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11 SEPTEMBER - 17 SEPTEMBER 2026 Kiama Minnamurra Kiama Downs Jamberoo Gerringong Gerroa

Bush kindy blooms in Kiama Th

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Welcome to The Bugle After a patient wait, Uncle Stan Jarrett has been announced as Kiama’s new councillor after a photo finish. And, with a Council meeting on the horizon next week, he’s stepping straight into the hot seat. (Read on page 2)

Into the hot seat 11 September - 17 September 2026

In other news, Seven Mile Beach National Park is having a glow-up, “bush kindy” is sprouting in Kiama’s childcare desert, and our first ever “taste edition” is overflowing with places to eat out – and the frozen yoghurt roadtrip fast becoming the new “scrolls”. This week will be my last as editor of The Bugle. As many of you know, I have a lot of media balls in the air – and it’s time to pass one to our brilliant reporter, Maria. You’ll still see my name in these pages, especially in our Bugle Kids editions. And I’ll be popping up at Kiama Library soon for a workshop on writing your life story. Can’t wait to see what you do with the place, Maria! @amy_molloy

AMY

High-stakes start for new councillor Amy Molloy

K The Bugle newspaper is brought to you by locals weekly and available free throughout the Kiama LGA. Get daily news updates and the digital edition anytime via The Bugle app or at thebuglenews.com.au Published by: The Bugle News

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iama’s newest councillor, Uncle Stan Jarrett, won’t have much time to settle into his seat when he attends his first Ordinary Meeting of Kiama Municipal Council on Tuesday, 15 September. Jarrett will be sworn in at the start of the meeting, following his narrow by-election victory over Michael Bowden. Then it will be straight down to business. Among the first decisions Jarrett will make as a councillor will be casting his vote in the election of Kiama’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the remainder of the Council term. There are two types of

mayoral elections. Mayors can be elected by the voters in a local government area (known as “popularly elected” mayors). These mayors serve a four-year term. Alternatively, once the new councillors for a local government area are elected, they then vote to elect one of the councillors as mayor for a two-year term. At the end of the two-year term the councillors elect a new mayor for the following two years. For the current Mayor of Kiama Council, Cameron McDonald – who was sworn in on 14 October 2024 – that deadline is fast approaching. It gives added significance to Jarrett’s arrival in the chamber, after a by-election contest that went down to the

wire. Jarrett received 6877 votes to Bowden’s 6675 – a margin of just 202 votes – after the final postal votes were received following the 22 August poll. There were 634 informal ballots. Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald congratulated Jarrett following the final result and praised both candidates for the way they conducted the close campaign. “I congratulate Councillorelect Jarrett on his victory, and we look forward to him bringing his passion and strength onto Council,” he said. “I would also like to thank Michael Bowden for standing for the vacant seat.

“Both candidates held a respectful campaign, and they deserve enormous credit for the way in which they conducted themselves.” Bowden also congratulated Jarrett, describing the contest as a “genuinely enjoyable campaign”. “Stan and I had a friendly rivalry the whole way through – at the pre-polling booths, on polling day, and everywhere in between,” he said. “I look forward to working with Stan in his capacity as Councillor on these projects and priorities as we keep building a stronger community together.” For Jarrett, however, the campaigning is over. On Tuesday night, the decisions begin.

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The Bugle acknowledges the Dharawal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and tell stories, and pays respect to Elders past and present.

The Minns Labor Government is expanding Seven Mile Beach National Park 26.85 hectares are being added to the National Park to strengthen the protection of our beautiful environment here on the South Coast

KATELIN MCINERNEY MP MEMBER FOR KIAMA

102 Terralong St, Kiama NSW 2533

kiama@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Authorised by Katelin McInerney MP, funded using parliamentary entitlements.

(02) 4232 1082

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11 September - 17 September 2026

Seven Mile beach grows but campaigners want more

Holly Macken (Ranger, NPWS), Andi Dimmock (South Coast Area Manager, NPWS) and Katelin McInerney MP Katelin McInerney MP

Seven Mile Beach National Park has grown by almost 27 hectares – 26.85 hectares, to be precise – with the expansion announced on 9 September, strengthening protection for one of the South Coast’s muchloved coastal environments. The 26.85-hectare land parcel adjoining the national park has been formally reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Its reservation links two previously separated sections of Seven Mile Beach National Park, “creating a more connected and resilient protected area”, according to a NSW Government media release, while improving management of the nationally significant Coomonderry Swamp. Seven Mile Beach National Park protects extensive coastal dune forest growing on an ancient sand barrier and provides habitat for a

wide range of native wildlife, including arboreal mammals, woodland birds, reptiles and frogs. The park also protects part of Coomonderry Swamp, the largest semi-permanent freshwater wetland on the South Coast and one of the state’s most important freshwater wetland systems. The swamp supports a rich diversity of wildlife, including a significant population of the threatened green and golden bell frog. Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney said the expansion was a win for the community and coastal environment. “Seven Mile Beach National Park is one of the South Coast’s most iconic natural places, and this addition will help protect it for future generations,” McInerney said. “Connecting these two sections of the park will strengthen important wildlife habitat and make it easier for the National Parks and

Wildlife Service to care for this special landscape. “From the towering coastal dunes to the wetlands of Coomonderry Swamp, this landscape is home to remarkable native plants and animals. It’s fantastic to see these important habitats receive stronger protection.” Gerroa Environmental Protection Society (GEPS) has been calling for the expansion of Seven Mile Beach National Park to protect its complex vegetation communities and safeguard the Greater Glider population. A 2024 study by Garry Daly, published in Australian Zoologist, provided evidence that Seven Mile Beach may be one of the last strongholds of the Greater Glider on the South Coast. The Southern Greater Glider has suffered severe declines in abundance and distribution across several national parks, except at Seven Mile Beach, where populations have remained relatively stable.

“So, we know that Seven Mile Beach National Park is there, but half that area is not actually national park,” Liama Aesha, a spokesperson for GEPS, told The Bugle in July 2026. “And one of the biggest threats is to the Greater Gliders, which is what we’re really trying to save, along with other endangered animals and species that are there. “The ecological communities there need at least a thousand hectares to have a thriving community and the part that’s a national park at the moment is significantly smaller than that. “We’re about 450 hectares short of what the experts say we need to have for a thriving Greater Glider community. “Some of its Crown land, some of its owned by the different councils, some of its landowners’, which is conservation, but it’s not fully protected and we just want it all under equal protections.”

Although the confirmed expansion is considerably smaller than the additional 450 hectares GEPS has been campaigning to protect, it represents another step towards creating a larger, more connected conservation area around Seven Mile Beach. “We’re very excited the 27 hectare has been included in the Seven Mile Beach National Park,” says Aesha of the expansion. “GEPS will continue to work with member for Kiama Katelin McInerney, National Parks and both local Councils to continue the expansion of Seven Mile Beach National Park. “Not all lands within the area are habitat for Greater Gliders. SMB area is still 470 hectares short of the 1,000ha of Greater Glider land required to sustain the Southern Greater Glider population at Seven Mile Beach National Park.” The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will

continue managing the newly reserved land as part of Seven Mile Beach National Park, including pest and weed control, fire management and the protection of native plants and animals. “The NSW Government is committed to growing and strengthening our national parks, so they continue to protect nature while giving people the opportunity to experience these incredible places,” McInerney said. “Our national parks are central to the identity of the South Coast. They support local tourism, provide opportunities for people to connect with nature, and preserve the landscapes that make this region such a wonderful place to live and visit.” The reservation follows the completion of required reserve establishment processes, including consultation with government agencies.

Expert legal advice for property matters Property transactions can be complex, whether you are buying, selling, downsizing or managing commercial or rural property. Having the right solicitor by your side can make all the difference. Steve Warwick is a Director at Carter Ferguson and a proud Kiama local with deep experience across residential, rural, commercial and retirement village property matters. Known for his practical approach and attention to detail, Steve works closely with clients to ensure each stage of the process is clear and well managed. For expert advice on property matters, speak to Steve.

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Amy Molloy

GERRINGONG

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NOWRA

(02) 4208 3299

info@carterferguson.com.au

WOLLONGONG

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11 September - 17 September 2026

NATURE’S CLASSROOM:

The family behind grounded education

Why “Bush Kindy” is booming on the South Coast Maria Lewis

t started as a simple idea, conceived by teachers and parents Steve and Shanae McGee: taking kids out of the classroom and into the real world. The learning wouldn’t stop, of course. Lessons would just go from theoretical to practical, with students getting an education while simultaneously getting their hands dirty. “It stemmed from what we wanted for our own kids,” Shanae told The Bugle. “We saw how education was changing at schools, because we were both teachers, and we just wanted to get the kids outdoors to have childhood experiences like we had growing up. “That focus on being indoors, on focusing only on literacy and numeracy

at a young age, wasn’t really aligning with us so we wanted to bring it back to nature.” And so, Grounded Education was born. Starting in September, 2024 in Cascade Falls at the bottom of Macquarie Pass, at first it was just half a dozen kids in their Bush Kindy playgroup for three to seven year olds one day a week. The next term, they expanded to two days and immediately the McGees started to see “a large number” of South Coast families who were connecting with their – pardon the pun – grounded approach to education. “It’s not one size fits all,” said Steve, who wasn’t surprised by the response based on over a decade of teaching experience. “There are some kids who are made for school. “But with both of us being primary school teachers, we were seeing a growing per

centage of kids who aren’t made to sit still for six hours a day inside.” Fast forward nearly two years later, Grounded Education has expanded sites, classes and learning groups across all ages with no plans to slow down anytime soon. It’s a much-needed service in an area like Kiama, which is classified as a “childcare desert” due to its limited childcare places, versus the rising number of young families moving to the area. “We just want to get as many kids out in nature as we can,” Shanae said. “We've got so many plans and so many ideas that we want to see come to life. “It feels like there are endless opportunities.” Having recently presented at the 2026 New South Wales and ACT Outdoor Learning Conference, they’ve also been talking about “teaming up”

with local schools and the idea of nature play expanding into learning institutions across the state to make their education model “even more accessible”. “We’ve had such positive feedback,” Shanae said, with the family based in Kiama. “We've had parents who have said that drop offs can be such a hectic time for their kids at daycare where they would scream and cry and not want their parents to go. “They've enrolled their child with us, thinking that it would be the same kind of situation, and instead their kids have just so easily just let go. “I don't know if it's just not having four walls boxing them in or having easy access to natural materials that tends to ease their anxiety and help them regulate.” With their own kids – Arlo, 7, and Bowie, 5 – now enrolled at Grounded Education, they

saw the impact of real-world experiences when they were much younger, having hit the road and travelled around Australia in a caravan. “We saw so many young families in that year and a half, 90 per cent of the crew we were meeting on the road were on the same page,” Steve said. “Post COVID, everyone was like hang on, you can knock out an hour of learning in the morning and do it in a really natural, organic way and be somewhere like Ningaloo Reef.” Those conversations helped plant the seed for the McGees, with Grounded Education now bearing fruit through ongoing collaborations with NSW National Parks and local businesses like That Local Honey. “We also went to the Farmers Markets with the kids, who had planted their

own seedlings and decorated the pots,” said Steve. “They sold them to raise money for Kids Wish, which is a charity for kids living with disability and illness. “It’s great giving them these real-world experiences, rather than ‘here’s your maths lesson about change and money’. “They’re getting to learn in real time and giving back to the community.” It’s not just about the hands-on aspect either, with mindfulness and resilience “really important aspects” of what Grounded Education hopes to instil in their students: whether that’s teaching kids how to journal or breathing exercises like “star breaths”. Information about Grounded Education, their classes and programs can be found online via their website and social media channels. @ grounded_education.

THE BUGLE NEWS

11 September - 17 September 2026

tanley Jarrett’s election to Kiama Council is more than a change to the make-up of the chamber. It is a return of a familiar kind of civic leadership: grounded, personable and shaped by long experience in listening to communities rather than simply speaking at them. In an era when public life can feel transactional and political debate too often becomes performative, Jarrett’s appeal has been his ability to make people feel seen and heard. Across Kiama’s villages, neighbourhoods and community groups, he has built a reputation not merely as a public figure, but as someone who turns up, remembers conversations and understands that local issues are rarely abstract. They are about whether a family can find a home, whether generations of families can stay in the same area, whether a sporting club can keep its facilities, whether older residents can remain connected, and whether the character of a place and its people remains, while it grows. That instinct for connection has defined Jarrett’s leadership over

many years. He, more than most, would understand that a council decision may begin in a report or a meeting agenda, but its consequences are felt in streets, parks, shops, surf clubs, community halls, and kitchen table conversations. It is a perspective that cannot be manufactured through campaign slogans. It comes through time, presence and a genuine respect for the people who call this area home. Jarrett also brings the composure of an elder statesman. That description is sometimes used loosely and as a pejorative, but in his case, it reflects a particular value: the capacity to provide steadiness when debate becomes heated, to recognise the long view without dismissing immediate concerns, and to work with people whose views may differ sharply from his own. Kiama Council faces no shortage of complex decisions. Housing pressures, infrastructure demands, financial sustainability, planning, environmental protection, and economic stability, will require more than fixed and steadfast positions. They

Stan, the Man!

will require relationships, judgement and the ability to bring a community with council rather than leave it behind. Jarrett’s election suggests voters saw those qualities in him. His mandate is not a blank cheque, nor should it be. Every councillor must remain accountable to the public and open to scrutiny. But it is a clear endorsement of experience combined with approachability – a belief that leadership should be both capable and human. The next big question will be the mayoralty election. Last time around Mayor Cameron McDonald was elected unopposed. Does Jarrett have the wherewithal to put his hand up to provide a challenge? So far, he’s one from one. Still, as councillors consider who will be best placed to guide the chamber through the next term, Jarrett’s record of service, temperament and community standing will not go unnoticed. For now, the community has elected a councillor who understands that public office is ultimately about people. That is a strong foundation on which to begin.

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Attention portrait artists and patchwork quilters:

Kiama Show needs you! Carol Goddadrd

es, creatives and clever artistic people, the time has come to seriously start the planning process for entries into the upcoming 179th annual Kiama Show. January 2027 is going to come around very quickly, and so the preparation, or at least the decision-making, needs to start now. Whose portrait to paint? What small item to quilt? Ah, decisions, decisions. The competitions referred to are, of course, the Patchwork Quilt Group 5 Competition and Kiama Show's own take on the prestigious Archibald Prize, our equally prestigious and cheekily titled Kia-Bald Prize. The much-loved quilting competition is a regional handicrafts contest attracting entries across the South Coast and Tablelands agricultural shows, with winners from each show advancing to compete at the Group 5 final. Entry criteria are detailed. The item, whether it be a wall hanging, a bag or a

cushion cover, must have been completed within the last 12 months. It must use patchwork and quilting, be either handmade and/or machine-pieced, be small with minimal embellishments, unframed and fit within a one-squaremetre space. Competition each year is fierce, the quality of handmade items outstanding and seemingly getting better every year, and the bragging rights priceless for those who achieve a glorious win. Prize money is, of course, a welcome bonus, but everyone knows the bragging rights are far more valuable. The Kia-Bald Portrait Prize is a mere two years old and already making waves as part of the annual Kiama Show pavilion exhibitions. Introduced into the adult art section by the Show Committee in 2025 as a tongue-in-cheek homage to the Archibald, the Kia-Bald has, in its short time, drawn out some very impressive work from both local and visiting artists. The portrait subject can be

Blow your Bugle!

a much-loved friend or family member, or a person living in the Kiama LGA who defines the spirit of living here in our wonderful area. They may be a vital community member in such fields as the arts, sport, business or civic life. Please be aware that, though we adore our fur babies and regard them as family members, the KiaBald is a human portraitonly art competition. Any medium, with a maximum size of 80cm x 100cm, will be accepted. As well as first and second prize in the Kia-Bald, there is also a People's Choice Award. But whether you win a prize or not – and this covers all show competitions – the fact remains you will have made a welcome contribution and gained great pleasure in devising, creating and showing your work at our fabulous Kiama Show. As more details emerge with regard to all things Kiama Show-related, they will be covered here in The Bugle and also on the Kiama Show website, www.kiamashow. com.au.

If you want to write a letter to the editor, email editor@ thebuglenews.com.au (max 150 words)

To Fiona Phillips I was reading the Budget newsletter, June 26, and on the front page there was an article about active transport fund build cycleways and footpaths. I have been corresponding with Kiama Council for approximately 10 years about fixing the pathway from Omega bridge to north end of Werri Beach, Renfrew Road. It is often unusable and if fixed (e.g. a boardwalk or concrete path) it would make a safer way for kids to cross Fern Street and would complete a circuit for walkers, joggers etc. I would like to meet up with you to discuss, or I can forward you the train of emails to and from Kiama Council. I hope you can help Regards Dean

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11 September - 17 September 2026

The waste debate continues

Emily Crisp

iama residents have been given some clarity on the future of Council’s household bulky waste service, with Council confirming a second free drop-off event will go ahead later this year. The second of Kiama Municipal Council’s Bulky Waste Drop-Off Events for 2026 will be held at the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Facility from 7–15 November. Registrations for this free event will open via Council’s Household Bulky Waste DropOff portal at 9am on Monday,

12 October. The confirmation follows questions from residents about whether the event traditionally held in September would proceed, with Council’s website stating the service was “currently under review”. The free event is held twice a year at the Minnamurra Waste & Recycling Facility, with the first 2026 event taking place in March. However, its future has been in doubt with changes to Kiama’s waste collection services. Councillor Stuart Larkins said residents had contacted him seeking an update, prompting him to request a report at the next Ordinary

Council Meeting. “People know that it’s been a routine for the last couple of years that the bulky waste ones would be March and September,” Cr Larkins said. He said some residents had trouble securing a booking during the March event and would have preferred Council to provide clearer information about the second event while its review continued. “That’s why I’ve just asked for a report for the upcoming Council meeting to make it clear what’s happening and any updates,” he said. Council has confirmed its Waste Services Team is preparing a report examining potential changes to the way

residents dispose of household bulky waste. Councillors are expected to consider the options at the Ordinary Meeting on 15 September. Following the meeting, the proposed changes will go on public exhibition for 28 days, giving residents an opportunity to have their say. According to Kiama Council, the current drop-off model has “become increasingly difficult to deliver safely, because the facility at Minnamurra is not fit for this purpose, and has led to several workplace safety concerns”. However, for now the service will resume – at least in the short term.

“We heard the feedback from the community that they wanted another Bulky Waste Drop-Off Event this year so we’re going ahead with another one while this review takes place,” Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said. The review explores three options, which will be considered by councillors. These include discontinuing the current drop-off event and promoting the existing userpays on-call kerbside clean-up service; introducing a voucher system; and maintaining the current drop-off event at the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Facility. A Council spokesperson also defended the reduction

in yellow bin pick-ups, which has caused frustration in the local community, saying: “Council’s switch to fortnightly recycling collections has made the process more efficient and financially sustainable, reducing the burden on ratepayers.” Council offered a reminder of alternatives to the drop-off service. “A user-pays on-call kerbside clean-up service is available to Kiama residents once each financial year in which up to 1m³ (1m wide x 1m high x 1m deep) or 100kg of household items can be collected from their property.” Residents can report illegal dumping to the EPA Environment Line on 131 555.

TE Source: The Gathering Grounds

n o i t i d aste

FINDING OUR THIRD PLACE

Source: Part One

Emily Crisp

t this point in my life, my third place needs to have good coffee and somewhere my child can run around. For me, it is often the park or Kiama Corner Store. They are the places where I found my tribe of mum friends and where we now spend hours together while our children play. They give me somewhere to go that feels easy and familiar, where children are welcome and where I get the adult conversation and sense of community that I need at this particular stage of my life. Cafés have long served as a kind of third space – somewhere between home and work where people can linger, connect and feel part of a community. In fact, creating that

Source: Kiama Corner Store

sense of a third space has become part of the strategy for several local cafés. Part One on Manning Street has deliberately fostered a place where people can linger and connect, while The Gathering Grounds, formerly Stacks cafe, recently underwent a redesign aimed at creating somewhere customers can read a book, co-work or simply hang out alongside strangers. For mums in particular, a third space can offer an important place to get out of the house, meet friends or simply be around other adults. A few years from now, my third place could be somewhere completely different. The term “third place” was coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg to describe the places we spend time outside our first place, home, and our second, work. Traditionally,

they are places such as cafés, libraries, parks and pubs where people can gather informally and regularly. The way we find that sense of community is changing too. So much of our lives now happens online. We can speak to people without leaving the house, work without entering an office and belong to groups whose members we have never met, yet loneliness and social isolation remain significant problems. Perhaps what third places offer is something the online world can't entirely replicate: somewhere to physically show up and find your people. What that looks like is different for everyone and changes depending on what we need from life. For Wendy Riley, it is yoga, although she doesn't believe her third place is necessarily a physical place at all. Her

practice moves between studios and overlapping groups of people. “The third space is not an actual space but yoga itself,” she said. Wendy started yoga while raising a family, studying and working three jobs, and believes the community gave her strength during an incredibly busy period. “These spaces do extend beyond the activities. They absolutely are organic, ever changing, yet provide a constant.” Jane Bourne found hers when she joined the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club surf boat crew in early 2025. “I keep going back because I like the sport, the people, and having a goal to aim for. It's more than just fitness,” she said. That decision eventually led Jane to complete her Bronze Medallion and

become a volunteer beach lifeguard, opening the door to another part of the Kiama community she had never expected to join. Ryan finds that same sense of belonging at Kiama Running Club, where there are no official rankings, attendance records or expectations that everyone completes five kilometres. “The cheers for people finishing are actually bigger for the later finishers than the first ones past the post,” he said. People who met through the club now enter events together and support one another outside their weekly runs. For Roe Kitchin, her church community provides something deeper again. After 12 years, she describes it as part of her identity and somewhere people support one another through life's

highs and lows. “We support each other and importantly ‘do’ life together,” she said. “Faith is people not buildings or ‘religion’.” What struck me when I asked people around Kiama about their third places was just how different the answers were. What they had in common was that none of these places were really about the activity alone. They were about the people they had met, the friendships that had grown and the feeling that there was somewhere they could turn up and be part of something. In a small town like Kiama, we talk a lot about community, but community doesn't simply come from living in the same postcode. It is built through the places and activities that bring us together and give us the chance to know one another.

8 | THE TASTE EDITION

THE BUGLE • thebuglenewspaper.com.au

11 September - 17 September 2026

15 years of flavour:

How JJ’s is helping Aussies spice up their lives

Garza

Myah

or many Australians, an introduction to Indian cuisine begins with a familiar order… butter chicken. However, over the past 15 years at JJ’s Indian Restaurant in Kiama, owner Jasbir Jasrotia (known to most as JJ) has observed a noticeable evolution in Australian palates. Customers who once stuck firmly to the familiar have gradually become more adventurous, making JJ’s a local favourite. “They come with the butter chicken and, once they like the food, they slowly or gradually go for the other curries as well,” JJ said. JJ's opened in Kiama in 2011, celebrating its 15th anniversary last Saturday, September 5.

Introducing authentic Indian cuisine to the town brought its share of challenges. JJ notes that Australians were far less familiar with the variety of Indian dishes compared to more established options like Chinese or Thai food. Additionally, he had to address a common misconception. “Indian food is spicy,” he said. “But not all of the food is spicy. We can cook according to your taste and your palate.” The distinction, JJ explains, is an important one. Spice serves to build rich layers of flavour, aroma, and depth rather than merely providing heat. And increasingly, diners are willing to take that leap beyond their comfort zone. “We have so many regular customers who came for butter chicken, but in the end they are trying everything — they’re eating vindaloo, which is the hottest curry.” Across India, regional traditions shape an

extraordinarily diverse culinary landscape, offering an expansive range of flavours, ingredients, and plantbased dishes. Even a staple like masala chai transforms distinctively from one region to the next. At JJ’s, that sense of discovery is part of the experience. A Methi Mali chicken with different curries and accompaniments encourages diners to sample more than one flavour, while dishes such as methi chicken, rich with fenugreek leaves, and lamb rogan josh offer an alternative to the usual takeaway favourites. All of the restaurant’s produce is sourced locally from Robertson farm, creating a connection between traditional Indian flavours and the region JJ now calls home. The restaurant itself has also evolved alongside its menu. With airy indoor spaces, colourful cultural touches and an outdoor dining area nestled beneath the trees, JJ’s has become a place designed for lingering. On a quiet summer evening, diners can sit outside beneath

the stars, enjoying the warm South Coast air alongside food inspired by thousands of years of culinary tradition. Good food, however, is only part of the recipe. After 15 years in Kiama, JJ says it is the people who have made the journey worthwhile. He arrived in Australia in 2005 to study commercial cookery and hospitality at TAFE. There he met friend and business partner Pritpal Singh Saini and they opened their first restaurant in Wollongong in 2009 before bringing the JJ’s name to Kiama two years later. The pair arrived one evening to install the restaurant’s sign and found the town remarkably quiet. “At about 7.30 or eight o’clock, it was so dead quiet,” JJ laughs. “We were looking at each other like, ‘Have we made the right decision?’” They had. Over the years, JJ’s has become woven into the local community. Staff members who started working at the

restaurant as teenagers have grown up and moved on to university, trades and professional careers. Regular customers have become familiar faces. For JJ, celebrating 15 years is about recognising all those people. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the support from my parents, my business partner, my wife, kids, the people who have worked with us and the customers,” he says. “When you come into a different part of the world – at

that time you have a dream, like, okay, this is what I want to do, and this is who I want to be.” “Now with the 15 years, it feels like a dream to achieve that,” JJ said. Butter chicken will always hold a special place on the menu, but after 15 years, it is no longer the final destination for diners. “We just want to be stronger, bring more authentic food. And, from there, maybe another 15 years to come.”

Trinita becomes Kiama’s hottest new table

ENJOY

INDIAN CUISINE

AT JJ’S INDIAN RESTAURANT

DINE IN OR TAKEAWAY AVAILABLE

02 4232 4565

www.jjsindian.com.au

Myah Garza

ood company, stunning views, and even better food is the holy trinity of what’s making Trinita Ristorante quickly turn into a Kiama hotspot. Less than a week after opening its doors, the waterfront Italian restaurant is already proving one of the town’s toughest tables to secure. By the end of its opening week, owners John and Aleida Dwarte had served around 1,800 meals, poured more than 1,500 coffees and watched bookings fill up well in advance. “We were definitely expecting to be busy, but not as much as this,” Aleida said. “We’ve had to turn away a lot of people because there’s just no room.” The husband-and-wife team are no strangers to the hospitality industry, having previously owned and operated Ambiance Ristorante. But while their experience has helped shape Trinita, they were determined not to simply

copy and paste their previous success into a new location. “Nothing’s the same. Everything’s changed,” John said. “The ingredients and dishes are different and we’ve tried to suit the clientele down here. The only thing that doesn’t change is who we are, how we like to run a business and how we like to engage with people,” Aledia added. The restaurant opened last Wednesday and was immediately embraced by locals, with some customers already returning day after day. “There have been quite a few people who have literally come every day since we opened,” Aleida says. That sense of familiarity and connection is exactly what John and Aleida had hoped to create, when The Bugle last spoke to John before opening. Trinita — Italian for “trinity” — was designed around the simple pleasure of gathering around the table. Inspired by long Italian lunches, intimate dinners

and family breakfasts, the venue brings together handmade dishes, seasonal produce and a relaxed style of hospitality. And then, of course, there is the view. The expansive outdoor dining area overlooking Kiama Harbour was the major drawcard when the couple decided to take on the venue. “There were many things to consider and many different locations, but this is what set this venue apart from anywhere else, ” Aleida said. At the moment, Trinita is focused on breakfast and lunch, although dinner service is expected to begin in October. Before then, the owners are considering extending their afternoon offering with cocktails and smaller dishes. And while the restaurant’s opening week has been relentless, the Dwartes are taking a moment to appreciate just how warmly Kiama has embraced them. “At the end of the day, when you look at it, you’re just proud,” Aleida says.

THE BUGLE NEWS 11 SEPTEMBER - 17 SEPTEMBER

Taste Edition www.thebuglenewspaper.com.au Emily Crisp

The sweet reality behind Kiama’s M A Chocolatier

hen Kiama chocolatier M i c h e l l e Armstrong recently shared a modest weekly sales target on a community Facebook page, her post offered a rare glimpse behind the polished exterior of a small handmade business. Armstrong hoped to sell nine 15 piece bonbon boxes and ten four piece boxes that week, explaining that the target would help keep M A Chocolatier sustainable while she juggled the business with life as a mum. “I wanted to be honest about what it actually takes to keep a tiny chocolate studio sustainable, and to show that every box sold genuinely makes a difference,” she said. The community responded, and Armstrong reached her target. It was an encouraging result for a business built around a product that is beautiful to look at but painstaking to produce. A single bonbon can take several days to complete, beginning with flavour development before moving through testing, tempering, colouring, filling and finishing. “Most people see the finished bonbon, the shine, the colour and the flavour, but they don’t

realise how much skill and precision goes into that one small piece,” Armstrong said. “Chocolate is unforgiving and technical. Tempering has to be exact, fillings cooked to the right temperature, and the acidity, fat, sugar and texture all need to sit in harmony.” Armstrong launched M A Chocolatier in 2020 after more than 25 years working in hospitality across Australia, New Zealand and the UK. She had realised that the part she loved most was creating something with intention, and chocolate offered the right combination of technical challenge, creativity and self expression. Her handmade range centres on bonbons filled with ganaches, caramels and pâtes de fruit, alongside peppermint bonbons, organic almond dragées and chunky milk chocolate Kev Koalas. Kiama also finds its way into her creations. Mulberries from a neighbour’s tree have become a pâte de fruit filling, local elderflowers have inspired another bonbon, and her take on the viral “Dubai chocolate” trend used locally baked croissants with pistachio praline. Behind the scenes, Armstrong fits production around caring for her

New flavours on the menu at Cin Cin Wine Bar S et in the coastal charm of Kiama, Cin Cin Wine Bar is a welcoming haven for wine lovers and curious sippers alike. With a focus on red, white and sparkling varieties, the bar invites guests to enjoy their favourites while exploring the broader world of wine. A selection of spirits, beers, classic cocktails and thoughtful non-alcoholic options ensures there's something for every taste. The food offering centres on generous grazing boards and a vibrant mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean meze, perfect for sharing or savouring individually.

With its relaxed elegance and warm atmosphere, Cin Cin is Kiama's go-to spot for unwinding, tasting and toasting good company. This season, that food offering has taken an exciting new turn, with five new dishes joining the menu. Start light and bold with the Crispy Harissa Cauliflower and cooling tahini ranch, or go a little more indulgent with Sautéed Chilli and Honey Prawns, plated with whipped fetta and fresh herbs. The Lemon, Cumin and Green Chilli Barramundi is a standout for those after something fresher, served with sweet chilli and coconut

rice, while the Slow Cooked Lamb Shawarma brings comfort-food heartiness, tender and spiced, with tzatziki on the side. For dessert, the Kunafah – a Middle Eastern-inspired cheesecake with crisp kataifi, pistachios and rosewater syrup – is not to be missed. Alongside the new additions, Cin Cin's current specials are also worth a visit in their own right. The Moroccan Chickpea and Dukkah Roasted Pumpkin Salad brings together rocket, cucumber, pickled onions and grilled haloumi in a green goddess dressing with balsamic glaze – vibrant,

fresh and easily shared. Meat lovers should look no further than the Beef Kofta Burger, loaded with tzatziki, rocket, cucumber and haloumi, served with Greek salted chips. On the sweeter side, the Qatayef – a Middle Eastern-style folded pancake with cinnamon-roasted walnuts, whipped ricotta, rosewater syrup, mint, strawberries and pistachios – is proving a favourite with those who like to finish on something special. And for the ultimate lowkey pairing, the Cheese and Wine Special lets guests choose their cheese – cheddar, brie or creamy blue

– alongside any wine by the glass or beer (T&Cs apply). Together, the new dishes and specials lean further into Cin Cin's love of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours, while staying true to what the venue does best: food made for sharing, best enjoyed slowly, alongside a well-chosen glass of wine. If you're looking for a long lunch with everything included, look no further than Cin Cin's Bottomless Weekends – a 2-hour drinks package and meze from $70pp – or if you're after that sneaky drink after work, happy hour runs Wed–Fri from 5pm to 6pm.

daughters, including a preschooler who is still at home. “A typical week is production squeezed into the gap between drop off and pick up, prep and admin done in the evenings once the girls are in bed, and orders packed whenever there’s a spare half hour,” she said. The cost of couverture chocolate and fresh local ingredients, limits on how much can be handmade each week and chocolate’s sensitivity to heat and humidity add to the pressure. Armstrong also manages recipe development, orders, packaging and social media herself. Having recently bought a selection, I can confirm the chocolates present beautifully and taste every bit as good as they look. The passionfruit and peppermint butter caramel were my favourites, although choosing between them required more consideration than I would like to admit. Armstrong is now developing a new bonbon collection, testing and adjusting each flavour until it earns its place. “I want M A Chocolatier to keep growing without losing the essence of why I started it,” she said. “I just want to keep building something honest and true to this place, one box at a time.”

THE BUGLE NEWS 11 SEPTEMBER - 17 SEPTEMBER

TASTE EDITION www.thebuglenewspaper.com.au

All you need is Yo-Chi Myah Garza

Asked what keeps drawing him back, “The environment.” It is a modern example of a ‘third space’ – somewhere outside home, work or school where people can regularly spend time together. For a generation increasingly conscious of health, wellness and the cost of a night out, the appeal of somewhere casual, colourful and alcohol-free is easy to understand. “It’s also one of the only places that’s open later that isn’t a bar or club,” one Reddit user wrote. But for others, the phenomenon is less wholesome. Another Reddit user described it as “a masterclass in consumerism for better or for worse”. That tension is part of what makes Yo-Chi interesting. It isn’t just selling frozen yoghurt. It is selling an experience – and the queue is part of it. At first glance, a long wait for frozen yoghurt seems like an obstacle. Psychologically, however, a queue can do almost the opposite, it makes the thing people are waiting for seem more desirable. One of the most powerful forces at play is social proof – the tendency for people to look to the behaviour of others

o s ci s e

Yo-Chi has gone from frozen yoghurt shop to social phenomenon. It’s 10pm on a Saturday and a line of young people wrap themselves around the block. Music is pumping, the vibes are up and, despite the wait, nobody seems particularly keen to leave. This isn’t a hot new nightclub. It’s a frozen yoghurt shop. It’s Yo-Chi. Dubbed as ‘Gen Z’s nightclub’, Yo-chi has become an unlikely

social ritual, offering young people somewhere to meet, chat and connect without the hangover. The South Coast’s nearest Yo-Chi is in Wollongong, but that hasn’t stopped locals travelling all the way from Nowra to make the drive. “It's just frozen yoghurt, right? Do they sprinkle heroin on it or something?” one Reddit user asked, capturing the confusion of those watching the queues from the sidelines. Nowra local Courtney Downs says the onehour drive is worth it. She estimates she has visited about 10 times in the past month. “I feel like every time someone goes up to Wollongong, they always stop and buy Yochi.” For Jackson Marney and his friends, the visits have at times been even more frequent. “At one point, we went, like, every night for three w e e k s straight,” he said.

est

2 Minnamurra St, Kiama · sebelkiama.com.au · @yves_social · (02) 4230-7500

when deciding what is worth their attention. If dozens of people are prepared to wait for something, there must be a reason. A line signals that something is popular; it builds anticipation. It puts a group of strangers together, all waiting for the same thing, and turns a sweet treat run into a social event. A queue outside a shop therefore becomes its own advertisement. It is a physical signal that something is popular, sought-after and worth experiencing. And the longer the line, the more visible that signal becomes. By the time customers reach the counter, they have already experienced part of the Yo-Chi ritual. Customers choose their own flavours, toppings and sauces, creating a personalised bowl and paying according to its weight. The ‘choose-your-ownadventure’ model gives customers control over how much they spend while allowing them to create something that feels uniquely theirs. The brand also regularly collaborates with other businesses and food names, giving customers another reason to come back and try something new.

R e c e n t collaborations have included Tokyo Lamington and Pistachio Papi, turning the toppings bar into something closer to a constantly changing menu than a standard dessert counter. This formula has proved remarkably effective. Yo-Chi began in Melbourne in 2012, opening its first store in Balaclava. It was acquired by Boost Juice co-founders Janine and Jeff Allis and their sons Oliver and Riley in 2020, when the business had just four stores. It now has more than 75 venues and is expanding internationally, with stores in Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States, while Thailand is also part of its global plans. Behind the brightly lit stores and increasingly lengthy queues is a business that has managed to turn a relatively simple product into an experience. The frozen yoghurt itself is only a fraction of the equation. Yo-Chi’s own founding philosophy was to combine frozen yoghurt with an “infinite flow of good energy” – or Chi– in a space where

people of all ages feel welcome. That idea is reflected in the company’s name, with ‘Yo’ representing yoghurt and ‘Chi’ referring to the positive energy the brand wants its venues to embody. Yo-Chi has understood that customers aren’t necessarily travelling an hour for yoghurt. They are travelling for the ritual of going out, the atmosphere, the anticipation and somewhere to spend an evening. And for Downs, that is enough to justify the drive from Nowra. “It’s about a one hour drive, but I’d say it’s worth it.” And when Marney was asked whether spending a minimum of $15 a day on YoChi during those three-week stretches was worth it, he didn't stutter. “Bloody oath.”

11 Your investment property after the budget THE BUGLE NEWS

BUSINESS www.thebuglenews.com.au

11 September - 17 September 2026

What actually changed in May, and the date that matters more than you think By Anthony Cloudbreak Wealth

Hourigan,

If you own a rental in Kiama, Gerringong or Jamberoo, you've probably heard that negative gearing is going. That's not quite right, and the detail matters. The May Budget delivered the biggest change to property tax settings in a generation, and it is now law. There are two parts, and most of the noise has been about the wrong one. Negative gearing From 1 July 2027, negative gearing on established residential property is limited to new builds. If you owned your property at 7:30pm on 12 May 2026 - or were already under contract - nothing changes. You are grandfathered, and you stay that way until you sell.

If you bought an established property after that moment, from 1 July 2027 you can no longer deduct rental losses against your salary. Losses can still be offset against rental income or against gains on residential property, and anything unused carries forward. New builds are exempt entirely, as are super funds and widely held trusts. So for most people reading this, that's the good news. The unit bought in 2014 is untouched. Capital gains tax - this one catches everyone The second change has no grandfathering, and it doesn't stop at property. From 1 July 2027, the 50% CGT discount is replaced by cost base indexation plus a minimum 30% tax rate on the gain. It applies to shares, ETFs, crypto and business assets as well as property, for individuals, trusts and partnerships.

Sell after that date and your gain gets split in two. Growth up to 1 July 2027 keeps the 50% discount. Growth after it is indexed for inflation, so you are only taxed on the real gain - but at no less than 30%. That floor is the sting, and it has had almost no coverage. Plenty of people have quietly planned to sell an investment property the year they retire, when their taxable income falls away. That strategy is now largely dead. Thirty per cent is thirty per cent, whatever your marginal rate. Pensioners and other income support recipients are exempt. What I'd actually do Not panic-sell. CBA's estimate is that the whole package leaves house prices around 3% lower than they otherwise would have been. That is not a reason to liquidate a decent asset, and a rushed sale will cost you more than the tax will. But there is a real job to

do before 1 July 2027, and it is thoroughly unglamorous: know your cost base. The value of your property on that date is the dividing line between the old rules and the new ones. A higher, defensible figure pushes more of your gain into the discounted half. That means a proper valuation, a depreciation schedule, and receipts for every improvement you have made since you bought the place. Fourteen months of notice is generous by the standards of Australian tax policy. Use it. Anthony Hourigan is a Director of Cloudbreak Wealth in Kiama. This is general information only and does not take account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Cloudbreak Wealth Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 1270809) of PGW Financial Services Pty Ltd AFSL 384713. This is paid content

Kiama homeowners face a battery deadline before Christmas

or Kiama homeowners who have been thinking about adding a battery to their solar system, there is a date worth putting in the diary: 31 December 2026.

That’s because the Federal Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program becomes less generous from 1 January 2027. The program isn’t disappearing, but the level

of support will step down, meaning homeowners who install a battery next year will receive a smaller upfront discount than those who install one before the end of

2026. The difference comes through the Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) system. For batteries installed between May and December this year, the STC factor is 6.8. From January 2027, it falls to 5.7 and will continue to reduce every six months until the scheme ends in 2030. Exactly how much less support a household in the Kiama LGA receives depends on battery size. (See chart below.) There’s another reason not to leave it until the last minute. Whenever a government rebate changes, there tends to be a rush from homeowners wanting to secure the higher incentive before the deadline. That puts huge pressure on installers and suppliers, with lead times stretching to up to 8 weeks. The good news for Kiama households (and beyond) is that the NSW Government’s Home Energy Saver program offers eligible homeowners a zero-interest loan of up to $15,000 for energy-saving upgrades, including solar and batteries. The loan is available to households with a combined taxable income of up to $210,000. For anyone who’s already been considering home batteries, that combination

is hard to ignore: a Federal government incentive worth around 30 per cent of the upfront cost, plus the option to spread the remaining cost over time without paying any interest. If a battery has been on your “maybe next year” list, now is a really good time to bring it forward. Waiting until 2027 will mean paying more for the same system, while waiting until later this year to book in will mean missing out on a pre-Christmas installation. There’s also a second deadline for households considering solar. The Federal Government’s solar rebate is scheduled to become less generous from 1 January 2027, with the incentive reducing each year until the scheme ends in 2030. This important for those households that already have a small solar power system (or no solar at all)

who are also thinking about installing batteries. With end-of-year demand likely to push installation times out, getting the process underway well before Christmas will make the difference between securing this year’s higher incentives and waiting for the reduced 2027 amounts. If you’re considering battery storage and want to understand what system would suit your home, Kiamabased solar and battery specialists The Energy Experts can assess your electricity use, existing solar system and when you use power. They can also factor in future changes, such as EV charging or moving away from gas. The Energy Experts | 1300 516 474 | save@theenergyexperts.com.au This is paid content

THE BUGLE NEWS

BUSINESS www.thebuglenews.com.au

11 September - 17 September 2026

From tackles to torque:

Kiama Smash Repairs turns 20 Veronica Bardsley

wenty years ago, 21 Barney Street was a bare shed. But Jonathan Britten saw an opportunity. After apprenticing in Kiama and working for other companies, he thought, “Might as well do it myself.”

Britten didn’t know what to expect, but he kept to minimal goals: paying rent and paying wages. His hard work paid off as Kiama Smash Repairs celebrates its 20th anniversary, and they are inviting you to join! For some locals, Jonathan Britten needs no introduction. As a former

Illawarra Steelers player, his rugby accolades came long before his mechanical ones. These days, the tackling looks a little different. Instead of taking on opposing players, Jonathan takes on busted engines, worn-out brakes and everything in between. And while he may have hung up the boots, he’s never stopped

putting in the hard yards. After 20 years, it’s clear he’s still scoring goals in life. Now, to celebrate, Britten wants to give back. A car show seemed fitting, with free giveaways, a delicious sausage sizzle and a coffee van. Plus, all attendees get a free ticket to enter the raffle, with the prize being a $250

Celebrating 20 Celebrating 20 years years

fuel voucher and a free car service! The site will be filled with the cars of enthusiasts, and rumour has it there might even be classic Falcons on display… The point is, you don’t want to miss this. The Kiama open day and car show takes place on 19 September, from 10am to

2pm, at Kiama Smash Repairs. Britten invites everyone, from car enthusiasts and loyal customers to people just looking for a fun day out, to come and celebrate this milestone with them. Don’t drop the ball on this one: mark the date, bring the family and get down to Barney Street.

2006-2026

Small car show/display from local car enthusiasts Sausage sizzle and refreshments

SATURDAY

19 SEP

Coffee van from 10-12pm

10AM-2PM

OUR SERVICES : Rego checks Auto Electrician Exhaust system Logbook service Wheel balancing Windscreens Clutch Transmission

Mechanical repairs Towing assistance arranged Suspension Air conditioning Brake repairs Wheel alignments Windscreen replaced

Free give aways and raffle prizes

21B Barney St, Kiama

All major insurance companies accepted Private work welcomed 4232 2757 ksmr@bigpond.com

THE BUGLE NEWS

BUSINESS www.thebuglenews.com.au

11 September - 17 September 2026

n a rental market as competitive as Kiama, The Bugle’s property expert Sam Scobie reveals how to win in the rental race. Before I moved into sales, I spent a few years on the other side of the office as a leasing consultant, and the real job was never just processing paperwork, it was pairing the right tenant to the right property. Doing that well for a year or so teaches you exactly what a good application looks like. It's still something I get asked about fairly often too, usually by clients who've sold and need somewhere to live in the meantime, or who are buying into the area and want a rental to bridge the gap. References are usually close to right, but rarely complete. If a property manager's details are on there, but nothing's come back yet, chase them up before you submit rather than after, it's the single easiest thing to fix. And if you've got no rental history at all, or you've been

renting with family, that's genuinely fine. Just say so plainly. Leaving it unexplained is what creates doubt, not the situation itself. Employment details are the same story. They need to be complete and current, right employer, right contact, recent payslips. And if you're between jobs or your circumstances have changed, that's fine too, as long as it's explained rather than left as a gap for someone to wonder about. In a market as competitive as Kiama's, the application itself is often what makes or breaks a good outcome. Property managers are choosing between several strong applicants for the same place, and in my experience the ones who take real care over their application tend to take the same care with the property once they're in it. If you're putting a rental application together and want a hand, you're more than welcome to reach out any time. This is paid content.

Before you sack your strata manager, read this By John Martin, Founder, Bettr Strata Most owners corporations that change strata managers didn’t need to. Odd thing for a strata manager to write, so here’s the reasoning. Changing agents costs far more than the difference in the fee. Whoever takes over must learn your building from scratch: the history, the defects, the contractors, who’s who on the committee, and the thing that happened three years ago that

everybody still remembers. That takes the better part of a year. If you’re partway through major works, it takes longer – and it costs you. So it’s worth being honest about the problem before you go looking. If your levies went up, that budget was approved by the owners. Ask to see the estimates behind it before deciding the manager is at fault. If nothing is getting decided, a new manager won’t fix a committee that

can’t agree. And one poor interaction isn’t a pattern. Everybody has a bad week. There are real reasons to move on, though, and they’re worth knowing. If you can’t get an answer – and not slow, but genuinely absent – that’s a problem. If the records are a mess and nobody can explain how they got that way, that’s a problem. If you’re being charged for things nobody mentioned, that’s a problem. And if your manager

doesn’t tell you the bad news, that’s the serious one. You’ll get the news eventually. It just costs more by the time it reaches you, and by then the cheapest option has usually gone. Read that list honestly. If your manager comes out of it alright, stay where you are. If they don’t, speak to three agencies, ask hard questions, and don’t choose on price alone. This is paid content.

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COMMUNITY www.thebuglenews.com.au

11 September - 17 September 2026

Tuned in: KCR

Why local matters when choosing a funeral director

Growing community

Joe Carter’s journey from city life to soil, stories and KCR

hen families are choosing a funeral director, they are not simply selecting a service provider. They are placing their trust in people to help guide them through one of life's most difficult moments. For Anthony Parsons and the team at H. Parsons Funeral Directors, that responsibility is deeply personal. As a fifth generation family business serving South Coast communities since 1893, H.Parsons believes local ownership matters. The team understands the people, places and traditions that make the South Coast special because they are part of those communities themselves. This local connection extends beyond funeral care, with H.Parsons continuing a long tradition of supporting local organisations, sporting clubs and community groups throughout the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.

That local connection is particularly important in Kiama, where the team cares for families from its local chapel. Through H.Parsons Kiama, known to many local families through the legacy of Stan Crapp Funerals, families benefit from personalised care backed by more than 130 years of experience. Whether a service is held in the Kiama chapel, a church, a community venue, or another meaningful location across the region, the focus remains on creating a farewell that reflects the person being remembered. While funerals have changed over time, one thing remains the same. Every life is unique, and every farewell should reflect the person being remembered. Today, families are seeking more choice than ever before. Some prefer a traditional church service. Others choose a celebration of life, memorial gathering, private

farewell, or service reflecting important cultural and family traditions. Whether a family is looking to arrange a funeral, understand funeral costs, explore options, find funeral notices, or learn more about H. Parsons, the focus remains the same: listening first and helping families create a meaningful farewell that feels right for them "Every family is different, every person is different, and every farewell should reflect that," says Anthony Parsons. Whether you are planning ahead, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking information, the team at H. Parsons Kiama is here to help. Contact the team directly on 4232 2371 and discover why local families have trusted H. Parsons for more than 130 years. https://hparsons.com.au/ This is paid content.

hen listeners tune in to Grow and Sow on Kiama Community Radio, they hear the steady, thoughtful voice of Joe Carter – someone whose path to gardening and broadcasting has been anything but straightforward. His story stretches from suburban Sydney to the Illawarra, with chapters in the arts, corporate offices, long cycling adventures and, ultimately, the rich community life of Kiama. Joe moved to Kiama around 17 years ago, looking for a way to meet people and settle into a new town. As luck would have it, the Kiama Community Garden was just beginning. “I was trying to work out how I was going to meet people,” Joe says. “The community garden happened to be starting – so I put my name down.” Around the same time, he studied Conservation and Land Management at Yallah TAFE, where he met people who shared his interest in ecology and native plants. “That’s where it really took hold,” he says. His career has been unusually varied. Joe began in arts funding at the Australia Council, moved into sales administration with Ralph Lauren and later shifted into IT roles. He then spent several years in the building industry during a period of major upheaval. Life took a more personal turn as Joe cared for his mother – a commitment that eventually anchored him in Kiama. Somewhere in the middle of all this, he took six months to cycle the entire east coast of Australia, a journey that helped him reset, reflect and rethink what mattered most. Once settled in Kiama, Joe returned to study, connected with new people and deepened his involvement in the community garden. That’s where his passion for plants, habitat creation and local ecology flourished – and where the idea of sharing

Every life is different, and every farewell can be too

that knowledge more widely began to grow. Today, Joe is part of the four-person presenting team behind Grow and Sow, KCR’s gardening and sustainability program. He works alongside writer Jane Parbury, home grower and cook Felicity Leitch, and GP and educator Fiona Mackie. Together, they bring a mix of expertise, curiosity and warmth to the airwaves, creating a show that feels both informative and deeply local. Over the years, Grow and Sow has welcomed an impressive range of guests – from WIRES reptile expert Hugh Marriott to bonsai specialist Zeke Ezra, soil and viticulture advocates, habitat creators and passionate home gardeners. Joe is also passionate about the work of Landcare Illawarra and speaks with enthusiasm about the people behind it – including Emma Rooksby, who created the Growing Illawarra Natives website . It’s a free community resource designed to help anyone in the region choose the right native plants for their garden. Users can filter by height, soThe project is

known as Growing Illawarra Natives, or simply GIN, and several of its coordinators – including Meredith Hall , the coordinator of Landcare Illawarra, have appeared on the program. For Joe, Grow and Sow is about giving passionate locals a platform, sharing knowledge freely, connecting people to place and celebrating the Illawarra’s rich ecological culture. “Some of these stories are always in season,” he says. “They’re worth hearing any time of year.” As the program continues to grow, the team is also hoping to secure a sponsor – ideally a local business or organisation that shares their interest in gardening, sustainability or community education. Anyone interested in partnering with Grow and Sow can contact KCR’s marketing team at marketing@kcr.org. au. Anyone with expertise in gardening, ecology, native plants or food growing is welcome and encouraged to get in touch. As Joe puts it, “Your story might be exactly what the community needs.”

From simple and intimate gatherings to fully personalised services, we help families create farewells that feel meaningful, appropriate and true to the individual. Traditional, contemporary and personalised options Local support and professional care from our local team Guidance without pressure

Compassionate care from our local team

Call us 24/7 on (02) 4228 9622 | info@hparsons.com.au | hparsons.com.au

THE BUGLE NEWS

LIFESTYLE www.thebuglenews.com.au

11 September - 17 September 2026

When the Danube had other plans

75% of Australians aren't moving enough. Million Moves is changing that.

Veronica Bardsley

Monica Godfrey from Travel Focus

ne thing travel teaches you is that even the best-laid plans can change – and sometimes it’s how those changes are handled that makes the biggest impression. One of the Travel Focus team recently travelled on AmaWaterways’ Melodies of the Danube river cruise, sailing through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany. Here’s what they had to say: Unfortunately, unusually low water levels meant our ship couldn’t reach Budapest as planned, so our journey began rather differently. Instead of boarding the ship, AmaWaterways accommodated us overnight at the beautiful Dorothea Hotel in Budapest, which exceeded all expectations. The following day, comfortable coaches

transferred us to Melk, Austria, where we could finally board. A stop in Slovakia along the way broke up the journey and turned what could have simply been a long transfer day into another opportunity to explore. Of course, we were disappointed to miss some of our planned sightseeing, particularly in Budapest, but you could tell AmaWaterways had worked hard behind the scenes to give us the best possible alternatives and ensure we still had a wonderful experience. The first couple of days docked in Melk weren’t quite as magical as drifting down the river and waking up somewhere new each morning, but Melk itself was beautiful and the excursions gave us plenty to enjoy while we were there. While our ship remained in Melk longer than originally planned, alternative

excursions were organised each morning and afternoon. They even brought the Imperial Waltz show on board – an experience we otherwise wouldn’t have had. It was a great reminder of the value of travelling with a company experienced in adapting when circumstances are beyond anyone’s control. Making the most of a stopover in Istanbul On the same trip, I experienced Turkish Airlines’ ‘Stopover in Istanbul’ program. Eligible passengers travelling internationally via Istanbul can turn a long connection into a mini holiday, with Turkish Airlines providing complimentary hotel accommodation. Sometimes a well-planned stopover can become one of the most memorable parts of a trip. Beat the queues. If visiting Hagia Sophia or the Basilica

Cistern, consider skip-theline tickets to avoid lengthy queues, particularly in the sun. Ironically, when we visited the Basilica Cistern, nobody checked ours and we walked straight in! Don’t overlook the Blue Mosque. We actually skipped Hagia Sophia after visiting the Blue Mosque – it was absolutely beautiful, free to enter and there was no queue. Get to the Grand Bazaar early. Visit the Grand Bazaar early, before the crowds arrive. If you’re shopping for something specific, decide what you’re prepared to pay and start negotiating from there. We had far more success doing this than simply asking the price. Speak to the experts at Travel Focus Group on (02) 4209 2044 or visit us in-store to plan your next journey. This is paid content.

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ccording to the government initiative, Million Moves, 75 per cent of Australians aren't moving enough. (Chances are that's you!) Million Moves is championing to change those statistics. Running from September 1 to 21, the free 21-day initiative, delivered through fitness industry governing body AUSactive with support of the government of Western Australia, is designed to get Australians moving in ways that fit into everyday life. The concept is simple: one minute of movement equals one move. That movement could be a walk, gardening, a game of bowls, dancing or a structured workout. Participants can register online, track their daily minutes and gradually build their activity over the threeweek challenge. For SoulFit Co,a wellness community which runs out of Gerringong Bowling & Recreation Club, the campaign is about much more than exercise. “Real people inspire other people to get up and move,” says Korin Koutsomihalis, Founder of SoulFit Co, which is getting behind Million Moves for the second year. She is passionate about encouraging people who may feel uncomfortable or intimidated by traditional fitness environments. “It’s not about joining a gym or needing to do

structured fitness. It’s about movement,” she says. The message is to meet your body where it is, focus on what it can do and find movement that feels enjoyable and achievable. As part of the campaign, SoulFit Co is hosting a free community walk on Sunday, September 13, starting at 8am outside Gerringong Bowling Club. The group will walk from the club to Werri Lagoon and return, with the leisurely, flat route suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities. Families, children, prams and dogs are all welcome. And the walking doesn't stop with the morning group. SoulFit Co members will be out throughout the day, with groups heading off at different times as part of a walking relay. Whether people arrive at 8am, 2pm or later, there will be others ready to walk and connect. The aim is to make movement social, accessible and enjoyable. The Million Moves campaign also provides resources and a printable move tracker for people who prefer to keep things simple. There is no particular fitness level required, no special equipment and no need to be competitive. As Koutsomihalis puts it: “Just do what you can.” getting moving doesn't have to be complicated. It simply starts with putting one foot in front of the other.

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11 September - 17 September 2026

what’s on?

Dad Gather gives Illawarra fathers a place to connect

Emily Crisp

hen Corrimal father-of-two Paul Liddell posted in a local Facebook group asking whether any dads wanted to meet for coffee, he was hoping at least one person would turn up. Instead, the turnout showed there was a real appetite for greater connection among local fathers. That first gathering in January has since grown into Dad Gather, a community of more than 500 dads and father figures from across the Illawarra. “I was just praying one dad would turn up,” Paul said. “Then out of the blue, a dozen more dads with prams all turned up.” Dad Gather holds meetups every fortnight, usually on a Saturday or Sunday, with locations changing across the region. The format is deliberately uncomplicated: dads grab a coffee, head to a nearby playground and spend time together while their children play. There is no formal program, awkward introductory game or expectation that anyone must discuss how they are feeling. “It’s not a mental health group at all,” Paul said. “It’s dads coming to connect

with other dads, for them to connect with their kids and for their kids to connect.” Paul started the group after finding the early years of fatherhood difficult, despite having parental leave and support around him. His friends had children of different ages, which meant they were no longer experiencing the same stage of family life. After taking part in fatherhood programs and hearing other dads share their experiences, he realised how valuable it was to discover he was not the only one finding parenting difficult. “I think culturally we need to shift for men to seek community more,” he said. Having children at the meetups gives the dads an immediate point of connection while allowing them to combine parenting with friendship. Children attending the gatherings range from babies to teenagers, although most are aged under three. The impact was captured in a comment from one young girl after attending a meetup with her father. “The best quote ever, which I’ll have for the rest of my life, was a daughter who commented, ‘I loved seeing my dad make new friends,’” Paul said.

The community is also beginning to expand beyond its regular fortnightly cafe and playground gatherings. Dad Gather has held a bushwalk and helped organise a “beer and braids” evening, while plans are underway for a family camping trip in Kangaroo Valley. A smaller group for fathers who own businesses has also held its first meetup as part of the Biz Gather arm of Dad Gather. Paul is now working towards establishing Dad Gather as a not-for-profit organisation, which would

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help it secure funding and introduce more activities and resources for fathers. His longterm ambition is to see the model adopted well beyond the Illawarra. For now, his message to dads who feel nervous about attending is simple. “Come as you are. I’ll meet you and shake every dad’s hand and make sure they feel comfortable,” he said. “Come for 10 minutes if you want. There’s no pressure.” More information is available at https://dadgather. com.au

Kiama Spring Garden Competition Until Fri 18 Sep Burnett’s on Barney Competition entries now open, judging on 5-9 Oct Kiama Rod Run 11 Sep-13 Sep Kiama High Tea by the sea Sat 12 Sep, 2pm-4pm Kiama Surf Life Saving Club Afternoon tea with CWA Kiama evening branch Cavalcade of History and Fashion Sat 12 Sep, 2pm Gerringong Town Hall Capes, coats and cloaks of the 1920s Kiama Line Dance night Sat 12 Sep, 6pm-8:30pm Kiama Pavilion Boots, beats and line dancing Aussie Bird Art Experience Sat 12 Sep-Sun 13 Sep Wellcomm Home, Kiama Downs Expressive Art Experience hosts art retreat with guided paint sessions Million Moves Community Walk +8hour relay Sun 13 Sep, 8am Gerringong Bowlo Walk and relay from the Bowlo to Werri Lagoon and back Retiring Wall Sun 13 Sep, 2:15pm-4pm Gerringong Anglican Church Mastering the financial challenges of retirement Sea shanties celebrating Kiama Harbour Wed 16 Sep, 6pm-8pm Kiama Inn Hotel Evening with Kiama Sea Shanty Club and Kiama Historical Society

Kiama Woodcraft Group Exhibition Thu 17 Sep-Wed 23 Sep, 9am-4pm Old Fire Station Kiama Wide range of woodcraft styles and skills Sydney Quilt Show Thu 17 Sep-Sat 19 Sep Rosehill Gardens Racecourse, Sydney Over 400 quilts on display, workshops, demonstrations, shopping Oktoberfest Fri 18 Sep, 6pm-11pm Kiama Surf Club Live music, German beer and food Survivor - Youth event Fri 18 Sep, 6:30pm-8:30pm Gerringong Anglican Church Teens compete in tribes, tackle physical and mental challenges Gerringong Rotary Markets Sat 19 Sep, 8:30am-1:30pm Gerringong Town Hall Kiama Smash Repairs 20th Celebration Sat 19 Sep, 10am-2pm Kiama Smash Repairs Car display, sausage sizzle, giveaways, raffles Gerringong Rural Fire Service Open Day Sat 19 Sep, 10am-2pm Gerringong Firestation Sausage sizzle, kids games and learning about fire season Murder Mystery Night Sat 19 Sep, 7pm-9pm Gerringong Anglican Church Evening of mystery, food and drinks Kiama Seaside Markets Sun 20 Sep, 9am-3pm Black Beach, Kiama

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THE BUGLE NEWSPAPER 11 September - 17 September 2026

Things are looking bigger at Club Jamberoo

WOLLONGONG TURNS PURPLE FOR OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY The Wollongong Lighthouse was illuminated purple on 31 August as the Illawarra community came together to remember those who have died from drug overdose and call for action to prevent further deaths. The gathering marked International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), a global campaign that brings communities together to remember those lost to overdose,

ust up the little wooden stairs at Club Jamberoo is a well-known local community meeting space: the Gala Room. Club Jamberoo has a generous tradition of hosting not-for-profit community group meetings in the room, which is also regularly used for lunch and dinner functions and family events. The Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association (JVRRA) has long used the Gala Room for its meetings, which regularly include presentations from guest speakers and the display of business papers on the wallmounted TV. Members finally decided it wasn’t that they should have gone to an optometrist – they couldn’t see what was displayed because the TV

out & about

support those left behind and advocate for change. The theme for 2026 was “25 years on. Still needed.” The Wollongong event included a smoking ceremony, speakers and an opportunity to honour people who have lost their lives to overdose. More than 2,000 Australians die each year from unintentional overdose. People aged over 50 accounted for a large share of overdose deaths in 2023.

simply wasn’t fit for purpose. JVRRA member Roger Lyle researched a model that would do the job and started a fundraiser for community contributions towards the cost of a new 75-inch TV for Club Jamberoo. The response from JVRRA members and friends was generous, and Club Jamberoo accepted the proposal. Thanks to the cooperation and installation efforts of Bowlo personnel Paul, Doug, Di, Leanne and Miles, the new TV has now been purchased and installed. Roger said it was a win for the community as well as an added asset for Club Jamberoo – all made possible by generous community donations and the support of the club.

Jamberoo community champion named Illawarra Volunteer of the Year

ocal volunteering legend Vivienne Marris has been named the 2026 Illawarra Volunteer of the Year for her service and commitment to more than 15 community groups and causes across the region. Vivienne was recognised at the 2026 Illawarra Volunteer of the Year Awards at Wests Illawarra. She shares her time across numerous community organisations, services and causes, helping people in need and building strong

community connections. Vivienne has been a driving force at the Jamberoo branch of the Country Women’s Association, while also supporting fundraising for the NSW Cancer Council, Dress for Success and the Red Cross. She also gives her time to the Kiama Garden Club, Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association and Jamberoo Village Markets. All up, Vivienne has supported more than 15 local groups and causes,

including show societies, sports clubs, emergency response organisations and homelessness support services. The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are hosted by The Centre for Volunteering to recognise and support volunteering across NSW. Now in their 20th year, the awards celebrate the work of thousands of individuals and volunteer teams from organisations across the state.

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PUZZLES www.thebuglenews.com.au

11 September - 17 September 2026

PUZZLES

DOWN 1

An instance of seeing something (8) 2 Unyielding (8) 3 Time of the year (6) 4 Alterations (9) 5 Mend hole in fabric (4) 7 Religious house (6) 8 Assimilate food (6) 9 Clock noise (7) 16 Legal possession (9) 17 Okay. (7) 18 Italian smoked beef (8) 19 Compass-like tool (8) 22 Religious truth (6) 23 Loves (6) 24 Greek city (6) 27 Zone (4) Provided support for (9) Apple music player (4) Providence (3) Paid promotions (11) Turtle’s relative (8)

9-LETTER

Evades (6) Memo (4) Toiletry (7) Accommodation (7) Celebration (4) Most senior (6)

No. 350

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in ‘s’.

N D

26 words: Very good

Each number corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. Two have been filled in for you, can you work out the rest?

26 25

D C Q F K R P V H T

I 10

L M Z

22 21 20

7 6

19 18

17 16 15

5 4 3 2

7 3 5 9 2 8 6 1 4 6 4 8 3 7 1 9 5 2 2 1 9 5 4 6 8 7 3 9 6 1 4 3 5 7 2 8 8 2 4 1 6 7 3 9 5 5 7 3 8 9 2 1 4 6 4 5 6 7 8 9 2 3 1 1 8 7 2 5 3 4 6 9 3 9 2 6 1 4 5 8 7

N W O

9 8

7 6 9 2 5 1 4 3 8 8 5 2 4 9 3 1 7 6 4 1 3 6 8 7 9 2 5 9 8 1 3 7 4 6 5 2 2 3 5 1 6 8 7 4 9 6 7 4 9 2 5 3 8 1 3 4 8 5 1 6 2 9 7 5 2 6 7 4 9 8 1 3 1 9 7 8 3 2 5 6 4

Y A U B G X

21 26

11 26

E T

26 19

17 4

2 21

2 13

4. 5. 6.

6 LETTERS ECHOES ERASES RECESS SPHERE

bush poet appears on the country’s $10 note? 8. Which Swedish car manufacturer filed for bankruptcy in 2011? 9. Famous music producer Brian Eno was a member of which 1970s glam art rock band? 10. The Importance of Being Earnest and An Ideal Husband are works by which Irish playwright?

8 LETTERS COALESCE DEMUREST DISPOSED NECKLACE

No. 349

EASY

9 2 4 6 8 1 4 9

3 4 5 6 7

4 1 6

4 6

6 2 5

3 8

6 9 2 5

MEDIUM

5 9 6 3 7 2 9 8 6 4 7 8 6 5 3 2 4 6 2 1 5 3 2 4 5 1109 | PUZZLES AND PAGINATION ©

WORD SEARCH 7. Which famous Australian

7 LETTERS ALIENED APOSTLE ARSENAL GRASSES LEISURE PUMPKIN

TIPSY TREES WANDS WARMS WARTS WELTS WORKS

ROUSE SALON SCALE SCARE SCRAM SEEDS SIDES SLASH SLEDS SMASH SNAPS SOLES STARE TEPEE

T E

ANSWERS: 1. A Little Night Music 2. California 3. Annie Hall 4. The Great Gatsby 5. 12 6. Glass 7. Banjo Paterson 8. Saab 9. Roxy Music 10. Oscar Wilde

Nachtmusik translates to what in English? In which US state is Yosemite National Park located? For which film did the late Diane Keaton (pictured) win the Academy Award for Best Actress? Which F. Scott Fitzgerald novel was first published in 1925? How many edges does a cube have? Which transparent material is made from melted sand, soda ash and limestone?

A D A G E

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK QUIZ 1. Mozart’s famous Eine kleine

4 LETTERS CELL DELI ELSE ICES PEST SACS SEES SEND SILT

T E

2 6

11 25

5 LETTERS ABOUT ABOVE ACORN ADAGE AMUSE ARENA ARISE CAUSE CAVES CEDAR CLODS CORAL CURDS ELOPE ENACT ERRED HEAVE HERON LARDS NANAS OMENS OPERA OZONE PIKED PLAZA PRIES RASPS RENTS ROUGE

SUDOKU

E E

9 16

25 3

P 3

E E

EASY

MEDIUM

SOLUTIONS

34 words: Excellent

CODEWORD No. 340

Today’s Aim: 17 words: Good

SOLUTION

1 6 10 11 12

adieu, audit, aunt, daunt, duet, dune, dupe, ennui, etui, indue, input, inundate, nude, peanut, petunia, pundit, punned, punnet, punt, punted, taupe, tuna, tune, tuned, unapt, unit, unite, united, unpaid, UNPAINTED, unpin, untie, untied, update

13 14 15 20 21 25

ACROSS

SOWS SPAR STEW STOP TOGA

SOLUTION

volume (9)

3 LETTERS ADS ALE ARE ASH CHI CON DNA DYE EGO GEE GUM IRE LEE LYE MUG NEE OWN PAL PER RAP RUM SAT TVS YEN

No. 259

SOLUTION

26 Resembling silver (8) 28 Alliance (11) 29 Phone program (3) 30 Careen (4) 31 Device used to increase

WORDFIT

No. 260

C H E F F I L T E R A R O M A P H B C R O I S S A N T C U P E R A O R D E R S M P L A T E D E L I W F W E A U B A C O N D T C C R L I O O T S T S U A N A B E O S F S D N O T I P P A B I I Y N I B A R S A U N K C L H R S I D E S A O B S Y I M E N U Y T B I O T D D R T N C R E A M A R R M L A T T E O S A L T H S K O E E S G E S W M E F C E R C G R A N F G P A I T O I A A A B P H I T G O T L M R D E B K D O N U T S O E K F K R B R E A K F A S T N R

Can you find all the words listed? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

AROMA BACON BAGEL BEANS BISTRO BOWL BREAD BREAKFAST BREW CAKE CHAIRS CHEF CONDIMENTS CREAM CROISSANT CUP

DAIRY DARK ROAST DELI DONUT EGGS FILTER FOAM FORK FRIES ICE KNIFE LATTE MENU MILK MOCHA NAPKIN

ORDERS PASTRY PLATE SALT SIDES SODA SOUP SPOON TABLE TEA TIP TOAST WATER WI-FI

SECRET MESSAGE: Perfect Sunday brunch together

No. 350

W A R M S S N A P S S A L O N A B O U T T E P E E P L A Z A A C O R N H E R O N R O U G E WO R K S D Y E D N A T V S S E E S W E L T S E R A S E S C O N A L I E N E D S C R A M C E L L S P A R T O G A I R E C O A L E S C E A R S E N A L P U M P K I N R A P S T O P D E M U R E S T D E L I S I D E S E L S E G R A S S E S L E E E C H O E S T I P S Y S A C S C H I S O L E S R U M N E E A D A G E C A U S E O P E R A E R R E D W A N D S C A V E S S E E D S S L A S H T R E E S

CROSSWORD

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11 September - 17 September 2026

Open days offer locals a chance to get bushfire ready

Myah Garza

ushfire preparation starts long before smoke appears. And with another bushfire season approaching, Gerringong and Jamberoo Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers are urging residents to prepare their homes and families now — before smoke is visible on the horizon. Three local brigades will open their doors over the coming months as part of the RFS Get Ready Weekend program, giving residents an opportunity to speak directly with volunteers and get practical advice tailored to their individual circumstances. Gerringong RFS Captain Adam Walmsley had a simple message: don’t become

complacent. While Gerringong's coastal location and residential setting may lead some residents to believe they are safe from bushfires, Mr Walmsley said large fires in surrounding areas could still pose a threat through ember attack. “Embers can fly a long way and ignite dry grass or gunk in your gutters or doormats and things in a house up to 20 kilometres away from the actual fire front,” he said. Mr Walmsley said families should have a clear bushfire survival plan well before an emergency develops, including considering medication, pets, vulnerable family members, evacuation routes and whether their property is suitable to defend. “These are all things that we say shouldn't be decided in the heat of the moment as a fire is

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Left-right: Diana Plater, Darryl Johnston, Andrew Puris (RFS Foxground), Adam Walmsley (RFS Gerringong), Hannah McInerney (RFS Jamberoo)

approaching,” he said. Jamberoo RFS Captain Hannah McInerney said one of the most important steps was deciding early what would trigger a family's decision to leave. That could be a particular fire danger rating, the location of a nearby fire, or arranging transport for someone unable to drive. The advice follows a recent fire at Jamberoo, during landclearing activities. Ms McInerney said landholders planning to burn off material should ensure they understand permit requirements and appropriate burning conditions, while also monitoring forecast weather beyond immediate conditions. “The preparation of the pile and the surrounding area is as important as what's burning,” she said. The upcoming open days

will give residents a chance to ask questions, gather information and meet the volunteers who serve their communities. Families can also bring the children along, with activities including the opportunity to get hands-on with firefighting equipment. The Gerringong RFS Open Day will be held on Saturday, September 19, from 10am to 2pm at 46 Blackwood Road. Jamberoo RFS will host its open day on Sunday, September 27, from 9am to 1pm at 2 Young Street, while Foxground RFS will hold its event on Saturday, November 7, from 10am to 11am at 279 Foxground Road. “Come and think about it, ask the questions,” Mr Walmsley said. “It's a chance for people to clarify any questions or get answers for things that they may want.”

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Ford returns for Warriors NRL finals campaign Lleyton Hughes

erringong junior Jackson Ford is set to make his return to the NRL this weekend, with the Warriors naming him on the bench for their opening finals match against the Redcliffe Dolphins. Ford has not played since Round 16 after suffering a pectoral injury, but his return comes at a crucial time for the Warriors as they begin their finals campaign at a soldout Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday. Before his injury, Ford had played every game of the 2026 regular season and Warriors coach Andrew Webster believes the Gerringong product has been one of the competition’s standout players. “It’s a good headache to have players returning, some experience, one of the best players in the competition he was the best player at the time in the competition,” said Webster. Ford was also considered unlucky to miss out on State of Origin selection earlier in the season and now has the chance to play a part in the

11 September - 17 September 2026

THE BUGLE • thebuglenews.com.au

Warriors’ push for their first premiership of the season. His return is particularly significant for Gerringong, with Ford the only Gerringong junior still featuring in the NRL finals. Young Rabbitohs halfback Ashton Ward had his season ended by a high-grade hamstring tear four weeks ago, ruling him out of South Sydney’s elimination final against the Newcastle Knights this week. Meanwhile, two other Gerringong products have already finished their 2026 campaigns. Reuben Garrick played his final game for the Manly Sea Eagles over the weekend, scoring his 100th career and club try in the loss to the Warriors. Garrick will join the Sydney Roosters in 2027. “I’m super proud of that and it’s a pretty special way to go out,” said Garrick after the match. “They’ve got quality blokes here and friends I’ll have for life. I’m just so grateful to have been able to play for a great club.”

GRAND FINAL HAT-TRICK FOR KIAMA QUARRIERS Lleyton Hughes

t is shaping up to be a huge weekend for the Kiama Quarriers, with three of the club’s eight teams making it through to their respective grand finals. After expanding from six teams last year to eight this season, the Quarriers have had six teams make it through to the semi-finals, with three now just one game away from a premiership. “It’s really good,” said club secretary Nerissa Peterson. “To get three through to grand finals is really exciting.” The three teams are the men’s Over 35s, who finished third and have won through two semi-finals, and two women’s teams - the Division One side and the Over 30 Division One side. The Division One women finished the regular season as league champions but had to take the long route to the grand final after losing their first semi-final. Their second semi-final went all the way to penalties, with the Quarriers eventually winning 5-4.

“Our goalkeeper got Player of the Match because she saved one of the penalties. That was the difference,” said Peterson. The Over 30s had a more straightforward path, finishing second before defeating the team that had finished first to go straight through to the grand final. “I definitely think they’re in with a huge chance,” said Peterson. “They haven’t lost to them this season, so they should win.” While Peterson believes the men face the toughest challenge of the three teams - finishing third they have

had to win two semi finals to get to their spot - but she is confident they have what it takes. “The boys have got the harder challenge, but they definitely got some really good players and I could see them pulling off an upset.” For Peterson, one of the biggest reasons behind the club’s success this season has been the introduction of coaches to the women’s teams. “With the women’s teams, the first grade have had a new coach, an assistant coach this year. So that’s really brought them up - they’re training

really hard.” The Over 30s have also had a coach for the first time in several years. “It just makes a difference having that person run the team, run training. I definitely think that’s been the difference.” And with all three teams playing their grand finals at Ian McClellan Field, the Quarriers will have plenty of support from across the club. “Everyone’s up for both the teams. There’ll be a whole bunch of the girls there watching the boys on Saturday because, and then vice versa. The boys will be all out to support the girls on Sunday.” “I think it just shows that the club is going in a happy place and everybody gets along and works hard.” The men’s Over 35s will play at midday on Saturday, with the two women’s grand finals following on Sunday at 3pm and 3:30pm. After such a successful season, the Quarriers will now be hoping to turn three grand final appearances into three premierships.

Three derbies, three two-point thrillers as Knights edge lions again Lleyton Hughes

n both of the 2026 local derby matches between rivals the Kiama Knights and Gerringong Lions, the match was decided by just two points and the major semi-final over the weekend was no different, with the Knights taking a 12-10 victory. The first time the two teams met was back in May, when the Lions won 12-10 in Kiama. The second meeting, in July, saw the Knights get their revenge with a 14-12 victory at home. This time, there was more at stake, with the winning team earning first crack at the grand final against minor premiers Albion Park next week, while the losing team would face an elimination final. Played in Gerringong, it was not a great start for the Knights, with winger Kye Deane dropping the ball from the first Gerringong kick of the match.

But from there, most of the danger seemed to be coming from the Knights. In the fourth minute, a Kieran Poole line break almost provided the first points. Minutes later, hooker Daniel Martin came close to scoring himself, before a short-side grubber and regather from centre Max Jennings also looked promising. It seemed, however, that it was simply taking Gerringong a little while to

settle into the match. They began to show their attacking flair towards the back end of the half, with their classic short-side attacking raids, and in the 20th minute they found themselves held up over the line. Knights fullback Brad Killmore was happy with his side’s performance. “It was a tight one,” said Killmore. “It’s always tough playing at Gerringong, but I think there are a lot of

positives to take from the game and we’re happy with how we are sitting at the moment.” After the Knights defeated their next opponents, the Albion Park Oak Flats Eagles, just a week ago, Killmore said he hopes his team can continue their form when they face them at Centenary Field this weekend. “Hopefully we can just keep stringing together these good performances.”

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Kiama junior Asher Chapman Knights stun signs with Perth Bears Eagles in Lleyton Hughes

iama junior Asher Chapman has taken another major step towards an NRL career, signing a three-year deal with the new Perth Bears. The 17-year-old has been one of the Illawarra's most promising young footballers, having represented the region and NSW in both rugby league and rugby union. Chapman has spent this season with the Illawarra Steelers in the Harold Matthews Cup and was also selected in the Under-16 City side. In rugby union, he has represented the NSW Wa r a t a h s

Under-16s and Australian Schoolboys, before deciding to pursue rugby league as his pathway forward. Now, the Kiama-born teenager will become part of the Perth Bears, who will enter the NRL as the competition's 18th team in 2027. “The chance to join a brandnew club like the Perth Bears was an opportunity too good to turn down,” said Chapman. “Taking my game to the next level under a living legend like Mal Meninga is massive for my development. “I’m incredibly grateful to the St George Illawarra Dragons for everything they’ve done for me, but I can’t wait to rip in, wear the Bears jersey, and give everything I’ve got to the fans in Perth.” Chapman will begin on a train-and-trial deal next year, completing a preseason training block in Perth before returning to NSW to play SG Ball with the North Sydney Bears. He will then have the opportunity to push for Jersey Flegg selection before moving into the Bears' development squad in 2028, with a potential move into the NRL Top 30 in 2029. Perth head coach Mal Meninga said

Chapman's ability across both codes made him an exciting prospect for the new club. “Asher is the type of explosive, highly skilled footy player we want at the club,” said Meninga. “His background dominating both codes shows he has a rare level of football intelligence that makes him a great talent now and into the future. “What excites me most about Asher isn’t just his raw athletic ability, but his character and hunger to learn.” For Kiama, the signing is another exciting chapter for a junior who has remained closely connected to the local club despite his growing representative commitments. Chapman has played with Kiama since he was eight years old and has continued to return to the club whenever his representative commitments have allowed. He will now be heading west as part of the Perth Bears' inaugural squad, with another local connection also making the move. Gerringong product and Melbourne Storm player Tyran Wishart has signed with the Bears from 2027, meaning Chapman will have another Kiama LGA local alongside him as the new club begins its NRL journey.

massive finals statement

Lleyton Hughes

he defending premiers, the Kiama Knights, pulled off a massive upset over the weekend, defeating ladder leaders Albion Park-Oak Flats Eagles 20-4 in the final round of the regular season. The Knights went into the match with third spot and a second chance in the finals up for grabs, but a clash with the Eagles, who had only suffered one loss all season, was always going to be a tough ask. The Knights struck early at home after being awarded a penalty close to the line when halfback Cameron Vazzoler was taken out late after kicking. Only a couple of plays later, second-rower Toby Lane gave a flat ball to centre Callan Thistlewaite, who crossed for the first points of the match. Mirroring the play at the other end of the field, the Eagles were awarded a penalty deep in Knights territory 10 minutes later. After some hot-potato football, the Eagles managed

to get over in the corner when a Drew Hutchinson cut-out ball was juggled in the air before being put down by winger Dallas Harrison to make it 6-4 to Kiama. Just five minutes later, it looked like the Eagles might capitalise on the momentum when they managed to drag Knights fullback Brad Killmore back into his in-goal area, but a successful short kick-off let the Knights off the hook. Again mirroring play at the other end, Killmore forced a goal-line dropout in the 30th minute. When the Eagles' short dropout was unsuccessful, the Knights capitalised just a couple of plays later, with Vazzoler dummying and going himself to extend the Knights' lead to 12-4. There was some tough football from both teams to start the second half, but in the 51st minute Thistlewaite burst onto a ball from Killmore to score his second try of the day.

Knights captain Tom Angel then made his mark on the match, making a brilliant try-saving tackle before, five minutes later, making a line break that resulted in Eagles halfback Hutchinson being sent to the sin bin for a professional foul. A few plays later, the Knights' own Hooper was also sent to the bin after a late shot from the Eagles resulted in a scuffle. Even though Hooper was sent marching, the Knights were still awarded the penalty, and Killmore slotted the goal to put the result beyond doubt and take the score to its final margin of 20-4. “It was a great win,” said Killmore. “We had a lot to play for to keep that third spot and earn a second chance in the finals. Also, to test ourselves against first place, it was good to know we can match it with anyone in the comp.”

Power bow out of finals despite late fightback Lleyton Hughes

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he Kiama Power bowed out of the Premier Division competition on the weekend after going down 48-30 to the Wollongong Lions at North Dalton Park. The Power finished the regular season in fourth place to secure their spot in the top four, but their finals campaign came to an end in the first week against the Lions. The Lions started strongly, racing out to an 18-2 lead by half-time. They continued to build on their advantage in the third quarter, adding another 20 points to the Power's eight to take a commanding 38-10 lead into the final quarter. But the Power weren't ready to give up. Kiama produced a big final quarter, scoring 20 points to the Lions' 10, but the comeback ultimately fell short with Wollongong claiming a 48-30 victory.

Power coach Sean Byrne said the effort from his players, particularly after suffering early injuries, was something to be proud of. “I couldn’t have been prouder of the boys and the way they fought right to the end against the Lions,” said Byrne. “Unfortunately, we had some key injuries to important personnel early in the game, which left us with just one player on the bench for most of the match. “It forced the guys to dig deep, and they showed great character to challenge the Lions until the final siren.” There were also opportunities for some of the younger players to step up throughout the season, with several Under 17s making the jump into senior football late in the year. “There were some big moments throughout the game where players stepped up, particularly some of our younger guys,” Byrne said.

“That was a real reflection of the growth and development we’ve seen across the squad.” Byrne said the experience gained by the younger players would be important for the club moving forward. “We’ve had a number of collision-type injuries this season, which unfortunately hasn’t allowed us to see the full potential of our squad consistently. “On the positive side, it has created opportunities for a number of players, particularly our younger guys, with several of our Under 17s stepping up late in the season. “That experience will be invaluable for their development and should hold the club in good stead moving forward.” Despite the result, Byrne was pleased with the commitment shown by the playing group throughout the season and thanked everyone who had supported the team.

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11 September - 17 September 2026

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KIAMA NETBALL GAINSBOROUGH 9

WHAT’S ON WEEKLY www.kiamabowling.com.au

Monday

Tuesday

MAHJONG 1pm-4pm

Eureka Euchre 2pm

Happy Hour 4pm-5pm

Happy Hour 4pm-5pm Bowls Coaching 4pm

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Meat raffle 6:45pm Happy Hour 4pm-5pm

Sunday FREE Pool 1pm-6pm

Seafood raffle 6:30pm Tez’s Trivia 7pm

Karaoke 7pm

Live Music

Meat raffle 5:30pm

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11 September - 17 September 2026

JAMBEROO SUPEROOS UNDER 14-2 BT

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11 September - 17 September 2026

THE BUGLE • thebuglenews.com.au

Kiama Power Women’s Reserves book grand final spot in inaugural season

The Kiama Power women's reserve grade team could win the premiership in their inaugural season. Photo Kiama Power

we were up for the challenge, we wrestled momentum back our way and were relentless until the final siren,” said Grady. The result is an impressive milestone for the Power women’s reserve grade side, who are now just one game away from claiming a premiership in their inaugural season. Grady was quick to acknowledge the work of reserves coach John Mion in getting the team this far, as well as the contribution of several young players who have had a big impact throughout the season. “Awesome effort by reserves coach John Mion to guide the girls this far, and some impressive performances from our young guns Ava Lipscombe, Chloe Richards, Grace VernonRogers and Talia McArthur who backed up after winning the Under 17s grand final the

night before.” And the Power will now have to overcome a familiar opponent if they are to finish their first season with a premiership. The Northern District Tigers bounced back from their semifinal loss by winning their elimination final over the weekend, meaning the two sides will meet once again in the grand final. Having already defeated the minor premiers when it mattered most, Kiama will head into the rematch with plenty of confidence. “It’s a huge milestone to advance to the grand final by defeating the minor premiers, and reflects the talent and commitment that we have across our entire women’s program this year,” said Grady. “We’re looking forward now to preparing for the game next week and firmly believe we can lift to another level to win the premiership.” The Power will face Northern District at North Dalton Park at 8:30am this Saturday, with a premiership now just four quarters away.

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n their very first season together, the Kiama Power women’s reserve grade side have secured themselves a spot in the grand final after an impressive 41-17 victory over the minor premiers, the Northern District Tigers, two weeks ago. It was a particularly impressive result for the Power, who had lost both of their regular season matches against the Tigers and went into the semi-final knowing they would have to overcome a team they had struggled against earlier in the year. Northern District came out strongly in the opening five minutes, putting the Power under plenty of pressure. “We withstood that initial flurry and were able to shut down Norths at the contest and around stoppage which restricted their ball movement,” said senior women’s coach Anthony Grady. “Our pressure around the footy was elite and this gave our forwards some

great chances which we converted,” said Grady. Kiama took full advantage of their opportunities in the first half, piling on 26 points while restricting the Tigers to just 10 to take a commanding 16-point lead into the main break. But Northern District were not going to give up easily. The Tigers lifted in the third quarter and managed to outscore the Power by a point, bringing the score to 32-17 and giving themselves a chance of mounting a comeback heading into the final quarter. Instead, the Power produced their best football when it mattered most. Kiama shut the Tigers out completely in the final quarter while adding another nine points of their own to run away with a 4117 victory and book their place in the grand final. “Norths lifted again in the third quarter and

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KIAMA KNIGHTS UNDER 12 RED BT

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GERRINGONG LIONS UNDER 16-2 BT

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KIAMA JUNIOR RUGBY UNION UNDER 16 17 GIRLS

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KIAMA KNIGHTS UNDER 12 GT

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KIAMA JFC - UNDER 10 GIRLS PINK

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SHOT OF THE WEEK KIAMA JFC - UNDER 10 WHITE

PLAYER MIA DOUGLAS CELEBRATES AFTER A CRACKING GOAL WITH A VERY EXCITED TEAM-MATE, MIKAYLA STOCKWELL.

The Bugle News 11 September 2026