The Bugle 12 March 2016
A fortnightly celebration of people and places on the Upper South Coast of NSW
Serving the communities of Kiama, Gerringong, Jamberoo, Kiama Downs, Minnamurra and Gerroa and now at www.thebugleonline.com
Community to be asked: Should Kiama stand alone? In a bold move, Kiama Council has narrowly decided to hold a poll to send the Premier a message from residents about the depth of feeling for their current local government area. It is thought to be the first time that a poll has been held on its own, and not at the same time as a council election. Voters are to have their say on Saturday 9 May. The question they will be asked - Do you want Kiama Municipal Council to stand alone? - has been designed to cover both the proposed
forced merger with Shoalhaven City Council, and the possibility that another variation on the theme may emerge in the interim. The latter has happened to other council areas which are now finding themselves facing entirely new proposals. “This is our last chance,” said Councillor Dennis Seage when proposing the motion. “We really need to have a poll. If the government was fair dinkum it would withdraw us from this ridiculous race. But they continue to make us grovel
for our very survival. “I think the only thing left is for the community to have their voice heard. If this government ignores that then they are completely ignoring democracy.” He again quoted the Mayor of Noosa, a council which faced a similar situation and is now de-merging, who said “if you sit on your hands the bastards will cut off your feet”. While some councillors expressed concern about the estimated $120,000 cost of having the NSW Electoral
Commission conduct the plebiscite, others strongly defended the cost (while expressing resentment that the government has not seen fit to conduct the poll themselves). “I am sure the community would be willing to go without a footpath, a driveway or something that is going to cost a similar amount,” said Councillor Gavin McClure. Councillor Neil Reilly was amongst those who agreed, “A couple of months ago we gave $600,000 for street sweeping equipment. Surely
Surfers ‘putting smiles on dials’
Get involved in this year’s Surfing for the Disabled Day at Gerroa - p7
we can afford $120,000 to keep the streets. “In the grand scheme of things - how much is our survival worth?” It was agreed the money is to come from Council’s contingency reserve. Concerns were also expressed about: • the timing of the poll this late in the decision making process, as indications are that the Minister will make his decision in late May/early June. The appointed Delegate is due to hand his report in at the end on April. • the need to get a high voter turnout. Councillor Seage is adamant that the plebiscite is the only choice of action left. “If we have a poll, people will come out in force and the passion of our community will be on display to all.” he said. “When it is a normal type of election there is a lot of complacency around. This is not about an election. This is about our very survival. “It is the only way we will change the government’s mind. If they ignore this democratic process, they don’t deserve to hold government.”
Inside this issue Protesters off to Sydney rally p3
New tennis surfaces at Blowhole Point p5
Building houses in Cambodia p8
Our story last issue on the proposal to hold a poll prompted Max Reitze to write of his strong support for the move. See page 7. ALL MECHANICAL REPAIRS • LOG BOOK SERVICING • BRAKE & CLUTCH SPECIALIST
•
AUTO ELECTRICAL REPAIRS
SMASH REPAIRS • INSURANCE CLAIMS & PRIVATE WORK • WINDSCREENS
Phone: 42322757
•
Fax: 4232 2676
21B Barney Street, KIAMA ksmr@bigpond.com After Hours Towing 0438 424 574
TOWING
TYRES • BALANCE AND ROTATION
•
FULL RANGE AVAILABLE
REGISTRATIONS • PINK SLIPS – CAR, VAN, BIKE, TRAILERS
What’s on?
Let us know if there’s an event you’re organising. Just email the details to emailthebugle@gmail.com or phone 0412 415 101 Listings are free, and at the editor’s discretion
Every Wednesday
12-13 March
18 March
Kiama Farmers’ Market Kiama Harbour 3-6pm
Kiama Woodcraft Group Annual Expo, Masonic Hall Lodge, Collins St 9-5 Sat, 9-4 Sun
Illawarriors Fundraiser $80 for cocktail dinner, welcome drink and to hear Simon Poidevin and Phil Kearns speak. t 0413 027 939
On weekends Live music at The Sebel, Kiama Leagues Club, The Mecure, Jamberoo Pub and other venues.
11-13 March Jazz & Blues Festival (see p xxxxx)
11 March Australian Haydn Ensemble with Sara Macliver Berry Uniting Church Hall, 7pm. Tickets $50 ($40 conc) from australianhaydn.com.au First release movie at the Library Book in for details, 3pm
12 March Locals Long Lunch, Gerringong Town Hall, 1pm $35 t 4232 0416
14 March Spirituality in the Pub The first speaker for 2016 is Dr Elizabeth Farrelly, Sydney Morning Herald columnist and critic on architecture and public issues. Her topic is Beauty, Sacredness and Change. All welcome. Jamberoo Pub, 7.30pm
Kiama Seaside Markets Kiama Harbour, 9-3pm
Book launch at Library
1 April Pics & Flicks: Far From Men, Gerringong Town Hall, 8pm
2-3 April
19 March
Blowhole Big Fish Classic
Gerringong Village Markets In and a round the Town Hall. Friends of Kiama Library Talk (see below)
4 April Friends of Kiama Library Talk: Jim Eames, The Flying Kangaroo, 2.30pm
20 March
Kiama Seaside Markets Kiama Harbour, 9-3pm Red Hot Summer Tour 14-20 March Kiama Showgrounds Mardi Gras Regional Art 1-8.30pm, $95 Prize Exhibition 21 March (see p10) 2016 Colourfest Film
17 March
Festival (see p8)
Campfire Sessions Kiama Scout Hall, Kiama Harbour, 7.30-10pm, $5 or $3
22 March
Sunday at the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival Make sure you drop down to Hindmarsh Park with family and friends for the free concert on Sunday. There’s something for everyone: Chris Harland Blues Band 11am, the Australian Navy Big Band at noon, Dane Laboyrie Band 1pm, Blue Eyes Cry 2pm, Sound of KoKo 3pm, Tommy M and the Mastersounds at 4pm.
Book launch at Kiama Library See right
25-26 March Kiama Makers & Growers Market, Kiama Harbour, 9-2pm
27 March Jamberoo Village Markets, 9-2pm
Many of us dream of writing a novel once we retire, and wellknown human rights activist and peace academic Stuart Rees has achieved just that with the launch of his debut novel, A Lover’s Country. Stuart, who lives at Hyams Beach, has taught in major universities in the UK, Canada, the USA and Australia. For twenty years he was Professor of Social Work and Social Policy at the University of Sydney. He was co-founder of the University’s Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies and the founder of the Sydney Peace Foundation. A Lover’s Country is a historical novel that sheds light on the intrigue, struggle and behind-the-scenes wrangling associated with the nomination of a Palestinian woman as the recipient of a major peace prize. With a cast of memorable characters, a tightly crafted plot and touches of memorable poetry, his book is an illuminating tale of justice with a hard-won message of hope. Given Stuart’s background, it is a must-read for anyone interested in the current plight of the Palestinians, ArabIsraeli relations, and the presentation of these questions by the Western media. Details: Tues 22 March, 6pm, Kiama Library. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing on the night (cash sales only). Bookings essential. Call 4233 1133.
We love our stone walls Attention Tradies and DIYs
AUTUMN CEMENT SPECIALS No need to leave town, no need to even leave your ute…
Burnetts On Barney are passing on massive autumn price savings to their trade and home owner customers for all quality bagged cements. Bag prices (+gst) Sand and Cement $5.80 Savings of up to Concrete Mix $6 $3 per bag GP Cement $6.50 Quickset Concrete $6.80 Brighton Lite Off White $8
Kiama and the Western District of Victoria contain the best Australian examples of historic dry stone walls built in the 19th century. These walls help to shape the distinctive character of our area to this day, thanks to the work done to protect them. Kiama and District Historical Society has secured Les Davey and Ian Downes to speak on this topic at their next meeting. They will be talking about the Kiama district's dry stone walls and the involvement of Kiama Rotary Club with their protection and promotion as part of our local heritage. Les is a former Kiama councillor, was the principal of Kiama Primary School, and was a driving force
Yes, you can even pre-buy pallets at this trade price! Plus, all trade account customers who spend $500 on any Burnetts On Barney products go in the draw to win back $500 in product. Sale and customer draw ends 30 April.
80 Barney St, Kiama t 4233 1322 Open 7.30-4.30 Mon-Fri 7-4 Saturdays
The Bugle Editor: Cathy Law t 0412 415 101
behind Kiama’s Dry Stone Wall Committee where the concept of the dry stone wall town entry markers was conceived. Ian is our present ‘Thomas Newing’ stonewall builder, having constructed twelve of our entrance markers, as well as other stonewalls in our area. Details: Saturday 19 March, 2.30pm, Family History Centre underneath the Library
SHOP ONLINE for regional and local food
Sales: Steve Law t 0428 662 499
Or email us at emailthebugle@ gmail.com
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, but we are only human.
Greenbox is a non-profit, regional food co-op based in Gerringong, run by a team of passionate volunteers
www.greenbox.org.au Order online every week from 10am Fri to 7pm Mon for collection or delivery Thurs from 2.30 to 6pm
2
PO Box 304, Gerringong 2534
In a nutshell Next stage in hospital redevelopment Council has received more than twenty submissions from architects and project managers seeking to be appointed to those roles for the development of the Centre for Aged Care Excellence (the old hospital site).
Tender for key site Over fifty developers have expressed interest in the old Independent building and carpark site in Shoalhaven Street, now that Aldi has been secured as an anchor tenant in a redevelopment. Colliers will soon proceed to the formal tender stage of the process.
Keeping up the anti-merger fight One of the people making “When you push things his way to Martin Place through without showing for the anti-forced coun- proper justification then cil amalgamation rally it raises the possibility of this weekend will be Bob corruption. Good governShaw. An indication of ance deserves more.” his strong feelings on this Bob retired from IT and issue is that this is the moved to Kiama two first protest rally he has years ago, and is now ever attended. pursuing his passion for “I never protested photography. against Vietnam,” he “I lived in six council says, “And I’ve voted areas in Sydney and this Liberal since 1975, but is the best I’ve ever I am so disappointed in seen,” he says. “It is well the lack of democratic and truly worth saving.” process that is being He will join a strong shown here. They have- contingent from Kiama, n’t explained why they including Mayor Brian are doing things. Petschler, councillors,
Considering options for Mitre 10 site Following the closure of the Mitre 10 business in Terralong St, Council will soon call for expressions of interest for the future use of this strategic site. The use will be limited to the building only, with Council retaining use of the land behind which has access to Collins and Akuna Streets.
Nobles’ latest proposal for Fern St A revised DA for the redevelopment of the controversial land on Fern St, which is leased by the Noble brothers, is to be considered at Council’s March meeting.
New gym at Kiama Downs shops? After years standing vacant, and a false start as a bar, the old function centre at the Kiama Downs shops (which was briefly a bikie clubhouse) is looking to be approved as a gym.
Express now stopping at Austinmer, sometimes Unless you are a regular commuter, you might not be aware that from Sunday 6 March some express trains from and to Kiama now stop at Austinmer. While the extra time won’t be long, we’d hate you to miss your train so make sure you factor this in when using an old timetable.
Bob Shaw will be at his first rally
council staff and a large contingent of community members. “I think it is outrageous that this proposal has been put upon us without any consideration or consulting with the community. I’ve watched the advertising being done saying how they have consulted with the community and this will result in better local government. They have not consulted with us at all,” says the Mayor. Kiama’s ukulele troupe, the Blowhole Buskers, will ensure Kiama’s antiamalgamation stance is heard loud and clear when it performs its war cry We Shall Not Be Merged at the rally, at the request of organisers. Keep Kiama Council Local committee deputy chairman Peter O’Neill urged the community to attend the rally in large
Ward to table petitions against forced merger Gareth Ward MP is to table Kiama’s anti-amalgamation petitions in Parliament by the end of March. The tabling of the petitions will mean that the Minister for Local Government has to respond in writing within 35 days. A number of different petitions have been circulating within the community, all with the same aim, so they will be brought together under the one banner. The petitions are thought to contain in the order of 7000 signatures. If anyone has any petition sheets in their care, please contact Narelle Mousdale at Council asap.
Second new director for Council Kiama Council has a new Director of Engineering & Works, following the retirement of Bryan Whittaker at Christmas. The role has been filled by Gino Belsito who worked at Sydney Water for many years before moving to Liverpool City Council. There he held the positions of Manager Civil Maintenance, Acting Director City Assets and, most recently, Director City Presence. In January, Kerry McMurray took over as Director of Finance, Corporate and Commercial Services following the retirement of Chris Quigley. Among the first projects Mr Belsito will be responsible for are the amenities block at Loves Bay and the construction of the roundabout at Oxley Ave and Riverside Drive, Kiama Downs (see p6). 3
numbers. “It is very important that Kiama continue to be front and centre in the minds of Mr Baird and Mr Toole,’’ Peter said. “A big Kiama contingent at the rally will show we are keeping up the fight. “We will also show solidarity to others around the state who are worried about their communities.’’ Details: Sunday 13 March, Hyde Park, from noon. If you get your Bugle in time, you’re encouraged to catch the 8.51am train from Gerringong (9.05am Kiama) and get off the train at Martin Place.
The Blowhole Buskers are keeping Kiama in the news.
Share your ideas With the submission period ended, the Keep Kiama Council Local committee is holding brainstorming sessions to keep the momentum going. They are seeking ideas from as many people as possible on how to proceed with the fight against the proposal, and ways to implement those ideas. The sessions will be facilitated by Tamara Campbell. Details: Thurs 17 March, 2-4pm or 7-9pm downstairs at the Pavilion, Kiama. Register via the Events section of the Keep Kiama Local Facebook page.
Need work done? Planning for 45th Kiama Use a local Sevens already underway Despite the inclement weather, the crowd at this year’s Kiama Sevens was up by almost 20 per cent, due to the calibre of the players on the field. One face in the crowd was Andy Friend, the Australian Seven’s Coach. With Rugby Sevens looking to make its debut at the Olympic in Rio, players were looking to catch his eye for selection. He said the Kiama Sevens has grown in stature as a legitimate pathway to represent Australia in the sport. The Cleary Brothers Cup Final was won decisively by Australian Rugby Legends (right). The date has been set for next year’s 45th Sevens: 25 February. Organisers are already in discussion with NSW and ACT rugby over the draw of Shute Shield and Dent Cup to accommodate a pathway for fringe Sevens players.
Electricians Murray Connerty: Air conditioning and refrigeration specialist. t 0408 420 655
Appliance repairs CVC Appliances: Repairs to washing machines, stoves, dishwashers, dryers etc. t 0401 294 810
Carpenters John O’Donnell Carpentry: All property maintenance - decks, pergolas, windows etc. No job too small. Lic R77219 t 0401 301 620
Horticultural services Burnett Trees: Kiama Municipality’s own tree care service - skilled, insured professionals for all tree care, pruning, removal, stump grinding and mulching. t 4233 1311
Builders Photos: Brian Scott
Burrell Builders: Cracked brickwork, underpinning, insurance/structural repairs. All building work. Ln3281c t 0419 378 000
Plumbers Kiama Plumbing & Drainage: Affordable, reliable plumbing and gasfitting services. t 0405 654 035
Our listing of local businesses providing trades & services is designed as a handy reference for people wanting to get work done by a local. At just $10/line, it’s a great way to grow your business. Contact Steve on 0428 662 499 or at bugleadvertising@gmail.com
Kiama Farmers’ Market nominated for a 2016 Delicious Award We don’t know much detail as yet, but we’ve heard on good authority that Kiama’s weekly farmers’ market will soon be attracting national attention by being nominated in these top foodie awards.
4
Tennis anyone?
What a difference a year makes. Last upgrade to a state of the art surface sure to March, the future of the historic tennis make them very popular amongst members and visitors. club at Blowhole Point, established in 1892, was under a cloud following the The work was made possible by a combirelease of the Kiama Harbour and Blownation of Club fundraising and grants. One hole Point Headland master plan. of the courts at the Club’s large Noorinan While recommending its short-term reten- Street complex was also made into a hard tion, by improving drainage and stabilising court, with the others remaining grass. old quarry walls, the master plan said Details: Kiama Tennis Club members “consideration should be given to removing may play on the courts for free. the tennis courts and exploring additional Non-members can rent the courts, through tourism opportunities to support the existthe Kiama Visitors Centre, for $10/hour. ing tourism facilities”. The Club welcomes new members. Now, after merging with the much larger Call 4232 2431 or visit kiamatennis.org.au Kiama Tennis Club, the courts have had an
5
Drivers Wanted A Kiama passenger transport business requires Casual Drivers across all departments. Taxi Drivers, Hire Car Drivers, Casual Bus Drivers and Special Education Drivers are all required. Applicants with a driver’s authority preferred, with immediate start considered, however those that will need to obtain this will also be considered. Applicants must be able to work some weekends and some night shifts as required. Local applicants preferred.
Call 0414 377 505 or email kiamatransport@ gmail.com
Concern over foreign aid Kiama’s Baptists came together in late February to demonstrate that everyday Australians stand for generosity, fairness and doing all they can to end extreme poverty around the world. The event, attended by over eighty people, was part of the national Campaign for Australian Aid, which is a joint initiative of the Make Poverty History and Micah Australia coalitions (representing over 50 organisations) supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Normally known for their Sunday worship services, youth ministries, and kids’ holiday programs, people met at the church to celebrate the work of Australian aid and show their support for giving the world’s poor-
est people the foundation relief for emergencies in for a brighter future. 24 countries. Information on Australian Unfortunately, a signifiAid and the impacts of the cant proportion of Austracuts to Australian aid on real lia’s aid budget is now being people were presented in a diverted to fund immigravariety of ways. tion detention and offshore In 2014 alone, Australian asylum processing centres in aid helped to immunise PNG and Nauru. more than two million chilDetails: For more dren, supplied 2.9 million information about people with safe drinking the campaign visit water, helped more than one www.australianaid.org million children enrol in school and provided disaster
Riverside Drive update Work on a roundabout at the intersection of Oxley Avenue and Riverside Drive, Kiama Downs, is due to start this month. It is expected to take six to eight weeks to complete. In addition, Roads and Maritime Services has recently changed speed limits along Riverside Drive to a uniform 60km per hour for the stretch from 100 metres north of Oxley Avenue to Panama Street at Bombo. It also plans to reduce the speed limit through the on and off ramps at the Princes Highway to 60km per hour. Last year the Council resolved to retain the traffic lights at the corner of Meehan Drive. It will be interesting to see how the roundabout works the next time there are roadworks on the Highway, as the RMS now has a policy of diverting traffic away from works as a safety measure for workers. As previously reported in The Bugle, Riverside Drive has been identified as a diversion route.
Jessie ready to join in World’s Greatest Shave
It’s World’s Greatest Shave time again, where people get sponsored to shave or colour their hair to support Australians with blood cancer and fund research. Twelve year old Jessie Fredericks of Kiama will be shaving her hair off next week to help this great cause. She has been touched by a very close family friend whose family has been challenged by cancer, and knows how life changing it is. “World’s Greatest Shave has been on my bucket list for some time and I am glad that I get to participate this time round,” Jessie said. “Cancer is one of those things in life that gives you a real hard kick up the behind. I really think that the people who are going through hard times are more important than my hair. It is an honour that I get to shave off my locks for the thought of others”. Details: To support Jessie you can donate at Jennie’s Book Nook Kiama or online at my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/jessiefredericks
Kiama Tennis Club Inc. Now at 2 locations: Noorinan St and Blowhole Point For Court Hire, Membership or Ladies and Mens Competition enquiries please call 4232 2431 or email membership@kiamatennis.org.au 6
South Coast surfers share the waves for the day For 30 years, the Disabled Surfers Association (DSA) has been giving disabled people the opportunity to share the exhilaration of surfing. The South Coast branch is holding its last event for the summer next week - its 15th Annual Hands On Day at Gerroa. “We are not teaching people to surf, we’re just giving them a surfing experience and making them feel special for the day,” says Kiama’s Jim Bradley. “It is a way for the surfing fraternity to give back for a few hours.” Last year’s event attracted over 250 people to the beach, including carers and volunteers. “We have the voluntary power to handle any situation,” says Jim. “We have a minimum care ratio of 6:1, but it can be up to 30:1 for severe physical disability.” Years of experience has established safety protocols and procedures, so DSA can offer the experience to people with the full spectrum of disability. “Our aim is to put smiles on dials. We feed everyone, and participants go home with a trophy. “People enjoy the experience so much they plan their holidays around the Australia-wide events.” The organisation gets no government funding, and new volunteers are always welcome.
Details: Sunday 20 March. Meet at Emery Park, Gerroa no later than 9.30am. There is no need to book for the day, just be there on time so resources can be allocated.
Letter to the editor Dear Editor marched back to the Senate who I was delighted to read in The could not refuse it because such Bugle that the Kiama Council an action made it law by the Rohad approved a Poll to gauge the man Constitution. This is where true feeling of the Kiama people we get the term Plebiscite. in regard to the proposed forced Kiama Residents: your amalgamation. Council has placed itself in the I have heard people say… “It’s same position as Julius Caesar. a foregone conclusion. They’re The Council will stand on the going to do it anyway no matter Rostrum before the people (us what we think or do...” I heartily plebs) and ask for YOUR vote. disagree with this line of thought Will you give it the authority (by and believe that, if we go down, Plebiscite) with which to conit wont be without a fight! front the Government with a Julius Caesar was confronted unanimous 100% “NO AMALwith a similar problem about GAMATION” vote (from all us 50BC He was then a Consul of Plebs!) that they dare not refute? Rome. He drafted a bill to grant The Poll will certainly get my land packages to veterans of for- YES vote (accompanied by my eign wars and placed it before donation to help defray the the Senate, that assembly of arro- Council's expected expense!). gant Patricians (Aristocrats) who Finally, a message to our State promptly blocked it because they Government... Be warned...no wanted the land for their own Australian likes the word speculative purposes. Caesar FORCED... we've shed too much then took his bill to the forum, blood to purchase our freedom to that great market place in the have it abused by a few politiheart of Rome. He stood on the cians!!! Please consider the Rostrum, (the stone platform that position of trust we have placed can still be seen today) and laid you in. his bill before the Plebeians I'm sure that I am not the only (common people). He received person that thinks this way! unanimous approval by vote Max Reitze, Kiama from the plebeians for the Bill, The Bugle welcomes Letters to the Editor, which it will publish at its discretion as space allows. See p2 for contact details.
RED HOT SUMMER CONCERT KIAMA SHOWGROUNDS Sunday 20th March 2016
ROAD CLOSURE NOTIFICATION BONG BONG STREET FROM SHOWGROUNDS TO ROUNDABOUT IN MANNING STREET 11.30am to 9.30pm 7
Celebrate Harmony Day
Raising money for Cambodians
Photo: David Finlay
Kiama Council is inviting you to attend a series of short films from the 2016 Colourfest Film Festival to mark Harmony Day. Harmony Day celebrates Australia’s cultural diversity. It is held on 21 March each year to coincide with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The films focus on social inclusion and identity, and are suitable for a family audience. Kiama is one of more than 30 local government areas that will screen the session that day.
In September, the latest team of people Jen Hines with one of the donated items will be going over to Cambodia to continue a tradition begun in 2006 when Gerringong and Kiama locals started building houses with Tabitha Cambodia (see box). The volunteers (29 in total, including 10 children between 11 and 17) not only have to fund their own trips, but raise the money needed to build the houses. Each house costs $1700. The 2016 team is planning to build more than twenty houses. The group’s recent fundraiser at the Leagues Club raised over $10,000, The volunteers help families build new homes well above expectations. “The people in this area are so generous, both in purchasing but also in donating items,” says the night’s organiser Jen Hines. She is going on the trip with her eleven year old son and her father. “I thought it was a good opportunity to show my son how people can live, what they make do with, and what they do without,” she says. “Kids in our society are generally very fortunate, and I think it is important to show that not everyone is as lucky as they are. No doubt it will very eye-opening for me as well.” Since 1994, Tabitha Cambodia has directly She likes Tabitha because every or indirectly reached millions of poor Cambodollar raised goes to the building, with dians, working with families through their high no monetary losses to administration. impact community development programs – “In addition we work with the Cambo- savings, house building, cottage industry, dians, rather than trying to do it for water sources and schools. Its fundraising arm, Tabitha Foundation them,” she explains. “We don’t take Australia was established 14 years ago, and the work from them.”
Details: Monday 21 March, 7-8.30pm, Saddleback Room, The Pavilion Kiama. Free, inc light supper. To register book at kiamaculturenetwork. wordpress.com or call Louise on 4232 0549
Get noticed in
The Bugle People love the Bugle!
N 9, ow 00 p 0 rin co tin pi g es !
Local stories and local readers means a great opportunity for local businesses to reach the entire Kiama district
Details: For more information, or to donate, go to www.tabithaaustralia.org.au
has sent more than $11 million to Cambodia. Every dollar raised goes to Cambodia and is used directly for the purpose it was donated. All administrative costs are met by the directors and Tabitha Cambodia is funded by its cottage industry program so no donated funds are lost to administration.
Book now for Dementia Driving Workshop Deciding if or when to stop driving after a dementia diagnosis will be among the topics covered at a Kiama Council workshop in April. Timed to coincide with Seniors’ Week activities, the On the Road 65 Plus Dementia and Driving workshop will look at the effect dementia can have on driving ability. “The workshop will assist people in deciding when to stop driving after receiving a diagnosis of dementia. It is about helping them with that decision, not making it for them,” says Kiama Council Road Safety Officer Janelle Burns. The workshop will
Prices start from $79 If you’d like to reach this market effectively, find out how by sending a message to bugleadvertising@gmail.com or calling Steve on 0428 662 499 8
also cover alternate transport options. Workshop guest speaker will be Catherine Andrew, Australia Catholic University Occupational Therapy Lecturer. Ms Andrew was a co-author of the University of Wollongong’s Dementia and Driving booklet. Details: Friday 8 April, 10-noon, Kiama Library. Free, but RSVP essential by March 21. For more information and bookings, contact Janelle Burns on 4232 0444, or email council@kiama.nsw.gov.au
Hats off to our lifeguards Grant will ensure old
council records are preserved Kiama Library has been successful in obtaining a Public Library Infrastructure Grant through the State Library of NSW. The Grants are aimed at projects that will assist NSW councils to improve public library infrastructure, including buildings and information technology systems. A total of $60,521 has been allocated to Kiama Library to digitise the Council Minute Books of Kiama (1859-1968), Gerringong (1871-1954) and Jamberoo (1891-1954) councils. The Just a Minute project will also provide public access to these records via a digital asset management system (DAM) through the internet. After the digitisation of the district’s council minutes, the preservation of these
The last day of summer saw a dramatic of first aid, 2668 preventative actions two-person rescue for Kiama Municipal and enforce beach and reserve regulaCouncil Lifeguards at Surf Beach. tions just over 1000 times. A man in his mid-40s, who was unLifeguards had to call paramedics able to swim, was rescued after stray- on seven occasions over the period for ing away from the flags, getting out of a range of injuries including spinal, his depth and being pulled into a rip. broken bones and water immersion. Supervising Beach Lifeguard Andy To extend the lifeguards’ reach, Mole said he was sure the man would an emergency radio was installed in have died if lifeguards had not been on the sand dunes at the start of South hand. Bombo last year in response to a large “Sometimes in your career as a life- number of rescues at that unpatrolled guard you are involved in rescues beach. where you think the person would “The emergency radio was used to have been ok on their own,” Andy rescue two surfers at South Bombo on said. a busy day during the January holi“But then there are rescues you do days,” Andy said. where you think ‘if I had not got to “The radio is a valuable rescue tool that guy, he would have died’. and means that Lifeguards on patrol “This man was literally in chest-deep at North Bombo can be on the scene water but could not swim a stroke and at South Bombo on 1.5 minutes. had no education in the ocean whatso“The more people who know its ever. He gave us a massive hug when there, the more valuable it will be in he got out of the water.” ensuring the safety of swimmers who While attempting to get the man persist in swimming at unpatrolled onto the rescue board, the experibeaches.” enced lifeguard was also sucked into He stresses that the radio is only in the rip. He supported the man on the use during the Council patrol season. board until a second lifeguard reached Surf Beach is the only beach still the pair. currently under patrol during the The incident highlighted an area of week, with the season ending on 22 major concern for lifeguards. April. Local surf clubs patrol beaches “People who don’t have strong swim- on the weekends. ming abilities putting themselves at Over the winter months, Andy will be risk in conditions where they are not working on developing a shark detecconfident is always of concern to us,” tion airship project with fellow Kiama Andy says. “And again we have an islifeguard and PhD student Kye Adams. sue with people swimming out of paA September or December school trolled areas.” holiday launch date is anticipated. It was a very busy peak season for The project has received a $5000 State the Council lifeguards, which saw Government grant. them conduct 72 rescues,152 instances
fragile books will continue to be maintained by the State Records Authority of NSW. The grant will therefore provide not only public access to these documents, but also ensure their continued physical existence. Through the DAM, Kiama Library will also provide public access to its vault of images, oral histories and documents. The Library already has strong links with the Kiama and Gerringong Historical Societies, and with the Kiama Family History Centre. It aims to become a local studies and family history hub where community access to these resources will facilitate further and more extensive research into the rich and unique history of our district and its people.
FRESH FRUIT AND VEGGIES Fresh Aussie Market Produce Top grade seasonal Australian Fruit & Veggies delivered fresh from Sydney markets to your door at an affordable price. Orders can be placed weekly, fortnightly or as required.
Time to apply for grants from your local clubs
$45 Small box $65 Large box $45 Fruit box
ClubsNSW is now calling for grant appliLast year more than $100 million was cations from community groups involved provided through ClubGRANTS funding, with community welfare and social serto thousands of community organisations, vices; community development; community charities and sporting groups. health services; and employment assistance Details: www.clubsnsw.com.au/clubgrants activities; with funding opportunities open or 1300 730 001 throughout the year for community development and support services (including sporting, cultural and recreational projects).
Add $10 of munch & crunch (lunch box fruit) to any order
Contact Rachel or Michelle 0402 719 977 www.freshfruitandveggies.com 9
Art competition attracts a strong field Kiama’s inaugural Mardi Gras Regional Art Prize has been a great success, with 30 entries from artists throughout NSW, as well as Queensland, WA and Victoria. Celebrating the life of Kiama's Orry Kelly, artists were asked to create work that immortalized a famous expression from his memoir “you should only be ashamed of bein’ ashamed”. The works of the 19 finalists are going on show in Kiama next week, with a panel of experts choosing the final winner. “What has emerged is an extraordinarily diverse body of work that celebrates diversity, resilience, empowerment, passion, beauty and determination,” says the competition’s initiator Bruce Ferguson from local events company, Canvas Events. The public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite work too, in a People's Choice Poll taking place the week of the exhibition. Details: 15-20 March at the Old Fire Station and the Little Blowhole Cafe Art Bar. The winner will be announced at an artists party at the Art Bar in Tingira Crescent on Saturday night.
"Orry with himself" - Artist Nikolai Preece
"Sewing Our Own Story" - Local artist Belinda Brooks "I Am What I Am" - Artist Ann Clarke
2016 Green Day Out The Green Day Out winners this year were the Village Whispers Team of David Scerri, Mark Scerri and Paul Hazelwood. The annual fundraising day for Gerringong Golf Club was a great success, thanks to the many sponsors and participants (108 players). Local businesses contributed well by sponsoring a hole and entering a team in the three person Ambrose event. While some got close, no-one went away with the Harrigan Ford sponsored Hole in One car giveaway. The success of the day lies with the support of many local businesses, with the major sponsor for the event being First National Real Estate Gerringong. A percentage of funds raised was donated to CMRI (see right), with the remainder of funds to be used to maintain and improve members and guests facilities on the course at Royal Gerringong.
10
These hard working women played in the Green Day Out as well as helping to organise it, in their roles as CMRI members and executives. CMRI Gerringong is very grateful for the generous cheque for $3000 donated to its fundraising by the Gerringong Golf Club. Above: Sue Reid (treasurer), Kate Quinn (past treasurer and life member), Belinda Wall (assistant treasurer), Rosalie Cronin (president) and Lorraine Jolley (vice president).
The Bugle welcomes your contributions to our social pages - just send us some pictures or let us know an event is coming up. emailthebugle@gmail.com
The Bugle Crossword ACROSS 1. Leave in the lurch, Leave behind 2. Waves breaking on the shore 3. Engine 4. Timid man or boy 5. Colloquial term for world of entertainment 6. Extreme nervousness. On has a case of the screaming (6,7) 7. Australias busiest port by cargo tonnage 8. Print media published regularly 10. Tea 12. Sandy foreshore next to ocean 13. Lava of an insect with incomplete metamorphosis 17. You sit ON this 18 Local marsupial. Sometimes found in the roof 19.Difficulty passing a motion 21.Area of ground where plants grow 26. Rug or mat 27. Marine creature with eight legs 28. State of being first in importance. First school one attends. 30. You sit AT this 31. Male chicken 33. World’s oldest fruit. Australians eat 5,000,000 a day. 35. Noun. Something intended to deceive 36. Jedi Master in Star Wars 39. Adam's wife ACROSS 1.Noun. Moderation in eating and drinking 8. Number. Often appreviated to No. 9. Surprisingly and unceremoniously brusque in manner 10.Surname of current Governor General 11. Vombatus Ursinus. Latin name of Australian marsupial 12. First name of new deputy Prime Minister and leader of The National Party 14. Woodwind instrument 15. Cartoon sailor 16. Lacking vigour or energy, Low iron count in blood
18. Italian style take away food 19 Fluorocarbon with chlorine Formerly used as a refrigerant 20. Princes Pacific and Hume are the names of these 22. To impress with a seal 23. Social insect living in colonies 24. Next beach south of
Last week’s solution
Have you become a regular Wednesday shopper yet? Enjoy your weekly shop in the great outdoors, buying direct from farmers and makers
Coogee 25. Offensively unpleasant odour 27. Act in disregard of laws or rules 29. Put off doing something 32. Cry made by sheep 33. Pen with metal ball tip 34.Speed limit in KPH on Kiama bends 37. Huge computer corporation is called this 38. Nick name of the South Sydney Rugby League Club 40. 25th April (5,3) 41. You drink tea from this 42. Motorised lift in a building
Every Wednesday Black Beach 3 - 6pm
11
Postcard home
Sometimes when you travel, you see something you think quite extraordinary but the locals think mundane (or at least normal). You are left with all these questions, even after you’ve attempted to understand what you’ve seen. This happened to us in Vietnam, where we kept stumbling upon these elaborate structures set up to celebrate weddings.
If you’d like to share your travel experiences, send your postcard home to emailthebugle@gmail.com
This one is in a relatively wide street in Hanoi’s old quarter, but sometimes we’d turn down narrow lanes and there was another marquee all ready to go. They were always predominantly white, set off with a vibrant colour contrast. All were meticulously decorated, and definitely not permanent structures as they disappeared as magically as they
appeared. It seems in Vietnam the wedding reception comes to the couple, wherever they live. Strangely, we didn’t see many of the festivities in full swing - not sure why. I wish we’d set up camp on one of those little blue stools and watched the story unfold before us. Louise, Kiama
12
Methold on books I have a problem with some of the best-selling crime series. Unlike the tales told by Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie, who were concerned with plot as much as anything, so many contemporary crime writers seem to be more concerned with the private lives of their sleuths than with the complexities of a good mystery. Indeed, they seem to fill out what are really very thin plots with either pages and pages about their characters’ relationships or with barely relevant chunks of description. Peter James, who writes the amazingly successful authentic police procedurals, is a good example. He gives the impression of being far more concerned with the relationships between the various officers and their partners than with clever plotting .His novels are, therefore, also a long-running saga about the domestic problems of his two major detectives. In order that new-readers to the series are brought up to date with their marital situations and sex lives, every title includes large sections which seem to have been copied word for word from pervious titles. I was enthralled by the first two or three books in the Roy Grace series. The inside workings of a police force attempting to maintain law and order in one of Britain’s cities most notorious for the amount of criminal activity – Brighton, would you believe? – are fascinating to read about. By the sixth title, however, I’d had enough of Chief Detective Superintendant Roy Grace’s domestic traumas, and also of his DS’s. I wanted more story, more clever plotting and much less plodding. But I do recommend the first title, Dead Simple, and a few of the others, if you don’t mind something rather gritty and are prepared to do a bit of skipping. A Kiama resident, Ken has been a full-time writer for almost 50 years and is an elder statesman of the publishing world. The Bugle is honoured to have him as an occasional columnist. He is the instigator of a monthly lunch group of local male readers and/or writers of crime which meets on the last Thursday of the month. There are currently a few vacancies. Contact ken@kenmethold.com