf and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Dean Jaye accepting the Arts Honour Roll on behalf of Tamara Campbell, and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Sports Achievement Award recipient Nardia Guillaumier and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Sports Volunteer Award recipient Karon Dawson and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Jenny Drummond for the East Family, Robert East Memorial Awards recipient Berbel Franse and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.Roz Dalley, Megan Dalley Award recipient Hallie Le Maitre and mayor Neil Reilly. Credit: Kiama Council.

Currently funded by the Federal Government, the Heart Foundation Walking Program has grown to over 330,000 walkers nationwide. Individual and group lead programs by 700 volunteers helping those towards a healthier heart lifestyle. 1 August 2024 is set to see the Heart Foundation Walk kick off from Harry Sawkins Park in the Nowra CBD at 8am. Joining the local walking groups is Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips alongside Heart Foundation general manager Simon Cowie and Walking Program Officer NSW/ACT Lizzie Hannah. “Evidence shows that just 30 minutes of daily walking can lower heart disease and stroke risk by 35 per cent, reduce key risk factors including hypertension and metabolic disease and boost mood,” Mrs Phillips said.“Yet only one in five adults meet the level of physical activity recommended by the Australian Guidelines.”Mrs Phillips walks her dogs daily and said the benefits of joining a walking group extended beyond physical health.The National Walking Initiative focuses on five key areas:Supporting more people to participate in the Heart Foundation Walking program.Building health professional skills and confidence to discuss and prescribe physical activity.Empowering communities to lead local initiatives.Promoting active living through healthy built and natural environments.Educating the public and advancing action.Hoping to inspire more residents to participate in regular exercising habits, Mrs Phillips is eager to connect with other community members and groups. LOCAL WALKING GROUPS:https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/basin-bay-strollers https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/greenwell-point-walkers https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/kiama-walking-group https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/nowra-walkie-talkies https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/nsw-happy-feet

Kiama author Ryan Butta will officially launch on Tuesday July 30 The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli at Bouquiniste Cafe, where he spends time writing, reading and drinking coffee with owner, good friend and fellow author Clayton Comber.The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli is based on the life of Harry Freame, the first Australian soldier to win the distinguished conduct medal at Gallipoli. Telling Harry’s story is right up there as one of Ryan’s proudest achievements, not just because it was the second of his non-fiction books to be picked up by a commercial publisher. “I always wanted to be commercially published. That's like a validation thing for a writer for some reason,” explains Ryan.His pride is linked to the fact Ryan was able to give Harry Freame the recognition he deserves as one of Australia’s most decorated soldiers. Renowned war correspondent and historian Charles Bean called Freame the “finest scout at Gallipoli” and “the most ubiquitous soldier on the peninsula”. But Harry doesn’t feature in your typical ANZAC histories. Freame was born in Japan and had an Australian father and Japanese mother. He was raised as a Samurai, under the Bushido code - the seven principles of righteousness, loyalty, honour, respect, honesty, courage and consistency which samurai warriors live by. “Harry was loved by the troops he fought alongside,” says Ryan. “Men rallied behind him, he was a leader of men. When it came down to it, our troops relied on his intelligence to launch attacks. Harry would crawl around on his belly and map the Turkish trenches, their defences, the number of machine guns they had. He was captured in the trenches at one point and managed to escape. He was wounded so many times his body was covered in scars.”Harry, who died in 1940 just before WWII broke out, was buried in an unmarked grave in Sydney. But thanks to Ryan, and his meticulous research, people are now able to hear Harry’s story and understand that the ANZAC legend is much richer and more nuanced than the historical snapshots we often hear about.“It was tragic and very emotional to read about what these young men went through when I was researching this book,” says Ryan. “They had no idea about the horrors they would face. And it wasn’t just young British Australians out there on the battlefields of Gallipoli. There were Africans from the French colony fighting alongside ANZACs, there were Indigenous soldiers, Maori soldiers, Sikh soldiers, there was the Zionist mule regiment doing all the transport. So it was a very multicultural fighting force, I’m not sure that comes through when we talk about the ANZAC legend.”Ryan was not only able to tell Harry’s story in The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli but he was also able to ensure that Harry received the recognition and burial that he deserved as a decorated war hero.Ryan wrote several emails to the Australian government, including petitioning the Prime Minister, to push for Harry’s service to be recognised. Last month his long fight to honour Harry came to fruition. Thanks to Ryan, Harry now has a plaque honouring his sacrifices on his gravesite. “I hope I have done his story justice,” says Ryan.  You can hear Ryan speak about The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli from 5.30pm at Bouquiniste for a Q&A with Clay. Stay tuned to hear more about how Ryan “amplified” the Anzac legend in the next print edition of The Bugle on August 9.

The Bugle has consulted Councillor Renkema-Lang’s Facebook page which represents her opinion. It is well worth the read. “As this Council term draws to a close it’s appropriate to ask Councillors, and indeed Council as a whole, what have they achieved in the last three years. In my view, the honest answer for myself is “not enough”. While I have had mixed success at getting motions and amendments adopted and enacted by Council, my efforts in the main have not led to tangible outcomes for the Community. A huge disappointment.The most important lesson I’ve learned over the past three years is that it is not enough to have passion, to uphold your principles, and to strive towards a clearly defined purpose. In hindsight this was naïve of me given my experience.I’ve learnt that a politician (at any level of Government) has to navigate the tricky space of power and politics while maintaining their passion, their principles and their purpose. I did not know how to navigate this space effectively. In spite of the above, I couldn’t have done things differently, and I’m pleased that regardless of the difficulties I faced that I have upheld my principles and my commitment for transparency and accountability. This is evident in my newsletters, radio interviews and in the questions I have asked on the floor of chamber. Our community wants Councillors who respect the views of others, even when they may strongly disagree. They want Councillors who understand the value of contested debate and the need to question and verify information provided by Council staff as part of their Governance role. Our community expect and deserve Councillors who uphold the highest standards, who are comfortable debating issues based on credible evidence without stooping to personal slurs and criticisms.People in our community have stated that “Council needs to repair the community’s trust before it can move forward”, and “Ratepayers are looking for outcomes, not more talk”. In my view, in order to ‘repair the community’s trust’ Council must listen with a view to bridging the gap between the halls of power and everyday experiences. They must demonstrate that they are delivering tangible outcomes that make Kiama more liveable, that unite members of the community rather than divide them, and that enhance the wonderful culture of the Kiama community in looking after each other. Council must also demonstrate that relevant information is provided to the right people at the right time, that information is presented in plain language, and that Council owns up to mistakes and demonstrates a commitment to learning and improvement. Of late I have been challenged about meeting my campaign commitment about being Sensible with Money. I have moved or supported many motions and amendments over this term with this commitment in mind (with mixed success). These include at least three in 2023 directly related to meeting the initial Performance improvement Order issued in November 2022. They were all unsuccessful – with the same six Councillors voting against them each time.For more detail about the above or about my efforts in striving towards meeting my campaign commitments over this term of Council please read my newsletter or visit the my progress SAFEKiama webpage.”

Local Kiama resident and former plumber Bryan Malone has just returned from his latest humanitarian trip to Rwanda. His journey was not only a mission of goodwill but also an educational venture, where he mentored students from the University of Wollongong (UOW) on various building and plumbing projects. These projects, initiated by David Walker, a former engineering lecturer at UOW, aim to uplift and empower Rwandan communities through practical education and support.Rwanda, one of East Africa's smallest countries, shares borders with Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi. Despite its small size, with a population of around 26 million, Rwanda's history is marked by the devastating 1994 genocide, in which 800,000 to one million Tutsi people were brutally murdered by Hutu extremists. This horrific event left deep scars, but the country has been resilient in its efforts to rebuild and heal.Bryan Malone works with David Walker, who has visited Rwanda 50 times, and is dedicated to helping the nation recover from its tragic past. With a background at BlueScope, Walker focuses on providing education and mentoring to foster self-sufficiency within Rwandan communities. Their goal is to enhance the students' understanding of global disparities and the importance of social responsibility.Malone, with nine visits to Rwanda under his belt, took the students to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. He said, “The first place we took the students was to the memorial museum where there are 250,000 people buried in a mass grave”. There, they met Frida Umuhoza, a remarkable genocide survivor. Now living in Melbourne, Frida authored "The School of Resilience: Chosen to Die, Destined to Live," recounting her harrowing experiences and her journey towards forgiveness and hope. Her story of survival and resilience serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for transformation.Communicating through an interpreter during his visits, Malone and his team have completed various impactful projects. They built an office for the teachers out of a shipping container, complete with fencing, and a water tank installed at a school in Babati, Tanzania. In a primary school in Kigali, they also installed a water tank in line with two other tanks feeding a toilet block. They revisited two Youth Centres where they painted walls, and repaired water tanks. These youth centres have been established for the now orphaned students to learn valuable life skills.In one notable act of kindness, Malone's team renewed a tap they had installed in 2022 for Maria, a genocide survivor who had been bedridden for 30 years. Malone said, “She is the only one to have a tap inside her tiny home. Maria remembered us and beamed with delight when she saw us again.” Her joy upon seeing the team highlighted the significant improvement they had brought to her quality of life.Malone's humanitarian efforts extend beyond Rwanda, into Kenya. Stay tuned for Part 2 of his inspiring story in the next edition of The Bugle.

The snakes are sleeping now, dormant in the cold weather. But they won’t be sleeping for long. The minute spring arrives, the snakes wake up, hungry and randy, looking for food and looking for a mate. And that’s when the services of the Jamberoo snake catcher Hugh Marriot come into play, with locals encountering them in their homes, sheds, and backyards.If you are under the illusion that most of the snakes found on the South Coast are harmless, think again. The most common is the Red Belly Black Snake whose bite, while it may not kill you, can make you very sick indeed. The Golden Crown, also venomous, is a nighttime hunter, while the Eastern Tiger Snake, also highly venomous, has populations radiating out from the edge of the escarpment, and compete with the Red Bellies for frogs in swampy areas. While not seen as often as a Red Belly, the Eastern Brown is rated as the second most venomous snake in the world and easily the most dangerous in the Illawarra and South Coast regions. The nocturnal Eastern Small Eyed Snake is also highly venomous, if rarely seen. Their encounters with humans are mostly in barns and sheds. It looks harmless, but most certainly isn’t. Officially Hugh Marriot is Reptile Collector for the Illawarra for the animal welfare group WIRES. Unofficially he’s the Jamberoo Snake Catcher, the man you call when you’re in trouble. He first came to the area from Western Sydney in the 1990s, and decided rural life was for him. He regularly encountered snakes and was troubled by the prevailing attitude of the time: “The Only Good Snake Is a Dead Snake.”“I was working around Jamberoo properties and gardens and would come in contact with snakes all the time,” he told The Bugle. “You wonder what you are going to do with them. I had to decide whether to knock them on the head or learn about why they are here. “I like them. They deserve respect. They need care. They need to be appreciated. They are an important part of the environment we live in. They take on the rats and mice, they are providing a service.”Currently in his care is a diamond python, which is not native to the area and is most likely an escaped pet. While it is not hibernating as such, it is a state technically known as brumation, where they are close to dormant but can come awake on a warm winter’s day. Their metabolism is so low that they don’t eat during winter.  From his quarter of a century’s experience with the local snakes, Hugh has some very strong advice. If someone you know has been bitten sit them down, apply a pressure bandage and ring 000.Do not think you can identify the species on your own. “There can be high variation within the species,” he said. “Colour is never a good indication of what you are looking at. Identification is extremely difficult for any member of the public.” Hugh said one of the most common callouts he gets is for snakes that have been injured by dogs or cats or hit by a car. Not all survive, but with appropriate care, many of them live to hunt another day. One of the first things he does when rescuing an injured snake is to get them to a vet. Not all vets will see venomous snakes, but Amanda Brett at Kiama Downs has established a reputation as the best reptile expert in the area. Most of all Hugh reiterates, if you find a snake do not try to deal with it yourself. The results can be deadly. Make sure your grass is mown going into snake season! Ring WIRES or a professional snake catcher such as himself. “And remember: All snakes are protected. It is illegal to knock them on the head.”WIRES: 1300 094 737The Jamberoo Snake Catcher Hugh Marriott: 0401 394 444 

Four local small businesses have been selected as finalists of the 2024 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards.The four finalists are: Miss Zoe’s School of Dance (performing arts), Miss Arda (restaurant), The Collective Beat (specialised retail small business), and Soul Fit Co (fitness services).The awards, which drew thousands of entries, celebrate women in small businesses all across the country from capital cities to rural towns. It’s the only national awards program of its kind, created specifically to highlight the rising economic, cultural and social contributions of female-led small businesses.The awards program features more than 60 categories across retail, services and manufacturing industries as well as individual categories for the year’s most inspiring female small business leaders.Winners of the 2024 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards will be announced on Saturday, 24 August in Sydney at a gala event.The Bugle congratulates all our local finalists.