Kiama’s Family History Centre volunteers will continue to have access to the facility during Kiama Library opening hours to undertake research on behalf of the wider community.Councillor Erica Warren successfully moved a motion at Tuesday night’s meeting asking Council to formally acknowledge the centre’s significance as a cultural, educational, and community resource – locally, nationally, and internationally. It also reaffirmed that volunteers will continue to be able to help members of the public with research projects.Cr Warren said the motion sought to ensure the centre’s sustainability while maintaining its volunteer-led operations. The motion also directs Council CEO Jane Stroud to report on operating costs and explore cost-recovery options, including fee-for-service sessions, annual memberships, and volunteer-led models with minimal staff oversight.“The Kiama Family History Centre is more than a room in the library,” Cr Warren said at the meeting. “It is a repository of unique local history, an educational hub, and a place of purpose for volunteers and residents alike. This motion ensures the centre can continue to operate sustainably and remain accessible.”The centre, established in 1989 beneath the Kiama Library has been a cornerstone of the community.Volunteers have dedicated decades to transcribing historical documents, digitising records, and assisting local, interstate, and international researchers.The decision follows Council’s recent announcement to reduce the centre’s open-to-the-public hours to two per week as part of the library’s overall services. During library hours, volunteers will continue to be supported by Council to undertake research projects on behalf of the community.Many volunteers and community members attended the council meeting, witnessing the vote that reaffirmed the value of the centre and the importance of volunteer-led service in preserving Kiama’s history. “Kiama Council absolutely loves its volunteers. If you volunteer for Council, you do so in an unpaid capacity, but you are still deemed a Council employee, so we've got a little bit of work to do in terms of bringing those Council volunteers up to speed around their responsibilities, roles and our code of conduct,” CEO Jane Stroud said. “We're going to do a wave of mandatory training for any of our unpaid workforce, because we value the work that they do and they need to know their obligations as volunteer employees of the Council.” Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald, whose uncle has been a long-term volunteer, hoped the Family History Centre services will still be an integral part of Council despite the restructure of the library.“It is a really important local offering and we've had many volunteers over the years providing their time so that people can come in, research their family history, and many other topics, including how our links to history have been shaped our local community. “Our volunteers should not be discouraged from providing these services.“The volunteers are a really valued resource for our local community and there is a range of matters that volunteers have been querying recently such as what times the offering will be available, what future services from the facility will look like and what infrastructure they will be provided with. “We are looking forward to having those conversations and for these much respected volunteers to continue providing the service that they would like to provide well into the future.”Stroud added that the Community College notified Council a month ago that they would be vacating their premises. Council will consult with volunteers and community stakeholders over the next 12 months to co-design this space and develop a sustainable operating model for the centre, similar to the successful Gerringong Library Arts and Museum model. “That's a significant change for us and that's a valuable asset and a valuable parcel of Council land that we need to activate and that we need to use,” she said.“So it's high time to reconsider what goes on in that downstairs section of the building and what it could be into the future and certainly what we did at Gerringong has been a great success.GLaM has a small exhibition space, there's local history, heritage information side by side with the library service and it operates really well. “One half of the building is operated by an incorporated volunteer group, which is fabulous, and the other half is staffed by Council staff.”

More than 60 people are moving into a new 39-unit social and affordable housing complex in Bomaderry, marking a significant boost to local housing supply. The development is close to Bomaderry train station and includes 25 social homes and 14 affordable units, ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments, with shared BBQ and play areas.The project was funded through a $4.8 million NSW Government contribution via the Community Housing Innovation Fund, supported by Southern Cross Housing, with land donated by Shoalhaven City Council. Southern Cross Housing will manage the complex.The first residents include women over 55, a demographic at growing risk of homelessness. The project is part of the state’s $6.6 billion social housing investment, expected to deliver 8,400 new homes across New South Wales.Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast Ryan Park said the development would provide greater housing options for Shoalhaven. Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson added: “Many of the new homes are going to women aged over 55, and that’s exactly who we need to be supporting.”Southern Cross Housing CEO Alex Pontello described the project as “life changing for so many." Shoalhaven City Council Mayor Patricia White said, “Providing land is one of the levers we can pull, and I’m delighted this important step was taken and this project is now complete.” 

For local businesses in Berry, there was an upside to the return of fans for Red Hot Summer, the touring rock concert series that stopped in town on Valentine’s Day.Many festivalgoers were returning for an encore after previously attending Red Hot Summer when it took place at Berry Showground in October— and they had learned money-saving strategies that had a positive impact on the local community.“Instead of buying food in the venue, we arranged to go out to eat in Berry beforehand,” said a festivalgoer in his 70s. He had been gifted tickets to the October show by his children and grandchildren for Father’s Day and enjoyed it so much he returned for last weekend’s concert.Despite paying for ‘fast pass entry’, his group still chose to enjoy a leisurely lunch in Berry before heading to the Showground — proof that, despite an abundance of food trucks on site, the influx of people pouring into town was still spending locally.“Last time, we rushed to the venue to get good seats, but this time around we wanted to spend time in the town as well as enjoy the music,” he added.Berry Chamber of Commerce & Tourism secretary Anthony Colfelt said the dual concerts over summer had delivered “a strong economic boost for Berry and surrounding areas”.“With thousands of visitors in town for the weekend, local accommodation providers often book out, while cafés, restaurants, pubs and retailers benefit from increased foot traffic and spending.”For local businesses, it’s the ripple effect of the festival which makes the difference.“Many concertgoers arrive early or stay on after the event, exploring the town and supporting a wide range of local businesses,” says Colfelt. “Beyond the immediate impact, events like this showcase Berry as a vibrant destination, attracting new visitors who return again in the future.”Festivalgoers took to the Ticketmaster website to applaud the event — and air their grievances.“We have been going to the Red Hot Summer Tours for many years,” wrote one fan. “The event was extremely well run, employees were polite and professional, good security was in place and good quality food was available. And to all the performers — they gave it their all. It was one of the best programs we have been to.”Others were less complimentary, including a disgruntled attendee who paid for the ‘RocketBar’ package, which cost $299.90 and included access to a bar and a barbecue dinner.“We really appreciated the fast-pass entry — tick! Tables, chairs and umbrellas — tick! Separate bar — tick! Barbecue dinner — dismal,” they wrote. “It was basic at best — sausages, undressed salad and white sliced bread. C’mon guys, if you are offering a premium experience, a lot more thought could have been put into this economically.”Unimpressed, they chose to leave the private bar to buy food elsewhere.It’s bad news for the food trucks inside the venue, but good news for the local community — especially with the event expected to return next year.

There they were, about a dozen or so, spread along the rooftops about 100m ahead, above where I was headed on foot. Police with rifles raised, snipers.Not what you'd expect at 6pm on a Monday in Sydney's Darling Harbour.This wasn't a film shoot. These weren't stuntmen in bulletproof vests. And what they held in their hands were not props. They were real rifles.Four of us had left Happy Hour at our Harbourside hotel to walk to dinner.Something was up, you could feel it. There were police officers everywhere, poised, on alert.The police presence on the ground as we approached the International Convention Centre was enormous. So many young police officers, male and female, and plainclothes personnel as well. Standing in groups of two or three, all around. Watching, and waiting. For what, I wondered.With so many people, tourists, visitors and locals alike, milling around the harbour front or making their way to the various cafes, bars and restaurants, this was a fragile, possibly tenuous, definitely not-your-normal Monday evening sort of situation.All the while, two helicopters hovered overhead, occasionally taking off for a reconnoitre, then returning. Their noise was a little reminiscent of Apocalypse Now.Blame my imagination. Blame my heightened sense of Something Not Quite Right.Then, the lightbulb moment. It suddenly occurred to me that the President of Israel had arrived in Sydney earlier today.Now it made sense. What's the bet he wasn't actually here at the ICC?The public walkway was crowded, and hubby and I were uneasy, though our dinner partners ahead of us were blissfully unaware as they hungrily forged ahead towards our Chinese restaurant of choice.Not much further along, we were all stopped and asked by an armed police officer if we were attending the imminent meeting inside the Centre, and the answer being no, we were diverted to another pathway through to Chinatown where we spent the next delightful, anxiety-free hour eating, drinking and catching up with our friends. Before we meaningfully avoided the uncertainty and scariness of the return walk by using the Light Rail, a first for me! How great is an opal Card. Hubby and I had come to Sydney earlier in the day, ostensibly for an exhibition, Ron Mueck Encounters, at our gorgeous Art Gallery of NSW.We knew of President Herzog's visit, and therefore dutifully checked out Live Traffic for possible road closures. We were also aware of the possibility of unrest, and violence at Sydney Town Hall, but we weren't going to be there, so all good. We didn't know however, about the ICC gathering, and neither did most people, no doubt for security reasons.We could have gone to the city just for the day. I could quite happily spend an entire day at the Art Gallery, especially a rainy day. Which it was. But weeks ago we had decided to make our trip an overnighter, so that we had a bit of time to see for ourselves what had been happening in this lively part of the city since we'd last been here, quite a few years ago.Barangaroo, an eye-watering assortment of very high rise apartments and skyscrapers blotting out the sky, more coffee shops than customers, many more bars, and myriad construction sites, that's what's happened.The beauty of our Harbour though, still remains, though becoming cluttered. What is also unchanged is the fun of getting out on the water in one of our iconic ferries. It's always a must do for me.If you find yourself in need of an awesome art experience, do make the time to at least check out the Ron Mueck exhibition, only in Sydney at the Art gallery of NSW, until 12 April.Mueck, born in Melbourne in 1958 but working in the UK, is a sculptor whose work is unparalleled for its exquisitely crafted realism. He started as a puppet and mask maker, and earlier in his career had collaborated on productions with the likes of Jim Henson of Muppets fame.As one newspaper reported about Encounters, you'd be forgiven for thinking the sculptures are alive.How did I find out about the Exhibition?I can happily blame my phone for this. My beloved phone is always telling me of opportunities not to be missed, things to go to, things to see and do. It's my pocket What's On Guide.My phone though, regrettably, didn't tell me about unknowingly finding myself in a potential hot spot, walking apprehensively through banks of police with copters overhead and snipers on standby. Just to get dinner.An innocent abroad, thankfully not caught up in any mayhem, and in hindsight, keen to tell my tale.

Drivers using Moss Vale Road should prepare for delays starting next week as work begins to repair three landslip sites on Cambewarra Mountain.The stabilization project, funded by the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), will focus on the stretch between Green Valley Road and Cambewarra Lookout Road starting on Monday (23 February).Transport for NSW will be deploying specialist contractors to install soil nails, apply shotcrete, and improve drainage.Work will take place Monday to Friday, between 7am and 5pm. During these hours, motorists should expect lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h.Travelers are advised to factor in an extra five minutes of travel time for the duration of the 12-week project.While most lane closures will be restricted to work hours, a more significant disruption is planned for mid-April. For roughly three weeks, a single-lane closure will remain in place 24 hours a day near Beau Cottage while roadside safety barriers are removed to facilitate repairs.Further maintenance is also on the horizon. In late March 2026, drainage work will require overnight closures of Moss Vale Road across both Barrengarry and Cambewarra mountains.Specific dates and times for these night-time closures will be released to the community in the coming weeks.Since the record-breaking rainfall of 2022, 39 landslip sites have been repaired along this corridor, with 11 sites still remaining on the project list.Member for Kiama, Katelin McInerney, noted that these works are part of a long-term recovery effort to make this critical route more resilient for locals and visitors alike.For more information on natural disaster recovery on Moss Vale Road, residents can visit transport.nsw.gov.au/mvr-repairs.

Almost nine years after Kiama local Mark Burns went for a walk around Kiama Harbour and came up with the idea for The Man Walk, the initiative is preparing to launch its 100th location.With 93 locations across Australia, four in New Zealand, one in Japan and one in England, Burns still struggles to comprehend how much the grassroots movement has grown.“It’s unexpected - that’s probably the best word for it,” Burns said. “The Man Walk has been this inadvertent success since late 2018, when I went for a wander around Kiama Harbour just to get myself on the right foot.“It was about starting the day in the sun, clearing my head - simple stuff. It worked for me. Then my mates crashed my walk and from there it grew to Wollongong, then Coolangatta, and then a viral social media post in 2019 that reached 1.3 million people.”Originally, the goal was to launch 12 new locations each year. Since 1 July 2025 alone, 21 new walks have started.“The most recent ones include Bribie Island, Chelsea in Victoria, Rutherglen, and Rockhampton, and we’re at 99 now,” he said. “It’ll be a bit of a race to see which becomes number 100. It might be Sylvania in Sydney - or maybe Chelsea in the UK. Pretty cool to have Chelsea, Victoria and Chelsea, London.”As the initiative expands, Burns says the responsibility behind the scenes has grown too. On the tougher days, he draws motivation from the stories he hears from participants.“What’s really powerful is hearing from the blokes who walk regularly. It’s mostly older men - it’s open to anyone 18 and over, free and weekly - but some of the stories are incredible,” he said.“I’ve had guys say, ‘This is my first friend in 40 years,’ or ‘The Man Walk saved my life.’ When I get bogged down in governance, insurance and strategy - which I never thought I’d be worrying about - I think about those stories.”The founder of The Man Walk Mark Burns (centre). Photo: Mark BurnsThe program’s impact is now being measured more formally through a longitudinal study with Charles Sturt University.“Professor Julaine Allan specialises in community connection and social wellbeing. They had some funding available and reached out after seeing what we were doing online,” Burns said.“She and her team designed a thorough study looking at demographics, cultural background, economic position, alcohol consumption, and anxiety and depression scales. We survey ambassadors and walkers in March and October each year for five years. As the same men continue participating, it strengthens the data.”Ninety-seven per cent of men surveyed said The Man Walk has had a positive impact on their mental and physical health whilst ninety-nine per cent said it helped them engage socially with others. The first phase of the study concluded: “The Man Walk is a community-based program that effectively fosters social connection, routine and wellbeing, especially for older men and those in regional and lower socioeconomic areas.”Despite the growth, Burns insists the core of The Man Walk remains unchanged.“The purpose hasn’t changed. It’s still a low-barrier, easy opportunity for connection - shoulder-to-shoulder, walk and talk. That simplicity is the magic, and I don’t think that will ever change,” he said.“What has evolved is that we now offer more. There are mental health education programs and wellbeing check-ins. And with so many locations, there’s a bit of ‘Man Walk tourism’ - like parkrun tourism. Some blokes have walked at 30 or 40 locations around Australia.”Once the 100th walk is confirmed, Burns hopes to see another 500 established over the next decade.“Growth has been entirely organic so far, but we’re starting to identify areas of need more strategically,” he said.In the near future, the organisation will host ‘One Big Walk for Men’s Health and Wellbeing’ - a 400-kilometre trek from Tathra to Kembla Grange from June 13 to 20, more than a marathon a day.“It’s about raising awareness and funds. We’ll pass about 14 active Man Walk locations along the coast and connect with them. Funding a free organisation is tough,” Burns said.“We’re hoping 15 people will commit to the full eight days, each raising $5,000. "Others can join for a day and aim to raise $1,000.”The group will finish at Kembla Grange on Race Against Suicide race day.“It’s a big challenge - I’ve got the walking shoes on already - but it’s exciting. We’re proud of where things are heading. It’s definitely onward and upward.”

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.