Gilmore school students in years 10, 11 and 12 are eligible to enter the national ‘My First Speech’ competition, with entries closing on 27 July.The competition provides an opportunity for a student from each year group to be flown to Canberra, with a parent or guardian, to present their speeches live and undertake a program at Parliament House.Students are asked to consider what they would say, if they were a newly elected Member of the House of Representatives and record themselves presenting the speech on video.Fiona Phillips, MP for Gilmore encourages local students to speak up about the things they feel passionate about. Drawing on her background as a TAFE teacher and a dedicated mother of four, Phillips was compelled to enter the world of politics to give back to her community. “I love supporting community organisations. I love being able to shape policies, services and infrastructure that will help our communities into the future,” she said. For more details, go to: 2024 My First Speech Competition. Entries close on July 27 at 11.59pm AEST.

By Alexandra PeadeJamberoo Public School's Grade Two students dazzled audiences at the recent South Coast Dance Festival staged at the IPAC theatre, Wollongong, where they joined 500 peers from 24 schools in a celebration of movement mixed with storytelling. Despite most having little to no prior dance experience, the 18 students from Jamberoo captivated the audience with a performance that embodied resilience, colour and courage.Under the guidance of choreographer Mrs. Green, who shaped the dance inspired from the movie Sing, the students learned more than just dance steps. Green's choreography emphasised themes of pushing through hardship, building resilience, trusting oneself, and embracing challenges—a message that resonated throughout their colourful and energetic performance.The young dancers took to the stage adorned in rainbow-coloured tutus as well as super cool rockstars adorned with smart, velvet, red jackets - their costumes praised for their creativity and vibrancy. The guitars used by the rockstars were crafted with care by members of the Kiama Men's Shed, a gesture that added a local touch and community spirit to the event."Only a handful of our students had danced before, but that didn't deter them," remarked Mrs. Peade, the Grade Two teacher at Jamberoo Public School. "They showed incredible bravery and enthusiasm, embodying the spirit of the festival." Early in the rehearsals, one student had mentioned that he would be too scared to be on stage. Then, just three weeks before the performance he decided to stand on stage and give it a go. Mrs Peade said, “Nothing is more special than having a student choose to be a little uncomfortable and then reap the benefits a thousand fold in front of your eyes.” The South Coast Dance Festival not only showcased the talent and dedication of the students but also highlighted the importance of performing arts education in NSW public schools, which foster creativity and confidence.Parents, teachers, and fellow students cheered as Jamberoo Public School's troupe brought joy and energy to the stage, demonstrating what can be achieved through determination and teamwork. There was no quieting the Jamberoo staff and parents who were particularly raucous and encouraging in the audience, this definitely made the performers feel revved and ready to perform before entering the stage and, of course, made the happy tears flow. As the curtains closed on their performance, the students of Jamberoo Public School left a lasting impression, reminding everyone present that with perseverance and a willingness to try, anything is possible even when you are only seven- or eight-years-old.

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

Nineteen Year 12 students from Kiama High School's Geography and Marine Studies classes recently embarked on a five-day excursion to Cairns. This trip was integral to their HSC studies, focusing on the Great Barrier Reef as an ecosystem at risk. The students explored the biophysical interactions on the reef, assessed human impacts on its health, and studied management strategies in place to protect it. Additionally, they conducted surveys with tourism operators and tourists, enriching their understanding of the relationship between people and economic activity.During the excursion, the students engaged in snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, hiking at Mossman Gorge, and visiting Port Douglas. The itinerary also featured a day trip to the Atherton Tablelands, where they marveled at the Cathedral Tree and Lake Eacham. The students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and represented Kiama High School admirably throughout the trip.

Youth Week 2024 (11 - 21 April) has been hailed a success by both young people and their families. Hosted by Kiama Council’s SENTRAL Youth Services team, Youth Week was packed with a variety of activities and events to provide entertainment and a sense of community for people aged 12-24 years. The festivities boasted a variety of engaging options, such as classic favourites like a day at Zone Bowling, which included laser tag, arcades games and bumper rides. Other events included an outdoor movie night and gaming sessions at the SENTRAL cottages. SENTRAL also encouraged the creative side of young individuals, providing an array of workshops including 3D printing and painting. Other events fostered exploration and appreciation for our environment, such as fishing outings that provided an opportunity to connect with nature and learn about marine life. For those seeking more adventurous experiences, an overnight camping trip featuring kayaking and bouldering offered a chance to develop survival skills, resilience and teamwork. The theme of Youth Week 2024 was ‘Express, Empower, Get Loud!’. SENTRAL services did a great job providing opportunities for young people to emulate these values, providing them with experiences and educational opportunities to build skills and feel empowered in a safe and inclusive environment. The young participants got to have their say for future Youth Weeks, with suggestions such as deep sea fishing, surfing, rock climbing, and biking all at the top of the list for next year - a challenge the SENTRAL team is more than willing to accept.  

Kids Helpline, run by yourtown, has unveiled a new mental health care platform called ‘My Circle,’ in response to the growing demand for mental health support digitally. In collaboration with several stakeholders, including the Bupa Foundation and the University of Sydney’s Cyberpsychology Research Group, My Circle offers a free, private, and anonymous social network, moderated by clinical professionals and provides a safe space for peer support. The platform introduces a new level of accessibility for how young people access and receive mental health assistance.Tracy Adams, CEO of yourtown, emphasises the urgent need to address mental health challenges that young people face today. “We cannot allow mental ill-health to become the new norm in children and young people,” she states.Supported by a $1M investment from the Bupa Foundation, the platform has already gained significant traction with nearly 4,000 new users last year, 70 per cent of which falls within the age group 13-17. With an age range of 12-25 years old, young people in the Kiama area are encouraged to join the free platform. My Circle has seen a lot of growth since it began in 2021 and is a safe and private way for our youth to connect on matters that are prevalent to their peers with qualified Kids Helpline Counsellors monitoring. With its innovative approach, involving young people in the design and implementation of the platform, and commitment to empowering young people, My Circle represents a significant step forward in the provision of mental health support for teenagers in Australia. Fore more information and to join the platform you can click here.

At just 21 years old, Sam Scobie is already making waves in the real estate industry as a dedicated agent at Ray White Kiama. With a family legacy spanning three generations in real estate, Sam has a passion for his work. This is evident in his commitment to providing exceptional client services. Sam began his journey in real estate less than three years ago, yet swiftly proved his dedication. He was awarded Youth Business Person of the Year in 2022 at the age of 19. Despite his youth, Sam has extensive experience in various roles within the industry. These credentials have allowed him to develop his skills and understanding of the market dynamics. He places great value on client experience and his professional approach exemplifies this. Sam has finished his apprenticeship with Ray White and is now a licensed real estate agent. He finds his young age can occasionally be considered a disadvantage. However, his work speaks for itself. His genuine commitment to the job and his clients serve as a testament on its own.  For Sam, every day in real estate is an adventure filled with new and unique opportunities. He thrives in a dynamic and fast paced environment, and has proven he is not afraid to rise to challenges. Beyond his professional life, Sam talks of his love for the Kiama area. Having grown up in the region with no plans to leave any time soon, he knows the town like the back of his hand. This knowledge and passion enhances his ability to excel in his job. In his spare time, Sam likes to play golf, swim and spend time with friends and family. He has a laser focus for building his career and watching it grow.  Sam is undoubtedly a rising star in the industry. He has made a significant impact in a short time, no doubt with greater things yet to come. Need proof? Check out Sam’s two latest listings in Kiama Heights; a grand waterfront reserve at 42 Elanora Road & a gorgeous three-bedroom house at 24 Kalang Road.Whether you are buying, selling or seeking expert advice, Sam is your go-to agent in Kiama. You can reach him at [email protected] or 0451 523 680.

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

PCYC NSW and the Greater Charitable Foundation have announced a partnership to better support young people in realising their full potential. The collaboration signifies a commitment to addressing youth disengagement and providing pathways to brighter futures. With a substantial contribution of $411,096, the partnership will see the implementation of four Fit for Work (FFW) programs over the next two years. These programs are designed for people aged 16-18 to address disengagement from their family, education and employment. Successful completion will help to reduce crime and ultimately lead to employment opportunities. The FFW initiative spans a ten-week period, aligning with NSW school terms, with participants attending three days per week. Activities within the program include resume writing, mock interviews, work placements, and other educational components designed to instil confidence and motivation to transition into employment or apprenticeships. CEO of the Greater Charitable Foundation, Anne Long, emphasises PCYC’s strong track record in providing effective programs for communities. “Together, we are not just changing individual lives. We are shaping the fabric of our future society, fostering a rising generation of resilient, skilled and engaged community contributors,” says Long.By providing tools and opportunities for personal and professional growth to our young people, the partnership aims to create a positive impact. This not only applies to individual lives, but the community as a whole. Click here for further information.

COORDINARE and Grand Pacific Health are collaboratively rectifying unforeseen issues surrounding building work approvals that have resulted in the delayed opening of headspace Kiama. The facility anticipates opening its 11/65 Manning Street doors in the coming months to provide young people aged 12-25 years with support for mental health issues, alcohol and other drug abuse as well as work and study support. Commissioned by COORDINARE, the South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network, and funded by the Australian Government’s national headspace program, the service will be operated by Grand Pacific Health. Progress is well underway, with building plans submitted and builders contracted. The facility is expected to be up and running within approximately 10 weeks of approvals being received to commence building works. Prudence Buist, CEO of COORDINARE, assures that all parties are working to get the new facility operational as swiftly and effectively as possible, with resources ready to roll once the green light is given.“There has been consultation with young people on the look and feel of the service to ensure the service will be one of a kind. Plus, there has been a consortium of partners formed and ready to assist in delivering services at headspace Kiama,” says Buist. “All headspace Kiama staff have been recruited and are working from headspace Shellharbour until headspace Kiama site opens.” Until headspace Kiama becomes operational, telehealth services via phone or video are available. Additionally, Kiama-based young people can access in-person support at headspace Shellharbour, and Kiama High School students are provided with onsite support.“From Term 2, headspace Shellharbour will be offering services onsite at Kiama High School for Kiama High students. These arrangements will stay in place until headspace Kiama is operational,” says Buist. The Bugle will continue to provide updates on the much-anticipated opening of headspace Kiama. In the meantime, if you or someone you know needs support, please phone headspace Shellharbour on 02 4225 5670 or pay them a visit at 162-172 Shellharbour Road, Warilla.   

In yet another tale of community dedication, the Illawarra region welcomes a new face to its educational landscape. Last year, Sarah Sharp and her family made the decision to settle down in this locale, bringing with them a wealth of experience in teaching Maths and Science for over two decades.But as life often beckons for change, Sarah found herself at a crossroads, seeking a fresh avenue to channel her passion for education. It was during this time that the transformative power of Kumon Education came into focus. Witnessing firsthand the remarkable progress of her own children through the Kumon method, Sarah felt a calling to become a part of this renowned educational initiative.Celebrating its 40th anniversary in Australia this year, Kumon traces its origins back to Japan, where a father's dedication to his son's mathematical development laid the foundation for a global educational phenomenon.  Last August, Sarah and her team proudly opened the doors to the Albion Park Kumon Centre, marking a new chapter in an educational journey. Since then, the centre has become a hub of learning, nurturing young minds and fostering a culture of academic excellence.Reflecting on the strides made by their students, Sarah is very proud. From beaming smiles to tales of newfound confidence, the transformation is palpable. Students eagerly share stories of academic achievements, proudly showcasing awards won at school and revelling in newfound abilities and confidence. They embody the spirit of perseverance and achievement that lies at the heart of the Kumon philosophy.As Kumon continues to witness the blossoming growth of their students, the Albion Park community is enriched by their unwavering dedication to nurturing the next generation of scholars. It provides a great opportunity to avail your children to the transformative power of great education tools to boost and encourage learning.There are some great specials being offered currently – check out their current advertisement.

Youth Week began in 1989 as a NSW Government initiative and has since become a nationwide celebration. Gareth Ward MP highlights the event’s focus on young people’s involvement in shaping their communities and addressing issues that matter to them. This year’s theme is “Express. Empower. Get Loud!” in the hopes of encouraging young people to showcase their talents, voice their opinions and participate in local community events. John Larkins from Kiama Lions advocates for getting involved with Young Leo’s.  Youth can also have a voice in volunteering in various areas in the community and getting involved.“As somebody who myself participated in Youth Parliament, I have always believed that the role of today’s leaders is to create future leaders,” says Gareth, emphasising the need to encourage the young people in our area to take an active role in the future of their communities.Throughout Youth Week there will be several youth-led activities that are designed to increase participation, overcome barriers, and strengthen connections to communities. These initiatives provide opportunities for skill-building and foster a sense of recognition and belonging among young people. As Youth Week unfolds, it serves as a vibrant celebration of the contribution and potential of young people in shaping the present and future of our society. 

In a world where every road presents a unique challenge, the ability to navigate safely isn't just about knowing how to operate a vehicle, it's about mastering the complex interplay of preparation, awareness, judgment, and decision-making. This is the core philosophy behind Think Drive Survive, a revolutionary course designed by Keith Calvert, founder of Human Factors Driving Solutions (HFDS).Calvert's journey into the realm of driver education began with a personal revelation, one that many parents can relate to: teaching his own children to drive. "When I taught my kids to drive, it made me think!" Calvert chuckles as he recalls those early lessons: "After bumbling through the first session, I realised there had to be a better way."Drawing from his background in aviation, where meticulous training is a matter of life and death, Calvert saw an opportunity to revolutionise driver education. "I mapped out a manual, introduced concepts like logbooks to driving, but initially, there was little uptake," he shares. "But eventually, the industry started to embrace these ideas, and the THINK DRIVE SURVIVE course was born."The journey didn't stop there. Inspired by discussions with his daughter, an airline pilot, Calvert ventured into the realm of cognitive performance for aviation. His online training system for pilots quickly gained traction, expanding from 10 companies to over 100. The success in aviation training paved the way for a groundbreaking adaptation: a four-module program focusing on preparation, judgment, decision-making, and awareness for drivers."What we learned in aviation translates seamlessly to driving," Calvert explains. "We're not just teaching people how to operate a vehicle; we're developing their thinking skills." Each module is carefully crafted to engage learners and embed critical cognitive processes, ensuring they emerge not just as drivers, but as safe, responsible road users.The THINK DRIVE SURVIVE course isn't just for novice drivers. It's designed to accommodate learners at their own pace, with the flexibility to complete modules on their schedule. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate, validating their newfound skills. But Calvert didn't overlook the importance of parental involvement."We recognised that parents play a crucial role in shaping young drivers' behaviours," Calvert notes. "That's why we developed a training module specifically for parents, empowering them to support their children through this journey." From navigating difficult conversations to reinforcing positive driving habits, the parent module equips caregivers with the tools they need to foster responsible driving behaviour.It's not just parents who benefit. THINK DRIVE SURVIVE extends its reach to include a section for grandparents, recognising the roles members of a young drivers’ extended family members play in shaping their experience.Through a blend of innovation, expertise, and a deep understanding of human factors, THINK DRIVE SURVIVE is driving change, one learner at a time. After all, when it comes to road safety, thinking, driving, and surviving are all interconnected.You can find out more at the THINK DRIVE SURVIVE website. 

Kiama Primary School held a family fun night Friday 22 March, packed with an array of activities and entertainment for the whole family. The attendees enjoyed various games, explored stalls, and were treated to live music. Kids had the chance to get creative with paints at the 'Expressive Art' stall and the local fire brigade came in tow with two trucks and helmets provided, allowing the kids to climb on board and explore.Always a great time for the school’s parents and teachers to come together and celebrate the community. Expressive Art - Michelle & Tiffany Springett George Hicks & Andrew McKenzie

What began with a bucket, a brush, and a mop has blossomed into a thriving enterprise thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of 13-year-old Harrison Hallams. At the tender age of 11, Harrison embarked on a mission to raise funds for a new mountain bike. This gung-ho spirit ultimately led to the creation of his bin concierge business. Now, two years later, alongside his father, Lloyd Hallam, the father and son team clean bins from Jamberoo to Shellharbour, and have transformed one of the most mundane of chores for any householder into a flourishing business venture for themselves.Cleaning bins is a task that many would baulk at, with its unpleasant encounters with maggots and sickly odours. When asked about the most challenging aspect of the job, Harrison didn't hesitate to point out, "the smell… Especially in summer!"Despite the challenges, Harrison and Lloyd dedicate two hours every day after Harrison finishes school to clean bins, the duo often tackling five bins daily. Balancing extracurricular activities and school pick-ups, Lloyd emphasises the importance of making the time for their growing business. Although they started with just a bucket and brush, their dedication and success led them to invest in a trailer attachment for their car, equipped with specialised bin cleaning equipment. This upgrade not only streamlined their operations but also increased the number of customers they could serve effectively. What initially began as a means to acquire a mountain bike quickly evolved. Such is the success of their business that they've had to enlist the help of another worker to manage the workload from Tullimbar to Shellharbour.For those tired of dealing with smelly bins, Harrison and Lloyd offer a solution worth considering. By supporting these local superstars, not only are you ensuring a fresh and clean environment, but you're also championing the entrepreneurial spirit of a young innovator and his dedicated father. Find their heartwarming updates on Facebook or Instagram. 

Every Friday afternoon in the white cottage building adjacent to Hindmarsh Park, the Youthie comes alive. Run by Kiama Council, SENTRAL Youth Services runs a “Drop In” service at the youth centre from 3-8pm each Friday, where young people are welcome to pop in, hang out, and connect.At the helm is one of their own; a fellow young person with the education, experience, and passion to deliver a vital service to the young people of the Kiama LGA. At just 21 years of age, Kayla Mulholland may be the youngest Youth Services Coordinator across all services in the Illawarra and South Coast region, and likely further beyond.Kayla came on board as acting coordinator in July 2023 during a tumultuous time for the service, and has flourished in her role.As Kiama locals will know, the last few years have been incredibly challenging for the young people in the Kiama LGA, with a tragic cluster of young people taking their own lives during this period. Former coordinators, Melissa Andrews and Steven McAllan, did a stellar job of reaching out and connecting with the youth of the Kiama LGA, and rallying with the community to ensure that young people know they are supported, and that help is available. The Youthie cemented its role as a pillar of support for young people, and a safe place to engage with the help they may be seeking. Even as Kiama Council itself was managing the ongoing challenges of restructuring and reorganisation, the Youthie continued to provide vital services to young people.July of 2023 saw Steven resigning from his role to take up an opportunity supporting young people in disadvantaged communities in the Northern Territory. The Youthie wished him all the best, but was left with a massive gap to fill.This is where Kayla stepped up. Having worked closely with both Melissa and Steven throughout their tenure, Kayla rose to the challenge, and filled the role as acting Youth Services Coordinator.Having built rich relationships with young people and external stakeholders, Kayla’s friendly face was a welcome sight in the role, and she eagerly took on the challenge. Her qualifications in youth work, extensive experience in the field, and immense personal passion for the support, development, and wellbeing of young people all combined to give her the ideal launch into the role.With Kayla at the helm, the youth centre continues to be a hub of safety, support, and creative expression. The service has been able to maintain its diverse range of offerings that engage and inspire young people. Despite all the responsibility, Kayla remains down to earth and accessible to all. Nothing is as rewarding to her as seeing the growth and wellbeing of the young people that she serves every day. Kalya is both a mentor and a role model, and her compassionate and welcoming style cultivates a sense of belonging and empowerment.However, such a big step up was never going to be a walk in the park for the young leader, and a steep learning curve saw her navigating brand-new responsibilities, managing staffing challenges, and continuing to provide high-quality services under tight budget constraints amidst broader council upheaval.But perhaps Kayla’s biggest challenge has been pushing past the initial surprise that other services had at seeing a young person at the helm. Other youth centres, local schools, funding bodies and government agencies were all more than a little surprised to see such a young face at the helm. It was up to Kayla to prove that not only did she belong, she was also up to the task. Kayla has achieved just that. During her time, she has managed the onboarding of new staff, reinvigorated the music studio project, continued to provide one on one support to young people in need, facilitated and managed 3 successful holiday programs, secured the continuation of key projects including Queer Club with Kiama High School and Sentral Music Crew, and held multiple successful Sentral Sounds youth talent showcase gigs. Her dedication and service saw her rewarded with a contract to officially fill the role until April 2024, where broader changes are set to occur. She even boasts being on first-name basis with the mayor.“Niel is absolutely lovely, and really supportive. It feels a bit weird calling him by his first name, but he insists!”During last Friday’s “Drop-In” at SENTRAL, I had the pleasure of witnessing Kayla doing what she does best; connecting with young people. Among the multitude of her responsibilities that evening, Kayla spent her time giving one on one support, sharing her personal passion for music with young attendees during gigging and song production practice, and organising the next Sentral Sounds youth music showcase gig. Kayla’s passion, youthful exuberance, and personal experience as a young person is a clear asset, one that brings a fresh and relevant perspective to the role. These qualities are balanced with her experience and training, dedication, and desire to deliver professional, high-quality services. Her journey from troubled teenager to a leader in the community is a testament to her commitment, her drive, and her desire to make a difference.“I love working with young people. When I was going through life as a teenager, I had no idea that there was such a thing as Youth Worker that could help me through the stuff that I was going through. Now, I get so much out of being that person for other people, the person that I never got to have” An upcoming restructuring within council will see the role of Youth Services Coordinator absorbed into a broader Community Development Team, where a team of dedicated community development workers will take on not just the work of Sentral Youth Services, but also the broader work of outreach, activating the richness of council spaces, and revitalising the community. With recruitment already underway for the new team, Kayla is set to remain in the top job until the restructure comes into effect in April 2024, after which, her exact role within the team is to be determined.While Kayla hopes to remain onboard as a key part of the Youth Services team in Kiama, she can be proud to hold the title, as a young person, as Kiama Council’s last Youth Services Coordinator.

Shellharbour has just hosted a workshop for young people who want to implement positive change in the Illawarra and the South Coast regions. The community organisation On the Cusp designed the two-day workshop, held last weekend, as a way to help people aged 16-35 to work together on the issues that are important to them. Titled Reimagining Shellharbour, the event asked participants: Are you sick of politics as usual and want to create a better future for Shellharbour? Maybe you wish there were better public transport options in town. Or you’d like to see action to protect the local environment. Perhaps you want better jobs and working conditions for young people in the community.Emily Jones, a Shell Cove local and founder of On the Cusp, said young people across the region were keen to play an active part in shaping the future of their communities. “I know our communities could benefit so much from more young leadership,” she says.The event aimed to encourage young people to work together to address challenges such as improving public transportation and mitigating the cost of living crisis.Emily feels strongly about creating space and opportunities for young people to advocate for themselves and their future. There is a notable lack of these spaces for young people, particularly outside of high school or an education environment. One participant, Lily, said the meeting proved to be a great experience with an engaged group of passionate young people. They said organisers did a great job navigating past any nervous tension in the beginning and straight into collaborating together. Emily hopes the meeting will empower participants to move into the community and form their own networks. On the Cusp offers mentoring and coaching with online seminars that help to link various networks across the community together.As the region looks toward the future, the involvement and voices of its young people promise to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the community. Leadership and advocacy are crucial skills for the next generation and this inaugural meeting hopes to pass on the skills necessary to encourage positive change.

Year 12 Geography students travelled to Sydney to study the processes of urban decay and renewal at Barangaroo. The excursion gave students the chance to see firsthand the urban dynamics that we have been studying in the HSC Geography course. Later in the year, the class will be travelling to Cairns to study the Great Barrier Reef. Year 12 Geo BarangarooOn Thursday the 14th March, Year 8 Geography students spent the day at Mt Keira. There, they learned about the formation of the Illawarra escarpment, the variety of plants and animals present there, and the various ways in which Mt Keira is valuable. i.e. aesthetically, culturally and economically. Year 8 Geography students at Mt KeiraYear 11 Geography students spent the day at the Minnamurra River to apply the learning we have been doing about Earth's Natural Systems. The students examined the ways in which the Earth's atmospheric, hydrological, geologic and ecological systems interact in the river environment. Year 11 Geography students at the Minnamurra River

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) is urging not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) in rural areas to collaborate with local young individuals to implement or adapt one of six project ideas conceived at this year’s ABC Heywire Youth Summit. These ideas arose in response to the pressing concerns identified as most relevant and critical for youth in remote, rural, and regional Australia and empower rural youth to lead local change. Through the FRRR ABC Heywire Youth Innovation Grants program, grants of up to $10,000 are accessible to jumpstart initiatives promoting equitable access to local services and nurturing a sense of belonging and connection among peers and to the land.The six ideas were developed by 35 young summit participants during the week-long event dedicated to youth leadership and skills development. The ideas are as follows:1. Bussin’: Creating more accessible transport options for young people in regional and rural communities.2. MEE (Mentoring Educating Empowering): Closing the gap in accessing quality education for young people in regional, rural, and remote areas.3. A Place for You: Improving accessibility to mental health services in remote and regional areas of Australia.4. The Bigger Picture: Empowering young people in regional towns to celebrate their differences and foster connection among themselves.5. Safe Sphere: Ensuring that young people in regional and remote communities receive relevant and comprehensive sexual education.6. Youth 2 Grassroots: Promoting a stronger connection between individuals and their land by fostering a culture of environmental protection and stewardship.A total of $100,000 in funding is available nationwide, thanks to the generous support of The Sally Foundation, David Mactaggart Foundation, and private donors. Amy a 2024 Heywire Winner, was part of the group that developed the Youth 2 Grassroots project. Expressing her excitement, Amy stated, “I love living in rural Queensland, and it was incredible being given this opportunity through Heywire to come up with an idea to improve life for other country kids. I'm so excited to see what comes from our idea.”Deb Samuels, FRRR’s People Portfolio Lead, emphasised the significant outcomes for young people and communities resulting from the Foundation’s long-term partnership with ABC. She highlighted the impact these young leaders and their projects have had on rural Australia, addressing issues of equity and well-being.Justin Stevens, ABC Director News, noted that the FRRR ABC Heywire Youth Innovation Grants program empowers young people to actualise their ideas, providing tangible support to regional communities.Applications for grants close at 5 pm AEST on Wednesday, 29 May, with recipients to be announced in August. About FRRRThe Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) is the only national foundation specifically focused on ensuring the social and economic strength of remote, rural, and regional communities. Since its establishment in 2000, FRRR has delivered $177 million to more than 14,000 projects.About ABC HeywireHeywire, supported by various Australian government departments and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, provides young people in regional Australia a platform to share their stories and ideas. Since 1998, Heywire has empowered youth through platforms like the Heywire Regional Youth Summit and the FRRR ABC Heywire Youth Innovation Grants.