What’s on in July
By the team at Collins Booksellers Thirroul
Collins Booksellers Thirroul have 3 fantastic events at Ryan’s Hotel in July. On the 9th, the launch of Days Since, the latest anthology from the Young Writers Collective. The 16th features Accessory, a memoir of former beauty queen and convicted drug dealer turned women’s justice advocate, Felicia Djamirze. Hear the behind-the-scenes story of the successful partnership between Felicia and her ghost-writer, award-winning journalist Erin O’Dwyer. Elizabeth Tadic will be moderating. We’ve been waiting so (im) patiently for Suzanne Do’s The Golden Sister and it’s finally arrived! Hayley Scrivenor will lead a conversation on the 30th. Book via thirroul@collinsbooks.com.au or Humanitix.
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THE ILLAWARRA
NEXT DEADLINE 21 July foreditionAugust
EDITORS Genevieve Swart, Marcus Craft CONTACT hello@theillawarraflame.com.au; 0432 612 168; PO Box 248, Helensburgh, 2508. TheIllawarraFlame
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DEADLINE 21 July. Contributions welcome.
COVER Professor Kate Curtis AO. Photo: USYD
THE ILLAWARRA FLAME is published by a family business, The Word Bureau, ABN 31 692 723 477
DISCLAIMER: All content and images remain the property of The Illawarra Flame unless otherwise supplied. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission. Views expressed do not reflect those of the publishers.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The publishers acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and their cultural and spiritual connection to this land. Their stories are written in the land and hold great significance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, from the mountains to the sea.
KANE DOWNIE
50-year legacy of UOW’s ‘Tree Man’
By Jeremy Lasek
It’s been described as one of the most beautiful university campuses in the world, and recently The Illawarra Flame had the privilege of catching up with the man who can take much of the credit for creating the leafy, bush-like feel of our University of Wollongong (UOW).
Leon Fuller was a young man starting out in his horticultural career when he won his dream job. It was 1975, and UOW had just been incorporated by the NSW Parliament as an independent institution.
Leon was working as a parks supervisor at Lane Cove Council when he saw the position advertised for landscape manager at UOW.
“At that time I only had one year’s experience, so I thought I wouldn’t get the job,” Leon said. “But I had the right qualifications, and I was interested in growing indigenous plants from this region, and that’s what they wanted.”
Having been born in Coledale and grown up in Thirroul, Leon was pleased to be back in the Illawarra. He was 28, and it was a crazy busy time in his life. “I had a lot of energy in those days. I was writing a book (Wollongong Native Trees), raising four kids, sailing and starting a new job.”
In the late 1970s, Leon’s top priority at UOW, together with his team of gardeners, was getting as many plants and trees in the ground as possible.
The heart of the campus, where the duck pond is now, “was just a big, flat kikuyu paddock”.
“The initial budget was miserable. They gave me $1000, and I said ‘What am I supposed to do with that?’ … ”
Thankfully, some senior managers holding the purse strings shared Leon’s vision and he received a $100,000 boost to his budget.
“In those days that was a lot of money, and we were able to plant thousands of trees. That’s why it
is the way it is today,” Leon said. “This was right at the start of the big revolution towards the planting of native plants. People were starting to use them in big landscape projects.”
In his spare time, Leon was exploring the local bushland, keen to identify which plant species would grow best. His research was documented in his book and it informed the look and feel of the stunning UOW campus we see today. “While we had landscape architects working with us to design the paths and retaining walls, I said ‘hands off the plants’. People trusted me to get it right.
By the time he left in 1981, many thousands of trees had been planted. One of the last before Leon moved on was the magnificent sprawling fig tree that now provides wonderful shade beside the central pond. So, visiting the campus 50 years on, how does Leon feel – has his vision been realised?
“I’m really pleased to be able to come here, to see this, and know it’s done. If we hadn’t, it would have been an opportunity lost.”
National Tree Day is on Sunday, July 27
Expo drives change
More than 600 people enjoyed e-bike rides, expert advice and induction cooking demos on Sunday, June 22 at the Go Electric Open Day at Club Thirroul. Organised by the Rewiring Australia team and Electrify Illawarra volunteers, the free, family-friendly event fed into residents’ growing desire to electrify their homes, save cash and reduce carbon footprints. It also celebrated the launch of the new book Plug In! The Electrification Handbook by Rewiring’s co-founder, Austinmer engineer Dr Saul Griffith. Photo thanks to Jeremy Park
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Thirroul festival a triumph
By Kim Morris of Horizon Bank, the event’s gold sponsor
The last day of Autumn and the first day of Winter proved a perfect time for the 33rd Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival. Blessed with a soft breeze and brilliant sunshine, these ideal conditions, along with the tireless efforts of our dedicated volunteers and the Austinmer Thirroul Lions Club, made this year’s festival one of the best yet! Here are four of the highlights.
1. Art in the Shops
4. Festival in the Park
3. Family Kite Day
On May 31 at Thirroul Beach Reserve, the sky came alive with colourful kites by the Kite Association. Families also brought their own and enjoyed making kites on-site, while the Lions did what we do best: manning the barbecue and keeping everyone well-fed.
In the two weeks leading up to the festival, local businesses proudly displayed artwork, creating a delightful “appetiser” to the main Art Show. It brought colour and creativity to the streets.
2. The Art Show & Awards
Friday night, May 30th, marked the opening of the Art Show and awards, with the exhibition on all weekend. Over 500 gorgeous artworks were on display, with an impressive number sold.
The fun didn’t stop there! The next day, June 1, saw the festival continue at the park, with 80 vibrant stalls, entertainment, carnival rides, pony rides and food trucks. Thousands took advantage of the perfect weather to enjoy the festivities, with many stopping by the Lions barbecue for a snag sanger! Thanks to the incredible community turnout, the festival raised over $33,000.
Pictured: Kids at Kite Day & David King, whose ‘Bulli Sea Pool’ won 1st prize in the Art Show.
Photos: Tyneesha Williams, Bronte Phillips
Where the light slips
A Stanwell Park ceramic artist is set to hold her debut exhibition
Alexandra Neville is a ceramic sculptor from Stanwell Park whose debut solo show, where the light slips, will be at Clifton School of Arts from July 25-28.
“This exhibition feels like a big milestone,”
Alexandra said.
“My work is based on primitive geometric forms – toruses, donuts, spheres, and cubes –shapes often used as a foundation in 3D digital art. I use grog clay, which has a high sand content. It’s strong and leaves a rough, textured surface with visible marks and scratches. While most people use smoother clays for wheel throwing, I prefer grog clay because it is forgiving and suits my naturally heavy-handed approach …
I decorate the forms with ceramic handles, spikes, chains, and sometimes wire. Lately, I’ve been drawn to monochrome glazes – especially different shades of black, including matte, satin, and crawl finishes that create cracked or textured surfaces.”
Design movements such as Bauhaus, Brutalism, and Post-Minimalism have inspired her work.
“I’m drawn to strong, simple forms that carry weight and presence,” Alexandra said. “My sculptures often resemble vessels or totems –familiar in form, but still ambiguous.
“Music is also a big part of my process. This recent series has been shaped by ’70s rock and metal – The Stooges, Black Sabbath, and Sex Pistols. That energy seems to filter into the work, with subtle nods to gothic sub-genres.”
Alexandra’s interest in “everyone’s inner architecture” inspires abstract characters. “Each work feels like a monument to those less-celebrated parts of ourselves: a fool, a clown, a demon.”
Mystery solved with AI
By Kieran Tapsell of Banksia Bushcare
When the Suez Canal was being built in the 1850s, many Greeks were brought in as labourers and tradesmen. After the completion of the canal in 1869, many of them stayed in Egypt. However, after the Suez Crisis in 1956, the then President Gamal Abdel Nasser expelled the Greeks, despite many of them having lived there for several generations. Emmanuel and George Theodossiou, brothers in their early 20s, were among the refugees.
Emmanuel came to Australia, and his brother, George, got a job with an international organisation and went to East Africa. The brothers kept in contact by aerograms (remember those?). When George wrote to Emmanuel in Australia, he had a local artist paint a picture on the envelope. Emmanuel, in the meantime, married in Australia and had three daughters, one of whom is Tina Mucci, a Stanwell Park resident for many years, now at Wombarra and the widow of the muchloved and missed artist, Michael Mucci.
Once when I was at one of the many Mucci family gatherings, Manny, now 95, showed me these aerogram envelopes with their exquisite East African paintings. He allowed me to scan them, and then I painted them on ceramics for him, including some of the eggs for Art in the Park in the Stanwell Avenue Reserve.
I had no idea who painted the originals and neither did Manny. But this is where AI comes in. I downloaded the scanned envelopes onto ChatGPT and asked it to identify the artists. It replied that there were signatures on two of them, Karecha and Saidi, and they were street artists from
Bird Watch
By Ewan Auld
East Africa. They never became famous as artists but plied their trade amongst the tourists and residents of the Congo, amongst whom was the avid letter writer, George Theodossiou.
Banksia Bushcare is now exhibiting the Karecha and Saidi paintings transferred onto eggs for the enjoyment of those strolling through the Stanwell Avenue Reserve. They are part of the MATE Exhibitions (Modern Art Tributes on Eggs).
No doubt Karecha and Saidi have long since left this mortal coil, but their paintings are now exhibited along a funny little dirt track on the other side of the world. It is a shame they don’t know about it but, who knows, maybe they do.
Southern Emu-wren (Stipiturus malachurus)
This tiny wren species inhabits the heathlands and grasslands spanning coastlines from southeastern to southwestern Australia. Whilst this species is generally shy, they are quite recognisable by their long, dainty tail feathers, which closely resemble those of the Emu. In the Illawarra, this species is rarely seen right on the coast; the birds are more often found in the heathland up over the escarpment around Maddens Plains and Darkes Forest. I recently spotted this male during a walk along Fire Trail No. 10 in Darkes Forest, which is a great trail for spotting local woodland and heathland bird species. Male Southern Emu-wrens often perch on the upper branches of low-lying shrubs while calling, and I was able to capture a photo of this one out in the open.
Time to
help veterans’ families
Janice Creenaune meets Kevin Donald, a long-time resident of Austinmer, who worked as a supermarket manager, but has devoted his time to the Legacy organisation since 1956 and, after 68 years of service, remains a stalwart supporter
After World War II, Australia was a very different place and, coming back from overseas travels, Kevin Donald noticed a need in the Illawarra.
“There was a great need to look after the women and children of many ex-serviceman – those who had passed in service of their country and the many more who were injured, permanently disabled or who suffered mental health issues,” he says. “These families were in great need and the Legacy movement stepped up to hear the call. In particular, we saw a great need for boys’ holiday camps.”
Children of ex-servicemen came from NSW, as well as Victoria; first boys, then girls too. Kevin enlisted his mates from the teaching profession and the Scouts to run the camps at Legacy house, then Mt Keira Scout Camp, then the Girl Guides Camp.
Forty to 50 children (aged up to 15) attended the annual camps. “Many children returned year after year. What started as an experiment went on for about 45 years (and me personally for 42 years).”
Little was then understood about the effects of war on veterans and their families. “Thankfully, we understand a great deal more today and can work towards helping, but in those days, immediately after the war, for many men it was very hard.
“Children often needed just someone to talk to,
Probus Club news
Judy Duckett reports from Helensburgh, Yvonne Bryce shares news from Thirroul
Helensburgh club calls for new members
Our annual President’s picnic at Woronora Dam was a recent highlight and we’re looking forward to bowls and golf, Christmas in July at the Como Hotel and a coach trip to Jindabyne. July’s meeting will be on Thursday 10th at Helensburgh Tradies, 10am for 10.30 start – John Harries will talk about Nuclear Energy. Enquiries to Val on 0419 129 984 or helensburghprobus@y7mail.com.
Cabin and caravanning fun
Earlier this year, 59 members of Thirroul Probus ventured to Fingal Bay Caravan Park for five days. We enjoyed bike rides, beach walks, aqua aerobics,
and often they turned to each other for understanding and camaraderie. Some suffered significant trauma and death in their lives, and our camps offered them hope for a better future and, at least, much fun for a short period.”
Legacy also hosted excursions. “The Aero Club offered joy flights, the Steelworks showed an avenue for big industry and these were often country children who attended. Hikes up Mt Keira were well loved, especially at night to see the Wollongong/Port Kembla lights and the extent of the coast. But learning about red-bellied black snakes and leeches also featured. All the outback children loved the salty ocean. We also offered picnics and Opera House excursions as well as the Harbour Bridge and Naval vessels on display.”
The last local camp was held just before the pandemic. “Many new restrictions were applied and we just could not fulfil them. However, camps are still running in Sydney (which Wollongong people can attend), and now in Wollongong we concentrate more on widows and dependants.”
Kevin still attends meetings, offering advice and doing what he can. At 85 years old, and after 68 years of service to Legacy, he is not about to stop. If his community needs him, he will step up.
golf, a few dinners out and a fantastic ferry ride. The highlight was when everyone came together for late-afternoon nibblies in the caravan park’s amazing camp kitchen. These events connect people as well as provide fun and friendship.
Events ahead include a trip to Port Kembla Steelworks and a Christmas in July harbour cruise. On behalf of president Mark Bryce, I would like to thank everyone for making ours a great club!
Stay Healthy Through Cold & Flu Season
By Dr Meaghan Miller-McConochie of Bulli Medical Practice
As winter approaches, cold and flu season intensifies. In 2024, Australia saw over 349,000 influenza cases, with children under five and seniors most at risk.
Vaccination remains the most effective prevention, yet concerning trends show only 13.7% of children aged 5 to 14 were vaccinated last year – and this number continues to decline.
Preventative Measures
Face Masks: Simple but effective, especially in crowded or indoor spaces. Masks help reduce transmission of respiratory viruses, including flu, RSV, and COVID-19.
Hygiene: Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and disinfect frequently touched surfaces to reduce virus spread.
Supporting Your Natural Immunity
Flu Vaccine: Free for eligible groups, including young children, seniors over 65, and pregnant women. A flu shot offers the best protection against severe symptoms and complications.
RSV Vaccine: Respiratory Syncytial Virus causes severe respiratory illness in young children and the elderly. Vaccination is particularly recommended for high-risk groups to prevent hospitalisation and serious complications.
COVID-19 Booster: This is important for those 65+, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions. Boosters help significantly reduce the risk of severe illness.
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Open Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm
Saturday: 8am - 12 noon
Full range of general practice services including women’s and men’s health, child and adolescent health, older adult health and nursing home visits, and specialised clinics including:
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Vitamin D, Vitamin C and Zinc: These nutrients support immune function and may help reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found naturally in fish oil, these have anti-inflammatory properties.
Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria that help boost immunity and may reduce illness duration.
Seek Medical Help
If you have persistent fever, difficulty breathing, or symptoms that worsen rather than improve. Early treatment can prevent complications.
Book your flu vaccination or health check-up with Bulli Medical Practice on 4284 4622.
Book online* via the website: www.bullimedicalpractice.com.au or scan QR code:
*Please call 4284 4622 for an appointment if you have any respiratory symptoms 74 Park
4622
Behind the Curtain at Sidedoor
By Brian Kelly
Twenty years ago, the space held a business that sold risque goods of an adult nature. Twenty years before that, it hosted a Balkans-themed club where young men complained that cans of VB cost $2.50. Now the tiny bolthole under ground level hosts the busiest arts centre in Wollongong.
Sidedoor Theatre, opposite Spotlight in Atchison Street, has been conducting drag events, comedy nights, plays, musicals and more for several years, and it’s little wonder that Rising Arts – the group that runs it – has a motto of “where different lives’’.
Rising Arts founding members Jarrod Riesinger and Bradley Ward began the company in Camden in 2017 with a few improv shows, noticing that Wollongong creatives were often outnumbering the locals. This prompted them to move to the coast.
“We made the genius decision to open a space in Bellambi called Theatre 16 just as the pandemic kicked off,’’ Jarrod said.
About 18 months later, they heard Sidedoor Theatre was available and saw a chance to fill a gap – “the lack of spaces that give you the freedom to do anything,’’ Jarrod said. “We’ve also run live music, improv comedy, circus, interactive art exhibitions, LARPing events, film screenings, poetry slams, readings of fan-fiction, live-streamed a 24-hour performance marathon, filmed an entire game show and early next month we’ll be producing a monthly ‘late night’ talk show. Many of the shows that come to us are highly ambitious given we’re in a small basement theatre but we do our best to do it all. It is a case of anything goes.’’
As well as helping run the Wollongong Comedy Festival wrapping up in July, upcoming Rising Arts events include the Australian premiere of We Are The Tigers, a cheerleader-themed murder musical with four performances across July 17-19.
Good Works, a play following two women and their sons struggling to live in the confines of 20th-century Catholic morality, brings grit to the first weekend of August. It features Thomas Roberts, recently seen writhing around on Phoenix Theatre floorboards in a visceral portrayal of exiled son Edgar in The House of Gloucester.
Good Works director Sharlette Bourke said the piece, set between 1928 and 1981, explores the intricacies of connections between six characters.
“This story is so beautiful – we see the characters bond over the harsh realities of living in Australia at the time,’’ she said.
Peter and the Wolf up next
By Lauren Mitsak of Stanwell Park Arts Theatre (SPAT)
SPAT Singers’ supper show, Riversong, was a great success. Pianist Catherine Rostrum accompanied most musical numbers, musical director Lindy Sharp sang, played the keyboard and conducted, while talented members sang and played flute, recorder, violin, clarinet, bass and cello. Amid the intimacy of the CWA hall, audiences felt transplanted to another era.
Peter and the Wolf WollCon’s Mikaela Wu will conduct and SPAT’s Matt Dickson will direct an exciting collaboration, with matinees and evening shows on August 30 and September 6. The nights will include a radio
play, Sherlock Holmes: The Case of the Haunted Chateaux.
Christmas Panto draft
Christine Higgins and Rachel Kiddier, stars of Tap Cats of the Sunshine Coast, have an idea for 2025’s Panto based on the 12 days of Christmas, with 12 scenes and lots of parts for children. They will present a script at July 7’s committee meeting.
Luke Berman runs the annual competition for theatre groups. SPAT will host the improv event on October 25. Visit spat.org.au Est. 1974
Playmates (Improvised theatre)
Ella Clout plays Riley in We Are The Tigers. Photo: Xavia Russel & Olivia Galea
Skatepark for northern suburbs
By Thirroul Village Committee secretary Annette Jones
Thirroul Village Committee (TVC) was fortunate to have a presentation at our quarterly meeting from the Recreation Policy and Planning Officer of Council. In 2024 Council ran workshops with skaters and 120 surveys were received about what they would like – a bowl and street-style facility. 70% of respondents aged under 22 indicated they typically walk or catch a train/bus to a skate park. Four locations were under consideration:
• McCauley Park, Thirroul
• Western tennis courts in Thomas Gibson Park, Thirroul
• Pinecourt Park, Austinmer, near Headlands Hotel
• WF Jackson Park, Thirroul
Council sees Thirroul as the better location, with preference for WF Jackson Park. TVC members and the community have raised concerns due to its proximity to Lawrence Hargrave Drive and the well-used adjacent pedestrian footpath, with fears inexperienced skaters could lose control and end up on the road. It was explained that fencing can be constructed. There are also safety concerns about access, limited car spaces and a lack of toilet
facilities. WF Jackson Park is the only green space in the middle of town and, at some point, there will be considerable housing as part of the new plaza precinct. The occupants will require green space. There is community support for using McCauley Park, as it could be integrated into existing sportsfields. Another location, supported by many in the community, is the western tennis courts in Thomas Gibson Park. These are an under-utilised resource, with parking and close to the train station. Other locations identified by TVC members and the community:
• Green space in Mary St alongside Flanagan’s Creek, Thirroul, though this is close to housing;
• Open green space facing the Princes Highway at Bulli in front of the showground;
• The revitalised Bulli Showground.
On 16 June, the TVC addressed Council and suggested that Council put the proposed locations on public exhibition for feedback. This is an important issue and one that Council and the whole community need to get right.
TVC next meets on Aug 24, 4pm, TRIPS Hall
NIRAG/NF3 Report
By Northern Illawarra Residents Action Group secretary Ross Dearden
Old Bulli Hospital: DA-2023/895
The Southern Regional Planning Panel (SRPP) met on 3 June and Margaret Hutchinson, Neil Hinds and Col McGuinness spoke to the panel against the subdivision proposal of the former Bulli Hospital at 29 Hospital Rd. The major points of objection were:
• Hospital Road parking and traffic management is inadequate and a safety concern;
• Responsible ministers’ failure to provide long-term solutions to parking and traffic issues;
• Stormwater management and flooding concerns;
• Bushfire safety and lack of secondary ingress/ egress issues;
• Residual contaminated soil, asbestos and wash management;
• Tree removal and landscape destruction. On 16 June, the SRPP unanimously approved Landcom’s final DA without modifying parking provision or traffic issues concerning residents and hospital staff. They concluded that “the proposal is unlikely to result in any unacceptable amenity, environmental or land use safety impacts” and that the proposal was “in the public interest”. In their
published decision, they also approved (with some amendments) the 141 conditions recommended by WCC. The decision of the SRPP is on the Old Bulli Hospital Group’s Facebook page.
Amy Street. Thirroul: DA 2025/374
This DA for a 3-storey dwelling was on exhibition until June 17. It is on part of Lot 303, zoned R2. The majority of this lot forms the large Green Corridor C2, Environmental Conservation area (approx 7ha) of privately owned land between Hewitts Creek and Woodlands Creek. NIRAG believes this area needs to be identified in the Wollongong Community Strategic Plan and brought into public ownership. Residents’ objections to the proposal are based on the bulk, height, overshadowing, permissible Floor Space Ratio (FSR), potential loss of public accesses to the beach, and concern for vegetation management of the C2, Environmental Conservation part of the land.
Next meeting: 13 August, 7pm, Bulli Community Centre, nirag@bigpond.com
Bulli chapel needs a makeover
By William Tibben
Walk raises $5k
By Paul Blanksby of Helensburgh Men’s Shed
It was Friday, June 13th, 6pm at the Thistles clubhouse. For the third year running, your Men’s Shed had joined the Thistles Soccer Club and other Australians to Walk for Him, to raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
We trundled up Hay Street, the four kids with us banging and clanging their percussion instruments. To the duckpond, onto the wharf. Three waterhens squawked in protest, but the frogs seemed happy. Then through the bush, up Walker Street and past Frank the miner, back to the clubhouse for a warm mug of soup.
Our target was $3000; we raised $5096! Vital funds for lifesaving research and support services.
The total raised this year by PCFA was $389,590, and 22,650km was walked!
Prostate cancer is the most survivable cancer if detected early. It happens, and not just to older men. Detection is easy, through a simple PSA blood test. And excellent support is available through the PCFA.
Please, be a man and get tested!
This historic photo of a wedding at the sandstone church on the highway at Bulli is one of countless images celebrating the marriage of numerous couples over the past century. The church has part of the community for 160 years, providing a place where countless happy and sad events in the lives of locals have been staged. Over the coming months, work will take place to repair stonework and restore the stained-glass windows. To help, visit bullichapel.org.au. Donations are tax deductible!
Next month: discover the love story behind the 1924 wedding pictured here.
Scouts’ special guest
By Sam Donohoe, 1st Austinmer Scouts
On a cool, clear June evening, 1st Austinmer Scouts of all ages gathered together at the Scout Hall for an Aboriginal cultural experience. Scouts were very fortunate to have Clarence Slockee leading proceedings. Clarence is a Cudgenburra/ Bundjalung man with extensive experience in environmental and cultural education and is a frequent presenter on Gardening Australia
Clarence invited scouts to experience a traditional smoking ceremony, where the purposeful smouldering of native plants offers spiritual and physical cleansing. An immensely engaging presenter, he taught Scouts about Indigenous language, tools, plants and ceremonies. We also learned how symbols inscribed on sticks and delivered over distances via smoke were used to communicate. Scouts performed an animal dance to the captivating rhythm of Clarence’s didgeridoo and capped off the night with a bush tucker feed of grilled octopus, kangaroo, mussels, and seaweed.
To give Scouting a try, call 0409 695 575.
Welcome to Pepper Real Estate
The father-and-son team have a wealth of local knowledge to share
Agency HQ has announced the launch of Pepper Real Estate, a family-led business servicing Stanwell Park, Helensburgh and the northern Illawarra region.
Spearheaded by Ian Pepper, a highly respected real estate professional and finance specialist, and Joshua Pepper, a new-generation property advisor with deep local roots, Pepper Real Estate adds legacy experience and fresh energy to the Agency HQ network.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ian and Josh to the Agency HQ family,” said the CEO of Agency HQ, Mark Morrison.
“Ian brings a wealth of financial and real estate knowledge, and Josh has already built trust in the community through his integrity and local involvement. Together, they’re a powerful force.”
Pepper Real Estate has a wealth of expertise to offer clients. With a Bachelor of Economics, an MBA, and multiple finance qualifications, Ian Pepper’s journey spans senior roles at PwC in Sydney and London, leading to Premier Agent
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status at Ray White and the 2025 Agent of the Year accolade for Stanwell Park.
Josh Pepper complements this experience with a Business Administration degree and an unwavering commitment to local clients. Known for his empathetic approach and sharp problem-solving skills, Josh brings a contemporary edge to the business.
For a no-obligation property appraisal, simply contact your local father-and-son team.
Ian Pepper 0403 570 041 Josh Pepper 0437 790 052 @peppersrealestate
Prof Kate Curtis honoured
By Tyneesha Williams
After three decades on the frontline of healthcare, Professor Kate Curtis was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the General Division in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours list.
The Coledale local was recognised for her distinguished service to trauma and emergency nursing, critical care research, tertiary education and professional organisations.
Kate grew up in Figtree and has been an emergency nurse since 1994. She is currently Director of Emergency and Critical Care Research at Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) and also works as a registered nurse at Wollongong Emergency Department (ED).
A professor of Emergency and Trauma Care at University of Sydney since 2008, Kate is also an honorary professional fellow at the George Institute for Global Health and the National Health and Medical Research Council.
All of her work is informed by first-hand experience working as an emergency nurse.
“Nurses are responsible for the safety and quality of patient care, and if we get it wrong, the outcomes can be catastrophic – it’s a huge responsibility,” Kate says.
“All the work that I do comes from seeing it – being a clinician and working on the front line in the emergency department, thinking that perhaps we could do this better, or perhaps we shouldn’t be doing this, and coming up with ideas to improve patient care and the way we deliver care.”
Kate is the world’s most published author in the field of trauma and emergency nursing, having published 57 research papers.
“You should always have in the back of your mind that nurses are doing the very best they can, and the reason we are nurses is because we want to help people,” she says. “We want to give patients the best possible opportunity to have the best experience.
“It can be very challenging for us to do that in the environment in which we work, particularly in the emergency department, where we’re really at the front line and anything can walk through the door, it’s unpredictable and it can be unsafe,
“We provide care for people from ages zero to 100 but we’re always learning, we’re always trying to help you. I would say to patients, if you feel concerned you should always raise concern and escalate to the nursing staff if you are worried about something.”
Kate completed Masters of Nursing at the University of Wollongong in 2002, and a PhD through the School of Public Health and Community Medicine at the University of NSW in
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2006. Since then, she has received numerous awards but is most proud of her work as cofounder and lead investigator at project HIRAID (History, Infection risk, Red flags, Assessment, Interventions, Diagnostics).
It is the only validated framework to support emergency nurses in assessing and managing emergency department patients after triage, and has led to a 50 percent reduction in patient deterioration associated with care delivered in the emergency department.
“I am proud of us completing the largest ever clinical trial with emergency nurses in the world, and showing that if emergency nurses all use the same structure in their initial assessment and management of the patient after triage, patients have a much better experience,” Kate says.
“We have now implemented this framework across Tasmania, South Australia and parts of Victoria and New South Wales. We’re working with colleagues to implement this in Thailand, Sweden, Denmark, South Africa and Hong Kong too.”
Kate thanked those willing to take part in research and change their practice, including supportive hospital management and the nurses and doctors on the frontline. “And then I’ve had excellent parental role models, a very supportive husband and kids, and an excellent public school education at Figtree High School.”
Her insignia will be presented at an investiture ceremony at Government House, Sydney.
The 11 other people from Wollongong recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours list are: Bruce Gordon, Vincent Crawley, the late Gerald Doyle, Deborah Hutton, Brian Jackson, Kennith Kitching, John McAlary, Arnold Thurling, Paul Tuckerman, Professor Sandra Wills and Ashley Sulliven.
Doctors’ Gaza talks inspire letter to PM
By Tyneesha Williams
On May 28, Wollongong Friends of Palestine hosted over 200 people at Project Contemporary Artspace to hear five health professionals share first-hand accounts of their frontline humanitarian efforts to help civilians in Gaza.
Homemade lentil soup and bread was served as guests arrived and soon the gallery was full.
MC Yossra Abouelfadl, a pharmacist who works at Thirroul Central Chemist on King St, welcomed the crowd. “We want to acknowledge the warm cups many of you are holding tonight,” she said. “The lentil soup was lovingly cooked and served by some amazing women from our community.
“This soup isn’t just nourishment, it’s a symbol. I have been told by Dr Ayman, who is one of the speakers tonight, that even in the face of siege and starvation, families offer this humble dish to visiting health workers as a gesture of deep gratitude, resistance, and care.”
The speakers who shared their stories were: Dr Ayman Elattar, an Illawarra emergency consultant; Dr Mohammed (Mo) Mustafa, a junior emergency medicine doctor; Sally Stevenson AM, executive director of Illawarra Women’s Health Centre;
Assala Sayara, a Palestinian activist, counsellor, social worker and PhD student; and Dr Aziz Bhimani, an orthopaedic surgeon.
Inspired by the doctors’ first-hand testimony, after the event Yossra created an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, calling for more funding, logistical support and diplomatic pressure to help civilians in Gaza. About 2000 health professional have signed the letter, which Yossra will deliver to Parliament House in July.
10-week course starts 21 or 22 July at Thirroul Community Centre
$150 per 2-hour session ($66.65/ session Medicare rebate with GP referral) Contact Dr Marianne Bourke 0437 476 773 admin@illawarraclinicalpsychology.com.au
L to R: Dr Aunty Barbara Nicholson, Kim Sattler, Dr Ayman Elattar, Dr Aziz Bhimani, Yossra Abouelfadl, Assala Sayara, Sally Stevenson
Cheers to NINA volunteers
By Tyneesha Williams
Northern Illawarra Neighbour Aid (NINA) held a volunteer appreciation lunch at Wollongong restaurant Ain’t Nonna’s on Wednesday, May 21 in celebration of 2025’s Volunteer Week.
Thanks to the volunteers who told The Illawarra Flame why they love to help.
Lyn: “I finished working and wanted something to fill my time, and I’ve enjoyed volunteering with NINA. You get to listen to their stories and meet lots of people. I hope it’s around when I need it.”
Pauline: “It’s something to do! When I retired, I was floundering around trying to find something to do. You make some wonderful friends, and it’s important to know that you’re helping someone to have a good day.”
Peter: “It’s an opportunity to help the community where it’s needed and to meet lots of different and interesting people, and to go places you wouldn’t necessarily go otherwise.”
Georgie : “I saw something about NINA in the paper and thought, ‘Oh, that seems like a pretty cool little thing to do –I’ve got spare time, I can drive.’ It was also a bit relevant to the degree I’m studying – exercise science. I get to meet so many different people from all over the world, drive and chat, and take them wherever they need to go. You meet so many different kinds of people that you wouldn’t normally get to.”
Louise: “I had a medical condition about 12 years ago, and I spoke to NINA, and they actually drove me to my appointments. And then when I got better, I became a volunteer. Volunteering for NINA, I have gained friendship, knowledge and a lot of gossip. You also learn local history, you learn a lot through conversations.”
John: “They never stop thanking you – our clients are so appreciative. Makes it nice as you’re driving around, picking people up one on one and they’ve all got an interesting history to share. I’ve learned so much.”
Aurora thrills thousands
by Amanda De George. Photo: Melissa Doheny
From Bald Hill to local beaches, thousands of people in the Illawarra witnessed the incredible phenomenon of the Aurora Australis on June 1. Missed it? Here are three tips for the next one:
• Get alerts: Follow Aurora Australis on Facebook and the Space Weather Prediction Centre. Find a south-facing site with low light pollution –Gerroa Headland and Bald Hill are popular.
• Set expectations: While locals saw a red glow and faint beams of white moving across the sky on June 1, the aurora here is rarely visible to the naked eye. For photos, use a long exposure.
• Aurora etiquette: Popular spots attract crowds. If you have to use a light, point it to the ground and turn it off as soon as possible. The same goes for car headlights. Be mindful of photographers around you … and, most importantly, have fun.
Taste of creativity
By Nina Sampson
As we reach the year’s halfway mark, Helensburgh Public School students continue to engage in enriching activities – from dance and drama to choir, filmmaking, drumming, knitting, Lego building, and lunchtime reading sessions. A highlight has been participating in Enrichment Days at Heathcote High School. Our excursions to Darling Harbour and Science Space in Wollongong have also enhanced learning through hands-on discovery. Creativity has flourished during Art Days, while school spirit has shone brightly at our Athletics Carnivals and Spelling Bees. School discos have been fun, with students creating lasting memories with their friends.
What’s On
Celebrate NAIDOC Week at your library
1 & 4 July Special edition of Preschool Storytime ahead of NAIDOC Week with storytelling and music celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Thirroul Library: 1 July, 10-10.45am, Helensburgh: 4 July, 10.30-11.15am. Music and Tea NAIDOC Week concert
3 July 11am-12:30pm with Kyarna and Ron Callaghan at Wollongong Art Gallery. Free.
South Coast Readers & Writers Festival
5 & 6 July At Thirroul Community Centre.
For Gaza: Book and Zine Fair
Sat 12 July 2-5pm, Thirroul Railway Institute Hall. Buy books by donation to APHEDA/Union Aid Abroad’s Gaza Appeal. Music by Illawarra Union Singers, Zlatko’s Balkan Cabaret, Andy Ophee, Paul Spencer. Afternoon tea served.
Mount Kilimanjaro charity climb
20 July Helensburgh local Maeve Turner hopes to raise $25,000 for Tanzania-based charity Inuka.
New Fathering Project
By Emma Hutchinson, principal of Scarborough Public School
Scarborough Public School is proud to introduce The Fathering Project, aimed at strengthening the connection between father figures and children. So far, we’ve hosted two after-school gatherings: Pizza and Planes and Handball and Hot Chips, supported by Rosie’s Fish & Chips, Coledale. These afternoons have brought laughter, teamwork, and a strong sense of community. In Term 3 we have ‘Trivia & Treats’ and ‘Basketball & Bangas’ on the schedule! By creating space for fathers, stepfathers, uncles, grandads and mentors to be involved, we hope to boost student wellbeing, resilience, school engagement, and long-term educational outcomes.
Donate at whats-your-climb.raiselysite.com
Two Welsh Choirs In One
20 July For the first time, Sydney Welsh Choir joins Wollongong Welsh Choir for Sunday concerts on July 20 at Corrimal Uniting Church and August 17 at Pitt Street church, Sydney. The choirs will sing Welsh favourites like Men of Harlech, plus selections from their own repertoires in Welsh and English. 2pm,$20 at the door (EFTPOS available).
Ray Beadle Trio
20 July 2-5:30pm, catch a blues legend at Coledale RSL with his powerhouse trio – George Brugmans on drums and Ben Edwards on bass. Tickets via Humanitix, raising funds for Finding Fillmores.
Activist Hub at Wollongong Art Gallery
26 July to 10 August Wollongong Against War and Nukes (WAWAN) has a two-week residence as part of Greetings from Wollongong. Make badges, screenprint t-shirts, decorate paper lanterns for the Hiroshima Lantern Parade, www.stopthesubs.org
Peace Cranes for Hiroshima at your library
26 July-6 August At all Wollongong City Libraries – help fold 1000 cranes to send to the Children’s Peace Monument in Hiroshima. For more library fun: wollongong.nsw.gov.au/library
NF1 objects to potable water pipeline
By Neighbourhood Forum 1 convenor Warwick Erwin
NF1 has submitted an objection to a Development Application for a 7km drinking water pipeline from a Helensburgh reservoir to Illawarra Country Club at 190 Princes Highway, Maddens Plains.
The owner of 190 Princes Hwy – where a golf course is currently located – submitted a DA to Wollongong City Council for a potable water pipeline last year (DA-2024/461) and this has been re-notified due to its change to an Integrated Application (meaning it requires approval from another body, such as Water NSW, Transport for NSW, or National Parks and Wildlife Service).
As part of the $2.1 million pipeline development, a pumping station would start at Helensburgh’s reservoir, which is owned by Sydney Water, documents associated with the DA show.
Twenty years ago, a controversial application was made at the same site. In 2005, a DA was rejected for 127 villas, 100 serviced apartments, 100 hotel rooms, a 200-seat conference centre, along with a golf clubhouse, gymnasium and sports facilities. This was followed by an approval in 2009 by then Minister of Planning Kristina Keneally for the resort (sunset 3 years later) under the NSW Government’s controversial Part 3A planning system, which allowed the minister to approve developments with or without consent of government agencies, including fire authorities.
Today NF1 found no support for future development at Maddens Plains in a search of
‘Bin springs’ to stop clever cockies
By Genevieve Swart
More than a decade after Stanwell Park cockatoos were exposed as bin raiders – using beaks, claws and teamwork to lift lids and rip into refuse –Wollongong Council has a plan to stop the heists.
‘Bin springs’ are proposed for residents in “select areas”, but for Neighbourhood Forum 1 (NF1), the solution is too little, too late.
“Ten years of trials into red bin locks – and council now releases ‘springs’ as the solution,” said NF1 convenor Warwick Erwin. “The initial trials were in 2015 with a group of residents at Hillcrest Retirement Village and were found to be unacceptable, as the tension to keep the bin lid closed from cockatoos was too much for the residents to fully open the bin to place rubbish in.”
Warwick said one resident summed up the
current DAs, the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan, Wollongong’s Local Environmental Plan or zoning maps. The Government’s Regional Plan shows Maddens Plains is designated as being of high environmental value, within a Biodiversity Corridor and next to a C1-zoned National Park.
NF1 is concerned that approval of a water pipe could be used to justify a residential development. If the application is approved, modifications to that DA for further infrastructure – such as a sewage line and communications cable – could be submitted without notification to the community.
The planning process in NSW is for the residential development to be approved, then the infrastructure.
An NF1 member with experience in planning said the pipeline could contradict “this major planning policy” and possibly lead to a “greenfield urban development of 600 homes in a known high-risk bushfire prone area”.
Helensburgh Pool Reshell Project
To avoid impacting on the swimming season, NF1 requested the project be delayed until the pool closes for winter 2026 and the project be completed in that closure, for reopening in October 2027.
NF1 meets in the Helensburgh Community Rooms in front of the old Community Centre on Walker St. Next Meeting: 7pm, 9 July.
problem: “You had to hold the bin open with one hand and empty your internal bin into it with the other. That was too much for me.”
The Illawarra Flame’s coverage of our unique ‘bin chickens’ began in 2014 when local ornithologist Dr Richard Major, a senior fellow at the Australian Museum, told us the birds’ behaviour was highly unusual.
By 2021, bin-flipping had gone viral, spreading across 44 suburbs. In June 2025, researchers revealed cockatoos have figured out how to twist open bubblers. Warwick said they’ve also recently acquired a taste for FOGO, scavenging in green bins too. A council spokesperson recommended residents call Remondis on 1300 362 360 to discuss bin springs. “These bin springs can be issued and fitted to kerbside bins in select areas where a persistent issue has been identified and assessed.”
Photo: Barbara Klump
Epic morning for pointscore no.6
By Ian Pepper of the Scarborough Boardriders
Winter? What winter? The sun was out, the weather was warm, the waves were pumping for our June pointscore #6 at Sharkey’s Beach. In the morning the sets were solid and groomed by a light offshore wind, making for a super fun day. The A Grade saw contrasting conditions with a slower final after Angus, Jai, Kyan and Mannix were on the tear in the heats. Will got out to an early start in the final linking long sections from out the back, but Josh was waiting patiently, snagging bigger sets, holding down a few power carves, just enough to edge out Mannix who made a late charge.
The Open Women’s Zahlia dominated with her trademark hook in the pocket impressing, while Macey did some work on the open face nicely linking her turns, and Amira in 3rd actually got some smoking sets but couldn’t quite place herself on the open face. And well done to Elle Campbell surfing up from the juniors but definitely holding her own in the senior division.
A few other notable stand-outs: Mitch Burroughs going massively to the air in the Open Bs but just unable to land, some heavy carves going down in the 18s with Keelan taking a strong win and kiwi Andrew is back in the 45s with a late-charge three-turner committed all the way to the inside rock section.
Massive congrats to Talina Wilson for shredding it up at the State Titles, held at Coffs Harbour from May 27 to June 1. Talina picked up multiple results:
Austin Wilson won the Mixed 10 and under Photo: Talina Wilson
1st 030 Women, 2nd 040 Women and 3rd 040 Women longboard. Also, congrats to Noah Kornek for his 2nd place finish. Huge results! It means they are off to the Nationals in SA, along with fellow club shredder Ashton Mekisic.
Epic morning on Sunday, June 15 to wrap up pointscore #6. Our juniors had the time of their lives surfing perfect two-foot clean A-frame at our home break Scarborough. Congrats to our winners taking home the Headlands Austinmer Beach vouchers. Junior girls Parents assist – Mara Giddings. Mixed 10 and under – Austin Wilson. Under 12’s – Felix Tracey. Junior Girls –Ella Campbell.
Dates for your diary Next Pointscore: Sunday, 27th July.
POWELL PLUMBING ILLAWARRA
Sunday Social Golf Club report
By Robert ‘Indy’ Jones
“Gersy’s Gazzillions”, donated by the many Gersbacks on tour these days, was the reward for the winner on June 1st. Ross Fagerstrom won this stableford event on a count-back from Brett Carazzo (35), with Blake O’C in third on 33.
A shout-out to the Master “Mark O’C” for his supply of burgers and salads for post-game nourishment. HSSGC member Brett came within 11cm of “Strike it Lucky”, narrowly missing the cash. Joining Brett, the multi-prize winner on-course, were Daniel, Rob Carter, Chuckie, El Presidenté, Peter, with Frank Morgan receiving the take-away “Chips”.
Next events at Boomerang are on July 6th and August 3rd – both have a 8.30am Tee time. Call Tony, 0418 863 100, for membership details and remember to register your attendance and cart requirements on the Tuesday ahead of the date of our next event.
Indy signing off: Golf can best be defined as an endless series of tragedies obscured by the occasional miracle.
Tradies Social Golf
By Barry Thompson
Our Club Captain, Iain Birss, led the field home in our Stableford event with 40 points. Hayden Overton (39) claimed second and Dave Astill finished third with a hard-won 35 card. (Nice recovery, Dave, after 5 putting the 7th hole!)
Dave Tipping won the Bucket of Balls voucher, and Roger Hendry paid a rare visit to Bradman land. Get out of there quickly, Roger, or it could become habit-forming.
Matchplay games saw: Rod beat Gavin (1 up), Iain beat John (5&4), and Hayden beat Dave Tipping (4&3).
Back at Tradies, I refused to arbitrate between the contentions of Sparrow and Terry. Sparrow claimed that Terry only won the Eagle’s Nest on the 7th because Terry used clubs gifted by him. Terry loudly denied that the said equipment played any part in his success, and that it was due to natural ability. The Secretary-General of the UN should be called in when these two start.
Thanks to our sponsors Helensburgh Butchery, Gallardo’s Pizzeria, and Helensburgh Driving Range and thank you to the Bistro staff at Tradies for preparing our sausage sizzle.
Our next outing will be at Boomerang on Saturday, 19th July – please note our 8.30am Tee-off time.
BOZO NEEDS A HOME
Bozo, a six-month-old scruffer, is ready to begin his new life with his forever family. He has not had any training and is not house-trained, but he shouldn’t take long to learn how to be all he can be.
Contact CCAR by email if you would like to meet him. Email ccarpetrehoming@ tpg.com.au Country Companion Animal Rescue
CALLING MEMOIR WRITERS
The South Coast Writers Centre has a new online course, Go Write Yourself: Your Memoir from Draft to Done. This six-week intensive covers editing, publishing and promoting your memoir. Course convenors are memoirists Mike Cavanagh (One of Its Legs Are Both the Same and A Pocket Full of Days) and Anne Howell (All That I Forgot). Classes run online on Thursday nights from 7 August. Bookings: southcoastwriters.org/ upcomingevents
