On September 23, the Kiama Junior Basketball Association honoured John Trappman as he stepped down from his role as President after nearly a decade of leadership. Trappman has been involved with the club for 18 years, contributing as both a coach and administrator, and he even played for Kiama’s representative team, which he captained in 1978-79. “I’ve been involved with basketball since I was 19, and now I’m 70—that’s 51 years,” says Trappman. “It all started when I was playing rugby union in Sydney. One of the players suggested playing basketball instead of training on Tuesdays, and that’s how I got started. I didn’t realise how physically demanding the game actually is.” Since then, Trappman developed a deep passion for the sport. “I’ve been addicted to it ever since,” he says. “I love playing because it’s a great game, and you can play in any weather. You can even play 2-3 games a week.” After his playing career ended, Trappman took a break before returning to the Kiama basketball community. He recalled that when he rejoined 18 years ago, basketball in Australia was struggling. “When I came back, basketball was in decline. There was even talk of the NBL shutting down for a couple of years. But they didn’t, and since then, the sport has experienced a massive incline, which is still ongoing thanks to strong associations,” Trappman says. His return to basketball was driven by a desire to give back to the coaches, volunteers, and administrators who had supported him throughout his career. One of his proudest moments was coaching a team to victory in the Country Championships in 2014—the first time the club had won in over a decade. “I coached kids from a young age all the way through, and winning the Country Championship was massive for us,” says Trappman. Reflecting on his years with Kiama Junior Basketball, Trappman expressed his appreciation for the support of parents. “The most amazing thing about basketball is how supportive the parents are. They never tell you how to coach or what to do—they just back you up, which makes the job so much easier,” says Trappman.As he steps down, Trappman feels confident about the future of the club, which he believes is in a strong position with dedicated volunteers and a capable committee. “I’d like to thank everyone who has helped over the years—there are too many to name. We had times where just one or two of us were running the club, but many people stepped up to help. It’s been hard work, but I’ve loved every minute of it,” he says.“Over the years, we’ve struggled to maintain a strong committee, but now we have one. The volunteers are great, the numbers are growing, and it’s the perfect time for me to step aside.”Approximately ten years now, I’ve been here 18 years. I came back to Kiama basketball when my children stopped playing for Illawarra - I was involved with the coaching up there and what I did then was I had a break of 12 months then I thought I’d come back. The committee of the day put an ad in the paper saying they were desperate for volunteers - I was always on the coaching side. So I come to the meeting, accepted the position as coach and ever since then I’ve been on the committee.I’ve been involved with basketball since I was 19 so I’m 70 now so 51 years. In that time I’ve coached, I’ve started and run clubs, I’ve just been involved that long - right from playing to coaching to reffing to organising anf I represented Kiama myself so it was a way of giving back to that. I actually captained the rep team back in the days when we didn’t have the stadium and we were up at the high school in 78 and 79.We had at that stage, and I was playing three nights a week at Kiama, Lake Illawarra and Wollongong, so I was involved with all three. I was 19 when I first started, I was playing rugby union in Sydney and one of the players decided that instead of training on a Tuesday we would play basketball so that was how I got started and I didn’t realise how physically demanding the game actually is. We were huffing and puffing.It’s a different game and I enjoy basketball more. I enjoy playing, it’s a great game. And its a great game because you can play all weather and you can play 2-3 games a week.Like every association it has had its ups and downs, when I first started back here 18 years ago we were still strong, but at that time basketball had taken a big decline. There was even talk of the NBL shutting doen for a couple of years but they decided not to. Then we had this massive incline which we’re still in now and thats a result of the great associations. And like everything, if the hawks are doing well then basketball is doing well.We have grown, we’ve got a very strong representative association, we have all four grades who have teams and last year when we picked our rep teams we had 20 plus kids in every age group showing up.I coached kids from a very young age right through and in 2014 we ended up winning the country championship which was massive. And that was a big thing because that is NSW country. I’ve had a lot of ups and downs in our sport but the most amazing thing about basketball in my opinion is how good and how well behaved the parents are. They just back you up all the time and they never once tell you how to coach or what to do, they’re just always supporting and that makes it so easy.Id like to thank everybody over the years for their help, there’s too many to name. We had years where there was only 1 or 2 of us running it and theres just been so many who have helped me. It’s been hard, but I’ve loved it. Over the years we’ve struggled within our association to have a good committee. I now have a very strong committee. I have a strong committee, good volunteers to run the club and it was just a great time to get out.Growth is hard because we’re limited with court space, so realistically we can’t grow anymore but just to maintain what we have at the moment would be great.

Kiama High School Year 12s rejoiced on Friday afternoon, celebrating the last day of high school with a graduation ceremony at the Kiama Pavilion.2024 School Captain Thomas reflected on his self-growth through the school's representative council and his journey with best friend, Olivia, from preschool to co-captains. Callan and Thomas “I was never someone who fit in with everyone, it was kind of my getaway [which] turned into a five year experience” Thomas said, “it’s really enlightening being able to leave and have all these memories but it’s also really sad.”Students departed the stage with yellow lanterns to signify moving into the next chapters of their lives. “It’s been an amazing experience, the class and the teachers have made it so memorable and it’s exciting moving forward with these relationships I’ve made,” graduating student Erin said. L-R Jazmin, Charli, Rachel, Front L-R Eva and Jemima“Now we face the real world,” Thomas said. Congratulations to the graduating class. We wish them all the best with their HSC exams next month. 

You can pledge a donation to the Bugle through our phone number 0412415101 within our business hours which are 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. If no one is there to answer your call, leave a message and we will get back to you. You can also pledge online with the link at the bottom of the article.The MV Signa is a glimpse into history, the wooden vessel was built in 1971 and has been a well loved part of Kiama Harbour for many decades. John Hansen removed her from the water in August 2022 to carry out an extensive restoration project. After two years of painstaking restoration and very hard work from John and six volunteers, the vessel was returned to Kiama Harbour in July 2024.John will be speaking at the October general meeting of the Kiama Men’s Probus Club at the Kiama Bowling and Recreation Club on Wednesday 23 October and will share his illustrated talk on the restoration project. All are invited to attend the free event and even get to enjoy a catered morning tea.. Morning tea will be served before John begins his talk at 10:30am. Please RSVP to Secretary Geoff Dowd on 0408 339 322.DONATE HERE.

The Kiama region, celebrated as the birthplace of Australia’s milk cooperative movement, continues to embrace its dairy industry, which remains central to the rolling green hills and the charm that draws tourists. Our local dairy farms are experiencing exciting times, with the average age of farmers being younger than the national average, reflecting a dynamic shift in the industry. As farms grow in size, they’re creating more employment opportunities for young people, many of whom come from urban environments, including a significant number of young women. This rejuvenation is not only sustaining our community but also ensuring that the rich tradition of dairy farming continues to thrive for future generations. “As a local dairy farmer, I’m incredibly excited by the number of young people applying for jobs on our farms, particularly those who often come from urban backgrounds,” Matt Parker, a local dairy farmer, says. “It’s refreshing to see their enthusiasm and the way they’re building strong social networks within our community. The training opportunities available now are fantastic, and it’s been wonderful to watch these young people grow in their roles.“For the last 18 months, Dairy NSW has provided us with a workforce specialist, and like many industries, we’ve been experiencing labour shortages. Having this support has been a game changer for our business, allowing us to attract and retain some truly talented young people,” he adds.Matt Parker and Imogen CoeWhen Wollongong local Imogen Coe left school in Year 11, she didn’t have a farming background, but she had a dream of working with animals. Today, Imogen is thriving as a trainee on dairy farms across the Southern Highlands and South Coast. She’s gaining hands-on experience in milking and calf rearing while learning the intricacies of pasture management and animal health through Dairy NSW workshops. Beyond work, Imogen is building connections with fellow young farmers through the Young Dairy Network. “It’s the best decision I’ve made,” says Imogen. Imogen Coe journey to being a dairy farmer trainee  https://youtu.be/KmvnstIO73Y?si=B_CNIHXL4LyA2RQSMia ThompsonMia Thompson always dreamed of being a physiotherapist, but when her plans took a turn, she found herself thriving in an entirely different field—dairy farming. Mia’s journey began at Tate Dairies in Albion Park, where she’s now deeply involved in calf rearing, animal husbandry, and learning about sustainable farming practices. Through Dairy NSW workshops, Mia has expanded her knowledge in areas like feed management and animal nutrition. "I never imagined I’d love this work so much," Mia shares. The social aspect of the job, including connections made through the Young Dairy Network, has been a surprising bonus. "It’s more than just work, it's a community," she says. Mia Thompson the high-tech world of the dairy Industry and its opportunities https://youtu.be/JGyq0gqVGjkGrowing up in Griffith, Ethan Halliburton never imagined he’d find himself working on a dairy farm. With his grandparents running a large poultry farm, his experience with farming was limited to chickens—not cows. But life has a funny way of steering you in unexpected directions.Ethan moved with his family to the Illawarra when he was four years old. After completing the HSC he was at a crossroads, considering his next career move and looking for part-time work while he made his decision. One night, while out at a trivia event, a chance encounter with dairy farmer Craig Tate’s wife would set him on a path he hadn’t considered.“I was looking for something to do while I figured out what I wanted,” Ethan recalls. “I met Craig’s wife at trivia, and she suggested I give him a call about working on their farm. I’m not big on cold-calling people I don’t know, so it took me a week to build up the nerve to make the call.”Ethan Halliburton’s unexpected journey into dairy Farming https://youtu.be/4-Z1zGlzvhgThat call turned out to be the start of Ethan’s new role as a trainee dairy farmer on the Tate family farm. Although he still has plans to join the armed forces, Ethan is grateful for the hands-on experience he’s gained on the farm.“Working for the Tates has given me an opportunity I never expected. I didn’t know anything about dairy farming, but Craig and his team have been incredibly patient in teaching me the ropes,” Ethan says. “I’m learning something new every day, and it’s been a great way to develop practical skills.”As for Craig Tate, he’s happy to have Ethan on the farm and sees potential for a longer-term career in the dairy industry.With a smile, Craig adds, “You never know—he might change his mind and decide to make dairy farming his career. We’d be happy to keep him around.”Whatever path Ethan chooses, he remains grateful for the opportunity to explore dairy farming.“I’ve still got my eye on the armed forces, but I’m really thankful for the experience I’ve had here. It’s given me a better sense of direction and some valuable life skills,” Ethan says.For now, Ethan continues to build his knowledge of the dairy industry, soaking up the lessons learned on the farm as he prepares for whatever his future holds.

Kiama Junior Football Club (JFC) President Andrew Wales announced on September 17 that he will be stepping down from his position following the annual general meeting in October.Wales has served as President of the club for three years, but has been part of the committee for six years and involved with the club as a coach and parent since 2012.Since he came on board as President three years ago, the club has grown and seen tremendous success with the recent 2024 season being one of the most successful in the club’s history.Under his leadership, the club has grown and achieved tremendous success, with the recent 2024 season being one of the most successful in the club’s history. Reflecting on his decision, Wales feels that now is the right time to step down, having accomplished much of what he set out to achieve.“I’m a firm believer that there’s a time for people to step up and help and equally there’s a time for them to step aside and make way for fresh ideas and new talent,” says Wales.“I think after three years as President I’ve achieved a lot and I’ve achieved most, if not all, of what I set out to achieve when I took on the role. I think it's time, and I’m looking forward to someone coming in and keeping the flag flying.”Wales says his time as President had a lot of highs and lows, but the fact that he was able to accomplish what he set out to do at the beginning is something that he is incredibly proud of.The highlight has been putting a vision together with a couple of colleagues, Kaz Appleby, Alan Appleby and Paula Shanahan, three years ago and seeing that come to fruition,” says Wales.“Seeing the club grow in numbers, seeing things that previously might have been a bit clunky become better managed to a point where people look at the club and comment that we have a professional organisation even though we are a grassroots organisation of volunteers.”Looking ahead, Wales is optimistic about the future of the club and hopes that the teams will continue to find success and remain competitive. He is also hopeful that the junior and senior clubs, which currently operate as separate entities, will merge to create a smoother pathway for young players as they progress through the ranks.“Having two separate clubs makes it difficult for young people to have a seamless pathway with their football. They get to 17-18 and they have to jump to another organisation. Which is risky because when they’re jumping they can potentially get picked up by a club outside of Kiama,” says Wales.“If you’re a young player and want to continue your football and be competitive, having a single club means you can start in under 6’s and go all the way through into your senior football with that one organisation without a blip.”Wales wanted to ensure that it was known that the success of the club over the last three years has not been just a singular effort, but a team effort.“It has been me, Kaz Appleby, Alan Appleby and Paula Shanahan and the Kiama JFC committee as a team. As President I tend to be the higher profile as that’s what usually happens when you're in that role, but it’s been a team effort which has driven our success,” says Wales.Following his retirement announcement on Facebook, the post was flooded with comments from supporters, expressing their gratitude and appreciation for his dedication to the club and for the success it has experienced under his leadership.The Bugle congratulates Andrew on his achievements and extend best wishes for his future endeavours.

The Kiama Lions Club was pleased to welcome well-known artist Ken Tucker to a recent meeting. When they reached out to discuss their Cancer Care Fund, Ken, known for his charitable work, generously offered to donate a piece of his artwork to raise funds.During the meeting, Ken live-painted a scene of Blowhole Point, completing most of the artwork on-site and finishing the details at home. The 800 x 800 artwork will be raffled, with 200 tickets available at $20 each. Ken Tucker is a local artist known for his charitable contributions. Originally from Bathurst, he has lived in Kiama for the past 15 years, drawing inspiration from the town's coastal and forest landscapes. He has received several awards, including Best in Show at both the Shoalhaven Art Exhibition and the Kiama Art Exhibition.The Cancer Care Fund was established in 1994 by the Lions Club after they sadly lost several members to cancer. The fund provides anonymous financial assistance to Kiama residents in palliative care. Referrals typically come from healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. Only cancer patients or their carers who live in the Municipality of Kiama are eligible. Friends or neighbours who know someone who might qualify can contact Geoff Heinecke at 0431 100 622.The raffle will be drawn on November 28 at the Lions Club Christmas party, where Ken Tucker will be a special guest. To purchase tickets or donate to the fund, contact Geoff Heinecke at the number provided.

A 28-year-old female contract climber Toni Sterai is making waves in the world of arboriculture. As the reigning NSW state champion, Toni recently secured the title at the 2024 Tree Climbing Competition, earning her a spot to represent NSW in the National Competition in Canberra next year.Toni Sterai wins NSW ARB competition“I studied at TAFE NSW for 18 months, earning my Level 3 Arboriculture during Covid,” Toni shares. Her passion for climbing goes beyond competition. “I climb trees and prune branches to ensure they can coexist within the community,” she explains. Recently, Toni has been on storm damage patrol - handling jobs that the SES can’t. “There are canopies that snap off into other trees, and I have to climb up and use my roping skills to safely bring the branch or canopy to the ground,” she says. One such job was for Shellharbour City Tree Care.Originally from the Northern Territory, Toni now lives around Kiama in her van, working as a contract arborist near Wollongong and Sydney. “I’ve set up my career so I can travel, follow the seasons, and work with multiple crews. It keeps me engaged in different kinds of work - habitat, storm damage, delicate pruning, heritage pruning, and now, arborist competitions,” she reveals.Toni is also deeply committed to tree conservation. She follows the Instagram @thetreeprojects, run by Steve, which seeks out giant trees in order to protect them from logging. “Recently, ‘Big Spotty’ has come under threat, and we need to engage the community and raise awareness about these ancient eco-lords,” Toni says.Located near Ulladulla, ‘Big Spotty’ faces significant threats from logging. “It’s like having a skyscraper among a field of tiny homes or caravans. The elements this tree has to endure alone are a threat,” Toni explains. Despite a 60-meter radius of protection, the tree needs more to survive. “We need to prioritise and sustain old-growth forests with the help and knowledge of Aboriginal lore,” she emphasises.Toni also highlights that giant trees in Victoria, Tasmania, NSW, and across the globe require recognition and protection from society and private logging companies.As Toni prepares for the National Competition in 2025, her journey exemplifies a blend of passion and purpose. Whether she’s climbing for a championship or fighting to save a centuries-old giant, Toni’s dedication to her craft and the environment she loves is evident. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to not only appreciate the beauty and importance of trees but to take action to protect them for future generations.

Jamberoo local, Nic van Oudtshoorn, has taken home a ‘Highly Commended’ award at the prestigious Mono Awards held by Australian Photography Magazine. His portrait of Coral Miller, ‘Anzac Day pride’ at the 2024 Anzac Day celebrations won the award in a black-and-white competition in the People category. The retired photojournalist and teacher at Workers Educational Association has been photographing veterans for a number of years. “Like any photographer it’s good when you do your work to have it recognised,” van Oudtshoorn says.“To feel that you have been successful in what you’ve tried to capture and what you’ve tried to portray, [the category was] ‘people’ and it portrays an interesting aspect of people in Australia.”The Mono Awards received over 4,000 entries in 2024.

For over 45 years, 78-year-old Clive Pickering has been a resident of Kiama Downs, known not just for his long-standing community ties but also for his extraordinary passion for clock collecting and restoration. With a collection of over 70 clocks, including many towering 6-7½ foot grandfather clocks that he has painstakingly restored or built himself, Clive has earned a global reputation as being well versed in the field of horology. Clive's story begins in Middlesbrough, Yorkshire, England, where he was born before emigrating to Warrawong, Australia, with his parents at the tender age of three. Growing up in the Illawarra, he nurtured a deep connection to craftsmanship, a passion encouraged by his carpenter father. This early influence laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong dedication to the art of restoring clocks and building for them period style replacement cases. A familiar name among readers of the UK-based CLOCKS magazine, Clive has, for the past four decades been a regular contributor. His expertise as a period casemaker and restorer is highly regarded, with his insights reaching a global audience through the magazine's extensive distribution. Clive specialises in the restoration and recasing of early Circa 1700 orphaned English longcase movements - mechanisms that have outlasted their original wooden cases, which often deteriorate after centuries of exposure to the elements. Over the course of ten trips to the UK, Clive meticulously tracked down and brought a significant number of these difficult to locate orphaned movements to Australia, where he recased them in the traditional manner.He frequently uses well-figured local native Australian Red Cedar, Toona Ciliata, for his case-building projects, a timber renowned for its magnificent grains and admired by clock enthusiasts worldwide.Interestingly, many grandfather clocks brought to the Australian colonies arrived as movement-only pieces, with their cases constructed locally by convict woodworkers using Red Cedar and other native timbers. Clive’s work continues this historical tradition, breathing new life into these horological treasures. Remarkably, Clive's expertise was self-taught, honed through years of hands-on experience and guidance from his father. “For 38 of the past 55 years, I combined my passion for clock restoration, case building, and writing with a full-time career as a high school teacher,” Clive shares. As the Head of the Physical Education and Health Department at Kiama High for 11 years, he balanced his professional responsibilities with his deep-seated love for horology. Clive’s journey into clock restoration began in 1987, when he stumbled upon an Ingraham American gingerbread clock in a junk shop in the Hunter Valley. Its case was in pieces, but Clive, a keen restorer of early cedar furniture, was captivated by the challenge. “From that day on, I was hooked on clocks,” he recalls. To date, Clive has constructed 90 replacement cases for orphaned clock movements and restored countless others. His work often requires him to master various restoration arts, from crafting replacement parts to fretting out period-style clock hands, constructing brass-cased weights, and fabricating the myriad components needed for these intricate mechanisms - many of which are unobtainable in Australia. Each project is a labour of love, with an average of 200 hours dedicated to constructing a high-quality replacement “period style” grandfather clock case. Among his most cherished restorations is a circa 1675 William Grimes “Londini” movement. Clive recounts, “Purchasing and restoring this rare early movement and then building a replacement period-style case in early hand-cut, thick English walnut veneer for the magnificent 1675 ten-inch engraved brass dial eight-day movement was just the most rewarding experience for me. It now features in horological texts and is the centerpiece of my collection.” Clive Pickering’s dedication to his craft is not only a testament to his remarkable skill but also a celebration of the timeless beauty and intricate artistry of clockmaking. His work ensures that these historical treasures continue to tick on, preserving their legacy for future generations.

Tilley Wood’s exhibition, titled Equinox, opens at the SEVENMARKS art gallery on September 21, the day before the 2024 equinox, when the sun is directly above the equator, marking the beginning of longer days in Australia. “I live in Tasmania, where our lives are deeply influenced by the sun. Winter here is long and dark, making me acutely aware of the seasonal changes. The equinox is powerful because it signals the shift to a time of year with more sunlight than darkness. To me, it marks the start of my most active, happiest, and brightest season,” says Wood.Wood is an artist who enjoys looking at landscapes at different times of the year to see how the different seasons affect the colours and lighting of a particular place. A lot of her paintings in the Equinox exhibition feature similar landscapes that evoke vastly different emotions.“I like how similar times of year look in different environments. Last equinox I was in the Northern Territory and since then I’ve been back in Tasmania, so comparing what spring is like there to here, there’s something really interesting in contrasting those two landscapes,” says Wood.Wood’s process often begins with mixing colors on the canvas, allowing shapes and landscapes to emerge organically. “I usually start with whatever colors are in front of me, playing with them until memories and shapes appear. The painting Big Hill, lutruwita / Tasmania originated from dark colors and circular shapes, gradually evolving into the landscapes I know so well,” says Wood.Wood went to the University of Newcastle for Natural History Illustration and she says that the degree taught her technical skills and how to paint realistically, but ultimately she has found herself departing from this style of painting.“I started learning how to paint and draw in a super realistic, hyper fine way. That was a starting point for me in oils - to paint more realistic, but then working in the medium, what I love about it is the textures and how the colours sort of do their own thing when I mix them together,” says Wood.“I find that there is more interesting stuff to me in my paintings when I let it come out a bit more freely without trying to control it or represent anything precisely. In the past when I’ve tried to produce things that are more realistic, I get further and further away from the feeling of what inspired me about it to begin with.”On top of her paintings in her SEVENMARKS exhibition, Wood also has created sculptures working with wood and dried flowers. She says that all of these works were inspired by the same feeling, and that when she set out to create the exhibition she wanted to do all sorts of different things to make the experience more interactive.“I really didn’t want to just create a room with pictures on the walls that people are just looking at. I wanted to make a more physical space that people are a part of, rather than looking at something that was outside them,” says Wood.With her exhibition, Wood sets a milestone for the SEVENMARKS gallery as she becomes the first early-career artist to hold a solo exhibition in the space. Being originally from the South Coast, Wood says it was a no-brainer for her to present her work at the Kiama gallery.“Being from NSW I’ve always wanted to come back there and have more of a life there and present my work. So when the opportunity came up I thought, absolutely I can’t say no. It feels really good to be asked to exhibit in a space that is a really contemporary gallery that does work across all mediums,” says Wood.Wood’s work is very immersive and satisfies all of the senses. After viewing her paintings for an extended period of time you begin to hear and smell the environments and even see them moving through time.The opening night for Tilley Wood’s exhibition Equinox is Saturday, September 21 and her work will be featured in the gallery until October 12. 

Looking for an adventure? ‘Women Love Adventure Kiama’ (WLAK) is a great place to start. Founded in 2021 by Kathe Manansala, (known as Kathe Kiama) a local real estate agent, single mother and adventure lover, the group was born from her own challenge of meeting people after moving to Kiama. Seeking like-minded women interested in exploring, Kathe posted in local community groups. After receiving just one response, the first walk from Kiama to Kilaleigh led to the creation of WLAK.Since then, the group has grown to nearly 2,000 members, bringing together women of all ages and backgrounds, from working mothers to retirees and young professionals. Whether you're looking for social meetups and small hikes to more adrenaline-driven experiences like shark diving, surfing, and skateboarding there is something for everyone. Beginners are welcome; the local surf school can help newcomers catch their first wave, you can hire a board for practice and group hikes offer a safe way to explore the outdoors. WLAK has become more than just an adventure group. It’s a supportive space where women cheer each other on, whether trying a new hobby or looking for connection. Some members have picked up hobbies and gone from beginners to owning multiple paddleboards.While the group is women-only, Kathe explains that it’s about providing a safe space for women, whether they're out hiking with no reception or enjoying a social gathering in their home. She encourages anyone interested in starting a men’s adventure group to take the initiative, but so far, no one has done so.Balancing the group, her career, and motherhood, Kathe shares that the rewards of running WLAK far outweigh the effort. "What I get in return for what I do for free is rewarding enough. Seeing women's empowerment, the community, and all the people I've met—I started this because I needed friends, and now I have plenty."You can follow their adventures on Facebook and Instagram, and if you’re looking to join a supportive community of like-minded women, make sure to check out the group!

Kiama’s Judi Sandilands Cincotta, a dedicated volunteer with Guide Dogs NSW, was honoured y in the Senior Category of the Volunteer of the Year Awards. This recognition is a fitting tribute to Judi's unwavering commitment and the profound impact she has had on countless lives through her volunteer work.Judi’s journey with Guide Dogs NSW began in 2018, shortly after she moved to Kiama from Sydney. Although she had a long history of volunteering in other organisations while working as a nurse, her involvement with Guide Dogs NSW opened a new chapter in her life. When the Canine Court Companion Program expanded into regional areas, Judi saw an opportunity to contribute. “They were looking for volunteers strong enough to handle a Labrador, and I thought, why not give it a go?” she recalls.With a shortage of trained dogs, Judi offered her own pet Labrador to help launch the program in Nowra. “He wasn’t a guide dog, but he had the temperament needed for the job,” she says with a smile. This marked the beginning of a deeply rewarding journey.Over the years, Judi has raised six guide dog puppies, each with its own unique journey:Joplin - Reclassified during the COVID-19 pandemic to support a young boy struggling with online schooling. “Joplin stepped up in ways I couldn’t have imagined, and now he’s like family to us,” Judi shares.Xyler - Served as a therapy dog.Ollie - Currently provides comfort and support at the Domestic Violence Court in Campbelltown every Tuesday and has been a constant companion in various schools, including Warilla High and Bomaderry High, where she supports wellbeing hubs and special education programs. “It’s incredible how much a dog can help someone going through such a difficult time,” Judi explains.Claire - Placed as a pet.Cruz - Became a breeding dog for Guide Dogs NSW.Shiko - From Cruz’s first sire, Shiko is on the Guide Dog Pathway and will begin a three-week assessment soon to determine his career path.Ollie’s contributions were nationally recognised when she won the title of “Top Dog with a Job” in the Top Dog Oz competition. “It was such an honour to see Ollie recognised for the difference she makes,” Judi says proudly. Beyond her work at the Domestic Violence Court, Judi and Ollie have also volunteered at Lifeline in Sutherland, Wollongong Library, Shellharbour Library, and local police and ambulance stations, focusing on supporting the mental health of front-line workers.Judi’s work has also extended to schools, where she and Ollie visit support classes and well-being hubs, bringing comfort to students and staff alike. “One of the most special moments was when a nonverbal child said Ollie’s name. It brought tears to the teacher’s eyes,” Judi reflects. “Moments like that remind me why I do this.”Looking ahead, Judi has applied to puppy raise with Assistance Dogs Australia in 2025, eager to learn new skills and continue her journey of service. “Volunteering has given me so much, and if my story can inspire others to give back, then that’s more than enough,” Judi says.Judi’s story stands as a shining example of how compassion and dedication can change lives, and her work with Guide Dogs NSW is far from over. The community she serves will undoubtedly continue to feel the positive effects of her efforts for years to come.

Gerringong’s Joelie Robson was honoured at the Volunteer of the Year awards in the Youth Category, a recognition that highlights her dedication and passion for making a difference in her community. Her journey into volunteering began somewhat serendipitously, yet it has grown into a deep commitment that touches many lives.Joelie’s volunteering journey began with the local Rural Fire Service (RFS). “I started volunteering with my local RFS to find a way to give back while learning some skills outside of education,” she says. After going straight from school to university, she was searching for something meaningful to do. Little did she know that this initial step would ignite a passion that has only grown stronger over time. “I’m kind of the only person in my family who’s done it, and I’ve just sort of fallen in love with it,” she adds.The excitement and high-stress environment initially drew Joelie to the RFS. “I also work in hospitality, which is a different kind of high-stress environment but still similar. It was during the 2019-2020 bushfire season that I really kicked myself into doing it. It turns out I’m very good at working under stress,” she reflects. But it’s not just the fires that keep her engaged; being first responders to a wide range of emergencies has deepened her love for the work. “I love being on the frontline,” Joelie shares, highlighting her passion for being directly involved in emergency situations and making a tangible impact.Joelie’s commitment to volunteering is closely linked to her academic pursuits. She recently graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in Criminology, and is currently completing her honours year. Her thesis focuses on the barriers to using respiratory protection for volunteer firefighters, a topic that stems directly from her experiences with the RFS. “Social science looks at our relationships with each other, our behaviours, and our decisions, especially under stress,” she explains. This academic interest has evolved into a broader passion for people-centred recovery and emergency preparedness.Diverse Volunteering InvolvementsJoelie’s volunteer work extends far beyond the RFS. She is involved with several organisations, including:Rural Fire Service (RFS)St. John AmbulanceDisaster Relief AustraliaVolunteer Rescue AssociationRio Tinto Global Centre of Excellence (supporting Type 1 diabetics)Graduate School of Medicine at UOW (as a simulated patient)Each of these roles allows Joelie to give back to her community in different ways, and her passion for frontline work is evident in everything she does.As Joelie continues her honours year, she is also preparing for a new academic adventure in paramedicine. “I’m putting my feet in every sort of avenue and seeing what really fits me,” she says. Her experiences with the RFS and other organisations have shaped her understanding of the importance of both frontline work and research.Her dedication has not gone unnoticed, and she has been encouraged to apply for a Churchill Scholarship to further her studies and gain international experience. Joelie’s commitment to volunteering and her passion for social justice are sure to make a significant impact in the years to come.Joelie’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of volunteering and the difference one person can make. As she continues to explore new avenues and contribute to her community, she serves as an inspiration to others, particularly young people who may be looking for ways to get involved and give back. Her journey is just beginning, and the future is bright for this passionate volunteer.

Kiama’s David Abela’s story is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to bringing joy to the lives of children facing some of life’s toughest challenges. Honoured at the regional Volunteer of the Year awards in the Adult Category, David’s journey into volunteering with Camp Quality began with a simple desire to do more—and it has blossomed into something truly extraordinary.David’s involvement with Camp Quality began in 2022 when he joined the Camp Quality Escapade, a car rally that raises funds for the charity. “I’ve always wanted to do a car rally, and when the Camp Quality Escapade came up, I joined. It was at the first night’s opening speech by the CEO that I really saw what Camp Quality does for the kids. From there, I just wanted to do more, and within three months, I became a volunteer,” David recalls.David and his partner have taken a unique approach to fundraising, opting to sell outdoor clothing from Spika at field days, car events, and four-wheel drive shows rather than asking for donations. “In the two years we’ve been doing this, we’ve raised just over $105,000,” David proudly shares. His background in retail has certainly paid off, allowing him to engage with people in a way that feels comfortable and effective.Although volunteering was not something deeply rooted in David’s family, it has become a profound part of his life. “After two years of volunteering for Camp Quality, I get so much out of it myself. Seeing the kids with smiles on their faces, laughing, and just being able to be kids again—it’s what we’re there for. It’s a really awesome time,” David says, his voice filled with emotion.One of David’s most cherished memories involves a young boy named Diego. “We met at a family day camp, and we just bonded. His parents asked if I would be on the next kids’ camp so that Diego could attend. Diego has been through so much with cancer and treatment, but he’s such an inspiration. On the last camp, he surprised everyone by getting up on stage and dancing on his own—something he’d never done before. It brought tears to my eyes,” David recounts, clearly moved by the experience.Volunteering with children who are seriously ill can be emotionally challenging, but David is quick to praise the support system within Camp Quality. “There’s so much backup and support, which I haven’t actually needed yet, but it’s there for you. We’re like the grandparents—we have fun with the kids, make them laugh, and then give them back to their parents. It’s rewarding and fulfilling in so many ways,” he explains.David’s journey with Camp Quality is far from over. He continues to participate in events like the Camp Quality Escapade, where his bright orange Bronco, adorned with Spika branding, is a familiar sight. “We go into schools, meet the kids, and spread the word about Camp Quality. My partner Glen and I even dance in full-body penguin suits—it’s hilarious and the kids love it,” David laughs.David’s story is a testament to the power of giving back, and he encourages others to get involved. “If you want to volunteer for anything, this is the best. It’s changed my world,” he says.For those interested in volunteering with Camp Quality, David suggests visiting their website. “There’s a section for volunteers, and while there are interviews and background checks, it’s all worth it. Volunteering with Camp Quality is so rewarding,” he assures.David’s journey with Camp Quality is a shining example of how one person’s dedication and love for helping others can make a profound difference in the lives of those who need it most.Camp Quality Website: Camp Quality

Jamberoo’s Barbara Adams has long been a beacon of compassion and dedication in her community, and her recent win at the regional Volunteer of the Year awards is yet another testament to her tireless efforts. As she prepares for the state finals in December, Barbara reflects on her many years of service with the Red Cross and the countless lives she has touched along the way.Barbara’s commitment to volunteering isn’t just about raising money—it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives when they need it most. “When the bushfires hit Batemans Bay, we took $15,000 down there and gave it to the Red Cross to use as needed. I know it helped people who needed something as simple as a washing machine, and it supported one of the Aboriginal settlements down there,” she recalls. The devastation was stark, with some homes completely destroyed while others remained untouched. “It’s hard to imagine what people went through,” Barbara says, her voice tinged with empathy.The community of Lismore also benefited from Jamberoo Red Cross’ fundraising efforts when severe flooding ravaged the area. “We sent money up there, and one of the programs taught all the school children to swim, helping them overcome their fear of water after the floods,” she explains. Barbara and her team’s fundraising has not only provided immediate relief but has also contributed to long-term recovery and resilience-building in communities across Australia.Jamberoo Red Cross’ efforts extend beyond Australia’s borders. “We’ve had special donations from people for causes in Ukraine and Afghanistan, and we send those funds to where they are needed most,” she says. Through the generosity of the people in hometown of Jamberoo, the Red Cross has been able to support disaster relief efforts worldwide, ensuring that help reaches those in need, wherever they may be.One of the services Barbara is most proud of is the Red Cross’s Telecross program, which checks on vulnerable people twice daily to ensure they are safe. “We call them in the morning and evening, and if they don’t answer after three rings, we contact their family or even the police,” she explains. There’s also the Telechat program, where volunteers call people who have no one to talk to, offering companionship and support. “A lot of people out there are on their own, and this service is really beautiful,” Barbara says, highlighting the importance of community connection.While the local Red Cross has around 75 members, Barbara notes that most of them are older, with the average age ranging from 60 to 93. Despite this, she is keen to encourage more people, of any age, to get involved. “We have a parenting program that helps families get off Centrelink and back into the community. It teaches them nutrition, helps them find jobs, and supports them for two years. It’s a wonderful program that we contribute to every three months,” she shares.Barbara is passionate about the sense of community that volunteering brings. “Just come along and enjoy the companionship,” she says warmly. Whether it’s knitting trauma teddies, baking for a stall, or simply offering a listening ear, Barbara believes that everyone has something valuable to contribute. Barbara’s story is not just one of service but of community spirit and global compassion. Her dedication has had a ripple effect, touching lives across the world and inspiring others to join her in making a difference. As she prepares for the state finals in December, Barbara’s focus remains on the people she helps and the impact her work has on their lives.Her story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are always those who will step up, give their time, and offer a helping hand to those in need. Barbara Adams is one such person, and her legacy of service will continue to inspire for years to come.

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