The Bugle News 10 April 2026

“It’s a shock but it’s a fact”

EXCLUSIVE: Kiama Council’s CEO speaks out

“SHAME, SHAME, SHAME” Council protest erupts in frustration

Kiama’s budget backlash

When Kiama Municipal Council announced, the Thursday before the Easter weekend, that it would hold an Extraordinary Meeting the following Tuesday to explore “a range of options for the upcoming 2026–27 financial year budget” – the backlash was immediate and intense.

Throughout the long weekend, local residents and community groups rallied across social media, sharing concerns, exchanging information, and organising plans to protest ahead of the meeting.

Many expressed shock at the scale and severity of the measures being proposed to close Kiama’s widening budget gap, with fears quickly spreading about what cuts could mean for the future of the town.

The Bugle ran rolling coverage as the controversy surrounding the meeting unfolded, capturing the voices of residents who stepped forward to speak at the public forum, as well as the growing protests that took shape outside Council Chambers while the meeting was underway.

Emotions ran high, with

frustration, confusion and concern evident across all corners of the community.

With local jobs and essential community services under threat, and the future of Blue Haven Terralong Street under debate – not to mention the potential impact on the leisure centre and tourist operations –every demographic within the community has its own ‘musthave’ it is fighting to protect.

With a projected $4.5 million deficit and a Performance Improvement Order (PIO) timeline requiring the budget

to be balanced by the end of the upcoming financial year, Council faces mounting pressure.

In this special budget issue, The Bugle speaks to local residents, community groups and Councillors about the upcoming challenges, the potential solutions on the table, and how Kiama reached this critical point.

In an exclusive interview, Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud addresses the “vitriolic” backlash she has faced, and outlines how residents can ensure their voices are heard in the challenging times that are ahead.

The 19-yearold fighting for youth support

“Too many lives have been lost”

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Amy Molloy

Kiama Municipal Council voted at an Extraordinary Meeting on Tuesday night to adopt the “proposed budget parameters” outlined in a report, which aims to achieve a balanced operating budget for the 2026–27 financial year. In order to meet the requirements of the Performance Improvement Order (PIO) implemented by the NSW Government

four years ago, Council must address a budget deficit of $4.5 million by the end of June next year.

The proposed parameters – as outlined in the agenda shared before the Extraordinary Meeting –have alarmed local residents, community groups and Council workers whose jobs are now uncertain.

Level one of the parameters includes “increasing Blue Haven Terralong Street income due to new higher prices for future residents”,

and increased occupancy compared to the current high vacancy position, with an estimated profit and loss improvement of $720,000.

Level two includes a “cessation of non-legislated services”, including youth, cultural and community services – a proposed saving of more than $940,000. It also proposes “reducing the scope of visitor services” ($365,000) and reducing library operating hours ($40,000).

Level three includes

outsourcing waste services and a reduction in headcount within Council’s “staffing establishment”.

During the meeting, Acting Mayor Melissa Matters was quick to point out that no decisions have been made at this stage.

“We are going to consider a range of items and none of these decisions will be easy, but it’s time for action if we are to balance the books,” she said. “Our objective is focused on closing the budget gap while continuing to deliver

essential services to our community.”

Council staff will now prepare a draft budget, which will be included in business papers to be released publicly on Wednesday, 15 April, ahead of the next Ordinary Council Meeting on 21 April. The draft budget will then be placed on public exhibition for 28 days for community consultation.

The public can tune into the Ordinary Council Meeting via webcast at webcast.kiama. nsw.gov.au.

“It’s a shock but it’s a fact”

CEO Jane Stroud on “emotional” meeting with staff –and the challenging next steps

Amy Molloy

The weekend after the Extraordinary Meeting was announced, Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud was confronted and yelled at in the street while walking with her 11-year-old twins.

“It’s really hard; it’s not okay,” she told The Bugle the morning after the Extraordinary Meeting, which drew a large and vocal crowd of concerned residents.

“This weekend was my birthday, and I could barely leave my house. When I did, with my kids, somebody screamed at me in the street, and then a lady at Woolworths bailed me up for an extensive period of time.”

“It’s hurtful, it’s personal, and it’s an excessive amount of vitriol for a situation that I inherited, and that I am course-correcting.”

For locals, it may be hard to summon sympathy. The backlash comes as residents grapple with proposed budget cuts affecting jobs and community services.

On Thursday, 2 April, heading into the Easter long weekend, Kiama Council announced an Extraordinary Meeting to be held the following Tuesday.

The agenda outlined a sweeping list of proposed costcutting measures, ranging from service reductions to job losses – it seemed, nothing was sacred.

The proposed cuts incensed locals, sparking protests ahead of the meeting and a wave of anger that spilled into the streets in the days before and after. Councillors and local representatives reported similar encounters with frustrated residents.

“[My children] know that people were protesting about me last night,” says Stroud. “They asked me, do I still have my job this morning? It’s difficult for them. I, too, have to try and make a home here.”

Sympathy may be in short supply among Council staff and residents who are questioning their own

security.

The Council’s report, shared before the extraordinary meeting, outlined a hierarchy of “budget control improvements”, which included cuts to tourism, youth, culture and community services, as well as the increasing of fees, including the leisure centre and Blue Haven Terralong Street. (The latter would be for future residents only.)

It also proposed “a further reduction in KMC staff establishment over the next 12 months to achieve a saving target of $850k”.

During the meeting on 7 April, Council voted to adopt the parameters outlined in the report, after an amendment.

Council staff then had until the end of the week to prepare a draft budget so that the information could be included in business papers released on Wednesday 15 April in the lead-up to Council’s Ordinary Meeting on 21 April.

At the moment, nothing has been decided; Stroud calls it “stepping stones.” However, she also acknowledges the ripple effect.

An all-staff meeting held the day after the extraordinary meeting was “very emotional.”

“We’re a very close knit team at Council,” she says.

“I’ve worked hard to build a really supportive culture and a place where people feel safe and able to do their jobs. So, for staff cuts to move through the organisation, it hurts. It’s not an easy job for me personally, nor for management.”

The CEO joined Kiama Council in June 2021, with a background in local government and strategic planning. By that stage, Council’s finances were already in serious trouble.

Following a series of financial missteps that prompted intervention from the NSW Audit Office, much of her tenure has been spent in clean-up mode – attempting to stabilise the budget and restore financial credibility.

Council has been criticised for a lack of transparency and

community engagement. Stroud rejects this, saying the information is publicly available.

“I acknowledge that change is really difficult for everyone, and that much of what has been worked through over the last four years has come as a shock to the broader community, but it is a fact,” she says.

“If anybody needs to check those facts, they should really start with the Audit Office of New South Wales and read the performance improvement order.”

As for engagement, she points to efforts to meet residents where they are.

The decision was made to move away from in-person Council meetings because several Council staff were “not treated very well and that became a workplace health and safety issue.” Instead, Council has shifted to community “pop-ups”, at places like the Farmers market and IGAs, as well as online feedback.

Combined with phone calls, this will be the primary way residents can give feedback on the budget cuts too.

“I think the community was very lucky not to go into administration – to self-report and define the issue,” says Stroud.

“We’ve worked to pay back $60 million worth of debt, reduce the deficit from $28 million to $4.5 million, and find operational efficiencies of around $16 million. That’s significant.”

While many residents remain focused on the immediate impact –particularly the threat to jobs and frontline services – Stroud says the long-term goal is stability.

She acknowledges Kiama is a passionate, outspoken community – and that tension is part of the process.

“It’s all about that balance of opinion versus action and decision,” she says. “There’s a time and a place for an opinion, and then there’s a time and a place for the doing.”

“Shame, shame, shame” Kiama protests erupt in frustration

Amy Molloy

Outside Kiama Council

Chambers on 7 April, a growing group of irate Kiama residents gathered, chanting “shame, shame, shame” and holding signs

three members of Council came out to face them: Councillors Imogen Draisma, Mike Cains and Yasmin Tatrai.

There was a sense of gratitude, these three Councillors faced the crowds, rather than staying inside the Chambers as others chose to.

said, “Some of the information can’t be on public record as it involves former staff. We can’t look to the past to give us solutions for the future.”

It was an intimidating scene, with a crowd of over 150 emotional locals and community groups, anxious about the proposed slashing of local jobs and services.

Challenging questions were posed to the Councillors outside Chambers, including, “Blue Haven should be a cash cow – why isn’t it?”

In response, Cllr Draisma

When pressed, she added, “Without considering the depreciation of assets, that’s what got us into this in the first place.”

Another protester asked, “Personally, are you being given sufficient access to the information you need to make the decision ahead of you?”

Cains replied, “I don’t believe I’ve had enough information to fulfil my statutory obligation.”

Acting Mayor Melissa Matters has rebuffed these claims, stating that all Council

members were given sufficient information, especially if they attended workshops that Council runs for Council members, but many choose not to attend.

According to Council, NSW Police were advised of the intended protest, with a media release warning, “Protesting and related signage is not permitted within the chamber or inside the Council workplace. Public access is managed in accordance with the Code of Meeting Practice for Local Governments.”

After 10 minutes of public questions, the Councillors returned to the Chambers to make their decision.

Olivia Funnell

C19-year-old’s

ooper Lewis, a 19 year-old local nursing student, stole the show at Kiama Council’s extraordinary meeting.

a number of local young people to suicide in 2020, is afraid for the impact of the proposed budget cuts.

“With youth having no outlet, I am quite concerned about where this might lead,” he says.

Lewis spoke at the meeting to protest item 8.1 on the Council's draft budget – proposed changes to local youth services, services that Lewis believes are essential for the local community.

“Behind every statistic is a real person, a family, a child, a community grieving. Youth services aren’t just numbers on a front page. They provide a safe space for connection and a sense of belonging for kids who might be struggling…but we don’t always see with our eyes,” he said in his speech to council.

Lewis, who was personally affected by the death of

“Because we don't have the resources, the town's going to be painted yellow again and there's gonna be another community grieving.”

Lewis wishes that more of the community had been allowed inside the meeting, with only 25 seats for members of the public.

“It was quite emotional for me to get up and be like that. And then, you know, there's not a lot of support behind you,” he says.

“Getting up to have one person to speak about youth isn't enough and I know there's [sic] more people outside yesterday who had the same opinions as me.”

Council’s “bloated bureaucracy” under the spotlight

Voices of the community

From the streets to Council Chambers, what locals really think about the cuts

“Quite a few people would say we’ve had years of stress and just want someone who feels confident managing [Blue Haven Terralong Street]. Then there are others who say, the reason we came here was because it was run by our local government. It came from a donation of community land, and this is where our friendship groupings are – we don’t want it split up.’”

– Boni Maywald, Kiama resident

“I'm really concerned about what happens from a process point of view. And there's been many, many hours of volunteer work put into various different community organisations at the Council funded by the Lions – I would hate to see all those hours just chopped now. Plus, I think it's shameful that they announced this on Thursday afternoon, before Easter to put people in that frame of mind across Easter knowing they might lose their jobs — absolutely shameful. I'm just here generally to support.”

South Coast writer and former party member

Gail Morgan has spoken out about what she calls the Council’s “bloated bureaucracy.”

“There is always an argument for economy, no matter how painful, but it is perfectly obvious to the community that the pain goes in one direction only,” she told The Bugle. “The highly paid, bloated bureaucracy remains, and that is where the power resides.”

In accordance with the Local Government Regulation 2021, Kiama Council’s annual financial report is required to include a statement of the total remuneration package of the CEO.

In the 2024–25 report, CEO Jane Stroud’s total remuneration package was listed as $390,979.

The report also includes a

statement of the combined total remuneration packages of all senior staff members (excluding the CEO). As at 30 June 2025, these senior staff were paid a total of $903,898.57.

However, Morgan is pointing to expenses beyond wages.

“Kiama Council has hired the heritage, newly restored Westpac building for its own use,” she argues.

When the bank vacated the premises, there was talk of the former Westpac building being utilised as a restaurant or entertainment quarter –however, the Council then took over the space..

“Following the closure of the Kiama Westpac branch, the building at 32 Manning St was placed on the public rental market by the private owner,” Council says.

“Council, which has

previously leased commercial space along Manning St, entered into the lease. The building was available to the wider private market to lease from the owner.”

Council confirmed the space is “used to accommodate Council’s Planning and Development team” and functions as a dedicated Planning Hub for members of the public to access duty planning services.

When asked for comment, they were unable to disclose how much Council pays to lease the space, saying “Council is unable to disclose commercial leasing arrangements as this is commercially confidential information.”

As significant cuts are proposed to jobs and services, Council’s outgoings will continue to be of local interest.

— Susan Hudson, President of Kiama Lions Club

“The current cuts proposed by Council are very detrimental, especially given the the high incidents of youth suicide within our community. Being called in for [school] meetings and being told someone's passed away, and having to have yellow ribbons everywhere, it really creates a community impact. Without youth services, it reinforces not having support.”

Cooper Lewis, Kiama resident.

“I think we’ve had a successful start to the Council meeting with the public presentations. There were some passionate people, but also some sensible voices. We’re realising there’s got to be change from both the community and the Council. Let’s work together.”

– Tony Gilmour, Vice President of Kiama Historical Society

“I'm a local resident and I'm really concerned with how this proposal will affect the fabric of our community and how it's happening really, really fast because we haven't had a chance to actually engage with the materials with this meeting being called so soon to Easter and there's a lot of actual information that's missing that hasn't been released to the public and these are things that affect people's livelihoods, both council staff jobs as well as tourism and our community services which are the heartbeats of our community.”

– Shosanna Vernham, Kiama resident

Councils in a crunch:

Local entrepreneur compares Council struggles to others

Myah Garza

After Kiama Municipal Council (KMC)

released its April 7 Extraordinary Meeting agenda outlining a three-level budget remediation plan, local entrepreneur Dennis Price took to Facebook to share his assessment.

With a little help from AI safety and research company Anthropic, he prepared a 20-page response offering alternative strategies, available for those “serious and/or concerned” about the Council’s financial future.

“[Kiama needs to] reframe the public narrative from 'what we are cutting' to 'what we are building',” says Price, whilst comparing Kiama’s financial crisis to that of other councils across Australia.

In January 2026, the Audit Office of NSW

released a report into local governments in Australia.

The report presented key findings and recommendations from financial audits of local councils, joint organisations and county councils for the year ended 30 June 2025.

It found seventeen councils reported operating losses this year and 19 had insufficient cash (not subject to external restrictions) to cover 3 months of general expenses. Six of the 19 councils identified as being the least liquid also incurred operating losses.

Other councils have a lot to teach us, argues Price.

“Moree Plains Shire Council entered administration in 2015 with a structural deficit driven by constrained rates revenue and growing costs – a situation directly comparable to Kiama's,” he says.

“The administrator cut costs and divested assets, but the fastest path to recovery came from revenue diversification, particularly commercial leasing of council land. Recovery took four years.”

He also points to Wingecarribee Shire Council.

“They faced significant financial stress in a coastal and hinterland setting remarkably similar to Kiama's,” he says.

“Resolution came through cost reduction combined with improved commercial management of tourism assets. The lesson: placebased tourism assets, when professionally managed, can generate $500K to $1M annually in comparable councils.”

On the matter of Blue Haven Terralong Street, he says, “Campaspe Shire in Victoria managed a retirement village divestment through a community-owned trust model – retaining local governance while eliminating the financial liability from the council balance sheet. This is directly analogous to Blue Haven Terralong, and it is not privatisation. The village remained community controlled. Council's balance sheet was protected.”

Price says this is the time for the community to ask important questions.

“Several of the services proposed for cessation –youth services, cultural programs, community development – could survive under community-led delivery models if given the genuine opportunity to prove it,” he adds.

Read Price’s full strategic analysis on his website, drdennisprice.com

“Stop work” an option, Union calls for deadline extension

A“stop work meeting” is under consideration by the United Services Union (USU) who represent Council workers, with Union officials warning the local community needs to prepare for a “small amount of pain in a short period of time to put pressure on the employer.”

Stuart Geddes, Acting Southern Manager and Industrial Officer/Solicitor for the United Services Union (USU) says the Kiama proposed budget plans could see the closure or sale of the youth services, the Community Recycling Centre and the Visitor Information Centre.

The morning after the extraordinary meeting, Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud met with USU representatives. Geddes also attended an allstaff meeting at the Council administration building.

“There’s been meetings going on around at the different depots,” Geddes told The Bugle. “Obviously we’re driven by our members.”

He had a message for Kiama residents worried about disruption to their services: “A small amount of pain in the short period of time to put pressure on the employer is better than a large amount of pain when you have wholesale cuts to your services.”

Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud said the allstaff meeting was “very emotional.”

“We’re a very close knit team at Council,” she told The Bugle. I’ve worked hard to build a really supportive culture and a place where people feel safe and able and supported to do their jobs.”

“So, for staff cuts to move through the organisation, it hurts. It’s not an easy job

for me personally, nor for management. It’s not an easy job if you’re among the staff in those areas. It creates a ripple effect of a concern over job security and motivation.”

She acknowledged that, for now, people are living with a level of uncertainty, saying, “A lot of people want a lot more detail, but we’re just not at that stage yet.”

The Union has requested an “urgent meeting” with the Minister for Local Government with Council and other industry leaders. The purpose of the meeting is to seek an extension on the deadline for the Performance Improvement Order (POI), in the hope it avoids the need for immediate, or so significant cuts.

“This is a genuine attempt to work collaboratively with Council to save jobs,” says Geddes.

Under pressure

It feels like we are living the lyrics of Under Pressure, the classic 1981 release by Queen and David Bowie: “Pressure, pushing down on me, pushing down on you.

Under pressure that burns a building down, splits a family in two, puts people on the street.”

It feels like we are reliving the pain of Blue Haven Bonaira and the “scandals” of previous Council decisions all over again.

It feels like this has come out of the blue – again.

Despite what Acting Mayor Melissa Mathers says, the timing of all of this is quite strange. The Mayor and Councillor Matt Brown were on holidays – no doubt pre-planned – so it was well known they would not be in attendance.

Councillor Mike Cains also said he did not have enough information to undertake his statutory obligations, but reportedly also said he wished the meeting had occurred last month.

There are so many questions to ask, and no doubt we will all have a chance to “have our say” during the public

exhibition of the budget. The tone in the chamber was matter-of-fact.

Councillors spoke in numbers and short-term fixes, as though balancing the books for the next few months could substitute for genuine leadership. Staff offered lists of services to be trimmed, projects to be delayed, and costs to be “reviewed”.

But not to worry – it’s supposedly all temporary.

Residents listening from the gallery (plus the 100 or so outside) could be forgiven for wondering if our Council has grown comfortable with crisis.

Ratepayers deserve more than a temporary patchwork of savings that simply delays the next shortfall. What’s needed is a plan that looks beyond the next quarter — one that faces up to the structural issues driving this financial spiral.

Instead, the Council spoke as if survival itself were an achievement.

It’s no victory to balance the books when the cost is a withering of community life and services that have undoubtedly saved lives.

“Where is the Mayor?”

Myah Garza

Mayor Cameron McDonald was absent from Kiama Council’s Extraordinary meeting –overseas on a family holiday.

In a statement posted to LinkedIn, he said the trip was “booked well before the timing of this meeting was known” and, while disappointed not to attend in person, he remained “fully engaged and supportive” of the work being undertaken.

The absence drew criticism

from within the chamber and the community, with Councillor Mike Cains questioning the timing of the meeting, asking: “Why is this meeting being held without the Mayor?”

Acting Mayor Melissa Matters dismissed concerns about timing, telling the meeting:

“I don’t want to hear about the timing being inconvenient and not ideal – nothing is ideal here at Kiama Municipal Council. “We are being fully transparent.”

The future of youth support

“Issues too big for Council alone”

Myah Garza

Kiama Council is celebrating Youth Week 2026 – while simultaneously weighing potential cuts to local youth services.

On the same day it promoted Kiama Youth Fest – a free event championing young people through its SENTRAL Youth Services program – Council moved forward with discussions that could impact those very services.

The timing has prompted concern, just days after Mayor Cameron McDonald labelled youth services “crucial” to the region.

In a Council-issued statement, Mayor McDonald said Youth Week was an opportunity for young people to be “heard, celebrated and encouraged to pursue their ambitions,” highlighting the importance of programs that support connection and growth.

Kiama Youth Fest, to be held on April 16 at Hindmarsh Park, is a day of music, workshops and youthled activities.

However, behind the celebrations lies a more

difficult financial reality.

Acting Mayor Melissa Matters said Council is being forced to make “tough decisions” as it works toward a balanced budget after years of financial strain.

“Our core responsibility is to deliver frontline services –roads, waste, parks, beaches –the essentials our ratepayers rely on,” she says.

Matters acknowledged youth services are valuable, but stressed they sit within a broader category of health and community services typically funded by the state.

“When it comes to health services and youth services, they are largely a state government responsibility,” she says.

“There comes a time where we need to stick to what our courses and our frontline staff do.”

She is now urging the NSW Government to step in.

“I’m urging everybody to talk to their local state member and ask how they’re going to help Council with anything to do with health services,” she says.

Matters is a long-time advocate for youth mental health, following the loss of six young people to suicide in the Kiama region in 2020,

including her child.

She pointed to the establishment of Headspace in Kiama as an example of state-led support following that tragedy, but suggested more collaboration is needed moving forward.

Despite community concern, Matters emphasised that no final decisions have been made, with proposals now open for public consultation.

“This is about putting it out to the community to have their say,” she says.

Tensions were evident at last week’s extraordinary Council meeting, where some residents gathered outside voicing frustration.

Matters, who chaired both the public access session and the meeting, said she deliberately chose not to engage with protesters on the night.

“My job was to chair the meetings – that was my focus,” she says.

“I wasn’t there to go out and justify decisions. There’s a process now, and the community will have their say. Speaking to someone outside that night wasn’t going to solve anything.”

She also criticised calls from some in the crowd for

the CEO to be removed.

“That wasn’t the forum,” she adds.

She believes community partnerships could play a role in continuing support for young people.

She points to grassroots efforts already working to support young people, including a mentoring program at Kiama High School — an initiative backed by the Saving Sammy Foundation, established in memory of her son. (See page 15 for our coverage.)

According to Matters, more than $100,000 has been raised through the Foundation, with funds also supporting programs through the Police Citizens Youth Club in Nowra.

“It shows there is a real need, and the community is stepping up,” she says.

She said the Foundation –and others like it – are open to working alongside services if gaps begin to emerge.

“If there’s more we can do, then let’s have that conversation as a community,” she says.

“It’s going to take partnerships – these issues are too big for local Council alone.”

Questions build about Blue Haven Terralong’s condition

Olivia Funnell

“It's our job to listen to what people say,” says Councillor Yasmin Tatrai in regard to Council’s extraordinary meeting on Tuesday evening where the fate of Blue Haven Terralong was discussed.

During a 15-minute break, Tatrai, alongside Councillors Mike Cains and Imogen Draisma, emerged to listen to and take questions from the protestors outside.

The protestors demanded answers from the councillors about the meeting. In particular, they demonstrated their frustration with the management of Blue Haven and asked why a building that should generate substantial revenue is in such disrepair.

One protestor shouted, “Blue Haven should be a cash cow. Why isn’t it?”

The Council’s Asset Condition Report has indicated that funding in the order of $51.2 million is needed for maintenance works in the next 10 years to bring the

facility from a standard of “poor” to “average”.

Yet there are questions surrounding how a relatively young building could come into such disrepair.

In a Facebook post, Blue Haven resident Marie Millard commented, “I have lived at Blue Haven for ten years (and no, I don’t live in a dump), the sale of Blue Haven is a foregone decision and has been the CEO’s aim since Blue Haven Bonaira sale.”

According to the report, Council planned to build up a restricted reserve fund to the tune of approximately $2 million per year. This reserve fund was intended to cover future building replacement and renewal costs.

However, fire safety compliance issues delayed unit sales, which then reduced incoming cash. The financial pressure as a result of this meant that money from the reserve had to be used earlier than intended.

After an all-staff meeting the morning after the extraordinary meeting, Kiama

Council CEO Jane Stroud told The Bugle the extent of the repairs was unexpected.

“I said to staff, there's two big things that hit us the hardest this budget, and one of those was the condition report for Terralong Street,” she says. “Because we knew it would be big, but I had no idea it would be in that order of magnitude.”

Meeting the needs of the community is a balancing act.

“I'll be honest, there is a level of staff resentment around the over-investment in aged care and retirement village, and they're under investment in the municipal side of the business,” says Stroud. “Then the local government side of the business feels like they're being punished, and having to make up the shortfall for the retirement village.”

Other Council members have questioned the accuracy of the maintenance estimates.

Councillor Tatrai and Councillor Melinda Lawton had the opportunity to view some of the rooms at Blue Haven Terralong, which would require the

aforementioned upgrades to bring the conditions from poor to average.

Upon viewing the rooms, Tatrai claims they were not derelict but rather in need of minor cosmetic repairs.

“There were rooms that needed some painting, like any room that may have had someone in it for 20 years, or, you know, a kitchen upgraded and those sorts of things,” claims Tatrai. “But they weren't considered derelict. They needed a facelift.”

In the report, it also states that some financial records regarding Blue Haven are missing.

"The strategic review report and any review of Blue Haven highlights that historical financial records showing each of Blue Haven Terralong and KMC separately do not exist beyond 2021–2022,” the report states.

Despite the missing records, Council now has records that indicate that Blue Haven Terralong is cash positive by an average of $1.3 million per annum.

Kiama MP launches petition against “axing” of jobs and services

Amy Molloy

Katelin McInerney, MP and Member for Kiama, has launched a petition calling on council to protect frontline jobs and community services.

“Ratepayers deserve a budget plan that addresses structural problems at the heart of sustainable governance, not cuts to frontline services,” McInerney said.

“Axing frontline jobs is not structural reform. The solutions tabled, and the amendments made at the [extraordinary] meeting, are short-term band-aids that will not deliver financial sustainability and will leave residents without access to vital support services.”

In a media release, she commended the public access speakers and the “significant number of community members” who gathered outside council chambers while the meeting took place to voice their opposition to the cuts.

“In my role as Member for

Kiama, I have been meeting regularly with our local councils and understand the challenges facing local government. I will always advocate for grant funding and NSW government support,” McInerney said.

“However, Kiama council has been working on budgetary reform since the 2022 forensic audit and has had a clear deadline to return the council’s finances to balance.”

“The community has been clear – they expect a comprehensive plan for structural reform that looks to internal council costs and operations, gives ratepayers value for money, and focuses on delivering core council services such as waste management, community facilities, local roads, playgrounds and frontline community services.”

The petition is available to sign at the Member for Kiama’s office from the morning of 9 April, with an online version to be released shortly.

“Beautiful ... but dire for house buyers”

In our series reporting on the South Coast Housing Forum, the Hon. Chris Rath, Shadow Minister for Planning, Housing & Cities, talks about the housing situation in NSW – and why he chooses to call the Ilawarra home.

We all know that Australia is the best country on earth, but all of us know that the Illawarra/South Coast is the best region, of the best state, of the best country on earth.

I am proud to have been born and bred in this region, to have all my family here, and now as of two months ago to have moved back here.

The South Coast has relaxed but resilient communities, extraordinary beauty, and the best beaches in the country. The South Coast is so awesome that more people should be

But unfortunately in the last 20 years in Gerringong and in Nowra, house prices have risen around 300 per cent, but wages have only grown around 100 per cent.

For all its beauty and wonder, the South Coast continues to face one of the most difficult policy challenges of our time, housing.

The current housing landscape in New South Wales is dire, and it is only getting worse.

Interest rates and rents have seen their highest increases in over a decade. Demand is increasing at a rapid pace, while supply lags dangerously behind. In 1984 you could buy a home for five times the average annual income, today it is fourteen times.

That means that Gen Z and millennials will forever be consigned to being renters or they will need to rely on the bank of mum and dad.

Many of us feel as though while our parents’ generation could afford to raise a family in a decent house with a backyard on a single income, now it is difficult to even enter

All the while, the current NSW Government continues to sit on its hands and watch while young people lose faith in their ability to own their

The planning system that is supposed to be delivering more housing is dysfunctional.

The current Labor Government tends to boast about their approval

numbers, although completion numbers have continued to fall.

However, it is important to note that fixing the housing system does not mean simply blindly putting housing anywhere and everywhere.

Housing is important and liveability is important. They need not come at the expense of each other.

That is why the Opposition has put forward a clear plan to help boost housing supply across New South Wales; that we must build more homes, but we must build them in the right places, supported by the right infrastructure.

Housing policy must start with this: if we want more homes, we must stop making it harder to build them.

That is why we will pause Labor’s $12,000 tax on every new home, the Housing and Productivity Contribution, until June 2029.

Because when families are struggling to find a place to live, the last thing the government should be doing is slapping a new tax on construction.

After the housing accord period on 30 June 2029, we will defer payment until development is completed; homes cannot help families if they are never built.

But housing supply is not just about planning rules or taxes. It is also about population growth.

If we bring people into this country, we must also make sure there is somewhere for them to live.

This is why we will introduce stamp duty exemptions for older Australians who choose to downsize.

We will also reintroduce the First Home Buyer Choice

BLOW YOUR BUGLE

program.

Finally, we will establish a $2 billion Community Benefit Fund to support the infrastructure that growing communities need.

Homes need roads. Homes need schools. Homes need transport.

This is the best part of the world to live, work and raise a family and more people should have this opportunity.

If this region is to take on more housing then we need to consider things like electrifying the rail network, the Maldon-Dombarton rail link, and the Nowra bypass.

The South Coast should never be an afterthought in the housing and infrastructure conversation. It should be part of the solution.

For generations, the Australian Dream was simple. Work hard, contribute to your community, and one day own a home of your own.

That dream should not belong only to the past, it should belong to Australians today, and it should belong to the next generation of Australians as well.

These are not unreasonable hopes. If we want that dream to survive, we must make the choices today that will allow it to become a reality tomorrow.

That means building more homes, planning for growth properly, and ensuring that communities like those here on the South Coast are supported with the infrastructure and investment they deserve.

And if we do that then the South Coast will continue to be the best region, of the best state, of the best country on earth.

How AI matchmatching can sell your home

In a shifting property landscape, providing a premium service to the Kiama community means moving beyond traditional real estate methods. At Ray White Kiama, Our “advantage” lies in our proprietary NurtureCloud technology, a sophisticated AI platform that changes how we match buyers with sellers. Rather than relying on the outdated shotgun approach of emailing thousands of contacts who may no longer be in the market, we use data to find the right buyer with surgical precision. This system analyses buyer behaviour across the entire Ray White network in real-time, identifying those who have been active in the market within the last 90 days. This means that when we list a property, we aren’t just waiting for the phone to ring. We are already identifying “Smart Buyer

Matches”—people who are currently attending open homes, taking contracts, submitting offers and showing a high propensity to purchase. By leveraging these millions of data points, we can provide our vendors with real-time insights into actual buyer demand and market sentiment. This transparency allows for a more efficient sale process and ensures that your property is seen by the people most likely to act. In a competitive market like Kiama, having access to this level of predictive technology ensures our clients stay one step ahead, achieving the best possible results through intelligence, data, and local expertise. If you are curious about how many active buyers are currently matched to your specific property, I am always here to help.

In relation to the article, ‘Free parking with a view (if you volunteer)’

While the situation is complicated, I’ve summarised it below:

Museum volunteers were allowed to park on grassed areas adjacent to the building since it opened in 1988. Several are older people, some have mobility issues, so this worked well.

In September 2025, the Historical Society was told we could no longer park adjacent to the museum. This was due to the danger to pedestrians, especially children.

This decision was reversed in October 2025 and the Society supplied with notices for car windscreens allowing parking close to the

museum.

On 13 December 2025 the decision was again reversed so we could not park by the museum.

After representations made by the Historical Society, on 19 December 2025 (in an email sent to the Bugle by Council) it was agreed volunteers could park on the hard standing area near the lighthouse for an unlimited amount of time provided they display Council-supplied notices on their windscreens.

This area is available for 4 hour parking for the general public, and given our volunteers work at the museum for 4 hour shifts the arrangement

was of no practical benefit so I did not inform our volunteers.

My view as Vice President of Kiama Historical Society is I understand why our volunteers are no longer allowed to park adjacent to the museum. However, decision making and communication during the latter part of last year was poor. The offer of unlimited parking near the lighthouse, while good intentioned, is of no practical benefit. Cheers.

Tony Gilmour Vice President & Treasurer,

A letter to the editor from Councillor Stuart Larkins

Dear Kiama Community,

I said at Tuesday nights in Council’s meeting, there are proposals being considered for the upcoming draft council budget that are unacceptable and that I do not agree with. There are also important ones to consider and investigate.

It is also important, that we as a council and community, ensure all options are placed on the table and they are properly investigated.

It is important that maturity, respect and factual information prevails.

I moved an amendment, which I’m pleased was successful. The amendment ensures that there are separate

reports, and that all options for community groups listed in council facilities listed in the report - including the Kiama Historical Society at the Pilots Cottage – are considered before any final decisions are made.

What I will also say, is that the material and information presented publicly at the extraordinary council meeting was not new. The mayor and all councillors have been aware, or had access, to it for some time. I wanted this meeting to occur, but I wanted it in March.

The next steps, is that Council will continue to build and develop a draft budget. There is absolutely no doubt that this upcoming budget is going to be a

challenge. A budget must be built and be completed by the end of June 2026. It must go to a 28-day community consultation and that formal process begins soon.

This is the time for you, and all of us as members of our community, to have our say and I would encourage you to do so. We all need to work together.

I’ll always continue to do my best as a councillor, and you are always welcome to contact me directly.

Stuart

Larkins Kiama Councillor

Councillor Disclaimer: this content represents the views of Councillor Stuart Larkins, and does not necessarily represent the views of Kiama Municipal Council.

Stop Paying for a Feature You Aren’t Using: The Real Cost of Your Offset Account

For many homeowners, an “offset account” sounds like a must-have mortgage feature. We’re told it’s the ultimate way to pay off a loan faster. But for a significant number of people in our community, that shiny offset account might actually be a quiet drain on their finances.

Before you sign up for—or stick with—your current loan package, it’s time to do some honest math.

The “Offset Tax”: Fees and Rates

Offset accounts are rarely free. Most lenders bundle them into “premium” or “wealth” packages that carry:

Annual Package Fees: Often ranging from $250 to nearly $400.

Higher Interest Rates: Loans with offset features typically have interest rates 0.1% to 0.25% higher than “basic” home loans.

Fixed-Rate Incompatibility:

Most lenders won’t allow a 100% offset on fixed-rate loans, forcing you into a variable rate to even use the feature.

To maximise an offset account you need to be prepared to move your entire financial life into your offset account.

If you aren’t keeping enough cash in that account to “offset” these costs, you are essentially paying the bank for the privilege of having a more expensive loan.

Redraw: The “Free”

Alternative?

Many people don’t realise that a redraw facility provides the exact same interest-saving benefit as an offset account. Mathematically, if you have $10,000 extra in a redraw facility or $10,000 in an offset account, the bank calculates your daily interest on the same “net” balance.

The difference isn’t the interest—it’s the access and the cost:

Redraw is often included on “basic” loans with no annual fees and lower interest rates. However, it isn’t a transaction account. To spend the money, you usually have to manually transfer it out of your loan, which can take 24–48 hours depending on your lender.

Offset acts like a regular bank account. You get a debit card, can set up direct debits, and have instant access to your cash.

The Daily Math: Why “Set and Forget” Doesn’t Work

The power of both features lies in one critical fact: interest is calculated daily. To make a premium offset account worth its fees, it cannot be a secondary savings pot. It must be your primary financial hub. To truly leverage the benefit, you should:

Direct All Income: Have your entire salary paid directly into the offset account.

Keep Every Cent Working: Every dollar that sits in there for even 24 hours reduces the

interest charged that day.

Strategic Spending: Use a credit card for daily costs to keep your cash in the offset for as long as possible, paying the card off in full only when the bill is due.

The Bottom Line

If you prefer to keep your savings separate, or if your balance frequently dips to near zero between paydays, a basic home loan with a redraw facility will likely save you more money by avoiding those high annual fees.

An offset account isn’t a passive benefit; it’s an active strategy. If you aren’t prepared to move your entire financial life into that one account, it might be time to cut the “premium” features and switch to a loan that actually fits your habits.

The team at Astute Brent Rollings is always here to help. Feel free to reach out to us to talk through your options and ensure you’re getting the best outcome in the current market.

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances. Savings will vary depending on your loan type, interest rate, and lender. Some fixed-rate loans may have restrictions on repayment frequency or additional payments. Always consult with a finance professional before making changes to your loan structure.

Kiama Specsavers wins customer service award

with a lot of my peers who own different stores, so there’s a real sense of support.”

Specsavers Kiama has been recognised as the best in New South Wales for customer service, with partners Teresa Nguyen and Joe McElroy taking out the top honour at a Sydney awards night with industry peers.

Up against major metropolitan stores, the Kiama Village team stood out for its strong focus on personalised, community-based care.

Nguyen said the win came as a complete surprise.

“We did not expect to win it at all,” she says. “Everyone was cheering – it was really lovely,” Nguyen says. “I’m quite close

The Kiama store opened in June 2024. At the time, Nguyen has been with Specsavers for nine years and in the optical industry for 15 years, holding Cert IV in Optical Dispensing. She relocated to Kiama from Batemans Bay.

The recognition is especially meaningful for the local team, who have built their practice around connection. “When I wanted to open a store, I wanted it to be very local, community-minded, with really high customer service,” Nguyen says. “I do love sitting down, having a lovely chat with the local community here.”

Alongside comprehensive eye care services, including OCT scans and audiology, Nguyen said the team focuses on delivering clear, tailored care to every patient.

“We strive to give the best customer care, but also eye health care as well – so it comes hand in hand,” she says.

“We deliver results in a way that is tailored for everyone.”

She said a positive team cultivates the experience customers receive. “A happy team gives happy customer service,” Nguyen says.

The award is now proudly displayed at the front of the Kiama store, next to a bouquet of dried flowers, where customers can see it clearly.

RMB Lawyers expands across Wollongong and Kiama

RMB Lawyers has announced that wellestablished local practice Russoniello Lawyers will join the firm from 30 March 2026, marking an important expansion across Wollongong and Kiama.

After more than three decades serving the Wollongong community, Russoniello Lawyers has built a strong reputation for integrity, personal service and long-standing client relationships.

RMB Lawyers Managing Partner Craig Osborne OAM said the firm was proud to welcome Russoniello Lawyers and continue its legacy.

“Russoniello Lawyers is a practice built on integrity, personal service and long-standing client relationships,” Mr Osborne

told The Bugle

“Our focus is to honour the legacy they have created while providing clients with the additional support, resources and expertise that come with being part of a larger firm.”

The move strengthens RMB Lawyers’ presence across the Illawarra and enhances its ability to support individuals, families and businesses with services including property law, conveyancing, and wills and estates.

Founder of Russoniello Lawyers, Matteo (Matt) Russoniello, said the decision was guided by the long-term interests of his clients.

“Over the years we’ve acted for multiple generations of the same families,” Mr Russoniello said. “It was important to ensure our

clients would continue to receive the care and attention they are used to, and joining RMB Lawyers ensures those clients will continue to be supported into the future.”

Continuity for existing clients remains a priority. Mr Russoniello will continue working with clients from RMB Lawyers’ Crown Street office in Wollongong alongside long-time secretary Kristy Elliott.

Solicitor Sarah Thatcher will continue supporting clients primarily from RMB Lawyers’ Kiama office as part of the Property Law and Wills & Estates teams and will also be available in Wollongong as required.

RMB Lawyers looks forward to this next chapter and continuing to serve the Wollongong and Kiama communities.

Tuned in: KCR

KCR in the Community - Upcoming Events

We are pleased to be taking part, alongside our sponsors, in events that benefit the Kiama community. Kiama Council, the Kiama Lions Club, the Kiama Golf Club, and the Kiama Leagues Club all support KCR, and we are delighted to partner with them and assist in bringing the following events to life.

Comedy for a Cause – A Night of Laughter, Art, and Community Spirit

The Kiama Lions Club, in partnership with KCR, presents Comedy for a Cause, a special night supporting dementia initiatives in the community. Doors open at 6:15 pm, with the show starting at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $40, and this 18+ event promises an evening of laughter, local spirit, and community connection.

Highlights of the night:

• Pr ofessional comedians from the Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne International Comedy Festivals

• A lively special art auction featuring three unique prizes generously donated by local artists:

o Michelle Springett – Private Paint & Sip for up to six guests, with a subject of your choice and a date tailored to the winner

o Machteld Hali –FOUND Two Day Workshop: Concepts of Found Objects as Art, including handson creation of viscosityprinted collagraphs (scheduled for November 2026)

o Robyn Sharp –Original painting Bright Leaf plus six bottles of quality wine

Tickets: comedyforacause.net/ event/KL26

Big Night Out

2 – Supporting Local Carers

Saturday 16 May 2026 | Kiama Golf Club

Carers play a crucial role in our community, providing essential support to family, friends, and neighbours who may be living with illness, disability, or age-related

challenges. Their work is often demanding, both physically and emotionally, and can sometimes go unrecognised. Big Night Out 2 is our way of saying thank you—giving carers a chance to relax, connect with others, and access support services while enjoying a fun, inclusive evening. Together with our partners, including the Kiama Council Cultural Grant, Kiama Golf Club, and local support groups such as Illawarra ME/CFS, we hope to celebrate and support the incredible contribution carers make every day.

Big Night Out 2 offers carers, the cared-for, and their friends an evening of music, meals, and connection. The event includes:

• Live performance by Pearl Noire and her band

• Meals subsidised through Kiama Council grant funding

• Attendance and a chance to connect with local support organisations, including Illawarra ME/ CFS & Chronic Fatigue Support Group

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

– Supporting Cancer Council

Thursday 21 May 2026 | The Pavilion, Kiama

After last year’s soldout event, Cedar on Collins once again offers a fabulous morning tea fundraiser for the Cancer Council. The event will be hosted by KCR's Bernie Hems and Lee Cordner will DJ.

What to expect:

• Elegant high tea experience with sweet and savoury treats

• Glass of bubbles on arrival

• Raffles, prizes, and giveaways

Tickets will be available soon, and full details will be shared via KCR’s social media.

Across all these events, KCR is proud to play a role in connecting people, supporting local causes, and celebrating the talent and creativity within our community. Stay up to date on tickets and event information by following Kiama Community Radio on Facebook and Instagram.

A tiny triumph on the Shoalhaven coast Against the odds

Myah Garza

If you’re in need of some good news, this small but mighty shorebird success story on the Shoalhaven coast delivers.

On a windswept stretch of sand at Shoalhaven Heads, a tiny chick has become an unlikely symbol of persistence and triumph for the people who have been watching over it.

After three failed nesting attempts, a pair of endangered Pied Oystercatchers has finally raised a fledgling, delighting National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) volunteers who have followed their story since winter.

The pair was first spotted in July, beginning their courtship rituals under the careful eyes of local shorebird volunteers.

What followed was a tough season: three clutches of eggs lost to predators such as ravens and foxes.

But the birds didn’t give up.

Five months on, that determination paid off. Volunteers were rewarded with the sight of a fluffy chick trailing closely behind its parents along the shoreline –a moment that many feared might never come.

“Watching this pair of Pied Oystercatcher finally raise a fledgling after several failed attempts was incredibly rewarding for everyone involved,” says NPWS Shorebird Ranger Ev Osborne.

“Our volunteers are the quiet heroes of this success story.

“They spend countless hours walking beaches, monitoring nests and helping

protect these vulnerable birds.”

With only around 200 breeding pairs of Pied Oystercatchers left in New South Wales, every chick counts. If it survives, this young bird could return to breed in about five years, helping to secure the species’ fragile future.

The Shoalhaven region has seen a strong season overall, with 34 Pied Oystercatcher chicks successfully reaching the fledgling stage.

Nearby Durras stood out, recording five fledglings – the highest number ever at that site.

There was more good news for other threatened species too, with volunteers also recording four Hooded Plover chicks and 60 Little Tern chicks successfully fledging.

Still, survival is far from guaranteed. Predators remain a constant threat, particularly at night and in the early hours of the morning. Human activity on beaches can also put nests at risk – but it’s one of the few dangers that can be reduced. Simple actions, like keeping dogs away from nesting areas, walking on wet sand and respecting signage, can make a critical difference.

“Without their dedication, many of these chicks simply wouldn’t survive,” Osborne says.

Across the South Coast, more than 150 volunteers – including over 100 in Shoalhaven – have contributed to this season’s results, proving that small, consistent efforts can add up to something extraordinary.

Celebrating Kiama’s “saved” museum: a night at the Pilot’s Cot tage

Hosted by Kiama Historical Society stalwarts Sue Eggins and Tony Gilmour, the

the second in what they hope will become a regular series celebrating the town’s rich maritime heritage – and reinforcing the importance of preserving it – with the latest dramas in Kiama they didn’t realise how important this mission would become!

Regardless, for many in attendance, it was their first visit to the cottage, which today houses the Kiama Maritime Museum.

IWhile the museum is a familiar stop for weekend tourists, locals were given a rare opportunity to experience it in a more intimate and immersive way.

Guests were guided through the story of Kiama Harbour and Robertson Basin – once the beating heart of the region’s economy.

In the early days of European settlement, the harbour thrived on the cedar trade, at a time when currency was scarce and workers were often paid in “grog” instead of wages.

By 1876, after a decade of construction, Robertson Basin had transformed the coastline into a functional deep-water harbour, driven by the lucrative blue metal industry that brought ships –and wealth – into Kiama.

At the centre of this maritime world was the harbour pilot. Built in 1881, the Pilot’s Cottage served as both residence and office for the man responsible for guiding vessels safely into port.

It is one of only two surviving pilot cottages in New South Wales, underscoring its rarity and significance.

The role was as varied as it was vital. From the cottage’s

verandah, the pilot would monitor incoming ships, communicating via signal flags and even large black balls hoisted into view.

He collected shipping fees on behalf of the government, reported weather conditions, and led the rocket brigade –an early lifesaving crew that deployed ropes to rescue sailors from stricken vessels during storms.

Today, it is recognised as a site of national significance.

After the success of the evening event, Sue Eggins and Tony Gilmour are hoping to build on the momentum, with plans for more evenings that invite locals back into their own story.

For now, Kiama Historical Society have plenty to celebrate, even whilst other local community groups are feeling threatenned.

In the leadup to Kiama Council’s extraordinary meeting on Tuesday 7 April, the future of the museum came into question.

Tony Gilmour spoke at the public forum, which preceded the meeting, and put the case forward for a longer lease and stability for this iconic establishment. During the meeting, Councillor Stuart

Larkins moved an amendment which specifically called out the ongoing protections for the Kiama Pilot’s Cottage, restrictions on Councillor conference attendance and noted the temporary, not permanent, nature of the changes.

The amendement was voted through, bringing a sigh of relief for Pilot’s Cottage allies.

Gilmour told The Bugle, “After five days of community panic, it was fantastic to hear last night our beloved museum has been saved and will remain on Blowhole Point.”

He added, “a letter writing campaign worked, using the technological wonders of email.”

Yet other community groups and services remain under threat.

“Dearest gentle readers, can I recommend you dust-down your quill pens (or keyboards) and let Councillors know your concerns,” says Gilmour.

And, if you haven’t visited, now might be the time.

The history of Kiama Harbour is not just for tourists – it belongs to the community, and nights like these are bringing it back to life

Historical local rivals

n any sport, there are times when two or three great rivals dominate, leaving the other clubs to wait a few seasons for a chance at glory.

In Group 7 rugby league, this has happened on many occasions.

Looking through an old collection I acquired from Athol Noble, I was reminded of such a period in the early 1970s, when Gerringong and Shellharbour vied for the top spot year after year. From 1970 to 1973, the two teams seemed to take turns as premiers, each boasting outstanding squads.

It was also a time when grand finals were not fixed to a single ground. Kiama Showground—surely one of the most picturesque football venues in the world— hosted the decider in 1970 and 1972, both times ending in Shellharbour defeats. By

1972, Shellharbour had played six grand finals at Kiama Showground—and lost them all.

The 1970 grand final at Kiama was sensational. Gerringong triumphed by the narrowest of margins, 17-15, after Michael Cronin kicked the winning goal in extra time. What made it truly remarkable was that Shellharbour played most of the match with only 12 men, following the early sendoff of their captain-coach, John Armstrong. The winning goal came after Roy Stewart— arguably the finest Aboriginal player the South Coast has produced—was interfered with following a kick. Stewart had a long and distinguished career with Gerringong.

Shellharbour got their revenge in 1971, defeating Gerringong 8-0 in a final played at Albion Park rather than Kiama.

In 1972, the two teams

clashed once more at Kiama Showground, and it was Gerringong’s turn to triumph.

The Kiama Independent credited the win to the brilliant play of the Cronin brothers, Michael and John. Michael’s goal-kicking proved particularly decisive—he had even scored 35 points in one 1970 match alone.

The rivalry continued into 1973, with both sides facing off in the season’s final match.

A preview article in the paper was written as if the result was already decided, predicting a Shellharbour victory. While some might assume the writer was a one-eyed supporter, the sentiment was understandable.

At the time, Michael Cronin had been selected for the NSW team from the Country competition, a significant honour, though many judged his performances insufficient

for the upcoming tour of Britain and France. Yet when his name was announced, the people of Gerringong celebrated, and the Kiama Independent devoted front-page coverage to his selection and subsequent tour performances. Michael excelled, becoming the top scorer—even ahead of legends like

Graeme Langlands— validating the controversial choice.

However, before the tour began, rugby league officials barred selected players from local competition to prevent injury. Deprived of their star player and captain-coach Bob McGuiness, Gerringong were no match for a talented Shellharbour side in the 1973

grand final. Sadly, the glory days for both clubs were over. Gerringong would not win another premiership until 1990, and Shellharbour waited until 2001. Yet those teams from 1970 to 1973 remain a proud chapter in the history of both clubs.

The Power of Playgroup

Emily Crisp

In the early days of motherhood, it is often the small things that make the biggest difference, a conversation with another adult, a hot cup of tea, or a place where children can play safely while parents take a moment to reset.

In Kiama, one of those places continues to bring local families together each week.

Held at Kiama Anglican Church during school terms, the Monday morning playgroup runs from 10am to 12pm, offering a relaxed and welcoming space for parents, carers and young children aged 0 to 5.

Even for babies who are not yet walking or talking, it can be a valuable reason to get out of the house, spend time in a new environment and connect with others during what can be an incredibly isolating stage of life.

While playgroup has long been part of early childhood life in Australia, its role remains just as important today, particularly as many parents look for connection and support during the early years. It’s just as much for the parents as it is for the kids.

“I love playgroup - it’s a great place to meet new people and spend time with others in the community,” one Kiama mum said. “It’s an enclosed space where the kids can play safely, we get a cup of tea, and there’s always someone to chat to.

“I look forward to it every week, and so do my kids.”

That mix of social connection and simple routine is part of the appeal. For children, playgroup offers opportunities to engage in craft, music and free play, helping build confidence, coordination and early friendships.

For parents and carers, it offers something just as valuable, the chance to connect with others going through the same stage of

life and season of parenting.

Across Australia, playgroups play an important role in building community, helping families form friendships, share experiences and support one another through the challenges of early parenthood.

In Kiama, that sense of community sits at the centre of the weekly gatherings.

Kathy Grigg, one of the volunteers, said being part of playgroup is something she genuinely enjoys.

“I love being around young mums, babies and toddlers. I really enjoy their company, and it keeps me feeling young,” she said. “For me, it’s also about putting my faith into action and sharing the time and experience I’ve been fortunate to have.”

Fellow volunteer Esther Vance said playgroup offers a safe and supportive space for families.

“It’s a place where mums, dads, grandparents and carers can come together while the children play and socialise,” she said. “I saw the benefits for my own children when they were young, and now I enjoy being able to give back and see another generation experience the same thing.”

She said one of the most rewarding parts is the connection.

“It’s always nice to take the time to listen to what’s going on in people’s lives and what matters to them.”

For many families, it becomes a regular part of the week, offering a chance to step outside the routine of home life and into a space where both children and adults feel supported. There’s no need to book, just a space to turn up to and feel included.

Playgroup is held at Kiama Anglican Church during term time on Monday mornings from 10am to 12pm. For more information, visit the Kiama Baby Playgroup page.

Emily Crisp

It might once have been associated with country halls and cowboy boots, but line dancing is finding a new audience in Kiama, with more local women, particularly mums, giving it a try.

Across Australia, the dance style has picked up momentum again, driven in part by social media and a shift in music trends. What was once considered niche is now showing up on TikTok feeds and in local halls, drawing in people who might never have considered it before.

In Kiama, that shift is playing out on the dance floor at Kiama High School.

Classes held on Monday and Thursday nights at 6:30pm are attracting a mix of ages and experience levels, with many first-timers coming along simply to try something different.

For one Kiama mum, it

started with a scroll.

Why more local mums are giving line dancing a go

“I kept seeing it all over TikTok and thought it looked like so much fun,” she said. “A few of us from my mother’s group decided to give it a go, and now we’ve been doing it for over a year and love it.”

What began as a one-off outing has quickly turned into a regular ritual.

“It makes us laugh to think we’ve hit the point in our lives where we’re line dancing in a school hall,” she said. “But it’s so much fun, and such a great way to exercise and get those endorphins going, without it feeling like a workout.”

Another local mum said it has also become a way to spend time together outside of parenting.

“It’s something we do just for us, without the kids,” she said. “We’ll often end up practising in the park while the kids are playing.

“We’re probably a bit obsessed, but it’s such a fun way to spend time together.”

Instructor Miss Zoe, who runs the classes, said the rise in popularity is not surprising.

“I think it’s come from a shift in pop music embracing more country sounds, and then line dancing following that,” she said. “From there, you’ve had lots of viral dances on TikTok and social media, which has introduced it to a whole new generation.”

She said that once people try it, they are often surprised by how much they enjoy it.

“After their first class, people always say how much fun they had and that it’s actually a workout,” she said.

“They don’t expect it to get their heart rate up, but it really does.”

For many, it is the combination of movement and connection that keeps them coming back.

“There’s a real sense of camaraderie in class,” she said.

“People enjoy learning the dances together and meeting new people.”

That mix of social connection and gentle fitness is part of the appeal. For many, it offers an easy way to stay active, connect with others and try something new, whether you are in your twenties or your seventies.

Miss Zoe said the format also makes it accessible for a wide range of people.

“Because the choreography is repetitive, it makes it easier to pick up, even if you’ve never danced before,” she said. “You can also put as much energy into it as you like, so it suits different fitness levels and abilities.”

With no partner required and options to adjust the intensity, it is a format that removes many of the barriers people often feel when trying something new.

Classes are held at Kiama High School on Monday and Thursday nights at 6:30pm. For more information, visit Miss Zoe’s Dance School website.

“A lighthouse for young men.”

Kiama mentors take on the manosphere

When Mark Burns crosses paths with a mate he doesn’t just ask “how are you?” Or give them an obligatory slap on the back. He pulls them into his orbit, hugs them tightly and says, “Love ya mate”.

The born and bred local knows “just about everyone” in Kiama and, in a bid to foster the strong community connections he grew up with, he started the Building Youth Mentality (BYM) Kiama mentoring program in 2021, a year after several young people in the region took their own lives.

“When we faced that awful trauma of young people taking their own lives, as a community we were all saying, ‘we need to do something,

what can we do’?” he says.

“Well, I’m a bit of a doer and I’d done some volunteer mentoring for a youth mentality program in Penrith and wanted to bring something like that to Kiama.”

So, he did, partnering with Kiama High School five years ago when the school, teaching cohort and wider community were left reeling by the string of suicides and young people needed “to find their tribes” more than ever before.

Building Youth Mentality is a 16-week program that Burns, and a cohort of community mentors facilitate at the school for a few hours every Wednesday.

“This ground-breaking project targets students in Year 10 who may be at risk of disengaging from high school or who have leadership

potential that requires further development,” according to Kiama High School’s modelling positive behaviour plan.

“These students, at the crossroads of teenage development, require intensive support to further develop their self-confidence, resilience and coping strategies.”

Burns is leading by example, “creating an environment of caring and empathy and compassion” for Kiama kids.

“We want them to walk away with the skills and confidence to become leaders in their community, but we also want young men to walk away from this program with lifelong community connections and relationships,” says Burns.

Building Youth Mentality, developed by psychologist and

Western Sydney University academic Brogan Mulhall, uses research-based principles of positive youth development and emotional connection to build a safe community for teens to share thoughts and feelings.

“Essentially it’s about young men finding their tribe,” explains Mulhall.

Young people from regional areas who took part in a Suicide Prevention Australia research study to identify the risks and protective factors in suicide prevention identified early access to social media, toxic online attitudes and behaviours and triggering content as a key risk factor in poor mental health.

National online watchdog the esafety commission and youth mental health service headspace also identified platforms like the ‘manosphere’ and the ‘femosphere’ – online communities that promote eating disorders as a form of empowerment rather than a health crisis – as putting young people at greater risk of self-harm and suicide.

“Building Young Men is about providing positive community-based opportunities to help our boys build competence in communicating their

thoughts, feelings and emotions so they’re not looking for their tribe online or in gangs,” says Brogan.

Instead, they are looking to their mentors and each other to build the skills, communication and connection needed to develop healthy relationships with themselves and their communities.

Burns describes the Building Young Men Kiama mentors as “lighthouses”.

“I think that’s the perfect analogy for our community,” he says.

“This program helps them build character and confidence.”

Headspace National Clinical Advisor Caroline Thain says conversations around toxic masculinity have increased, with the awardwinning drama Adolescence and a documentary series by Louis Theroux, putting the Manosphere under the microscope.

She points out the importance of “talking more about what healthy masculinity looks like” and says many school mentoring programs are doing just that.

“There’s a lot of really great work being done in our schools teaching emotional literacy and meeting young men

where they're at, which has been proven to be incredibly powerful and hopeful.

“There’s a lot of hope in these programs and the headway they're making in talking about and showing young men what it means to be a healthy man.”

“While some of those old stereotypes – talking about mental health and well-being is a sign of weakness – remain, these programs are providing a really important message to young people; that it's important to talk about these things throughout your life.” Burns and Mulhall couldn’t agree more and are a living example of this, both lighthouses to the hundreds of young men they have supported and mentored over the years, many of whom they remain in contact with.

“The feedback that we’ve had from the school, from the executive, from teachers around improved behaviour, decreased absenteeism, and stronger connections has just been wonderful,” says Burns.

“I was up at the school last week speaking to the Year 10 boys in this year’s program and I ran into some of the young men from previous years and we had a chat, because we're on the same team, we’re a part of something good.”

Making sense of the world

Carol Goddard

have always loved storms.

As a child, the noise of thunder never frightened me, probably because my grandpa told me it was God playing Bowls. I always believed him.

As a young child I spent many hours on Bondi beach, and the very best days, the most memorable, were the stormy ones.

Call us crazy, but my dad and I would stay on the beach as a storm rolled in, while the more sensible beachgoers would make a hasty exit. Dad would bundle up our stuff under a beach towel and together we'd hit the surf. We had Bondi beach to ourselves, a rare occurrence in summer.

To this day, I still love swimming in the rain.

As a storm approaches, I start to think about how our memories, both good and

bad, are evoked by our senses.

The approaching thunder in Kiama makes me think of blissful, rainy Bondi beach days decades ago. Memories for me, and probably for most people, flood back when the senses are heightened.

Hearing birdsong is calming, relaxing, almost spiritual. As is the sound of waves lapping the shore.

Music cues your senses. How often do you remember a person, or incident from your life, simply by hearing a certain piece of music?

In my case, whenever I hear Mozart's Eine Kleine Nachtmusik I see myself back in my school hall on any given morning , Monday to Friday, for the entire six years of my high school education. That piece was played through the speakers each morning at Assembly. Every morning for six years, or so it seemed. Needless to say, I know every note.

My favourite sound?

A popping Champagne cork. I think of festivity, of Christmas with friends and family, of celebration.

How great is having the sense of smell? The odour of fish sauce immediately brings to mind a trip to Cambodia in 2000, where we stayed for a while in Siem Reap.

Twenty six years later, whenever I'm cooking with fish sauce I think of that trip, of the magnificence of Ankor Wat, of beautiful Cambodia . As with our other senses, the gift of sight can be magical, inspiring too.

Seeing the sun rise, or watching it set; the moon and stars on a very black night; the vibrant colours and textures of rainforest or bush or desert, we are blessed. At a time when the world is in turmoil, these are the positive things I am going to focus on.

GHOST FUNGI LIGHT UP THE ILLAWARRA

Now is the hour: it’s autumn, and the ghost fungi of the Illawarra are literally glowing in the dark. The season is only just starting, and they will be visible for the next four to six weeks.

Some tourists travel hundreds of kilometres just to see them.

David Finlay, citizen scientist extraordinaire, recently gave a talk on these most curious life forms at the Kiama Library.

“This week, in Gerroa, I came across a gentleman from the Blue Mountains. He travelled several hours just to see them,” he says.

“We get a lot down at Gerroa, at Seven Mile Beach in the National Park — sometimes hundreds on one dead tree — because it is protected. There are plenty of banksias, and they love dead banksias.

“That spectacle is not just seeing half a dozen at the base of a dead tree; it is literally hundreds of these bright green fungi. They look incredible in photographs.”

One of the most fascinating aspects of the ghost fungi is that nobody knows why they glow in the dark. We haven’t been able to figure it out.

“An early theory was that the glow attracts insects, but they also attract plenty of insects during the day because of their smell,” he says.

“I have a theory that the light attracts leopard slugs, because we see the slugs eating them once they are old enough to glow. They don’t eat them before they start glowing.

They digest the mycelium in the fungi, leave a trail, and help distribute the mycelium throughout the forest.”

Finlay says the ghost fungi that we see are just the fruit of the organism, much like apples are the fruit of an apple tree.

“The technical name is mycelium,” he explains.

“What we see – the fungi – is the fruit of the mycelium. The fungi digest rotting wood. They live in the dirt and rotting vegetation. The ghost fungi live for about 10 to 14 days but

Bestselling crime author to Speak at Kiama Library

Fans of crime fiction won’t want to miss this special event at Kiama Library on Friday, April 17.

Internationally acclaimed author Candice Fox will share insights into her writing and career during an evening talk starting at 6 pm. Known for her gripping thrillers and fast-paced storytelling, Fox has earned a devoted global following and numerous literary awards. She is the bestselling author of the Crimson Lake series, which was adapted into the ABC TV series Troppo, and has co-written novels with crime-writing legend James Patterson. Her books are celebrated for their complex characters, sharp dialogue, and page-turning plots.

Attendees will hear Fox discuss her writing process, inspiration, and the world of crime fiction publishing. The evening includes a Q&A

session and an opportunity to purchase and have books signed.

Library representatives say strong interest is expected from readers across the Illawarra.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to meet one of Australia’s most successful crime writers,” a spokesperson said. “We’re thrilled to host an author of Candice Fox’s calibre and provide a space for readers to connect with her work.”

Event Details:

• What: Author Talk with Candice Fox

• Where: Kiama Library

• When: Friday, April 17

• Time: 6:00 pm –8:00 pm

• Cost: $25 Friends members, $30 guests (includes drinks and nibbles)

• Bookings: Online at TryBooking, at the library, or call 02 4233 1133

will only glow for about five to seven days.”

Finlay says his fascination with ghost fungi was a natural progression from his interest in science and astronomy as a kid, which got him used to being out at night.

“I found out about them about 10 years ago,” he says. “That was when I first moved to Kiama. I first heard about them in the Southern Highlands and would travel up there to see them. Then I found out we had them here as well.”

“I have seen them pop up in people’s backyards in Kiama,” he adds.

“They have been here long before humans walked the country. These mushrooms are prehistoric. We are encroaching on their territory.”

Finlay gives one warning: definitely don’t eat them. “They won’t kill you, but you will be violently ill if you do. And they taste terrible.”

Follow his work on Instagram: @davefinlaydigital

Nature at The Garden

Myah Garza

The Garden Cafe Berry is hosting muchloved South Coast artist Kerry Bruce’s newest exhibition Nature.

Running from 1–28 April, the solo exhibition invites visitors to explore emotion through the natural world, using blooms, landscapes, and wildlife as key elements.

Bruce’s expressive markmaking and layered colour capture moments of stillness, movement and reflection,

guided by an intuitive, organic process that balances intention with spontaneity. Rather than literally depicting a scene, Bruce says each work aims to translate an inner state, a transient emotion, or a sense of calm into a visual experience.

Set within The Garden’s relaxed, welcoming space, the exhibition offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a meal while engaging with the artwork. All pieces are available for purchase before the exhibition closes on 28 April.

Ngununggula art gallery celebrates women across generations

Amajor new all-women exhibition celebrating storytelling, culture, and community will open at the regional art gallery, Ngununggula this April, bringing together leading First Nations artists to explore the vital role of women across generations.

Old Days, New Days | Arltaimankinya, Arlta-errama, on view from 18 April to 14 June 2026, brings together artists from Tangentyere Artists and Yarrenyty Arltere Artists alongside Arrernte and Kalkadoon artist Thea Anamara Perkins.

The exhibition highlights the everyday contributions women make through care, gathering, and storytelling.

Many of the works reflect collective practices, reinforcing the importance

of shared knowledge and community connection. These practices are shown through a diverse range of media, including painting, sculpture, textiles, video, and works on paper.

At its core, Old Days, New Days is grounded in connection. It reflects the bonds between artists, their families, and their communities, as well as the collaborative relationships between the organisations supporting their work.

A key highlight is Perkins’ portrait series of Tangentyere Artists from The Slattery Collection, which offers an intimate look at senior artists and their practices.

An immersive installation by Marjorie ‘Nunga’ Williams will also invite audiences into her storytelling world, based on her illustrated children’s book.

Old Days, New Days continues Ngununggula’s annual commitment to elevating Australian women artists through its Artists’ Circle initiative. Since its launch in 2022, the program has consistently championed female voices, building a platform for recognition, visibility, and cultural storytelling.

Located within the historic grounds of Retford Park, Ngununggula is an awardwinning regional gallery that has quickly become a key cultural destination in the Southern Highlands, known for its dynamic exhibition program and strong community focus.

Meaning “belonging” in the language of the Gundungurra People, the gallery is dedicated to celebrating cultural identity and artistic exchange through exhibitions, workshops and

public programs, offering multiple exhibition areas, an education space, and a setting surrounded by gardens, providing a fitting backdrop for this upcoming exhibition.

what’s on?

Kerry Bruce Exhibition

Wed 1 Apr-Tue 28 Apr

Garden Cafe, Berry

Youth Art and Design

Exhibition

Wed 1 Apr- Thu 30 Apr

Shellharbour Civic Centre

showcasing some amazing artworks by young local artists to celebrate Youth Week 2026

Drop In Art Play

Thu 9 Apr-Tue 14 Apr, 9am

Joyce Wheatley Building, Kiama

A Simple Concept = Drop in - stay for a while, paint what you’d like.

Kiama Sculpture Walk

Fri 10 Apr- Sat 18 Jul

Black Beach, Kiama

Experience the wonderment created by Australian sculptors for gardens and public spaces

Kiama Textiles Art group

meeting

Sat 11 Apr, 10am-12:30pm

Kiama Library

Meet on the second Saturday of the month

The Joy of Renewal: Recycled paper Creation

Sat 11 Apr. 10am

Shellharbour Civic Centre

Weave, fold, and sculpt recycled magazine pages into fresh new forms, guided by Michelle Springett

Workshop with John Gabriele: Pests, Diseases and Disorders

Sat 11 Apr, 11am-1pm

Burnetts on Barney, Kiama Workshop that will help you protect your plants and keep your garden thriving.

Flavours of Asia

Wed 15 Apr, 5pm

Cedar Cutters, Kiama Leagues Club

Line-up of curated shared dining experiences

The Simple Gift of a Bag

Thu 16 Apr, 9am-3pm

Kiama Men’s Shed Weekly woodworking workshop

Jamberoo Anzac Service

Sat 18 Apr, 10:30am

Jamberoo Community Hall Service and march, followed by morning tea

Friday Night Clay Date

Fri 24 Apr, 6:30pm

Soul Clay Studios, Gerringong 2 hour one-off pottery experience

The Enchanted Forest - In Bloom

Tue 24 Apr-Sun 17 May, 6pm

Blackbutt Forest Reserve

Transform the forest into a luminous. journey of light,

colour and sound

ANZAC Kiama Dawn Service

Sat 25 Apr, 5:30am

Blowhole Point, Kiama Kiama-Jamberoo RSL SubBranch conducting an Anzac Day Dawn Service

ANZAC Day Kiama Main service

Sat 25 Apr, 10:45am

Kiama Council Chambers

Parade from Council

Chambers to Collins Street

ANZAC Day at Club Jamberoo

Sat 25 Apr, 2pm Club Jamberoo

Come together to honour and remember the brave men and women who have served the country

Kiama Anglican Church

ANZAC Service

Sun 26 April, 8am

Historic Christ Church, Kiama

Kiss Arts Festival

24-26 Apr

Kiama

More info to come

The Simple Gift of a Bag

Thu 30 Apr, 9am-3pm

Kiama Men’s Shed Weekly woodworking workshop

Berry Quilt Show

Fri 1 May-Sun 3 May

Berry School of Arts

Bi-annual Quilt Show with raffles and challenges

Kiama Textiles Art group meeting

Sat 9 May, 10am-12:30pm

Kiama Library

Meet on the second Saturday of the month

SEEN Women’s Conference

Sat 16 May, 9am-4pm

Kiama Baptist Church

A day of inspiration, and empowerment

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

Thu 21 May, 10am-1pm

Kiama Pavilion

Hosted by Cedar on Collins, raising funds for cancer

The Jamberoo Red Cross, RFS, fUKEr fundraiser

Sat 23 May, 7pm-11pm

Jamberoo School of Arts fUKErs concert fundraising for Jamberoo RFS and Red Cross

Kiama Red Cross Fun Run

Sun 7 Jun, from 7am Kiama

3 distances to walk/run, fundraiser for Australian Red Cross

Vinnies CEO Sleepout Thu 18 Jun

Fundraiser for the homeless

BIG YEAR AHEAD FOR KIAMA QUARRIERS

Kiama Quarriers Football Club is gearing up for one of its biggest seasons yet, with a record eight teams set to take the field in 2026 as the club continues to build both on and off the pitch.

The growth has been driven largely by the women’s side of the club, with two additional teams introduced this season, including a brand new Division 2 squad and an over 40s side.

“We’ve got eight teams this year, which is an increase of two from last year,” club secretary Nerissa Peterson said. “Those extra teams are in the women’s competition, which is really exciting for us.”

The women’s competition kicks off this weekend, with a historic moment for the club as all four women’s teams will play at home on Sunday.

“We’ll have two fields going with games back-toback, which is the first time in the club’s history we’ve had that many women’s teams all playing at home,” Peterson said. “It’ll be pretty awesome.”

Leading the charge again this year is the Division 1 women’s side, who are coming off a premiershipwinning season and have carried that form into 2026.

The team recently competed in the Julie Porter pre-season cup against top-tier Premier League opposition, finishing at the top of their pool.

They defeated reigning Premier League champions Woonona Sharks 1-0, drew 1-1 with runners-up Shoalhaven, and produced a dominant 8-2 win over Thirroul Thunderbirds.

“They’ve been going really well,” Peterson said. “They even beat the reigning Premier League team, so that’s been a huge confidence boost.”

The side will now play in the semi-final on April 29, with hopes of continuing their strong start to the year.

On the men’s side, all teams have returned from last season, with the club fielding over 45s, over 35s, and two all-age sides in Division 2 and Division 4.

There are also fresh changes off the field, with new coaching structures introduced to help push the club forward.

“The men’s all-age teams have a new coach this year,” Peterson said. “Last year we had player-coaches, so having a standalone coach should help improve performance.”

While results in the opening round were mixed, the focus for the Quarriers remains firmly on long-term growth and sustainability.

“The main goal is to sustain all our teams, especially with the extra numbers this year,” Peterson said. “But we’re also looking to strengthen both the women’s and men’s sides and keep building toward Premier League.”

A key part of that vision is developing pathways from juniors into senior football, something the club is actively working to improve.

“We’re bringing juniors through and supporting that transition into senior football,” Peterson said. “We’re also building stronger connections with the junior club to make sure that pathway is there.”

Off the field, the club is continuing to build its culture, with strong community engagement and social events playing a big role in its recent growth.

“I think last year’s success definitely helped bring more players in,” Peterson said. “But it’s also the culturewe’ve had great numbers at events and there’s a really positive feeling around the club.”

With momentum building, a growing player base, and strong performances already on display, Kiama Quarriers are shaping up for a season that could be about much more than just results.

“It’s all heading in a really good direction,” Peterson said.

Local 21-year-old takes out Husky Half Ironman

Lleyton Hughes

Kiama local Toby Martin, 21, was sitting in third place at the Husky Half Ironman when he took a wrong turn on the bike course.

The derailment added an extra 2.5km onto the 90km he was already doing and lost him around five minutes in the race.

Instead of letting the mistake derail him, Martin decided to push harder on the run.

“I just put the hammer down and thought, ‘I’ll either make up time or blow up.’ And then I caught the leader with about three kilometres to go,” Martin said.

Martin delivered a personal best on the run and crossed the finish line in first place with a time of three hours, 41 minutes and 32 seconds (the swim section of the race was cancelled due to strong winds), taking the win by just over a minute.

“It’s always nice raising the tape - especially at Husky. It’s a pretty well-known race. I wanted to win my age group, but it’s always in the back of my mind to win the whole thing. You never really know

what to expect on the day, but I was stoked.”

Martin only took up triathlons two years ago, starting with the Melbourne 70.3 while living in Victoria.

“I played AFL growing up, so I was always in decent shape. After I stopped, I kept fit with running and a bit of swimming. Then I stumbled across the Melbourne 70.3 and signed up without really knowing what I was getting into,” he said.

“I got a coach, bought a bike, did the race - and after that I was completely hooked.”

He completed his first race in around four hours and 30 minutes before steadily improving, cutting ten minutes off at Geelong and another ten at Western Sydney.

“I kept taking pretty big chunks of time off. Then at the end of last year I did the Busselton Ironman,” he said.

Martin finished his debut Ironman in eight hours and 59 minutes, winning his age group and qualifying for the Ironman World Championships in Kona this October.

“A full Ironman is a whole different beast. It’s brutal, but I love it - the way you can push yourself to your limits

and go to dark places. I really enjoy that. And I love the training,” he said. Martin trains seven days a week, dedicating 20–30 hours to swimming, cycling, and running. Alongside his training, he studies Exercise Science at university and works part-time.

“I don’t really have much free time - and when you do, you just want to sleep,” he laughed.

For Martin, the commitment is simple - he’s found his passion and wants to see how far he can take it.

“I want to be a professional. I want to go pro and win big races. I want to be the best. I love the sport and I love getting better every day - I think I’ve found my real passion,” he said.

Martin plans to compete in Wollongong next weekend and then Western Sydney before his big ironman at Kona on 10 October in the World Championships. At 21, Martin is chasing his dreams and is currently on the lookout for sponsors to support him on his journey.

For any sponsorship enquiries, contact: tobymartin09@icloud.com

Kiama Hockey Club’s first grade return marked with statement win

Lleyton Hughes

Kiama Hockey Club’s long-awaited return to first grade women’s hockey has started in the best possible way, with a 1-0 win marking the side’s first appearance in the top grade in 23 years.

It’s a moment more than two decades in the making, and for the club, it represents far more than just a result on the scoreboard.

“It’s a massive milestone for Kiama Hockey Club,” CoPresident Nichole Benoit said.

“For 23 years, we’ve had a gap in our pathway. When our players reached a certain level, they often had to leave Kiama to play top level hockey elsewhere.

Fielding this team means we can finally keep our best talent within the club.”

The return of a first

grade side hasn’t happened overnight. It’s been built on years of steady growth, highlighted by a standout 2025 season where Kiama had all four women's teams reach their respective grand finals.

“Having all four teams in the grand finals in 2025 was a massive achievement for our club,” Benoit said.

“It showed the depth across our club and the strength was there across all grades. That success gave the players the confidence to take the step up to first grade and proved to the committee that we were ready.”

That depth is now clearly visible in the first grade side, with the majority of the team coming through Kiama’s junior system.

“Most of these players started in our juniors,” Benoit said. “We’ve spent years focusing on coaching

and retaining our younger players, and now we’re seeing the results.

“These girls have played together for a long time, and that connection and commitment are vital at this level.”

On the field, Kiama’s first outing showed they belong.

A tight 1-0 win in their trial match gave an early glimpse of what the side is capable of against top-level opposition.

“It was a solid start,” Benoit said. “A 1-0 win shows we can hold our own against high level opposition. The girls handled the increased speed and skill of the game really well. It was a great confidence builder.”

But beyond the result, the return of a first grade team represents something much bigger for the future of the club.

“This team creates a direct path for our juniors,” Benoit

said. “They no longer need to leave to play at the highest level - they can do it right here at Kiama.

It sets a new benchmark and keeps the club strong and competitive moving forward.”

After more than two decades without a top-grade women’s side, Kiama Hockey Club is finally seeing the vision it set out years ago come to life.

“I want to thank the committee and volunteers who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this happen,” Benoit said.

“It’s been a long road, but seeing a First Grade Kiama team back on the turf makes all that effort worth it. This was always our long-term plan as a club - and now we’re ready for a big season.”

Their next game is this week against Albion Park at Croom Hockey Centre.

Kiama to headline Group 7 Magic Round on home soil

Lleyton Hughes

Kiama will take centre stage this weekend, hosting all five first grade matches for Group 7’s Magic Round at Kiama Showground on Saturday, April 11.

The action-packed day kicks off at 11:30am, but it’s the final match of the night that will have local fans’ attention, with defending premiers Kiama Knights taking on the Shellharbour Stingrays at 6:10pm.

Despite a few changes to the squad, Knights fullback Brad Killmore says the side remains strong heading into their title defence.

“There’s a few changes within the squad with a couple of boys leaving or playing rep footy, but 90 per cent of the team is still the same as last year and looking very strong,” he said.

Earlier in the day, the return of the Warilla Gorillas adds another exciting storyline, with the club re-entering first grade after sitting out last season.

They’ll face the Gerringong Lions at 4:30pm, with plenty of intrigue around how Warilla will perform after their absence.

“I’m pretty excited to watch Warilla play because they’re always a pretty strong team, so it’ll be interesting to see how they go,” new Albion

Park recruit Drew Hutchinson said.

The third match of the day sees Albion Park Oak Flats take on Nowra-Bomaderry at 2:50pm, with the Eagles shaping as one of the competition heavyweights.

Albion Park have recruited former NRL players Drew Hutchinson and Rhys Kennedy, adding serious firepower.

The day opens with Shellharbour Sharks taking on Jamberoo Superoos at 11:30am, with the Sharks out to break a frustrating run of three straight grand final losses.

Jamberoo, meanwhile, will be looking to reestablish themselves after a

challenging few seasons.

Group 7 Rugby League is expecting a big turnout for the second annual Magic Round, with the event continuing to grow as a key fixture on the local sporting calendar.

“Everyone is looking forward to this milestone in Group 7, and we’re committed to raising the bar with new initiatives and programs to strengthen rugby league in our region,” said Group 7 Rugby Leagues Operations Manager Ashton Sims.

“It’s about bringing rugby league and the community together and giving people a great day out while showcasing the competition.”

Hayden Sleigh Ulladullaslaystitle

Albion Park Rail’s rising tennis talent Hayden Sleigh has continued his impressive run of form, recently returning from the Regional Match Play Series in Ulladulla where he captured the Under-15 singles title.

The 14-year-old has been rewarded for his outstanding progress, earning the prestigious Most Improved Junior Award for 2025 from the Kiama and Shellharbour District Tennis Association (KSDTA).

Hayden’s success has been building steadily over the past year.

In a special event held late last year for players graduating from Saturday morning competition, he claimed victory in the inaugural Invitational Cup, further highlighting his ability to perform in highquality fields.

On the regional circuit, Hayden has also recorded strong results in Regional Match Play (RMS) events, securing tournament wins in both Picton and Wollongong, demonstrating consistency across multiple venues.

He is coached by former Australian 45 Men’s Senior Champion Brett Edwards, who works with players at Oak Flats and Albion Park. Edwards brings a wealth of

experience, having previously coached at the Institute of Sport in Canberra before relocating to the Illawarra, and has played a key role in Hayden’s development. Hayden has also taken a significant step forward by competing in the highly competitive Wednesday Men’s Night Competition. Recently promoted to the McDonald Park Division 1 team, he has partnered with Tom Howle, a former top district junior and now coach at the McDonald Park courts. The pair have formed a strong combination and are firmly in contention for a semi-final berth in early June.

At just 14 years of age, Hayden is already making his mark in senior competition, joining a distinguished list of past junior standouts including Brett Poll, Stuart O’Shannessey, Mick Warren, Trevor Crisp, and Andy Schymitzek.

Hayden’s journey is also supported by a strong family background in the sport, with both of his parents having been junior champions in the Wollongong and Kiama regions.

With his rapid improvement, competitive success, and strong support network, Hayden Sleigh is shaping as one of the Illawarra’s most promising young tennis players.

KIAMA WOMEN’S 1ST GRADE HOCKEY

Local Lens

Jon Harris

Jon Harris is a Gerringong-based photographer known for capturing the South Coast’s everchanging landscapes, from dramatic coastal sunrises to quiet, intimate moments in nature. His fine art prints are inspired by a deep appreciation for the local environment, aiming to bring a sense of place into people’s homes. Alongside his artistic work, Harris collaborates with local businesses to create high-quality imagery that showcases the region at its best. Explore Harris’ fine art print collection at jonharris.photography or follow along @jonharris_photography.

GERRINGONG

KIAMA UNDER 10S HOCKEY