The Kiama Showground Pavilion was abuzz as it hosted the Zone 2 Final of The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman competition, showcasing the region’s brightest young advocates for agriculture and rural life. From a competitive field of 11 outstanding entrants, Bonnie Cox from Berry and Ellie Eather from Dapto were named as the two young women advancing to the prestigious state final at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.Cr Imogen Draisma, Mayor Cameron McDonald, Bonnie Cox Finalist, Ellie Eather Finalist, Cr Yasmin Tatrai at Zone 2 Final of Youg Woman Competition The competition, which has a rich 60-year history, aims to develop leadership, networking, and public speaking skills among young women, preparing them for greater involvement in their local communities and the agricultural sector. The evening at Kiama celebrated these dedicated young women and their contributions to their communities and the agricultural industry.Bonnie Cox, 25, grew up on her family’s Angus cattle farm in Berry, where her love for agriculture took root.Excelling in junior judging and show jumping, she became deeply committed to educating and mentoring young people about the industry. As Chair of the Angus Youth RoundUp Committee, she works to inspire the next generation to consider careers in agriculture.Bonnie highlighted the importance of succession planning and encouraging urban youth to see the possibilities in the industry. “New perspectives can revolutionise the way we farm,” she said. “Bringing in fresh ideas is essential for the future.”Ellie Eather, 19, is a Dock Master Assistant at Shellharbour Marina and a marine science student at the University of Wollongong.She has a deep commitment to sustainability and conservation, having volunteered with Landcare to install nesting boxes and participated in the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme. In her speech, she discussed the intersection of agriculture and environmental responsibility, emphasising the need for renewable energy solutions that also respect marine ecosystems. “Agriculture and conservation go hand in hand,” she noted. “It’s about ensuring long-term viability for both industries.”Grace McGlinchey, Kiama’s entrant, shared her journey growing up on a family farm in Jamberoo, where she has been deeply involved in the local show scene. Kiama's Grace McGlincheyA committee member of the Kiama Show Society, she has played a key role in promoting youth engagement through school exhibits and social media outreach. Her speech underscored the importance of modernising agricultural shows to attract younger generations, ensuring these long-standing traditions remain relevant. 'Agricultural shows are more than just competitions, they are a way to connect communities, share knowledge, and inspire the next generation,' Grace said.Kiama's Michelle Young was lauded for her herculean event management skills. She kept the crowd entertained with her witty remarks, proving that organising an event of this scale comes with plenty of laughs. ‘Tomorrow we sleep,’ she joked, reflecting on the whirlwind effort behind the competition.The evening was a celebration not just of competition but of community spirit, with strong support from local government representatives, agricultural leaders, and event coordinator Michelle Young.'This competition is not just about recognising young women in agriculture, but about giving them a platform to grow, connect, and lead in their communities,' Michelle said. Attendees were highly impressed with the professionalism and eloquence displayed by each of the eleven finalists, noting the confidence and depth of knowledge they brought to their presentations.Bonnie and Ellie will now prepare for the Sydney Royal final, where they will compete against top entrants from across the state.Regardless of the outcome, all eleven finalists commitment and leadership have already left an indelible mark on their communities and the future of agriculture.

Students with a passion for politics can now be selected for a National Youth Parliament.Up to 150 high school students will be selected to represent their electorate in the three-day program, held in Canberra next year. The National Youth Parliament, launched by speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick, will teach students about the drafting, consideration and passing of bills to become law. It complements the Parliament in Schools civics education program delivered to over 145 schools across the nation. “The National Youth Parliament will give our young people a national platform to contribute to democracy and politics through a hands-on experience,” says Mr Dick.“Young people have a vital role to play in public discussion, and a youth parliament is a meaningful and sustained youth engagement model that we have seen across Australia and the Commonwealth.”The National Youth Parliament will begin taking applications in the second half of this year.

KIAMA RUNNING CLUB - GROUP 5

The Minns Labor Government has announced that applications for the next round of the Tertiary Health Study Subsidies Program will open on 14 January. The program offers up to $12,000 in financial support for students enrolled in healthcare degrees in New South Wales.In 2025, support will be available for up to 850 nursing students, 400 medical students, and 150 midwifery students. Minister for Health, Ryan Park, expressed his excitement for the continued initiative.“More than 3,900 students across NSW have already benefited from the Government’s $120 million investment in tertiary health study subsidies,” says Park. “I am so pleased that even more students across the state will continue to benefit from this important initiative, which is helping to ease the financial burden on those starting a career in health.”The Minns Labor Government is investing $121.9 million over five years in the program. Successful applicants beginning their degrees will receive $4,000 per year over three years. Additionally, existing students will receive a one-off payment of $8,000 upon securing employment with NSW Health.Aimee Long, a past recipient and current medical student, shared how the subsidy has helped her.“Receiving the Tertiary Health Study Subsidy allowed me to become part of Australia’s largest health system. Being in medicine is quite an expensive undertaking, so it helps me afford necessary resources, whether for university or beyond,” says Long.To be eligible, students must commit to working in the NSW public health system for at least five years. A limited number of subsidies are available, and applications will remain open until all funds are awarded.Subsidies are also available for students pursuing degrees in paramedicine, Aboriginal health, dentistry, oral health therapy, and various allied health professions, including psychology, pharmacy, dietetics, and nuclear medicine.For a full list of eligible workforce groups and locations, visit the NSW Health website here.

Three teenagers have been charged following an alleged pursuit on the state’s south coast.About 2.45pm on Sunday 5 January 2025, police were notified of an alleged stolen vehicle travelling north on the Princes Highway, Nowra.The car was monitored and about 3.30pm, officers attached to the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command attempted to stop the vehicle on the Princes Highway, Kiama near Spring Creek Drive.When the car allegedly failed to pull over, a pursuit was initiated.The pursuit continued into Kiama Downs, when the vehicle allegedly lost control and mounted the nature strip on Flinders Avenue and continued onto North Kiama Drive, before allegedly hitting a garage door and coming to a stop.The four males, two aged 13,16 and 17 allegedly fled the scene before they were arrested nearby.They were taken to Lake Illawarra Police Station.The 13-year-old male driver was charged with drive conveyance taken without consent of owner, never licensed person drive vehicle on road, drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous and police pursuit does not stop drive dangerously.He was granted strict conditional bail to appear before a Children’s Court on Wednesday 5 March 2025.A 13-year-old male passenger was charged with be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner.He was granted strict conditional bail to appear before a Children’s Court on Tuesday 4 February 2025.A 17-year-old male passenger was charged with be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner.He was granted strict conditional bail to appear before a Children’s Court on Tuesday 21 January 2025.The 16-year-old male passenger will be dealt with under the Young Offenders Act.Police will allege the car was stolen between 9pm on Saturday 4 January and 3am Sunday 5 January 2025, from a home in Dunmore.

The Y NSW is calling on young people across New South Wales to get involved in one of the state’s most exciting leadership opportunities – Youth Parliament 2025. Applications are now open for high school students in Years 10 to 12 from all 93 state electorates.For over 20 years, the Y NSW’s (formerly YMCA) Youth Parliament has empowered hundreds of young people to draft and debate Youth Bills and represent their peers on issues that they are passionate about.“Youth Parliament is more than just another youth leadership program, it’s a launchpad for young leaders to build confidence, grow leadership skills, gain practical experience in the parliamentary process and advocate on issues that matter most to them and their communities,” explained CEO of the Y NSW, Rob Kennaugh.“Youth Parliament is a platform where young people can see firsthand how democracy works. It’s a space to turn ideas into action and gives participants the chance to learn, grow and have their voices heard,” he continued.The program is led by young people for young people and offers a combination of in-person training camps, online workshop and a chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals from all over the state. During the program, participants draft Youth Bills on topics of their choosing, then present and debate them in a mock sitting week at NSW Parliament House, with debates chaired by Members of Parliament.“We’ve seen incredible impact from this program over the years,” added Mr Kennaugh.“Past Youth Parliamentarians have gone on to become community leaders and program volunteers leading the next generation. It’s a powerful reminder that the voices of young people are not just important, they’re essential to shaping the future.“Diversity is the heart of this program, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds, because we know that the more diverse the voices, the more powerful the change. Whether it’s advocating for regional issues, social justice, or better support for young people, this program provides a platform to make a real impact,” added Mr Kennaugh.First Nations young people can apply for sponsorship to assist with the costs of the program. More information is available on the website.Applications for the Y NSW’s Youth Parliament 2025 are open until Thursday 23 January 2025. The program will begin with an online introduction to Youth Parliament in Term 1 2025, followed by an in-person training camp from 22 to 24 April 2025 and Youth Sitting Week in July 2025.To apply visit ymcansw.org.au/community-services/youth/youth-parliament/.

The Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School came together Tuesday 3 December to donate food for the Vinnies Christmas Appeal to help those in need. The Mini Vinnies team at the school organised the promotion of the appeal and collected the food donations, whilst also getting to experience eating out of the Vinnies Van. The school received a large amount of donations, all of which will be made into Vinnies Christmas hampers and given to those in need. “It helps ensure that all the families who need help or might be struggling, or homeless, this Christmas they will be fed and have a nice Christmas dinner,” says a Mini Vinnies volunteer. “The school community really came together on this one and produced something good … it’s good to see how much people care and are willing to donate.” These young volunteers are enthusiastic about helping the local community and are very aware of the struggles other people go through. Michael Douglas, President of the St Vincent de Paul Conference in Kiama, attended the day and highlighted how the appeal effectively raises awareness of the challenges people face.“There’s a lot of people in Kiama who fly under the radar, people think this community is well off but there are a lot of people who live day-to-day in tents and in their cars that other people just don’t even know about,” says Michael. The dedication by Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School and the Mini Vinnies team is an timely reminder to give generously, to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience joy and support at Christmas. 

By Elizabeth Hunt In January 2025 a group of 1st Kiama Scouts and Venturers are off on an adventure of a lifetime to The Australian Jamboree in Maryborough Queensland. This will be an amazing opportunity offering our young people a range of new and exciting experiences. Held every 4 years more than 10 thousand Scouts from across Australia and the world, will meet for an action packed ten day camp, full of incredible activities. No doubt the experiences these young people will encounter will help to build strength of character and resilience which will prepare them for many challenges ahead.Before being involved in the Scout Jamboree our Scouting group must have completed 10 nights camping under canvas with the Unit or Patrol at a Scout Camp.must have achieved Program Essentials Milestone 1 as well as Outdoor Adventure Skills Stage 3 in Bushcraft, Bushwalking and Camping.All year 1st Kiama Scouts have been involved in a range of activities that will prepare them for The Australian Jamboree 2025. These included an overnight hike from Waterfall to Heathcote Station loop learning survival skills such as hiking with a 13kg pack holding food, warm clothing, tent and cooking equipment. Also, participation in the two Jamborettes held at both Cataract and Bangalee Scout Camp facilities. Each Jamborette was arranged as a forerunner for what the Scouts would be required to do at the Jamboree in Maryborough 2025.  Each troop will be responsible for setting up camping gear, preparing menus, cooking and washing own clothes and overall care of themselves and each other while attending the whole experience. There was always lots of opportunities to test their skills in outdoor adventures such as using a flying fox and canoeing.Most importantly they have learned a range of bushcraft survival skills such as how to start and extinguish campfires in wet conditions, water purifying techniques, signalling and orienteering with a map. It has been necessary for each participant to be involved in fund raising events to help pay for the cost of being able to attend this event. Many hours have been spent holding Bunnings Sausage sizzles, cake stalls and individual market stalls.These opportunities would not be possible without the help and dedication of our wonderful volunteer Scout Leaders Jen Hines, Debbie Gibson and Ben King as well as an army of support from parents and grandparents who work tirelessly every week to provide such a diverse and practical program of activities. As a parent and grandparent, it is astonishing watching how all these Scouts have demonstrated such maturity and leadership in preparation for this journey, while having fun, building friendships and appreciation of what they have achieved. To quote Lord Baden Powell the founder of Scouting“A week of camp life is worth six months of theoretical teaching in the meeting room.” If you have a child who may be interested in joining Contact [email protected]. We have Cubs for ages 8 -11years on Tuesday Nights at the Scout Hall 6pm till 7:30pm. Scouts for ages 11- 14 years Thursday night 6:15 till 8:15pm. Venturer Scouts 14-18 years Thursday 6:15-8pm

The Kiama Rotary Club proudly introduced its nominee for the 2025 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) during a special meeting.Annabel Green, a University of Wollongong graduate and Albion Park local, will represent the club at the RYLA leadership camp held in January 2025 at Stanwell Tops. The week-long, in-house program, organised by local Rotary clubs, offers young participants an immersive experience to hone their leadership skills, connect with peers, and prepare for future community contributions.Currently employed by the Murray Darling Authority, Annabel plans to further her education in marine studies in Exmouth, Western Australia, and is also working towards completing her PhD.Kiama Rotary Youth Director David Russell highlighted the long-standing success of the RYLA initiative. “This program has been a cornerstone of Rotary International’s youth development efforts in Australia. Kiama Rotary is proud to support Annabel’s participation in 2025,” he said.“RYLA equips attendees with vital communication and problem-solving skills, empowers them to become dynamic leaders, and offers the opportunity to learn from inspirational speakers and community leaders,” Mr. Russell explained. “The program also fosters friendships and connections that can last a lifetime.”Kiama Rotary has a strong tradition of supporting RYLA by sponsoring exceptional young individuals each year. “We are always delighted by the glowing reports we receive from participants after completing the program,” Mr. Russell added. “We encourage other local young people to consider applying for this valuable opportunity in the future.”

The Kiama Rotary Club is continuing its proud tradition of fostering young scientific talent through its support of the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF). The annual program, which began in 1984, provides Year 12 students with an opportunity to explore career and study options in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).This year, the club has selected four local students to participate: Nicola Porritt, Macey Guy, and Emma Trudgett from Kiama High School, and Lauren Moss from Smith’s Hill High School. Kiama Rotary will assist with funding for their attendance. Additionally, Berry Rotary is supporting Delmmyr Crockford, also from Kiama High.Kiama Rotary President Phillip Whyte highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting, “NYSF is a not-for-profit organisation running residential programs to inspire young people passionate about science. Over the past 40 years, some 14,000 young Australians have taken part.”The selected students will attend a week-long, live-in program in January at either the Australian National University (Canberra) or the University of Queensland (Brisbane). The forum offers insights into diverse and exciting opportunities in science and related fields.At a recent Rotary meeting, Head Science Teacher at Kiama High School, Hayden McKay, expressed gratitude on behalf of the school. Parents of the students also attended the event, where the budding scientists were introduced to the club.“This year marks a record for Kiama Rotary, with four students selected,” said President Whyte. “It’s fantastic to see growing interest in the NYSF. Students return from the program inspired by the career possibilities and enriched by the friendships formed during the experience.”Kiama Rotary’s support underscores its commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists, helping local students take their first steps toward a future in STEM.

After years of anticipation, students at Bomaderry High School in the Shoalhaven are set to benefit from a significant investment as work begins on a multi-million dollar upgrade of their campus. This project will transform the school with modernised facilities, designed to better equip students with practical skills and enhance their learning environment.The upgrades will include the refurbishment of 46 existing classrooms, the addition of six new classrooms, upgraded restroom facilities, and improved accessibility features. New administration spaces and advanced Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) workshops will also be created, featuring a wood and metal workshop and a fully equipped food technology classroom.This investment is part of the Minns Labor Government's commitment to improving public education across New South Wales. The 2024-25 budget includes a record $1.4 billion allocated to school infrastructure in regional areas, underscoring the government’s dedication to enhancing educational resources outside of metropolitan centres.Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car, expressed her enthusiasm as construction commenced: “The Bomaderry community has waited far too long for improvements to be made to their school, but today we can celebrate progress. We are focused on delivering for regional communities, so all students can access high-quality schools in their local areas.”Dr. Sarah Kaine, Duty MLC for Kiama, highlighted the value of the new facilities in preparing students for diverse career pathways. “This isn’t just about building classrooms; it’s about building futures – equipping our students with practical skills that can lead them to meaningful careers. The upgrades to the school’s existing kitchen will allow students to complete VET courses, providing them with more choice and opportunity both during and after their schooling.”Bomaderry High School Principal, Ian Morris, praised the upgrade as a boost to student potential. “A modern school environment will inspire creativity and innovation, empowering our students to reach their full potential. This upgrade is a commitment to excellence in education and to the strength of our community.”The school’s Careers Advisor, Holly Pastor, highlighted the impact of the upgrade on local industry partnerships and career pathways. “The Bomaderry High School upgrade enhances career pathways through facilities that align with industry needs, particularly in hospitality, engineering, and trades, which are vital for our region. With hands-on learning, apprenticeships, and programs like the Bomaderry Employment, Skills, and Training (BEST) Pathways Program, students gain skills that prepare them for the demands of today’s workforce.”As construction progresses, Bomaderry High School is set to become a stellar institution for regional education, providing students with modern facilities that support academic achievement and practical skill development essential for future careers.

35 talented students from Jamberoo Public School took the stage at the University of Wollongong’s Great Hall as part of the NSW Department of Education’s Southern Illawarra Music Festival (SIMF). This long standing tradition, which began as the Choral Festival 47 years ago, is fondly remembered by many, including Jamberoo’s choir teacher, Mrs. Justine Doorn-McCormack, who participated in the early festivals herself as a primary school student.The Jamberoo students have been dedicated to their practice since Term 1, learning nine massed choir pieces and two solo school performances. Their hard work culminated on October 22, with a performance full of joy, energy, and unity. The students brought vibrant props, such as yellow accessories for the song "Cover Me in Sunshine" and sunglasses for "I’m Still Standing," adding visual flair to their voices.Throughout the year, they honed their pitch, dynamics, and harmonies, learning to perform both first and second vocal parts. For many, the evening’s highlights were the colourful stage lights and the joy of singing together with friends.Special thanks to the families of the choir students at Jamberoo Public School, whose support helped make this memorable experience possible.

By John Kenny Kiama Rotary Club has congratulated Mark Burns and his team for another successful running of the “Building Young Men Program” in the last edition of The Bugle. President of the Club, Phil Whyte says that, as a major financial sponsor of the program we are delighted to be able to support a program which clearly benefits the development of our young men.He went on to say that this is only one of a number of ways that Kiama Rotary Club is supporting our young people. In the next few months we will be providing financial support to enable 4 of our brightest scientifically minded young people to attend the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF). This program has helped many young people in the past to see the full extent of career opportunities open to them in the field of science when they have completed their secondary education.We will also be facilitating the attendance of a young woman to a Rotary leadership program in the New Year; providing volunteer support in the upcoming HSC examinations and we continue to support the Imagination Library which provides the opportunity for young children to discover the joys and benefits ofreading from a young age.Helping with the development of young people is only one of the ways that Rotary makes a difference. If you would like to know more about Rotary get in touch through our website.

Young people in Kiama and surrounding areas will now have access to in-person free mental health care and support with the opening of a headspace clinic.The facility opened its doors in August with a launch celebration taking place in Coronation Park on Tuesday 15 October. Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride and Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips joined headspace staff and youth groups and community members to celebrate the launch of headspace Kiama. headspace Kiama is one of 89 regional clinics across the country. Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips said a youth mental health support service was crucial for the town.Online or phone support is available at www.headspace.org.au or by phoning 1800 650 890.

October is mental health awareness month, and research shows that 40 per cent of young people aged 16 to 24 have experienced mental illness in the last year. SENTRAL Youth Services — operated by Kiama Municipal Council — has been around for three decades and hopes to address the needs of young people in the community. Galavizh Ahmadi Nia, Manager Community Hubs, says young people are facing a number of stressors that could affect their mental health and that having a support network is crucial for outreach.“The importance of feeling listened to and trusted in key adult relationships, and the need to feel safe, respected, and accepted when wanting to discuss mental healthand connect with others.”Academic pressure, navigating social relationships, future uncertainty, media influence and social isolation are all factors that young people are tackling, Ahmadi Nia says.  The federal government announced a national study led by Curtin University into mental health of Australians aged 4 to 17, a demographic that is largely underrepresented in available research.  The latest research of this age group is from a decade ago, and the new study will be designed in consultation with kids within the age range. “A better understanding of child and adolescent mental health and wellbeing will shape more tailored mental health services to meet their needs,” Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride says. Recent headspace research found that 8 in 10 families were concerned about a young person’s mental health in their household. SENTRAL offers a range of free programs to support the social, recreation, health and wellbeing needs of young people, including mental health. “Through these programs, young people are encouraged to discuss matters of importance to them and the opportunity to express needs, including the need to discuss mental andemotional experiences and challenges,” Ahmadi Nia says.Young people who attend can participate in a one on one session with youth workers to discuss any personal concerns or goals they want to achieve. The introduction of headspace Kiama has provided additional resources and connections for the youth workers of SENTRAL, who are able to promote their services to young people who come through their doors. 

Today is headspace day — a national day of support for the mental health and wellbeing of all young Australians. This year’s theme,‘Pause. Reflect. Reconnect.’, encourages young people to take a step back and take a moment to reconnect with things that bring them joy.New research from a national survey conducted by headspace shows that family members are struggling to help with their young people's mental health needs. 2,059 participants across parents, carers, siblings, elders, close friends and stepfamily who care for young people aged 12-25 completed the survey, which revealed that 8 in 10 family members show concern about their young person's mental health.Those caring for a LGBTIQA+ young person (90 per cent) and those who belong to multicultural communities (85 per cent) as the most concerned.One in five participants reported not feeling confident enough to ask for professional support for their young person. The findings also showed that the more concerned the families are, the less likely they are to have ‘difficult’ mental health conversations.Headspace CEO Jason Trethowan says the survey highlights the size of the challenge facing families, who are doing their best to respond to their young people’s mental health needs. “It’s not surprising that families are worried about their young people’s mental health, given some of the challenges we’re facing right now, including school refusal, cost of living pressures and impacts from extreme climate events.“Family members are the first group that young people will reach out to when they need support, so it’s important they stay engaged with their young person’s mental health and wellbeing by being aware of any changes in their behaviour, such as disengaging from social activities, difficulty focusing, or changes in sleep habits.While these can be early signs of stress, they also present opportunities to check in, provide support and create a safe environment that encourages open communication and seeking help when needed.”Trenthowan also sends a reminder that most of us are not mental health experts, and it's okay to ask for help and support. “It’s important to remember that there’s no expectation for you to be an expert and it’s okay to get things wrong. Just being there for your young person and showing that you care for them unconditionally is a good start. “There’s also still a portion of family members who don’t feel confident reaching out for support, perhaps due to stigma or because they don’t know what is available.“This headspace day, we want to put a spotlight on the services that help family members to feel more confident when supporting their young person’s mental health journey.”To help build the skills needed to seek professional support, headspace encourages family members to:Start conversations early: Approach your young person with openness and empathy, creating a safe space to talk.Use available resources: Familiarise yourself with online tools and support services provided by headspace.Seek professional help when needed: Don't hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals (such as headspace) if you’re unsure how to proceed.All connections are good connections: if your young person doesn’t feel in a place to share with you how they’re coping, then it’s OK for them to talk to another supportive adult in their lives. The most important thing is that they feel connected and supported.Practice self-care: Supporting a young person’s mental health is challenging. Take time to care for your own mental wellbeing as well.Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward used headspace day as an opportunity to promote taking time for self-care among his constituents.   “Whether it is spending time with your family and friends, pursuing a new hobby, or simply taking a break for reflection and relaxation, finding time for self-care is essential. “I encourage local residents and community groups to visit the headspace website for information on how you can get involved, find great tips, and explore activities to support your wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.”This Headspace Day, take a moment to pause and breathe deeply. Reflect on both the challenging and joyful times that shape you. Reach out to family and loved ones, and start conversations about mental health to help remove the stigma around it.If you’re looking for someone to talk to immediately, Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), and 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) are available to talk 24/7.

Kiama’s resident beauty queen is more than just that, Chelsea Jones is a proud Wodi Wodi woman who has shown resilience in the face of difficult life challenges. 25-year-old Jones will be representing her mob in the upcoming Miss Multiverse pageant, a competition featuring 30 women from varying backgrounds and celebrates cultural diversity in Australia.Chelsea JonesDescribed as the "pageant with a purpose," it raises funds for The Cancer Council Foundation, generating vital support for cancer research, services and organ donation for life.Chelsea stands out as the only contestant born in Australia and the only one representing Aboriginal culture. She aims to share her story to inspire others.Her supportive Aunty, Dale Vaux, reflected on discovering their ancestry and how perceptions have shifted over time.“During my growing up, you never spoke about it (her Aboriginal heritage) — it was something that was ‘out there.’ My mother and her mother didn’t talk about it. We didn’t know much about our family until my daughter started doing Aboriginal studies at school, and then Mum opened up.”Through Dale's research, she found a connection to the 'Longbottom' line, with some family history documented in Helen Laidlaw's book, On Wadi Wadi Country - From the Mountains to the Sea, particularly in chapter 13.“I can remember being teased at school, saying I was adopted because I was a different colour,” Dale recalled. “Now we can identify proudly and be accepted.”Chelsea proudly embraces her heritage, crediting those who paved the way for her. “Women in my life, like Dale and my nan, have paved the way for the acceptance I feel. Many women in Kiama know them for their community work, and I want to make them all proud,” she said. In her young life, Chelsea has faced significant challenges. After moving to Sydney and landing her dream job at Taronga Zoo, she had to quickly return to Kiama to care for her ill mother. Following her mother’s passing, Chelsea struggled with depression and a loss of confidence.She shared, “It's been empowering for me to do this and get out there again. I lost a lot of confidence after Mum's death. One day I woke up and chose resilience.”That’s the message she wants to share: “Just resilience, that's being a woman. I want to make my mum proud, make my family proud, and show others that you can achieve things like this.”“I’ve been able to help my family through one of the hardest times of our lives, and it’s been an honour to do that,” she added.Chelsea still feels her mother's presence along her journey. Chelsea received the number seven in the pageant line-up—her mum's favourite number. “The way this is all set up feels like it’s where I’m meant to be right now,” she said.Chelsea also connected with Kirrikin Fashion, a design studio featuring the artwork of contemporary indigenous artists from around the country. They offered her the chance to choose items from their catalogue for the pageant - a proud honour for Chelsea. She selected prints symbolising strength and unity, and explained that the colours represent different Aboriginal communities. The Wadi Wadi people use blues and yellows to represent the beach and water, while inland communities often paint in reds and oranges for the desert.The competition will take place at The Sofitel in Sydney on October 18. To support not only Chelsea but the Kiama community and Wodi Wodi people, you can donate to The Cancer Council Foundation using 'Chelsea Jones' as a reference by scanning the QR code provided. You can also follow her on Instagram at @chelseaa_jones to keep up with her journey.Scan the QR Code to donate, Use 'Chelsea Jones' as your referenceIt’s clear that Chelsea is beautiful inside and out, and truly embodies the essence of Miss Multiverse: diversity, empowerment, and resilience. The Bugle would like to wish her the best of luck in the upcoming competition, giving a platform to her people and community, to share her powerful message of resilience. Chelsea Jones

A young woman from Bomaderry is thriving in her dream career in horticulture after being named one of 25 national winners of the Global Footprints Scholarship. Olivia Williams, 23, discovered her passion for horticulture during a gap year as an exchange student in Austria, where she stayed with a family that ran a business specialising in endemic plant species. (Endemic plants are those found only in a specific region, often requiring particular altitudes, climates, and soil conditions.)Upon returning from her gap year in the rocky Alps, Williams enrolled in a Certificate III in Horticulture at TAFE NSW Nowra. She has since completed an apprenticeship with Schultz Landscaping and now co-manages the business.The Global Footprints Scholarship provides $9,000 to recipients in agriculture, horticulture, or trades to travel overseas for industry experience and professional development.“When I got the call telling me I’d been awarded the scholarship, I almost dropped the phone,” Ms Williams said.She plans to use the scholarship funds to travel abroad and explore her interests in species conservation and bush regeneration.“I’m really interested in the intersection between horticulture and conservation, and this will be an amazing opportunity to see how other countries are approaching this,” Ms Williams said.TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Horticulture Ben Garnero noted that Ms Williams is part of a growing group of female horticulturalists leaving a positive impact in the field.“Horticulture is an exciting field to be part of right now, and it’s great to see TAFE NSW graduates like Olivia achieving such success,” he said. “This is another example of the real-world skills TAFE NSW provides to train the workforce of the future.”Congratulations Olivia!

Kiama High School Year 12s rejoiced on Friday afternoon, celebrating the last day of high school with a graduation ceremony at the Kiama Pavilion.2024 School Captain Thomas reflected on his self-growth through the school's representative council and his journey with best friend, Olivia, from preschool to co-captains. Callan and Thomas “I was never someone who fit in with everyone, it was kind of my getaway [which] turned into a five year experience” Thomas said, “it’s really enlightening being able to leave and have all these memories but it’s also really sad.”Students departed the stage with yellow lanterns to signify moving into the next chapters of their lives. “It’s been an amazing experience, the class and the teachers have made it so memorable and it’s exciting moving forward with these relationships I’ve made,” graduating student Erin said. L-R Jazmin, Charli, Rachel, Front L-R Eva and Jemima“Now we face the real world,” Thomas said. Congratulations to the graduating class. We wish them all the best with their HSC exams next month.