As the new school year approaches and parents busy themselves with their back-to-school plan, it is important not only to focus on things like uniforms, shoes, school supplies and lunches but also the behavioural and emotional needs of your children. Parents must check in with their children ahead of the start of term to ensure a smooth transition into the classroom. Doctor Elise Waghorn, an education expert who specialises in childhood development, says, “For parents, this is a crucial time to be asking your children how they are feeling about going to school, are they nervous and what are they excited (or scared) about.” Open communication is key, and making sure your child is comfortable and feeling heard is important to cultivate that in your family. Broad questions like “how was your day?” can sometimes be difficult to answer and may hinder open communication. Framing direct questions will give your child the opportunity to open up, for example, “you look a bit nervous this morning, did you need to talk?”Catherine Glover, Kiama High Principal, also believes in the importance of open communication, adding that parents should be across all platforms of communication from schools as well. Reading the regular correspondence and being aware of what is happening in your child’s school is extremely important in supporting your child’s education. Preparation is key, and Glover hopes that parents will encourage their children to be organised, paying particular attention to attendance and punctuality. Creating a calm home environment and reducing stress is another important aspect to consider. Waghorn suggests cutting down on extra curricular activities to aid in adjusting to a new routine “Children need supportive adults around them during school transitions.” Consistent after-school routines, a well-balanced diet, and earlier bedtimes are highlighted as essential elements to prevent overwhelm and fatigue. Another tip Waghorn suggests is for parents to talk positively with their children about the school experience. Highlighting the fun and exciting aspects of going back to school such as making new friends, meeting teachers can all help to calm nerves. Glover is looking forward to a new school year at Kiama High, commencing 30 January.  

With three weeks left before applications close, The Y NSW (formerly YMCA) is calling for young people to apply to join Youth Parliament in 2024. The program offers young people the opportunity to actively engage in the democratic process and advocate for meaningful change in their communities. Applications are open to students in years 10-12 or equivalent age who feel passionate about creative positive impacts. The Y is seeking applicants from all 93 NSW State Electorates from any kind of background to engage in Youth Parliament. Participants will have the chance to draft, debate, and advocate for mock youth-focused legislation and to gain insight into the workings of government and policy development. Funding from The Department of Regional NSW has made it possible to support 35 participants by covering or assisting with entry fees. “We strive for diversity in the cohort and support individuals facing adversity, marginalisation or disadvantage where possible. This includes representation from rural and remote areas whose unique perspectives play a crucial role in shaping the discussions and policies at the Youth Parliament,” said Prue Warrilow, interim CEO at the Y NSW. Last year, three students from the Kiama LGA were selected to participate and have their voices heard. There were several issues that were important to the trio, including transport accessibility for people living with disability, the ongoing impact of COVID-19 and protesting rights. Hamani Tanginoa is a proud Wiradjuri, Dharug, Dunghutti, Gooreng Gooreng and Tongan man. He is a past Youth Parliament participant who went on to become part of the team as Youth Voice Coordinator, beginning his journey at 16 in 2018. Tanginoa is passionate and unafraid to defend the rights of marginalised young people who made history as the first Aboriginal Youth Premier for NSW.“As a young, gay, Aboriginal man, I have endured discrimination. I wanted to support others with similar experiences by introducing legislation that would empower and educate,” said Tanginoa. Tanginoa credits his involvement in Youth Parliament as the catalyst of his journey in leadership and he is passionate about providing the same transformative experience for other young people. “This program not only amplifies voices but also nurtures future leaders who will drive positive change in our communities.”Each committee received guidance from an industry expert, mentoring is supported by the Y staff and the volunteers involved. Over the course of the six month program, participants will cultivate critical thinking and public speaking skills, working on leadership skills, gaining confidence, and forging friendships.To apply for the 2024 Youth Parliament, visit here and submit the application before 9 February. School teachers and members of parliament are encouraged to support a young person's application by providing a letter of recommendation. Don't miss the chance to be part of this transformative experience and contribute to shaping the future of New South Wales.

As the school year returns for 2024, the transition from primary to secondary school is a significant step in a child’s education. Around 53,000 Australian students will start Year 7 this year and Education Secretary Murat Dizdar encourages a seamless shift for Year 7 students by starting preparations ahead of time. Here are ten top tips for starting high school:Purchase all supplies such as uniforms and stationery – break in new school shoes Practise public transport, driving and walking routes to school  Encourage your child to be organised, set goals, seek support and be resilient  Use the family fridge for timetables and important dates  Choose a designated homework space for study  Don’t let phones and devices interrupt homework and family time  Pack the night before school starts and get a good night’s sleep  Check in after school with open-ended questions about the day  Reassure your child that their family and teachers are there to support them  Remember, Year 7 is a partnership between students, families and schools. Stay in touchThere’s two weeks to go until the first term commences and Dizdar emphasised the importance of attendance and engagement. “Every day at school matters to the education and life outcomes of our young people. We ask families to support our schools and ensure their children develop good attendance habits.”Preparation is key, by ensuring aspects such as transport, uniforms, and study spaces are organised you give your child the best chance for a smooth transition. Parents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with their child’s school and foster a sense of excitement for the school year. Parents can organise transport for their children through Transport for NSW to obtain school travel passes or school Opal cards. Additionally purchasing items from the school equipment and book lists and having an organisational system in place will also help your child feel prepared. It is normal for children to feel nervous but beginning to build strong habits during the holidays will help to ease the stress of the change.  As the countdown to the first day of school begins, the focus turns to organisational skills, limiting device use, and preparing the essentials. “I wish the Year 7 class of ‘24 a fun and engaging year of learning and wellbeing growth,” said Dizdar.  

Australia’s future leaders are encouraged to apply for The Y NSW’s Youth Parliament Program for 2024, with submissions opening on 24 November 2023.The program is open to students in Years 10, 11 and 12, or equivalent age, across NSW. The program offers a rare opportunity for students to participate in the democratic process and gain firsthand experience in the inner workings of parliament.Students don’t need any experience to apply, and applications from diverse backgrounds can receive financial sponsorships, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, those living with a disability, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, those experiencing financial hardship, living in out-of-home care or rural areas, and refugee and asylum-seekers.Executive director and interim CEO of The Y NSW, Prue Warrilow said participants will get the opportunity to draft, debate and advocate for mock youth-focused legislation.“Young parliamentarians also participate in a training camp in April and a sitting held in July in NSW Parliament next year,” she said. “The Y then works actively to coordinate opportunities for the participants to present their Youth Bills to Ministers and other community leaders for consideration,”Youth Parliament has seen more than 1000 participants in the program over the last decade. Three high school students from the Kiama LGA were selected in the 2023 program, Daniel, Finlay and Alyssa, where they got the chance to debate and discuss issues they were actually interested in, including transport accessibility for people living with a disability, the ongoing impact of COVID-19, and protesting rights.

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

When The Bugle approached owner Elizabeth Burnett about the school holiday program held at Burnetts on Barney, she was very positive about it and invited us to join the event, to witness bee waggles, taste honey, and photograph the immersion experience.Rachael with the children in the group session devouring their honey spoons - straight from the hive! The scene was set with the enthusiastic Apiarist Rachael Peedom and her daughter commandeering an area of the complex to enlighten enthusiastic parents and children about the importance of bees. Apart from tasting the bees' honey fresh from the Burnetts onsite hives, the children donned beekeeper suits and got up close and personal. On the agenda was honeybee anatomy, pollination, bee life cycles and how bees make honey.  The children learn why it is crucial to keep planting as many flowering plants as we can to ensure all our native and honeybees survive.Homeschooling parents from Wollongong, Brendon and Christie brought their children along to join in the activity that is running through the school holidays.Rachael has been running workshops at Burnetts over the past 18 months and has endless enquiries from parents. She has told her family that holidays are on the back burner for them as she caters to the public interest. Her daughters help with the workshops and her husband does the heavy lifting.She developed her interest in bees whilst she was studying as a mature age student at Wollongong University. The nutrition and science course consisted of Food Security modules that peaked her interest in that with no pollinators there is a knock-on effect. She has a passion about educating others and she says the pursuit is highly addictive.Rachael says that children are like sponges with soaking up new knowledge and are an absolute delight to be with. “They ask the best questions!” She has just recently installed a hive in Kiama Public school and the integrated lessons include children working outside with her in bee suits and with the teacher in the classroom. She hopes to get more hives in school going forward. There were a variety of ages of children that joined in the experience. With the stark quarry background one would be forgiven if some of the footage looked like the kids could be on another planet! Certainly, the dance moves and buzzing would indicate other creatures.‘Bee-inspired’ which is an initiative by Rachael, offers workshops, beekeeping and honey sales plus private coaching to help get you started in the beekeeping game. They can help you reach your goal of pollinating your veggie garden, produce honey, make beeswax candles, start a new career, or help save the planet! For more information check out the Bee-inspired website.

In today's social media-driven world, the 'Girl Maths' trend has taken centre stage, shedding light on the fascinating interplay of behavioural biases and heuristics in our everyday lives. Much like the buy-now-pay-later mentality, 'Girl Maths' is an enticing mindset encouraging individuals to splurge beyond their means.Dr Janneke Blijlevens, a Senior Lecturer in Marketing at RMIT University and an RMIT Behavioural Business Lab and Consumer Wellbeing Research Group member, lends her expertise to decode this phenomenon. She emphasises that marketing tactics have become so ingrained in consumers' minds that they no longer require external persuasion to rationalise their spending decisions.Dr Blijlevens is also an RMIT Behavioural Business Lab and Consumer Wellbeing Research Group member. With expertise in consumer decision-making and behaviour change, she frequently comments on decision paralysis, choice overload, marketing tactics used to influence consumer decision-making, the psychology behind purchase decisions, and how to design behavioural interventions to help people make better decisions for their own well-being.    Dr Blijlevens delves into the role of cognitive dissonance, confirming biases, and mental accounting in 'Girl Maths.' When you desire a costly dress but are aware of the financial constraints, these biases and shortcuts come into play to bridge the gap between desire and fiscal responsibility. She says, “Our brain has a lot of decisions to make in a day and simply doesn’t have the energy and power to scrutinise every little detail of every decision,” adding, “You justify buying the dress because you have several events coming up, which means you’ll wear that dress at least four times and won’t have to buy dresses for those other occasions. And we all know considering cost-per-wear is being financially literate and savvy,” Dr Blijlevens says. “However, you are ignoring the fact that (1) your bank account is still going to show a deficit if your disposable income does not match this expense, (2) you could re-wear a cheaper dress all the same, and (3) your power and gas bills will have gone up by the time you wear it for a third time.” These shortcuts in our thinking facilitate the decision-making process. Unfortunately, these shortcuts, or biases, are not always helpful to us in making the best decisions. Dr Blijlevens says, “Girl Maths is a perfect display of cognitive dissonance, confirmation bias, and mental accounting being applied to consumption decisions.”Dr Angel Zhong, an Associate Professor of Finance, highlights the influence of 'finfluencers' and cautions that young and inexperienced investors are particularly vulnerable to their impact. 'Girl Maths,' she points out, fails to consider opportunity costs and the time value of money, neglecting the erosion of purchasing power due to inflation and the potential for better investment opportunities.Dr Lauren Gurrieri, an Associate Professor of Marketing, takes a critical stance on the term 'Girl Maths.' She argues that it perpetuates stereotypes that link women with frivolous spending, highlighting the need for more inclusive and gender-neutral language in discussions around financial decisions.Dr Gurrieri states, “Rather than a logic that speaks to purchase justification and cost-per-use, the term is unnecessarily gendered.” Adding, “The use of ‘girl’ as opposed to ‘woman’ also signifies sexist language.” It implies someone is childlike or lacking in knowledge or experience. Accordingly, the term operates to demean and exclude on a gendered basis. While intriguing, the 'Girl Maths’ trend serves as a stark reminder of the psychological mechanisms at play when we make spending decisions. Understanding these biases and heuristics can empower individuals to make more informed choices and avoid falling into the 'Girl Maths' trap. Moreover, as Dr Gurrieri aptly points out, it underscores the importance of responsible content creation that promotes gender equality and avoids perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

By Veronica, Local Resident and Avid TikTok UserAs a 23-year-old who frequently immerses herself in the vibrant world of TikTok, I've marvelled at the creativity, humour, and sense of connection that this platform brings to my life. TikTok offers a unique space for self-expression and community-building, from dance crazes to comedic skits. However, beneath the surface of its catchy tunes and engaging visuals lies an issue gaining attention for its potential impact on mental health—body image.Recent research from UNSW Sydney has shed light on the potential dangers of consuming short-form social media content that sets unrealistic beauty standards. The study suggests that the alluring veneer of TikTok videos portraying unattainable appearances might affect how young women perceive their bodies. In a culture obsessed with narrow definitions of beauty that are constantly changing —it's hardly surprising that such content can breed discontentment.The study uncovered that even a mere glimpse of appearance-ideal content is enough to cast a shadow on body image. As someone who has scrolled through countless videos on TikTok, I understand the allure of perfection often showcased. Yet, this desire to meet unattainable standards can lead to negative mood shifts and self-objectification. In this phenomenon, we begin to see ourselves through the lens of our appearance rather than as multifaceted individuals.With its rapid-fire delivery of content, TikTok can magnify the pressure to conform to appearance ideals. Whether participating in dance trends or trying out beauty hacks, the subtext of looking a certain way can be hard to escape. As the study's lead author, Jade Gurtala, points out, "Total exposure time was only like a minute and a half, and we found that was enough to have harmful impacts."One aspect of this issue that has captured my attention is the rise of editing and enhancements. As video content grows increasingly sophisticated, the line between reality and fantasy becomes increasingly blurred. While the thrill of experimenting with filters and effects can be undeniable, it's crucial to acknowledge that what we're seeing may not always reflect authenticity. In my day-to-day experience, I encounter countless videos wherein individuals edit their bodies and lifestyles to project the elusive 'perfect' image. Moreover, I've even encountered deep fakes powered by AI technology, where world leaders, celebrities, and even the public are seamlessly manipulated to perform dances and utter statements that never occurred. Although these instances may offer amusement and humour on the surface, the underlying implications of such technology are undeniably disconcerting. In an era of technological progress, this distinction between genuine and manipulated content becomes particularly paramount within video content, as viewers may perceive unedited appearances through different lenses.This research serves as a reminder that social media is not an isolated realm; it has implications for our mental health and well-being. The study participants reported spending two to three hours on social media daily—time that, when spent predominantly on appearance-focused content, can inadvertently fuel feelings of inadequacy. As an active user of TikTok, this finding compelled me to reflect on my content consumption habits.However, the study doesn't just highlight a problem—it also presents potential solutions. By diversifying the content we consume and engaging with media literacy guides, we can equip ourselves with tools to navigate the social media landscape more thoughtfully. As someone who values the connections I've made through TikTok, I believe that harnessing this platform's positive aspects while being conscious of its potential pitfalls is key.The rise of body positivity and self-acceptance movements within social media indicates that change is possible. By spotlighting diverse and unedited bodies, we can begin to counteract the pervasive beauty ideals that often dominate our feeds. As Dr Jasmine Fardouly, the study's senior author, mentions, "It’s important to update these educational body intervention programmes given the emerging evidence around the negative impacts of appearance-ideal video content."TikTok has undoubtedly transformed the way we engage with content and each other. Let's ensure that as we dance through its virtual corridors, we do so with an awareness of its potential effects on our mental health. Together, we can redefine what it means to engage with social media in a way that empowers, uplifts, and enriches our lives.

Kiama High School won the Rugby League Country State Championship: 26-24.In a tough, skillful game of rugby league, our boys clinched the win with a try and conversion on the full time siren and defeated All-Saints College Maitland. Kiama High now have their name on the shield for the very first time. Kiama HS took control of the match through tries to Jett Brookfield, Asher Chapman, Ashton Moore and Phoenix Johns and led 20-6 midway through the second half. All Saints College stepped up a gear, swung momentum, scored three quick tries and with two minutes remaining Kiama was trailing 24-20. A perfect short kick off by Asher Chapman found a leaping Mason Andrews, giving Kiama HS one final set of six to attack with. With 10 seconds on the clock five eighth Kye Anderson zigged and zagged his way past multiple defenders, scoring a brilliant solo try next to the goal post. Kye then calmly slotted the goal after the siren to give Kiama High an epic victory. The Bugle congratulates Kiama High on such an exciting, right down to the final whistle, win!  Picture caption.Team list- Asher Chapman, Jarrad Milne, Reed Palmer, Phoenix Johns, Ashton Moore, Kye Anderson,Jett Brookfield, Sam Guevara, Keyen Detheridge,Dylan Bignall, Lacom Poching, Levi Poching, Mason Andrews, Ashton Jeffers, Xavier Steele, Oliver Hartley, Water Boys- Archie Holland, Tama Nahona-Ponga.

Kiama Sentral Youth Services at the Youth Cottage in Hindmarsh Park or the ‘Youthie’ Cottage held its regular Kiama Youth Showcase in Hindmarsh Park on Saturday August 19 from 12pm to 3 pm in partnership with Beyond Empathy, which is behind many local teen mental health initiatives.Of note was the launch of realFm, a podcast series made by Kiama Youth celebrating hanging out, noticing life is a bit weird, and being a bit weird yourself. You can listen to realFM, especially a story about a puffer fish in a cup! Listen here to the first 3 episodes released on August 18. www.spreaker.com/s/y2n3TqAD3gAY Also on the Orry Kelly stage were a number of local bands Jacob Lewis, Zerconium, Janis and Rhys Evans. Zerconium played some originals (pretty good on stage performance of EXHALE which might even be an original!) and metal/punk standards including Nirvana. Zerconium had some early Silverchair energy in their on stage performance. On display also were some photographic stills made by local young people and a short film showcasing the services Sentral Youth Service provide especially its regular hang out which is a safe and inclusive space, and studio where young people can explore and record their own creative projects. Sentral had its 30th anniversary celebrations in April featuring a reunion of old and current Sentral staff (an event which had a bit of Doctor Who vibe). It also provides drop in times just to hang out on Wednesday, 3-6pm and Friday, 3-6 pm for social hanging out, but also has professional support services when it’s time to talk about something serious and get some advice.

Kiama High’s Student Representative Council (SRC) has put forward submissions on multiple issues they feel are important for local youth in Kiama Council’s annual Youth Engagement Meeting, which was held on Zoom earlier today today.The Youth Engagement Meeting, held each year during Local Government Week, is a properly constituted meeting of Kiama Council, involving councillors, senior staff and the SRC.Council reports back to students on the matters raised and other actions agreed to from last year.One submission from last year’s meeting was to upgrade the Showground unstable fencing structure. Today’s meeting reported Council has received almost $1 million of grant funding for works on the fencing, as well as new temporary grandstands for the Kiama Show and further augmentation work in the cattle yards and in the Pavilion.At today’s meeting, submissions from the SRC on behalf of local youth looked at upgrades for Kiama High School carparks and local skate parks, the organisation of more youth activities and mental health resources, and even a solar power initiative for the school.“I have some ideas that the greater student body had talked to me about. The first one being an improvement to the back carpark down near the school bus bay on Weston Place,” said Keegan Willetts, School Captain in the meeting.“It is quite run down and it is pretty unsafe as there is a lot of tree branches that fall down and the tree roots cover a lot of the car park.“I feel like if it was filled in with some dirt or gravel it could really improve the overall use of the carpark and make it a lot safer for everybody.”The senior’s carpark on Saddleback Mountain Road was also mentioned for upgrading with line marking or pavement. Council said they would put in a maintenance request to look at the carparks and organise a meeting with the student body to take some actions towards fixing both of these carparks.The SRC at the meetingAnother submission, made by Year 9 student Summer Brooks, called for more youth events like volunteering activities.“The youth could participate in volunteering activates such as tree planting, a youth market or a twilight market to help small businesses grow larger and help boost community engagement with youth,” she said.Kiama’s Youth Service coordinator Melissa Andrews said they are already looking to create more opportunities for local volunteers in the near future.“The Youth Service is currently trying to create a volunteering protocol because we don’t actually have one in place to be able to take on volunteers,” said Ms Andrews.“We have certainly done projects with young people before but in terms of having formal volunteering program it is something we are looking into at the moment for both young people and older people in the community.”There was also a submission on the need for a local mental health service.“I’m requesting on behalf of my school and the youth of Kiama for the Council to provide a local service like the headspace in Wollongong,” says Caitlin Haih, School Captain.“I think this is increasingly important as the recent lockdown restrictions have shown that there needs to be more local mental health resources available for the community.”Council agreed with this submission and is advocating with local MPs Gareth Ward and Fiona Phillips to try and expand mental health services in Kiama, as the closest headspace in Wollongong can be too far for locals to go.The SRC also called for maintenance and an upgrade of Kiama, Gainsborough and Gerringong skateparks, mentioning that local Olympic skateboarder Kieran Woolley could help design the park upgrades.Skating is now an Olympic sport, and Minnamurra local Kieran Woolley made it to the finals“At the moment, the skateparks are something that we do maintain when we are asked to as we don’t have a funded program of upgrades,” says Mike Dowd, Director Engineering and Works.“The sports and recreation open space strategy will absolutely incorporate an opportunity for students to contribute on what they want to see us focus on in terms of upgrading skateparks and outdoor recreation sites like the Bike Skills Track in Minnamurra.“We will be engaging with yourselves, other youth and groups around the LGA over the coming months to absolutely prioritise where you want us to invest.“Our budget is fully allocated and we don’t have any skatepark upgrades in that list yet but I am very keen to work with you, the school and other youth.”A solar power initiative was also submitted to increase the solar panel capacity at the High School. Programs like Solar My School, which has been implemented by a school in the Shellharbour area, were given as an option for Council to use. Council agreed with the importance of this initiative but said the budget for the year has already been committed.Council also used the meeting to inform the Student Council about future employment opportunities at Blue Haven, HSC support sessions at Kiama Library, road safety projects and the Young Australian of the Year and Australian Day Young Citizen Awards.

We are facing some big changes in the course of our council. They are changes that many of us hope will be a course-correction.Big topics such as sustainability, town character and finances form the basis of some vital and exciting questions: What kind of community do we want to live in? What do we care about and for who? And why? A simple answer to the final question is: ‘The future!’Naturally, I make it my business to engage with all of our community members on these important issues, but I plan to direct a significant amount of interest towards the youngerpeople of our area.To my mind it seems we spend a lot of time on the adults in our society. In development, planning and many other things, I do not want to overlook our future generations.The idea that young people don’t have as much to contribute as adults is ingrained in our culture. As adults, we often perpetuate the same things grown-ups told us when we were young.Young people of all ages can make a contribution whether they’re in school, work, training, or some other arrangement or community organisation.I am taking time to listen and learn from them. And I will do whatever I can to ensure the voices of our youth are included and heard at council.Everyone is busy, including young people. They have packed schedules with school, extracurricular activities, work, and helping at home. Some may be carers – of siblings, parents or other family members – or they may even have young children of their own. If they are going to be giving up some of their time, they need to know it will be time well spent.In scheduling youth engagement, we are mindful of that. Time is a precious commodity.It is often assumed that more experience is always better. Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It is very easy to dismiss the ideas and skills of young people as lacking experience, and shut them out of the conversation.We need to recognise that young people have valuable and unique insights and knowledge. We should make room for different kinds of experience and value different perspectives.With this in mind, this year’s annual Youth Engagement Council Meeting on 1 September will take a new format. One that invites participation from young people across our municipality, who will bring a range of talents, understanding and perspective. We will work in groups to discuss strategic goals and council plans that affect us all, much like we did with our Community Strategic Plan workshops earlier this year.No experience is necessary to join in the creation of the future when you’ll own it!I well remember how intimidating it can be to speak up in a group of adults. I’ll make sure that once our youth are at the table, we create an environment of respect that allows their voices to be heard.We’re also keen to include a diversity of gender, age and circumstances to promote better and more meaningful youth engagement. This is absolutely necessary to ensure we’re not making assumptions based on our own beliefs, which may not be the reality for the next generation.And it won’t begin and end with one meeting. I will also be visiting the Youthie (SENTRAL Youth Services) more regularly, seeking advice from our excellent Youth Services staff to make this a successful initiative. This way, we will ensure that the intergenerational conversation keeps flowing.I believe that young people and adults have much to learn from each other because, together, we’re all creating the future of Kiama Municipality.

Council’s annual Youth Engagement Meeting was today flipped from the traditional formal meeting at the High School to a more inclusive environment where young people were free to have their say, given they will be the most impacted in the future by today’s decisions. The relaxed and positive atmosphere of the session saw the students from Kiama High, Ss Peter & Paul, Kiama PS and Minnamurra PS mingle with each other, councillors and staff while commenting on Council’s open spaces and housing strategies.Youth Services Director, Melissa Andrews, says there was a real leveling of adult and young people. “From what I’m seeing and hearing, I think it went fabulously. Young people are saying that they feel valued which was quite moving to hear,” Ms Andrews says. “The Councillors involved were willing to just listen, and were really taking what was said on board."They heard of activities that are missing in the area, ideas to keep young people in the area and concerns about the affordability of housing. Kiama High School captain, Josh Hefren, was impressed by everyone raising their hand to get involved. “The issues related to all kids from year six through to year eleven. The format was nice, easy and good fun,” Josh says. Other students in attendance said they felt grateful, accepted, confident and encouraged throughout the experience. A videographer from Kiama High School was there to film the process, as well as a visual storyteller (above) to show a visual representation of the meeting. A report of the meeting will be compiled and sent to Council, and be available to the public through the business papers.

Beyond Empathy, a cultural arts for community development organisation, is inviting the community to come along to their film night where they will show snippets of two of their films, ahead of their series of workshops for youth.Protection tells the story of children from public housing estates in the Illawarra while Rites of Passage, which has been screened at international film festivals, follows six disadvantaged and marginalised teenagers who respond to the challenges surrounding them.There will be a Q&A with the cast and crew afterwards.The night will also launch a series of workshops for youth, aged 12-24 years old, that involves working with creators of award-winning films and podcasts to create their own work.“Whether it be podcasts or film, it’s something that young people can come together and create collaboratively,” says Beyond Empathy’s Shaniece Igano.“We are very excited to have everyone come and get to know us and see what we do.” Community Film Night, 3 March, Joyce Wheatley Community Hall, 7-9pm

Competing against adults, young Gerringong Surf Club members have again stepped up and impressed with 15 year old Wyland Hall named the 2023 Werri Warrior and last year’s surprise winner, 12 year old Lucy Darragh, right behind him in second place.This year’s event was one of the biggest with over 65 competitors and thousands of spectators lining the beach.It saw competitors of all ages set off at the same time to face a swim around a buoy, a run to the north end of Werri Beach, and another two swims before a final run to the top of Gerringong Headland and back. The action was captured by Brian Scott: At the beach: The 2023 Werri Warrior Competition. Member of Gerringong Surf Club, Richard Payne, who started the event seven years ago with his brother Mitch, says, “Both Wyland and Lucy have been training really hard with the Club all season. They are fantastic swimmers and good runners, so they had a really good battle for the top.Lucy presents Wyland with the coveted winner's jacket“The Club is certainly very proud of Wyland and Lucy and all the hard work that they have put in over the past couple of years to see them perform so well.” The competition also saw a number of 10 year old nippers complete the full course, with a group of younger nippers completing it as a team. “It was fantastic to see. It was an amazing effort from all of our young nippers,” Richard says.“It was a fantastic day with the best weather and surf conditions we’ve ever had. “It started off as a small surf club event that’s grown into a much larger event which brings a lot of people in to get involved, including Gerringong Lions and the Werri Boardriders."

Three keen high school students from the LGA will face a mock sitting in NSW Parliament House this weekend as the Youth Parliament program comes to an end. Daniel, Finlay and Alyssa joined like-minded people from across the State in the ten week program which gives young people the opportunity to engage with civic leadership, policy development and democratic parliamentary debate. The program has seen former Youth Parliamentarians go on to become Members of Parliament. Finlay, who says the program is an amazing experience, is encouraging others to join the next round. “I love my community and love the area of Kiama so us smaller town communities need to get out there, use our voice and show what we’re passionate about because this is the place to do it,” says Finlay, who is just 16 years old. “It’s a fun program and, at the end of the day, it’s not real parliament so the stakes aren’t high, and you can get to learn how the system works. It's really great.”  His committee – transport and infrastructure – has been looking at accessibility for disabled access into transport and infrastructure as well as mandatory inclusion zoning for social housing in new developments. “It is based on personal interest, and it is through that parliamentary and debate process that we have been able to refine our ideas, our bills and truly express the values of young people,” he says. Alyssa, who is also 16 years old, speaks very highly of the program and says it was the perfect ‘taste tester’ for what life as a parliamentarian is like. “I have always been a huge youth advocate and because I love this program so much, I definitely see myself running for a spot in parliament one day,” she says. Her justice committee is debating a bill on protesting rights where she hopes the ideas of young people can make a change and change the ministers’ attitudes. “It’s an amazing experience, especially to meet like-minded people from across the State who I would have never met and formed connections with.” 17-year-old Daniel also commented, “Kiama is a lovely area and an amazing community but in many ways it’s more insular than I realised, so bringing us out of our comfort zones and meeting all these truly different people is amazing.” While he is looking forward to debating his bill – which looks at the effects of COVID on education, particularly the mental health effects and the digitalisation – he says it isn’t the core of the program. “It’s the parliamentary education and getting kids into this amazing environment with this brilliant mood where there are interjections left right and centre, and fascinating debates. “It nurtures our ability to think for ourselves and hone our citizenships,” Daniel says. With politics a passion of his, he is interested in the debate and parliamentary process. “I have this love for democracy where I feel that as long as we are talking about issues and discussing issues, that we can move forward as a society.”See here for more information on Youth Parliament.