‘We’re waiting for a miracle’
Mitchell Beadman
Gerringong grandmother Anne Colquit is reaching out to the community to rally together to support her daughter and son-in-law’s family, who have triplets in two different hospitals, an one hour and a half apart, with one newborn suffering severe complications.
Triplets Ada, Lillie, and Maggie were born six weeks premature on 19 August and it was not the most straightforward of pregnancies.
When Louise was giving birth, it was discovered that the triplets were being carried in separate placentas – Ada
and Lillie in one and Maggie in the other. “Maggie needed special care and she was in Wollongong and then she was moved back to Sydney because she was fitting [having seizures],” Anne said. Due to a shortage of beds, it means Louise must choose between where her time is spent most. Complicating this matter further is the fact that Louise and her husband Ste’s immediate family is spread out across the coastline of Sydney’s eastern suburbs all the way down the South Coast to Narooma.
Anne explained Maggie has unfortunately suffered some brain damage (areas of dead brain tissue) as well as the seizures, and has needed to
be resuscitated on more than one occasion. “Nobody knows what’s wrong – she stops breathing,” Anne said.
“It’s happened a few times in their [Louise and Ste’s] company. They’ve been cuddling her, and she’s stopped breathing. So, it’s very distressing, of course. I haven’t even met Maggie yet.
“Obviously the next few weeks are really critical for baby Maggie – we’re waiting for a miracle.”
Anne has been able to spend time with Ada and Lillie, sharing the love of a grandmother with them. She told The Bugle they are slowly meeting their milestones.
“I was absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to spend that two and a half weeks after their birth, being there just to cuddle them and change them and feed them,” Anne said.
“And I had both of them in my arms and I’d just sit there for a couple of hours and talk to them and sing to them.
Louise and Ste are parents to four young children with four-year-old daughter Grace, who spends four days a week at child care, being understandably unsettled with the changes to her routine.
“Between all of us, we’ve been helping with Grace, taking her on weekends and just trying to make her – she’s
just been so unsettled,” Anne said.
With Louise’s profession being that of a nurse, there is the understanding within the family that whilst it is difficult for the triplets to be separated from their mother, the beds in Randwick’s Royal Women’s Hospital are prioritised for newborns with higher needs.
The family has set up a gofundme page, ‘Baby Maggie Needs Us! Please Help Her Family’, where Louise’s sister, Ally, has been providing updates to donators and followers.
On 23 September, Ally shared that there have been meetings with doctors with continuous monitoring of Maggie’s brain activity, with
episodes of apnoea and little answers and no end date in sight. There was good news with the speech pathologist confirming she can suck and swallow.
Adding to the pressures on the Shaw family, Ste has been predominantly looking after Grace while upholding work commitments as an electrician, while also travelling between Wollongong and Randwick to support his wife and newborn triplets.
For more information on how to donate head to: https://www. gofundme.com/f/babymaggie-needs-usplease-help-her-family
Grace with triplets Ada, Lillie, and Maggie
Anne with Lillie and Ada
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Sellers urged to cash in as property prices go through the roof
Paul Suttor
Kiama’s expensive real estate prices are delivering huge dividends for property sellers with a recent report showing that profits have never been higher.
According to research by Cotality over the three months leading up to June, Kiama house sales recorded a median nominal gain of $758,000, the highest of any Local Government area in the country.
Sellers in the area, on average, are holding on to property for an average of 12 years and over that time, the median dwelling value in the Kiama LGA has risen by 120%.
Over the June quarter, six of the top 10 most profitable Local Government Areas were in NSW.
Woollahra Council, in Sydney’s highly sought after
eastern suburbs, was also in top 10, recording a median nominal gain of $575,000.
Cotality’s Q2 2025 Pain & Gain report analysed approximately 97,000 resales over the period, revealing 94.8% of transactions recorded a nominal gain.
This is above the decade average of 91.5% but it is a slight decline from 95% of resales in the March quarter.
Ray White Kiama sales and marketing executive Sam Scobie said he was not surprised by the Cotality report’s findings.
“This report definitely reflects what we’re experiencing locally,” he told The Bugle
“Even through winter, which is usually our quieter, off-season period, our team still managed to smash past our sales records for the second time this year.
“Currently it is a very good opportunity for sellers who
are toying with the idea of selling, even with the RBA holding the cash rate on Tuesday there are definitely buyers looking to secure their next home in our little paradise.”
Scobie said house-hunters were not just coming from Sydney.
“We’re welcoming plenty of new buyers from Sydney, Canberra and even regional areas like Wagga Wagga - all still chasing that lifestyle/sea change,” he added.
“Because of this, it makes it very uncommon for sellers in Kiama to take a loss, and even those who bought right at the COVID peak are now seeing the market catch up and push beyond those levels with the introduction of new buyers.
“Of course there are always exceptions.
“When I ask people why they’ve chosen to live in Kiama, most simply say they
love it here and can’t give me a reason.
“To me, I think between the sense of community, the coastline and our rolling hills, and the easy trip back to Sydney, it’s not hard to see why so many are making the move.”
Cotality’s head of research, Eliza Owen, said it was a good time to be considering selling property.
“Across all profit-making resales nationally, we saw a median nominal gain of $315,000 for sellers recorded in the June quarter,” she said.
“This was a record high, up from $305,000 in the previous quarter (to March), and the decade average of $250,000.
“Meanwhile, the national median loss fell to $42,000, down from $44,000 in the March quarter and a high of $45,000 in the December quarter of last year.”
The proportion of loss-
making sales increased to 5.2% in the June quarter, up slightly from 5% in the first three months of 2025.
“Many of these losses are concentrated in markets that still haven’t returned to their peak values,” Owen added.
“Between June and August of this year, the likelihood of a loss-making resale has broadly reduced as national home values rose 1.3%, and fewer markets at the suburblevel recorded quarterly falls across Australia.”
Regional Australia has continued to outperform capital cities in terms of profitability with 96.4% of regional resales making a nominal gain in the June quarter, compared with 93.9% in capital cities.
Houses continued to outperform units in the June 2025 quarter, with 97.2% of house resales delivering a profit, compared to 89.8% of unit sales.
Kiama property prices are rising, making it ideal for sellers to explore the market, according to Sam Scobie. Main photo: Darren Parlett
All options are on
the table for Kiama Council for the Blue Haven nursing home site at Havilah Place which is being demolished six years after it was closed down.
Demolition started last week on the site which was previously the home to Kiama’s first retirement village for four decades from 1979 onwards.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said Council was
open to ideas about how the area should be used once the derelict buildings are removed over the next two months.
Council will form a finance and major projects committee to spearhead the process of working out what to do with the community asset.
“That committee is an acknowledgement that Council is not the expert on all things and the scope of work for that committee will be to look at all Council’s catalyst
All options on table for Havilah Place site
sites and understand what they might look like in the next 20 to 30 years.
“Council has sites in desperate need of attention, such as Havilah Place, the existing Council Chambers and the Minnamurra Depot.
“Members of the community have been offering up their views on what should happen next at Havilah Place, and those opinions are diverse. Nothing is off the table as far as Council is concerned.
“It will become a part of a larger jigsaw puzzle as to the makeup of our future community assets”.
The future of the Havilah Place site will also play into how the Sporting Complex could end up. There have been
calls for it to be converted into affordable housing, more retirement homes, sporting facilities, retail and commercial space, or even parkland. After the committee is formed, Council will start a community consultation process before working out what will happen with the subdivision of the site.
Long-time Kiama local Nick Hartgerink wrote the book, literally, on Blue Haven: The First 40 Years, which was released in 2019. “It was a great facility in its time, but it reached its use by day,” he said.
“The whole process started because around 1970 the Kiama Hospital was full of elderly residents and there was nowhere for them to go
and they would have had to go to nursing homes 30, 50, even 100km away in Sydney because there was nowhere to accommodate them anywhere in the Illawarra.
Thus the Kiama and District Retirement Village Committee was born on 19 November, 1970 with Kiama Mayor Paul Saphin elected president.
They raised money and the retirement village was set to get the green light in 1975 but the
government funding was cut off due to the nationwide financial uncertainty during the turbulent final days of Gough Whitlam’s Prime Ministership. The site was initially home to the State Rail Quarry from the 1870s. By the 1970s, the disused quarry land was owned by local businessman Tony Freedman, who generously donated an acre to Council with other land purchased to build the nearby sporting complex.
Mayor delivers vision for the year ahead to Kiama business leaders
Kiama Business Network’s annual Mayoral Breakfast drew a strong crowd to the Mercure Gerringong on Thursday, with local business owners, politicians and community representatives eager to hear an update on Kiama Council’s progress and priorities.
Mayor Cameron McDonald delivered the address, joined by special guests Federal MP Fiona Phillips, new state MP Katelin McInerney, councillors and senior Council staff.
He also acknowledged the contributions of CEO
Jane Stroud - recently reappointed for a further three years - and Director of Planning, Environment and Communities Ed Patterson.
Cr McDonald praised KBN’s board, describing it as “one of the most cohesive” he has worked with, and commended its strong advocacy role in supporting local enterprise.
He also noted Kiama High School’s long-running involvement with the Breakfast as an important bridge between education and industry.
Reflecting on the past year,
Property Law with a human touch.
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A proud Kiama local with deep experience in residential, rural, commercial and retirement villages, Steve provides the expert support, advice and representation you need to navigate the sale process from start to finish, ensuring you enjoy the best possible outcome. Steve specialises in property legal services, so for expert advice on all things property, get in touch or visit our Collins Street office in Kiama.
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Cr McDonald highlighted Council’s work to address challenges stemming from the Performance Improvement Order and the divestment of Blue Haven, decisions inherited from the previous term.
He said Council had stabilised its financial management, with longstanding audit qualifications now cleared, and pointed to key initiatives such as: the opening of a Planning Hub in the old Westpac building to make planning advice more accessible, the acquisition of
with State Government support, success in the tourism sector, with Kiama placing third nationally in the Australian Tourism Awards after backto-back NSW wins, and progress on major strategies, including the finalisation of the Housing Strategy, public exhibition of the Employment Lands Strategy, and work on a Rural Land Strategy.
Looking to the year ahead, the Mayor pledged to advocate for funding to repair Jerrara Mountain Road and
for an upgrade to Kiama’s sewage treatment plant, which he described as critical for community health and the area’s housing capacity.
Other key focus areas included: working with the Illawarra-Shoalhaven Joint Organisation of councils on major regional issues such as waste, transport and health, supporting the expansion of employment lands to ensure skilled workers can remain in the area, addressing the challenges local businesses face beyond tourism, including rising rents and closures, and improving local
sporting and community facilities, with particular emphasis on amenities for women and girls.
Cr McDonald stressed Council could not achieve these goals alone, calling for continued partnership with business, community, and state and federal governments. He urged residents and operators to engage with Council strategies currently on exhibition, noting that “strong, united advocacy” would give Kiama a greater voice in future funding and policy decisions.
Shoalhaven Street land as a step towards “reimagining Kiama’s future”
Kiama’s old State Rail Quarry
Demolition at Havilah Place has begun
Bombo Quarry breakthrough could
‘shape Kiama’s future for generations’
Paul Suttor
The long-awaited transformation of the Bombo Quarry into a housing area is a step closer after the Independent Planning Commission has recommended that proposed rehabilitation works be declared a State Significant Development.
For decades, the land has been viewed as a potential solution to Kiama’s lack of housing and the IPC’s decision has been welcomed by Mayor Cameron McDonald. “It is a really great announcement for the community of Kiama how it is rehabilitated will
shape Kiama’s future for generations,” he told The Bugle. “It’s the first necessary step in a long process. Council certainly doesn’t have the ready set of consultants that would be required for exploration into remediation of the site, such as geotechnical and other specialist analysts.
“What it means for the ratepayer is that the State Government steps in and performs the preparatory work underneath the State Significant Development umbrella at the State’s cost, and the community get the benefit of that work, stay in control of the site and progress planning.”
It is a common refrain around the Kiama LGA that the Bombo Quarry redevelopment has been “10 years away” for decades but it now looks like it will happen with a new estate in place sometime within the 2030s.
“This is a significant signal from the State Government that potentially it’s a much shorter timeframe towards the contribution that the Bombo site will provide to our local Housing Strategy than what the community is expecting” Cr McDonald added.
“We haven’t lost sight of the fact that there is significant infrastructure around the Bombo Quarry site that will
be required to be planned for, including shortfalls addressed.”
That includes the road network, Sydney Water’s needs, the Bombo sewage treatment facility as well as school, pre-school, shopping, and sporting and community group facilities.
Later this year or in early 2026, Kiama Council will begin to come up with a plan, in consultation with the State Government, about its longterm vision for the precinct and how that can be achieved.
There could be as many as 2000 houses in the redeveloped quarry site but that could fluctuate
depending on the density put in place and other amenities that are built for the area.
Cr McDonald said Council’s goal of 900 new homes by the end of this decade would be more than accommodated by in-fill development as well as projects already underway in Shoalhaven Street, the Sunnymeade site in Gerringong, South Kiama and Golden Valley in Jamberoo. The goal of 3400 new dwellings by 2040 isn’t a mandated number by the NSW Government but Council is planning for those numbers to come to fruition.
IPC’s decision to recognise the state importance of the
Bombo Quarry rehabilitation project progressed after a Ministerial call-in request from the NSW Transport Asset Manager and Boral, supported by Urbis.
“Bombo Quarry has played a significant role in the state’s infrastructure and construction story for decades,” Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said.
“The Independent Planning Commission’s advice makes clear that its rehabilitation is a matter of state importance.”
Newly elected Kiama MP Katelin McInerney said this was an important milestone for the local community.
Dashing dogs dazzle at high-speed Flyball competition
Shelby Gilbert
Paws were flying across the turf at Albion Park Showground as 96 dogs competed at the South Coast Dog Training Club’s biannual flyball competition on Saturday.
With 17 teams and over 100 people gathering for the event, flyball is one of the most exciting events on the dog sports calendar, combining speed and obedience training into a fun competition.
It is a fast-paced canine sport where dogs race over jumps to a flyball box that they need to trigger to release a ball.
Then they run back to their owner, all while being timed. Two teams of four dogs compete head-to-head in a relay race and the team with the fastest time and fewest errors wins, with the fastest Division One teams completing the circuit in under four seconds.
Operating for over 50 years, the South Coast Dog Training Club
(SCDTC) specialises in dog obedience training but also hosts events like flyball, a dynamic and popular competition that showcases the results of dedicated training.
SCDTC president Fay Hull said the club had been transforming dogs and helping owners for years, providing support and training every week.
“We'll get at least one dog that's very reactive. And by that, I mean it's growling or barking at people or dogs. And we turn them around. It's amazing,” she said.
“The owners have to turn them around, but what we do is we show the owners how to do it.”
Saturday’s competition featured a diverse range of breeds from border collies to kelpies, poodles, and mixed-breed dogs, many of which are rescue dogs.
The event brings together a wide variety of ages, as they all share a common interest in doing something they love with their dogs.
The SCDTC has a lot of members from
Kiama, Gerringong, and Jamberoo while being based in Albion Park but Fay said many people don’t know the club exists.
“I talk to people and they say, ‘oh, there's a dog club at Wollongong’ and I'll say, ‘what about the one at Albion Park?’” Events like Flyball attract people from all over the Illawarra and NSW, but the club has around 150 members and 25 to 55 members attend each week to participate in the different sports the club holds.
“We've really started to focus on helping people have dogs that are good family members and good community members that are obedient and tractable and friendly and sociable.”
The SCDTC is a not for profit club - anyone is able to join. There is a membership fee each year plus $5 per week to train.
For more information about the South Coast Dog Training Club visit their website https:// www.scdtc.org.au/
TheSouthCoastDogTrainingClub
Bombo Quarry to the rescue … through the back door?
Hot off the press from the Independent Planning Commission, the owners of the Bombo Quarry - Boral and Transport Asset Management (TAM) - have secured a highly coveted, but extremely rare planning decision: the Ministerial call-in. The last time we had officially heard from Boral and TAM (formerly the Transport Asset Holding Entity), they were preparing to submit their final masterplan for the Quarry “later in 2024”, as per the Bombo Quarry project website. It’s amazing what nine months, a housing strategy and a by-election win for the Labor Government can do.
Don’t get us wrong. Here at The Bugle, it’s refreshing that there actually, maybe, hopefully, might be actual positive change coming to the Quarry. Anyone who has been part of our community has heard ad nauseum over the past decade that remediation of the quarry was just around the corner. And that public benefits would be delivered, soon after. Now we definitively know that it is unlikely to be that simple. A quick perusal of the IPC advice to Planning Minister Paul Scully reveals a few pieces of information that the community had speculated about, but never truly knew the details of.
Some quick facts for those playing at home:
The total amount of fill required is somewhere between 2,200,000m2 – 2,500,000m2 . To import this amount of fill onto the site, it will take approximately five years, made up of:
- 147,000–167,000 total truck movements, or - 31,800–39,750 truck movements per year, or - 120-150 truck movements per day. Back when TAHE presented to the community in July 2024, they stated they could not definitively say when quarrying activities would cease.
The Urbis request for the Ministerial Call-in states that “it is anticipated that quarrying will continue for around five years on the TAM site”. Conservatively, this could mean the total site remediation may not be
complete until 2032. Not quite the silver bullet solution we were after, but at least it’s a start.
Considering the site’s importance to Kiama Council’s structure plan and connecting the site to the new Riversdale Drive precinct, it seems there will be enough time to actually undertake strategic planning and ensure the roads and infrastructure are delivered to/from the Princes Highway towards the future Riversdale Road precinct. While it is obvious this remediation assessment and process is highly technical, and probably best placed as a State Significant Development with the boffins at the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, this excerpt from the closeddoor IPC meeting caught our eye:
MR PATERSON: Yes. We talked about exhibition of the state significant rezoning project as a possibility for mid to early 2026, so that might tie itself nicely with an SSD exhibition.
Mr Paterson is, of course, Ed Paterson, Council’s Director of Strategies and Communities and the “we” refers to the conversation that Council has had with DPHI regarding Bombo Quarry. While the Ministerial Call-in is only for a State Significant Development Application for remediation, it appears further discussions are also being had about the rezoning for housing and employment.
By our accounts, this is the first time the public has heard that the rezoning of the site would also be handled by the State Government and DPHI.
We were always told the rezoning and future development would be handled by Kiama Council and the community would have the final say on what is being proposed – particularly as many see Bombo Quarry as not only an answer to housing, but significant employment and industrial land. Now it appears otherwise.
The Bugle’s View is that while the community should be pleased there is progress on the Bombo Quarry front, we wholeheartedly do not endorse a “back door” for the site to be rezoned without the community’s input.
Fiona tackles local gap in breast cancer support
Local resident Fiona Smith is hosting a garden party fund-
all the proceeds raised going to support Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Action Australia. The morning tea event will host a variety of activities, including raffles,
vintage clothes, handmade crafts, plants, and plenty of food and treats.
The relaxed event promises something for everyone all while supporting a cause important to Fiona.
She knows firsthand why this cause matters, after being diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer and thinking she was through the hardest part, after six years, her cancer had returned and spread, becoming metastatic.
Fiona says MBC is treatable but not curable and with more people living with MBC, there needs to be more support and funding.
“By having this event I want to get it out to the local community because I’m sure there will be people living with metastatic breast cancer but I don’t know them because there’s no support group here,” she said.
“Raising awareness helps you realise, OK, it’s not a great
diagnosis, but I can still live a fuller life, however long that is, and there are people that will support me in that.”
Metastatic breast cancer occurs when cancer spreads from the breast to other parts of the body, affecting an estimated 24,000 Australians.
MBC Action Australia, launched 12 months ago, is the country’s first advocacy organisation specifically for people living with MBC, filling a crucial gap in support services for this disease.
The garden party aims to raise funds and awareness in the local community, as Fiona is passionate about ensuring regional patients have access to the same level of support that people do in major cities.
Fiona encourages anyone to attend the event, from people living with MBC, partners, carers, family and friends, to have a cup of tea, have a chat, or maybe raise their own awareness.
More information about MBC Action Australia can be found at www. mbcaction.org.au.
Temporary bridge best option for Kangaroo Valley
Transport for NSW has confirmed a temporary bridge beside Hampden Bridge has been identified as the preferred option as part of the project to restore a reliable crossing over the Kangaroo River.
The single-lane modular steel truss bridge will be delivered in prefabricated sections and largely assembled onsite at Kangaroo Valley to provide medium-term access for vehicles up to 42.5 tonnes.
Early investigations
found detour options, including via Glenmurray Road, Upper Kangaroo River Road and Nerriga and Oallen Ford roads, were not viable due to significant environmental and property impacts as well as the time required to update or construct alternative roads.
Detailed design and additional assessments are now underway, with timelines to be refined and funding to be secured as planning progresses.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the preferred option was the quickest option to deliver.
Constructing the temporary bridge is expected to take a number of years. The NSW Government is investing $500,000 into early investigations for a new permanent bridge, and essential maintenance underway to keep the historic Hampden Bridge in service.
Nine damaged timber
beams along the top of the truss were replaced in August, while a more complex strengthening program to replace another 12 beams on the lower truss is scheduled for 2026.
Aitchison said Transport for NSW would continue to engage with the Kangaroo Valley community as the project develops.
“A temporary bridge option beside Hampden Bridge has been identified as the preferred way forward,” she said.
Shelby Gilbert
raiser at Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club next Saturday
Fiona Smith and her husband Graham Murtagh
First year in the job a real eye-opener
Over the past year, Kiama has taken some big steps forward, often in difficult circumstances.
As Mayor, I’ve seen first-hand the resilience and determination of our councillors, staff and community in navigating these challenges together.
Perhaps the toughest decision was the sale of Blue Haven, a decision which was made in the term of the previous council. We simply had to follow it through to its completion. It was deeply personal for many in our
community, and it was not taken lightly.
But it was the decision required to safeguard Council’s financial future.
I want to acknowledge the courage of all those involved in reaching that outcome. Importantly, that decision did not define our year.
In just 12 months, we’ve opened our Planning Hub to speed up approvals, delivered the lowest budget deficit in five years, and celebrated Kiama being named NSW’s Top Tourism Town for the second year running.
As well as being recognised with a bronze on the national stage.
We’ve adopted our first Local Housing Strategy, survived a byelection, and secured key land acquisitions and covenant changes that strengthen our financial position.
All of this has been achieved in just 250 working days.
But the year ahead may be even more important. Our priorities are clear: ensuring enough housing and employment land to support local families and businesses, including
advocating for the removal of a covenant over Council land that will ensure our financial sustainability for years to come, securing urgent upgrades to the Bombo Water Resource Recovery Facility, redeveloping the Kiama Sports Complex, pursuing fairer arrangements for essential infrastructure like Jamberoo Mountain Road, and working with the State Government in removing our Performance Improvement Order.
These are essentials that will determine
whether
or
And while Council will continue to advocate strongly with state and federal governments, we cannot do this alone.
Real change happens when the whole community speaks with one voice. Together, we can make sure Kiama and our community are thriving.
The past year has proven what’s possible when we work together. Now, let’s make the next 12 months about securing the future we want for Kiama.
Please note - this is paid content
Kiama thrives
falls behind.
Photo: Darren Parlett
Gerringong Op-shop faces uncertain future
Development looks to have claimed another victim and this time it is independent charity op-shop Mayflower Nearly New in Gerringong which is set to lose the depot which houses its overflow of stock.
With almost 50 years of servicing and supporting locals with donated items and having stepped away from being under the Uniting Church umbrella, it appears there is no love lost when it comes to real estate.
Jennifer James, of the Mayflower Nearly New store, explained to The Bugle that the Uniting Church is pulling down the old hospital on Belinda Street to be developed into independent living units.
“They own the land and of course, we own the shed and they [Uniting Church] are not renewing the lease,” she said, who has had experience working in the clothing store ‘A Breath of Scandal’ in Sydney.
“The lease expires [for the depot] next June.”
The current store, which is located on Fern Street next to the Butcher and displays the processed goods from donations, is approximately 35 square metres.
“If you can see the size of this shop, we can’t even fit two people in the back room - we can’t have this as a depot,” James added.
Mayflower Nearly New’s Isabella Campbell said around a dozen ladies turn up every Tuesday morning to help sort out the donations for sale.
Because of the generosity of the Gerringong locals and surrounding townships, not all that is donated makes it to the shopfront.
“What we can’t give to the shop here has to go somewhere and we don’t want it to go into a garbage
Uproar over Constance’s CEO gig
Paul Suttor
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig has launched a “preliminary investigation” into the appointment of Andrew Constance as the new Chief Executive Officer.
bin anywhere,” Campbell said.
“We give to the Salvation Army, Samaritan’s Purse –we send all our material to them because they make bags that go overseas.
“We also give to Animal Welfare if there are blankets that can’t be sold.”
Looking around the shop, the majority of the items are clothing with some preloved books, but there is a lot of antique ‘bric-a-brac’.
“If somebody gives us antiques and we can’t sell them, we pass them on to our museum in Gerringong here,” James said.
Over the past six years, the ladies from the shop projected the potential donations to various community organisations and charities has exceeded $300,000.
Campbell and James, along with some elders from the Uniting Church, are on the committee which decides where the money is distributed.
“It is a real hub for the grandparents, [they] come here in the school holidays to stop the children from getting bored,” James said.
“A lot of jigsaw puzzles – it is a community place.”
The ladies of the Mayflower Nearly New store said they once received 75 wedding dresses, all brand new, which did not take long to waltz out the door, but a silver jug takes the cream.
“It’s a little cream jug that we believe came off the Orient Express, but we didn’t want to sell stolen goods, so we passed it on,” James said.
For anyone who has any information on a new depot for the Mayflower Nearly New Store contact Jennifer James in the shop on Fern Street or email jenrick@bigpond.com.
Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips wrote to the Minister after Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White announced on Tuesday afternoon that the former NSW Treasurer had won the race to fill the CEO vacancy.
Phillips said the appointment “smacks of political bastardry” and she raised her concerns about his lack of experience at local government level with Hoenig.
The Minister has responded by saying he has instructed the Office of Local Government to look into the matter.
“Not only is the general manager the most important position, but it requires proven skills in management, finance and administration,” he said.
“I have requested the Office of Local Government conduct a preliminary investigation under the Local Government Act into the manner of the appointment.”
After Robyn Stevens resigned in November 2024, James Ruprai held the role for eight months in an acting capacity before he also quit
and Brian Barrett has filled in as an interim CEO since 31 July.
Phillips was livid about Constance getting the nod.
"Because of that decision, I have lost all confidence in the Shoalhaven Mayor and Shoalhaven City Council," she said. "Mr Constance has no local government employment experience."
NSW Opposition Leader Mark Speakman has gone into bat for Constance, accusing Labor of hypocrisy.
"That's a nonsense assessment.
Andrew Constance is a former treasurer, a former Transport Minister working at the highest levels of government.
"If the Member for Gilmore is concerned about jobs for the boys, she should be talking about Josh Murray," he said in reference to the appointment of former Premier Morris Iemma's old chief of staff to an executive role with Transport for NSW in 2023.
"He has exceptional skills, a Minister, a Treasurer at the most senior levels of government, he is the product of an executive search, and I understand the decision is the result of that executive search, a competitive process, and he has come out as the best candidate."
Phillips narrowly beat Constance in the 2022 federal election in a cliffhanger
before the Labor incumbent won comfortably over her Liberal rival in May.
Constance then announced he would be stepping away from politics but after what Cr White described as "a comprehensive recruitment process led by Council and supported by independent advisors, Stephen Blackadder Consulting", he will jump into the hot seat in Shoalhaven.
"During the 2025 federal election, the Shoalhaven Mayor, Councillor Selena Clancy and Councillor Jason Cox were actively supporting Andrew Constance," Phillips added.
"This smacks of political bastardry - there must have been other applicants on the merit list with local government employment experience.
"It reeks of 'jobs for Liberal mates', and does not pass the pub test. It is certainly not in the best interests of Shoalhaven ratepayers."
Shoalhaven Councillor Bob Proudfoot aired his concerns on ABC Illawarra by saying: "I have concerns about conflicts of interest.
"I believe that there were candidates there that fitted the role more appropriately simply because of their local government experience."
Shoalhaven City Councillor Ben Krikstolaitis added his voice to the chorus, saying
“the entire process of selecting a CEO was flawed from the start”.
“It is highly unusual to elect a CEO without a unanimous vote. It is highly unusual for a candidate to turn down an offer after his name was leaked by persons unknown.”
Cr Krikstolaitis has invited Shoalhaven City Council ratepayers to write to local state member, Liza Butler, and to councillors to voice their displeasure at Constance’s appointment.
“The goalposts kept shifting and I do not believe we employed the best candidate,” he added.
Cr White said Constance brought more than 18 years of public service experience to the role, including as the NSW Member for Bega from 2003 to 2021 and holding several senior ministerial portfolios such as Treasurer of NSW, finance, transport and roads, industrial relations, ageing and disability services.
"Andrew’s commitment to the Shoalhaven and his proven leadership make him an outstanding choice to guide our organisation,” the Mayor said in her announcement.
“His deep understanding of regional issues, infrastructure, and community engagement positions him strongly to lead the Council into its next chapter.”
Spend a night at the museum to see Defining Symbols
The exhibition ‘Defining Symbols of Australia’ will open next Thursday (9 October) at the GLaM Gallery in Gerringong, exploring the identity of Australians through objects donated by the community.
Included in the exhibition are some stunning works by Anna Glynn, drawing on images from Australia’s rich and complex history.
Glynn’s work is beautiful and challenging with its layers of meaning.
Filled with curiosity, she has a passion for investigating the complex relationships between humans, history, nature, land, place, physical and ephemeral.
Her diverse practice includes painting, drawing, video, sculpture, installation, photography, writing, music, sound and international interdisciplinary collaborations between art and science.
She has been recognised with numerous awards,
In keeping with the theme of the exhibition, Anna will arrive at the GLaM Gallery in one of Australia’s favourite historic cars, a 1954 FJ Holden Special sedan owned and driven by Malcolm Lambert. Glynn is a Dharawal-based, award-winning Australian artist whose rainforest home is tucked below the steep cliffs of the Illawarra escarpment.
including the 2023 International Women’s Day Arts Award, and her work is held in esteemed public and private collections such as the Australian Parliament House Art Collection, the National Museum of Australia Collection, Shoalhaven City Art Collection, Art Gallery of Ballarat and the Kedumba Collection of Australian Drawings.
For an enjoyable evening and the opening of the exhibition by GLAM patron, Sandra McCarthy, head to Gerringong Library and Museum Gallery from 5.307.30pm.
The $10 entry fee includes refreshments.
Jennifer James (left) Rosaline Kempton (Middle) Isabella Campbell (Right)
Anna Glynn
Walkbuy’s growing fast in Kiama, now’s the time to Pulse
Just a few short weeks after launching in Kiama, Walkbuy is already making a visible impact –with over 500 local users, 40-plus businesses, and a flood of positive community feedback fuelling what’s quickly becoming a true local movement.
Walkbuy is the free app built to strengthen local shopping by giving businesses a way to post real-time updates – called Pulses – to nearby shoppers.
Whether it’s daily specials, new arrivals, or time-sensitive offers, Walkbuy puts local visibility in your hands, instantly.
And the community has responded loud and clear: Kiama loves Walkbuy.
“We’ve been blown away by the support,” says Peter Walsh, Walkbuy founder.
“It’s amazing to see Kiama businesses embracing the platform and locals actively using it to rediscover the charm of shopping close to home. Now we just want to keep that energy going – and keep the Pulses coming.”
Since launching, Walkbuy has been featured on local radio, social media, and in The Bugle – and the word continues to spread.
There has been an increase in brand awareness, stronger customer engagement, and more local loyalty for businesses on the app.
But the real magic happens when businesses post consistently.
“As Walkbuy’s Business Strategy Manager, I want every local business to know that this platform was built for you,” says Josh, who’s leading the rollout in Kiama.
“When you post frequently, even short updates, it creates a rhythm that keeps your brand top-of-mind.
We’re here to make that easy – and it’s 100% free for Kiama businesses for the first 12 months.”
In response to community feedback, the Walkbuy team is rolling out exciting updates soon, including:
Pulse Scheduling & Recurring Pulses
POS Integrations
Dashboard Access for Businesses
Support for Service-Based Businesses
Customer Reviews & Insights
And much more!
“These features are directly shaped by what businesses have asked for,” adds Charlotte, Head of Marketing.
“We’re listening, we’re building –and we’re committed to making Walkbuy even better.”
So, if you’re already on the app – amazing, keep Pulsing. If you haven’t signed up yet, now’s the time to get involved. Every Pulse brings your brand closer to the community.
Walkbuy is live, local, and here to stay. Let’s keep the momentum going, Kiama.
Please note - this is paid content
Kiama Cycles launches e-bike tours
Well into spring and with the summer feeling upon us, Kiama Cycles has launched ‘Ride Kiama’ for locals and tourists to take in the scenery in the area.
And with the evolution from external geared bikes to e-bikes, Kiama Cycles has the right bike for everyone.
“We’ve had customers come in, haven’t ridden a bike for 20 years and are able to do a threeto-four-hour ride and come back absolutely loving it,” store owner Beau Rosser said.
Beau explained he had a meeting with Destination Kiama after he saw a gap in the market of e-bike hire and showcasing Kiama in an environmentally friendly way.
“We have set up some routes to showcase the region on an e-bike,” he said.
“It works with an app on their phone, and they can basically use that to follow the route.
“The e-bikes we rent are fully compliant, usually drive mid motor - so plenty of torque to get up the hills. Everyone is not Lance Armstrong, but people love to get out and go for a ride.”
For families looking to get in on the action, age is only important when you’re riding alone – it comes down to height.
“Generally speaking, because they’re [e-bikes] more adult sizes, we have had a 10-year-old yesterday who was quite tall, though,” he said.
“But as long as they’ve got parents and supervision, that’s fine.
“If they are taking them by themselves, they have to be of age - 18 [years old].”
Beau is proud of Kiama Cycles’ compliance with regulations and safety managing e-bikes and he told The Bugle how he handles a ‘Temu’ e-bike.
“We’re very cautious with that and have to be for a number of reasons,” he said.
“One, our safety, but also work health and safety and customer safety as well.
“If we see a bike that comes in that is a ‘Temu’ bike, we take the battery out but are happy to work on the actual bike, but not touching the electronics.”
To feel the wind in your hair (of course under a helmet) and the sun on your face, bookings are essential and can be made at kiamacycles.com.au
Mitchell Beadman
Locals urged to help Bird Count take flight
Danielle Woolage
Get your binoculars ready and join the flock to make this year’s Aussie Bird Count the biggest yet.
The Aussie Bird Count, run by BirdLife Australia every October, is one of the nation’s biggest citizen science projects.
BirdLife Australia’s Sean Dooley, who regularly appears on ABC Radio and is affectionately known as “The Birdman”, has called on avian lovers across the Kiama, Shellharbour and Shoalhaven local government areas to join this year's annual count from October 20-26.
“The Aussie Bird Count invites people of all ages to spend 20 minutes observing and counting the birds around them,” he said.
“We are asking citizen scientists to keep their eyes peeled in backyards, from balconies, at local parks and schoolyards across the region during the nation’s biggest bird count.”
Participants just need to download a free mobile app, which includes a field guide to help identify birds, and count the different species they see around them. Last year, more than 57,000 citizen scientists counted 4.1 million birds. So why sign up?
Dooley, a national birdwatching champion who once held the record for seeing the most birds (703) in one year, came up with the idea for the Aussie Bird Count more than a decade ago to raise awareness of the increasing number of endangered birds.
“One in six Australian birds faces the threat of extinction, making it more important than ever to pay attention and look for the amazing stories birds can tell us about the health of our environment.
BirdLife Australia collaborates with experts, landholders, communities and governments to conserve and protect Australia's native birds and their habitats, and Dooley said citizen scientists played an important role in preventing extinctions and protecting breeding sites.
“To save birds from extinction, we need reliable data,” he explained.
“The data collected through the Aussie Bird Count app helps BirdLife Australia understand bird populations and how they are affected by environmental changes.
“The national snapshot of birds in our backyards takes just 20 minutes to help build a picture of how our feathered friends are faring and contribute to something that really counts.”
BirdLife Australia also has a year-round Birdata platform, a crucial tool in safeguarding the future of many endangered species by providing accurate information about bird populations and their habitats.
Birdata is compiled by researchers and citizen scientists and is Australia’s longest-running digital database for bird sighting, with BirdLife Australia using the
data to feed into a national bird conservation strategy aimed at stopping extinctions by 2032.
According to Birdata, the most commonly seen bird in the Kiama LGA year-round is the Australian Magpie, followed by the Crimson Rosella and the Australian Raven.
“Each time a Birdata survey is submitted, it is added into our huge database, and directly contributes to BirdLife Australia’s conservation actions,” Dooley added.
“It’s how we can collectively and easily gather scientific data to gain greater insight into Australia’s birds and ultimately protect them. Every Birdata survey submitted makes a difference.”
Over 100,000 citizen scientists have contributed almost 2.5 million surveys to Birdata and there are more than 30 million bird recorded on the database.
Birdata has recorded 326 species of birds in the Kiama LGA.
The 10 most common are:
Australian Magpie
Crimson Rosella
Australian Raven Magpie Lark Grey Fantail
Welcome Swallow Willie Wagtail Superb Fairy-wren Eastern Spinebill Lewin’s Honeyeater
SES wants residents to be ready for anything this storm season
With the 2025–26 storm season now officially underway, the NSW State Emergency Service is urging communities across the state to take proactive steps to prepare for severe weather.
Following a year where we’ve already seen recordbreaking flooding, a cyclone and damaging winds wreak havoc across the state, the NSW SES is reinforcing the importance of early planning and community readiness. NSW typically experiences increased storm activity between the beginning of September and
the end of April, with risks including heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and flash flooding.
Last Storm Season, the NSW SES responded to more than 29,000 stormrelated incidents across the state.
You are encouraged to know your risk, know the warnings and make a plan before the first storm strikes. Having a plan will help you prepare, respond and recover better from storms.
Create your emergency plan now using the NSW SES Emergency Planning Tool available at www.ses. nsw.gov.au.
Two Welcome Swallows.
Photo: BirdLife Australia
Tango up to Kiama’s Outdoor Fiesta to Kiama’s Outdoor
Hindmarsh Park will transform into a vibrant celebration of Latin culture for the Spanish and Latin American Outdoor Fiesta next Saturday. This free, family-friendly event is being hosted by the Spanish and Latin American Community Organisation (SALCO), and offers a day of music, dance, art, food, and cultural celebration from 11am to 4pm.
Project Manager of SALCO, Bertha Quiros, says the event welcomes visitors to experience Latin American culture through visual art and live performance.
“The Spanish & Latin American Outdoor Fiesta is all about celebrating culture and bringing people together,” said Quiros.
The festivities will kick off with a Welcome to Country by Dharawal Indigenous elder Aunty Gwenda Jarrett, and from there, the attendees can expect to see a range of performances.
The talented line-up includes performances from the high-energy Samba Brazil dancers, passionate Soul Flamenco music and dance, and the Tango Sur flash mob that encourages audience participation. “We’re proud
to showcase world-class performances while sharing the rich traditions of Latin America with the Kiama community,” said Quiros.
Audiences can also expect to see performances by the Latin Power Band, Aguilera Family Music, Mexican Dance Group of Australia, Te Amo Peru, and Fabi Vera.
Beyond entertainment, festival-goers can explore the many food trucks offering authentic flavours, artisan stalls, and cultural displays throughout the park.
Alongside the weekend celebration, SALCO is hosting an exhibition at the Old Fire Station Gallery titled ‘Natura Viva: A Latin American Celebration of the Natural World”.
The exhibition will be open daily from 9 to 15 October, from 10am to 3pm and will feature art by Spanish-speaking artists exploring nature, heritage, and identity.
The Outdoor Fiesta will take place on Saturday 11 October from 11am to 4pm with entry to the fiesta and exhibition free.
For more information visit www.salco.org.au.
Walkers in the Park do their bit to fight Parkinson’s
Dr John Salmon • Kiama Dental Practice
Brilliant spring weather greeted the Kiama Parkinson's Support Group for the Walk In The Park last Sunday at Black Beach. It was a great success with many people with Parkinson's joined by dozens of relatives and friends on the walk from the northern end rock pool to the boat ramp on the harbour before returning to their starting point.
Local physiotherapist Matt Cook conducted a warm-up session before the walk began.
It was great to see the age range from babies to folk in their late 70s participating
on what turned out to be a beautiful day.
Kiama Rotary Club ran a sausage and drink stall which was well supported by the walkers and sightseers on a gorgeous Sunday. A total of $3220 in funds raised from the Walk and a raffle are going to support people from our local area with Parkinson's.
More than $7500 in sponsorship contributions from the Walk will be donated to Parkinson's NSW, which provides wonderful support to people with the disease, as well as their families and carers.
Put yourself to the test with brain teasers at night of fundraising fun
Gerringong Rotary trivia night for lots of fun. Put together a team of eight, or come and join another table for a lot of fun at Gerringong Rotary’s trivia night at the Fisherman’s Club, Gerroa on 25th October. Trivia king, Andrejs Medenis will entertain you with his slides and banter
along with the questions. There are great prizes to be won.
Gerringong Rotary is raising funds from the night for ROMAC ( Rotary Overseas Medical Aid For Children). This wonderful branch of the Rotary Organisation in Australia and New Zealand provides
surgical aid for children from developing countries from our Pacific Region in the form of life-changing and/ or dignity restoring surgery not accessible to them in their home country. Rotary families host and care for the child and their parent while they are in Australia or New Zealand.
Photos: Leonie Murphy
Swing into croquet with Jamberoo's twilight try-out day
Jamberoo Croquet Club is inviting the community to discover the sport at their Come and Try Twilight Croquet event on 5 November from 5pm to 7pm at Keith Irvine Oval.
Established in 1997, the club has been in the same picturesque location for almost 30 years and has 78 members, men and women, who play seven days a week across three lawns.
Club publicity officer Glenda Gutierrez says the come and try event is designed to showcase the sport and welcome new members.
“It's just to show them the sport, let them have a hit with the mallet and the ball and see what they think,” she said
“And if they wish to pursue it, they're more than welcome to come and we will offer formal coaching then.”
The free event provides all equipment and coaching, with JCC members guiding participants through the basics of croquet.
For those interested in pursuing croquet, JCC offers three free coaching sessions with no obligation to join,
but it allows people enough time to know if it’s the sport for them.
“It's really hard to get an idea of whether you think this sport is yours unless you actually physically pick up a mallet and hit a ball,” she said.
“I've been playing for quite a while now, once I hit a ball that was it, I was in. It was really the sport for me.”
Last year’s come and try event drew in participants from 12 years old to seniors, showing that croquet is for anyone curious about the sport and willing to participate.
“Because it's not overly physical, it is very much targeted for the more senior members of the public or those who may have some sort of limitation,” Glenda said.
“People can play socially or if they are very competitive, most definitely they can enroll themselves in a competition.”
Bookings are essential as spaces are limited, contact Jamberoo Croquet Club Secretary Jim Cook at JCC_secretary@jamberoocroquetclub.com.au to reserve a spot.
Older South Coast women needed for active trial
Researchers at the University of Sydney would like to hear from women on the South Coast who would like to be part of a study to measure the impact of the Active Women Over 50 program.
This free program is designed for women aged 50+ to help increase their physical activity.
The program involves telephone health coaching from a physiotherapist, private Facebook group (optional), a website resource, and motivational SMS or email messages for six months.
To be eligible, you need to be a woman aged 50+, living in NSW, healthy enough to take part in regular physical activity, and have access to the internet.
Only 25% of adults aged over 65 undertake the recommended amount of physical activity.
There is a global epidemic of physical inactivity.
Participants will be randomly allocated to one of two groups.
Group one will receive
access to the Active Women over 50 program. This program includes a tailored website, telephone health coaching, SMS/ email-based messages and Facebook group, to provide support, motivation and guidance on increasing physical activity.
Group two will be placed on a waitlist and receive access to the Active Women over 50 program after a six-month period.
The Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, which is a collaborative research hub between University of Sydney and Sydney Local Health District, hopes the findings of this project lead to the implementation of a remotely delivered information and support program that is effective in improving physical activity and other physical and mental health outcomes in women aged 50 and over.
For more information, log onto www. activewomenover50. org.au or email sph. activewomen@sydney. edu.au or phone (02) 8627 6242.
Kiama Library is hosting a writing workshop with a difference, with wellknown writing teacher Keith Whelan.
Writing a eulogy can be daunting. Often we’re grieving while trying to put our thoughts into words, and it can be challenging to write a speech that strikes the right tone and that does justice to someone’s life in a few short minutes.
Perhaps you’re writing a eulogy for an important person in your life? Or perhaps you’re writing your own?
Not as strange as it sounds.
Writing your own eulogy can be a creative exercise in self-reflection, preparation, or clarifying priorities in how you want to live your life and be remembered.
It can also be a gift for friends and family to ease their stress at a time of grief.
A eulogy or tribute can be a special part of a funeral, but where do you start in summing up your own or someone else's life?
Do you write a formal summary of milestones and achievements, or something more personal based on stories, memories and anecdotes?
This workshop will show you how to:
Choose the most appropriate type of eulogy, depending on the person and
the circumstances Identify your own or someone else's most noteworthy characteristics
Focus on what people love most about you or the person you are writing about.
This workshop will provide samples and written exercises to help you write clear, concise and compelling
memories. Whelan is an experienced author and teacher. He has been teaching creative writing for 17 years in Australia and Ireland.
He has also worked as a journalist, sub-writer, critic and editor, and has judged writing competitions. He also teaches creative writing
workshops at the University of Sydney Centre for Continuing Education. The workshop will be held on Saturday 25 October from 10am-12pm at Kiama Library Auditorium. Cost is $10 and no experience is necessary. Book online via the Kiama Library website or call 02 4233 1133.
Shelby Gilbert
Jamberoo Croquet Club.
World-famous caddy roars into Gerringong
As a youngster from Merimbula who grew up in Sydney, Evin Priest would marvel at the beauty of Gerringong golf course each Christmas when his family returned south to see family on the Sapphire Coast.
“I’d always think, ‘look how amazing that course looks’,” recalls Priest, who turned his childhood passion into a career as a US golf and sports correspondent for the Australian Associated Press several years before returning to Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic.
But never in his wildest dreams did Priest, who joined the Gerringong club during the lockdown, imagine he would one day play the picturesque course with Steve Williams - one of the world’s greatest caddies.
On October 10, Williams - the man who helped Tiger Woods reach the top of his game - will join Priest at the beachside course to play 18 holes, followed by a signing of Together We Roared, the book the pair co-authored.
Priest met Williams while travelling the world and writing about the globe’s greatest golfers and their caddies, and the humble Kiwi bagman and laconic
Aussie scribe became mates.
But COVID clipped Priest’s flying wings and, after living in the US for several years, the journalist returned to Sydney to work.
Golf was his lockdown activity of choice and Priest joined Gerringong, the course he admired as a child.
He and Williams also started a popular golf podcast, Chasing Majors, in 2022 with the successful first series sparking the idea for Together We Roared.
Priest describes writing the book with Williams, which recounts the New Zealandborn caddy’s time on the bag for 13 of Woods’ 15 major titles, as “a dream come true”.
“To write anything that contributes to the historical literature of Tiger Woods, and Steve’s role in that, has been incredible,” says Priest, who would update Gerringong’s club members and staff on the book's progress each weekend when he played the course.
“Jake and Shane (Gerringong pro shop staff) and the club president Tony, would hear all about it and cheer me on every step of the way.
“When Shane asked me if I was doing a book launch in Australia I thought okay, why not? The book’s official launch was in Sydney but it made sense to have one in Gerringong too, given it’s the course that really kicked things off for me.”
So, Priest pitched the idea of an informal book signing and Q&A session at Gerringong to Williams and was delighted when he agreed, doubly so when the caddy jumped at the chance to play 18 holes.
“I never knew if Steve was going to go for it or not,” says Priest. “But to his credit he just said ‘yeah absolutely I'd love to come down and play the golf course you've told me about’ and to hear him excited makes me even more excited.”
Priest describes Williams as one of the most humble people he’s met, and compares playing Gerringong with him to the way Williams felt when Tiger played at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, the caddy’s home course, before the 2002 New Zealand Open.
“Steve fought back tears when Tiger was playing a practice round ahead of the NZ Open,” says Priest, recounting an excerpt from Together We Roared. “Steve just couldn't believe that, not only was his home course hosting the greatest player who has ever lived, but that he was working for him.
“So for me to take Steve to Gerringong, while it’s not my childhood course, it is very special to me, it’s going to be amazing.”
While Priest says he won’t be fighting back tears, he’ll certainly struggle to wipe the smile from his face.
“To think that I'm bringing a guy that I consider a hero to play at Gerringong
golf club and then speak to not only the members but the community at the footy club that night, it's just a pinch yourself moment,” he says.
“It’s a really fun course, it’s got that laid-back South Coast approachability which Steve really appreciates, and the views are just incredible. The maintenance team do an amazing job with the rain and wind Gerringong receives.
“Some of the world's most famous beach courses might have 14 holes looking at the ocean but at Gerringong you can see the sea from every hole, you’re looking at the crashing waves on every single shot.”
And there will be no shortage of members lining up to share their tips on playing the course’s trickier holes with the world-famous bagman.
The book signing will be held at the Michael Cronin Oval Clubhouse at 6.30pm. Tickets are $75 and include a copy of Together We Roared, which Williams and Priest will be available to sign.
For more information visit Gerringong Golf Club’s website or Facebook page.
Diann takes you into the garden with Mr Toad
Veronica Bardsley
Have you ever wondered what the animals in your garden are thinking? What their little lives might be like?
Local author Diann Rodgers-Healey has and she's bringing that imagination, curiosity, and creativity to her children’s books.
Diann is a dreamer first and an author second, sharing her sense of wonder with everyone she meets.
She has written several books, but her personal passion project is Shirley’s Imaginarium, a series about a gardener named Shirley and the world of animals that live in her yard.
Next Tuesday (7 October), from 10am to 11:30 am, Diann will be reading from one of her books, “When Mr Toad Wanted Everyone To Notice Spring in the Garden”, at Gerringong Library and Museum (GLaM) - followed by a fun decorating session in the new herb garden.
Speaking about the book, Diann described how Mr Toad becomes enchanted by the beauty of spring and
frustrated that the other animals don't seem to notice.
“What afterall is a garden like in spring?” she explained, is the question Mr Toad asks as he launches a garden contest, hoping to get others to stop and pay attention.
But, as she noted, “no one's interested,” with the animals “just doing business as usual” - foraging, and going about their day. By the end, Mr Toad's perspective shifts, thanks to Miss Kookaburra, who helps him see that the point isn’t to simply observe nature, but to live in it.
“He learns the lesson that it’s not about observing,” Dianne said, “it’s actually about being in it and living in the garden.”
The story gently encourages kids (and adults) to connect with nature by appreciating the quiet moments and little corners that are easy to miss. Make sure to bring the kids along for this magical reading and a chance to get handson in the garden. To learn more about Diann, check out The Bugle’s previous article or check out her work herehttps://animaginarium.com/
Danielle Woolage
Evin Priest
Out and about with Gerringong Rotary
New members and friends always welcomesee www.gerringongrotary.com.au or contact secretarygerringongrotary@gmail.com.
Wrapping SAHSSI with love
The Gerringong Rotary knitters and friends have donated a colourful pile of hand-knitted blankets to Supported Accommodation and Homelessness Services
Shoalhaven Illawarra Ltd (SAHSSI), a specialist service supporting vulnerable women and families in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions.
Behind the daily caffeine fix
Twelve Rotarians spent a recent morning at the Daily Grind in Gerringong industrial estate, learning about the coffee business and how Australia’s favourite drink is produced.
Daily Grind has a farm in Colombia dedicated to producing their beans but supplements them from other sources. The roasting is done here in Gerringong and the Rotarians saw the whole process from raw bean to drink.
Pat and Ricky, of Daily Grind, make their own deliveries to their customers and stack the shelves. This enables them to have a chat and check whether they are meeting the customer’s needs.
Flavours of Asia a journey for the senses
Close your eyes for a moment and picture yourself standing in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
The early morning mist is lifting, scooters weave past in every direction and the aroma of broth drifts through the air.
A woman ladles steaming pho into your bowl, scattering fresh herbs on top. You take a sip, and it’s delicate and rich - the flavour of generations past.
Culinary travel in Asia offers something special with every meal.
Each country, each city, even each street corner, offers something unique.
In Bangkok, the evening markets come alive with sizzling woks, skewers of smoky satay and bowls of fragrant green curry. The
energy is electric.
You find yourself perched on a plastic stool, elbow to elbow with locals, grinning as the spice makes your eyes water.
In Cambodia, food takes on another rhythm. Imagine sitting by the riverside in Phnom Penh as the sun sets, the scent of lemongrass and galangal rising from a bowl of Amok, Cambodia’s signature fish curry, steamed in banana leaf.
It’s gentle yet bold, the kind of dish that lingers on your palate and in your memory.
Further north in Siem Reap, you might wander through a night market, where everything from crispy fried tarantulas to sweet coconut pancakes tempt the curious traveller.
Then there’s Japan’s Osaka, where the fun of eating is as much part of the experience as the food itself.
You watch a vendor expertly flip Takoyaki on a hot griddle, the golden spheres hiding tender octopus inside.
A few steps away, an Okonomiyaki pancake, layered with cabbage and pork, and drizzled with tangy sauce, is slid onto your plate. It’s hearty, messy, and utterly unforgettable.
Not every meal needs to be grand.
Sometimes the most meaningful ones are simple: dim sum shared with new friends in Hong Kong, naan pulled straight from the tandoor in Delhi or bibimbap stirred together in a bustling Korean kitchen.
The act of eating here is communal, warm, and deeply connected to culture.
Food has the power to transport us, to slow us down, to connect us with people we may never otherwise meet. Travelling through Asia is about seeing new places, but it is also about tasting them, one dish at a time.
If we have made your mouth water, then you may be keen on Travel Focus Group’s women’s tour to Vietnam and Cambodia departing in March, where food plays a starring role. Otherwise, there are plenty of other ways we can help you taste Asia. Call the team on 02 4209 2044 to start planning.
You’ve got to be Stoic to start a microbrewery
Steve Prosser, co-founder of Stoic Brewing in Gerringong, together with his son Andrew, told us his story of setting up a small business from scratch.
They founded Stoic in 2018 with a vision of creating a space where the community can come together and enjoy locally brewed beer and cider in among the vats, and at the same time creating a sustainable business for their family. Steve emphasised the most important thing was a passion for what you do.
Working for money or recognition will not carry you through the 100-hour weeks that are in store for the small businessperson.
The first thing they needed was a location, and fortuitously, Steve already owned an industrial unit with zoning that permitted use as a brewery.
The next thing they needed was money and Steve’s tip was that you always need more than you think and you have to get used to the feeling of being massively in debt, especially when you start a business just before a pandemic.
After finding the location they needed a DA, which required a plethora of licences and approvals for Kiama Council, including electrical, engineering and plumbing reports, fire safety, bushfire and flooding risk, traffic impact, liquor and gaming permits and finally overall sign-off by the certifier and the council.
Now he is a brewer, Steve visits other microbreweries
regularly and has discovered most of them started with an enthusiast working in the garage or someone who had worked for a big brewer wanting to do their own thing. Steve and Andrew were electricians and had run their own electrical business, but had no background in brewing.
They experimented and once Andrew could brew a small batch of good beer, they ordered the equipment to scale up to the brewery they have now.
Their Belgian-style Amber Ale uses ingredients from Belgium and even the water in the beer is manipulated to mimic the water used in the style of beer they are making. All this work has paid off and their New Zealand Pilsner won a gold medal in the 2025 Australian International Beer Awards against international competition.
Andrew was adamant that the name should not contain place names, animals or colours. While they were pondering what to call their fledgling business, they were in church and the talk referred to the Stoics, Greek philosophers who believed that everybody should work together for the greater good and that happiness is found in embracing the moment, no matter how great or gloomy. It was a perfect philosophy for the journey they were about to embark on.
It is stressful – one microbrewery goes broke every week and the tax and regulatory environment is complex. As Steve put it, they have made lots of friends but not much money! But they love what they do.
Jamberoo photographer zooms in on national awards
Mitchell Beadman
J
amberoo photographer
Nic van Oudtshoorn was recognised with Highly Commended Awards for two of his photographs in the 2025 Australian Photography magazine ‘Mono Awards’ competition.
“I love black and white photos,” says van Oudtshoorn.
“It is the earliest form of photography, yet even in today’s world of colour, it can produce photos with amazing impact.”
Starting out from humble beginnings as a cadet journalist in South Africa for an afternoon newspaper, van Oudtshoorn’s love of photography was inspired from taking photos for his stories when there wasn’t a photographer available.
“I then transitioned into basically a photojournalist where I did both photography and reporting simultaneously,” he said. “I found that really gave me the opportunity to express both in words and in photography.”
“When you’re doing active journalism, you’re covering a riot and you’re covering police actions,” van Oudtshoorn said. “Obviously you take pictures as fast as you can because there’s the fleeting moment when things happen.”
Cartier-Bresson coined that phrase ‘the decisive moment’. That’s what you’re really looking for.”
phones can do these days –and the level of quality.”
Dedicating his profession to passing on knowledge, van Oudtshoorn teaches the unwritten components of photography such as “the eye”.
picture. You have to write a caption that takes the picture, the viewer beyond that.”
Sharing stories that have spanned across his illustrious career, van Oudtshoorn explained the many facets of being a photojournalist.
Explaining the patience required for wildlife photography would leave many reaching for something to do to pass the time. “When you’re doing things like wildlife photography, you must be willing to sit at a waterhole for six to seven hours waiting for something to happen because animals come at their own pace,” he said.
“But you have to be ready all the time because, again, Henri
Having transitioned and evolved from film to digital, van Oudtshoorn explains the double-edged sword that hobbyists and professionals experience with photography.
“I think it’s tremendous that people have an opportunity now to just take a phone out of their pocket and they can record a moment,” van Oudtshoorn said.
“They see a sunset or they can see a bird landing with a frog in its mouth – you can capture that moment.
“I think it’s progression and also, of course, a lot of people don’t realise [what] their
“In fact, phones are so good, they can really do all the technical things for you,” he said. “But if you don’t have the eye to see, [which] is one of the big things I teach, when I teach photography.”
Another component of photojournalism is the importance of a caption.
“Most of us, when we write a caption, we look at the picture and then we write down what we see.
“You shouldn’t have to do that – viewer can see the
Just last year, van Oudtshoorn entered an international photography competition named reFocus Awards - World Photo Annual where he won the Photographer of the Year for a series of photos taken through a microscope.
The two images van Oudtshoorn received the Highly Commended Awards for were ‘Approaching storm’, which he describes as “a raptor racing to safety across a tempestuous sky in Jamberoo” and ‘What do you want’ which “captures a confrontation between Silver Gulls at the Kiama waterfront”.
Grow with John Gabriele: Shade-loving plants
Shade in the garden is a real asset - especially as we head into the hotter months.
In my own garden, I’ve found certain foliage plants thrive beautifully in both deep shade and dappled light.
Thanks to a wellestablished canopy cover, I’m able to grow a range of understory plants, like cycads and bird's nest ferns. These are ideal for shaded areas and bring real structure to the garden.
We often refer to these as architectural plants - bold in their foliage and form. Once established, they’re incredibly low-maintenance and happy to be left to their own devices.
Lower down in the garden, I’ve planted other species that work brilliantly in shade. One of my favourites is the lantern rose, or hellebore. It's a perfect ground cover for heavily shaded areas.
Nearby, I grow tenanthi, a plant often seen indoors -
but remember, most indoor plants are simply outdoor plants we've invited inside to slowly decline.
That said, tenanthi does very well in shaded garden beds.
Even closer to the ground, I have the lovely Viola hederacea, also known as the native violet. This ground cover performs well in sun and shade.
In sunnier spots, the foliage may become a little etiolated - meaning it stretches, yellows slightly, and the leaves can be smaller - but it still holds its own.
Come spring, you’ll see a charming display of small white and violet flowers rising above the foliage.
So, gardening in shade? It’s not only possible - it’s rewarding. As your skills grow, you may find yourself seeking out more shady spaces just to expand your planting options.
And don’t think shadeloving plants are all about foliage!
There are plenty of flowering options too.
Camellias, for example, are perfect for shaded gardens. They provide year-round greenery, act as excellent screening plants, and reward you with beautiful blooms through winter and spring. As the camellia flowering season wraps up - usually around late Septemberit’s a great time to prune. A general rule: cut back by about a third of the season’s growth. For instance, mine put on about 30cm this year, so I trimmed back around 10cm. When pruning, take a close look at the material you’re removing. I noticed some russeting along the midrib of one leaf - likely a sign of sunscorch. This plant gets a bit of western sun in the afternoon - not ideal - but it still grows quite well. If you’ve got shade in your garden, camellias are a fantastic shrub choice. They offer structure, screening, and colour when you need it most.
Nic van Oudtshoorn
Lleyton Hughes
Local artist Ralph Steel is officially qualified as a hand-machined compositor and an illustrator.
And for those too young to know what a compositor is (like this writer once was), it’s a kind of typesetterspecifically, a person in the traditional printing industry who physically assembles individual pieces of metal type, called “sorts,” into lines of text using a composing stick. A true craft, and now, a rarity.
Steel started out as an apprentice in the newspaper industry. When his drawing skills were discovered, he was
Ralph Steel: The man drawing local history back to life
quickly given another creative role.
“I was about 16 when I was given the job of airbrushing private parts and hair from photos from Scandinavia for Man and Adam magazine, with a Thayer and Chandler airbrush - which I still have,” Steel recalled with a laugh.
From there, he went on to work for Hansen RubensohnMcCann Erickson, a major international advertising agency, and later at a wellknown art studio. His career took further twists: time in the army, corrective services, and rescue work, before settling into a unique printing business in Oak Flats in 1978.
Unplug after dark for reallife connection in Kiama
As the days grow longer and the sun begins to shine brighter, winter hibernation is coming to an end and Kiama Unplugged is kicking off with the hottest event of the season - Unplugged After Dark at popular eatery Cin Cin Wine Bar near the Little Blow Hole.
Jane Bourne, who heads up Kiama Unplugged with her husband Ian Harvey-George, explained the organic nature of the event.
“The only rule is no phones. Everything we do is all about connecting people in real life and away from screens,” Bourne said.
“It’s an opportunity for
“We were doing packaging printing for clients in China, New Zealand, and America. We were pretty unique printers,” he said.
“We did confectionery and pet products. We printed for BlueScope (which was BHP at the time), NMM Metals, WIN TV ... So we had a pretty good business.”
Steel even contributed to National Geographic and although he officially retired in 2000, he never stopped drawing. In fact, he’s now focused on depicting the thing that inspires him most: Kiama.
“I love Kiama. I’ve been here for about 48 years. All my children grew up here and
pretty much all still live here.
“I was the original captain of the Kiama Downs Surf Club. I just love the place.”
Steel creates intricate drawings of historic buildings and significant moments from Kiama’s past - all done with extraordinary detail.
In his artist statement, Steel writes: “In my illustrations of Kiama and the surrounds, I have endeavoured to preserve some of its diverse but fantastic history.
“My pencil (graphite) sketches of these inanimate objects are not so much a record of that object in isolation, but a review of its relationship with all those whom it has had an influence.”
friends, couples, or just singles who want to meet local people to come and have a nice dinner at Cin Cin.”
Exploding Topics Research
Associate Fabio Duarte published findings of screen time attributed to adults in April 2025 and found that on a global average, people spend 6 hours and 40 minutes per day.
Bourne said the event aims to provide a space where people are not tempted to reach into their pocket and pull out their phone for some scrolling and explains that removing screens is part of the foundational mission of Kiama Unplugged.
“We didn’t just want it to be about this kind of pledge for no smartphones, we wanted
it to be about getting the community back together again and getting adults off their screens,” she said.
“We all spend too much time scrolling and rotting our brains. So it very much became wider than the phone pledge, but also about connection, community and real-life experiences.”
The Unplugged phenomenon, which started out as a grassroots community movement in Kiama has now expanded to Berry, with Bourne and HarveyGeorge establishing a vision statement for Unplugged Australia leading the way for other communities to start their own local Unplugged groups.
He’s passionate about preserving local history - and making sure it’s not forgotten.
“Most people wouldn’t know about the Brighton Hotel or the Ice Works - but they were here. The Ice Works building still stands.
“I just think it’s important that we remember what people have done.”
Steel regularly shares his work on the Kiama Remembers Facebook page, but his ultimate goal is to publish a coffee table book of his illustrations.
“I’d like to put together a book with all the drawings and sketches, but get the Historical Society to write the story behind each one,” he said.
Given how detailed his work is, some of his drawings can take months to complete - which makes the idea of a public exhibition or a printed collection all the more valuable to the Kiama community.
Most recently, Steel designed the plaque that was gifted to Kiama Rugby Club by the local Men’s Shed after their premiership win.
It’s another example of his ongoing contribution to the town he calls home.
Ralph Steel is a Kiama man through and through - and his mission is clear: “We must remember those who came before us and what they did in the places we now live.”
Part of Unplugged Australia’s vision is to reconnect in real-life, with community and natureaway from screens, promote sustainable and low tech living, support young people to branch away from screens and into authentic connections, establish local interactions that facilitate mindful experiences and foster inclusion and collaboration.
There are three guidelines for Unplugged and screen time heads it up with connection and community closely followed, with some events being free for the group to remain accessible.
Before the Unplugged After Dark even, Kiama Unplugged in collaboration
with Grounded Education are holding a Spring Walk at Jerrara Dam for a morning of nature’s trails, wildcraft, nature’s art and connection.
“We love linking up with local businesses where we can be supporting them as well and so we are really happy for them [Grounded Education],” Bourne said.
“It’s aimed as a family activity and is probably aimed at families with younger kids.
“And we are going to be collecting things like sticks and leaves, and then there is going to be a time to do some nature craft.”
The Kiama Unplugged After Dark Event is on 23 October from 6pm at Cin Cin and costs $15 per person and includes a
drink upon arrival. Bookings are essential.
The Spring Walk with Grounded Education is on 19 October from 9:30am with a suggested donation of $10 per family. Bookings are essential.
For those looking to get out and about this long weekend, there is a Kiama Unplugged event this Sunday 5 October at Fillmore’s plant-based, art and culturally focused café on Manning street, which is sure to match the temperature forecasted for this weekend.
For Kiama Unplugged event information and links to booking sites, head to https://www. kiamaunplugged. com/events
Mitchell Beadman
‘Technology might hold all the cards until you turn it off’ Photo: Supplied
Pencil sketch Kiama Primary School
What’s On?
Going to the Southeast Saltwater - exhibition
Sat 6 Sep to Sat 11 Oct
Sevenmarks Gallery
This is a rare opportunity for audiences on the South Coast to engage directly with the unwavering creative vision of Yolŋu artists from Ramingining, Arnhem Land.
Bundanon Artists & Makers Market
Sat 4 Oct
Join us for our biggest market yet! Set alongside the shores of Bangli/the Shoalhaven River, discover ceramics, textiles, jewellery, weaving, and more.
Zonta Club of Berry Preloved Clothing Sale
Sat 4 to Sun 5 Oct, 4pm-7pm The Pavilion, Berry Showground
Zonta Berry is hosting a major fund raising event where you can buy pre-loved designer clothes at bargain prices. VIP Ticketed event is on Saturday, the free entry event is Sunday.
Jamberoo Fire
Brigade Open Day
Sun 5 Oct, 9am-1pm
Jamberoo Fire Station
Kiama Unplugged at Fillmore’s
Sun 5 Oct, from 3:30pm Fillmore’s
Kiama Unplugged wish to encourage the community to take a step back from smart phones and social media and reconnect with their community.
Kids Karaoke Night
Tues 7 Oct, 5pm-6:30pm Kiama Leagues Club
“Be Our Guest” and let your little stars “Let It Go” on stage at our magical Disney Karaoke Night. Free entry. Defining Symbols of Australia
Tues 7 to Fri 24 Oct
GLaM Gallery, Gerringong Gerringong Historical Society is hosting an exhibition of objects that define Australian culture. Join the opening night with guest speaker Anna Glynn on 9 October 5:30pm-7:30pm
Book Hour
Thurs 9 Oct, 4pm-5pm
Cin Cin Wine Bar
Bring a book and enjoy a drink and some quiet time every Thursday afternoon. Disconnect from your phone and reconnect with a good book.
Natura Viva Art
Exhibition
Thurs 9 to Wed 15 Oct, 10am3pm
Old Fire Station Gallery
“Natura Viva: A Latin American Celebration of the Natural World” Featuring works by Spanish-speaking artists exploring nature, heritage, and identity.
Kids Movie & Craft Day
Thurs 9 Oct, 11am-12:30pm
Kiama Leagues Club
Enjoy a kid-friendly Disney movie on the big screen and get creative with colouring & craft activities. Free entry
William Campbell College Annual Fundraising Dinner
Fri 10 Oct, 6pm-11pm
Kiama Pavilion
Enjoy a night of inspirational stories from teachers and students, live and silent auctions, raffle prizes, delicious food, drinks, music. RSVP by 29th September.
Soil Health and Your Wealth
Sat 11 Oct, 7:30am-5:30pm Joyce Wheatley Community Centre
Time to hit the dance floor to help Jamberoo Red Cross
As part of Nambruc Natural Farms - ‘Go Out and Get Dirty!’ Local talks, Graeme Sait will be presenting this one-day workshop.
Oktoberfest
Sat 18 Oct, 1pm-4pm
Kiama Leagues Club
The Cedar Cutters Sports Bar is hosting an afternoon of drinks, games, and Bavarianstyle fun with live music from The Oompah Loompah Band and Specialty German Beer.
Kiama Unplugged Spring Walk with Grounded Education
Sun 19 Oct, 9:30am-11:30am
Jerrara Dam
Shelby Gilbert
Jamberoo Red Cross is hosting a night of entertainment with their annual Bush Dance fundraiser at the historic Jamberoo School of Arts on Saturday, 18 October from 6:30pm.
to bring the community together through an evening of laughs and entertainment for the whole family.
feature the well-known Illawarra bush band
Chord-eaux, a folk music community band known for performing foot-stomping music for everyone.
experience is required for the Bush Dance, just a willingness to have a go, making this an event that kids and
grandparents can enjoy together.
Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their best hoedown attire, with prizes to be awarded on the night for Best Hat,
Palatable Paintings and Poems proves uplifting
Following its publication and exposure in The Bugle, demand has surged for copies of “Palatable Paintings and Poems”, a book released by locals Dr Brett Lemass and Juanita Harris.
Brett said the motive for writing the heartfelt collection was that each poem was to express a deep appreciation for experiencing the best in life - nature, family and great mates.
Juanita’s paintings vividly complement each poem with revered local characters, rural splendour, flora and fauna.
Poems are hand-written for authenticity and artistic effect.
Some poems (including ‘Great Mates’ ‘Essence’, ‘Gratefulness’, ‘Life Spice’, ‘Quiet Contentment’ and ‘Our Earthly Mark’) were intended to promote wellbeing, self-belief, lifepurpose and optimism.
Refreshing and emphatic reader feedback has identified that these poems additionally provide therapeutic tonic for the ravages of bereavement, depression, loneliness and enduring grief.
‘Great Mates’ has found increasing use in funeral celebrations where relatives wish to convey how their beloved was so much more to them and their friends.
Readers have further aligned the poems with the positive outcomes sought by the Black Dog Institute and R U OK? Day. Poems such as ‘Kiama Beckons’, ‘Frontier Living’, ‘The Condo BnS’, ‘Christmas in Kiama’ and ‘Reminiscing’ champion the thrill of lifelong adventure, while showcasing the perennial beauty of Kiama and paying tribute to the colourful characters of locally loved legends.
What Traits Characterise a Truly Great Mate?
Enduring Friendship... that is never Capricious Magnanimous Actions... that are never Pernicious
A Great Mate is Supportive and will never Manipulate
Great Mates share Buoyant Adventures with You They Materialise when Taxing Work must be Done They want you, beside them during Furore and Fun
A Great Mate is Loyal and True-Blue
Great Mates Trust You with Secrets Heartfelt During Adversity, they Advise and Motivate Inspiring You to Recover, Prosper and Create
A Great Mate is a Perpetual Safety-Belt
Great Mates Celebrate Your Crowning Glories Respecting You for being the Person You Are Competing to Shout You at the Bar
A Great Mate Embellishes Your Big-Stories!
Great Mates Arrive with Tucker and Beer
Welcome Gifts in the Short and Long-Term They help Family when You are Absent or Infirm
A Great Mate Fills Loving Hearts with Good Cheer
Do You Consider Yourself a Great Mate ? Reflect on Who Trusts You through Thick and Thin Choosing You to Stand by Them, and Hold Them Within Be that Great Mate who Steps-Up to the Plate !
WhoDunnit? Mystery over local quilt
We would like to hear from any Bugle reader who knows who might have made any one of the following three six-inch blocks for the Kiama Show Resilience Quilt some time ago.
We are trying to finish this large quilt, ready for showing the completed hanging at
Kiama Show in January.
Information has been gathered so we can list the names and back stories of all 50 six-inch squares that adorn the overlay fabric of this hanging.
But the makers of three of the squares remain unknown.
Rather than list these as
Anonymous, we would like to be able to list their actual makers. The three squares waiting to be identified by their makers are described below, with their accompanying photo. If you can you can identify the maker, please contact Boni Maywald on 0424641663.
support local
Quiet room? No such thing in Singapore when the Karaoke Club is in full swing
Carol Goddard
Imagine our angst. ound asleep, having been exhausted by the rigours of a long flight, and with a very early start looming the next morning, and the unmistakable tones of drunken Karaoke filter into and then barrage our hotel room.
Instantly awake, there’s a sensation that the bed itself is reverberating, and the noise is definitely getting louder.
It is 10pm in Singapore.
At 6am the following morning, all becomes quiet. No more oontz. No more inebriated, off-key attempts at singing. No more Loud.
The Karaoke Bar directly under our hotel room had finally closed for the day. And we had been awake all night.
The biggest laugh was on us.
Way back, when we were in the throes of planning our trip, we had purposely organised a stopover in Singapore on the way back to Australia.
We were going to whip around and see as much of Singapore as we could in a very short time, have a taste of Singaporean cuisine, and then get the best night’s sleep in preparation for the flight home.
At check-in we requested a quiet room in a quiet part of the hotel. Our room was spectacular, we were happy.
And so we dropped our bags in our excellent room, hit Orchard Road with a vengeance, windowshopped, perused some street markets, and then succumbed to the humidity.
Back to the hotel, the refreshing delights of a
SULLIVAN
Anne Evelyn of Kiama
rooftop pool, with bar attached preceded our sumptuous Asian buffet meal.
Sleep was beckoning, and our excellent quiet room had an awesomely comfy bed.
Our heads hit the big, white, fluffy pillows, and we were out like lights. For about 30 minutes.
That was many years ago, and the memory of that crazy night has never left me, and
Passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on Saturday 27th September 2025. Beloved daughter of Kevin and Dianne (dec). Loved sister and sister-in-law of Janelle and Neil, Donna and Jeff, Kevin and Belinda, Kathryn and Steve, Christopher and Erin. Aunty and great aunty of her many nieces and nephews.
Requiem Mass for the repose of Anne’s soul will be celebrated in Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 92 Manning Street Kiama on Thursday 9th October 2025 at 12pm.
For those who are unable to attend you are invited to view Anne’s service or make a donation to MND NSW via a link found on funeralannouncement.com.au
In honour of Anne, the family request guests wear pink, floral, blue and elegant clothing to celebrate her life.
has a prominent place in the list of funny travel stories I tell.
Well, funny now, but it certainly wasn’t at the time.
We had asked for a quiet room, and had been placed in a room directly above a karaoke bar.
The reception staff who served us must have been splitting their sides about this Aussie couple and their night to come.
Mind you, we had a laugh too. One half of this Aussie couple is ferocious when crossed - guess who? We got a full refund.
We’ve never taken the opportunity to go back to Singapore, until a few weeks ago.
This time, we actually saw the sights, and got some sleep.
And there was no Karaoke to be heard.
Patrick Michael Bell 11/08/1944 - 26/09/2025
Wednesday 8th Oct. 12 Midday
H Parsons Funerals 125 Manning St Kiama
A live link will be available for those that cannot attend in person.
We invite you to join us celebrating the life of Pat afterwards at the Group 7 Leagues Club from 1:30pm in the upstairs function room.
For this that cannot make it there will be a small memorial service at Toronto RMYC in the downstairs 'Mariners Bar' on Tuesday 14th October at 2 pm.
'Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anam'
(May his soul be on God's right hand)
Hawks stumble in first step of NBL title defence
Their new import produced a stunning performance but the Illawarra Hawks’ NBL title defence got off to a shaky start on Saturday night with a 91-86 loss to Tasmania JackJumpers at WIN Entertainment Centre.
Three-time NBA champion JaVale McGee recorded an eye-catching first appearance for the Hawks after the club raised just their second championship banner to the rafters following last season’s thrilling grand final victory over Melbourne United.
McGee, who played 983 games in the NBA, is in the veteran stage of his career but the 37-year-old centre was easily Illawarra’s top contributor.
He chalked up 32 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks while hitting 15 of his 20 field goal attempts.
Standing at sevenfeet tall with nearly two decades of professional experience, McGee boasts a decorated resume featuring championships with the
Golden State Warriors (2017, 2018) and Los Angeles Lakers (2020), as well as a gold medal with Team USA at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Hawks coach Justin Tatum said his team had let down the fans who turned out en masse for the season opener.
"The effort definitely wasn't where I wanted it to be and we could have given a better effort on shutting down some of those offensive rebounds that they got," said Tatum.
"I felt that crowd deserved a better effort from us to find a way to get a win on banner drop tonight."
Hawks guard Tyler Harvey backed up McGee with 19 points and six rebounds while veteran forward Todd Blanchfield chipped in with 12.
Scores were tied at 21-21 after the first quarter before Tassie took a 49-45 lead into half-time.
The JackJimpers led by 11 after a 20-16 run in the third quarter and even though the Hawks went on an 11-0 tear early in the final term, the
visitors kept their noses in front down the stretch.
Majok Deng tallied 14 points, four rebounds and two blocks with Bryce Hamilton (21 points), Tyger Campbell (17 points, four rebounds and four assists), and Josh Bannan (11 points and seven rebounds) rounding out a superb team performance.
The Hawks face a tough test to get their season off to a winning start - heading west to take on the Wildcats in Perth on Thursday night before hauling themselves to Auckland for a Wednesday night clash with the New Zealand Breakers.
They have racked up plenty of travel recently after playing at the FIBA Intercontinental Cup in Singapore where they finished fifth after ending the tournament with a 93-69 win over Japan’s Utsunomiya Brex Illawarra are back at the WIN Entertainment Centre next Saturday (11 October) when they host the Brisbane Bullets.
Kiama Triathlon returns with strong turnout ahead of World Championships
Nearly 500 competitors took part in the second Kiama Triathlon for 2025 over the weekend, with many entrants using the event as a final warm-up for the World Championships in Wollongong later this month.
Beginning and ending at Minnamurra River, the Elite Energy Kiama Triathlon is quickly becoming one of the most loved events on the triathlon calendar.
“It was a really great day. We had beautiful racing conditions, weather-wise. We had really great feedback and responses, and we're really happy with how the event went - and our athletes are too,” said Elite Energy marketing specialist Shinead Roulstone.
“It’s just a great location, and we know that our athletes love racing in Kiama, so having two in one year just made sense.”
The big winners of the day were James Davy and Kaylen Payer, who won the male and female standard race events respectively. Davy finished
the 1.5km swim, 38km bike and 10km run in a time of 1:58:05, while Payer finished in 02:14:27.
Kyle Mason (male) and Sophie Lampe (female) won the sprint races, while Glenn Norris (male) and Morgan Pike (female) took out the aquabike events.
Although many local athletes took part, a significant number of competitors travelled from across Australia and even internationally to get a tune-up before the World Championships.
“Allw the athletes did spectacularly well,” said Roulstone. “And a lot of them were using the weekend’s
event as a practice race for the World Champs happening from 15 to 19 October in Wollongong.”
The event marked the third Kiama Triathlon in two years, following a decadelong break, and Roulstone was thrilled to see the event continue to grow.
“It was really successful for us and we're really happy to have been able to bring the athletes together again at such a beautiful location. We just love going there,” she said.
“We're just really grateful for the support of the community, the council, our volunteers and of course our athletes -
it’s all those people who make the events so popular and successful.”
Lleyton Hughes
The World Triathlon Championships will take
place in Wollongong from 1519 October. Closer to home, the Huskisson Marathon and Triathlon is set for 1-2 November.
Photo:
Photos by Brian Scott
Secretary resigns over masterplan frustration
Lleyton Hughes
Recent Senior Citizen of the Year award
winner John Dawson has announced he is stepping down as secretary of the Kiama District Sports Association after 13 years of involvement.
Citing frustration, burnout and a loss of influence, Dawson said one of the biggest reasons behind his departure was ongoing issues surrounding the Kiama Sporting Complex masterplan.
“My main reason for joining the KDSA was the complexthat was my top priority,” said Dawson.
Dawson said he initially got involved in the KDSA to help unify the various sports using the complex - including soccer, netball, cricket, and OzTag - so they could advocate for upgrades as a collective.
“I had a foot in a lot of different sports without any formal affiliation. So my main driver was to push for the complex to be redeveloped.
A lot of clubs were saying independently, ‘we’re going to do this or that’,” he said.
“But we knew from experience it was better to come as a combined group. So back in about 2021 - maybe even earlier - we came together as a group.”
Alyce goldenQuod’sseason: Premiership glory after years of injury
Lleyton Hughes
award, then that’s fantastic.”
But since then, progress has stalled.
“We’ve had something like three or four different mayors, three or four different directors of infrastructure, two or three CEOs, all these different staff,” Dawson said.
“People in the clubs have all gone. I'm about the only one who's been consistent.”
Even after the long-awaited masterplan was released for public exhibition in June, Dawson said the plan has created more confusion and further delays.
“The whole idea of the strategic plan was to come up with a priority list of projects the Council could refer tothen they could say, ‘right, let’s apply for grants,’” he said.
“But other groups, like the Gerry Emery Oval redevelopment, weren’t prepared to wait. And now they’re well into their developments - meanwhile, the Complex is going nowhere.”
As more upgrades were gradually added to the masterplan, Dawson said the original, more achievable goals - like rebuilding the amenities block - were lost in the expanding scope.
“It started off only being the soccer fields - which is where the cricket field is - and I said, no, you’ve got to include the netball complex as well,” he said.
“They agreed, but they said, adamantly, the Leisure Centre's
He explained that Council responded by launching a broader strategic plan for the LGA, which included a dedicated masterplan for the Kiama Sporting Complex to support future grant applications.
not included in this. But then it got reviewed and deemed end-of-life, so it was suddenly added - and now the whole thing has just ballooned.”
He said decisions around other contested elementssuch as whether to relocate the skatepark or demolish the grandstand - have made the plan even more complicated.
“Someone recently asked the question: are we going to see this in our lifetime? And I just thought - I don’t know if I have the time or energy to continue being at the forefront.”
And so, after more than a decade of dedicated involvement, Dawson made the difficult decision to step away.
He has nominated himself for a position on the future Sports Complex Masterplan Management Committee, which would allow him to continue focusing solely on the redevelopment - but he’s not optimistic about being included.
“I said in my report that I still want to be involved,” he said. “But I’m not holding my breath that I’ll be invited.”
Despite the challenges, Dawson remains proud of his service and encourages others to get involved in their communities.
“I’ve loved it. I still love it. And I’m still going to volunteer and help out in other things,” he said.
“I just felt that for this particular role - it was becoming too much.”
Two years ago, Kiama Quarriers striker Alyce Quod was ruled out of her team’s grand final after hurting her back in the semifinal - an injury that needed surgery.
A year later, she returned to the field, only to tear the plantar fascia in her right foot and spend nine weeks on the sidelines. Two weeks after making her comeback, she broke her arm and was out for another six weeks.
Then, in the semi-final, she suffered a Grade 4 AC joint injury in her shoulder - and missed the grand final again.
This year, things finally went her way. Quod made it through the season injuryfree, played in an undefeated Division One team, won a long-awaited grand final, scored 25 goals and was awarded the Golden Boot for the Illawarra Community League. “It’s been a friggin’ journey,” she said.
The 35-year-old received the award at the Football South Coast presentation night recently. Despite playing for more than 25 years, this is the first time she’s claimed the league’s top scorer title.
“I think I've played enough to not really feel much when it comes to winning that kind of award. Obviously, it's a very individual award - but my job is a striker. I’ve been playing striker for 25-plus years, so that’s my job: to put balls in the back of the net,” she said.
“And if that means at the end of the season they tally up to win an individual
Although recognised for her goalscoring achievements, Quod made it clear she couldn’t have done it without the team behind her.
“No one can win the Golden Boot without the tireless effort of everybody in the team. The ball has to come from the back to the front - and it’s just my simplistic job of putting it in the net.”
When asked about her favourite goal of the season, Quod didn’t hesitate - she had three, and all came in the preliminary final against Moss Vale, the game that secured her team’s place in the grand final.
“We were actually down - I’d scored first within the first few minutes, then they came back and scored two. So we were losing and just getting absolutely smashed,” she said. “Then I got this awesome corner. I just jumped up, put my head on it, and it went into the top left corner - we levelled the scores with about eight minutes to go.
“And then we had this random free kick, well outside the box, out on the right-hand side. I’m just sitting there thinking, what am I going to do with this? She kicked it up, floated it in - I was about 11 metres out - and I just jumped up, connected with my head, and in slow motion, the ball
fingertips and went in with just moments to go.”
Quod admitted things didn’t always look promising - and she almost didn’t play at all this season.
“It was a really interesting start to the season. We started off with about seven confirmed players. We didn’t think we were going to have enough, and I was on the verge of doing something else,” she said.
“Then, out of the woodworks, floated in all these different women from all walks of life - mostly young. I’m the third oldest in the team. But we started training hard, twice a week, with lots of fitness. And the girls were amazing.”
Quod believes team chemistry played a huge part in her goal-scoring success.
“Even though we were really talented across the board, it was rusty at the start. Chemistry needed to be built - and I think it didn’t take us long,” she said.
“I just needed to figure out how my midfielders and wingers were going to service me the ball. Probably about a month in - four games under our belt - and we started to mesh together.”
Quod’s season was a testament to her resilience.
Kiama sibling athletes bring home Local Sporting Champion grants
Kiama siblings Miller and Ginger Siasat have been named among 12 South Coast recipients of the Federal Government’s Local Sporting Champions grants program.
The program provides financial support for young athletes to attend national and international championships.
Miller, 16, and Ginger, 14, received funding earlier this year to compete at national events. Miller competed in sprint events at the Australian Track and Field Championships in Perth in April, while Ginger represented NSW at the Australian Schools and Juniors Rugby Championships on the Sunshine Coast in July. Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips congratulated the pair, calling them an inspiration to the local community.
“The grants help young
sportspeople and their families attend big events and represent our region, the state, or the country in their chosen field,” she said.
“I’m so happy to support Miller and Ginger. They’re great kids who dedicate so much time and work extremely hard towards their sporting goals.”
Although they competed in different sports, the siblings are talented all-rounders.
Ginger and Miller regularly train and compete in the 80, 100, 200 and 400 metre track events. Both play rugby and are active Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club members.
Miller is an Australian champion in beach sprint and flags, while Ginger is a state champion beach sprinter.
When asked which sport she prefers, Ginger said she enjoys the team spirit of rugby.
“With track, you’re on your
own and just trying to beat your own times, so it can be isolating,” she said.
“Rugby, being a team sport, is really social and you make great friends for life.”
Miller added he believes each sport he plays helps him improve in the others.
“Athletics builds up the fundamentals for rugby,” he
said. “Running has definitely helped me - to be good at rugby, you’ve got to be fast.”
The LSC program provides grants of $500 to $750 to help cover travel, accommodation, uniforms and other competition-related expenses.
Phillips encouraged more local athletes, coaches and officials to apply for the next
round of grants. “The Federal Labor Government doesn’t want financial barriers stopping local champions from representing their state or country,” she said.
“I’d encourage anyone who has competed, or plans to compete, at a state, national or international level to apply before the next round closes on October 31.”
South Coast recipients:
Aleah FarrugiaAustralian Gymnastics Championships
Coby Sheppeard - 2025
School Sport Australia
Bowls Championship
Airlie StevensAustralian Junior
Athletics Championship
Oskar Driscoll - 2025
School Sport Australia
13–19 Years Swimming Championship
Alisha Britta Mustapic - Australian Track and Field Championships
Monty Lloyd JonesSchool Sport Australia National Triathlon Championship
Christian IrelandAsia Pacific Sprint Cup 2025 (Canoeing)
Miller SiasatAustralian Track and Field Championships
Ginger SiasatAustralian Schools and Juniors Rugby Championships
Lily Todd - 2025 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships
Jack Nunn - American Motorcycling Association
National Motocross Championship
Cameron Donaldson (Match Official)School Sport Australia Basketball Championship
KIAMA CARES
Supporting Locals Doing It Tough
Each month, one household will receive a special Care Package s donated by generous local businesses, tailored to brighten their life and show that Kiama cares.
OCTOBER LAUNCH PARTNER
AROUND THE GROUNDS
Knights savage Sharks to claim Group 7 glory
Lleyton Hughes
It took Shellharbour Sharks
56 minutes to finally break through the Kiama defence in the Group 7 Grand Final at Centenary Park - but by then, the Knights had already laid the foundations for a famous win.
Coming into the game, both sides were evenly matched. Kiama had beaten Shellharbour just two weeks earlier to qualify for the grand final, while the Sharks entered as minor premiers, playing in their third straight decider. Not much could separate the two teams in the opening 20 minutes, with both being held up over the line in a tense, physical start.
A turning point came in the 15th minute when Shellharbour were awarded a penalty - and five-eighth Sam Hooper got into a scuffle with Sharks captain Jayden Morgan. Both were sent to the sin bin, and from there, Shellharbour began to assert dominance. The Sharks earned five consecutive repeat sets on Kiama’s line, but the Knights’ scramble defence continued to hold firm.
There always seemed to be another red-and-white jersey to save the day.
Both sin-binned players returned as Kiama worked their way back into the game.
In the 28th minute, a towering bomb from halfback Cameron Vazzoler was dropped by Shellharbour fullback Jacob Seabrook and pounced on by second-rower Tom Angel, who scored the opening try of the day.
The score remained 6-0 at halftime.
Rain began to fall early in the second half, and play became scrappy, with both teams guilty of handling errors.
In the 55th minute, Kiama winger Callan Thistlewaite dropped the ball coming off his own line, giving Shellharbour another golden opportunity.
Two plays later, the Sharks finally cracked the line, with a floating cut-out pass from halfback Braxton Wallace finding winger Jye Brooker, who dived over in the corner. Wallace missed the conversion, leaving Kiama clinging to a two-point lead.
Photo: @SticksPix_
Shellharbour looked to be building momentum, but a brilliant 40/20 from fullback Brad Kilmore flipped the script.
Moments later, Angel crossed for his second try, off a perfect short ball from Vazzoler. Kiama extended their lead to six with just over 15 minutes remaining.
The next ten minutes were pure desperation, with the Knights making three errors
in a row coming out of their own end. But once again, their defence stood tall, repelling wave after wave of Shellharbour attack.
Their resilience was rewarded in the 72nd minute. Under pressure, the Sharks ran the ball on the last tackle and began throwing it around.
A wild sequence saw the ball travel 10 metres backwards, then another 20 metres back again. Thistlewaite chased a
loose grubber and grounded it, scoring Kiama’s third try to seal the game - and the 2025 Group 7 Premiership.
Tom Angel was awarded Player of the Match in a performance full of heart, though it could have gone to any number of Knights players.
Fullback Brad Kilmore paid tribute to his teammates’ spirit:
“I don’t think we played as well as we could have. We made way too many errors, but our response to those mistakes was what mattered. No matter who dropped the ball or gave away a penalty, we all stuck together, got around each other, and defended for our teammates.”
Kilmore said the team’s bond was the key to their premiership success:
“The club really went to another level this year thanks to the coaches, community members, and support staff. They’ve made the club a joy to be part of, and that creates the perfect environment for us to come together - not just as teammates, but as mates.” Kiama unfortunately couldn’t replicate the result in the reserve grade final, going down 22-16 to the Stingrays of Shellharbour.
Whilst, earlier in the day, Berry defeated the Gerringong Lions 34-12 in the Under 18s.
