With only three more weeks until the Federal election on May 3, both major parties have come out with signature policies which they think will directly address one of the biggest election issues that is facing the nation – housing. Labor’s policy centres around a $10 billion build to 100,000 homes specifically for first-home buyers. Simultaneously they will allow first home buyers access to 5 per cent deposits (purchasing a home normally requires a 10–20 per cent deposit) through a loan guarantee from the Federal Government.  The Liberal-National Coalition has announced it will allocate $5b to fund essential infrastructure like water, power and sewerage to unlock up to 500,000 new homes. In addition, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced that interest payments on mortgages taken out by first-home buyers on newly built homes would be tax deductible for five years.  There is a clear focus on first home buyers and ensuring "the Australian Dream" still exists for the younger generation, some of whom will be voting for the first time at this year’s election. Both parties have also committed to a two-year ban on foreign investors purchasing existing homes. While on paper, the policies are well meaning and well intended, they have been lambasted by economic and housing experts. Chris Richardson, a former Australian Treasury official and economic commentator labelled both parties’ platforms "a dumpster fire of dumb stuff", and Saul Eslake who has worked for ANZ and the Bank of America Merrill Lynch called the Coalition’s tax deduction on mortgage payments the "candidate for dumbest policy decision of the 21st century".  Ouch.  Ultimately, it comes down the laws of supply and demand. Tax offsets, subsidies and making it "easier" to purchase a home will inherently drive up demand. If this demand is chasing the same number of homes, prices will go up.  The national discourse on housing has collided with Kiama Municipal Council's draft Housing Strategy v2 that our community is currently reviewing in the context of our own housing predicament. As the most expensive place to buy a home in regional NSW and in the running (again!) for the Top Tourism Town in Australia award – this is an issue we must grapple with. Kiama Council has shown incredible foresight by reaching out to the community and running the Housing Strategy Forum at The Sebel, which laid bare the state of our situation and the needs for action.  We think community housing expert Natallie Allan put it best when she referenced historical news articles from the Kiama Independent. The articles covered "controversial" decisions that were decried at the time, but ultimately "all the things that we now look at and say this is the character of Kiama, were the things what we were arguing against when they came in". Another panellist, real estate expert Simon Kersten, noted it is almost impossible for a young person in Kiama to achieve buying their own home and Ms Allan noted that there were probably three people under the age of 30 in attendance at the Forum.  The Bugle’s View is that we need to change our ways, our thinking and our views. Our views can be our views, but we need to also understand that adopting self-righteous approach from some sections of our community might compromise the future and next generation of that very same community.

It’s that glorious shoulder season in Kiama - when summer's heat is a fading memory, autumn’s golden light starts creeping in, and suddenly Easter is right around the corner.You can feel the shift: the kids are counting down the last school days, the shops are lined with chocolate eggs in impossible-to-ignore positions, and parents are starting to quietly wonder how to keep the kids occupied for two whole weeks. Luckily Gerringong Bowlo have a fabulous new playground - just in time for the holidays!This year Kiama is delivering a school holiday line-up worthy of a chocolate-fuelled standing ovation.First up, Kiama Golf Club is bringing the fun with a jam-packed Easter-themed Saturday on 13 April. Kids Easter Craft runs from 3.30pm to 5pm, followed by a groovy Kids Disco from 6pm to 8pm. It’s just $5 per child per activity - grab your tickets at Club Reception before they hop away. And don’t forget, kids eat free every Sunday night with any main meal purchase. (Now that’s what we call a sweet deal.)Over at Kiama Leagues Club, the school holiday fun continues with an exciting calendar of kids’ events with a kids Disco on Thursday 17 April at 5pm – free entry! There's also free Kids Bingo on Tuesday 22 April at 11am – no bookings required, and a kids Magic Show on Thursday 24 April from 2:30 – just $10 per child (free for adults and under 2s). A great way to beat the holiday boredom without breaking the bank.Feeling creative? Palette Knife Fun is the perfect pick for teens and adults wanting to splash out. Guided step-by-step, you'll create a masterpiece of your choice using palette knife techniques. It's on during the holidays, strictly for ages 13 and up, and no experience is needed – just bring your imagination, snacks, and maybe an old shirt thanks to Expressive Art at their EAE Studio Kiama Downs Wednesday 16th April 1pm.Then on Easter Sunday (20 April), Yves is hosting a vibrant family lunch overlooking Kiama Harbour from 1pm to 3pm. There’ll be free kids' activities, including face painting, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and a classic Easter Egg Hunt. Meanwhile, grown-ups can enjoy great food, Easter-themed cocktails, and the smooth sounds of James Vann in the courtyard.And if you're after a truly egg-cellent afternoon of free fun, don’t miss the Easter Fun Day at Kiama Anglican Church, Saturday 19 April from 1 - 4pm. It’s become a Kiama tradition – and for good reason. Think Zorb Balls, Jumping Castles, face painting, crafts, games, and a giant egg hunt, all wrapped in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.Of course, for many, Easter is also a time of quiet reflection and community connection. Several local churches will be holding Good Friday and Easter Sunday services, open to all who wish to mark the occasion with meaning. Whether you attend out of tradition, faith, or curiosity, it’s a lovely way to pause and take in the spirit of the season.So whether you’re crafting, dancing, painting, praying, picnicking, or just trying to keep your sugar intake under control, there’s something for everyone this Easter in our LGA. Check out somewhere you haven’t been before - whether it’s Boneyard or 7 mile beach or further. We have a plethora of options North, South and West.Enjoy the holidays, take a breath, and may your hot cross buns always be fresh and your chocolate eggs safely hidden from sneaky snackers.

As we foreshadowed in our last edition of The Bugle View, the election has been called for 3 May 2025, alas, we were one week off in our prediction! However, we were right about one thing – the announcements and commitments from both sides of politics are coming thick and fast.As reported by The Bugle, Fiona Phillips MP recently spruiked the benefits for the division of Gilmore as a result of increased funding for the Strengthening Telecommunications Against Natural Disasters (STAND) program. Part of the $14 million boost will go to 18 sites in Gilmore from Ulladulla to Kangaroo Valley.Not to be outdone, Liberal candidate Andrew Constance announced an allocation of $840,000 to complete the Gerry Emery Oval clubhouse project at Gerringong. Mr Constance threw down the gauntlet to the incumbent Labor MP, challenging the Government to match the funding commitment. We are yet to hear a response.Here here, we say. The more the merrier. Show us the money!Our community is in a rare and unique position. As the most marginal key seat in this election, talking heads across the country will be commentating about Ms Phillips, Mr Constance and the division of Gilmore a lot over the coming weeks. Some pundits say that the result in Gilmore could be key to delivering a majority government.Last time around at the 2022 election, just 373 votes separate the two and the narrow victory to Ms Phillips handed Anthony Albanese a narrow majority. This time around, it could be a different story.While Ms Phillips won the seat, she received fewer first-preference votes than Mr Constance by around 6700 votes.Through the compulsory preferential voting system, the rest of 24,589 first-preference votes were filtered through all the other candidates until only Mr Constance and Ms Phillips remained, and ultimately this is where Ms Phillips won the day.Through preferences, the Labor incumbent was able to make up the 6700 vote deficit and come through with 372 votes to spare.So, whilst it looks to be a two-horse race in Gilmore, it may be those that initially vote for Kate Dezarnaulds (Independent), Debbie Killian (Greens) or Graham Brown (Family First), and how they preference other candidates, that will decide the result.Back in 2022, more than 5000 people or almost 5% of the voting population submitted informal votes. In an election where just 373 votes determined the result, this is a massive number. Whilst some of us no doubt submitted protest votes, others may have genuinely been trying to engage in their democratic right/duty but made a slight mistake. People, it might be a cliché in some parts of the country – but in Gilmore, your vote matters!Over the next four weeks, our votes will shape the country for the next three years. Sure, we want the major parties to show us the money and give us our fair share of funding, But if history is any judge – one in five of us will not put Labor or Liberal as our first preference and it is this 20% of the population that may hold the key to the election result for Gilmore.The Bugle View is that we all have a duty to vote, and vote correctly, because in Gilmore – our vote really matters.

Life is full of milestones, big and small, that deserve to be noted. Whether it’s a birthday, memorial, anniversary, new arrival, engagement, wedding or graduation, The Bugle’s digital app is the perfect place to share your news with the community.Best of all? It’s completely free to list your family notices!In a world where we are more connected than ever, taking a moment to acknowledge and celebrate life’s important events brings us closer together. A simple notice can inform, and keep our community in touch with milestones - whether celebrating or commiserating. Listing your family notice is easy! Simply submit your details through The Bugle’s digital app, and we’ll take care of the rest. On the app go to the community button and click on Family Notices and list your details from there. Let’s keep Kiama connected - one special moment at a time.

As we embark on a season filled with elections, school holidays, Anzac Day, and Mother’s Day, The Bugle is delighted to welcome a new addition to our editorial team: our new editor, Paul Suttor.Paul brings a wealth of experience from a journalism career spanning nearly three decades across major publications, including The Illawarra Mercury, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Daily Telegraph, The Sun-Herald, and NRL.com, where he has worked as a reporter, sub-editor and editor. His passion for sports runs deep - he has been a player for many years in the South Coast District Cricket Association and dedicates his time to coaching in the Football South Coast junior soccer competition. His expertise will further enrich our coverage of news, political, community and sporting life.Amid these exciting changes, we’re also enhancing our digital presence. While our print edition remains a staple, we now offer a regular “print digital” edition every Saturday, bringing you more frequent updates on the stories that matter. Subscribe to receive it directly in your inbox or log on to our app for exclusive content.As always, The Bugle thrives on community involvement. We encourage you to share your local news, sports stories, and achievements so we can continue celebrating our region. A huge thanks to our hardworking team - Lleyton, Lynne, Veronica, Brian, Steven and Shelby - who ensure the news reaches you weekly and with daily updates via our app. A special shout-out to our contributors also who share their expertise with our team and readers.  If you have any news tips for us, send them to [email protected]’re also excited to introduce a new section where you can upload family notices for free. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a wedding, an engagement, a birth, or a memorial, we invite you to share these moments with the community. Jump on the app to find it under the community label and list your details.  The app gives so much more for the community to explore - with features on business, faces of the coast, local artists and so much more. There is even a puzzle section for those “waiting times” in life.  A strong regional newspaper is a privilege, and we’re fortunate to have one that captures the heartbeat of our town. Become an advertiser to help keep the stories alive.  Stay connected, stay informed, and be part of The Bugle community.Belle

It’s been six short months since our community went to the polls and elected our new Kiama Council. Some were shocked at the results with Mayor Cameron McDonald’s “Community Minded, Business Focused” team taking one third of the seats, with another third also made up of newcomers. With the Federal election around the corner, the next two months will be chock full of campaigning, announcements, broad brush commitments and sweeping statements – we love it! The big question is, and always has been – what’s in it for us? What will our community get? And which candidates and political parties are best placed to actually deliver it? On an ultra-thin margin of 0.2%, the seat of Gilmore, which encompasses Kiama, Nowra-Bomaderry, Berry, Milton-Ulladulla, Jervis Bay and Batemans Bay and surrounds, is one of the key seats in the upcoming election. The result in Gilmore could indeed tip the result of the election one way or another. In Gilmore, it looks to be a three-horse race between the incumbent, Fiona Phillips (Labor), the failed challenger of the 2022 election Andrew Constance (Liberal) and Berry local, Kate Dezarnaulds as the independent, sponsored by Climate 200. With the benefit of a Federal Budget that will take place next week, Ms Phillips will have the opportunity to make commitments related to much-needed public infrastructure and cost of living measures. We have already seen proclamations regarding the Nowra Riverfront Revitalisation and upgrades to the Marine Rescue facility at Crookhaven Heads.  Mr Constance, historically a member of the “moderate” faction of the Liberal Party, has taken a more hardline stance on issues such as climate change, in line with the position of Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton. The Liberal Party will be latching onto historically high interest rates and inflation, and the subsequent impact on cost-of-living pressures as a core tenet of their election campaign. Finally, Ms Dezarnaulds is marketing herself as the truly independent voice for Gilmore. She sets her priorities as affordable housing and healthcare, powering the future, community resilience and honest leadership. She will be hoping history repeats itself and the Gilmore electorate supports her in the same way the Kiama community supported the independent ticket at the 2024 local council elections. The election must take place on or before 17 May 2025, and there will be a period of at least 33 days between announcing the date and polling day itself. For what it’s worth, here at The Bugle we have 10 May as our pick. Over the next 5-7 weeks these candidates will be out and about, making proclamations as to why they should represent Gilmore and our community for the next three years.  Over the next decade, our community will undergo very significant change. Whether it be to Council services or expansion of the existing town (both up and out) all of this means we are going to require more infrastructure, funding and support (from all levels of Government). The Bugle’s View is that every one of us has the responsibility to ask hard-hitting questions, seek genuine commitments and ensure we elect the candidate that will get the most for us now, and into the future.

 In our last edition of The Bugle’s View, we commended Kiama Council for demonstrating resolve in endorsing Version 2 of the draft Housing Strategy for public exhibition and comment. While it was not an easy decision, we noted that their slow and steady approach was essential in bringing the community along on this journey.After all, previous Councils had actively and effectively avoided conversations around growth - an inaction that has undoubtedly contributed to Kiama’s current situation: the most expensive housing market in regional NSW and some of the worst affordability measures in the state. This is no longer tenable, as young people and families continue to be priced out of the area.Our community has been conditioned to accept and expect that nothing will ever change, over a long period of time and this is why a slow and steady approach is what is needed. It has therefore come as a shock that over the last week, the “Low and Mid Rise Housing Policy” has been enacted across Kiama Town Centre. The details are relatively scant, but The Bugle understands that this will allow 22m high buildings across parts of our town – equivalent to 6 storeys. To put this into perspective, under the Kiama Local Environmental Plan, the controversial Akuna Street car park development is allowed to be 21m at its highest point.  According to the Southern Regional Planning Panel website, the Panel met on 13 November 2024 to discuss the Akuna Street development application. The minutes of the meeting state that the application still has unresolved issues related to:-     Height, bulk and scale of the built form; -     Pedestrian access, amenity and safety; -     Functionality of communal open space; -     Streetscape, including the lack of resolution to the Akuna Street frontage; and -     Impacts on the local heritage item. As a result, the developer of the Akuna Street car park has applied to the Land and Environment Court under a “deemed refusal Class 1 Appeal” for their development application. Effectively, Council staff were not in a position to recommend approval and the Planning Panel said the developer should “consider withdrawing the application to enable a significant redesign to fully respond to the concerns raised”. It is hard to see how new applications under the “Low and Mid Rise” policy could be supported, when they could be even higher than Akuna Street.  This policy has the potential to completely change the face and character of Kiama Town Centre with the potential for multiple Akuna Street style developments dotted throughout our main streets.  Whilst we are all for initiatives that will address housing affordability, The Bugle’s View is that allowing for building heights never seen before in town is quite possibly a step too far. 

For the first time in over six decades, the iconic Mount Vernon in New South Wales’ Kiama is on the market. A stunning piece of history perched high above Kiama's township, this heritage-listed bluestone villa-style residence has stood as a beacon of Victorian grandeur for nearly 150 years. Purchased by Joan and John Fraser in 1961, Mount Vernon has been meticulously restored to its former elegance, retaining its period charm while seamlessly integrating tasteful additions. Over the years, the Fraser family preserved the home’s architectural integrity and cultivated its grounds, with daughter Christine Fraser now placing the residence on the market following the passing of her parents.“Growing up in this home was an absolute joy - it was my childhood home, filled with love and laughter,” Christine said. “Some of my fondest memories are of family Christmases, birthdays, and special gatherings shared within these walls. It’s been incredible to see the next generations, from grandchildren to great-grandchildren, continue to enjoy the home and create their own memories here. “This home has always been a cherished family legacy, and I hope it brings as much happiness to its next owners as it has to us.”Christine’s mother Joan was born in Kiama and attended school at what is now the Anglican Church Hall. Her father John was also a Kiama local, having been born in the town before growing up on the family dairy farm, Killalea. The couple began their married life at Killalea before moving to Mount Vernon in 1961. When they first purchased Mount Vernon, the property was covered in lantana bushes, with no trees in sight. Joan devoted herself to restoring Mount Vernon and creating a beautiful garden that complemented the heritage property. Meanwhile, John built all the stone walls throughout the garden. “It really was a labour of love for them both. Over time, they painstakingly cleared the land and transformed it into the lush and picturesque garden that remains today,” their daughter Christine said. “When the National Trust visited in the 1970s, they commended my mother on her garden, noting how the carefully selected trees and shrubs reflected the era of the house.”The Frasers spent the rest of their lives at Mount Vernon, apart from the final three years of John’s life, when he required full-time care. They were also the original founding members of the Alpine Club of Kiama, contributing to the region’s vibrant community spirit.Constructed in 1874, Mount Vernon was commissioned by Kiama police magistrate Henry Connell. The villa-style property, built from locally quarried basalt, is one of only two of its kind in Kiama. The estate originally boasted uninterrupted views of Kiama Harbour, where Mr Connell oversaw the busy shipping activity. Today, the elevated position offers sweeping vistas of the ocean and township, reaffirming Mount Vernon’s status as one of Kiama’s most distinguished homes.The property’s Victorian Italianate design is defined by its expansive wrap-around verandahs adorned with intricate cast-iron columns and handcrafted timber railings. Inside, locally milled cedar joinery, two Italian Carrara marble fireplaces, and soaring ceilings further amplify the home’s period elegance. The grand central hallway, 450mm thick basalt walls, and ornate cornices complete the home’s timeless charm.The property’s gardens offer a rare glimpse into a bygone era. Jacarandas, Mexican cypress pines, camellias, and other mature trees planted by the Frasers contribute to an atmosphere of serenity and elegance.Set on a 3,074sqm estate, the property offers not only a living space that has been thoughtfully preserved but also the potential for future development. With the possibility to subdivide the front parcel of land (STCA), Mount Vernon presents an exceptional investment opportunity.Marketing agent Michele Lay said the heritage-listed masterpiece will likely attract historic aficionados who appreciate Kiama's rich history and architectural charm. “I believe it will appeal to those looking for a rare opportunity to restore a significant piece of Kiama’s past, whether they are eager for a full restoration or blending modern living with classic charm,” she said. “With its timeless appeal Mount Vernon is seeking those visionary buyers who are excited by the potential to create something extraordinary in one of Kiama’s most iconic and cherished landmarks.”The storied Kiama home has been listed through Ray White Kiama’s Michele and Matthew Lay with a price guide of $4.4 million to $4.9 million. 

After one of the more eventful Kiama Council meetings since the September 2024 elections, one thing is clear: this Council means business. Whereas previous Councillors would have found a way to stymie debate, delay, defer and not compromise, in one of its first big tests of mettle, our representatives decided in favour of progress.  Of course, we are talking about the much talked about, independently reviewed, double expression for those interested, now revised, version 2 of Council’s Draft Growth and Housing Strategy.  Following more debate, alternate motions and discussion about urban expansion, Council decided to place version 2 of the strategy on public exhibition for an extended period of 60 days. The main contention was the implication of including the controversial Springside Hill/Kiama West and Riversdale Drive land into the strategy and how this might influence future planning decisions. Some Councillors declared that they had received emails and representations from constituents concerned with the contents of the draft strategy and Councillors Warren and Lawton were particularly concerned about endorsing the staff recommendation.  Indeed, it was a marked shift from Council staff, led in the main by Director of Planning, Environment and Communities, Ed Patterson. Mr Patterson clarified with the Councillors that the strategy is a 20 year plan and that growth for the area will occur. His message was - the days of simply turning a blind eye to growth and naively relying on projects like Bombo Quarry as the answer, were over.   Rather, he said it was better for Council and the community to have ‘levers to play with’ in terms of shaping growth. This sentiment was echoed by Councillor Cains who said it was better to ‘have a seat at the table’ rather than losing control. Councillor Cains was also sceptical of a proposed motion to defer a decision on the draft strategy, stating that he did not want a decision to defer to be a trojan horse for Council to continue to ‘squib’ on making a decision – possibly a reference to the lack of leadership from previous Councillors.   Council will now prepare the public exhibition of version 2 of the draft strategy, a document that has been foreshadowed since 2021.  The concept of growth is something that has been outrightly rejected by some parts of the community for a long time, and these views should be acknowledged. However, Council is also aware that growth will occur and there is far greater utility in having a seat at the table, being part of the conversation and being able to pull levers at the appropriate time. The Bugle’s View is that this slow and steady approach is the right way to go about this, and we look forward to seeing the Views of all parts of the community over the next 60 days.

Applications are now open for the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, supporting emergingcreatives passionate about sharing their unique stories.The scholarship, dedicated to fostering creativity, is an initiative from Façon Australia and Greater Bank, with $10,000 in funding for one exceptional recipient to pursue their creative aspirations.For the first time, the Greater Bank will also award $1000 to eight finalists. Creative categories include writing, fashion design, accessory design, painting, music, dance, digital art, film, and photography and all finalists will be mentored by industry leaders.The Scholarship is open to Indigenous applicants aged 18 and over, living in NSW. Applications close on May 1, with the successful recipient announced at a special NAIDOC Week event on July 10. Visit Façon Magazine www.faconaustralia.com/apply/ or Greater Bank www.greater.com.au/ 

Nan Tien Temple in Berkeley is set to host a special International Women’s Day charity fundraiser on Saturday, March 8, offering a unique blend of mindfulness, community spirit, and creative storytelling.Now in its third year, the event attracts around 180 attendees and raises approximately $4,000 for Women Illawarra, an organization dedicated to supporting women in the region.One of the highlights of the event is the largest regional meditation session, held inside the magnificent main shrine of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Buddhist temple. Attendees will also take part in a Buddhist blessing ceremony, a rare and cherished experience for many.Adding to the day’s significance, the event will feature a special screening of Frances, an award-winning film by South Coast filmmaker Sharon Lewis. The film has received Best Film and Best Actress accolades both in Australia and internationally. This will be the first public screening beyond its initial premiere for Screen Illawarra members."Many people don’t realize that Nan Tien Temple has a 300-seat auditorium, making it an ideal venue for showcasing powerful films like Frances," says Gabrielle Quigley, Community Engagement Coordinator at Nan Tien Temple.The event not only raises funds for Women Illawarra but also shines a spotlight on South Coast creatives, reinforcing the temple’s commitment to community engagement and cultural enrichment.Attendees from Kiama, Jamberoo, and Gerringong have participated in previous years, and organizers hope to see even more South Coast locals join this meaningful celebration of women’s resilience and creativity.All proceeds go directly to Women Illawarra, ensuring vital support services continue for women in need.

We’re already a month into the year, and with school officially back, The Bugle has hit the ground running - covering the Lunar New Year, the Kiama Show, and local sporting feats. But would it really feel like the start of the year without another report on skyrocketing house prices?Last week, The Domain House Price Report revealed a surprising statistic: Kiama’s median house price has now surpassed those of Byron Bay and Noosa. At $1.51 million, Kiama has edged ahead of Byron ($1.5m) and Noosa ($1.33m), making it the most expensive place to buy a home in regional NSW.This might come as a shock, given that Byron and Noosa are renowned for attracting Hollywood A-listers - think Zac Efron, Chris Hemsworth, and Matt Damon - who have famously snapped up properties in those areas.So, does this mean Kiama is the next celebrity hotspot? According to local Ray White Kiama real estate agent Michele Lay, it’s already happening. A-listers Hamish and Zoe Blake bought in Jamberoo during COVID in 2022, and other high-profile buyers - whose identities remain under wraps - are reportedly showing interest.One can’t help but wonder what an equivalent "Hemsworth effect" - the property boom that followed Chris Hemsworth’s move to Byron - might do to Kiama’s housing market, especially given where prices already stand. Could the only way be up?We have to ask ourselves what do we want for Kiama? We’re incredibly lucky to live in Australia’s best small town and NSW’s Top Tourism Town, but this raises an important question: Is this the future we want?Of course, we can’t stop people from moving to Kiama, nor would we want to. But we can ensure that young families and essential workers can still afford to live here. The Bugle has previously highlighted concerns about the rise of short-term rentals and their impact on housing availability. While these rentals support tourism and local businesses, they also contribute to rising prices and reduced housing stock for locals.That’s why it was refreshing to hear Mayor Cameron McDonald state outright:“We’d like to think we’re an area that’s affordable for, and welcoming to, everyone.” It’s a noble aspiration - and one that every Australian town should strive for. But achieving it will require real action. Council has already warned that difficult decisions lie ahead and that the community needs to rethink its expectations around growth and housing.So, when it comes to A-listers or affordability, perhaps we should take a page from that old El Paso ad and ask:Why not both?

The Leukaemia Foundation has called on the community to join its campaign to help fight blood cancer, with deaths from the disease likely to double over the next decade.“The incidence and mortality of blood cancer is on track to almost double by 2035,” says Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti says. Blood cancer will become one of Australia’s most significant public health issues and the most prevalent and deadly form of cancer in the country if research funding continues to fall below that of other cancers, according to the Leukaemia Foundation.“Blood cancer has increased by 79 per cent in the past 20 years, but in that time only 12 per cent of blood cancer research funding has gone towards prevention and early detection of the disease,” Mr Tanti says.“Unlike most other prevalent cancers like lung, breast, prostate, skin, and bowel, you cannot screen for blood cancer, nor can you prevent it or make lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of being diagnosed - it's Australia's silent and hidden cancer crisis.” He says while blood cancer research has helped improve treatment and care options, the issue of prevention and early detection remains unsolved, with only 12 per cent of research investment funding prevention, early detection and diagnosis.  “Compared to other leading cancers in Australia, the investment in blood cancer research focused on prevention and early detection is vastly different and contributes to why the incidence of blood cancer is significantly increasing and outpacing that of all other cancers,” Mr Tanti says.In Australia the percentage of research investment funding prevention, early detection and diagnosis of cervical cancer is 90 per cent, melanoma is 55 per cent, lung cancer is 37 per cent, prostate cancer is 32 per cent, bowel cancer 27 per cent and breast cancer 22 per cent.The Leukaemia Foundation is calling for more investment into blood cancer research that focuses on prevention and early detection, and an increase in support services for patients and their loved ones.  To help close the gap, the Leukaemia Foundation is calling on the community to sign up to shave, cut, or colour their hair and fundraise during World’s Greatest Shave. This year the Leukaemia Foundation is aiming to raise $12 million dollars through the World's Greatest Shave.  Register to participate worldsgreatestshave.com or call 1800 500 088.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is calling on the New South Wales government to protect families by making the life-saving Meningococcal B vaccine free for at-risk groups.  Meningococcal B is a rare but devastating disease, which can progress quickly and lead to death or disability.To ensure more people in NSW are protected from the potentially deadly infection, the RACGP recommends free Meningococcal B vaccines for every child aged two and under and every teen aged 15 to 19-years-old.  Stacey Chater and her family were left devastated in 2022 when Meningococcal B suddenly and rapidly claimed the life of her 23-year-old son Brayden. “My son Brayden was the perfect example of the typical young Aussie bloke, he loved his family and his mates, he kept fit, and he was full of life,” Stacey says“He had a fever and a sniffle one night and 24 hours later we were at the hospital being told he was gone. I can’t explain the shock and disbelief.” “Meningococcal B is so quick and aggressive and so hard to know that you have it. Our family has been struggling for two years, and my doctor has diagnosed me with PTSD.”Stacey explains that she didn’t know there was a strain of meningococcal that her children weren’t vaccinated against, she assumed they were covered by the vaccines they received at school. “Financial burden is preventing Australians from being able to get the Meningococcal B vaccine,” says Stacey. “This is a devastating, traumatic disease that can be prevented. No other family should have to go through the journey we have been on, access to free vaccines would be life changing for families in NSW.”  RACGP NSW & ACT Chair, Dr Rebekah Hoffman, explains that deaths and disability related to Meningococcal B can be dramatically reduced. “Effective vaccines are available, now it is up to the government to ensure free access to all at-risk Australians,” says Dr Hoffman. “Meningococcal B is rare, but deadly. Statistics show it kills five to 10 percent of patients and leaves 10 to 20 percent of survivors with brain damage, hearing loss or a learning disability.”Dr Hoffman states that the virus is most devastating for vulnerable kids and young people, and cost shouldn’t prevent parents from protecting their children. “Prevention is the best solution, and effective vaccines are one of the most important tools we have for keeping our people safe from deadly infections such as these,” Dr Hoffman says. "In South Australia, the Meningococcal B vaccination program cut rates amongst children by 60 percent, and by 73 percent amongst adolescents.”“Queensland and the Northern Territory have also rolled out successful programs and it’s time for NSW to match these commitments."

Andrew Schreyer - Country Press Australia president Meta’s plans for the removal of fact-checking services on content posted to its platforms and the government’s decision to introduce age limits for access to social media has brought a renewed focus on the importance of regional, rural and local news publishers.Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer said publishers have never been tasked with so many layers of responsibility, and it’s never been more vital for the work they do to be appropriately recognised and valued by government and the broader community.“The decisions local newsrooms make about content, photo selection, accuracy, fairness, balance and integrity go to the heart of the craft of journalism.“Our papers don’t engage in clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not allowed to fester in the communities we serve.”Mr Schreyer said the vast majority of Country Press Australia publishers are the only local media outlet with boots on the ground in these communities, producing public interest place-based journalism that fulfils a vital role in our democracy.“Country Press Australia is disappointed at Meta’s decision to abandon third-party fact checking on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in the US. Third-party fact checking has not yet been abandoned on Meta platforms in Australia, however the move in the US may be an indication of Meta’s intentions worldwide and is a worrying development regardless.”Equally, Country Press Australia has welcomed Communications Minister Michelle Rowland’s strong comments that came in the wake of Meta’s announcement and her support for high quality fact checked information for the public, such as the place-based public interest journalism produced by Country Press Australia’s 240 member mastheads.“We are also heartened by comments from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant on the harms of social media and the responsibility to comply with Australian law.“The mis and disinformation that spreads on Meta’s platforms are harmful to people’s health, wellbeing and to social cohesion. This information can be hard for consumers to recognise. The removal of third-party fact checking will see the levels of mis and disinformation on social media increase exponentially. Without any fact checking mechanism the rates of mental health issues caused by social media will no doubt rise”, Mr Schreyer said.He commended the government for its recently announced News Bargaining Incentive and News Media Assistance Program funding which will help Country Press Australia memberpublishers continue to produce the quality local public interest journalism that is so well trusted by its audiences.“Professionally produced local public interest journalism, such as that produced by Country Press Australia mastheads, is the antidote to mis and disinformation and this has been well recognised by the government.”

It’s been a wild and whacky start to the year and hopefully this is not a sign of what’s to come for our community in the coming months of this year. Horrendous weather lashed the Illawarra over the last week with wild storms creating dangerous situations on our roads, along the coast and inland. Wild turned to whacky as a waste truck caught fire this past Monday in what looks to be a case of incorrect disposal of a lithium battery. Thankfully no one was hurt. As January comes to an end, people come back from holidays and the return to school is just around the corner, we move into what will be a big year for our community. Kiama Council has already signalled that this term of Council will be filled with challenging decisions and with that, significant milestones and changes are slated to occur. The first Council meeting kicks off the year with a familiar subject – financial mismanagement of previous Council and the impact it has had on subsequent Council operations – namely, Blue Haven Bonaira.  With settlement of the sale still on track for next month, it is hoped that by the March Council meeting the Blue Haven Bonaira saga will finally be over and whether you agree with the sale and the process, at least we can all move on. There’s no doubt that the settlement fee will provide a much needed injection of cash into Council coffers, at the same time as special rate variations are no doubt being considered. The first part of this year will also see a Federal election, with Gilmore being a key seat in what will no doubt be a hotly contested and whacky point for our region.   The Bugle’s View is that these milestones and (possible) changes should not draw our community’s attention away from the here and now, and the challenges that we are all facing on a daily basis.  Mr Ward has called on the NSW Rental Commissioner to investigate rental conditions and affordability in our area. A $420/week rental property in Kiama that is currently on the market whilst also appearing to be uninhabitable, was the lightning rod. The Bugle has continued to highlight the issue of housing affordability and affordable housing – an issue that is now commonplace across the region and in sharp focus for the NSW State Government. The housing crisis is no longer the stigmatic experience of an unfortunate few. Key and essential workers face insurmountable challenges being able to live where they work and flow on effects for our ageing community are extreme. Council has foreshadowed that an updated Growth and Housing Strategy will be tabled as early as the February 2025 Council meeting. No doubt there will be some direction as to their thinking, and strategies they will try to implement. However, with housing affordability comes the inevitable conversation of growth and the need to expand both up and out. Who pays for the infrastructure? What strategies are in place to ensure there is affordable housing is part of future development? How does all this happen in conjunction with the State and Federal Government? Whilst it has been a wild and whacky start to the year, sentiment will quickly change as cost of living and the daily grind puts the silly season firmly in the rear-view mirror. Kiama Council led by Mayor McDonald will have its work cut out to ensure the positive outlook and honeymoon of their 2024 election is not overrun by frustration, inaction and ‘more of the same’.  The Bugle’s View is that Council is more than capable, and the community should give them every chance on delivering positive change, strong investment in our facilities, infrastructure and services, and improvements and policies to tackle housing affordability.  As they say, the proof in the pudding is the tasting, and sooner or later the community will know what this Council has cooked up. 

On the eve, this coming week, of the release of Recollections issue 50, South Coast History Society is pleased to announce that its fabulous new website https://www.southcoasthistory.org.au/ now welcomes you to visit it.The aim of this website (which, as you will discover, is still very much a ‘work in progress’!) is to ultimately hold the most extensive, the most accessible compilation of NSW South Coast histories. These will be available 24/7, at no cost, to everyone and anyone who is interested in the area’s fascinating history.Downloadable copies of all 49 past issues of Recollections (containing hundreds of interesting NSW South Coast stories) have been the first thing we’ve put up on the website. You’ll also find details about the 101 objects in the Bega Shire’s Hidden Heritage project have been included, as are profiles of some of the South Coast’s historically most significant women.In coming months comprehensive sections will be added about South Coast pioneers, South Coast shipwrecks, South Coast towns and their histories, the South Coast’s interesting historic buildings…and a lot, lot more.The development of this new website is the latest initiative from the exceptionally active, innovative South Coast History Society - an entirely volunteer-based, community based, community-focused organisation that, quite simply, is committed to promoting and sharing the area’s - your area’s - colourful history.We hope you’ll enjoy regularly visiting this fabulous new website...and we encourage you to let your friends know it is now ‘open for business’.     

🎨 Calling all artists! 🎨 Showcase your talent at the Kiama Show! 🖼️ Junior, Adult, and Kia-Bald art exhibitions are now open. FREE entry for all! Deadline for submissions is 21 Jan 2025 So don't miss out!. Visit for forms and tickets.

NSW Police are urging country-music fans to plan their trip ahead of time and travel safely on the roads as they make their way to Tamworth for the annual Toyota Country Music Festival.A high-visibility policing operation will be in place from Friday (17 January 2025) until Sunday (26 January 2025).Tamworth Country Music Festival is Australia’s largest music festival, with a program featuring 700 artists and more than 1800 events, across 10 days.General duties officers from Oxley Police District and across Western Region, assisted by specialist police, will focus on road safety, anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related violence to keep the community safe.Western Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland APM, said the festival is the largest annual event in Tamworth, during which the city’s population almost doubles.“There’s no doubt Tamworth Country Music Festival is an iconic event on the calendar that sees the city of Tamworth transform into a hub of entertainment,” Assistant Commissioner Holland said.“It also represents an incredibly busy time on our roads, with people travelling not just for their love of country music – but across the state, to and from school holiday destinations.“During this time, there will be a saturated police presence on all roads leading to Tamworth.“I urge anyone getting behind the wheel to obey the traffic legislation, particularly speed limits.”Assistant Commissioner Holland said police will be targeting speeding, along with drink and drug driving and mobile-phone use, and other dangerous driver behaviour.“Our officers are not out to spoil your fun ­– but rather, they are focused on making sure the event is safe and enjoyable for everyone involved,” he said.Festival-goers are also encouraged to be patient when they arrive in Tamworth, as a number of roads will be closed during the 10-day event.“Community safety is our number-one priority, and police will be targeting criminal and anti-social behaviour associated with drinking too much alcohol,” Assistant Commissioner Holland said.“The message is simple – think before you drink, keep an eye on your mates, and enjoy the event responsibly.”With camping the preferred accommodation option for festival-goers; police offer the following safety and security tips:• Plan your trip in advance and if possible, make a booking;• Get to know your surrounding campers;• In large crowds, be mindful of your own safety and security as well as that of people around you;• Leave valuables at home – if you must take valuables with you, ensure they are secured and kept out of sight;• Lock your caravan or campervan when unattended;• Where possible, use a lock to secure your tent;• Where possible, use a portable alarm in your tent or camper;• Plan for changes in weather conditions;• Ensure valuables are not left in unattended vehicles;• Report any suspicious behaviour to police.For comprehensive event details, visit the official festival website: www.tcmf.com.auSpecial-event traffic information can be found at: www.livetraffic.com.