By Councillor Melissa MattersThe newly completed Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club facility is a significant community asset, made possible by public funding and the dedication of volunteers.Its activation presents an opportunity to enhance community engagement and financial sustainability, ensuring it remains accessible to the broader public. To support ongoing sustainability, the facility has been granted 52 Sunday Sippers fundraising events and an opportunity to operate the kiosk through its volunteer members.If this option is not taken up, Council will initiate an expression of interest (EOI) process to lease the space, ensuring a fair and transparent approach to the management of this public asset. There has been some confusion regarding the new kiosk and the kiosk that has been operating previously in a shipping container. These are separate matters.  The new kiosk operates within a Council-owned facility on community land, and leasing arrangements must align with governance and regulatory requirements. In line with these obligations, the correct process has been implemented to ensure future operations comply with leasing conditions. As a publicly funded facility, the venue must remain open and accessible to the entire community. Expanding opportunities for community involvement beyond patrolling members would further reinforce its role as a shared space.  Public advocacy played a key role in securing toilet facilities, which were not included in the original plans. These are now open for community use, consistent with other surf club facilities across the region. At a recent Council meeting, it was noted that the kiosk has the capacity to employ multiple staff members, highlighting its ability to contribute to local employment and community engagement.  Moving forward, a formalised leasing process will ensure the kiosk operates within established guidelines, aligning with lease conditions and community expectations. While surf lifesaving remains the primary function of the venue, the club also participates in sporting competitions. Like all community sporting organisations, there is a need to balance operational costs with financial sustainability.Volunteers play an essential role across all community groups, from surf clubs and sporting associations to service organisations. Ensuring this facility remains a shared and inclusive community asset will be key to its long-term success. With Council now responsible for the building’s maintenance, the costs will be covered by the broader community through public funds. However, as a Council asset, the facility is also expected to generate revenue to contribute to its own upkeep, ensuring it does not rely solely on ratepayers for ongoing maintenance. Across the region, sporting groups operate under financial constraints, with the Kiama District Sports Association managing 20 clubs on an annual budget of just $60,000. This highlights the need for fairness in the distribution of community resources. This publicly funded facility was built for community benefit and must serve all members of the public. By embracing a community-focused approach, the venue has the opportunity to ensure it remains sustainable, inclusive, and accessible for years to come.The views expressed here are the personal views of Councillor Matters and do not represent those of Kiama Municipal Council 

Imagine standing in Kiama decades ago, looking out at a town barely touching the edges of the landscape. A quiet community nestled between the rolling hills and the ocean, with open paddocks and pockets of houses lining wide, empty roads. Now, fast forward to today. What was once a collection of scattered homes and small-town life is now a thriving, sought-after coastal destination. Schools, businesses, homes, and community spaces weave through what was once largely farmland.But what if those before us had said, "Not in my backyard"? What if they had resisted change, rejected progress, and shut the door to new families and opportunities? Where would we be living now? Where would our children find their future? Would Kiama have become a place of stagnation rather than evolution?The term NIMBY, or "Not In My Backyard," is often thrown around in conversations about development, yet rarely do we stop to ask whose backyard we are really talking about. Once, this town was someone else’s backyard. Once, every street, home, and park was just a vision for the future. And now, that future is here. It is where we work, where we raise families, where we celebrate community, where we belong.Growth is inevitable. The challenge is not in stopping it but in shaping it. We have the power to guide development that respects our environment, our history, and our way of life without shutting the gates to those who, just like us, dream of making Kiama their home.So, when we look at the past and see what has changed, let us ask ourselves: if the people in this undated photograph had said no, where would we be now? And more importantly, where do we want Kiama’s future to lead? This is a work in progress, just like our town itself.

By Ray JohnsonEpisode 1 – The IPCCWelcome to the first of a series of informative articles on Climate Change. The aim is to provide easy to read explainers of climate change science, its organisations, processes, issues and implications. We start with a primer on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (the IPCC) and the framework for governments to act on IPCC advice.  The IPCC is the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) established the IPCC in 1988. Its mission was to “prepare a comprehensive review and recommendations with respect to: the state of knowledge of the science of climate change; the social and economic impact of climate change, and potential response strategies and elements for inclusion in a possible future international convention on climate.” Over time the IPCC core mandate has continued, the science has evolved, and the confidence in key scientific findings has increased to the highest levels.The IPCC has so far produced six assessments and a range of reports and papers. These assessments underpinned the creation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC - 1994), the Kyoto Protocol (1997), and the Paris Agreement (2016). The Paris Agreement’s goal is to hold “the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2 degrees C above pre-industrial levels” and pursue efforts “to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degree C above pre-industrial levels.” The Sixth Assessment was finalised in March 2023 and the Seventh Assessment is due late 2029.Each Assessment consists of three Working Group reports and a Synthesis Report. The Sixth Assessment factsheet (8 pages) demonstrates the immense effort and detail that goes into each assessment cycle. Across the three working group reports there were 782 authors and editors, nearly 200,000 comments by experts and governments, and over 66,000 research citations.  What is the impact of all this advice? The UNFCCC has been ratified by 198 countries, virtually universal support. The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty, adopted by 196 parties. The parties of the Framework Convention come together to form the Conference of the Parties (COP), the ‘supreme’ decision-making body of the Convention. The COP meets regularly, typically annually, and the COP Presidency rotates among the five recognised UN regions - Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Central and Eastern Europe and Western Europe and Others.  Brazil hosts COP30, the next meeting, in November this year (2025). This meeting is vitally important as it is here that nations need to commit to action to meet the Paris Agreement targets. In a recent speech in Brazil, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell said “Because these national plans are among the most important policy documents governments will produce this century, their quality should be the paramount consideration.” The original deadline for national plans was 10 February but Secretary Stiell indicated September was a hard deadline.Climate Action Tracker paints a grim picture: “Only six of the [42] countries the Climate Action Tracker analyses have submitted their new 2035 climate targets in time for the Paris Agreement's 10 February 2025 deadline, and only one — the UK — is proposing actions at home that are 1.5 degree C-aligned.” One of the six was the USA. On 20 January 2025 President Trump signed an Executive Order withdrawing the USA “from any agreement, pact, accord, or similar commitment made under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.”  In Australia Sky News reports: “Both major parties avoid 2035 Paris Accord [Agreement] climate commitments ahead of federal election”.  The science, advice and governance frameworks are in place. The need is political will. Time is running out.

OPINION In any local government, there are two essential layers of conversation – the discussions happening within council and the everyday chatter in the community.Both serve as vital barometers for public sentiment, yet too often, these conversations occur in silos, leading to misunderstandings when one side assumes the worst about the other.A recent debate in Kiama highlights this issue. Following my article, Kiama’s Future is Shaped by Transparency, there has been concern among councillors that greater transparency could impact their briefing sessions.These are closed meetings where they receive information and ask questions before formal council meetings.At the same time, members of the community are worried that this could limit public access sessions, which provide a crucial forum for residents to raise concerns directly with council.Rather than a conflict, this is a case of differing perspectives on the same issue.The NSW Minister for Local Government has been clear that transparency reforms aim to strengthen public trust by reducing confidential, behind-closed-doors decision-making, particularly in cases where key debates should happen in open council meetings.The intention is not to disrupt councillor briefing sessions, which are designed for information-sharing, but rather to ensure that significant policy discussions and decisions take place in public forums.Both briefing sessions and public access sessions serve essential roles in good governance. Briefing sessions equip councillors with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions, while public access sessions provide a platform for community voices to be heard.These processes complement each other. The way forward is recognising that different perspectives come from different priorities.Councillors benefit from staying connected to community discussions, just as the community plays a vital role in engaging constructively with their representatives.Good governance is built on transparency, but transparency is more than just making information available, it’s about ensuring people feel heard, understood, and respected.Kiama’s current discussion is a reminder that when we take the time to listen, to councillors, to the community, and to the intent behind reforms , we can strengthen trust and make local government work better for everyone.

Was it protesters or bored kids who grabbed a can of black spray paint and went to town on a real estate sign on Fountaindale Rd. The agent’s name, the sale details; gone. But the glossy pictures? Still there, peeking through the mess. Was it a statement, or just a half-baked act of vandalism?If it were a farm being sold off, you could guess at a motive. Frustration over disappearing green space, resentment at big money snapping up land. But this is just an acre block – hardly the frontline of a development war. So what was the point?Maybe someone saw it as another step towards change they don’t like. Maybe they’re tired of seeing signs pop up, marking another sale, another new neighbour. Or maybe – and let’s be honest, this seems likely – it was just kids with nothing better to do. A can of spray paint, a late-night wander, and a sign standing there like an open invitation.Either way, it won’t change a thing. The house will still sell. The land will still change hands. Another sign will go up. And whoever did this? They’ll move on, whether to their next act of defiance or their next act of mindless destruction.

I was out to lunch on Saturday when the conversation turned to the recent surfing tragedies along our coast. A couple of people at the table said something that got me thinking."We’re a tourism destination," one of them pointed out. "We invite people here. A lot of them come from Western Sydney, where they don’t grow up with the ocean. They don’t get the same chance to understand the surf or learn beach safety."They were right. We do invite people here. Kiama, Gerringong and Gerroa are magnets for visitors, particularly in summer, and many of those visitors have little experience with the unpredictable nature of the ocean. Rips, changing tides and shifting sandbanks aren’t things you necessarily think about when you haven’t grown up near the beach.We proudly tell the world that Kiama is the destination. The question is, what can we do to ensure visitors enjoy it safely?Some councils and surf clubs in coastal areas have started partnerships with inland communities, delivering beach safety education before people even set foot on the sand. Could Kiama do the same? Imagine a program where lifesavers visit schools in Western Sydney, giving kids a practical understanding of rips and surf safety before they even book their summer holiday.Technology could play a big role in preventing tragedies. ResQVision, an emerging real-time monitoring system, could be a game-changer. QR codes at beach entrances could link to live surf conditions, warnings in multiple languages and expert safety advice. Visitors could scan a code and instantly see the latest updates on rips, tides and swimming conditions before stepping onto the sand.But nothing beats human interaction. Should we have more visible surf safety ambassadors, volunteers or trained staff at our busiest beaches during peak times, approaching visitors before they enter the water? Could a combination of ResQVision technology and face-to-face guidance make a real difference in reducing preventable drownings?What if we partnered with a city like Penrith, where many of our visitors come from? A structured program between councils, surf clubs, St John’s Ambulance and schools could create a pipeline of education that doesn’t just reduce risk but builds long-term awareness. Perhaps even exchange programs where young people from Western Sydney spend time with surf lifesavers here, learning firsthand.The ocean belongs to everyone, but so does the responsibility for keeping people safe in it. We can’t put all the pressure on lifeguards and volunteers when the reality is that prevention is the best tool we have. If we’re inviting people to our coastline, we need to make sure they have the knowledge to enjoy it safely.Kiama is the destination - but are we doing enough to make it a safe one?

A recent survey by the NSW Government revealed the most common names for licensed hotels across the state in 2025, with familiar names like Royal Hotel and Commercial Hotel topping the list. These pubs, scattered across New South Wales, have long been staples of community life. Closer to home, Kiama once had its fair share of pubs with similar names – though only The Grand Hotel and Tory’s remain today. Are you like me and remember the Brighton Hotel? The Grand Hotel and Tory’s have survived while others have faded into memory. Photos Kiama Library What happened to the others? Why have these two endured while so many others disappeared?Pubs were once central to Kiama’s daily life. They were places where people could gather after a hard day’s work, share a laugh, or even quietly enjoy a drink without judgement. They weren’t just buildings, they were places of connection, with names like the Imperial Hotel or Railway Hotel conjuring images of a different time.The Grand Hotel and Tory’s have survived while others have faded into memory. Is it their location, their character, or perhaps something intangible that keeps them standing?These two pubs now serve as living relics of a time when Kiama’s streets were dotted with places to pull up a stool and share in the town’s stories.We’re calling on the community to help us remember the names and stories of Kiama’s lost pubs. Were they places for celebration, or just a quiet refuge?If you have memories, photos, or even theories about why The Grand and Tory’s have outlasted the rest, we’d love to hear them.Kiama Library has the back story of Tory's Hotel. Here is a little snippetWe all know the iconic 'Tory's Hotel' in the centre of Kiama, but did you know that it is the oldest continuously operating business in Kiama? The licence was appointed to Irishman Jimmy Barton and his wife Elizabeth on 6 April 1853, originally for 'The Fermanagh'. (Two other inns in town predated the Fermanagh, although they have not survived.)

In business and not-for-profit organisations, assumptions can often lead to misunderstandings. This week’s Kiama Council meeting, held at the Gerringong Town Hall, offered a prime example of how changes in personnel and management structures can disrupt long-standing relationships and create unnecessary frustrations. The debate centred on the Kiama Show Society’s surprise at receiving a $10,520 invoice for the hire of the Pavilion. Historically, the Show Society had never been charged for its use, with in-kind support from the council forming part of an agreement spanning over 90 years. However, recent changes in council management had moved responsibility for the Showground Pavilion under the tourism division, where staff were unfamiliar with this legacy. Sandy Rendel, speaking on behalf of the Show Society, highlighted the key issue: “The fact that we’ve had an agreement relating to the use of the pavilion going back for 90 years is not something that someone who started with council a year ago would automatically know. It’s unfair to expect them to have that knowledge without us explaining it.” This situation is not unique to local government. Whether in business or not-for-profits, the loss of corporate knowledge due to restructuring, retirements, or staff turnover can lead to inefficiencies and strained relationships. Institutional memory is a valuable but fragile resource. As Rendel noted, “When I joined the Show Society in 1980, there was shared knowledge and experience across both the council and the committee. Today, that has changed.” To address this, organisations must actively document their agreements, processes, and historical practices to ensure new staff and management understand the context of their decisions and relationships. Without such documentation, valuable insights and traditions can be lost over time. Changes in management structures and methodologies are inevitable. Rather than reacting negatively to these shifts, organisations should focus on educating new stakeholders about the value and nuances of existing relationships. “It’s just a matter of communication,” Rendel explained. “We need to explain how the relationship works and why it matters.” Clear communication bridges gaps and ensures transitions in leadership or structure do not disrupt organisational goals. The relationship between the Show Society and the council has historically been built on mutual respect. However, rebuilding that connection now requires intentional effort. As Rendel observed, “It’s time to tuck the tourism division tightly under our wing, bring them to the show, and show them the cultural and community significance of this event.” Proactively engaging with new stakeholders strengthens ties and fosters a shared understanding of the event’s broader importance. The Kiama Pavilion, built as a multi-purpose community space, has always been integral to the show. While the council now focuses on generating revenue from the pavilion, Rendel noted the importance of balancing commercial goals with the facility’s primary purpose as a community asset: “It’s good that it can pay for itself, but that was never its primary purpose.” Recognising the pavilion’s cultural significance ensures that it remains a vital part of the community while supporting broader financial objectives. This story serves as a reminder for all organisations: long-standing relationships, however robust, are not immune to the impact of change. As Rendel reflected, “We can never take people for granted.” Whether managing a small business or a major not-for-profit, documenting history, communicating proactively, and adapting to change are essential for maintaining continuity and building sustainable relationships.The Kiama Show Society and council ultimately resolved the issue with a fee waiver and a commitment to better communication moving forward. But the broader lesson is clear: in a world of constant change, relationships must be nurtured with the same care as the events and communities they support.

Opinion Piece Despite constant water safety reminders, people continue to push boundaries, even during wild weather or near dangerous surf conditions. This defiance, seen all too often in the Kiama region, raises deeper questions about human psychology and the challenges of protecting people from their own actions.The recent rescue near Kiama's Blowhole, where SES volunteers braved 90 km/h wind gusts and four metre waves to save a woman with a broken leg and her daughter, is a stark example of this phenomenon. Commander John Wall expressed disbelief at seeing individuals deliberately entering high risk areas, emphasising that even seasoned rescuers struggled against the forces of nature.Tragically, our region has seen three water related deaths in recent months. These preventable incidents are not just statistics; they are devastating losses for families, communities, and the responders who bear the emotional toll of each tragedy. Despite public campaigns and visible warning signs, the allure of danger often wins. Why?Psychologists suggest that risk taking behaviours stem from a combination of factors: the thrill of pushing limits, underestimating hazards, and an innate belief that "it won’t happen to me." In some cases, social media amplifies this mindset, encouraging people to capture dramatic footage, as though defying danger will make them immortal, if only in their Instagram feed.But nature does not forgive. For every dramatic photo opportunity or fleeting moment of bravado, there are those who pay the ultimate price. And when disaster strikes, it is our emergency services, our unsung heroes, who shoulder the burden. As they risk their own lives to save others, we must ask: are we doing enough to protect them from unnecessary dangers?Kiama Council, The Bugle, and frontline agencies tirelessly advocate for water safety, from education campaigns to upgraded infrastructure. Yet, there is no fence high enough or sign bold enough to counter human curiosity and hubris.So how do we change the narrative? Perhaps it starts with a cultural shift - celebrating respect for nature rather than dominance over it. Teaching children that the ocean is as beautiful as it is unforgiving and acknowledging that bravery is not crossing barriers but knowing when to stop.The challenge is not just saving people from water; it is saving them from themselves. For those who heed warnings, the beauty of our coastline remains. For those who don’t, the stakes are far too high to ignore.

 Recent analysis of Kiama Council’s 12 January 2025 Agenda committee meeting minutes raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of its advisory committees in fulfilling their intended role. These concerns stem from the lack of explicit advice reflected in the committee meeting minutes themselves. Of concern are agenda items listed under Section 12 of the Ordinary Meeting agenda, which include minutes from the Audit, Risk, and Improvement Committee, Blue Haven Advisory Committee, and Finance Advisory Committee.The lack of explicit recommendations provided in the committee minutes raises questions as to whether these committees are being treated as procedural necessities rather than meaningful contributors to governance. Issues include a lack of actionable outcomes, where committee recommendations, often lack clear follow-through or measurable impact on council decisions. Concerns have also been raised that critical input from committees is sometimes sidelined or diluted, raising questions about the value placed on their advice. The role of committees must be viewed within the broader context of governance and accountability at Kiama Council. Transparency deficits will only leave the community questioning whether committee operations are genuinely transparent or merely performative. If committees are unable to provide effective and explicit advice to the body of Council, this points to a systemic governance issue that extends beyond Kiama Council to broader local government practices in NSW. For committees to play a meaningful role, Kiama Council must establish clear mandates and expectations for committee contributions, focusing on actionable outcomes.  To enhance transparency council must commit to regular and detailed reporting on committee activities, including the status of recommendations, and develop feedback loops to ensure community input and committee advice are integrated into decision-making processes.Advisory committees are a critical component of effective governance, but their potential remains unrealised at Kiama Council, wasting the wealth of talent and expertise within our community.Without significant reforms, these committees risk becoming symbolic entities rather than drivers of meaningful change.By addressing these challenges head-on, the council can restore faith in its governance processes and demonstrate a commitment to accountability and transparency.

 The tired clichés are everywhere. Boys will be boys. Let kids take risks. It’s evolution, 100 million years of human nature. And then there’s the cringiest of them all: let Darwinism take its course. These arguments sound like they’ve been plucked from a bad social media thread, and sadly they have. But they’ve taken root in a way that’s downright dangerous. Let’s get one thing straight. This isn’t about stopping kids from being kids or sterilising their childhoods. Risk-taking is an important part of growing up, climbing trees, building cubbies, even a scraped knee teaches resilience. But there’s a world of difference between a productive risk and a reckless gamble. A scraped knee is a lesson. A traumatic brain injury from falling off an e-bike with no helmet? That’s a tragedy we could have prevented. The “boys will be boys” mantra isn’t just tired, it’s lazy. It’s a way of excusing bad behaviour by pretending it’s innate and unchangeable. Here’s the truth: kids aren’t born reckless. They’re shaped by what we allow, what we encourage, and what we excuse. When we shrug and say, “Oh well, that’s just how boys are,” we’re not just letting them down, we’re failing the society they’ll grow into. We’re saying accountability is optional, that responsibility doesn’t matter. And then there’s the Darwinism argument, the laissez-faire idea that we should just let natural selection weed out the weak. It’s a dangerous oversimplification of evolution. Humans evolved because we cared for one another, because we created safeguards, because we built rules that allowed our communities to grow and thrive. The seatbelts, helmets, and safety regulations people rail against? They’re not about controlling lives, they’re about saving them. Yes, kids need to learn about risk, but those risks need boundaries. A helmet doesn’t stop a kid from being adventurous; it stops their adventure from ending in disaster. A rule about how to use an e-bike isn’t over-regulation, it’s common sense. These aren’t barriers to freedom; they’re enablers of it. Social media has only made the problem worse. Extreme voices shouting “anti-woke” slogans are amplified, creating echo chambers where people feel validated for rejecting even the most basic safety measures. It’s exhausting, but it’s also dangerous. These aren’t just opinions, they influence behaviour, and they spread like wildfire, bringing more bandwagon believers into the fold. But here’s the thing: we don’t have to let these voices dominate the conversation. The majority of parents, teachers, and community members want what’s best for kids. They understand that rules and regulations exist not to kill fun but to make sure kids come home safe at the end of the day.So, let’s be clear. The question isn’t whether kids should take risks. Of course they should. The real question is whether we, as adults, are willing to take responsibility for creating the conditions where those risks teach resilience, not tragedy. That’s not “woke.” It’s common sense. It’s parenting. It’s community. Let’s ditch the tired tropes and focus on what matters: giving kids the freedom to grow and learn in a world where their safety isn’t just a nice idea but a shared responsibility. Because the alternative isn’t just risky, it’s reckless.

As Kiama grows, the challenge is clear: how do we balance the need for development with preserving what makes this region special? The answer lies in having a clear, community-driven plan, one that gives developers certainty while ensuring that growth aligns with the values of the people who live here.Shoalhaven’s recent struggles offer a timely reminder. Councillors initially voted to include “character” protections in planning laws, aiming to ensure that developments reflected the unique identity of towns like Culburra and Berry. But just two weeks later, the decision was paused, leaving communities and developers alike in limbo. The lesson? Without clear, consistent planning, everyone loses.For Kiama, a proactive approach is essential. A strong plan doesn’t pit developers against the community; it sets clear expectations for everyone. It ensures that if you want to develop here, you know what matters to the people who call Kiama home.So, what does liveability mean for Kiama? It’s not just about stunning beaches and scenic views - though we’re lucky to have them. It’s about creating a place where people want to live now and in the future. This includes:Enjoyment and quality of life for all residents.Affordable housing for families, young people, and older residents.Local job opportunities that let people work close to home.Safe, vibrant spaces where people can gather, play, and connect.Access to essential services, including health care, public transport, and education.Cultural richness, with events, activities, and programs that bring people together.Developers have an important role to play in building this future. With clear guidelines, they can create projects that meet Kiama’s housing needs while respecting its identity. Community driven planning ensures development enhances our shared spaces, supports local jobs, and prioritises sustainability.This isn’t about putting up roadblocks or saying no to growth. It’s about growing with purpose. By setting clear, consistent rules, we can ensure that every new development contributes to this vision. Developers gain certainty, residents gain trust, and the council gains a framework for making decisions that benefit everyone.Kiama’s future is being shaped today. With a strong plan, we can ensure that growth complements, not compromises, our liveability. Together, we can create a Kiama where everyone thrives.

Regular readers of The Bugle know we’ve been hammering home the importance of staying safe this summer.When I file a story for The Bugle, there’s a line in the template asking for a photograph, a caption, and the source. I’d just typed “photo to be sourced” when, within 10 minutes, I spotted this couple on the rocks during a walk to breakfast at Diggies.It wasn’t difficult to find them. That’s what struck me the most. How sad it is that, in a place filled with safety messages and warnings, people like this can so easily fill the spot for my photo, standing on slippery rocks, waves crashing around them, one misstep away from tragedy.This photograph isn’t about shame. It’s about the sobering reminder of how often people take unnecessary risks, no matter how many warnings are given. Everyone shares safety messages, but we rarely know if they work. That doesn’t mean we can stop.If this story makes even one person think twice, then it’s worth it. If one life is saved because someone chose caution over risk, all the effort, the warnings, the articles, the conversations, will have been worthwhile.Because while we might not see the impact, we have to believe it’s there. Giving up is not an option when lives are at stake.

Jamberoo’s Reid Park, a cherished community hub and heritage landmark, is gearing up for repairs after a fire destroyed play equipment earlier this year. Kiama Council will begin removing the damaged equipment in early January, ensuring the remaining facilities can still be used. The replacement equipment, funded by the Council’s insurance, is expected to be installed by late March at a cost of $89,000.Reid Park holds a special place in Jamberoo’s history. Donated in 1937 by Ms Annie Eva Reid to mark King George VI’s coronation, the park is renowned for its heritage-listed early 20th-century tree plantings and its connection to St Stephen’s Church, which enhances the landscape of Jamberoo’s western township.Reid Park is a place of historical and social importance, the fire damage has left many residents disheartened.The park’s thoughtful design also provides wonderful opportunities for people with disabilities, including wheelchair-friendly access. This inclusive feature has made it a favourite spot for all members of the community to gather, celebrate, and enjoy.Councillor Erica Warren, a Jamberoo resident, spoke about the park’s significance. “Reid Park is more than a playground – it’s a space for birthday parties, Christmas gatherings, and picnics. Its accessibility and charm make it a hub for families and a vital part of our town,” she said.She added, “The early tree plantings and connection to St Stephen’s Church give the park its unique character. As a place of historical and social importance, the fire damage has left many residents disheartened.”The Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association (JVRRA) expressed their gratitude for Kiama Council’s swift action in responding to the fire. Secretary Ros Neilson noted, “It’s a relief to see the Council act so promptly after this unfortunate act of vandalism. Their timely update has been greatly appreciated by the community.” Councillor Stuart Larkins shared his own disappointment over the fire. “I’m still very shocked that this playground was set alight. I do not know why anyone would want to do such a thing. There is an ongoing police investigation, so anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” he said.Looking ahead, Cr Larkins expressed relief that cleanup efforts will be completed in time for Jamberoo’s Australia Day celebrations, which will include a citizenship ceremony for 2025.Reid Park has always been more than just a recreational space. In the 1920s, Miss Reid introduced croquet to Jamberoo, a sport that continues to flourish in the park today. From its origins as a site for croquet tournaments to today’s family barbecues, the park embodies the spirit of Jamberoo. As the community awaits the playground’s restoration, this cherished space continues to stand as a testament to resilience, connection, and inclusivity.

With the Christmas rush in full swing, collisions spike significantly in December, making shopping centre car parks one of the riskiest places to navigate.Key findings from the latest analysisBetween October 2023 and September 2024, AAMI recorded over 22,000 car park insurance claims across Australia. December alone saw 36% more car park crashes than the monthly average.In New South Wales, Chatswood leads the list of hotspots, followed by Miranda and Castle Hill, highlighting the challenges of navigating busy suburban shopping precincts.Saturdays are now the worst day for prangs, with afternoons between 1 pm and 4:30 pm posing the highest risk. Shoppers hoping for a quieter experience might do better on Sundays or during early morning and late-night hours.How drivers are staying cautiousAAMI's research suggests that drivers are adopting various strategies to stay safe:Driving slowly (81%) and parking in less crowded areas (47%)Using sensors and cameras (34%) to avoid dingsHowever, bad behaviour remains a concern. Over 60% of respondents reported seeing others drive too fast or double park, though few admitted to doing these things themselves.Tips for a prang-free parking experienceAAMI Motor Claims Manager Leah James advises staying vigilant:Check twice: Watch for cars reversing or pulling out and always check blind spots.Stay alert: Pedestrians, especially near entrances, need extra caution.Eliminate distractions: Avoid phone use while driving in car parks.Light the way: Use headlights in dimly lit car parks for better visibility.Kiama’s local impactWhile Chatswood may top the list statewide, Kiama’s own shopping precincts see their fair share of car park challenges, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Locals are reminded to stay calm and cautious as visitors pour in for Christmas shopping and holiday festivities.Avoiding the afternoon rush and shopping on quieter days could save drivers time, stress, and the inconvenience of a holiday prang.Drive safe this Christmas season and enjoy a stress-free shopping experience!

Travelling with a group recently, I found myself in a conversation that has lingered in my mind. One person shared their wish that newcomers to Australia wouldn’t bring “their religious baggage.” I smiled quietly, not in agreement, but in recognition.My own family, with roots in Scotland, and Ireland, brought plenty of their own religious baggage to Australia. My grandparents’ story is a poignant example—it took them ten years to marry because one was Catholic and the other Protestant. Even then, they couldn’t marry in a church.Their story speaks to a history of division, where religious differences weren’t just private beliefs but lines that shaped relationships and communities. It’s a history that resonates today, even as we strive to live in a multicultural, diverse society.That history came to mind again when I invited friends to a local church carols event. One declined, explaining that they couldn’t reconcile participating in something associated with institutions that, in their view, have fueled conflicts for centuries. They reminded me that over 90% of wars in history have been linked to religious disputes. It wasn’t a judgment on my invitation but an expression of their deeply held values, and it gave me pause.Similarly, another friend declined an invitation to a Melbourne Cup luncheon, voting with their feet against an event they felt conflicted with their principles. I find these choices encouraging. They suggest we are becoming a society where people feel empowered to align their actions with their values.As the most multicultural countries in the world, (1 in 3 Australians were born overseas) Australia is enriched by its diversity. That diversity often challenges us to engage with perspectives we may not share, and sometimes, to sit with the discomfort of those differences. It requires us to listen, reflect, and respond with empathy rather than retreat into defensiveness.In Australian schools, many young people are learning how to navigate these conversations—how to respect and appreciate diverse viewpoints while confidently articulating their own. It’s a skill set I believe more adults could learn from.Perhaps the future lies not in avoiding the metaphorical baggage we all bring but in unpacking it together, finding shared understanding while honouring individual journeys. If our young people can do it, surely the rest of us can try too.

Kiama Council’s legal expenses have increased twelvefold, meaning the Council is now spending 12 times more on legal costs compared to 2020/21. Much of this surge is tied to disputes in the Land and Environment Court. These figures highlight the challenges faced by anyone lodging a Development Application (DA), whether for a home renovation, a new business, or a larger project. The good news? With early preparation, expert advice and conversations with Council, many of these costly setbacks can be avoided.The DA process is underpinned by several key planning frameworks:State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs): Address state-level priorities like affordable housing, biodiversity, and coastal management.The Local Environmental Plan (LEP): Defines zoning and permissible uses for specific areas.Development Control Plans (DCPs): Provide detailed design and construction guidelines to ensure projects fit with the local character.These rules might seem like red tape, but they exist to balance development with community and environmental interests. The challenge for applicants is understanding how their plans align with these frameworks.A pre-lodgement meeting with Council’s planning team is one of the most effective ways to navigate this complexity. Council staff can clarify zoning requirements, highlight potential compliance issues, and provide practical solutions to help your application meet the mark. This step isn’t just for major developers, it’s for everyone, from families building a second-storey extension to businesses expanding their premises.Unfortunately, skipping these early conversations is all too common. Applications that don’t meet the LEP, SEPPs, or DCP are often sent back for revision, delaying projects and sometimes escalating into disputes. And when disagreements end up in the Land and Environment Court, the costs—not just financial but also emotional—can spiral.Council also has a role to play in reducing these disputes. By ensuring planning advice is clear and accessible, and by fostering a collaborative approach with applicants, it can reduce confusion and rebuild trust.For the community, however, there’s an opportunity to shift the focus from conflict to collaboration. The DA process works best when it’s seen as a partnership between Council and applicants—a way to achieve development outcomes that respect both individual goals and community standards.Council’s skyrocketing legal costs underscore the urgency of improving how DAs are handled. These expenses are a shared burden for ratepayers and a signal that something needs to change.As we look forward to the Council reviewing its legal expense statistics, it’s time to set benchmarks for improvement—whether that’s a target for reducing court cases, improving communication, or streamlining the DA process. Whatever the benchmarks, it’s clear the focus must shift to collaboration, early engagement, and reducing costs for everyone involved.

Australia’s mental healthcare system is underfunded, fragmented, and failing to meet the needs of the most vulnerable, according to the Australian Medical Association (AMA). The organisation’s newly released position statement on mental health highlights critical workforce shortages, complex system navigation, and growing patient demand as key issues.Dr Danielle McMullen, AMA President, described the current state as a “nightmare” for patients and their families, emphasising that mental illness touches almost every Australian either directly or through a loved one. “Navigating Australia’s mental health system and finding the right care at the right time is fraught with challenges,” Dr McMullen said.The urgency of reform is underscored by regional statistics. In the Illawarra Shoalhaven region, 10.1% of residents reported long-term mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety in the 2021 Census, exceeding state and national averages. Environmental challenges, including bushfires, floods, and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, have exacerbated the demand for mental health services in this area. Local health services are stretched, with community and inpatient settings under strain to meet increasing needs.The AMA has called for coordinated action from all levels of government to invest in a patient-centred and evidence-based mental healthcare system. They advocate for sustainable funding to support GPs, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals, particularly in regional and remote areas where access to care is limited.Dr McMullen stressed the importance of strengthening general practice, as mental health is now the leading reason for GP visits, according to successive Health of the Nation reports. She urged the government to invest in longer consultations, GP-led multidisciplinary care, and accessible referral pathways to address this growing demand.Increased funding for training pathways tailored to rural and regional areas was also highlighted as a priority, aiming to improve the availability of care for those outside urban centres. “Mental illness is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in Australia, and it deserves the same attention and resources as physical health challenges,” Dr McMullen added.The Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District exemplifies the need for these reforms, offering specialist assessments and care through public and non-government sectors. Despite their efforts, rising demand highlights the critical need for a strengthened mental health framework.The AMA’s position statement underscores the urgency of these reforms to alleviate strain on the system and ensure equitable access to care for all Australians.For more information, visit AMA's mental health statement.

When Cathy McGowan AO became the independent federal member for Indi, she didn’t just represent her electorate—she redefined what leadership could look like. With her tagline, doing politics differently, Cathy transformed the conversation around governance, putting people at the heart of every decision. No glitzy campaigns, no tired slogans. Just honest, human connection. She listened. She asked questions. She pulled up a chair to kitchen tables and said, “Tell me what matters to you.”It’s no wonder the Teal movement, a new force in Australian politics, was born from her values. Cathy proved that being community-focused wasn’t just idealistic fluff—it was the most effective way to lead. She worked for her people, not the party. She built bridges, not walls. She stood for transparency, accountability, and real engagement. And what did she leave behind? A legacy that reminds us politics doesn’t have to be dirty.As I’ve been sitting down with some of Kiama’s new councillors, I can’t help but see echoes of Cathy’s values in the conversations we’re having. There’s a fresh focus on ART—accountability, responsiveness, and transparency, that feels both timely and necessary. These aren’t just buzzwords. They’re commitments to a better way of governing.Cathy always said leadership is about showing up. It’s about knowing your community, not just from survey results but from shared cups of tea and stories told across kitchen tables. Our councillors seem to understand that. They’re not here to tell us what to think or what to want, they’re here to listen, to understand, and to act.ART isn’t a slogan; it’s a promise. A promise to govern with integrity, to own mistakes as well as triumphs, and to let the community see how decisions are made, not just what those decisions are. Cathy McGowan taught us that politics doesn’t have to be ugly. It doesn’t have to be about backroom deals or party-line obedience. It can be about people. Real people. Real lives. And it can be done with heart.If our councillors follow through on their ART principles, Kiama could become a model for what good governance looks like. Leadership like this doesn’t need fanfare; it starts small, with a kitchen table, a conversation, and a willingness to truly listen. Let’s hope we’re about to see a whole lot more of that in Kiama.