The Kiama and District Business Chamber unveiled exciting changes at its spectacular Christmas Party, marking a new chapter for the organisation.Recently rebranded as the Kiama Business Network, the Chamber's new name reflects a commitment to inclusivity, particularly for online and remote businesses that are becoming an integral part of the region's economy.A fresh logo and colour scheme, crafted with Brenna from Summerland Studio, will soon debut, symbolising this forward-thinking approach.Led by newly appointed President Cathryn Lyall and supported by an enthusiastic team of directors, the Network is set to launch workshops tailored to members' needs in the coming year.Vice President Matt King emphasised the importance of connecting directly with members through personalised conversations to understand their challenges and aspirations. Plans also include partnerships with organisations like Headspace to bring youth mental health initiatives to the forefront, benefiting local businesses and their families.The festive event celebrated not only these milestones but also the vibrant business community of Kiama, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.Sally McCallum and Donna Ryan from Macey Insurance BrokersPhotographer Peter Izzard with Meryll Faulkner from Making Faces Makeup StudioTrish Fallon, Mayor Cameron McDonald and Leanne Brookes the Kiama Business Network Engagement OfficerSheree Harris from Collective Beat with Cressida Cains of Pecora Dairy, Cr Mike Cains and Cathryn Lyall President of KBNDr Astin Lee in the Christmas spirit with partner Cr Matt BrownTerry and Michelle Douglas from Smith and Sons Kiama

Champagne flowed, fashions wowed and some were lucky to win a sweepstake as Melbourne Cup Day was celebrated in style at various venues.This group of ladies from Kiama had every intention of catching the train, but as plans often go, they found themselves hopping on a bus instead – and what a fabulous entrance they made! Decked out in outfits that radiate personality and flair, they caught more than a few glances as they made their way to the Gerringong Co-op to celebrate Melbourne Cup Day with a luncheon. It’s not every day you see such a vibrant gathering on public transport, and each of these women had a story to tell about her outfit.True to their values, no one here dashed to the shops for a new dress. Instead, they chose from their existing wardrobes, pulling out pieces that have stood the test of time – some even decades old. For these ladies, fashion is as much about memories as it is about style.Their bus driver even joined them for a quick photo, making it a moment to remember. Together, they embody the spirit of the day – celebrating friendships, sustainability, and the fun of dressing up for an occasion. The bus journey might not have been part of the original plan, but with this group, every moment is part of the adventure.Lizzie Souter, radiant in her red fascinator and flowing purple shawl, stands out at the Gerringong Co-op Melbourne Cup luncheon. She raises her glass with a wide smile, embodying both elegance and playfulness. Today, her outfit is more than just a stylish choice – it’s a tribute to the Red Hat Society, a movement she recently joined that celebrates the joys of aging with friendship, humour, and a dash of rebellion.The Red Hat Society encourages women over 50 to embrace life in a bold, unapologetic way. Its members wear red hats and purple attire as symbols of their commitment to living life on their own terms, free from societal expectations about how they “should” act or dress. For Lizzie, the society wasn’t just about the outfits or gatherings; it was about connecting with like-minded women who find joy in each other’s company and who believe that age should never dull one’s spirit.Today, Lizzie raises her glass not just to the Melbourne Cup but to the society that has brought her laughter, connection, and a renewed zest for life. Her attire, much like her spirit, shines brightly – a perfect reflection of the Red Hat Society’s joyous and enduring message.Fashion show at Gerringong CoopYves at the Sebel celebrated with a bottomless champagne brunch Kiama Leagues Club attracted some well dressed puntersKiama Leagues Club celebrationsYves celebrations

Ray Cox and Michelle Marshall with our Rock'n'Roll Manequin\ Some of the dancers in the photos are: Ray Cox and Michelle Marshall, Diana Fredes and Brian Barber, Phil and Alison Burgess, Mitch and Lille Anderson amongst others.

Folk by the Sea was a fantastic event once again, offering something for everyone. From Eric Avery's hauntingly beautiful violin melodies to Fred Smith Band's hilarious history lessons and Redfern Shanty Club's soulful sing-alongs, the variety was impressive.Running over the weekend of 20 - 22 nd September, the event featured a full schedule of artists. Musicians from across Australia gathered in Kiama, and many praised the town for being a great host.Cigany Weaver and Fred SmithBrisbane's ‘Cigany Weaver’ showcased their versatility across genres, from performing their upbeat original song "Paprika," as well as parisian tunes and plenty of jazz. Their leading lady Jo Davie’s, was unfortunately unable to attend, so their violinist, Gareth Mewes lead the band beautifully whilst they all played off each other showing how well attuned they are as a unit. They also jumped in to accompany other artists during the running of the event. Eric Avery painted beautiful musical pictures for the audience with his violin and vocal talents, performing primarily in the Ngiyampaa language and using a loop pedal to create stunning, layered sounds. If you haven’t seen him live, it’s a must. Eric Avery performing at The Pavilion, KiamaThe Fred Smith Band added a comedic touch with songs about historical figures and current events, including a crowd favourite "What Could Go Wrong?" about Donald Trump, enhanced by a PowerPoint presentation of relevant moments.Mikelangelo was the headlining act, performing multiple times over the event. His tribute to Shane MacGowan,’The Fairytale of Shane MacGowan, was a favourite and had people dancing. He was joined onstage with members of Cigany Weaver and The Gleaners, adding to the vibes and showcasing their amazing musical talent and connection to other musicians. Broken CreekThe Pavilion offered shade from the sun over the weekend and there was pizza, coffee, drinks and more available from local vendor trucks. It all finished off with a fun filled night at Kiama Bowlo. Other performers included Broken Creek, Kiama Pipe Band, The Con Artists, Peter Willey, Kelly Brouhaha, Apolline, and more. Check out these event photos, and if you missed it, be sure to catch next year’s edition!Headliner Mikelangelo

Every Bastille Day, Kangaroo Valley bursts into vibrant celebration with the Friendly Inn Hotel Bastille Day Pétanque Festival. This lively event is a tribute to French culture, filled with colour, camaraderie, and culinary delights, beer, baguettes, and bravado in abundance!Set in the expansive beer garden of the Friendly Inn Hotel, the festival offers a mix of live music, coffee, pastries and baguettes. It’s a warm and welcoming atmosphere for participants and spectators.At the heart of the festivities is the game of pétanque (pronounced pay-TONK), a classic French sport similar to boules (pronounced BOOL). Played with metal balls, the objective is to toss the boule from a stationary position within a hoop, aiming to land as close as possible to the target ball on a 4-metre-wide, 15-metre-long pitch. Each team gets six throws, earning points for each boule closer to the target than the opponent’s. Skilful players can even knock their rival’s boule away, adding a strategic twist and much excitement to the game.The Coffin Cheaters rightfully won “best dressed” - Supplied by Donna PortlandThis year saw 28 teams of 6 to 8 members each. This festival draws crowds from near and far. Last year I thought one team’s drive from Wollongong was considerable, but this year met a team that had come all the way from Bathurst!Each year I am invited to play by my friends up the hill, the spirited ‘Beasts of Burrawang’ as I am adept at hurling heavy metal balls. Although this does get more difficult as the day goes on, depending on how much beer is consumed. Winning team: “Valley Gold”- Supplied by the Friendly InnTeams often embrace the festive spirit by dressing up in imaginative costumes. Participants range from Marie Antoinette accompanied by aristocrats with white curly wigs, white faces and rouge cheeks, to men in cow onesies or aviator suits.Though the Beasts played valiantly, we didn’t make it to the semifinals this year, unlike our impressive run last year. After a marathon of seven games, it was a bit disappointing, but we’ve learned a valuable lesson: next year, we’ll fully embrace the spirit of the event with costumes. I’ve proposed that we don French poodle onesies, complete with berets and faces painted in the tricolour of the French flag.Congratulations to Valley Gold for their triumph in winning the tournament! The Beasts will return next year, aiming for greater accuracy with our boules and sporting our poodle suits.:A shoutout to Kiama, Gerringong, and Jamberoo - surely, there are pétanque enthusiasts in these areas ready to form a competitive team!

Cin Cin Wine bar celebrated the vibrant opening of the newest exhibition ‘Strong Women’ by Kathy Karas. Special thanks for Michelle Springett from Expressive Art Wall Trail for her invaluable support in bringing this exhibition to life. It was announced that all commissions from the exhibition, along with a portion of Kathy’s sales, will be donated to Women Illawarra.Kathy Karas

The Kiama and Shellharbour District Tennis Association (K.S.D.T.A) stepped into a time machine at their annual ladies presentation night, rocking the night away in poodle skirts and varsity jackets.The annual presentation night was held on Friday 28 June at the Warilla Bowls and Recreation Reserve and it was a party to remember.The Inspired Unemployed, debuted their new band, the ‘Retired Gentlemen’s League’. South Coast boys Jack Steele, from Minnamurra and Matt ‘Falcon’ Ford, from Gerringong, along with their band, played the hottest hits from the 50s to liven up the dancefloor.A number of awards and accolades were presented to teams and individuals for their efforts during the tennis competitions:Grace Wyatt – Ladies Mid-Week Division 1 – Sportsmanship & Consistency               Holly Fogarty – Kiama Club Margaret Harding – Ladies Mid-Week Division 2 – Sportsmanship & Consistency               Michelle Mullan – Jamberoo ClubVal Brunker – A Grade Ladies Night Comp – Sportsmanship & Consistency Anne Herbert – Jamberoo Club (DSC-0011)                                            Mavis Morphett – B Grade Ladies Night Comp – Sportsmanship & Consistency Nicole Hensman – Kiama Club Hazel Lewis – C Grade - Sportsmanship and Consistency Elaine King – Jamberoo (DSC-0012) Helen Jones – Encouragement Trophy Hanna Hansson-Blackwell –Kiama Margaret Edmonds – C2 Most Improved Player               Megan Collins – Jamberoo (DSC-0013)Most Outstanding Team Effort Oak Flats 4 – Div 7 (DSC-0014) Outstanding club of the Year Kiama Club (DSC-0015)The Bugle congratulates all the winners.

“Electrifying.” That’s how Laura Stokes from Shellharbour Village describes her first-ever ice bath. “I was nervous to do it, but it’s good to prove that it can be done,” says Stokes. A beaming Sandra BiggsStokes, along with two other brave women, were the first ones to take the plunge at the pilates and ice bath-event at Killalea State Park on Saturday 21 April.The event, organised by Snap Fitness Kiama, introduced a local group of women to ice baths, which can help with muscular relief, pain reduction, inflammation and overall recovery.Laura Stokes lets it all sink inIt can also give you an “ice-bath high,” explains assistant club manager at Snap Fitness Kiama, Sam Baskerville. “It’s a bit of a serotonin boost, so it’s going to make your mood lift. And it will last ten times as long as when you exercise. Up to 24 hours,” explains Baskerville.But voluntarily soaking yourself in an ice bath with a temperature of 3°C, containing 10-15 bags of ice, takes guts.Ice bath debutante, Cassi Nash from Nowra“I was nervous about how cold it was going to be,” Stokes recalls, as she sits on a bench afterwards, face turned toward the warm autumn sun. “Especially as she [Baskerville] had the temperature, I thought, ‘oh, no’.”“The first bit was not bad. After 10 seconds it got harder. I was waiting for the timer so I knew it was time to get out,” she says.Most of the women chose to sit, each in a portable bath, for between two to five minutes. If you’re an ice bath-novice, Baskerville says the secret is to go slow.Sam Baskerville from Snap Fitness counts down the time for the women in the ice baths“Yeah, if you’re never done it before, start slow. Bring your breathing down. And the more you do it, the frequency, it gets easier,” recommends Baskerville.“Eventually, you’ll be able to go for longer and will keep getting into a little state of calm,” she adds with a smile.

It was standing room only at Kiama Anglican Church for the latest successful instalment of the Classical Kiama Concert series, performed by Goldner String Quartet on 7 April 2024. With approximately 120 people in attendance, this sell-out show marked one of the final performances for the distinguished Goldner String Quartet. The musicians announced their disbandment late last year after collaborating since 1995. Each having performed with prestigious companies such as Australian Chamber Orchestra and Sydney Symphony Orchestra, the quartet is comprised of Dene Olding and Dimity Hall on violin, violist Irina Morozova and cellist Julian Smiles. Hall and Smiles are a married couple, as are Olding and Morozova.PerformersPerforming a “potpourri of quartet excerpts”, as described by band member Dene Olding, the quartet moved seamlessly through works of varying energies from classical composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Schumann, alongside up-and-coming young Australian composer, Harry Sdraulig. Perfectly timed notes from all musicians filled the intimate space with a richness that clearly captivated all in attendance. A heartfelt round of applause upon conclusion inspired an inevitable encore, with the quartet performing a piece by Czech composer, Dvořák, which shone a spotlight particularly on Smiles’ brilliance on the cello.Roslyn, Nick & Anne“The Goldner Quartet were superb. We are really lucky to have had them in Kiama. It was a beautiful program, and the encore was just magical,” says regular attendee of Classical Kiama concerts, Karen Lateo.The energy in the Church that evening was undeniably uplifting. This was felt too by the quartet, who – despite their looming disbandment – would warmly welcome a return to our region in some capacity.“We really enjoyed performing for Classical Kiama. We were thrilled with the capacity audience, which was very welcoming, responsive and appreciative,” says Hall.Natalia & Diana“The location is spectacular, and the Anglican Church is a perfect venue for chamber music. The acoustic is lovely and the ambience warm and intimate. We would gladly return in some form or other and we wish Classical Kiama all the best for their continuing series of concerts.”Remaining Classical Kiama events for 2024 include Daniel Röhn (violin) and Olena Nikulina (piano) on 16 June, Jesse Flowers (guitar) on 18 August, and Simon Tedeschi (piano) and George Washingmachine (jazz violin and vocals) on 6 October. An end of year concert will follow in December, with details to be announced shortly. For further details and bookings, visit the Classical Kiama Facebook page.

On Wednesday, 10 April, Kiama Community Radio hosted a senior’s high tea at the Kiama Leagues Club. The event brought together local seniors in the Kiama district for a lovely afternoon of good food, connection, and vintage music. Among the distinguished guests was Mayor Neil Reilly, back at the helm, and MP for Kiama Gareth Ward. In his address, the Mayor took a moment to express his gratitude for the opportunity to spend time with the seniors of our community, as well as the efforts of both Kiama Community Radio and The Bugle as direct outlets for community news and stories.Helen, Julieanne, Elaine, Gail, Mila, Kathy and Kathleen enjoying the festivitiesDeclaring the high tea officially open, Mayor Reilly reflected on his love for community radio and its important role in our tight-knit community. Gordon Bell & John Larkins (Kiama Lions President) catching up over high teaOne of the attendees, Gordon Bell, said he was grateful to have heard about the event from the last edition of The Bugle newspaper. We advertise events just such as this in print and on our What’s On page online, updated frequently.   The event was organised to celebrate the seniors in our community and get them connected to Kiama Community Radio. There was a raffle with some generously donated prizes to be won: A $50 voucher from Burnett’s on Barney, supplied by the owners of Edessa arcade with a bottle of champagne, and also a $200 voucher donated from The Sebel Kiama.Madeleine & FranEvents such as these are a wonderful demonstration of the generous nature of the community in Kiama and thanks are owed to the owners of Edessa Arcade and The Sebel Kiama for donating the raffle prizes. The initiative for the event was $1400 in funding from the small events grants programme from Kiama Council. Kerrie, Gabi & Bernie - movers and shakers in KCRAdditionally, The Kiama Leagues Club not only provided the event space but also the t-shirts worn by KCR volunteers during the afternoon. The high tea delicacies were sourced from Cakes on Collins, Bakers Delight and Woolworths. Overall, the high tea was a resounding success, underscoring the importance of honouring the contributions of Kiama’s seniors. With events like these, the spirit of togetherness and appreciation continues to thrive within the community.  Hopefully more of our community will tune into the fabulous programmes offered on Kiama Community Radio. You can access their music directly from The Bugle app also.

After recent storms that left the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club roof in disrepair, the community displayed an inspiring show of solidarity and kindness to help fundraise to mend the damages – on the very weekend of predicted further wild weather! Fortunately Kiama was not hit as hard as neighbouring areas or the evening could have been very different for the guests.Leading this charge was Pritpal from JJ's Indian Restaurant, Kiama, who offered to cook a lavish Indian banquet for 100 attendees, free of charge with proceeds going to the roof restoration.The event on Saturday 6 April, held at the club, was nothing short of magical. It transformed into a vibrant celebration of community spirit, with a Bollywood DJ spinning tunes, lively dancing, and even a conga line snaking through the room. Attendees added to the colourful atmosphere by dressing in beautiful saris, enhancing the festivity.Club President Phil Perry took on the role of waiter for the night, while Club Treasurer David Gorman meticulously hand-washed every dish—a true testament to the dedication and teamwork within the club.Pritpal and JJ's Indian Restaurant have long been pillars of the Kiama community. For 13 years, they've been offering free meals to the homeless and affordable $5 student meals to international students at Wollongong University.Monica from JJ's was thrilled to see the community enjoying their culinary delights and wasted no time hitting the dance floor, sparking a night of joy and camaraderie."The event was a massive success," said Club President Phil Perry, "not only in raising funds to repair our roof but also in showcasing the strength and spirit of our community."The Kiama Surf Life Saving Club extends its heartfelt gratitude to Pritpal, JJ's Indian Restaurant, and the entire community for their overwhelming support during these challenging times.Check out these awesome pics from the event

Leanne Brookes, and Jessie Spinx - Kiama CouncilFrom left to right: Trent Hilaire-Hill To Air, Craig Morris, and Mark Jacoub-Snap Fitness. From left to right: Erin Egan, Anne Marie Esler, Claire Lux, Jenny Miles- On Print, Carla Juta and Paul Randall- South Coast HolidaysMarty M -South Coast Wine AcademyCatherine Glover -Principal Kiama of Kiama High School and Cameron McDonald- Cullerton Lawyers Susan Spence- Hartwell Floral and Trish Fallon- Marriage CelebrantFrom left to right: Anna Saunders (Leadership creativity), Kathryn Martens (Release Coaching) and Meg Storey (Marketing Movement)From left to right: Brendon Comber and Gareth Ward (MP) Glenn Haworth - Resolve Business coaching and Bede Crasnich Marie Beikmanais From left to right: Michael Hatfield-Kells Lawyers, Fiona Pollard, Ann Marie Campbell - H. Parsons Funerals and Andy WhartonShamayne Anderson, and Michael Emmett - Bluestone BuildingMeryll Faulkner, Nardia Giullaumier- Gold medallist, World Indoor Rowing Championships 2024 and Ann Garard- Kiama Charter Services

Black Beach came alive with KiamaSala on Sunday 25 February, the first major Indian festival in the region. Festival goers were blessed with a dazzling summer’s day as the perfect backdrop to the day’s festivities, where food and market stalls complemented a stage packed with entertainment.Stand out stalls offered Indian fashion, Henna artists, and traditional Homewares and Décor, with plenty to take home. A selection of Indian food kept attendees nourished, with Kiama local JJs a clear favourite.The main stage was the hub of the action. A dynamic MC kept the energy flowing, and excited the crowd with giveaways, facts about India, and Kiama-based trivia, with one lucky person going home with an Adam Gilchrist signed cricket bat.A packed event schedule kicked off with a morning Yoga class and a welcome to country, and later included traditional drum performances, DJ’s and musical talent, and a host of Bollywood dancers. The highlight of the day was the performances by the students from Bollywood Exclusive Dance. In vibrant traditional costumes, they wowed the audience with their blend of traditional Indian and modern western dance styles, and even joined the crowd on the grass to share some Bollywood moves in a joint performance. Dance teacher, Viji, was ecstatic, and had glowing praise for her students.“They’ve all worked so hard in the lead up to this, and they’ve done an amazing job.”For one event goer, this event was a highlight of their year so far.“It’s been such a great vibe. I loved watching the performances, and it was really nice to see everyone get involved”With the success of the event, we’ll be sure to see KiamaSala return next year even bigger and better.

The Kiama Farmers' Market returned for its tenth year on Wednesday, bringing locals and visitors fresh produce and ready-to-eat food at Coronation Park with the enviable backdrop of Surf Beach.Market co-ordinator Tricia Ashelford shared with The Bugle some of the new vendors this year.“We’re really excited to have a new grower from up at Wollondilly, they grow their own strawberries on their farm so they’re doing chocolate-covered strawberries.”“It’s great to have Schottlanders Wagyu back after a little break, they’re back with their beef from Gerringong. Pecora Dairy with their award-winning sheep’s cheese from up at Robertson is back as well, that’s been fantastic. And there’s so much ready-to-eat food around as well. So it’s a nice spot to come and sit out and listen to some music, have something to eat and enjoy the view.Brittony MayOn 7 February, the Kiama Farmers Market will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a slew of activities as well as a cake to celebrate the milestone.LeylaMichael from Pecora DairyLisa from Schottlanders WagyuLiam and Shawnie from AmigosIvy and Adam from Buena Vista FarmIvy and Banjo

Photos courtesy of Darren ParlettAn estimated 15,000 people from within and outside the Kiama LGA made their way to the harbour on New Year's Eve to witness one of the town’s biggest New Years Eve Sky Shows to date.Fireworks kicked off at 9pm, with families hanging around town to enjoy the rest of the festivities including the Family Carnival at the Old School Flat, and food from local eateries such as Miss Arda, Hungry Monkey, Moist N Glazed, Kiama Sweet Co. and Saltwater.What could be the biggest Kiama New Year’s Eve Sky Shows is also the most environmentally friendly. Kiama Council teamed up with Fireworks Australia to use fireworks made from rice straw and calcite materials rather than traditional cardboard, making it more biodegradable and minimising waste. The new fireworks also use 30 per cent less black lift powder.

Gerringong Library hosted a school holiday challenge for kids to explore their creative sides with Lego. The kids worked with hundreds of Lego pieces provided by the library to create some exciting water vessel designs. The Waterworks challenge posed designs for fountains, swimming pools, and waterwheels and the kids were given free creative reign over their designs. The young builders were eager to show off their ideas, with some choosing to incorporate water slides and surf board pieces to complete the look, sticking to the theme. Kids and parents alike had a blast building together. All creations are to be displayed in the library for the public to see. The library continues to hold similar activities for the remainder of the school holidays, most of which are free. These activities are a fun and cost effective way to keep the kids entertained this summer.The next activity at the library will be held on Thursday 4 January where participants will learn how to use green screen effects to script and shoot a short film. Looking ahead there is another chance to explore the world of Lego on Tuesday 9 January with a competition open to ages 5-12 years old. For more information or to make a booking you can visit the library website. 

Wet weather couldn’t stop the Kiama LGA from showing out for the Carols in the Park, or should we say Carols in the Leagues Club!The 2023 Carols in the Park on Wednesday 20 December was relocated to the Kiama Leagues Club Auditorium, and the town packed out the room with friends, families and plenty of kids who joined in on the Christmas festivities.Santa Claus himself made an appearance, much to the delight of the younger crowd who flocked to Jolly Saint Nick for presents and treats.The NSW Fire Brigade made their way on stage to sing a few Christmas classics with the kidsAlana, Kerry, Kirsty and Alex Emanuel, Mary, Chris and Mel Dion and HenryLincoln, Rose, Joey, Josè and Mathew Donuts courtesy of Moist 'N' GlazedHair extensions courtesy of Hair by Courtney Anne

Here's your guide to what you may have missed over the weekend of 9 - 10 December 2023Amazing raceLeft to right: Luke Doepel, Emma Lau, Natalie Maloney, Nicola Flynn, Luke Maloney, Kartik Mishra.Residents of Gerroa on Saturday 9 December 2023, especially along Headlands Drive would have spotted teams of different walkers in different team colours doing their own version of the Amazing Race Challenges.There were various stations on the way (including a portable hydration station moving from station to station with watermelon and ice) for the competitors on one of the hottest days of 2023.Challenges were timed and included such tasks as stringing Cheezels while blindfolded.The whole exercise was to celebrate the 30th birthday of Jessie Holder of Gerroa, and by all reports much fun but also much sweat was had by all!Dynamic MovesDynamic Moves Dance studio of Dapto performed their end of year dance extravaganza at the Kiama Pavilion on Sunday 10 December.Belinda Kawalek, the principal of Dynamic Moves Dance Studio, which is in Dapto, said in the Grease booklet: “As we bring the curtains down, we invite you to carry the memories of this performance. Cherish the emotions, the laughter, and the moments that touched your heart. Dance has the unique ability to inspire, entertain and connect people, and we hope this show has done just that.”The Pink Ladies were led by Atayah Irvine as Sandy, and were Olivia Bianchi, Phoebe Block, Mikayla Rytkonen, Harlee Ferraro, Zara Meikle, Mila Erikson, Juliet Pinto and Amelia Croft.The T Birds were led by Hannah Tate as Danny and were Zoey Erikson, Addison Szabo, Zoey Dorfmueller, Claudia Abrahams, Alissa Hardwick, Emilia Loprieato, Shayla Bryson, Gabrielle O’Shea, Anastasia Mastrioanni, and Lisa Sawyer.Over sixty dancers hit the stage in various choreographed performances of all the songs from the hit musical Grease.One feature was the all ages, all levels of talent , and all levels of ability inclusive nature of the performances with dancers aged from 3 years to seventy years on stage at the same time either just there for the joy of dance or seeking a more professional career.Dinner with a detectiveMike Cains, NSW Detective Sergeant now retired Damien Loone and retired detective Frank SanvataliA fascinating and highly topical talk was held at the Kiama Bowling Club on Sunday with NSW Detective Sergeant now retired Damien Loone, who worked on the high profile Chris Dawson case, which was featured in the high profile Teachers Pet podcast which helped gather evidence for the case.The Cheryl Grimmer case was also discussed, with retired detective Frank Sanvatali joining the panel, after a recent breakthrough where a new witness to the toddler’s disappearance in 1970 at Fairy Meadow Beach has recently come forward. Frank Sanvatali has worked on the Cheryl Grimmer case for many years.The witness was found by the podcast Fairy Meadow hosted by former BBC journalist Jon Kay who contacted Damien Loone only about a month ago, in November 2023.It was clear that a popular podcast could bring new witnesses forward who had never spoken to police about the cold case before.Both agreed that the age of both cases meant that vital witnesses were dying, simply of old age. Detective Sergeant Loone, when asked by The Bugle about the effectiveness of true crime podcasts, agreed that they work best on reviving interest in cold cases, rather than open cases where any citizen investigators could reveal lines of inquiry the police would rather keep confidential from any suspects.There is certainly enough material for anyone thinking of starting up a Kiama true crimes podcast. Kiama has had a number of high profile and even gruesome murder cases over the years, such as the murder of Kim Barry, whose body was found at Jamberoo, by the notorious Graham Gene Potter, and currently has at least two open cold cases, those of Rachelle Childs, whose body was found at Gerroa in 2001 and whose murder was never solved, and Kiama woman Jackie-Lee Walsh who disappeared in 1989 and is presumed murdered but whose body was never found.Why not contact Kiama Community Radio if you are interested in starting up a Kiama True Crimes podcast?The talk was hosted by Mike Cains, President of the Kiama branch of the Liberal Party. The local branch also hosted the event. See you next weekend!

Members of the MX-5 Club of NSW have helped raise money for two separate causes as they made their way down to Kiama for High Tea on 7 December 2023.The club, for owners and fans of Mazda’s MX-5, from all across NSW made their way to our shores, including members from Sydney chapters, the Illawarra, and of course, Kiama.More than a third of the MX-5 Club are women, and there were more than 32 women who attended on the day, bringing 20 different MX-5s to High Tea at the Joyce Wheatley Centre in Kiama.Proceeds from the event go to CareFlight, a non-profit aeromedical organisation that undertakes pre-hospital and medical retrieval efforts using NSW Ambulance helicopters.The event was also to help bring awareness to the Club’s participation in the 2024 Shitbox Rally, a major fundraising effort for the Cancer Council of Australia.Drivers from the club will get behind the wheel of Margot The Tarago as it travels 3500 kilometres in seven days from Adelaide via Uluru to Perth.Margot The TaragoThe Club initially set out to raise $5000 for the Cancer Council, but has already raised more than $11,000 with many months left to go.You can donate to the team here.