26 June 2024By Brett RobinsonCEO Traders In PurpleThere’s nothing like a crisis to bring people together in a common purpose, and so we and the rest of Kiama await the release of Kiama Council’s Growth and Housing Strategy with high anticipation.Over the past few weeks, we have engaged closely with Council’s planning staff to help them fully understand the critical role Springside Hill will play in addressing the housing crisis and contributing to the five-year target of 900 completed homes set by the NSW Government.The release of information about plans for Bombo Quarry provides a great sense of clarity for everyone in the community. It also outlines the expected timing, planning and remediation processes required before construction can start.With a reported timeframe of five to eight years to make the site ready for development, it seems like there will be no houses at Bombo Quarry until after 2029 at the earliest.The question then is how the Council’s strategy will address the current housing pain whilst waiting on Bombo Quarry, and whether the status quo of forcing the most productive people, the future of Kiama, to establish their homes, families and businesses elsewhere, will remain. We genuinely hope that Council does heed their own warning that ‘just saying no’ is no longer suitable.To meet the new housing target would require 180 home completions a year up until 2029. In 2020, 54 new homes were built in the local government area. In 2021 the number was 85 homes and in 2022, 54 homes.Based on that performance, it will take close to three years just to hit the one-year target.We have always said that there needs to be multiple solutions to address this housing crisis, both short and long term. With Kiama Council forecasting the need for more than 3,500 new homes over the next 20 years, more options are needed, not less.Like Council, we have been listening to the residents of Kiama and hearing about the hard choices people have made because there are so few opportunities to build or rent a home.  When scarce opportunities do become available they are priced beyond reach and snapped up in an instant.That is what happens in constrained housing markets when land is released piecemeal. It’s like a drop of rain in a drought that evaporates before anybody has a chance to drink.And in the most expensive housing market in NSW outside Sydney, it does nothing to put homes within the reach of locals and those who have the energy and will to make a wholehearted commitment to maintaining Kiama as one of the most liveable towns in Australia.

 No sooner had we declared that the forthcoming Council election would be about transparency and accountability (and that the community were seeking clarity as to which councillors would be running for re-election), than Councillors Kathy Rice and Jodie Keast announced their decision not to recontest at the election.   As we reported, these Councillors have contributed a significant amount to our community over several years. Councillor Rice in particular, having been initially elected to Council back in 2012. Her tenure of twelve years is only bettered by Councillor Warren Steel (elected in 1996) and Mayor Neil Reilly (elected in 2008). In what has traditionally been a male dominated Council, the current Council make up of four women and five men is the most gender balanced in the history of Kiama.  Losing Councillors Rice and Keast could be a genuine blow to balanced representation for our community.        Councillors Rice and Keast are members of the Greens and that political party has yet to advise on candidates they have pre-selected for the upcoming election but we do hope that they consider the gender question in their deliberations.  So, the times are changing and whilst The Bugle has nothing but admiration and respect for Councillors Rice and Keast, and wish them well, our View is that change can be a good thing.   According to the 2021 census, the median age of our community is 48 years old – nine years older than the median age in NSW, and ten years older than the rest of the country. Whilst The Bugle is not one for being ageist, we would hazard a guess that 48 years is lower than the average age of our current Councillor crop. Perhaps, like Councillors Draisma and Larkins, what we need is a further injection of youth, or at least, a point of difference. Approximately one-third of the population is aged between 18 and 50 and are vitally important to our community in terms of productivity, investment and supporting the community. These are the people that provide health services, serve us at our favourite retailers, are key workers and shape our town.  A quick perusal of our current Council crop and their sources of income in the 2023 financial year shows that four out of the nine councillors had an income generating occupation. The Labor Councillors are working for State and Federal members of Parliament (looks like their advocacy against the Illawarra Offshore Wind Farm did not amount to much), and Councillors Rice and Keast work in education. The point is, more than half of our representatives are not working and are seemingly doing quite okay on a meagre Council salary. That is great for them, and we do not disparage them for being in that position, but the question is – whilst they are our council representatives, do they actually represent who we are? Perhaps that is why all the advocacy and engagement that Council staff are trying to do ultimately reverberates back with the same old story, time after time.  Take for instance, the outcomes of Council’s community and stakeholder survey on the “Growth and Housing Strategy”. Approximately 1% of the population engaged with the survey, and of those 300 or so residents, 40% of them were over the age of 60.  Perhaps everyone was too busy with school drop offs, getting dinner on the table, or working to pay the mortgage. But we would have thought that over the six-week period when the survey was active, the community would have wanted to engage on something so important. Or, perhaps, they thought that no matter what they say, it will be more of the same. Another process talking to the same people, saying the same thing, and getting the same results, time after time.  Whilst we agree with a lot of what Councillor Renkema-Lang has said in the past, we cannot agree with her comments that ‘the sentiments and desire of the community have been well captured and expressed’. Certainly, the view of a certain part of the community has been well captured. But to say that a survey that approximately 80% of the adult population has not engaged with has delivered ‘good data’, is a stretch. The Bugle congratulates Councillor Rice and Councillors Keast on their positive representation of our community and with their (and possibly other?) departures brings an opportunity for change. The Bugle’s View is that the whole and entire community must actively engage, otherwise we will get more of the same, time after time.

This week marks three months until the 14 September 2024 NSW local government election and for our community, it promises to be an intriguing and extremely consequential affair. The 2021 election saw four out of nine councillors returned to Council following their election in the September 2016 election. Those councillors were Matt Brown, Warren Steel, Kathy Rice, and Neil Reilly.  However, it has been a long eight years for our community since then. The pandemic brought on its own set of challenges, not least an increase in demand for housing and a change to our community landscape. Our fair town is now the most expensive place to buy a home in regional NSW and to try and address housing affordability, the State Government has mandated the completion of 900 homes by 30 June 2029.  That equates to 180 homes per year, for the next five years – something that has only happened two times in the last 25 years. The last eight years has also seen a significant degradation in Council’s financial position which is perhaps only matched by the significant increase in legal costs – much of this attributed to Councillor infighting and internal complaints. It’s possible that when all is said and done, the legal bill for rate payers will be more than $5 million. In these uncertain times we certainly do not agree that $4.7m is not going to cripple Council.  For a comparison, Byron Bay Council’s legal expenses for 2023 were just shy of $400,000. Ratepayers are rightly shaking their head, and The Bugle has fielded a number of comments from the community who are aghast at how flippantly our rates are being spent, particularly in a cost-of-living crisis.  The Blue Haven Bonaira saga looks to be finally coming to a close, and in a few short weeks, we should know how much money the sale will contribute to Council finances. But is this likely to only be a short-term fix? Blue Haven Terralong is now in the sights of the NSW Government and the Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig, who suspects that general rate revenue may be subsiding its operation. No doubt there will be more asset sales and cuts to services.  Three months out from the election, we are still yet to receive official confirmation as to which sitting councillors will be running for re-election. Who is going to campaign on protection of services and jobs? Perhaps a difficult pill to swallow if you’re in the thick of it.   As Bill Potts rightly points out, some councillors ‘were there when we got in this mess’.   We are yet to see a platform on transparency and accountability. Who is going to take responsibility of the situation that we’re in, and show genuine leadership for our community to find a way out? Where is the grandstanding about re-election, contributions made, key outcomes delivered? Perhaps there are some in the community, waiting in the wings. Local voices out there, biding their time, preparing their run, campaigning on an alternate vision, a different approach? Our community has undergone significant turmoil in recent times, much of it as a result of Council actions. The Bugle’s View is that elected representatives should not be surprised if there is a backlash and a call for change. The next term of local government will be the most challenging for our area and we need the best possible people to lead us, not those that continually belittle and work against us.

As the village of Jamberoo prepares to welcome the much anticipated Golden Valley Jamberoo subdivision, the development promises to benefit the local economy and community.With 50 generously sized lots approved, the subdivision is poised to attract new families seeking the idyllic village lifestyle that Jamberoo offers. This influx of residents is expected to substantially boost local businesses, from retailers and cafes to trade services and community organisations."We understand that some may have concerns about growth, but our aim is to enrich the community while preserving Jamberoo's unique charm," says Jennifer Macquarie from The Fountaindale Group, who has spearheaded the Golden Valley Jamberoo project alongside her brother, Lawson Fredericks. "By thoughtfully welcoming new residents who appreciate the village's heritage, we'll be injecting vital economic activity into the area."Local businesses can look forward to increased patronage as the population grows. The Jamberoo Public School and sporting clubs are likely to see an upswing in enrolments and membership. Meanwhile, community groups stand to benefit from an expanded volunteer base and support network.Moreover, the development itself will generate employment opportunities during the construction phase, benefitting local tradespeople and contractors. The comprehensive infrastructure upgrades, including an enhanced sewer system, will provide lasting improvements to support Jamberoo's sustainable growth.As longtime residents deeply rooted in the region, Jennifer and Lawson are committed to ensuring Golden Valley Jamberoo complements the village's architectural heritage while invigorating the community's economic and social fabric.“We were fortunate to enjoy a safe, peaceful and supportive village lifestyle here in Jamberoo growing up. We would love for other families to experience what we did,” says Lawson, director at Fountaindale Group.Embrace the opportunity to build your dream home in this tranquil oasis while contributing to Jamberoo’s vibrant future. 800m² lots will be sold in 2025. Visit www.goldenvalleyjamberoo.com.au for more information.

Our community Facebook pages, and the local media are buzzing with debates and concerns over the planned housing and development expansions. On one side, we have the YIMBYs (Yes In My Backyard), pushing for more housing and urban density, while on the other, the NIMBYs (Not In My Backyard) are raising valid concerns about preserving our neighbourhood’s character and quality of life. Adding to the mix is a generational divide, with many young people feeling antagonistic towards Boomers. But here is the thing: we need to stop seeing each other as adversaries and start working together for sustainable solutions. Enter SIMBY: Sustainable In My Backyard.Let’s face it—both YIMBYs and NIMBYs have legitimate points. YIMBYs argue that increasing housing supply is crucial for making homes more affordable and accessible, especially for younger generations who are struggling to find affordable places to live. They envision a vibrant, walkable community with more housing options, better public transport, and less urban sprawl.On the flip side, NIMBYs worry about the impact of new developments on our community’s character, property values, and infrastructure. They fear that increased density could lead to congestion, strain on public services, and a loss of the charm that makes our neighbourhoods unique.While these perspectives seem conflicting, they both stem from a deep care for our community and a desire for a high quality of life. Instead of clashing, we need to bridge these divides.Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the generational tension. Many young people, the YIMBYs, feel that Boomers benefited from lower housing prices and now resist the changes needed to make housing affordable for everyone. They see Boomers as obstacles to progress. Meanwhile, Boomers, with their established homes and lifestyles, worry about the disruptions that new developments might bring.But here’s a thought: What if we viewed Boomers not as obstacles but as critical partners and powerful allies?SIMBY—Sustainable In My Backyard—aims to do just that. It is about finding a balanced approach to development that respects everyone’s concerns and harnesses the strengths of all generations. Here’s why SIMBY is the way forward.SIMBY fosters dialogue and understanding between different generations and perspectives. It is about debunking myths and reducing antagonism by recognising that we all want what’s best for our community.By working together, we can find innovative solutions that balance the need for increased housing with preserving our community’s character. This means smart, sustainable growth that benefits everyone.SIMBY emphasises environmentally friendly practices, promoting urban density that reduces sprawl and lowers our carbon footprint. It is about creating a greener, healthier community.Boomers bring valuable experience, stability, and resources. Their involvement can help garner broader support for sustainable initiatives and guide the development of practical and effective solutions.Boomers are deeply rooted in our community. They have seen its evolution and care about its future. Their established presence and political influence can be instrumental in advocating for and implementing sustainable policies. Their long-term perspective can inform more balanced and realistic planning.Our community is at a crossroads. We can choose to remain divided, clashing over every new development proposal, or we can choose to come together, leveraging the strengths and insights of all generations to create a thriving, sustainable future.SIMBY is about embracing a new mindset—one that sees potential partners instead of adversaries. It is about building a community where everyone’s needs and concerns are addressed, where sustainable growth is not just a possibility but a reality.So, let’s put aside the labels and the blame. Let us recognise the value in each other’s perspectives and work together. By embracing the SIMBY approach, we can ensure that our community remains a wonderful place to live, now and for future generations.Let’s make Sustainable In My Backyard more than just a slogan. Let’s make it our community’s commitment.

Late in May Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig issued a variation to the Performance Improvement Order (PIO) that currently applies to Kiama Municipal Council. It effectively binds the current and future Council to a strict set of actions ‘required to improve performance’ over the next three financial years to FY 2026/27 with the aim of operating a budget in surplus that does not rely on property sales. The Minister said that Council ‘is moving too slowly’ towards financial sustainability and given this, Council will be required to report to the Office of Local Government bi-monthly to make sure they remain on the track to reducing expenditure and increasing revenue. The response from the Council to the revised PIO was understandably muted from Council, and the community should take note. Whilst the controversial sale of Blue Haven Bonaira looks to be finalised over the coming weeks with purchase by aged care providers Hall & Prior, it is quite clear that Bonaira will not be the last in terms of significant changes to Council assets and services. Council’s draft Long Term Financial Plan to FY 2033/34 points towards eight other parcels of land that Council will be looking to dispose of to shore up the finances. It is possible that Blue Haven will continue to feature heavily, with the PIO requiring Council to definitively determine whether general rate revenue is subsiding Blue Haven’s Terralong operations – the same issue that plagued Bonaira and led to its forthcoming sale.  In addition, there’ll be a requirement that Council set aside and establish a capital renewal reserve for Terralong with annual transfers to the reserve of $2 million. The community should not be surprised if Havilah Place at the top of Terralong Street is subdivided and subsequently sold off, perhaps sooner rather than later.  What has not been outwardly divulged in statements from Council but is found within the detail of the 40 pages of the Long-Term Financial Plan are references to how additional revenues may be secured, and how costs will be reduced.  And it all makes complete sense as to where Council will find the dollars. Cutting “non-essential services”.  Special rates variations. Sale of Council assets like the Works and Waste Depots. The Bugle’s View is that Council should be up front with these discussions. Where is the grandstanding and transparency about what this means for us, as ratepayers?  What exactly are the ‘non-essential’ services that Council is looking to cut.  We all know about the paid parking discussions and what the community already thinks – but is that another decision that will be forced upon us.We are currently in a cost-of-living crisis and cuts to services and increases to rates is not welcome news. Particularly when Council’s legal bill is now at $4.7m for this financial year, and likely to reach the $5m mark if there are further significant costs associated with a yet another code of conduct investigation between bickering Councillors.   Will Councillors and Council be honest in the upcoming local government election about what they stand for? What services and Council assets are off limits? How much could this special rate variation be? Let’s wait and see. But there is one thing the community can rely on, and that is The Bugle providing a clear and transparent View and holding this and the future Council to account.

For generations, the Fredericks family has cultivated an indelible bond with the village of Jamberoo and the wider South Coast region. Through dairy farming, their roots have been entwined with our fertile soils, verdant landscapes, and rich tapestry of heritage that defines this captivating corner of New South Wales.Now, guided by this deep connection, the Fountaindale Group, a family-owned property development enterprise, is excited to unveil Golden Valley Jamberoo, an exclusive estate that pays homage to the timeless appeal of Jamberoo village while seamlessly blending with the rural landscape that surrounds it."Our vision is to create a harmonious extension to the Jamberoo community that honours the timeless charm of the village while providing a space for families to weave their own legacies and experience the magic uniquely offered by the South Coast" explains Jennifer Macquarie, one of the creative team behind Golden Valley Jamberoo with a passion for the region's architectural heritage.Recognising and drawing inspiration from the South Coast’s traditional townships, the Fountaindale Group has meticulously structured the Golden Valley Jamberoo estate tocomplement the existing fabric of Jamberoo. Inspired by the village's picturesque streetscapes and architectural styles, this development beckons those seeking a tranquilrefuge where heritage meets modern living.As the selling agent, Jennifer extends a warm invitation to prospective buyers, offering to guide them through securing their dream home site with a level of personalised service that reflects the Fountaindale Group's ethos of mutual respect and shared benefits.The 800m² lots will be available for purchase in early 2025. To register your interest and stay connected, go to goldenvalleyjamberoo.com.au. To learn more about the Fountaindale Group, visit fountaindale.net.au.

Fiona Phillips MPKiama Smash and Mechanical RepairsCedar on CollinsBottleMartSpringside HillSpeering Wealth First National Real EstateGareth Ward MP  What are two things all the above have in common? They support The Bugle through advertising and sponsorship (thanks!), andThey do not own or are a financial beneficiary of The Bugle. It’s certainly been an interesting last couple of days for us at The Bugle.  We are a small local operation that on the whole, brings genuine (and mostly) positive news to our community.  But serving the local community also means we listen to the community, and when they raise concerns, we shine a spotlight.  Sometimes we make mistakes, we’re only human. We’re a lean operation that does not have the might, resources and a multi-million dollar budget.  That’s why it’s astounding to see the response from Council when we put forward our View. We wonder how many hours of rate payer wages it took to formulate that very polished media statement.  It did, however, highlight that Council’s IT system had inadvertently created a broken website link to the November 2023 meeting minutes – which has now been rectified. On the subject of by-lines, we admit that sometimes we do not have a by-line and this can be for a number of reasons. One of those reasons, unfortunately, is that our (largely casual, but very committed) workforce has been targeted by parts of the community because of reporting the news. This type of behaviour is unacceptable and The Bugle, and I, will frankly not apologise for keeping our team safe. Our journalists have been left in tears, had nervous breakdowns and have had panic attacks as a result of being harassed and berated by those who think it is okay to try and stand over them. I, and The Bugle will not cop that.  When the community raises its concerns with us, we will report on it. 

With the winter respiratory virus season rapidly approaching, NSW Health is reminding people aged 65 years and older – to remain up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination, and book in with their GP or pharmacist for their yearly fluvaccination ahead of winter.ATAGI recommends people aged 65 and over receive their free COVID vaccine every 6 – 12 months. NSW Health recommends people speak to their doctor or pharmacist to understand what is best for them. Older people should also speak to their doctor now to make a plan about what to do if they start feeling unwell to help them get access to the right tests and treatments quickly.“The wider community also play an important role in protecting people who are at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and flu. This includes our family and friends aged over 65. We want to remind the community if they are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, they should stay at home to protect others. If someone has cold or flu symptoms and they need to go out, they should wear a mask,” says Dr Kerry Chant, NSW Chief Health Officer.People experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms should also avoid visiting high risk settings like hospitals, aged and disability care facilities or people who are at higher risk of severe illness. Other things people can do to help protect themselves and their loved ones include:Stay at home if you’re unwell. If you have symptoms but have to leave home, wear a mask.Speak to your doctor now if you are at higher risk of severe illness from respiratory illnesses and make a plan about what to do if you start feeling unwell so you can get access to the right tests and treatments earlyGather outdoors or in well-ventilated indoor spaces.Consider taking a rapid antigen test, even if you don’t have symptoms, before visiting vulnerable loved ones when COVID-19 transmission is moderate or high in the community. To see the latest NSW respiratory surveillance summary report, please visit health.nsw.gov.au/respiratoryreportsPeople may be required to wear a mask in NSW when visiting high-risk settings such as aged and disability care. Masks may also be required in hospitals, general practices, medical centres and pharmacies.NSW Health continues to closely monitor and assess the way we respond to acute respiratory infections, including COVID-19, to keep patients, staff and visitors to our health facilities safe.For more information on getting your flu or COVID-19 vaccination and how to protect yourself and your loved ones this winter, visit this website.

There have been calls from the community for Kiama Council’s Mayor Neil Reilly and CEO Jane Stroud to publicly apologise for their treatment and invalid censure of Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang. The censure took place at the Council meeting on 21 November 2023, following an interview that Councillor Renkemba-Lang gave to ABC Illawarra on 21 June, 2023. The interview covered the impending sale of Blue Haven Bonaira. At the time, Councillor Renkema-Lang said that she had heard numerous concerns from the community regarding the information that had been provided by the Council detailing the sale.  In remarks to Kiama Community Radio on 5 December 2023, Mayor Reilly stated that he was responsible for instigating the investigation that eventually led to the now invalid censure. Mayor Reilly claimed that he also had heard from the community regarding Councillor Renkema-Lang’s comments and that young women had been left in tears. These concerns prompted him to begin the process of a Council-led investigation, which led to Councillor Renkema-Lang being censured in a confidential session at the November 2023 meeting.  At the time, CEO Jane Stroud said, “I hold specific concerns and worry about the worsening functionality of the Council, when in such uncertain times and unchartered territory, what is really required is cohesive and collective effort to correct the course of the organisation.” As a result of the censure, Councillor Renkema-Lang filed proceedings in the Supreme Court of NSW seeking to set aside or invalidate the censure. A direction hearing on 22 April revealed that Council had admitted that the censure was invalid. Council has yet to provide comment on this situation, and the media release detailing the censure has now been taken down. In addition, the formal and official minutes of the 21 November 2023 meeting have also been removed from the public record. On or prior to 30 May, the Supreme Court of NSW will advise of its final determination of how the matter will be settled, and what actions Council must take.  Local Government elections will be held on Saturday 14 September, and there has been no formal confirmation from any Councillors as to whether they will be running for re-election.  Several key decisions of Council are supposed to be finalised by formal caretaker provisions commencing Friday 16 August, including finalisation of Council’s Communications and Growth and Housing Strategies. Given the controversy and complexities regarding housing, it is unlikely that the Growth and Housing Strategy will reach ‘draft status’ prior to Council shutdown.  The Bugle has been inundated with comments regarding this mistreatment, and the paper’s view is in line and supports the community’s call for a formal apology by Mayor Neil Reilly and CEO Jane Stroud for their treatment and invalid censure of Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang.

The Bugle's View - Value versus worth   As has been widely reported, the median price of property in Kiama has reached $1.5m, a rise of more than 80% in the last five years.   The cost of housing has eclipsed Byron Bay, and we’re now the most expensive place in regional NSW to put a roof over your head.  Not too long ago, anytime Byron Bay was raised in conversation, it would be along the lines of – “I hope we never become anything like Byron Bay”. And just like that, we’re there. On the face of it, we’re not too far behind Sydney, with the price of a swanky luxury SUV that we see swanning down Terralong Street the only difference between the cost of housing between here and Sydney.   This is great news for all property owners (particularly those without a mortgage!) in the area. No doubt that they’ve worked hard to get onto the property ladder, realise their Australian dream and the value of their asset(s) have skyrocketed.  We say property owners, rather than homeowners because we know that there are quite a few properties that are investments for short-term letting, or simply a weekender for a Sydneysider.  The Bugle does not cast aspersions on the right to own property and see its value increase over time – but our View is, what worth does the average price of a home being $1.5m bring to our community? When families are being broken up and young adults are leaving the area taking with them, youth, energy and importantly the next generation of our community, there is a clear difference between ‘value’ and ‘worth’.  Our coverage also heard the other end of the family-unit spectrum. We heard from Kiama local Ryan Jamieson and his family’s own personal housing crisis with no other options but to sleep on a pull-out sofa whilst his daughter shares a bed with her grandmother.  He and his family are just some of the faces of the housing crisis. Our property might have value, but what is its worth, if it means that our community is under constant housing stress with little to no options besides leaving the area? Our people and community are our greatest asset, but if Ryan’s situation is anything to go by, ‘our people’ are under stress and are moving away. It’s no wonder the average age of our local government area is already ten years older than the rest of the State. In Kiama specifically, it is even more stark.  Kiama Council says that in the next 15 years, one-third of the population will be over 65 years old.  Is our community just going to become cashed up Sydneysiders who are selling their expensive property and buying another (albeit less expensive one) in our area? Sure, there’s significant value involved in that transaction, but what is that worth? Premier Chris Minns recently stated that Sydney is at risk of becoming a city with no grandchildren, and given the similarities with our housing prices, we appear to be on that same trajectory. Perhaps, superficially, this is what the overarching community wants? But if we delve deeper, is it really? Do we want to be a diverse community with teachers, aged-care workers, families, professionals, entrepreneurs and young people as well as the elderly?  Or do want to have an enclave that is asset-rich and worth-poor?  The Bugle’s View is that we should be happy that a majority of us now have a lot more value to our names, but equally, we need to start thinking about how we increase our community’s worth. 

It’s a very bold claim for Kiama Council to pronounce that the community has spoken on the basis of a petition opposing Springside Hill.Adopting “no” or “hell no” as the default position is exactly the attitude that NSW Premier Chris Minns identified as the root cause of the housing crisis we are in.Two drop-in sessions that we held to inform the community about our proposal to provide the homes that Kiama so desperately needs, assured us that there are many voices that have gone unheard.Their support for Springside Hill, insightful suggestions of ways to improve the masterplan and desperate need for housing are all the encouragement we need to continue working to progress our plans.We spoke to residents caught in a desperate rental situation, fearful for their future. It was hard to explain to them that Council’s current position ignores their plight, voting to not support our plan to build around 1,000 homes with 25 per cent guaranteed for locals, essential workers and affordable housing.We could begin work on Springside Hill tomorrow with the first homes delivered by 2027 yet the people of Kiama are being asked to pin their hopes on other proposals with no plans, no analysis and no timeline. People like the grandfather who owns a home near Springside Hill and is living with his son and daughter-in-law, and their young family. He wants his grandchildren to live near him, but not necessarily with him. He sees Springside Hill as an opportunity to keep his family close by, otherwise they’ll have to move out of the area.Or the mother of three who endured a $200 a week rent rise only to find themselves looking for a new home when the owner decided to sell. Together with her husband she’s in the final decade of her working life, and with market rents and house prices having soared beyond their means, she isfearful for what the future holds.These are the untold stories from within the community that need to be heard.Our position has always been that Kiama faces an immediate housing crisis requiring an immediate solution, which Springside Hill provides.Bombo Quarry will play an essential role in meeting Kiama’s longer term housing needs given the time required for rehabilitation and planning. Not a single local we spoke to expects Bombo to provide housing relief before the 2030s.Housing insecurity takes an enormous human toll, every waking moment consumed by a sense of dread about what the future holds. Some of the conversations we had at the drop-in session were raw and uncomfortable. For these people, Springside Hill offers a glimmer of hope.Feedback from attendees highlighted elements of the proposal that won most favour – the 25 per cent guarantee for locals and affordable and key worker housing, the creation of new jobs and services for the community, like GPs, groceries and childcare, the diversity of housing types fromsmall lots to lifestyle lots, townhouses and apartments, providing opportunities for young people and families with children.The Springside Hill proposal is a carefully considered plan. It is not about building the maximum number of dwellings for maximum profit but providing homes in which people can live their lives in safety and comfort.There was a great diversity of viewpoints among those who attended the drop-in sessions. Some were concerned about the direct impacts on their lifestyle. That is a reasonable concern and we have already demonstrated our willingness to make changes to lessen the impacts.A young family were strongly supportive of the additional housing that Springside Hill will provide. Like many with homes in Kiama, who bought before the surge in property prices, they would benefit further from locking the gate to new housing, yet with two young daughters, their greater concern isfor the next generation.Council’s decision not to support the Springside Hill proposal was not unexpected. Change is difficult yet when development is done well it brings wide-ranging benefits. So, we wholeheartedly agree with the Planning Minister, Paul Scully MP, that addressing the housing crisis is a shared responsibility and that more needs to be done.Some will applaud Kiama recording the highest regional property price growth in NSW, outstripping even Byron Bay. But without housing equity the town stands to lose its young people and essential workers, becoming a community affordable only to Sydney blow-ins. Just a pretty town with expensive houses that no locals can afford.

It’s only natural that people hold different views about the future of Kiama but one thing we can allagree on is the desire for Kiama to be a liveable functioning town long into the future.How this goal is achieved remains a matter of debate. For years, Kiama has had no housing strategyand in that time the lack of affordable housing has become the biggest threat to Kiama remainingliveable and functional.When a home costs 16 times the average wage and rent consumes 38 per cent of a household’sincome, the decline has already begun.The NSW Government’s most recent population forecast for Kiama lays bare the situation. By 2041the local government area will need to accommodate an additional 7,000 people implying a demandfor more than 3,000 additional homes.This population growth will not happen overnight but incrementally, and there is a need to havegenuine proposals like Springside Hill, that will provide a steady supply of new homes to cater for thisrising demand.No one can wave a magic wand in 10 or 15 years’ time and expect thousands of homes to suddenlymaterialise. Just as you cannot expect a single solution to make up the historic shortfall in housingsupply and a deficit that will no doubt loom even larger in Kiama’s future.A quick look at the numbers highlights the futility of relying on a single solution strategy for Kiama’shousing needs, where multiple solutions are required.It’s not just a question of how many homes are needed but when. Given that high prices are alreadyforcing locals to leave town to establish a home, and businesses are struggling to find workers, theunequivocal answer is, right now.Every year that demand outstrips supply, the price of homes in Kiama rises. That’s great news forthose who own a home but cold comfort for young people who grew up here and want to stay andraise their own children surrounded by family and friends. Or those who are renting and desperatelyseeking to own their own home.It’s easy to forget how demoralising it is not being able to afford a home of your own when you arealready on the property ladder, and that the whole of Kiama was built on rolling green hills andpaddocks. It’s hard to hear that a passing view of cows matters more than their aspirations for homeownership and will only heighten the sense of unfairness felt by those locked out of homeownership.At Springside Hill we have set out a sensible and sensitive plan to manage population growth in away that preserves everything that makes Kiama so special, in a location adjacent to existing homes.By having a natural extension to existing housing, we can help preserve the low density character ofthe existing town. A diverse range of housing also allows for more choice, for downsizers, couplesand younger families to live in the types of homes they want.We spoke to the community before forming our proposal and we are continuing to talk to locals,taking on board their concerns and suggestions.The message we heard then and now is that locals desperately want a home they can afford to buyor rent so that they can stay in Kiama.These are the quiet, individual voices that are seldom heard. They are teachers, nurses, your friendsand family. They are not organised and coordinated, merely people who would like a fair go atrealising the great Australian dream. In Kiama.

Over the last two weeks there have been some important milestones for our community. Kiama Council has started a process of engagement on its Growth and Housing Strategy, and by all accounts this is a refreshing approach being led by Jessica Rippon. The Bugle has previously been critical of Council for ‘not having a plan’, particularly with respect to housing affordability and the housing crisis that is already being felt across the region. It looks as if the Growth and Housing Strategy will replace the long awaited ‘Local Housing Strategy’ that was supposed to be in place at the start of this decade. When we started The Bugle’s View, almost 11 months ago to the day, we wrote about how Kiama had been crowned Australia’s most liveable town in 2023. We wrote about Lau Amadeo and Thais Chikhani and Little Earth Roasters. And we also wrote about our young people and ensuring that they had the same opportunities as their Mum and Dad and the opportunity to work and live in the area, in places like Little Earth Roasters.  So, it’s glad to see Ms Rippon and Council acknowledge that anyone “reading or watching the news knows our nation is facing a housing crisis” and that “our community, will be required to play a part’”. What that part is, remains to be seen, but for far too long growth, investment and change has been held back.  This has been to the detriment of current and future generations of our Kiama community.  We’re not going to take credit for Council’s change in approach and their sudden embracing of change, growth and housing. But, we could have taken the typical NIMBY approach and said no to change, no to progress, no to growth. Growth and change are not easy. And it is hardly ever perfect, but we cannot continue to keep saying no for the sake of it. We cannot make the perfect the enemy of the good. At best, this compromises opportunities to improve our community, today. At worst, it’s a cynical attempt to ‘protect’ the livelihoods of a few, to the detriment of many, and the future. A clear example of this is the Kiama Village shopping centre.  Yes, it has been delayed.  Yes, there has been noise.  Yes, it could have gone smoother.  But for those like Kiama Doctors, who are now taking new patient registrations, it is a sign of progress, change and betterment.  Those of us who have had to wait days, or even weeks for a doctor’s visit will now have the opportunity to visit Kiama Doctors as an alternative. This follows Petstock, Health Destination Pharmacy as additional services for the community and soon, Bay Audio, the Coffee Emporium and Bakers Delight will provide additional amenities. None of this is possible without the changes that were brought on by the redevelopment of the Kiama Village, and the (positive) changes that this brings. The Bugle’s View is that change is coming, and that it is best that it is shaped and embraced, rather than rejected.

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It would be great if there was a simple quick fix to the housing crisis in Kiama. But the lack of new housingsupply and unaffordable prices have been decades in the making and require more than a single solution.Urgently.Based on population trends, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has forecast theKiama population will be close to 31,000 by 2041. If you’re trying to rent or buy in the area, you already knowthere are significant pressures on affordability and choice.It’s not surprising that the housing situation in Kiama has reached crisis point. Housing and infrastructure arecomplex and expensive to deliver but inaction means the problem only gets worse with each passing year. Overthe next 20 years, there will need to be investment in infrastructure and services to build the homes for ourgrowing community. Just as important, there will need to be leadership.A mix of short and long term solutions will be needed to house Kiama’s growing population and keep localslocal. If all goes to plan with Council and the process, our Springside Hill project could be delivering the firsthomes by 2027, with more released each year to keep pace with demand.Kiama Council has the task of talking with the community, assessing proposals and ultimately making decisionson where and how Kiama will grow so that it continues to be the place that locals and the growing communityenjoy and want to remain, while also protecting the delightful seaside town that we know and love.Springside Hill is just one solution; others will be needed.The question is, what happens if there is no action on new housing supply? If a teacher, aged care worker andemergency service worker cannot afford to buy or rent now, imagine what it will be like in three, five or 10years’ time.That’s why our 25 per cent guarantee at Springside Hill is so important for the future of Kiama. With affordablehousing managed by our project partner, Housing Trust, and the provision of housing for essential workers andlocals, some of the most valuable people in our community will have the security of a roof over their head.When you look at the location of Springside Hill, adjacent to existing homes, it is the logical solution to Kiama’shousing shortage and can be brought to market sooner than other projects in the area.We have been overwhelmed by the positive response to our proposal and look forward to hosting communityinformation sessions in April where we can hear directly from the most important stakeholders in this process– the community.When it comes to planning, saying no to development is safe. Proposing change runs the risk of upsetting somein the community but if nothing changes, ultimately everyone loses. The families who move elsewhere to havea home and a job; the elderly in aged care homes with not enough nurses; the businesses that can only operateat half their capacity for lack of workers.Before we finalised the Springside Hill proposal we asked you about your concerns, aspirations and thoughts ongrowth. We looked at all the reasons why people might object to building new homes and found solutions thatrepresent a sustainable approach to growth. Solutions around sewerage, stormwater, transport access, viewsand affordability have all been proposed so that only one question remains to be answered.Do we want to keep locals local and continue to be a community with life, energy, and a prosperous future?Please note this is paid content

This week, our Kiama Municipal Council started a process that it hopes will deliver an enduring “culture of meaningful engagement with community and stakeholders”. An online survey of around a dozen questions and associated community pop-ups will ask the community who they are, what they’re interested in hearing about, how they get their information from council and most importantly how they input into Council decision making. And so, begins the much talked about reboot of Council’s “Community Engagement Strategy”. Clearly the refresh of the 2013-2023 strategy could not have come at a better time. With significant controversies and criticisms laid at Council regarding its communication on significant issues like Blue Haven; Council’s overall financial situation; internal legal spats; and how it communicates regarding growth and development, the time seems right for “Your Community, Your Say” to really hit its mark.  Because it’s merely the start of this process, The Bugle’s View is that we must wait and see if there are genuine outcomes and changes in practice. This week we heard from local contributor Lynne Strong who had some powerful words regarding community engagement and a ‘solutions-focused’ approach. The Bugle wholeheartedly agrees that genuine engagement is not about highlighting and focusing on problems, especially when they are the problems of only a few. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. NIMBYs. Recreational complainants. The Bugle has received countless feedback from members of the community who have witnessed Council pander to those who do not want to focus on solutions, they want to focus on stopping anything and everything.  The silent majority. Which also includes young adults. Aspirational entrepreneurs. These are the people that need to feel empowered to engage with Council, be proactive, input into solutions and shape the future for the next generation of our community. We hope that Council is genuine and transparent about this process. We hope that Council will provide for an equitable discussion that includes all parts of the community, both current and future. We hope that Council is ready to embrace the change that is needed to have solution focused conversations with community about the challenges we face.  We hope the community is ready to genuinely engage in this process and set about a course of positive change.  This is The Bugle’s View and we hope we are right.  

I absolutely love local government. Despite some of the controversies, it is the closest form of government to the people and there is so many interesting areas that council is responsible for and managing. Importantly, I believe that local government should work for everyone.Reflecting on my first term of council, it certainly has been a challenge. Within 6 months into the role, we have had difficult decisions to make and received a letter from the NSW Minister for Local Government. The letter was reminding all councillors of our obligations under the Local Government Act, particularly section 8(a). This section is the guiding principles for good decision making for councillors. This section is important, but one of the other sections I believe is also important is section 8(b). This section requires councillors to make decisions of sound financial management and to consider the intergenerational impacts of such decisions. Sadly, I believe such a principle was not considered by those of the past on our council.The decisions of this term of council relating to Bluehaven Bonaira have, no doubt, been the most difficult – perhaps the most difficult in our council’s history. On a personal level, it was uncomfortable. But, as a councillor – and a civic leader - I have an obligation to act in the best interests of all our community and for the future generations that follow.In NSW, there are roughly 11 local government areas that operate an aged care facility - Blayney, Coolamon and Snowy Monaro for example. Formerly, Broken Hill Council had operated an aged care facility. An area with the same sized population as Kiama, but with higher levels of vulnerable communities and in one of the remote parts of NSW. However, they had to sell the facility, as it was sending them broke and placed them at risk of administration. Sound familiar? Many of the other local government areas in NSW are going through that discussion.Kiama Council has finished that debate and did so – unanimously – in February 2023 when it re-confirmed the decision to sell Bluehaven Bonaira. Such a decision was through compromise and retained the Bluehaven Terralong site for future opportunities for our community.Councillors, whether in the remainder of this term or in the next term, should be 100% focused on governance and the administration of independent local government in Kiama. A state government appointed administrator and then becoming a ward of another council, is not an option. Ensuring local control is so important.Local government must service everyone in the community. Council has an obligation to provide services and support for infants, children and teenagers. It must address traffic, parking and road safety issues, flood mitigation and infrastructure and ensuring people with disabilities area able to equally access services. It must recognise all of Kiama’s history and heritage and ensure it is acknowledged and respected. Our natural environment is too important and mitigating and responding to climate change, along with the management of the safety and wellbeing of our animals. Elderly should be supported. And finally, that people can rest in peace with dignity in our cemeteries.These things, plus more, are the responsibility of local government and should be considered as part of the future for our community.Stuart LarkinsKiama CouncillorDisclaimer: The content of this letter solely reflects the views of Stuart Larkins, and do not represent the views of Kiama Municipal Council. 

This week, Michele Adair, CEO of Housing Trust, joined the Traders in Purple team to discuss Springside Hill and the opportunities this brings to both of our organisations, and more importantly to you, the community. This will be our third project with Housing Trust, and we cannot wait to get started. If you’re sick and tired of hearing terms like “housing accord”, “housing crisis”, “housing affordability”, “housing supply” and “housing stress”, then chances are you worked hard to own your own home and have been living the Australian Dream for a number of years. However, it is also pretty likely that you have friends or family who are not as fortunate as you and are desperate to stay in the area and are looking for that opportunity. More than half of locals in Kiama do not own their own home outright. The average cost of a home in Kiama is around 13 times the average income. Around a quarter of homes in Kiama are rental properties. If you’re renting in Kiama, you’re spending more than one-third of your pay on rent. In a few short months there will be no affordable rental homes in Kiama. Zero. People who are renting want the opportunity to buy. And those that cannot afford to rent, who may be staying with friends or relatives, want the opportunity to leave home and live near their parents, not with them. Our work with Housing Trust is not a gimmick. Traders in Purple is committed to a 25 per cent guarantee which is an opportunity for people that are currently locked out of the housing market to live at Springside Hill, and most importantly, to keep locals local. Subject to planning approval, Housing Trust will administer the community and affordable rental housing components of Springside Hill. This will significantly increase the amount of affordable rental housing in the area. We launched our Springside Hill website in early February. We did so because feedback through our community research was clear - you wanted to know more about development projects as they are happening and have input into the process. The Springside Hill team have been responding to feedback, questions, and concerns from the community since day one and we will continue to do so. You may not always love what we have to say but we are committed to providing you with information so you can be informed of the project and its progress. To date, more than 90% of feedback received from the website has been from people wanting more information about when the project will start construction, and when homes can be purchased. Every day more than one person from the community asks us about pricing and timing of delivery. We are ecstatic at the positive response we have received, and we wish we could give you definitive answers! However, at this point in time, the ball is in Kiama Council’s court. They are currently undertaking an assessment of our proposal and we hope to meet with them shortly to discuss next steps. Positive feedback and support from the community will be crucial over the coming months, so we encourage you to get involved and attend one of our community information sessions - details to be released shortly. Ultimately, we want to be delivering beautiful homes and creating jobs for locals, as quickly as possible and your positive words and engagement will help. We understand that Council will be holding their dialogue on future growth in the coming months where they will ask the community its position on a number of proposals, including Springside Hill, which can be brought to market early and others that are longer term. This will be an important time not only for our project, but for the community and those aspiring to live or rent a home in the area. Most importantly, it will be an opportunity for you to voice your support for Springside Hill