Congratulations to Kiama artist Michelle Springett, who recently won the 'Ambience of Thirroul' Award at the Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival.The winning artwork was entitled “Matilda Kookaburra.”“This is so amazing, and I'm still in shock,” Springett exclaimed.The art festival is made possible by the support of the Austinmer/Thirroul Lions Club Inc., the volunteers who provide their skills and time, and the generous sponsors who support with funding, facilities and equipment.Springett hung her largest-ever palette knife artwork at Batch10 Cafe in Albion Park’s new shopping complex. This long weekend, 8 and 9 June, Springett has two more exhibitions: one at Kiama Leagues Club and another one at the Imaginarium in Shellharbour Village.Springett, who runs Expressive Art Experience (EAE) has not only been busy with her personal artistic pursuits, but she and her team are actively engaged in numerous activities. “Right now, there’s a lot going on – in fact, a massive lineup of Art Experiences on offer for June,” Springett shared. Here’s a quick rundown:Saturday, 15 June: Painting ladies drinking ‘Tea time or Wine time’ – hosted by Shellharbour City Council.Tuesday, 18 June: A new 'Finish UNfinished Art' class on Tuesday mornings at their studio in Kiama Downs. Participants can bring their unfinished artworks and complete them with materials provided by EAE. Book for one session or for all three.Friday, 21 June: PAINT ‘N’ SIP,  the painting theme is ‘Winter Wonderland’ at Georgia Rose Shell Cove.Saturday, 22 June: ‘Paint and Sip’ palette knife painting of your choice at Wests Illawarra.July promises to be just as exciting! EAE will be at the Kiama Winter Street Festival on July 13- 14. They will be stationed at the Old Fire Station, inviting everyone to participate in painting Daisy the Cow and contributing to the Community Mural titled 'Winter in Kiama.'Have you tried the Expressive Art Experience?EAE made a vibrant debut on R U OK Day in August 2019. Since then, Springett and her team have embarked on an exhilarating journey, bringing EAE to the forefront of diverse events. Their mission: To ignite creativity and foster meaningful connections through artistic endeavours.EAE is committed to building a vibrant community and educating through their unique programs. Whether it's homeschooling, after-school activities, or the exciting buzz of school holidays, EAE aims to unlock the potential within each individual. Their blend of art and therapy creates lasting memories and enriching experiences.

Gregory Leigh Crofts, a resident of Kiama, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) during the 2024 King's Birthday Honours for Australia. The announcement was made on 10 June, by Governor-General David Hurley.The King's Birthday Honours celebrate the achievements and service of extraordinary individuals across the 15 Commonwealth realms of King Charles III, recognising their significant contributions to society.Greg, as he prefers to be known, was honoured for his remarkable service to scouting. His involvement with the Kiama Scout Group spans 16 years, reflecting a long-standing commitment to the scouting community. In that time, he has accumulated 14 scout awards.Known by his scouting name, “Wonga”, Greg began his scouting journey in 1976. He started as the '1st Peakhurst Cub Leader' and progressed to '1st Peakhurst Scout Leader' in 1980, and to '1st Sylvania Heights Cub Leader' in 1987.In 1996, Greg moved to Nowra and joined the '1st Illaroo Cub Pack.' Two years later, he became the Regional Leader of Cub Scouts for the South Coast and Tablelands Region. His leadership skills were further recognised when he was appointed District Cub Leader for Shoalhaven in 2003 and District Commissioner a year later.Greg's leadership prowess continued to be acknowledged, leading to his promotion as Assistant District Commissioner in the Illawarra South District in 2006. In 2009, he took on the role of '1st Kiama Scout Group Leader,' a position he held for 11 years before becoming the Group Advisor in 2020. When Greg assumed leadership of Kiama Scouts, the group was nearly bankrupt. Through his tireless efforts in fundraising, including organising sausage sizzles, he revitalised the group, making it financially robust and vibrant.A hands-on leader, Greg is actively involved in maintaining the Scout Hall, managing cleaning, maintenance, and liaising with service personnel and contractors. He continues to attend weekly scout meetings and is an integral part of the committee.Greg has secured grants for solar electricity, air conditioning, and plumbing improvements for the hall, benefitting not only Kiama Scouts but also other scouting groups, who use the hall for camps and activities, utilising the scenic Kiama harbour as a backdrop.He has been a staunch advocate for keeping the Kiama Scout Hall under the ownership of Scouting Australia. Amid pressure from developers and the Kiama Council, who have shown interest in redeveloping the harbour area, Greg has tirelessly worked to ensure the hall remains a community asset. Greg has meticulously documented that the land is Crown land with a 100-year perpetual lease, underscoring his commitment to preserving the hall for future generations of local children and families.

Local swimmer 17-year-old Ivy Miller, whose long-term goal is the 2032 Summer Games in Brisbane, will swim her first Olympic swimming trials at – that’s right, Brisbane Aquatic Centre –10-15 June.In between school and her daily swim practice, Miller spoke to The Bugle about how growing up on the South Coast has influenced her swimming career, why her role model is Wollongong native and fellow swimmer Emma McKeon and making the Junior Australian Dolphin team.At the 2024 Australian Swimming Trials, which is the most prestigious domestic event on the national swimming calendar and where the Australian Olympic swimming squad will be selected, Miller will compete in the women’s 100 meter, and 200 meter, backstroke.“I’m going into the meet with the main goal of gaining more experience swimming as an open athlete rather than an age group swimmer alongside Australia's world class athletes,” she says.It will also give her an opportunity not just to compete alongside but also to learn from the best swimmers in the country.“While at the trials, I hope to be able to race the best I possibly can, with hopefully swimming some personal bests and making it into a final,” she says.Miller is as home-grown a swimmer as they come. She learned to swim at the Kiama Leisure Centre, and began to swim competitively at the Friday nights’ Kiama Swim Club from around the age of eight.A major influence in her decision to start racing has been the community of swim lovers within, and around, Kiama, she explains.“The South Coast and the Illawarra area has a lot of talented swimmers. I’ve been lucky enough through my competitive career to meet and interact with so many other individuals, who also share the same passion of swimming.”Ivy Miller, an Olympic swimmer in the making. Photo credit: WinkiPoP media.One could also say that watersports run into her blood. Miller’s aunt, Lily Gladstone, and uncle, Greg Miller, are both ex-IronWoman and IronMan respectively, who competed in the Uncle Toby’s Super Series. Her grandma, Geraldine Miller, was an ex-Australian Surf Life Saving (SLS) coach and her dad, Grahame Miller, was a bodyboarder on the world tour.“This naturally led me to be brought into both swimming and SLS as a young girl, but also my parents exposed me to these sports so I would be able to safely enjoy the beautiful coastline of our area,” she says. “Even while just having fun participating in these activities, trying to pursue them competitively was a natural progression for me since I’m a competitive person.”Miller currently swims for the Wests Illawarra Aquatic Swim Club at the University of Wollongong Pool under coach Pat Stellino.She finds her swimming squad to be a major motivator, with everyone working off each other in pursuing their goals.To be committed to her goals is actually one of her main strengths as a swimmer, Miller says, along with being very  driven.“I’m able to get myself up and out of bed in the early hours, get into the cold outdoor pool and put all my energy into having the best possible session I can have, at that point.”Someone who’s shown her that it’s definitely worth putting in the work and effort is Emma McKeon, who made history by winning seven gold medals at the Tokyo Summer Olympics. That is the most medals won by any woman in any sport.“She’s a Wollongong girl that’s now one of Australia’s most decorated swimmers, which is an amazing achievement. She’s also a very kind and humble person, who I’ve been lucky to meet a few times.“It’s also inspiring that she's a local girl, who also started out at Wests Illawarra Aquatic, showing that hopefully I can also do this, too,” says Miller. As she looks to the future, her goals are making the Junior Australian Dolphins Team and/or the Australian Dolphins Team and qualifying for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics or the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics. We look forward to seeing her at both.

Kiama Bowling and Recreation Club held a special presentation and ceremony for the naming of the Alisdair Tarbert Green on Sunday, 19 May. The number 2 green is the original club green, and is now named after life member and longest serving member Alisdair Tarbert, 90-years-old.Many close friends and family joined Alisdair and wife Jan Tarbert in celebration. Current members and players were in attendance, and Zone 16 representative Peter Ryan extended his congratulations on behalf of the Illawarra Zone. Kiama Bowling Club president Wayne Richardson spoke of Alisdair Tarbert’s achievements throughout his long career. Those include seven club Pairs, nine club Triples titles, five club Fours wins and as a member of two number 1 Pennant Flag winning teams, 1974 and 2002 respectively. Life member Trevor Jones spoke of Tarbert’s outstanding service to the club over many years, attending every working bee in support of all club works, most notably his hard work during the transformation of the number 2 green from synthetic to turf in 1994.Alisdair Tarbert’s association with Kiama Bowling and Recreation Club began many years ago when his father Peter Tarbert served as the club treasurer from 1946-66. He began filling in games at an early age, and made his mark as a talented bowler joining his brother Cameron to win the South Coast District Bowls Association Pairs in 1967. Tarbert won his first club Singles title in 1975, in a very close game 31-30 against his brother Cameron. This game was marked by his father Peter. His bowling records aside, Alisdair has been a consistent supporter of every initiative undertaken at the club and was awarded life membership in 1995. Alisdair Tarbert has now been honoured with the number 2 green bearing his name. 

Kiama optometrist Joan Comber has been helping the community see clearly for more than 40 years. Joan’s business first opened in Edessa Arcade in 1977 before moving into Kiama Centrepoint in 1983. She remains a loyal tenant and was one of the first businesses to move into the centre, which holds many cherished memories for her and her family. Joan’s youngest son, Clayton, learned to walk in Centrepoint’s arcade and played on the floor of her optometry workshop. In a lovely twist of fate, Clayton now runs a cafe and bookshop, Bouquiniste, out of the same space. “I think it's wonderful that things have come full circle,” says Joan. “Clayton finds it quite ironic that all these years have gone by and he's now working in the shop he played in when he was a toddler.”When Joan reflects on her own career of almost five decades, she marvels at how far she has come. Born in Malaysia, Joan and her family emigrated to Australia after her older brother moved here to study engineering.“He told my Mum and Dad he had no intention of coming home, so we all followed him here,”  said Joan, who planned to study medicine. She got the required marks, but six years of university was not financially feasible. So she “played it safe” and started a science degree but found it “quite frustrating”. “There were thousands of us, and it was quite overwhelming,” she says. “So, a friend suggested optometry.” It was 1969 and the class was a small one, with just 11 students. “Our year was quite unusual at the time because 50 per cent of our group was female,” recalls Joan. After graduating in 1973, Joan began her career in Sydney before moving to the South Coast with her husband Arthur in 1976, where she took over the Warrawong Gibb & Beeman franchise. Joan had no intention of opening a second optometry store, but working for a large optical retailer had its challenges. When the opportunity to own an independent optometry business in Kiama came up, Joan took it, as it gave her the chance to provide a more personalised service. "Kiama was always going to be a part-time practice because I was already a franchise owner in Warrawong," says Joan. However, her business was quickly embraced by the Kiama community and, a year after it opened, Arthur quit his job in Sydney to work in the store as an optical mechanic, building, fixing and dispensing glasses.“Arthur was a very practical hands-on person,” explains Joan. “When he was still working in Sydney, I was sending out my jobs to be done to another contractor. It was great to have him come on board and do the practical part of the optics.”Optometry became a family affair. Joan’s sister moved to Australia from England in the late 1970s to help with the day-to-day running of the business. By 2006, Joan decided to focus solely on the Kiama store, with the help of her sister and Arthur."My sister still comes in to help me on a voluntary basis sending out appointment reminders, which I don't really get the time to do,” says Joan. Arthur continued to work alongside Joan until his passing in 2018. She admits it was “difficult to continue without Arthur by her side”, and was grateful when Clayton stepped in to help.  “Clayton grew up watching, then helping Arthur when he was doing the mechanics,” says Joan. “I’m very thankful he continues to do what his Dad used to do for me, as well as running Bouquiniste.”As an independent optometrist, Joan prides herself on making and dispensing glasses with Clayton’s help. She admits dispensing is a dying artform, with big franchises like OPSM and Specsavers sending glasses away to external contractors. “Not many places offer optometry as well as dispensing,” says Joan. “Along with bulk-billing, it's a service I am very grateful to still be able to provide, and the community of Kiama seem to really appreciate that. Clayton has been known to make up glasses and deliver them directly to customers.”Joan credits her loyal customers and a sense of community for keeping her in business for so long. "I still have a passion to do optometry,” she says. “I think it's great to meet all sorts of people and help them with their visual problems. I have built some beautiful friendships over the many years of looking after customers. I have seen things come full circle; people I tested as children have now grown up and bring their children to me. It's quite rewarding in that sense.”Joan says retirement is on the cards, but she won’t be putting her feet up anytime soon.“When I first started working as an optometrist, I thought my retirement age would be 45," chuckles Joan. Whatever the future holds, there is no question that Joan will remain a stalwart of the Kiama community. Each year, from 1984 until 2016 when Arthur became unwell, the family would host an annual Christmas lunch for the community at Kiama Leagues Club.“Clayton and my older son Brendon would entertain those who attended and play the golden oldies for us," laughs Joan. Brendon now owns a sound and lighting company and works part-time at the Kiama Leagues Club as an entertainment manager. Clayton is also a DJ when he finds time between working at Bouquiniste and Joan’s optometry business.“Growing up in Kiama, Clayton and Brendon used to be known around town as Joan and Arthur's sons,” says Joan. “Now the tables have turned and I'm Brendon and Clayton's Mum! It's funny how history works, but I am very proud that they are such an important part of the community. They love Kiama, as do I.”

What a multi-sensory adventure unfolded for our intrepid local dragon boat paddlers Ann Bolton, Heather McAlpine, Ann Harrison and Julie Campbell.Dragons Downunder competing in the Venice Vogalonga. Photo credit: Heather McAlpine.There were chaotic scenes as over 2,000 non-motorised craft, including traditional Venetian rowing boats, racing skulls, kayaks, gondolas, stand-up paddlers and our Dragons Downunder team lined up. There was argy-bargy and jockeying for position as we awaited the starter's cannon. The number of different countries represented proved that 'colourful language ' had the same multilingual impact across all cultures. There were also near misses, and some boats capsized. But amidst all this was a palpable sense of shared enthusiasm and life celebration. Finally, the cannon boom echoed across the Venice lagoon entrance, and the event could begin.Carnival atmosphere. Photo credit: Heather McAlpine.The field spread out as we made our way across the lagoon, around the island of Burano and through the central canal of Murano. By now, the hard work of paddling through the exposed open water kicked in as well as the side effects of trying to keep hydrated, so we had a quick pit stop on a deserted island…Thirty-three kilometres later, the highlight was the final push to the finish line through the Grand Canal and under the Rialto Bridge. There were cheers from the crowds hugging the canal edges and every bridge; locals banging saucepans from top floor balconies and the customary "Aussie, Aussie" chant from random Australian tourists as we passed them by.The Venice Vogalonga 2024 poster. Photo credit: Heather McAlpine.As we wound down while returning our hired dragon boat (which answers the most common question we were asked prior to leaving, "Do you put the dragon boat down the aisle on the plane?"), we reflected on the camaraderie that we had formed as 20 paddlers representing different clubs from the Illawarra, Moruya, Narooma and Jindabyne.There was a sense of pride in waving the Aussie flag through our five-hour journey, and a yearning for an appropriate limoncello celebration. Salute!Written by Heather McAlpine.

Lifelong local resident, Aimee Longbottom, brings more than a decade of real estate experience to her role as a licensed real estate sales agent at First National Coast and Country in Kiama. Her role is not just a job but also a passion, driven by her love for meeting people, making new connections and helping the people in her community.“It’s a big honour to be part of such a significant step,” Aimee shares. Aimee loves connecting with locals and people wanting to move into the area and helping them through the process of buying or selling a home. The process is usually a very personal, sometimes emotional, experience, and Aimee dedicates herself to each client interaction, ensuring her devoted guidance throughout. Aimee has worked across various roles during her time in the real estate industry and has accumulated extensive industry experience. She balances her busy career with an active lifestyle, often starting her days early at the gym or enjoying walks with her dog around Kiama. She loves spending time with her daughter, family and friends and cherishes the beautiful Kiama area and lifestyle, with a strong connection to this community. “I can’t walk down the street without bumping into someone and having a chat,” says Aimee Her enthusiasm for her work is evident and she finds excitement at the prospect of being involved in such an exciting journey for her clients. She has a passion for helping people and, with keen problem solving skills, she works hard to ensure her clients get what they need. Aimee’s genuine excitement and dedication shines through in her interactions with clients. “I really enjoy getting know my clients and am so grateful when they trust me,” she says, emphasising her commitment to helping them navigate each step of the process, especially the often daunting first step. Aimee’s recent listings can be found online here: https://www.coastandcountryfn.com.au/589763/aimee-longbottom. With a life and career intertwined with the community she loves deeply, Aimee can assist with all of your buying and selling needs. If you are looking for an understanding, experienced and dedicated agent, you can contact Aimee via 0414 615 400) or [email protected]. 

It’s not everyday that an American journalist walks into The Bugle office. “I used to work in a similar-sized newsroom in Fairfield, Ohio,” Christopher Ryan says.The aforementioned journalist, Ryan, is actually Australian by birth (he was born in Perth), but moved to America at the age of one.His parents moved back to Kiama when they retired. They selected the town because it’s the furthest that you can get from Sydney, and still have a direct train line, Ryan says.He’s here for a visit, coming out about every 10 years.“Australia’s not a weekend trip,” he chuckles. Ryan’s just been for a bush walk with a cousin. They were meant to go camping, but the dreadful weather put a stop to it.Although, he doesn’t mind the rain, Ryan says. He lives in Boulder, located by the Colorado Rocky Mountains, where massive thunderstorms drenches the town during the summer months. After working as a general assignment reporter for local newspapers across Indiana, North Carolina, Florida, Ohio and Oklahoma, he switched to the technical side of the newspaper business about a decade ago. Now, he runs FutureOfNews, LLC.“I still consider myself a journalist,” Ryan remarks.Excitedly, he pulls out his smartphone to show how the interactive audio news, which he's set up, works. “Hi, Alexa. Give me the top 10 news in Colorado,” Ryan instructs. Fully automated, it draws stories from Colorado's daily newspapers RSS feeds. Within seconds, he has the biggest stories in his palm, ranging from the Northern Lights setting the Colorado sky aglow to a 50-year-old cold case murder finally being solved.Ryan’s curious to find out more about local journalism in Australia, especially how community newspapers utilise technology. He shows his bag where he’s stocked up on a variety of dailies from the newsagent. There’s a copy of the recent The Bugle in there as well.“I like the diversity of Australian media,” he comments. “Very good.”Safe travels, Ryan, and we hope to welcome you back soon again.

With winter showing every sign of settling in, and barely a fortnight of autumn left, now might just be the perfect time to cruise the Kiama Farmers’ Market, and come across the stall for South Coast Distillery, most famous for its Sublime Gin.In an era when many local beer breweries have gone bust, finally collapsing after the fall in their customer base during the many restrictions during Covid-19 and an unforgiving Taxation Office demanding the payment of postponed alcohol excise, Southern Distillery is a rare success. And it has been from the beginning, way back in 2018, recalling to mind the line: “An overnight success years in the making.” Sublime Gin was the first product the distillery released, and was an instant success, garnering awards in Australia and internationally. It pulled a gold award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and the Champion Trophy at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards.The gin and the distillery were the brain childs of founder Luke Hardy, and a group of housemates who had been “mucking around” with recipes for years. Luke and his friends wanted to make a gin as good as anything anywhere in the world, and the rest is history. Other gins, unique to the South Coast, include Illawarra Plum, Five Islands and the Navy Strength Breakwater Gin, which comes in with an alcohol content of 57.5! Nik Kelly, who mans the stall at the Kiama Farmers’ Market, says most people aren’t so much looking for a free sample as coming to buy a bottle. “A lot of locals know us,” he says. “We get a lot of repeat customers, who come every couple of weeks or so. The distillery has been a crowd favourite at Kiama Farmers’ Market, building strong support from both locals and visitors to the area.“Illawarra Plum is made from a native tree found around the escarpment. It is a thick, sweet gin and perfect to sip. It’s perfect for the colder months.It is a Sloe-style of gin, a fruit style normally made with sloe berries. This is an Australian take on a classic English gin.” South Coast Distillery has been attending the Farmers’ Market every week for the past three years. “The market was very good for us in the early years, when we were building brand awareness,” Nik says. “And we are still there.”  “They are very supportive of us and other local suppliers and small producers. It is very community focused. There are a lot of food stores, and many people come down for early dinner on Wednesdays.” For the gin fanatics amongst The Bugle’s readers, of which there are no doubt a number, World Gin Day is set for Saturday, 8 June. South Coast Distillery are planning a number of events to mark the occasion, read more at: https://southcoastdistillery.com/Kiama Farmers’ Market manager Tricia Ashelford says the hours from now until October would be 2:00 to 5:00 pm every Wednesday. “Rain or shine, the markets continue on,” she says. “Winter is still a great time for the markets. Rug up and get some fresh air while shopping outdoors. And support your local suppliers.”If conditions are too bad for the market’s normal location at Surf Beach, the Kiama Uniting Church half a block away acts as a wet weather backup.  On Wednesday 22 May, there will be a Volunteers Expo at the market. Some 24 local volunteer groups will be showcasing their organisations, and anyone with spare time to volunteer is encouraged to attend. You can find out more about the Farmers’ Market on their Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/KiamaFarmersMarket/

Zara Hall of Moruya SLSC and Archie Weir of Kiama Downs SLSC have been named the Ingenia Holiday Parks Junior Lifesavers of the Year.“I did not expect to win and I was so surprised when I got it,” Hall said. “I went through all the emotions, I was nervous, I was excited, but it means so much to me to represent the Far South Coast and my club, Moruya here.”Weir added, “I’m ecstatic, it’s been a bit of a dream of mine for a while. I’ve been in lifesaving since I was a little Nipper and it means so much to come here to this camp and be with likeminded people, it’s really expanding my horizons.” Formally recognised on Friday, 26 April, after a three-day team building and leadership development program on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the pair represented the South Coast and Far South Coast with distinction, proving that NSW is blessed with talented young lifesavers along the entire coastline.An enthusiastic and motivated lifesaver with a bubbling personality, Zara is passionate and gives so much to her club, Moruya SLSC. There she actively supports the “Same Wave” program for all-inclusive lifesaving and passes on her knowledge to younger members.Zara Hall with her mum Fiona. Photo credit: Surf Life Saving New South Wales.Judges noted she places a strong value on education, hoping to establish a program at her club that raises awareness of the beach to those visiting from inland.“It makes me so happy to represent Moruya when I think about the things the club is a part of, like the ‘Same Wave’ program,” Hall said.“I love just being at the ocean, around the club, I love competing, I love patrolling, I love everything about Surf Life Saving.”Kiama Downs SLSC's Weir, meanwhile, has several years of club experience. The panel noticed his desire to constantly improve his skills and his understanding of the important role lifesavers play on our coastline.“It was important to me that I showed that I have leadership qualities and the different ways that we can show compassion to the community through lifesaving,” he says.“Lifesavers are that sense of safety for the community and by being a lifesaver, I also get a really strong sense of belonging.”Archie Weir with his family (from left to right): sister Darcy, mum Skye and dad Adam. Photo credit: Surf Life Saving New South Wales.Junior lifesaver finalists engaged in a three-day team building and leadership development program at Collaroy, which culminated in Hall and Weir being selected as the NSW Junior Lifesavers of the Year.“I enjoyed learning about who we were and what we want to be as lifesavers, what our future is. We had some talks on that,” Hall says.“It’s been amazing, and I want to thank all the facilitators who made it possible.”About what was the highlight of the three-day program, Weir replies:“A very tough question. One of my highlights was definitely being able to meet new people, and make new friends with others also interested in surf lifesaving."Executive General Manager of Tourism for Ingenia Holiday Parks, Matt Young, says that being involved in a program now in its 34th year has given them great pride.“We have a responsibility to ensure the guests who come and stay with us go home happy and having had a safe trip, and part of that is working with Surf Life Saving NSW and helping to grow the new generation of lifesavers,” he says.“I come here at the end of the event really excited to speak to everyone who has participated. They’re all enthusiastic, and it’s great to see this generation coming through so focused on giving back to the community.”

Nobody died and the boat didn’t sink. But nonetheless, the return of the Signa to Kiama Harbour managed to create quite a stir, with locals braving the drizzling weather to occupy vantage points along the foreshore. Many people have memories of the Signa, and a significant number of them showed up in Kiama on May 8 to commemorate its return after two years in dry dock at Albion Park.After an estimated 12,000 hours of volunteer labour, the boat, which was originally launched in 1970, has been lovingly restored to its former glory with new windows, new engines, and new fittings.  Those showing up to mark the event included former charter operators, fishermen who used to hire the boat on weekends and even the children of the original builder of the boat, Bob Riddell, who built the boat in the coffin factory his boss Jack Paton owned. It was one of the first dedicated game fishing boats ever seen in Australia, and large by the standards of the day. Signa being lowered into Kiama Harbour. Photo: John Stapleton.The boat is named after Jack’s wife, Signa. Bob Riddell’s daughter, Jane Dove of Woy Woy, drove down to Kiama for the event. “Just to see the boat is fantastic, my father built it and 50 years later, it is still going,” she said. “We never got a trip on it. My father was a very quiet person, he was just going to work building a boat.”Son Greg Riddell remembers to this day the boat being launched near Silverwater Bridge in Sydney. “My father would have loved to have been here,” he says. The Riddell children might never have gone out to sea in the boat, but plenty of other people did, including, famously, actor Lee Marvin of Hollywood fame, along with Bob and Dolly Dyer of Pick-A-Box, a television program familiar to any Australian old enough to remember the 1960s. For a time, the boat was owned by the famous Sydney restaurant Doyles, which used it for their high-profile customers. A clearly delighted John Hansen, who funded the project, wants above all to pay tribute to the many people who helped restore the boat.Those he wishes to thank by name include his wife Sandra, who has been an enthusiastic supporter, Rex Jones, Richard Roman aka Don, Peter Rook, Lawrie Lovegrove, Graham Williams, Rob Hoffmeister and Geoffrey Farrer. “It was ten times bigger than we thought,” he says. “It was a labour of love. We were all retirees, they all played golf together. And once they started on the boat it was a labour of love, they just loved doing it.”Sandra and John Hansen. Photo credit: John Stapleton.As to how it all came about, John Hansen says he and a friend Rex Jones had previously rebuilt a small fishing boat and as retirees were looking around for another project. The Signa came up for sale, and the rest is history. Except they had no idea quite what they were buying into. The boat was in poor condition, having basically been rotting in the harbour for some time, and having been officially declared unseaworthy. “We suddenly realised when the boat was ours how complicated the project was,” he recalls. “We have basically rebuilt the entire boat.”As Sandra recalls: “The bones of Signa, the hull, was good, it was a good boat, it just needed attention. The deck and the roof and parts of the floor inside were just rotted. We took out nearly two tonnes of rubbish.”Signa is expected to stay at mooring in Kiama Harbour for the next several weeks as the timber boat adjusts to being back in the water, the new engines settle in and the final bits of cosmetic work, including cabinetry and carpeting. “Cosmetic stuff,” Sandra calls the final adjustments. “The kitchen’s been done, the bathroom, all the hard stuff has been done.”Sigma being maneuvered. Photo credit: John Stapleton.And there it is, back in Kiama Harbour, a boat full of memories, as many of those in attendance were quick to recall. Kevin Adams, who went out on the boat with his father, Bruce, who helped build the original refrigeration, said his father, too, would have loved to have been there. “It is amazing what they have done with the refurbishment,” he says. “They have done a great job. At the time Signa was a master, it was one of the biggest boats around built out of wood.” Wayne Hollingsworth, who before he retired to the South Coast used to come down from Sydney with a group of mates and hire out the boat for fishing trips, says: “Seeing it brings back a lot of memories. It was a good boat, solid in the water. I used to see it in the harbour in recent years, it was just rotting away.” One of the most obvious things about the freshly restored Signa is how good the woodwork, including the original teak, looks. Retired carpenter Lawrie Lovegrove, when asked why he was prepared to spend so many hundreds of hours on the project, including countless hours sanding, just shrugs: “Silly old bastard.”Well, thanks to a lot of silly old buggers, Kiama now has a beautifully restored and intriguing part of Australia’s maritime history in pride of place.  

Within the last five years, Michael Williams, his best mate Josh Walton, and his younger brothers, Ben and Tom, all played their 200th game for the Kiama Power Senior AFL club. Michael plays in the backline, Josh is a utility, Ben’s in the midfield and Tom’s a forward.They have also won three premierships together: in 2009 (versus the Bomaderry Tigers), in 2011 (versus Wollongong University) and in 2018 (versus the Wollongong Lions).The Bugle reached Michael on an morning off from work to chat about his 200 games landmark moment.1) When did you reach the 200-game milestone?“Myself, I reached it in 2022. Josh and Ben, both did in 2019. And Tom last year,” he says.Brothers Ben, Tom and Michael Williams. Photo credit: Michael Williams.2) How did it feel?“It felt really good.”“Me and Josh have been playing for Kiama since we were 10-years-old in 2000, which was the second year for the Junior club. Josh played in the first-ever year for the Juniors in 1999.”“We both started playing for the senior club in 2006, Ben in 2008 and Tom in 2010.”3) How was it celebrated that you'd played 200 games?“The whole club and team made it a big deal. It was a bit embarrassing. But the others got the same treatment, so it was good,” he chuckles.4) Did you receive anything to commemorate the occasion?“They gave us a beer mug with the 200 games engraved and the Kiama logo during the end-of-year presentation. I got it in the living room, in a display cabinet.”“It’s been a good journey, playing together with my two brothers and my best mate. I feel lucky,” he concludes.

At just 21 years old, Sam Scobie is already making waves in the real estate industry as a dedicated agent at Ray White Kiama. With a family legacy spanning three generations in real estate, Sam has a passion for his work. This is evident in his commitment to providing exceptional client services. Sam began his journey in real estate less than three years ago, yet swiftly proved his dedication. He was awarded Youth Business Person of the Year in 2022 at the age of 19. Despite his youth, Sam has extensive experience in various roles within the industry. These credentials have allowed him to develop his skills and understanding of the market dynamics. He places great value on client experience and his professional approach exemplifies this. Sam has finished his apprenticeship with Ray White and is now a licensed real estate agent. He finds his young age can occasionally be considered a disadvantage. However, his work speaks for itself. His genuine commitment to the job and his clients serve as a testament on its own.  For Sam, every day in real estate is an adventure filled with new and unique opportunities. He thrives in a dynamic and fast paced environment, and has proven he is not afraid to rise to challenges. Beyond his professional life, Sam talks of his love for the Kiama area. Having grown up in the region with no plans to leave any time soon, he knows the town like the back of his hand. This knowledge and passion enhances his ability to excel in his job. In his spare time, Sam likes to play golf, swim and spend time with friends and family. He has a laser focus for building his career and watching it grow.  Sam is undoubtedly a rising star in the industry. He has made a significant impact in a short time, no doubt with greater things yet to come. Need proof? Check out Sam’s two latest listings in Kiama Heights; a grand waterfront reserve at 42 Elanora Road & a gorgeous three-bedroom house at 24 Kalang Road.Whether you are buying, selling or seeking expert advice, Sam is your go-to agent in Kiama. You can reach him at [email protected] or 0451 523 680.

Dr Lindsay Sharp, the founding director of the Powerhouse Museum, says state government plans to move priceless objects, including one of the oldest working steam engines in the world, to Castle Hill while the Ultimo site undergoes destructive renovations “is madness”.“This proposal wastes tens of millions of dollars, destroys the campus, reduces exhibition areas by more than half, wrecks the Wran Building and Galleria and creates a completely unnecessary carbon load,” says Dr Sharp.The world-renowned museologist, who lives at Foxground with his artist wife Robyn, is a vocal member of the Powerhouse Museum Alliance.The Alliance, a group of museum professionals, former trustees and design and heritage experts, opposes plans to remove hundreds of thousands of key objects from the Ultimo site and house them in Castle Hill until the Powerhouse Museum reopens in the the city in 2027 and at its sister site in Parramatta in 2025.The original Ultimo museum opened in 1988 but closed to the public in February to undergo a $250 million renovation, with the Minns government scrapping a proposed $500 million rebuild and opting for a less costly “heritage revitalisation”, saying it would create a “world-class museum experience” when it reopens.But Dr Sharp fears that once “magnificent objects” like the Boulton Watt engine are removed from the museum it may never return to its historical home.“To put these incredibly fragile objects in Castle Hill is madness,” he says. “It is culturally unwise, unjustified and not properly planned. “First do no harm, as with medicine so with museology,” says Dr Sharp. “A museum’s collection is its core DNA. If the fragile beam of the Boulton SteamEngine is broken during transportation between Ultimo and Castle Hill it will not only be inoperable but not in a condition for display. We’re talking about a heroic piece of history.”For a museologist the proposed rebuild is heartbreaking, not least because of the risk to the exhibits but also because of concerns about community access.“All those incredible objects that are an integral part of the Powerhouse Museum collection in Ultimo will be rehoused at Parramatta and Castle Hill,” explains Dr Sharp. “That means that people who come from Kiama, or other regional areas, have to go cross country to access a collection that was right near Central train station. Visiting those [western Sydney] sites will be much more difficult, especially for school students. “The fundamental reason why museums should exist is to bring joy, excitement and real engagement to the people who own them, the taxpayers. The top down development of museums is very unwise and elitist. “If you’re going to spend taxpayer’s money you better have a jolly good business case and make sure that’s what the public wants.”Dr Sharp, who has a PHD in cultural history from Oxford University, has been the director of major museums around the world, including London’s national Science Museum Group and the Royal Ontario Museum in Canada.His overseas tenure was not without criticism and he admits his detractors accused him of being a “show pony”, at one point earning him the nickname Showboat Sharp. But back home in Australia he was lauded for his work on the development of the Powerhouse Museum. A letter to Dr Sharp in 1986 from the then Secretary of the NSW Premier’s Department Gerry Gleeson states: “Your contribution to the development of this Museum has been the outstanding single force in bringing about its completion. I certainly look forward to the continued association with the Powerhouse Museum because it will be one of the jewels of the Wran era”.There is no doubt the cultural consultant is a passionate exponent of his craft, which is why, for almost a decade, he has continued to fight to preserve exhibits in-situ at the Powerhouse Museum that he helped curate; the “jewels” that tell our history.  “There’s this idea that all museums are old hat, but that’s a very old fashioned view,” says Dr Sharp. “Other museums around the world, in London or Paris, they're doing extraordinary things with immersive experiences, using cutting edge technology, to tell stories and engage people.“If what is being proposed for Ultimo, taking out all those incredible objects and simply replacing them with immersive projections, was earmarked for a museum in London or Paris it would be laughed at by the museological profession.”Dr Sharp believes the pride of the museum's collection, the famed Boulton and Watt steam engine, first installed in a London brewery in 1785 and known as the "Mona Lisa of steam engines", might not survive a move and was effectively uninsurable. Other expert museologists agree.Between 1988 and 2018 roughly 20 million people visited the Powerhouse Museum, many came to see the famous steam engine and Catalina flying boat.“For a relatively small society like Australia that’s a lot of people,” says Dr Sharp. “When I meet people who say ‘I went there with my school and I’ve taken my children there,’ I can’t tell you what a thrill that is.”Dr Sharp’s passion for preserving culture has not waned over the decades since he embarked on his first job at London’s national Science Museum in 1976 as assistant keeper of 2.5 million images.“Museums should engage people to develop their own opinions, thoughts and feelings and have some wonderful objects as well,” says Dr Sharp, recounting the story of Norm Harwood, a colleague who discovered a priceless train carriage rotting in a field in the middle of nowhere.“A fellow museologist, an expert in trains, was driving to somewhere like Tibooburra and spotted a train carriage being used by a local farmer as a chicken coop. He knew immediately it was the third class carriage commissioned as part of the first ever train to run in NSW, from Parramatta to Sydney.“The farmer was happy to be rid of it, he had a brand new chicken coop. So a low loader was procured for 50 quid and the carriage was dragged by a tractor to Sydney where it was lovingly restored over a decade at the Eveleigh (now Carriageworks) railyard.”Dr Sharp tells this story to highlight the importance of society’s understanding of history, heritage and what is worth preserving. For most people that train carriage was a rusted piece of metal, full of chicken droppings. But its history, its story and its cultural significance is so much richer.“I feel the same way about the Powerhouse Museum, it’s worth struggling and fighting for,” says Dr Sharp.His battle, and that of the Alliance, is to ensure that balance between innovation and history occurs at the Powerhouse’s Ultimo site. He singles out the Gerringong Library and Municipal Complex (GLaM) as a benchmark.“This is one of the best municipal libraries in Australia in my view,” says Dr Sharp. “It’s got a lovely, local museum, an incredible exhibition space and some of the most excellent library staff I’ve ever come across. It’s a powerful living example of cultural engagement. And that’s what museums should be doing. That’s what the Powerhouse Museum is designed to do. [Gerringong] is my second favourite library in the world.” His first? Duke Humfrey’s Library at Oxford University where he spent his formative years studying. As for favourite museums the Powerhouse is undoubtedly one of them.Dr Sharp and the Powerhouse Museum Alliance will hold a seminar in Parliament House next month to discuss how to plan great museums.“I will never give up, while I can continue this fight,” says Dr Sharp. “Especially now that the state’s GST revenues will total $12 billion less over the next four years. This is a disastrous result for the Powerhouse Museum proposal, with more money likely to be stripped from cultural programs.” 

Local artist, activist and original Freedom Rider, Machteld Hali, continues her tireless efforts in supporting her community and advocating for the rights and empowerment of First Nations people. With the launch of her latest art fundraiser at The Tempest Gallery on 17 May, Machteld hopes to raise the remaining funds for her phenomenal $20k contribution to education for First Nations people at the University of New England. Machteld is guided by a strong desire to help, grown from some of her own experiences of hatred and discrimination as an immigrant in this country. It began in 1965 when Machteld participated in the Charles Perkins Freedom Ride run by Sydney University. The Freedom Ride was a 15 day bus journey through regional NSW and has since become a defining moment in Australian activism, now taught about in schools. The Freedom Ride was intended to spread awareness for the poor conditions that indigenous people were living in NSW at the time. Machteld recounts the Freedom Ride and the things she saw during the journey from a time where indigenous people were excluded from movie theatres, swimming pools, RSL clubs, etc. Many were living in unsafe and unhealthy conditions in reserves and missions in ‘shanty towns’. The fundraiser is aptly named “No More Eggs and Tomatoes” as a nod to the events that occurred at the Moree swimming pool. Machteld and the group of Freedom Riders were run out of town by angry locals throwing eggs and rotten tomatoes, spitting and fighting the peaceful protestors. Culminating in their bus being run off the road and their bus driver abandoning the group, leaving them stranded in the middle of nowhere. The art fundraiser will feature a diverse selection of framed artworks generously donated by Hali herself, her students and a range of local artists. Notable contributions include pieces from acclaimed artists such as Pro Hart, Auguste Blackman, Robyn Sharp, Becky Guggisverg, and Kerrina Swords.  The evening will provide food, drink and entertainment and the opportunity to bid on the art in an auction. Currently Machteld has raised $16,125 for the scholarship administered by the University of New England, with the goal to hit $20k. Machteld has hosted at least 10 workshops, some free, encouraging students to donate their work to two previous exhibitions that have helped contribute to the funds.  In 2015, the University of Sydney hosted a reenactment of the Freedom Ride with 19 of the original members on board. The changes in the communities they visited were palpable and a complete turn around to the hostility the group had faced fifty years earlier. Healthy indigenous children lined the roads into town, and the townspeople welcomed the riders with appreciation for their past efforts. Despite progress, challenges still persist and many issues related to identity loss, intergenerational unemployment and substance abuse are still prevalent in regional towns like Moree. Machteld is motivated by these ongoing struggles and believes ‘education is the golden arrow’. Reflecting on the challenges addressed by the original Freedom Ride, Machteld emphasises the importance of acknowledging and rectifying past injustices. Those interested in attending the fundraiser or contributing to the cause are encouraged to contact Machteld by email at [email protected]. Details of the gallery open night can be found here. Through collective action and unwavering dedication, Machteld aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of First Nations people, one brushstroke at a time. In a bid to continue the legacy of the historic Freedom Ride of 1965, the artist continues to be a voice for our indigenous people, reminding us all of the importance of shared community and culture.

Adélaïde Ferrière held Kiama under her musical spell on Saturday 24 February 2024. The events organiser, Daniel Rohen, welcomed Kiama locals, playfully thanking them for choosing the ‘right’ decision - to be there insead of the rugby! The night consisted of a musical composition of classics, such as Bach, Handel and Debussy and new styles including Blue Smoke, a composition by Michael Burrit remastered for marimba, the first time ever being played in Kiama. Adélaïde, known for her exceptional talent on the marimba, carefully crafted each piece to be compatible with the instrument, adding a new experience for the audience. For compositions I was more familiar with, such as Rhapsody In Blue from Gershwin, it almost felt like a whole new song. The meditative, soft and mellow sounds of the marimba are almost a direct dichotomy from the bright timbre of a piano. Still, Adélaïde played them with conviction, effortlessly navigating the massive instrument with four mallets.A highlight of the evening was the debut of a new arrangement of "Blue Smoke" by Michael Burritt. Those in attendance had the privilege of being among the first in the world and the first in Kiama to savour this rendition. Daniel Rohen expressed pride in the overwhelming community support, evident in the filled church, and eagerly announced the upcoming classical concert on 7 April, featuring the 30th and final tour of Goldner String Quartet. We were very thankful to be able to chat to Adélaïde after her performance. She was ecstatic to be doing her first performances in Australia - and more excited for her holiday here after the tour. She explained to me that the technique of using two mallets in each hand took her ten years to master. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her precision and musicality. Check out these amazing images from the show and keep an eye on our whats on page to stay up to date on upcoming Classical Kiama Concerts.

At its magnificent location around the Memorial Plaque and Flagpole at the Eastern Headland overlooking the ocean, the Gerringong Anzac Day Dawn Service was both beautiful and moving. On a fine, clear morning, under a bright, full moon, I was completely taken aback when sudden, spontaneous tears rolled down my cheeks while listening to the powerful rendition of Redgum’s ‘I was only 19’, performed by locals Merryn Lee Perez and Chris Cutting. It left me contemplating music’s well-documented role as a catalyst to elicit emotions not readily revealed and just beneath the surface - to link us to our memories, stories, past experiences and to each other. It turns out that Merryn, the singer whose voice had evoked such a strong visceral response, had been instrumental in bringing a program of music to the Dawn Service in 2017. Working with Gerringong RSL sub-Branch President Michael O'Leary, she introduced musical tributes into the ceremony in memory of her late father. They had also been keen to include music as a means of attracting more young people, so as to educate them about Anzac Day and keep its spirit and significance alive. There are many examples of brave locals who have served our nation. Merryn’s father, beloved local RSL member and highly-decorated war hero Wing Commander Roy Walter (Nugget) Hibben DSO AFC, commanded a helicopter squadron in Vietnam in 1969-1970, flying a number of very dangerous missions, and had previously served in Korea. Merryn spoke of her father’s bravery in war, his humility and his kindness.

Kiama Rugby’s opening game on 13 April didn’t only mark the club’s first win of the season, but also Scott Duncan’s 300th game for the club. The Bugle caught up with the long-time Kiama player, as he reflected on this impressive milestone. Duncan becomes the seventh player in the club history with 300 games under his belt.How was it running out for your 300th game?“Pretty emotional, actually. Everyone, friends, family and the whole club, were there supporting me. My dad passed away earlier this year, in February. He had supported me during my whole career. We had spoken a lot about my 300th game. It was a funny feeling that he wasn’t there,” Duncan says.“When Mick Cook and Al Marsden, former players, presented me with the jersey ahead of the game, they said that dad’s looking over me.”Reflecting back, is there any game or any period that has stood out in particular?“Look, we were pretty successful in the early 2000s. We won a couple of grand finals.”Kiama Rugby won the first grade premierships in 2002 and 2003, and the Illawarra club championship in 2003.“Every game, I’ve really enjoyed. All the people that I’ve met. Every time I go to New Zealand, I visit people. I know guys in Ireland,” Duncan adds. What are you looking forward to this season?“Just that the club has recruited really well. It’s probably the youngest second grade I’ve ever seen. Lots of really good juniors. It’s shaping up to be a cracking year,” he concludes.Quick factsAge: Turning 42 this MayBorn and bred: KiamaHome club: Kiama Rugby Football Club (I started playing for Kiama Rugby in the juniors in 1995).Position: I play in the forwards mostly at #8. But when I was younger (and faster), I played at #7 (openside flanker). I can also play inside centre, if called upon. 

Gerringong couple Judy and Kevin have taken up the task of rallying support in the community for an Indigenous youth-centred program in Australia’s Central West. Down the Track (DTT) works with disengaged and marginalised youth aged 10-20, who live in remote areas, such as Lake Cargelligo and Murrin Bridge, Central West NSW. Judy and Kevin are passionate about the cause, contributing to help the program “keep kids alive, out of jail and thriving.” The program focuses on early intervention, providing pathways to real and sustainable jobs, education and community connections for Indigenous youth. By offering diversionary activities, training and mentorship, Down the Track aims to empower young people to reach their full potential and break the cycle of disengagement. Youth crime, anti-social behaviour and youth incarceration have seen a significant decrease since the commencement of the program.Judy and her husband moved to the Gerringong area to advocate for Down the Track in their local community. They hope to inspire others to join the cause by raising awareness about this incredible program. By working together, they believe that no young person should be left behind. In line with the beliefs of Down the Track, they want to see young people given every opportunity to reach their greatest potential. To learn more and find out how you can support a good cause, visit Down the Track and sign up to their newsletter.