WERRI BEACH BOARDRIDERSSHREDDERS

The Kiama Municipal Council has reviewed community feedback on several proposed development sites as part of its Draft Growth and Housing Strategy. Here are the key takeaways:   Bombo Quarry Precinct  The community largely supports the redevelopment of Bombo Quarry as a prime site for additional housing. Its proximity to public transport, the highway, and recreational areas makes it appealing, while its location protects it from strong winds often experienced in higher areas of Kiama. However, the community suggests revising the proposed timeframe for development to 15–20 years to reflect its potential as a long-term growth opportunity.Dido Street Precinct  Concerns were raised about the viability of developing the Dido Street area. The Jamberoo Road/Dido Street intersection is frequently blocked during heavy rains due to flooding, potentially exacerbating emergency response challenges. Feedback also highlighted risks associated with increased hardscape in this flood-prone area, particularly regarding a proposed self-sustaining sewerage treatment plant that could become a hazard in flooding events.  Riversdale Road Precinct  Community members expressed opposition to developing Riversdale Road due to its potential impact on local farmland, community cohesion, and natural beauty. Concerns about inadequate infrastructure, including water and sewage systems, and the area's vulnerability to strong winds were also noted. A planned transition between rural and urban zones was suggested to preserve Kiama’s character, alongside considering rezoning adjacent smaller lots.Jamberoo – Golden Valley Way Stage 2  The Jamberoo Stage 2 development received significant community support, mainly due to the potential relocation of the Jamberoo Community Preschool, which currently faces flooding issues. The developer has proposed donating land for the preschool if the development proceeds. Community members also welcomed the prospect of improved road access and the potential to attract more families and boost local commerce. However, the current housing strategy does not provide a short-term solution for the preschool relocation, and some suggest moving this site into a short-term development strategy.Next Steps in Growth and Housing Strategy  The Council outlined the following steps to refine and implement the Growth and Housing Strategy:  1. Update the Draft Strategy: Incorporate community and stakeholder feedback into the revised draft.  2. Council Endorsement for Exhibition: Present the revised draft to the Council in February 2025 for endorsement to exhibit it publicly for 28 days.  3. Public Exhibition: Actively engage with the community during the exhibition period to gather further insights.  4. Feedback Consideration: Compile feedback from the exhibition period to finalize the strategy.  5. Final Endorsement: Submit the final strategy for Council approval, including a summary of engagement and its influence on the strategy.  6. Adoption and Ministerial Review: Formally adopt the strategy and seek endorsement from the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces.  7. Implementation: Begin implementing the strategy through reviews of the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP), and advocate for infrastructure inclusion in Sydney Water’s program.  This phased approach ensures that community concerns are addressed and integrated into the final housing strategy to guide Kiama’s sustainable development.

Kiama Council is taking a stand against Transport for NSW’s recent decision to reduce the speed limit on a seven kilometre stretch of Jamberoo Road from 80km/h to 60km/h. The change, implemented in October 2024, has sparked frustration among residents and Councillors, who argue that the decision lacked adequate consultation and may not effectively address safety concerns. Transport for NSW cited 23 crashes in the past five years, including one fatality and 12 serious injuries, as the basis for the speed reduction. However, locals have questioned the transparency of the crash data analysis, particularly regarding the types of accidents and whether speed was a significant factor. “There’s disbelief in the community,” said Councillor Erica Warren. “Simply reducing the speed limit doesn’t address the real dangers of the road.” Critics also warn that the lower speed limit may lead to increased risk-taking by drivers, including unsafe overtaking. Instead, Council advocates for infrastructure improvements, such as road widening and the addition of overtaking lanes, to enhance safety. With the Golden Valley housing development poised to increase traffic on Jamberoo Road, Council believes that proactive infrastructure investments are crucial. “We need to plan for safer roads now, not wait for the situation to worsen,” added Councillor Mike Cains. Kiama Council resolved to oppose the speed limit changes and will request a meeting with the NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads to discuss the decision. Council also seeks support from local MP Gareth Ward in advocating for a review of the speed reduction and greater investment in road improvements. “Our community deserves safe, well-maintained roads that reflect their needs and expectations,” Councillor Warren said. “We’ll continue to push for answers and action.” Council aims to apply maximum pressure on state decision-makers to reconsider the speed limit changes and prioritise infrastructure upgrades, ensuring the road meets safety standards without undermining efficiency for motorists.  

It is mid-morning, early spring. The Sun’s gentle warmth caresses my skin as I settle into a quiet, shady spot on a bench. From my bag, I take out my watercolour pad, pencils, jar of water, and brush, arranging them beside me. Sketching and painting here has become a cherished routine since I discovered The Garden: a tranquil oasis of native flora hidden behind the bustle of shops and offices in a busy urban suburb. This 3.3-hectare haven, transformed from an old sandstone quarry over fifty years ago, now flourishes under the care of dedicated volunteers. I am proud to count myself among them.I love all native flora—the eucalypts, acacias, grevilleas, the delicate flannel flowers, and the many varieties of ferns. But my favourite is the Weeping Bottlebrush (Callistemon viminalis), a hardy, graceful tree that explodes with vibrant red brush-like flowers in spring, attracting birds from far and wide. One stands before me now, and today it will be the centrepiece of my artistic endeavour. If I’m pleased with the result, I plan to frame the painting and create greeting cards from it.I begin by roughing out the composition in pencil, experimenting with layouts for aesthetic appeal. Gradually, I sketch the slender light-green leaves with watercolour pencils, layering greens for a realistic effect. Once I add the crimson brush flowers, I’ll use water to bring the scene to life. Today, however, my pace quickens—there’s an urgent matter to discuss with a fellow volunteer, who is meeting me here soon.“Hey, that’s already looking good,” a familiar voice calls from behind. My colleague appears, holding a thermos. “I brought us some coffee,” she adds, pouring two cups and handing me one.Our casual meeting masks the importance of our conversation. We need to strategise against a proposed multi-story residential development before the Council—one that could block most of the sunlight from The Garden. While increasing urban density addresses housing shortages, it threatens sanctuaries like ours. This isn’t just about preserving greenery; it’s about protecting the wildlife that depends on these spaces and maintaining a balance in urban ecosystems.“The demonstration outside the Council Chambers the other day was a success,” she begins. “The local paper gave it excellent coverage, and it drew some much-needed attention. Our submission and petition are now with the Council, but we need to do more. It’s shocking how many locals don’t even know The Garden exists.”“What if we host an Open Day?” I suggest, after mulling it over. “Invite the Councillors and other local dignitaries, make it a community event. I could curate an exhibition of my sketches and paintings to auction off, raising funds to support our campaign.”Her eyes light up. “That’s a fantastic idea! I’ll call an urgent meeting for Saturday so we can get started.” She springs up and heads for the car park. “See you then!”“See you,” I call after her.Looking back at my painting-in-progress, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. Finishing this watercolour isn’t just about artistic fulfillment anymore—it’s about contributing to a cause close to my heart.

The Anglican Church of Australia is launching a social media campaign to tackle the root causes of domestic violence.The You May Have Heard It Said campaign echoes the words of Jesus and contrast the unhealthy attitudes that can lead to domestic violence with healthy ones. For example:  ‘You may have heard it said that a man has the right to control their partner, however, Jesus repeatedly challenged the unjust treatment of women, teaching that both men and women are created equally in God’s image. An image bearer of God is to be respected.’The campaign will run to coincide the United Nations initiative 16 days of activism against gender-based violence from 24 November to 10 December.It reflects the churches commitment to prevent and address domestic and family violence affecting its members and those in the broader community. “The Anglican Church is determined to be a part of the solution to the national problem of gender-based violence and support victims and survivors of intimate partner violence,” the Primate of the Anglican Church, Archbishop Geoff Smith said.“This campaign aims at the roots of that violence to change the culture that supports violence.“We want to start conversations about poor attitudes we may hold towards people around us and reinforce better ones to replace them.” The Church has made Ten Commitments to prevent and respond to domestic and family violence and this campaign forms part of the churches strategy.The commitments were developed by the Anglican Family Violence Working Group, led by the Reverend Tracy Lauersen. “We want people to help us to get the message out to as many people as possible, so we invite the community to like, follow and share these social media posts via our Ten Commitments to prevent violence Facebook and Instagram pages,” the Rev’d Lauersen said. Bishop Genieve Blackwell, Chair of the churches Families & Culture Commission, said the Church wanted to deliver a powerful message.“Our churches operate in local community spaces throughout the country and we want to play our part in helping to prevent and respond to the scourge of domestic violence by raising awareness about the link between attitudes and actions,” she said.Follow and share social media posts on our Ten Commitments to prevent violence Facebook and Instagram pages:Facebook: Ten Commitments to Prevent Violence: Australian Anglican ProgramInstagram: tencommitments. Ten Commitments to Prevent Violence: Australian Anglican Program

Kiama is a safe and thriving community, but the latest crime data reveals one area where we can all make a difference: car theft and theft from vehicles. This is one of the few offences where Kiama’s crime rate is higher than the NSW average, making it a clear priority for action.Theft from vehicles remains an ongoing issue, with simple mistakes like leaving cars unlocked or valuables visible creating easy opportunities for thieves. Many of these crimes are preventable, and by taking a few small steps, we can work together to reduce the numbers.Authorities have shared practical advice to help protect your vehicle and make Kiama a safer place:Lock your car every time, even when parked in your driveway or at home.Remove valuables like wallets, phones, or bags from view—out of sight means out of mind for thieves.Park in well-lit areas whenever possible to deter opportunistic crime.Install basic deterrents, such as steering wheel locks or dash cameras, which can make your car a less attractive target.Consider installing CCTV at your home or business to provide an added layer of security and deter potential offenders.While car theft is an area for improvement, Kiama’s crime rates for many other offences are impressively low:Break and enter – dwellings: This offence is uncommon in Kiama, with the area ranked 84th in NSW, well below the state average. Robbery: With a rank of 61st, robbery is rare in Kiama, making it one of the safest communities in this category.Stealing offences: Other stealing offences, such as shoplifting and petty theft, have decreased by almost 10% over the past decade, showing a long-term positive trend.Domestic violence-related assault: Kiama ranks 115th in the state, with significantly fewer cases compared to most NSW LGAs.These strong results reflect the community’s vigilance and proactive approach to safety.For more detailed statistics on crime trends in Kiama and NSW, visit the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) at bocsar.nsw.gov.au. Their comprehensive data provides insights into offence types and trends, helping communities like ours stay informed and proactive.Let’s Take Action TogetherKiama has an opportunity to lead the way in community safety. Reducing car theft and theft from vehicles is something every resident can contribute to, and together we can make a real difference.What steps will you take to protect your car and your community? Let’s work together to ensure Kiama remains one of the safest places in NSW.

The report from Kiama Council’s Infrastructure and Liveability Advisory Committee tabled at the 20 November ordinary council meeting, has outlined an ambitious plan of recommendations to revamp Kiama’s ageing leisure facilities, including the Leisure Centre and surrounding precinct. The report recommends creating a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose facility to serve as a hub for recreation, community services, and potentially council offices.Key Recommendations:- Masterplan Development: A holistic masterplan for the leisure precinct, including sports fields, the Leisure Centre, Blue Haven Terralong, and nearby community gardens, to ensure cohesive development.- New Facility: Replacement of the 42-year-old Leisure Centre with a modern facility featuring recreational spaces, enhanced community services, and commercial opportunities such as a café.- Sustainable Management Models: Exploration of alternative management structures to secure long-term sustainability.- Community Consultation: Extensive engagement with local residents and stakeholders to shape the project.- Short-Term Improvements: Initiatives like better signage, enhanced lighting, and a pop-up café to address immediate needs.Challenges and Considerations:The report notes that the Leisure Centre, one of Kiama’s most valued community assets, faces mounting maintenance costs of $280,000 annually and requires significant upgrades. It highlights opportunities to improve sustainability, such as replacing gas pool heating with energy-efficient systems.Outdoor facilities, including sports fields and netball courts, also need attention, with issues such as poor drainage, inadequate lighting, and limited seating flagged for action. Parking and traffic congestion are also pressing concerns.A Broader Vision for the FutureThe advisory committee advocates for a strategic precinct approach, integrating community, leisure, and residential needs. Ideas include:- Upgraded sporting facilities, potentially with regional features like a 50m pool.- Incorporation of housing for older people, individuals with disabilities, and affordable housing options.- Multi-story parking facilities to ease congestion and support town-centre access. Funding and Next StepsThe report stresses the need for federal and state funding and private partnerships to realise the vision. It also calls for a phased redevelopment plan to ensure seamless operations during the transition.While the committee’s role is advisory, the report provides a foundation for council discussions and decision-making. Community members are encouraged to engage in the forthcoming consultations to shape Kiama’s future recreational hub.

Every year, over 700,000 tonnes of milk—enough to fill 300 Olympic swimming pools—is wasted in Australia. This not only costs the dairy industry supply chain millions of dollars but also harms the environment. Now, a groundbreaking research project is turning that waste into valuable products, from animal feed to renewable energy.Using fermentation—the same process behind beer and bread—scientists from Dairy UP and Macquarie University’s Australian Genome Foundry are finding innovative ways to recycle excess milk. Early experiments are already showing that spoiled milk, excess colostrum, and cheese by-products can be transformed into sustainable products like protein for animal feed and eco-friendly energy sources.“These innovations could help farmers cut costs and reduce waste,” said lead researcher Dr Juan Gargiulo. “For example, milk that would normally be treated as a waste product due to spoilage could be used to produce valuable protein for livestock feed.”The research could also have benefits for consumers, such as cheaper groceries and reduced environmental impact. “This is about creating a win-win for everyone,” Dr Gargiulo said.With 70% of dairy waste occurring during manufacturing, the team is exploring commercial solutions to upcycle products like expired milk and whey. If successful, this project could revolutionise the dairy industry, turning waste into a resource that benefits farmers, consumers, and the planet.

Carly Austin from Emvy Design has won the Commercial Interior Award at the 2024 National Building Designers Association of Australia Awards for her design of Kiama Leagues Club’s sports bar. Kiama Leagues Club CEO Jesse O’Brien expressed his pride in Austin’s achievement, noting that the award is not only a recognition for her but for the entire club and community.“It’s an incredible honour for us at Kiama Leagues Club,” says Mr O’Brien. “Having the designer of our sports bar recognized with such a prestigious award reaffirms the vision and effort that went into creating this space. It’s not just a win for Carly, and Emvy Design, but for our entire community - it highlights how special the Kiama Leagues Club is as a destination for locals and visitors alike.”The association praised Austin’s unique combination of marble and brick in the sports bar design, which creates a welcoming space for conversation. Mr O’Brien echoes this, saying the space is perfect for creating lasting memories.“From the layout that ensures there’s no bad seat in the house to the attention to detail in lighting, finishes, and flow, it’s all about creating an unmatched experience,” says Mr O’Brien. “It’s more than just a bar; it’s a place where great memories are made.”Looking ahead, Mr O’Brien anticipates that the space will be open to the public by Christmas, alongside the completion of Stage 2 upgrades, which were also designed by Emvy Design. He also revealed that the celebrated local designers will return for future upgrades.“Looking ahead, we are excited to have re-engaged Emvy Design to begin working on Stage 3,” says Mr O’Brien. “This next phase will transform the club’s Main Lounge and Entertainment Area into a modern, welcoming space for our members and the broader community to enjoy.”The Bugle would like to congratulate Carly Austin, Emvy Design, and Kiama Leagues Club for this outstanding achievement.

The Kazador Festival is sadly coming to a close for 2024, but it’s not going out quietly! After already bringing a diverse and high-quality lineup to Kiama, featuring big names like Geraldine Hickey, Tom Ballard, and Imogen Kelly, the festival still has some exciting performances lined up for its final weekend from November 22 to 24.The last weekend promises to be action-packed, with a mix of comedy, music, vaudeville, and magic performances.Friday, November 22 kicks off with local split personality Kiki Bittovabitsch, aka Tamara Campbell, presenting her brand new show The Demasking of Kiki Bittovabitsch at 7pm, followed by internationally recognized bluesman Frank Sultana at 8:30pm.On Saturday, November 23, the comedy continues with Peter Berner at 6pm, followed by The Thin White Ukes, a ukulele tribute band performing the music of David Bowie, at 8pm. Earlier in the day, there will also be a family-friendly Vaudeville/Comedy/Circus show, Vaudevillawarra, at 4pm.The festival will close on Sunday, November 24, with Kiki and Pascal presenting their brand-new magic show, A Kind of Magic, at 2pm, followed by the final performance of the season—Kay Proudlove, a local singer-songwriter, at 6pm.In addition to the ticketed events, there will be two free wine-down sessions. On Friday, November 22, enjoy The Saskia McIntyre Trio, a jazz group from the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music, performing at 5pm. On Sunday, November 24, Cha Cha Del Mar, local favourites, will play the final wine-down at 3:30pm.Dave and Tamara from Laughter House Entertainment, the organisers of the Kiama-based festival, are thrilled with the event’s success.“We’re so proud to have brought a program that rivals any major city theatre. The Kazador Festival will be back in 2025, and we urge people to check out some of the hidden gems in the program that they might have missed—every show this season has been fantastic,” they said.The organisers also expressed gratitude to Kiama Council for their support through the community grants program.Tickets for all shows are available HERE.

Kiama’s newly installed electric vehicle (EV) chargers at The Pavilion have sparked debate and action at the recent Council meeting. While initially set to remain free until the end of the 2024/2025 financial year, a revised motion means drivers will soon need to pay to use them, addressing concerns about costs to the Council.The four chargers, funded by the NSW Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water (DCCEEW) through EV Destination Charging Grants, were installed earlier this month. The grant, approved in June, left the Council unable to incorporate fees into its 2024/2025 Fees and Charges schedule, prompting the initial decision to offer free charging for seven months.Councillor Brown charging his car with the EV chargersHowever, at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on November 20, Councillors voted to expedite the introduction of fees, citing potential reputational risks and financial burdens. Council business papers estimated that providing free electricity for seven months would cost up to $7,000. A revised fee schedule, including a 50-cent connection fee, 65 cents per kWh charge, and a 50 cents per minute idle fee, is expected to be implemented by early next year.Councillor Matt Brown clarified that users would need to bring their own charging cords.“I thought I’d give it a go today - so I went out to the Kiama Pavilion with my car and I noticed that it didn’t have a plug or hose that would usually come out of the charger to put in your car,” said Cr Brown.At this point, Brown humorously pulled out a bag, using a prop to emphasise his point. “But luckily for me, I’ve got a box of tricks,” said Cr Brown.“And inside there was a double-ended plug, which is what you’ll need for the EV charger. You put one end into the EV charger and one end into the car, and you’ll need one of these to use the chargers,” said Brown.Brown also revealed that there is a slight cost involved, which goes to Exploren, the electrical charging company.“After a good ten minutes of charging I was charged by Exploren about $1.50 for that use. I’d encourage people to go and give it a go,” said Cr Brown.The new EV chargers are part of the NSW Government's Electric Vehicle Strategy, aiming for EVs to make up over 50% of new passenger vehicle sales by 2031. Councillors Imogen Draisma and Stuart Larkins expressed strong support for the EV chargers and hoped this would be a sign of more to come. “I think it’s great that we were successful in getting a grant to have these EV chargers placed in our municipality,” said Councillor Draisma. Kiama’s initiative reflects the growing demand “Kiama has one of the highest percentages of EV users in NSW. This is a much-needed step for our community.” “I’m very happy we received grant funding from the NSW government for EV chargers. There’s many more that need to be put up, there’s been a lot of community feedback for some in Gerringong and the Kiama Leisure Centre and it’s something I will continue to advocate for,” said Councillor Larkins.While the chargers won’t remain free as initially proposed, the Council is optimistic about their impact on sustainability and the convenience they offer to EV drivers. The installation of EV chargers across NSW is part of the state government’s Electric Vehicle Strategy, which aims to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles in NSW. Under this strategy, EV sales are forecast to make up more than 50% of all new passenger vehicles by 2031.The new EV chargers at Kiama Pavillion

What if Kiama didn’t just consult? What if we truly co-designed its future - a bold, transformative vision that puts quality of life, innovation, and well-being at the centre?The report on the Council’s Draft Growth and Housing Strategy, discussed at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 20 November 2024, offers Kiama a chance to move beyond the ordinary. It’s an opportunity to rethink traditional approaches to housing and urban planning - and let’s face it, we need to. Kiama’s future demands more than ticking boxes and business as usual.Kiama’s residents are extraordinary. Whether tackling youth and male suicide, dementia care, or even placemaking, this community consistently punches well above its weight. We’re engaged, committed, and deeply passionate about our home.So why is it that so many residents stay silent during consultation processes? It’s not apathy, it’s exhaustion. People are tired of participating in systems where their voices seem to go nowhere. And that’s the real loss here - a loss of faith in being heard.Let’s name the problem: too often, housing solutions are stuck in a developer-led, middle-income-focused model. It’s a formula that prioritises a profit-centric housing model over well-being and narrows the field of possibilities.But around the world, communities like ours are breaking that mold. They’re pairing local knowledge with fresh funding models and innovative ideas. Think Birmingham’s IMPACT model, where councils, experts, and communities come together to co-design solutions that reflect local needs and values.This is our moment. Kiama’s residents are the urban stewards of this region, not here for a quick profit but for systemic innovation that uplifts well-being and builds a legacy for generations to come.If we’re serious about leading in housing and innovation, here’s what needs to happen:Wrap it up and roll it out: Finalise the housing strategy and take it to the community for real, meaningful consultation.Team up for success: Partner with state authorities and developers to align local priorities with regional opportunities.Set the clock ticking: Establish clear deadlines and deliver diverse, affordable housing options without delay.Engage, don’t just inform: Move from telling residents what’s happening to genuinely involving them, with transparent feedback loops that show how their input drives outcomes.This isn’t just about housing. It’s about who we are as a community. Do we want to stick with the same tired playbook or dare to reimagine what’s possible?The Draft Growth and Housing Strategy is a starting point, but it’s not enough on its own. Its success will depend on whether council and the community are ready to embrace change and collaborate meaningfully.Let’s make Kiama the benchmark for community-driven solutions and innovation. Because when Kiama cares, Kiama leads.

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.The first series of stories will 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.Richard “Don” Romanczukiewicz is an electrician by trade, he has worked as an electrical fitter and finished off his career as a high voltage generator technician - but he says wiring the MV Signa’s electrical system was one of the hardest in his long career.“This is probably the most challenging project I’ve ever done. I’ve been around and I’ve got a lot of knowledge of high voltage and boats. But never the 12 volt system and the alarm system that’s going on the Signa,” says Don.Don had to redesign the entire system from scratch—a massive job that he didn’t expect when he first came on board. “When I started, I didn’t think it would be this big. I don’t think John had any idea either. Things kept going wrong, and more issues kept popping up,” he says.But Don credits Google, the challenge, and the camaraderie with friends as the things that got him through it.“It’s amazing what you can do with Google. I had no idea what I was doing with this system, but watching videos helped a lot. I also needed a challenge like this to get my brain working again, especially since I’m retired now,” says Don.“I’ve made a lot of friends. There has been a lot of joking around, having a go at one another and I’ve really enjoyed that as well.”Don’s love for the ocean and boats began during his time working on a prawn fishing boat in the Gulf of Carpentaria. “We’d be out for three months at a time. So, I really love the ocean,” he shares.And where does this nickname Don come from? “My full nickname is Don Primo because I’m famous for my salami,” says Don with a smile. And this reporter can confirm Don’s salami is second to none.If you’d like to see Don Primo make it to Tasmania for the Wooden Boat Festival, The Signa crew is still looking for donations. If you’d like to pledge, please get in touch with us here or email [email protected].

Kiama locals Jacqui Forst and Lynne Strong stepped into the hub of innovation and collaboration at the UNSW Business School's end-of-year reflections and celebrations this week. Hosted by Deputy Dean Karin Saunders, the event buzzed with energy as academics and industry leaders shared stories of partnerships that turn ideas into action. We were honoured to attend, not as passive observers but as active learners, keen to uncover opportunities that could enrich our community.The Business Insights Institute at UNSW champions an ethos we can all embrace—knocking on doors, learning the language, and building bridges between academics, industries, and communities. Their "inside-out" and "outside-in" approaches are models of engagement, where academics reach out to collaborate, and industry players knock back with ideas for partnership.Imagine this ethos in action here in the Kiama LGA. Our region is brimming with passionate community members, knowledgeable experts, and untapped potential for collaboration. Farmers innovating in sustainable agriculture, teachers nurturing the next generation, local business leaders navigating complex markets—these are the people we should be knocking on doors to meet.Jacqui and I attend events like this one at UNSW because we want to bring ideas home. Who else wants to collaborate? What can we learn from them? And most importantly, how can their expertise help our community tackle the challenges we face?One of the evening’s key themes was the importance of listening. Noel Harding, an academic with a background in industry, spoke about breaking down silos and improving communication between sectors. Sarah Dart, a Chief Customer Officer, highlighted the transformative potential of combining research insights with practical application in the workplace. And Professor Barney Tan reminded us of the power of centralised frameworks to bring diverse groups together to solve meaningful problems.For Kiama Council, the message is clear: we need to listen to our experts and our community. By reaching out to local leaders, tapping into the expertise of nearby universities, and fostering connections, we can create an ecosystem of shared knowledge. This isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about unlocking the creativity and resilience already present in our region.We don’t have to reinvent the wheel. As Deputy Dean Karin Saunders eloquently put it, every organisation has its own “house with many rooms,” full of people with ideas, skills, and lived experience. Our job is to knock on those doors and invite collaboration.Kiama LGA already has the building blocks for success. By learning from the UNSW model and embracing a partnership-first approach, we can create solutions that reflect the unique character and needs of our community. Let’s start by asking: Who in our backyard has the expertise we need? Who’s passionate about making a difference? Let’s knock, listen, and learn.Together, we can create a community where innovation thrives, and everyone has a seat at the table.

Kiama MP Gareth Ward is championing a Private Members Bill aimed at ensuring all new and upgraded hospitals with emergency departments include a helipad as a standard feature.  The proposal comes in the wake of controversy surrounding the new $780 million Shellharbour Hospital, currently under construction, which will lack a helipad upon its opening — a downgrade from the existing facility that has one.  Mr. Ward described the omission as “madness,” arguing that helipads are vital for rapid emergency care. “The current Shellharbour Hospital has a helipad. The new hospital, which is costing taxpayers $780 million, will not. When seconds count, a helipad isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity,” he said.  His bill seeks to make helipads mandatory for all future hospital developments and renovations involving emergency departments. “It’s common sense, but the Minns Labor Government and Health Minister Ryan Park seem to disagree,” Mr. Ward added.  Criticism was also levelled at the government’s alternative plan, which involves airlifting critical patients to Albion Park Airport and transporting them via road to the new hospital. Mr. Ward called the approach “completely impractical,” citing potential delays along key routes, including Dunmore Road and the Princes Highway.  “What makes this even more absurd is that the government prioritised a cycleway strategy for the new hospital but couldn’t secure a helipad. Heart attack patients don’t need cycleways — they need immediate critical care,” he argued.  Mr. Ward also criticised the Minns Government’s funding priorities, pointing to investments in events like UFC while essential infrastructure remains underfunded. “The Health Minister, who is also the Minister for the Illawarra, is failing our region. He can fix this now,” Mr. Ward said.  The bill, Mr. Ward claimed, is not about political posturing. “If Labor confirms funding for a helipad at Shellharbour and commits to including helipads in future hospital builds and upgrades, I’ll withdraw this bill tomorrow,” he said.  The debate over hospital infrastructure comes as healthcare services in the Illawarra face increasing scrutiny, with residents and advocates calling for improvements to meet growing demand.

At the Ordinary Meeting on November 20, 2024, Kiama Municipal Council reviewed and approved a comprehensive report on parking and traffic access prepared by the Infrastructure and Livability Advisory Committee. The report proposes significant changes aimed at improving parking efficiency, enhancing safety, and addressing the growing pressures of population growth and tourism in the Kiama Local Government Area (LGA).  Key Recommendations:  1. Expanded Parking Study Area: Extend study boundaries from Kiama Township to include Blowhole Point, Havilah Place, and Barney Street.  2. Parking and Traffic Hierarchy: Develop tailored parking and traffic control strategies for Kiama and villages like Gerringong, Jamberoo, and Kiama Downs.  3. Improved Signage and Wayfinding: Upgrade signage and integrate parking data into navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze) to better publicise and manage available parking.  4. Safety Enhancements: Remove non-compliant rumble strips and upgrade pedestrian crossings to meet Australian standards.  5. Long-Term Strategies: Consider building an underground car park at Hindmarsh Park and a multi-storey facility at Havilah Place to address peak demand sustainably.  6. Temporary Measures: Replace parking lost during developments at Akuna Street and allow public use of council staff car parks outside business hours.  Addressing Challenges  The report identifies increasing weekday tourism and upcoming construction projects as contributors to parking stress. It also highlights the need for stricter enforcement of time limits and the potential for revenue from improved ranger activity.  Vision for the Future  With a focus on sustainable urban mobility, the report outlines a 15-20 year vision to support the growing needs of residents and visitors. Proposed facilities at Hindmarsh Park and Havilah Place could incorporate paid parking, improve traffic flow, and free up public spaces, aligning with Kiama’s commitment to livability and tourism.  

Do you find it difficult to know how to help the environment? Are you unsure how to recycle organic waste? Many people find it challenging to understand how they can make a meaningful impact on climate change in their daily lives. But John McKew from the Australian Organics Recycling Association says there is a straightforward and effective action we can all take to combat climate change: recycling organic waste in our green bin. “Many households recycle garden organics, but an increasing number are now including food organics in green bins,” he says. Putting organic waste in the red bin sends it to landfill, where its decomposition produces methane - a greenhouse gas that’s 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, contributing to global climate change. When households put organic waste in the green bin, it’s sent to an organics processing facility to make compost, mulch, and soil conditioners, significantly reducing methane emissions. Mr McKew says organics recycling prevented almost four million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from entering the atmosphere in 2021-22. This is the equivalent to almost six million trees being planted to absorb the same amount of CO2, according to the association.Households can do their bit to reduce the impacts of climate change by separating and recycling organic waste correctly, but Mr McKew says it’s crucial to keep rubbish and contaminants out of the green bin. “Plastics are the most common contaminant, but many other items like bagged household waste, glass, metal, leather, rubber, cardboard boxes, and even food still in its packaging are frequently found,” he says. “These contaminants must be removed, often by hand, before the organics can be effectively recycled.” Mr McKew says the benefits of organics recycling extends beyond emission reductions at landfills. “The compost, mulch, and soil conditioners can enhance soil health and improve the growth of crops, gardens, and trees,” he says. “This reduces the need for inorganic fertilisers and irrigation, and increases plant survival creating a favourable outcome for both the environment and our communities.”Mr McKew says Australia’s organics recovery rate sits at just 52.3 per cent.“There’s still room for improvement and the Australian Organics Recycling Association encourages everyone to recycle their organic waste thoughtfully and to celebrate the environmental benefits of these small, everyday actions.”

The housing crisis is real. The system is broken. But amidst the dysfunction is an opportunity to create a planning process that works for everyone—not just developers, not just governments, but the communities that will live with the outcomes.Last week, the Minns Government announced a state-led planning body to bypass councils for developments over $60 million in Sydney and $30 million in the regions. The backlash was swift. “Local councils and communities, sidelined. Developers, green-lit.” came the cry. But what if we flipped the narrative? What if this moment could bring everyone to the table—not just three levels of government, but the community itself?Opinion by Lynne StrongLocal Government NSW President Cr Darriea Turley AM hit the nail on the head: “The housing crisis is multifaceted and requires all three spheres of government working together.” She’s right, but this isn’t just about governments. It’s about recognising the power of the community, the people who will live in these developments and the neighbours they will impact.Take inspiration from Birmingham’s IMPACT initiative, where community engagement is embedded into planning and decision-making. By combining research, practice, and lived experience, Birmingham has shown that trust and collaboration lead to better outcomes. Why couldn’t Kiama Council take a similar approach? Why couldn’t Kiama set the benchmark for first-class community engagement?This isn’t just about slamming developers or councils. It’s about rebuilding trust. Development applications languish for years. Councils are under-resourced. Residents feel locked out. Yet, change is possible when people feel heard. Kiama could lead by embracing participatory planning, giving residents real agency in shaping their future.The housing crisis demands bold solutions. But bold doesn’t mean excluding the voices that matter most. Let’s make this broken system the foundation for something better—together.

In our village of Jamberoo, legends Kevin Richardson and Geoff Boxsell reshaped how Australians enjoy their morning toast. If you’ve ever spread a creamy, soft blend on your bread without tearing it to bits, you have these two—and their team—to thank.Kevin started at Jamberoo Dairy Factory as a 15-year-old apprentice, soaking up knowledge from mentors like Ned Roach and Steve Dare. Alongside Geoff, the factory manager, Kevin became part of a team that didn’t just make dairy products—they made premium dairy products and redefined them. Geoff was the strategist, Kevin was the craftsman, but both are quick to credit their coworkers. “It was a team effort,” they say, remembering their multiskilled crew who stepped into any role needed to keep production running and innovation alive.“And full credit to our farmers,” Kevin added. “You can only make premium products with premium milk, and our farmers’ milk quality was second to none.”Photo from 1975 of Geoff Boxsell Manger of Jamberoo Dairy Factory from 1959-1984Their story of spreadable “butter” began with a simple goal: make butter better. By culturing cream with cheese culture, they achieved a rich, new flavour profile. But the team didn’t stop there. After perfecting their cultured cream butter, they experimented with adding vegetable oils to create a product that stayed soft straight from the fridge. The result? A smooth, spreadable blend with the flavour of butter and the ease of a spread.Photo from 1975 of Kevin Richardson who was Head of the Laboratory and Chief Butter Maker at Jamberoo Dairy Factory where they formulated and made premium dairy products for Australian families   They affectionately dubbed it “Stuff,” knowing they couldn’t legally call it butter. But “Stuff” was an immediate hit, and the team was determined to get it on store shelves. Then came the warning: the Department of Agriculture threatened to deregister Jamberoo Dairy’s butter licence if they continued production. Despite the pressure, Kevin, Geoff, and the whole team didn’t back down. They kept refining “Stuff” and eventually due to consumer pressure it finally gained approval, though it had to be labelled “spreadable”Today, every tub of “spreadable” owes a debt to the innovation and resilience of Kevin, Geoff, and the Jamberoo team. Their work—and their teamwork—changed the industry, bringing a small village invention to breakfast tables across Australia, one smooth spread of “Stuff” at a time.