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25 September - 1 October

Welcome to The Bugle Well how do you do, fellow kids? Welcome to our second kids’ edition of The Bugle, which offers a paper inside the paper kicking off from page 9 with all the best yarns for youngsters. Our in-house artist Tiff has also drawn a beautiful spring scene in Hindmarsh Park for the colouring page on 14, which is back by popular demand after proving such a hit last time. We’ve got a lot happening up front in news too, with a locals getting the spotlight they deserve: from recent world adaptive surfing champ Laurie Hoti to Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu in Kiama who have been going from strength-to-strength. Plus, we finally got the dough on Gerringong institution Gezza Pizza and ask the question … is there a local farmer looking for love? Because Channel Seven nee Nine’s reality franchise is on the hunt. We’ll have more kids content next week as school holidays kick off, so if you’re a business or an event looking for advertising in our pages, reminder that we do great, flexible rates and can even design your ad for you from $75 per ad. M xx @maria___lewis

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

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Local authors in the running to be one of Australia’s Top 100 books

(L-R) Maria Lewis, Dr Kate Forsyth and Dr Jodi McAlister

Myah Garza

hey’re calling it The Hottest 100 for nerds. Now ABC’s popular music poll is branching out to novels, with the countdown on for Radio National’s Top 100 Australian Books. Like Triple J’s annual event, the poll gives Aussies the chance to vote for their favourite books before an October 1 deadline at 7pm AEST. The results will then be counted down from 100 to one as Radio National takes over the airwaves for a full weekend beginning October 17. For local book lovers, the Australia-wide poll is even more exciting with several authors from the Kiama and Gerringong area in the running, with stories inspired by the landscapes and communities around them. Author and academic Dr Jodi McAlister grew up in Kiama and still returns regularly to visit family. The region also became inspiration for McAlister’s first novel, Valentine, published in 2017 as part of a trilogy.

“I don’t call it Kiama, but it’s obviously Kiama,” she said. “The feeling of being between the sea and the mountains and that kind of small-town vibe really permeated a lot of my early work in particular.” McAlister’s writing has since stretched across young adult fiction, paranormal stories, romance and contemporary rom-coms, alongside her career as an academic specialising in romance narratives. “I’m really, really interested in the stories we tell about love versus what love actually looks like,” she said. “I am so fascinated by the ways that stories influence the way that we think, and by exploring that both fictionally and non-fictionally.” McAlister says her academic and creative careers are similarly intertwined. “I tend to think of my career as like DNA – a double helix,” she said. “I’m a better author for being a scholar and a better scholar for being an author.” Another author in the running is Dr Kate Forsyth, who has built a career reimagining old stories for new audiences. Her historical novels includePsykhe,areimagining of the ancient Greek myth

from the perspective of the young woman at its heart; The Crimson Thread, which retells the Minotaur myth against the backdrop of Crete during World War II; and Bitter Greens, her reimagining of Rapunzel. Now based in Gerringong, Forsyth said the South Coast has provided space to think, create and step away from city life. Forsyth and her husband bought their Gerringong home in 2021 after searching the area for some time. It initially served as a holiday house before the couple eventually sold their Sydney family home. Forsyth said the landscape had captured her imagination long before she moved there. “I remember driving down to Melbourne with my father when I was a little girl, and just loving the landscape around Gerringong and Berry,” she said. “I thought it looked just like Narnia, and I told my father I was going to live here one day.” Although Forsyth travels regularly for work, including touring and teaching in Australia and overseas, she said returning to Gerringong helps recharge her creatively. “I walk every day and swim most days in summer, plus

I work in my garden and cook with food I’ve grown myself or sourced locally,” she said. “I always return to my work reinvigorated and full of new ideas.” For aspiring writers, Forsyth advises making writing a regular practice. “Try to build a regular creative practice so you are writing every day,” she said. “Keep a journal, set aside a regular space and time to work on your project, and guard it zealously.” The Bugle’s editor Maria Lewis is also in the running, with three of her 11 novels – Who’s Afraid?, The Rose Daughter? and the awardwinning The Witch Who Courted Death – eligible for voting. Having hosted writing workshops at Gerringong Library last year, Lewis said it was encouraging to see the calibre of writers coming from the region. “Kate’s books have travelled the world and Jodi is the top rom-com writer in the country,” she said. “To think they have all come from this tiny, coastal community is testament to the high calibre of creative talent who call this part of the world home.”

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25 September - 1 October

Local lawn bowls expert back on Hard Quiz to raise money for MND

Werri world champ forging a new path for ParaSurfers World champion ParaSurfer Laurie Foti in action. Photo by Leonie Murphy.

Photo by Leonie Murphy.

Coach Jordan Moran and Laurie Foti at the world titles in the US.

Maria Lewis

hen local legend Andrew Anstey first appeared on hit ABC show Hard Quiz in October 2025, he couldn’t imagine how much his life was about to change. So when he was asked to return for a special Fuddy Duds episode and dive back into his expert topic of lawn bowls, he had some reservations. “I was keen to do that as it was so much fun and a great experience being involved in my first episode,” he told The Bugle. “However, between the taping and airing of my initial episode I had been diag-

nosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) which was a shock to me, my family and friends. “I was open and honest with the Hard Quiz team about my diagnosis and to their credit they were very supportive, to the extent where they asked if I comfortable talking about MND on air.” His triumphant Hard Quiz return aired on Wednesday, September 23 – with both of his episodes available to revisit on ABC iview – with Anstey able to use his appearance for a good cause. “At the taping of the Fuddy Duds episode, I managed to mention the importance of research into this ‘beast’

Maria Lewis

of a disease and I’m happy that I was able to raise some awareness of MND,” he said. “My family and friends have worked behind the scenes to turn the airing of the Fuddy Duds episode into another fundraising event.” Held at his beloved Kiama Bowling Club, friends, family, staff and members of the public came together to raise much-needed funds with raffles and giveaways being held before screening the episode live at 8pm. “The evening was not about me, but aimed to raise funds that will go directly and totally to MND NSW to support their ongoing research and support efforts,” Anstey said.

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hen Laurie Foti started ParaSurfing, it was to find herself again as a new mum. Now just a few short years later, she’s Werri’s latest world champion. “I still can’t quite believe it, to be honest,” she told The Bugle, having returned from the final event of the World Championship 2026 Tour in the US last week. With three stops on the world tour, Foti had won the first event in March at Byron Bay, placed third at Hawaii in May, and was neck-andneck for the world title as she headed into the final event at Oceanside, California in September. With the winner decided by a cumulative point score, Foti placed third at Oceanside and was originally disappointed with her result. “It was a bit anticlimactic, because I didn’t do as well as I wanted to in the actual event,” she said “I came out of the water feeling like I didn’t do the best and they were like ‘no, you’ve won – you’ve won the world title!’” The win was extra special for Foti, with her daughter Vada and husband Michael – also a champion ParaSurfer – there to celebrate the victory, along with the couple’s coach Jordan Moran. “Jordan owns Gerringong Surf School and he’s who I first started surfing with,” she said. “So he has come through my whole surf journey and was there in the water supporting me when I won the world title as well.” Her win marks the second world title for Werri Beach Boardriders in as many weeks, with Lucy Darragh taking out the Girls U16 category at the ISA World Junior

Surfing Championships in El Salvador. The milestone has additional significance for Foti, 38, and the club as a whole given their recent addition of a ParaSurfing division. “Earlier in the year, Laurie reached out to us at Werri Beach Boardriders about adding a ParaSurfing division to our monthly point scores,” said the club’s Secretary Jess McGarn. “The new division gives our local professional ParaSurfers an opportunity to train and connect with other competitors. “As a club, our purpose is to help develop the competitive surfing skills of our local Werri surfers. “To see our members go on and achieve success on the world stage is super exciting for the whole club and we’re stoked to be able to help play a small part in their journey.” Being a part of the boardriders has been invaluable for Foti and her family, with the collective division meaning she surfs against her husband. “To win the world title, it’s not just about that one event: it’s about the work you’ve put in all year to get to that point,” she said. “The boardriders helps keep you consistent with all the little competitions in between and preparing your mindset as well. “It has been absolutely amazing that they’ve been so open to adding the para division to boardriders because not many boardriders are willing to. “At the moment it is very segregated from normal surfing, so it’s about showing people that it not only exists but just adding that one division into your boardriders means that adaptive surfers – who are also surfing world championships – can just come and join in with the boardrid-

ers like anyone else.” Coming from a competitive sport background, Foti used to race motorcross before breaking her back, her spinal cord injury leading to an entirely different competitive arena in the water. “My husband has been surfing for his mental health since around 2021, just getting in the water and that freedom of surfing,” she said. “If you’re a surfer yourself, you know the feeling. “He surfed for a couple of years, then once I had our daughter I just felt a bit lost as a mum. “I didn’t really know what to do and he goes ‘you should try surfing’ … “It has become this thing we now do as a family and our daughter doesn’t know any different. “She just thinks it’s this cool thing we get to do and go on all these amazing holidays.” With Michael competing in the kneeling division and Laurie in the prone unassist division – “so I surf laying down” – she said with both of them competing on the Adaptative Surfing World Championship Tour, she hopes it will show their daughter exactly how expansive the world can be. “Part of being a disabled parent is you always have this fear that she’s going to grow up and view you as less than,” she said. “Not that she would, but compared to other parents… “For us, to show her we’re surfing and we’re doing all these amazing things and yes, both your parents are in wheelchairs, but they can actually still do really great things in life is so important.” Other ParaSurfers interested in joining Werri Beach Boardriders can reach out via the club’s Instagram and Facebook accounts about signing up.

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25 September - 1 October

Trucks, jobs and a council divided over Jamberoo plan Belle Wood

truck movement every 10 minutes — or a financial lifeline for one of Kiama’s biggest tourism businesses? That was the divide confronting Kiama councillors as they considered Jamberoo Action Park’s plan to use its sprawling carpark as a temporary holding ground for electric vehicles arriving through Port Kembla. The debate pitted a major local employer seeking income from empty parking spaces against nearby residents concerned about noise, road safety and heavy vehicle movements. By the time the matter reached Council’s September 15 Ordinary Meeting, even the documents underpinning the debate were in dispute. Jamberoo Action Park representative Matt George told the previous evening’s Public Forum that an updated traffic assessment addressed earlier concerns about vehicles being packed too closely together. He said the revised plan would use the carpark’s existing marked spaces. However, Council staff said the May assessment had not been formally submitted through the NSW Planning Portal and was not held by the officers assessing the application. Staff had instead assessed the December version, which they said did not meet Australian carparking requirements. Mr George argued the proposal met the definition of a carpark under the Kiama Local Environmental Plan. Council officers concluded the vehicles would be stored as inventory awaiting distribution, making the operation a “storage premises” prohibited within the site’s RU2 rural zoning. The distinction was critical for the highly seasonal park, which closes for about five months each year while continuing to carry substantial staffing and maintenance costs. At its busiest, the park employs about 300 people, many of them young locals. Mr George said the additional income would help retain staff, maintain attractions and fund future investment.

Council’s report referred to a maximum of 60 truck movements on peak days. Mr George said about 10 trucks a day would be more typical, with the maximum occurring infrequently. A nearby resident said previous deliveries had created so much noise that her family could not comfortably sit on their balcony. She also raised concerns about limited sight distance from a shared driveway, existing cracks in Jamberoo Road and whether ratepayers would ultimately pay for additional road damage. “There’s nothing to say that these trucks are going to be coming every 10 minutes,” she said, warning they could arrive in groups. “You can get 10 in 10 or 15 minutes.” Mr George said the park was prepared to work with neighbours and accept controls on delivery times and truck movements. Councillor Matt Brown moved an alternative motion to approve the application, arguing the empty spaces should support local jobs and the growing electric vehicle industry. “It’s like if you park your car at the airport for a few weeks,” he said. “It’s still a carpark. It’s not a car-storage facility.” Councillors supporting the refusal said the decision had to be made on planning grounds rather than the financial needs of an individual business. They backed the staff assessment and raised concerns about traffic, noise, bushfire risk and the suitability of Jamberoo Road for regular articulated trucks. Councillor Brown’s motion was defeated five votes to four. The recommendation to refuse the application was then carried by the same margin. Council staff acknowledged the site’s existing zoning limited its future economic use and pointed to rezoning through a planning proposal as a possible pathway. The imported EVs will not be coming to Jamberoo for now. The next major influx of cars will instead be for the annual Jamberoo Car Show on Sunday, 25 October. The planning questions, however, remain firmly parked at Council’s door.

“BETTER THAN TASMAN DRIVE!”

GEZZA PIZZA THROWS DOWN THE GAUNTLET

Maria Lewis

ou may have seen it while driving down the highway to Gerringong, a bold billboard quite unlike any other. You could have spotted it when popping into Khan’s IGA, the flyer fluttering in the breeze. No matter where you’ve seen it, there’s no mistaking the message as bright red letters proudly proclaim: “better than Tasman Drive!” And for anyone who has had a slice of Gerringong Pizza – better known as Gezza Pizza – they would definitely agree. “It’s a locals thing,” chuckles Senior Manager, Brendan Cossa. “We were looking at a few different marketing techniques for the business and saw that billboard was up for sale. “We were thinking about something cool and quirky and that’s what we came up with.

“The locals definitely get the joke over people coming to town for the first time. “I mean, I try to avoid that street if I can. I do feel bad for the people who live there.” Tasman Drive’s various Instagram annoyances aside, Gezza Pizza has been generating plenty of traffic on its own, the small business a favourite amongst locals not just in the Gerringong and Gerroa areas, but people from all over the South Coast making the trip for a slice. “Our pizza sauce is the best,” Cossa told The Bugle. “It’s a secret recipe that keeps people coming back and we haven’t changed it since we started. “I can’t tell you what’s in it, but there’s some ingredients in there that are so surprising and unexpected to use in a pizza sauce.” Having opened 26 years ago, Gerringong Pizza is currently owned by Calvin Moran – son of surfing legend Rusty Moran - and on its busiest nights has been known to turn over more

than 300 pizzas. Cossa said part of the other reason it has become a “local institution” is the sheer number of young locals it employs, with new customers being surprised when they’re greeted with a staff made up almost entirely of teenagers. “For the longest time we’ve always hired younger local kids and with the small size of the shop it helps us be really efficient. “We do get a lot of people who come in on a Friday night who know the person rolling the dough or are neighbour’s with the delivery guy.” Keyan, 17, has worked at Gerringong Pizza for over four years and said the job has taught him invaluable life skills while still studying at high school. “I feel like I’m learning how to be under pressure as well as how to work in a team environment,” he said, adding that Peri Peri his favourite of the pizzas on offer. “It’s cool, I’m with a bunch of my friends and I get to work with the younger kids from

school too. “I’m able to teach them up to do stuff and deal with customers.” Jake, 13, is one of Gerringong Pizza’s youngest staffers and never slows for a second during the interview, rolling dough one minute and ducking under his colleague Noa, 18, the other as a pizza base is tossed in the air. Nelly, 17, is one of the newer employees having only been staffed at Gerringong Pizza for the past two months. “It’s very different for me, because I’ve only ever worked by myself around old people and now I’m part of a young team,” she said. “It’s nice to have something in common with the people you’re working with and getting to be with all my friends in a group environment is really nice.” Their “better than Tasman Drive” tagline has proven more than just a slogan for the team at Gezza Pizza, it has now become a promise.

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25 September - 1 October

ARE YOU A LOCAL FARMER LOOKING FOR LOVE? Maria Lewis

re you a local farmer looking for a misso? This could be your chance at love, with The Farmer Wants A Wife Australia on the hunt for local farmers to cast in Channel Seven’s popular reality series. A series of Facebook posts from producers have started popping up on community pages as Cupid searches for his latest target. “We’re currently casting for Farmer Wants A Wife Australia, and this year we’d

really love to find a single farmer from your area to take part in the series,” a post on the Berry Community Noticeboard read. “We know there are some fantastic farmers in and around your area, and we’re hoping someone in the local community might know a great single farmer who could be ready to give love a chance. “It could be your friend, brother, son, neighbour, cousin or someone you know through the local farming community.” Having helped create 13 marriages, 10 long-term

Finding a sustainable future for Kiama

relationships and 33 children, producers said they’d “love to find the next NSW love story”. Dozens of commentors were quick to suggest friends and family members, with more than a few women volunteering their services as well. “I’ve been looking in Berry for ages,” said one poster, while another urged the show to bring back the lady farmers. A remake of the British reality series of the same name, The Farmer Wants a Wife originally aired on the Nine Network for the first nine seasons, before moving to

Seven for the next six season. The 2027 series will be the sixteen season of the reality show and the 20th anniversary of the program, with presenter Natalie Gruzlewski reported to be returning as host. Producers were also said to be looking at candidates from Jamberoo and Robertson, with Australia’s next reality TV love story hopefully about to have South Coast origins. Interested farmers are encouraged to put their Akubra hats in the ring via Facebook or online at The Farmer Wants A Wife Australia website.

have something to say, send it LETTER TO THE EDITOR Iftoyou editor@thebuglenews.com.au Over the weekend was the 150th anniversary of Kiama Harbour. I just want to thank the hard work the Kiama and District Historical Society - Kiama Pilot's Cottage volunteers did with their talks and history walks. I also want to thank The Bugle for their coverage and stories leading up to the special day in our town's history. There was a time when the whole community would celebrate with parades, a full day of events and schools being immersed and involved. Not just relying on the Library with a couple of social media posts. I am sure there are a few adults who remember the 100th celebration of the Harbour back in 1976. I remember, as a kid, this great event was celebrated over a full weekend, that was led by the Mayor and Councillors being so proud of our rich heritage. This current Council and its leadership, all I hear are crickets. Barely anything. Yep. Not this Council.

Although the management were happy to charge the Historical Society a fee for each walk they did. That's right, this current council asked a volunteer group, that is reliant on donations, to pay the Council a fee for each walk they did on the weekend. This has never happened before! If it wasn't for this wonderful and committed group of volunteers, nothing would have been done to celebrate such an important milestone in our community … The Kiama Historical Society was born as a sign of respect by members of our community who even today, look after those many fibres of our history, our character, our soul and through their volunteer work they keep finding new threads of our history to add to this beautiful tapestry. Doesn’t cost much to become a member or even just donate and support them. There was a time when our heritage was celebrated and

cared for and supported by those in charge, those voted in by the community. Instead we see the 100th year anniversary of the Grand Arch, remembering our fallen, in Terralong Street ignored and not even mentioned by Council officially. I’ve looked at the minutes. A Council that is charging volunteers who are in their own time bringing history to life with talks and walking tours. A Council that reduced our world respected Kiama Family History (Genealogy) centre, run mainly by volunteers and one paid staff member, from a full time centre to just two hours per week. A Council from what I can see did nothing special, apart from charging volunteers to have talks for this important anniversary. I am hoping Councillors, State and Federal Members question themselves on what ARE they doing to support and protect our precious heritage and history, its buildings, greenspace and

community volunteer groups and respecting what they do and where they do it? If you are new to town or lived here for a little while take some time, when you can, and support our volunteers and Historical Societies. You might be surprised just how many interesting threads are in this tapestry of Kiama. I will finish with a quote from my mother, who took great pride and loved teaching her primary students in the 1970’s and 80’s about the local history (whether it was in the curriculum or not). She was also an inaugural member of the Kiama Historical Society, along with many other caring community members. ‘It is only by understanding people who came before us and how they coped with the problems and events in their lives that the true history of our country can be appreciated.’ -Susan Whalan This letter has been condensed. to read the full article, visit The Bugle App

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ith the reinstatement of Mayor McDonald, the election of new Deputy Mayor, Stuart Larkins and the swearing in of Councillor Stanley Jarrett, this ‘new’ Council is straight into it, beginning the process that will lead to some tough financial decisions. Kiama Council has opened an important conversation about its financial future with the exhibition of its Draft Revenue Improvement Strategy and Draft Strategic Asset Review. These documents are not simply administrative exercises. They raise fundamental questions about what services the community values, how they should be funded and which council assets remain appropriate for public ownership. The need for action is clear. The extension of the Performance Improvement Order issued by the NSW Government, requires Council to identify lawful, recurring revenue opportunities and review its property holdings. The deadline for resolving the financial challenges is the 2027–28 financial year. Council says the problem is part of a wider crisis confronting local government, but given the PIO, the issue is far more pertinent for our community. The Draft Revenue Improvement Strategy canvasses several possibilities, including paid parking for non-residents, revised fees and charges, better commercial returns, property optimisation and potential development or alternative uses for six catalyst sites that are surely on the chopping block. A Special Rate Variation is also included among the options, although Mayor Cameron McDonald has indicated that it is well down his list of preferred solution. This seems a tad bit obvious – advocating for bigger taxes is not exactly a vote winner. The Strategic Asset Review adds another layer to the debate. It asks Council to examine the value, holding costs, constraints and future

potential of its non-core properties. Such a review may uncover opportunities to generate income, but it also carries risks. Selling or repurposing public land has been a controversial position from Council, and it looks like these decisions will only continue. Whilst they can provide short-term relief they will ultimately reduce the community’s options for future facilities, open space, economic development or other opportunities that cannot or will not be delivered by others. Mayor McDonald has spoken of “making the right decisions for the future of Kiama”, a phrase that rightly shifts attention beyond the next budget cycle. The community should welcome that long-term perspective— but insist that it be matched by transparent evidence, independent assessments and clear explanations of how each proposal will affect residents and their quality of life and return on (rates) investment. New Deputy Mayor Stuart Larkins has promised to bring “kindness as well as brave decision making” to the leadership role. That combination will surely be tested. Tough decisions will be unavoidable, but toughness should not mean treating consultation as a formality or assuming residents will accept higher costs, or lesser services, without a convincing case. Residents now have a meaningful opportunity to shape the outcome. We should examine the proposals, attend engagement sessions and ask difficult questions. Council, in turn, must demonstrate that revenue reform will protect essential services – including libraries, youth programs, community facilities and the upgrade to critical infrastructure like the Sports Complex. Kiama’s challenge is to become financially sustainable without sacrificing the community and services that make the municipality worth living in. That will require not only brave decisions, but careful ones.

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25 September - 1 October

TICKLE THE IVORIES AT A NEW PLACE TO PLAY IN KIAMA

Ian Bourne from Kiama Unplugged and Christine Buurman from Epics Music

Myah Garza

here’s a new place to tickle the ivories in Kiama. Kiama Unplugged officially launched its new Community Piano at Burnetts of Barney on Saturday, September 19, giving locals a place to sit down, play a tune or rediscover an instrument they may have left behind years ago. The piano was donated by Epics Music owner Christine Buurman, who came across a call-out for a public piano after upgrading her own instruments. “I was like, I've got this leftover piano,” she said.

The piano was initially planned for Woolworths, but when that fell through it spent some time in the garage of Kiama Unplugged co-founder Ian Bourne before Burnetts was approved as its new home. Piano technician Scott Jackson from The Piano Workshop then tuned the instrument and prepared it for its public debut. For Bourne, the project has brought him back to an instrument he had left behind decades ago. He grew up in England in the 1980s and started piano lessons as a child, but a difficult experience with his teacher saw him lose interest in the instrument. He eventually turned to

the drums and saxophone instead. “I kind of fell out of love with the piano, which is a shame,” he said. It was only decades later, after watching the ABC’s piano program that Bourne began looking at the instrument differently. “I started realising I could see people playing the piano for songs they wanted to play,” he said. “As a child, I was never able to choose the songs either. My piano teacher would make me play The Entertainer like everybody else.” As a pilot, Bourne began finding public pianos during layovers around Australia, using them to

practise while learning to play. That experience eventually helped inspire the idea of bringing a public piano to Kiama. Kiama Unplugged spent about 18 months looking for a suitable home for the piano, with Bourne saying Burnetts stood out because it already brings together gardens, small businesses, art and other ideas. “It has to be somewhere that's looked after and cared for,” he said. “And as you know, when you go to Burnett's, it is more than a garden centre. It's a home to so many little businesses and ideas and art and everything else.” The piano also fits with Kiama Unplugged’s focus on activities that get people away from screens. “It doesn't draw your attention unless you want to be playing it,” Bourne said. “So it's the perfect example of away from a screen.” Buurman said the piano

could give her students a more relaxed place to perform, particularly children who might find playing on Kiama’s main street daunting. She is also hoping to hold a small concert at Burnetts for her adult students, while Kiama Unplugged is exploring the possibility of occasional drop-in piano sessions. Bourne said the hope is that people who have not played for years will feel comfortable sitting down and giving it another go. “I've seen people reconnect or sort of just find that sort of hobby again,” he said. The piano may even get its own name and, eventually, a local artist could be invited to paint it. “This piano is now your piano too,” Burnetts on Barney said in a Facebook post. “Whether you can play one song, a whole set, you’re learning, or you just feel like sitting down and having a go, you are always welcome.”

Jonathan Keenan and Kane Calcite

Brendon Comber and Veronica Bardsley playing Disney songs

Shellharbour student takes centre stage at Bond University’s Indigenous Gala Maria Lewis

rom growing up in Shellharbour unsure of his identity and place in the world, to being on stage in front of hundreds at Bond University’s 2026 Indigenous Gala, Noah Skippen has come a long way since graduating high school in 2024. A prominent local rugby league player previously signed with the St George Illawarra Dragons as a junior, Skippen is now chasing his dreams on the Gold Coast as a scholarship student studying sports and exercise science. “It’s certainly a lot busier up here compared to back home,” he told The Bugle. “But being from the South Coast has given me so much insight into being proud and happy for what you have. “Having those landscapes

and those people around you and those tight knit communities, it makes you really appreciate it when you come to somewhere like this. “You know where your core is and where you belong.” The proud Kamilaroi man was one of four who took to the stage to share their experiences as Indigenous scholarship students during the Gala, which was held at Bond University on Friday, September 18. Beginning in 2010, the Indigenous Gala Kumai Karulbo - has been instrumental in raising over six million dollars for scholarships, grants and bursaries for students like Skippen from around Australia. Award-winning writer, filmmaker and actor Wayne Blair was the keynote speaker, addressing the 500-strong

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crowd about the power of connection, community and having someone in your corner to help tell your stories. “We tell stories,” Blair told The Bugle. “As Indigenous people, it’s in our blood and bones, and it’s important for our own communities to see that up on the big screen. “And it’s important to have the confidence to chase the stories that are important to you and trust your voice as a storyteller. “All of that takes time and it can be really tricky in an industry when you have bills to pay. “For me, it has taken a 20year career to sort all this stuff out, and even then I’m still learning.” Blair, who was one of Bond University’s Artists In Residence, is best known for his versatility as a storyteller,

directing films such as The Sapphires and Logie-award winning TV series Goolagong, while also starring in films like The New Boy and hit series Mystery Road. For Skippen and the other students, getting to hear directly from someone as accomplished as Blair was “beyond inspiring” as he charted his career journey from aspiring Canterbury Bulldogs player to one of the country’s most sought after filmmakers. “Personally, as someone who grew up struggling in their identity and not knowing how to be comfortable and how to be proud of who you are, opportunities like this make me realise that I’m proud of who I am and I always will be,” the 19-year-old said. “Leaving that path for the next generation will always be front of mind.”

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NEWS www.thebuglenews.com.au

25 September - 1 October

Jiu-Jitsu school taking Kiama to the mat Left to right: Coach Shark , Coach Maria Flor Castro, Fernanda Castro, Professor Thiago Machando

Myah Garza

ou don’t have to be the biggest or strongest person in the room to know what to do when conflict may arise. That’s one of the many lessons being taught at Gracie Barra Kiama, where jiu-jitsu is about more than physical strength. The gym is celebrating its second birthday this September, following a strong showing at the recent Gracie Barra National Championship in Sydney. Gracie Barra Kiama sent 31 students to the Nationals, bringing home 14 gold, 12 silver and four bronze medals

and finishing fourth among the Gracie Barra academies competing. For Professor Thiago Machado, who runs the Kiama gym with his wife Fernanda and daughter Maria, the results reflect the discipline students put in every week. Machado moved to Australia from Brazil, where he had already begun practising jiu-jitsu. He later taught in Melbourne and at Gracie Barra Shellharbour before opening the Kiama gym with his family. With 26 years of experience and a second-degree black belt, Machado sees jiu-jitsu as facing off against the toughest opponent: yourself..

“It’s the fight against yourself, how you’re going to deal with the situation, how calm you’re going to be, how much you commit, how much you train,” Machado said. “Not just for the name and to go to the competition, but every day build a little bit more to get there. “That’s us, that’s Jiu-Jitsu.” The studio has grown to around 190 students, ranging from three-year-olds to a 61-year-old, with classes designed for different ages and experience levels. For coach Roarke Hamilton, better known as ‘Coach Shark’, one of the most rewarding parts of teaching is watching students grow in confidence.

He remembers one boy who joined the gym about a year ago who initially struggled to make eye contact. “He’s got such a good little heart, but he’s just a shy little kid,” Shark said. “But he walked in anyway. And he slowly evolved.” Eventually, the boy was helping another shy child who had joined the gym. Classes begin with Tiny Champions for children aged three to five, followed by classes for older children and juniors. Adult classes run throughout the week, including a popular 6am session with Professor John Mion. The gym has also introduced

a women’s-only class after hearing from mothers who felt intimidated by the idea of starting a martial art. The team there said they’ve worked to make the gym a place where people of different ages and experience levels feel comfortable, with many families training together. “We have a lot of families that train with us, like mom, dad, kids,” Machado said. “We always try to be the most familial environment, where everyone is going to feel comfortable.” That can mean parents and children training alongside each other, older students helping younger ones on the mat, or teenagers taking on

responsibilities within the gym. Fernanda says their threeyear-old has already started lessons, same with Shark’s nine-year-old son. “It's important for me as a father to make sure he's got a skill like this,” he said. Gracie Barra Kiama also reminds us that progress in jiu-jitsu doesn’t happen overnight. “It’s not something you’re going to notice straight away,” Fernanda said. “You have to wait, you have to believe in the process. It’s something for a lifetime.” “Commit, train, educate yourself,” Machado added. “It’s day-by-day work.”

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BUSINESS www.thebuglenews.com.au

25 September - 1 October

HOLD YOUR HORSES, A big thank you!

Daisy Spring Festival is back

Myah Garza

orget cows (sorry Daisy!). This year, horses are taking over the Daisy Spring Festival. The annual celebration of art returns to Kiama next week for its third year, with a new animal theme, a new outdoor program and plenty for the whole family to get involved in. Running from October 1 to 7, the festival has grown from an art exhibition into a week long celebration across the Old Fire Station, Joyce Wheatley Community Centre and Hindmarsh Park. Each year, the festival’s art competition takes on a different animal theme – cows in 2024, chickens and ducks in 2025 and now horses, fittingly coinciding with the Year of the Horse. “We change our theme every year, just to make it more interesting,” said Expressive Art Experience founder Michelle Springett. “Surprisingly, people don't want to keep painting cows.” Artists aged from eight to 88 have taken up this year’s challenge, with their work forming the festival’s main exhibition and competition at the Old Fire Station. There are three age categories – 8 to 12 years, 13 to 18 years and adults – with

prize money up for grabs, as well as a People’s Choice Award. Visitors can drop in, check out the artwork and vote for their favourite artwork, with most of the pieces also available to buy. The Old Fire Station will also be home to a live painting project of a different kind. Daisy the Cow, the festival’s namesake, will be given a fresh new look, with a design by The Bugle’s own Tiffany Springett and being painted by the teenage students of Expressive Art Experience during the festival. For those wanting to try their own hand at art, the Joyce Wheatley Community Centre will host drop-in painting sessions from October 1 to 6. No booking or art experience is needed, with canvases from $10 for anyone who wants to sit down and paint for a while. Then, over the October long weekend, the festival offers adult-only classes, heading outside for its firstever plein air program at Hindmarsh Park. The Daisy Spring Festival thanks its sponsors, Sam Scobie from Ray White who is providing all competition prizes, and Destination Kiama for funding the plein air classes. The two-day

program on October 3 and 4 will combine watercolour painting and live music in the park, tranquil surroundings. Tickets are available for those wanting to take part in one of the painting workshops. There will also be two adults-only Paint and Sip evenings, with paletteknife flowers on Saturday night and a Kiama scene on Sunday, using acrylic paint. Families can explore the horse-themed exhibition, cast a vote for their favourite artwork, watch Daisy being painted or simply drop into Joyce Wheatley and have a go themselves. “Be sure to drop in, say hi, vote for your favourite artwork,” Michelle said. The Daisy Spring Festival runs from October 1 to 7. The Old Fire Station exhibition runs until October 7, while the Joyce Wheatley drop-in sessions run from October 1 to 6. The Plein Air program and Paint and Sip events take place over the October long weekend. More information and bookings for the adults-only experiences here: https://www. expressiveartexperience. com/daisy2026

Two-time winner, Isla Do wnes

ix months ago I sat down to write my first piece for this column, unsure on what to write or if anyone would actually bother to stop and read it. I now know the answer, and I want to use this week's space to simply say thank you. Whether I am grabbing a coffee, out at the shops, or pacing on the phone outside the office, people stop me far more often than I ever anticipated to mention that they read the column and ask what is coming next. It happens on the phone too. I'll be halfway through

a call with a client about something else entirely, and they'll mention last week's piece before we've even got to the reason I rang. It catches me a little off guard from time to time and I appreciate it more than I probably show. Writing this column has been a refreshing shift from daily real estate transactions, offering a chance to pull back the curtain on the industry. Taking time each week to share something insightful or helpful has reconnected me with why I love this work. None of it happens without

the team in the office for the occasional idea or the Bugle for giving me constant reminders that I am late. Six months of a column running every week doesn't happen by accident, so thank you to everyone who assists me and for the continued support and for trusting me with the spot. I don't have a grand plan for where this column goes next. Just more of the same next week for as long as people keep reading it and find it helpful. Thank you again! This is paid content.

MUSIC HERE, MUSIC THERE, MUSIC EVERYWHERE FOR KIAMA JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL Maira Lewis

ould there be music here? That’s the question the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival are asking, with postcards appearing around town generating excitement about the 2027 event. Featuring the iconic Kiama Lighthouse on one side and a QR code on the other, it’s prompting the community to get involved in the 40th year of the festival. Running from March 5 to 7, they’re taking expressions of

interest from local businesses and interesting spaces to put their hands up to host music and be part of the event in any way they can. “For 40 years, local venues and unexpected spaces have helped turned out town into a festival,” the postcard reads.

“In 2027, we’re doing it again. “We’re inviting cafes, restaurants, bars, galleries, shops, churches, community spaces, gardens, halls and places we haven’t thought of yet to put their hand up. “You don’t have to be an established music venue. You just need a space, an idea and enthusiasm for being part of it.” Those keen can visit the website – kiamajazzandbluesfestival. com.au – to express their interest or scan the QR code on the pack of the postcards.

THE

BUGLE

k i ds takeover

t e G ready to ! R A RO Dinosaur World comes to a town near you Amy Molloy Get ready for a prehistoric adventure of epic proportions when the international family favourite Dinosaur World Live roars back into Australia this summer, bringing its astonishingly lifelike dinosaurs to stages across the country – including Wollongong. Dinosaur World Live invites young explorers and their families to grab their compasses and join intrepid explorer Miranda on an unforgettable journey through a prehistoric world. Along the way, audiences will come faceto-face with an extraordinary collection of remarkably lifelike dinosaurs, including the undisputed king of the prehistoric world, the Tyrannosaurus Rex. So, what does it take to bring a roarsome show like this to life? We asked Andrew Kay, Producer of Dinosaur World Live, to take us behind the scenes. Can you tell us about the puppets used for the show? The dinosaurs in Dinosaur World Live are life-sized puppets – an incredible feat of puppetry and engineering. The show features a range of dinosaurs, from the tiny Microraptor through to Triceratops, and the enormous Tyrannosaurus Rex. There are no electronics inside the puppets – they are entirely brought to life by the puppeteers using traditional puppetry techniques and intricate mechanisms. The T. Rex is around 10 metres long and takes four

puppeteers to operate. In rehearsal, the puppeteers work on everything from the big movements right down to tiny details such as breathing, blinking and looking around. Those little details are what make the dinosaurs feel so incredibly lifelike! What is the most challenging part of putting on a show like this? Making something this physically enormous feel completely natural and alive. The puppeteers are doing incredibly physical work for the entire 50-minute performance. The performers have to approach the show like athletes with physical warm-ups and a lot of rehearsal. They also need to communicate with each other while they are inside the puppets, sometimes without being able to see one another. But there is another challenge –making the audience believe. For those 50 minutes we want you to imagine you’re travelled back to prehistoric times and are meeting real dinosaurs. When you see the dinosaurs come to life on stage, it’s magical!

Do you have a favourite part of the show? The arrival of the T. Rex is really special. There is such a huge sense of anticipation, and then suddenly this enormous dinosaur appears on stage. The audience reaction is always fantastic! I also love the quieter moments with the smaller dinosaurs. It’s not all about the enormous spectacle – seeing the children react to the baby dinosaurs and getting to interact with them is incredibly lovely. Any message for kids who might be nervous about seeing the show? Absolutely – you don't have to be a dinosaur expert or particularly brave to enjoy Dinosaur World Live. The dinosaurs might look incredibly realistic, but they are puppets, and there are real people inside them bringing them to life. There are a couple of exciting, louder moments – particularly when the T. rex arrives – but you get to help our host Miranda and be part of solving the problem. And if you're feeling a little nervous, remember that these dinosaurs are much more interested in making friends than eating anyone. The show is recommended for children aged three and over, and the 15-minute meet-andgreet after the performance gives everyone the opportunity to meet one of the dinosaurs up close in a much more relaxed way. Dinosaur World Live comes to Wollongong’s IMB Theatre from 12–13 January, as well as other locations across the country. Book now before tickets become extinct! dinosaurworldlive.au

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25 September - 1 October

News you need to know Nippers head back to the beach

Don’t bin your Ooshies! Ooshie fever has swept Australia again – but what are you going to do with all those little plastic characters when the collecting is over? The 2026 range of Ooshies was crafted almost entirely from recycled materials – 97 per cent, in fact. But that doesn’t mean you can pop them in your yellow bin to be recycled again – and that could mean a lot of little figures ending up in landfill. So, what can you do with your unwanted Ooshie extras? Families who find themselves with unwanted Ooshies are encouraged to return them to any Woolworths supermarket until 31 October 2026, where they will be collected for recycling instead of ending up in landfill. Look for the Ooshie collection bins in your local Woolies supermarket. You can also continue to swap them with your friends, pass them on to another collector or think of fun, creative projects using your Ooshies. But not everyone thinks recycling is enough. Some environmental campaigners are calling for supermarkets to stop giving away plastic collectables altogether. There is an online petition calling on Woolworths to stop plastic collectable promotions, with critics arguing that supermarkets should create less plastic. For now, you can play your part – and be a responsible Ooshie owner. Bugle Kids challenge: Before you bin an unwanted Ooshie, see if you can swap it, reuse it or return it.

Aussie birds get jabbed

Nobody loves getting a needle – and apparently Australian birds aren't getting out of it either. Almost 10,000 birds from 162 species are set to be vaccinated as Australia works to protect some of its most precious birdlife from H5 bird flu. The vaccination program began on 17 September and includes some very special patients. Little penguins, swift parrots, regent honeyeaters, orange-bellied parrots and plains-wanderers are among the birds being protected. More than 500 little penguins are expected to be vaccinated in NSW, while Victoria's program includes 1,385 birds from 95 species. Around 350 orange-bellied parrots are also included in Tasmania. Finding, catching and vaccinating millions of wild birds isn't practical, so the program is concentrating on important populations that can be reached and protected. The news comes as Australia responds to the arrival of H5 bird flu, which can spread between birds and has also infected some mammals. There have been cases of bird flu detected in Kiama, but don’t worry – the risk to humans is very low. Still, it’s best to be on the safe side, so if you see a dead bird, please keep your distance. No poking it – even with a stick! And if you're exploring Kiama's beaches these holidays, enjoy watching our feathered neighbours – just give them plenty of space.

School holidays are here, summer is getting closer and that means something else is about to return to Kiama’s Surf Beach: Nippers! Nippers season runs from October to around March – depending on the club – with kids aged five to 14 hitting the sand and surf to learn some seriously useful beach skills. And while there’s plenty of running, swimming, racing and fun with friends, Nippers isn’t just about who can sprint fastest across the sand. The program teaches kids how to become more confident in the ocean and, importantly, how to understand the beach and stay safe. Younger Nippers start with games and basic beach safety, learning things such as what lifesavers do, why sun safety matters, wading through the water, beach sprinting and flags. As kids get older, they build their skills and confidence in the surf. Before the season begins, every Nipper also needs to complete an age-appropriate proficiency swim. (Don’t worry, Kindies, you won’t have to swim out to the rubber duck – we promise.) Here's something cool: Kiama Surf Life Saving Club has been around since 1908 – making it one of Australia's oldest surf clubs.

The government cuts homework

(but there’s a catch)

If you love using a laptop or iPad at school, there are some big changes coming. Public schools in New South Wales are introducing new limits on how much time students spend learning on individual screens – and for younger kids, it could be as little as 15 minutes a day. From next year, Kindy to Year 2 students will be recommended to spend no more than 15 minutes a day using laptops, tablets and desktop computers at school. For Years 3 and 4, it will be up to 30 minutes a day, while Years 5 and 6 will get up to 45 minutes. And there's another change that might make some kids happy: less homework … on screens anyway. “Digital homework” isn't recommended at all for Kindy to Year 4. For older students, devices should only be used for homework when they're considered better for learning than doing the work another way. Of course, there are some great things about tech – and it’s still an important part of learning. The goal is to make sure screens are being used when they actually help – rather than automatically reaching for an iPad. The guidelines start in NSW public schools in 2027.

Kiama has a new Mayor THE BUGLE NEWS

25 September - 1 October

but what does a Mayor actually do? Kiama has a new Mayor! Well, actually, we already had this one. Councillor Cameron McDonald has been elected Mayor of Kiama for another two years, after Kiama’s nine councillors voted on who should get the top job. Maybe you’re wondering: what does a Mayor actually do? First things first, being Mayor doesn’t mean you’re the boss of Kiama. You can’t cancel school, make every day a public holiday or order free ice cream for everyone. (Sorry.) Instead, the Mayor is one of our elected councillors, with some extra responsibilities. The Mayor leads Council meetings, where councillors discuss and vote on decisions that affect our community. And there’s a lot for councils to think about. They look after things you probably use all the time, including parks, playgrounds, libraries, pools, roads and footpaths. Council is also involved in rubbish and recycling, planning, community events and lots more. The Mayor also represents Kiama at events and ceremonies and can speak on behalf of Council when our community needs to be heard. But the Mayor doesn’t make all the decisions alone. Kiama has nine councillors who debate ideas and vote on many of the big decisions. This time, those councillors voted to give Councillor McDonald another two years in the job. Kiama also has a new Deputy Mayor, Councillor Stuart Larkins. The Deputy Mayor can step in when the Mayor isn’t available.

BUGLE KIDS EDITION www.thebuglenewspaper.com.au

Boxout: News for your ears Want to know what’s happening in the world without reading the grown-ups’ news? There are some great podcasts made especially for curious kids. Here are a few to try these school holidays: ABC Kids News Time Perfect for four- to nine-year-olds who want to know more about the world around them. From amazing animals to sensational sports, join Emily Anderson every Monday, Wednesday and Friday to count down the weird and wonderful. Imagine This Not breaking news, but definitely brainboosting content! This science podcast takes questions from curious kids – like how fish breathe underwater, how rainbows are made and, very importantly, what happens to your poo after you flush. It’s recommended for ages four and up. Squiz Kids Want to know what’s going on in the world – without any boring bits? Squiz Kids takes the biggest stories of the day and explains them especially for kids, with plenty of sport, science, animals and fun stuff thrown in too. Plus, there’s a weekly quiz – or “squiz” – and you can challenge a grown-up. BUGLE KIDS TIP: If you hear a story that sounds unbelievable, ask a grown-up to help you check whether it comes from a trustworthy news source.

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Young detectives invited to solve puppet mystery

THE BUGLE NEWS

Unplug and play: 25 September - 1 October

Things to do without a screen Myah Garza What do aspiring puppeteers, Japanese art lovers and mystery fans all have in common? They’ll all be at Shellharbour Civic Centre on Friday, October 2, when Little Wing Puppets brings a day of puppets (obviously), stories and creativity to town. First up is A Little Bit of Blue, an interactive puppet show where you get to help solve a mystery. Mrs Mavis Hooley has a problem – things keep disappearing from her house! Clothes pegs, wool and even cash have all gone missing. But who is taking them? That’s where you come in. Young audience members will become part of the investigation, helping the detective work out what is going on. Along the way, you’ll also meet one of Australia’s most interesting birds – the bowerbird. These clever birds are famous for collecting blue objects to decorate their bowers. The show is performed by puppeteer and Little Wing Puppets Artistic Director Jenny Ellis, who said there’s something special about seeing puppets come to life on stage. “In a time when so much attention is focused on screens, puppet theatre still retains a sense of magic,” she said. “It’s wonderful to hear a room full of children gasp and burst into laughter over the antics of a puppet on stage.” After the show, budding puppeteers can get creative in the Puppetry of Paper Workshop. The workshop explores the Japanese art of kamishibai, a traditional form of storytelling using illustrated paper panels, and gives kids the chance to make and play with their own puppetry creations. A Little Bit of Blue starts at 10am, with the workshop kicking off at 11.30am. Both will be held at the Shellharbour Civic Centre Auditorium. Tickets are available separately, and bookings are essential. More info and bookings here: https://www.shellharbourciviccentre.com. au/whats-on/all-events/a-little-bit-of-bluepuppet-show-and-puppetry-of-paperworkshop/

Myah Garza What did kids do before phones, tablets and video games? They played, made things, explored outside and came up with games of their own! Kiama Unplugged co-founder Jane Bourne says you don’t need anything fancy to have fun away from a screen. In fact, sometimes the simplest ideas are the best. Go exploring Head to a park, forest, beach or even your backyard and see what you can find. You could collect sticks and leaves, make some nature art, build a tiny fairy house or create a home for your favourite toy. “When I took my kids to an actual play park, they didn't play on the park,” Bourne told The Bugle. “They just ran over and made an Eeyore house on the tree.” Her helpful tip? Let your imagination take over. “The more simple and the more child-led you allow it to be, the better,” she advises parents. Build a den Grab some blankets, chairs, cardboard boxes or sticks and build your own secret hideaway. Bourne says her kids love building dens, and her family has even been working on a treehouse. You could make your den into a reading nook, a cubby, a spaceship or anything else you can think of. Make something, anything Dig out cardboard, paper, paint, clay, wool or whatever else you can find. And don’t worry about making it perfect! “There's something really lovely and empowering about making something with your own hands,” Bourne says. You could even try something new, like knitting, woodworking or making something out of clay. Play a game Board games and card games are a great way to get everyone involved — and there are games for all ages. You could try Snap with younger kids, or

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chess, Scrabble, Cluedo or Catan with older kids and teenagers. Bourne’s favourite family game has a very silly name: Go Bum! “It's like Go Fish but with bottoms,” she says. “My children obviously think that's hilarious.” Play together You don't always need to play with people exactly your own age. Bourne says she loves seeing kids of different ages making up their own games together, and sees it happen in her own neighborhood. “They've worked out and decided the rules and everyone's kind of got their place,” she says. So next time you're outside, why not invite a younger sibling, older cousin or neighbour to join in? Take your activity somewhere new You don't have to invent a whole new activity — sometimes you just need a change of scenery. Take your book to the beach. Have a picnic in the park. Bring some colouring pencils outside. Play a board game on the grass. “Changing your space can be very good,” Bourne said. Try something you've never done Ever wanted to learn how to make something from wood? Paint a skateboard? Try felting? Unplugging gives you a chance to try something completely new. “Even if it's not good, even if it's kind of average, I think it can still be a really enjoyable experience,” Bourne says. So give it a go! Get outside For teenagers, Bourne says getting outdoors can be a great way to spend time away from screens too. Go for a walk, swim at the beach, have a picnic or simply sit somewhere with a friend and chat. “I just think anything where you can be doing something with another person, even if it's just kind of side by side,” she says. And remember: you don't need a big plan to unplug. Sometimes all you need is a cardboard box, a patch of grass and a good imagination.

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Mad Major Works mark HSC milestone 25 September - 1 October

Maria Lewis If there has ever been a question about whether school is cool, Warilla High School students are answering it. Year 12 student Lukas Kospic kept things fast and furious by submitting his Major Work for his Industrial Technology – Metals and Engineering class: an elaborate go kart. Ergonomically designed for size and comfort, the go kart includes a 13 horse power engine, a safety roll bar feature and suspension on the front and back. Kospic’s go kart was just one example of the dozens of cool creations students have submitted at Warilla High, with this year’s Major Works ranging from mini bikes to barbecues. “Students developed projects with increasingly specialised and purposebuilt applications, demonstrating greater independence in identifying design problems and developing appropriate solution,” said Warilla High School Principal Jennifer Lawrence. “Each project has been individually designed and manufactured by the students, allowing them to develop practical skills in metal fabrication, machining, welding,

finishing and assembly.” The go karts, barbecues and mini bikes are just a handful of what students across the state submitted as their Major Works ahead of forthcoming HSC exams. With written tests beginning on Tuesday, October 13 and finishing Thursday, November 5, NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar took a moment to congratulate students on completing the practical component of their HSC. “These works represent months, and in many cases years, of dedication, creativity, persistence and skill,” he said. “Behind every performance, project and piece of work are early mornings, late nights, countless rehearsals and drafts, and the unwavering support of teachers, school leaders, support staff, families and friends. “Our students should be proud of what they have achieved. They have shown the determination and creativity that make our public schools so special. “As they turn their attention to the final stage of the HSC, our teachers and staff will continue to support, encourage and challenge them to finish strongly.” With English Paper 1 the first exam, HSC results and ATARs will be released on Wednesday, December 16.

Gerringong tackles the big time

KIDS KIDS DISCO DISCO

COLOURING COMPETITION Winners announced Friday 30th October

Thursday 1st October 5:00pm Free Entry!

KIDS Friday 2nd October 11am Free Entry! 109 TERRALONG STREET, KIAMA VISIT KIAMALEAGUES.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION

AT KIAMA LEAGUES CLUB

COLOURING COMPETITION Winners announced Friday 30th October

Halloween MUSIC BINGO

Maria Lewis The stage was set for an epic showdown last week when Gerringong Public School and Naraweena Public School faced off in the 2026 Classic Shield Rugby League Final. Ultimately, Naraweena came away with the win over Gerringong with a final score of 46 to 10 at the Tuesday game, but the end result didn’t take away from the school’s extraordinary journey to the finals. In the early rounds, Gerringong faced immense pressure with two matches pushing into extra time and decided by dramatic golden point victories, showcasing their passion and commitment to battling it out until the very end. They triumphed over several formidable opponents, including Minnamurra, Dapto, Milton, Mudgee, and Camden South Public

Schools, with each win highlighting their tactical prowess and unyielding team spirit. Gerringong Public School’s also stood out from the pack with a unique coach in Principal Goldthorp, who helped establish them as a powerhouse in this year’s competition. “Friends laugh when they hear I am the coach of this remarkable team,” she said. “When I leave for work in the morning, I say to my husband ‘see you after footy training’ and he replies ‘see you after yoga’ - I think the roles have been reversed. “However, I’m just lucky and blessed to have two amazing dads who have selflessly volunteered their time to be the unofficial coaches of the boys. “Coach Dave Cummins and Coach Pete Rackemann have been amazingly positive and brilliant role models to our boys.

Wednesday 28th October 7:00pm Free Entry! Family Friendly

KIDS HALLOWEEN

DISCO

Thursday 29th October 6:00pm Free Entry!

109 Terralong Street, Kiama VISIT KIAMALEAGUES.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION

“They have encouraged skill work, respect for one another, the opposition, and referees. “Above all, they have encouraged the boys to have fun.” Despite not walking away with the 2026 Classic Shield Rugby League Final win, Principal Goldthorp said she was very proud of the boys who “never gave up, despite the tough competition”.

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Kids colouring page

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25 September - 1 October

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BUGLE KIDS EDITION www.thebuglenewspaper.com.au

25 September - 1 October

Five family-friendly water adventures Emily Crisp As the days get warmer, you don’t always need big waves or deep water to enjoy a day beside the water. Sometimes the best adventures involve paddling at the edge, hunting for tiny treasures, building an enormous sandcastle or finding a shady spot for a picnic. These five South Coast locations offer plenty for kids to see and do, whether you want to practise on a boogie board, become a rainforest explorer or pretend you are a pirate searching for treasure. Water conditions can change quickly, particularly near river and lagoon entrances. Always stay with an adult and check the weather, tides and currents before entering the water.

Nellies Glen, Budderoo National Park

Little Lake, Warilla At the southern end of Warilla Beach, Little Lake is a great spot to spread out a picnic rug and spend a few hours beside the water. Explore the rocks, dig for buried treasure or take a boogie board and practise balancing in the shallows. You could draw a treasure map in the sand, create a trail for your family to follow or hold a competition to find the most interesting shell. If you have a stand-up paddleboard, it can also be a good place to practise with an adult when the water is calm.

On a hot day, become a rainforest explorer at Nellies Glen. The trees provide plenty of shade and the natural swimming hole beneath the waterfall is a refreshing place for a dip, although the water can be very cold. Look for colourful fungi and orchids, listen for birds calling from the trees or search for the blue objects collected by a satin bowerbird. The rocks can be slippery and getting in and out of the water may be tricky, so stay close to an adult.

Little Beach, Gerroa Little Beach sits near the mouth of Crooked River at the northern end of Seven Mile Beach. Bring your buckets and spades and see who can build the biggest castle before the tide reaches it. Add towers, a winding moat, a bridge and a few tiny flags made from leaves and sticks. When conditions are calm, you can paddle with an adult or play on the sand before mum or dad heads to The Blue Swimmer for a coffee and delicious treat.

Werri Lagoon, Gerringong JOIN KIAMA SWIM CLUB TODAY Kiama Swim Club is a welcoming community for swimmers of all ages and abilities to build confidence, chase personal bests and enjoy swimming their way. Choose to swim Friday Night Pointscore, carnivals, or both.

All Ages & Abilities

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Head to the northern end of Werri Beach and you’ll find Werri Lagoon, with plenty of sand to explore when the tide is low. Pretend you have been stranded on a desert island and use driftwood and seaweed to build a shelter or base. You could use sticks to create an enormous sign in the sand or go searching to find the perfect place to hide your treasure. The current near the lagoon entrance can become strong when the tide changes, so check with an adult before going into the water.

Boneyard, Kiama Carnivals & Competition

Supportive Community

Boneyard is the perfect place to pretend you are a pirate searching for treasure along the shore. Carefully explore the rocks and see if you can spot tiny fish, crabs, shells or other marine creatures. Make a list of everything you discover or invent a pirate story about how your treasure ended up at Boneyard. Remember to look without touching or taking anything home. The beach is rocky and unpatrolled, so wear sturdy shoes, stay with an adult and pack a hat, sunscreen and drinking water.

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BUGLE KIDS EDITION www.thebuglenewspaper.com.au

25 September - 1 October

Swim.Race.Belong. in Kiama

Emily Crisp For Kiama children who enjoy swimming and would like to try racing, Kiama Swim Club offers an accessible way to take that next step while remaining part of their local community. Kiama Swim Club complements the Learn to Swim and swimming squad programs operated separately by Kiama Leisure Centre, providing swimmers with opportunities to practise in a race environment, take their skills into competition, represent Kiama, and enjoy the experience of being part of a team. The club welcomes swimmers across different ages and abilities, from children curious about competitive swimming to experienced athletes representing Kiama at regional, state and national championships. Kiama Swim Club president Nathan Haythorpe said helping children make the transition into

racing was an important part of the club’s role. “Taking part in a first carnival can be a little daunting, so helping swimmers make that transition is incredibly important,” Nathan said. “Carnivals build confidence, resilience and race experience while giving swimmers a chance to represent their club and be part of a team environment, which we are big about at KSC.” Children can begin through the club’s Friday night Pointscore program, where they gain racing experience in a supportive, lowpressure environment before progressing to larger carnivals if they choose. The emphasis is not solely on results, with the club encouraging participation, enjoyment and personal improvement. This year, 12 young swimmers attended carnivals for the first time, joining a club that has celebrated one of its strongest

years in more than a decade. The club has also been named a finalist in the NSW Swimming Regional Club of the Year award, recognition it says reflects its performance and growth over recent years and the contributions of the entire club community. Kiama Swim Club was represented at SESA, Country, State and National competitions and finished third overall at the SESA Winter Championships in Batemans Bay, where 18 swimmers represented the club. “What’s most impressive is that we are seeing strong performances across all age groups and abilities, from our developing swimmers through to those competing at state and national level,” Nathan said. While swimming is often considered an individual pursuit, joining a club gives children the chance to race as part of a team, form friendships and represent their local community.

The club’s motto, “Swim. Race. Belong.”, reflects its focus on making swimmers and their families feel welcome. “We want every swimmer to feel supported, whether they’re chasing national qualifying times or simply developing skills and confidence in the water,” Nathan said. “Families are encouraged to be involved, friendships are formed poolside, and swimmers learn valuable life skills such as commitment, teamwork and sportsmanship.” With a new Friday night Pointscore competition, carnivals and club events ahead, Kiama Swim Club is hoping to welcome more local children and families during the summer season. Anyone interested can find Kiama Swim Club on Facebook or Instagram, or email kiamaswim@ gmail.com.

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25 September - 1 October

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Fairy special film screening at Fillmore’s Maria Lewis

iama’s natural beauty and a filmmaker’s childhood home have become the inspiration for an award-winning short film described as “Fern Gully meets Alice in Wonderland”. Having worked as a cinematographer in the film industry for almost a decade, Rose Newland got to make her directorial debut with Faye: a fantastical, environmental fable she filmed in Foxground with a crew of other budding local filmmakers. “We shot the main forest and fey realm scenes on my parents beautiful rainforest property in Foxground,” Newland told The Bugle. “I grew up and wrote the film there, so it holds a special magical place in my heart. “Our other forest location - the ‘infected forest’ - was Purrungully Park, which is one of a few endangered lowland grassy woodlands in the Illawarra. “This was an amazing addition as it grounded the film’s eco narrative within a real world threatened environment. “We are so lucky to have been able to film there. “Purrungully also has

quite a different look to my parents property so it added yet another layer of magic to the film as the protagonist is transported between two distinct local forests.” Winning a script competition hosted by Screen Illawarra and Creative Wollongong, Faye was supported by the Guardians of the Grassy Woodlands project which aims to bring awareness to local environmental conservation – issues Newland cares deeply about. “It’s Fern Gully meets Alice in Wonderland vibes,” she said. “A burnt-out PR executive for a fossil fuel company flees a toxic waste scandal, only to be confronted by fey forest guardians and forced to reckon with the damage her work has caused. “My local area is such a huge source of inspiration in my work so to be able to both make the film and showcase it here is such a blessing.” Written, directed and produced by Newland, she was joined by a host of local creatives from the area including her longtime collaborator Naomi Bird who served as co-writer on Faye. “Rose and I work really well together, we complement each other because my

strengths are not hers and her strengths are not mine,” Bird told The Bugle. “But also, we’re both women supporting women: most of the cast and crew on Faye were female and that’s really important to us. “We don’t compete with each other, we support.” The 14-minute film is screening at Fillmore’s for free on Thursday, October 8 alongside five other short films from South Coast creatives that all share one signature theme: birds. Chair of Screen Illawarra Nick Bolton said the evening is part of what will be an ongoing monthly night at the popular Kiama venue, which will include networking for local screen creatives, in conversations with industry practioners and film screenings. “We had the Creative Wollongong Short Film Festival in March with all these amazing films, so we thought why not put on a night where we can screen them and have the filmmakers get up to do a talk after each one,” he said. “It’s going to be a great night and we encourage anyone to come along, whether they’re interested in working in the film industry, currently working in it, or just interested

in watching some great local films. “It’s going to be a monthly event Fillmore’s will run and we’ll be a partner and there’s already a list of feature films that have been made locally, which they’ll be screening. “First time filmmakers often approach us and say ‘hey, we’ll be in the area, can we put on a screening with you?’ “So now we can say yeah, do Wollongong at the Gala Cinema, do Kiama at Fillmore’s, there’s the cinema in Milton, there’s now a nice little South Coast tour these filmmakers can go on for the DIY feature distribution model.” For Newland, she hopes that the more regular screening nights will help spotlight the growing South Coast screen industry. “We have a really great local film community here thanks to Screen Illawarra and we have so many gorgeous locations to showcase on screen,” she said. “I’d love to see our local industry grow.” Tickets to the short film screening evening at Fillmore’s are free and can be reserved online at: https:// events.humanitix.com/shortfilm-screening-wgfut2n7

Dust and Drinks Sat 26 Sep, 1pm-2:30pm Gerringong Library Stories of Life in Birdsville Denim Delights Sat 26 Sep, 9am-12pm Expressive Art Experience, Kiama Downs Paint on your denim jacket Beading Workshops for Kids Sat 26 Sep-Fri 9 Oct The Bead Shack, Gerringong Create a beading masterpiece Jamberoo Village Markets Sun 27 Sep, 8am-2pm Reid Park, Jamberoo Berry Village Market Sun 27 Sep, 10am-3pm Berry Bowling Club Music in the Park Sun 27 Sep, 1pm-5pm Hindmarsh Park Free event showcasing local musicians Minnamurra Rainforest by Torchlight Thu 1 Oct, 6pm Minnamurra Rainforest Family-guided adventure after dark Drop in art with Expressive Art Experience Thu 1 Oct-Tue 6 Oct Joyce Wheatley Building, Kiama Buy a canvas, stay for a while and paint Horizontal Festival Fri 2 Oct Bowral wine makers, tasting bars, live music and new free precincts Kiama Trading Card Expo Sat 3 Oct, 10am-4pm Kiama Leagues Club Up to 28 vendor tables featuring collectibles to buy,sell or trade Bundanon Artists and

Makers Market Sat 3 Oct, 9am Bundanon Art Museum Variety of art stalls selling homemade goods Daisy Spring Festival Sat 3 Oct-Sun 4 Oct Old Fire Station, Kiama Live music, workshops, interactive art Kiama Vintage Fair Sat 3 Oct- Sun 4 Oct, 9:30am-3:30pm Masonic Hall, Kiama Vintage treasures, free entry and live music Monsters and Myths Children’s Writing Workshop Thu 8 Oct, 10am Bundanon Art Museum Creative writing workshop with Sue Whiting Parkour Workshop with Dauntless Movement Crew Thu 8 Oct, 1pm-3pm Bundanon Art Museum Hands-on coaching for all abilities October breast cancer awareness Fri 9 Oct, 10am-2pm Edessa Arcade Kiama Shop local and donate for breast cancer Nature Walk by Crooked River Estate Sat 10 Oct, 8:30am Crooked River Estate, Gerringong Nature walk with insight of the Estate Kiama Culture Festival Sat 10 Oct, 11am-5pm Hindmarsh Park, Kiama Live dance, music, handson activities, family-friendly fun Bollywood Night Wed 14 Oct, 5pm-8pm Kiama Downs Surf Club Dj, Henna, Buffet with By The Sea Takeaway

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25 September - 1 October

Bowlo is breast for raising awareness

out & A about

Kiama’s leadership sets priorities at Mayoral Breakfast

iama business network members attended a breakfast at the Sebel 24 September to hear how Kiama’s mayoral team has set out its priorities for the next two years, including financial recovery, housing, business

20 minute screening could save your life. That’s the message BreastScreen NSW’s mobile van has been trying to impart after pulling up in Gerringong on September 10. Staying on site at the Gerringong Bowlo car park, the bright pink van is hard to miss – as modelled by CEO Nathan Lawrence. The Bowlo has also been raising money for those

fighting breast cancer with their Friday night meat raffle and will donate $2000 to the initiative on Friday, October 2 when the van wraps its local run. BreastScreen NSW’s mobile van is designed to encourage women to book an appointment, come in and get screened, with women aged 50 to 74 are encouraged to have a breast screen every two years.

growth and stronger advocacy ahead of the March state election. Read what Mayor Cameron McDonald, Deputy Mayor Stuart Larkins and Cr Melinda Matters had to say on The Bugle App.

wenty new citizens officially became Australians last Thursday at the Kiama Pavilion, with newly elected Deputy Mayor Stuart Larkins welcoming them in his first official mayoral duty. "To be part of this ceremony is a humbling experience, just to see the commitment and the pleasure of everyone here taking part in the event, along with joining with families, friends and the

A splash of colur at the KBN Mayoral breakfast. The shoes matter

from Shoalhaven Cancer Care Centre in Nowra. Providing counselling to patients and their carers to help them adjust to their diagnosis, Kylie spoke about not just her role but what the club’s donations have been going towards. While the centre is government funded, Gerringong Rotary’s fundraising efforts have helped create an improved experience for patients like better tea and coffee and boomerang bags with useful contents like hand cream, moisturiser, puzzle books, neck pillows and more to make people more comfortable when undergoing treatment.

PUBLIC NOTICE. Know All Earthlings By These Presents, Greetings Notice To Agent Is Notice To Principal, Notice To Principal Is Notice To Agent that i, john robert lamont©, not presumed dead or lost at sea, who was born a free permanent living soul, and a Pre-1973 private inhabitant, NonAustralian Citizen/NonResident, with Hague Apostille Treaty Number 2025/4935, has exercised his right of nationality pursuant to the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights and has elected to divorce and separate himself from the presumption of Australian citizenship on the 6th day of the 1st moon/month in the Adamic year 5,998, and has opted out of the provincial territorial jurisdiction of Australia as a citizen as expressed in the document entitled “Notice of Repatriation and Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Relations”, Registered Mail number: RR161046836AU, ISBN: 978-1-7638450-0-8

BUNDANON ARTISTS AND MAKERS MARKET SATURDAY 3 OCTOBER 10AM - 3PM

Illustration: Eloise Myatt

BUZZING BUSY WEEK FOR GERRINGONG ROTARY

wider community,” he said. Each new citizen was announced, presented with a certificate and photographed to mark the occasion. Many brought their families and friends along to celebrate, with the excitement palpable throughout the ceremony. Then came the pledge, followed by the Australian National Anthem and, bada bing, bada boom — 20 new Australians! Congratulations to everyone!

B.A.M.M

KBN Greg Lanford with Liberal candidate for Kiama Serena Copley and Council CEO Jane Stroud

erringong Rotary was abuzz to be presented with the Mosquito Sheild by their District Governor Elect, Gary Davis, from Woden last week. The Australian Rotarians Against Malaria (ARAM) award is presented to the club that makes the highest per capita donation towards eliminating malaria in our region. The club said they were “thrilled to be recognised” and proud to be part of the gradual elimination of malaria in the Pacific region. It was a busy week for Gerringong Rotary, who also had a guest speaker in oncology social worker, Kylie,

NEW CITIZENS CALL KIAMA HOME

THE BUGLE NEWSPAPER

PUZZLES www.thebuglenewspaper.com.au

25 September - 1 October

PUZZLES

DOWN

1 Paroxysm (6) 2 West Asian salt lake (4,3) 3 Device that reads bar codes (7)

4 Source (4) 5 Be full of censure (10) 6 Preserved with sugar syrup (7)

7 Talk (7) 8 Extremely hot (8) 13 American theatrical institution (10)

16 Circus (8) 18 Sharp-cornered (7) 19 House (7) 20 Common crumble ingredient (7)

21 Blasphemous (7) 22 Thin outer coating (6) 25 A goddess (4)

9-LETTER

14 15 17 19 23 24

Blonde (4-6) Prefix expressing negation (3) – – mode (1,2) Corpse-like (10) Pessimistic (8) Parakeet (6)

No. 352

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

Today’s Aim: 11 words: Good 16 words: Very good

E B

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

F A O Y R N W S K Q U B J

11 9

V X T

21 19

17 16

4 3

15 14

MEDIUM

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

D G C E M L

EASY

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

7 12

26 21

10 4

2. How many cards are in a standard deck of cards? 3. True or false: in Greek mythology, Cupid is the god of love? 4. Which arm on the Statue of Liberty is raised to hold up a torch? 5. What kind of animal is Stuart Little?

RARES SEARS SOLOS SORTS SPITE STOPS SWATS SWOON TACIT TOGAS TOWER TRAPS WORSE

8 LETTERS AVOCADOS FORBORNE FOREWENT LICENSES

6 LETTERS BAMBOO GLASSY MOSTLY NOISES POSTAL REASON 7 LETTERS ATHLETE CENTRES SAUTEED SIESTAS STOREYS UNCLEAR

10 LETTERS REDESIGNED SUBSTANCES

No. 351

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

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

R N

7. Which Marvel superhero does Tom Holland (pictured) play? 8. Name the author of To Kill A Mockingbird. 9. In the solar system, which is the fifth planet from the sun? 10. Which country is the movie Slumdog Millionaire set in?

6. How many wings does a ladybug have?

MEDIUM

7 6

6 9 7

6 4 1

8 9

4 3 6

9 5 4

3 5 7 8 3

2509 | PUZZLES AND PAGINATION ©

WORD SEARCH

QUICK QUIZ 1. What colour is amethyst?

SUDOKU

A R R OW

EASY

4 LETTERS DOVE EAST HEMP INTO LOAN MESH ORES SARI TEES TSAR

5 LETTERS ABOUT ABOVE ACHES AGONY AREN’T ARROW ARSON BASIL CIDER CLAIM CLANG EMIRS ENACT ENTER ESSAY GAMER GANGS GONNA INANE LITRE LYRES MEANT METRE MOLAR MOTTO NODES NOTED OKRAS OPERA OVENS OVERT PANEL PEEVE PESTS RADII

2 4

12 4

25 3

4 15

4 18

SOLUTIONS

22 words: Excellent

CODEWORD No. 342 15 6

SOLUTION

Seconds (5) Ridiculously absurd (9) Jewelled head ornament (5) Release (9) Cover (6) Looking at the positives (8)

1 4 9 10 11 12

beer, bell, belle, bole, bore, heel, heeler, hell, HELLEBORE, hello, herb, here, hero, hole, holler, leer, lobe, lore, rebel, reel, robe, role

ACROSS

3 LETTERS AGE AGO AIM ASH AVO COL DEN EKE EVE GUT HAT ILL IMP INN IRE NEE ONE PEA PRO RUB SIR UTE

No. 261

SOLUTION

26 Items of great worth (9) 27 Confuse (5) 28 Bulkiness (9) 29 Purchaser (5)

WORDFIT

SOLUTION

No. 352

No. 262

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

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

ACCUSED

COUNSEL

OATH

ACQUIT

CRIME

PLEA

AFFIDAVIT

CROSS

REMAND

APPEAL

DUTY

SECURITY

ATTORNEY

EVIDENCE

SENTENCE

BAIL

FAMILY

SUIT

BAR

FINE

SUPREME

BENCH

HEARING

TRIAL

CASE

JAIL

VERDICT

CHAMBER

JUDGE

WIG

CIVIL

JURY

CONVICT

JUSTICE

SECRET MESSAGE: If there were no bad people, there would be no good lawyers

CROSSWORD

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

ANSWERS: 1. Purple 2. 52 3. False, Eros is 4. Right 5. Mouse 6. Four 7. Spider-Man 8. Harper Lee 9. Jupiter 10. India

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TRADES www.thebuglenews.com.au

25 September - 1 October

KIAMA SMASH REPAIRS MARKS 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS T wenty years ago, 21 Barney Street was little more than a bare shed. But Jonathan Britten saw an opportunity. He began with two straightforward goals: pay the rent and pay the wages. Two decades of hard work later, Kiama Smash Repairs has become an established local business, recently celebrating its 20th anniversary with an open day and car show. For many locals, Jonathan needs little introduction. Before building his reputation in the automotive

industry, he played rugby league for the Illawarra Steelers. These days, the tackling looks a little different. Instead of bringing down opposing players, Jonathan and his team tackle damaged panels, collision repairs and vehicle restorations. While he may have hung up his boots, he has never stopped putting in the hard yards. The anniversary celebration brought the community together at the Barney Street workshop on 19 September. Visitors enjoyed a

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display of vehicles, including classic cars, along with a sausage sizzle, coffee van and giveaways. The open day gave

Jonathan and his team an opportunity to thank the loyal customers and wider Kiama community who have supported the business

throughout its two decades. From humble beginnings in an empty shed to celebrating 20 years in business, Kiama Smash

Repairs has shown that persistence, community support and plenty of hard work can go a long way.

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25 September - 1 October Grand final captains Tom Angel (right) and Josh Sainsbury (left). Photo Group 7 Rugby League

he Kiama Knights are just 80 minutes away from ending a 78-year wait for back-to-back first grade premierships. If the Knights defeat Albion Park Oak Flats Eagles in the Group 7 grand final this weekend, it will be the first time the club has won consecutive first grade premierships since 1948. “It’d be pretty huge,” said Knights co-coach Matt O’Brien. “The last time it was done was just after World War Two.” After defeating the Shellharbour Sharks 16-4 to claim the 2025 Group 7 premiership, the Knights have come from third position on the ladder to earn their place in the 2026 grand final - and are now just one win away from making club history. Standing in their way are minor premiers Albion Park Oak Flats Eagles, who were among the favourites to win the competition this season following the addition of former NRL half Drew Hutchinson. But the Knights have already shown they can handle the Eagles, having faced them twice in the past month and come away with victories on both occasions. O’Brien said he and fellow co-coach Steve Ross are simply asking the players to stick to the formula that has taken them this far. “They’re a close-knit team, they’re all mates and that plays a part. But honestly, I just think they’re competitive. They are so, so competitive and they never give up,” O’Brien said. “We've just got to be us. That’s what I'm after - just keep being us. Keep doing the things that we’ve been doing well for us the last eight weeks. “We limit our errors and defend well. That's probably the key things we're looking for, and I think we’re in for a red-hot chance.” Halfway through the season, the Knights' hopes looked a little dim after they suffered a loss to lower-placed Jamberoo Superoos. But they turned things around during the back end of the season, with O’Brien pointing to several players who stepped up when the team needed them.

“This year, guys that have stood up were probably Toby Lane - he's been a big one for us. But then some of the young fellas that filled in throughout the year as well, like Oliver Miles and Kynan Good,” he said. “We had a lot of injuries and some people being away, so to have guys like that step up for us was huge.” Their opponents have been one of the competition's standout sides in 2026, with the Eagles remaining undefeated until just a few weeks ago. O’Brien said the Knights would not be taking them lightly. “You don't lose three games all year if you're a bad footy team. They've got quality players in all their positions,” he said. “Their middles are going to be up for a big game. They've got a really good dummy half. “Obviously now they've got their class in Drew, and I think Leroy Murray, who's playing five-eighth, is a really classy player. He's got a lot of skill about him. He's got a really nice pass, good kicking game and he's a good runner. “And then their outside backs are big and strong. You've got Jack Talbott, who's got speed at fullback, so it's going to be a hell of a game.” One of the key problems O’Brien identified from the Knights' most recent clash with the Eagles two weeks ago was the number of errors they made in their own half. “Yeah, we definitely can't afford to put ourselves under pressure in our half of the field, especially in a grand final,” O’Brien said. “If we give them set starts or scrums or penalties or good field position, they've just got too many good players that they're going to crack you eventually. “We've just got to limit where we give them the ball. We can't let Drew and Talbott and their outside backs get going - otherwise they’re just going to pull us apart.” Kick-off for the Group 7 first grade grand final is at 3pm at Centenary Park on Saturday. Eighty minutes later, the Knights will know whether they have accomplished something the club has not achieved since 1948 - consecutive first grade premierships.

Photo: Brian Scott

Kiama kicks off a festival of football

Kiama Knights set to break 78year record Lleyton Hughes

21 |

thebuglenews.com.au • THE BUGLE NEWSPAPER

Lleyton Hughes

ore than 800 young footballers descended on Kiama over the weekend as the Sydney FC Kiama Football Festival brought teams from across New South Wales together for a weekend of grassroots football. Now in its fourth year, the festival was held at Kiama Sports Complex two weekends ago, with 84 teams travelling from Sydney, regional NSW and as far west as Bathurst to take part. For Kiama Junior Football Club president Ben Morgan, the event has continued to grow since it was first held as a male-only festival four years

ago. “The first year was male only and then the last three years have expanded to female and mixed,” Morgan said. “It’s getting a good reputation. People are coming from all over the state, with teams from Sydney, out west and down south. “There’s a real nice atmosphere out there and we really try to target those grassroots clubs. It’s a great way to finish the year.” The festival saw teams from Under 7s through to Under 12s take part in six-a-side games, with each team playing six games across the weekend. There were also dedicated girls' competitions, with the event giving young players the opportunity to face teams they would not normally come up against during their regular seasons. Morgan said the festival had developed a different feel compared to a traditional football gala day. “Everyone really enjoys it. There’s a good feel to it,” he said. “It feels more like a festival than a gala day. There’s something special to it.” The festival also featured

appearances from Sydney FC players Marcel Tisserand and Indiana Dos Santos, who met young players and signed boots, shirts and other items. “We had players coming down to the festival two weeks ago and they all came back with their boots signed, their shirts signed, etc. They get so excited and it keeps them interested in the game,” he said. Kiama Junior Football Club has also developed a strong relationship with Sydney FC outside of the festival, with the two clubs now officially partnered. For Morgan, the connection provides local players with an opportunity to feel part of the wider professional game despite being based on the South Coast. “It gives them a sense of belonging to a club as we’re not that close to Sydney,” he said. “It’s awesome for them to be able to recognise that there’s an Australian competition, as it doesn’t get as much coverage as the NRL. The partnership has already included skills and coaching sessions earlier this year, while Kiama teams have also been given opportunities to take part in Sydney FC match-

day experiences. On October 25, players from the club will travel to a Sydney FC home game, with every festival participant receiving free entry and discounted tickets available for parents. Eight Kiama teams will also take part in a halftime game, while another team has been selected to act as player mascots. All of the participating players will also have the opportunity to take part in a lap of the stadium. “For us, it’s great to have this event in our backyard,” he said. With the festival continuing to grow, Kiama Junior Football Club is already looking at ways to expand it further next year. “We’re hoping to expand next year,” he said. “We had 84 teams this year and we’re already looking at how we can expand.” For Kiama Junior Football Club, the festival is not only about bringing hundreds of young players to the area, but also about giving them an opportunity to experience football outside of their usual competitions. “It’s just a perfect way to finish the year,” he said.

Kiama Power women fall short in inaugural season grand final Lleyton Hughes

he Kiama Power women's reserve grade side has fallen just short of a premiership in their inaugural season, going down 40-21 to the Northern District Tigers in the grand final two weeks ago. The Power went into halftime locked at 7-7 before edging ahead at threequarter time, leading 2120 and putting themselves within striking distance of an unbelievable grand final victory. But the Tigers found another gear in the final quarter, putting on 20 unanswered points to run away with the premiership. Despite the loss, senior women's coach Anthony Brady said he could not have been prouder of the way the team performed throughout their first season. “While we didn’t get the result, we couldn’t be any prouder of the way the girls competed and represented themselves and the club,” Brady said. “It was such an even game throughout and it was looking promising when we were up by a point at threequarter time. “In the end, the difference was only a few moments in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately for us, Norths used the ball a little better than we did when they had their chances, which helped them skip away.” The grand final capped off an impressive first season for

the Power, with the reserve grade side starting round one with just 13 players and maintaining winning form all the way through to the grand final. For Brady, the progress of the women's program throughout the season has provided plenty of reason for optimism heading into 2027. “There is so much pride and belief in our women’s group which will really set us up well as we head into 2027 and look to build on what we achieved this year,” he said. “It speaks volumes that our reserves team started the season in round one with 13 players and maintained winning form all year to the grand final.” The Power's success was not limited to their reserve grade side either, with the club's Premier Division team also enjoying a strong season. “In Premier Division, we were the only team besides the runners-up to defeat the premiers this year, so that will give us a huge confidence boost for next season,” he said. The future of the women's program is also looking promising, with Kiama's under-17 girls claiming their own grand final victory this season. “Our under-17s girls won their grand final this year and we’ve already seen a handful of that team play seniors already, so our squad for next season is already looking promising,” he said. While the Power were

unable to finish their inaugural reserve grade season with a premiership, the grand final appearance

has given the club a strong foundation to build on as they look towards next season.

The inaugural Kiama Power women’s reserve grade grand finalists. Photo Kiama Power

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The Kiama Netball Association U13 champions. Photo: Mitch Von Borstel

Kiama netball celebrates strong season with grand final day Lleyton Hughes

iama Central Netball Club has wrapped up another strong season, with grand finals held over the weekend across the association's different age groups. The day saw plenty of closely contested games, with clubs from across the competition battling it out for their respective premierships. Acting president Rhonda Beedles said the season had been a strong one across the association, with plenty of competitive games throughout the year. “It was pretty well contested across the day,” Beedles said. “Some finals went down to the wire and some featured upsets against dominant teams. It was a really great weekend.” The competition this year

featured players from moddies through to seniors, with teams competing across the 10 years, junior, intermediate, cadet and senior age groups. Beedles said the association had enjoyed a strong season across the board, including at representative level. The under-15s finished as runners-up, while the under-14s finished third on percentage after sharing top spot on points with three other teams. The under-13s went one better, winning their division, while the under-12s finished fifth in Division 2. “It was a good season across the board for the association, and it remained strong and competitive with other associations in the state,” Beedles said. The grand final day also saw the association present its annual awards, including

an upgraded coaches' award which was named in honour of life member Jan Gottry. There was also a strong showing from the association's young umpires, with a number of girls earning their badges throughout the season. While the season largely followed the association's usual format, there are already plans for some changes heading into 2027. New court surfaces are being considered during the off-season, with Fast5 circles also set to be added to the courts. That could eventually open the door for Kiama Netball Central to run its own Fast5 competition. The association also continues to hold strong numbers despite increasing competition from other sports traditionally associated with male participation.

THE SOCIAL

While the association has maintained its numbers, there will be some changes heading into next season, including potentially some new committee members. For Beedles, the end of the season was also the end of a short return to the association's executive, after she stepped in as acting president in July. She was approached to help guide the association through the final stages of the season, including grand finals, representative teams and the upcoming AGM. “I knew that they already had about four people on the committee that weren't there last year and they approached me if I could come on board to help finish off the season for them,” Beedles said. “I was able to guide them through and they all pitched in and supported me, so that was really good.”

netball locally without having to travel to the Illawarra or Shoalhaven. Beedles said she wanted to make sure the work that had been put into the association over the past four decades continued into the future. “I wanted to make sure it didn't fall apart at this point in time,” she said. “It's something that a lot of people over a lot of years have put time and effort in and netball is such a great game for anybody. “I wanted to make sure they had a really good finish and I think they all did that pretty well.” With strong numbers, representative success, young players coming through and new umpires earning their badges, Beedles believes Kiama netball is in a good position to move into its next chapter.

Beedles said she had enjoyed being back in a more hands-on role, despite the extra work that came with it. “It's good to see the girls and you have that closer involvement in what's going on,” she said. “There's always a challenge here or there with little things that are happening and trying to get things organised. But we got through it.” But there was a bigger reason behind Beedles' decision to step back into the role this year. Kiama Netball Central is approaching its 40th anniversary, having been established in 1986 with Val Brunker as president before affiliating with Netball NSW in 1987. The association was created to give girls and women in Kiama and the surrounding area the opportunity to play

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SHOT OF THE WEEK

Kiama Quarriers Brooke Perkiss shows grace and style with a perfect header in the All age Women Division 1 game against Fairy Meadow.

The Bugle News 25 September 2026