A significant new collaboration between NSW Ambulance and the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) has been launched to enhance patient care and reduce the burden on regional emergency departments.The program, announced this week, introduces two additional Extended Care Paramedic (ECP) vehicles to the region.These units are staffed by six specialist paramedics who are highly skilled in assessing and treating "low acuity" conditions.Their primary objective is to provide high-quality medical intervention within the community, allowing patients with chronic or complex but non-emergency conditions to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.The logic behind the initiative is to ensure that hospital resources are reserved for those in most urgent need.By performing on-the-spot assessments, these ECPs can provide treatment in a patient’s home.Member for Kiama, Katelin McInerney, described the program as a "terrific example" of local health teams co-designing innovative pathways to ensure residents receive the care they require without enduring long waits in a busy Emergency Department (ED).In addition to the increased physical presence on the road, NSW Ambulance is enhancing its Virtual Clinical Care Centre (VCCC).This system allows experienced clinicians to monitor the Illawarra Shoalhaven area remotely.If a patient’s condition is stable, the VCCC can connect them with alternative care options, such as a GP or pharmacist, ensuring the most appropriate provider is utilised while preserving frontline ambulance resources for life-threatening emergencies.Minister for Health and Member for Keira, Ryan Park, noted that this collaboration is a vital step in delivering better health outcomes across the state.By integrating services across the health network, the government aims to provide the right care in the most appropriate setting.The initiative also supports the expansion of the Aged Care Outreach Service.For older residents in Kiama and the South Coast, this provides increased access to clinical care within their own residential facilities, helping to address the challenges faced by patients awaiting NDIS or aged care placements.Liza Butler, Member for South Coast, highlighted the essential role these paramedics play in supporting the community.While planning for future phases of the program is currently underway, this immediate boost in resources is a welcome development for the region's healthcare infrastructure.

A young girl came into the Gerringong Museum the other day and spent some time looking at all the history while waiting for a train back to Sydney. She was so impressed with the Kiama district, the history and the scenery. She made the observation that artists must flock to this place as it is so beautiful. I pulled out my phone and showed her a set of paintings by an artist from Gerringong. She was very impressed.His name was John Downton.I first came across John when he opened Hilltop Gallery as my sister was one of a group of artists who exhibited pieces there. Other artists who did the same were Michael McCarthy, Leonard Long and Vinh N Trieu. The gallery was located on the first hill as you come into Gerringong from the Omega bridge. The Mercure Resort is there now.John was born in San Souci in 1939. His father was a veteran of horrible battles on the Western Front in World War I.He first moved to Werri Beach when he was eight and immediately began a lifelong love affair with the beach and the sea. A glance at a lot of his paintings will confirm this. One great memory he has is of the old steam trains and the whistle they made as they passed the Omega station nearby. In fact sometimes John joined Bob Holman who was the fettler on the local railways, and they would run the length of the line checking all the bolts and sleepers.Another great memory John has from his time at Werri was when he built a boat in his house! “I built a sailboat in the lounge room of my Werri Beach house - the house I had bought from Jack Holman,” he recalls. “I wasn’t married then, otherwise this probably wouldn’t have happened. “We had a job getting the sailboat out of the house when it was finished, but we finally succeeded.”Even though John, with his family, or by himself, has moved away from Werri at different times, such as a move to Eden, he always seemed to return.His first job was as a watchmaker. One day he met a REAL artist, Leonard Long.Long was a brilliant landscape artist in his own right and was still painting when he was 100.He was a watchmaker, like John, in Bowral but sold the business to become a full-time painter in 1955. He had many successful exhibitions and was awarded the Order of Australia in 1993.John was so impressed he was spurred on to become an artist himself. Long encouraged him and helped John whenever he could. Often both of them, with other artists such as Michael McCarthy would go for road trips around the country to find beautiful scenery to paint. Judging by their paintings they were very successful.Leaving watchmaking, John started his painting career in 1973. He attended art classes at the Royal Art Society of NSW.To outline all of the achievements that John has attained in his long and rich career would take three or four full page articles in the Bugle. I will try to outline just a few highlights.John received an Australian Navy award in 1987 and he has had a long association with the Australian Navy. He was the Navy artist in East Timor in 2000. The Navy named a gallery inside the Fleet Air Arm Museum at Nowra the ‘John Downton Gallery’. John has painted numerous images of ships and sailors.He was the first artist to be invited to hold an exhibition at the Mitchell Library in Sydney.John has received numerous accolades from countries such as Japan and Ireland. The Japanese awarded him cultural awards in 1989 and 1999. The Irish invited him to hold an exhibition during a historical celebration in Dublin.Westpac used his painting on an international Christmas card and many companies have used his paintings on their calendars.He has conducted successful exhibitions in a large number of places including the abovementioned Hilltop Gallery each year.He has won the Caltex Art Award three times. John received an OAM in 2017.This is but a small snapshot of his achievements. Through all this he has remained a quiet, friendly, lovely person.Gerringong and the Kiama district have attracted many brilliant artists, and John has to be included in that list.He certainly is my favourite. At my home we have many paintings of his adorning our walls.I will make mention that most of the information and pictures for this article have come from John's book, ‘The Dirty Big Red Book’. When talking to him I referred to it as The Big Red Book. ‘No no no no’, he said, ' you might get into trouble if you call it that!’

With the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival on hiatus this year, local live music fans won’t go without. Opening the community-led Sounds of Jazz & Blues weekend at Yves Social on Friday 6 March are the Swamp Critters, a four-piece Illawarra blues band with deep roots in the regional music scene.“It’s the first time for us, so we’re excited to have a spot there at the Jazz and Blues,” said band member Tim Kierse.Formed in 2018 but ever-changing in its membership, the band now also comprises Mark Wallis, Steve Whitworth and Kate Whitworth.The seasoned musicians have graced stages across the South Coast to Sydney – from pubs and clubs to private parties, and at regional events including the Goulburn Blues Festival.“The Swamp Critters have always been focused on a more southern flavour of blues than what we saw on offer at venues at the time,” Kierse said.The band draws on a wide range of influences – from Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley and Junior Wells, to contemporary acts such as Smokehouse, Owen Wilson, Southern Culture on the Skids, and Bonnie Raitt – a mix that allows them to tailor performances to Saturday night dance crowds and more relaxed Sunday afternoon audiences.The current line-up has been together since December, with drummer Steve Whitworth the only original member.Their sound, described as “grooving the blues,” blends traditional blues structures with a soulful edge.“Blues is kind of an all-encompassing term. It’s different things for different people,” Kierse said. “But sort of our style of it, and some of the songs that we play, there’s definitely a bit of a soul tinge to some of the songs, and some that actually get in a bit of a groove. Not too fast, not too slow, but something to get your head nodding and your feet tapping.”Primarily a pubs-and-clubs band, the Swamp Critters thrive in intimate environments. “It’s not unusual to have people dancing literally within arm’s reach of the band at different venues,” Kierse said.Like many regional musicians, the band faces the challenge of fewer venues supporting live music. “There’s a lot of bands out there and there’s not a lot of venues that actually support live music these days,” Kierse said.“So it’s a bit of a challenge to actually get regular gigs, especially for a band such as us that are focused more on lesser well-known songs.”For Friday night at Yves Social, the plan is to start slow and build into a lively two-hour set. “Pretty much we’ll start out slow and finish strong.Normally what we would do is we would have our set list of songs and more dancey-type numbers for the Friday night crowd, and we’ll see how it goes and how the crowd reacts,” Kierse said.In a year without the festival, Swamp Critters are showing that Kiama’s live music scene endures – fueled by musicians and venues determined to keep the blues alive.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from Shellharbour.Michael Imad, aged 31, was last seen at a shopping centre on Lake Entrance Road at Shellharbour City Centre about 3.30pm on Thursday.When he was unable to be located or contacted, officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police District were notified and started inquiries into his whereabouts.Police and family hold concerns for Michael’s welfare.Michael is described as being of Middle Eastern appearance, about 165cm to 170cm tall, of medium build and has short black hair, with black facial hair.He was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, blue camo track pants, black joggers.Michael is known to frequent the Illawarra and Bondi Junction areas.

Kiama’s beloved Old Fire Station gallery has been taken over this month as WO-MAN-O-FEST brings a burst of color and high-end craft to the heart of town.The exhibition was launched on Thursday night to an enthusiastic crowd, with guests gathering to celebrate the unveiling of the new collection.It was the perfect chance to meet the makers, enjoy the atmosphere, and celebrate the local creative scene.The show is steered by curator and artist Auguste Blackman, son of the iconic Charles Blackman, who has handpicked a stellar lineup of Illawarra-based talent to share the spotlight.Gallery visitors on opening nightA major highlight of the exhibition is the inclusion of Harvey and Jules, who are set to showcase a mesmerizing collection of polished Australian Boulder Opal jewelry.August with visitors on opening nightThese aren't your average gems; fused naturally with ironstone, these opals are celebrated for their unique play of light, deep hidden sparkle, and elegant organic forms.The striking natural striations ensure that each piece carries a one-of-a-kind character, making them a magnet for serious collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.Opening night visitorsThe walls also feature a rich tapestry of local voices, including the highly respected Indigenous artist Randall Sinnamon, alongside notable contributions from Leah Wilde, Bob Dixon, and Machteld Hali.August's art work - Owls galore! Find your spirit animal at the exhibition!Adding a whimsical touch to the gallery, Auguste Blackman has produced 45 bespoke owl paintings specifically for this Kiama run, ensuring the space is packed with as much personality as it is prestige.Artist Leah Wilde with supportersBetween the rare gemstones and Blackman’s trademark humor, WO-MAN-O-FEST is set to be a standout on the local cultural calendar. It’ll be a hoot!Randall Sinnamon - artist - with Becky Guggisberg from Fillmores enjoying opening night

A new Rural Fire Service brigade station at Dunmore will ensure local firefighters are better equipped to do their life-saving work.The NSW Government has announced six new combined Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centres and 18 new rural fire stations as part of a $34.5 million project to help coordinate the response to bushfires and other emergencies such as storms and floods.Kiama MP Katelin McInerney welcomed the announcement from Minister for Emergency Service Jihad Dib.“Having met the amazing volunteers at Dunmore RFS with Minister Dib last year, I know firsthand that this investment will ensure they have the modern amenities needed to train and attract more volunteers, particularly women,” she said.“The new station will provide change rooms that will cater for all members, a multi-purpose room for training and general meetings.“The new station will also overcome the lack of space in the current building and will provide a first-class station for the future.“The brigade currently responds to 120 jobs per year, including in the Kiama electorate.”Dib said the Government was committed to “ensuring our volunteers have what they need to do their job”.“Our focus on the state's firefighting capability reflects our deep respect for the people who step up when it matters most.“This summer has already served as a reminder of our reliance on our volunteer firefighters, who have tirelessly responded to bush fire emergencies in NSW, Victoria and beyond. "We are planning for the future and investing in firefighting facilities so they have the infrastructure they need, both on the fireground and to coordinate effective emergency response operations. "Rural firefighting response has been a partnership with local government for one hundred years and I thank councils for their shared contribution in keeping communities safe." Shellharbour MP Anna Watson said region communities “deserve the strongest possible protection and this investment delivers exactly that”. “These new and upgraded RFS facilities will ensure our volunteers have the modern resources they need to keep people safe during bush fires, storms and floods. "I'm especially proud to see a new brigade station being delivered for Dunmore. I was happy to work with Mr Tony Hardy, who was a tireless and relentless advocate for a new upgraded facility.“Sadly, Tony has passed before he could see his vision come through and I would like to extend my thanks to Tony's family for their ongoing support on behalf of their father."

Wollongong mum, Isla Becker, was eight months pregnant with her baby, now four months old, when she received shocking news. The super fund that she’d invested 80 per cent of her retirement savings into had collapsed — and $116,000 of her savings had vanished.“I had only recently begun taking a more active interest in my super, including salary sacrificing, and I was proud to see my balance growing,” says Becker. After completing an online comparison — similar to those used for health or car insurance — she was contacted by a consultant to review her super options.“I was set up with a financial consultant, Rhys Reilly, who signed me up to YourChoice Super and invested my money into the First Guardian Fund,” says Becker. “They provided what appeared to be a comprehensive report, including projected retirement balances, based on this new structure. It all seemed legitimate and encouraging.”She thought her future was in safe hands, until she saw the news break.On 17 March 2025, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) announced they had applied to the Federal Court for the “appointment of liquidators to Falcon Capital Limited” — the responsible entity for First Guardian.As stated in a media release: “ASIC is concerned about the management and operation of First Guardian and the associated risks to investors.”Since then, financial planner, Rhys Reilly, and his company, Rhys Reilly Pty Ltd, have been named in the investigation.“I didn’t fully grasp the seriousness of the situation until I logged into my super portal,” says Becker. “I saw a deduction of more than $100,000 — and my heart sank.”She is one of approximately 6,000 people who invested their money, including their retirement savings, into First Guardian — totalling more than $1 billion.Initially, she was hopeful her money wouldn’t be lost. “I joined the Save Our Super Facebook group and followed the media coverage on [the news],” she recalls. “I was encouraged to see that some people had been reimbursed, but I wasn’t.”Currently, over 2,100 people are members of the Facebook group, First Guardian and Falcon Superannuation Discussion — including many familiar faces.“When I joined the Facebook group, I was amazed by how many local people and familiar names I spotted,” a mum of two from Kiama who lost $70,000 told The Bugle.“I spoke to someone in Jamberoo who lost more than $150,000. At least, we’ve been able to connect, share tips and support each other.”Since then, ASIC has taken court action to preserve any remaining assets of Falcon Capital and First Guardian, so they can be recovered for investors. They are also actively “exploring avenues for compensation for victims”.A video on the ASIC website states: “At this stage it is unclear how much of the funds that were invested can be recovered and returned to people.” The Commission warns of a trend of “high risk of super-switching schemes” in Australia that are often promoted by sales calls after people click on online ads.Financial planner Joe Calcraft, who alongside business partner Anthony Hourigan forms Cloudbreak Wealth in Kiama, hadn’t heard of First Guardian before its collapse, and none of his clients were impacted.He advises anyone affected to lodge a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), “the sooner the better”.“You can also find out if you can access the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort (CSLR), which is a fund that has been set up to provide ‘last resort’ compensation, which steps in if all other avenues have been exhausted,” he adds.The First Guardian collapse is the second scandal in the Australian market in the last two years. In 2024, another scheme, Shield Master Fund, collapsed after its responsible entity, Keystone Asset Management, went into voluntary administration.According to ASIC estimates, around 12,000 Australians poured $1.1 billion in retirement savings into the two funds, amid what ASIC chair Sarah Court has described as “industrial-scale misconduct.”“Planning for your retirement should be a time of joy, however it can be a time of angst given the gravity of decisions that need to be made,” says Calcraft.“If someone has contacted you, usually through a cold call without your consent to try and advise — sell — you a product for an investment or superannuation, it is usually not going to be in your best interest.”He points out this type of selling has been illegal since October 2021 under the anti-hawking provision.“If you are being offered ‘high guaranteed returns’ or you’ve been advised to put all your money into one single brand or investment, it is usually too good to be true,” he says. “Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion and certainly don’t feel embarrassed or think you are asking a silly question when it comes to your life savings.”His advice is echoed by Nicola Beswick, former lawyer, financial advisor and founder of White Rabbit Advisory.“Events like this should certainly raise questions, because they should never happen,” she says. “Australia’s superannuation system is heavily regulated and operates under strict governance and compliance frameworks. I would always recommend early financial advice to gain the right structure for you and the confidence that comes with it.”She says this is a great time to boost your financial literacy: “Take a look at the diversification of your superannuation investments and the credentials of those overseeing your investments. It’s also always a good step to make sure that your beneficiary nominations are up to date.”For locals like Isla Becker, the wait is not over. She is grateful that her husband’s super remained with a “larger, more established fund”, as she is aware of local families who lost their entire combined savings.“I hope to be reimbursed as much as possible, so I don’t have to find alternative ways to rebuild my retirement savings,” she says. “I want to see the individuals responsible held accountable, and for stronger regulations to be put in place so this cannot happen to thousands of Australians again.“I was genuinely trying to take control of my financial future, and instead I lost a significant portion of my super. It has shaken my trust in the system.”

This week's edition of The Bugle is jam-packed with local news and views from our South Coast community.Our main story centres around reaction in Gerroa to brazen thieves attempting to break into properties and cars. CHECK OUT OUR DIGITAL EDITION HEREWe also bring you the heart-warming story of local carers being needed to look after Labrador pups so that they can be trained for higher duties.There is also an update on developments at Kiama's Akuna Street and Caliope Street, the drama surrounding Councillor Imogen Draisma facing a code of conduct investigation and a new eatery which is making waves in Gainsborough.You can also read plenty of other community stories about Skin Check Champions, superannuation dangers and a column from Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald.In sport, we bring you the latest on South Coast cricket, the Illawarra Hawks' season coming to an abrupt end and a Gerringong junior starring in the Charity Shield but not for the Dragons.And our intrepid photographer Brian Scott has been out and about snapping community sports stars doing their thing.For the green thumbs, check out John Gabriele's latest video with advice for your garden.The paper is available from all the usual outlets around the Kiama local government area - grab yours before it's too late.

Few places capture Kiama’s charm quite like its harbour, a postcard-perfect curve backed by Norfolk Pines, fishing boats and the hum of visitors who seem awed that such a scene still exists this close to one of the world’s most famous harbours. It is undoubtedly the jewel in our town’s crown.Now, that same idyllic pocket has become the latest stage for one of Kiama’s most enduring dramas: the battle between progress and preservation.In June 2025, Kiama Council resolved to establish a working group to provide a mechanism for Council and the community to shape the future of Kiama Harbour. “Fast-forward” eight months and Council is now calling for interested and “qualified” community members to join the Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Working Group.On paper, this should be a constructive forum. Its aim is to guide the future of the harbour precinct ensuring that the heritage, tourism and business elements align in a way that benefits the town. Yet within days of its announcement, and some social media from Councillor Mike Cains, community Facebook pages were alight with suspicion. Posts decrying “dollar signs,” “overdevelopment,” and “here we go again” quickly gained traction.This reaction is hardly new but is a natural progression of the conversation about the future of our town. With Council having moved forward and set the boundary of “going out” and expanding the town, and “going up” (though we are still not sure what’s happening at Akuna and Shoalhaven Street), it’s onto the next frontier: the Harbour.Our community has shown an instinctive vigilance toward change. We are fiercely protective of the town’s scale and identity and traits that underpin its appeal but can also stifle needed renewal.Critics of the backlash argue Kiama risks paralysis by nostalgia. Infrastructure near the harbour is ageing, access is uneven and the tourism economy which is central to local livelihoods depends on reinvestment and revitalisation. Without careful upgrades, the harbour could fade from charm into complacency. Supporters of revitalisation see the working group as a rare chance to shape outcomes early rather than reacting late, and also securing tangible outcomes.Still, perception matters. When trust in Council and developers runs thin, even the most promising ideas are viewed through a lens of distrust. Transparency will therefore be critical: open meetings, publishable minutes, clear visuals of any proposed changes. A harbour renewal done with the community, not to it, could reset the tone.Kiama has always been defined by its edges where land meets sea, character meets growth, and locals meet newcomers. The harbour revitalisation debate is not simply about bricks, boardwalks and (possibly) beverages on the water. It’s about who gets to decide what Kiama Harbour becomes next and whether its people can find common ground. So, when Cr Cains says the working group will “get cracking on the job of making sure that the jewel is everything that it can be”, The Bugle’s View is that we hope that this next frontier is a positive one, and not more of the same.

Kiama Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters has shot down suggestions that a code of conduct investigation into fellow Councillor Imogen Draisma was politically motivated.Council went into confidential session on Tuesday night to, among other things, discuss and vote on a motion after an investigation into Cr Draisma’s conduct.The investigation, which was conducted by an external investigator, arose after Cr Draisma disclosed information from confidential construction documents at a Council meeting last May during discussion about rezoning plans for Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club.After a discussion of more than half an hour on Tuesday, Councillors voted not to proceed with enforcing the code of conduct breach against Cr Draisma. Council resolved that they would not follow the investigator’s recommendation to censure Cr Draisma because she had “made a full and frank apology to her colleagues, CEO and staff, and gave an undertaking that her future conduct will comply with the code of conduct for councilors and the Local Government Act of NSW”.When contacted by The Bugle, Cr Draisma said: “I am thankful for the support of my councillor colleagues on this matter.”There has been speculation that the investigation was politically motivated but Cr Matters angrily denied that was the case and does not want Council to go back to the bad old days of backstabbing each other.“What happens on the floor of state Parliament has nothing to do with what happens in our Council Chambers and whoever is suggesting otherwise should be more worried about the community rather than stirring up trouble about Council,” she told The Bugle.“For anyone to say this code of conduct proceeding against her was a politically motivated attack is nonsense. We don’t react to rumours, we rely on facts.“When I first came into Council, our Orange ticket were strong believers that we were fiercely independent because we didn't believe that politics should play a part in local council.“I'm not the slightest bit interested about who's in government, whether it’s Labor or Liberal. I'm interested in the community and that they're getting what they’re entitled to receive.“What I find disappointing is that an issue like this is weaponised politically in Council when this whole investigation was purely about someone who does work in the political arena in state government who is fully aware of the rules and we’ve accepted her apology.”At the time, Cr Draisma was working for Wollongong MP Paul Scully and has been performing the role of senior electorate officer for Kiama MP Katelin McInerney since her victory in last September’s by-election.Cr Draisma was subsequently asked how she received the confidential information about the surf club plans but has refused to divulge where it came from.Goulburn MP Wendy Tuckerman raised concerns in NSW Parliament about the potential conflict of interest but Scully, who is also the Planning Minister, dismissed her query with “I don’t discuss Council matters with Cr Draisma. I also don’t watch Kiama Council proceedings because I have got work to do.”Cr Draisma also responded to Tuckerman by saying she would “not be intimidated from serving my community by a politically motivated misinformation and disinformation campaign made under parliamentary privilege”.Kiama Council was contacted and declined to comment on the matter. Tuesday’s Council meeting also discussed the hot topic of fireworks. Destination Kiama is aiming to get Council to commit to funding this year’s event after it was cancelled last New Year’s Eve while Cr Erica Warren moved a motion for other locations in the LGA to be considered for events apart from the traditional Black Beach viewing area.Her motion received solid support from her fellow Councillors and the CEO has been tasked with developing a range of feasible event models which include the alternative option of a “light-based drone show”, ticketing for events and partnerships with local businesses to alleviate costs to the ratepayers.Mayor Cameron McDonald said: “The scope of this report is not just to concentrate on fireworks around Kiama Harbour, it’s to look at an LGA-wide celebration for what is New Year's.” Cr Warren said she would like to see a range of events “from breakfast to midnight” at places like Gerringong, Jamberoo and Minnamurra.

When four friends from Kiama heard that Gainsborough’s much-loved takeaway was suddenly closing, they came together to fast-track a plan they’d been sitting on for years.“We jumped into dream mode,” recalls Esther Keenan, best known as the owner of local printing service Known Design and Print. Along with her husband, Nathan, and close friends Michael and Shaye Lucassen, they began to “put legs on a conversation” they had been having for over two years.The dream? To create a local smokehouse in Kiama.Between the four friends, they had the skillset. Michael is the chef in-store, with more than 30 years’ experience; Shaye and Michael both have extensive food backgrounds, catering locally for events in Kiama for years.What they didn’t have was time — the lease on the shopfront had to be filled urgently. Overnight, Gainsborough Takeaway was transformed into Hook & Ember. Their slogan? Coastal flavour, smokehouse fire.“We opened just two weeks after confirming our lease at the Gainsborough shops,” recalls Keenan. “It was a hectic forty days from Christmas onwards, with new opening hours coming into play at the start of February.”When Hook & Ember opened eight weeks ago, they were “blown away” by the support of locals — some relieved fish and chips were still on the menu, many excited by the prospect of smoky specials.“Naturally, we knew we couldn’t get rid of fish and chips, but wanted to add our own flavour,” says Keenan. “This is where Michael’s experience and enjoyment of smoking meats and being creative with food came into the picture.”Pre-orders are currently open for their second Smokehouse Saturday on 28 February. Locals can pre-order limited-edition, slow-smoked items, including their signature 24-hour brisket, pork belly lollipop, or a ‘full-tilt smokehouse spread’ made for sharing.Their first Smokehouse Saturday in January sold out.“There was a great atmosphere,” recalls Keenan. “We had acoustic live music on the pavement, with locals bringing camp chairs and enjoying their smokehouse packs scattered around the front of the store.”Next on the menu? A catering service, offering their signature smoky menu for events and parties.The couples have four children each, with ages ranging from eight to 19, so it’s a busy time for the four entrepreneurs, who are bonded by their shared aspirations.“Both families have very full lives, with a whole bunch of kiddos on board,” says Esther. “Some [of our kids] love working in-store — and others just enjoy the food they get to eat.”For pre-orders, visit hookandember.com.au.

Kiama Community Radio was at the heart of the action when APRA AMCOS brought The Regional Sessions to The Pavilion Kiama on Monday.The one-day event brought together songwriters, producers and composers from across the South Coast for a full program of conversations, workshops, live performances and networking. Designed for beginner, emerging and mid-career artists, it gave regional creatives access to industry insight without the need to travel to Sydney.For a station committed to championing local voices, it was a natural fit. Throughout the day, artists shared stories of their creative journeys, explored the realities of the music industry and connected with others building careers in regional communities. The atmosphere was collaborative and encouraging.The event reflected much of what KCR stands for:• Supporting local artists and creatives• Creating opportunities for participation and skill development• Strengthening community connection• Giving people a voiceAs a volunteer-run, not-for-profit station streaming 24/7, KCR serves the local community — from Minnamurra to Gerroa and Jamberoo — and celebrates the region’s cultural life. Being present at The Regional Sessions was not just about visibility, it was about backing local talent and reinforcing that creative people in the area are valued.Gabriela Cabral and Madeleine Scarfe attended on behalf of KCR, speaking with artists about the role community radio can play in supporting emerging talent.“For many musicians, that first airplay or interview can make a real difference,” Madeleine said. “It was inspiring to see the level of creativity and commitment in our region.”Gabriela said it was particularly meaningful to reconnect with Helen Lear, public relations and communications manager at APRA AMCOS, who was part of KCR’s original team.“It was wonderful to collaborate again,” she said.The day concluded with networking drinks and live performances, reinforcing the strength of the region’s music community and the importance of collaboration in sustaining it.KCR continues to encourage local musicians, songwriters, producers and creative artists to connect with the station to share new music, upcoming performances and creative projects. Creatives interested in airplay, interviews or collaboration can get in touch via kcr.org.au.Please note - this is paid content

Kiama Rugby will be looking to build on their 2025 dominance and go one better at the 54th annual Kiama Sevens, aiming to win their division for the second time in three years.Fresh off winning the Illawarra Rugby District League premiership in first grade and finishing runners-up in reserve grade, Kiama can’t wait to get back on the field on 28 February.“We’ve got a lot of talent from last year coming through,” said Kiama Sevens coach Dante Patrick. “They’re eager to get out there and represent Kiama in probably one of the most prestigious sevens tournaments outside the international stage.“The majority of our squad is homegrown, with a few local players who might usually play league or AFL. We just put the team with the best chemistry on the field, and the boys are looking strong so far.”Kiama competes in the NSW Country Cup division of the tournament, which they won two years ago, and managed to get all the way to the grand final in 2025 before losing to The Lakes Rugby Club“We won two years ago, then lost in the grand final last year. We’re always competitive, but teams come from all over the region and give us a good crack,” Patrick said.“Being the host team adds a bit of extra pressure too - everyone wants to knock us off.”The loss to The Lakes continued a budding rivalry that started a few years ago.“They hosted their sevens tournament in 2022, and we went up as an invitational team. We beat them in their own grand final,” Patrick said.“Then they came down here and beat us in our tournament. So it’s a rivalry we’d like to keep going. If we meet again, it’ll be a big one.”Regardless of the outcome, Patrick said the team is proud to be part of such a significant local event and to represent their town.“Every year, the tournament gets bigger and better. Mark Bryant and the crew do an awesome job keeping it going,” he said.“COVID obviously affected it for a while, but the way they’ve bounced back and grown the tournament is incredible. "For a small coastal town like Kiama, hosting events like this really puts the town on the map, and we’re proud to be part of it.”The 54th annual Kiama Sevens kicks off on 28 February, with the Kiama Sevens Media Launch taking place at Kiama Leagues Club at 12pm this Friday, featuring special guests Olympian Charlotte Caslick and former Wallaby Scott Bowen.

Until The Sky Falls Quiet, the 2025 Australian documentary featuring powerful insider footage of life inside Gaza, will screen at Warrawong’s Gala Cinema on 21 February, with the directors urging as many people as possible to attend.Directed by Erica Long and Jason Korr, the film follows two Western Sydney doctors - Dr Sanjay Adusumilli and Dr Siraj Siratravel - as they travel to Gaza on a medical mission, risking their safety to provide aid on the frontlines.“It came about after we met Dr Sanjay and Dr Siraj, and Dr Siraj’s wife, Veena, when they contacted us to make a promotional video for their medical mission to Gaza,” she said.“We filmed that first, and then right before they left, we pitched the idea of a documentary. They agreed.”Long said she felt compelled to tell the behind-the-scenes story because she believed Australian media coverage was not fully capturing what was happening on the ground.“I was seeing humanitarian doctors speaking at the UN about what they witnessed. I was reading opinion pieces from doctors like Dr Irfan Galaria, who described what he saw in Gaza as an annihilation and not just a war,” she said.“It made me realise that what we were being shown was probably nowhere near the full reality.”Because of restrictions on independent media entering Gaza, the doctors themselves filmed much of the footage. Initially, Long expected the material would only support a short film - but that changed when they returned.“They were using phones,” she said. “And one of the aid workers they were with, who’s from the UK, turned out to be a photographer.”Additional footage was provided by MSF and three other humanitarian workers - Dr Bushra, Dr Jamal Murai and Khaled Cheikhshir - who were working at the same hospital.A still from the film: Sanjay in surgery. Photo: Tom Lewendon“With six aid workers contributing raw footage, it gave us enough coverage to piece together what it was like working in Rafah and at Al-Aqsa Hospital in central Gaza,” Long said.As the project evolved, so did its focus. What began as a behind-the-scenes account shifted toward a more human-centred narrative.“The Gaza–Israel conflict is so polarising. Some people switch off as soon as they hear ‘Gaza–Israel’ because they think about protests and political division,” Long said.“What we realised was that we wanted to humanise Palestinians and show that they’re not just numbers in the news. They’re human beings. We wanted people to be confronted with the question: How can you, as a human being, watch all of this and be okay with it?”The film presents Gaza through the lens of the two doctors, immersing viewers in their emotional journey.“You feel what they feel - their pain and their moments of hope,” she said.The documentary does not shy away from confronting material. Long described the difficult editorial decisions involved in handling graphic footage.A still from the film: An injured child in Al Aqsa Hospital. Photo: Tom Lewendon“There were images of deceased people. On one hand, you don’t want to show something graphic. On the other, if no one shows it, will people understand the brutality?” she said.“Jason, my partner and co-director, is a doctor. Some photos were so graphic that even he couldn’t make out what was happening because the injuries were so severe.”Ultimately, the filmmakers chose to focus on individual stories that had deeply impacted the doctors, including young patients treated in the hospital.Despite the devastation, the film also highlights resilience.“There’s a scene where kids are running around playing with a blown-up disposable hospital glove as if it’s a balloon,” Long said.“You see little Zico, who’s 10, trying to help at the hospital. And medical students stepping up to assist wherever they can. These people are living in hell on Earth and yet still they try to find joy and help one another.”In one moving sequence, Dr Siraj asks children at the hospital to draw pictures. Their drawings reveal both grief and hope.“There was such a range - one child tried to draw Dr Siraj, another drew their father who had passed away. You realise how much they’ve already experienced,” Long said.“But there were also rainbows and doves. At the end of the day, they just want it to stop. They want to live in dignity.”The poster for the film. Photo: Avenoir ProductionsAs the film prepares to screen locally, Long encourages audiences to approach it with an open mind.“Put politics aside and come for the human story,” she said. “It’s about two Australian doctors on a medical mission. Whatever your political views, you can connect with their journey.”Until The Sky Falls Quiet will screen at Gala Cinema on 21 February, followed by a Q&A with director Erica Long and Dr Sanjay Adusumilli. Tickets are available via the cinema’s website and you can watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9wzfV6EY8I.

The Kiama Cavettes kept their season alive with a dominating win over Albion Park on home soil, chasing down their target in just nine overs.Kiama have been locked in points with Lake Illawarra over the past few weeks, making every match a must-win with only two rounds remaining.The Cavettes chose to bowl first at Bonaira Oval, and Kiama Cricket Club president Bernie Brown says they started strongly.“The Kiama side began well, with Emma Ford breaking through midway in the 3rd over with a caught-and-bowled,” Brown said.“Annette Thornton then came on in the 6th over and took a wicket with her very first ball, expertly caught by Naomi Poole, who snared her maiden catch in four seasons of cricket. "It was a tremendous moment, and the Cavettes converged for an excitable, extended celebration. Albion Park slowed to 2/24.”Albion Park finished with a respectable 73-run total from 19.3 overs. Thornton finished with 3-14 from 3.3 overs, while Ford and Carolyn Perry each took two wickets.The Cavettes' Naomi Poole who got her first official catch. Photo: Kiama Cricket ClubKiama then went out to bat with their very successful opening pairing of Ava Sloan and Ebony Winston, and the rest was history.“It was a classy and complete chase by the Cavettes, with Winston 40* (31) and Sloan 14* (16) carrying their bats and knocking over the total in just nine overs,” Brown said.This Friday, Kiama will face Lake Illawarra in the match of the round at Bonaira Oval, with both teams locked on 24 points in 4th and 5th place, respectively.“Kiama will be eyeing a second finals berth for the first time in three years, although they will need to bring their A-game against a Lake side in red-hot form,” Brown said.“The Cavettes boast some of the best stats in the competition this season, including leading in wickets lost - having only lost 17 wickets from 12 games, which is an amazing statistic.”Kiama had mixed results across the other grades.First Grade continued their winning streak and is almost guaranteed a spot in the finals. Batting first at home against Albion Park, Kiama lost both openers early but recovered thanks to David Coleman (46), captain Jaya Hartgerink (37), and Ryan Butta (42), taking the total to 176.Kiama’s bowlers struck early in the second innings, with Niall Owers taking three wickets and reducing Albion Park to 6-70. A bottom-order partnership lifted Albion Park to 7-110, but Brad Ison’s second wicket of the day broke the stand, allowing David Coleman to take the final three wickets and end the game. Albion Park finished 146 all out from 46.3 overs.Third Grade also recorded a win over Albion Park on the road, keeping their slight finals hopes alive. Kiama batted first, with Robert Miller (31) and captain Daniel Reilly (25*) helping set a total of 112. Their bowlers then dismantled Albion Park, taking all ten wickets in 35 overs, with Lennox Holz taking four, leaving Albion Park just nine runs short of the target.Second Grade and Fourth Grade weren’t as fortunate. Second Grade bowled first and faced Albion Park’s total of 167. Jacob Lee took four wickets and Jacob Lewis three, but despite Nathan Battishal’s heroic 62-run effort, Kiama fell short, all out for 138. They remain third on the ladder.In Fourth Grade, Kiama were bowled out for 90, and Oak Flats chased down the target in 21.1 overs. Kiama sit third, with finals hopes still alive.This Saturday, First Grade will face Shellharbour (away), Second Grade has the bye, Third Grade will take on Jamberoo (away) and so will Fourth Grade (home).

I arrived on the train from Sydney close to midday on Thursday, 29 January.As I went to tap my Opal card on the machine closest to the road, it slipped from my hand and disappeared a long way down into overgrown grass and bushes never to be seen again.Or so I thought given how far down it landed and how steep the terrain was. I knew I would soon be applying for a new one. As my friend and I were about to walk away, a small group of young boys, who had obviously witnessed the event, appeared. Without a second thought, one of them scaled over the fence and, somehow finding a couple of tenuous footholds, lowered himself to the ground. He was able to retrieve the card after fossicking through the dense foliage We all held our breath wondering how he would get back up. The alternative wasn’t a good one. It seemed no trouble for this young man despite the return journey taking longer and being more arduous. A small crowd had by now gathered and along with his two or three mates he was given rousing applause. I was incredibly grateful and in awe of his kindness and ability. His name was Josh, he was probably about 14 (I'm 75), wearing a cap and glasses and he and his mates had skateboards and were off to catch a train. I hope he or someone he knows reads this story because it is my way of saying thank you Josh! What a fine example of youth.Eileen Guthrie Willoughby East

The South Coast Disabled Surfers Association is heading back to Gerroa – and while participant spots filled in just one week, organisers are calling for more volunteers to help make the day possible.“We only do four events a year,” said South Coast DSA president Ian Picton. “They’re very hard to organise. You do need a lot of volunteers.”The event that is Sunday, 1 March at Seven Mile Beach already has 50 surfers booked in, with a growing waiting list. But to safely get participants into the water, the organisation needs between 140 and 180 volunteers.“Our ratio is six to one in the water,” Picton explained. “But when a participant goes out, there’s generally about 15 people in the group looking after that one person.”Six boards typically operate at once, forming a carefully coordinated “runway” of volunteers in the surf. As the wave rolls toward shore, volunteers line up on either side, ensuring safety and support if the surfer falls.“Gerroa is perfect for what we do,” Picton said. “When the waves break there, they roll right in up the beach – It’s fantastic and it’s safe.“It’s about giving back to the community and making an easy day for people that don’t get the opportunity to go into the water.”For some participants, it’s the only time they surf all year.“The only time they go into the surf is when they come with us.”The DSA has been operating on the South Coast for 32 years. Entirely volunteer-run.“Every dollar donated goes to putting stuff on the beach and getting people into the water,” Picton said.“We’re a truly voluntary organisation that’s been doing good stuff for 32 years.”The group supports people with a wide range of disabilities – physical and intellectual – and adapts the program as needed.Swimming or surfing experience is not required for participants or volunteers.“What DSA does is like plasticine,” Picton said. “We mould what we do to suit our participants’ needs.We don’t discriminate against disability. We just make sure we can get them into the water safely.”Volunteers aren’t even required to get wet. Roles range from registration and beach support to water assistance.Local schools, families and community members regularly take part with many returning year after year.“I know a young fellow that started at five years old,” Picton said.“He’s 35 now and he keeps surfing with us. He’s been with us for 30 years as well.It’s just a great place, great way to give back to the community and what a lovely environment to do it in – on the beach, having a good time, helping someone have a surf.“Not everyone’s going to stand up. A lot of people will only lay down on the board. Just that feeling of catching a wave – it’s something that you can’t make up.”And the reward?“What we call smiles on dials,” he said. “Everyone goes home tired, but happy.You’ve got that feeling in your belly and in your heart that you’ve done something really good for the community.”Bunnings South Nowra will provide a free barbecue for all participants and volunteers on the day.Volunteers are encouraged to register via Humanitix by searching “Disabled Surfing – Gerroa/Seven Mile Beach.”Walk-ups are also welcome on the morning of.With community support from Nowra to Wollongong, organisers are hoping this year’s event will once again deliver what they promise every time:“No one goes home disappointed.”

Three members of the Gerringong Lions Club have undergone initial training to take part in Lions National Children’s Visual Screening Program, considered one of the most comprehensive programs in the country.Free Vision Screening is provided to children from three years old, in childcare centres, schools, sporting clubs or community groups. It is a screening service only. If there is any concern about a child’s vision, a full eye examination by a local optometrist may be recommended. Since the program started in 2018, there have been 56,132 children who have been screened, with 11,556 referrals to optometrists recommended.As part of their training, the Gerringong Lions went to the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club and asked for volunteers to come forward to be screened. Eleven parents consented for their “nippers” to be screened. Three of the 11 were found to have sight issues with a recommendation to follow up with an optometrist.A state-of-the-art piece of equipment, The Spot Vision Screener can be used to identify, myopia (near sightedness), hyperopia (far sightedness), astigmatism (blurred vision), anisometropia (unequal refractive power), binocular vision (eye misalignment) and aniscoria (unequal pupil size).Visual acuity is tested to determine how sharp vision is at longer distances. Colour perception is also part of the screening regime and stereo depth perception, to assess binocular function of eyes at near tasks, rounds out the battery of screening tests.Once their training is complete, the Gerringong Lions are hoping to offer the program to local pre-schools, schools and sporting groups.

Thanks to the generosity of well-known Sydney artist, Robyn Ross, the next Gerringong fundraiser for Children’s Medical Research Institute will be a charcoal drawing workshop. The event will be held on Saturday, 28 March at Gerringong Surf Club from 10am to 3pm with tickets available from the Trybooking website from 2 March. Cost is $95 per person and includes tuition, paper, charcoal and lunch (catered for by CMRI members). This is a great opportunity for artists from beginners to the more accomplished as Robyn is a very experienced and inspiring teacher who will show you how to create images using charcoal and all the techniques required in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Always expressing a particular interest in people, Robyn specialises in portraiture. Her style and media are eclectic. Equally proficient with paint, charcoal and pencil, she draws different qualities from each medium to create a diverse output of work. Fascinated by the personalities behind the faces, Robyn’s zest for life and interaction with people informs her work with remarkable results. Celebrity portraits include Russell Crowe, Sir Tim Rice, Bette Midler, Gordon Ramsay and Harry Connick jnr – and, somewhat controversially – Christine Forster and her now wife, Virginia Edwards. Considering herself to be mostly self taught, her formal art study includes periods at the Gallery School, Meadowbank and Julian Ashton Art School.Robyn’s clearly a woman proficient across the creative spectrum. Her aim is to paint and share something she’s seen in her subject, leaving her audience to further interpretation. Her art practice includes sittings, photographs and constant dialogue with her subjects. Robyn’s been an invited artist at more than 80 group exhibitions and various solo shows. Career highlights include, invitations to exhibit at the Australian Embassy in Washington and the First International Biennale Izmir Turkey, as a guest artist. To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Goethe Institute in Germany, Robyn was invited to show one of her works in an exhibition that toured Europe in 2011. Twenty years ago Robyn established Hunters Hill Art Group, has run workshops for Northbridge School of Visual Arts, Charles Sturt University and Lucca, Italy, as well as various art societies. As a long-term supporter of Children’s Medical Research Institute, Robyn’s donated works have raised more than $150,000 in Jeans For Genes art auctions.She recently completed two striking portraits of Professor Frank Martin, paediatric opthamologist, and Jennifer Philps, CMRI community relations manager. The CMRI Gerringong committee is very excited to have Robyn in town to share her knowledge and talent with our community. Book from 2 March at https://www.trybooking.com/DJJOH.