Gerringong’s stunning new Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) is officially open, with Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, Mayor of Kiama Cameron McDonald, and Gerringong Club President Gary George proudly hosting the ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the occasion today, Saturday, March 1. With uninterrupted views it certainly is destined to become a vibrant space for members and guests alike. Mrs Phillips was thrilled to see her $5.5 million election commitment come to life, delivering a state-of-the-art facility for the Gerringong community.“I’m so proud to have fought for and secured this funding through the Australian Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program,” she said. “The new clubhouse isn’t just a fantastic space - it’s a vital asset for our community, ensuring the future of patrolling on Werri Beach and supporting our amazing nippers.”She described the new club as “a magnificent, purpose-built facility that is as practical as it is beautiful.”“The joy on people’s faces as they took in that incredible top-deck view said it all! This is a place for club members, surfers, bowlers, and the whole community to enjoy.”Uncle Stan performing the smoking ceremony with the stunning Werri Beach backdropGerringong SLSC President Gary George echoed the excitement, calling it “a great day for Gerringong Surf Club.”“We’ve put in so much hard work and dedication to deliver this for our members,” he said. “This club underpins our future, and we are beyond thrilled with the result.”President of SLSC Gary George pictured with Vice president Mitch Payne and Clr Matt Brown at the opening ceremonyLife member Ken Hodges OAM, who opened the original clubhouse 40 years ago, was in awe of the transformation.“It’s absolutely spectacular! I couldn’t be happier with what we’ve achieved here,” he said.With congratulatory speeches from Dr Dean Dudley, director of Surf Life Saving NSW Board, Mayor Cameron McDonald, MP Fiona Phillips, President Gary George and welcome to country by Aunty Jody, it was a well attended event. The new clubhouse is packed with modern facilities, including a first aid room, emergency equipment storage, public toilets and showers, a gym, bar area, multipurpose rooms, and a large beach observation deck. The surrounding area has also received upgrades, with improved parking, outdoor showers, and bike racks.The project was made possible through $5.5 million in federal funding from the Albanese Labor Government, alongside $490,000 from the state government and $370,000 from Kiama Municipal Council.With a recent surge in membership across all ages, it’s clear that this new hub will be a vibrant centre for surf life saving and community activities for years to come and the envy of all surf clubs up and down the coast. .

If you have ever had a child insist on picking up rubbish at the beach or question why something is not being recycled, you will know that kids often lead the way. They see the world with fresh eyes, unburdened by the habits that adults have normalised. When sustainability becomes part of their learning, it quickly spreads to families and the wider community. Schools are the perfect place to start when it comes to embedding best practice in waste management. Normalising sustainability in childhood makes it second nature for life. But what happens when the passionate teacher who drives these initiatives moves on? Without structured support, many programs disappear. Few people understand this challenge better than Sue Hassler. An educator and sustainability leader, Sue helped transform waste management engagement in schools and communities. From pioneering recycling programs at Gerringong Public School to creating the Sustainable Schools Australia Facebook group with over 8,000 members, Sue has seen first-hand how sustainability efforts thrive when embedded into a school’s culture – and how quickly they can fade when they are not. Sue’s work first gained national attention when Gerringong Public School joined the Kreative Koalas program, winning Best Community Project and being featured on ABC’s War on Waste in 2018. Students conducted plastics audits, overhauled the school’s bin system, and established a TerraCycle Drop-off Point, collecting over 60,000 hard-to-recycle items. Their efforts drastically cut waste, reducing landfill bins from 21 per week to just four.Beyond the school gates, their mascot Captain Koala became a community-wide recycling hub, reinforcing sustainable habits across the region. But these initiatives did not survive long-term.“When I left, it all fell apart,” Sue said. “There was no plan in place to sustain it, and the priorities of leadership changed.”This is a common issue in schools. Without systemic support from leadership and structured policies to ensure sustainability programs continue, they often disappear when the teacher championing them moves on. Sue believes the key to long-term sustainability lies in whole-school integration.“It has to come from the top down,” she said. “Sustainability should not be an ‘extra’ that only happens if a teacher is passionate about it. It needs to be embedded in school policies, supported by leadership, and incorporated into everyday learning.” She suggests several strategies to ensure programs last: ✔ Leadership support – School principals must value and prioritise sustainability. ✔ Staff engagement – A small team should lead programs, so they do not rely on one person. ✔ Community involvement – Engaging parents, local businesses, and councils strengthens long-term impact. ✔ Education department backing – Statewide policies should mandate sustainability education, rather than treating it as an optional add-on. While sustainability is included in the curriculum, Sue points out that there are no clear requirements for how much time schools must dedicate to it.“A school can spend five minutes on sustainability and tick the box, or they can spend five hours making real change,” she said. “Without guidelines, it varies hugely between schools. If we want sustainability to be the norm, it needs to be built into teacher training and school leadership programs.” Despite these challenges, Sue remains committed to spreading best practices. She continues to run Sustainable Schools Australia, where educators share resources and support to implement sustainability initiatives. For teachers looking to make an impact, her advice is simple – start small and make it visible.“You do not have to do everything at once,” she said. “Begin with something manageable, like a recycling program or reducing plastic in lunchboxes. The key is to involve students, engage the community, and make sustainability a normal part of school life.” Sue’s experience highlights an important lesson – real change happens when sustainability is embedded into culture, curriculum, and community. Because when kids take the lead, they do not just follow the rules – they reshape the future.

The Bugle would like to congratulate the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club (GSLSC) on their new clubhouse, which has raised a lot of community discussion.The facility was a key topic at the Kiama Council Meeting on 18 February, where councillors examined issues concerning the club’s lease, kiosk operations, and accessibility compliance.Gary George, Building and Property Manager at Shoalhaven City Council, addressed councillors during the public access session in his role as Club President. He clarified the club’s stance on its temporary 12-month licence agreement and sought guidance on the future of the clubhouse’s kiosk. Following discussion, councillors supported an amendment from Cr Draisma, accepted by Cr Brown, which included:Congratulating GSLSC on securing funding to build a new clubhouse and acknowledging its ongoing commitment to the community.Working with GSLSC to ensure the club can fully occupy the facility to patrol Werri Beach and run its training programs.Receiving a report on the history of the kiosk, including its compliance under the current lease, land classification, and zoning.Facilitating construction of a concrete footpath from Pacific Avenue to the public toilet facilities to improve accessibility.One concern raised was the operation of the kiosk, which exceeds the 10 sqm size permitted under the Kiama Local Environmental Plan 2011. Another issue was unauthorised subletting. Under the Local Government Act 1993, subletting council-owned facilities requires prior approval, which the surf club had not obtained.GSLSC President Gary George stated they were unaware of this requirement and sought a resolution allowing the kiosk to continue operating.The council also discussed why a lease had not been finalised upon completion of the clubhouse, noting the facility currently operates under a temporary 12-month licence.Additionally, councillors highlighted accessibility concerns, particularly the lack of a compliant pathway to the accessible toilet.GSLSC has offered to build the footpath, and Council is reviewing the planning requirements to facilitate this.Council has approved the 12-month licence agreement to allow time for a full review of the site’s planning, lease, and compliance requirements.A Plan of Management review will be placed on public exhibition, allowing community feedback before a final decision is made.

Why not kick off March by doing something that’s good for both you and the environment? Bring your bottles, cans, and cartons down to the Return and Earn machine at Michael Cronin Oval in Gerringong and get 10 cents back for every eligible drink container you return while helping to reduce local waste."Whether you’re saving for something special or supporting a cause close to your heart, it’s an easy way to contribute to the Gerringong community and help the environment. And with the rising cost of living, recycling through Return and Earn is a simple way to earn a little extra cash," said James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway, network operator for Return and Earn.The machine also has two chutes each for lightweight and glass containers, making it a quick and hassle-free way to recycle while getting some cash back.“Kiama Council residents are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned over 20 million eligible bottles, cans and cartons through local return points since the scheme began,” said Mr. Dorney. The Michael Cronin Oval Gerringong Return and Earn machine is located at the Michael Cronin Oval, 22-42 Blackwood Street, Gerringong. It is open from 8:00am to 6:00pm daily.Recyclers can still print a voucher for the refund amount, which can be redeemed for cash or purchases at IGA Gerringong, or they can opt for payment directly into their bank or PayPal account using the Return and Earn app. Locals can choose to donate their refund to one of over 300 donation partners listed on the Return and Earn app. Gerringong has a variety of fantastic local organisations to consider donating to including the Gerringong Lions Club, who support a range of local and international causes and charities.Locals can also donate to the current statewide donation partner Foodbank NSW & ACT. Foodbank is a food relief charity providing much needed assistance to individuals and families across NSW and the ACT. Return and Earn has become a key fundraising channel for many charities and community groups in NSW. Over $72 million has been raised from donations and fees from hosting return points since the scheme launched in 2017. More than 13 billion drink containers have been returned for recycling through the network of over 650 return points across NSW since Return and Earn began, resulting in over $1.3 billion in container refunds back in people’s pockets.   For more information, visit returnandearn.org.au.

 One of the standout features of this year’s Kiama Show was found downstairs in the Spinners & Weavers’ displays and hands-on demonstrations, where visitors had the chance to witness exceptional craftsmanship up close.Among the most remarkable entries were the hand knitted creations of Brian McCarthy, a fibre artist whose work is truly world class. His latest project, featuring 110 hand dyed, hand spun plant based yarns, captivated those who saw it. Each piece showcases meticulous dyeing, spinning, and knitting techniques, making them some of the finest textile works in the region.Brian McCarthy, a former foundation professor of French at Wollongong University, took up knitting after retiring in 2006. Initially focusing on hand knitting, he later became fascinated with spinning and natural dyeing, leading him to join the Kiama Spinners and Berry Spinners and Weavers. Over the past two decades, his work has evolved into a stunning fusion of artistry and technical precision.Brian’s approach to fibre arts is deeply experimental and rooted in nature. He sources dyes from native plants, fungi, and lichen, meticulously crafting unique colour palettes for each of his pieces. His attention to detail in dyeing, spinning, and knitting results in works that are both visually striking and texturally exquisite.For those who missed the display at the Kiama Show, there is hope for another opportunity. Discussions are underway to feature Brian’s extraordinary pieces in a future exhibition at Gerringong Library and Museum, as part of the Worldwide Knit in Public Day celebrations in June 2025.This year’s Kiama Show has once again proven that our region is home to exceptional talent, with artists like Brian pushing the boundaries of traditional fibre arts. 

By Lesley BerryMembers of the Gerroa Combined Probus Group gathered at Seven Mile National Park to celebrate Australia Day, enjoying good company and classic Aussie treats despite the rain drumming on the Colorbond roof of the outdoor shelter.Alongside traditional lamingtons, members indulged in delicious homemade chocolate mousse, kindly prepared by Ann, before testing their knowledge in a lively Aussie Trivia Quiz. The wet weather didn’t dampen spirits, with plenty of laughter and camaraderie throughout the day.If you're looking for a welcoming social group focused on fun and friendship, why not join us for a luncheon and see if Probus is right for you? The Gerroa Combined Probus Group meets on the third Wednesday of each month.For more information, contact Jackie Woolcott at 0401 194 408 or email [email protected].

New members and friends always welcome - see www.gerringongrotary.com.au or contact [email protected] our first meeting in February we met the four senior students from Kiama High School who had received funding from Rotary to attend the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra in January. Their well-prepared presentation took us through their experiences over the week and what they learned.Claire, Jade, Tiana and Sam took it in turns to describe their personal highlights. The program included STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) visits. Our students’ favourite visits were:Mulligans Flat, a large, woodland, predator-proof, wildlife sanctuary where native species are being nurtured and reintroducedThe Canberra Arboretum, a smaller facility which preserves and manages native trees and animalsThe CSIRO analytical chemistry laboratories where students met scientists working on the management and control of pests and the reintroduction of native species The nuclear medicine department of a Canberra hospital where students saw a demonstration of the linear accelerator delivering radiation to a fictitious brain tumour in a dummy head as well as MRI, CT and X-ray machinesThe Optometry department where the students tested each other and experienced simulated eye conditions that optometrists can correctThe Paramedicine department where they found out what equipment paramedics use in the ambulanceAs well as visits, they attended diverse lectures including the impact of the oceans on climate, how the brain works and airborne DNA monitoring, as well as live zoom discussions with researchers in Antarctica and scientists working on the “roo-ver” an Australian robot for use on the moon.The Great Debate between a representative of the defence forces and an academic extended our students with morally challenging hypotheticals and the careers day on opportunities in STEM widened their horizons further.The 230 students from around Australia selected for the NYSF program lived in ANU for the week and were looked after by volunteers who were NYSF alumni. They were buddied with students they had never met before. Being a group of four, our students had great respect for their “so brave” peers who came knowing no one else and had no choice but to reach out and make connections.Students were randomly allocated to visits and experiences that they would not necessarily have chosen and were broadened by their experiences – by the people they met and the options they now realise they have. Claire loves the environment and is now considering university in Tasmania to study Antarctica. Sam was fascinated by the brain lecture and discovered a course combining psychology, philosophy and neuroscience. Jade and Tiana came away more confused about what they wanted to do because they encountered so many new options but said they “would 100% go back again”.As Rotarians, we were delighted to have been able to facilitate such a life changing experience for our four students.

The Gerringong and District Historical Society has received a donation of $2,779 from the Sunday Night Charity Raffles held at the Gerringong Bowling Club. The wonderful generosity shown through these raffles will assist us in mounting ongoing exhibitions of interest to the Gerringong community. ‘Swim between the Flags’ is the next exhibition by our Archive Team exploring the history of the Gerringong Surf Club from 1914 to 1994. This timely exhibition coincides with the completion of the new Surf Club premises.The exhibition will be opened by Gary George, President of the club, at 2pm on Saturday 22 March at the Gerringong Heritage Museum. The exhibition will certainly be of interest to present and past Surf Club members as well as the wider Gerringong community.

Gerringong is revving up for an exciting day as The Gerringong Lions Club Car Show & Motor Fest rolls into Michael Cronin Oval on Saturday, 15th February. The event, proudly sponsored by Kiama Council, Power FM, Gerringong Automotive, Prized Pieces, Shannon’s Insurance, and Bowden’s Car Care Products, promises a spectacular display of over 300 cars.Most importantly, all proceeds from the event will go directly to The Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation. Last year, the Lions Club donated $15,000 to the cause, and with strong support from the Gerringong community and participants, they hope to match or exceed that amount this year.Event Details:Spectator entry: $5 per person (children 12 and under free)Car entry fee: $10Trophies awarded for:Best in ShowBest Classic CarBest Modified CarSpectator vote: Attendees can cast a vote for their favourite carAdding to the excitement, the NSW Police Force will showcase a Highway Patrol vehicle, and a raffle will offer fantastic prizes: 1st Prize: Three nights at Easts Beach BIG4 Park (valued at $1,190) 2nd Prize: $300 worth of Bowden’s Car Care Products 3rd Prize: A $200 hamper from Gerringong IGAThere are limited spaces left for car entries. Car clubs or individuals interested in participating can contact Stefanie at [email protected] or 0410 626 199 to check availability.Gates open to the public at 9 AM, with food and refreshments available throughout the day. Plus, the Gerringong Markets are just a short stroll away, making it a fantastic family day out.Don't miss this high-octane community event supporting a great cause!

When Paul announced in February that he was getting married in April, his mother, Linden Kalinin, felt a rush of joy - quickly followed by the realisation that two months was a very short time to plan a wedding. But as a librarian, she had a secret weapon: the Dewey Decimal System.What started as a flurry of excitement quickly turned into a research project. Wedding etiquette? Shelf 395.22. Project management? 658.404. Speech writing? 808.51 - oh, the nerves! Table settings, napkin folding, stress management… all neatly catalogued in the world of books.Gerringong was the perfect location, a place filled with beauty and community. Paul and Satomi, his Japanese bride, chose to be married at the Uniting Church, with the reception at the Surf Club, where the hardworking Children’s Medical Research Foundation ladies catered a meal to remember.Yet some things - love, joy, the sheer emotion of the day - could not be found in any library. As Linden watched Satomi, who had been a cherished visitor in their lives for so long, finally become family, she realised that no book could capture that feeling.The rain fell, but instead of dampening spirits, it made for a cosy celebration, with guests gathering close, sharing stories, and savouring the simple pleasure of being together.In the end, despite lists, research, and meticulous planning, the day was defined not by its perfect execution but by the love that filled the room. And yet, Paul still insists it was a "simple little wedding" in Gerringong.But Linden Kalinin, the librarian, knows better.This story was originally written by Linden Kalinin for the TAFE Library newsletter and has been adapted for The Bugle.

John Micallef never set out to be a hero. At 74, he was simply out at Gerroa enjoying his latest passion, wing foiling, when an ordinary afternoon turned into a life-saving mission.It was a rough day on the water. As John made his way back to shore, he noticed two men on the beach waving at him.At first, he thought they were yelling because he had come too close to the swimmers. "I was getting a bit concerned because they were bigger than me," John laughed."Then I thought maybe they were warning me about a shark."But as he turned to look, he saw a woman being dragged further out to sea by a strong rip.Her arm was flailing above the water in distress. Without hesitation, John sprang into action."I knew I had to reach her quickly. Rather than approaching her standing on my foil board, which has a razor-sharp hydrofoil, I stayed on my knees, using the wing to propel myself towards her."Photo Credit: Bob McMillan When John reached the woman, she was exhausted and anxious. He knew the key was to keep her calm. "I just told her, ‘Stay calm. Everything will be alright.’"The board was too small to hold them both, so he instructed her to grip the foot strap and hold onto the board for buoyancy.Then, carefully, he used the wind to steer them back towards shore. "We were about 200 metres out, but thankfully there was a strong wind helping us in."The real challenge came as they entered the wave zone. "I had to be really careful because the hydrofoil underneath is incredibly sharp. I told her, ‘When I say so, push away from the board as far as you can.’ And she did exactly that when the waves hit."After tumbling through a few waves, they finally reached the shallows. "I told her, ‘Alright, we’re nearly there. When you can stand, just let go and walk in.’ And that was it."Waiting onshore, the two men who had signalled John ran to thank him.The woman, still shaken, was immensely grateful."I thought you were abusing me!" John joked to the men. "They said, ‘No, no, we were trying to get you to help her!’"John’s friend Joe Fischer, who is 78, was in awe when he heard what had happened. "The bloke’s 74, he should be in a nursing home!" Joe laughed. "But instead, he’s out there saving lives. He’s braved the elements and rescued someone. Good on him, I say. He deserves a medal."The rescued woman had unknowingly entered a dangerous rip. "The area near track three always has a strong rip," John explained. "It’s not a safe place to swim, and unfortunately, she got caught."Mayor Cameron McDonald praised John’s quick thinking and the strong community effort that supports beach safety."What an an exemplary awareness of quick thinking and ocean awareness.Thanks to John in averting what may have been another tragedy on a local beach. Again, we see members of the community assisting lifeguards and voluntary lifesavers in keeping our beach users safe. It also serves as a reminder - swim between the flags, listen to lifesavers' instructions, know your abilities, and don’t go in if you don’t know local conditions. Respect the ocean always."Despite his modesty, John’s act of courage highlights the importance of ocean awareness and staying calm in emergencies. "I’d never done anything like this before.As I was approaching her, I thought, ‘How am I going to handle this?’ My final thought was, if I can just get to her, at least she’ll have something to hold onto. And if I couldn’t get her in myself, I’d stay with her and call for help."John also credits the woman for staying calm and following his instructions. "That was imperative," he said. "Otherwise, both the swimmer and the rescuer can be in danger."At an age where many might slow down, John remains incredibly active, cycling, playing tennis, performing in a band, and now, wing foiling. "I don’t know that I’m super fit," he said. "I’ve had two heart operations in the last year. But I love being active."Joe, however, isn’t buying John’s humility. "The man’s a legend," he said. "He’s out there doing things that most of us wouldn’t even attempt at half his age."As locals continue efforts to educate visitors about surf safety, John’s story serves as both a reminder of the ocean’s dangers and an inspiration.He was simply in the right place at the right time - with the skills, courage, and quick thinking to save a life.

Seven Mile Beach at Gerroa is, I feel, the best kids’ beach in the world. The waves aren’t too big, and the sand is firm underfoot - almost like concrete. The large stretch between the high and low tide marks provides plenty of space to walk, play, and swim.But 100 years ago, some people saw Seven Mile Beach not as a swimming spot but as a raceway. In 1925, the beach thundered with the sound of engines as car enthusiasts gathered to push their vehicles to the limit. That year, Don Harkness set the Australian land speed record at over 100 mph (160 km/h). By 1929, Norman “Wizard” Smith went even faster, reaching 128 mph (204 km/h), with an aeroplane-engine-powered run hitting 140 mph (224 km/h)!Motorcycle races continued until the 1950s, and planes even landed here, most famously flown by Sir Charles Kingsford Smith.I recently came across an old Sydney Mail article from 1925 detailing a reliability trial from Sydney to “Gerringong Beach” (Gerroa). Selling cars was tough back then, and events like this were designed to showcase their reliability while entertaining thrill-seekers.The rally began smoothly, with drivers winding through scenic South Coast roads, many of which no longer exist thanks to modern highways. Upon reaching Gerringong, they took a picturesque lane to Seven Mile Beach, where the sight of the ocean was breathtaking. However, rain had made the descent on red soil treacherous, and crossing the Crooked River to the beach proved tricky.Excitement built as spectators gathered, many eager to see if the 100 mph barrier would be broken. But fate had other plans. A classic South Coast downpour hit, turning conditions into chaos. Drivers, sitting in open cars, struggled to see through the torrential rain, wiping their goggles while trying to avoid overenthusiastic spectators who ignored roped-off areas.Eventually, the storm forced an early end to the races, but the real challenge was getting back. The once-slippery descent had become a thick, impassable mud pit. Hapless drivers were forced to drag their cars out by sheer manpower before retreating to the warmth of a local hotel, drying off, and fortifying themselves with a warming elixir.Surely, they thought, the rain would clear by morning. Alas, it did not. Unlike today’s smooth highways, the roads back to Sydney were waterlogged and impassable, forcing drivers on extensive detours suggested by locals.Yet these daredevils weren’t discouraged. They returned to Gerroa again and again for more races and more attempts at land speed records.I wonder - could we get an old car on the beach for one last run? Mind you, that 224 km/h record is quite safe!“Want more local news and in-depth stories? Download The Bugle app to access the full digital version of this article, exclusive updates, and community insights. Stay informed wherever you are!”The Sydney Mail 20 May 1925Photo source Gerringong Historical Society

Picture perfect, Gerringong Golf Club, is set to receive a major upgrade with a $4.95 million commitment from the Federal Coalition if Andrew Constance is elected as the Member for Gilmore in the upcoming election.Andrew Constance sharing the plans with journalistsThe announcement was made on Friday, February 7, by Mr Constance, alongside Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Sussan Ley. The funding promise is part of the Coalition’s broader economic plan to support local infrastructure, jobs, and community initiatives.The redevelopment project, already approved by Kiama Municipal Council, is shovel-ready and will deliver key improvements, including enhanced facilities for women, increased accessibility for people with disabilities, and safer access for children. The upgrade is also expected to provide a boost for local construction businesses, creating much needed employment opportunities.Mr Constance praised the hard work of the club’s volunteers and highlighted the economic and social benefits of the upgrade. “We need the construction stimulus during this cost-of-living crisis and economic downturn. We also need more inclusive activities that keep people engaged, active, and out of the health system,” he said.Gerringong Golf Club, a not-for-profit, community owned, and volunteer-run organisation, attracts over 20,000 visitors annually and has more than 500 members. It also provides support to local community groups such as the Lions Club, Rotary, the Sam Matters Foundation, and the Gerringong Branch of the Children's Medical Research Institute by offering free use of its facilities.Club members with Andrew Constance and Sussan LeySussan Ley described the funding commitment as a major win for the South Coast and a testament to Mr Constance’s advocacy for the region. “From standing up for this region during the Black Summer Bushfires to delivering real commitments to build community, tourism, and economic infrastructure, Andrew Constance is a real local champion,” she said. Andrew Constance praised the clubs proactivity in having the project ready to go.  Club members and supporters turned out in force to hear the announcement and to view the plans. Club spokespersons emphasised their commitment to becoming a signatory of the R&A Women in Golf Charter and what they are doing to ensure there is equality for women and girls in the sport and club. They also advised that when the development of the clubhouse, cart shed and car park is complete, they will have a fabulous facility to meet the needs of their growing female membership and visitors to the area. Did you know they host a free women's golf clinic each month for beginners?Hon Sussan Ley MP with Club secretary Wendy Cutting, President Geoff Manning and Andrew ConstanceClub members are rightly proud of their location, which is an 18 hole golf course located adjacent to Walkers Beach. Situated between Gerringong and Gerroa, the club is surrounded by the rolling hills of the local farms. The course boasts spectacular views from every tee and every green. An enviable place to while away a few hours. The club has indicated that the upgrade will take approximately 18 months to complete once funding is confirmed under a Dutton Coalition Government.See all the plans here.Artist view looking from below the club

JAMBEROO SEVENSGERRINGONG BREAKERS BLUE

Crooked River, like many other tidal lagoons, operates within natural cycles of opening and closing. When the river is closed, heavy rainfall causes water levels to rise until the river naturally breaks through the sand barrier at the entrance. Recent unauthorised attempts to manually open the river at Gerroa have raised concerns among locals about the long-term environmental impacts. While these actions may have been well-intentioned, illegal interference can cause significant harm to the ecosystem, according to local resident Warren Holder, who has observed the river’s cycles for over three decades.“Understanding the complexity of these systems is key,” says Warren Holder. “What looks like a simple fix - grabbing a shovel and digging a trench - can actually make things worse. Protecting the river and ensuring it functions properly is something we can achieve by relying on expert management rather than individual intervention.”This photo, taken from the footbridge looking up the river towards the road bridge on an incoming tide, highlights the excessive sand build-up in the river. Many will be surprised by the amount of sand now present in this section. Historically, closer to the road bridge, the riverbed was sandy—now, it has turned to mud, showing signs of long-term sedimentation issues.Mr Holder believes that recent attempts to force the river open were flawed. “The first attempt with shovels was ineffective because the channel was too shallow, so very little sand was moved,” he explains. “The second attempt was more successful in releasing water, but because the channel was too wide, there still wasn’t enough force to shift the sand properly.” The result, he says, is that the sand that should have been taken out to sea, gradually replenishing the beach, is now sitting in the river instead. “This makes the entrance even more prone to closing every time big seas arrive, pushing even more sand back into the river,” he says.Kiama Council policy allows the river to open naturally unless extreme circumstances require intervention. While this aligns with state guidelines, there is growing discussion about whether these should be updated to reflect new climate realities.The key question now is whether Crooked River should have a formal trigger point for intervention. A trigger point would establish clear conditions - such as a specific water level or predicted extreme rainfall event - that automatically signals when action should be taken. Looking from the footbridge towards the river entrance, this image shows the extent to which trapped sand is clogging the river. Much of this sand should be out at sea, playing its natural role in replenishing the beach. Instead, it remains within the river system, disrupting the normal sand cycle and making closures more frequent.Rather than relying on last-minute decisions or unauthorised interference, this approach would ensure openings are managed consistently and based on scientific criteria. A similar system is already in place at Werri Lagoon, where a set water level allows for controlled intervention when necessary, preventing unnecessary flooding and minimising environmental disruption.Taken from the footbridge, this image focuses on the height of the beach sand above the high tide mark. Without proper sand replenishment, the river is increasingly vulnerable to closure. Large waves can more easily cross the beach between the vegetative dunes, pushing even more sand back into the river, further accelerating the cycle of blockage.“We’re getting heavier downpours than ever before, and what worked in the past might not work anymore," says Mr Holder. “I understand why people are concerned about flooding risks, particularly for properties and the caravan park, before all the necessary approvals are obtained.With that in mind, it may be time for all stakeholders - the council, state authorities, environmental experts, and the community - to come together and reassess the best way forward.“But this is bigger than just one river. Many waterways are facing the same problems. If we don’t plan ahead, we’ll be stuck reacting to disasters instead of preventing them.”

Barb Khalifa Werri Beach/Gerringong Garden Club will be enjoying the beauty of succulents when Rachel Gardner of Succulents by Rachel speaks at our next meeting at 10am on Wednesday 12 February. Members and visitors are welcome to come join us as we admire and learn about succulents in a relaxed friendly environment. We’ll have the opportunity to buy plants and pots from Rachel’s extensive selection. EFTPOS available. Succulents by Rachel specialises in creating succulent arrangements, cacti planters and air plant displays, as well as selling a wide range of succulents, cactus, air-plants and funky pots. Rachel is quite the expert! As well as collecting and selling beautiful plants, plant arrangements and pots, she recently won 6 potted plant awards at the Albion Park Show. Her terrarium exhibit was particularly exquisite! Werri Beach/Gerringong Garden Club meet at the Uniting Church Hall, 28 Fern St Gerringong, at 10am on the second Wednesday each month. Our next meeting is Wednesday 12 February.$5 attendance fee helps us cover hall hire, etc. Members and visitors are welcome. Morning tea is served from 9.30am before the meeting, and the meeting itself starts promptly at 10am.  For further details please contact Barb Khalifa on 0419 498 072 or email [email protected]. Or just come along on 12 February and see for yourself!

The Gerringong sporting community is celebrating a major milestone with the official opening of the upgraded clubhouse at Gerry Emery Reserve, a project made possible through a $466,000 grant from the NSW Stronger Country Communities program and an additional $75,000 from Kiama Council. Member for Kiama Gareth Ward and President of Gerringong District All Sports John Trevenar marked the occasion, praising the collective effort that brought the project to fruition.Mr Ward, who secured the funding in 2023, described the upgrade as an investment in the future of local sport. Gerry Emery Reserve in Gerringong official opening “This is more than just an infrastructure improvement -it’s about creating opportunities and enhancing accessibility for athletes of all ages and abilities,” Mr Ward said.“The hard work of John Trevenar, committee members, and the broader community has been truly inspiring. Their dedication has ensured that this vision became a reality.”The upgrade focuses on improved female and accessible facilities, a crucial step in making the venue more inclusive. The enhanced clubhouse will support a variety of sports, including cricket, touch football, soccer, and Women’s Oztag. It will also serve as a venue for Gerringong Public School’s sports carnivals and cross country events, as well as combined high school sports days.John Trevenar highlighted the three years of planning, fundraising, and hard work that went into the project.“These new facilities will make a real difference, ensuring that female athletes and individuals with disabilities feel welcomed and supported,” Mr Trevenar said.He also acknowledged the vital role of local businesses, sponsors, and community members in achieving the project’s funding goals.“This is proof of what can be accomplished when a community works together. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making this a reality.”Mr Ward echoed these sentiments, commending the leadership of Mr Trevenar and the dedication of local sporting clubs.“This project showcases the strength of community spirit in Gerringong. I look forward to seeing these facilities enjoyed by generations of athletes to come,” he said.

By Lesley Berry Gerroa Combined Probus members enjoyed a bus trip to Camden Valley Inn to celebrate Christmas in style at the end of last year.The group was entertained by Charlie Chech - Australian Best Male Vocal Performer ACE Awards.With a mission to honour the crooning greats, Charlie Chech had all our members mesmerised especially one certain lady! We look forward to our 2025 Meetings.

New members and friends always welcome - see www.gerringongrotary.com.au or contact [email protected] Rotary continued to be busy through November and December with our visiting speakers and running our regular markets and barbecue in the Old School Park. The year finished in festive style with the barbecue at the Gerringong Christmas Parade. One of the highlights of the last quarter of 2024 was welcoming Kirsten Nixon to our breakfast meeting. Kirsten has had a varied career in nursing and working in the family business and recently turned her hand to writing.Her first book is “Voices of Entrepreneurial Women”, a series of interviews with seventeen women who have started their own businesses, many of them based in our part of the on the South Coast of NSW. Her book introduced her to editors and designers and opened the door to a new world.She gives a thumbnail sketch of each woman’s business, then provides an edited transcript of her chat with them about the highs and lows of their business journey and retaining the voice of the businesswoman herself. Each chapter then concludes with bullet points setting out that businesswoman’s key tips.The businesses vary from making covers for aircraft to book-keeping for small businesses, growing succulents and various arts and crafts. All of them had had their challenges and the lessons from all of them are surprisingly similar - persevere but be flexible. That it’s ok to make changes if something doesn’t work was a strong message, as all of Kirsten’s interviewees had steered their businesses through the pandemic. Other common themes were: Believe in yourself and don’t undersell your abilities and services and love what you are doingThe heart of the message was summed up in a quote from John O’Donohue, “Choose one thing. Dig deep. Make it urgent”. We all came away from the meeting inspired!If you liked the sound of this,The Bugle has a copy of  “Voices of Entrepreneurial Women” up for grabs. Email [email protected] and tell us about an entrepreneurial woman you know in our community for your chance to win!