As controversy surrounds the Illawarra offshore wind zone blows on, the University of Wollongong (UOW) has been awarded a $2.5m grant from the Australian Government to teach local children and visitors about future energy sources.The money will be used to create an ‘Energy Futures Zone’ at the UOW Science Space —  a fun-filled science centre housed on the University grounds which, since opening in 1989, has become the number one indoor attraction in the Illawarra.The Future Energy Zone will feature 25 “vibrant and interactive” exhibits focusing on technologies such as hydrogen, wind, solar, wave and gravity, according to the University.The goal is to “educate visitors about the importance and mechanics of energy generation”, while also “highlighting potential careers in the growing field of energy futures”. Many UoW faculty members are supporters of the Illawarra offshore wind zone — a declared area of 1022 km2 off the coast from Wombarra to Kiama.In an UoW blog, Ty Christopher, Director of the Energy Futures Network at University of Wollongong, wrote offshore wind farms were “crucial for Australia’s industrial decarbonisation efforts.”In 2022, the Australian Government announced $10m to establish an Energy Future Skills Centre at UOW. When completed, it will offer courses, jointly designed by UOW and TAFE NSW, to “train the energy workforce of the future” and offer “clean energy support” for businesses to operate more sustainably. This Science Space aims to start this education early, with more than 68,000 visitors — largely school-age — visiting the centre annually.Director of Science Space, Stuart Creal, said the Energy Futures Zone will be the most significant transformation for the centre in 35 years.“This new gallery will not only provide a deeper understanding of sustainable energy technologies but also inspire future generations to pursue careers in this vital field,” he said. “By showcasing innovations from leading companies such as Hysata and Green Gravity, we aim to highlight and showcase the cutting-edge advancements that are shaping our energy future.”A local mother, whose partner works in one of the Wollongong collieries, said, “It sounds like a great addition to the Science Space. My kids always wants to know what daddy does for work but we talk openly about the pros and cons of coal mining.” “They’re probably going to grow up seeing a wind farm on the horizon. If they want to work in energy that’s great but let’s give them a more environmentally-friendly option.” 

Every carer knows, the Winter school holidays can be challenging (rainy days + energetic kids = stressed-out parents). Fear not, as we’ve put together a boredom-busting list of activities for kids and teens, which will make time fly — and earn you serious brownie points.Code CampCode Camp offers in-person and online workshops for young people, aged 7+, in coding, animation, video creation, robotics and more. Their most popular camp, Spark Coding, teaches kids to design a game with amazing features, including invisibility cloaks and mythical creatures. Virtual camps run for a week with self-paced content, which is delivered daily. Cost: $129, various dates. codecamp.com.auGiant Chocolate Freckle WorkshopBook your kids in for a chocolate-making workshop at The Treat Factory in Berry, where they’ll make their own personalised Giant Freckle with an assortment of delicious toppings, including freeze-dried strawberries, caramel popcorn and, of course, sprinkles. Whilst the Freckles are setting, they’ll learn about the art of chocolate making and be treated to a chocolate tasting. Cost: $35. 12 July, 3 – 3.45pm. treatfactory.com.auWinter Book SaleWollongong City Libraries’ book sale is back. Head to any of seven library locations, including Dapto, Unanderra and Wollongong from Monday 8 July to Saturday 20 July to grab yourself a bargain. Books are all priced at just $0.50 and can be purchased with cash or card at the library customer service counter. wollongong.nsw.gov.au HARS Aviation Museum Tarmac DayTarmac Days are held outside the HARS hangars on the second Friday, Saturday and Sunday of every month, displaying some of the unique aircraft held at its headquarters at the Illawarra Regional Airport at Albion Park. Visitors of all ages will be able to board and sit in some of the aircraft cockpits. Cost: $15 per child. 12 – 14 July, 9.30am – 3.30pm. hars.org.auFlying Rockets Stem CraftPart of the popular school holiday program at Kiama and Gerringong Libraries, children aged 8+ can design and make their very own rocket from a cardboard tube and then launch it across a string orbit — all fuelled by balloon power. Other holiday events include a kids knitting workshop and Lego boardgames. Cost: $5. Various dates. library.kiama.nsw.gov.auArt Hub for KidsA favourite with the kids of The Bugle staffers, Art for Kids Hub is a free YouTube channel that makes screen-time more creative, with a huge library of drawing tutorials for all ages and skill levels. From Disney characters to Pokémon, videos are easy to follow and self-expression is encouraged. With over 8 million subscribers, it will have kids hooked. Cost: free. youtube.com/@artforkidshub  Ultimate Ninja ChallengeA fun-filled, full-day activity where parents can drop and leave, MyFirstGym in Shellharbour offers a range of action-packed school holiday camps in their purpose-built, inflatable-filled kid’s gymnasium. Classes include the ‘Ultimate Ninja Challenge’, the chance to learn child-friendly parkour skills and even a Kid’s Olympic Games for kids aged 5+. Cost: $80 (or $75 for members). Various dates, 9am – 3pm. myfirstgym.com.au/shellharbour   

Within the health sector, backflips performed by the Chiropractic Board of Australia (CBA) around parameters relating to spinal manipulation of infants has caused a stir. An interim ban, initially implemented in 2019, was revoked in late 2023, which triggered a public outcry. The interim ban has now been reinstated, following requests for further investigation by the Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler.The CBA initially placed the ban on chiropractic care on infants under the age of two following release of a video, revealing a two-week-old baby being suspended upside down by Melbourne-based chiropractor, Andrew Arnold, who was performing spinal manipulation. Arnold also applied a spring-loaded device, an ‘activator,’ to the baby’s spine.Victorian Health Minister, Jenny Mikakos, considered this footage ‘deeply disturbing’, and called for an investigation into Arnold’s practice by CBA and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Despite ongoing concerns, CBA released a statement on 29 November 2023, permitting chiropractors to resume providing paediatric care. It was stated that the reinstated practice must adhere to specified guidelines, including providing “the parent/guardian with information about the risks and benefits of the proposed treatment and the risks of receiving no treatment.”However, scientific research yields inconclusive evidence around risks and effectiveness, inhibiting the ability for guardians to provide informed consent. Recent studies by Safer Care Victoria (2019) and Cochrane Australia (2022) revealed inconclusive results, which raised questions from Australian health ministers regarding on what grounds the ban was revoked. “Health Ministers have now written to the Chiropractic Board, seeking an urgent explanation on their decision to allow a resumption of spinal manipulation of infants under two, in spite of two reviews concluding there was no evidence to support the practice,” Minister Butler released in a statement shortly after the ban was lifted.Following discussion at the Health Ministers’ Meeting on 14 June, the decision was again reversed. A statement released by CBA on 17 June confirmed restrictions inhibiting chiropractors to perform spinal manipulation on infants under two has been reinstated, “until further consultation with Health Ministers can allow for developing a final position.”Board Chair Dr Wayne Minter stated that while there has been no evidence of serious harm to infants, the Board has a duty to protect the public.“We look forward to working with Ministers to develop an evidence-based final policy on paediatric care that balances the paramount need to protect patients, with the right for parents and other patients to have a say in the care they choose,” said Dr Minter. “The Board is committed to ensuring the public has access to, and receives, safe, ethical and competent care from registered chiropractors.”The CBA confirmed that the “Board will consider its obligations under the National Law and any further decisions by Health Ministers in developing a final position.”Until then, the interim policy remains in place. Minister Butler concluded that, “this is the right decision by the CBA”.

It’s a thought that parents of teens have daily: “What is my teenager thinking?” A new survey of Year 12 students across Australia offers some helpful, and surprising, insight.  In its biggest survey yet of school leavers, the University Admissions Centre (UAC) asked nearly 17,000 students what matters most to them — and the results were revealing. The main takeaway: Year 12s are resilient but they’re feeling the pinch like their parents. Overall, the report found, mental health concerns are down. Students feel stressed less frequently in 2024 compared to 2023. This marks the best mental health score in the survey’s four-year history.But the cost-of-living crisis is traversing generations. In 2024, “cost” is an issue for 43 per cent of students choosing where to study, up from 34 per cent in 2023. When asked what mattered most to them, 42 per cent answered with “supporting my family”, followed by affordable housing and job security.Holly Pastor, Careers and Transition Advisor for Bomaderry High School, says the report rings true for local schoolchildren. “Many of our students indicate they are worried about supporting their families and about securing affordable housing post-school, highlighting the need for careers education in schools to equip young people with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions about their future,” says Pastor. “The ongoing support of Careers Advisers and teachers more broadly is vital to help students build resilience and confidence as they transition to higher education and the workforce.”Young people are working more, eating less, avoiding medical support and borrowing money to cope with the rising cost of living, according to data from the Advocate for Children and Young People (ACYP); 31 per cent of young people are skipping meals and 27 per cent have avoided seeking medical services. Chris Scobie, School Counsellor for Kiama High School, says students are concerned about the economy, and practical support is crucial.“Firstly, I encourage students and young people to know and utilise their support network — older personal and professional contacts that can help guide them to educated decisions on career, wellbeing and financial pathways,” he says. “This could include parents, carers, teachers, counsellors, careers advisors.”Instead of downplaying the cost-of-living crisis, he says it’s important to teach young people the skills to cope with a challenging economy.“Acknowledging and practising the wellbeing benefits of time management, organisation and budgeting can help instil a sense of confidence, life competence and an ‘I got this’ attitude,” says Scobie.“Monitoring and budgeting money spent on eating out, socialising and entertainment can be a vital factor in ‘staying on top’ of the financial challenges of modern times — no matter what age you are.”To read the full version of the Student Lifestyle and Learning Report 2024, visit: uac.edu.au

A new report highlights the ongoing challenges faced by working parents, with Australia criticised for not challenging gender norms when it comes to parenting responsibilities. The National Working Families Report 2024, which looked at the impact of work and care on Australian families, has found that gender inequality is still placing a strain on working mothers, whilst working fathers are judged unfairly for taking advantage of flexible working opportunities.“Our survey of 6,000 Australian working parents and carers has brought to light the growing issue of work-related stress and its detrimental effects on family life, including the wellbeing of children,” said Anne Sherry, the chair of UNICEF Australia, who partnered with a number of organisations to release the data.“The survey findings also highlight the urgency to challenge and change persistent gender biases and outdated norms that continue to impede equality and wellbeing in our workplaces,” she added.The survey found that the level of stress felt by working parents and carers is higher compared to 2019, which is felt more acutely among women. Despite working similar hours to men, women continue to bear the majority of the caring load and household duties — nearly double that of men.The biggest challenge in balancing work and family commitments continues to be the ability for working parents and carers to look after their physical and mental health. There is still a perception that it is less acceptable for men to take time off or access flexible work, with men feeling less supported by their employer to take time off to care for their family.Emma Walsh, CEO of Parents at Work, which provides family-friendly advisory to workplaces, says policymakers need to “rapidly invest in and promote family-friendly policies that de-stigmatise, respect and normalise caregiving as something most employees will need to do in their working lifetime, regardless of gender.”The survey also highlighted the ongoing challenge of accessing affordable childcare in regional and rural locations. In 2021, Parents at Work partnered with UNICEF Australia to create the Family-Friendly Workplaces certification program. Any business that employs people can apply to be certified as a ‘Family Inclusive Workplace’ via familyfriendlyworkplaces.com.“We celebrate the companies that have already embraced this journey,” says Anne Sherry. “By joining forces, we can cultivate workplaces where families flourish, and businesses thrive, creating a brighter future for all.”

With a tee-pee and cubby house, hopping logs and sandstone seats, a fort and a jetty, the new nature playground at Minnamurra Public School, which students have patiently watched being built over the past six months, is now open for playtime. The state-of-the-art playground started life as a hand-drawn sketch by teacher, Miss Ruby Maccabei. Now, thanks to a funding boost and the determination of the P&C Committee, it’s a brand new space for students to explore and develop their imaginations.  The upgrade is part of the NSW Government’s plan to rebuild essential services, with a historic $1.4 billion delivered in the 2023-24 Budget for new and upgraded schools in regional NSW. Labor candidate for Kiama, Katelin McInerney and Councillor Stuart Larkins visited the School to open the new playground area. “The parents and teachers battled hard to create this [playground],” said Mclerney, who went to Minnamurra Public School when she was a child. In her speech, she encouraged the students to use the space with kindness.For now, the students will use the playground on a staggered system to promote safety, with Kindergarten students having time on the playground first and then each age-group following afterwards. In their classes, students worked on a list of expectations for what responsible play looks like in this setting. It’s the latest playground upgrade for the local area, with the completion of Old School Park Upgrade in Gerringong on 30 June 2023, thanks to $162,000 in grant funding, and the Hindmarsh Park Upgrade, currently in process, which has a project value of $4.5 million.After the opening, we asked students to share their thoughts on their new playground, which were heart-warming. “Thank-you builders for the playground,” shared Hamish from Kindergarten. “I really loved the slide; I played all lunch with my friends.” His classmate, Kita added, “I liked playing the Floor is Lava with my friend and buddy.”Year three student, Uea, summed it up perfectly: “It made me feel confident, peaceful and joyful, and I liked that it was a place where I could sit back and relax.”

When Noura Shoukry and her husband, Mahmoud Ahmed, who met at dental school, brought their children to watch the Kiama New Year’s Eve fireworks nine years ago, they turned to each other and said, “I think this is the place.” Within a year, they had relocated from Sydney and, five years ago, opened Dentocalm Dentist on Manning Street. Describing herself as a ‘cheerful dentist’, Shoukry is on a mission to make dental care a more positive experience for children, breaking the cycle of dental anxiety experienced by one in seven adults. A new report, commissioned by the Senate, has found that tooth decay and gum disease have increased across Australia, with a lack of care during the pandemic leading to ‘covid cavities.’Around 40 percent of Australians avoid or delay visiting a dentist, and around 23 percent forgo recommended treatment – and this fear can trickle down to our children.“As a mum of five, I noticed that, in all the kids cartoons or movies, the dentist is always portrayed as really scary,” says Shoukry. “This ideology of making kids scared of the dentist, even in a comical way, needs to change.”Instead, she focuses on building trust and sharing information in a way that is relatable. With teenagers, she talks to them about the link between dental hygiene and bad breath; with younger kids, she is calm but always honest.“You have to treat children like little grownups and never lie to them,” says Shoukry. “If you explain everything to kids, they will accept it and surprise you. Lying to kids makes them lose trust in you.” With one anxious adult, Shoukry met him first on the beach, then at the park, then the coffee shop opposite the clinic, then finally in the chair. Now, he’s so relaxed, he sometimes falls asleep during appointments. “I didn’t think that was possible, until I saw it,” she exclaims.If a child doesn’t like the sounds of the surgery, they provide headphones. Netflix plays on a screen attached to the ceiling, also offering a ready distraction. For parents, it’s important to be positive before an appointment, especially if it’s your child’s first time. “Tell them it’s fun,” says Shoukry. “The dentist will count your teeth and make sure everything is fine. A first appointment can just be an ice-breaker.”If any dental work is needed, Shoukry is passionate about eliminating ‘mum guilt’. “I’m a multitasking mum too and I’m here to tell you: don’t you ever feel guilty,” she says. “Teeth are fixable. Habits are fixable. Your victory will be when you find a problem and solve it. I’d never make any fellow mum or dad feel guilty. We are trying our best; we learn from our mistakes and try again.” Photo Credit : Dentocalm

The Kiama High School P&C Association is excited to announce our major fundraising event, Comedy for A Cause, which will be held on Friday, 31 May at 7:30 pm at the Kiama Leagues Club. Tickets are $40 each, which includes a free raffle ticket and can be bought at: https://comedyforacause.net/tc-events/kiamahs/. We are raising money for our school, and we need your help! The KHS P&C don’t often host fundraisers as we run the high school canteen. The profits from the canteen provides funding to students for representative sports and to the school directly, for items such as the COLA, school murals and arts programs.In recent years, our number of canteen volunteers has been critically low and we’ve had to employ more staff to cover the workload, which impacts our canteen profits and ultimately reduces the funding that we have available to offer the school.Just as importantly, we also need volunteers on our P&C committee in order to keep it (and the canteen) thriving as sadly, we have a number of retiring committee members this year. If we can’t keep the P&C operating, we risk losing the school canteen.This will have a huge impact on our kids because they love the canteen. In the words of our students:“I love the canteen because it’s open for everyone. If it’s a cold day, you can come and eat something warm.” “The canteen is a friendly, welcoming space where you can spend time at recess and lunch.”“The canteen team is always a highlight of my day! They always make me feel seen, comfortable and supported during the times when I’ve really needed it. Not only that, but the food is the BEST!” The welcoming atmosphere, which is mostly due to the wonderful Janelle, who works full-time preparing delicious meals for our students in the canteen. She’s a shoulder to lean on, a listening ear and a helping hand. Janelle really embodies the values of the school: respect, responsibility and excellence. She’s created not just a canteen but a positive space that enhances the well-being of our students, where all students and volunteers are welcome. It’s such a great space for our young people.We’re looking for people to join the P&C committee in the roles of President, and Vice-President. General members are also encouraged to join. We’d love you to join us! Whether it’s by attending our Comedy for A Cause evening or becoming a volunteer. We welcome all volunteers, whether you have a grandchild at the school, a neighbour or a friend, we encourage everyone who can spare a little time to reach out and help, either as a canteen volunteer or a P&C member.We look forward to seeing you at our fun Comedy for A Cause night on 31 May, or at our annual general meeting, which will be held in the high school library on 4 June at 6:30 pm.

Jamberoo Preschool has sent out a plea to the local community, after an eighth flood at the facility has left the building “not fit for use,” according to the preschool’s Director, Belinda Hibbert. In a letter to parents whose children attend the service, Hibbert informed families that Kiama Council “cannot afford to fix the issues around the flooding” and, as a result, “it is unlikely that the lease will be renewed come 2028”. Currently, the centre, which leases a building on Allowrie Street from Kiama Council, has 67 families in their care and over 100 families on their waiting list. Jamberoo Preschool is a popular option for families in the area, with Kiama Preschool already inundated with applications.“As a community-based, not-for-profit preschool, we are an extremely important service for the Jamberoo community and many families rely on us,” Hibbert told The Bugle. “To lose the preschool would be devastating.”To address the problem, the preschool has put together a sub-committee who plan to apply for a grant from the Department of Education, which could cover the cost of building a preschool, but not purchasing land to build it upon. “We are reaching out to the community for support and help,” says Hibbert. “If you know of any locations or possible land that might be suitable for us, please reach out.”Kiama Council has supported the centre’s flood-recovery, including undertaking a Flood Study in 2021, which recommended installing a ‘flood-proof barrier’ at the rear of the preschool. This work was not undertaken and funding was never made available.A statement from Kiama Council on the situation at the Jamberoo Preschool reads: ‘Due to the repeated flooding of the premises, both parties have agreed this is not a viable long- or medium-term arrangement, and the Preschool is looking at options to relocate.‘In the meantime, Council is committed to assisting where we can, providing staff to help clean-up after flooding incidents and helping the Preschool move into the Jamberoo School of Arts section of the premises if/when flooding is predicted or occurs, if that space is available.’ On 4th April, the NSW Government announced they would fast-track the largest expansion of preschools in the State’s history to deliver 100 preschools co-located with public primary schools by 2027. At this point, it is unclear whether this is an option for the preschool.Whilst sorting through flood-damaged items, educators found a letter written by a child attending the service during a previous flood.‘I remember being knee-deep in dirty water and being evacuated,’ wrote Pippi, who was five-years-old at the time. ‘It was scary and I didn’t know what would happen next. We were carried out across the water and into a waiting fire truck. I am really glad my sister wasn’t there that day.’To support the preschool’s flood-recovery efforts, reach out via their Facebook page. 

Not even a mega downpour on 11 May deterred families from heading to the Open Day at Kiama Fire Station, which has become one of the region’s main annual attractions.Five-year-old Lachlan Rossiter had been “waiting for days for the fire day!” And the big day finally came for Lachlan, who attended with his dad, Cam Rossiter, and younger brother, three-year-old Ollie Rossiter. It was the third Open Day at Kiama Fire Station that they’ve attended. The 2024 edition definitely met their expectations. Lachlan shared that he liked holding the fire hose and going into the cab of the fire truck the most.The brothers were proudly wearing their orange ‘Fire and Rescue’ helmets. They do come in handy, if you’re going to help a tall, grown-up fireman or -woman.Because once a year, during the Fire Station Open Day (which is a statewide event), firefighters at Kiama Fire Station get to do a bit of ‘show and tell’ about the fire trucks, station and, above all, the important work that they do in and around Kiama.“Yeah, it’s really good to see everyone here,” said Kiama Captain, Rhys Dawson. “To get a good understanding of what we do, and also ask questions about any fire safety measures that can be implemented in the home.”“For us, to push the home fire safety message in,” he underlined. The most common type of kitchen fireThere was a kitchen simulator on display, just outside the back of the fire station. Deputy Captain, Brian Guillaumier, stood ready to demonstrate what to do and - equally crucial - what not to do if there’s a kitchen fire. It is, as it turns out, the most common type of house fire. “It’s always a handy thing to know, especially when it comes to cooking fires,” said Captain Dawson. “And to make sure that we got those preventative measures such as fire blankets and fire extinguishers (which you can purchase relatively cheaply from somewhere like Bunnings, for example).” Deputy Captain Guillaumier agreed. “That is 12 bucks well spent, if you ask me,” he said. Parents and children lined up under the protection of the roof, close enough so that they could see the sink, but within a safe distance from what was about to happen.On the stove stood a saucepan with only 10 millilitre of oil in it. But it can cause a lot of damage, especially if left unattended.Ablaze. The Kiama firefighters simulate what a fire in the kitchen looks like, caused by only 10 ml of oil.“Just give this a couple of minutes, you can see that it’s smoking already,” explained Deputy Captain Guillaumier. When the saucepan caught fire, firefighter Tristan Reid was at hand to quickly step in. “He’s simply going to put out the fire by putting a lid on it. And, you’ll see. Look at that! He puts the fire out. If he takes the lid off, it’s going to catch fire again.“We don’t use water on a kitchen fire. Use a fire blanket, a fire extinguisher and get out of the house,” stressed Deputy Captain Guillaumier. Make sure to have working smoke alarms in the houseAnother fire safety measure is a smoke alarm.Deputy Captain Guillaumier held one in his hand as he turned to the group. “What happens when they go off?” he asked, and put on the smoke alarm, which immediately started beeping.“Get out of the house to the letterbox,” one girl offered up.“Get out of the house to the letterbox,” Deputy Captain Guillaumier repeated. “Do we go back into the house? Of course, we don’t. We’re outside the house, we stay outside the house and call 000.”If you don’t have a smoke alarm or aren’t sure if it works properly (the alarms have an expiry date and usually needs to be replaced every ten years), call on the friendly team at the fire station who offer free home safety checks. To request one, you can either call the station directly on 02 4232 1222 or go to the ‘Home fire safety’ section on the NSW Fire and Rescue’s website, www.fire.nsw.gov.au. Home safety checks are available all over Kiama. Boys hanging out by the fire truck (from left to right): Lachlan Rossiter, Cam Rossiter and Ollie Rossiter“But anyone from Jamberoo and Gerringong can also request one and we generally work with the RFS (Rural Fire Service) to make that happen,” explained Captain Dawson.Since Kiama Fire Station is an on-call station, they try to coordinate it so that all the home safety checks can be done in one day. That generally translates to once a week.One of the most unusual questions that Captain Dawson was asked during the Open Day is what daily life is like for a firefighter.Wanted: On-call firefightersNow, it’s a bit different because they’re on-call firefighters, which means that they also work other jobs. “In our days off, we carry a pager. The pager activates whosoever is on at that time, we’ll come to the station, we’ll get the fire trucks, go and help the community,” said Captain Dawson.Currently, there’s a full on-call staff of 21 firefighters. Plus the trucks. There are two of them: an urban trucker and a bushfire tanker.“At the moment, we are sitting at 17 and do have a couple of vacancies,” continued Captain Dawson. “If anyone is interested in becoming a retained firefighter, you can log onto the NSW Fire and Rescue’s website and there’s an area where you can apply under, called ‘On-Call Firefighters’. It gets filtered through to the local zone office for consideration.”Family Reid at the Kiama Fire Station (from left to right): Bec Reid, Beau Reid, Tristan Reid and Olivia Reid.He suggested that if you’re interested in applying, remember to check out the criteria. If there are any questions, you can always call the station or the zone office at Wollongong.“But again, if you’re applying, we’re more than happy to have a look anyone. Please consider applying,” he encouraged.Bec Reid’s husband, Tristan, is an on-call firefighter. It’s the second time that she and their two children, three-year-old Olivia and two-year-old Beau, are at the Open Day event. Olivia beamed that she was having fun while she pulled out the fire hose and jumped into the fire truck.Like many others in attendance, Olivia and Beau greatly enjoyed being with their dad at the fire station. It was a day sure to be remembered.Photo credit: Malin Dunfors & Bec Reid

When we explained to our children, aged 3, 5 and 7, that we were going to plant trees before our friend’s wedding, they were excited as it was an excuse to get muddy. A close friend, the presenter and environmental educator Laura Wells, was getting married and, as part of the celebration, she and her husband had partnered with Shellharbour City Council to plant over 3,000 trees with their wedding guests at Blackbutt Forest Reserve.My husband works in the environmental sector and, in the early days of our relationship, we spent our weekends volunteering with Illawarra Intrepid Landcare — a group of young volunteers who undertake conservation projects. Since becoming parents, we have let our commitment to ‘eco-volunteering’ ebb; however, on this rainy day in Shellharbour, I remembered why I was drawn to it. According to a study by the Australian Health Promotion Association, environmental volunteering has a number of ‘co-benefits’ — meaning it benefits the planet and the people who are doing it. For volunteers, it can enhance mental, physical and social health, and strengthen their connection to the environment. It can reduce ‘eco anxiety’ and feelings of helplessness around climate change. It’s also a fun, free activity for the entire family.“It’s great to see families attend [Bushcare sessions],” says Bronwyn Anderson, team coordinator for Bushland Management at Shellharbour City Council. “Parents get to see their children discover how to nurture nature, and they get to learn valuable information about weeds and natives that they can take home with them or share with friends.”Currently, there are seven Bushcare and Landcare groups operating in Shellharbour, including Warilla Dunes Bushcare and Tullimbah Landcare, working to rehabilitate and preserve native bushland. Although Kiama does not have an active Bushcare program, it does have multiple Landcare groups, stretching from Jamberoo to Foxground.The main difference, according to the Illawarra Landcare website, is that Bushcare groups are supported by funding and resources from local Councils. In May 2022, Shellharbour City Council’s Environment Team successfully secured $160,000 in grant funding, as part of the Flying-Fox Habitat Restoration Program. This funding will support the planting of 30,000 trees, including the ones my children dug into the ground.For families, the commitment is not overwhelming. Most Landcare and Bushcare groups meet once a month, on a Saturday or Sunday, with projects that suit different capabilities. For children, they can learn by doing.“If you are a parent with young children and are interested in getting involved, I would say try it once,” says Anderson. “We want it to be a rewarding experience and not a task, so, there’s no commitment pressures. Every little bit counts towards helping the environment.”Register your interest in planting trees on the Shellharbour City Council website.There you can also register for an event celebrating the National Tree day on 28 July. For more information, visit shellharbour.nsw.gov.au or landcareillawarra.org.au.

As National Walk Safely to School Day approaches on Friday 10 May, Shellharbour schools are gearing up to embrace the initiative with open arms. Mayor Chris Homer is encouraging children and their parents or carers to ditch the car and lace up their walking shoes. The initiative aims to highlight the numerous benefits of regular walking, particularly to and from school. Tullimbar Public School in Shellharbour is one such school participating in the initiative. The annual National Walk Safely to School Day is in its 25th year of promoting physical health, the importance of road safety and environmental consciousness due to decreased car dependency that causes air pollutionMayor Homer emphasised the significance of daily physical activity for children’s overall health and mental wellbeing saying, “I have always been an advocate of leading a healthy lifestyle. This initiative is a wonderful way of setting up regular walking habits for children.”  The initiative is championed by the Pedestrian Council of Australia. Their Chief Executive Harold Scruby adds, “Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. We should encourage them to take a walk before school, during and at the end of their day.”For more information click here.

Mother’s Day has ancient beginnings and a good place to start is with the Romans, who honoured Cybele (the Great Mother).She was the goddess of nature, fertility, mountains and wild animals. Raucous celebrations were held in spring, which included games, feasts, sacrifices and eunuchs.The early Christians held a celebration on the fourth Sunday of Lent for the Virgin Mary, although with less sacrifices and eunuchs. This was called Mothering Sunday and it’s still part of the Catholic tradition.The modern celebration of Mother's Day grew out of calls for peace after the American Civil War (1861-65). The writer and women's rights activist, Julia Ward Howe, wanted women to unite and bring peace throughout the world.The idea didn’t take off until 1908, when Anna Marie Jarvis, an American woman, held a church memorial to honour the legacy of her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, a pacifist and abolitionist.Anna pushed to have a day set aside to honour all mothers. Her campaign paid off when in 1914, US president Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May to be Mother's Day.Mother’s Day was captured by commercial interests in the 1920s in favour of a more benign celebration of mothers, with breakfast in bed, a card and a red rose.The Suffragette vision of women rising as a political class with important political and social roles to play outside the home was bypassed - but not forgotten by women in the 1960s and 70s.UK Suffragettes in actionIt wasn’t until 1924, following the slaughter of World War I, that the first Mother's Day was held in Australia.Sydney woman Janet Heyden started the tradition after seeing so many poor and lonely women in the Newington State Hospital. Many were left widows after the Great War.Historian and Emeritus Professor Richard Waterhouse from Sydney University says Christmas Day, Easter Sunday and Mother's Day, still bring people together.“In a secular society, those days have lost their importance as occasions for religious celebrations but (they) are still significant for the purpose of family gatherings,” Professor Richard Waterhouse says.“Mother’s Day will continue to be important but the role of mothers will be celebrated in different ways. Women are no longer regarded as the moral guardians of the home but equal workplace participants with their husbands.”“Mother's Day is not just about thanking women for their domestic contributions to families but also their wider contribution as wage earners and equal partners in family life.”

With Mother’s Day just around the corner on 12 May, I want to focus on ways of staying active for women in their middle age (45-64 years old) – an important but often invisible group in our community. Middle age is a crucial time for staying active, as it is when our physical capacity starts to naturally decline. Unfortunately, many during this stage may become less physically active. Women in middle age have unique barriers to being physically active, which makes them less likely than men to exercise regularly. For example, while women make up 47 percent of the paid workforce, they also perform three quarters of the unpaid domestic and care work. Often described as the ‘sandwich generation’ because of their multiple roles caring for ageing parents and their own children, twice as many middle-aged women than men are primary carers. With so many competing demands, prioritising self-care often goes out the window in the service of caring for others. Exercise may be considered a luxury or self indulgence.My argument to the women that I regularly see in my physiotherapy practice, who find themselves suddenly unable to fulfil their myriad duties due to an injury or illness and struggle to be regularly active is this: they must put on their own oxygen mask first. If they don’t take care of their own health, including being regularly physically active, then eventually they will be no help to the people who rely on them when they themselves become incapacitated.  Re-framing exercise not as self-care, but as a necessity to continue to serve others is one way to prioritise physical activity without the guilt that women so often feel when doing something for themselves. If you would like help to get more physically active, my research team is evaluating a new program aimed at supporting women aged 50 and over to become more physically active. You can find more information out about it here: activewomenover50.org.au or by scanning the QR code:

Mother’s Day gifts don’t have to be expensive to be impactful. These inclusive ideas will warm the heart of your mum and mother figures in your life.Share the LoveIf words of affirmation are a mum’s love language, putting thoughts on paper is priceless. ‘Love Jars’ are a cost effective gift that little kids will love – upcycle an empty jam jar, cut up paper strips and encourage children to write down or draw things they love about their mother, grandmother or caregiver. After you give the jar as a gift, your family can continue to fill it with things they’re grateful for or happy memories. The online design tool, Canva has free templates, you can fill in and print out – just log onto the website and search their templates for ‘things I love about you.’ canva.com.auSay Their NameThe first Sunday of May is known as Bereaved Mother’s Day – a day that honours mothers who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. But Mother’s Day on 12 May is also for these mums too. Meagan Donaldson is the author of the book, Still a Mum, having experienced infant loss with her first child, Violet and third child, Remy. “You can help include a bereaved mum simply by just remembering them as a mum,” she told The Bugle. “Saying their baby’s name is something most bereaved mums love to hear. A text message as simple as, ‘Violet is so lucky to have you as her mum’ means the world.”Embrace their HobbyOn 12 May, how can the whole family get behind a mother’s passions and interests? This could mean joining a mum for their morning ocean swim – with minimal complaining about the cold water. Or, putting the kids on their scooters and bikes, so the adults can go for a run together. The annual fun-run, the Women in Super Mother’s Day Classic, will be held again in Wollongong this year, with money raised for breast cancer and ovarian cancer charities. You can even download a free ‘tribute bib’ to showcase the person you’re running to remember. mothersdayclassic.com.auCelebrate your ‘Bonus Mums’In addition to celebrating the woman who gave birth to you, Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate and thank the mother figures in your life. Although the term ‘bonus mum’ is commonly used to describe a step-mother, its origins are much wider – any woman who offers the love and support of a mother. Thanks to the diversity of modern families, you can buy ‘Bonus Mums’ cards, including e-cards, which can be text or emailed – just search Google, and celebrate your ‘other mothers’ too.

At parks, bus stops and anywhere that parents gather, the conversation quickly turns to one topic: sickness. In addition to COVID-19, influenza and ‘RSV’, parents in the Illawarra are quickly becoming acquainted with this year’s most-talked about infection — Mycoplasma pneumoniae or ‘walking pneumonia.’In January 2024, NSW Health issued an alert to warn that ‘cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae, specifically among children of age 5 to 16 years, have been increasing.’ Symptoms may develop over one to three weeks and include fever, dry cough, headache, sore throat and malaise, according to NSW Health. Globally, there has been an increase in cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children in China, Taiwan, Philippines, South Korea, North America and Europe. This typically occurs every 3-7 years as population immunity wanes.“We call it walking pneumonia because people can be outwardly well, or seem well, but have an ongoing, lower respiratory tract infection,” Dr Michael Bonning, President of the Australian Medical Association, told ABC News. “What we see with this is, it takes quite a long time to incubate and people can be infectious for quite a long period of time.”According to The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, people with Mycoplasma pneumoniae can be infectious for up to four weeks before showing symptoms.Now, the spread is becoming apparent in Kiama and the surrounding areas. For the week ending 28 April 2024, Southern IML Pathology released a report that showed a sharp rise in the percentage of positive tests in the Illawarra, compared to 2019-2023.“For me and my kids, it started with a sore throat and a chesty cough, then headaches, body aches, fever and fatigue,” a mother-of-two from Kiama told The Bugle. After visiting their GP, and being diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, they faced a different challenge — accessing medication. “We had to visit three pharmacies to fulfill our scripts,” she says. “Luckily, once we could start a course of antibiotics, everyone started improving.”Unsurprisingly, local parents are concerned but medical experts say, it’s important to be aware but not alarmed. Mycoplasma pneumoniae generally resolves without serious complications, although a cough and lethargy may persist for more than one month. In most cases, it is readily treated with antibiotics, however, as with all respiratory illnesses, it can be more dangerous for babies, vulnerable people and the elderly.Doctor Tom Hilliar from Kiama Down Medical Practice confirms, there has been a significant increase in local cases. “GPs in our district have seen an enormous amount of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children and adults this year,” he says. “The hugely useful test, which is sometimes forgotten in hospital or even with some GPs, is to do a ‘mycoplasma PCR throat swab’. Most cases can be treated safely at home after a doctor review.”If you are concerned about the health of your or your child, Hilliar has this advice: “Please see your GP or Urgent Care Clinic if you are worried about this illness. If you can't get advice or be seen straight away, calling Health Direct on 1800 022 222 is really helpful.” 

During lunch breaks at Kiama High School, groups of year 7 and year 8 students can be found taking part in an unexpected lunchbreak activity — the fantasy role-play tabletop game, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). Led by school counsellor and registered psychologist, Chris Scobie, the school has been hosting D&D groups since 2022. In the last year, it has grown in popularity, and even become an unexpected form of therapy.“I started the groups in mid-2022 with a Year 8 boys group and a Year 7 mixed gender group,” says Scobie. “The handy thing about ‘DnD’ is that you can pack up and set up relatively easily. This, combined with DnD being illuminated in popular culture with [the Netflix show] Stranger Things, motivated me to get the groups going at Kiama High.”In case you’re not familiar with the game — which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year — it involves players forming an ‘adventure party’ who explore fantasy worlds together. There isn’t really a ‘winner’ in the conventional sense. As the makers of the game explain: ‘While the goal of many games is to score the most points or win, the ultimate goal of D&D is to tell a story’. You may remember the backlash against the game in the eighties, when D&D was accused of encouraging witchcraft and satanism. Today, its reputation has taken a dramatic up-swing, as the mental health sector explores its therapeutic benefits for people of all ages.A recent Australian study found that, after taking part in eight weeks of D&D gameplay (1 hour session per week), participants demonstrated significant decreases in depression, stress, and anxiety and significant increases in self-esteem and self-efficacy over the period. A separate study from Manchester Metropolitan University suggests the game increases confidence, helps people to express themselves and makes them feel connected. For children, the benefits were even more promising, increasing their empathy, creativity and strategic thinking.Since starting D&D groups at Kiama High School, Chris Scobie has seen these benefits first-hand. “Dungeons & Dragons combines escapism, teamwork, collaborative and creative problem solving, acting, strategy, silliness and fun,” he explains. “It creates good-old structured social interaction around a table, which has become more rare these days with our culture’s obsession with screens.” Since the popularity of the D&D groups, he has also started a ‘Warhammer’ club. Students collect, build and paint miniature figures, and fight strategic tabletop battles. Warhammer offers an accessible alternative to sports-based clubs and activities. “Sport is not for everyone and students who don’t pursue sport often pursue electronic interests,” says Scobie. “A state of ‘flow’ or ‘absorption’ can be achieved in any challenging task, be it sport, music, academic, social or artistic.”For most students taking part, they simply enjoy the adventure. As a Year 8 student from Kiama High School told The Bugle: “It’s just fun! I get to raid a dungeon, purchase a donkey with my loot, then get the donkey to kick down the goblin kings’ throne room door after I persuaded his minions to mutiny”.

As children at New South Wales public schools hit the halfway point of school holidays, carers will be scratching their head for ideas, especially on rainy days when the family feels housebound. Luckily, Kiama has no shortage of activities for the second week of Autumn holidays, and many of them are free. Here are our highlights:1.Build a Lego SpaceshipOn the 23 April, anyone (aged 5 to 105) is invited to join the World Lego Space Challenge, a free event at Kiama Library, which runs from 4.30 – 6.30pm. Working alone or as a team, design and create a space vehicle that could take you across the galaxy. Visit library.kiama.nsw.gov.au2. Inflatable FunIn week two, Kiama Leisure Centre will holding three sessions of their popular school holiday program on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Children aged 5 to 12, can be dropped off at the Leisure Centre for four hours of fun, which includes gymnastics, games and pool-time with inflatable toys suitable to a child’s swimming level. Cost is $31.50 per child. Visit kiama.nsw.gov.au3. Minnamurra Rainforest by TorchlightOn 24 April, see Minnamurra Rainforest at you’ve never seen it before as Budderoo National Park opens after-dark. Join an experienced guide as you explore Lyrebird Loop Walk by torchlight, navigating the suspension bridges and elevated walkways. The tour begins at 6pm and cost $25 per adult and $15 per child. Visit nationalparks.nsw.gov.au4. Family Roast PicnicDiggies Kiama will be holding a Family Roast Picnic every Friday during the school holidays. Enjoy live music in the courtyard, free kids lawn games, and tennis with a delicious roast, cocktails and ice cream at a table or take away on a picnic rug. Visit diggies.com.au/kiama5. Holiday Train RidesOn April 23, Illawarra Light Railway Museum will hold school holiday train rides from 10am to 2pm. Ride trains hauled by a heritage steam or Diesel locomotive and make the most of the picnic area with free wood-fired barbeques. Prices start at $11 for children and $16.50 for adults. Children under three-years-old are free. Visit ilrms.com.au6. Outdoor CinemaOn 24 April from 6pm, pack a picnic and head to the Waterfront, Shell Cove, where there will be a free screening of the family-friendly movie, Migration, shown on a big screen on the lawn near the kid’s beach. This event is weather-dependant. To find out more, visitshellharbour.com.au7. Kiama Farmers MarketTake a break from cooking and head to Coronation Park for Kiama’s Wednesday afternoon farmers market, where the whole family can enjoy live entertainment, delicious local produce and a range of food trucks that will satisfy tastebuds of all ages. Visit kiamafarmersmarket.com.au8. Take a Playground TourAlthough Hindmarsh Park upgrade is still a work-in-progress, there are plenty of local alternatives. Parents know, the best playgrounds are close to a good cup of coffee. Popular pairings are Penny Whistlers café and Black Beach foreshore, and The Grumpy Bunny café and Coronation Park. Or, go further afield to Boongaree Nature Play Park in Berry.9 Go ThriftingA great opportunity to talk about sustainability, Kiama’s local second-hand stores can be an exciting place for children, with clothes, books, toys and jewellery that can be purchased for pocket-money. Local op shops include Salvos and Vinnies on Terralong Street, and Kiama Presbyterian Church Op Shop. 10. Surf Skate & MeditateGerringong Surf School is back with the unique school holiday program, Surf, Skate & Meditate. During the three-day program for children aged 4-15, participants will learn to surf on Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa, acquire safe skateboarding skills and be introduced to a gratitude breathing meditation. Cost is $200, including equipment and morning tea. Book at gerringongsurfschool.com.au

As the Nippers season comes to an end for local Surf Life Saving Clubs, it signals the start of the winter sports season – and there is no shortage of winter sports for kids in Kiama. This year, Kiama Downs Nippers finished its 2023-24 season early to give families an opportunity to enjoy a few free Sundays before their weekends were spent sitting on the sidelines of a sport’s field. It was a welcome decision for carers who can feel under pressure to juggle multiple sporting commitments, whether it’s netball and football, rugby league or soccer.To avoid parent burnout when it comes to winter sports, the answer could be getting more involved in the season, not less. Whether it’s volunteering or training with your children, here’s how families can embrace winter sports together.VolunteerAccording to research, volunteering can provide a sense of belonging, improve mental health and physical fitness. In 2023, Kiama Knights – a family-friendly club providing opportunities for boys and girls to play junior rugby league or league tag – had over 170 volunteers helping in different roles. It might be helping to set-up or pack up the ground, carrying water for the team or manning the barbeque. Ask at your local club for volunteer opportunities.Train TogetherAs the parents of a sporty child, it can feel like your own fitness comes second place. There are various ways for the whole family to workout together. At Taekidokai Martial Arts, they offer a family class on a Tuesday night in their Albion Park location and a Thursday night in Kiama, where children, aged four and above, and their parents can learn a martial art together in a safe, family-friendly environment. Play to your SkillsetWhen it comes to volunteering, think about what skills you could add to an organisation, whether it’s on or off the field. Kiama Little Athletics Centre are currently looking for new committee members to replace several long-serving Committee members from September. The goal of a Committee is to plan strategies to ensure the sustainable future of the club and help it to stay visible in the local community. For more information, visit lakiama.com.Think AheadEven if you can’t get involved in a club this current season, consider upskilling now to help in the future. Football NSW has a range of online training programs, from coaching and volunteering with MiniRoos, to becoming a referee. There is also a push for growing the competency and capability of female football coaches across the State. For more information, visit footballnsw.com.au/coach-hubBe a Positive SpectatorIn May 2024, the Office of Sport will kick off a new campaign called, ‘Shoosh for Kids’, which encourages positive spectator behaviour at junior sports games. They don’t want parents to stay silent on the sidelines but they do want interactions to be positive, fun and respectful. Their guidelines include: “If your comment is negative, then Shoosh. If your negative comment is directed at a child, then Shoosh. Reward good performance with applause and, if you can't, then Shoosh. The campaign is supported by the AFL, Basketball Australia, Football NSW and Hockey NSW, amongst other partners. For more information, visit sport.nsw.gov.au/shoosh-for-kids