Our Santa for 65 years
Myah Garza
TAt 92, Noel Creighton has become something of a Kiama treasure.
He’s lived in the town all his life, watched it grow around him, and for more than 65 years has carried the mantle of the
South Coast’s very own Santa Claus.
Noel smiles when he recalls that his childhood home once stood where the Kiama Leagues Club is today.
“So when I’m having dinner at night, when I do go, I’m actually sitting in my bedroom,” he laughed.
One of 11 children, Noel first put on the red suit in December 1957. The extended Creighton family would gather in the old Tennis Hall near Hindmarsh Park for Christmas Eve, and with countless nieces and nephews rac-
Continued - Page 3
Developer claims Akuna project will ‘enhance town’
Paul Suttor
Sydney-based developer
Level 33 has moved to reassure the local community that its plans for a high-rise complex on Akuna Street will “enhance the town centre” rather than detract from Kiama’s unique charm.
Managing director Eddy Haddad told The Bugle that they were “aware of the concerns and are taking them seriously” following a backlash to the proposed $66 million development.
Level 33 recently withdrew its legal action against Kiama Council and has engaged with the Housing Delivery Authority to complete the project. The HDA could allow the developer to go beyond the seven-storey limit to the 10-14 range for the complex which could house two supermarkets.
When asked why the Land and Environment Court case,
which was due to be heard this week, had been withdrawn, Haddad said: “The HDA has accepted the site into its program and has gone out to tender with a panel of architects.
“At this stage, we could not gain further traction with Council on progressing the approval without the matter proceeding to a full hearing in Court, which we wanted to avoid.”
Haddad would not say how many storeys Level 33 wants its development to be but added: “The project has now gone out to the HDA’s architectural panel for a redesign, so the final height will be determined through that process.
“This will ultimately be determined by the State Government Architect and the Design Review Panel. Heights shown to date are indicative only and subject to further assessment and planning.”
It is understood that the HDA
will make a recommendation to Planning Minister Paul Scully who can then declare the project a State Significant Development, which means it would not need to conform to Council’s height limits.
Local residents and business owners are concerned Kiama does not have the infrastructure in place to cope with a rapid increase in developments such as this one, plus two other multistorey proposals for Akuna Street and the Council-owned Shoalhaven Street Precinct which could result in 450 homes being built in an eightstorey development opposite Kiama Bowls Club.
“We intend to deliver a landmark development for Kiama that will enhance the town centre, including significant retail activation and additional retail and resident car parking,” Haddad
Continued - Page 2
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Plenty for Gilmore to be proud of in 2025
Fiona Phillips
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, but we are only human. Content does not necessarily represent The Bugle's view.
Phew – 2025 has been a HUGE year in the Gilmore electorate and, with your support, I’m proud to have achieved so much for our region.
Since the election, the Albanese Labor Government has remained focused on delivering the commitments you voted for.
We’ve cut student debt by 20 per cent, made medicines cheaper, and protected penalty rates.
We’ve delivered the biggest investment in bulk
billing in Australian history so more people can see a GP for free, and we're opening 50 new Urgent Care Clinics, including at Nowra.
We’ve made it easier to buy a home, with five per cent deposits for first home buyers, and we’re building more well-located homes right across the country.
I’m delighted that, in the last sitting week of parliament, our landmark environmental law reforms were passed, heralding a new era for the environment and productivity in Australia.
People in Gilmore have
jumped at the chance to install a solar battery, with our Cheaper Home Batteries program - part of the Albanese Government’s plan to deliver cleaner, fairer, more reliable energy system.
Heading into 2026, we’ll keep our focus on helping you and your family with the cost of living.
Over the holiday period, I hope you get the chance to rest, relax and reset with family and friends, share some great meals, and enjoy some well-deserved downtime in our spectacular region.
Level 33: Project will ‘enhance town centre’
From Page 1
added. “The (Level 33) site is proposed to include over 200 parking spaces for both residents and the retail precinct, which will support the town centre.”
Haddad said they intended to “work collaboratively with Council throughout the process”. “We aim to commence construction as soon as possible following approvals.”
Kiama MP Katelin McInerney has described the potential 14-storey development as “completely inappropriate” for the town.
McInerney and Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald have written to Scully to voice their opposition to the project going above seven storeys.
Cr McDonald has encouraged disgruntled local residents to also write to the Minister to express their opposition to highrise development dwarfing the town centre.
In his Mayoral Minute for next Tuesday’s Council meeting, he has reiterated his opposition to the Akuna Street development.
“I do not support 14-storey buildings anywhere in the town centre. The community can rest assured we are advocating on its behalf for the Minister to refuse the application and ensure that the heights are more appropriate for a community of our size and scale.”
I’d also like to say a huge thank you to everyone who is working and volunteering through the festive period – the people giving up time with their families to keep us safe, to keep us fed and to keep our vital services running.
I'm looking forward to getting straight back to work in the new year, being involved on the ground in our community and delivering on our government’s commitments to build Australia's future. Please note - this is paid content
Cr McDonald also pointed out that he was “aware that concerns have recently been published around the integrity and governance structures of the HDA”. “The NSW Leader of the Opposition has recently called for an independent review of all HDA recommendations as it has been revealed that an unauthorised AI tool was used to collate information before the HDA.
“The integrity of any planning process must be maintained.”
On Tuesday morning , Level 33 closed the car park at the development site due to safety concerns but reopened access a few hours later and will allow parking for another month (full details - Page 8)
Your kid-friendly guide to fun in the summer holidays
Amy Molloy
The school holidays are here and the South Coast is bursting with festive fun. Whether your kids love crafts, fairies, hikes or water slides, this season’s line-up of activities promises magic, adventure and plenty of memories.
Christmas Crafternoon
Next Friday (19 December), bring the kids to Kiama Library for an afternoon of Christmas craft. A free event for children aged 5-12 and their caregivers, participants can create Christmas cards, festive decorations and tree ornaments to take home.
Bookings recommended. Summer activities at local libraries also include a Lego marble run and a Star Wars Escape Room.
Bush Magic
Bush Magic’s school holiday programs offer kids a chance to connect with nature, build friendships and enjoy the freedom of unstructured
outdoor play. Set in beautiful bushland at Don’s Farm in Avondale, sessions run from 16 December for children aged 5-13, with activities including shelter building, archery, fire making and bush craft. For children with NDIS funding, they also offer a therapeutic program.
Fairy spotting
A favourite with local families, the Enchanted Forest returns at Illawarra Fly.
Part of the treetop walk, kids will love spotting the mermaids, dragons and fairies dotted along the trail, with stops at Gnome Meadow and Pixie Hollow.
Every little visitor also receives a free activity book to fill in on the walk or take home.
Holiday hikes
After a period of closure, the two bridges of the Lyrebird Loop Walk at Minnamurra Rainforest are now open, just in time for a festive family hike.
The new bridges are wheelchair and pram-
accessible and have been built at a higher elevation above the river to ensure flood resilience.
Tell your constructionloving kid they were built off-site and delivered by helicopter.
Dive-In Movies
Dive-In Movies at Jamberoo Action Park will return on Saturday nights throughout the summer school holidays.
Shown on the big screen at Outback Bay, the first movie will be Despicable Me 4 on 20 December, starting at 5pm. There’s no additional cost beyond your entry ticket.
Kiama Unplugged
No screens. More connection.
Kiama Unplugged is moving its popular Sunday afternoon events from Finding Fillmore’s to Kiama Surf Life Saving Club for the summer season - think Sunday Sippers but without the scrolling.
Bring the whole family for an afternoon of games, live music, drinks and community connection.
The Santa of Kiama:
Over 65 years and still counting…
Continued from Page 1
ing around, Noel’s sisters decided someone needed to be Santa.
That someone, it was determined – would be him –a tradition that would carry out for the rest of his life.
From that first family Christmas, his Santa duties quickly spread into the community. Each year he’d appear around town – at the primary school, Rotary events, even at hospital Christmas parties.
One of his favourite memories is arriving by boat from the harbour to the school.
“I carried a bunch of towels with me – I wanted to make sure it was stable so I didn’t fall off!” he chuckled.
Over the years he became known for his grand entrances. He has arrived in a horse and carriage, a helicopter, boats, and even on a motorbike.
“I arrived on an old motorbike with the beard blowing in the wind - you’ve got no idea, a lot of fun.”
He shakes his head. “They were good days.”
Dr John Salmon • Kiama Dental Practice
Dr John Salmon is pleased to announce that he is practicing full time in Kiama.
For the past 25 years, Noel has been Santa for Kiama Meals on Wheels, and this December he received a Community Service Award recognising his decades of joyful dedication.
“He loves the Meals on Wheels and they love him,” his daughter Wendy Toomey said.
Wendy laughs when she remembers growing up with a Santa father.
“I guess I didn’t know for a long time. My brother and I didn’t really realise it was Daddy. Then he used to come up to school and I still didn’t know Santa was Dad.”
Still now living in Kiama with her husband and father, she still calls Christmas “a special time of year”.
Noel’s life in Kiama has never been just about Christmas, though. For many years
he has volunteered at the Presbyterian Church, where his son served as pastor for more than 20 years.
Noel still tends the gardens there.
“The reason I do the gardening is because out the front, people are always saying good morning and good afternoon. I meet a lot of people - it’s amazing!”
He is still a familiar face around town – and often recognised. “Some people up at Woolies, as I’m walking past, I don’t know their name, I just say hi or hello, and you know what they do? ‘Hi Santa’,” he laughed.
He still drives, keeps himself busy, plays bowls.
“I can hold my own at the old bowling greens,” he said proudly, and he enjoys chatting with visitors.
Wendy added: “People come into Kiama for the weekend and he finds out all about them. It is a lovely community.”
One of Wendy’s favourite memories is of a little boy who came to their front door. He had recognised Noel as Santa and wanted to be sure. “He asked Dad if he was the real Santa,” Wendy said.
Noel told him gently, “Santa has lots of helpers – I’m one of Santa’s helpers.”
Noel has seven grandchil-
dren and three great-grandchildren, and it’s clear within minutes of meeting him that he’s lived a life filled with gratitude and purpose. “Life’s what you make of it –pull a muscle,” he jokes.
Faith has always been at the heart of Noel’s Christmas spirit. He often shares a poem he loves, Santa’s Christmas Prayer, which tells of Santa kneeling before the nativity, recognising Jesus as the true meaning of the season.
“May they give You all the glory, for You’re the One True Christmas story,” the poem closes – the words still move Noel after all these years.
And perhaps that’s Noel’s greatest legacy – not just the red suit or the memorable entrances, but the quiet reminder he offers to everyone he meets: that joy is meant to be shared, that community is built on kindness, and that Christmas, at its very core, is about God’s love.
In Kiama, you don’t need December to spot Santa.
He’s already here, gardening out the front of the church, rolling a bowl at the greens, or chatting to strangers who don’t stay strangers for long.
And whether he’s in the suit or not, the spirit of Christmas seems to follow him everywhere.
Mayor steps in after Jazz & Blues Festival placed on pause
Paul Suttor
After exploring every possible option to keep the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival afloat, organisers have announced it will not proceed in March.
They are hopeful of reviving the Festival in 2027 but Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has announced Council was hoping to make late moves to keep the event on next year’s calendar.
For nearly four decades, the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival has brought the town alive by connecting local businesses, welcoming visitors, showcasing original Australian music and offering moments of joy, surprise and cultural pride.
Festival director Becky Guggisberg announced on Thursday that organisers had exhausted “every available avenue” before making the call.
“This is not a decision we made lightly,” she said.
“Despite our best efforts, we’ve reached the end of the window in which we must commit to artists, venues and partners.
“A combination of factors has made it impossible to deliver the Festival to the standard and integrity our community deserves:
- capacity restrictions at a key central venue, - ongoing delays in local development approvals, - significantly reduced financial support, - the financial risk of a ticketed model, - the long lead time before the Special Entertainment Precinct comes into effect.
Guggisberg said in recent years, their partnership with Fillmore’s had been central to the Festival’s viability, acting as a vital hub, supporting multiple stages, providing a
consistent artistic home and underpinning the Festival’s financial sustainability.
She added the ongoing uncertainty over Fillmore’s development approvals had placed significant pressure on the Festival’s planning.
“Due to the delayed DA decision and a resulting 50-person capacity limit at a key venue, we cannot sell the number of tickets needed to sustain the Festival,” she said.
“It directly removed our ability to ticket at scale.
“Our move to ticketing was
valuing music infrastructure and the economic and social return it brings to regional towns.
“The DA for Fillmore’s, a key venue that supports the Festival has been in progress for eight months, the Special Entertainment Precinct is described as a ‘trial in 2027’. We have raised the alarms with our Mayor and Councillors since July and a last resort attempt to apply for a Temporary DA gave no certainty.”
Cr McDonald issued a statement later on Thursday morning to say “like many in our community, we are disappointed by the decision”.
designed to fairly pay artists and keep the Festival viable long-term. With one of our core venues restricted to only 50 people and no clarity on capacity or DA approval, we cannot responsibly contract musicians or commit to programming.”
Guggisberg’s message for Kiama Council is “live music needs certainty to survive”.
“Timely approval processes and support for creative venues are essential to cultural events. We hope this moment sparks a conversation about
“We want to be clear that the Festival has always been able to operate under existing approvals, as it has done successfully for many years,” he said.
“Council recently approved a $7000 grant for the 2026 event and remains fully committed to supporting a vibrant livemusic culture in Kiama. Because this Festival means so much to our community, Council considers it too important to simply disappear from the calendar for 2026.
“Despite the organisers’ decision, Council is already exploring whether a viable alternative event or modified program can be delivered in
partnership with local venues, businesses and artists.
“We are in the early stages of these discussions and will update the community as soon as more information becomes available.”
Guggisberg said the option of a reduced version of the Festival risked underpaying artists and compromising quality.
She was adamant this is a pause for the Festival, not an end.
“We are pausing to protect the integrity of the Festival,” she said.
“Our intention is to return in 2027 for the 40th celebration - with strength, sustainability and community support behind us.
“We acknowledge the impact on artists who rely on performance income, on businesses who reshape their spaces for the Festival, and on audiences who look forward to the music each March.
“Pressing pause is an act of respect for themnot a withdrawal from commitment. While this pause is heartbreaking, it is temporary.”
Kiama Tourism and Economic Advisory Committee chair Matt Brown said it was “a real shame” to hear about the Festival announcement.
A 20-year vision for Illawarra-Shoalhaven transport
Paul Suttor
The success of the Gong Shuttle free bus service in Wollongong could one day lead to similar services being set up in Shellharbour, Kiama and the Shoalhaven.
Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison launched the draft Illawarra Shoalhaven Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan in Wollongong on Tuesday, billed as a 20-year vision to guide the region’s transport future. The NSW Government is calling on the local communities to have their say on how transport in the region evolves.
With the population of the area, which runs from Helensburgh to Ulladulla, expected to rise by around 150,000 over the next two decades, it is essential that road, rail and bus transport in particular are planned correctly and delivered promptly.
The draft plan sets out priorities based on evidence, data and consultation with more than 40 stakeholders, including councils and community groups. Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said the Gong Shuttle, which he described as “Wollongong’s subway”, had been a raging success since it was launched in 2012. And he wanted it to be a blueprint for how local transport networks are formulated over the next two decades.
“We know that the success
of the Gong Shuttle, one of the most successful bus nodes and corridors in the country, is not by mistake because it came about because of engagement with the community and identifying the key spots along a route that would make a difference,” he said.
“I want people to be able to see what’s in here (the draft plan) - if what they believe is important is not here please say it. Now is an opportunity for the community to have their say transport matters in this region.”
Aitchison said “if the demand is going to be there for particular areas, we will do it” when asked about the Gong Shuttle service.
Aitchison added that high-frequency bus services are needed in the region to complement the rail network.
“We know that’s a growing thing that growing communities need to get cars off the road. But also with our road users we want to
ensure that they’re getting safe trips and that those trips are resilient.”
Shellharbour MP Anna Watson said the Government was not looking at “a band-aid for a bullet wound”.
“We are looking at futureproofing the way we move around this city and the broader Shoalhaven. It’s not going to happen in five minutes … it is going to be important for jobs, for businesses and the community.”
When asked about the possibility of electrification of the rail line south of Kiama, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said there were “a range of priorities for the South Coast Rail Line which is why we’re undertaking that task of the Illawarra Rail Resilience Plan.
“We have to feature in whatever plans there might be and whatever timeline that might be within the budget constraints that we might have at any given point.”
Photo: Ella Gunning
Social media ban brings challenges for teens
Danielle Woolage
For many parents this week’s social media ban brings a sense of relief; no more dinner table or bedtime battles over screens.
But for many young people it comes with a sense of loss and isolation from their social networks. From Wednesday, anyone under 16 was locked out of accessing platforms like YouTube, TikTok, SnapChat, Instagram and Facebook and social media companies who don't enforce the ban could face hefty fines of up to $50m.
But parents also have an important role to play in ensuring kids don’t find workarounds to the safeguards.
Kiama Unplugged founder Jane Bourne says many parents and young people have been preparing for the ban for months by joining the charity’s screen-free activities.
The Unplugged initiative - organised by Jane, a civil celebrant, and her husband Ian, a pilot, all at their own expense - has been helping the community to disconnect from their phones and reconnect with each other through a range of social activities since September last year. Now, with the world’s gaze firmly on Australia to gauge the impact of the bans, Kiama Unplugged has stepped into the breach to help parents and young people successfully navigate the new rules.
“In the coming weeks, with the new law around delaying social media until children are 16, we know there are going to be a lot of stories to be told and shared,” says Jane.
“As the founder of Kiama Unplugged, and also Australia Unplugged, I really want to support young people and their families, and to help people see the benefits that this age delay will have.
“On Wednesday we had a stall at Kiama Farmers Market and so many families engaged and connected with us about the ban. It's so important for parents to have conversations with their teenagers about the age delay, be curious, and find out what social media meant to them and what they'll miss. We need to be validating their emotions.”
Kiama MP Katelin McInerney popped by the market stall on Wednesday, saying the ban was “a good step in the right direction”.
“Our young people will need more support over the coming holiday period and in the next school year adjusting to their new social media free norm. All of us can do our bit to check in. It’s great to see Unplugged offering great screen-free alternatives for real world connection in our beautiful backyard.”
Jane believes listening to “the voice of young people” is essential to successfully navigating social media changes.
“Our information gathering session was a key driver in understanding the views of local high school aged kids so we can work alongside young people to ensure they remain socially connected when they are offline,” says Jane.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the ban “will change lives for Australian kids, allowing them to just have their childhood”.
"It is one of the biggest social and cultural changes that our nation has faced," he said.
"It's a profound reform, which will continue to reverberate around the world in coming months, to assist not just this generation, but generations to come. It is about our families taking back control."
Jane says the fact that the ban is encouraging different forms of engagement and interaction means it is already working and young people are genuinely craving real social connections.
“We ran activities like decorating skateboards - kindly donated by local business Creative Kooks - and talked to young people about the positives and negatives of this ban,” says Jane.
“We had games and a lucky dip to win giveaways donated by local businesses.
“There were lots of conversations about how people can get more involved in Kiama Unplugged, sign our pledge to delay smartphones and volunteer to join our youth advisory board.”
While Jane understands banning social media won’t solve all of the issues faced by teens in today’s fast-paced world, she hopes it will better protect youth mental health and in some instances, save lives, in part by reducing the online bullying many teens can face on social media.
“Online bullying follows kids from the moment they wake up, to school, to their bedroom until they finally sleep,” says Jane.
“There is often no escape and the relentless bullying through group chats, screenshots and shares can have devastating consequences.”
Kiama Unplugged has long been an advocate to “let kids be kids through play, connection, sport and support”.
“We need to replace that sense of community many kids feel through their social media channels,” says Jane.
Many experts have called for a return of the Active Kids and Creative Kids vouchers without means tests.
This would allow a wider cohort of teens to find their tribe outside of screens, without adding more financial pressure on families.
Jane also recommends making a plan for the summer holidays “They will have all this time that they used to spend on social media, find and encourage other ways for them to discover that sense of belonging, identity and creativity, but in real life,” says Jane.
“New outlets for creativity could be video, photo or music editing, creative coding, writing or journaling, learning a language or music.
“The way our 12- to 15-yearolds were accessing dopamine has significantly changed, and we need to help them find healthier and more positive ways to replace that.”
Treasurer missed the memo on Christmas
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. A great song by American crooner Andy Willams, to celebrate the Christmas season and the joy and festivities that follow.
Somewhere along the way, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers and the Reserve Bank of Australia must have missed the memo.
Driven by the midyear budget update to be handed down next week, Chalmers announced an end to the controversial energy bill rebates that were first rolled out in mid-2023 to families and small business.
Controversial, not to the families in our region and across the country who were and are still in need of cost-of-living relief, but controversial in the sense that the rebates likely contributed to the headline yearly inflation rate of 3.8%.
Only a couple of months ago, many economists and pundits were positing just how many interest rate cuts there would be towards the end of 2025 and into 2026.
The Reserve Bank decided to hold interest rates at 3.6% in their December meeting this week, and in its statement said it was carefully watching how the economy was responding to three interest rate cuts over the last year.
If heightened spending continues over Christmas and well into January, what once seemed unfathomable might be a reality – that come the first week of February in 2026, we might have an interest rate rise.
When it comes to inflation, budgets and cost of living, it is never completely straightforward.
There are push and
pull impacts, positives and negatives, pluses and minuses – it all depends on your perspective. Previous interest rate cuts have provided some mortgage repayment relief for homeowners, and this has allowed greater flexibly within household budgets – a positive. These rate cuts have also increased the ability (or at least the perceived ability) for prospective purchasers to buy a home. This demand, still with the relatively scarce amount of houses for sale, has led to house prices in NSW increasing by 6.4% over the last year – a negative. House prices going up? If you’re an existing homeowner looking to downsize, or utilise that equity to buy another property? A plus. House prices going up? If you’re a first homeowner, living with your family, trying to move into your own house in the same region or suburb you grew up in? A minus.
Analysis from AMP chief economist Shane Oliver now says that cost-of-living pressures are tipped to continue into the 2030s when inflation and purchasing power finally gets back to pre-Covid levels. This is because inflation continues to grow at a rate that is faster than wages, highlighted by 2020 when inflation was 4% greater than wages growth. In the hustle and bustle of organising presents, meals and festivities, we rarely think about where the economy might sit in three or six months’ time. Whilst this news and analysis might not have been on the Christmas wish list, The Bugle’s View is that we should still rejoice in spending time with family and loved ones, reflecting on how we all survived and (hopefully) grew in 2025!
Organ donors needed as Warren awaits life-saving phone call
Each time the phone rings Pam Grosse leaps off her seat, ready to spring into action and rush husband Warren to hospital.
“Then I sit back down again,” says the Kiama woman whose husband has been waiting for a transplant for the past 18 months after being diagnosed with chronic liver disease five years ago.
Warren, 68, is one of more than 14,000 Australians on the national organ transplant list. “It’s a list no one wants to be on,” says Warren and all the couple want for Christmas is a
phone call to say a successful donor match has been found.
“We’ve come close,” says Pam. “Twice we thought there had been a successful match but it didn’t work out. Every day we live in hope.”
Warren has managed his liver disease through diet, medication and monitoring at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for three years but his health began to deteriorate two years ago. “We got to the stage where his liver was almost starting to respond but then cancer kicked in as a result of the chronic disease,” explains Pam. He has had five procedures
to “microwave and burn the cancer out of the liver”.
“Every time they do that, they leave a big hole in Warren’s liver and that can’t regenerate,” says Pam. “The only way he’s going to survive this is a transplant.”
While 80 per cent of Australians support organ donation, only 36 per cent have signed up to join the national donor register, which was set up in 2002.
Before that people could register to become an organ donor when they applied for or renewed their licence. This process was phased out everywhere except South
Australia which now has the highest number of registered organ donors in the nation - 74 per cent and double the national average.
Pam says many people remain in the dark around organ donation registration and Pam and Warren would love to see the driver’s licence organ donation scheme reinstated in NSW. They want the NSW Government to follow Victoria’s lead after the state’s health minister MaryAnne Thomas announced this month that it would renew the scheme for all driver’s licence applications by 2026.
The move, which has been
welcomed by Transplant Australia CEO Chris Thomas, comes more than a year after a Victorian Parliamentary inquiry into organ donation recommended the licence donor registration scheme be reinstated.Thomas has called for all states and territories to directly link organ donation registration on a driver’s licence.
“The reality is Australia had this system for many years,” he said. “We gave it away everywhere but South Australia and it was a mistake. We are a generous nation. People support donation. We just need to give them the solutions to confirm their support … to ensure that at least 50 per cent of our population is registered.”
Transplant Australia believes bringing back the driver’s licence scheme will also encourage young people to become registered organ donors when they apply for or renew a licence.
Pam and Warren, both former school principals, know the importance of education programs and want more to be done to advocate for increased organ donation.
“People need to be more widely informed about how to join the donor registry, now that it’s no longer linked to their driver’s licence,” says Warren. “It only takes one person to make a difference.
“When my three brothers and I got our driver’s licence years ago, we all decided as
young blokes to become organ donors and it was easy.
“But a lot of people I talk to don’t realise they’ve stopped that.”
The NSW Organ and Tissue Donation Service says fewer than one in 10 young people are registered organ donors.
The service partnered with La Trobe University to find out how young people wanted to learn about organ donation.
The study found young people want to make educated decisions but need reliable information. This service now runs school-based education programs about organ donation in partnership with NSW Health and the NSW Education Department.
In the meantime, while they wait in hope, Pam has channeled her anxious energy into painting.
She turns her watercolours into greeting cards and donates them to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, where Warren receives lifesaving treatment. All funds raised from the sale of the cards support families at the hospital.
Pam and Warren have also urged people to lobby their local MPs to push for improved education around organ donation, including the reinstatement of the driver’s licence scheme.
People can sign up for the national Australian Organ Donor Register through their myGov account or the DonateLife website.
Danielle Woolage
Warren and Pam Grosse
A rogue wave can take everything:
Rock fisher backs Kiama’s AI trial
Mitchell Beadman
The iconic Kiama Blowhole is one of two sites that Surf Life Saving NSW has begun trialling new Artificial Intelligence camera technology to help prevent rock fishing tragedies over the next 14-month period.
Funded by NSW and federal governments, the SAIL (Surveillance AI for Lifesaving) project aims to improve coastal safety by identifying lifesavers or rescuers when a rock fisher has been washed or enters the water unexpectedly.
Rock fisher Chengchao Zhao who is a design engineer and a resident of western Sydney, has
experienced the dangers of rock fishing with a close call at the popular casting spot of the Kiama Blowhole.
“I felt the conditions were OK and the sea was not very strong but after 10 minutes, all my fishing gear was gone,” Chengchao said.
“It was like getting a shower - that kind of wave is very scary.”
Along with the AI camera technology, the NSW Government is investing $23 million over four years, delivering jet skis and emergency response beacons up and down the coast.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said this trial and funding will not only support the work of NSW lifesavers for quick responses but provide greater data for
research improvements.
“Both Kiama and Little Bay have sadly seen too many heartbreaking incidents,” Dib said.
“By working with Surf Life Saving NSW, we’re taking practical steps aimed at making the NSW coastline safer – and already, we are seeing lives saved.”
Kiama MP Katelin McInerney is pleased to see this technology being trialled at the Kiama Blowhole.
“Our community has been impacted too many times over the years when people have been swept off rock platforms, and it’s encouraging to see innovative safety solutions being trialled to help save lives,” she said.
“I encourage everyone to stay alert to conditions and
always wear a life jacket while enjoying our coastline.”
There is a national average of 13 people who die per year because of rock fishing, with a total of 126 fatalities in NSW since 2004.
Chengchao welcomes the new technology and encourages all levels of government and departments to continue education programs for those engaging in rock fishing.
“Some people I know who rock fish don’t have enough awareness or education around the dangers, which is very frustrating – hopefully the government can help,” he said. Chengchao explained that because of the unpredictability of rock fishing, he is ritualistic in his approach.
“I always wear a life jacket when fishing, always go with my friend to keep an eye out for each other, and I also do comprehensive research before I go and fish,” he said.
“Checking the forecast which includes checking the tide and swell height and direction, wind (speed and direction), what is the appropriate gear for that rock fishing area – these are just some of the many variables I must consider.”
The NSW government recommends it is safest to wear a lifejacket whenever rock fishing or exposed to ocean swell, but it is only enforced in declared areas, which interestingly does not include the Kiama Blowhole.
Flagged earlier this year as a potential site for the
trial, Surf Life Saving NSW South Coast branch president Shane Wicks told The Bugle that there had been at least four rescues off the Kiama Blowhole fishing area in the first six months of 2025. Kiama Council provided permission for the trial to be undertaken on Council land with Mayor Cameron McDonald explaining that the monitoring systems are in two locations around Blowhole Point. Council is undertaking community consultation for opting into the NSW Rock Fishing Act 2016 which would include coastal regions from Minnamurra Headland right down to Black Head Beach in Gerroa. The other SAIL project site is in Randwick.
Level 33 grants stay of execution to car park
Paul Suttor
The saga over the Level 33 development at Akuna Street took a couple of twists on Tuesday morning with the car park at the site closed for a few hours before getting a stay of execution.
Makeshift barricades were placed on the site for the proposed multi-storey development by Level 33 over safety concerns due to the many potholes. There are around 75 car parking spaces which are usually taken up by local residents and workers when available.
Notes were left by Level 33 under the windscreen wipers
of cars to inform them that their vehicles need to be removed as the area was about to be fenced off permanently.
But in a sudden backflip, Level 33 later in the morning issued a statement to say that "following constructive discussions with Council’s CEO, Jane Stroud, Level 33 has successfully secured a temporary extension of insurance coverage until 18 January 2026.
"As a result, the car park will remain open to the public until this date."
The developer added that "for over 2½ years, Level 33 has voluntarily kept the Akuna Street car park open to the
public entirely out of goodwill.
"Although the land is privately owned and there is no obligation for it to be made available for public use, we have maintained access for the benefit of local residents, businesses, and visitors.
"In recent months, Council issued notifications and compliance requirements relating to the condition of the site.
"These matters, combined with ongoing vandalism, unauthorised entry into the derelict building on 55 Shoalhaven Street, and increasing public safety risks, triggered a review by our insurer.
"We were formally advised that continued public access could no longer be insured under our policy.
"After 18 January 2026, insurance coverage will cease unless the site is fully secured.
"Therefore, Level 33 will be required to fence off the premises and will commence the process of lodging a Complying Development Certificate for site closure and demolition works to address safety concerns.
"We acknowledge that the community has valued the convenience of this carpark, and we understand the desire for it to remain open.
"However, the forthcoming
closure is driven by mandatory compliance obligations and insurance requirements that are beyond our control.
"Our responsibility to ensure public safety must come first.
"We are proud to have provided free public access to this land for several years, and we remain committed to working cooperatively with Council as we transition toward securing the site and undertaking the required works."
In the note that had been left on cars, the motorists were informed that “given the deterioration of the surface and considering our future development plans, we intend
to fence off the premises in the coming days to ensure safety, manage liability and protect the site".
The original decision would have meant parking would have been even harder for motorists in the Kiama town centre during the busy fortnight in the lead-up to Christmas. Squatters have been using the old Kiama Independent building while vandals have left a trail of damage with broken glass and abandoned cars making the area an eyesore for the town centre.
Level 33 has cleaned up some of the debris in the area recently.
Photos: The Bugle
People need people: The craft group stitching Kiama together
Myah Garza
Every Monday morning, as snlight spills through Uniting Church’s windows, tables begin to fill with colour – fabric squares, embroidery threads, paint palettes, half-finished cards, and quilts in progress. This is Kiama Creative Crafts – a group that has shaped community life for more than two decades, built on the simple idea that people need people.
The group meets from 9am to 11.30am during school terms, hosting crafters working across an enormous variety of skills: crocheting, embroidery, tapestry, quilting, card making, candlewicking, applique, and more. In the Lecture Hall, artists paint in every medium from watercolour to oils.
Despite being hosted in the Church, most who come are not church members. “There’s less than a dozen actually connected to the church –most people are not,” said coordinator Deirdre Teague.
“There’s people that come from Nowra, one from Sydney, some from Campbelltown, and a few from Shellharbour.”
For many, attending is more than an artistic hobby.
“For some people, this is the only social connection they have all week,” Teague said.
“From this they can get help for other people, and our minister here is very supportive – if there’s somebody who needs something she’ll make sure to follow up.”
Members can contribute $5 for tea or coffee, an amount that accumulates into local support. “That $5 ends up going to different charities, so we give quite a sum, $500, to Kiama for their breakfast for high school, to homelessness, and the CRMI.”
The group also supports the Carols and provides Christmas hampers to three local schools: Kiama High, Kiama Primary, and Minnamurra.
As Teague put it, “It’s a wellbeing situation. Push the small groups, support each other.”
People come for the craft, but stay for the companionship.
Bill Jauncey, a former Kiama High geography teacher, has been coming every Monday for around a decade, and what began casually quickly became part of his weekly routine. “It’s not a formal sort of class,” Jauncey said. “I had always wanted to dabble a bit more in painting but this just sets up the ideal situation to do what you want.
“This group’s been growing … this whole thing is really important for people getting out – it’s the social thing and chatting for a lot of people here.”
Ken Mitchell, who joined a little over 12 months ago, described the easy rhythm of the mornings.
“It’s great. It’s nice to chat to everybody. Everybody’s talking away in the morning when we first start off, then by say 10 o’clock everyone goes quiet working away for an hour, then just before 11 o’clock they all start getting up and talking again.”
Grand Pacific Health named operator of Nowra’s new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic
Myah Garza
The long-awaited Medicare Urgent Care Clinic for Nowra is set to open next month, following an announcement at the centre’s future site last Thursday.
Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles, Health Minister Mark Butler and Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips joined Grand Pacific Health representatives at Scenic Drive to confirm the provider and outline what the community can expect when it opens.
The clinic will operate 8am to 10pm, seven days a week, offering fully bulk-billed care for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses.
As the 24th Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in NSW, it will join a national network of more than 90 clinics that have already seen over 2.2 million presentations since the program began in the last term of the Albanese government
Marles said the Nowra clinic will make an immediate difference for local families. “Right now, the closest urgent care clinic is about an hour away – so this really fills a need,” he said. “At Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital, 55 per cent of ED presentations
are semi-urgent or non-urgent. This service will relieve that burden and help people receive treatment far more quickly.”
Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said the announcement delivers on a major election commitment – one she has consistently heard strong community support for.
“This was an election commitment that I made, and it was so popular,” she said. “People have been asking me for months, Where’s it going to be? When is it going to open? Now we know – and it’s ahead of schedule, which is fantastic.”
Phillips said the clinic will help families who currently face long waits for care.
“I met a mum in the hospital car park who told me there was a five-hour wait in ED. Her child needed urgent attention, but it wasn’t an
emergency – so it could have been treated in the medicare urgent care clinic.”
The new centre will also help strengthen the local health workforce. Phillips noted the role of paramedics working in urgent care clinics across the state to support nurses, as well as federal investment in growing the regional medical workforce.
“At the University of Wollongong Shoalhaven campus, we’ve brought in rural end-to-end training because we know the more doctors we train locally, the more likely they are to stay,” she said. “We’ve just announced additional places for the University of Wollongong to train doctors as well.”
Like many others in Nowra, Phillips said she is eager to see the community begin using the service. “I can’t wait until it’s open for people to utilise,” she said.
This year as Christmas approaches, most of us imagine families coming together for the holidays.
Homes lighting up and small moments of joy filling the summer days ahead.
At Shoalhaven Animal Shelter, the season brings something else as well - hope.
The hope that the animals waiting in their care will find a safe and loving home before the year ends. Hope that the community will open its arms to pets who deserve a second chance. Hope that this Christmas, more animals will wake up surrounded by people who simply adore them.
The shelter works year round to reunite lost pets with their owners, but the holidays carry a special urgency.
Families travel, routines change and more animals find themselves separated from home. The staff move quickly to match pets with their owners, knowing how important it is to bring them back before the celebrations begin.For the animals who do not have a family waiting, Christmas becomes an opportunity for a fresh start.
Shoalhaven Animal Shelter cares for dogs, cats and other animals who come through the doors needing stability and a bit of luck. Some have been abandoned,
A Christmas home holiday wish: Shoalhaven Animal Shelter
others have simply never had the chance to know what a real home feels like.
The team looks after them with patience and kindness until the right people arrive.
The weeks leading into Christmas represent one of the best times to consider adoption. Many families have more time at home, more space to settle in with a new companion and a bigger sense of giving.
For anyone thinking about adopting, the shelter encourages people to meet the animals and spend time with them. Every pet has their own personality and story. Some are playful, jumpy and goofy. Some are quiet and
gentle and cuddly. All of them are waiting for someone to choose them.
The staff make it clear adopting is not a gift to unwrap and forget. It is a commitment and a relationship that grows over time.
A pet is a family member, not a present.
Shoalhaven Animal Shelter guides adopters through every step so they understand the responsibility. When the right match is made, the change in the animal is unmistakable. They realise they finally belong somewhere.
Microchipping is another service the shelter offers, and it becomes especially important during the Christmas rush.
Indi’s dream for a Community Care Cupboard
In April 2024, Kiama 10-year-old Indi Whittaker had an idea for a street pantry. It was a fully formed idea, with drawing and signage and purpose, and she sent a letter to Kiama Council and all the Councillors asking if she could build it on Council land. Eighteen months later, with much involvement from the broader community, the Community Care Cupboard has been installed at the Kiama Uniting Church on Manning Street and will be operational by Christmas.
Indi had seen a similar idea in the street in Coniston and immediately thought that it would be great for Kiama, having noticed people sleeping rough in various parts of our town. Council didn’t respond officially, but (then) councillors Karen RenkemaLang and Kathy Rice were impressed by Indi’s letter and approached Reverend Kath Merrifield from Kiama Uniting Church.
Local architect Madeleine Scarfe was involved in the early stages to turn Indi’s vision into a formal drawing and the Men’s Shed were engaged to build it, so it has truly been a community project.
The slogan Indi
created is “Take what you need, Give what you can”.
Her vision is that the community provides the supplies for the Community Care Cupboard for those in need to take.
The Care Cupboard will include toys and books for kids, non-perishable food, toiletries and blankets and towels in winter. It is vital the Community Care Cupboard be well stocked and maintained if it is to be a success - the plan is that this will be managed by a community-based roster, but the details are still being ironed out. For more information, email Annie at annie_lou@y7mail.com or if you would like to “give what you can”, put your donations in the cupboard.
Brittany Mitchell
Crossing the Line: SEVENMARKS explores the boundaries that shape us
Lleyton Hughes
Anew group exhibition will open at Kiama’s SEVENMARKS gallery on 13 December, exploring the boundaries that shape belief, identity and expression.
Featuring nine artists - including three of SEVENMARKS’ four directors, Cesar Cueva, Chick Butcher and Cobi Cockburn - the exhibition is titled Crossing the Line.
“The concept emerged quite seamlessly, because the idea of the ‘line’, both as a visual element and a philosophical proposition, is something I return to constantly in my own practice,” said SEVENMARKS artist and director Cobi Cockburn.
“I’ve always felt that a line holds potential: it can be a boundary or an invitation, a point of tension or a moment of transformation. Whether in the precision of geometric abstraction, the resonance of the cross, the shifting landscape, or the subtle edge of a subject about to change, the line becomes a site where meaning accumulates.”
Cobi’s own piece in the exhibition comes from a personal earlier body of work, The Sound of Black and White, which explores that moment of realisation when a boundary has been crossed.
“This work examines
the internal, unmistakable sensation of ‘crossing the line’ - that silent, potent moment of recognition when we know, privately and undeniably, that we’ve stepped beyond a boundary,” she said.
“Rather than addressing this literally, I abstracted the idea through rhythm and compression.
“By narrowing and tightening the line, I aimed to echo the acceleration of feeling, the rise in intensity and the sharpening of awareness that accompany that shift.”
The universality of this idea, Cobi explains, made it ideal for a group exhibition.
“We all give ourselves boundaries that shape our identity, and there are so many ways to explore this.
“When shaping a group exhibition, it’s important to begin with a framework that doesn’t confine the artists but instead opens a shared
territory of inquiry,” she said.
“In this case, the notion of boundaries - how they’re formed, challenged, dissolved or reimagined - felt deeply worth exploring.”
From there, Cobi and her fellow SEVENMARKS directors present the theme to their community of artists before curating the works that best align with it.
“Curating requires the sensitivity to recognise when a theme and an artist truly align, and when they don’t.
“It’s also about identifying themes that resonate with the strengths and ongoing inquiries within our artist community,” she said.
“For this exhibition, the ideas of boundaries and thresholds created both strong connections and compelling contrasts across the group. Some artists approached the theme visually, others conceptually; some dissolved the line entirely, while
others held it firmly in place. Together, these differences generated a rich dialogue.”
Cobi hopes the exhibition encourages collaboration and conversation - not just between artists, but between viewers themselves.
“This mix naturally invites questions. The conversations that emerge depend entirely on how much time a viewer spends with the work, what they notice, what they interpret, and what they bring of themselves to the encounter,” she said.
“My aim wasn’t to guide visitors toward a single reading, but to create a space where curiosity, ambiguity and personal discovery can unfold.”
As for her own contribution, Cobi hopes viewers will reflect on how they sense or set their own boundaries.
“I hope it’s an intimate call toward recognising the moment of crossing the line,” she said.
Crossing the Line runs from 13 December to 31 January, with an opening night event from 5–7pm on 13 December. Attendance is free, with registration available on Eventbrite.
The participating artists are: Cesar Cueva, Chick Butcher, Cobi Cockburn, Emma-Kate Hart, Gabrielle Adamik, Isobel Rayson, Jaz Corr, Kirli Saunders and Philip Spelman.
All aboard: Historic V-Set to make final stop in Kiama
Myah Garza
Kiama will welcome a rare sight on Sunday when a classic V-set double-deck train rolls into the station – a final glimpse of a fleet that is a short way from retirement.
The sold-out heritage trip, organised by the Sydney Bus Museum with support from the Sydney Tramway Museum, is due to arrive at 12.22pm and depart at 2.14pm. For many rail enthusiasts, it may be their last chance to ride one of the iconic sets.
Sydney Bus Museum general manager Bob Gioia said the decision to bring the train to Kiama was driven by timing. “They’re about to be retired … so we organised a tour down to Kiama for possibly the last run,” he said The response has been huge from far and wide. “We’ve got 300 people coming down on Sunday,” Gioia said. “They’re coming from all over… even from interstate – Brisbane and Melbourne.”
Introduced in the early 1970s, the V-sets are remembered fondly for their roomy 2x2 leather seating and long service on the Blue Mountains and Newcastle lines. Although they haven’t operated to Kiama since
2012, many locals will have travelled on them over the years. “They’re still operating, but they’re about to be withdrawn in January,” Gioia explained.
“They’re scrapping about eight of them every week at a recycling facility in Sydney.”
The red Mariyung fleet, named from the Darug word for emu, is replacing them steadily, with “a new set coming into service every week,” Gioia said.
However, Kiama passengers won’t see the new trains locally until 2026.
While Sunday’s special service is fully booked, passengers onboard will also be treated to guided sightseeing around Kiama, with Warrigal Charters running tours to Blowhole Point and other local attractions.
Beyond the V-set farewell, local travellers may also be wondering about the future of services south of Kiama.
The ageing Endeavour sets on the Bomaderry line will be replaced in coming years by the new Spanish-built “R-sets”, featuring bi-mode technology that allows both diesel and electric operation – an Australian first. Early test trains can be seen at a new maintenance facility in Dubbo.
The four SEVENMARKS directors standing in front of their gallery - three of which will feature pieces in their new group exhibition. Photo SEVENMARKS
Fertilising made easy for every garden
Probably one of the most confusing aspects of gardening comes down to fertilising.
What fertiliser do you choose? What formulation do you use? What fertilisers are there for the types of plants you’re growing?
There are so many questions, but honestly, it’s not that difficult if you just take your time to look across the product range and understand what your plant’s needs are.
Controlled-release fertilisers
One of my favourites for container plants are controlledrelease fertilisers.
These are prilled fertilisers, which makes them really easy to spread across your pots - or even in the garden. They release nutrients slowly through moisture and temperature. If you’re someone who doesn’t always remember to fertilise, these are ideal. They’ll feed your plants over three, six, nine or even 12 months, depending on the product you choose.
Crystalline fertilisers
Then we have crystalline fertilisers, like Aquasol. These are water-soluble, which means your plants get an instant hit of nutrients.
They also come in a wide range of NPK ratios, so you can get the right balance for your plants.
But there’s a catch: they have a high salt index, so if you use them too often in pots, you’ll get a build-up of salts in the soil.
The trick is to flush them through occasionally to keep everything healthy.
Granular fertilisers
Granular fertilisers are great for the garden because they release nutrients gradually over time. I wouldn’t use them in pots though, they can be too harsh for containerised plants. They’re perfect for roses, citrus, azaleas, or any garden bed where you want steady, long-term feeding.
Organic fertilisers
My personal go-to for the garden is organic fertilisers, like blood and bone or pelletised chicken manure (Dynamic Lifter).
These don’t just feed your plants, they help build soil biology. You get all the good bacteria, fungi, and other organisms working in your soil as the fertiliser slowly breaks down.
It’s fantastic for veggie patches and long-term soil health.
and trace elements
Sometimes plants need a little extra.
For acid-loving plants, like azaleas, camellias, and magnolias, you want fertilisers made for them.
Other times, you might notice yellowing leaves or unusual growth.
That could be a simple pH adjustment, a generalpurpose fertiliser, or, if there’s a significant trace element deficiency, a specialised product. If you’re not sure, bring a sample of your plant or soil up to the nursery. We can help steer you in the right direction and choose the best product
Lawns and singleelement fertilisers
If you’re after a lush, green lawn, there are fertilisers designed specifically for that.
Some are single-element, like urea, which can increase nitrogen in your soil if that’s what it needs.
My final tip
Whatever fertiliser you use, check the NPK ratio to make sure you’re giving your plants the right balance. If you’re ever unsure, come and ask your friendly horticulturist, we’re here to help.
You’ll be surprised what you’ll find at Burnetts … we’re not just a garden centre, we’re one of Kiama’s most loved experiences.
Regional talent shines:
Nowra student earns third in State Public Speaking contest
Myah Garza
When 18-yearold Ava Groves travelled from Nowra to Sydney for the state final of the Regional Public Speaking Competition, she didn’t expect to leave Parliament House as one of the top three speakers in NSW.
“I was definitely surprised,” Groves said. “The competition was insane. Everyone there knew what they were doing, they're all experienced public speakers – I really didn’t expect it.”
Groves, who has just graduated from St John the Evangelist Catholic High School in South Nowra, won her regional event earlier this year.
The state final, held on 5 December, brought together six outstanding students from across regional areas as part of the NSW Legislative Council’s Regional Roadshow program.
The program, launched during the Council’s Bicentenary, aims to strengthen young people’s connection with the democratic process by taking public speaking competitions and youth
forums to regional centres.
This year’s roadshows visited Grafton, Queanbeyan, Tamworth, Griffith, Cessnock and Orange before finalists were selected to speak in the Legislative Council Chamber.
Groves’ prepared speech, titled “The lies we tell ourselves,” examined the small but constant fictions many people use as coping mechanisms - from insisting everything is fine to convincing ourselves we’re doing enough for causes like the environment.
“It wasn’t targeted at anyone,” she said. “It was more for the general public, because we all lie – there are always things we could be doing better.”
Despite being new to the craft, she found the impromptu section of the competition less daunting than expected.
“Everyone had the same 15 minutes to prepare,” she said. “Not as much is expected of you compared to the prepared speech, so I felt more reassured. I could just get up there and talk.”
According to Groves, the regional finalists all got on very well.
“We were all pretty close by the end,” she said. “Some of the places they were from I’d never even heard of.”
Groves hopes her achievement encourages other regional students to take chances on opportunities that may seem out of reach.
“People think regional towns are disadvantaged and don’t have as much opportunity, which can be true, but it’s also a myth,” she said.
“If someone like me, who’s never done anything like this, can give it a go, then anyone can.
“You’ve got nothing to lose.”
She credits her parents for their steady support throughout the competition. “They’ve listened to so many drafts and supported me non-stop. I wouldn’t have done it without them.”
With her HSC behind her, Groves is planning to study a combined law and arts degree at university – a path strengthened by her newfound confidence in public speaking.
“This really awakened my enjoyment of it,” she said. “If I pursue a legal career, it will absolutely benefit me.”
Lions get into festive spirit for Christmas Parade
Gerringong Lions have been busy preparing for the return of the big Christmas Parade next Saturday (20 December) from 10am.
The parade, sponsored by Kiama Council through The Signature Event Funding Program along with The Gerringong Bowling Club and Bendigo Bank, will leave Michael Cronin Oval and move into Fern St and then turn left into Belinda St and back up behind the Old School Park and back to the Oval.
This will mean some temporary road closures from 9am-11.30am with detours in place. Affected streets will be letterboxdropped with the details.
Almost 30 floats have signed up, with a line-up of some old favourites as well as new ones.
Floats include Shoalhaven
City Pipes and Drums as well as The Kiama Pipe Band, and local sporting teams and businesses.
Excitingly, the Gerringong Lions are also welcoming back our local furry donkey to take part and there will be a a visit from Santa with an opportunity for children to get a photo with him at the end of the parade.
The crowd will be entertained by The Hot Potato Roving Band with the event compared by former Wave FM breakfast host Jade Aroha Tonta.
Any organisations or clubs that haven’t applied to enter this year’s parade, can do so by emailing GerringongChristmasParade@ gmail.com
The final tickets for the Lions’ Xmas Raffle will be on sale and the winner will be drawn following the parade.
Money raised will go to supporting children with the opportunity to attend Outward Bound Australia, an outdoor education program that inspires and empowers children.
Gerringong Lions Support SAHSSI
Over the past four weeks, Gerringong Lions have been collecting items for Supported Accommodation and Homeless Services Shoalhaven Illawarra with a trolley located in Khan’s IGA at Gerringong.
All of the items, generously donated by the community have been boxed and will be delivered to SAHSSI this week.
Lions have also kicked in cash to purchase extra items. Many thanks to Gerringong IGA for donating the trolley and allowing the items to be collected.
High-rise plan an ‘appalling’ change for town centre
Carol Goddard
I have to admit, I never saw it coming.
I lived in Sydney for the first years of my life. The child years.
The teenage years. The student years. The young married, then parent years.
And I liked it, it was good.
But Sydney changed. Maybe I changed too.
The city got too busy for me, too cloistered, too polluted, too ... just too much.
And so I sought to live in another place, a quieter, cleaner, better way to live.
I came to Berry for a few years and then, back to my beloved coast, and Kiama. A place I had loved all my life.
And for nearly five years, Hubby and I have called it home. Divine, beautiful, green rolling hills, a home, a haven by the sea.
And it was good.
But, as Bob Dylan sang, the times, they are a changin’.
And it's not good now. It's not good at all.
Of course I'm referring to the appalling onset of a soonto-be, supposed "progress" being inflicted on our beautiful town, and so many others up and down our coast.
High-rise Gotham cities.
Blatant, ugly
overdevelopment, with absolutely no class, no artistry in design or architectural feature.
And almost sure to be out of the financial reach of those young families and older people for whom they're supposedly being built.
This is inflicted on us by bureaucrats and politicians who seemingly have no regard for the consequences on village life, or on the daily life of so many people.
Residents and business owners alike. Ironically, people who may have voted for them in the first place.
I know that many in the Kiama community are hurting. Many are afraid.
There was little consultation. Little time for our community to look at what is coming, to assess it, to navigate the smoke and mirrors.
And I am one of them. I'm a newbie. I've only lived here a short while. But I love this town and its people.
So I'm doing what I can in terms of petitions and committees and meetings.
Like many other concerned, Kiama residents.
But I fear the damage has already been done, the horse has bolted...
And I didn't see it coming.
Rhetoric rings hollow
I wanted to raise a concern regarding the recent rhetoric coming from Katelin McInerney and Paul Scully — specifically the repeated claim that “the community is clear it wants central development over greenfields”.
With respect, this has never been explicitly tested or consulted on.
For Paul to state publicly that Kiama Council or the NSW Government has consulted the community on this point is simply incorrect.
And for both of them to rely on that untested claim to advance the Kiama Depot and Akuna Street proposals is, at best, ignorantly misleading and, at worst, wilfully manipulative. If anything, the lack of proper consultation on this question is exactly why a staged approach makes sense. A genuine, place-based Heritage & Place strategy is needed, which would finally give the government the opportunity to ask the community what it actually values and wants for its future across its LGA.
I’d love the chance for the Government to ask people like me - and my network of families who'll be living here for the next 40 to 50 years - whether we’d like more 500–800 sqm blocks to raise our families on. We’ve simply never been asked. Yet our views are being publicly assumed, packaged, and used to justify a controversial and universally opposed proposal. The politicians' job is to represent us, not to misrepresent our views. I’m asking Katelin and Paul to please ensure any public statements reflect what has genuinely been consulted on — and what hasn’t — and to support a process that actually seeks out the community’s aspirations before drawing conclusions.
Glenn Holland, Kiama
Akuna Street development a lost opportunity
Blow Your Bugle
In the early 1990s, architect Wally Abrahams, a member of Kiama Council’s architect advisory committee, proposed a plan to consolidate the Kiama town centre.
This plan involved purchasing land adjoining the Akuna Street car park, including the old Mitre 10 store, in order to utilise the large land area behind Terralong Street to consolidate the central shopping precinct and make it more walkable
His idea was that the Mitre 10 store would form a conduit arcade linking to an extended shopping mall and car park behind Terralong Street.
Over the years Council adopted this idea and purchased the requisite land with the intention of realising this visionary plan.
Thirty-five years on, Council staff and Councillors lost track of this vision and found themselves owning a saleable “land asset” that could offset debt.
The sale of Akuna Street ended Council’s control over the site and dashed this plan.
Now we are facing a 14-storey enterprise that addresses a different purpose. It’s sad to see how continuity and cultural knowledge is so easily lost by our decision makers and how easily good ideas are forgotten.
Since Wally proposed this idea the commercial shopping precinct has sprawled - it definitely isn’t walkable, there is little central parking and our town lacks a central focus.
Howard H Jones (Kiama Councillor in the early 90s)
Building heights and the future of our town
In a recent article in The Bugle, I find Mayor Cameron McDonald's comments misleading ... "Right now, this proposal is only about rezoning – no development can occur until that process is complete. There is no Development Application (DA).
The images you may have seen are concepts from the NSW Planning Department, not approved designs, heights, or plans. Detailed planning – including building heights, design, traffic, parking and infrastructure – will happen later through the normal DCP and DA process, with full community consultation."
The Planning Department documents make it clear that integral to Kiama Council's re-zoning proposal for their Depot Site, is a change to the existing building controls under the Kiama Local Environment Plan (LEP) 2011 (which are currently set an 11 metre/3 storey height limit) to replace them with the government’s new R3 zoning controls which completely change floor space ratios and building height allowances.
With those controls gone, Council cannot bring them back.
If the rezoning proposal goes ahead, any developer will be able to use the 6-8 storey heights and reduced floor size ratios (450 unit density) in the rezoning proposal as the basis for their DA.
The Council will not be able to stop them.
A State Planning Panel will have no reason to refuse a DA that is consistent with the State Government’s increased heights and densities, particularly where Council is partnering with the State Government on the rezoning proposal!
Chris Minehan, Kiama
whats on?
Shellharbour Carols
By Candlelight
Fri 12 Dec, 5pm-9pm
Croom Regional Sporting Complex
Shellharbour City Council lights up the night with festive cheer. Pre-show activities and stalls will be on from 5pm, with the main event kicking off at 6pm.
Sing Australia Kiama
Sat 13 Dec 9:30am10:30am
Burnetts on Barney, Kiama
local community group of volunteer singers who share the joy of singing with each other and with the community.
Gingerbread Cookie
Decorating
Sat 13 Dec, 10am-12pm
Expressive Art Experience, Kiama
Downs
Learn how to decorate a range of gingerbread cookies. Michelle is sharing her decadeslong, tried and tested recipe and will share with all attendees.
Grand Christmas Street Parade
Sat 13 Dec, 11:30pm Queen Street, Berry
Including colourful floats, fire engines, vintage cars, community groups and a visit from Santa.
Jacks Christmas Piano Fundraiser
Sun, 14 Dec, 11am Saltwater Cafe
Jack will be playing Christmas tunes to fundraise for Barnardos Australia Gerringong Street Parade
Sat 20 Dec, 10am Belinda Street, Gerringong
Enjoy a truly festive community celebration with floats, music, and entertainment.
Christmas Kiama Picnic Train
Sat 20 Dec - Sun 21 Dec, 10am-7pm Kiama Train Station
A special diesel-hauled trip out on the signature Picnic Train journey from Sydney to Kiama and return.
Christmas on the greens
Sat 20 Dec, 4pm-7pm
Gerringong Bowling club
A family-friendly afternoon of live music to bring the community together in celebration of the festive season. Visit from Santa Outdoor Christmas Carols Sun 21 Dec, 2pm Kiama Presbyterian Church
Carols On The Lawn Sun 21 Dec, 5:30pm South Coast Life Church, Berry
Events for kids, sausage sizzle and carols!
Christmas Day Service
Thu 25 Dec, 9am Kiama Presbyterian Church
Christmas Day BBQ Thu 25 Dec, 11am-1pm Holborn Park Skate Plaza, Berkeley
All are welcome, serving food until we run out Bella Char Christmas Day Lunch
Wed 25 Dec, 12:30pm -3:30pm Bella Char Restaurant and Wine Bar, Gerringong
indulge in a feast of seasonal flavours, crafted from the finest local produce.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular & Family Fun Night
Wed 31 Dec, 5pm-9pm Berry Showground Fireworks at 9pm, with carnival rides, other entertaining activities and food stalls NYE25 White Party, Yves Social
Wed 31 Dec, 7pm-late Yves Kiama
Step into the New Year in style at Yves Social’s NYE White Party, a chic, coastal celebration overlooking Kiama Harbour and the Pacific Ocean.
Neon Bushland with Rosie Deacon Sat 3 Jan, 10am-2pm Bundanon, 170 Riversdale Road, Illaroo
A sensory delight for families and the young at heart. The installation is predominantly made from recycled and reused materials and invites you to explore luscious textures with your hands.
Profannity Palooza Sat 24 Jan, 7pm-11pm Kiama Bowlo
A live rock music event featuring local and regional bandsProfannity, Bush Doofs, Silvia Lane, Ashpit and Scram.
YOHKA™ KIAMA 28-29 March, 2026 Kiama Showground
Whether you’re racing for a podium, tackling the course for fun or soaking it in from the sidelines - this is fitness entertainment that you don’t want to miss.
Michael Parkinson of Kiama Aged 86 Years
Died suddenly in hospital on Saturday 29th November 2025. Loved husband of Roneane (Ro). Much loved father and father-in-law of Susan and Greg, Janelle, Paul and Melanie, Mark and Dana, Lisa and Mauro. Adored Grandad of Joseph, Michael (Eddy) and Brittany, Nathan, Victoria, Georgia, Jessica, Jordan, Fletcher, Kira, and Great Grandad of Carter.
Michael will be dearly missed by his loving family, relatives and friends but remembered always with love and laughter.
Rest in peace Relatives and friends are invited to attend Michael’s Requiem Mass to be held at Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 92 Manning Street Kiama on Tuesday 16 th December at 11am. For those unable to attend, livestream will be available.
WOLLONGONG 4228 9622
CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR OFFICE CLOSURE:
OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 4PM FRIDAY 19 DECEMBER 2025 UNTIL 9AM MONDAY 19 JANUARY 2026
OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 4PM FRIDAY 19 DECEMBER 2025 UNTIL 9AM
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW ALL ST, KIAMA
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR CLIENTELE! 18 MANNING ST, KIAMA FREECALL 1800 611 735
Pretty Woman, the musical
Highlands worth a trip over the holidays
KCR gets into festive spirit Christmas cheer!
Kyah set to make a splash in Sydney Water Series finale
Lleyton Hughes
Kiama's Kyah Shipley is sitting in second place in the Open Female division heading into the Sydney Water Surf Series finale this weekend.
The series, held across four weekends, features a range of surf lifesaving events designed to prepare competitors for major competitions later in the season.
Athletes earn points in each event, with the overall winner decided by the highest total at the end of the final day.
Shipley said that while the series is primarily about building form for the season ahead, she’s pleased with her performances so far.
“The past three rounds have been a great start to the season, giving me ideas on what I should work on and improve,” she said. “And, as Sydney Water always is, it throws the best and the worst surf at you.”
Shipley has been competing in the Ironperson, Surf Race, Board Race and Single Ski, earning several strong results - including a few wins.
“I’m racing in the Opens now, so the ski is included in the Iron. It’s not my strongest leg, but there’s always room to improve,” she said. “Right now, in terms of total points, I’m sitting second behind Sarah Locke. She always pushes me, and I’m pretty proud of how I’ve gone so far in my first year racing Opens.”
“I’m positioned well in the Iron, Swim and Board events at this stage - but all of that can change. That’s surf.”
Shipley has been involved in surf lifesaving since she was six years old and says it’s now
an essential part of her life.
“I love racing with my friends, and we always push each other. I love the team events too - they’re a huge part of why I love the sport so much,” she said.
More than just shade: Sponsors step up to support Kiama’s young nippers
Lleyton Hughes
Two Sundays ago, before the eager nippers took to the waves, Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club (SLSC) held a special ceremony to celebrate the donation of a new gazebo from the Kiama Rotary Club.
Among a crowd of Rotary and Surf Club volunteers, the gazebo was formally handed over by the President of Kiama Rotary, Phil Whyte, to Kiama SLSC’s Junior Activities Coordinator, David Griffin.
Kiama SLSC Sponsorship Coordinator, Ian HarveyGeorge, said he was proud of the day and thrilled with the new addition to the club’s equipment.
“We have a long and strong relationship with Kiama Rotary. They generously donated our previous gazebo in 2019, which served us well but was sadly beyond repair,” Harvey-George said.
“I approached Kiama Rotary to see if they could help us replace the damaged gazebo, and over the past few months we’ve worked closely together to make sure we found the right setup for everyone.”
He also spoke about the importance of shade for volunteers during the busy summer season.
“The beach can be a harsh environment for both kids and adults, especially on hot
days. Our volunteer lifeguards spend hours on the sand every weekend, and large gazebos are vital for keeping them cool and protected from the sun’s harmful rays,” he said.
“This new gazebo provides essential shelter for our nippers and for the volunteers who keep the club running and the beach safe.”
The gazebo will also be used to shelter Kiama SLSC’s hardworking BBQ volunteers.
“They’re at the beach early every Sunday, setting up and cooking for hungry nippers and families,” HarveyGeorge said. The handover also coincided with the presentation of the newseason nippers shirts - free
to all participants thanks to Kiama SLSC’s generous sponsors.
“As this is my first year as sponsorship coordinator, I wanted to create something special for the kids. This year we introduced a gold sponsor position on the front of the shirt, which Mystics Mechanical proudly took up,” he said.
“We’re also thrilled to welcome several new sponsors as we continue building strong relationships between the club and local businesses.”
Harvey-George emphasised how vital local sponsors are to a volunteer-run club like Kiama SLSC and praised the
broader Kiama community for its support.
“Much of our equipment and uniforms is sponsored by local businesses - from surf boats and nipper boards to flags and now the Rotary gazebo. Sponsorship helps us purchase and maintain essential equipment, and you’ll see the support in uniforms too, such as age managers’ shirts and the bright orange water safety tops,” he said.
“It’s not just financial help. There’s expertise as well. For example, when we had issues with our surf boat trailer, Russ from Mystics Mechanical generously donated his time to help fix it.”
Now in his first year as sponsorship coordinator, Harvey-George said he is relishing the role because of the relationships it builds and the joy of helping local kids thrive.
“I love connecting with people, and this role allows me to do that every day. Whether it’s maintaining long-standing partnerships or heading into town to build new ones, the relationships are truly rewarding,” he said.
“I feel proud when I see someone wearing our nippers shirt around town, and I get a real thrill knowing that vital equipment has been made possible through sponsorship - especially when you see the smiles on the kids’ faces.”
“I used to be scared of the water when I started, and now I can’t live without it.”
Her favourite event is the Ironperson because it tests all her skills - swim, ski, board and run. The ski, however, is still where she’s finding her feet.
“I’m not the best on the ski yet,” she laughed. “I’ve still got my L-plates on. I was coming second in one of the races and somehow completely missed the can - so I ended up last. My dad was volunteering in the IRB and had a good laugh! But I’m happy to keep learning and improving. It makes the sport fun.”
Shipley has big goals for the coming year, including the Shaw and Partners World
Ocean Series, plus Australian and State Championships on the Gold Coast. For now, she’s using the Sydney Water Surf Series as both preparationand a chance to enjoy the sport with her friends.
“My main goal is to have fun, put my foot on the starting line and try my best,” she said. “All I can do is have a go, cheer on my team and enjoy it. I hope to see the rest of my teammates from Warilla smash it too.”
“So many of them are doing amazing things. Imogen Moore and Max Miller, who are also from the Kiama community, are racing incredibly well. It’s unreal to see. If I get on the podium on Saturday, great - and if not, I’m sure I’ll learn something.”
Hawks losing touch with finals equation after up-and-down round
The Illawarra Hawks are in danger of not even making the playoffs after going down to the lastplaced Cairns Taipans.
After registering a 113-109 overtime win over SouthEast Melbourne Phoenix on Thursday night, the Hawks looked like they were finally clicking into top gear.
But the NBL champions put in arguably their worst performance of the season on their home court on Saturday to go down 93-76 to Cairns.
They are now in eighth spot on the ladder with a 5-10 record and their chances of defending their title appear remote.
They were on level terms at 20-20 after the first quarter against the Taipans but a 29-14 second term meant they trailed by 15 at the main break.
The Hawks went shot for shot with Cairns in the third quarter but were unable to bridge the gap despite 17 points and 11 rebounds from star centre JaVale McGee.
Illawarra captain Will Hickey contributed 10 points, seven assists and 11
rebounds in a typically busy performance while bench forward Dan Grida stepped up with 18 points in just 10 minutes of game time.
Cairns were undermanned, without Jack McVeigh, Sam Waardenburg and Reyne Smith, but produced their best effort for the season.
They nearly threw away what turned out to be their win over the Phoenix.
The Hawks led 31-13 after the first break but after making slight inroads over the next two quarters, SouthEast Melbourne stormed home with a 32-19 run in the final term.
Illawarra regained their shooting touch in the overtime period with import guard QJ Peterson pouring in a season-high 42 points to complement McGee’s 29 points and 13 rebounds.
They are back in action on Thursday night against Brisbane Bullets at WIN Entertainment Centre. The Bullets (5-11) have a similar record so the Hawks cannot afford to lose to the other team below them on the ladder.
Ex Servos narrowly miss huge upset but salvage dramatic tie at Harbour
Ex Servos went perilously close to causing a major boilover before coming away with a rare tie in a thriller against Shellharbour in their South Coast Cricket clash on Saturday at Scout Willoughby Oval.
Matthew Higham topscored with 64 as the visitors posted 232 with Brenton Geribo (3-52) and Hunter Ockenden (3-15) leading the Harbour attack.
Jacob Coleman went ballistic at the top of the order to slam eight sixes and 11 fours in making 118 from just 57 deliveries.
But after Jovan Croese snared 4-37, the Harbour had a middle-order collapse and the scores were tied when Bradd Cuddy dismissed Jim Glazbrook for 26 to spark wild scenes of jubilation for Ex Servos after they had appeared certain to lose.
Young opener Kody Lawler
blasted his maiden first-grade century as Oak Flats got the better of Albion Park at Keith Grey Oval.
Lawler smashed an unbeaten 122 from 149 deliveries, including 13 fours and a six, to bat out the 50 overs in the Rats’ total of 8-291.
He shared an 87-run opening stand with Ruan Pieters (56) as the Park bowlers struggled to stem the flow of runs.
Allrounder Raheel Chaudry took 3-26 but several Park batters squandered promising starts apart from Thomas Wilson, who blasted 68 in a 48-ball knock, as they were bowled out for 179.
Rats skipper Jack Bennett bagged 4-36 with new-ball duo Nathan Morrow (2-32) and Zaied Bin Khalid (2-30) also among the wickets.
Bomaderry captain Kealen Blattner continued his strong
season with 113 as the Tigers triumphed over North Nowra Cambewarra in a Shoalhaven derby.
Blattner and Jarrod Mitchell (93) combined for a 170-run second-wicket partnership in their total of 311 despite the efforts of opening bowlers
Cooper Bramley (4-57) and Justin Weller (3-60).
North Nowra lost a couple of early wickets and despite Weller’s 55 and 44 from captain Nathan Thomas, they finished 104 runs in arrears.
Daniel Troy (4-51) and Rhys Burinaga (3-35) were the pick of the Bomaderry bowlers.
Bay and Basin cemented third spot by beating Kiama in a low-scoring affair at Sanctuary Point.
Brandon Labb held the home side’s innings of 8-169 together with 43 before Tom Mason (4-36) and Caleb McLennan (3-18) ensured Kiama finished 23 runs short
of their target, failing to capitalise on a 63-run opening stand from David Coleman (33) and Joe Burgess (38).
Ryan Smith took 4-19 as first-placed Lake Illawarra thrashed the Kookas at Oakleigh Park.
The home side was rolled for 86 and the Lakers reached the target one ball shy of 10 overs with Jake O’Connell thumping 36 off 18.
This Saturday, Shellharbour host Bay and Basin, Kookas take on Albion Park at Oakleigh Park, North Nowra Cambewarra head north to Oak Flats, Kiama are away to Lake Illawarra and Ex Servos face Bomaderry at Hayden Drexel Oval.
Ladder: Lake 60, Shellharbour 51, Bay and Basin 44, Bomaderry 42, North Nowra, Kiama 39, Oak Flats 25, Kookas 23, Albion Park 21, Ex Servos 14.
Winston leads Cavettes to dominant win as Kiama enjoys strong weekend
Lleyton Hughes
Kiama Cricket Club began their weekend in blistering form, recording two T20 wins on Friday night.
The Cavettes opened the round at Bonaira Oval against Shellharbour and restricted them to 88 from their 20 overs.
Emma Ford was the standout with the ball, taking 2-8 including a maiden.
Kiama’s openers Ava Sloan and Ebony Winston quickly shut the door on the chase, blasting their way to the total in just eight overs.
Winston top-scored with 48 not out off 24 balls, while Sloan added 30 not out from 21.
Up the road at Oakleigh Park, the Kiama men’s firstgrade side faced the Kookas in their first T20 of the season.
Kiama struggled early, with the top order falling cheaply to be 7-84 before lower-order pair Ryan Timbs and Glenn
Cleary fought hard to lift them to a competitive total.
Their 26-run partnership pushed the Cavs to 110, with Timbs - newly added to the first-grade shortform squad - top-scoring with 16 in the low total.
The Kookas got off to a rapid start but Kiama’s bowlers tightened the screws, restricting their opponents to 100 from 20 overs to claim an impressive win, led by Blake Mackrell (3-6) and Adam Ison (3-18).
On Saturday, first grade travelled to face the Bay and Basin Dolphins with Sheldon Hall making his debut to be cap number 417 for the club.
Kiama restricted the Dolphins to 8-169 in the 50-over clash, with Joe Burgess, Glenn Cleary, Brad Ison and Niall Owers taking two wickets each.
Despite an excellent 63run opening partnership from Burgess (38) and David
Coleman (33), the chase faltered and Kiama were bowled out for 147 in 45.2 overs.
Second grade took on the challenge of two consecutive T20s on Saturday, facing Oak Flats and then Jamberoo.
Against Oak Flats, Kiama posted 8-132 thanks to a 59-run opening stand from Ryan Timbs (23) and Josh Battishall (31).
Their bowlers then delivered strongly, dismissing Oak Flats for 116 with Timbs, Vincent Sherrell and Michael Hook each taking two wickets.
Fatigue caught up with the squad in the second match, where they were dismissed for 115, a total Jamberoo chased down in 17.1 overs.
Third grade hosted Albion Park and despite posting a competitive 166, Eagles opener Adam Clay stole the show with an unbeaten 103, guiding his side to victory with two overs to spare.
Fourth grade finished
the weekend on a high, piling on 203 against the Kookas thanks to Andrew Marsh (50*) and Zach Gervaise (45*).
The Kookas were bowled out for 140 in 30 overs, with Oliver Wilson and Daniel Cooper taking two wickets each.
This week marks the final game of the year for the Cavettes, who will host Oak Flats on Friday.
First grade will face Shellharbour away in Friday’s T20 before taking on Lake Illawarra on Saturday in their final one-dayer of the year.
Kiama’s second grade meets Lake Illawarra away at Howard Fowles Oval in their third T20, third grade will travel to Jamberoo, and the fourth-graders will play Gerringong at home in what is always a spirited local derby.
Kiama Cavettes were led to victory by openers Ebony Winston and Ava Sloan. Photo Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club
BY STICKSPIX_
BY STICKSPIX_
In the nick of time: Last-gasp wave delivers national title for Lennox
Lleyton Hughes
Jones Beach Boardriders member, 13-year-old Lennox Lindsay, has claimed the Under-14 boys title at the Australian Junior Championships after a nailbiting final on Friday.
Competing over seven days in Wollongong, Lindsay surfed all the way to the finals, earning Wave of the Day twice along the way.
In the final, he faced Port Macquarie’s Harry Stephens. Lindsay held a comfortable lead for most of the heat, but with five minutes remaining Stephens posted the highest score of the final - a 7.15 - to snatch the lead. Still holding priority, Lindsay needed a strong score. With less than a minute on the clock, he took off on a right-hander and delivered a 6.65, reclaiming the win by just 0.12 points.
Jones Beach Boardriders (JBB) President, Hayden Bombaci, said he was beyond proud of the young surfer.
“It’s incredible to have the number one boy in Australia surfing out of our club. Lennox is humble, enthusiastic, and a great role model for our
groms. To see him clinch the U14 Boys Final on his very last wave with just one minute to go was electric,” Bombaci said.
“His win shows our juniors that they can shine nationally - even internationally - and that sense of belief is priceless. He’s paving the way for the next generation, especially the boys.”
Bombaci said Lindsay’s maturity in the water is what impresses him most.
“He reads the wave like someone much older, linking turns with speed and flow while keeping his composure in critical sections. That execution earned him Wave of the Day and helped him deliver that clutch final wave to seal the title,” he said.
With the event held close to home at Thirroul Beach, East Corrimal Beach and McCauley’s Beach for the final, Bombaci said the local setting benefitted all JBB competitors.
“Competing on a coastline they know so well gave the team comfort and confidence.
Having a cheer squad on the beach was huge - you can’t buy that kind of support. Back-to-back days in small conditions can test your
mental endurance, but the familiar sights and sounds of Wollongong definitely put them at ease,” he said.
Female JBB members Alice Hodgson (U18), Lani
the star power of the club right now. They’ve carried the representative torch for years, and it’s been amazing to watch them develop,” Bombaci said.
“To have Alice, Lani and Ruby all reach the semifinals and finish equal third nationally shows the depth we’ve built and the momentum they’re carrying into the future.”
Bombaci said the club’s success comes from strong family support, a welcoming club environment, and deliberately challenging young surfers by having them compete in open divisions. “They’re talented, hardworking,
and backed by families who ride every high and low with them. At JBB we focus on creating a positive, supportive environment, and competing in opens has sharpened their skills against older, more experienced surfers,” he said.
“In a few years Ruby will no doubt join the opens. That mix of talent, support, and resilience is why they’re thriving on the national stage - and pulling off some classic upsets along the way.”
Bombaci also gave a particular mention to JBB member Geoff Latimar.
“He was on the beach all day supporting and advising the young surfers, as always.”
Cairncross (U16) and Ruby Neill (U14) all reached the semifinals of their divisions, narrowly missing out on a finals berth.
“Our female surfers are
(From left to right) Lani Cairncross, Ruby Neill and Alice Hodgson all placed equal third nationally for their ages. Photo Jones Beach Boardriders