When you sit down with Suzanne Eggins, you quickly realise you’re in the company of someone who doesn't just love history, she fights for it. Over lattes in a local café, Sue unpacks a lifetime of preserving the stories, buildings, and people that have shaped this community.Sue began her career as a science teacher before heading back to university to complete a psychology degree, later becoming a school counsellor. When she moved to Kiama in the mid-1980s, her visits to the local museum and a fascination with historical houses sparked a journey that has shaped not just her life, but the legacy of Kiama itself.“I’ve always been drawn to history,” Sue says. “But it’s not just about what’s already happened, it’s about making sure people care enough to protect it for the future.”Sue has led the Kiama & District Historical Society for decades, wearing the dual hats of President and Secretary. She organises monthly talks, heritage tours, and the endless paperwork that comes with liaising with council, the National Trust, and NSW Heritage. It’s work that requires dedication and being in it for the long haul, but Sue seems to thrive on it.Take Barroul House, the original historic homestead on the site of the old Kiama Hospital. “I fought for 30 years to save it,” she says. “Now it’s restored. But the Kiama Police House? That fight’s still ongoing. You win some, you keep fighting for the rest.”Heritage isn’t just bricks and mortar, though. Sue lights up when talking about Orry-Kelly, the Hollywood costume designer from Kiama, and Charmian Clift, Australia’s greatest essayist. “Both are icons. I fought for and won a Blue Plaque (installed in public places to bring to life the stories of people who have shaped NSW) for Charmian last year, and I am supporting Orry-Kelly’s nomination which is on the shortlist,” she says. People should know their stories, they’re ours.”Bureaucracy, council micromanagement, and dwindling funding have all tried to derail Sue’s efforts over the years, but she soldiers on.“History matters. You have to stand up for it. It’s not glamorous, but it’s worth it. Heritage connects people to where they live. It’s not just about saving the past, it’s about making this place worth fighting for.”Sue Eggins isn’t just preserving Kiama’s history, she’s safeguarding its soul.

Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club (KCCC) first grade captain, Jaya Hartgerink, has achieved an incredible milestone, surpassing 350 grade games for the club. The 41-year-old batsman, who first donned the Cavaliers colours in 1993 as a junior, made his debut in grade cricket in 1999, and has since become an integral figure in the KCCC’s history. Hartgerink’s 350 games include a record-breaking 261 matches in the top grade, a feat that stands as the most in the club's history.KCCC life member Bill Peters praised Hartgerink’s longevity and consistency, saying the fact he has continued to play at the highest level for such a long time is testament to his skill and dedication.“He hasn’t played lower grade cricket more or less since he started playing grade,” Peters says. In his first year of grade, in 1999, he played second grade and then the next year he played first grade. And the only time he’s ever played second grade since then is when the club dropped out of first grade for a couple of years.”In addition to his remarkable consistency, Hartgerink led KCCC to their maiden Sommers T20 trophy in 2022, steering the team to a thrilling win over Lake Illawarra. He played a pivotal role in the victory, scoring 40 runs, the second-highest total for his side.Despite his individual achievements, Hartgerink attributes much of his longevity to the camaraderie and mateship within the club.“I’ve made a lot of good friends at Kiama, and many of them are still playing with me,” Hartgerink says. “Some of these guys I’ve been playing alongside for 25 years. It’s also great to see the younger players coming through, which helps keep the team dynamic fresh and rejuvenates you.”Hartgerink’s commitment to the club extends beyond just playing. His passion for ensuring the future of KCCC is something he holds dear. “Going out with 11 guys each week and having a crack - that’s what matters to me,” he says. “I still enjoy it, and if I can help the younger players coming through, that’s where I’m at now. I’m committed to making sure the next generation of Kiama cricketers have a place to play in the future.”Peters, who captained Hartgerink in second grade during his early years at the club, spoke glowingly of his long-time teammate, both on and off the field.“He’s always been a committed player, and he’s such an affable bloke,” says Peters. “When Jaya’s got a smile on his face, it’s pure magic. He’s a fantastic person, a great friend, and always positive. His success is well deserved.”This season, the KCCC first grade team has had a mixed start, with two wins and three losses. But with players like Hartgerink at the helm, the team is eager to finish the season strong, with a crucial match against Shellharbour on November 30.The Bugle extends its congratulations to Jaya on an extraordinary achievement and looks forward to seeing what he accomplishes next!

You may have seen Mrs Marlie when she was being driven, in all her glory, around Kiama. Covered in flamingos, the 13 foot, 1962, restored Millard caravan was not easy to miss.Although the owners, Patsy and Rob Daley, are no longer local, their gorgeous caravan left a lasting impression in Kiama and across New South Wales, even making it into Bunnings Magazine.The Daleys originally set out to buy a vintage caravan in 2022, but nothing seemed to meet their hopes and dreams.The original caravan“We looked around for a while, but I am a bit fussy. I needed a loo and a shower and I definitely didn’t want a modern one. I wanted one with funny, quirky colours and that sort of thing. But nothing was coming,” says Patsy.That was when they stumbled upon a 1962 Millard caravan in Canberra that was mainly gutted, but that Rob felt had a good outer shell which they could work with.“We drove off the next day back to Kiama with a caravan behind us going, Oh my God, what have we done? And once Rob got into it, he realised that there were lots of leaks. He just basically said, I'm going to gut it and then completely reframe it,” says Patsy.Before the restorationAnd so began the Daleys’ journey of completely redoing the interior of the vintage caravan. But it wasn’t just any renovation; it had to stay true to the spirit of the era.“It had a wooden frame, like many caravans from that time. Rob replicated that frame and rebuilt the cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom area because, as a builder, he could do it. He wanted to make it authentic,” says Patsy.Once Rob completed the structural work—adding a built-in bed, kitchen cabinetry, Patsy’s much-desired toilet and shower, and even a BBQ housed under the bed—it was Patsy’s turn to bring her vision to life. That’s when the iconic flamingos were born.“By then, I was like, Oh, come on, come on. I'm not getting a go here yet. So then I was like: I get to paint the doors. I get to do this. I get to do that. I always wanted a flamingo style caravan and I got my wishes there.”FlamingosBut Patsy doesn’t take all the credit for the pink flamingos, she wanted to make it clear that Rob was as keen on them as her. “I even got him doing the outside flamingos, because he's actually quite good at drawing and painting as well. So he actually did freehand flamingos on the outside, which I could never have done. Mine are quirky. His are more realistic,” says Patsy.The entire renovation process took six months. The finished caravan is a kaleidoscope of colour and quirky details, exuding a retro vibe that makes Patsy’s “heart sing.”“I’m not really a grey or beige person,” says Patsy. “And being around something that looks like this just lifts my mood.”Finished interior of Mrs Marlie Throughout the project, the Daleys focused on sustainability. They upcycled materials from past projects and sourced supplies from Australian-owned stores.“We love to upcycle, recycle and create. We tried to keep everything we did mainly within Australia, because we like doing that. We also love recycling. A lot of the stuff was from our garage that we used previously from other things. We just don't believe in waste,” says PatsyMrs Marlie, who is named after Rob’s late mother, is still thriving. Rob and Patsy have taken it on holidays and to different vintage caravan shows and there are a few upcoming ones in the Illawarra - so who knows? Perhaps we will be able to spot Mrs Marlie and her pink flamingos back in Kiama someday.You can find Mrs Marlie’s Instagram account here to follow Patsy and Rob’s journey.

Gerringong author Lisa Darcy’s latest book Christmas Actually is the perfect stocking filler for avid readers. Following on from the theme of its famous namesake Love Actually, and in keeping with the yuletide spirit, Christmas Actually is ultimately about humanity: putting others first and showing kindness, says Lisa.“My publisher wanted my new novel to have a festive theme, specifically set in Australia – sun, surf, sunburn and prawns,” she says.“Christmas Actually is a snapshot of modern family life; addressing Instagram to motherhood, and everything in between. A common thread throughout my novels is women finding the strength to move forward when faced with challenging circumstances.“These characters deal with real-life circumstances such as divorce, betrayal, heartache, and addiction, with behaviours that are unpredictable, messy, flawed, and generally lead to more chaos with a sprinkling of humour.”You can pick up a signed copy of Lisa’s latest novel at her author talk at Gerringong Library.Lisa will join children’s book author Alison Tait for a conversation on December 6, from 5-6pm. The event is free, but bookings are essential. Christmas nibbles will be provided and books from both authors will be available for signing and purchase. For more information visit Kiama Library’s website. With Christmas just around the corner, Lisa Darcy shares her favourite holiday reads with The Bugle.A book Lisa couldn’t put down:Dirrayawadha (Rise Up) by best-selling Wiradyuri author, Dr Anita Heiss, is an outstanding Australian historical novel - truth-telling through fiction, a story of love and resilience in a time of war. In Anita’s acknowledgements, she writes “Dirrayawadha is probably the most important book I will ever write.” I believe her. This is definitely a story that needs to be told. Dirrayawadha should be on the curriculum list of every high school in Australia.A book readers can get lost in at the beach? Richard Osman’s frolic, We Solve Murders. His novels are funny, easy to read, and his characters are always well-rounded. His entertaining murder mysteries are easily read on a lazy day at the beach.A book that left an impression on Lisa? Watermelon by Marian Keyes. I think she is brilliant. Keye’s is funny and incredibly talented, and I admire her enormously. Her writing always seems so effortless even when her characters are dealing with serious issues like alcoholism, divorce and disease. I get in the heads of the characters that inspire me - the heroine triumphing over adversity - and am with them on their journey all the way. A book that challenged Lisa’s perspective on a topic? I was never a fan of fantasy or sci-fi. But when my boys were pre-tweens, they were into Harry Potter, then when my daughter was a teenager, she loved the Twilight series. I read these books because my kids did. It opened my eyes to many more genres. A book Lisa hopes to find under her Christmas tree? Something that surprises me. Last Christmas, my daughter and my partner both gave me Paul Barbera’s Book, House Cat. This year, I hope they chat before gifting me a book, but give me something equally as wonderful as House Cat.Why should book lovers put Christmas Actually on their wish list? Christmas Actually is a universal story about rebirth, love and redemption, packaged in fresh wrapping. Familial expectations don’t fade into the background just because Christmas is looming. All of Kate’s family – her parents, husband, sister, children, and friends – demand something from her, whether that be love, time, acceptance, food, or silence. Kate’s at breaking point, and something’s got to give. She can’t even find the time to haul the Christmas decorations out from the garage. And there’s no Christmas tree. This book reminds us that despite our imperfections, it is never too late to admit our past mistakes and ask for forgiveness. Love, in all its incarnations, need not be out of reach.Competition time: Email us at hello@the buglenewspaper.com.au for a chance to win a signed copy of Christmas Actually. The winner’s name will be drawn out of a Santa hat.

Jamberoo resident Colin Hollis has received the prestigious T.A. Stuart Memorial Award, the highest accolade awarded by the Rose Societies of Australia and New Zealand.The award honours individuals who have provided outstanding service to the promotion and cultivation of roses across Australasia. Colin was presented with the accolade at the National Rose Championships and Conference, held recently in Melbourne.Reflecting on the honour, Colin described it as "unexpected."With over a decade as President of the Rose Society of New South Wales, Colin also serves as National Vice President of the Rose Society of Australia. He is also a dedicated member of the Illawarra Rose Society, which boasts 100 members—the largest in the state—and serves as the volunteer coordinator at Kiama’s Peace Park.Despite challenges, including the park’s shady conditions and pervasive tree roots, Colin and a small team of 6–8 volunteers maintain the garden with dedication each week - making do without the shed that they wanted to house their tools in. Colin humorously notes the garden’s unsuitability for roses with all the tree roots, yet it remains a well used feature, attracting locals and visitors alike. The Illawarra Rose Society provides all the roses for the space, while Kiama Council handles basic grass maintenance. Peace Park also serves as an educational space, with preschool children helping to plant flowers during term visits. A great bonding experience for both the children and the volunteers. The garden has further been enhanced by a brick paved walkway, an initiative spearheaded by Winsom Barker. The project, funded through the sale of personalised bricks, celebrates community spirit while contributing to park improvements. Bricks are still available for purchase via the Council website.The National Rose Society, comprised of representatives from each state, meets annually. While Melbourne hosted this year’s event, Brisbane will take its turn in 2025, with New South Wales welcoming delegates to Camden in 2026.Recently there were some rose thefts at the garden but the culprits have not come to light as yet. Disappointing after all the effort the volunteers put in. Colin’s dedication for 21 years underscores the vital role volunteers play in fostering a love of roses and enhancing public spaces for everyone to enjoy.

As part of The Bugle's support for the MV SIGNA making its way to Tasmania, we’re excited to bring you a weekly series of stories about the ship and its dedicated crew.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 first series of stories will focus on the six crew members who are manning the ship as it embarks on a journey across the South Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea to reach Tasmania for the International Timber Boat Festival.Richard “Don” Romanczukiewicz is an electrician by trade, he has worked as an electrical fitter and finished off his career as a high voltage generator technician - but he says wiring the MV Signa’s electrical system was one of the hardest in his long career.“This is probably the most challenging project I’ve ever done. I’ve been around and I’ve got a lot of knowledge of high voltage and boats. But never the 12 volt system and the alarm system that’s going on the Signa,” says Don.Don had to redesign the entire system from scratch—a massive job that he didn’t expect when he first came on board. “When I started, I didn’t think it would be this big. I don’t think John had any idea either. Things kept going wrong, and more issues kept popping up,” he says.But Don credits Google, the challenge, and the camaraderie with friends as the things that got him through it.“It’s amazing what you can do with Google. I had no idea what I was doing with this system, but watching videos helped a lot. I also needed a challenge like this to get my brain working again, especially since I’m retired now,” says Don.“I’ve made a lot of friends. There has been a lot of joking around, having a go at one another and I’ve really enjoyed that as well.”Don’s love for the ocean and boats began during his time working on a prawn fishing boat in the Gulf of Carpentaria. “We’d be out for three months at a time. So, I really love the ocean,” he shares.And where does this nickname Don come from? “My full nickname is Don Primo because I’m famous for my salami,” says Don with a smile. And this reporter can confirm Don’s salami is second to none.If you’d like to see Don Primo make it to Tasmania for the Wooden Boat Festival, The Signa crew is still looking for donations. If you’d like to pledge, please get in touch with us here or email [email protected].

Kiama Council’s Councillor Stuart Larkins has been awarded one of the Councillor Pat Dixon Memorial Scholarships for 2024. Cr Larkins received the scholarship of $5,000 to support his Master of Public Policy studies at the University of Canberra.This award supports eligible Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students councillors and council staff in NSW, enabling them to pursue further education, professional development, or research.“Receiving the scholarship in remembering Cr Dixon means a lot to me, as an Aboriginal councillor, continuing and paving the way for Aboriginal people who contribute to the work of local government and the community,” says Cr Larkins. “I believe that education and professional development are lifelong, as it does not start and end at school and I’m always trying to learn new things.” The annual scholarships were created in recognition of Cr Dixon, who was the first Aboriginal woman elected to local government in Australia. “Cr Dixon was a pioneer for Aboriginal people in local government, being elected to Armidale Council in 1983 and a Labor member,” Cr Larkins says.The late Cr Dixon serves as an inspiration for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, thanks to her outstanding contributions in local government. The goal of the scholarship is to encourage more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to pursue careers in local government and serve their communities. It also aims to provide opportunities for building technical and leadership skills, empowering participants to mentor others and promote First Nations culture within local government.“As the first Aboriginal person elected to Kiama Council, I’ve been really pleased to advocate for local reconciliation and for greater awareness of our shared history and culture both in Kiama and along NSW South Coast,” says Cr Larkins. “I’m driven by a passion to help people, and I believe local government should be able to work for everyone.” Cr Larkins’ achievement reflects the ongoing impact of Cr Dixon’s legacy, encouraging future generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders to pursue careers in their local governments. 

 For Mike Cains, Kiama isn’t just a place; it’s a cherished home that has shaped him as much as he’s shaped it. Since he arrived in 2008 with his family to establish Pecora Dairy, he’s felt a profound connection with the landscape and the people. The vibrant community, brought to life by his experiences at the local farmers’ market, became the heart of his journey in Kiama. “We feel that we’ve nourished the community, and that the community has nourished us, not just by way of food, but by way of soul and connection,” he shares.Mike’s commitment to sustainability is evident in everything he touches, from his dairy to his renewable energy work. As he steps into his new role as councillor, he envisions a Kiama that thrives on responsible, community-driven growth. “We can do two things at once,” he explains, with a passion for balancing environmental and economic sustainability. “Thinking about our future sustainably means looking after both our finances and our environment. It’s not just about cutting costs—it’s about building a stronger, resilient Kiama.”One of his primary goals as councillor is to keep Kiama “shovel-ready” for project opportunities, so the region can take advantage of grants and funding when they arise. Mike recalls a time when Pecora Dairy, alongside local partners, secured a grant to install solar panels and batteries on their farms. “We were able to get a grant because we gave the funding body confidence that we had done all the background work to ensure our project was ready to go,” he reflects. “Kiama’s council needs the same forward thinking. We shouldn’t wait for a grant to come up before we decide how to respond. Our community deserves a council that is prepared, that plans strategically.”In a growing region like Kiama, balancing development with preserving its character is no small feat. Mike believes that the key lies in thoughtful, deliberate planning. “We mustn’t let Kiama sprawl unchecked,” he insists. “Our natural beauty and green landscapes are a gift. We need to ensure that growth respects what makes this place special, from the rolling hills to the village feel of our townships.”Mike’s commitment extends to supporting local agriculture. “It’s about creating opportunities that keep agriculture alive and vibrant in Kiama.” he saysYet Mike knows his role is not just about policies; it’s about making the people of Kiama feel heard. He supports re-establishing council committees focused on planning and infrastructure to give residents a voice in shaping their community. He’s also an advocate for community groups that bring local issues to the forefront. “I feel uncomfortable that we don’t have community voices and councillor voices actively discussing the future of Kiama,” he says. “People need to feel they have agency, that they’re not just being talked at, but truly listened to.”Mike’s deep respect for community funds is also clear in his views on council spending, particularly the recent increase in legal expenses. “We have a duty to represent the community, but we also have a fiduciary duty to spend their money wisely,” he says. “If we’re fighting battles with little chance of success, we have to ask ourselves, ‘Is this really serving our community?’”Mike’s vision for Kiama is one of sustainability, responsible growth, and community empowerment. He believes that by planning strategically, listening to the people, and valuing what makes Kiama unique, the council can build a future that benefits everyone. As he puts it, “Kiama’s beauty isn’t just in the landscape—it’s in the people and the spirit we share. That’s what I want to protect and grow.”

Over two years ago, Kiama local Holly-May took a brave step toward seeking stability in her life, enrolling in the Workforce Australia program at APM Kiama. After years of personal challenges, including 25 years in and out of incarceration, Holly-May was determined to create a better future for herself and her daughter. Through support from her employment consultant, Taleah, Holly-May set clear goals for her life: manage her mental health and secure a stable home for herself and her daughter. Holly-May’s journey began with a cleaning job which provided financial relief, until she expressed interest in a career in traffic control. APM helped her pursue the necessary training to get her the qualifications needed. Holly-May and Taleah worked together to reach out to local traffic control companies, and her persistence paid off when, in October 2023, she was offered a role as a traffic controller in Nowra.Now, a year into her new career, Holly-May continues to grow professionally with the support of APM. She has completed additional qualifications, including her Red Card and heavy machinery tickets, and feels confident with the trajectory of her career. Thanks to her stable employment and ongoing support, Holly-May was able to rent a house on a farm in Kiama, where she and her daughter enjoy a safe and secure home. Holly-May’s transformation is a powerful message of resilience and the importance of community support in helping individuals overcome barriers and grow.

Community, connection and kindness. These are the things that helped Kiama Council Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters find moments of light in the darkness that descended after her son’s suicide four years ago.They are also the things she brings to her new role where she wants to promote cultural change, to hear all points of view and to weigh up what’s best for the greater good. “I believe in supporting each other, working as a team, I believe in connection, not division,” says Cr Matters who will never forget the kindness, compassion and support the community showed her family after her 18-year-old son Sam’s death.It’s why she stepped up to be a voice for the people.“I want to support the community that supported us,” Cr Matters says. “It took me a couple of years to come out the other side of Sammy’s suicide. But the community was there for us when we needed it. Now that I’ve adjusted to the reality of life without Sam, this is my chance to give back.” A third generation member of Gerringong’s Miller farming family, her community roots go deep. So do her connections. Cr Matters has been serving Gerringong locals since her first job as a teenager at Honey Surf Shop (now Natural Necessity) more than 40 years ago.From the age of 23 to now, the mother of three boys has run several successful businesses, first in Gerringong, then in Sydney, before returning home to open The Hill Bar and Kitchen seven years ago, with husband Dean. “When I opened my first business in town my son Josh was 10 weeks old,” Cr Matters says. “He grew up in the shop. I’d be working with him by my side and realise he was missing again. He would bum crawl down the arcade to the chemist to ‘help out’.” Helping out appears to be a family trait. Cr Matters joined the Independent ticket to garner support for close friends, Cameron McDonald, who was elected mayor in October, and Erica Warren. “When I signed up for this, Cameron told me I was safe at number three (on the ballot ticket) and wouldn’t get into local council,” she laughs. “So I saw myself as a support for Cameron and Erica, people I strongly believe in. I’m still wondering how I made that leap from running safely at number three, to becoming deputy mayor.”But Cr Matters is never one to shy away from a challenge. She was voted in as deputy by her fellow councillors, a testament to their faith in her ability to get the job done.“Since Sammy died I decided I was going to make the most of every opportunity I’m given,” she says, fighting back tears. “I’m like a sponge, I love to learn, I want to soak it all up. I find the council business papers fascinating and I read every one of them. I really respect the time and effort that goes into them.”She admits she can get frustrated by the “slowness” of decision making in local government.“In business you have to be quick on your feet, local government is a different process,” she says. “I’d like to see things done a little more efficiently, but I’m getting better at being patient.” Kiama Council was placed under a performance improvement order two years ago for failing to meet its legislative responsibilities in relation to its financial management. The council is now a step closer to having this order lifted. The NSW Audit Office, responsible for overseeing the council’s financial improvements, this month gave the organisation’s 2023-24 financial statements the tick of approval.With the council’s finances back on track and a new team of councillors, Cr Matters believes this could be a “turning point” for the council. “We are all quite young, six of the nine of us went to Kiama High School and many of our teachers were there to support us on election day,” she says. “We all have strong community connections. It is an opportunity for us as councillors to work together with council and the community to service the community’s short-term and long term infrastructure needs in an area that is rapidly growing, like all coastal towns.”Housing development is a key issue for both local and state government and Cr Matters is keen to start working on strategies to “get the balance right”.“We can’t say ‘oh no not in my backyard’ there needs to be considered and sustainable growth for new families moving into the area, and for retirees who want to downsize but still want a small yard or garden,” she says.“I would love to look back, down the track, and say ‘we got this right’, we kept the village, the community and the connections while also making space for new families to join it.”Cr Matters’ biggest concern is not having enough time to achieve all the things she would like to do for the community in her four-year term.“There is a lot to do in four years and I hope we can fit it all in,” she says. “But I am confident councillors can work together as a team, with the council, to get the best outcomes for the community.” 

Local resident Darren Parlett has been a dedicated member of the Roo Theatre Company since December 1991. From his first performance as the lovable Scarecrow in The Wiz, Parlett has delighted audiences in over twenty productions. Now, he is thrilled to be part of the cast in the Roo Theatre's latest pantomime, The Little Mermaid.This lively show follows the classic story of Ariel, the Little Mermaid, as she dreams of exploring the surface world. True to pantomime tradition, the production is packed with humour for all ages - there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.Parlett will take on two roles in this production: the sailor, Mac Erol and the understudy of the villainous Jones, one of the henchmen. He will be taking the stage as ‘Jones’ in three out of the ten shows. In one of the show’s musical highlights, Parlett will belt out the iconic Killer Queen by Queen. As anyone who has tried knows, Freddie Mercury’s vocals are notoriously challenging, but Parlett is undeterred. "What a challenge it is... I'm nailing it!" he laughs.But the spotlight might not only be on Parlett—his award-winning dog Charly could make a surprise cameo. “My dog Charly might be in the show too,” Parlett said. “I’m taking him to rehearsals, and so far, he’s doing really well… We’ll just have to see how he goes." One of the directors even told him, “I think this might be Charly’s big stage debut!”Charly is no stranger to the limelight, having already earned accolades in the local dog show circuit, winning Best Groomed at the Kiama Show in 2024 and Best Dog in Show at the Port Kembla Fear Fest as well.Charly, Best Dog in Show at the Port Kembla Fear Fest As a long-time member of The Roo Theatre Company, Parlett is passionate about encouraging others to get involved in the arts. "Get involved, meet new friends, and you never know—doors might open," he says. "You don’t have to be a ‘NIDA graduate’ to perform. We’ve had people walk through our doors who have gone on to have professional careers in the arts." For anyone wondering where to start, Parlett is clear: "The Roo is for you."In addition to his theatre work, Parlett has branched out into film, making appearances as an extra in shows like Return to Paradise on ABC, season 2 of NCIS: Sydney, and even sharing the screen with American comedian, Will Forte, in Sunny Nights.Parlett’s dedication to the arts is truly inspiring. For locals who’ve always wanted to get involved in theatre, this may be the sign you’ve been waiting for. As Parlett puts it, "At the Roo is where your dreams can come true."The Little Mermaid will hit the stage from the 10th to the 25th of January 2024 at The Roo Theatre, you can find information and tickets here. It would make a great Christmas present for someone!

Orry-Kelly was a three time Oscar winner who worked with celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Bette Davis and Katherine Hepburn. He has credits on 300 films which include titles like Casablanca, 42nd Street and Some Like It Hot. When he died in 1964 his pallbearers included Cary Grant, Tony Curtis, Billy Wilder and George Cukor and his eulogy was read by Jack Warner.You would expect a man like this to be widely celebrated and known in his home country, especially his hometown. And yet, ask the majority of people in Kiama if they know who Orry-Kelly is and they would be hard-pressed to give you an answer.Yes, Orry-Kelly was born in Kiama in 1897 and lived here until he moved to Sydney at age 17. He won three Academy Awards in 1951, 1957 and 1959 and he is known for the way he would tailor the clothes toward the actor and the character.Other than a few artefacts featured in the Pilot’s Cottage Museum and the Orry-Kelly stage in Hindmarsh Park - Orry has not had much prominence in his hometown.President and Secretary of the Kiama Historic Society Sue Eggins says that this is an improvement as when she joined the organisation in the middle of the 1980’s they had no record of Orry-Kelly at all.“No one knew or had heard of Orry-Kelly, I hadn’t heard about him and we didn’t even have a file on him in the museum. We had a file on his father William Kelly, but nothing on Orry. All they had was that they thought his name was Horace,” says Eggins.Eggins first found out about Orry in 1994 when she was handed an 8 page Vogue Magazine article written by Karin Upton Baker.“That was just a wonderful article,” says Eggins. “And from that I started talking about him. I’ve probably done a hundred talks all over - some for the historic society, the library, Probus clubs, the Lions club, Apex clubs, lots of bus groups that come to the museum - so I’ve been preaching about him but still no one seems to have heard of him.”In 2015, Australian Director Gillian Armstrong (Little Women) released the film Women He’s Undressed, a documentary film about Orry’s life. Eggins is credited as a researcher for the film.“The producer Damien Parer came down a number of times and then Gillian Armstrong contacted me and she came down a number of times with Katherine Thompson, who was the scriptwriter for the film,” says Eggins.“I drove them around the town, showing them the different places. I picked a lot of spots that they could film from, they wanted photos without the highway and the trainline so I showed them that. I picked out a dozen photos from the archive, which were photos of the town around 1890 and the 1900s as that’s when Orry would have lived here.”Eggins felt the film might have brought Orry-Kelly back into the spotlight, but she still feels he hasn’t got enough awareness in the local area. As a result, Eggins and a group of individuals called Kiama Icons and Artists are planning a major event to celebrate Orry in July, 2025 at The Sebel.“He was a little boy in Kiama who went off to become a Hollywood star. He was the only Australian for a long time with three oscars. It’s been ten years since the film, so anything to get Orry back into the spotlight,” says Eggins.“This event will celebrate Orry’s life, his movies, fashion, art, plays - everything. And I just hope that he finally gets that recognition he deserves.”If you're interested in supporting this celebration, join Kiama Icons and Artists on December 1 at 3 PM at The Sebel. Together, we can honour Orry-Kelly and ensure his legacy is remembered. More information about the event can be found here.

When Ian Clifford glances out of his window after dark he always checks to make sure Kiama Lighthouse is shining bright.An electrical engineer who has worked in radio and television and now does contract electronics and communications work, Mr Clifford has made it his mission to try and ensure all 142 heritage lighthouses across Australia are maintained and preserved.Source: Kiama Historical SocietyMr Clifford is president of Lighthouses of Australia, a volunteer-run organisation tasked with promoting, protecting and preserving the hundreds of lighthouses that dot Australia’s coastline. It is a lifelong passion that started when he was a young boy growing up near the famous Cape Byron lighthouse.“We would roam the headland as free-range kids and annoy the keeper to take us up,” he recalls. When Mr Clifford moved to Kiama more than 30 years ago he was delighted to discover the lighthouse, which he can see shining in his windows, was an integral part of the community. One day he noticed Kiama’s iconic beacon wasn’t lit up, so he “went to some pretty great lengths” to contact the relevant custodians to ensure it was fixed. When it happened again NSW Transport and Maritime Services entrusted Mr Clifford with its maintenance.“I’m almost like a modern-day keeper,” says Mr Clifford. “The custodians handed me a key and said ‘we’ll call you if it doesn’t work’. So on the rare occasion it needs to be fixed, I sort it out. But it’s very reliable these days.”When lightning struck the tower in 2017, Mr Clifford was part of a team tasked with removing the electronic system installed in the 1970s. It was replaced with an LED conversion system that turns off at sunrise and on at sundown.Mr Clifford still checks nightly to make sure the iconic lighthouse burns bright. “I automatically glance at it every night and say ‘yeah it’s working’,” he laughs. Kiama is one of 350 working lighthouses across Australia. Built in November 1886 for £1350 pounds, it was lit up for the first time on New Year’s Day, 1887. For more than three decades a keeper would continuously light an oil-burning wick throughout the night to ensure the beacon - originally a green light - alerted ships to the dangers of Blowhole Point. Gas replaced oil in the early 1900s and by 1920 the lighthouse was unmanned. Kiama Lighthouse was electrified in 1969. “Kiama, like many heritage lighthouses, still has its original glass lens manufactured in 1886,” says Mr Clifford. “A UK company developed an LED array that could be retrofitted to the optic lenses of heritage lighthouses, some dating back even earlier than the 1880s. The heritage of these lighthouses might be a legacy from the past, but I see it as a gift for the future.The Iconic Kiama Lighthouse“Lighthouses are such a visible and rich part of Australia’s maritime heritage. They are a symbol of safety, strength, resilience and security and remain an exceptionally reliable navigational tool, even with the invention of GPS.“Many lives were saved because without lighthouses there was nothing for ships to navigate by at night, especially when it was cloudy. It is our job to preserve and protect that history and to share those stories.”Earlier this month Mr Clifford was invited to speak to experts from around the world at the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities meeting in Sydney.Kiama Lighthouse got a mention in his speech. So did Point Perpendicular, whose light was deactivated in 1994, 95 years after it was first turned on. Mr Clifford and the team from Lighthouses of Australia have worked tirelessly for the past 25 years, lobbying to have the Jervis Bay lighthouse returned to a heritage site and the lights switched back on permanently.Kiama Lighthouse's optic lens“Hopefully we are successful," says Mr Clifford. "The area where I can really make a difference is working with the custodians to try and achieve conservation of heritage lighthouses as much as is practical. Lighthouses of Australia have come to realise the public is very interested in the heritage of our lighthouses. Kiama is a great example of that, it has an incredibly high visitation rate and there is always someone in front of it taking a photo.”

On October 12 and 13, 47-year-old Minnamurra local Rob Mason completed his 36th ultra marathon at the Hume and Hovell Ultra Marathon event in Tumbarumba.An ultra marathon is defined as any run longer than the standard marathon distance of 42 km, ranging from 43 km to distances as extreme as the self-transcendence 3100-mile race (nearly 5,000 km), the longest recorded.The Hume and Hovell event was 100 miles (160km) and Mason finished third overall with an impressive time of 21 hours and 51 minutes. This race marked Mason’s return to competition after a year-long hiatus due to a hip injury“I was a little nervous going in, wondering how the injury would pull up, especially after the ten-hour mark, but it went really well and I ran probably better than I ever have. I did have a few issues during the race—I got lost, and my stomach went bad—so I had to deal with a couple of setbacks that cost me a couple of hours, but I managed to come through them and get a strong finish,” says Mason.Mason has been running ultra marathons since 2009 and considers his 2022 win at the Coast to Kosciuszko run one of the highlights of his career.“That course starts at Eden and ends at the top of Mt Kosciuszko. All in all, it’s a 240 km race, and I won that in 2022,” says Mason.So why do it? Why run these insanely long distances over and over again? Mason says that it allows him to realise he can do things he never thought possible.“When you go for those longer distances, it really becomes a mental game, and that’s where I love to find out what I’m capable of,” he says. “I think the sport becomes addictive because you're growing as a person while you’re training and realising that you can do more than you previously thought. I think humans limit themselves, and these races prove that you can do things you think you can’t and break down those limits you put on yourself.”Mason believes that these mental challenges and hardships not only allow you to run longer distances, they also allow you to test your limits in everyday life - if you can run 240km, what can’t you do?“It’s such a confidence builder and it helps you believe in yourself. If you can run 100 miles, then you can start a business, and you can be a great dad. It teaches you to go after things that you think you’re not capable of,” says Mason.In addition to his impressive running achievements, Mason has been a professional firefighter for 25 years, currently serving at the Shoalhaven Fire and Rescue. Throughout his running journey, he has raised over $21,000 for the burns unit at the Children’s Hospital in Westmead.His hip injury actually occurred while training for one of these charity runs—an ambitious run across NSW.Mason describes crossing the finish line after such an injury as one of his sweetest moments in the sport, which is why he hasn't yet chosen his next event.“I haven’t picked the next race yet—I’m trying to enjoy the feeling of this one. But I am back now, and I’m back stronger and wiser since the injury,” he says.

The Kiama Lions have been supporting carers at the Lions Cottage by providing much-needed respite. For the second time this year, three carers have enjoyed a three-night stay at the cottage, along with goodies donated by local businesses.The Kiama Bowling Club, conveniently located across the road, donated three dinner vouchers for each group. The Grand Hotel contributed three bottles of wine, while the Kiama Farmers Market provided a basket filled with meats, jams, eggs, and a variety of fresh foods.Tracey Barker, Naomi Bowden, and Jackie Garvin are all dedicated to caring for their children with various illnesses. Their commitment has taken a toll on their mental and physical health. Although they didn’t know each other before, they have connected through their shared experiences and the need for some time to themselves.Tracey’s daughter, 19, has Down syndrome. An unfortunate injury left her husband working from home, which allowed Tracey to join the women at the cottage. Tracey's dedication and care for her daughter led to chronic stress that resulted in a heart attack last year. She reflects, “{chronic stress} It's the one thing that is very hard to manage because it's not going anywhere.” When offered this opportunity, she found it hard to let go of her responsibilities, “I haven't done anything like this before, I met with my support coordinator and when she mentioned it, my heart honestly was just racing, I was like I can't do this I cant go away… we've probably only been away a handful of times from our children.” Tracey felt anxious but realised she needed to prioritise herself “I really know I need this, and my heart attack was the biggest wake-up call.”Naomi cares for her 13-year-old son with autism and often encounters a lack of understanding from others. “Trying to educate anyone on disabilities is really hard… people often say, ‘He doesn't look disabled.’” The women all agreed that this notion is common for them. After a traumatic birth, she fought for mothers’ rights, contributing to the NSW Birth Trauma Inquiry that collected over 4,000 submissions. She shares her story to empower others. “I did that stuff for me to make sure no one else experienced what I've gone through,” she says. “I don't want anyone to feel alone.” Naomi now runs the Illawarra Baby and Child Loss Support program, helping women with similar experiences.Jackie cares for her son with schizophrenia and faced her own wake-up call after suffering a stroke and a brain tumour. It was hard for her to be unable to help as well as she wanted “As a mother, the worst emotions in life are the feeling of helplessness and hopelessness,” she shares. She's struggled to receive the extent of help she needs through housing, funding and caring. Through her struggles she keeps a positive outlook saying “Life is so precious; as a carer, every day is a good day if my son is well.”All three women felt guilt about leaving their responsibilities but recognised the offer from the Lions Club as the perfect chance for respite. They often struggled to focus on their own needs after years of caregiving, feeling that “there's always someone worse off.” This mindset made it difficult for them to accept help.Their message to everyone is clear: ask for help when you need it. Don’t suffer in silence. It's important to care for yourself and prioritise your needs also, as Jackie puts it, “Everyone wants to have a life, don’t they?”The women are enjoying swims at the beach, good food, massages and shopping in the heart of Kiama, thanks to the Lions Club and their sponsors. A sincere thank you to Tracey, Naomi, and Jackie for sharing their stories, and to Cheryl Moses president of the Kiama Lions Club for organising this.

Deputy Principal of Dapto High, and Kiama’s own Darcy Moore has been awarded The Peter Davison Award for contributing to the study of George Orwell. Darcy was presented the award for new discoveries relating to thirteen letters written by George Orwell to sculptor Siegfried Charoux which appear to have been previously unknown to scholars. The 2024 Peter Davison Award is the second year it has been awarded, with Darcy receiving the honour from George Orwell’s son, Richard Blair. Through independent financing and without the support of a University, Darcy has completed considerable research in Europe and India, contributing to years of his work. The award recognises Darcy’s dedication to independently studying Orwell’s life and writing, providing significant new information to scholars. Held on Thursday 24 October 2024, Darcy received the award at University College, London by The Orwell Society.Congratulations Darcy on this prestigious achievement!For more information on Darcy’s work you can find it here https://www.darcymoore.net/2024/10/27/dear-charoux/

Send entries into [email protected] author Kirsten Nixon, a registered nurse by trade, always dreamed of being a writer. So in 2021 she decided to “bite the bullet” and forge a career in the book business.“All my life I’d really wanted to write a book, or have something to do with books. So I started talking to friends and family who had their own small businesses to find out how you would go about being an author.“They started telling me really important and inspiring stories about how they set up their businesses and I knew I needed to capture them, shine a spotlight on these women, and get their stories out into the world.” These stories became Kirsten's debut book, Voices of Entrepreneurial Women: Inspiring Stories of Small Business Owners and features 17 women mostly from the local community who transformed their dreams into thriving small businesses.“The book highlights the resilience, creativity, and determination of women entrepreneurs who have overcome many obstacles to succeed in their ventures,” says Kirsten.“Their stories inspired me to write a book, even though I was completely clueless about how to go about it. So I wanted to make sure the book included practical advice for anyone looking to start or grow their own business.”The book has tips, heartfelt advice and relatable stories of women who work in manufacturing, retail, wellness, hospitality, and artistic/creative spaces. Women who feature in the book come from a diverse range of businesses, including Kerry Fahey of Kerry’s Klothes, Sue Clelland from Saltwood Café & Lifestyle, Olivia Deroche from Wax Lyrical bookshop, Jo Quirk from Revive with Jo beauty, Lillie Nixon from Nixon's Cleaning and Maintenance, Emily Simpson from Full Bloom and Dianne McNamara from Punkin Head Air Sports, which makes aircraft covers for light planes. Artists Arabella Gypsy, Nicole Brown and Deborah Dicembre also feature in the book along with website designer Michelle Barraclough, Robyn McKean from Myotherapy, Balance your Body, Peta Godfrey from Travel Focus Group, Alyse and Alison Mitchinson from Arlo’s Garden, Lucy Nixon from Shoalhaven Professional Bookkeeping and porcelain doll maker Di Godfrey.“The women I spoke to are amazingly resilient,” says Kirsten. “When you think of what they’ve gone through with floods, fires and COVID it’s been a really tough time for them, but they hang in there and continue to inspire those around them.“I found out when I was writing this book that it really does take a village and the women who feature in it are so supportive and encouraging of each other as a community of small business owners.”When asked if she has achieved her dream she laughs and says: “Yes! That’s the crazy part about it, after interviewing all these women I’ve come full circle. I’ve got a book that I’m very happy with and I've also started my own small business.”Since publishing Voices of Entrepreneurial Women: Inspiring Stories of Small Business Owners Kirsten now runs her own writing business, Broughton Creek Publishing. She says writing her debut novel has enriched her life and she wants other women to be inspired to follow their dreams. “I hope this book serves as a beacon of hope and a source of practical wisdom for all women who aspire to make their mark in the business world,” she says. “The beauty of this book is that it has top tips from each of the businesswomen, along with themes that run central to all of their stories: love what you do; have the courage to have and go;persevere when things are hard and value and educate yourself.”The Bugle has a copy of Kirsten’s book to give away to one lucky reader. We are inviting people to nominate an inspiring woman in your life who you think deserves a copy of Voices of Entrepreneurial Women: Inspiring Stories of Small Business Owners - email your nomination to [email protected] to go in the draw to win a copy of Voices of Entrepreneurial Women.Copies are also available from https://kirstennixon.com/ and Amazon https://amzn.asia/d/iHOa4dj  

The Miss Multiverse competition took place on Friday, October 18, 2024, at the Sofitel, Sydney Wentworth. Kiamas very own Chelsea Jones, who represented the Wodi Wodi people and Australians alike in the competition, achieved First Runner-Up, earning a crown and $7,000 in prize money. “I am feeling so absolutely proud for being able to showcase who I truly am and where I come from.” Chelsea said.“This experience has been like none other, I want to thank the whole team at Panache International for supporting and guiding me through this journey, without this team this dream would not be possible. “Live your truest form of yourself and your dreams will follow, this is only the beginning.”  If you haven't read our previous article on Chelsea, we encourage you to do so. Her journey is inspiring, and the judges clearly recognised her talent. Congratulations Chelsea, we are all so proud of your achievement!

Kiama knows the names Kiki and Pascal, but who are the people behind this hilariously cheeky duo? Tamara Campbell and Dave Evans have a rich performing history and have created opportunities for themselves and local artists. They’re bringing “The Kazador Experience” back to Kiama from October 31st to November 24th. With talents ranging from kids' shows to magic, burlesque, and plenty of comedy, there’s something for everyone.Making a career in performance is no easy feat. Dave noted, “When we first moved to Australia, we’d come here from the European festival circuit where there is a rich, rich source of work, everywhere, almost all the time…“When we came here, there’s a lot less work… So we decided fairly quickly that we should create our own company.”The duo loved the freedom of running their own shows without having to compromise artistically to please councils or sponsors.Tamara agreed, saying, “It’s kind of in our DNA, I guess… I always used to say that I didn’t want to be a waitress waiting to be an actor.“I think both of us just came from a background of creating our own opportunities rather than waiting for someone else to discover us.”The pair are dedicated workers. Tamara has a vast network across Europe, from when she arranged three to nine-month tours, managing everything from accommodation to bookings and travel. Remarkably, they even completed a nine-month tour with their then four-year-old and newborn. “It was freaking bonkers,” they both agreed.They branched into running their own festivals 13 years ago, shortly after they started ‘The Kazador Experience’. Tamara reflected, “It’s quite scary to take those risks and produce your own stuff because you don’t have anything to fall back on. No one’s paying you.”The duo has always been committed to ‘bringing the arts and theatre to the people’. “That’s what the Kazador is… It’s bringing it here to Kiama, to a small place, so that people don’t have to travel to have a high-quality arts and culture experience,” said Tamara.“The idea that the arts and culture are elite or not for everyone is a misconception. “Art and theatre are great community builders, just like sport. Australians often connect through sport, but we’re still in the process of teaching people that the arts are not scary or elitist—they’re actually really fun and a great way for people to come together.”One initiative they started to achieve this goal is ‘Friday Wine Downs’, a free performance outside the Kazador Tent. Dave explained, “The first one was quite well attended, and by the end, it was heaving with people—a wonderful community gathering.“It wasn’t like a concert where people had to sit and listen… It was really relaxed…. If you wanted to get up and dance, you could. It was just the community hanging out in a lovely location.” During the upcoming Kazador Experience, they’ll be hosting Friday and Sunday Wine Downs for the Kiama community.The Kazador tent is specially curated to create an electrifying and portable performance space. This space gives smaller towns the opportunity to see dazzling theatre without the hassle of going into a big city. Dave said, “you're taking a theatre to the people as opposed to trying to get the people to the theatre.”“And so a whole lot of people who would never normally step through the door of a theatre were like, oh, yeah, give it a go. It's my local festival or whatever. They’re dedicated to providing opportunities for local talent to perform close to home. “We don’t have a theatre here (in Kiama). We don't have a cinema, or even many dedicated music venues.“We don't have all those trimmings and wonderful things that you have in a city.“It’s important to have a theatrical space,”Tamara reflected on the differences between performing in Europe and Australia. “Sometimes, when I mention I’m a performer, people ask, ‘Where would I have heard of you?’ “In Germany, they celebrate the ‘kleine Künstler’—the little artist—just as much as anyone on TV.“I feel like in this country sometimes it's like, well, you're either famous or you mustn't be any good. “I suppose I want to demystify or just encourage people to engage with creative stuff. It's the kind of people who are way more into cars or horses or whatever they're into, and yet they'll walk into a tent and experience a show and leave going, oh, that was awesome. And then they'll come back to see another one, another one. And it's that sort of it's that little chipping away, I suppose, at how, how great this, this can be.”Tamara has a personal philosophy that the arts can save the world. Her thinking is that coming together through arts could actually decrease a lot of tension and problems by engaging people more with creative pursuits. “Laughing together is a magical thing.” she said. She explains that comedy is like holding up a mirror to yourself “It gently asks you to look at yourself in the way you think. It puts things under the spotlight for you to think about. And it's so interesting that comedy is now becoming a thing that's quite difficult, because you can't say that. You can't say that. You can't say that, when in actuality, I think we need to keep pushing through and keep holding up that mirror because it helps us to be better people.”Tamara and Dave are well known for their hilariously cheeky characters Kiki and Pascal. The characters were born out of a need for growth in their performance and it took a while for them to fully round out the characters. Originally the characters were going to be French, Dave explained that the names Kiki and Pascal were born when trying to think about the most cheesy magic names they could. However when he said this during a radio interview in France, he put his foot in his mouth when the translator for the interview revealed his name was Pascal.. And his wife's name was Kiki!Despite this slip up, Kiki and Pascal persevered and have been entertaining for over 15 years of laughs. Kiki is set to undergo her final evolution in this upcoming season. “I’m doing a show called The De-masking of Kiki, where Kiki will start the show, and I’ll transition from her into myself… sharing my life story.” says Tamara. To support local artists and talent, make sure to buy your tickets and catch some shows. There’s truly something for everyone. “It’s a great thing. If it’s not supported, it won’t keep happening” said Tamara. To show your support for local arts visit The Kazador Experience for a line up of the shows and tickets. The duo will also be hosting the Kiss festivals ‘Kabaret’ again this year, to see more and get your tickets, check it out here - https://www.kissartsfest.com.au/kabaret-2024.