BUGLE THE kids take over
they’Re e making waves
south coast surfer girls
Welcome to our Bugle Kids edition
It’s packed with fun news, puzzles, games and adventures from the South Coast and beyond. We want to make the next edition even better, so tell us what you loved (and what you’d like to see next time!). You can email us at news@thebuglenews. com.au, write us a letter, or even draw us a picture and drop it into our office.
AMY
Happy reading!
SQUISHIES now in store colouring page, puzzles and fun things!!!! p14
Hop to it!
Meet Australia’s super frog!
Thousands of tiny southern corroboree frog eggs have been released into Kosciuszko National Park as part of a mission to save one of Australia’s rarest animals.
These amazing frogs are only found in the Snowy Mountains of NSW and are famous for their bright yellow-and-black stripes. They’re about the size of a 20-cent coin, but don’t let their size fool you – they’re one of Australia’s most extraordinary frogs!
They don’t hop very much like other frogs. Instead, they often walk through moss and wetlands looking for ants and other tiny insects to eat.
Sadly, fewer than 100 southern corroboree frogs are believed to remain in the wild because of disease, habitat loss and bushfires. That’s why experts at Taronga Zoo and other conservation groups have been carefully breeding frogs and releasing thousands of eggs to give the species a fighting chance.
If enough of the eggs hatch and survive, they’ll grow into adults and help rebuild the wild population.
Slow Down! Spikeys are about
Shark drones take to the skies
The NSW Government is investing more money in shark-spotting drones to help keep swimmers and surfers safe.
The drones fly above beaches looking for sharks. If they spot one close to people in the water, lifesavers can warn everyone to come back to shore.
The drones don’t harm sharks – they simply help people and marine animals stay safely apart.
Specially trained pilots fly the drones, and artificial intelligence is also helping identify what the cameras can see.
With more drones watching beaches this summer, experts hope everyone can enjoy the ocean safely.
Good news for local skaters
Kiama Skate Park isn’t disappearing!
9 years
that’s the typical lifespan of a corroboree frog in the wild!
You may have spotted a “Spikeys About” sign while driving around Jamberoo. Or perhaps you’ve seen a handpainted wombat sign reminding drivers that “Wombats About!”
These colourful signs are part of a fun wildlife awareness campaign by Wildlife Watch Jamberoo Inc. Many of the signs were designed by local children to encourage drivers to slow down in areas where native animals are often crossing the road. Sadly, wombats, echidnas, possums and other wildlife are sometimes injured or killed by cars, especially at night. By driving a little slower and staying alert, motorists can help keep these amazing animals safe.
To raise money for the campaign, volunteers have even been selling delicious “wombat poo” brownies – don’t worry, they’re made from chocolate, not real wombat poo!
See if you can spot one of the wildlife signs on your next trip through the countryside. And if you’re in the car, remind your driver to keep an eye out for Australia’s furry and spiky locals.
Aftermonths of discussion, Kiama Council has confirmed the skate park will stay at the Kiama Leisure Centre precinct. However, it will be moved about 100 metres as part of plans to upgrade the sports complex over the coming years.
The new location is expected to give skaters a modern facility while allowing room for other sporting upgrades.
Nothing is changing just yet. The current skate park will stay open while planning continues, and skaters will still have a place to practise their kickflips, ollies and grinds.
Many local skateboarders were worried the park might disappear altogether, so the announcement has come as a huge relief.
The next challenge? Kiama Council need to ask the state government for money to be able to build it.
are coming to Wollongong!
Billionaire couPle buys forest to sAve wildlife
What would you do if you had billions of dollars?
One Australian couple decided to spend $10 million protecting nature.
Mike and Sue Gregg have bought more than 7,000 hectares of forest and former cattle land in the Great Dividing Range in NSW to create a huge new nature reserve for endangered
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Australian animals. The land is home to koalas, greater gliders, spotted-tail quolls, glossy black cockatoos and many other native species.
The couple funded the purchase through the Great Southern Land Conservancy, a private charity they cofounded.
“We love nature and wildlife,” Sue said.
“Preserving and restoring
billion bottles returned! That’s a lot of recycling!
People across NSW have now returned more than 16 billion bottles and cans through the Return and Earn program.
Every eligible container is worth 10 cents, meaning Australians have earned an incredible $1.6 billion while helping keep rubbish out of parks, beaches and waterways.
Many schools, sports clubs and community groups also collect bottles to raise money for equipment, uniforms and special projects.
Next time you finish a drink, remember –it could be worth 10 cents!
land was the best thing we could do with our money.”
Instead of building houses or clearing the land, conservation workers will restore damaged areas, remove weeds and protect the animals that call the forest home.
Experts say it’s one of the biggest private donations ever made for conservation in NSW.
The Wiggles are bringing their brand-new Bouncing Balls Tour to Wollongong this December, giving South Coast families the chance to see Australia’s favourite children’s entertainers live.
Fans can expect plenty of music,
dancing and colourful costumes, along with all the famous characters like Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, Captain Feathersword, Shirley Shawn the Unicorn and everyone’s favourite dancing tree, Henry the Octopus.
There will also be brand-new songs mixed with classics that parents might remember from when they were children.
If you’re planning to go, don’t forget your best dancing shoes— you’ll probably be on your feet for most of the show!
Bluey learns an indigenous language Jamberoo Action Park
rides on!
The family behind Jamberoo Action Park has made a giant splash.
The Eddy family, who have run Jamberoo Action Park for more than 45 years, has bought Raging Waters Sydney—one of Australia’s biggest water parks.
The Sydney park will soon be renamed Sydney Action Park, with plans for new rides, fresh landscaping and lots of improvements.
The Eddy family says they’ll bring the same friendly atmosphere and attention to detail that has made Jamberoo Action Park a favourite for generations of families.
Don’t worry though – Jamberoo Action Park isn’t going anywhere! The South Coast favourite will continue welcoming visitors when it reopens later this year.
Bluey will be speaking in an Indigenous language during NAIDOC Week, with episodes translated into Yolŋu Matha.
Seeing culture and language reflected in children’s media is powerful — it helps young people feel proud of who they are and where they come from.
Local Elders, children and community members worked together to translate the stories, making sure they reflected Yolŋu culture while still feeling like Bluey.
Even Bandit and Chilli have new voices!
The project helps preserve Indigenous languages while introducing millions of Bluey fans to Australia’s rich First Nations heritage.
The episodes will be available on ABC iview during NAIDOC Week.
Moana movie sets sail
Maria Lewis
The Bugle steps onto the blue carpet
blue carpet at the Moana premiere in Sydney.
A decade ago, Catherine Laga'aia was just like any other 10-year old girl from Sydney. She loved to sing, she loved to swim, and, as someone from a proud Sāmoan family, she was excited to sit down in a movie theatre and see the first Pasifika Disney princess brought to life in their animated hit Moana. Now, 10 years later … she is Moana. “Funnily enough, when I watched the movie for the first time I thought she looked like my sister,” she laughs, speaking from the
“I did not think she looked like me at all, so I kept poking my sister saying ‘it’s you, it’s you’.
“I think it’s really cool Moana gets to be from Sydney.
“Her being so far away from what she’s seeking and what she’s aiming for – you do feel that sometimes, living in Australia.”
The Moana event was a celebration of the upcoming live-action adaptation which releases in cinemas globally on July 8.
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson reprises his role of Maui in the
live-action Moana, telling The Bugle that he was “very grateful” for the large Pasifika population locally who have not only got behind the film but supported “Australia’s very own Moana”.
“I grew up a trailer park kid, an only child in the states, so when we moved from Hawaii to New Zealand – we lived in Grey Lynn for a little over a year – I learned so much about family and ceremony and respect from our community over here,” he said.
“I miss that and not only do I miss that, I’m so grateful for it because it’s
something I can teach to my own daughters as I continue to learn.”
For Catherine Laga'aia the thing she’s most excited for is the impact the movie could have on little girls watching.
“This is who we’re doing it for,” she said.
“This is the reason we make these things: to see all the little girls and little boys and little kids all so excited and active in celebrating this film and the authenticity of what we’re bringing to screen.”
The live-action Moana movie releases in Australian cinemas on July 8.
5 rainy-day boredom busters
FAMILY FUN DAY
Winter school holidays can mean more rainy days at home – but don't let that dampen your fun. Jaclyn Lynch, Centre Director at Kiama Little Zak's Academy, shares her rainy-day boredom busters — kid-tested and approved.
Frozen iCe cube fun
We'll do lots of sensory trays with frozen ice cubes. Before you freeze the water, put little animals inside and, as they defrost, you can either chip away at the ice with little play hammers or simply let it melt apart. It's lots of fun.
MusiC and movemenT
For children aged three and above, we love RAMSR, a self-regulation dance and movement program. Basically, all you need is some tapping sticks. If you're at home, two wooden spoons work just as well. Tap along with the music – it teaches rhythm and self-regulation while having fun.
Bring the outside inside
We'll set up an obstacle course indoors or, if you've got a table, put a big sheet over it to make a tunnel. You can also flip a table on its side to create a soccer goal so children can kick a ball into it.
Cloud dough
You can make your own “cloud dough” with hair conditioner and cornflour mixed together. So, for a small batch, use two cups of cornflour and one cup of conditioner. You can also add food colouring. It's very different from PlayDoh. It's soft and more crumbly. It a sensory tray favourite.
Ready, set, explore.
minnamurra rainforest
Winter is the perfect time to explore the cool, green rainforest. Even a little drizzle makes it feel extra magical! Walk along the rainforest track and see how many interesting things you can spot. Listen carefully for the famous lyrebird, look for colourful fungi, search for insects and admire the giant trees towering above you. Remember to leave everything just as you found it so the rainforest stays beautiful for everyone.
By emily crisp
Kiama to Bombo rock Walk
If you enjoy exploring, the rock platform between Kiama's Continental Pool and Bombo Beach is full of exciting things to see. Remember to only visit at low tide and always stay with a grown-up. Take your bucket and look inside the rock pools for sea creatures like anemones. Did you know these rocks were formed by volcanoes millions of years ago? You're walking on a very special part of Kiama's history.
Five local places to go on a winter adventure
GerrinGong Boat Harbour
Grab a bucket and head to the rocks at Gerringong Boat Harbour when the tide is low. The rock pools become tiny underwater worlds filled with shells, little crabs and all sorts of amazing sea creatures. If you love getting your feet wet, the shallow rock pool is a great place to splash around. Older explorers can carefully climb over the rocks to find little caves hiding nearby. You never know what you might discover!
Jamberoo creeK
Hidden behind the Jamberoo skate park is a peaceful little creek that's perfect for an adventure. Throw a stick into the water and race it downstream from the bridge. Collect colourful leaves, seed pods and twigs, or use them to build a bug hotel for tiny insects. It's a great place to use your imagination and see what you can create.
spot stinGrays at Kiama Harbour
Can you spot a stingray? On calm, clear days, you can often see stingrays gliding through the water beneath the wharf at Kiama Harbour. Watch fish swimming below, look out for pelicans landing on the water and enjoy a picnic with your family. It's a great reminder of how lucky we are to have such amazing wildlife right on our doorstep. The best adventures don't have to cost anything. All you need is a little curiosity, a bucket for your discoveries and a sense of adventure. So rug up, head outside and see what amazing things you can find this winter.
Kids colouring page
Designed by Tiffany Springett
Emily Crisp
From school pickups and weekend road trips to quiet afternoons at home, podcasts encourage imagination, curiosity and listening skills, and with a growing range of Australian-made podcasts designed specifically for kids, there's something to suit every age and interest. Here are six worth adding to your family's playlist.
Short & Curly
Best for ages 8-12
This award-winning ABC podcast tackles
6 Aussie podcasts for curious kids
the big questions kids love to ask. Is it okay to lie? What makes something fair? Through fun discussions and real-life examples, it encourages kids to think critically while sparking family conversations.
Dino Dome
Best for ages 5-10
Perfect for dinosaur lovers, Dino Dome is a fast-paced audio adventure packed with prehistoric creatures, mystery and action. Produced by ABC Kids Listen, it feels more like
a movie than a traditional podcast and is ideal for kids who love imaginative storytelling and a bit of action.
GardEninG AuStraliA
Junior
Best for ages 5-12
Fans of the television show will enjoy this kid-focused spin-off. Gardening Australia Junior shares simple projects, practical gardening tips and outdoor adventures that encourage children to get involved in the garden while learning about nature and
sustainability.
Squiz KiDs
Best for ages 8-14
This daily news podcast explains current events in a way children can understand. Covering everything from science and sport to world news and quirky stories, Squiz Kids helps curious young listeners stay informed without overwhelming them.
Arty Farty
Best for ages 5-12
Produced by the Sydney Opera House, Arty Farty introduces
children to the world of creativity through stories, interviews and playful exploration. It encourages young listeners to think creatively and discover different forms of art, music and performance.
JaCk the Story man
Best for ages 4-10
Created by Sydney primary school teacher and storyteller Jack Stephens, Jack the Story Man brings everyday childhood experiences to life through engaging
stories. Drawing on his own memories of growing up in Sydney, Jack shares tales about swimming lessons, first sleepovers, bossy siblings and playground adventures that children will instantly relate to. Whether you’re fascinated by dinosaurs, love asking questions, enjoy getting your hands dirty in the garden or simply can't resist a good story, these Australianmade podcasts offer fun for everyone.
FROM
KIDS DIY GELATO STATION AND TOPPINGS BAR
Steps:
1. Select your favourite 2 gelato flavours. For this, I always use our Callebaut Chocolate and delicious Fi or di Latte, which really allows the quality of the milk to shine.
2. KEEP THESE STORED IN THE FREEZER UNTIL YOU ARE READ Y TO SERVE.
3. DECIDE AND PREPARE YOUR TOPPINGS.
I have listed below some of our absolute, all time favourites:
Chocolate Fudge Sauce with roasted & finely chopped
hazelnuts
Caramel Sauce
Chopped Bananas
Apple Crumble
Strawberry Compote
Blueberry Compote
Baked Apricots with roast, slivered almonds
Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Olsson’s Sea Salt (don’t knock it til you try it!)
Mini choc chip cookies
Crunchy Granola
BY Maria Lewis
Gone are the days when guys used to dominate the line-up.
Now there’s a whole wave of South Coast surfer girls taking over the sport.
Whether that’s winning local events like the recent Ocean Queen Classic or keeping their eyes fixed on eventually joining the professional tour, there’s literally no limit for a generation of teens putting the South Coast on the map.
“It’s obviously a little bit harder to get noticed by sponsors down here and get recognised,” said Lucy Darragh, a member of Werri Beach Boardriders Club and one of the youngest competitors on the Challenger Series.
“In other places like
South Coast surfer girls the next wave
Sydney and the Gold Coast it can be easier to get noticed, but it makes us more motivated to keep showing everyone how good the South Coast is.”
Having taken out the recent Ocean Queen Classic run by Woonona Boardriders, the 16-year-old said she was “blown away” by the level of talent at the event that specifically spotlights female surfers from the Illawarra region.
“Everyone was surfing so good, every heat was stacked, and it was a really hard comp just with the South Coast girls,” she said.
“Comps like that make it known to everyone how good all the girls are coming up from around here.”
The results speak for themselves,
with Alice Hodgson and Keira Buckpitt placing second and third respectively in the Open Women’s division, while the Junior Girls were just as fierce with Everly Morgan, Lani Cairncross and Ruby Neill the top three: all names you’d be just as likely to see as podium finishers at any national event.
“We’ve all grown up together,” said Hodgson, 18, of Jones Beach Boardriders Club, who has been on a recent run of historic wins.
“We’ve all come up competing together, which has made it easy for us to follow each other and push each other out in the water when we surf.
“Our boardriders clubs help heaps, that’s what got most of us started … it’s basically your local community making a surf comp for kids
to start practising getting in heats and time management.”
For former world champion and pioneer of the sport, Pam Burridge, she has no doubt that the growing list of local girls making a name for themselves on the South Coast are the next ones to watch.
“I was at the Ocean Queen Classic and the waves were small and difficult, but the girls were still absolutely killing it,” Burridge said, who’s based in Mollymook and runs her own surf school.
“They were absolutely ripping it up, so that made me check out everyone a little on Instagram and it strikes me how it’s such a hot spot down here.
“Even though there’s geographical distance, there’s some national
level talent coming – maybe even international level –and surfing like you’d usually see out at Snapper.
“Being from this region, it seems like that has really ignited a fire.”
For Holly Wishart –who’s also currently competing on the Women’s Qualifying Series – there’s no shortage of inspiration for local girls wanting to go pro.
“Sally Fitzgibbons, she grew up in Gerroa which is really close to Gerringong, and I really looked up to her,” said the 21-year-old Werri Beach Boardriders Club member.
“She’s so inspiring and such a great role model for young girls and guys.”
Until then, one of the “biggest advantages” for the South Coast surfer girl scene
is the diversity of waves according to Darragh who – after taking out major event wins in Nias and Taiwan - has had the opportunity to surf some of the best breaks globally.
“We’re not in the spotlight like some people are in the Gold Coast, but you don’t get the variety of waves there like you do here,” she said.
“We’ve got slabs, we’ve got reef breaks, beachies, some point breaks … for people up there, they don’t really learn how to get barrelled until they travel somewhere for a surf comp.
“There’s just so many waves all down the coast, even Ulladulla and everywhere around us… we have exposure to slabs and heavy waves, plus girls who want to charge ‘em.”
