The Bugle News 6 September 2025

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Bowling along at 90 p21

Paul Suttor

Labor’s Katelin McInerney appears on course to win the Kiama by-election even though Premier Chris Minns is still claiming underdog status.

There are 13 candidates on the ballot paper but of the four main contenders, McInerney looks set to regain the seat for Labor for the first time since 2011 ahead of Liberal rival Serena Copley, Community Independent Kate Dezarnaulds and The Greens’ Dr Tonia Gray.

According to a well-placed source, polling indicates that McInerney is on course for a comfortable win and the TAB has placed her at prohibitive odds of $1.05 to emerge triumphant with Copley at $9, an independent victory at $10 and Dr Gray is listed as a 50/1 long shot.

Shrewd politician that he is, Minns stood by his claim from two weeks ago that Labor was still the underdog.

“With due respect to the incredible hard work that Katelin has put in and the campaign we’ve run and the promises we’ve made, I think we’re the underdog,” he said.

“This is gonna be a tough election for us to win. The odds are against us.”

Minns visited Kiama for the sixth time during the election campaign on Thursday amid accusations of pork barreling levelled

at his government after a string of recent promises and announcements.

He stopped by Kiama High School, where McInerney attended as a teenager, to officially unveil upgraded science labs, new lifts and ramps, and school hall.

The Liberal Party has claimed that Labor is taking credit for projects that the Coalition had invested in during their time in government such as the Bomaderry High School upgrade.

A Liberal spokesperson said Labor’s Kiama High School

pledge was “routine school infrastructure work dressed up as a big announcement, and it misleads the public into thinking Labor has delivered something transformative for Kiama High when in fact it hasn’t”.

When asked about this, Minns said his Government had invested $3 million over the past two years at the school while the Coalition had contributed a fraction of that amount.

Minns also rebuked claims from Kiama Council that Labor had snubbed them during the election campaign.

“You can’t gild the lily. If you do speak to me, you do speak to the Treasurer, I think it’s a bit disingenuous to turn around and say we don’t know who they are.”

Tension is rising between the two major parties with Liberal candidate Serena Copley fuming after her attempt to challenge McInerney in a head-tohead debate, moderated by The Bugle, did not come to fruition.

The Libs asked The Bugle to host a debate but the Labor camp said they would only engage if a full forum

Copley responded by saying “Labor have made plenty of claims and promises this election, so I offered the Labor candidate an opportunity of a head-to-head debate to put their plans up against the Liberals’ record of delivering for Kiama.

could be organised with all candidates involved. There was insufficient time midway through the election campaign to organise a full forum and the Labor camp pointed to the fact that several had already been arranged at various venues, including Kangaroo Valley, Minnamurra, Kiama, Albion Park and Shoalhaven Heads.

“As we are not the only candidates asking for the communities’ vote I believe an invitation should be extended to all candidates of all political persuasions,” said McInerney in reply to the Libs’ request.

“While Labor continues to roll the Premier and Ministers into town to speak for their candidate, she remains silent on the important issues confronting our region as a direct result of Labor’s neglect.

“I am disappointed that the Labor candidate has not accepted this opportunity to set out her plan for Kiama in a direct debate against me.”

Early voting opens on Saturday (6 September) and then again from Monday to Friday at Kiama Uniting Church, Centenary Hall in Albion Park and St Stephen's Anglican Church in Bomaderry.

Chris Minns and Katelin McInerney. Photo: The Bugle

Mark Speakman and Serena Copley. Photo: Business Illawarra

Minnamurra forum puts candidates in the spotlight Hope springs eternal for Creek saga

Mitchell Beadman

Minnamurra Progress Association’s Tuesday night forum was a chance for the Kiama by-election candidates to connect with the locals.

Six of the 13 candidates were in attendance and independent candidate Andrew Thaler used his allocated five minutes to launch a tirade against the four frontrunners for next Saturday’s poll.

Thaler has been suspended from Snowy Monaro Council for two three-month periods after he made abusive social media posts which included referring to a fellow councillor as a “fat dumb blonde”.

Labor’s Katelin McInerney, Liberal Party’s Serena Copley, Community Independent nominee Kate Dezarnaulds and Dr Tonia Gray from the Greens were the only candidates invited to speak at the Shoalhaven Business Chamber event earlier in the week, which set the tone for Thaler’s contribution to the Minnamurra forum.

“Now these women preach tolerance and inclusion and if they actually had a backbone, they would have said ‘no this is not right, we should have other candidates there as well’,” Thaler said.

“Yet they didn’t speak up.”

Thaler seemed to have forgotten that there is no love in politics, but said he had checked with “every other candidate” to ask if they knew

which events were happening during the campaign.

“Let’s establish communication, I share information [and] I believe in equality and inclusion.”

Legalise Cannabis party member Don Fuggle told the Forum that he helped establish the organisation more than 25 years ago in Nimbin, originally known as the Help Party.

“We ran it against John Howard in the 2000 election and nearly got a candidate up in the Senate.”

Dr Gray spoke on issues about climate action in the region, public infrastructure, environmental issues and integrity in politics, imploring the responsibility is on voters.

“You are in a real important sweet spot to make change; this is an election like no other,” Gray said.

“If you’re as disenchanted as I am with the two major parties, then it is time that we really step up and look at social justice and accountability.”

Copley spruiked the recent announcement about a pilot program called Active Seniors and provided a strong advocacy position for the future of the Kiama electorate.

“We need to look to the future and protect that for them. We all live in this part of the world because we love it, we treasure it, and we want to protect it in our lifestyle and the culture that we enjoy today for future generations,” Copley said.

Dezaranaulds used her opportunity to set the record straight that she is not affiliated with the teal independents, which Thaler alluded to, and while she spoke about a range of issues, she gravitated to political integrity.

“Our community really wants to see integrity back in politics,” Dezarnaulds said.

“They want independently minded, courageous, hard-working, energetic, responsive, members who will actually listen to them, who will do the work and who will go and fight the good fight.”

McInerney provided a clear and concise overview of her campaign trail, focusing on infrastructure.

“One of the things that I was told was we need to have that basic infrastructure and those essential services in our community,” McInerney said.

“The NSW Minns Labor government is going to continue to build the infrastructure we need alongside communities as they grow.”

Thanks to the great moderating efforts of MPA’s Graeme Collinson-Smith, the night flowed well and even finished 10 minutes early.

In sports betting for the Kiama by-election, Labor is $1.05. There is not much between the Liberals and Independents at $9.00 and $10.00 respectively.

The Greens are considered ‘bolter’ odds at $51.00.

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald is thrilled he has received a commitment from Opposition Leader Mark Speakman to tear up the covenant on land at Spring Creek which could provide a financial windfall for Council.

But he would be over the moon if NSW Premier Chris Minns signed off on Council’s request to unlock the parcel of land to the west of Bombo cemetery.

Speakman and the Liberal Party’s Kiama by-election candidate Serena Copley met Cr McDonald and Council CEO Jane Stroud in Kiama on Monday to call on the NSW Government to remove a covenant established in 1993 to prevent housing too close to the working quarry.

Council owns the approximately nine hectares of residential zoned land, which equates to around 100 parcels which could be worth about $90 million to Council.

McDonald said it would be up to the community, through Council, to decide what sort of mix they want between employment land, residential land and facilities like sports grounds.

“It is an outdated covenant that could be removed with the stroke of a pen … to unlock the financial security of Kiama Council,” he said.

“It is a financial gamechanger for the predicament that Kiama Council is in. It will enable long-term financial stability for the Council.”

The restriction was put

in place more than 30 years ago so to minimise noise complaints if residents moved into the area.

“If you drive out there today, you can look up the hill and there are houses far, far closer to Bombo Quarry,” Stroud said.

“And the last time we had a noise complaint from Bombo Quarry is over five years ago.”

Speakman was bullish in his demand for the Premier to rip off the red tape, citing a former US President’s famous speech in sending a message to Minns.

“Ronald Reagan famously stood outside the Berlin Wall and said, ‘Mr Gorbachev, tear down this wall’. I'm standing here at Kiama today saying ‘Chris Minns, tear up this covenant’,” he said.

“It's got the unanimous support of Kiama Council, it would mean that Kiama Council would be sustainable for the long term.

“It would free up tens of millions of dollars in money for vital infrastructure in the Kiama area.

“There is no need for this restrictive covenant to continue, but at the moment, it's preventing urban development on the Spring Creek land that the Council owns.

“It's a no-brainer to tear up this covenant.”

Copley added: “As has been the case multiple times across NSW, the only thing standing in the way of progress in our state is the Minns Labor Government.”

Cr McDonald earlier met Roads Minister Jenny

Aitchison and Labor byelection candidate

Katelin McInerney on Monday morning to discuss items on Council’s advocacy list, including the request to lift the Spring Creek Land Covenant.

“We understand the challenge to Council around housing and their financial sustainability and that is why we have recently worked with Council to release five lots of council-owned land in this area, and we will continue to work with them on this,” McInerney said in reference to the recent decision to lift a similar covenant at Glenbrook Drive.

“We know future housing in the Kiama LGA needs to be sensibly delivered in a responsible way - and look to areas like Bombo Quarry where there is an opportunity to support future housing.”

Copley has also been doing her bit to give local seniors enjoy more opportunities to live active, healthy, and socially connected lives on the campaign trail.

Copley and Speakman said a Coalition government would commit to a three-year pilot with the Kiama, Shellharbour City and Shoalhaven City Councils in which they would each be able to opt in to receive $60,000 a year if the NSW Liberals win at the next state election.

“Our local seniors will be able to participate in subsidised classes helping them to keep active and engaged, and this will be a great preventative health measure,” Copley said.

Paul Suttor

Heartbroken family issues their heartfelt thanks after tragedy

Shelby Gilbert

The family of Bradley Hair would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the local community and emergency services in the wake of his tragic passing in August.

Brad went missing last month and emergency services conducted an extensive search around the Kiama Blowhole Point area on August 13 before his body was retrieved.

There were no suspicious

circumstances surrounding his death. Brad’s sister Deb contacted The Bugle wanting to pay tribute to not only her brother but also the emergency services crews and the many well-wishers who have reached out to her family.

Deb, her brother Glenn, and their parents Max and Jo, are grateful for the support and love they have received, and for all those that attended the service at the Kiama Pavilion and wake at Kiama Bowling Club.

From neighbours, to family and friends, they have received a continual arrival of flowers, phone calls, cards, tributes, and food, all of which they are thankful for during this devastating time.

Brad’s family want to thank all those involved in his search and recovery, including his sister Deb, his mates, family friends, local emergency services, Surf Life Saving Australia, NSW Police, the SES, and helicopter rescue.

Deb would also like to thank Brad’s friends that searched the coastline at

daybreak for him, after Deb searched through the night with blankets in hand, hoping to bring him home.

The family shared special memories of Brad, describing him as a “family man and a mate”, and someone who had a presence, he didn’t have to say anything, he was loved for just being there.

Brad was a presence people were used to seeing around, with Deb saying he’d often stop in the street to have a coffee with her, Jo, and the family.

“It feels very empty in the main street without Brad,” Deb said.

The family would like to help raise awareness of men's health and mental wellbeing, as Deb emphasises the importance of “protecting and supporting the people who mean the most to us with mental health issues”.

Anyone seeking support can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, or chat online at www.lifeline.org. au (all services are available 24/7).

Opposition outlines vision for business and housing at Illawarra forum

The Pavilion hosted a full house on Thursday as Business Illawarra welcomed NSW Opposition Leader Mark Speakman, Shadow Treasurer Damien Tudehope and Shadow Minister for Small Business Tim James for an exclusive members’ forum.

Business Illawarra Director Coralie McCarthy moderated the wide-ranging conversation, which covered the challenges facing small business, housing pressures and the state’s infrastructure priorities.

Gerringong business facing squeeze over lack of land

Mitchell Beadman

Gerringong business owner Mark Blight’s five-year plan to expand his operations remains uncertain due to the lack of industrial land infrastructure in the Kiama local government area.

Blight’s business, South Coast Flat Packs, is situated on 144 square metres in the Gerringong Business Park.

Blight envisions his business remaining in the Kiama region but he may have to look elsewhere.

He has thrown his support behind Derek McMahon’s push to have a three-hectare property at 5 Sims Road included in Kiama Council’s Employment Lands Strategy because the local area is sadly lacking for space for local businesses to expand.

“100% [it is possible] once Sims Road goes through, there will be a lot of land to do different sort of things on for sure,” Blight said.

“If we can’t stay local in the next few coming years, we’re going to have to move somewhere else. Another council area and not staying local. A lot of people like using local businesses.”

At the most recent Kiama

Council meeting, the vacant block of land on Sims Road in Gerringong was excluded from the Employment and Lands Strategy by a 4-1 vote.

“I feel mostly let down by the four councillors who voted no,” McMahon said.

“I’m upset about that; I don’t want any favouritism when it comes to that or anything done improperly.”

McMahon felt that the process of Council’s community consultation with the Employment Lands Strategy was not as comprehensive as it could have been.

“When they brought the Employment Land Strategy out, they didn’t repeat any of the meetings,” he said.

“They just took a little information out of the Housing Strategy they had, sent it away and did an ‘electronic desktop study’.”

McMahon said that the potential loss of businesses from the area would have a flow-on effect to the circular economy.

“Mark runs a local business, employs locally, gets his vehicles serviced by the local mechanic,” McMahon said.

“When he picks that up and moves that to Bomaderry, all of that goes with it.”

Blight, who has been a Gerringong local for about 15 years, explained to The Bugle the sociological benefits industrial small businesses provide to their communities.

“We’ve got a team of five guys now and supporting the local community by having jobs created is a big thing for sure,” Blight said.

“I’ve had a few local guys come through, one guy’s changed direction now, but he’s going well.

“Another guy has another local business in town and he’s employing as well now.

“It’s good rapport when you get a phone call from your old apprentice who has a local business and says Mark I want you to build my Kitchen - I want to keep it local.”

When asked if he felt supported by governments, Blight could not give a definitive answer, but did provide suggestions about what they could do better.

“Creating more opportunities like land is number one and a bit more support is number two,” Blight said.

“There is not enough support out there really.”

The Employment Lands Strategy is on public exhibition until 22 September.

He warned of “headwinds” for business, citing high energy costs, rising premiums, sluggish demand and record insolvencies. He also criticised the government’s budget approach, predicting cuts to infrastructure would hit regional communities hardest.Housing affordability and stamp duty reform were also in focus.

Speakman flagged incentives for downsizers and restoring the option of a property tax for first-home

Speakman described the Illawarra as “one of the most magnificent places in NSW,” before outlining his party’s economic platform: “Small business is the engine room of our economy. Our ethos as Liberals is to help business - our job as government is to make it easier for businesses to generate jobs, opportunities and growth.”

buyers. He has also pledged a $26 million upgrade to Kiama Sports Complex and support for freeing up Spring Creek land for housing.

Audience members raised concerns about cuts to tourism funding, rising workers’ compensation premiums, and the need for social and affordable housing.

Local councillors, business leaders and tourism advocates stressed the importance of government support for the region’s economy and liveability.

While the next state election is still 18 months away, Speakman said the Opposition would continue to put forward policies “progressively to the people,” noting, “the best predictor of what we’d be like in government is what we’ve done in the past.”

Ed Paterson, Serena Copley, Erica Warren and Melissa Matters

Glenn, Deb, Max, Jo, and Brad

Bradley Hair

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Kiama snares podium finish at national tourism awards

Kiama took out a podium finish in the Top Tourism Town category collecting 'Top Town Bronze', at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards, which was held at Parliament House in Canberra on Wednesday morning.

Fremantle won the top gong of 'Top Town Gold' and Devonport the runner-up with 'Top Town Silver'.

Kiama was up against the winners from the other five states in the category: Bowen (Queensland), Devonport (Tasmania), Victor Harbor (South Australia), Fremantle (Western Australia) and Warrnambol (Victoria).

Huskisson was named the runner-up in the Tiny Town category for places with a population less than 1500 people.

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald was elated to reach such lofty heights. “Reaching the national finals is a proud moment for Kiama and a reflection of our community’s hard work and passion for welcoming visitors.

"We may not have taken home the top prize this time, but we’ve shown that Kiama belongs on the national stage.

"Congratulations to Fremantle and also to the winners of the Small Tourism Town, Bungendore near the ACT border, and Tiny Tourism Town, Trentham, VIC.”

“I also congratulate our southern neighbour Huskisson, which won silver in the Tiny Tourism Town."

Destination Kiama chair, Councillor Matt Brown, said Kiama’s journey through the awards has reinforced its strengths as a leading visitor destination.

“A huge hats off to Fremantle. Being recognised as NSW’s Top Tourism Town and going on to represent our state at the national awards is an outstanding achievement," he said.

"This honour belongs to our local businesses, tourism operators and community, who together make Kiama a place visitors want to return to again and again.”

Destination Kiama is looking ahead to build on this momentum - continuing to elevate the region as a mustvisit destination for domestic and international travellers.

The Mayor also thanked Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips for her support "in helping us ensure Kiama’s spotlight shines across Australia and beyond".

"Being part of these awards provides a golden opportunity to elevate our region, inspire tourism operators, and celebrate the very best of community-led destination development.”

Kiama had been awarded the title of the state’s Top Tourism Town for the second consecutive year in May at a ceremony at the NSW Local Government Destination and Visitor Economy Conference in Kingscliff.

Greens and Libs unite for fight over Berry Hospital

Mitchell Beadman

Community pressure has brought unlikely allies together with the Greens and Liberals joining the call to preserve David Berry Hospital.

The Hospital in Berry has been a critical piece of health infrastructure for the Illawarra and South Coast region since it opened in 1909, but more recently has not evolved with the contemporary models of health care.

Greens candidate for

Hospital, will be moved to the $438 million redevelopment at Shoalhaven Hospital, estimated for completion in 2026.

The Liberal Party's Kiama by-election candidate, Serena Copley, was joined by Opposition Leader Mark Speakman and NSW Shadow Health Minister Kellie Sloane where they unanimously rebuked the government’s handling of the Hospital.

“Labor opposed legislation last year to keep this in public hands, where the Liberals supported it,” Speakman

a public health facility and must remain as a public health facility. But to develop into something else? Well, maybe.”

At the Minnamurra Progress Association candidate forum on Tuesday night, Labor candidate Katelin McInerney fielded a question from the crowd about “her position in regard to either repurposing or redeveloping the existing infrastructure in order to make it more beneficial for the community” and she played a straight bat.

the Kiama by-election, Dr Tonia Gray, is calling on the NSW Labor Government to establish a centre of excellence for traumainformed care at the soon to be vacant hospital.

“A centre of excellence for trauma-informed care would benefit a huge range of people,” she said. “[David Berry Hospital] would be a place of rest and healing for people who have experienced significant trauma.

“It would [also] provide training for health workers in trauma-informed care, and provide research to support clinicians across the state.”

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Greens MLC, Dr Amanda Cohn, who chaired the equity, accessibility and appropriate delivery of outpatient and community mental health care in NSW in 2023, spoke specifically about one of the 39 recommendations from the inquiry.

“One of the key recommendations of that inquiry was for the NSW government to consider establishing a centre of excellence for traumainformed care,” Dr Cohn said.

“A centre like this would benefit a huge range of people, from victim survivors of family violence and sexual assault, to people who have served in the emergency services or in the defence forces.”

It has been proposed by the NSW Government that the inpatient palliative care ward and the general and specialist inpatient rehabilitation currently occupying the David Berry

said.“[NSW Health Minister] Ryan Park and Chris Minns need to come clean on what their plans are for this hospital.”

Sloane called out the government specifically on their two-faced approach to the electorate.

“Labor is saying one thing in the city and another thing when they’re here in this community,” Sloane said.

“In the city, they’re opposing a bill to give certainty about this hospital.

“Here [in this community] they are saying we’re about to make a decision. Well, it is time for that decision and the community deserves it.”

Copley is also asking the government to provide clarity to the electorate about the future of the hospital.

“We need to put this worry to bed and make sure this facility will provide health services for our community, [the same] community that fought to have this forevermore in public hands, kept for the community in health services,” Copley said.

The Bugle asked the Greens and Liberal parties if they were willing to explore further development for the grounds of David Berry Hospital and both gravitated to their party values.

“The Greens believe that this site should be kept in public hands for community benefit, and we agree with the 87% of the people in the community survey who wanted it retained for health and wellbeing purposes,” Dr Cohn said.

Speakman said: “This is

“I brought the Health Minister down to see how important and special this particular facility is. It will remain in public hands,” she said.

“There have been 700 submissions made by community into what happens at David Berry Hospital all of those options are on the table at the moment – we will continue that community driven consultation because there hasn’t been a decision made by the State Government but this is a really important asset – for it’s next use I think we all want to see it put to the best possible use, especially if it can help people and play that really special role in our town.”

Minister for Health Ryan Park said: “We’ve made it clear that under the Minns Labor Government, David Berry Hospital will remain in public hands. That was never in doubt. “The only suggestion of potential sale of the David Berry Hospital has been the Liberals.”

A component of the NSW Health’s Engagement Summary of the David Berry Hospital which was released by earlier this year provided considerations for Aboriginal and Indigenous communities. Several respondents raised the historical mistrust towards governments and called for direct consultation with local Aboriginal groups with a deep connection to Country and environmental protection being deeply valued.

Greens candidate, Dr Tonia Gray and Greens MLC, Dr Amanda Cohn

CEO Jane Stroud and Sally BurselL

Show us the money

If you had one shot or one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted in one moment, would you capture it? Or just let it slip?

These wise words were enshrined into history by an individual that some consider one of the most significant literary figures of the 21st century.

“Lose Yourself”, by Eminem tells a story of making the most of oncein-a-lifetime opportunities to obtain that elusive prize.

As the Kiama by-election rolls towards a crescendo in a week’s time, it does seem like Mayor Cameron McDonald sees this as the community’s one shot to secure everything its ever wanted (or needed) from the major political parties.

And here at The Bugle, we certainly think Mayor McDonald sees and understands the politics perfectly clear, despite what he says!

Prior to the federal election this year, The Bugle’s View was titled: “Your vote matters” and the theme of that edition was firmly around ‘show us the money’.

While it remains to be seen what the Albanese Government actually delivers for Gilmore, it certainly seems like the Labor State Government and Liberal Opposition have heeded the call to show us the money, for this by-election.

At last count, the Liberal opposition and candidate Serena Copley had committed: to the removal of a restrictive covenant over Council-owned land at Spring Creek, $26m for the redevelopment of the Kiama Sports Precinct, and $200,000 to upgrade lighting at Michael Cronin Oval, in Gerringong. Not to be outdone, Premier Chris Minns and a cavalcade of NSW Cabinet

Ministers have seemingly made the Kiama electorate their second home over the past week, striving to bring the seat into Government, and one step closer to a majority.

They have devoted:

$200,000 towards transforming Kiama CBD into a Special Entertainment Precinct (you might remember this funding was initially rejected by the NSW Government, how a byelection can change things!) $3m in accelerated funding for pothole and road maintenance, and $9.6m in road works for the Macquarie Pass.

Both parties have committed to a rooftop helipad at the new Shellharbour Hospital which seems like a case of one-upmanship, even though the hospital is not located within the Kiama electorate.

When it comes to election commitments, it seems like the major parties have two distinct strategies.

The Liberal Party seems to be focusing on the part of the electorate covered by the Kiama Council, whereas the Labor Government is seeking to expend their reach to all parts of the electorate.

It remains to be seen which approach will appeal most to the electors, however on pure numbers alone, the population of the local government area is about one-third of the state electorate.

Either way, Saturday 13 September looms large, and The Bugle’s View is that we have one opportunity to seize everything we ever needed.

Whether it’s Labor, Liberal or an independent, we need to make sure that we do not just let this opportunity slip. Your vote matters.

Forum gives lesser lights time to shine

Nine of the 13 candidates for the Kiama by-election stated their case to more than 200 local residents at The Pavilion on Wednesday night.

Small business, infrastructure, political integrity and working with locals councils were the main items on the agenda although several of the candidates veered off centre.

Many of the members of the electorate in the room were well aware of the policies of the four frontrunners for next Saturday’s poll - Labor’s Katelin McInerney, Liberal Party nominee Serena Copley, Community Independent Kate Dezarnaulds and The Greens’ Tonia Gray.

But the forum was a chance to hear from the little-known independent candidates and nominees from smaller parties like the Legalise Cannabis Party and the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers.

Emceed by Kiama Business Network president Cathryn Lyall, the event afforded the candidates a five-minute allocation to outline their policies, then each one was given another two minutes to respond to questions about small business and infrastructure.

Independent candidates Roger Woodward and Cyrille Jeufo Keuheu, Ken Davis (Sustainable Australia) and Joshua Beer (Libertarian Party) were unable to attend the forum.

Candidates at the forum

were designated to speak in the order of the ballot which was drawn last Friday with Dr Gray getting top spot.

Independent Andrew Thaler, who has been suspended from Snowy Monaro Council, told the forum that he did not mind ruffling a few feathers in order to bring about change.

“Some people don’t like the work that I do but I don’t care because I do it for the people,” he said.

“Whether I live in Snowy Monaro or live in Kiama or New Zealand, it doesn’t matter - all our electorates face the same dramas. A lack of funding, a bloated bureaucracy, slow service and delivery nice, shiny new hospitals and buildings with no equipment that works.

“If you stay independent, you will get better attention, more funding, better promises. Promises that will convert into action and

expenditure.”

The Legalise Cannabis Party’s Don Fuggle said that he did not think there should be the middle level of government at all at state level.

“In NSW cannabis is a legally prescribed medicine and it is having great results for a lot of people,” he said.

“The down side is it remains in your body, traceable, for quite some time.”

Fuggle said a person could use it one night for medicinal purposes and be completely sober the next morning but then get arrested if they drive their car which can then affect people’s livelihoods.

Another independent, Lisa Cotton, who recently moved to Primbee from Sydney’s northern beaches, admitted that it would be very unlikely that she would win but was hoping to establish a presence in the region.

“I have been a musician

The Kiama Electorate

since I was five years old so I am very much in line with what the arts can do for a community,” she said.

“I really believe that Kiama needs a lot more of the arts festivals and community engagement. Regardless of the outcome of the election, I’d really like to get involved with that.”

Felix Nelson from the Shooters, Fishers, Farmers said he had no particular political aspirations prior to standing for this by-election.

“My primary reasons for coming onto this campaign are a general frustration that a lot of us feel. I’m a lifelong local and the lack of services provided, compared with the attention we are given with all the tourism campaigns, infrastructure doesn’t seem to match up.

“A lot of it comes down to the argy-bargy back and forward between the major parties. So if nothing else I’m hear to make some noise about a few local infrastructure issues and get some attention brought to them by it whoever does win the seat.”

Ellie Robertson from the Animal Justice Party said she wanted to be “a voice for the voiceless”.

“I’ve spent years supporting people and animal causes around the world because I believe in doing what’s right not just what’s easy,” she said.

“There will never be guarantees in politics but what I can offer is this - a firm and clear commitment to advocate for the issues that matter to you and to work tirelessly for real results.”

Paul Suttor

Greens candidate, Dr Tonia Gray.

Don Fuggle addresses the forum.

A secure home isn’t a luxury

It’s the foundation for work, family and community connection, writes Kate Dezarnaulds

Across the Kiama electorate, everyone can feel the squeeze - key workers commuting further, older residents swimming in homes that no longer fit, and young people giving up the dream of raising their families on the coast they grew up in.

We are growing. The question is whether we shape that growth - or have it done to us by a government intent on fast, one-size-fits-all outcomes that override local input.

Let’s drop the euphemisms. This isn’t just about “affordable housing”.

Somewhere along the way, government lost the courage to budget for and build social housing - secure, incomelinked homes that give people dignity and stability.

We need more of it here, and we need it in the right places.

Then let’s get moving on key-worker homes, especially in well-located town-centre areas, so nurses, ambos, baristas, apprentices and disability support workers can live where they’re needed.

The state has already shown a credible model with Buildto-Rent in Bomaderry.

That’s durable, nonspeculative supply our region can scale and repeat along the rail spine.

Short-term rentals also

need a social licence if tourism is to keep working for locals.

The current light-touch approach hasn’t stemmed the drift from permanent rentals.

We need more hotel and motel beds, plus STR registration and data-sharing that allow targeted caps where rental stress is worst - so hospitality can keep humming and staff can live locally.

That’s not anti-tourism; it’s pro-community.

On where we grow, Kiama has a clear mandate: add neighbours near stations, schools and shops - not by pushing pipes and roads into farmland and floodplains.

Transport-oriented development can help, but not if it steamrolls local design choices.

Let’s build the missingmiddle - duplexes, terraces and granny flats - that respect village character.

Do it with genuine local input and matching infrastructure sequenced first, not last.

The state sets the “how many”; our job is to insist on the where and how. Yes, Kiama has been handed a 900-home target by 2029. Let’s meet it on our terms.

The costs of getting this wrong are already visible. Flood-prone roads still need

basic resilience works.

After ordinary rain, we see sewer overflows from Kendalls to Bombo - a system

already stretched.

Housing without rail, road and sewer upgrades isn’t “supply”; it’s backlog.

That’s why greenfield expansion should be the exception, not the reflex.

Look north to Calderwood: thousands of dwellings over decades, with councils warning about unfunded road upgrades and flood and farm impacts unless infrastructure is locked in.

Growth that dumps costs on ratepayers isn’t “affordable”it’s a future bill.

We also need to be honest about market incentives.

Left on autopilot, the private pipeline prioritises the fattest margins, not the greatest need, which is why downsizers and single-person households struggle to find smaller, accessible homes in town.

State leadership should keep approving good infill fast and stop pretending speculative product at the fringes is a civic virtue. That’s not anti-developer; it’s prooutcomes.

And the regional supply blockers are well known: thin builder markets, rising costs and workforce shortageswhich is exactly why publicinterest projects and steady pipelines matter.

And yes, tax settings matter. Stamp duty keeps people stuck, especially older locals who’d happily right-size if the transaction penalty weren’t so

punishing. Give residents viable intown alternatives and a fairer tax path, and you free up family homes while keeping community ties intact.

Finally, let’s talk cost and speed. Traditional delivery alone won’t keep up. Welcome modular and panelised builds, adaptive reuse, and simple, code-compliant add-onsgranny flats, tiny homes and land-lease communitiesbecause the point is to house people faster at a standard we’re proud of.

Across Australia, employers and councils are already doing this to keep towns staffed and services running. It’s not theory, it’s happening - just not enough here.

Kiama doesn’t need to choose between soul and shelter. We should insist the state funds the rails, roads and sewers; that holiday homes don’t take priority; that social and key-worker homes are built in our centres; and that locals keep a real say over how we meet targets we didn’t set. Growth is coming. The election question is simple: will we be the driver - or the passenger? A strong community-backed independent can ensure that we get to choose.

Paid advertorial by Kate Dezarnaulds

Minister hits back at Liberal ‘promise on a promise’ over sports facilities

NSW Sports Minister

Steve Kamper was the latest Government bigwig to drop by Kiama on Wednesday, announcing more than $1.1 million for five projects to boost local sporting infrastructure.

Kamper and Labor's Kiama by-election candidate Katelin McInerney said the State Government would invest in upgrading facilities in Kiama, Gerringong and Albion Park as a way of removing barriers to participation in the community.

The Government has committed to providing:

- $250,000 to resurface and repair the unsafe Kiama Netball Courts at the Kiama Sporting Complex.

- $40,000 to cover essential costs of the Kiama Sevens tournament.

- $275,000 to install new lighting at Bonaira Oval, home of Kiama Power, which has been unable to host night matches.

- $200,000 to improve facilities and drainage works for Keith Grey Oval, the home of the Albion Park Cricket Club.

- $387,000 for new lighting at Gerry Emery Reserve, Gerringong, which hosts several sports, including

cricket, football, touch and rugby league

Kamper and McInerney announced the funding at Kiama Sporting Complex, the same venue where Opposition Leader Mark Speakman and Liberal candidate Serena Copley two weeks earlier had promised $26 million if the Coalition were to win the state election in early 2027.

When asked whether the Government's announcement would pale into comparison, Kamper said: "It's a big number. And it's a promise upon a promise.

"We're here saying we're delivering this no matter what the case and that's what

government does. We look where there's needs and we're delivering."

When asked if this was an example of Labor porkbarreling in the lead-up to the by-election, he denied that was the case.

"This is about delivering for our community. We've established need and we've got some good eyes and ears on the ground at the moment advising us what we need to be doing. And I'm so pleased that this was brought to our attention. We understand how critical our local sporting facilities are, they are the backbone of our coastal and regional communities."

The netball courts at the Complex have been an ongoing concern with several cracks creating an unsafe playing environment.

"This is where I grew up playing netball. I have many fond memories, some sad and bittersweet defeats, but I really have to say it's almost the same as when I was here, and that's a long time ago now," McInerney said. "We have been talking to sporting organisations up and down our area, and we really do need strong investment in this part of the world for our sporting facilities."

Kiama Netball Association president Michelle Gregory said they were a large, growing

organisation with more than 800 players.

"We have been rallying for a number of years now regarding our court surfaces and the need for some investment in them," she said. McInerney has been busily buzzing around the electorate for announcements and pledges, including construction of $9.6 million in major upgrades for Macquarie Pass with Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison as well as new jet skis for the three clubs in the Kiama surf life saving branch with Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib. Then she was off to Kiama High on Thursday with the Premier.

Paul Suttor

The Micro Business Showcase organised by Kiama Business Network, last Thursday brought together local entrepreneurs, community members, and supporters for an evening of networking and promotion at The Pavilion in Kiama.

The event gave micro

Kiama

Lleyton Hughes

Kbusinesses a platform to connect directly with the community and each other.

With catering provided by Culinarius Catering & Fine Food, the event was cohosted by a range of local businesses including Bryant & Co Lawyers, Creative Kooks, eMerge Business Support,

Expressive Art Experience, Gutter Knight Illawarra, Kiama Chocolate Company, Known Designs & Print, Resolve Business Coaching, SurfCoast Pilates and Surfing, and The Wildflower Studio.

Guests were treated to live chocolate making by Kiama Chocolate Company, with

Local businesses support each other at Kiama showcase

fresh samples gobbled up throughout the evening.

Expressive Art Experience featured live painting by local artist Tiffany Springett, and attendees were invited to join in and contribute their own brushstrokes to a shared artwork.

Known Designs & Print

buzzing with energy after battery info sessions

iama was full of ener-

gy on Tuesday at the Local Battery Bulk Buy and Information Sessions, hosted by Kiama-based solar and battery company The Energy Experts.

Around 250 people attended the 10.30am or 5.45pm sessions at Kiama Pavilion, where The Energy Experts - alongside partners Sun People and Easther Electrical - educated locals on the importance of investing in a quality home battery system.

“There were about 250 people, which was huge.

We're based here in Kiama, and I think that really appealed to people who want to support local,” said Carolyn Lee, one of the directors at The Energy Experts.

“It’s a hot topic right now. A lot of people are looking into batteries - or already getting them - because of the 30% federal rebate and the NSW government incentive.”

The national battery rebate program, which launched on 1 July, has seen more than 16,000 batteries installed across Australia in its first 28 days. In the Illawarra alone, hundreds have been installed since the program went live. Experts estimate the $2.3

billion rebate pool could be fully allocated within 12 months at the current rate of uptake.

Lee noted the combination of rising power costs, falling solar feed-in tariffs, and the introduction of the new "sun tax" in July has created a “perfect storm” for battery adoption.

“People are seeing the benefits more than ever. But with that demand, it’s crucial they’re informed - not just rushing into it without understanding what makes a battery safe, reliable, and worth the investment,” she said.

Attendees at the sessions

learned not only about battery quality but also about how Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) work - an area that sparked particular interest.

“People were really intrigued by the VPP concept - how you can sell your stored energy back to the grid when it’s under pressure and actually make money,” Lee explained.

“There’s also the potential to recharge your battery cheaply - or even for free - when there’s abundant renewable energy in the grid.

“It means you’re not just saving money, but potentially earning it.”

For those who couldn’t

added a creative touch by gifting branded items, including rulers, key rings and sticker sheets displaying the logos of participating businesses.

The night had a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, giving businesses the chance to showcase their products and services in person.

As part of the Business Connect initiative, the event highlighted the strength and diversity of Kiama’s micro business community, and reinforced the value of supporting local as well as introducing a new retail promotion Walkbuy.

attend, Lee encourages locals to still do their research and reach out for support.

“They can contact us directly. We’ve got a Battery Storage Buying Guide we’re happy to share. There are a lot of cheap options flooding the market, and we want to help people in Kiama choose

high-quality systems that will serve them well for years. You only get the rebate once - so it makes sense to invest in a system that’s the right size and quality for your needs.” Additional resources, including the buying guide, are available on The Energy Experts website.

Rumble crossings hit speed bump with Council

Mitchell Beadman

When you think of the 80’s it was big hair and shoulder pads, but for Terralong Street in Kiama, it was the installation of the transverse rumble strip crossings to encourage motorists to reduce their speed due to high pedestrian activity.

At the recent Kiama Municipal Council ordinary meeting, they failed to secure funding to review and redesign Terralong Street’s transverse rumble strip crossings.

At the June council meeting, Kiama council applied for grant funding to carry out a review to potentially remove the rumble strips from Terralong Street and design a new street arrangement, as set out in the resolution.

However, this grant application was rejected in June 2025 and no money has been allocated for this in the 2025-26 budget.

Darren Brady, the director for infrastructure and operations for Kiama Council, shared with The Bugle the next steps.

“Council staff will continue to seek suitable

grant funding to cover the costs of the initial review and then subsequent grants for design and construction work as appropriate.”

On the Kiama Council website, it states that the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 202327 “presents Council’s vision for an inclusive and accessible community and outlines key actions Council will undertake” with one of the key focus areas being “accessible and liveable communities”.

“The DIAP aims for an accessible and inclusive community that removes barriers to access and participation and enhances liveability in Kiama for those with a disability,” Brady said. “The current transverse rumble crossings have blue stone located outside of the level concrete path, which provides an unimpeded crossing point for all users.”

However, The Bugle can reveal that many of the crossings or refuge islands along Terralong street, are absent of hazard tiles or tactile ground surface indicators, which assist those who have a sight disability.

This is of specific concern

as this area is deemed by Council to be a high pedestrian precinct dating back to the late 1980’s.

Alison Oyston, manager for Illawarra Advocacy, explained to The Bugle the importance of accessibility for those living with a disability.

“Accessibility isn’t just about convenience – it is about safety, independence and inclusion,” Oyston said.

“For people who are blind or have low vision, something as simple as crossing the road can be dangerous without the right design features.

When asked if Council

Kiama deserves a hand up, not a

With just days to go until the by-election, the message from Kiama Council is clear: our community deserves real partnerships and real solutions, not short-term politics.

In the past fortnight, we’ve seen some important wins. The NSW Coalition’s $26 million pledge for the Kiama Sports Precinct recognises how important this facility is for more than 5,500 local players, families and volunteers.

would be open to exploring this at the rumble crossings, Brady could not provide a definitive answer, only what may transpire. “If Council were to upgrade any of the crossing points in Terralong street, the installation of tactile indicators would be installed similar to those at the pedestrian crossing near Rosebank Place and Kiama Leagues Club,” he said. Oyston highlighted the benefits of the inclusive design as it “means dignity, independence, and equal access for all community members”.

The NSW Government’s $200,000 for a Special Entertainment Precinct shows that when we advocate with one voice, government listens.

But these announcements are only part of the picture. Our adopted State Government Advocacy Plan lays out the full list of priorities that will shape Kiama’s future, from upgrading the Bombo Water Resource Recovery Facility, to revitalising our harbour and main street, to ensuring Jamberoo Mountain Road is safe and reliable.

Above all, lifting the outdated covenant on our Spring Creek employment lands is the game changer. This reform costs the State Government nothing, but would transform Council’s longterm financial sustainability, free us from the Performance

handout

Improvement Order, and give us the means to deliver more for our community.

That’s the difference between a handout and a hand up. We are ready to work with any government that’s serious about giving Kiama a fair go. The NSW Coalition has made a commitment regarding Spring Creek but we have nothing yet in regards to this issue from the NSW Government.

One year into my term as Mayor, I am proud of the progress we’ve made. We’ve taken tough decisions when needed, we’ve kept pushing our case to government, and we’ve never lost sight of the future we want for Kiama.

The by-election is a chance to secure the commitments our community deserves. Now is the time for all parties to step up.

Recently, Council voted on whether to spend almost $100,000 we don’t have on New Year’s Eve fireworks. I know this decision is disappointing for many families, locals and visitors. Some councillors proposed plugging that gap by selling public land. At a time when Council is under a State Government Performance Improvement Order to reduce our deficit and live within our means, I could not support that. Using the sale of public assets to fund fireworks is not responsible financial management.

This pause is for one year only. The NYE Sky Show will return when we have sustainable funding in place.

Photo: Eleeya Kahale

Switched on: Charley brings hew ‘newgrass’ to Folk By The Sea

Charley Castle loves Bluegrass music, but she prefers to call her version of the classic Americana genre “Newgrass”.

Kiama is the next stop for her band, Charley Castle and The Boys In The Well, when they are one of the headline acts at Folk By The Sea from September 11-14.

The festival features 115 concerts over the four days, with performers ranging from Charley Castle and other national acts including multi Tamworth Golden Guitar winner Darren Coggan, dynamic Victorian duo The Weeping Willows and acclaimed Indigenous storyteller Jessie Lloyd, to some of Kiama’s finest, including The Water Runners, Kiama Sea Shanty Club and the Kiama Pipe Band.

Charley and her band will be playing at the Thursday night charity concert at Kiama Leagues Club, as part of the festival’s opening night program at Kiama Pavilion at 10.20pm on Friday (September 12) and again on Saturday at 5pm. Charley will also join other female artists as part of the two-hour Sirens of the Sea all-female show at 2.45pm on Saturday at the Anglican Church Hall.

Playing with The Boys In The Well - Reuben Ryan (acoustic guitar), Henry Junor (double

bass) and George Teasdell (mandolin) – is relatively new for Charley.

The band formed last year after Charley had previously been part of a harmony trio called the Fallen Robins, with her younger sisters Jess and Sarah. The Fallen Robins performed for eight years at festivals around the country, including Folk By The Sea in 2023, but eventually Jess and Sarah decided to concentrate on non-musical careers while Charley teamed up with The Boys In The Well. They had early validation, winning the busking award at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January, which came with a $2000 prize and two paid festival gigs. “It is

obviously a totally different dynamic than being on the road with your siblings,” said Charley, who hails from Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

“We’re excited to be coming to Kiama for Folk By The Sea, having played there two years ago with the Fallen Robins.

“I have very nice memories of the festival, and it is going to be fun coming back with the band. Our music is a blend of Bluegrass, Country and Folk, and we do lots of jumping around.”

Harmonies are also a prominent feature with her new band, whose music can veer from up-tempo party sets to soft and beautiful ballads. The band has released a seventrack EP of original songs,

while also adapting classic country rock and pop songs into Bluegrass for their festival shows.

“It’s fun to experiment and put our style to popular songs - like 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton and even Baby One More Time by Britney Spears and Beyonce’s Texas Hold ’Em.

“I’m not sure you’d call our music Bluegrass though – it’s more Newgrass.”

Charley said she’d been strongly influenced by other Australian Bluegrass-oriented bands like The Button Collective (who have played at Folk By The Sea on multiple occasions), The Morrisons and Kiama’s own The Water Runners. “Watching those bands, seeing them play Bluegrass with an Australian flavour, got us into it,” she said.

Her band has shared several stages with The Water Runners over the past year, and she is looking forward to doing that again. Festival director Neil McCann, a member of The Water Runners, says he expects Charley Castle and The Boys In The Well to be one of the most popular acts at Folk By The Sea.

“They’re a great live band,” Neil said. “I think audiences are going to love them.”

Entry for the Thursday night Charity Concert is by donation with all proceeds going to Lifeline South Coast.

Shelby Gilbert

South Coast residents are leading the charge in embracing renewable energy, with the Gilmore electorate topping NSW for household solar battery installations in just seven weeks.

Member for Gilmore

Fiona Phillips says the region’s experience with extreme weather events has motivated locals to embrace the Federal Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program, which was rolled out 1 July 2025.

“People living on the South Coast have been through fire, drought and floods,” she said.

“They have seen the devastating impacts of climate change and understand we need to take steps towards replacing coal powered electricity with renewable sources like solar and wind.”

The impressive uptake has placed Gilmore seventh nationally for battery installations with more

Gilmore tops statethefor household solar batteries

than 33,000 cheaper home battery installations across the country since the program began.

Under the scheme, households, small businesses and community organisations with existing rooftop solar can save 30 per cent on a battery. People with existing solar can save up to $1,100 annually on power bills, while households installing both solar panels and batteries at the same time can save around $2,300 a year. “As well as reducing powerbills for households that install a battery, it will put downward pressure on bills for their neighbours too because, when you reduce peak demand, it creates a more stable electricity grid,” said Phillips.

“Helping people with costof-living is our top priority and this is another way we are helping local people keep more in their hip pocket.”

The program’s success has helped to support small businesses and boost local employment through an increased demand for solar installation.

Gerringong Gazette

Gerringong Rotary is organising a Trivia Night at the Gerroa Fishermen’s Club on 25 October to raise money for ROMAC, Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children.

Save the Date for Trivia night at Fishos WITH GERRINGONG ROTARY Lights

As well as organising medical care, ROMAC also

ROMAC is a project of Rotary Clubs in Australia and New Zealand. It facilitates medical aid for children in Oceania in the form of life saving and/or dignity restoring surgery, not accessible to them in their home countries.

Gerringong Rotary supports Top Blokes, a charity addressing young men’s mental health issues.

Daniel and Jacob from Top Blokes spoke to one of our August meetings to tell us more about what they do.

Top Blokes started in Wollongong, then expanded to Sydney and the Central Coast, then elsewhere in regional NSW.

In 2020 they moved into Queensland and are now looking at taking their programs to Victoria and New Zealand.

Top Blokes focuses on young men’s mental health –suicide is the biggest killer of young men in Australia.

Young men are suffering from a lack of good male role models and the pressure of social media and access to pornography, leading to them bringing unhealthy attitudes into their relationships.

Poor mental health leads to poor physical health, with sufferers more likely to use

Top Blokes indeed out & about

alcohol, drugs and vapes. Conversely, introducing healthy routine also improves mental health.

Top Blokes teach the importance of the Big 6: Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Water, Hygiene and Routine.

With 75% of mental health issues emerging before young men turn 24, early intervention is vital.

Top Blokes have three programs, targeting different age groups.

For ages 10-13, a mentor goes into school for a term to explore the concept of masculinity.

For 14-17, two mentors go in and the program lasts for six months. It is billed as a leadership program and the school selects a mixture of boys from different friendship groups who will benefit from the program, with a view to them then teaching their peers.

The high school program deals with alcohol, drugs, mental health, relationships and pornography. Schools

organises carer families to look after the patient and a family member during the recuperation period. See : https://romac.org. au/patients/patientstories/ for stories on ROMAC’s terrific work.

The future could be looking even brighter for the Gerringong Lions after Opposition Leader Mark Speakman pledged $200,000 for much-needed lighting upgrades at the iconic Michael Cronin Oval.

that have adopted the program have experienced improvements in behaviour that have flowed through to cost savings for the school from a dramatic reduction in detentions and suspensions.

The third program is for young men aged 18-24 and is running with air force recruits.

It deals with mental health, body image and gambling. It started in Williamstown and is now being extended to Darwin and Brisbane.

Top Blokes gets boys and young men to open up about the mask they feel they have to present to the world –strong and in control - and how they really feel inside.

Realising that everyone feels anxious and uncertain is transformative.

New members and friends are always welcome at Gerringong Rotary - see www.gerringongrotary. com.au or contact secretarygerringongrotary@ gmail.com.

Liberal candidate for the upcoming Kiama by-election, Serena Copley and the Party's state leader announced on Saturday that they would commit the funding if Labor is voted out of government at the 2027 election.

“The NSW Liberals are backing regional sporting clubs like the Gerringong Junior Lions because they promote healthy and active lifestyles and give our kids the chance to thrive,” Copley said.

“The Gerringong Junior Lions are such an important part of this community, with mums, dads and volunteers working tirelessly to keep the club strong. "This commitment is about backing their efforts and ensuring the facilities meet the needs of players and families today.”

The funding will result in upgrades to the lighting at the Oval, replacing the light poles that are at the end of their life and with new LED lighting installed to bring the ground up to current standards.

“This is about backing the region’s sporting clubs and players, young and old, and supporting them in providing opportunities for their local communities," Speakman said.

“In three budgets, Labor has

neglected the needs of this community.

“This $200,000 commitment is a further demonstration of the NSW Liberals’ ongoing commitment to investing in the roads, hospital, schools and sporting facilities needed to support communities in this region.” Shadow Minister for Sports Eleni Petinos added: “Michael Cronin Oval is the beating heart of Gerringong sport, used by players and families from Kiama through to Shoalhaven Heads.

“These lighting upgrades mean more opportunities for kids - women and men to train and play safely into the evening, and for the whole community to enjoy this much-loved oval.

“Projects like this deliver real benefits to grassroots clubs, ensuring athletes have access to quality sporting infrastructure which encourages participation and growth.

“Many notable rugby league players have played on this footy field over the years including Mick Cronin, Rod Wishart, Tariq, Ashton and Korbin Sims – and I have no doubt many more will follow in the years to come.”

Hamish Stewart, Dylan Egan, Kyle McCarthy, Hayden Buchanan and Ashton Ward have broken into the NRL this year, joining fellow Lions juniors Tyran Wishart, Jackson Ford and Reuben Cotter in the premiership ranks.

This upgrade will mean

Lions’ players will be able to train and compete safely in the evening. “It’s a simple but important step that will make a real difference for local sport," Copley said.

"This investment will improve the Oval for everyone - players, volunteers and spectators - and provide more opportunities for our young people to get involved in sport.

“The club has done its fair share of work raising funds and improving the ground over the years.

"This announcement recognises their dedication and delivers the support they deserve.”

Gerringong Rugby League Football Club committee member, Jodie Egan, said the lighting upgrade would allow them to host Friday and Saturday night games, creating many more home game opportunities and increasing the numbers of participants.

"To receive the promise of $200,000 towards a LED Lighting upgrade for Michael Cronin Oval would be 'clubchanging" for us.

“Improved lighting will mean night games and also increase the night training opportunities.

"We currently have 22 teams and approximately 500 people that need to use the one oval for training and game day - so access during daylight hours is currently extremely limited. However, upgraded LED Lighting would change all of this."

This year’s Jeans for Genes campaign was the 31st to be launched in Gerringong and the community supported this fundraising with generosity and goodwill once again.180 people attended the Trivia Night at the Gerroa Boat Fisherman’s Club, bought lots of raffle tickets on the night and at the Gerringong IGA prior to the event. CMRI Gerringong members worked tirelessly to ensure that the event was a success with lots of friendly competition between tables and fast questions by MC’s Glen Is-

CMRI GERRINGONG HITS THE TARGET

emonger and Dave Peade.

The Jeans for Genes fundraising target is traditionally around $10,000 for the Gerringong Committee and this year the target was met again thanks to our generous supporters. These included the businesses who donated prizes, the Boat Fisherman’s Club, Gerringong Public School students and Kiama Quilters’ Guild who create and donate a beautiful denim -look quilt each year.

The aim is always to support the ground breaking research carried out by the scientists at

Westmead. The following key areas of research are crucial to finding cures for childhood diseases: cancer, neurobiology, embryology, genomics and gene therapy. Nationally the Jeans for Genes campaign was held on 7th August and this year raised $2.5 million.

Families of children living with genetic conditions held sporting events, formal dinners, denim days at their schools and cake stalls.

The families of the 1 in 20 kids facing a birth defect or genetic disease are used to hearing words like “incurable”

Top 10 smart travel packing tips

Consider yourself a travel packing expert, or a serious over-packer who could use some great advice?

Either way, these tips from the latest ROAM* Breakfast Travel Club are designed to make packing less stressful and more efficient.

Packing doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a little planning, you can travel light, stay organised, and have plenty of outfit options. Here’s how:

1. Choose a Colour Palette. Select a few core colours that work together. Every item packed should coordinate, allowing for mix-and-match combinations that maximise outfit options without adding bulk.

or “lifelong effects”. It doesn’t have to be this way. Right now, we’re working on gene therapy to find cures for previously incurable genetic diseases. Kids just want to be kids, but instead of playing sports with their friends or catching butterflies on a sunny day, these kids are getting liver transplants, taking dozens of medications, or getting their next dose of chemotherapy.

Your support helps the scientists at Children’s Medical Research Institute find cures. For more information, contact CMRI on 1800 436 437..

Community Action Group fights to fund a Gerringong Youth Centre

Gerringong Community Action Group for Youth

There’s been no mention of funding for youth facilities and programs in the upcoming Kiama Bi-Election, other than funds to upgrade existing sporting facilities. Is this because youth doesn’t have a vote?

Centre in Gerringong. The South Werri Beach Reserve would be a suitable location, near the Surf Life Saving Club, the Bowling Club, the tennis courts, the basketball court, and the Skate Park. The proximity to the beach would make a youth centre very attractive to young people.

The Liberal Party’s Kiama candidate, Serena Copley, is pledging $26M for the Kiama Sporting Complex, funding the first stage of Council’s draft masterplan to upgrade its sporting facilities. The Kiama Mayor, Cameron McDonald, is requesting $110 to $150 million dollars to upgrade the Kiama Sports Complex and its sporting facilities.

3. Pack Multi-Use Layers. A lightweight wrap or scarf is incredibly versatile. It is perfect for the plane, cooler evenings, or as a cover-up at cultural or religious sites.

4. Limit Shoes to Three Pairs. Bring just three pairs: one for travel, one for walking, and one dressier option. Ensure all are comfortable and well-worn to avoid blisters or sore feet.

5. Skip “Just in Case” Items. Avoid last-minute additions for hypothetical scenarios, they rarely get used.

6. Pre-Plan Outfits with Photos. Take photos of each outfit and save them to a phone album. This makes getting dressed easier, reduces decision fatigue, and helps when jet lagged.

7. Use Compression Packing Cubes. These cubes save space and keep clothing organised.

2. Plan Outfit Combinations. Think in terms of combinations, not single outfits. For instance, 4 tops and 3 bottoms create 12 potential outfits. Adding a couple of dresses or jumpsuits increases variety without overpacking.

Include one with a full change of clothes in your carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed.

8. Separate Dirty Clothes and Shoes. Use a laundry bag for worn clothing and individual bags for shoes to keep dirt away from clean items.

9. Mini Toiletries & Tech Organisation. Transfer toiletries into travel sized containers to reduce bulk. Keep chargers, cords, and adapters in a single pouch to prevent tangles.

10. Pack a Foldable Tote. A lightweight tote is perfect

for markets, day trips, or spontaneous shopping. It takes up minimal suitcase space but is highly useful on the go.

For more travel tips and insights, join the next ROAM* Breakfast Travel Club, held on the first Wednesday of each month at the Travel Focus Group office.

It is a relaxed gathering for women who love travel. Head to www.travelfocusgroup.com to register your attendance for our next meet-up and to place your complimentary coffee order!

On Monday morning Serena Copley announced a pledge of $200,000 to upgrade the lighting at Cronin’s Oval in Gerringong. Labor candidate, Katelin McInerny, has announced that the State Government will provide $200,000 to establish a special night entertainment precinct in Kiama, and $3M to fix potholes and repair roads. Labor’s “plan for our community” leaflet identifies one item, Number 30, on their map for Gerringong. It states: “Gerringong Golf Club: New facilities are being provided for golfers.”

Funding is concentrated in Kiama itself and does not appear to flow to other populated town centres outside of Kiama. Gerringong/Gerroa has a population of over 5,300 people with more than 600 under the age of 18. There are a number of sporting fields for young people to participate in traditional sporting activities. There are a number of community facilities located in Gerringong including the Surf Life Saving Club, the Library, the Museum, the Bowling club, and the Gerringong Town Hall. However, these facilities are not designed, or suitable, for recreational activities and programs for young people.

Margaret Lester, Chairperson of the Gerringong Community Action Group, said there is a need for a designated Youth

Kiama’s current Draft Masterplan for the South Werri Reserve proposes the redevelopment of the Reserve with wetlands, walking pathways, tree plantings and picnic areas for visitors. The Draft Masterplan has not identified the opportunity, or the need, to earmark space for a Youth Centre for Gerringong. Margaret stated that many young people experience difficulties in making the transition from childhood to adulthood during their teenage years. Not all young people, or their parents, enjoy competitive or contact sports. Youth centres around Australia and overseas are being designed by architects specifically to meet the needs of young people. Youth centres are designed to cater for recreational and creative activities and programs for the general youth population without stigmatising young people’s participation. Youth Centres have been established in local communities and are primarily funded by local and State Governments.

The process of designing and constructing new youth facilities is concerned with involving as many people as possible - high school students, school leavers and youth workers, determining the colours and materials to be used in the building and the activities to be provided. The process is important, not only to gain the best outcome that will attract participation but also to foster ownership by local youth.

Youth centres today are designed for multipurpose use, catering for small and large groups as well as for individuals. Designs have separate spaces for recreation and rooms for creative arts, music, computers, and even a climbing wall, outdoor spaces for BBQ’s, fresh air, sunshine and a vegetable garden.

Soil health workshop comes to Kiama

Shelby Gilbert

Internationally respected author and educator

Graeme Sait will bring his ‘Soil Health is Your Wealth’ workshop to Kiama as a part of Nambruc Natural Farms ‘Go Out and Get Dirty’ local talks.

Hosted by Douglas Ross of Nambruc Natural Farms, the soil health workshop will be held at Joyce Wheatley Community Centre on Saturday, 11 October.

Sait is the founder of Nutri-Tech Solutions (NTS), a pioneering company in organic and regenerative agriculture, and creator of the popular Nutrition Farming Podcast, with 500,000 listeners globally.

He is touring the east coast from the end of September to mid-October and his

workshop will form part of Ross’ talk series that delivers practical strategies for both farmers and home gardeners.

The one-day workshop covers carbon capture, foliar feeding, soil therapy, and more sustainable and profitable approaches.

Sait says the workshop isn’t just for farmers, urban residents will also benefit from understanding the connection between soil health and human health.

“There's a tremendous parallel between this whole soil health story and our own health,” he said.

Sait explains that soil health is about minerals, microbes and organic matter, and the interplay between minerals and microbes is the “essence of our health”.

Sait’s presentations have

been described as “lifechanging” by attendees, with his approach focusing on working with natural systems rather than against them.

“Our whole focus has been on how you can reduce input costs, be more efficient and make more profit, and have more fun farming without the stress,” he said.

The workshop runs from 7.30am to 5.30pm, with morning and afternoon tea provided, and participants are encouraged to explore Kiama ample lunch options.

Private consultations with Sait are available on Friday 10 and Sunday 12 October at $250 per hour.

More information about the event can be found through Nambruc Natural Farms and tickets can be purchased through Humanitix.

The Female Collective’s holistic approach to women's health

Danielle Woolage

It’s Women’s Health Week and this year’s theme is ‘Say yes to you’, a clarion call for females to focus on their own care.

All too often women’s health takes a back seat to the needs of others, or worse, when women do seek help, their concerns are dismissed.

Research has found historically, women’s pain is underestimated by some healthcare professionals due to unconscious bias; a long-held belief that women exaggerate their pain or are being overly emotional.

But a South Coast physiotherapy clinic providing female-specific care is putting women’s health at the forefront of its practice.

The Female Collective, a business arm of Kiama’s South Coast Health Hub, has clinics in Wollongong and Nowra, and provides treatment and management for a range of women’s health conditions, including urinary incontinence, bladder and bowel dysfunction, pelvic pain, menopause, pregnancy and post-partum rehabilitation.

Physiotherapist Jess Stoll saw the need for The Female Collective after recognising that treatment for women should “focus on the whole person, not just the individual problem”.

She wanted to create a safe, welcoming space for females “that feels homely, not clinical” and gives a voice to women about topics that are classically taboo.

“We treat women diagnosed with endometriosis or who have pelvic pain,” she says. “We see women that might have a bit of bladder leakage with exercise, women with prolapse or bowel issues.

“We see pregnant women preparing for a birth and women in the postpartum period to help with their recovery. And we see women going through menopause and post-menopause. Basically we help treat the whole spectrum of female health across a lifespan of issues.”

Jess is one of the Collective’s four female physiotherapists who have completed extra study and training specific to female health, making them experts in pelvic treatment and care.

Jess says The Female Collective “gives women a voice” about a field of health not talked about enough, often due to treatment being viewed through a male medical lens.

This has led to a gender pain gap where women's suffering is more likely to

be ignored, dismissed, or downplayed by healthcare professionals compared to men's.

“One of the biggest barriers in treating women has been a male-based medical system where women’s concerns are dismissed,” says Jess.

“But every woman has a story and we listen to the whole story. Our first consults are an hour long because we take the time to listen so women feel validated and are empowered to take control of their health.

But more and more women are speaking openly about their health battles and seeking help from women-led health services.

“Talking about pelvic and reproductive health is actually pivotal for women’s well-being. It’s linked with so many other things - a woman’s confidence, their ability to exercise and we know how important that is for long-term health. Every woman deserves to be heard, understood and provided with proper health care.”

Women have long-been subjected to gender bias in health care, a phenomenon dating back to the now defunct hysteria diagnosis where medical professionals (male) attributed women's health problems to their reproductive organs and dismissed their symptoms as irrational emotional responses.

After more than a decade fighting for answers, wildlife warrior Bindi Irwin has publicly shared her battle to get an endometriosis diagnosis.

She recently told the ABC that she felt "utterly ashamed" of her pain as her endometriosis symptoms were constantly dismissed.

Now the 27-year-old is urging women not to accept pelvic pain as normal and is using her voice to reduce the stigma around discussing women’s reproductive health.

Jess says that for too long women have been told to push through pain, that it is just part of being a woman.

“But it isn’t,” she says.

The gender pain gap, coupled with a lack of femalespecific medical research (the majority of participants in clinical trials are men), leads to delayed diagnosis and less effective treatment for women.

Kimberley Smith, a former NSW Swifts netballer and Australia Diamonds squad member, recalls “leaking urine at the end of a very hard training session” which she put down to a hard workout.

Statistically speaking at least two of her teammates would have the same issue, with 1 in 3 women who have had a baby experiencing bladder leakage. But the topic was never discussed.

“In the sporting world we received so much information on nutrition, exercise and training, but the pelvic floor was never mentioned. I would love to see that change,” says Kimberley.

After a long labour and giving birth to a large baby, Kimberley knew something was wrong with her pelvic floor and returned to hospital a week after the birth.

But she was told everything looked normal. It was only after seeking a second opinion that she discovered her bladder had prolapsed. A women’s health physiotherapist supported her recovery with pelvic floor muscle retraining and exercise.

“Often women are told to just do your pelvic floor muscle exercises” says Kimberley. “But incontinence requires a much more intricate approach when our stories and experiences are so unique.”

As more health care services like The Female Collective shine a spotlight on targeted and tailored gender-specific care, women can make discussing, treating and managing their health a priority.

Kiama reader wins signed copy of James Seymour novel

a great pleasure to present Geoff England with a copy of my new novel ‘Turner’s Strength’, the third book in the Turner Series. Geoff is an avid reader and won the Bugle Competition by answering a question

from the first two novels. Part of his prize was a copy of ‘Turner’s Strength’ when it debuted in July 2025. I wish him the best with his reading. James Seymour, Australian Author. Turner’s Strength, published by Vivid Publishing, is a historical fiction novel with an international flavour. Being the third book in the series, it builds upon the past and introduces new characters, intrigue, challenges, joy and sorrow. Here’s what one recent reader said, “Hi James. You have such a gift of writing that I feel as though I’m there on location. It’s like seeing a movie! Give me more, and when is the next novel coming out?”

Available at all good bookshops, online at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other online retailers. RRP at Vivid Publishing is $39.95 plus postage. eBooks are also available. If you're looking for a great Christmas present, go online and purchase now – you won’t be disappointed.

More details can be found at www.vivdpublishing.com. au/turnersstrength/

we’re one of Kiama’s most loved experiences.

Craft Corner: Hooking in for a yarn revolution

By Jenny England

There’s a quiet revolution sweeping across the country.

People from all walks of life, young and old, male and female are picking up knitting needles, crochet hookscreating all kinds of garments, toys, home accessories, and even art pieces from yarn.

They are joining online and local groups or just working on their own, becoming totally engrossed in a creative yarn journey.

Knitting, crochet and spinning and weaving are so distinctively removed from our uber-digital, technological 21st century world that this journey could be seen as anti-consumerism and even subversive when yarn-bombing activities are involved.

But it has been well established that the involvement in these old traditional yarn crafts reduces stress and anxiety, improves dexterity and fine motor skills, and encourages creativity and self expression not always found in the digital world.

So, in essence, it’s just the right kind of revolution.

To help save the planet, ecofriendly yarns can be sourced and old patterns redesigned.

As added bonuses, yarn can be recycled and old garments

can be easily up-cycled.

Finally, joining a yarn craft group - whether local or online - can foster community cohesion (you get to share your fun with your neighbours) and put a smile on the faces of the recipients of your wonderful creations.

If you are not already a part of this revolution, there are a number of groups in around Kiama to consider.

Kiama and Gerringong libraries have monthly Knit and Chat groups (contact Boni Maywald 0424 641 663) and a

weekly Creative Crafts group meets at the Uniting Church on Monday mornings, as well as a monthly craft group run by Jamberoo Red Cross (contact Barb Adams 0422 206 555).

A Spinners and Weavers group is also held at The Coachhouse on Tuesday mornings (contact Marie Carr 0408 977 414).

If crochet is your thing and you are prepared to travel a little further afield, there is a very active Wollongong Crochet Club.

Grow with John Gabriele: Spring sowing Meet the Three Amigos of the veggie patch

As the weather warms up, now is a great time to start sowing seeds in your garden - especially in the veggie patch.

And there are three favourites I always plant as spring arrives: corn, beans and squash - affectionately known as the “three amigos”.

First up is sweet corn - a gorgeous plant that grows tall, reaching around two metres.

It’s best planted in blocks rather than rows to ensure good pollination.

To make the most of your garden space, our second amigo, climbing beans, can be planted alongside the corn. This purple variety adds a lovely pop of colour to the garden.

Here’s how to do it.

Plant your corn first.

Once it starts to germinate and grow, sow the climbing beans nearby.

The beans will then naturally climb up the corn stalks. Underneath it all, you can interplant with squash, which provides ground cover and helps keep the soil cool and moist around the roots of the corn and beans.

This trio works beautifully together:

The tall corn provides support, the beans fix nitrogen and climb the corn, the squash shades the soil and suppresses weeds.

Direct sowing vs transplants

When it comes to spring planting, you have two options: grow from seed or use seedlings/transplants.

Direct sowing is ideal for a number of crops now we’re into spring.

Here are a few top choices:

Carrots can be sown almost year-round, but they require light, loose, and friable soil. If your soil is heavy or gravelly, work it into a fine tilthotherwise, you’ll end up with twisted or stunted carrots.

Here’s a handy tip: Mix your carrot seed with sand before sowing. This helps you distribute the tiny seeds more evenly along your garden row. You’ll still need to thin them as they grow - but more on that in a few weeks.

Pumpkins are another great choice for direct sowing. This

Jap pumpkin is a vigorous grower that needs space. You can train it vertically by planting in front of a pallet or fence and letting it climb - this keeps the fruit off the ground and saves space.

For a more compact option, try the Golden Nugget pumpkin - a bush variety that produces beautiful fruit right through spring and summer.

Zucchini, another member of the cucurbit family, is also ideal for spring sowing.

Just be aware that cucurbits

(including pumpkins, zucchini, and squash) are prone to powdery mildew.

A simple way to prevent this? Spray the foliage with a milk solution - one part milk to nine parts water. Apply it as a preventative, and be sure to reapply after rain.

Beetroot is another spring winner. Soak the seeds overnight in a seaweed solution before sowing - this helps with germination. Since each seed produces multiple shoots, you’ll need to thin them as they grow.

When to use seedlings or transplants

Some crops - especially those with fine seeds - are better off started as seedlings. Onions are a perfect example - you can grab a punnet full of young onion plants, separate them, and plant them directly into your veggie rows.

Leeks offer even better value. You’ll often find 40 to 50 seedlings in a single punnet. Once separated and planted out in trenches, they’ll keep your kitchen stocked for months.

Get sowing

So whether you’re direct sowing large seeds or planting transplants for quicker results, now’s the perfect time to get your veggie patch growing. Get outside, get your fingers dirty, and enjoy the rewards of a productive spring garden.

What’s On?

Kiama Unplugged

Father’s Day afternoon

Sun 7 Sep, from 3:30pm

Fillmore’s

Fillmore’s will have the usual fun activities from Lego, board games, and card games and for Father’s Day you can have a family Polaroid to take home for a gold coin donation.

Illawarra Breast Cancer

Support Group meeting

Tues 9 Sep, 10am-12pm

Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Church Hall

Anyone who has been affected by breast cancer is very welcome to attend. For further information please call Moira 0429 340 234.

Kiama mobile blood donor centre

Tues 9 Sep to Sat 13 Sep

Kiama Anglican Church

Don’t forget to pre-book your spot at Lifeblood.com.au, on the app or on 13 14 95.

Book Hour

Thurs 11 Sep, 4pm-5pm

Cin Cin Wine Bar

Bring a book and enjoy a drink and some quiet time every Thursday afternoon.

Final night of racing at Dapto Greyhounds

Thurs 11 Sep, gates open 5:30pm

The Groundz

Dapto Greyhound Club will host their final race meeting, coinciding with the $75,000 Dapto Megastar race

Sam Matters Cup

Charity Golf Day

Fri 12 Sep, registration 7am, 8am start

Gerringong Golf Club

You don’t need to be a serious golfer to take part - just come along for a fun-filled day in memory of Sam, supporting a great cause.

Folk by the Sea

Fri 12 to Sun 14 Sep

Kiama Showground Pavilion

A music festival that showcases a rich blend of folk, world, gypsy music and more. Early Bird tickets are available on their website.

Kiama Rod Run

Fri 12 to 14 Sep

Black Beach Reserve

The 10th Kiama Rod Run will feature a meet & greet Friday evening, cruise & coffee on Saturday morning, Saturday evening at Kendall’s Caravan Park, and the Show & Shine on Sunday.

Special Meeting of Members of CWA

Kiama Branch

Tues 16 Sep, 2pm CWA Hall, 70 Shoalhaven Street

Notice of a Special Meeting of Members of Country Women’s Association of NSW Kiama Branch to discuss selling the property. BRANCH MEMBERS ONLY.

Kiama Blowhole Mystery

Thurs 18 Sep, 6pm-9pm

Cin Cin Wine Bar

Get ready to unravel the mystery of the Kiama Blowhole Body and solve the case with a team of experts. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while you work together to crack the code. Bookings essential.

Kiama Spring Garden Competition

Entries are now open and close Fri 19 Sep

With seven categories to select from there is bound to be one that is perfect for your garden. Email kiamagcsecretary@gmail. com for your entry form and further details

Disco Revolution Sat 20 Sep, 4pm-10pm

The Co-Op Gerringong

Get ready to dance the night away at BOOGIE NIGHTS, presented by DISCO REVOLUTION & DJ DIGGZ! Tickets available online.

Dementia Inclusive

Dancing

Fri 3 Oct, 10am to noon

Community Hall - Uniting Mayflower Gerringong

Meeting on the first Friday of every month, everyone is welcome to join in at Dementia Inclusive Dancing

Vincent joins Building Young Men’s Circle of Trust

Vincent Sherrell was 16 when he walked into the library at his high school and heard something different.

Not your typical assembly but a conversation, about manhood, responsibility and mental health.

He didn’t know then that signing up for the Building Young Men program would change the way he moved through the world.

Each Wednesday, in place of school sport, he joined a group of boys and mentors in a quiet circle. They talked and listened, and week by week, trust replaced hesitation.

“One of the biggest takeaways was connection,” says Vincent, now 17. “How a group of people can build each other up.”

They walked for 24 hours. At first it felt impossible. But they finished it, together. And that’s the point of the program: not to test boys, but to show them who they are when things get hard.

At the centre of it all were the mentors. Some in their 20s, others much older.

“They shared their mistakes,” Vincent says. “They showed us how to treat people. What to avoid. What matters.”

This is not a story about saving boys. It’s about giving them space to grow. It’s about

in part, by the wilderness camp he attended through the program.

“Wednesdays became the highlight of my week.”

In the quiet circle, boys speak truths they might never say elsewhere. What they find

recognising that in an age of constant pressure, especially online, belonging can’t be assumed. It has to be built.

Vincent has built new friendships, confidence and a sense of purpose that extends beyond school. He’s studying hospitality, finishing his work placement hours at a local café, and imagining a career in outdoor recreation, shaped,

A night with Mozart

Shelby Gilbert

The Jamberoo Country Women’s Association (CWA) is delighted to announce Opera in the Valley is returning to the Jamberoo School of Arts in November.

This year there will be “something new for Jamberoo” with maestro, Glenn Amer, putting together a complete comic opera by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

The first half of Opera in the Valley on Saturday 1 November will be ‘Lo Sposo Deluso’ or ‘The Deluded Bridegroom’ and will be performed in English. Mozart wrote this opera in 1783

when he was just 27, though it was never completed, and remains unclear to this day why Mozart abandoned the work

Jamberoo CWA’s first Opera in the Valley was held in 1997, and as usual, a wonderful group of singers is lined up for 2025.

Jamberoo CWA’s Cathy Delhaas said this year's production promised to be quite different.

Rather than the traditional line-up of a mezzo-soprano, soprano, baritone and tenor, Amer has assembled a cast featuring a bass, countertenor, tenor and soprano for this Mozart production.

The second half of the

conflicting messages about what it means to be a man. Instead of always having to live up to those pressures or expectations, what young men often need most is a place where they don’t have to perform or prove anything , where they can just be themselves, be accepted, and feel safe.

Each year Gerringong Golf Club hosts the Sam Matters Cup in honour of the talented local footballer and golfer who took his own life five years ago.

is not judgment, but a kind of steady, unspoken respect. That, more than anything, is what helps them stand up straighter.

Young men today face a lot of pressure to be everything at once, be strong but sensitive, be confident but humble, be successful but relaxed, be resilient but emotionally open. Society often sends

The Sam Matters Cup will be held on September 12. Call Gerringong Golf Club Pro Shop on 4234 3333 to book. All money raised will go to The Saving Sammy Foundation which will again fund the mental health mentoring program, now in its fourth year, to support Year 10 students at Kiama High School during a critical stage of their development.

Anyone seeking support can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, or chat online at www.lifeline.org.au

production will maintain the popular style format that audiences have come to love, featuring well-known songs from musicals and operas that brings the evening to a thrilling finale with the cast performing together.

The evening includes a full CWA supper after the performance, and an interval complete with wine, cheese, and fruit, and the Jamberoo

School of Arts is the perfect venue, offering excellent acoustics.

“The acoustics in that hall are fantastic,” said Cathy. “You can sit up the back and you can hear just as well as those sitting up the front or in the middle.”

More information about ticket sales and the full lineup for Opera in the Valley will be announced in October.

Crafted Kiama warms locals with flavour and music

Mitchell Beadman

As the 2025 winter came to its end, The Pavilion came alive for the inaugural Crafted Kiama and welcomed hundreds of locals and visitors for a night of flavour, live music, and community spirit.

The Pavilion’s cosy indoor setting was the perfect escape as guests wandered from stall to stall chatting with exhibitors from the Illawarra, which included winemakers, distillers, and food artisans.

“Crafted is about more than just tasting it’s about meeting the makers, hearing their stories, and sharing the experience with friends,” The Pavilion events and conference marketing

Son of Frank and Peg Kearns (deceased), formerly of Kiama and Sydney. Loving brother of Bill, Maree, Pat, Patricia and Margaret and brother-in- law to their partners. Loving uncle and great uncle to all his nieces and nephews and their children. Peter spent over 30 years of his life in the Northern Territory. His final residence was Lismore NSW.

"Uncle Pete will never not have uncle in his name for me. He was more than just an uncle to everyone. He was what home felt like for us all. A BBQ at the Lamberts wasn't complete without Pete there. He always accepted me for who I was, laughed with me at my young and uninformed decisions and loved me like family unconditionally. I cherish the time we travelled down to Alice Springs with Gary and he took me out for a Chinese meal. We shared a beer and that healed my recently broken heart after a failed relationship. Now, his departure has left us with a new break but the love in this family will get us through it and Pete would want that. We love you forever." (Lambert family friend - Ruby)

"Peter accompanied me at my debut at the Wentworth Hotel. I was very nervous but he quietly sang as we proceeded up the aisle to be presented to the Governor General at the time. He was certainly a steady rock for me and a good

coordinator Jackie Hall said.

She said The Pavilion was “thrilled to have brought so many of the regions most exciting producers together under one roof during these cold months”.

South Coast Distillery’s Nik Kelly was one of over a dozen exhibitors and was excited with what the event provided.

“It was a good night,” Kelly said.

“It [the event] was run very well and we are happy to be there again next year.”

Kelly said these events provide another way of getting out into the community to promote brands and connect with consumers.

Kiama local Andrew Prosser shared that the staff

from The Pavilion created a great space for exhibitors and attendees.

“It was clear how much effort went into making this a truly memorable experience,” he said.

“The quality and atmosphere were exceptional, setting a high standard for what’s to come.”

Other beverage exhibitors included The Wine Hub Wollongong and Artemis Wines which idled up to South Coast Distillery, Tara Distillery, and Wolf and Woman Distillery.

Foodies indulged in salivating dishes from Ola Chola’s Latin food truck and Steve’s Mobile Woodfire Pizza and munched on delicious morsels from Artisan Delish Salami, Jamberoo Jerky

& Biltong Co, South Coast Blends.

These were balanced out with the locally made olive oils and preserves from Morella Grove and the Celtic flavours of Kieltys Irish Sauces.

For those with a sweet tooth, Kiama Chocolate Company provided the sugar rush.

Live music was provided by Blessie, which contributed to the buzzing ambience gathering to support the local talent of the Kiama region.

For organisers, the success of the night means that Crafted will be a recurring fixture in the Kiama social calendar “with plans already underway, [we] can look forward to doing it all again in 2026”.

Attention greenthumbs: Entries open for spring garden comp

Shelby Gilbert

Kiama Garden Club is calling for entries to their annual Spring Garden Competition, with registrations closing Friday 19 September and judging taking place in early October.

Competition coordinator Ursula Lischer says the club’s motto is “friendship through gardening”, a sentiment that reflects the welcoming nature of the group that meets on the fourth Friday of each month.

“We've been told it's a very friendly club, and I know that that's true,” said Ursula.

The competition features seven categories designed to accommodate all types of gardens, including a new category this year for gardens under 400 square metres.

The other categories include gardens over 1000 square metres, gardens between 400 and 1000 square metres, predominantly native garden,

edible garden, children’s garden, and courtyard, balcony or indoor garden.

“Even if you have one of those really small gardens …The under 400 is a new category this year that we've introduced just for those people,” Ursula said.

The judging process focuses on the overall aesthetics of the garden first, as well as plant harmony, design, and maintenance. The judging is a casual process where the judges are often eager to talk to the owners about their gardens, enthusiastically sharing ideas.

The Spring Garden Competition presentation will be held on Friday 24 October, with prizes to be awarded to participants and winners. Entry forms are available from sponsors Burnetts On Barney and Elders Jamberoo, as well as Kiama Library or via email kiamagcsecretary@ gmail.com. Entry is free

In Loving Memory

Peter Francis Kearns

15/11/1950 - 21/6/2025

dancer. We waited outside the hotel for a taxi. Kamahl's blue Rolls Royce arrived for him to drive home. He had been part of the entertainment. Peter asked him if we could have a ride home as he understood Kamahl lived at Pymble. Kamahl laughed at Peter's cheekiness and said 'of course'. So we sat in the back with Kamahl driving us homehappy memories. I'm still so sad Peter has left us. He left us with such an ache in our hearts. He will very much be missed. Although we didn't see each other regularly, he just got me and was a special friend in my life. Rest In Peace dear Peter."

(Patsy Shannon - friend)

"The One. The Only, Fun Doctor. A more noble man could not be met and if Christ Himself came down again to vet, it would be Peter once more He'd choose to cast His net. Our Peter. He was a gift to behold and through his very being, lessons taught more valuable than gold, on the true riches of life and how he lived his should be told. Be kind, be loving, be present, be humble. Laugh with your belly, cry with

your heart. Help your fellow man. Work hard, enjoy it and if you fumble, go back and repeat from the start. I'll keep your lessons with me for the rest of my days, although the benchmark you've set is extraordinarily high. I may have to wade through the mud in six-inch heels on my feet and many a pie before I repeat but I'll happily do it I say now with a sigh, in the hopes to see you again by and by."

(Audrie Kearns - niece)

"I am sorry to hear Pete died. I will raise a glass in memory of him. We had many many fun times together back in the day when we were 'serious' bankers. It seemed no problem was too daunting, that after a few beers could not be solved. Pete was best man at

Liz and my wedding in 1987. It is one of our favourite photos around the house. I always tried to get in touch with him for his birthday and Christmas. He wasn't great at correspondence but every once in a while I would receive a letter and what a letter it would be, normally 8 or 9 pages packed with news about the Kearns/ Lambert family. The last one was about the move to the Lismore area. Pete never changed. He was always generous materially and in spirit and I was always better for having had his company and support. I will always remember his smile. It wasn't always forthcoming but when it arrived, for me it was worth the wait. I cannot recall an occasion when anyone had anything negative to say

about Pete. I reckon he would have been in the express lane at the pearly gates despite any variance he had with the church rules here on earth."

(Peter Friend - friend)

"Uncle Pete to many who knew him, was just one word, not two, although my own daughters called him The Fun Doctor and he called them

The Little People. Those little people are in their early 40s today. The last time I heard him say that, was only two weeks before he died, when he spoke with two of them by phone at his house at Lismore and it was: "Hi. How are all the little people". He was of that rare breed who identified his calling at a very early age - always eager to participate, yet never craved an audience. His was a life of simplicity and enviable athenticity, undergirded by a metronomic militant like consistency which conformed in obedience to Jesus's urging in Matthews Gospel Ch5 Vrs5: "Blessed are the meek for they will inherit the earth".

As his brother, I could do a lot worse than to follow Pete's example, for if ever there was a

recommended life to emulate in order to enter the Eternal Kingdom, then surely his was it. God remain always with you Pete. Rest In Peace Fun Doctor." (Pat Kearns - brother) "It's hard to put into words the impact that Uncle Pete had. He was just always there. He had been in my life as long as I remember. Uncle Pete was a man of simple joys. He didn't need much; like a lawn mower, a whipper-snipper, some grass to cut, a cold Tooheys New, some cheese and crackers and a good set of headphones so he could ignore Garry when he couldn't be bothered to speak to him. What made Pete special was the way he showed up for those he loved. He always gave more than he expected in return, not only as a person but also as an employee. Maybe these are some of the quiet lessons Pete leaves us with. Find joy in the little things. To show up for the people that you love. To lend a hand without being asked and to live without needing recognition. Thank you for everything." (Rebecca Lambert - niece)

The Kearns family wish to convey their gratitude to all who attended Peter's funeral, to Reverends Jim Littleton, Pat Ahern (Kensington), John Kelliher (Darwin), who are MSC priests and Father Brian Steel MGL, who celebrated masses for Peter, to all who conveyed their condolences and to all who contributed to this In Memorium.

support local

‘No tree, no me’ charity calls on community to help save Aussie icon

September is Save the Koala month and a national charity is calling on all Australians to help protect the endangered species by enlisting in the Koala Army. Save the Koala Month, the Australia Koala Foundation’s

SHOUT-OUT TO OUR FRIENDLY POST OFFICE

Letter to the Editor

If The Bugle (a fine newspaper as it is) had a thumbs up section, I would be giving a big thumbs up to Grant, Jo and Alicia at the Kiama Post Office.

They must be the most friendly and helpful staff of any post office in NSW.

I am sure every one of their customers would agree.

Bob Sloan Kiama

annual awareness campaign, is calling on an army of volunteers to sign up for activities to help raise awareness and funds to protect the nation’s most iconic animal.

Those who enlist can hold fundraisers, plant trees or even adopt a koala to shine a

Notice of a Special Meeting

of Members of Country Women's Association of NSW Kiama Branch will be held at CWA Hall, 70 Shoalhaven Street, Kiama at 2 pm on Tuesday 16th September 2025 to discuss selling the property. BRANCH MEMBERS ONLY.

Cheryl Pearce, President, Kiama Branch.

spotlight on the marsupial’s dwindling habitats.

Australia has one of the highest land clearing rates in the world, with 80 per cent of Koala habitat destroyed since white settlement and much of the remaining 20 per cent on privately-owned land, says foundation chair Deborah Tabart

“The AKF has been fighting since 1986 to pass the Koala Protection Act, a piece of national legislation designed to stop tree clearing which is the number one reason koalas are endangered.

“There are less than 70 per cent of koalas left in the wild due to habitat loss, climate change, disease, and human activity, with around 4000 koalas killed each year by dogs and cars alone.”

The foundation recently completed one of its most ambitious projects, the Koala Mapping Atlas, which maps the geographic range of koala habitats across eastern Australia.

“Habitat protection is crucial for the survival of koalas and the mapping project is based on the ‘no

tree, no me’ principle, without a food source and homes koalas will not survive.”

Throughout September the foundation is calling on koala lovers across the nation to hold events and activities, like Koala Karaoke, trivia nights, cake stalls, or tree planting, to raise awareness of their endangered status.

Students can get involved through show and tell, class presentations, colouring competitions or by (virtually) adopting a koala as a classroom mascot.

“There’s something for everyone and students who send in their stories about what they have learned or achieved to help koalas this September will feature in our newsletter.”

Some AKF ideas include holding an art competition, or baking koala-themed cup cakes, planting native trees or going on a koala-spotting bushwalk, hosting a koala PJ party with a koala-themed quiz night, making koala crafts using recycled materials or dressing up like a koala. Let’s save this Australian icon before it’s too late.

Danielle Woolage

For and against

Knights fall short of minor premiership despite dominant win

Lleyton Hughes

Just 17 for-and-against points separated the Kiama Knights from clinching the 2025 Group 7 South Coast minor premiership, despite a commanding 44-6 win over the Stingrays of Shellharbour.

Heading into the final round of the season, three teams - Shellharbour Sharks, Kiama Knights, and the Stingrays of Shellharbourwere locked at the top of the ladder on 25 points.

Kiama trailed the firstplaced Sharks by 11 points in the for-and-against tally, but their big win couldn't quite match Shellharbour's even more emphatic 48-4 victory over the Jamberoo Superoos.

Playing away on Saturday, the Knights started strongly with a fourth-minute try to forward Matt Nicholson.

It was a high-scoring day for the forward pack, with prop Taj Roberts burrowing over for the team’s second try more than 20 minutes later.

Second-rower Travis Barrett-Hancock then powered over in the 31st minute to send the Knights into the break with an 18-0 lead.

For context, the next day, the minor premiership rivals Shellharbour Sharks went into halftime leading 24-0 over Jamberoo.

In the second half of Kiama’s clash, second-rower Tom Angel continued the forwards’ dominance, scoring in the 46th minute.

The Stingrays responded in the 52nd minute through Zechariah Taufa, who crashed over after a sharp pass close to the line from halfback Trey Barlow.

But three late tries from

Kiama, including a double to centre Max Jennings, sealed the result and sent the Stingrays sliding to fourth on the ladder.

Despite the strong scoreline, Shellharbour's 48-4 win over Jamberoo ensured they held onto the minor premiership, finishing with a 15-point advantage in for-andagainst over Kiama.

Knights fullback Brad Killmore was still pleased with the performance.

“We played a complete 80 minutes. We defended well and executed the chances we got, which were good signs. Securing a home semi-final and a second chance was our main aim - and we did that,” Killmore said.

Kiama will now host the third-placed Albion Park Oak Flats Eagles in a major semifinal next Sunday. Having lost to the Eagles in their last

meeting, Killmore said the focus would be on fixing the finer details that led to that defeat.

“Mainly just the little things - they beat us last time. Our completions weren’t great, so completing high and defending well is a good start. If we do that, the points will come,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Gerringong Lions delivered a statement win heading into finals, thrashing the NowraBomaderry Jets 46-6 on the road.

The Lions ran in eight tries to the Jets’ one, with doubles to fullback Wes Pring and centre Toby Gumley-Quine.

Gerringong finished the regular season in fifth place and will now face the fourth-placed Stingrays in an elimination minor semi-final as they begin their quest for a threepeat.

Final 2025 Group 7 South Coast Ladder:

Shellharbour Sharks (27)

Kiama Knights (27)

Albion Park Oak Flats Eagles (25)

Stingrays of Shellharbour (25)

Gerringong Lions (24)

Milton-Ulladulla Bulldogs (16)

Jamberoo Superoos (12)

Nowra-Bomaderry Jets (12) Berry Magpies (12)

LAST CHANCE FOR DRAGONS TO MAKE AMENDS

St George Illawarra Dragons' defence went missing in their loss to Manly at Kogarah on Saturday.

They went down 4024 as the Sea Eagles kept their slim finals hopes alive, the second week in a row that the Dragons have conceded 40 points.

Lyhkan King-Togia scored in the ninth minute as part of a promising start by the home side but they looked to be heading for an embarrassing defeat after trailing 22-6 at halftime.

Manly prop Tof Sipley was sin-binned in the 42nd minute and Jacob Liddle and Christian Tuipulotu touched down to bring the Dragons back into the contest at 22-18.

Sea Eagles forward Corey Waddell and Tommy Talau crossed the stripe soon after Sipley returned from the sin bin as the scoreline blew out.

The Dragons have dropped to 15th on the ladder after they were topeight contenders for most of the season.

"We've got to go out

next week playing Penrith, and who knows what team they put out, but go out with some respect," Dragons coach Shane Flanagan said. Their record now sits at 8-15 heading into Saturday's WIN Stadium showdown with the Panthers.

Gerringong Lions forward Hamish Stewart missed the match against Manly due to a recent concussion while rookie centre Hayden Buchanan made 88 run metres from 13 hit-ups and 26 tackles.

Stewart will sit out this weekend’s final round as well. In the NRLW, Kiama junior Maria Paseka continued her recent purple patch with a try in St George Illawarra's 26-18 win over the Warriors. The Dragons have improved to a 3-6 record and moved up to a share of seventh spot with the Warriors heading into the final round. They travel north to face Newcastle on Sunday looking to finish their season on a high note.

Kiama halfback Cameron Vazzoler shined in their win against the Stingrays. Photo @SticksPix

Kiama will have two chances at a grand final berth in 2025. Photo @SticksPix_

Lleyton Hughes

Kiama local Ethel Curran began tenpin bowling in 1966 - Neil Armstrong was yet to land on the moon, Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys had just been released, and scores at the bowling alley were still recorded by hand on paper cards.

“A friend asked me to come and join their team - they were a couple of players short at Warrawong. Warrawong was open, so I thought, ‘Why not?’,” Ethel recalled.

Still striking at 90:

Ageless Ethel bowls a brilliant 210

Now 90 years old, Ethel is still going strongand the proof is in the pins. Just a couple of weeks ago, she bowled a score of 210.

“I haven’t bowled that for a long time,” she laughed. “I suppose I’m getting a bit long in the tooth to be playing bowls anyway.”

But for Ethel, bowling is about more than scores.

“I come for the company. A group of us - about eight or nine - all stay for lunch. It’s just a lovely outing, and the best thing about bowling is: we can play in any weather.”

Ethel began in a bowling league at Warrawong. When that centre closed, she moved

Double delight:

to Albion Park - a brief stint she didn’t enjoy.

“We absolutely hated it. The road was terrible getting in and out of the bowling alley. As soon as Shellharbour opened, our league was the first to come over here to Shellharbour Bowling Alley. But most of those people aren’t bowling with us anymore,” she said.

These days, Ethel bowls in a league called The Misfits. Her team of three is called The Easy Beats.

“We play three games, and everyone has a handicap. The lower your average, the higher your handicap, which gets added to your score to make things fair,” she explained.

“Every week, we put in what

we call our social money. We used to get trophies, but we ended up with so many I had to take the plaques off mine and repurpose them as awards. Now, the team that comes first gets the most prize moneybut we all get something back.”

Ethel’s personal best is an impressive 279.

“My best game at Warrawong was 279. In the first two frames, I had an 8-spare and a 9-spare, and then 10 strikes after that,” she says with a grin.

“There’s just something so satisfying about the sound when you knock them all down. And it’s almost more satisfying when you pick up a hard spare - like a split. Not so much when you miss the

Kiama Rugby teams through to the grand final

Lleyton Hughes

Kiama Rugby have made history and are now aiming to break a 22-year title drought, with their first grade and reserve grade teams winning home major semi-finals over the weekend to qualify for the Illawarra District Rugby Union grand final.

A strong crowd turned out at Kiama Showground on Saturday to watch reserve grade defeat Shoalhaven 3121, followed by a thrilling victory over Campbelltown in the main game.

After losing to Campbelltown twice earlier this season, Kiama turned the tables with a 38-26 win.

Kiama opened the scoring with a penalty goal, but from the 15th minute, Campbelltown took the lead and held it for most of the match. They went into halftime up 19-10.

“I think we went into this game with a pretty set game plan against Campbelltown and that was just backing our fitness against them. They're big boys and they're just power,” said Kiama number eight Dante Patrick.

“We were sort of backing our game plan to really try and move them around the park, but we underestimated their actual fitness. Everything we threw at them, they absorbed and they actually threw it back at us.”

Kiama struck first after the break through Patrick,

but Campbelltown quickly responded, extending their lead to 26-17 with 28 minutes to play. Then Kiama fullback - and former Dragons playerJunior Amone took over.

He inspired a try for winger Nico Cowley and followed it up with a solo effort, running 50 metres to score and seal Kiama’s comeback win.

Patrick said the shift happened during halftime when the team made key adjustments to their strategy.

“At halftime, we had to really make some changes and sort of do what they wouldn't expect, and that was take them up through the middle. That ended up coming off for us,” he said.

“The words at halftime were, ‘there is no life next week.’ There’s no second chance. It was do or die. I think going into the second half with that mentality really helped kick the boys into another notch.”

He credited the effort of the forwards for inspiring Amone’s brilliance in the final 20 minutes.

“He just came into his own. He saw that our forwards were wanting to take them up through the middle and he's just like, ‘I've got to reward these forwards,’” Patrick said.

“That’s the sort of mentality we felt from him. If these forwards are laying the platform for me, then what's my excuse to not give it a crack? He took the ball and just ran

with it - and we’re so proud of him.”

“He’s a very quiet-spoken guy. When he does speak up, he's got the whole room - all the eyes on him. It’s pretty cool to see that side of him and to have him lead us in that back 20.”

Reflecting on the crowd, Patrick said there was no better feeling than coming from behind in front of a roaring home ground.

“It started off windy and then it started sprinkling a bit - it was a bit of a four-seasons day. Throughout all of that, the crowd definitely made themselves heard. We couldn't appreciate them more,” he said.

“We’re hoping we get that, if not more, at the grand final. It was unreal hearing that roar during the comeback. It just gave us that extra leg and made us want to do it for them as well.”

It was also a milestone day for Kiama rugby veteran Leighton Cowley, who played his 200th game for the club.

“He’s probably one of the OGs of this club that I think not too many people give enough praise for. Kiama was on the brink of folding around 2017-18, and he was one of those guys who put his body on the line - playing third grade, second grade, and then first grade straight away - just to make sure the club didn’t fold,” said Patrick.

Reserve grade also celebrated a 200-gamer, with

one lone pin — I’ve done that plenty of times,” she laughed.

Bowling is such a big part of her life that when she turned 90, her only birthday wish was to have her whole family bowl with her.

anyone, of any age, can enjoy it.

“I have 12 greatgrandchildren, four grandchildren and their partners, and we all came down to bowl for my 90th birthday. We had so much fun - the kids absolutely loved it. We took up nearly the whole bowling alley,” she said.

That celebration is part of what makes the sport so special to her - the fact that

“Anyone can bowl. Years ago, I was playing a social game with my cousin and her little girl - she must’ve been about four or five. She couldn’t even hold the ball properly, rolled it slowly down the laneand she got a strike!”

And when asked if she’s planning to retire anytime soon?

“I’ll be bowling until they forcibly take me out.”

The trifecta: Three local clubs celebrate grand final triumphs

It was a huge weekend for women’s soccer in the region, with three local teams from three clubs taking out grand final victories.

Nelson Taione contributing to their 31-21 win that booked their grand final spot.

“They've just got such good chemistry amongst them. The only thing that could come between them is themselves. There was a disjointed phase there where they gave Shoalhaven a bit of a sniff, but they just went back to what they knew and ran away with it. It’s awesome to watch,” said Patrick.

“It gives us in first grade a bit of a kick seeing them doing so well. You just want to follow it up. That’s the kind of bond we’ve got at Kiama now. We just want to do it all together, and that’s thanks to our coach. He’s all about bringing us together. If one grade loses, then we all lose. That’s the mentality, and it’s really something special.”

Both grades will have a week off as they wait to see who they’ll face in the grand final in two weeks’ timeand Patrick says the timing couldn’t be better.

“It feels like this whole season has prepped us for this week off, with the weather and everything - play one week, off the next. So we’re ready for it, and to be honest, after that brutal game, we’re quite happy to rest up.”

This weekend, Shoalhaven’s first grade will take on Campbelltown, while their reserve grade faces Woonona. The winners will go on to meet Kiama in the grand final

The undefeated Jamberoo Ravens Over 40s capped off their perfect season in dramatic fashion, scoring the only goal of the game with just three minutes left on the clock to claim a 1-0 win. “Someone asked the referee how long was left, and he said, ‘Well, you could be playing an extra 10 each way.’ And we were like, we have to get this done,” said Ravens captain Simone Boulton. “So it was such a relief when we scored that goal.”

The Ravens finished the regular season on top of the ladder with 13 wins and two draws from 15 matches.

“We had the perfect year. I remember before our first semi-final, a few of the girls were nervous. I just told them, ‘It’s no different to any other game. We’ve had the same conversations before every game this season, and we’re going to do it again’,” Boulton said.

Having played alongside many of her teammates for over 15 years, Boulton believes their longstanding bond played a key role in the team’s success.

“I think 15 years of playing together has allowed us to build friendships outside of soccer. We’re all just really nice people who go out there to do our best. We all share the same goal and are driven by that. I think it’s just knowing each other for so damn long,” she said.

Also finishing undefeated in 2025 was the Kiama Quarriers’ All Age Division One team, who sealed their grand final win with a late second-half goal.

“There were only about 10 minutes to go when they scored. It was really exciting - and we were so nervous watching from the sideline, that’s for sure,” said Nerissa Peterson, Secretary of the Kiama Quarriers Football

Club.

“It was a big crowd, too. We don’t usually play in front of big crowds during the season, but there were a lot of people there. It was late in the afternoon, everyone was euphoric, and the girls all ran onto the pitch cheering and celebrating. They’ve just had such a great season, so it was really special that they could finish it like that.”

Peterson also praised the rise in quality of women’s football locally and credited the success of teams like Jamberoo, Kiama, and Gerringong as a reflection of that.

“There are more people continuing to play women’s football, and the standard is improving every year. You can see it across the clubs in our area. We’re all playing well, and the clubs all get along - it’s a good thing for the sport,” she said.

Looking ahead to 2026, Peterson said the club is focused on strengthening the connection between Kiama’s junior and senior football programs.

“We’re working closely with the junior club to create a stronger pathway. We’ve already seen that this year with some of the boys coming through,” she said.

“The girls in the junior club are still a little young, but we want to make that connection early so they can see there’s a path for them, too.”

“We’re also working towards a full club merger. The executives are in discussions now, because we want to be one united cluband be really strong for the Illawarra.”

Rounding out the weekend of success for local women’s football, the Gerringong Breakers All Age Division Three team also came out on top in their grand final, beating Fairy Meadow 2–1. The Breakers not only won the grand final but also claimed the league title, completing a double-winning season.

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Lleyton Hughes

Four weeks ago, Hayden Buchanan became the fourth Gerringong Lion to debut in the NRL this season - with the number of Lions in the league now pushing double figures.

The 19-year-old centre had been biding his time throughout 2025 with the NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg squads for the St George Illawarra Dragons.

But when starting centre Mat Feagai was ruled out with a groin injury, Buchanan got the call-up for the Dragons’ Round 23 clash against the Cronulla Sharks.

“The night before the captain’s run, they messaged me and said, ‘Come in - Matty Feagai has a bit of a groin issue. We need you just in case,

Lion on the prowl

“Since I was seven years old, it’s all I’ve ever really wanted to do,”

Hayden’s NRL dream comes true

all precautionary,’” he said. “At captain’s run, I asked Matty, ‘How are you going?’ And he goes, ‘I honestly don't feel too good. I’m not sure I’ll be able to play.’ So I had a feeling in the back of my mind that I was a chance.

“They did a final fitness test and ruled him out.

Then Flanno [Coach Shane Flanagan] yelled, ‘Everybody in!’ I had a feeling he was going to make the announcement. After that, it was all a bit of a blur until after the game.”

With his spot in the team confirmed, Buchanan was finally able to share the news with his family - the dream he’d been chasing since he was a little boy was about to become reality.

“Since I was seven years old, it’s all I’ve ever really wanted to do,” he said. “So it was pretty

special when I found out. I’ve never really strived for anything else in my life.”

“Mum was shocked - I think there were a few tears on the phone, which was really nice. She’s done so much for me. And Dad was just excited and happy. He said, ‘Just do your thing, mate, and back yourself.’”

And back himself he did. Buchanan starred in the Dragons’ 22-14 win over Cronulla, racking up 18 runs for 110 metres, 18 tackles, a try assist - and even scoring a try of his own.

Captain and fullback Clint Gutherson broke into open space and looked certain to score, but instead found the debutant looming in support and handed him the honours.

“He definitely could’ve scored himself,” Buchanan

laughed. “But he gave me a try and said, ‘Remember that, mate - remember who gave you your first try.’ That was really nice of him and pretty special. Especially because I scored right in front of all my friends and family in that corner - just by chance.”

Buchanan also shared some of the advice and support that boosted his confidence leading into the match.

“Flanno told me, ‘We’re all confident you can get the job done, mate. You’ve worked hard - just go out and do your thing.’ He also said Gutho and Cookie [Damien Cook] told him they backed me to do the job,” he said.

“That kind of stuff gives you real confidence. When you know your coach, captain, and leaders believe in you, it makes a huge difference.”

Since his debut, Buchanan has featured in all three of the Dragons’ following matches.

While he knows he’s still developing, he’s embracing life on the big stage.

“I definitely have things to improve on, and that’ll come with more experience, time, and training - but I’m really enjoying it,” he said.

As for why Gerringong keeps producing NRL-ready players - with eight now in the top tier - Buchanan believes it’s a mix of strong mentorship and inspiration from those who’ve made it.

“We’ve got so many good role models like Scott Stewart, Rixon Russell, Johnny Ford and Nathan Ford - he’s won seven Group 7 grand finals. He was also my school teacher and I remember being really competitive at school, and

Nathan told me, ‘Never lose that, mate - it’ll take you places.’ That always stuck with me,” said Buchanan.

“And I also think when you see someone from your town, someone you’ve played with or looked up to, making itit gives you that belief that maybe you can do it too. I looked up to Hamish [Stewart] and Dylan [Egan] and wanted to be like them growing up.

“And I’m sure they were the same for Reuben [Garrick], Tyran [Wishart] and Jackson [Ford] - and Reuben, Tyran and Jackson were probably the same for the group before them.”

This Saturday, the Dragons wrap up their season with a final-round clash against the Penrith Panthers at WIN Stadium - Buchanan’s first NRL game so close to home.