Photos courtesy of Darren ParlettAn estimated 15,000 people from within and outside the Kiama LGA made their way to the harbour on New Year's Eve to witness one of the town’s biggest New Years Eve Sky Shows to date.Fireworks kicked off at 9pm, with families hanging around town to enjoy the rest of the festivities including the Family Carnival at the Old School Flat, and food from local eateries such as Miss Arda, Hungry Monkey, Moist N Glazed, Kiama Sweet Co. and Saltwater.What could be the biggest Kiama New Year’s Eve Sky Shows is also the most environmentally friendly. Kiama Council teamed up with Fireworks Australia to use fireworks made from rice straw and calcite materials rather than traditional cardboard, making it more biodegradable and minimising waste. The new fireworks also use 30 per cent less black lift powder.

Gerringong Library hosted a school holiday challenge for kids to explore their creative sides with Lego. The kids worked with hundreds of Lego pieces provided by the library to create some exciting water vessel designs. The Waterworks challenge posed designs for fountains, swimming pools, and waterwheels and the kids were given free creative reign over their designs. The young builders were eager to show off their ideas, with some choosing to incorporate water slides and surf board pieces to complete the look, sticking to the theme. Kids and parents alike had a blast building together. All creations are to be displayed in the library for the public to see. The library continues to hold similar activities for the remainder of the school holidays, most of which are free. These activities are a fun and cost effective way to keep the kids entertained this summer.The next activity at the library will be held on Thursday 4 January where participants will learn how to use green screen effects to script and shoot a short film. Looking ahead there is another chance to explore the world of Lego on Tuesday 9 January with a competition open to ages 5-12 years old. For more information or to make a booking you can visit the library website. 

Wet weather couldn’t stop the Kiama LGA from showing out for the Carols in the Park, or should we say Carols in the Leagues Club!The 2023 Carols in the Park on Wednesday 20 December was relocated to the Kiama Leagues Club Auditorium, and the town packed out the room with friends, families and plenty of kids who joined in on the Christmas festivities.Santa Claus himself made an appearance, much to the delight of the younger crowd who flocked to Jolly Saint Nick for presents and treats.The NSW Fire Brigade made their way on stage to sing a few Christmas classics with the kidsAlana, Kerry, Kirsty and Alex Emanuel, Mary, Chris and Mel Dion and HenryLincoln, Rose, Joey, Josè and Mathew Donuts courtesy of Moist 'N' GlazedHair extensions courtesy of Hair by Courtney Anne

Here's your guide to what you may have missed over the weekend of 9 - 10 December 2023Amazing raceLeft to right: Luke Doepel, Emma Lau, Natalie Maloney, Nicola Flynn, Luke Maloney, Kartik Mishra.Residents of Gerroa on Saturday 9 December 2023, especially along Headlands Drive would have spotted teams of different walkers in different team colours doing their own version of the Amazing Race Challenges.There were various stations on the way (including a portable hydration station moving from station to station with watermelon and ice) for the competitors on one of the hottest days of 2023.Challenges were timed and included such tasks as stringing Cheezels while blindfolded.The whole exercise was to celebrate the 30th birthday of Jessie Holder of Gerroa, and by all reports much fun but also much sweat was had by all!Dynamic MovesDynamic Moves Dance studio of Dapto performed their end of year dance extravaganza at the Kiama Pavilion on Sunday 10 December.Belinda Kawalek, the principal of Dynamic Moves Dance Studio, which is in Dapto, said in the Grease booklet: “As we bring the curtains down, we invite you to carry the memories of this performance. Cherish the emotions, the laughter, and the moments that touched your heart. Dance has the unique ability to inspire, entertain and connect people, and we hope this show has done just that.”The Pink Ladies were led by Atayah Irvine as Sandy, and were Olivia Bianchi, Phoebe Block, Mikayla Rytkonen, Harlee Ferraro, Zara Meikle, Mila Erikson, Juliet Pinto and Amelia Croft.The T Birds were led by Hannah Tate as Danny and were Zoey Erikson, Addison Szabo, Zoey Dorfmueller, Claudia Abrahams, Alissa Hardwick, Emilia Loprieato, Shayla Bryson, Gabrielle O’Shea, Anastasia Mastrioanni, and Lisa Sawyer.Over sixty dancers hit the stage in various choreographed performances of all the songs from the hit musical Grease.One feature was the all ages, all levels of talent , and all levels of ability inclusive nature of the performances with dancers aged from 3 years to seventy years on stage at the same time either just there for the joy of dance or seeking a more professional career.Dinner with a detectiveMike Cains, NSW Detective Sergeant now retired Damien Loone and retired detective Frank SanvataliA fascinating and highly topical talk was held at the Kiama Bowling Club on Sunday with NSW Detective Sergeant now retired Damien Loone, who worked on the high profile Chris Dawson case, which was featured in the high profile Teachers Pet podcast which helped gather evidence for the case.The Cheryl Grimmer case was also discussed, with retired detective Frank Sanvatali joining the panel, after a recent breakthrough where a new witness to the toddler’s disappearance in 1970 at Fairy Meadow Beach has recently come forward. Frank Sanvatali has worked on the Cheryl Grimmer case for many years.The witness was found by the podcast Fairy Meadow hosted by former BBC journalist Jon Kay who contacted Damien Loone only about a month ago, in November 2023.It was clear that a popular podcast could bring new witnesses forward who had never spoken to police about the cold case before.Both agreed that the age of both cases meant that vital witnesses were dying, simply of old age. Detective Sergeant Loone, when asked by The Bugle about the effectiveness of true crime podcasts, agreed that they work best on reviving interest in cold cases, rather than open cases where any citizen investigators could reveal lines of inquiry the police would rather keep confidential from any suspects.There is certainly enough material for anyone thinking of starting up a Kiama true crimes podcast. Kiama has had a number of high profile and even gruesome murder cases over the years, such as the murder of Kim Barry, whose body was found at Jamberoo, by the notorious Graham Gene Potter, and currently has at least two open cold cases, those of Rachelle Childs, whose body was found at Gerroa in 2001 and whose murder was never solved, and Kiama woman Jackie-Lee Walsh who disappeared in 1989 and is presumed murdered but whose body was never found.Why not contact Kiama Community Radio if you are interested in starting up a Kiama True Crimes podcast?The talk was hosted by Mike Cains, President of the Kiama branch of the Liberal Party. The local branch also hosted the event. See you next weekend!

Members of the MX-5 Club of NSW have helped raise money for two separate causes as they made their way down to Kiama for High Tea on 7 December 2023.The club, for owners and fans of Mazda’s MX-5, from all across NSW made their way to our shores, including members from Sydney chapters, the Illawarra, and of course, Kiama.More than a third of the MX-5 Club are women, and there were more than 32 women who attended on the day, bringing 20 different MX-5s to High Tea at the Joyce Wheatley Centre in Kiama.Proceeds from the event go to CareFlight, a non-profit aeromedical organisation that undertakes pre-hospital and medical retrieval efforts using NSW Ambulance helicopters.The event was also to help bring awareness to the Club’s participation in the 2024 Shitbox Rally, a major fundraising effort for the Cancer Council of Australia.Drivers from the club will get behind the wheel of Margot The Tarago as it travels 3500 kilometres in seven days from Adelaide via Uluru to Perth.Margot The TaragoThe Club initially set out to raise $5000 for the Cancer Council, but has already raised more than $11,000 with many months left to go.You can donate to the team here.

The Pavilion was pumping for the Kiama High School Year 12 Ball.Parents and well wishers were snapping photos in the warm evening before guests were ushered into the Pavilion. Kylie from the Pavilion told The Bugle that canapes were served to about 50 parents and students prior to the main event.Champagne themed tables welcomed the young adults into the ball room. Chef's and staff were prepping for a great evening celebrating the 2023 year.Bridie Giles, Lucy Clark and Abbey O'ConnorGrace Peseta, Cassidy Warfield and Mica HeslopJackson Morris, Abbey O'Connor and Hannah BrianJessica Werfel, Patrick Wilbraham and Ella WainmanIvy Smith, Eleisha Shake, Milly Wall and Shae MoirKiara Foye and Molly CondonMaddison Obryne and Tonnrey KnoxMia Yardley and Jenna TaberPauly, Ben, Kade, Azriel and BaileySaffron Willoughby and Tiago De-Jesus Sienna Bell and Holly WishartPaulo Morand, John Cooke, Joe Sabo and Brendan Greenaway from The Pavillion preparing a feastAnd finally, Kylie Harding event assistant from The Pavillion with the editor for The Bugle.

Val, Gerry, Yvonne, Lesley, Marilyn, Maureen, Judy and John at Gerroa for CMRI Melbourne Cup LuncheonCMRI Gerroa Melb Cup lunchThe Men's Best Dressed parade at Kiama Leagues Club on Melbourne Cup dayMaree McLean taks out Best Dressed woman at Kiama Leagues Club on Melbourne Cup dayLucy Hill - President, Kate Quinn, & Lorraine Peade at CMRI Melbourne Cup Luncheon in Gerroa Fishermans ClubJosh Duhamel (in spirit), Tracey & Norm Callaghan celebrating Tracey's 50th & the Cup on the same day at Kiama Golf ClubJanna Farrell (white) & Trust Gilbert (orange) sport pretty fascinators at CMRI Melbourne Cup Luncheon at GerroaJan Eadon, Penny Scott & Sue Thorley celebrate Melbourne Cup at Kiama Leagues Club

Meals on Wheels had a big party for all their volunteers on 31 August 2023 at The Sebel. The Bugle featured this story prior to the event. Link.Above and below are photos from the celebration day.From left to right: Joan Cooper, Bob Young, Annette Young, Peter Cooper.The Bugle congratulates Meals on Wheels volunteers for their great work.

The Jamberoo Rural Fire Brigade held its first trivia night to raise funds for specialised equipment at Club Jamberoo on 9 September.Tickets for the night were a hot button item, with all 100 tickets selling out in 10 days to 10 tables of trivia enthusiasts.The night was hosted by the quizmaster and Deputy Captain John Temlett, who swapped out his orange firefighting gear for a retro velvet purple suit, assisted by firefighter Jen Maclean.Quizmaster and Deputy Captain John TemlettThe night included six rounds of questions interspersed with games like “First in Best Dressed,” where participants dressed up like firefighters.The charity auction was hosted by Brigade Vice President and veteran firefighter David Butcher, who sold a wide selection of items like artworks and a rare opportunity for a family portrait by well-known photographer and firefighter Linda Faiers.Brigade Vice President David ButcherShowing true dedication to firefighting, Brigade Captain Hannah McInerny left the event to respond to a grass fire and returned in full firefighting garb later that night.Captain Hannah McInerney with firefighters Jordan Casson-Jones and Marc McLaren after returning from a grass fireJamberoo Rural Fire Brigade wants to show its appreciation for the support it received from local businesses and individuals who donated items to auction and prize packages for the highest-scoring teams.Pictures supplied by Linda Faiers

After months of planning, the Rotary Club of Kiama would like to say “thank you, thank you, and thank you” to everyone who came out and shared their “Christmas In July” Trivia Night on Friday, 21 July 2023.There was a flurry of excitement, with over 200 people in their Christmas costumes adorning the Kiama Pavilion and eagerly decorating their team tables. Flashing lights, Christmas Trees, Christmas bonbons, Santas and reindeer were out in abundance. The wonderful Kiama Pipe Band welcomed the trivia teams with Christmas Carols and other well-known tunes. There was fierce competition between the teams, with a tie being the final result.A great night was had by all and was made possible by wonderful Community, Sponsors, Donors and the Rotary Kiama team. A special vote of gratitude to the Kiama Pipe Band for the fabulous music, Dave Evans from Laughter House Entertainment and our Rotary friends who stepped up to help on the night. Thanks also to the team at, Camden & Kiama Furniture One, Kiama Leagues Club, Collins Street Dental, The Sebel Harbourside – Yves Bar & Bistro, PCL Money, Kiama Farmers' Market, Wildginger Kiama, Shellharbour Wild, Jamberoo Action Park, Coastal Float, Endota day spa Kiama, Jamberoo Bowling Club, Tussta Hair, Manning Street Cellars, and Hello Weekend.The “Christmas in July” Raffle was drawn during the evening with thanks to Tonia Barnes, District Governor, Rotary District 9675, for drawing the prizes.  Congratulations go to the Raffle Winners:1st Prize: Ticket #0846 Deidre Backhouse: Weber BBQ donated by Kiama and Camden Furniture One 2nd Prize: Ticket #0127 Greg Davies: Shellharbour Whale Watch Voucher donated by Shellharbour Wild 3rd Prize: Ticket #0142 Anne Doorn: Yves Cocktail & Bistro Voucher donated by The Sebel Harbourside Kiama 4th Prize: Ticket #0549 Jill Wilson: Wildginger Kiama Voucher donated by Wildginger 5th Prize: Ticket #0195 Katrina Evans: Jamberoo Action Park Voucher donated by Jamberoo Action Park Funds raised from this event will support Rotary Kiama's local, national, and international projects. Thanks to Kiama for all the support.

The annual Kiama Winter Festival has wrapped up, celebrating another successful year of icy fun. Fun for young and old in the ice skating tent and local food to warm up after the cold encounter! The lighting effects and the general ambience definitely a success story for Destination Kiama. Destination Kiama hosted a networking function on 12 July to cap the proceedings for 2023 at the Old School Flat in front of The Sebel and Penny Whistlers with food catered by Yves and drinks provided by Henry Clive Caravan Bar. Some social pics of some in attendance enjoying the vibes. Supporting local is so important in a regional community and this was a great example. The upcoming campaign by the business chamber seconds that. And why not have fun at the same time! Cheryl Lappin, John Sullivan & Rita SullivanJackie Hall & Cameron ThomasJustin Dunning, Rebecca Dunning, Belinda Doyle, Sheree Bailey & Zeynep TestoniOlivia Deans & Kylie HardingThe Bugle's Belle Wood and Donna PortlandNibblies and drinks provided by the lovely crew from Henry Clive and Yves

Last night's Business Chambers meeting, hosted by The Bugle, saw local businesses get together for a night of socialising, drinks and networking.It was also the perfect chance for fellow businesses to meet the new Bugle team.See the night's events below.

Kiama Lions Club held its annual dinner to celebrate the changing of the guard, as President Peter Scifleet handed the reins over to incoming President John Larkins.The Club also presented awards to outstanding members for their contributions to the community over the past 12 months.Kiama Mayor Neil Reilly spoke on the close relationship between Council and the local chapter of the Lions Club since it was founded in 1970Kiama Lions Club Secretary Bobbie English, The Bugle's Belinda Woodfield, Kiama Lions' Bill & Franca Lyon, and outgoing President Peter ScifleetNew Kiama Lions Club President John Larkin with his son, Councillor Stuart LarkinTony GrangerCheryl MosesChris & Claire KilmoreKen & Stella McLeishBill & Franca LyonsJanet Bruce, who was awarded the Keith Small Gold Honour Award, and outgoing President Peter Scifleet

The 2023 Sussex Inlet Viking Festival was a resounding success, held on the 141st anniversary of Jacob Ellmoos' arrival to Sussex Inlet.The festival celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the local Scandanavian community, who generously shared their traditions with attendees.The festival featured a viking village and camp complete with tents and fire pits, providing a unique opportunity to experience how the vikings lived.Attendees were treated to re-enactments of fierce battles and games that vikings played, as well as live music on two stages throughout the day.Two kids zones provided rides and entertainment for the little ones, while the axe juggling, fire light & magic, food & wine, and Viking Beer Gardens kept adults entertained.With an amazing range of food stalls, cooking displays, crafts, and activities for the kids, there was something for everyone - put it on your calendar for a trip south next year!Even vikings have time for a quick hug on the battlefield.Attendees were treated to recreations of viking battles, giving onlookers a glimpse at the weaponry and armer that soliders who have used.Entertainment between musical acts was provided by the Steampunk Vagabonds, a dance and performance troupe from Shellharbour that celebrates everything steampunk, fantasy, and more!No viking festival would be complete without paying homage to Sweden's most famous vikings: ABBA!Australian tribute band ABBASBACK rocked the park with hits from the Swedish musical megastars.Headlining musical act 19-Twenty made sure everyone at the festival was on the dance floor, blowing non-existence roof off the place with an electric performance.Bass-player Johnny's upright bass didn't stay upright for very long.

The Kiama Fun Run on 11 June 2023 is the perfect opportunity for runners and walkers to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Kiama Coastal Walk in NSW. Bobby East and Ray Edwards directing and encouraging runners tirelesslyThis annual community event, held on the Sunday of the King's birthday weekend, offers three distances to choose from, including a 21.1km half marathon for serious runners, and 9km and 5km distances for walkers and runners. The course runs alongside the stunning Kiama coastline, taking in famous landmarks such as the Kiama Blowhole, before finishing at Coronation Park, Kiama.Reaching Surf beach in great time Bella Walley, Amanda Williams and Carra Sheldon - local footy girls. Not only is this event a chance to challenge yourself and enjoy the great outdoors, but all proceeds go to the Australian Red Cross, making it a truly worthwhile cause. Don't miss out on the chance to participate in this exciting event next year and support a great cause.

The Crooked River Winery weekend music festival in Gerringong was a resounding success. The weather was perfect, and the array of bands, food, and wine was simply amazing. Attendees were treated to a truly unforgettable experience. If you missed out on this year's festival, be sure to mark your calendar for next year's event. You won't want to miss it!Madison Larsen, the renowned Legally Blonde podcaster, arrives with Bree Hyeronimus and Olivia Hart at the festival. Coming from Shellharbour they were in for a perfect day! Stay tuned with Madison for exclusive coverage and insights from the festival. Friends Alaine, Michael and Daniel - imports from Sydney and our capital - soaked up the sun in the VIP area of the festival. Daniel, KJ and Renee from Wollongong were enjoying the vibe together - What fantastic views everywhere = the festival was a perfect sensory combination.Coming all the way from Newcastle - Angie, Tiarna and Roche soaking up the atmosphere.Locals that actually get the Bugle delivered! Melissa, Elle and Matt enjoying the fantastic fare that our area offers. Christina, Xanthe and Sascha - Shire girls down for the festival! Band members Satin Cali - Dean and Danny from Wollongong arriving for their gig at the festival. For anything that's happening around town please feel free to contact us at the bugle.

So much activity around town with the annual Kiama I Do expo. Five of our lovely wedding venues were on display to entice upcoming brides and grooms to celebrate their nuptials in the Kiama LGA. Lucky Kiara Rayner also won $5000 towards her wedding. Erica East and Jarryd Hunt exploring vendor options with Southern Style events for their November wedding in 2024 at The Sebel.Organisers and wedding coordinators extrodinaire outside the Pavilion - Noelle Brasset, Rebecca Armstrong, Kyle Harding and Jackie Hall.Jai Haines from Minnamurra and Brendan O’Brien from Gerringong exploring options at The Pavilion.Jordan and Elise from Port Kembla looking forward to their nuptials in October 2023.Paula and Patrick from Sydney looking forward to a November wedding.Yvonne and bride Courtney with support crew from Shellharbour Karen and Liz - keeping it all in the family at The Lodge Jamberoo.Newly weds Chris and Sarah Hill with twin siblings Georgia Ryan and Ben Hill from Sussex Inlet and Canberra who were checking out the venue at Crooked River Wines.Dominique and Ashley looking forward to a December wedding at The Sebel Harbourside.

Needles were clicking at Gerringong Library and Museum for the Worldwide Knit in Public Day, which connects knitters around the world.Boni and Peter Maywald from Wrap With LoveCelia Wade, Boni Maywald and Leanne BarrettIrene Curry and Cheryl Cowland Jeremy Marlton meets Teresa O'LearyKay BenyonMargaret Burke and Colleen ReesRuth Cave and Heather Schow from Mayflower

The Rotary Club of Gerringong's Rock n Roll dance and fundraiser was a celebration of 20 years since the club began, originally with only 16 men and 8 women.7 of the charter group are still active members of the club: Sandra McCarthy, Heather Williams, Vonne Mathie, Pam Daniel, Bob Waite, Neil Miller and Jeff Quine.Heather Williams and Ross EggeltonOver those 20 years the club has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars and given it all away to worthy local, national and international causes.The project to rid the world of polio and youth is a major focus for the club eg Rotary Youth Exchange.Jennie Hanna and Millie SherwoodTheir major fundraiser is the monthly markets which have been going for 16 years.80 rockers (many in their 70s) danced the night away to the magnificent local band Werri Music Collective.Peter Gisz, Suad Haddad, Carol Jagger and Christine WaiteChris Cutting lead the band along with Paul Berry, Glen Isemonger, and Merryn Perez.There were raffles, lucky door prizes, supper and a full dance floor.A highlight of the night was Chris impersonating the late, great Elvis with the jump suit, black wig and sunglasses.Rock n Roll is making a comeback in Gerringong as the Rotary Club is running two hours of tuition in the Town Hall on the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 2 to 4 pm.Professional dance teacher, Karen Ambrose is great to learn from and she has attracted more than 20 dancers of all ages each session.The next one is 11 June. Cost is $10 and afternoon tea is included. Just turn up with your dancing shoes!