Australia’s largest organisation of newspaper publishers has attacked the announcement by Meta that it will no longer negotiate deals with publishers once current agreements expire.Country Press Australia represents more than 230 regional, rural and outer suburban publications across the nation.The organisation was advised through an email from Meta early Friday afternoon that “our company priorities have substantially shifted in the past year and, as a result, we will no longer be making Facebook News Tab available in Australia”.Meta also confirmed “This doesn’t affect our agreement with Country Press Australia which will continue in accordance with its terms and conditions until it expires”.In a subsequent meeting on Friday afternoon between Country Press Australia and Meta it was made clear that Country Press Australia’s agreement with Meta would not be renewed.This is a devastating blow to our members who are party to the agreement. All are publishers of regional and local public interest journalism.Meta has been providing grants to Country Press Australia publishers which has provided vital sustainability.There will be publishers who close the doors and won’t be able to continue supporting their communities with news in the wake of this announcement. These regional and local publishers are the major, and in most cases sole, providers of local public interest journalism in their communities.In times of trouble and in emergency situations, such as during floods and in major bushfire events, the local publisher’s Facebook page is never more important or appreciated by people in our communities.Meta’s actions undermine our democracy in the way the company displays such disdain for the work of the news industry. It also undermines public confidence in the media sector.The most popular Facebook pages in most regional and rural communities are those of the local news publishing company, yet Meta says people don’t go to Facebook for news or political content.What about in times of bushfire and floods or when the chips are down and someone in the community needs help? Local experience would suggest otherwise.If, by Meta’s own admission, Australians don’t go to Facebook for news or political content, then the federal government should heed the advice of Meta and immediately cease advertising on Meta’s platforms.Sadly, jobs will definitely be lost as a result of Meta’s decision, but it’s hard to put a number on this.Given the already well-documented challenges our industry faces (major cost increases for newsprint, ink, energy and the decline in federal government advertising spend), this announcement will force many publishers to confront the issues ahead of them and cut staff. The reaction from our members in the aftermath of Friday’s announcement has been one of deep concern, alarm and even anger. The federal government must act to give assurance to our industry and to support the democratic infrastructure that is the newspaper industry. And it needs to move swiftly, decisively and with purpose. We need government to support the news industry and invoke the news media bargaining code.Our government must also do what it can to assure Australians that the government values the news industry’s role in our democracy to mitigate disruptions to the news industry.Facebook reaped the benefits of our members’ unique local content for many years, and has paid those local and regional publishers for only the last three years and will now not renew their agreement with Country Press Australia.A democracy cannot function without a healthy news sector, and this is now heavily at risk in regional and local communities after Meta’s decision.It is important that the federal government responds swiftly to this decision and considers all possible action including designating Meta under the News Media Bargaining Code and other options available to them and the ACCC.It is vital that news media is adequately compensated for the content that Facebook has been able to build their business from over many years and ensure a strong and robust news media industry which is vital for a healthy democracy.It is also vital that the federal government ensures strong support of the industry now more than ever before and ensures the News Media Assistance Program (News MAP) is finalised urgently.

Can you help?  I am seeking your support to challenge Kiama Municipal Council’s decision to censure me in 21 November 2023 over my radio interview of 21 June 2023. In that interview I gave my honest opinion, in a way which was well researched and measured, about decisions of Council.While I do feel personally aggrieved about the injustice of the process and the decision of Council, this is not just about one individual's case; it's about defending the fundamental right to free speech, and ensuring due process in the way code of conduct complaints are handled.Freedom of speech for you and your elected representatives is a fundamental part of a healthy functioning democracy. Particularly when decisions are being made that will impact you and your community for many years to come.By supporting this legal challenge, you are taking a stand for our collective voice and to ensure a more open and accountable democracy. The freedom to express and debate a range of contested ideas along every step of the journey must be protected.You and your elected representatives must be able to do this without fear of being ridiculed, ostracised or penalised.More information is provided on the Chuffed fund-raising campaign page. If you could make a contribution or a pledge to help me challenge the Council, I would be so grateful.In the unlikely event there will be unspent funds, they will be divided equally between:Illawarra Women’s Health Centre – whose vision is for all women and girls to be respected, safe and healthy and experience full participation and equality in their lives.Reach-Out – who work towards providing better mental health and wellbeing for all young peopleWorld Wildlife Fund – Australia – an organisation that works to conserve the Australia’s and the world's biological diversity and the sustainable use of natural resourcesThank you in advance. Yours sincerely,Karen Renkema-Lang Please note: These contributions do not constitute a political donation and are not tax deductible.The content of this email solely reflects the independent comments & views of Clr Karen Renkema-Lang and is not a communication or product by or of Kiama Municipal Council.

Before developing our planning proposal for Springside Hill we conducted extensive research and focus interviews to understand how the community thought about certain issues – your desires and aspirations as well as your concerns. We did this because we understand that you are passionate about your community and lifestyle, and we want Springside Hill to ultimately bring more public and community benefits to the area. You told us loud and clear that Kiama’s ailing sewerage system and future capacity was one of your major concerns.In response to this crucial issue, our design team sought out innovative solutions that reduce the reliance on the existing Sydney Water sewerage system and infrastructure, whilst delivering tangible environmental benefits for the local community.Our approach:Our proposed off-the-grid sewerage and water solution involves the construction of on-site infrastructure dedicated to processing all project wastewater and stormwater completely independent of existing Sydney Water infrastructure. By capturing and processing all of this water, we will be able to harness this water, integrate it, and recycle it. The core of this approach is a Local Water Centre, seamlessly integrated into the landscape without emitting noise or odour. It turns wastewater into high quality recycled water suitable for a range of uses, and is supplemented by an expansion of drinking water storage to eliminate additional burden on peak drinking water demand.Established Success of Off-the-Grid Solutions:These off-grid systems  have been successfully implemented in numerous landmark master-planned residential communities that have been delivered by the likes of Stockland and Frasers. It is a proven technology and approach that we think will complement and integrate into Springside Hill seamlessly, whilst reducing the reliance on existing infrastructure. Environmental and Community Benefits:This approach enables Springside Hill to significantly reduce its reliance on drinking water and achieve drought resilience.  Valuable drinking water resources are no longer used for toilets and other external uses such as irrigation of community open spaces. The water cycle and local stormwater management system will now be integrated with this infrastructure and ensure that there will be a positive contribution to Kiama’s pristine natural environment.  With approximately 40 per cent of Springside Hill to be preserved as green open space, the ability to recycle and harness the water cycle will aid in the maintenance and health of these areas, even during periods of drought. This initiative aligns with our broader environmental and social sustainability strategy, which prioritises the restoration of tree canopies on land previously cleared for what is now unviable agricultural production. Community Consultation and Sustainability:Our off-the-grid initiative is just one aspect of a comprehensive environmental and social sustainability strategy guiding the development of Springside Hill. Throughout the planning stages, we remain committed to refining this strategy in consultation with the community, ensuring that sustainability remains at the forefront of our endeavours.We look forward to continuing the conversation with our most important stakeholders, you, the community. 

Too often nowadays, catching up on the news is a profoundly depressing experience. Across the country, we’re faced with multiple, seemingly-intractable crises – on health, housing, and cost of living. Abroad, the world is once again at war, with deadly conflicts afoot in Ukraine and the Middle East, and a conflict possibly on its way in the South China Sea.Even here in Kiama, we’re dealing with our own issues – with locals fighting to get their rates’ worth as Council fights among itself and our rates continue to go down the gurgler. To flick on the radio first thing or turn on the telly at six o’clock is to expose yourself to wall-to-wall woe, and a daily diet of doom. It's why it’s so important to tell stories about good things happening to good people. This is something The Bugle has done so well for such a long time. Our community coverage this week is testament to this. On Wednesday, Brooke Pittman brought us the story of The Quarry Café at Burnett’s on Barney doing its bit to help elderly locals, by driving them to and from the café and garden nursery. Locals supporting locals.On Friday, we showcased the generosity of local Sheila Lyne, who donated high-quality sound equipment to the music department at Kiama High School, as well as a collection of books belonging to her late husband, Ken. Locals supporting our younger generation and passing on knowledge and wisdom. And, just yesterday, we published a story about Brad Jenkins being awarded the Environmental Warrior of the Year award by Shellharbour Council for his work improving water quality at Dunmore Ponds and helping protect the Minnamurra wetlands and river. Locals improving the environment and our area.We know we won’t win a Pulitzer for putting these pieces to print, but we’re proud to bring them to you – because they matter.

Last Thursday, NSW Police were called to Kiama Council Chambers after an Extraordinary Council Meeting got out of hand. The Meeting was expected to deal with a Notice of Motion put forward by Councillor Kathy Rice calling for the suspension of the sale of Blue Haven Bonaira, and the appointment of an investigator from the Office of Local Government to review the divestment process. During the Meeting, Mayor Neil Reilly ruled that a revised version of Cr Rice’s Notice of Motion would not be debated and attempted to move the Meeting into a confidential session. In response, members of the United Services Union in attendance – some of whom were locals – began shouting, intimidating, and making threats of violence against the Mayor and other Councillors. Police were called, and the protestors were moved on. Police also told other locals in attendance – who weren’t associated with the United Services Union – that they weren’t allowed back into the meeting at the request of Council, even though the Mayor hadn’t formally moved a Motion to commence a confidential session. These are the facts. We only know them because The Bugle’s very own Brendon Foye was there when it happened. Brendon was doing his job. That’s why The Bugle was so disappointed to see the barrage of criticism which came Brendon’s way, just for reporting what happened. One Councillor has accused him of “cussing and showing dismissive attitudes”, while another suggested his account of events was “lacking in…journalistic integrity”. For the record, The Bugle backs Brendon’s reporting and so do our readers – we have been inundated with letters of support for simply doing our job and championing free speech. As always, we are committed to bringing you reporting on the issues that matter to our community. Brendon was at the Meeting last Thursday to report on the sale of ratepayer-owned Blue Haven Bonaira – potentially worth $100 million – because it matters. The Bugle brings you stories on the cost of living, mental healthcare, and housing because they matter. And we do it all without fear or favour because that matters too. Of course, we won’t always make everyone happy, and we won’t always tell everyone what they want to hear, but we will always stick to the facts, and we will always tell it like it is.

Within a few weeks the community will be invited to see our proposal for Springside Hill – a master planned community west of the township of Kiama.It is only the first stage in a planning process that will involve the people of Kiama, Council and many other stakeholders. At every step of this process, Traders In Purple is committed to a genuine conversation with the community about Springside Hill.Before we started work on the proposal, we wanted to know what the community thinks and what your most pressing concerns are. Overwhelmingly locals are worried about the high cost of housing and whether they can afford to buy a home or even rent one.88 per cent of locals agree housing affordability is a problem in the area.77 percent of locals are worried their friends and family will be forced to leave the area because housing is too expensive.Springside Hill is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to address the housing crisis and keep locals local.Traders In Purple has long-standing ties to Kiama and the broader Illawarra region, and there are many within the local community who know and trust us.We are proud of our reputation for creating high quality homes and communities, many of them in partnership with the community.We are a trusted partner to governments across Australia. In New South Wales we are partnering with NSW Land and Housing Corporation on five projects, including “Northsea”, overlooking Wollongong Beach. In partnership with Kingsborough Council, we are building a new residential subdivision and town centre 11km north of Hobart. In Queensland, we have worked for decades with Moreton Bay Council and are currently delivering our fourteenth project along the Moreton Bay Peninsula.We commit to our projects and the communities where we work. Every project we start, we finish and our track record of 100 per cent delivery speaks volumes about our commitment and capability. The new homes and communities we have created demonstrate the care we take to produce good urban design outcomes.This week we announced our partnership with Housing Trust that will see Michele Adair and her team own and manage the affordable homes that form part of our 25 per cent guarantee. This guarantee is at the heart of our proposal and we are extremely proud to make this commitment.We think it is important to communicate with the community and provide information about Springside Hill. That is why over the coming months we will be talking to you through The Bugle about our proposal and things that are important to you, and therefore important to us.We will delve into more detail about the housing crisis in Kiama; the creation of more jobs and essential services;sewer and water infrastructure; and urban design.In the meantime, please visit our website springsidehill.com.au which we will update over time.Thank you and we look forward to working with you.Brett Robinson, Traders In Purple CEO

Here at The Bugle we will always champion providing frank and fearless reporting on what is best for the community and have a strong View on what we think that means. So, it is a little strange for us to not have a View on something as important as more than a thousand new homes for our area. Our very own Brendan Foye broke the story of the Springside Hill proposal to significantly increase housing supply at the western end of Kiama. At this stage, full details of the proposal have not been released, but Kiama Council has said that it intends to make all documents available to the public, shortly – a step they normally don’t take, which highlights the importance of the proposal to our future. Of keen interest, and what has widely been reported is a “25 percent guarantee” from the developer Traders in Purple, which is designed to allow those who are presently locked out of the housing market, a helping hand to purchase or rent their own home. This includes “key workers”, first-home buyers, locals and those who are looking for affordable or community rental housing. Whilst no one can disagree that we are in a housing crisis, our View is that we will wait and see the finer details of the proposal before having a position on what this means for our community. Questions need to be asked and answered:How is this different to the South Kiama proposal?-What is the plan for sewerage given the constraints on sewer and Sydney Water?-Do we finally get another supermarket and other jobs?-This is the start of the rezoning process, and the developer has said that construction will take place ‘over decades’. When the documents are made public, The Bugle, will review them in detail so we can provide the community with a well-informed View.But first things first, we want to hear from you.We are in a housing crisis where the average house price is $1.3m and it costs $700 a week to rent a home.Is this the solution to housing affordability for the area?Would it be better for Kiama to go ‘up’ and not ‘out’? Let us know, because at this stage and throughout the planning process, your View matters.

When it comes to Christmas songs, few are as famous as “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”.  Since it was released by American crooner Andy Williams in 1963, it’s been covered by a slew of superstars including Kylie Minogue, Jennifer Lopez, and Harry Connick Jr, and made the charts in dozens of countries including Iceland, Luxembourg, and the UAE. Of course, the song’s enduring appeal comes down to the enduring truth of its message – there’s no better time than Christmas to relax and recharge with family and friends. It's The Bugle’s view that this message applies equally to the first couple of weeks of January. The New Year is every bit as special – alongside the relaxing and recharging, it’s an opportunity to reset and recalibrate, to make the most of the next twelve months. For many Kiama locals, 2024 will be a year of new beginnings. For some, it might be joining a new gym, or starting a new project around the house. For others, it might be a new job, a new school, a new home or a big trip away. Here at The Bugle, the New Year brings an opportunity for us to recommit to our mission: to frankly and fearlessly report on the issues that matter to you, and to advocate on your behalf to local politicians and policymakers. 2024 will be an important year for Kiama. The cost of living will continue to be the biggest issue facing locals, with the price of petrol, groceries and electricity still going up, and no quick fix in sight to the housing crisis. It’s a big year, too, for Kiama Council as they continue to work hard to get their house in order, and make the tough calls needed to keep our growing community prosperous. In addition, we will all be heading to the polls on 14th September 2024 for the election of councillors to Kiama Council.  In 2024, The Bugle will retain our laser-like focus on these big-ticket issues, as well as other challenges facing our community like offshore wind, the loss of local talent, sewerage issues, and more help for local businesses. We’ll also look for more opportunities to amplify local voices and publish your feedback. Please don’t hesitate in writing in and letting us know your thoughts. But first thing’s first, if you’re still on holidays, put your feet up and enjoy the cricket!

It’s hard to imagine, but 2024 will be a big year for elections and democracy. Across the globe this year, more than 4 billion people – or just about half of the world’s population – will be going to a national election. This includes large countries like the United States, Indonesia and India. This statistic is not reflective of regional or municipal elections across the globe, including our own local government elections in 2024. Democracy is a fundamental system that has many important aspects. Many people often talk about the importance of freedom of speech and the right to dissent. These principles are valuable. So too is the importance of respecting and accepting the decisions of others, even if you lose a vote.Sadly, in this era we see a growing trend of an inability to accept the democratic choices of others. The situation of Trump in the US, in 2020 and the potential for 2024, absolutely horrifies me and so should many who live in a democratic form of government.As a new councillor, when I was elected in 2021, I was at the age of 28. At that time (and still), I often reflect on my family’s history and heritage. It is hard to imagine that two generations ago, my grandparents at the age of 28, were allowed the democratic freedoms to vote with the changes at Federal and State levels of government in 1962 that allowed Aboriginal Australians the right to vote. My nan kept the letter she received from the government that informed her of this right.Within our local government sphere, it is difficult to imagine that there are some that are trying to deliberately undermine local democracy and decisions – if it meant (in their mind) that their ego and legacy remained intact. One of the key attributes I hold close to me is the importance of working together as a team, and to negotiate the best outcomes. That is an attribute that I have taken to my first term on council, and regardless of political views, ideas or personal relationships, I have always focused on that goal.Being a councillor, and as a member of a team, requires all people to work together for the good of the community. I certainly hope 2024 is kind, respectful and focused. 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. 

And just like that, 2023 is coming to a close.The Bugle loves this time of year. Christmas cheer, the holiday spirit and more opportunities to spend quality time with friends and family. But as we reflect on an incredible year, we cannot help but notice that it might be a little harder to display that Christmas spirit. The cost of living crisis is impacting us in so many ways.Three major expenses of a household budget have increased significantly over 2023, putting more pressures on families, the community and our town. Catering that Christmas meal might have a few less trimmings, with grocery prices surging and forcing many of us to cut back. Similarly, the price of electricity has risen steeply through increased wholesale energy costs being passed on to the consumer. Lastly, whether you’re a homeowner with a mortgage, or a renter, we all know that housing stress is impacting current and future generations.So, whilst this time of year is about celebration, spare a thought for those doing a little bit tough. Those that will struggle just a little bit more and will be celebrating with a little bit less. According to a Sydney Morning Herald report, it’s not just a few of us that are in this position. In a survey of more than 1,600 Australia, two-thirds of us are in this situation and will spend less this Christmas, than last. Frighteningly, Christmas is starting to become a luxury for a significant part of the community and that is just not right.Over the holiday season, we will all be tightening our budgets and bracing ourselves for what 2024 may bring.But it is not all doom and gloom. 2024 represents an even bigger opportunity for the community, policy makers and business to continue working together to ensure that Kiama remains the best town in Australia. That means we will need more investment, more tourism, and more economic opportunities for our community to grow and succeed.As 2023 draws to a close, this is a time to reflect on a challenging year and prepare us for a better and more prosperous 2024. Hopefully a new year that is filled with a little less trepidation about living expenses, and more about opportunities and positive initiatives.The Bugle wishes our incredible community a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you to those that have supported us and have provided feedback (whether positive or negative!) on our reporting of issues that matter to the community. The Bugle has always said we will provide a View that seeks to inform the community, tell it like it is, and staunchly defend the right to have a frank and fearless conversation.Here is to 2023…and look forward to having a yarn in 2024!

Short-term accommodation changes, short-term solution?      Every few months, we hear from a new expert with a new idea about how to fix the Housing Crisis. Locking out foreign investors, opening up superannuation, and giving government guarantees to young buyers are just a few of the many approaches tried in recent times. Now, cracking down on AirBnb and short-term rental accommodation is being put forward as a solution, especially here in Kiama. As The Bugle’s Brendon Foye has covered, the State Government has announced a review into short-term rental accommodation – to be led by Housing Minister Rose Jackson - after identifying 90,000 short-term homes rentals and holiday houses that could be freed up for the long-term rental market. As Brendon points out, more than five per cent of homes in the Kiama LGA are short-term rentals – among the highest proportions in New South Wales. It's little wonder Mayor Neil Reilly supports the State Government’s review. It’s also not surprising to see Deputy Mayor Imogen Draisma raise concerns about long-term rentals being turned into short-term rentals.“We have seen stories from locals, particularly over the COVID period, where people who’ve lived in long-term rentals for many years were told that they were going to be evicted at the end of their lease, and the purpose would be that [the property] becomes a short term rental accommodation”, she told the Illawarra Mercury. Of course, AirBnb is pushing back.Airbnb’s Head of Public Policy, Michael Crosby, told The Sydney Morning Herald last month that the “overwhelming majority of New South Wales hosts – 85 per cent – only list one property on Airbnb”. According to Crosby, policymakers should instead be looking at the more than a million empty dwellings across the country as a possible fix. It's The Bugle’s view that the State Government’s review makes sense - we’re well and truly up for a conversation about whether short-term accommodation is good for Kiama. On the one hand, short-term accommodation is part of our tourism industry which contributes hundreds of jobs and more than $200 million into our economy. On the other, it is possibly constraining the supply of more than 546 homes into the owner-occupied or traditional rental market.At the very least, the more conversation about the Housing Crisis, the better. The scale and seriousness of the Housing Crisis means we need to look at all possible solutions.As we’ve said before, it’s The Bugle’s view that locals need more choice; that the best way of improving affordability is increasing supply, and the most obvious way of increasing supply is building more homes.  What do you think? Has Airbnb gone too far? Write to The Bugle and let us know your thoughts.

As we head into the holiday season, summer’s predicted high temperatures have arrived. We’re so lucky to live in this beautiful spot with ready access to a range of stunning beaches, waterways and swimming spots. We’re also blessed to have a crack team of lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers who will be on patrol for around 400 shifts this season.However, I do urge everyone to pay attention to water safety as the mercury rises. Always swim between the flags, listen to instructions and follow the signs.Kiama comes alive in summer, although it’s pretty great all year round, if I do say so myself. This is due to a combination of our location, our geography and our many offerings – from scenic spots to adventure trails, high-profile events to tranquil hideaways, artisanal produce to delicious food and drink – plus of course, the friendly and helpful people you find here.It is perhaps this same combination of location, geography and population that has meant our municipality has remained relatively unchanged for quite some time now.Looking forward to the new year, change is on the horizon. This is not news. I’ve been talking about Council’s need to make decisions that change our trajectory from one that was heading steadily into the red, to being focused on financial sustainability and providing good, equitable and appropriate services to our community both now and in the future.With the divestment of Blue Haven approaching, we will be coming to speak to you, our community, about change. About what your council and your community looks like when we’re no longer operating one of Australia’s largest local-government owned aged care Services.We are going to change. And we want your input as to how we navigate that, what services and facilities are important to you, what you need and what you expect from your council. Change can be positive, if we make it so.We also need to talk about growth. Population growth in our municipality has sat at less than 1% for the past 10 years. That’s an increase of just 1,960 to the population of our LGA since 2012. This is similar to the growth rate to many other council areas in NSW.However, with ambitious regional, state and federal targets on housing being set, sites in our area such as Bombo Quarry are due for development in the coming years.Since this council was sworn in, back in January 2022, we’ve been laser focused on getting our finances back in the black and making strategic choices for a sustainable future. This won’t change.Let’s work together to make sure we’re part of a proactive discussion about how we change.Happy holidays to everyone. Stay safe, enjoy yourselves and I look forward to continuing this conversation in 2024.

Performance reviewsLocal Councils often cop a lot of criticism and some of it is fair. While it's important to acknowledge all voices, it's equally crucial to focus on the positive, tangible outcomes of the work we do, day in and day out. At our recent Ordinary Meeting, we endorsed our Annual  Report 2022-23, which shows the depth and breadth of what we achieve across the community.  Here are some notable examples and some great feedback from community members and  other stakeholders on your council's efforts: Teen heroes: a positive for local programs Our Council's steady support for wonderful local surf clubs, and their nippers programs, truly paid off in an extraordinary way recently. A group of teenagers, trained through these programs, heroically saved a family of four caught in a rip at Surf Beach. A week earlier, two men from Sydney in distress in the ocean at Jones Beach were saved by local surfers. Both these brave acts occurred outside the hours of our routine surf patrols. One young rescuer admitted to initial fear, yet their life-saving training prevailed, showcasing remarkable courage and skill. These incidents aren’t just stories of survival; they’re a powerful testament to the real impact of our community’s commitment to safety and training. Pioneering coastal management: shaping a sustainable future Kiama Council has taken a significant leap in coastal preservation and sustainability by developing a comprehensive Coastal Management Program for our LGA's open coast.  Currently displayed via the Council website’s ‘your say’ section to invite community feedback, this program focuses on identifying and mitigating risks, protecting natural habitats, enhancing recreational spaces, and bolstering our coastline against the imminent challenges of climate change. This initiative represents dedication to both environmental stewardship and public enjoyment. Collaborative Crown Land Management: Forging Community PartnershipsIn our ongoing efforts to foster community involvement, Council has endorsed its draft plan for managing Crown Land and submitted it to the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment for ministerial approval. This initiative results from extensive consultations with precincts and associations, committees, tourism and business groups, and the broader community.  I’d also like to share the following recent comments: Cameron McDonald, Chair Kiama and District Business Chamber: “As Council is repairing their finances, they have not forgotten business, as a matter of fact  our relationship is stronger than ever.”By working closely with business owners, we've been able to identify and address their unique needs, fostering an environment where businesses can thrive and, in turn, benefit the wider community. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to ensuring a  prosperous, supportive, and interconnected community where businesses and residents alike can flourish. Gareth Ward MP, State member for the seat of Kiama: “As your local MP, I have four councils that touch our electorate. I can personally attest that  Kiama Council do a great job of maintaining roads across our community. … [And] Kiama hasn’t turned to the pockets of its ratepayers to fix its financial challenges. This is very good  news.” The road repairs necessitated by extreme weather events have been extensive, yet the results promise more durable roads and enhanced safety for travellers. We are grateful to our local members, both State and Federal, for their crucial support in securing the necessary funding. Lisa Berwick, former Director of Financial Audit Services at the Audit Office of NSW “Kiama Municipal Council's management has done a very good job of moving forward and improving the quality of the working papers and the evidence [needed] to finalise the audit. It was a huge improvement from 2021. … We enjoy working with management very much and  we have a strong relationship in terms of working through what are a myriad of issues.” We have taken our State-issued Performance Improvement Order (PIO) very seriously. While the PIO primarily addresses issues of the past, Council has made significant financial strides to not only rectify these issues but also to implement measures that prevent the recurrence of past mistakes. Nick Young, Founder Bondi2Berry Dementia Awareness Ride “The dedicated work and advocacy of Kiama Municipal Council to continue to increase awareness of dementia continues to lead the state. “ Mark Burns, CEO The Man Walk “We look forward to continuing our strong working relationship with Kiama Council – the  home of The Man Walk.” All these add up to the fact that I come in and do my job daily with willingness and optimism because I am assured that Kiama Council is on the right trajectory.  

This past week, we covered Kiama Council’s censure of Councilor Karen Renkema-Lang because of an interview she gave on 21 June 2023 regarding the reclassification of land that Blue Haven Bonaira occupies, to enable its sale.  As covered, Council engaged an independent investigator who was engaged to assess Councilor Renkema-Lang’s behavior with respect to Council’s Code of Conduct.Their report underpinned Council’s motion to censure Councilor Renkema-Lang through a breach of section 440G of the Local Government Act 1993 through the following clauses in the Code:Clause 3.1 conducting herself in a manner likely to bring other council officials into disrepute;Clause 3.1c conducting herself in a manner that was improper or unethical andClause 31.1 Breaching the policy code of conduct The Bugle also gave Councilor Renkema-Lang the right of reply to explain her view and also what she thought of the censure motion.  Since then, The Bugle has been inundated with feedback and concerns from members of the community regarding the censure motion and the specifics around it. Members of the community have wide-ranging views, though on the whole most agree – the censure was not an appropriate use of Council’s resources, and not an appropriate outcome. Here are some of excerpts of what the community has said: “I think our community should be outraged to learn that Council is using its code of conduct policy to silence councillors who criticise Council policies and decisions in the media. Kiama Council’s censuring of Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang for expressing a differing viewpoint and bravely representing her constituency is both shocking and anti-democratic. This intolerance to criticism aligns with Councils move to also silence the precinct committees that have represented community views for more than 30 years. One must ask why free and open exchange of ideas and respect for community views is being curtailed by this increasingly authoritarian Council?” “I am appalled by Councils decision to censure Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang based on her comments during the 10 minute radio interview attached to todays (sic) article by Brendon Foye. I am sure the technicality's (sic) of the censure would be supported by some bureaucratic mumbo jumbo but would question why any paid member of councils staff would spend their time and our money when real world issues needing solutions are buried on their desks. Then, again isn't that why Council is in the state that it is in. All show! To compare Karen's very measured and thoughtful comments against some that I, and others I speak to privately hold about council would, by these standards, see us all held in detention awaiting extradition to another council area.” Whilst there is some spicy language, being journalists, we fiercely defend the right to free speech and to share the views of the community. After all, our community is at its best when it is debating big issues like rate payer spending, cost of living, housing affordability and free speech. But we all agree that all discussions can be undertaken passionately, but also respectfully. As we have always said, The Bugle is for the community. We are here to give you a platform and to hear what you have to say.

Censured but not silenced!You may have heard that I have been censured. You can listen to the offending interview here. Do you think this warranted the spending of thousands of $$ of Kiama Council's scarce funds?Don't Councillors have an obligation to be transparent about what has informed their individual views and decisions on why we vote a particular way?Apparently not.Don't Councillors have a legislative responsibility to verify that we receive relevant, complete and accurate information to inform our decisions?Apparently not.Isn't it precisely the lack of accountable decision making that has cost Council millions of dollars and loss of community assets built up over decades?What a disgraceful distraction and a terrible waste of ratepayers money this entire exercise has been. And what possible good will come of it - for anyone?I stand tall and continue to support what I believe is right.My intention has always been to uphold the S.A.F.E. principles that I campaigned on in 2021. Clear and simple.I do not have political career aspirations, nor have I promised cruise ships in our harbour or a rocket in Hindmarsh Park. I’m always interested in your views. Feel free to call or email me, or drop by Short Black Cafe in Kiama from 9:30 on Wednesday (29 Nov) & lets talk. As you know I am a passionate advocate for democracy and your voice is part of that. Yours Sincerely, Clr Karen Renkema-Langps. The content of this newsletter solely reflects the independent comments & views of Clr Karen Renkema-Lang and is not a communication or product by or of Kiama Municipal Council.The above content is a paid blog.

There’s no doubt the State Government has a full plate at the moment.  The Housing Crisis is in full swing, Emergency Departments are at breaking point, and NSW Police are hard-pressed keeping the peace as war rages in the Middle East.  Make no mistake, these are big challenges for Premier Chris Minns and his Ministers.  So it’s significant that, in the middle of this Macquarie Street maelstrom, the administration of Kiama Council is (still) under scrutiny.  In Budget Estimates last week, Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig was pressed on Council’s efforts to get its house back in order and, in particular, its sale of local assets.  “I want to be satisfied, not directly related to Blue Haven, but generally speaking whether or not the Council are getting a fair return for other assets that they are selling, or whether or not there is a fire sale of assets,” he said. The Minister also revealed he had asked the Office of Local Government to look at “a range of matters” that had been brought to him recently with respect to Council.  It couldn’t be clearer that this is a live political issue; the Minister is watching Council like a hawk. In comments provided to the ABC, Council said locals have been “regularly informed on the divestment process”.  “This includes clear and concise explanations of many aspects questioned again today and reinterpreted out of context during Budget Estimates,” a spokesperson said. It's The Bugle’s strong view that scrutiny of Council’s divestment process is healthy.  While The Bugle recognises Council’s genuine commitment to delivering its Strategic Improvement Plan, more transparency is always a good thing. So too is more accountability. Like any other matter of public administration, the more people paying attention, the more likely it is that the right decisions will be made.  Ratepayers deserve nothing less. Do you know more? What do you think of this so-called ‘fire sale’ of assets? Give us your views and we will continue to ensure your voices are heard.

Facing environmental challenges head-onI focus in my day-to-day life on the positive aspects of our area and the community. This column is no different, but there are two sides to every coin... remember coins?We live in a place with immaculate beaches, fertile land, and an atmosphere brimming with community spirit. However, like many other regions across Australia, Kiama faces significant environmental challenges that threaten our natural beauty, lifestyle, and future.Identifying the threatsOne of the foremost environmental threats we face is the potential rise in sea levels due to climate change. As a coastal region, even slight increases in sea levels can lead to erosion, damaging our precious beaches and impacting properties situated close to the shore. We're also observing more frequent and intense weather events posing immediate risks to our community's safety and infrastructure.Additionally, habitat destruction is becoming a concern, primarily due to increasing urbanisation and development pressures. Our native wildlife, including many species that are found only in this part of the world, depend on the preservation of these habitats for their survival.Lastly, pollution, both in our waters and on land, remains an ever-present danger. Littering, unchecked waste disposal and microplastics are unwelcome guests into our waterways and oceans that can have dire consequences for our environment, marine life, and the health of our community.Paving the way forwardIn the face of these challenges, I'm proud to say that Kiama Municipal Council is taking proactive steps to protect our environment and way of life. Here are some of the key initiatives we are pursuing:Coastal management plansCollaborating with experts, we're developing comprehensive coastal management plans to counteract the effects of rising sea levels and increased storm surges.These plans will involve strategies like dune restoration, revegetation, and building protective infrastructure where necessary.Green spaces & habitat protectionRecognising the importance of preserving our unique biodiversity, the Council delivers services on biodiversity protection, weed management, sports planning and maintenance of outdoor and natural areas. These efforts not only deliver recreational benefits but also serve to protect, preserve and enhance our green spaces as sanctuaries for wildlife.Waste management & reductionWe’ve long been leaders waste management. Our Household Bulky Waste and Second Hand Saturday events, waste campaigns, collection services, recycling, fogo and bin audits all help us keep on top of day to day waste management. We are also organising regular community clean-up days, allowing all of us to play a part in keeping Kiama beautiful. Like everyone in local government we do service reviews and waste services is one area where we will be exploring the opportunities and challenges in our current model of delivery.Community involvementIn the coming months Council will work on finalising our Community Engagement Strategy so that we can better hear from those in our community in more innovative ways. By fostering a community that's well-informed and proactive, we can collectively take steps towards a more sustainable future.Partnering with local organisationsWe currently work with several local groups, such as Landcare, and we’re interested in reaching out to more environmental groups, businesses, and stakeholders to form partnerships. Together, we can share resources, knowledge, and people-power to combat environmental threats more effectively.Your role in our journeyKiama's strength lies in its community. While the Council is doing its part, the journey to a sustainable future is a collective effort. I urge every resident to take small yet impactful steps...recycle, conserve water, participate in community waste events, and learn about our local environment.The challenges we face might be significant, but with determination, unity, and a shared vision, we can ensure that the beauty and essence of Kiama remains intact for generations to come. See, I told you there was an upside!

Have you ever envisioned an enchanting world of sun-kissed landscapes unfurling before your eyes as you disembark from your plane? In The Islands of Tahiti, the air is permeated with a captivating dreamlike quality. A symphony of colours bedazzles your senses as you behold luxuriant valleys, cerulean skies, and turquoise lagoons. The vibrant, multi-hued pāreu (skirts) of the vahine (women) stand out against their hair, bathed in the unfiltered tropical sunlight.The Islands of Tahiti, encompassing Moorea, Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora, and Maupiti, are a celestial constellation scattered across the vast South Pacific. Together, they offer an irresistible journey into Polynesian paradise.Tahiti, the largest island and the heart of French Polynesia, presents a harmonious blend of rich culture, lush landscapes, and crystalline waters. Papeete, the capital, teems with life, showcasing bustling markets, traditional craftsmanship, and the intoxicating fragrance of tropical blooms. Beyond the city lies an untamed natural sanctuary, beckoning visitors to explore striking waterfalls, ebony sand beaches, and world-renowned surfing spots.Moorea, often referred to as the sister island of Tahiti, is a haven for adventure seekers. Towering volcanic peaks, verdant valleys, and beguiling lagoons set the stage for hiking, snorkeling, and diving escapades. Witnessing the sun dip beneath the horizon, casting a golden glow over Cook's Bay, is a transcendent experience etched into memory.Huahine, a hidden gem, weaves a tapestry of lush forests, ancient marae ruins, and untouched white-sand shores. Dubbed the "Garden of Eden," Huahine offers a glimpse into traditional Polynesian life, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the island's authentic culture and folklore.Raiatea and Taha’a, often regarded as twins, are intertwined both geographically and culturally. Raiatea, the sacred island, is steeped in ancient Polynesian history and is believed to be the center of the universe in Tahitian mythology. Taha’a, the vanilla-scented island, is renowned for its fragrant vanilla plantations and exquisite coral gardens, making it a snorkeler's haven.Bora Bora, frequently hailed as the gem of the South Pacific, enthralls visitors with its iconic overwater bungalows and awe-inspiring lagoons. The distinctive shades of blue in its waters, the towering Mount Otemanu, and the thriving marine life beneath the surface create an idyllic backdrop for romantic getaways and unparalleled water-based activities.Maupiti, the hidden treasure, provides an unspoiled escape reminiscent of Bora Bora's early charm. The island is a haven for hikers and water sports enthusiasts, boasting majestic landscapes and inviting azure waters.Preserving the pristine beauty of these islands is of paramount importance. Embracing sustainable tourism practices and responsible travel is essential to ensure the delicate ecosystems, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking natural beauty endure for generations to come.Air Tahiti Nui is celebrating its 25th anniversary! What better time to demonstrate your love for Tahiti by choosing to fly with Air Tahiti Nui?

Dear Bugle Reader,   Parliament has been sitting the last two weeks and I’ve been flat out from sun-up to sun-down!   I’ve moved a motion standing with the people of Israel and condemning violence and vilification.   Having had the good fortune to travel to the Middle East on two occasions, I’ve visited both Israel and Palestine. I’ve met ordinary people, both Israeli and Palestinian, who simply want to raise their families and live their lives free of war and terror.   The vile and disgusting actions of Hamas must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. I was sickened to see behaviour at Lakemba and the Opera House which celebrated the attacks on Israel, encouraged vilification and incited violence towards people of Jewish faith and antecedents.   It is my strong view that any person who is a non-citizen or dual citizen found to be inciting violence or racial hatred, in any form, should be deported from our country. The Federal Government has the power to deport people in breach of the law and they should do so.   This week, I’ll be giving notice of a private members bill to require defibrillators to be mandated in public buildings and public transport and to require the mandatory registration and details of a defibrillator to be made publicly available through the Service NSW App.  Whilst Service NSW has a voluntary option to register an AEC, there is no mandatory requirement for locations. I have received many requests from my electorate for AEDs in certain locations, and this bill reflects the wants and needs of the community and academics.  This bill will ensure certain buildings, (e.g. large commercial), facilities and public transport have AEDs installed, signed, and maintained by way of a public register. It will also include a training scheme for certain persons.  Also knows as PADs (Public Access Defibrillators), researchers argue a widespread rollout of these could at least double survival rates from out of hospital cardiac arrests.  I’ve also introduced a Private Members Bill to implement recommendations from the Independent Commission Against Corruption as part of Operation Eclipse to legislate the publication of meetings with lobbyists and other influences with Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries.  Improving transparency and accountability in government goes to the heart of trust and confidence in government decision-making, avoiding undue influence and highlighting corruption risks.   If this Labor Government doesn’t want to make the mistakes of the last Labor Government, they’ll support this bill.