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.

The future of Jamberoo Community Preschool remains uncertain following Kiama Council’s 10 December meeting, where Councillor Mike Cains presented a motion seeking assurances for the preschool’s continuity. Serving 67 families and with over 100 students on the waiting list, the preschool is a vital service for the village, but its current flood-prone location presents significant challenges.The motion called for extending the preschool’s lease until an alternate site is available and ready for occupation. Despite efforts to identify new premises, including local churches and community facilities, no viable alternatives have been found, leaving the preschool dependent on its current location.For now, the preschool remains an essential service for local families, with the added benefit of fostering strong community connections among Jamberoo’s youngest residents. Parents have stressed the importance of their children forming early friendships that support them to transition seamlessly into Jamberoo Public School, reinforcing the village’s social fabric.Community support has rallied around linking the preschool’s relocation to the Golden Valley Way Stage 2 proposal. The developer has pledged to donate land for a new preschool if the project proceeds, but the Council’s housing strategy categorises the site as a long-term development, creating frustration for locals seeking immediate solutions.The community has urged the Council to prioritise upgrades to the preschool building, a council-owned asset that is currently in a flood-prone location. These upgrades, essential for the building’s safety and readiness for future tenants, must begin now rather than waiting until the preschool relocates.“The preschool is more than an education facility—it’s the heart of our community,” said a local parent. “We need the Council to provide certainty so families and children can continue to thrive.”Extending the lease and upgrading the current facility while pursuing long-term solutions will be critical in supporting Jamberoo’s families and preserving its vibrant community spirit.

Opinion by Lynne Strong I live on a dairy farm clinging to the northeastern slope of Saddleback Mountain, Jamberoo. This is perfect dairy country, and for good reason. Rainfall here is reliable (well used to be), soaking the volcanic soil and making our grass some of the best you’ll find. When I sit on my verandah, I see rolling green hills to the west and the ocean towards the coast, dotted with black-and-white cows that in the early days were called Magpie cows and Jersey cows. It’s a postcard view, but for me, it’s just home. Like most locals, I know this mountain as more than a pretty backdrop—it’s part of my daily life.Saddleback has its quirks. On misty mornings, the fog creeps in so thick you can hardly see the fenceposts, let alone the cows. The old dry-stone walls, built by hand generations ago, look like something out of a storybook. There’s a kind of quiet magic here. Even the cows seem to feel it.We’re proud to share this place with visitors. Hikers come for the views, photographers for the perfect shot. And they’re not wrong—the lookouts at the summit are breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see as far as Cronulla to the north and Milton to the south. But there’s more to Saddleback than what meets the eye.The mountain’s history is as rich as its soil. The dry-stone walls that criss-cross the lower slopes are a legacy of hard work, crafted by settlers who cleared the Illawarra scrub to make way for dairy farms like mine. Hoddles Track, carved through the ridges by surveyor Robert Hoddle in the 1800s, whispers of a time when this area was wild and untamed.Living here is rewarding in ways city life can’t touch. Every drop of milk that leaves this farm comes from those perfect, rain-fed pastures on the side of Saddleback. Every day begins and ends with the rhythm of the mountain—stunning sunrises. mist rising, sun falling, the cows never too far away.Saddleback Mountain isn’t just a place to live. It’s a partner in every part of my life. It’s home, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Opinion By Lynne StrongBecoming a new councillor must feel a lot like stepping into the lyrics of Johnny Nash’s "I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,I can see all obstacles in my way,Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind,It's gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day."That’s the vibe most councillors start with—optimism and determination to fix what’s broken and make their community better. They arrive ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work, thinking the hardest part was winning the election. But just as they settle into their new roles, the clouds roll back in, and they find themselves humming the Rolling Stones instead:"You can’t always get what you want,But if you try sometimes,You just might find,You get what you need."What you want is to dive into the big, transformative projects—housing, public spaces, sustainability. What you get? A mess. You inherit issues you didn’t see coming, like Kiama Council’s $1.5 million developer overcharging scandal. A software glitch led to inflated contributions, and now the council has to refund $623,000. That’s a lot of money that could have gone to basics like playgrounds, sports fields or “mowing public spaces more than once every six weeks.” Instead, councillors are left scrambling to explain it to a furious public.And the spending controversies don’t stop there. Refurbishing the council chambers will cost $280,000, including $170,000 for AV equipment, $30,000 for new carpets, and $15,000 for painting. The Westpac building will swallow another $154,000 for new partitions, carpet, and desks. Meanwhile, the mayor’s office is also being done up, which hasn’t gone unnoticed.What’s often overlooked is our councillors aren’t full-time politicians. Most councillors have other jobs. They don’t take these roles for the money—their stipends barely cover the time they put in. And yet, the demands are relentless. The public sees them as punching bags for every council decision, inherited or not.Take a look at what residents are saying:“Stop wasting money on fancy offices. Just get on with governing,” says one comment.Another adds, “Finish Gerroa Park already. It’s been sitting without play equipment for years while money is wasted on desks and carpet!”And then there’s this: “Councillors are supposed to represent ratepayers. You can’t hide from this waste.”It must feel impossible to move forward when you’re constantly stuck in reverse. Councillors didn’t sign up for this. They came in with big ideas: affordable housing, sustainability, community-building. But instead of progress, they’re dealing with angry ratepayers, blown budgets, and never-ending roadblocks.And really, who would sign up for this? The pay is small, the workload enormous, and the criticism relentless. Yet, somehow, these people keep showing up, trying to make a difference. They’re not perfect. They make mistakes. But they’re trying to steer a ship that’s often leaking from every corner.I started out wanting to write a positive piece, to showcase the incredible aspirations of our councillors. Instead, I find myself wondering how they even stay afloat. We demand so much of them—vision, integrity, resilience. But maybe we need to ask less and support more.Because while “You can’t always get what you want” might be true, councillors didn’t come into these roles expecting perfection. They just want to get us what we need. And that deserves a little more understanding from all of us.

Growth in Kiama is inevitable, but how we grow is a choice. I recently asked Cr Matt Brown about his thoughts on growth in Kiama. He envisions a future where we find balance—a mix of “going up” and “going out.” This, he says, could help us avoid a high-rise skyline while preserving Kiama’s unique character. But Matt also made an important point: growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about housing diversity. Kiama should be a place where everyone feels welcome and can afford to live - from young families to retirees, renters to homeowners.Achieving that vision requires careful planning and collaboration. Housing diversity means creating spaces for people at all stages of life and income levels. It means considering models like Build to Rent, which has been gaining traction across Australia. With new federal tax reforms aimed at boosting this type of development, Build to Rent could offer Kiama a pathway to add moderate-density housing while keeping the community inclusive and environmentally sustainable.What is Built to Rent?Build to Rent developments, managed by institutional investors rather than individual landlords, focus on long-term rental income rather than quick sales. This often translates to better-quality, more secure housing for tenants. The new federal legislation even requires that 10% of units in such projects be set aside as affordable housing, with rents capped at 74.9% of market rates or based on household income. For Kiama, this could provide a practical way to diversify housing options without sacrificing the character of the town.However, housing diversity doesn’t stop with Build to Rent. We also need to rethink density. Moderate-density developments like townhouses or low-rise apartments can help accommodate growth without sprawling into our green hills. These options can offer a mix of affordability, sustainability, and accessibility—provided they’re designed with the community in mind.Matt’s emphasis on inclusivity highlights a broader challenge: how to ensure Kiama remains a place for everyone, not just those who can afford premium housing. This requires a strategy that prioritises affordability, energy-efficient design, and connection to public transport. It also means preserving green spaces and protecting the agricultural land that forms the backbone of our identity.The path forwardGrowth is inevitable, but how we grow is a choice. If we embrace housing diversity and innovative models like Build to Rent, we can create a Kiama where new residents feel welcome and existing residents see their values reflected in every development. By going up in some areas and out in others, we can strike a balance that supports the needs of the community while keeping Kiama uniquely itself.The challenge isn’t just about accommodating numbers; it’s about shaping a future where everyone has a place to call home. That’s a future worth building.

Twelve years ago, during a business trip, I experienced a financial ordeal that left me stunned. The debit card I used exclusively for travel expenses—a card I rarely touched otherwise—was cloned. It likely happened at a restaurant where the staff took the card out of sight or perhaps during a taxi ride the following morning. This was before banking apps made it easy to monitor transactions, and I didn’t notice anything was wrong for almost a month.It wasn’t until I went to pay for a travel expense and the card bounced that I realised something was amiss. When I checked my account, I was flabbergasted. Someone had been systematically withdrawing cash from ATMs just below the daily limit and shopping at Coles every day for a week. What shocked me even more was that my bank—usually quick to flag suspicious transactions—had completely missed it.When I notified the bank, they were clearly embarrassed and promised to rectify the situation. However, the refund process was a nightmare. Instead of issuing a single reimbursement, they refunded every fraudulent transaction individually. Since I was using QuickBooks at the time, I had to match each refund to its corresponding fraudulent charge manually, a process that took days. After filing a formal complaint, the bank offered me a $400 credit and a short letter of apology.This incident opened my eyes to just how vulnerable we all are to scams, especially when travelling. Scammers target travellers because we’re often distracted, unfamiliar with our surroundings, and reliant on cards for convenience. Sadly, my experience is not unique. In 2023 alone, Australians lost over $2.74 billion to scams, with more than 601,000 incidents reported.The top five scams, who they target, and how to protect yourself1. Investment scamsFraudsters promise guaranteed high returns, often through cryptocurrency or “exclusive” opportunities.Who gets scammed? Middle-aged professionals and retirees with savings to invest, especially those looking for quick growth.How to avoid it: Verify investments through ASIC and avoid acting on unsolicited offers. Consult a financial advisor.2. Phishing attacksScammers impersonate banks, government agencies, or companies, asking for personal information through email or text.Who gets scammed? Anyone, but older Australians and less tech-savvy individuals are particularly vulnerable.How to avoid it: Always check the sender’s email address, and never click on unsolicited links. Contact the organisation directly.3. Romance scamsScammers develop fake online relationships, gaining trust before asking for money for emergencies or travel.Who gets scammed? Lonely retirees and widowed individuals looking for companionship.How to avoid it: Be wary of anyone asking for money you’ve never met in person. Verify their identity with a video call.4. Remote access scamsClaiming to be tech support, scammers convince victims to allow access to their devices.Who gets scammed? Seniors less familiar with technology, often targeted through landline calls.How to avoid it: Legitimate companies won’t cold-call for tech support. Hang up and contact the company directly.5. Lottery and prize scamsScammers claim you’ve won a prize or lottery you never entered, asking for fees or details to claim it.Who gets scammed? Younger people active on social media, who may be less aware of such scams.How to avoid it: If you didn’t enter, you didn’t win. Ignore and delete these messages.Lessons learnedThis experience taught me the importance of vigilance, particularly when travelling. Only use cards with limited access to your main funds, monitor accounts regularly, and keep cards in sight during transactions. Sharing these stories helps remind us all to stay alert.Scammers are getting smarter, but with awareness and caution, we can protect ourselves and each other. Because when it comes to your money, there’s no such thing as being too careful.

Recently, a close friend of mine—let’s call him Paul Steele to protect his privacy—found himself the victim of a devastating scam. Paul, who is in the early stages of dementia, received a call from someone claiming his daughter had lost her phone. The scammer told him the only way he could help her was to hand over his credit cards to a taxi driver who would appear at his door. Despite his instincts warning him otherwise, his love for his daughter clouded his judgement, and he complied.Paul’s quick thinking, even in this distressing situation, led him to ask the taxi driver where he lived. The response raises questions about whether the driver was complicit in the scam. This cruel incident highlights how even the most vigilant can fall victim, especially when emotions are manipulated. It also raises a crucial question: what should you do if you’ve been scammed?Here is a step-by-step guide Australians to follow if you or someone you know has been targeted by a scam:1. Act immediately to protect your financesContact your bank or financial institution: Notify them that you’ve been scammed and ask them to freeze your accounts and credit cards. Most banks have a 24/7 hotline for emergencies.Cancel your cards and request new ones: This prevents further unauthorised transactions.Check your accounts: Look for any unauthorised transactions and report them to your bank.2. Report the scamScamwatch (ACCC): File a report at scamwatch.gov.au. This helps authorities track and prevent future scams.Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC): If the scam involved online activity, report it at cyber.gov.au.Police: While not all scams are criminal offences, reporting to your local police station provides an official record.3. Protect your identityContact IDCARE: IDCARE is a free, government-funded service that helps Australians respond to identity theft and fraud. Visit idcare.org or call 1800 595 160.Monitor your credit report: Request a free credit report from agencies like Equifax, Experian, or illion to check for unusual activity.4. Seek supportBeing scammed can leave you feeling vulnerable and ashamed, but you’re not alone. Reach out to:Trusted friends or family members for emotional support.Services like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14) if you’re feeling overwhelmed.5. Learn and shareFamiliarise yourself with common scams: The ACCC’s Scamwatch website lists current scams and tips to avoid them.Talk to others: Sharing your story might protect someone else from falling victim.Paul’s story is a painful reminder of how scams prey on our trust and emotions. It’s essential to take these steps swiftly to limit the damage and to share knowledge that empowers others to stay safe.If you or someone you know has been scammed, acting promptly can make all the difference. Let’s protect ourselves and each other by staying informed and vigilant.