Ex-Mayor has his say p5
Kiama defends Top Tourism Town crown
Kiama has enhanced its reputation as one of Australia's top holiday destinations by winning NSW's Top Tourism Town award for the second year in a row. The prestigious award was announced on Tuesday at the NSW Local Government Destination and Visitor Economy Conference in Kingscliff.
Councillor Matt Brown, who is the chair of Destination Kiama, was elated after going back to back.
Kiama Municipal Council tourism and economic development manager Sally Bursell and Councillor Yasmin Tatrai were also in attendance at the awards ceremony.
“This award is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our tourism operators, local businesses, and the wider community,” said Cr Brown.
“It reinforces Kiama’s reputation as a welcoming and vibrant destination that offers authentic and memorable experiences year-round.
"This is two years in a row that Kiama has won Top Tourism Town, it gives our area such pride and it shows that our local operators and businesses are really satisfying our visitor experience."
He said this prestigious accolade highlights Kiama’s continued excellence in
tourism, exceptional visitor experiences, and the strong sense of pride that flows through its local community.
Judging included a comprehensive assessment of Destination Kiama’s target market segmentation, reasoning and data backed outcomes, a travel itinerary to suit that market, short video production, a public vote, and a secret shopper visit.
Destination Kiama has dedicated its initiatives to
support local tourism and grow the visitor economy sustainably.
“Tourism management has evolved and is no longer about simply increasing visitor numbers,” Bursell said.
“In fact, it’s quite the opposite - our focus is on strategies that ease pressure on the community and maximise both economic and social benefits.
"We do this by prioritising the reduction of seasonality
and targeting high-value travellers who stay longer in non-traditional times and spend more.”
A little further down the South Coast, the picturesque seaside village of Huskisson collected the NSW Tiny Tourism Town award for places with a population under 1500.It was the third consecutive win for “Husky”. Both towns have now qualified for national honours later this year.
Paul Suttor
Matt Brown, Yasmin Tatrai and Sally Bursell celebrate the win.
Kiama’s Little Blowhole
Photo: Tim Clark, Visit NSW.
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Cr Imogen Draisma.
Rehab not retribution the aim of Drug Court
Lynne Strong
“We’re not here to keep people in jail,” says Kiama councillor Imogen Draisma. “We’re here to help them find a way forward.”
At last week’s Kiama Council meeting, a significant motion passed without debate: a formal call for the NSW government to fund a Drug Court for Wollongong.
The motion, brought by Cr Draisma, aligns Kiama with neighbouring councils and legal advocates who say it's time to treat drug addiction as a health issue, not simply a crime.
“People can fall off track,” said Cr Draisma, speaking as a Councillor rather than a spokesperson for Kiama Council.
“The Drug Court gives them a real shot at getting control of their addiction and living a better life in the community.”
Unlike the regular court system, Drug Courts are highly specialised.
Participation is voluntary and strictly limited to nonviolent offenders.
Those who qualify must commit to an intensive rehabilitation program overseen by health professionals, supported by the court, and often involving community services.
The results speak for themselves.
A 2020 report by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research found that Drug Court participants were 17 per cent less likely to be reconvicted for any offence and 30 per cent less likely to be imprisoned, compared to those going through traditional sentencing.
In one powerful case, reported by ABC News, a young man named Damien credited the Parramatta Drug Court with saving his life.
After years of addiction and petty crime, Damien entered the program and, over 12 months, tackled his dependency through supervised treatment, regular court check-ins and community service. He now works full time and speaks at schools about the dangers of drug use.
Another participant, in the Hunter region, told the Newcastle Herald, “I’d be dead if it wasn’t for the Drug Court. They didn't give up on me.”
Cr Draisma believes this success can be replicated in Kiama and the rest of the Illawarra, where support for the idea is growing among community leaders, health workers, and legal professionals.
Wollongong, the intended site of the proposed Drug
Court, has some of the highest rates of drugrelated hospitalisations and overdoses in regional New South Wales, according to NSW Health data.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said: “Council supported this motion unanimously and we see this as an important area in which we can step up.
“We call on the NSW Government to help fund this important initiative to create better outcomes for some of our community members who are most in need of a helping hand.”
Kiama Council’s support reflects solidarity with its regional neighbours and a commitment to preventative action.
Cr Draisma added: “It’s not about ignoring crime. It’s about reducing it through evidence-based rehabilitation.”
“We are seeing an uptick in crimes where the proceeds are used to fund addiction.
“This is about early intervention and smarter spending.”
Cr Draisma has been buoyed by Kiama Council’s unanimous support and remains hopeful that state funding will follow.
“If someone is willing to do the hard work to recover, we should be ready to meet them halfway.”
Mayor responds to developer contributions issues
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has issued a statement saying Council will review contribution plans in light of concerns raised by Councillor Erica Warren.
She had called upon Council to enlist the services of a specialist consultant to prepare a new Section 7.11 Developer Contributions Plan and to include the cost of this work in the 2025–26 budget.
Cr Warren said poor governance had resulted in a significant cost to Council from money that had not been collected from developer contributions.
Mayor McDonald released a statement on Wednesday to address what he called community concerns about developer contributions. “Regarding recent discussion in the community about Section 7.11 and Section 7.12 contributions, I have tasked the CEO with providing a review of the process that has led to the policy adopted by Council. All non-confidential information in that report will be provided to the community.”
He has requested the review be presented to the July 2025 Ordinary Meeting. “Following the completion of Council’s Local Housing Strategy, Council may consider revisiting the policy to ensure the best return for residents from developer contributions,” Cr McDonald said.
New faces for needed Finance Advisory Committee
Kiama Council is on the lookout for new faces to join its Finance Advisory Committee.
The committee is aiming to add at least four suitably qualified community members for the term starting in July.
Convening quarterly, the committee guides Council’s long-term financial plan and related reforms.
Meetings are held in person at the Council Administration Building or virtually via Microsoft Teams.
The committee aims to provide expert advice which informs the future financial sustainability of Council; support and provide advice to Council’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer; act as a conduit between the community and Council on financial concerns; and make recommendations to Council on specific financial concerns and matters.
Hampden Bridge limits extended
An additional transition period of a month is being introduced for the reduction of the load limit on Hampden Bridge at Kangaroo Valley to allow impacted heavy vehicle operators more time to plan their transition.
Transport for NSW Regional Director South, Cassandra Ffrench, said the reduced load limit on Hampden Bridge will be implemented at the end of June to give road users more time to plan.
“From Friday, 27 June 2025 the bridge’s load limit will be reduced from 42.5 tonnes to 23 tonnes,” Ffrench said.
“A transition period is being introduced during June to allow heavy vehicle operators more time to make alternate arrangements while ensuring the safety of motorists and structural integrity of the bridge.
“From Friday 30 May, a 10 km/h speed limit will be in place on the bridge and traffic control will be in place during busy periods.
“No special permits will be required for vehicles that meet the existing load limit during this time, however we encourage road users to start adopting the new load limit during this period.”
Ward faces serious accusations at trial
The opening week of the trial of Kiama MP Gareth Ward in Downing Centre District Court has heard allegations from a political staff member who alleged the 43-year-old politician sexually assaulted him in 2015.
Ward has pleaded not guilty to all five charges: sexual intercourse without consent, common assault and three counts of indecent assault.
The independent state member for Kiama addressed the media outside the court before the trial started.
“Obviously, there’s a lot I would like to say and there will be an appropriate time for that,” he said.
“But out of absolute respect for the court process, I can’t comment at this point. And I have nothing further to say at this time."
The Crown Prosecutor, Monika Knowles, told the NSW District Court on Tuesday that police it is alleged that Ward indecently groped an 18-year-old man in 2013 on the backyard lawn at his Meroo Meadow property in the Shoalhaven.
The court heard that the complainant had been drinking and had accepted an invitation to Ward’s home under the impression that other people would be there but was surprised that they were alone and that he had not welcomed any sexual advances.
The Crown Prosecutor alleged Ward told the young man to sleep in his bed and tried to perform a back massage on the complainant before being told to stop.
The second incident was alleged to have occurred in 2015 at Potts Point in Sydney’s east.
A former political staffer told the NSW District Court on Wednesday that he was approached by Ward at an event at NSW Parliament House and was offered a place to stay for the night at the MP’s Potts Point apartment.
The staffer had consumed “three to four glasses of wine” and described himself as not much of a drinker.
The man, 24 at the time, said he thought he would be sleeping alone in a spare bedroom but he recalled that Ward asked to join him in bed.
He said that despite telling Ward “no”, the former NSW Cabinet Minister groped his backside and sexually assaulted him.
The man said he felt “dirty and confused” after the alleged incident and said “at no stage did I say yes”.
Ward was the Liberal Party’s member for Kiama at the time after winning the seat in 2011.
He was expelled by the party in 2022 before resigning to become an independent and retained the seat at the 2023 election.
Ward was also charged following alleged assaults of an 18-year-old man at Meroo Meadow in the Shoalhaven in 2013.
The trial continues before Judge Kara Shead and is expected to run for around a month.
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service
1800 211 028
Council green light shores up Surf Club’s financial future
Paul Suttor
Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club is excited about the prospect of safeguarding its financial future so it can continue serving the community after getting the green light at last week’s Kiama Council meeting to have its new clubhouse reclassified.
At last week’s meeting, Council voted to engage with three local surf clubsGerringong, Kiama and Kiama Downs - to understand if they have an appetite to reclassify, rezone and subdivide the lands that the three clubs sit on. The end goal for Gerringong SLSC is to be able to sublet space in the clubhouse for a commercially run cafe and provide a free meeting place for other local community groups.
Council, as the owner and landlord of each surf clubhouse community facility, has offered Gerringong Surf Club a temporary 12-month licence agreement for the use of the building as a clubhouse for Surf Life Saving activities.
Gerringong SLSC vicepresident Richard Payne said they just want to explore
their options and work constructively with Council to see what’s possible.
“We’re super thankful for the Councillors who supported the motion,” he told The Bugle.“It’s really exciting that the Council is prepared to investigate reclassification and see what works for not only our Surf Club but the other ones as well. It’s a positive step.”
Payne said it costs Surf Clubs around $100,000 annually just to get their patrols up and running, not to mention all the other costs associated with equipment, surf sports and nippers programs.
He estimated it would cost Council more than $300,000 to replace the service that Gerringong SLSC provides.
“This whole thing has been around our financial sustainability and ensuring that for the long term so we can ensure the safety of beachgoers.
“We’re a vital organisation for developing youth, bringing people in and that’s huge in terms of mental health aspects and getting people involved in the community.”
Councillor Matt Brown, who supported the motion which
passed by a vote of 5-4, said the Surf Club simply wanted to go about running their business like North Wollongong, South Wollongong or Shellharbour City. Cr Brown said it was “scaremongering” to suggest that the club would use its new ownership status to privatise any part of the facility.
“No one is suggesting or has thought of selling those assets. Who the hell would you sell a surf club to? The only people who would be interested in running a surf club is its current occupant - Gerringong Surf Club Club always gonna get run by Gerringong Surf Club.
“I just find that really disingenuous because no one’s thinking of doing it or wanting to do it - you can come up with a whole bunch of reasons to stop anyone doing anything by just making something.
“The Surf Club has come to Kiama Council saying we need a lease and we need to be able to sub-let our kiosk. They don’t want to have surf club members running a kiosk.
“They want surf club members on the beach to patrol to save lives, not making coffee - that job is for a small
business person the previous owner of the kiosk.
“It’s a community club for the community - they want to rent space out for community groups but at the moment they’re not allowed to under the licence agreement so we’ve just got a big white elephant sitting there.
“We need to empower the surf club to go about doing their great community work.
“They’re keeping the beach safe and costing Council nothing so if they weren’t doing it for free, Council would have to put paid lifeguards there.”
Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips was pleased to see progress being made.
“When I delivered $5.5 million from the Albanese Labor Government for the new Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club building, it was to help secure the future for the club and its members,” she said.
“So volunteers into the future, just like those before them, could continue to protect our beaches and save lives, which benefits everyone in our community.
“The resolution at Kiama Council was a significant win.”
Bridging Now to Next the theme as Kiama reflects on National Sorry Day
Apacked Kiama Pavilion was the setting for Monday’s National Sorry Day commemorations, reflecting on the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples - particularly the Stolen Generations.
Held annually on 26 May, National Sorry Day marks the anniversary of the Bringing Them Home report - an inquiry conducted by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission into the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families.
The ceremony began with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Lila Stewart, followed by a traditional smoking ceremony led by Kristian Jarrett. A practice dating back thousands of years, the smoking ceremony is a cultural ritual intended to cleanse the area and those present of negative spirits, while promoting well-being and protection.
Following the ceremony, Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald expressed his remorse for the sins of the past. “I want to acknowledge members of the Stolen
Generations both here and elsewhere on this important occasion. As Mayor, and on behalf of the municipality of Kiama, I say sorry. I reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation.”
Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, noted that 2025 will mark 17 years since then-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd delivered the National Apology to Australia's First Nations peoples.“But the apology was never meant to be the end of the story,” she said. “It was the beginning of a new chapterone in which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have the same opportunities as all Australians.
“An Australia where the government works with Indigenous communities to ensure equal access to jobs, housing, healthcare, education, and fair wages.”
She also acknowledged the legacy of the Bomaderry Aboriginal Children’s Home.
Phillips concluded on a hopeful note: “I’m encouraged when I see our local schools and early learning centres embedding Aboriginal culture and language into their curriculum - just as it should be.”
The program continued with a heartfelt speech from Kiama High School student Tyiara Simon, who reflected on this year’s Sorry Day theme: “Bridging Now to Next” by sharing the story of her great-great-grandmother, Ella Simon, who was taken from her family as a baby.
“She was born in a tent on the edge of Taree, in Biripi Country. Nan Ella overcame adversity to become an activist and spokesperson for her people.”
In 1957, Ella was granted a Certificate of Exemption - an official document that restricted Aboriginal people’s rights in exchange for limited freedoms.
“It was the first and longestrunning Aboriginal children’s home in the state, and is sadly often referred to as the birthplace of the Stolen Generations in NSW.
"As the Member for Gilmore, I will never forget that painful chapter in our history.”
“She had to give up her identity just to enter shops or get a job,” said Tyiara.
“She later formed the first Aboriginal branch of the Country Women’s Association at Purfleet. From that resilience, she became the first Aboriginal Justice of the Peace in Australia.
“Her story gives me a deeper understanding of the injustice and adversity faced by our people. This is why Sorry Day matters - to hear stories like Nan Ella’s, so that people like you and me can carry them in our hearts and better understand these journeys.”
After the speech, wreaths were presented to Elders Aunty Lila Stewart and Aunty Jodie Stewart. The day ended with cultural and educational activities for the students in attendance.
Despite national recognition and progress, 23 years after the Bringing Them Home report and 17 years since the National Apology, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children remain 10.6 times more likely to be removed from their families than non-Indigenous children.
Australia cannot begin to heal the present without acknowledging the truths of our past. National Sorry Day calls on all Australians to remember the Stolen Generations - and to recognise that historical injustice continues to have real and lasting impacts on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities today.
Gather and Grow session delivering ‘Jobs for Mob’
Paul Suttor
Finding “Jobs for Mob” is the goal of this year’s Gather and Grow information sessions with Shellharbour chosen as one of seven locations statewide as part of a NSW Government push to bring more Aboriginal businesses and in-
of the hospital, held breakout sessions with the Aboriginal businesses able to speak directly to Watpac, government and local council officials about procurement opportunities that they could tender for.
“The goal for these events is to bring our Aboriginal businesses in contact
dustry together.
More than 70 Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesspeople met at Shellharbour Civic Centre on Tuesday to connect and learn about supply chain and employment opportunities for major regional projects.
The new hospital at Shellharbour was showcased as the kind of major project which can be used to increase economic benefits and employment opportunities for Indigenous-owned businesses in the Illawarra and South Coast.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Director of Regional Aboriginal Partnerships and Outcomes, Craig Jenkins said the Gather and Grow sessions had been held in Goulburn and Dubbo with Shellharbour the third regional centre to host an event.
“The theme is ‘jobs for mob’ so the goal of the Gather and Grow events is information and bringing Aboriginal businesses and industry together to connect and learn about supply chain opportunities on major NSW government projects,” he explained.
“So in Shellharbour the focus was on the Shellharbour Hospital redevelopment. We had 70 people attend and there were 15 Aboriginal businesses. We had a presentation from health infrastructure and the developers.”
Representatives from BESIX Watpac, the builder
with our government infrastructure providers and the developers, to understand what the needs are to become involved in the supply chain and look at opportunities for employing local Aboriginal people in those projects.
“There are Aboriginal businesses out there that are capable and have capacity to work on their projects.
It’s too early to determine whether any concrete deals will come out of this week’s session but Jenkins said the feedback from the Gather and Grow sessions have been positive.
“Let's hope we see some some procurement outcomes from them,” Jenkins added.
“It's an opportunity to improve economic outcomes for our Aboriginal community and provide better opportunities for our businesses but also that extends to better employment outcomes as well.”
There are further events to be held in the Sydney CBD on 10 June, Cessnock on 15 July, Bathurst on 22 July and Western Sydney on 7 August as part of the collaboration with NSW Treasury.
The new hospital in Shellharbour is part of the more than $780 million New Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services Project, jointly funded by the NSW and Australian governments. Due for completion in 2027, it will transform healthcare for the Illawarra region and support hundreds of jobs during construction.
Lleyton Hughes
Wild weather a stark reminder about what matters the most
Afew weeks ago, the Bureau of Meteorology advised in its longrange forecast overview, that rainfall is likely to be below average in parts of the southwest, the east, and much of the north of Australia.
Reflections from my time as Mayor Between expertise and democracy:
By Neil Reilly, Former Mayor of Kiama
During my term as Mayor of Kiama from 2021 to 2024, I found myself not only in the centre of civic life but at the heart of a difficult paradox - how to balance the will of the people with the reality of numbers.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the town faced an existential financial crisis, largely the result of past decisions made with good intentions but poor foresight.
Money, mostly borrowed, had been committed to a second aged care facility - a noble idea rooted in community values.
However, it was modelled on cashflows from an older, established facility without accounting for fundamental differences in viability.
Worse still, Council funds had not been clearly separated into restricted and unrestricted accounts. It became clear that the business model underpinning the expansion was flawed, and the financial governance even more so.
The burden of repair fell to our council, and much of my time as Mayor was devoted to stabilising our finances.
This often meant adopting a technocratic lens: placing evidence, financial discipline, and expert advice above shortterm political popularity. It worked.
The bleeding slowed. But the process raised a deeper question in me: is there a middle ground between technocracy, which saved us, and representative democracy, which got us into trouble?
The answer, I believe, lies
OPEN HOUSEEND OF AN ERA SALE
Driftwood Beach House Kiama - the once “little blue”, now ‘little black” house at the end of Bong Bong Street is about to undergo a significant renovation BUT, don’t worry!
The much-loved historic 1870s cottage at the front (recently placed on the Local Heritage Item list) will remain!
We will be selling the contents, including building components such as windows, doors, cladding along with linen, bric a brac, pre loved clothing, original artwork and artisan pieces!
not in choosing between them, but in bridging them.
Technocracy brings rigour and expertise. Democracy brings legitimacy and values.
Both are essential, but when unbalanced, either can fail the community. In Kiama’s case, democracy without guardrails led to overreach.
But pure technocracy, applied too coldly, risks disconnecting from the very people it seeks to help. So how do we govern wisely?
We need democratic institutions that welcome expertise, not resent it. We need technical frameworks - like clear fund restrictions, mandatory risk reviews, and transparent reporting that support political decisions rather than replace them.
We need leaders who tell the truth, even when it’s hard, and who respect the electorate
enough to trust them with complexity.
We also need better ways to involve people, not just through elections every few years, but through deliberative processes that bring citizens into the room before the decision is made.
In a crisis, it’s tempting to retreat to technocracy for safety. But in the long run, democracy must prevail - not as sentiment, but as informed, shared responsibility.
I’m proud of what we did in Kiama.
We pulled the town back from the brink. But I’m also aware that the repair was only the beginning.
Now, the challenge is to embed structures that prevent crisis, invite wisdom, and make the practice of democracy as strong as the principles it rests on.
Fast-forward to last week, and parts of the Mid-North Coast have seen record rainfall and resultant devastating floods. In Taree, more than 500mm of rain has fallen in the past week – more than five times the monthly average.
In the region, more than 500 properties have been declared uninhabitable as the clean-up begins for the more 10,000 homes and businesses that have been affected by this latest weather event. Tragically, five people lost their lives.
Closer to home, we were not spared the impacts of last week’s deluge with Swamp Road and Macquarie Pass closed due to flood waters. While not directly related to flooding, the inclement weather contributed to our newly re-elected Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, having a very unfortunate encounter with a kangaroo while driving on Forest Road. Members of Parliament, 1, Australian mascots, 0. It was this time last year where our community was hit hard by the 2024 autumn storms along the east coast of the state. Kiama received more than one and a half times the average autumn rainfall in 2024. And who can forget 2022 where we had the most rainfall in our community since records began around 1913. While
The Bugle does not seek to wade into the climate wars, it does seem like wild weather events are becoming more prevalent. Just this week, the BoM predicted damaging winds in the region, and who knows what is in store for us for the rest of autumn and into winter (despite what the long-range forecast says). With a lot of planned growth on the horizon, we need to make sure that the planning decisions we make do not inadvertently put more people in harm’s way.
Last year, the Dido Street subdivision was effectively struck out by Kiama Council and the Southern Region Planning Panel due to flood and evacuation risk – the Dido Street Bridge goes underwater during some flood events, meaning the existing and future residents would be cut off from emergency services or escaping the flood waters. Council noted this has happened four times in the last two decades. Dido Street Bridge also services Glenbrook Drive – where Council owns five housing lots but is unable to sell due to a State Government caveat. Does this mean development proposals for these lots might be rejected? While we need to address housing supply and affordability to ensure our community continues to prosper, this needs to be balanced with increasing instances of wild weather and flooding. The Bugle’s View is that when weighing up these decisions, we need to be mindful of what matters most.
Cedar on Collins Hosts Biggest Morning Tea
A room full of guests embarking on high tea
Lashing winds and torrential rain did not deter or dampen the spirits of the 160 guests who gathered at The Pavilion in Kiama to support the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea, hosted by Cedar on Collins Retirement Community last Thursday.
This is the second time this event has been hosted by Cedar on Collins, and following that success, many guests returned for this year’s morning tea, the first at The Pavilion.
Guests were treated to a wonderful high tea, emceed by Kiama Radio’s Bernie Hems.
As a much-loved voice on Kiama community radio, she slipped easily into her role of interviewing guests such as Kiama local and makeup artist, Meryl Faulkner, and Dr Michael Barbato.
Dr Barbato is a retired palliative care specialist, whose career has been dedicated to supporting people at the end of lifeincluding many living with cancer - with a focus on holistic, whole-person care.
He spoke powerfully about how critical research was in the fight against cancer and the real-world breakthroughs that occur because of that research, which funding
from events like the Biggest Morning Tea enables.
He also shared that the act of simply being with your loved one, holding their hand - not trying to fix things or fuss - is a powerful show of compassionate companionship.
Hems reflected on the morning, saying: “I’ve since met several people who were at the morning tea, and they’ve all raved about how wonderful it was. [Dr Barbato was] so informative and deeply engaging.
“The room fell completely silent as he spoke about the remarkable progress being made in cancer research.
It was truly moving and inspiring.”
Attendees were blown away by the quality of the food and refreshments, and entertainment provided by Kiama local, Greg Brown, a musician and fundraiser for the Cancer Council.
They were also treated to raffle prizes and a silent auction, with items including vouchers from Kiama Leagues Club, Endota Spa, Little Betty’s Bar & Restaurant, White Earth and a photo print of Bombo Beach by Adam Crews.
All proceeds from the silent auction, raffle and ticket costs went directly to the Cancer Council.
The event raised close to $6,500.
Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips was also a guest and gave her full support. She had high praise for the event and shared on her Facebook page: “Well done to Cedar on Collins for hosting Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, in Kiama today.
“Not even the rain could stop this large gathering from raising funds to support those lives who have been impacted by cancer. Well done to everyone involved and for everyone supporting this great cause.”
Cedar on Collins Retirement Community
staff were thrilled with the outcome of the event and are already looking forward to hosting it again next year.
“The event was so wellreceived, with everyone in high spirits and a vibrant and uplighting atmosphere,” said Laura Hooper, Community Manager at Cedar.
“We are so grateful to the Kiama community and their determination to support this incredible cause that really impacts all of us in some way.
“Their donations are a true reflection of the spirit of generosity, compassion and empathy of this community. We’re honoured to play our part in it.”
Fiona Phillips MP holding Adam Crews' photograph, with Laura Hooper (right) and Caitlin Robinson (left)
Dr Michael Barbato speaking alongside emcee Bernie Hems
Friends and puzzles keep Gwen strong at 105
With a room draped in her favourite colour of purple, Gerringong local marvel
Gwen Wilson celebrated her upcoming 105th birthday with fellow members of the Probus Club Gerringong on Monday.
Purple garments, balloons and cake were the order of the day as the club paid tribute to Wilson's contributions to the local community over several decades.
A testament to longevity, Gwen attributes her long life to “ongoing friendships” and completing a variety of word puzzles daily.
A week away from turning 105, Gwen is still an active
member of her library, borrowing and reading six books a month.
Her all-time favourite author is Di Morrissey.
While she still enjoys reading the hard copy versions of books, Gwen has taken to the evolution of technology and her iPad is another source of entertainment.
Ken Freeman, a past president of the Probus Club Gerringong, said the club has been active for 37 years and they are dedicated to developing friendships while having fun.
After venturing to the South Coast from Sydney’s inner-west suburb of Hurlstone Park more than 60 years ago, Gwen was an avid lawn bowler and one of the
Dean on ‘quite a journey’ with MS
Mitchell Beadman
Dean Howcroft was engaging in a routine motorbike ride when he experienced double vision.
The Ulladulla resident, 24 at the time, thought he needed glasses, but it was the events that followed which would change the course of his life.
four founding members of the Gerringong Bowls Club.
Now residing in an assisted living home in Gerringong, you may still see Gwen occasionally at the bowls club enjoying a beverage, soaking up the atmosphere.
Gwen turns 105 on June 7 and plans to visit the bowls club on her birthday to celebrate the milestone.
“I’d just turned 24 at the time and a few months after multiple tests and MRI’s, I was sitting in my specialist’s office being told that I had multiple sclerosis, so that was obviously a huge shock to the system” Howcroft said. Friday is World MS Day. The MS International Federation is raising awareness through the MyMSDiagnosis social media campaign which encourages those with lived experience to share their story. When asked what World MS day means to him, Howcroft said: “It is pretty close to my heart, (after) being diagnosed with MS back in 2004, it has been quite a journey.”
While there is no specific cure for MS, there are treatments and rehabilitation available within Australia through the NDIS.
Part of this evolutionary process for treatment and rehabilitation is the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) machine built and designed by RoboFit, which Howcroft uses to aid his rehabilitation.
“I just discovered it (RoboFit) as a pop-up ad on social media,” Howcroft said.
“It’s like an exoskeleton that straps to your legs, and you are on a treadmill … it looks and feels quite futuristic.”
Howcroft explained in detail how it works from the mechanics of the machine to the neuroscience behind this rehabilitation tool, and the feeling of being able to walk in a correct walking pattern.
“It was quite a strange feeling in the beginning, but I have had 10 sessions now and I am noticing some improvement,” he said.
The improvement is the redevelopment of neuroplasticity and rewiring the brain.
“You can see it happening in real time on the screen in front of you,” he said.
“It would be beautiful if we didn’t have to travel two hours and you could get more sessions, because when it comes to neuroplasticity, repetition is ideal.”
Despite the challenges of his diagnosis and other barriers, it will not break Howcroft’s self-proclaimed “swagger”.
He has a young family and also leans on his engagement with the community by establishing a local men’s group in Ulladulla. Called Brothers of Bhundoo, they aim to foster support, connection and collaboration.
Howcroft has also started a self-titled podcast with the founding members of Brothers of Bhundoo.
“It’s amazing sitting around with a dozen fellas, sharing and reflecting.”
Mitchell Beadman
Photo: Dean Howcroft
Throw your hat into the ring for local awards
Lynne Strong
The Kiama Business Network (KBN) has launched its inaugural local business awards, and for the first time, category winners will automatically qualify as finalists in the prestigious Business Illawarra Awards.
With nominations open until 13 June, this is a valuable opportunity for startups, sole traders, micro and small businesses across the Kiama LGA to gain recognition and support.
KBN President Cathryn Lyall says the local awards are designed to reflect the strength and diversity of the local business community.
“This is about giving our businesses a platform,” she said. “The winners of each of our categories go straight to the Business Illawarra Awards. That’s never happened before. It gives our local businesses a real shot at regional and even state-level recognition.”
To be eligible, entrants must be KBN members.
A discounted membership
offer is available for businesses who join before 30 June, with full membership kicking in from 1 July.
“That way, no one misses out just because of timing,” Lyall added.
Matt King, a local business owner and past finalist in the Business Illawarra Awards, says the process is valuable beyond the prize.
“It’s not just about winning,” he said.
“Sitting down and reflecting on where your business is at, what you’ve achieved, and what’s ahead – that process alone is so worthwhile. You gain clarity, and you realise how far you’ve come.”
Winners will be announced at a celebratory event in early July, with the local Business of the Year selected from among three key categories.
To find out more or submit your nomination, visit the KBN website or head straight to the nomination portal.
It’s quick to enter, and support is available if you need help getting started.
Kiama Creative Business Summit helps artists value their work, know their worth
Danielle Woolage
Gerringong’s Emma Veiga-Malta has worked in the creative industry for almost three decades as an artist, graphic designer and business mentor.
Her latest project - The Creative Business Summit –is one of her most ambitious and important; a conference to help creators overcome the “starving artist mentality” where a career in the arts is seen as financially unstable.
When Emma moved to Gerringong, she noticed a skills gap for artists looking for advice, and the confidence, to make money from their passion and turn their talent into a sustainable career. So, she drew on her industry experience and years of networking and organised a conference, the first of its kind in the region, designed specifically to help creatives value their work and know their worth.
“We have been raised in a society where creativity has always been considered a soft subject, something you will never make money from, or not a real job because you are doing something you love,” she explains.
“As artists we have to value our work, because if we don’t, who else will?
People wouldn’t dream of asking other professionals to do their job for free. But they think it’s OK to say to a musician ‘I'll give you some pizza if you come and sing at the pub tonight’.
“There will be no room for the starving artist mentality at The Creative Business Summit.”
The event, at The Pavilion in Kiama, will cover a range of topics including self-care, navigating social media and
Emma Veiga-Malta
marketing, grant funding, pricing your work properly, gaining creative confidence and what is often the “elephant in the room” among creatives - understanding artificial intelligence.“AI is not something we should be afraid of,” says Emma.
“People were very sceptical about the internet when it first came out, but we've realised it’s just a tool and I think AI is the same. There are both ethical and unethical
ways to engage with AI and as creatives we need to educate ourselves on it, whether we decide to use it or not, so we can protect our work and our intellectual property.”
The conference - supported by a Kiama Council cultural development grant - is an opportunity for hobbyists starting a new venture or experienced creatives with established businesses to network, learn and draw inspiration from like-minded colleagues. “It’s important for creatives to realise they are not on their own, not the only ones struggling with the business of making money,” says Emma, who has hosted many virtual mentoring meetings and online group sessions for creatives.
“But never anything as big or exciting as this. It really gives you a confidence boost when you're in a room full of like-minded creatives.
“A lot of the magic happens in the space between speakers, when you're having a cup of tea and you realise you've made some amazing connections. It could be your next client, your next collaborator or your new creative bestie.” Tickets are on sale for the Creative Business Summit at The Pavilion, Kiama on August 14, from 9am-5pm.
Stoic success: Local brewery strikes gold at International Beer Awards
Lleyton Hughes
Gincluding two golds - at the prestigious 2025 Australian International Beer Awards (AIBAs) in Melbourne.
The AIBAs are one of the largest annual beer competitions in the world. This year saw 2,300 entries from 391 breweries across 22 countries, including 242 from Australia.
“It's such a good feeling,” said Stoic’s Head Brewer Brent Edwards.
“Because you know how much hard work goes into creating every brew. When you write a recipe for a beer, you start with the vision of what you want in the glass, then deconstruct it and work backwards.
“You don’t always get it right the first time. You make little tweaks with each batch - maybe try a different yeast strain - and slowly build toward a better result. It’s all about always trying to be better.”
Originally from New Zealand, Edwards has spent the last year and a half
with the team was inspired by his homeland - an NZ Pilsner - which earned gold at the awards.“That was the first beer I brewed at Stoic. They asked me early on what I wanted to make
New Zealand hops, all New Zealand malt, and a lager yeast strain,” he said.
“NZ hops are punchy - they bring flavours like white grape and passionfruit. Most Pilsners aren’t dry-hopped,
because it’s been so popular.”
The brewery’s XPA also won gold in the Australian Style Pale Ale category, while its American-style Pale Ale took home bronze.
“The XPA is a clean,
tropical,” said Edwards. “It uses New Zealand malt, with a mix of American, New Zealand, and Australian hops.
The pale ale is all-American hops and designed in that classic American style.”
With Australia’s growing
love of craft beer, Edwards says he’s excited to be part of such a collaborative and creative industry.
“One of the great things about craft beer is the community. Brewers become mates, and there’s a lot of collaboration - people helping each other out. Not many industries work like that,” he said.“And it’s also about educating people who say, ‘I don’t like beer.’ There are over a hundred beer styles out there— - here’s something for everyone.”
He also loves how Stoic Brewing are embracing innovation to keep the beer experience fresh - quite literally.
“We’re doing more beer and food pairings - matching beer with desserts and cheeses. We just launched our oyster stout, using oysters from down the coast. We even had a portable oyster bar in the brewery for it. It was such a cool day,” said Edwards.
All of Stoic’s beers are brewed fresh and on site, and customers can enjoy them right among the tanks where they’re made. Their next limited release, a pickle sour beer, launches 1 June.
Brent Edwards at Stoic Brewery.
Insightful Parkinson’s seminar draws a crowd from Bega up to Wollongong
Attendees doing a stretching activity
AKiama physiotherapist has been recognised for his contribution to the local Parkinson’s community, as part of a major health seminar that drew 80 people from across the South Coast.
Matt Cook from BaiMed Kiama received a Parkinson’s Community Award at the Holistic Approach to Parkinson’s seminar at Kiama Leagues Club on Tuesday, acknowledging his proactive support to help people manage the condition.
The seminar was organised by Parkinson’s Support Kiama and they brought together four healthcare professionals to discuss the growing need for Parkinson’s education and support across the Illawarra.
Dr Janice Taylor, a geriatrician specialising in Parkinson’s disease
and movement disorders provided comprehensive information about the disease, its symptoms, effects on daily life, and medications.
She also addressed important practical considerations, emphasising the importance of organising wills and making decisions about driving as symptoms progress.
Speech pathologist Beth Causa demonstrated the vital role of speech therapy in Parkinson’s management, explaining that many people with the condition will likely experience speaking difficulties at some point.
Beth engaged the audience with practical exercises, showing how speech therapy techniques can be beneficial and what’s involved.
Physiotherapists Ryan Parker and Matt Cook from BaiMed Kiama led interactive group activities including
Says’, keeping a balloon afloat around tables, and stretching routines, demonstrating how movement can be both therapeutic and enjoyable.
Christine McGee, Education and Quality Assurance Manager from Parkinson’s NSW, finished off the expert panel with insights into support services and resources.
The event showed the strong community involvement surrounding Parkinson’s Support Kiama. The group’s coordinator, Lesley Errington, said the ongoing support from the community, especially Rotary, has been greatly appreciated, particularly with their fundraising efforts.
“We have a walk in September and that’s our fundraiser for the year for Parkinson’s New South Wales,
and Rotary does a barbecue, and these guys come and do exercise programmes,” said Lesley.
The support group, part of Parkinson’s NSW, holds monthly meetings for both people with Parkinson’s and their carers.
The group has approximately 70 members but regular attendance sits around 40.
“There’s quite a few people who are no longer able to come because they’re in nursing homes or in care, but we still send them information,” Lesley said.
The group focuses on connecting people living with the condition, enhancing quality of life, providing support for individuals and carers, sharing information and research about the disease and keeping both body and mind active.
The seminar’s strong attendance from across the region, including Nowra, Wollongong and Bega, demonstrates the importance for specialised Parkinson’s support and education, and is reflective of Parkinson’s Support Kiama’s success.
For further information on how to get involved you can contact Parkinson’s Support Kiama at parkinsonskiama@ gmail.com.
Headspace unites with KBN for free mental health youth training
Lynne Strong
Driven by collective care and community spirit, the Kiama Business Network and Headspace Kiama delivered free youth mental health training to 31 participants on Tuesday.
The attendees included business owners, jobseekers and locals keen to upskill and support others.
The sessions, held across two sites, were originally aimed at Kiama Business Network members but quickly expanded to include the wider community.
Participants came from a range of backgrounds, including those currently unemployed, switching careers, or looking to better support young people in their workplaces or families.
Matt King, Vice President of the Kiama Business Network, said the training was about “giving people another tool in the toolbox.”
“We know that many people in our community are doing it tough,” he said.
“We wanted to offer something meaningful, not just for business, but for
wellbeing. Sometimes you don’t know what to say, so you say nothing at all.
“This workshop gives attendees the tools and confidence to start those important conversations. This kind of training strengthens our community at every level.”
One participant said, “I’ve recently moved overseas with my young children and I wanted to be better equipped to support their mental health as they adjust to life in a new country.
Another added, “I work closely with young people in our local community and I’ve often found myself at a loss for words when they’re struggling.
“This training helped me understand that you don’t have to fix everything. You just need to know how to listen, respond and let them know they’re not alone.”
The workshops were fully funded and facilitated by Headspace in partnership with the Kiama Business Network, as part of an ongoing commitment to mental health awareness and community wellbeing.
Dr John Salmon • Kiama Dental Practice
I’m just an average Aussie bloke but no longer can I contain my anguish and outrage…I must express it by publicly protesting the continuing death and destruction occurring in Gaza and the West Bank of the Middle East.
The TV footage of injured, dead and emaciated women and children reduces me to tears and has me looking around for ways I may be able to help them.
What is happening is obscenely inhumane and it should not be happening to our fellow human beings in our day and age after all our lessons of history.
Look beyond the mainstream media that obscures the truth, do your own research, and you will share my anguish about the hurt and suffering of these people.
(For a free, balanced view, go to: https://johnmenadue.com/images/Israel-Palestine-pushedbeyond-endurance-Print-2025-04-22.pdf)
You and I can do something about it though.
It’s an opportune time for personal action, to write today to our newly elected federal government and request it to make our country stand proud again among nations by:
(i) starting and continuing to protest, in the strongest terms, the relentless predations on and the starving of these people until all the dreadful hurt and suffering in Gaza and the West Bank stops, and
(ii) by insisting that both Israel and the US immediately and permanently commit to the right of nationhood for the people of Gaza and the West Bank on their own land, and to just simple respect for the human rights of all humankind.
Graham Pike - Jamberoo
Shelby Gilbert
Presenters Dr Janice Taylor, Ryan Parker, Christine McGee, and Beth Causa
Matt Cook receiving Parkinson's Community Award
Parkinson’s Support Kiama Coordinator Lesley Errington
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Small fragments, big implications Microplastics in Kiama:
Lynne Strong
A team of citizen scientists is helping put Kiama on the map— literally—when it comes to tracking the tiniest threat to our waterways.
While the beauty of Kiama’s coastline hides many secrets, a group of dedicated locals is uncovering one of its most insidious: microplastics.
Karen Lang leads a small but determined team of citizen scientists surveying local beaches and rivers as part of a nationwide initiative known as AUSMAP (the Australian Microplastic Assessment Project). Supported by Macquarie University, the Total Environment Centre and private donors, AUSMAP is building a national picture of plastic pollution, one sample at a time.
“In our LGA, I have about 30 people on my mailing list and we usually get half a dozen or more volunteers at each survey,” Karen explains. “We need at least eight to ten people now that the sampling methodology has changed.”
The method is deceptively simple. After the high tide recedes, volunteers mark out a half-metre square, scrape
off the top two centimetres of sand, sieve it, and sort the finds by size and type. Every fragment is logged and added to a searchable national database available to researchers, policymakers and the public.
Karen’s team has found consistently low to very low concentrations of microplastics across much of the Kiama LGA, though Black Beach stands out as a local hotspot.
“Some of the plastic is fishing tackle and food packaging,” she says, “but we’ve also found nurdles - tiny plastic pellets used in manufacturing, which shows how easily industrial plastic ends up in the environment. There’s also legacy rubbish like old bricks and building debris, likely due to past dumping near Storm Bay.”
Despite lower concentrations here than in more industrialised areas like Sydney Harbour or the Parramatta River, Karen is convinced that Kiama’s data still matters.
“Longitudinal data is key,” she says. “If concentrations increase or decrease, we want to know why. That helps assess whether prevention measures are working.”
The work isn’t just about beach clean-ups. It informs real action.
“We now know that
synthetic rubber crumb from playgrounds is a big problem,” Karen notes. “At Surf Beach, it deteriorates and ends up in nearby creeks and lagoons. Prohibiting these materials, and ensuring industries prevent waste entering drains, are simple steps councils can take.”
Karen’s journey began at a local event in 2019 when she spotted lead scientist Dr Scott Wilson demonstrating sampling techniques at Black Beach. One conversation led to a training session at Taronga Zoo, and soon she was coordinating local surveys.
She’s now preparing for her group’s first survey of the Minnamurra River, a new focus area requested by AUSMAP.
“We’ve never surveyed a river before, so that will be really interesting,” she says.
As plastic use continues to evolve, so too must the response. “The job is never done,” Karen adds. “Raising awareness, improving legislation and supporting citizen science are all part of the solution.”
A Reason to be Seen at Kiama art exhibition
Mitchell Beadman
There will be something for everybody at Shellharbour Arts Society’s A Reason for Being exhibition at the Old Fire Station in Kiama.
The exhibition will be on display from Thursday until next Wednesday with the officially opening to be held by Society president Gennifer Anderson on Saturday at 2pm.
A Reason for Being will showcase over 14 artists, photographers and sculptors.
At the opening, Anderson will speak about the opportunities for artists within the Illawarra and beyond, based on her personal experiences with public art and ways to engage in volunteering.
“Art for me is very much associated with belonging, so I love to do public art and as the president of the arts society, I love to help members showcase their talents and organise exhibitions.
RSL thanks Kiama LGA for Anzac Day support
Dear Residents,
This year the Anzac Day services in Jamberoo and Kiama were extremely well supported with terrific turnouts at all events.
This letter is to publicly thank all those who attended the services and helped keep the flame of remembrance burning brightly.
Jamberoo Rural Fire Service, Jamberoo Public School, Jamberoo Red Cross, St Johns Ambulance, Kiama High School, CWA Kiama Evening Branch, Kiama Farmers’ Market, Kiama Leagues Club, NSW Police Illawarra Command, Vintage Car Club and Sing Australia.
Several individuals must also be mentioned in Fr Roberts from Sts Peter and Paul, Steve Whitworth, bugler Warwick Sporne, piper Paul Wells, soloists Benn Gunn and Michelle Morunga, Adam Vaughan from Kiama Council and Brendon Comber who managed our sound systems.
“We have a watercolour artist that does almost hyperrealistic items, we have the most amazing potter that makes the most glorious pottery combined with weaving - there is something for everybody,” Anderson said.
experience them.”
When asked what the benefits of showcasing art in an intimate setting are, she explained: “It allows people to experience art in ways that you wouldn’t necessarily
Extensive global research signifies the positive influences that art has not only within communities, but also individually.
“I often encourage young people about getting involved in public art and activities,
and channelling some of that creativity and energy, it can be quite healing” Anderson said. Anderson is an awardwinning artist and has featured in print media, public displays, art shows, group exhibitions, and numerous solo exhibitions across NSW.
The Kiama-Jamberoo RSL sub-branch is a notfor-profit charitable organisation whose aim is to assist veterans in all manner of welfare and other support, and maintain camaraderie among veterans who belong to the sub-branch and others in the community. To enable us do this we rely heavily on donations from the public and this year that was reflected in the generosity of donations collected by the Kiama Lions Club who were present at the Dawn and Main services in Kiama on Anzac Day.
But the services could not be held with the support of several organisations within the LGA.
In particular I would like to thank Kiama Council,
Without this support and the turnout from the people who attend the Anzac Day services, the commemorations would not be the enormously successful events that they are. To you all, a heartfelt thank you.
Lest We Forget, Regards, Gary McKay, MC, OAM President Kiama-Jamberoo RSL Sub-branch
Gennifer Anderson with artwork 'Yellowrock'
Award-winning storytellers to share wisdom at festival
Danielle Woolage
Tickets to Milton’s StoryFest are selling fast, with several programs already sold out ahead of the popular event which kicks off on June 19.
StoryFest 2025 is a celebration of storytelling in all its forms - oral, written, prose, poetry, song or film –and this year award-winning author Markus Zusak, of The Book Thief fame, is the event’s patron.
He will open this year’s StoryFest, which runs over four days until June 22, alongside a stellar line-up of journalists, broadcasters,
of the key themes we’ll be exploring at StoryFest this year. We’re delighted to have her join us.”
Spicer is the author of several books including Man-Made which explores how past biases against women are being perpetuated by artificial intelligence.
Spicer joins world-leading AI expert Professor Toby Walsh for to discuss how AI technology is changing the way we live, work, learn and interact with each other and the world.
Candice Fox, Fiona, McIntosh, Stephanie Alexander, Richard Glover,
chefs, musicians and thinkers.
Walkley Award-winning journalist, author and broadcaster Tracey Spicer will deliver the keynote address at the opening night of Milton-Ulladulla’s biennial storytelling festival.
Spicer is one of the biggest names in Australian media and StoryFest program director Adam Jeffrey says having her on board is a major coup for the South Coast festival.
“Tracey is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers and emcees in Australia,” he says.
“She also brings a wealth of knowledge on AI, one
Chris Hammer Gina Chick, Tim “Rosso” Ross and Katie Noonan are just some of the other star attractions.
A Long Table Lunch at Bannister’s By the Sea, featuring author Fiona McIntosh has already sold out, along with StoryFest’s Gala Dinner at Cupitt’s Winery.
StoryFest 2025 will run from June 19-22 at venues across Milton, Ulladulla and Mollymook including the historic Milton Theatre, local foodie favourites Milk HAUS and Rick Stein’s Bannisters.
For tickets and program details visit the StoryFest website.
1984 production comes to Shoalhaven Big Brother is watching:
Lleyton Hughes
Theatre director Michael Futcher read George Orwell’s 1984 at school - like most of us - but for him it was far more than just required reading.
“It really stayed with me. It wasn’t one of those books that you often read at school - you read it and you just do what you have to do to get your assignments done and then you just forget about it,” said Futcher.
“This book stayed with me and it became lodged really in my consciousness for a long, long time. I had lots of other projects throughout my career where I would often make reference to the book and the situations explored in 1984.”
Futcher is directing a new stage adaptation of 1984, presented by Shake & Stir Theatre Co., coming to Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre on 2 June for one night only.
While the 1948 novel is rich with ideas, predictions, and chilling insights, Futcher says it’s also simply a compelling story.
“It's a thriller, really - the story. You're not really sure what's going to happen to the protagonist as he tries to challenge the system. It's like one man against the world. But at the same time it’s also a love story and a story about courage and a story about standing up for what you think is right,” said Futcher.
“And how long can people hold out to do that in the face of enormous power against them?”
This isn’t the first time Futcher has taken on the
challenge. He first directed the play in 2012, followed by a national tour in 2014. Now, as he prepares for a second national run, he believes the themes of 1984 have only grown more relevant.
“I think over the last few years our whole concept of what freedom actually is has been put under pressure. In the days when we first did the show, which was 2012-2014, we thought of authoritarian regimes as being very far off,” said Futcher.
“But lately, the whole notion of a strong leader who does things for the people in spite of the petty bureaucracies that normally go alongside democracies, has become quite an attractive prospect to many people because they think that that's the only way things can get done.”
Futcher also sees Orwell’s warnings about media control and truth manipulation reflected in today's fractured media landscape.
“The notion of the power of
the press as a representative of the people to keep a government honest, has now has not only largely been taken over by interested parties on both sides of the political spectrum.
“It's also the notion of a fourth estate in itself,” said Futcher.
“All the blogs and the online individual news sites have taken over people's minds in a lot of ways and that has become a new challenge to our freedom.”
“And I think that that's what this play really looks at: What is the truth? Is the truth in the mind of the ruling power or is it an objective thing that no one can touch?”
And for those that remember correctly, the novel is written largely within the thoughts of the main character Winston - which famously makes it quite hard to adapt, but Futcher and his team have found a creative solution.
“What we've done is we've circumvented that issue by making that a very active
thing in the play, where you actually get to hear Winston thinking about his dilemmas. And we do that in a very dynamic way,” said Futcher.
“We use modern digital technology extensively in the production. We have a live feed going on as a way of getting inside Winston's mind.
“The set incorporates a lot of screens. We have 12 very big 65-inch screens on the set, which creates this big wall of technology, which we use to affect in various ways during the show. It's quite disturbing for the audience, but it's very effective theatrically.”
Futcher urged anyone local who was interested in theatre and art to get to Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre for a night that will be truly different.
“You're transported into a different world. You get into the theatre and you're confronted with searchlights picking you out. It's a really different, fresh experience,” said Futcher.
“And even though the subject matter is quite confronting, it's a very positive thing to go and see because you feel like you're more informed about the way the world works. And also, you come out with a sense that each and every one of us can actually make a difference, in a small way, to how we perceive, and how we can change the world.”
Futcher and Shake & Stir’s gripping production of 1984 plays for one night only at Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre on 2 June. You can find tickets here: https:// sec1.sales.ticketsearch.com/ sales/salesevent/144511
Rehearsals of 1984 at Shoalhaven. Photo: Joel Devereux
Another photo of rehearsals of Shake & Stir's1984.
Photo: Joel Devereux
Markus Zusak
Tracey Spicer
What’s On?
Shellharbour City Arts
Society exhibition
Thurs 29 May to Wed 04
June, 10am-4pm
Old Kiama Fire Station
Worldwide Knit in Public Exhibition
Fri 30 May to Thurs 12 June, from 1pm
Gerringong Library &
Museum
Join local artist Robyn Sharp and crafter/writer Perrie
Croshaw. on Saturday 7 June for a ‘Knit-In’ from 9:30am3pm. For more information contact 0424641663
Kiama Record Fair
Sat 31 May and Sun 1 June, 10am-4pm Masonic Hall
Unplugged at Fillmores
Sun 1 June, 3:30pm Finding Fillmore’s
Shoalhaven
Entertainment
Centre: 1984
Tues 3 June, 8pm-10pm
Strap in for an electrifying take on the George Orwell classic – from the multi-award-winning creative minds at Shake & Stir. Book now at www.
shoalhavenentertainment.
com.au
Lost Saturdays Fine Wine Festival
Sat 7 June
The Pavilion Kiama
The Fine Wine Festival is back.
Get tickets online at Oztix
Winter Wine Festival
Sat 7 June to Sun 8 June, 11am-10pm
Crooked River Estate
Distilled
Sat 7 June to Sun 8 June
The Co-Op Gerringong
Get tickets online at thecoopgerringong.com
Kiama red cross fun run/walk
Sun 8 June
Kiama Coastal Walk
More details: kiama.com. au/events/kiama-fun-run
Steam Down the Line
Sun 8 June
Illawarra Light Railway Museum
Don’t miss this family day out, with a steam train ride and miniature railway.
Susannah Hardy in conversation with Lisa Darcy
Tues 10 June
Kiama Library, 6pm to 7pm
OpenField Arts Festival
Fri 13 to Sun 15 June
Berry, NSW
Mosaic Art Classes
Kiama: Turkish Lamp Workshop
Sat 14 June, sessions at 10am, 2pm, and 6pm
Kiama Bowling Club
Bookings range from $99$149.
Home Composting
Workshop
Tues 17 June 2025 9am12pm
Kiama Community Garden
Registrations close Monday 16 June at 3pm.
Revvies Kiama
Coastal Classic
Sun 22 June
The running festival has four race distances; 2km, 5km, 12km and the main event, the 21km Revvies
Kiama Coastal Classic.
Register online.
Echoes: Steel
City Strings
Sun 22 June, 2pm-4pm
The Pavilion Kiama
Book online
Kiama I Do - Wedding
Open Day
Sat 28 June, 11am-2pm
Various locations
Gerringong Music Club presents Estampa
Sun 29 June, 2pm-3:30pm
Gerringong Town Hall
Book tickets online or at the door.
Entries close for Country Press
NSW Short Story
Competition
4 July
Pick up entry forms from The Bugle offices.
Kiama Vintage Fair
Sun 6 July
Masonic Hall, 46 Collins St, 9am-3pm
Kiama Winter Street Festival
Sat 12 July
Orry-Kelly Dressing
Hollywood Gala
Sat, 26th July 2025, 6pm
The Sebel, Kiama
Yes, it’s time for another Death Café. Join us for tea, coffee and cake and be part of a unique conversation about death, dying, and living!
Thursday, 19th June 2.30pm - 4pm at the Kiama Municipal Library
Our Death Cafe aims to bring people together to discuss mortality and end of life in a relaxed and supportive environment.
All welcome - Let’s talk about death and live more fully!
**Please note this is not a grief support group. If you need help, you can be referred to a counsellor for grief support.
Bookings essential. www.library.kiama. nsw.gov.au/death-cafe or (02) 4233 1133
The Pfeffingen castle ruins
The first semi-final of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest opened with traditional Swiss alphorns and yodelling.
Kiama, you would have loved it!
Kiama, you would have loved it! Sequins, soaring vocals and 36,000 fans singing ABBA in unison. Eurovision in Basel was everything we hoped for and more.
Eurovision unites the world by Music and the overriding sense of togetherness and love is all around here at the epicentre of Europe. Basel is incredibly well located in Switzerland, almost touching France and Germany. The city is the size of Nottingham c200,000 people, progressive and wealthy. It hosts annually
gigantic Basel Art and Basel Tattoo and other hugely successful events were key to Eurovision selection. We stayed with our friends in Switzerland in beautiful Pfeffingen, an idyllic village just outside Basel. The countryside is very Swiss with cows, rolling hills and fields and one of the oldest Cathedrals in the Canton of Basel dating back to 13th century.
As the glitter and high drama settles on a memorable lifetime Eurovision experience, we had a nail biting and tumultuous Eurovision
night. Austria's operatic elegance combined with pop won over juries and the public. Tenor singer at Vienna State Opera JJ showed emotion and humility on winning. He was inspired by 2014 winner Conchita Wurst to participate. A Rollercoaster night in Basel’s Football Stadium palpable euphoria and tension 36,000 people. Live shows in the buildup and fabulous Basel DJ before the big event. Our friend in Basel, Rob was part of the Basel Choir volunteer group. They sang crowd pleasing pop anthems
including Waterloo, a sing-along for the entire audience. and a ingenious Cube in centre stadium live streaming on all four sides. A special mention to Australia who despite opening the 2nd semi-final with a mind blowing sexy and visual performance did not make the final. It’s still one of my favourites and I will be on my Europe Spotify playlist along with Estonia, Sweden, Finland, and Austria.
Our holiday continues to the UK and then Italy for a month, so ciao for now John and Tony
Johnand Tonyinthe stands
Businesses to have their say at Night-Time Economy Forum
Business owners and operators will get to have their say on Kiama's evening and twilight trading through a Night-Time Economy Forum.
Kiama Council has announced the forum will be held on Monday 2 June from 3.30pm to 5pm, downstairs, at The Pavilion in Kiama. Council staff and representatives from the NSW Government’s Office
Roadworks
of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, want to explore with local business owners how Kiama can responsibly and sustainably grow its after-dark economy.
While Council was unsuccessful in its recent Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant application to establish a SEP in Kiama, there remains a strong appetite to support
continue for Jervis Bay flyover
Road work will be carried out from Monday until the end of June on weekdays between 7am and 6pm, and on Saturdays between 8am and 1pm on the Jervis Bay flyover.
Night work will also be carried out for up to 10 shifts between 6pm and 7am, which will be on Wednesday & Thursdays throughout June.
During work hours there will be some temporary traffic changes to ensure the work area is safe.
Motorists are advised to drive to conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.
During night work, motorists are advised to allow an extra five minutes’ travel time. The works will continue on electrical relocations, ongoing major earthworks, importing material for embankment construction, progressing retaining walls to complete the bridge foundation and laying topsoil for landscaping preparation.
Workers will also build road surfaces on parts of the Princes Highway, Jervis Bay Road, Old Princes Highway and Willowgreen Road.
local businesses that are interested in expanding their night-time operations.
“There’s little point changing the rules for businesses that don’t want to stay open later – but for those that do, we can support that ambition,” said Sally Bursell, Council’s tourism and economic development manager. The session will explore key themes such as
trading conditions, planning and licensing opportunities, cultural activation, safety, and what local enablers or barriers currently exist.
Council is aiming to build a vibrant, sustainable nightlife while preserving Kiama’s unique charm and community amenity, according to Tourism and Economic Development Committee chair Matt Brown.
Molly makes net gains for South Coast at state titles
Kiama Netball Association’s (KNA) Molly Allan was chosen to represent the South Coast at the NSWCHSSA State Netball Championships in Tamworth last week.
Molly, who is both a player and coach with KNA, has been playing netball since the age of five and she says being selected for the South Coast team was one of her key goals for 2025.
“This is my first time representing the South Coast. Getting selected was one of my goals for this year, so it’s really exciting to see that hard work pay off,” she said.
The tournament went from 20-22 May and while the South Coast team didn’t place in the top five, Molly gave it her all and enjoyed the experience.
“She did really well, getting some beautiful intercepts,” said Molly’s mother Nat Allan. “The team didn't make the top five, but they played well and had a great time.”
One of the highlights for Molly was the opportunity to play alongside athletes from across the region and train with the South Coast Blaze Trailblazers.“We had four training sessions in the lead-up to the tournament, and three of those were alongside the South Coast
Blaze Trailblazers. Even though some of us didn’t know each other beforehand, the team was welcoming and encouraging from day one,” Molly said.
She credits the KNA representative program as a major factor in her development and success.
“Kiama Netball Association has been a huge part of my journey. The rep program has given me access to excellent coaching and helped me focus on continuous improvement.
It has opened doors to opportunities like this one, and I’m really grateful for the support and encouragement,” she said.
Molly also serves as the
assistant coach for KNA’s 11 years’ development squad.
She says giving back to the sport and the association that has supported her is a rewarding experience.
“I really enjoy coaching because it helps me make new connections and gives me the chance to give back. I love sharing what I’ve learned, and seeing the progress in the girls I coach is so rewarding,” she said.
“Balancing coaching, playing and school can be a lot, but I’ve got great support from my club and association. If I have a rep carnival or a big school week, there’s are always people willing to step in and help.”
Last-minute wave puts an end to Sally’s tour hopes
Lleyton Hughes
It was heartbreak for Gerroa’s Sally Fitzgibbons today, as she was narrowly defeated in the final 90 seconds of Heat 5 in the Round of 16 at the Margaret River Pro.
Fitzgibbons was surfing to
from Fitzgibbons’ grasp and securing a place in the quarter-finals.
Speaking to the Australian Associated Press, Bryan said: “I think for the first, like, 98 per cent of that heat it was all going against me, I could not get it together.
“I’m like, I just need to do
avoid the mid-season cut for the third consecutive year.
A win would have secured her spot on the 2026 Championship Tour, while a loss meant she would miss the top 14 cut.
She opened the heat strongly, scoring a 6.83 on her first wave, followed by a solid 5.00, putting pressure on her opponent, Gabriela Bryan, who needed an 8.00 to advance.
With just 90 seconds remaining, it looked like Fitzgibbons had done enough.
But Bryan delivered an almost flawless wave, landing two massive turns to score a 9.00 - snatching the win
Loss of an Illawarra institution with Dapto Dogs demise
Losing Dapto Dogs for the Illawarra would be like the Dragons losing Jubilee Oval, or Fords and Holdens no longer being able to race around Mount Panorama, with the cultural and spiritual significance attached to their respective communities.
The Dapto Agricultural and Horticultural Society has notified Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) that there will no longer be racing next year at Dapto Showground after 89 years. However, it seems the Society does not want to part ways completely, as
it owns the brand “Dapto Dogs”.
Nowra Hill trainer Allan Manwaring was saddened by the potential demise of the Dapto Dogs.
“My father raced dogs at Dapto back in the 60s and my wife and I won our first and only group race at Dapto, so it holds a special place in our hearts and is one of our favourite tracks” Manwaring said.
While there has been much speculation within racing circles about the future of greyhound racing at Dapto, with many up in arms about the closure, Manwaring sees it differently with the
financial logistics weighing heavily on the Dapto outcome.
“There is talk that the rent was around $20,000 a month at Dapto,” he said.
For newly appointed GRNSW CEO Steve Griffin, this is a significant issue for him to resolve but he appears to be approaching it with a positive outlook.
“While the Dapto decision is disappointing, we have exciting plans to modernise greyhound racing in the months and years ahead, introducing innovative measures to make it a more visually appealing TV sport for punters across the state and around the world”
Griffin said via a GRNSW statement.
One of the innovative measures being introduced by GRNSW is the development proposal from over the other side of the Great Dividing Range in Goulburn.
This “straight” greyhound racing track is said to be a safer option of racing than the conventional “two bend” circuits within the industry.
This decision is not the first time this has happened to the Dapto greyhound fraternity after the Society announced a similar decision in 2019. The Society later renewed its lease with GRNSW. The inquiry
commissioned by the NSW State Government into GRNSW has been extended to 31 July due to the high number of submissions.
The purpose of this inquiry “is to ensure a viable and sustainable greyhound racing industry in NSW with the highest standards of integrity and animal welfare”.
Across the ditch in New Zealand, their greyhound industry was decimated earlier this week with the New Zealand Government’s decision to ban the sport from July next year, something the Mike Bairdled NSW Government tried to do unsuccessfully in 2017.
two big turns, and I hit the first one as hard as I could and then I was like, OK, just finish this thing - and it all worked out. So I was so stoked that wave came."
Fitzgibbons lingered in the water after the buzzer, visibly devastated by the result. Now in her 14th season on the Championship Tour, the 34-year-old remains one of Australia surfing’s most admired athletes. She will now have to fight it out in the Challenger Series if she wants to qualify for the 2026 Championship Tour. Whatever comes next, Sally’s journey is far from over.
Lleyton Hughes
Mitchell Beadman
Alan Manwaring
Gerringong Gala unites Dragons, Lions, and Eagles
Lleyton Hughes
The stars aligned when Gerringong Lions held their annual gala over the weekend, bringing together club legends, current NRL stars and St George Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan.
The event, held each year, offers players, supporters, friends and family a chance to connect, celebrate the club’s
Lleyton Hughes
Magic is in the air for Round Eight of the Group 7 South Coast Rugby League competition, with the launch of the inaugural Magic Round.
For the first time, all four first-grade games will be played back-to-back at Royal Artie Smith Oval in Bomaderry on Saturday, 31 May.
Inspired by the NRL’s own Magic Round, Group 7 Operations Manager and former NRL player Ashton Sims says the concept is about more than just the game.
“It’s not just about rugby league - it’s about bonding communities. That’s what rugby league on the South Coast has always been about at its core, for 114 years,” Sims said.
“You’re bringing people from as far north as Warilla
community and raise vital funds.
“It’s something we try to do every year - a night for the club,” said Lions president Alan Miller.
“We’re a young club with a lot of younger players, and they all turned up dressed well and really respected the night.
“Having a few of the older players there too was great - it’s not just a fundraiser. It gives us energy. It’s been a stop-start
season, which hasn’t been easy on anyone. Events like this help re-energise the players and build camaraderie.”
Held at Gerringong Town Hall, the night featured guest speakers including former Australian Wallaroos rugby union captain Grace Hamilton, who now plays for the Dragons in the NRLW.
“Grace was insightful and really funny, with a great sense of humour,” said Miller.
“The Dragons women’s team stayed in Gerringong last weekend and trained, so she knew the area well and gave great insights.”
Around 100 people attended the gala. Other speakers included Manly Sea Eagles star - and former Gerringong junior - Reuben Garrick, as well as Flanagan, who brought along two of his current players, Hamish Stewart and Dylan Egan, both
Four games of footy magic
to as far south as MiltonUlladulla, and from the Moss Vale region as well.
We have such a vast area, rich in tradition and cultural diversity - but all united by the
common language of rugby league.”
The day’s action will kick off at 12:00pm with the Berry Magpies taking on the Milton-Ulladulla Bulldogs.
The headline clash between the Gerringong Lions and Stingrays of Shellharbour will close the day at 5:15pm.
Sims is especially looking forward to the key matchup
former Lions.
“Shane stayed the weekend in town with his family and friends, and he was fantastic,”
Miller said.
“The banter between him and Reuben was great - they go way back to when Shane was coaching at Manly.
“He also shared funny stories from his playing days under Mick Cronin, who was in attendance, of course.”
Cronin, a rugby league great
between two ladder leaders - the Albion Park Oak Flats Eagles and the Jamberoo Superoos.
“They’re both wellentrenched in the top five, and whoever gets the two points this weekend will gain a crucial advantage heading into the back half of the season,” he said.
Another game to watch is between the home team, Nowra-Bomaderry Jets, and last year’s runners-up, the Shellharbour Sharks. As the only home side playing, the Jets will be keen to impress at their newly renovated stadium.
“It’s a fantastic facility and could definitely host bigger rugby league events in the future. It’s centrally located on the South Coast, with easy access to train lines and buses,” he said.
“I want to give a big shoutout to Shoalhaven City Council
and local legend, coached Flanagan during his playing days at Parramatta in the early 1990s.
Looking ahead, the Lions will be hoping to turn their season around this Saturday when they take on the Stingrays of Shellharbour in Group 7’s inaugural Magic Round in Bomaderry.
Gerringong are just outside the top five, with two wins and three losses.
for their ongoing investment in sport. Their commitment to upgrading or building new facilities not only supports players, but also strengthens the broader community and local infrastructure.”
In addition to the four highquality rugby league matches, the day will also feature local food and beer vendors, as well as a family-friendly zone to round out the event.
“We want to create a really positive and welcoming environment where families can enjoy our great game and experience four back-to-back matches of community rugby league,” Sims added.
Group 7 Magic Round will be held at Royal Artie Smith Oval, Bomaderry, on 31 May. Local fixtures include Jamberoo vs. Albion Park at 1:45pm, and Gerringong vs. Stingrays at 5:15pm. Kiama has the bye.
Injured Dragons forward Dylan Egan back on home turf at the Gerringong Gala.
Manly star Reuben Garrick (left) with Lions players Judd Collyer and Beau Doosey.
Shane Flanagan and Mick Cronin at the Gerringong Gala. Photos: Game Face Photography
GERRINGONG BREAKERS UNDER
16
GIRLS DIVISION 1
GERRINGONG BREAKERS
UNDER 12 GIRLS GRADING
KIAMA JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB
UNDER 6 PINK VS BLUE
SOUTH COAST CUP SURFING
WERRI BEACH BOARDRIDERS
Lleyton Hughes
Visitors steal first South Coast Cup
The inaugural South Coast Cup took place over the weekend, with Southend Boardriders Maroubra taking home the win - and the pride of being crowned the top boardriders club south of Sydney.
Thirteen clubs competed for a $4,500 prize pool and after a week of poor weather, the sun made a welcome appearance on Saturday, 24 May, setting the stage for a highly successful event.
“It was a beautiful, sunny day. The amazing weather really allowed the event to flourish,” said Jones Beach Boardriders (JBB) member Geoff Latimar. “We ended up holding it in the middle of Jones Beach in what were probably all-time conditions, surf-wise.
The paddle out was challenging, but the wave
quality - and some of the surfing we witnessed - will be remembered for a long time.”
After the heats, the field was narrowed down to eight clubs, then four for the final. Southend came out on top with a total score of 29.64, followed by Ulladulla with 26.84.
“It was super close,” said Latimar. “It was back and forth for a while, and then Maroubra locked in a perfect 10-point ride from Blake Thorton - an ex-professional surfer who was on the world tour. That sealed the win for them.”
Jones Beach Boardriders, who also hosted the event, took third place - an achievement Latimar says the team is proud of.
“Oceanna Rogers dropped a 9.5 in the semifinal - the highest scoring wave by any female surfer all day,” he said. “She was a standout throughout
the event. Unfortunately, we didn’t quite click as a team in the final and fell away a little at the end.
But to place third in the first year, with the calibre of clubs involved, gives us something to build on for next time.”
Clubs travelled from as far north as South Sydney and as far south as the Victorian border, and according to Latimar, feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
“Everyone was so stoked with how it went. The camaraderie and the event atmosphere were epic. A lot of people can’t wait for next year’s edition,” he said.
Approximately 500 people attended on the day, which featured more than just surfing. There were BBQs, live commentary, music, and a community celebration to close the event.
“In collaboration with the surf club, there was live music during the finals. The presentation was held at the surf club afterwards with more music and a pizza truck. It was a pretty special afternoon - great surfing, great vibes, and a perfect way to wrap it up,” said Latimar.
The JBB are confident the South Coast Cup will return in 2026, and they’re already looking forward to doing it all again.
“We want to thank the entire local community for showing up and getting behind the event. And of course, a huge thanks to our sponsors and partners - Zink Surf, Kiama Council, The Man Walk, Haworth Guitars, Atmosphere Productions, Ocean and Earth, Secret Sumatra, Kiama Downs IGA, and Superior Meats Shellharbour,” Latimar said.
