Korin Koutsomihalis is an inspiring and tireless high achiever and award winner. Via her Gerringong-based small business SOUL FIT CO, located at the Gerringong Bowling Club, Korin proactively seeks out networking opportunities, active community events and awards programs, to inspire all Australians to move together. Korin primarily sees her passion for fitness, her awards and achievements as a means to fulfil her life’s purpose to help more and more people live long, healthy and meaningful lives. Korin has a particular passion for working with and helping older Australians.Situated on Dharawal country, SOUL FIT CO is registered with the indigenous collective  Supply Nation as a multi award-winning fitness and wellness business. It was named Illawarra and South Coast’s Local Business Award Winner for Outstanding Fitness Service 2023, AUSactive Roll of Honour Award 2023, AUSactive National Personal Trainer of the Year 2023 and Break The Bias Platinum Award Winner 2023. The business  is currently a finalist in the National Australian Small Business Awards, with the winners to be announced later this month. Korin winning Illawarra and South Coast business awardSOUL FIT CO strives to foster equality, acceptance and support in a safe and socially inclusive space for people of any background, ethnicity or social group, age, ability or fitness level. Korin says SOUL FIT CO encourages everyone to work at their own pace, celebrate who they are and always empower each other to move together for a better life. Participants have included people with dementia, physical disabilities including visual impairments and Parkinsons, frail and aged participants, and those recovering from knee, hip and shoulder surgeries. Korin says the entire operation is about ‘bringing people together through connection-driven experiences where they can smile, laugh, sweat, challenge, share, meditate and move!’ SOUL FIT CO’s regular classes are named according to their focus – ‘Strong’, ‘Golden’, ‘Woman’, ‘Spin’ and ‘Boxing’. I first met Korin in 2021 at SOUL FIT CO’s indoor/outdoor ‘Strong’ class, towards the end of the Covid lockdowns. Her positivity, drive and determination to encourage participants to push on and stretch ourselves was immediately evident and infectious. The tough workout was easier with her motivational words and sense of fun. Our hard work was rewarded at the end with a lovely, long, relaxed guided meditation in a beautiful setting at the back of the Bowlo, half under the stars with the sound of the surf as background. Korin aims for her classes to be ‘medicine for the body and therapy for the mind’.Korin describes her ‘Golden’ session as ‘a class to celebrate the essence of feeling amazing as a mature and wise Werri local’. Undertaken standing or seated, or a combination of both, it offers strengthening exercises combined with elements of balance, core activation, Tai Chi, relaxation and mindfulness. Golden Class at SOUL FITHer star ‘Golden’ class participant, 103 year old local Bev Sherwood is active and healthy, and was a motivational speaker at the Australian Masters Games in late 2023. Korin describes Bev as ‘an inspiring local Australian, super senior and an incredible role model of healthy ageing’. Korin’s classes cater to all ages, and her youngest participant is 10. Bev Sherwood at Golden ClassPresenting Korin’s award for Kiama Council Australian Citizen of the Year 2023 mayor Neil Reilly enthused ‘She is a worthy recipient of our Citizen of the Year Award for 2023’. Of her classes he said ‘Korin’s method of group fitness instruction focuses on diversity and inclusion. This goes beyond the profession to a sincere involvement in, and contribution to, the holistic health and well-being of our local community’.SOUL FIT CO is currently working with academics from the University of Wollongong to collate exercise data on the older attendees of its weekly Golden class. Class attendees have so far documented their activity level and quality prior to taking classes, any history of falls and so forth, and have shared how participation in the Golden class has improved their health, fitness, quality of life and connection to community. SOUL FIT CO’s proprietor Korin Koutsomihalis is hopeful this will lead to a further regional health study which could increase access to mobility and movement classes nationally for thousands of Home Care and MyAgedCare registered participants, to aid in falls prevention and strengthening, and to enhance the community connection and participation for isolated and physically impaired older Australians. 

Councillor Imogen Draisma may only be 25 years old, but her worldly views and leadership skills demonstrate a maturity beyond her years. Growing up in the Kiama region and now a primary figure guiding the community through a period of rapid change and growth, Councillor Draisma discusses the trials and tribulations that have shaped her.Cr Draisma moved to the region when she was four years old, shortly after the separation of her parents. She recalls a childhood that was a bit of a mixed bag and – despite a supportive community she always had a sense of not entirely fitting in. “I lived with my single Mum and two brothers in the worst house on the best street on the Minnamurra River – but had been in about four rentals prior. Because we moved around a lot, my sense of self and home was based around people rather than place,” she laughs. “I spent a lot of time running around the streets of Minnamurra with no shoes on. “A group of kids used to hang out every holidays. Over the years, I kind of became a leader of the group.”Surprisingly, though, Cr Draisma did not undertake leadership roles during her primary years – apart from being Vice Captain of her sporting team, Bradman, which under her helm rose from the ashes to reclaim the relay title. While feeling like she never quite belonged as a child growing up around Minnamurra, she later went to Wollongong High School of Performing Arts where she focused on establishing her own network. “I used to hang out with all the boys and was very assertive about how I wanted things,”” she recalls. I was the odd duck, but that actually really shaped me.” Cr Draisma can now reflect on the social complexities experienced in her younger years with new-found understanding, having discovered she was on the autism spectrum 18 months ago. Her diagnosis, far from being a barrier, gave her the insightful ability to work with it as opposed to it working against her.“As a result, I have very unique perspectives on things. It has made it a lot easier to understand some aspects of myself and how I operate.”Two influential people in her life who also helped shape her sense of self are her grandparents, who lived nearby and she often stayed with throughout her childhood. Whilst her Mum was busy supporting her children in a practical sense, her grandparents focused on supporting her interests and abilities.“My grandma taught me how to sew. My grandfather made furniture that fit under the coffee table that I could use to draw and paint. They focussed on what I was capable of from a young age.”This relationship offered her curious and creative young mind space to ask complicated questions and digest mature answers – including around politics, which became the fabric of her career. “They made me aware of politics and how it impacted my life. I had a lot of complications with my kidneys growing up. I had intensive surgery for chronic urinary reflux which probably saved my life. My grandparents talked to me about Medicare and explained that the surgery was because of things the Labor Party implemented to ensure healthcare accessibility.”This adult environment nurtured an awareness of the ways politics presented in her life, including: her single Mum accessing Centrelink, school demountables replaced by classrooms as part of stimulus programs implemented during the Global Financial Crisis, and watching Kevin Rudd’s Apology to Australia’s Indigenous peoples in a computer lab. Cr Draisma’s former dream of studying costume design at the National Institute of Dramatic Art in Sydney following high school was thwarted by the costs. Instead, she embarked on a double degree – Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Law at University of Wollongong. It was there that her involvement with the Labor Party began, back in 2017. With local elections looming, two of her close friends rightfully saw her profound potential and dragged her – admittedly half-heartedly – to her first Labor Party meeting at the Uni Bar. Before long, she became a prominent voice advocating primarily for the marriage equality plebiscite. She was  just 18 years of age. However, her university degree was paused when tragedy struck her family in 2019, the situation compounded by the Covid pandemic. “One of my brothers took his own life, which was really hard. And then we went into Covid. It was a very isolating period going through grief. It is something you never really recover from, but you learn so much about yourself when you go through those intensive traumatic life events. Resituating myself into what I wanted to do with my life really changed after that.”Shortly after, following pandemic-related rainchecks, Cr Draisma ran for Kiama Council in 2021. Given there had previously been very little diversity in the Council, her campaign was met with contrasting praise and pessimism within the community. “There was a movement started by women in the community called ‘more than one’, promoting change within our Council. There was also a push from the Officer of Local Government and minister, who provided a grant and regional workshops for women running for election.”Other parties who were less receptive to political diversity gave Cr Draisma a greater drive to succeed in doing positive work within and for the community. “The biggest thing I had to prove was not that I adhered to the party’s values, but that I was competent. One audience member at a community forum asked if I could actually read a business paper! I wanted to make people feel uncomfortable and rethink their understanding of what leadership looks like. You cannot do the same thing and expect different results.”Cr Draisma has taken some steep professional and personal learning curves following her council appointment, particularly during her periods covering for Cr Neil Reilly as Acting Mayor. She has been involved in unravelling the financial dire straits inherited from the previous Council. And she is often accosted at community meetings, which she views in both empathetic and realistic lights.“People can come across emotively about issues they have with Council or a particular decision – and that is understandable. On the other hand, community apathy towards politics can lead to the worst outcomes. However, a lot of it comes from them not understanding. Community expectations can far exceed the Council's resources.”Particularly with the next election looming later this year, Cr Draisma continues to set her sights high. “I feel I need to be where I can make the most positive change. We desperately need more arts and cultural spaces. Essential workers not being able to live in town is another issue to overcome, so I am also passionate about working with the community and partners to deliver more affordable housing.”As the region inevitably grows, Cr Draisma continues to encourage diversity and change. “You cannot expect this town to look the same, the people to be the same. If you make an enemy of change, you will lose the battle. We have to be part of the change process. I think we need more change, more diversity in our leadership. My legacy is that I am not the last of how leadership can change in our community.”Particularly when someone is a prominent figure leading a community through controversial times, it can be easy to forget that everyone has a story that has inspired their genuine desire and drive to help. Cr Draisma is not shy to tell hers in the hope it may encourage others. 

John Salmon Dentist, situated on Railway Parade, has been warmly welcomed by the local community. Having arrived at the practice last July, initially under the stewardship of Keith Lester, they officially took over the reins of the dental practice on September 1st, 2023. John runs the practice alongside his wife Rebecca, who serves as the practice manager. Hailing previously from a long practice in the Southern Highlands, they are enjoying the sea change! In an era where dentistry is increasingly corporate, John and Rebecca aim to defy this trend. For them, being a dentist means more than just providing services; it's about creating enduring relationships with their patients, "healthcare should be about caring for people," said Rebecca. John's commitment to his craft is evident in the fact that he has had clients follow him to three different dental practices. Recognising the anxiety that often accompanies dental visits, John is resolute in creating a soothing environment for his patients. Their philosophy is simple yet profound: to bring joy to their work while making a difference in people's lives. Unlike many dental practices fixated on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), John and Rebecca's focus remains squarely on compassionate care.Moreover, they are eager to shed light on a government initiative aimed at promoting dental health among children. The Child Dental Benefits Schedule, administered by the NSW government, offers up to $1,095 in benefits over two consecutive years, covering essential dental services. The Salmon's advocacy for preventative dental care is their belief that early intervention can mitigate the need for extensive and costly dental procedures later on. You can find more information about this initiative here. John describes the transition as somewhat of a blur. The overwhelming support from the community has exceeded their expectations, keeping them busier than anticipated. Despite the challenges, they are steadfast in their commitment to serving the community and are working towards expanding their hours to accommodate the growing demand.John and Rebecca Salmon embody a refreshing approach to dentistry—one rooted in genuine care, empathy, and a steadfast dedication to improving oral health for all. Have you had your regular check up? Give the Salmons a call on (02) 4233 1313 to book your appointment today. 

The NSW Government, in collaboration with the NSW Police Force, has declared a $500,000 reward for information regarding the mysterious disappearance of Pauline Sowry over three decades ago. Pauline, also known as Pauline Lawrence by marriage, vanished under suspicious circumstances in December 1993, with her last confirmed sighting by family members in the northern suburbs of Wollongong.Despite exhaustive investigations over the years, Pauline's whereabouts remain unknown. In 2008, a Coronial Inquest concluded that Pauline had likely passed away, following an unconfirmed sighting in 1994. To reignite efforts in resolving this enduring mystery, Strike Force Anthea was established in 2022 to reassess the circumstances surrounding Pauline's suspected disappearance.To bolster ongoing inquiries, Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley has announced a substantial $500,000 reward for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for Pauline Sowry's disappearance or death. Minister Catley expressed the NSW Police Force's unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth for Pauline's family.Acting Assistant Commissioner Southern Region, Darren Brand, expressed optimism that the reward announcement could catalyse a breakthrough in the investigation. He appealed to individuals within the community who may possess crucial information about Pauline's fate, urging them to come forward and assist in providing closure to her loved ones.Pauline's son, Jason Lawrence, who travelled from Western Australia for the appeal, expressed his hope that the reward would prompt those with pertinent knowledge to step forward. Jason highlighted the immense loss endured by Pauline’s family over the past three decades and implored anyone with information to come forward and provide the answers they have been seeking.Anyone in possession of information pertaining to Pauline Sowry's disappearance is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via the Crime Stoppers website. All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and individuals are reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media platforms.

Gwen Addison, a volunteer at the Kiama Presbyterian Church Op Shop, has been given a Community Champion Award as part of the 2024 NSW Seniors Local Achievement Awards.Gareth Ward, the Member for Kiama, presented the prestigious Award at the Kiama Op Shop.Mr. Ward emphasised Gwen Addison's remarkable dedication, describing her as a "community champion" whose selfless efforts have left a mark on Kiama. Gwen has dedicated herself tirelessly to managing and working at the Kiama Presbyterian Church Op Shop. Moreover, she has a longstanding association with the Christian Book Shop on Rosebank Place, where she served diligently for many years. Gwen's involvement extends beyond these roles; she has been a driving force behind the annual fundraisers of the Anglican Church of Kiama/Minnamurra and has volunteered with organisations such as Meals on Wheels and the Friends of Blue Haven group.In his tribute to Gwen's service, Mr. Ward highlighted her many contributions, from managing the shop's finances to sorting donated items and collaborating with the Mission Australia truck to ensure support reaches those in need.Describing Gwen as the embodiment of "service before self," Mr. Ward applauded her as a role model for the community, inspiring others to follow her lead in giving back. He expressed his utmost delight in presenting her with this award as a token of appreciation for her exceptional service and contributions to the community.““Gwen continues in many roles from doing the banking for the shop, as well as sorting donated clothes and other items for sale and also working with the Mission Australia truck that comes into Kiama weekly to ensure support is available for others in need,” Mr Ward said. “Gwen is the epitome of service before self – and she is a shining example for others to follow her lead. She is incredibly deserving of this recognition; and I am absolutely delighted to present her with this award to highlight her distinguished contribution as a small way of saying ‘thank you’.”

Back in 2015 Tina Henderson walked into the butcher in the centre of Shellharbour and applied for a job.And some of the first words out of her mouth to the then owner were: “I’m going to buy this business off you one day.”The owner laughed. But thus it came to pass. She became part owner in 2016, and full owner in 2022. Not everyone could have seen the potential, and not everyone could have made it work. But she did. And now, with million dollar apartment blocks under construction up and down the main strip of Shellharbour and the entire area undergoing rapid demographic transformation, she’s sitting on a goldmine. “I just knew,” she recalls. “It was really weird.”Sometimes destiny shakes us all. Sometimes things just feel right. A decade ago Shellharbour was a lost in time surfing village. Finding a decent cup of coffee was an impossibility. Now there are cafes up and down Addison Street, the main strip, and the atmosphere has totally changed. Directly opposite her shop the upscale Harbourside Apartments are under construction, while on the corner at the top of the street, where the old garage used to be, the Areia Apartments are nearing completion. “The butcher trade has always been my passion,” Tina says. “I love food, I love cooking, and I love the relationship you build up with people. “You become part of people’s families, and part of their events. “I get introduced as the Butcher Lady. It makes me proud of the quality and service we have.“Ninety percent of my customers will ask: ‘What am I going to have for dinner?’ People are time poor. They don’t want to think about it.”While small businesses across Australia have struggled in recent years, Superior Meats on Addison has thrived. Tina says there are two planks to her success, a high quality product, and extensive community relationships, including with the 16 local suppliers who service her business, with everything from fruit and vegetables to marinades. As for the community involvement, the business supports the Shellharbour Sharks Under 18s, and charities including supplying events for the homeless. As for the quality, “We don’t talk about Woolworths and Coles. It is a totally different product, a different quality. “That is our point of difference. Ours is a fresh product. If you see meat in a supermarket with a shelf life of more than two days, it has been gas flushed, it is likely to have an additive. “I don’t do any of that. One of the greatest assets is my meat carrier. I have known him for over 20 years. He delivers three times a week. We are called Superior Meats for a reason. I want to be seen as the highest quality butcher on the South Coast. We have grass-finished beef and lamb, free range pork and chicken, a Wagyu range finished on grain to get that marble effect. It is a talking point. “The meat carrier tells me about the product, where it’s from, why he picked it. If I didn’t have him I would be working a lot harder to pick top quality.”Another point of difference is the individualised service Tina offers. She knows her customers by name. “I have a good team who can also cook, so they also pass on their knowledge. I believe in being part of a community, not just with the businesses that supply me, but with the customers. There are a lot of young families around here. “The people who shop with me are people whose parents also supported local businesses. They are the majority.” Social media is a big part of the Superior Meats business. And Tina’s passion is to teach a younger generation to also support local businesses. “By supporting one business, you are supporting an entire ecosystem of small businesses. “I am equally passionate about teaching a younger generation to cook. We target the 18-23 year old demographic. We tell them it is easier to cook a steak than drive through a McDonald’s takeaway. We want to change their mindset.”To that aim, Tina is planning to put out a book of some of her customer’s favourite recipes. To kick it off, here are a couple of hers.REFER TO THE BUTCHERS COOK BOOK. HER RECIPES TABBED IN PINK. 

The Bugle’s amazing photographer Brian Scott is set to unveil his inaugural photography exhibition at Minnamurra Cafe on Monday 1 April. With 15 incredibly eye-catching pieces to line the walls, Brian is excited to have his work on display for the public to browse and purchase his work. The collection boasts some incredible shots of the stunning local landscapes that Kiama, Minnamurra and surrounds can provide. The bright display will take audiences on a visual journey with Brian’s  keen eye for detail and a long career in photography that has allowed him to develop the skills necessary to produce the high quality of work that he so consistently produces. Brian says his favourite thing to photograph is anything unpredictable. He loves the rodeo, the surf, and sports and these interests have helped him to develop some impressive skills behind the camera - his action shots are unrivalled. He has worked for The Bugle for four years and in that time has contributed over 5000 shots to the newspaper. With a long list of photography achievements and accolades throughout his career, this upcoming exhibition is sure to delight audiences. He’s known around the community as the friendly face behind the camera. He has an extensive list of incredible stories and experiences he has been able to witness through his photography. Visitors to the Minnamurra Cafe can expect to be immersed in the world as Brian sees it, each photograph telling a story of passion and dedication to his craft and his community. 

Terry Nicoll is a friendly Kiama local and former Australian Olympian who competed in the 1956 Melbourne Games. He is renowned for his prowess in the modern pentathlon, Terry’’s athletic journey began amidst the vast landscape of outback NSW, where he honed his riding skills while working on sheep and cattle stations. The modern pentathlon comprises five disciplines; fencing, swimming, show jumping, shooting and running. Terry had a keen interest in horse riding, picking it up from a very young age and carrying it with him throughout his life which helped his performance in the Olympics as a young adult. Terry’s path to Olympic glory took an unexpected turn when he was approached by Forbes Carlisle, Australia’s esteemed Olympic swimming coach. Encouraged by Carlisle, Terry took his skills from the bush to the pool, embarking on a rigorous training regime in preparation for the gamesTerry’s riding skills were exemplary and he took to improving his fencing and pistol shooting skills with determination. His dedication paid off when he clinched victory in the Pre-Olympic Pentathlon trials, securing his spot on the Australian team for the Melbourne Olympics. Another chance encounter with legendary swimmer Johnny Weissmuller left Terry with the invaluable advice to modify his swim stroke. Terry’s Olympic journey was not without hurdles, and he was unfortunately unable to participate in the subsequent Olympic games. However, as he continued to excel in the world of pentathlon he was then able to compete in the World Championships in Mexico City and Leipzig. Beyond his sporting achievements, Terry’s commitment to public service and his community is equally commendable. Terry joined the NSW Police Force in 1957, he served with distinction for over two decades, imparting his knowledge and skills as an instructor and mentor. Representing NSW in various Police and Emergency Services games, Terry’s competitive spirit never waned, earning him accolades nationally and internationally.Now 90 years old, Terry lives in Kiama with his wife Gloria, where he continues to be active in the community. Terry contributes to organisations like the Kiama Men’s Probus Club and Probus Choir and he and his wife love to play golf.As a symbol of perseverance and dedication, Terry Nicoll’s legacy extends far beyond the Olympic arena, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in all endeavours.

He bought his 50 acre property on the plateau at the top of Jamberoo Mountain Road 35 years ago, long before the Southern Highlands became one of the most prized real estate areas in the state. “It was just a backwater,” Jeff recalls. “Much of the road up from Jamberoo past Barren Grounds was just dirt. We brought up the four kids here. No one wanted to live out here, it was just in the sticks. It was a great place for them to grow up, perfect. They could run riot.”All this idyllic rural life changed forever some five years ago, when one of his sons, Peter, fed up with working as a mechanic in Albion Park Rail, came home and declared he needed a hobby, and he wanted to take up beekeeping.Within a short period of time his son moved out to Cowra, and the small number of hives he was keeping around his father’s farm turned into dozens and then hundreds. The regular supply of honey led Jeff to set up his roadside stall, one beekeeper introduced him to others, and he is now a fixture for anyone driving the scenic route between Jamberoo and Robertson. Fast forward to the present, and both tourists and locals drop by to purchase his wears: 14 different regional varieties of honey at any one time. Japanese, Chinese and Indian tourists often stop, and insist on having their picture taken with him. Roadside stalls are common in their home countries but now rare in Australia. The southern highlands were once full of them, selling Robertson’s famous potatoes, tomatoes, basically anything the locals could grow or make. Now Mr Bell’s stall is a nostalgic reminder of homeland for tourists, and for older Australians to a past now replaced by supermarkets.Jeff says the major chain store buyers simply mix tonnes of different styles of honey together before putting it on to the supermarket shelves, destroying its distinctive and varying tastes, “a washy washy” product. “They just put it into one tank and mix it,” he says. “It has no character. And that is when they get into trouble, mixing it in with glucose or corn syrup, which is cheaper than real honey. “I like what I am doing, I like telling people all the different honeys, the different flavours,” Jeff says. “It is one of the only foods that never goes off. They got it out of the pyramids. It gives you a kind of super fix. “I enjoy explaining to the public that honey isn’t just honey, there’s a lot more to it than that. I would have had 50 different varieties since I started.“One Muslim customer tells me honey is the river of life, important in their dreams of the afterlife.”At present his most popular honey “by far” is sourced from flowering Macadamia trees around Byron Bay. The honey is described as creamy and smooth, having a “rich complex flavour of malt and caramel toffee”. “People just keep coming back for it,” Jeff says.His second best seller right now is honey sourced from thistles in the west of the State. “It is a rare honey,” he says. “A lot of beekeepers wouldn’t normally put their boxes out in thistles. It is normally sprayed. The Yellow Box eucalyptus flowering ended and the thistle came out. And this year the farmers couldn’t spray because of the wet conditions.”Thistle honey is described as light gold in colour, with a greenish tinge, with a fresh mild floral flavour.All the regional honeys Mr Bell features are long gone from most grocery store shelves, and are a great loss for a generation who don’t know what they’re missing.One featured at present is Blue Gum honey, described as densely textured and amber with the sweet aroma of fruity eucalypts. Banksia honey is described as having the flavour of caramelised bananas, Grevillia Silky Oak honey as bold caramel with a smooth finish and River Red Gum honey as having a rich golden russet colour that is less sweet than other honeys. Jeff attributes his robust health to avoiding cane sugar and instead drinking honey with his tea every day. “Honey is good for you,” Jeff Bell says. On the available evidence, that would appear to be true. You would be very hard put to find a healthier or happier looking 70-year-old anywhere in the entire country. 

Kiama Historical Society hosted a talk on Saturday 16 March featuring renowned historian Dr. Karl James, the Head of Military History at The Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Dr James presented his talk on ‘A Day in the Life of a War Historian’ to a room full of local history enthusiasts. He shed light on his journey through high school and university in Wollongong, where he completed his honours and PhD, and later his Masters in museum studies at the University of Sydney. The James family have a history rooted in military service. Karl’s grandfather and nanna both served in WWII, serving as his introduction to a love of history. With a career spanning over a decade, his expertise in Australia’s involvement in the Second World War resonates among his peers and his audiences. He has risen to become a prominent figure in Australia’s historical landscape. Attendees were treated to a behind the scenes look into the Australian War Memorial, as Karl discussed his role as a lead curator for major exhibitions, including ‘From the shadows: Australia’s Special Forces’ as well as ‘Rats of Tobruk 1941.’ Karl’s talk examined the challenges and rewards of being a public historian, emphasising that there is work to be done in the industry. His passion for his work shone through and he has been working towards this role his whole life. He touched on the importance of sharing in his historian career, stating that the research is important but disseminating the information is just as important. Karl left the audience with a growing appreciation of the impact of historical research and storytelling and the vital work he and his colleagues carry out on a daily basis. The presentation was a great insight into our military history as a nation and Karl’s as a part of the James family.  Kiama Historical Society holds monthly meetings, the next one is listed here. 

Gerringong Bowlo is installing two EV charging stations in response to limited availability across the Kiama LGA.CEO Nathan Lawrence extended a warm invitation to everyone, whether patrons of the bowlo or beachgoers, to take advantage of their new technology.“We are conscious of our carbon footprint and want to work towards a green future” Nathan said.Nathan saw the scarcity of public EV charging infrastructure in the community, noting that many existing charging stations in public venues are often limited to guests or members. Having been operational for just a week, the EV chargers have already generated considerable interest within the community. Nathan Lawrence will see to the growing demand and affirmed that, if necessary, the club will explore the possibility of adding more chargers in the future, aligning with their ongoing commitment to reduce their carbon footprint.Furthermore, the initiative coincides with the Federal Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) announcement, which aims to unlock the supply of cleaner cars that are cheaper to run for Australians. The NVES is crucial for driving down transport pollution, which is Australia’s second-largest source of emissions after the energy sector.With the NVES in place, Australians can expect a 3-in-1 deal of cheaper running costs, cleaner air, and more choice in vehicles. The adoption of this standard will result in new cars, utes, and vans using less fuel per kilometre, translating to substantial savings for consumers. An average new vehicle purchaser in 2028 could save $5,710 over five years and $17,000 over the vehicle's lifetime, contributing to over $108 billion in fuel savings for Australians collectively.Moreover, the NVES addresses the pressing need for reducing fuel expenses, especially after record-high petrol prices in 2023 added to the cost-of-living pressures for many Australians. As pollution from inefficient petrol-guzzling cars continues to fuel harmful climate change, initiatives like the NVES become increasingly essential for mitigating environmental impact and alleviating financial strain on households.Despite a slight delay in the installation process, attributed to grant delays and bad weather, the EV chargers are now operational and adorned with the vibrant Gerringong Bowlo logo. While there will be a charge for using the chargers, implemented by the EV company, the cost will be significantly cheaper than traditional gasoline, aligning with the broader efforts towards sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

Kiama resident Nardia Guillaumier has won a gold medal at the World Indoor Rowing Championships this February in Prague. She finished her category, the women's 45-49, 2000m, in 7 minutes and 16.4 seconds. This marked a personal achievement for her, where she clinched a silver medal in the same category the year prior with a time of seven minutes and twenty seconds.In a nail-biting photo finish, Nardia outpaced the competition, securing the top spot over Germany by six seconds. Adding to her achievements, she also claimed a commendable fourth place in the women's 45-49 500-metre indoor rowing category, completing the distance in 1 minute and 33.7 seconds.Nardia told The Bugle that the event being held in Prague opened up the event to the world's best indoor rowers to compete in person or from home - which Nardia did.Because of the time difference, the race began at 8:30pm when most people were winding down for the evening. Nardia agreed with her coach, Alan Swan, that endurance and patience would set up a good race and allow her a new personal best if all went well. But she went well beyond that. At the 1000m mark, halfway, Nardia was 29 metres behind the leaders of the race, in fourth position. The commentators were certain that the leaders were a shoe in for the first two places. She began her power home at the 750m mark. With 350 metres to go, Nardia moved into 2nd and with 300m left powered into 1st. She said she was concentrating so hard she didn't at first realise that she had won “I had practised to concentrate on my split breathing so I didn't get caught up in the moment” said Nardia.  Coach Alan said “This is a moment that I will never forget. I am extremely proud of Nardia, she's a champion athlete and now has the title to prove it” As Nardia continues to prove herself on the world stage, representing Australia, she continues to be an inspiration for us all. We wish Nadia luck as she continues to try to beat her personal bests and earn awards for her hard work. 

Some people are born naturally optimistic. Happy, healthy, productive, they just laugh at the many challenges life throws at us on a daily basis. Not me. Only just last winter, having finished writing the book, Australia Breaks Apart, done a flurry of interviews and revelled in the somewhat unusual sensation of reading positive reviews, I decided I’d celebrate for a week. Go to the pub. Drink, smoke, party like I was still in my 20s. One week turned into another week, and soon enough into a month and beyond. It wasn’t long before I found myself sitting in the kitchen drunk, depressed, smoking way too much. At my age, early 70s, it wasn’t just clinically ill advised, it was downright insane, in effect slow suicide. I was becoming a person I did not want to be: a totally miserable sod.Through the fog one voice kept repeating in my head: “The solution is in front of you.” It was around this time I went down to Bunnings for the odd bits and pieces we all go to Bunnings for, and outside doing the sausage sizzle that day was a funny mob calling themselves the Sudu Dragon Boat club. I stopped, ordered the more or less obligatory $5 drink and sausage package, and asked them about dragon boat racing. It truly was the last thing on my mind. But for some reason, that voice in the head again, I was drawn to it. The people were friendly, funny and encouraging. Now, after all these months, I know them all as separate characters, but back then they were just a bunch. Not long afterwards, I looked up their website, rang one of the organisers, and was invited down to Deakin Reserve on Lake Illawarra at the back of Oak Flats.The legendary Norman, known as a tough task master, took me aside, found a paddle whose length suited me, showed me the basic steps, and all of a sudden I was out on the water with a bunch of people I didn‘t know. That evening I got home and I swear, every muscle in my body ached; muscles I never knew existed. But that voice in the head kept going, “the solution is in front of you”, and I kept showing up for those mid-winter practices in the freezing cold. Slowly, I would have to say very slowly, I got fitter. A repetitive strain injury in my shoulder from years of pounding away at the keyboards as a big city journalist got better. And best of all, I got to know people, after the long isolation of lockdowns, and the equally long isolation of book writing. My work as a journalist was often adversarial, we weren’t out to make friends. While journalism has changed a lot, back in the day we were paid attack dogs. Many of the people we staked out or interrogated were not in the least bit happy to see us. But with dragon boat racing, you have to cooperate with the entire team. You have to keep in time with everyone else in the boat. If you slacken off, the entire boat suffers.At first I really didn’t think I would persist. The failure to succeed at dragon boat racing would be just another reason to cement my misery, to stare at the world through a glass darkly. But I did persist. And I couldn’t be more grateful for it. The fitness that comes with dragon boat racing is a positive, being forced to cooperate with others has been very good for my mental well being, and being out in the early morning on one of the most beautiful waterways in the country, well, that’s a huge plus, soul tonic if you will.So, if you have a voice in your head telling you to get out of the house and get back into life, you could do a hell of a lot worse than joining the Sudu Dragon Boat Club.The Sudu Dragon Boat Club is participating in the Shellharbour Festival of Sport Regatta on Saturday 2 March at Skiway Park, Mt Warrigal. There will be a “Come and Try Day” on Sunday 17th March at Deakin Reserve, Oak Flats, where one and all are welcome to give dragon boating a try (Contact Jody 0412 939 312).  It’s not all that easy, but it’s great fun. And it just might change your life.

Rita Sullivan, owner of Knickerboxes in Kiama has received recognition for her contributions to the community after more than 20 years. Gareth Ward MP acknowledged Rita’s dedication and hard work with a community recognition statement letter. Rita’s impact extends beyond the Kiama community. She and her team travel between several locations across the Shoalhaven, Southern Highlands and beyond to ensure access to not only the lingerie and garments sold but also a safe haven for women who have undergone breast cancer surgeries. Rita has built a space and a service to help restore confidence and provide comfort when it’s most needed. The Knickerboxes name also exemplifies generosity and community commitment by collecting and donating necessities to women in Fiji undergoing breast cancer surgery. Gareth Ward commended Rita’s remarkable contributions, acknowledging her as a beloved and respected member of the Kiama community. As Rita looks at a new chapter of life, she is selling her thriving business in Edessa Arcade. The Kiama community expresses heartfelt gratitude for her selfless dedication. Her legacy of kindness and compassion will forever resonate within the hearts of those she has touched. 

Jasper Gippel from Kiama enjoying his Bugle Newspaper, would love a mug to go with it!

Sitting around the dinner table or in an easy chair, most elderly folk enjoy telling a yarn about people or places from long ago.My father was no exception. He would regale us with stories about old family members, Gerringong identities and great events in Gerringong history.One day I went to visit him and he brought out a large wooden serving plate he had picked up from a woodturning shop in Berry.In the middle of the plate was a grain as all wooden products have. If you look closely at this and use a bit of imagination, on the left it appears to show the image of Seven Mile Beach as if taken from the Kingsford Smith Memorial. To the right it appears to have a face as if looking over the beach. Dad said that the face belonged to Joe Dixon as he looked over his home.I first came across Joe’s name when researching the history of the Gerringong Cricket Club. He was a member of a cricket team ‘King’ Mickey Weston (an important elder in the Dharawal nation) put together mainly from Wodi Wodi people living in Crooked River (Gerroa) in 1894.Joe then carved out a distinguished career with the Gerringong Cricket Club.Dad met him much later but he had a great effect on him. He wrote a collection of Gerringong stories, including memories of Joe. My father would love to know that his memory is to be honoured with the publication of his story on the great man in the old Kiama Independent, which has now been replaced by the Kiama Bugle. Many other people in Gerringong held fond memories of Joe, including the original member of the Gerringong Historical Society Clive Emery.All these great characters, who helped make this region the place it is today, have passed away. That is a good enough reason to honour their memory now.From Clive Emery, longtime Gerringong residentWhen I first looked into the eyes of Joe Dixon they were red-rimmed as if from an open fire at his camp site on the bank of the Crooked River. Joe kept wickets for the Crooked River Cricket team on the Saturdays of 1923, and you can be assured nothing passed him by. His eyes could brighten in a flash.With a charcoal complexion and hair greying at the temples from under bushy brows, he surveyed the world with a kind of tired acceptance, as if accepting there was little he could ever do to change it. Like his parents before him, he was a hunter and gatherer, and the coming of the white man had brought many changes to himself and his kinsman.Joe was not a tall man, about medium height I would say, rather solidly built with greying hair on his sturdy arms. He wore the clothes of a white man, mostly flannel shirt and woollen trousers and sockless feet fitted into leather boots, with a felt hat showing signs of age pulled tight over his forehead. Often, he would be seen with his pants rolled above his knees as he prawned in the shallows of the river. Joe never took from the river more than was needed to fulfil the requirements of himself and his family. Their needs were not great and in those days there was plenty for all.He knew the tides that beat upon the shore of Seven Mile Beach and the waves that broke upon the rocks of Black Head, for even as he slept, he was conscious of the undertone of the sea. He knew the relevance of the moon on the tides, and the fish of the slumberous river and the restless sea. He harvested the pipis in the littoral zone and the shellfish of the rocky shoreline.With his family he lived in a tin humpy on the bank of the Crooked River, where the forest growth gave a measure of protection from the whims of the weather. For how long it would be hard to say. A couple of dogs of indifferent breed were always lounging about the campsite. Nearby was the camp of the Bloxomes, and as Joe's brother-in-law John Bloxome joined him in the collection of sustenance for their families. Between them the combined brood were mostly girls; Jimmy and Les, Annie and Louie the only ones I knew. That aside their numbers equalled the white school children along the Crooked River Road on school days. They were very happy and full of fun.Joe, the top man in the camp, was well versed in the comings and goings of King Mickey from Minnamurra under whose “Kingship”' they existed. Joe was able to point out where King Mickey used to camp on his infrequent visits to the area and called the spot "King Mickey's Island".Joe frequently worked for my parents at gardening and on the farm. Often I would watch him when he was tussocking on the side of the hill facing Seven Mile Beach. When he wanted a spell, he would turn and face the sea and sit upon his hoe handle and dream of days gone by, when the lobsters came to the rocks to breed in their season and fish could be speared in the shallows of the river beside his camp.He was to fashion a boat from a cedar log brought down by the floods. Sadly it was destroyed by a terrible fire in the Roundbrush in 1925 together with their camps. I only remember the blackened sheets of iron left after the fire after the families moved away.It is remarkable that Joe should return in ghostlike form to watch forever over his beloved home, Seven Mile Beach, immortalised in a piece of Cedar, along with the Coolangatta Mountain and the long curving shoreline with the wavelets kissing the golden sands of the beach in an everlasting procession of journey's ends.

Get ready for some great tunes this Friday as Glenn Shepherd returns to the airwaves. Born in Cessnock in 1956, Glenn has held a lifelong passion for radio. At the age of 17, he aspired to become a radio presenter and created a series of demonstration tapes. However, in those days, attending Radio School was the only pathway into radio, and as he couldn't afford that route, he started working at the Port Kembla Steelworks in 1976 as a trainee metallurgist. This marked the beginning of a 40-year journey in the industry.Within the BlueScope organisation, Glenn held various supervisory roles, including Departmental Manager and Safety Manager at Port Kembla. He concluded his career as the Safety and Business Improvement Manager, overseeing responsibilities across Australia and New Zealand. His focus on safety and improvement made a significant impact on the industry, and he travelled extensively during this time.After retirement, Glenn shifted gears towards community service, actively volunteering in the Aged Care Industry. His dedication extended to his position on the Board of the Kiama Golf Club, a role he has held for a considerable time.As a founding member of Kiama Community Radio and the current Chairperson of KCR, Glenn played a pivotal role in shaping the station into a significant community service. KCR, which streams 24/7, has become an integral part of the Kiama local government area, fostering connections and providing a platform for community voices. Glenn's commitment to KCR is evident in his role as the host of both the Friday morning breakfast show and his "Around the Arenas" sports program, reflecting his love for all sports.Glenn envisions the expansion of KCR into the FM frequency, aiming for a broader reach within the community. His dedication to the station reflects a belief in the power of community radio to bring people together.Beyond his professional accomplishments, Glenn finds fulfillment in family life. Married to Kerry for 42 years, Glenn is a proud father to a married son, Ben, who is a doctor, and he is now a loving grandfather to two wonderful grandchildren, Jack aged six and Charlotte aged four years. Dr. Ben Shepherd is currently working as an Adjunct Lecturer at James Cook University, specialising in emergency, prehospital, and retrieval medicine.Tennille Baird is just one local who has been impacted by Glenn’s generosity. She said, “He is a pillar of Kiama and a genuinely nice guy. I have known him most of my life, and he has always been interested in helping the community, volunteering in all manner of ways. He was our swim coach when we were young, running squads at the crack of dawn. He was always so encouraging.”Glenn experienced serious health problems last year when an annual visit to the skin check doctor prompted urgent hospitalisation. He was shocked to discover that he required immediate heart surgery. Much to the relief of family and friends, he is now in full recovery, and you can bump into him any morning as he walks around the Blow Hole. On Friday mornings, he joins the Man Walk. It may have to be half a walk now that he is back on air!In Glenn Shepherd, Kiama has not only a dedicated radio presenter but a community figure whose life story reflects a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact. As he continues to guide Kiama Community Radio towards new horizons, Glenn remains a testament to the enduring power of passion, hard work, and community connection.Catch Glenn this Friday from 7-9 am on KCR.org.au. Around the Arenas is broadcast on Monday 5pm, Tuesday 2pm and Saturday 11am.

Kiama has welcomed its latest centenarian as Phyllis Cowell celebrated her 100th birthday on 19 December 2023.Phyllis (or Phyl as she’s known) moved to Kiama in 1992 with her husband Walter from Mollymook after he became ill, and the couple found it too difficult travelling back and forth between Sydney to meet with doctors.Phyl herself was born in Sydney at Bondi and spent her early years in Bronte before attending Sydney Girls High School.She went to Business College for two years and entered the job market, where she worked until she got married at the age of 20. “In those days, married women didn’t go back to work,” Phyl told The Bugle. The couple had two daughters and five grandchildren.Phyl has kept active in her senior years, being a member of the local Probus and Gardening Clubs until recently. She was still driving her car up until she was 99, and still cleaned her when she was 97.She still cooks all her own meals, and attributes her love of “good tucker” for her long life. But the real secret of living a long life, according to Phyl: “Keep smiling!”

After four decades of dedicated service as a nurse and in aged care, Gerringong local Marilyn Heinecke bids farewell as she begins her well-deserved retirement this week.Marilyn began her career in aged care in 1984 at Mayflower in Gerringong, now known as Uniting. She works part time at Gerringong Medical Practice where Dr Robyn Dalley also recently retired after 40 years of service to the Gerringong community.  Reflecting on her career, Marilyn recalls fond memories of her early days in the Gerringong area with her young family. Transitioning from her Sydney upbringing, she and her young family were drawn to the coastal community where she began to work in the aged care industry. During her tenure at Uniting and later at the Gerringong Medical Practice, Marilyn faced many challenges, as so many in the healthcare industry do, particularly insufficient government funding and low wages. However, she has always been committed to her mission to make a difference in the lives of her patients and their families. As Marilyn embarks on this new chapter of her life, she leaves behind a profound impact on the Gerringong community. Her dedication to nursing education, mentoring younger nurses, and advocating for improved healthcare funding stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. Marilyn appreciates the countless individuals who have shared in her career and journey, from her coworkers to her patients and the residents of Gerringong. Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication and commitment to improving the lives of those she served. As she goes on to the next chapter she thanks the doctors, her nursing colleagues and all the staff residents and patients who have shared in her rewarding journey.