When you walk through the doors of Kiama’s Visitor Information Centre you notice two things: the warm, welcoming smiles of staff and volunteers and the heady scent of cinnamon and cedar.The Christmas-themed aroma comes from candles and diffusers made by Kiama Candle Co, one of the 32 local suppliers that the centre supports. The smiles come from the team’s love of supporting both visitors and locals. So far this year more than 50,000 people have popped into the Visitor Information Centre, a gateway to the region’s iconic lighthouse and blowhole. Destination Kiama chair and Kiama councillor Matt Brown says it’s the state’s busiest Visitor Information Centre, outside of Sydney. Two years ago the centre, run by Visitor Services Co-ordinator Lauren Res, shifted its focus to stock more locally made products. Lauren and her team of 16 staff and volunteers have carefully curated a local corner, complete with a sign made by the Kiama Men’s Shed. Here you will find cards, paintings, candles, chocolate, t-shirts and a range of other beautifully crafted products from local suppliers.“We’ve been working quite hard to support local businesses that cater to a tourism market but who make products that are also appealing to people who live in the region,” says Lauren.The products match Kiama’s brand: village, coastal, boutique, beachy; and feature whales, pelicans and of course the lighthouse and blowhole.“We have one local artist Joyce, who hand paints images of the lighthouse and blowhole onto crockery and they are really popular,” says Lauren. “Part of our push to support local suppliers is to also minimise our carbon footprint and plastic packaging.” Along with local products, the centre is also a wealth of local knowledge, with staff like Lauren and volunteer Anne Honey, a long-time community member, able to answer almost any questions thrown at them, except one.“One of the most asked questions is ‘when does the blowhole work’,” laughs Anne. “Unfortunately I don’t have the answer to that one but I can help with most others.”Staff are also frequently asked about Kiama’s most instagrammable photo opportunities.“Jamberoo’s cabbage tree palms, Bombo Headland and Kiama’s rolling green hills are all popular spots for pictures,” says Lauren. “We have a wonderful team here at the Visitor Centre and if we don’t know the answer to something we know the people to contact to get the answer, except for the Blowhole question!”Anne, who has volunteered at the centre for the past five years, says it is a “privilege to share how wonderful this place is”.  “We are so lucky to have volunteers like Anne who have such a wealth of knowledge of this area,” says Cr Brown.KIama Visitors Centre Supporters Back L to R Cr Yasmin Tatrai, Cr Matt Brown, Sally Bursell Tourism & Events Manager at Kiama Council. Front Row Anne Honey, Lauren Res, Visitor Services Coordinator at Kiama Municipal CouncilThis Christmas people are encouraged to stop by the Kiama Visitor Information Centre for their last-minute gifts and support talented local artists and producers. If you need some inspiration here are the top picks from staff and volunteers at Kiama Visitors Information Centre and the team from Destination Kiama. Cr Brown’s favourite local products are the candles and diffusers made by fellow councillor Yasmin Tatrai. “I have about 10 of the candles and diffusers and love the Christmas Forest scent this time of year,” he says.Kiama Council’s Tourism and Events Manager Sally Bursell is a big fan of the pottery from Gerringong’s Soul Clay studio.Cr Tatrai says she’s “the ultimate consumer” and loves all things local. This year her hubby will find a calendar and t-shirt by local graphic designer Tiana Lichaa under the tree. Anne and Lauren are also big fans of Tiana’s t-shirts. “I love them,” says Anne. “They really personify Kiama, and aren't we lucky that we live in this beautiful part of the world and have the opportunity to support local businesses.”

Students in Kiama and 55 other schools across the Gilmore electorate will benefit from a funding boost as part of the Federal Government’s National Student Wellbeing Program. Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips says local schools could use the one-off funding boost for additional mental health professionals or to run wellbeing programs, including excursions, to support students. “Many young people in our area have been really struggling with their mental health after being dealt a double blow of the Black Summer Bushfires, followed by Covid lockdowns,” Mrs. Phillips says. “I know how tough it has been, and I know how important it is for kids to have the support they need at school.” Kiama High School, which will receive $46,000, is among the schools benefiting from the initiative. Other recipients include Vincentia High School ($51,000), Ulladulla High School ($63,000), and Batemans Bay High School ($34,000).  Every primary and high school in Gilmore will receive a boost to support student mental health and wellbeing.“The great thing about this funding is that every school was given the flexibility to spend the additional funding in a way that best suited the immediate needs of their school community,” says Mrs. Phillips. Mrs. Phillips expresses how impressed she is that the Albanese Government continues to make significant investments to support the mental health of students. “I want to make sure our local kids want to get up in the mornings and go to school. And that they have the very best chance to succeed in both their personal and educational development,” Mrs. Phillips says. “As a former teacher, and a mum of four, I know that good mental health can have a massive impact on young people’s engagement with education.” With this funding, local schools in Kiama and across the electorate are well-equipped to foster a positive environment that supports students' mental health and sets them up for success both in and out of the classroom.

Yasmin Tatrai has lived in Kiama for more than a decade but knows she’s still considered “a newbie in town”.“I think of myself as a local but then people will say ‘oh, I’ve lived here for 30 years and I’m finally getting closer to being a local’. While she may have a few years before she hits that milestone, there is no doubt Yasmin, who was elected as a Kiama councillor in October, is committed to better serving the community she has grown to love.“It’s my home,” she says. “My heart is here, it’s where my soul is.”Yasmin grew up on Sydney’s northern beaches and stumbled across Kiama while visiting a friend in the Illawarra.“We went for a drive past Bombo Beach and I remember saying to her ‘I’m home’.”Not one to mess around, Yasmin called a real estate agent the next day and asked to view rentals in Kiama. Then she phoned her husband, who was touring overseas withDef Leppard at the time, to tell him of her plan. Two weeks later the pair moved to Kiama Heights. It was Yasmin’s first step on her journey to becoming a bona fide local.Fast forward a decade and Yasmin, her husband and their dog Frankie are familiar faces in Kiama Downs, where they now live. The trio walk around their neighbourhood each morning, frequently stopping to chat about important issues. “It really is about that sense of community, you walk down the street and people say hello to you, you know they really care.”It’s what led Yasmin to run for council, her way of giving back to the community that embraced her. “We’ve got a great group of councillors and we all work really well together,” says Yasmin. “Sometimes we will have to make decisions that people won’t like, but if it doesn’t benefit the community, it won’t get my vote.“Affordable housing is the biggest issue our council is facing. Our job as councillors is to weigh up environmental concerns with the need for more homes. It is going to be difficult to unpack that and bring in the amount of homes the NSW government says we need, while maintaining the environment that makes Kiama so unique. It’s a tricky balancing act.“But I want any development to be considered, and I’d like councillors to have an opportunity to talk to developers so we can work in tandem to do what’s best for our community. The environment, overbuilding and Blue Haven Terralong St are real concerns for the community.”Balancing the budget is another key issue for Yasmin.“The budget is the most pressing thing for the council at the moment,” she says. “We need to be sensible with the finances, but also empathetic to what the community wants.And that's a really fine line. But the wonderful thing about this group of councillors is that we want to work with each other collaboratively to get the best outcome for the community.”Yasmin is working closely with Erica Warren and Matt Brown on strategy and planning for Destination Kiama - the council’s tourism and events department. She would love to see more cultural opportunities for young people in the region, and has big visions for a centre where they can engage in art, theatre, music and radio under the one roof.Yasmin says she “does not shy away from a challenge” and is determined to “get the job done”. She is eager to learn and is picking the brain of councillors like Matt Brown, who has a wealth of experience in both local and state government.In exchange for his knowledge and expertise she has “got Matt on a health kick”, with the pair climbing Saddleback Mountain while workshopping ideas and strategies to “balance Kiama’s growth while maintaining its integrity”. “I'm not anti development, but I want housing growth to be considered, fit in with the environment,” explains Yasmin. “I really want to make a difference and make sure that I've done some good for the town that has embraced me. And maybe then I’ll be a step closer to being considered a local."

As part of The Bugle's support for the MV SIGNA making its way to Tasmania, we’re excited to bring you a weekly series of stories about the ship and its dedicated crew.You can pledge a donation to the Bugle through our phone number 0412415101 within our business hours which are 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. If no one is there to answer your call, leave a message and we will get back to you. You can also pledge online with the link at the bottom of the article. So far $750 has been raised from local community members. $10,000 is the goal. The first series of stories focus on the six crew members who are manning the ship as it embarks on a journey across the South Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea to reach Tasmania for the International Timber Boat Festival. You can see them all on The Bugle App.Geoff “Smokey” Farrah retired from his career as a financial planner in 2020, but instead of putting his feet up and enjoying his well earned relaxation, he decided to embark on a two year project to help restore the old MV SIGNA - and he’d do it again.“Through my work in financial planning, I made many connections, including with Rex Jones and John Hansen,” Smokey says. “One thing led to another, and eventually, John invited me to join him on fishing trips aboard his previous boat, the Sarah Jane. When he took on the SIGNA restoration project, he asked if I wanted to help, and I thought, ‘What a fantastic opportunity to fill my spare time.’”While Smokey’s professional background was in finance, he also had experience in timber restoration, which proved invaluable to the project. John Hansen’s goal was to bring the SIGNA back as close as possible to its original condition, and Smokey’s knowledge of timber treatment played a key role.“I helped with a lot of the timber work, trying to restore it to its original state,” Smokey says. “There aren’t many timber boats left, which makes the SIGNA so special. Honestly, it was really enjoyable work.”Though he relished the hands-on work, Smokey says the best part of the experience was the camaraderie with the rest of the crew. “I really enjoyed the mateship and knowing we were all working toward something important. It felt good to contribute to something that benefits Kiama, the harbor, and my friends. It was also a way to give back,” says Smokey.Of all the crew members, Smokey was the one most eager to take on another similar project. “I’d do it again, depending on the project, who’s involved, and if I have the resources to contribute. I loved staying involved and being part of a great group of mates. That’s just what mates do.”Smokey is now looking forward to the adventure of a lifetime as the same crew that restored the SIGNA aims to sail their project to Tasmania. “I’ve always loved the sea—it's in my blood. I’m really excited for John to have the chance to show off what we’ve done with the SIGNA, bringing it from nothing to what it is now. It’s going to be a great adventure.”The MV SIGNA crew is still seeking fundraising support to help get their boat to Tasmania and they need the community’s help. If you’d like to pledge, please get in touch with us here, call 0412415101, or email [email protected].

 Matt Brown’s home sits high on the hill, offering a stunning view of the beach where he spent countless afternoons as a schoolboy. Over coffee and his homemade Christmas Cake, Matt paints a vivid picture of those simpler times in Kiama.“When my schoolmates and I met after school, we’d head straight to the beach—friends, bikes, and saltwater,” he recalls with a smile. “We used to call it body bashing. The waves would just dump you, rip you apart.” He laughs at the memory, a tangible connection to the beach culture of his youth. Trips to Bombo or Seven Mile Beach with surfboards came later, often requiring a lift from someone’s parents. “I wasn’t a great surfer,” he admits, “but I was always in the water.”The ocean, it seems, has not only shaped Matt’s childhood but also his values. “Empathy is like surfing,” he reflects. “You’ve got to read the waves, try to understand what’s coming at you and how it might feel for someone else.” This philosophy is embedded in his approach to leadership and social justice, guiding him as he navigates the challenges of public life.Parenting, Matt explains, has also been a teacher of patience and persistence. “Helping my kids with homework, cooking together, or just being present—it grounds me. It’s a constant reminder of what truly matters,” he says. This grounding influences his work in council, where he applies the same principles. “Change takes time and effort, but it can make a lasting difference,” he adds.Matt’s advice for young people finishing school reflects these values. “Patience and persistence. You won’t achieve everything overnight, and that’s okay,” he says. “Set a goal and work hard, even when obstacles arise. Those lessons—being patient with yourself, persisting through setbacks—apply in every area of life.”When holidays come, Matt and his family dive into cultural experiences. “We love musicals and symphonies,” he shares, adding that South America is next on his travel bucket list, with Machu Picchu being a long-held dream.Closer to home, Matt’s creativity shines in the kitchen. “Cooking is something I learned from my grandmother,” he says, fondly recalling her formative influence on his life. “Her recipes are still with me today.” He jokes that cooking, much like his hobby of playing the saxophone, is part art and part science. “The saxophone is a way to unwind,” he explains. “Something that’s just for me.”Despite his busy schedule, Matt remains deeply connected to Kiama. “It’s the people,” he says simply. “Everyone says hello when I’m walking the dog. There’s a sense of belonging here that’s hard to find anywhere else.” He’s quick to credit the town’s strength to its residents. “Whether it’s through volunteering, supporting local events, or just saying hello on the street, it all adds up to a strong, connected community.”Matt acknowledges the scrutiny that comes with public life but embraces the responsibility. “People don’t always see the bigger picture,” he says. “Sometimes they’re lobbying for a specific issue without understanding broader challenges—like budget constraints or long project timelines. But I try to listen, and where I can, I act.”As we finished the last slice of his fabulous Christmas Cake, I asked how he’d like to be remembered. “As someone who was committed, who cared, and who worked to make a difference,” he says simply.His final thoughts echoed the "Three Ps" that have guided his journey: patience, persistence, and parenting. “Patience allows you to navigate challenges with grace,” he reflected. “Persistence keeps you moving forward, even when things feel tough. And parenting—or nurturing others in your life—reminds you of the importance of connection, understanding, and community. Together, they build the resilience we all need.”From body bashing at Kendall’s Beach to playing the saxophone at home, Matt’s life is a balance of local roots, global curiosity, and an enduring passion for community. It’s a combination that continues to shape his perspective and his service to the town he loves.  

The planning system in NSW is a chaotic tangle of rules, power plays, and opaque processes. Everyone - from councillors to community members, from farmers to housing advocates and developers - agree it’s broken. Fixing it? That’s an Everest-sized challenge. But here in Kiama, we face a stark reality: planning and development decisions are not just about us. They are shaped by a hierarchy of policies, overseen by the Minister for Planning, who has the authority to override councils, including ours, at any time. Planning powers delegated to local councils by the Minister for Planning are conditional. They can be withdrawn, and decisions can be overridden. We’ve already seen this happen. In South Kiama and Jamberoo, the regional planning panel overruled Kiama Council to approve controversial rezonings. And with housing targets now set for every council in the Illawarra, Kiama cannot afford to stand still. If we fail to meet these targets, the Department of Planning will step in again. More concerning, the Premier has announced that landowners and developers can bypass councils altogether and apply directly to a new state approval body for projects over $30 million. If we don’t act, our council will be powerless to influence what type of development happens in our district. Some say Kiama doesn’t need to grow. But housing targets aren’t optional and ignoring them isn’t a solution. Worse, refusing to act leaves our district vulnerable to external decisions that prioritise expedience over community needs. This isn’t just about meeting quotas; it’s about ensuring that growth happens in a way that benefits everyone. Kiama needs a wider variety of housing options: homes for singles, downsizers, young service workers, multigenerational families, and small rentals. Without them, the people who make this community tick will be forced out. Resistance to any form of development ignores the reality of a region struggling to house its people. It’s simply not acceptable to demand that others sacrifice affordable housing options while refusing to contribute to solutions. The planning system isn’t fair. It’s complicated, opaque, and often works against local communities. But Kiama Council still has an opportunity to lead, if it acts swiftly and decisively.Our councillors must step up, show leadership, and engage proactively in shaping our district’s future. By putting forward thoughtful, community-minded planning initiatives, they can retain some control over development and prevent a complete loss of influence. If they don’t, we risk housing projects designed by distant decision-makers who don’t understand or care about Kiama’s unique character. The housing crisis isn’t an abstract problem. It’s visible every day in rising rents, long commutes, and young people priced out of their hometown. Kiama’s future depends on embracing growth: not unchecked or thoughtless development, but sustainable, inclusive housing that meets the needs of all residents. The choice isn’t between growth and preservation. The choice is whether we shape Kiama’s future or let someone else shape it for us. 

12 teams competed in the third annual Gongmana Ultimate Frisbee tournament in Kiama on 7 and 8 December with Wollongong based team ‘Angela’s Primary’ ultimately coming out as victors.It was a crisp and sunny weekend, beautiful weather to watch a shiny white disk float through the air from player to player at Kiama’s Showground and Chittick Oval.Players in action at the Gongmana Tournament. Source: Brian Scott.Ultimate frisbee enthusiast and Kiama local Stefan Goecke, who both participated on the day and helped organise, says the weekend was a success.“It was a great two days. 12 teams entered mostly from the area, but one team came all the way from Perth and we all had such a great time,” says Goecke.For those that don’t know, ultimate frisbee is played on a long field with two end zones at each end. The frisbee is passed between players as they try to score in their own end zone.Goecke says that one of the best parts of the sport, and the thing that sets it apart from the others, is that there is no referee or umpire. The players on the field make the calls and come to a decision together.“It’s a sport where the people on the field have to make a decision between themselves. It is a non contact sport and somehow it works. In my 40 years of experience, there have only been a handful of times where it has been unpleasant,” says Goecke. “There’s seldom big arguments. Just recently my wife and I played in Portugal at the beach world championships and even there, there are very few arguments. People get on the field knowing that there is no referee. So everyone knows what they’re getting into so there’s a different mindset for all the players.”A player catching a frisbee at the Gongmana Tournament. Source: Brian Scott.Goecke first played the sport 40 years ago when he lived in Germany - and has never looked back.Goecke is confident that the tournament will be back again for another year and also urges anyone who would be interested in getting involved to join a group who meets at Kendalls beach every Sunday at 4pm - simply turn up and play!

On 11 December, Kiama held the Carols in the Park on the new and improved Orry-Kelly stage in the, also new and improved, Hindmarsh Park. The hills were packed with people and the music could be heard all around Kiama.Christmas cheer was spread, a certain Mr. Claus arrived on the back of a fire truck and it was proved that events like these continue to bring the Kiama community together.Merry Christmas from The Bugle.

The winners of the 2024 Buy Local Campaign have been announced with many local businesses winning over $5000 in prizes. The campaign was imposed to celebrate the local businesses within the Kiama area, along with supporting local industries. Over 1100 local businesses participated in the campaign which aims to highlight the importance of supporting local businesses.The Buy Local Campaign has aimed to economically support local businesses by rewarding winners with vouchers which can be spent at participating local businesses allowing for the prize money to be spent within the local community. The vouchers allow local businesses to support each other and boost local commerce.1st place winners were rewarded with a voucher of $500 which can be redeemed at any of the 1100 participating businesses. 2nd place winners were rewarded with a voucher of $300, whilst 3rd place winners received a voucher of $200. 1st place winners of the campaign consisted of:Michelle - Toyworld, 2533Shanon - Deer Willow, 2226Megan - The Collective Beat, 3437Ruby - Selective Nails, 2533Rebecca - Wellness and Recovery Haus, 2435.2nd place winners of the campaign consisted of:Kelly - Silica, 2533.3rd place winners of the campaign consisted of:Marilyn - Wildflower Studio, 2533.The Buy Local Campaign has stated that, “We’re already brainstorming ways to make the 2025 campaign even more inclusive and impactful-...It’s incredible to see the positive impact this initiative has had on our local economy!”

On Kiama's main street, you'll discover the family-owned Toyworld, where locals and tourists are welcomed with open doors to explore a store brimming with toys from floor to ceiling. Toyworld Kiama has been locally owned and operated by Peter and Melissa Judd for 39 years, the vibrant store has become a beloved community fixture, open seven days a week, except for Christmas. The store is jam-packed full of a great variety of toys for all ages including beach toys, board games, scooters, puzzles, and water and outdoor entertainment. Toyworld offers great service to customers in-store as well as behind the scenes where Peter and Melissa pride themselves in curating a unique selection of products tailored to their customers needs. “You’ve got the owners of the store, you’re talking to us and we’re pretty particular of what we carry, if we think an idea is not going to work, we won’t carry it,” says Melissa. “One good thing is we get exclusive products, because we’re a small retailer, so we get some exclusives that don’t go out to major suppliers.” The couple’s hands-on approach sets their store apart, they engage directly with customers, offering personalised advice on the best toys and what they think people will enjoy the most.“When people come in to discuss a toy, we can say whether it suits them or not, the age of the kid, indoor or outdoor,” says Peter.“You could buy ten toys and they’re all wrong, so you’ve wasted a lot of money, so we can say ‘that’s not going to suit’ or ‘the quality’s not right’.” For Peter and Melissa, running Toyworld is more than a job - it’s a way to stay connected with the community. Over the decades, they’ve served generations of families, many of whom return to share fond memories of their visits as children. With their passion for play and commitment to the community, Peter and Melissa continue to make Toyworld Kiama a cherished destination where memories are made every day. Check out their top 5 picks in the last edition of The Bugle. It will be a very big few weeks for the store in the lead up to Christmas!      

We’ve all heard of Santa Claus, who can allegedly go around to every house in the world in one night delivering presents. But, respectfully to Mr Claus, take away the magical reindeer and the sleigh - would he still be able to accomplish such a task? Nicola, may work on a smaller scale, delivering many parcels daily around Kiama Downs and Gainsborough, but she doesn’t rely on a flying reindeer. Instead, she chooses a different method - she runs. “I literally run my whole route” says Nicola. “It's just something that's developed. I don't even think about it. As soon as I open my van door, my feet touch the ground and off I go.” This unorthodox approach has made Nicola something of a local legend in Kiama, with residents regularly seeing the 54-year-old jog through the streets, parcels tucked under her arms. “I think it’s created a bit of fun in the area. But truly it's just my personality coming out in my day, I still just focus on delivering safely, correctly and on time. For me it just turned out that this is the most effective way to do it” she says. Originally from England and trained as a Beautician, Nicola had to close her home beauty salon during COVID and became a Delivery Partner for Australia Post in March 2020. Since then, she’s never looked back. “I love what I do. I love working in and around the community. Adding a little difference to what I do makes it more enjoyable, because it can be a really high-pressure job” she says. Nicola says the relationships she has been able to build with the Australia Post customers has been an absolute highlight of her role and is something that gets her through the day. “It can be a really hard day, but people say Hello to me that many times every single day and Thank you so many times a day and How are you? so many times a day, you cannot get through the day without feeling uplifted,” says Nicola. Nicola’s day usually begins with a rude alarm at 4:30am and then she is at the Australia Post depot by 5:30am. She then spends the next three hours sorting the packages into delivery areas (Santa would never) and leaves the depot before 8:30am to start her deliveries. Christmas is always the busiest time of year. Nicola delivers many more parcels than a usual day, working five days a week, with extended six, six-day weeks in the lead-up to Christmas Eve. These six, six-day weeks are challenging, but Nicola’s philosophy is that she gives herself a little reward at the end of her working day - and this keeps her happy and motivated. “Like this afternoon after work I sat on Jones Beach and then I went to Kiama rock pool and had a dip. And it feels good, you know. After my busy days, it's really important for me to have a little bit of a ‘holiday’ - even if it's just for an hour,” she says. Given her delivery method, it’s no surprise that Nicola is an avid runner. Most days, she finishes her deliveries and then heads out for a 10km run. In 2023-24, she competed in two marathons, a triathlon, several half marathons, and multiple 10k races. But come Christmas Eve, after delivering that last parcel, Nicola will put her feet up and let Father Christmas handle the deliveries on the 25th. And maybe, just maybe, Santa will deliver a little something special to Nicola’s stocking this year (and Santa if you’re reading - maybe just for her house you can get out of the sleigh and put a jog on).

Christmas is a time of joy, togetherness, and unique traditions that reflect the rich diversity of cultures around the world. Each country adds its own special touch to the festive season. In Germany, the Christmas markets are a quintessential part of the holiday season. Town squares transform into winter wonderlands with twinkling lights, charming wooden stalls, and the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread. Visitors can find handmade ornaments, enjoy bratwurst, and sip on Glühwein as they bask in the fairytale atmosphere. Moving to the Philippines, the festive spirit is embodied with Simbang Gabi, a series of nine pre-dawn masses leading up to Christmas Day. Communities come alive with carol singing, vibrant lantern festivals, and sumptuous feasts featuring delicacies like bibingka and puto bumbong. The tradition reflects the deep faith and warmth of Filipino culture. In Mexico, the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without Las Posadas, a lively re-enactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Neighbourhoods join together for candlelit processions, festive street parties, and breaking colourful piñatas filled with sweets. This blend of faith and festivity brings families and communities closer. Over in Japan, Christmas has a distinctly commercial flair. Though not traditionally a religious holiday, it’s celebrated with enthusiasm. Families often mark the occasion by enjoying KFC dinners, a quirky custom that has become a national phenomenon. Illuminated streets and romantic light displays add to the festive charm. In Iceland, the season takes on a playful tone with the arrival of the Yule Lads. These mischievous holiday figures visit children over 13 nights, leaving small gifts in their shoes if they’ve been good—or a potato if they haven’t! This whimsical tradition is steeped in Icelandic folklore and adds a touch of magic. In Italy, Christmas is a time of deep religious significance. The Feast of the Seven Fishes, celebrated on Christmas Eve, features an elaborate meal of seafood dishes. Italians also enjoy nativity scenes, midnight mass, and La Befana, the kindly witch who brings gifts to children in early January. Wherever you are in the world, Christmas brings a universal sense of joy and togetherness. At Travel Focus Group, we extend our warmest wishes to all our loyal customers. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your travel adventures this year. From our family to yours, may your festive season be filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

Anyone taking a stroll around our beautiful harbour on Tuesday morning would have been surprised to come upon a pipe band playing. Kiama Pipe Band was joined by members of the Shoalhaven City Pipes and Drums in a performance for the Homestead of Hope Christmas Party function being held in the Kiama Scout Hall.The Kiama Pipe Band. Source: Kiama Pipe Band.Band secretary and piper John Kenny said, “We always enjoy playing at this Homestead of Hope function to show our support for the wonderful work of this local charity which is dedicated to providing care for the disadvantaged, lonely or homeless members of the community.”Mary Spillane, on behalf of the charity, thanked the band for its support. “This is the second year running that the band has put on a performance for us and we appreciate it very much.”“This has been a very busy year for the Kiama Pipe Band. As well as playing at events such as the Berry Celtic Festival, and the Kiama by the Sea Folk Festival, we also played at a number of Kiama Rotary Club events,” said John. "Kiama Rotary Club is our biggest single sponsor," he added. “Of course we always provide our services for more solemn occasions during the year such as ANZAC events.”The Kiama Pipe Band’s last event for the year is at the recently revived Gerringong Christmas Parade due to be held on Saturday 21 December. After that, they will be back again practicing hard from mid January, so if anyone is interested in learning the pipes or drums they would love to hear from you. The Kiama Pipe Band offers free tuition to anyone young or old who would like to become involved and they are also open to individuals or groups who would like to book the band.Contact details: John Kenny Mob. 0434 989 253

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is awaiting results of testing on debris balls which washed up in Kiama in November and Silver Beach at Kurnell earlier this month.As well as in these locations, the EPA has been notified by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the discovery of ball-shaped debris on 1080 Beach and Pooles Beach at Mystery Bay near Narooma on the South Coast.  The balls are reported to be spread across 200 metres of the beach and vary in size and shape. Staff from NPWS attended the site on 11 December and inspected nearby beaches. Around 20 debris balls were also found at Pooles Beach however, there were none observed on any other nearby beaches.  Both 1080 Beach and Pooles Beach have been closed while NPWS staff undertake clean-up. Signs have been put in place to advise visitors of the contamination.  Officers from the EPA also attended the beaches today and collected samples for analysis. Over the coming days, NPWS will continue to monitor beaches in the Mystery Bay area.  The EPA has finalised testing on ball-shaped debris that washed up on beaches in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs in October, confirming earlier results that indicate their origin is likely a source that releases mixed waste. Experts could not determine where the balls originated from as no source samples were available for comparison.  

For over 30 years, Chris O'Connell has been the name locals trust for everything pools.Operating in Kiama for 15 years, Chris is known for his motto, “we do it all,” setting Spot On Pools apart from others in the market. While many pool services focus on one specific area, Chris offers a comprehensive range of services, including pool renovation, maintenance, cleaning, building, and painting.As the sole operator, Chris brings a hands-on approach to every project, ensuring the highest quality of work and customer satisfaction. Source: Chris O'ConnellWhether it’s a pool renovation, a fresh coat of paint, or ongoing maintenance, Chris handles it all with professionalism and care. Chris’s extensive background in building has given him the skills and expertise to tackle even the most challenging pool issues. From repairing pool floors to fixing solar heating systems damaged by pesky cockatoos, there’s no problem he can’t handle. One of his most unique challenges involved repairing a pool that had been hit by a car. For Chris, the true reward is the repeat business. He takes great pride in knowing that his clients trust him with multiple pools or ongoing maintenance needs.Source: Chris O'ConnellChris’ focus remains on continuing to offer exceptional value, friendly service, and outstanding customer care. After all, it’s the satisfaction of his customers that keeps him going.Living in the beautiful town of Kiama, Chris enjoys the lifestyle and the opportunity to serve a community that appreciates good, reliable service.Chris’ service is unique because, as he says, “We do it all.”

By Spencer IliasRecent data from Homelessness NSW has revealed that over 67,000 people sought help from homelessness services in the past year. This correlates with data released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare that found the number of people seeking help between July 2023 and June 2024 remained almost the same as the 68,000 from the previous year.The primary reasons people sought out for help were housing crises, financial difficulties, and family or domestic violence. The data has also shown us that Indigenous Australians remain disproportionately affected, accounting for 33 percent of all clients in NSW compared to the national average of 29 percent.“The overrepresentation of Aboriginal Australians in these figures is a national shame,” said Ms Rowe. “Governments must work with Aboriginal-led organisations to address this glaring inequity”.There have been reports of a tent set up overlooking Storm Bay, opposite the entrance of the Anglican Church. Cameron Potter informs us that this tent has been sitting there for several months and he is quite concerned about the owner of the tent and where they may go to the toilet, amongst other things. “I am quite concerned about the ongoing impact on the amenity of the area for residents and visitors,” says Cameron. But this may not be the only long term resident of this area, as Cameron has also seen others continually living in the Storm Bay area. Cameron also tells us that he spoke to the council about this issue and received quite a poor and unsatisfactory response.Cameron's call to action should inspire us to address this issue urgently and help the homeless people in the Storm Bay area.

Kiama Council's handling of community and commercial leases remains a focal point following the council meeting on 10 December 2024. In response to a question on notice raised by Councillor Melissa Matters, the mayor clarified the discussion’s scope, stating, "There is no recommendation. It was an answer to a question with notice." The councillors now look forward to reviewing the Council’s comprehensive Property Plan report when it is presented.At the heart of the debate is Council’s draft Property Plan, which remains scheduled for public exhibition in February 2025. This plan is designed to tackle underperforming assets, standardise lease agreements, and ensure compliance with the Commonwealth Competition Policy Reform Act 1995. A Leasing, Licensing, and Rental Rebate Policy will also be introduced, outlining tenant categories and applying equitable rental terms.Councillor Matters reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining affordable access for community groups. "This review is not about increasing rents for community organisations or creating fear about their future. These groups are integral to our community," she said.Instead, the focus is on fostering greater transparency and equity, particularly in cases where commercial activities generate revenue from Council-owned assets. Reviewing historical leases, updating rental valuations for commercial uses, and ensuring consistent lease conditions are among the proposed measures. This review aims to align Council’s financial responsibilities with community expectations, ensuring that all leasing arrangements serve both parties fairly.The CEO Jane Stroud highlighted the balance between financial sustainability and community service. "Council must ensure its facilities effectively serve the community while generating appropriate returns from leasing arrangements," she stated.As Kiama grapples with financial oversight and sustainability, this review lays the groundwork for significant reforms. Councillors are keen to see the upcoming Property Plan report and the broader implications it may have on the Council’s dual role as a community partner and fiscal steward. For commercial tenants, these changes could mean updated agreements reflecting market standards, while community groups are reassured of continued support and affordability.This pivotal review continues to shape the Council's approach to asset management, ensuring leases align with both current standards and community expectations. The outcomes of these deliberations will influence Council’s property management for years to come.

The future of Jamberoo Community Preschool remains uncertain following Kiama Council’s 10 December meeting, where Councillor Mike Cains presented a motion seeking assurances for the preschool’s continuity. Serving 67 families and with over 100 students on the waiting list, the preschool is a vital service for the village, but its current flood-prone location presents significant challenges.The motion called for extending the preschool’s lease until an alternate site is available and ready for occupation. Despite efforts to identify new premises, including local churches and community facilities, no viable alternatives have been found, leaving the preschool dependent on its current location.For now, the preschool remains an essential service for local families, with the added benefit of fostering strong community connections among Jamberoo’s youngest residents. Parents have stressed the importance of their children forming early friendships that support them to transition seamlessly into Jamberoo Public School, reinforcing the village’s social fabric.Community support has rallied around linking the preschool’s relocation to the Golden Valley Way Stage 2 proposal. The developer has pledged to donate land for a new preschool if the project proceeds, but the Council’s housing strategy categorises the site as a long-term development, creating frustration for locals seeking immediate solutions.The community has urged the Council to prioritise upgrades to the preschool building, a council-owned asset that is currently in a flood-prone location. These upgrades, essential for the building’s safety and readiness for future tenants, must begin now rather than waiting until the preschool relocates.“The preschool is more than an education facility—it’s the heart of our community,” said a local parent. “We need the Council to provide certainty so families and children can continue to thrive.”Extending the lease and upgrading the current facility while pursuing long-term solutions will be critical in supporting Jamberoo’s families and preserving its vibrant community spirit.

Seven days, 198kms, rowing from Batemans Bay to Eden - The George Bass Marathon is not for the faint of heart. And for ten locals all above the age of 40, their hearts couldn’t be further from faint.Competing in the Men's Veterans Surf Boats event, the ten rowers representing Kiama will tackle distances ranging from 19 to 36 km each day, starting on 29 December and finishing on 4 January.The crew consists of 8 rowers - Evan Westlake (56), Ian Backhouse (65), Alan Swan (56), Matthew Barnes (47), Dave Selby (57), Nathan McInerny (41), Martin Walker (51) and Ben George (48) - as well as a sweep - Steven Swain (79) - and super reverse Reece Gregory (41).Ian Backhouse is the boat captain and Secretary of Kiama SLSC, and he says that the effort and commitment of the crew has been sensational."These guys have made an awesome commitment to a really intense training regime over the past five months, and it's a real credit to them," says Backhouse.The crew began training in the last weekend of June, initially on the rowing machine in the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) clubhouse. But as the weather has warmed up, they have started to train at Minnamurra River and are now rowing out at sea from Kiama Harbour.The surf boat only allows for four rowers and one sweep at a time, and to give the guys a break they swap over every 20 minutes or so. This involves a complicated maneuver, of the current crew jumping out of the boat, and the other crew jumping in, in deep water. Backhouse says training for this part of the race is essential.“That's where the race could be won and lost simply through transitions. If you're having trouble getting people in and out of the boat, that slows the boat down enormously,” says BackhouseThe 2024-25 race will be Backhouse’s second George Bass Marathon and he says the first time he did it was probably the hardest thing he’s ever done.“I think it’s the hardest thing I've ever done because it's seven days in a row. The first day is 31kms (the second longest leg) and you're exhausted, right? And your body thinks, how did I survive that? And you survive it, and your body does it, and it's all in your head,” says Backhouse.“Basically, you just tell your body to get on with it. Even though you think you're going to break, you can go beyond that and still function as a human being, and still be effective in the boat. And you learn that about yourself, which is quite a remarkable realisation.”So, why come back for a second time? Backhouse says the challenge of the race is what brought him back again. The feeling of accomplishing something so great with a bunch of good mates who are all qualified surf life savers - is an unmatched feeling.“It makes you feel so good. And that level of fitness is remarkable in terms of how positive that is for mental health. I've struggled with mental health issues in the past, and I know that when I'm really, really working hard, that's the happiest I'm going to be. You haven't got time to think about mistakes you might have made, or dwell on issues that might seem over important or not. You've got a job to do, and you're doing it for the other members of the crew,” says Backhouse.“And it's just a really beautiful sport for that reason. The other thing is, I was no good at individual sports. I didn't have that sort of internal drive to keep myself honest about what I needed to do physically. But if I'm in a boat crew, I can’t let the other people down, and I can't let myself do that. It's remarkable, and that builds really strong relationships.”Another part of the George Bass Marathon is the surf ski event over the same course. Peter Gallagher is entered in the surf ski representing Kiama.Backhouse also expressed his gratitude to Ray White Real Estate and Kiama Lions Club for their financial support of the Surf Boat Rowing Program at Kiama SLSC off the ground. He would also like to mention and give a thank you to Boab Commercial Marine for supplying them with their support boat which will be skippered by David Griffin who is currently the Junior Activities Coordinator (Nippers) at Kiama SLSC.The Bugle wishes the Kiama crew the best of luck as they take on this incredible challenge.