The Bugle News 20 February 2026

New eatery hooks in p9

On a Sevens mission p24

BRAZEN THIEVES PUT

John Stapleton

They would have been cowering in fear and desperately ringing triple zero, if only they had known.

The security camera footage is startling.

Three cars were parked in the garage at the luxury residence in Gerroa. There were obviously people at home. But that didn’t stop the brazen attempt at a home invasion recently.

The security footage shows two men in hoodies, with masks covering much of their faces. They arrive shortly after 2.50am and can be seen trying the front door, two windows and a side door at the rear of the house.

Fortunately for Ian and Janice Dolan, the owners of this picturesque property, and equally fortunately for their three female visitors, all the doors were security-locked and the windows safely secured. They are shocked by the blatant nature of it all. The footage shows the wouldbe home invaders checking

all the car doors at the front of the house, unfazed by the lights coming on.

Without any alarms being triggered, the Dolans slept through it all. They only discovered the terrifying incident – which could have ended very badly for both of them – through happenstance. Ian’s sisterin-law, a meticulous person, insisted someone had been in her car and stolen her remote.

He brushed it off at first, but she was persistent. Finally, he thought she’s not the sort of person who would misplace anything and he checked the security camera footage.

“It is bloody terrifying,” says Ian. “As people get older they feel more vulnerable. How would you like to be an octogenarian and have a stranger roaming through your house? They were so casual. The lights came on at the front of the property and they didn’t even hesitate.

“It feels like you lose a lot of your freedom. You should be able to relax and feel free in your home. It is an awful proposition.”

He is thankful there were no young children in the house. “My wife had broken her foot and couldn’t walk at the time. What am I going to do? I am not going to move while they are holding a knife at my wife’s throat. They have no fear. They don’t care whether they kill you or not.”

Janice says they are now more diligent: “We live in such a beautiful place, you are always a target. We’re religiously checking; everything is locked all the time.”

Ian has dropped leaflets throughout his neighbourhood, warning everyone of what has happened. As a result, residents are updating their cameras and their security. One neighbour, who asked to remain anonymous, said she was thinking of getting a Bull Terrier.

Her security footage shows the would-be thieves walking past her home at 3.01am. “They were so brazen,” she says. “They were rattling the doors of one of my neighbours. It is frightening.” Potential thieves know the enclave – with spectacular views down Seven Mile Beach – is wealthy. The Dolans bought their property in 2003 for just over a million dollars, then a record for the area. “It was more than I could afford at the time,” says Ian. “There were dolphins jumping out of the surf as

Continued - Page 2

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When music fills our streets

There are a few weekends each year when Kiama feels a little different.

The streets are busier, the venues hum a bit louder, and music drifts into places it doesn’t usually reach.

You see familiar faces, along with plenty of new ones, all sharing the same spaces and the same moments.

The Jazz Festival has long been one of those weekendsnot just because of the music, but because of the feeling it creates across the town.

This year looks a little different. After nearly four decades, the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival Committee has pressed pause on the event, with plans to return for a special 40th anniversary

celebration in 2027. That decision wasn’t made lightly, and it reflects just how much time, energy and commitment goes into running a festival of this scale year after year.

But what hasn’t changed is the community’s love of live music - or the importance of this weekend to Kiama.

When the festival went into recess, Council worked closely with local businesses and venues to help keep live music alive across town during the traditional festival weekend.

The result is a communityled live music weekend, with venues curating their own performances and Council playing a simple coordinating role - helping connect people, promote what’s happening and support local effort.

When music spills into streets, pubs and community spaces, something special

happens. You see people of all ages out enjoying themselves.

Locals mix easily with visitors who’ve travelled from near and far, drawn by great music and a beautiful setting.

There’s a sense of joy and energy you can’t manufacture ... and you certainly can’t put a price on.

What I’ve always loved about the Jazz Festival, and what carries through into this year’s music weekend, is the way everyday places become shared experiences.

You might wander into a venue without knowing who’s playing, only to find yourself captivated by someone you’ve never heard of - and still talking about it long after the night ends. That’s the power of culture in a regional community. The festival also carries deep history.

For 39 years it has been

shaped by passionate locals who believed Kiama should be a place where music and creativity thrive.

Many people have given their time and energy to make it what it is today, and it’s important we acknowledge those contributions - and those we’ve lost along the way.

These events become woven into the fabric of a town, through friendships, familiar faces and memories people look forward to revisiting each year. In regional communities, culture and the arts don’t always get the attention they deserve. They can be taken for granted or noticed most when they’re under pressure.

But moments like this remind us why they matter — not just for visitors or local businesses, but for connection, wellbeing and pride of place.

Events like the Jazz Festival

don’t just entertain - they shape the character of a town. They bring people into shared spaces, create memories that last well beyond a weekend, and remind us that culture has a place in everyday life, not just on special occasions.

If we want Kiama to remain a place that feels alive, welcoming and connected, we need to continue valuing and supporting the events that make it so.

Because when music fills our streets, it’s a sign of a community that isn’t just growing - but truly thriving. Or these moments, when our streets are filled with sound and celebration, speak to a community that honours its people, its culture and the spaces where our stories unfold.

Please note - this is paid content

Brazen thieves put Gerroa locals on edge

- From Page 1

the auction was going on, and I got auction fever.”

A million dollars gets you nowhere anymore, with small blocks of land on the ocean side of the street fetching more than five million.

That sort of money attracts thieves, making locals nervous. Some of Ian’s friends, even with their doors locked, routinely sleep with baseball bats or iron bars beside their beds.

“One day those thieves are going to wake up the wrong person,” Ian says.

“Nothing good is going to come out of this.”

The footage of the incident, along with the number plate of a car circling the block at the time, have been passed to the police.

According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, only 13 per cent of break and enter offences in the state are ever solved.

Kiama MP Katelin McInerney said the NSW Government was focused on ensuring peace of mind for residents, which is “why we are delivering extra Police assigned to the Lake Illawarra Command this year”.

“I know any attempted break-and-enter would be deeply worrying to local residents and distressing for the family impacted and it is important for the community to know that the Police not only take these matters seriously but are acting to arrest individuals found committing these crimes,” she told The Bugle

“When I spoke to Superintendent Commander Darren Brand, of Lake Illawarra Command, about this matter and the community’s concerns about recent break-and-

enter events, he confirmed Police have already investigated a number of these cases and that Police have made a number of arrests related to break and enter in Kiama over the past few weeks.

“I will continue to work with our local command and support the community in this as we all want the same thing –safe streets, secure homes and peace of mind for our families and neighbours.

“Superintendent Brand also reiterated that simple steps like locking your doors, securing your home and vehicles, as well

as reporting suspicious behaviour can make a real difference.”

McInerney said residents should call Crime Stoppers, contact the Police Assistance Line or visit Kiama Police Station, which is open daily between 9am to 5pm, and she also recommended downloading the Protect Your Home document from the NSW Police website for tips on keeping your property secure.

Lake Illawarra Police District was requested for comment but did not responded. Kiama Council chose not to comment.

Paws for thought Carers needed for puppy love

Danielle Woolage

Calling all South Coast puppy lovers, Assistance Dogs Australia needs your help.

The organisation is calling for volunteers who work from home, are retired or have flexible schedules and live within 100km of Sydney to help raise the next generation of life-changing assistance dogs.

Puppy raisers like Beth Kates provide loving homes for puppies aged 8-18 weeks, socialising, training and integrating them into their everyday lives until the dogs are around 15 months old.

They then return to Assistance Dogs Australia for intensive training before finding their forever homes with people with physical disability, children and families with autism, and people with post-traumatic stress disorder.

When Beth moved from England two years ago she had to leave her own beloved pooches behind as they were in their twilight years and she was concerned the long journey and quarantine requirements would be too much for them.

Desperately missing her dogs, she decided to volunteer with Assistance Dogs Australia, bringing Cairo - a black labrador puppy - into her home with her teenage sons.

“I really missed having dogs around,” says Beth. “I came from a farm in England and now I live in a city so becoming a puppy raiser for ADA was a really good way for me to have

four paws on the floor.

“They go everywhere with you, the shops, the cinema, everywhere, they have to because you are training to be able to eventually go everywhere for the people they support.

“You get a much closer bond than you would with a normal pet dog. They become really bonded with you, look at you all the time for guidance as to what they should be doing and do everything you ask of them because that’s what they need to be doing as assistance dogs.”

When it was time to say goodbye to Cairo, Beth was “heartbroken”.

“I absolutely fell in love with him. He was amazing, so saying goodbye was really, really hard,” she said.

“But then I saw him two months after he went back to national training and he definitely remembered me and he was just giving me lots of big hugs.”

The only way to get over missing Cairo was to “get another puppy to raise” and she is now training a golden labrador called Nancy.

ADA volunteer program

manager Kristie Worthy said puppy volunteers were essential to the success of the organisation’s programs.

“By opening their homes and their lives to a puppy, volunteers help shape calm, confident dogs who will one day provide independence and support to someone who truly needs it,” she said.

Draisma avoids censure as political drama swirls

Paul Suttor

Kiama Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters has shot down suggestions that a code of conduct investigation into fellow Councillor Imogen Draisma was politically motivated.

“Assistance dogs change lives, but they don’t get there on their own. Every assistance dog starts out as a puppy, and every puppy needs a dedicated volunteer to guide them through those critical early months.”

Beth says training highenergy labradors - the preferred breed for Assistance Dogs Australia - required patience and daily practice.

“Assistance dogs need to be able to open doors or a drawer, they need to be able to bring somebody the remote control, to go in a crate and stay there and not rush out when you open the door,” she explained.

“You want a perfectly behaved dog. And so getting to that point requires daily

that they've got the best ever manners.

“And you see most Labradors are not like that as puppies but they are very food driven so it’s our job to teach them!”

Volunteers receive training and support with frequent visits from a field trainer and the Assistance Dogs Australia community.

“Some days the training can be tricky," added Beth.

"If the dog's a bit distracted, it's too hot, there's other dogs around, but knowing that you are doing it to help people who need assistance in their daily life keeps you motivated.

For more information or to register interest, visit assistancedogs.org.au/ volunteer

Council went into confidential session on Tuesday night to, among other things, discuss and vote on a motion after an investigation into Cr Draisma’s conduct. The report from an external investigator, was tabled after she had disclosed information from confidential construction documents at a Council meeting last May during discussion about rezoning plans for Gerringong Surf Club. After a discussion of more than half an hour on Tuesday, Councillors voted not to proceed with enforcing the code of conduct breach against Cr Draisma.

Council resolved that they would not follow the investigator’s recommendation to censure Cr Draisma because she had “made a full and frank apology to her colleagues, CEO and staff, and gave an undertaking that her future conduct will comply with the code of conduct for councilors and the Local Government Act of NSW”.

When contacted by The Bugle, Cr Draisma said: “I am thankful for the support of my councillor colleagues on this matter.”

There has been speculation that the investigation was politically motivated but Cr Matters angrily denied that was the case and in her view, she does not want Council to go back to the bad old days of backstabbing each other.

“What happens on the floor of state Parliament has nothing to do with what happens in our Council Chambers and whoever

is suggesting otherwise should be more worried about the community rather than stirring up trouble about Council,” she said. “For anyone to say this code of conduct proceeding against her was a politically motivated attack is nonsense. We don’t react to rumours, we rely on facts.

“I’m not the slightest bit interested about who’s in government, whether it’s Labor or Liberal. I’m interested in the community and that they’re getting what they’re entitled to receive.

“What I find disappointing is that an issue like this is weaponised politically in Council when this whole investigation was purely about someone who is fully aware of the councillor rules and legislation and we’ve accepted her apology.”

At the time, Cr Draisma was working for Wollongong MP Paul Scully and has been performing the role of senior electorate officer for Kiama MP Katelin McInerney since her victory in last September’s by-election.

Cr Draisma was subsequently asked by a fellow councillor at an ordinary meeting how she received the confidential information about the surf club plans but she refused to divulge where it came from. Kiama Council declined to comment on the matter.

Tuesday’s Council meeting also discussed the hot topic of fireworks. Destination Kiama is aiming to get Council to commit to funding this year’s event after it was cancelled last New Year’s Eve while Cr Erica Warren moved a motion for other locations in the LGA to be considered for events apart from the traditional Black Beach viewing area. Her motion received solid support and the CEO has been tasked with developing a range of feasible models such as a “light-based drone show”, ticketing for events and partnerships with local businesses to alleviate costs.

Akuna

St

Should Kiama keep iconic but imported Norfolk Pines?

proposal gets green light with Caliope next cab

The four-storey proposal on the southern side of Akuna Street is a step closer to reality after Kiama Council on Tuesday night voted unanimously to approve the updated development application.

A 38-apartment complex will be built at 14 Akuna St which will also house four commercial units on the ground floor.

After the initial DA was lodged, Council staff informed the developer that it would need to alter its plans and an updated submission was lodged. Despite concerns over non-compliance with building height and floor to space ratio limits, all nine Councillors voted to approve the proposal.

Councillor Melinda Lawton raised concerns about adopting the plan but was reassured by Council’s director strategies and communities Ed Paterson, who said the noncompliance “variations” were minor.

He said they “don't have any broader detrimental impact on neighbours, be it overshadowing views or whatever else the objectives of those individual controls are".

“And that is what is asked of Council when assessing applications utilising Clause 4.6 of the Local Environment Plan - that you have to flexibly apply controls and ensure the objectives have been met and the public interest has been met. So that's the conclusion that staff have come to.”

Councillor Erica Warren asked whether the balconies of the proposed development will “look directly into the backyards” of nearby residents. Paterson said he could not comment on how it will directly impact the neighbours, “but it's always going to impact people differently”.

“The quantitative assessment that has been undertaken is there is compliance with setback requirements in both Council's Development Control Plan and the Apartment Design Guide. Louvres and privacy screens are proposed on the balconies.

“The properties on Bong Bong Street sit quite higher than this site so it's not as though all units are directly

off the rank

overlooking into balconies and backyards. So a relative and reasonable privacy is maintained as per our Development Control Plan.”

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald praised the planning department for getting the modifications made to the DA, which included issues such as groundwater contamination and pollution, sustainability measures, aesthetics, solar and daylight access, car parking design and waste collection arrangements.

“As Councillors, we need very good reasons not to follow a recommendation. What we’ve seen from our planning department is very good communication with the applicant and a comprehensive report prepared for Council and so as an elected body we supported that recommendation,” he said.

Council CEO Jane Stroud was pleased to see this development proceed. “I was glad - that development application has a long history. It has been with Council for some time and then it was withdrawn and reworked on,” she said.

“So in terms of the plans that were put forward to Council for endorsement, we were grateful that that was a unanimous decision. And now we just need to see the developer crack on with it.

“That whole process is more in line with the planning reforms that are happening across the state. Rather than just leave a development application in the system and go through hundreds and hundreds of days of long, drawn-out conversations,

these days we push for the withdrawal, we tell you what the issues are, we expect you to take them on board and make your application properly so that we can get it in and get it out for you.”

Demolition and construction is expected to start later this year but no official timeline has been released.

Council is also looking to expand the local housing supply with a new development slated for Caliope Street, an elongated, irregular-shaped allotment of land situated on the south-eastern corner of Old Saddleback Road.

A motion was endorsed for a Planning Proposal to be submitted to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for a Gateway determination.

If approved, the Planning Proposal would be placed on public exhibition to enable community, stakeholder and state agency consultation to occur. Paterson said a maximum of 20 low-density residential units would be available.

Cr Lawton raised objections at the Council meeting over the impact on Zieria granulata, a small shrub native to the area which is protected under the Biodiversity Act and a heritage-listed drystone wall along the southern boundary.

The western part of the site has been strategically identified as a suitable site for residential development in Council’s Local Housing Strategy while the remainder of the vacant land is considered environmentally sensitive and it is proposed that it would be preserved for conservation.

On the same day as one of the biggest Norfolk Pines in the local government area was chopped down, Kiama Council has been asked to review whether the iconic but non-native species should remain part of the future.

Council removed a damaged Norfolk Pine, which was dead, at Belinda Street in Gerringong on Tuesday and later that night, a motion by Councillor Stuart Larkins was passed which asked Council to consider the Urban Greening Strategy as a required action item in the Delivery and Operational Plans for the next financial year or 2027-28.

As part of the Strategy, Cr Larkins is asking Council to review whether Norfolk Pines should be listed as a “Tree Species of Significance” in its Development Control Plan.

He said the trees have “a unique, but complex, history in our LGA”.

Norfolk Pines along Terralong Street, from Collins Street to the Kiama Anglican Church, are listed as local heritage items.

In his submission, he noted that the history of Norfolk Pines in coastal regions in NSW stem from colonialism, where they were planted to provide masts for ships.

Cr Larkins said they provide scenic landscaping and identity for the town but they are not a native species which require significant public and private management that have caused significant impacts to public infrastructure, including footpaths, roads, housing and water and electricity infrastructure.

“I think it's quite a complex and challenging

topic for Councillors and our community when it comes to those trees,” Cr Larkins said at the meeting.

“As part of reviewing and updating our local greening and tree management, we need to consider the role and the future aspects of those trees in our community.”

Council CEO Jane Stroud told The Bugle that trees of all shapes and sizes are really important for shade, amenity and character of a town.

“In the case of Norfolk Pines, they link to boat building and the ethos of history of eras gone by. So of course people are attached to them. There's barely a coastal community on the eastern seaboard of Australia where you won't find a Norfolk Pine. They're everywhere. They're part of our collective culture and history.”

She acknowledged that there are environmental health concerns attached to Norfolk Pines.

“That said, they do create some challenges, whether that's view loss, noise. They drop really significant cones and seeds, and attract quite a lot of bird activity, which can be a good thing, can be a bad thing.

“I think it's probably sensible to assume that during the development of an Urban Greening Strategy, folks are going to talk about what's an appropriate tree along the foreshore, and the question of Norfolk Pines will get raised.”

As for the massive Norfolk Pine on Belinda Street which was removed, Stroud said it had been identified several months ago as a hazard and Council put up a sign to inform the public that “this tree was not poisoned, most likely struck by lightning” so speculation about vandalism allegations would not gain traction.

“We all know tree vandalism does happen, but on that occasion, we did testing and soil sampling and we could find no evidence.

“So we communicated to people up front and early to say the tree has not been poisoned and it’ll need to come down.

“It was expensive to remove because it was so big and required an appropriately qualified arborist.

“I’m sorry it will leave a hole in that streetscape because it was a significant tree, but it was dead and now it’s won’t risk anybody’s property.”

Meanwhile, Council has opened Round 2 of its Community Grants, Donations and Sponsorship Program, offering $85,000 annually to support local initiatives that strengthen the economic, environmental, social and cultural wellbeing of the community. Applications close on 13 March.

Council’s updated Grants, Donations and Sponsorship Policy, adopted in late 2025, streamlines the program to improve efficiency, transparency and accessibility while ensuring responsible and sustainable funding allocation.

This round includes three funding streams:

- Sponsorship for community events: Up to $10,000 for not-for-profit organisations delivering large-scale, communityled events that provide significant local benefits.

- Community Grants: Up to $7000 for not-for-profit organisations, artists and P&C groups supporting social connection, cultural vibrancy, health and wellbeing, and environmental sustainability.

- Donations (Small Grants): Up to $1000 for grassroots community activities. Open all year.

Breakfast for Skin Check Champions

Amy Molloy

Hundreds of people will gather at Coledale Beach for a landmark event designed to raise awareness, connect the community and support the early detection of skin cancer.

Hosted by local notfor-profit Skin Check Champions, the Breakfast of Champions will bring together local leaders, health advocates, business figures and community members for a morning of fire-cooked food, conversation and purpose next Thursday (26 February) at 8.30am.

The breakfast coincides with National Skin Check Day and marks a significant milestone for the Illawarrabased charity.

“This time of year is critical,” says Scott Maggs,

South Coast local and founder of Skin Check Champions.

“We’re coming off a long Australian summerlong days in the sun, beach holidays, backyard cricket, worksites, surf and sport.

“It’s when UV exposure is at its peak and when small changes in our skin often start to appear.”

Maggs has been the face - and iconic beard - of the skin cancer movement in Australia for more than a decade.

His journey to advocacy began in 2010 after his best mate, Wes, died from melanoma at the age of 26.

Since then, Skin Check Champions has delivered more than 36,000 skin checks to Australians in regional, remote and highrisk communities, detecting

The next frontier at the Harbour

Few places capture Kiama’s charm quite like its harbour, a postcard-perfect curve backed by Norfolk Pines, fishing boats and the hum of visitors who seem awed that such a scene still exists this close to one of the world’s most famous harbours.

It is undoubtedly the jewel in our town’s crown.

thousands of skin cancers and building a national movement focused on early detection.

In the process, Scott became an unlikely celebrity, famous for the “bushranger beard” he started growing after Wes died, launching a publicity campaign to raise $1 million before he shaved it off.

In 2021, the team reached their fundraising target.

Breakfast will be served as a long, open-air fire feast by Earth Walker & Co., with the beachside setting created by South Coast Tipis.

Guests will also have the opportunity to book a skin check on the day via the charity’s Silver Bullet mobile clinic.

At the breakfast, the notfor-profit will launch a new national skin health

technology platform, developed by Skin Check Champions to help Australians identify skin cancer earlier and stay connected to follow-up care.

Ambassador Deborah Hutton will attend, alongside Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown (both of whom have had significant skin cancer scares), as well as Federal Members of Parliament and NSW Health Minister Ryan Park.

“Skin cancer affects two in three Australians, but early detection saves lives,” Maggs says.

“This event is about connection, education and action - and showing that looking out for your mates really can make a difference.”

To book tickets for the event, visit skincheckchampions.com.

Now, that same idyllic pocket has become the latest stage for one of Kiama’s most enduring dramas: the battle between progress and preservation.

In June 2025, Kiama Council resolved to establish a working group to provide a mechanism for Council and the community to shape the future of Kiama Harbour.

“Fast-forward” eight months and Council is now calling for interested and “qualified” community members to join the Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Working Group.

On paper, this should be a constructive forum.

Its aim is to guide the future of the harbour precinct ensuring that the heritage, tourism and business elements align in a way that benefits the town.

Yet within days of its announcement, and some social media from Councillor Mike Cains, community Facebook pages were alight with suspicion.

Posts decrying “dollar signs,” “overdevelopment,” and “here we go again” quickly gained traction.

This reaction is hardly new but is a natural progression of the conversation about the future of our town.

With Council having moved forward and set the boundary of “going out” and expanding the town, and “going up” (though we are still not sure what’s happening at Akuna and Shoalhaven Street), it’s onto the next frontier: the Harbour.

Our community has shown an instinctive vigilance toward change.

We are fiercely protective of the town’s scale and identity and traits that underpin its appeal but can also stifle needed renewal.

Critics of the backlash argue Kiama risks paralysis by nostalgia.

Infrastructure near the harbour is ageing, access is uneven and the tourism economy which is central to local livelihoods depends on reinvestment and revitalisation. Without careful upgrades, the harbour could fade from charm into complacency.

Supporters of revitalisation see the working group as a rare chance to shape outcomes early rather than reacting late, and also securing tangible outcomes.

Still, perception matters. When trust in Council and developers runs thin, even the most promising ideas are viewed through a lens of distrust.

Transparency will therefore be critical: open meetings, publishable minutes, clear visuals of any proposed changes. A harbour renewal done with the community, not to it, could reset the tone. Kiama has always been defined by its edges where land meets sea, character meets growth, and locals meet newcomers.

The harbour revitalisation debate is not simply about bricks, boardwalks and (possibly) beverages on the water.

It’s about who gets to decide what Kiama Harbour becomes next and whether its people can find common ground.

So, when Cr Cains says the working group will “get cracking on the job of making sure that the jewel is everything that it can be”, The Bugle’s View is that we hope that this next frontier is a positive one, and not more of the same.

‘$116K was gone’: South Coast families caught in super collapse

Wollongong mum, Isla Becker, was eight months pregnant with her baby, now four months old, when she received shocking news.

The super fund that she’d invested 80 per cent of her retirement savings into had collapsed — and $116,000 of her savings had vanished.

“I had only recently begun taking a more active interest in my super, including salary sacrificing, and I was proud to see my balance growing,” says Becker.

After completing an online comparison — similar to those used for health or car insurance — she was contacted by a consultant to review her super options.

“I was set up with a financial consultant, Rhys Reilly, who signed me up to YourChoice Super and invested my money into the First Guardian Fund,” says Becker.

“They provided what appeared to be a comprehensive report, including projected retirement

balances, based on this new structure. It all seemed legitimate and encouraging.”

She thought her future was in safe hands, until she saw the news break.

On 17 March 2025, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) announced they had applied to the Federal Court for the “appointment of liquidators to Falcon Capital Limited” — the responsible entity for First Guardian.

As stated in a media release:

“ASIC is concerned about the management and operation of First Guardian and the associated risks to investors.”

Since then, financial planner, Rhys Reilly, and his company, Rhys Reilly Pty Ltd, have been named in the investigation.

“I didn’t fully grasp the seriousness of the situation until I logged into my super portal,” says Becker.

“I saw a deduction of more than $100,000 - and my heart sank.”

She is one of approximately

6000 people who invested their money, including their retirement savings, into First Guardian - totalling more than $1 billion.

Initially, she was hopeful her money wouldn’t be lost. “I joined the Save Our Super Facebook group and followed the media coverage on [the news],” she recalls.

“I was encouraged to see that some people had been reimbursed, but I wasn’t.”

Currently, over 2,100 people are members of the Facebook group, First Guardian and Falcon Superannuation Discussion — including many familiar faces.

“When I joined the Facebook group, I was amazed by how many local people and familiar names I spotted,” a mum of two from Kiama who lost $70,000 told The Bugle.

“I spoke to someone in Jamberoo who lost more than $150,000. At least, we’ve been able to connect, share tips and support each other.”

Since then, ASIC has taken court action to preserve any remaining assets of Falcon Capital and First

Guardian, so they can be recovered for investors.

ASIC is also actively “exploring avenues for compensation for victims”.

A video on the ASIC website states: “At this stage it is unclear how much of the funds that were invested can be recovered and returned to people.”

The Commission warns of a trend of “high risk of super-switching schemes” in Australia that are often promoted by sales calls after people click on online ads.

Financial planner Joe Calcraft, who alongside business partner Anthony Hourigan forms Cloudbreak Wealth in Kiama, hadn’t heard of First Guardian before its collapse, and none of his clients were impacted.

He advises anyone affected to lodge a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) “the sooner the better”.

“You can also find out if you can access the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort (CSLR), which is a fund that has been set up to provide ‘last resort’ compensation, which steps in if all other avenues have been exhausted,” he adds.

The First Guardian collapse is the second scandal in the Australian market in the last two years. In 2024, another scheme, Shield Master Fund, collapsed after its responsible entity, Keystone Asset Management, went into voluntary administration.

According to ASIC estimates, around 12,000 Australians poured $1.1 billion in retirement savings into the two funds, amid what ASIC chair Sarah Court has described as “industrial-scale misconduct.”

“Planning for your retirement should be a time of joy, however it can be a time of angst given the gravity of decisions that need to be made,” says Calcraft.

“If someone has contacted you, usually through a cold call without your consent to try and advise - sell - you a product for an investment or superannuation, it is usually not

going to be in your best interest.”

He points out this type of selling has been illegal since October 2021 under the anti-hawking provision.

“If you are being offered ‘high guaranteed returns’ or you’ve been advised to put all your money into one single brand or investment, it is usually too good to be true,” he says.

“Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion and certainly don’t feel embarrassed or think you are asking a silly question when it comes to your life savings.”

His advice is echoed by Nicola Beswick, former lawyer, financial advisor and founder of White Rabbit Advisory.

“Events like this should certainly raise questions, because they should never happen,” she says.

“Australia’s superannuation system is heavily regulated and operates under strict governance and compliance frameworks. I would always recommend early financial advice to gain the right structure for you and the confidence that comes with it.”

She says this is a great time to boost your financial literacy: “Take a look at the diversification of your superannuation investments and the credentials of those overseeing your investments. It’s also always a good step to make sure that your beneficiary nominations are up to date.”

For locals like Isla Becker, the wait is not over. She is grateful that her husband’s super remained with a “larger, more established fund”, as she is aware of local families who lost their entire combined savings.

“I hope to be reimbursed as much as possible, so I don’t have to find alternative ways to rebuild my retirement savings,” she says.

“I want to see the individuals responsible held accountable, and for stronger regulations to be put in place so this cannot happen to thousands of Australians again.

“I was genuinely trying to take control of my financial future, and instead I lost a significant portion of my super.

“It has shaken my trust in the system.”

It was Friday the 13th, a cold winter morning. Kiama’s Helen Maitland had just woken from surgery to find her gynaecologist standing at the foot of her hospital bed.

“He said ‘you have ovarian cancer’, just like that,” recalls Helen. The devastating news was delivered without preamble. Brutal, blunt and life-changing.

In March 2014, three months before her eventual diagnosis, Helen - who was 67 at the time - knew something was not quite right when she started bleeding.

“You don't bleed for nothing, not at my age,” she says. “I went to see the doctor the next day, I didn’t muck around, he didn’t muck around. He referred me to a specialist straight away."

Helen underwent a series of blood tests and scans. The

results showed nothing out of the ordinary, which is often the case with ovarian cancer.

“By the time I saw a specialist, my husband Peter and I were about to go on a sixweek trip to South America and Europe,” says Helen.

“The gynaecologist said ‘go on your holiday’ and come and see me again when you get back. So I went and saw him in May and by June, Friday the 13th, an unlucky day, I was having surgery that morning.”

That afternoon Helen was diagnosed with stage one ovarian cancer. Her doctor, not wanting to leave anything to chance, referred her to an ovarian cancer specialist at Sydney’s Prince of Wales Hospital. She had a second operation where “everything unnecessary was removed” followed by four rounds of chemotherapy. Helen has now been cancer

free for almost 12 years and says she was “one of the lucky ones” because her ovarian cancer was caught in its early stages. More than 1900 cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed each year and in many of those cases the disease is detected at an advanced stage, which can make it more difficult to treat.

“The thing is, women tend to ignore things like that but you just can’t, especially with ovarian cancer,” says Helen. “Nothing was ever picked up, nothing in the blood tests, until they operated on me. Thankfully I listened to my body.”

Survival rates from ovarian cancer have not significantly improved since Helen was diagnosed more than a decade ago. In 2011-2015 Australian women with ovarian cancer had a 46 per cent chance of surviving for five years. In 2026, of the five women

Ovarian cancer awareness month shines a light on a silent killer

diagnosed every day, the fiveyear survival rate is 49 per cent.

Ovarian Cancer Australia CEO Debbie Shiell says the disease is the nation’s most lethal female cancer, with three Australian women dying from it each day. February is ovarian cancer awareness month and an opportunity for Ovarian Cancer Australia to “address knowledge gaps, help people recognise symptoms earlier, and prompt more informed conversations about ovarian cancer”.

“Many Australians do not know about the signs, symptoms and severity of the disease,” says Shiell.

It is often called a silent killer because symptoms are vague - abdominal pain, pelvic pain, bloating, frequency of urination, changes in bowel habits, weight loss or gain. “These are symptoms women might feel most days and often

by the time symptoms and signs start to appear the cancer has spread,” she says.

“This disease affects women of all ages but we do know that the most common age for diagnosis is around 62, just after menopause.

"What we ask is for women to listen to their bodies and to get checked out and keep getting checked out until they feel like they have been heard.”

It’s a message echoed by oncologist Dr Catherine Shannon, who wants women to be aware that the onset of menopause and perimenopause can sometimes mask lifethreatening cases of ovarian cancer. “Ovarian cancer is most common in women over 60, but it can occur at any age, including during perimenopause and menopause,” she says.

“Many of the symptoms

of perimenopause and menopause overlap with ovarian cancer and this is something that women need to be aware of.”

There is no effective early-detection screening test for ovarian cancer and Shiell and Dr Shannon have urged women to know their symptoms, risk factors and family history and to visit their GP “as soon as they notice a change in their body”.

Shiell says ovarian cancer awareness month is an opportunity to “elevate the voices of women impacted by this disease” by sharing their real life experiences. “We need women to talk about ovarian cancer to remove the stigma of gynaecological cancers and that's why ovarian cancer awareness month is so important, it shines a light on a disease that has been forgotten,” says Shiell.

Fenced park approved to let the dogs out in Jamberoo

Myah Garza

Jamberoo’s long-awaited dog park is officially moving ahead, with Kiama Council endorsing a revised design for a fenced off-leash area at the corner of Churchill Street and Gibson Crescent.

The project, expected to be completed by mid-2026, marks the culmination of years of advocacy from local residents.

Jamberoo is the only township in the LGA without a designated off-leash dog space, an issue that gained momentum in 2022 when Kiama Council received a petition – attracting hundreds of signatures –calling for a fenced facility in the area.

Councillor Stuart Larkins said he was pleased to see the project progressing after a lengthy and at times contentious process.

“There’s been a long advocacy for dog space in Jamberoo.

“There isn’t any dog space, and it’s been an issue for quite some time,” Cr Larkins said.

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said: “We’re happy the dog park is moving forward. Cr Larkins has been a driving force behind this and I thank him for his efforts.

“We’re getting closer to people being able to get out to the centre of Jamberoo and enjoy this Council facility.”

Council assessed several potential sites before determining the Gibson Crescent reserve was the most suitable, with other options ruled out due to impacts on cemetery or sporting land.

Initial works began in April 2025, including plumbing and partial fencing, but the early installation of fencing prompted community concern about the size, layout and the loss of informal overflow parking used during events.

The project was subsequently paused and five

design options were placed on public exhibition between September and November last year.

Option 5, which proposed two separate dog areas, received the highest level of support. However, consultation also revealed strong sentiment for an unfenced space.

Taking this feedback into account, Council has endorsed a modified Option 5 that will include a fenced 30m x 30m area for smaller dogs and a designated but unfenced off-leash area for larger dogs to roam.

The park will also feature shade structures, seating, bins, footpaths and a drinking water bubbler.

The project is jointly funded by $75,600 from the NSW Government and $70,000 from Council’s developer contribution fund.

With grant funding required to be spent by November 2026, it seems Jamberoo will finally be ready to let the dogs out – officially.

Victory for volunteers to continue offering family history services

Kiama’s Family History Centre volunteers will continue to have access to the facility during Kiama Library opening hours to undertake research on behalf of the wider community.

Councillor Erica Warren successfully moved a motion at Tuesday night’s meeting asking Council to formally acknowledge the centre’s significance as a cultural, educational, and community resource – locally, nationally, and internationally.

It also reaffirmed that volunteers will continue to be able to help members of the public with research projects.

Cr Warren said the motion sought to ensure the centre’s sustainability while maintaining its volunteer-led operations.

The motion also directs Council CEO Jane Stroud to report on operating costs and explore cost-recovery options, including fee-forservice sessions, annual memberships, and volunteerled models with minimal staff oversight.

“The Kiama Family History Centre is more than a room in the library,” Cr Warren said at the meeting.

“It is a repository of unique local history, an educational hub, and a place of purpose for volunteers and residents alike.

“This motion ensures the centre can continue to operate sustainably and remain accessible.”

The centre, established in 1989 beneath the Kiama Library has been a cornerstone of the community. Volunteers have dedicated decades to transcribing historical documents, digitising records, and assisting local, interstate, and international researchers.

The decision follows Council’s recent announcement to reduce the centre’s open-tothe-public hours to two per week as part of the library’s overall services.

During library hours, volunteers will continue to be supported by Council to undertake research projects on behalf of the community. Many volunteers and community members attended the council meeting, witnessing the vote that reaffirmed the value of the centre and the importance of volunteer-led service in preserving Kiama’s history.

“Kiama Council absolutely loves its volunteers. If you volunteer for Council, you do so in an unpaid capacity, but you are still deemed a Council

employee, so we’ve got a little bit of work to do in terms of bringing those Council volunteers up to speed around their responsibilities, roles and our code of conduct,” CEO Jane Stroud said.

“We're going to do a wave of mandatory training for any of our unpaid workforce, because we value the work that they do and they need to know their obligations as volunteer employees of the Council.”

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald, whose uncle has been a long-term volunteer, hoped the Family History Centre services will still be an integral part of Council despite the restructure of the library.

“It’s a really important local offering and we’ve had many volunteers over the years providing their time so that people can come in, research their family history, and many other topics, including how our links to history have been shaped our local community.

“Our volunteers should not be discouraged from providing these services.

“The volunteers are a really valued resource for our local community and there is a range of matters that volunteers have been querying recently such as what times the offering will be available, what

future services from the facility will look like and what infrastructure they will be provided with.

“We are looking forward to having those conversations and for these much-respected volunteers to continue providing the service that they would like to provide well into the future.”

Stroud added that the Community College notified Council a month ago that they would be vacating their premises. Council will consult with volunteers and community stakeholders over the next 12 months to codesign this space and develop a sustainable operating model for the centre, similar to the successful Gerringong Library

Arts and Museum model.

“That's a significant change for us and that's a valuable asset and a valuable parcel of Council land that we need to activate and that we need to use,” she said. “So it's high time to reconsider what goes on in that downstairs section of the building and what it could be into the future and certainly what we did at Gerringong has been a great success.

“GLaM has a small exhibition space, there's local history, heritage information side by side with the library service and it operates really well. One half of the building is operated by an incorporated volunteer group, which is fabulous, and the other half is staffed by Council staff.”

New year brings fresh possibility for local business

The new year always brings a sense of possibility, but for the Kiama Business Network, 2026 is already shaping up to be a year full of action, celebration and fresh opportunities for local businesses.

As summer winds down, here’s what’s been happening across our business community - and what you can look forward to in the months ahead.

First up, the highly anticipated 2026 Kiama Business Directory is officially complete and at the printers.

Keep an eye out next week for your copy, whether you’re a business owner looking to connect with others or a resident eager to discover new local services, shops and professionals.

This directory remains a staple for our community, shining a spotlight on the breadth and quality of businesses that make Kiama and surrounds such a vibrant place to live and work.

Speaking of recognition, mark your calendars: the 2026 Kiama Business Awards will take place on 23 July.

This year brings something extra - six new award categories, giving more businesses the chance to

be acknowledged for their unique contributions and achievements.

KBN is also ramping up support for nominees, offering mentorship and guidance to help businesses present themselves in the best possible light.

And for those who take home a trophy, there’s more good news: all winners will automatically advance as finalists in the prestigious Business Illawarra Awards, putting Kiama’s best on the regional stage.

Community spirit is at the heart of everything KBN does.

This will no doubt be on show during the upcoming Kiama Jazz and Blues weekend, where KBN has proudly sponsored the Blues Bus.

The initiative makes it easy and safe for locals and visitors to get to the many fantastic venues hosting an impressive lineup of local, national and international talent.

It’s a small gesture that we hope makes a big difference, keeping the music alive and the community connected.

Navigation just got easier for shoppers, too.

The new KBN retail map has been upgraded and now features retail shops not just

in Kiama town, but across our wonderful municipality in Gerringong, Jamberoo, Gainsborough, Kiama Downs, Minnamurra, and Kiama Heights.

The new map will debut at the Seaside Markets on 15 March, ready to guide locals and visitors alike to the best in retail therapy.

For those who like to browse on the go, bespoke digital versions will soon be available to KBN members.

Youth engagement remains a priority for KBN.

The Markets Crew, a youth employment program, continues to grow.

It offers local young people the chance to pick up new skills, real-world experience, and a salary.

Watch this space for updates on events designed to build even stronger ties between our businesses and the next generation of workers and entrepreneurs.

There have been some changes behind the scenes as well. A huge thank you goes out to Michael Emmett, founder of BlueStone, who has stepped down from the KBN board after six years of dedicated service.

Mick’s calm, thoughtful leadership helped steer

the network through challenging times, including the pandemic and the recent economic uncertainty.

From all of us, thank you. Enjoy more time with your young family and good luck on the cricket pitch!

We’re also excited to welcome Derek McMahon, owner of McMahon’s Transport, to the board.

Derek brings fresh ideas, deep community roots, and a strong voice for local business - qualities already making a difference, especially in ongoing discussions with Kiama Council about the Employment Lands Strategy.

And, as we celebrate milestones, a very happy one-year anniversary to our executive officer, Mel Scarr.

Mel’s energy, professionalism and experience have transformed what KBN can deliver for local businesses.

Here’s to many more years of growth and community success.

With new resources, events, and faces, 2026 is off to a strong start.

Stay tuned because there’s plenty more to come from KBN.

Please note - this is paid content

Meet the friends who turn a closing shop into Kiama’s hottest eatery

have extensive food backgrounds, catering locally for events in Kiama for years.

What they didn’t have was time — the lease on the shopfront had to be filled urgently.

When four friends from Kiama heard that Gainsborough’s much-loved takeaway was suddenly closing, they came together to fast-track a plan they’d been sitting on for years.

“We jumped into dream mode,” recalls Esther Keenan, best known as the owner of local printing service Known Design and Print. Along with her husband, Nathan, and close friends Michael and Shaye Lucassen, they began to “put legs on a conversation” they had been having for over two years.

The dream? To create a local smokehouse in Kiama.

Between the four friends, they had the skillset. Michael is the chef in-store, with more than 30 years’ experience; Shaye and Michael both

Overnight, Gainsborough Takeaway was transformed into Hook & Ember. Their slogan? Coastal flavour, smokehouse fire.

“We opened just two weeks after confirming our lease at the Gainsborough shops,” recalls Keenan. “It was a hectic forty days from Christmas onwards, with new opening hours coming into play at the start of February.”

When Hook & Ember opened eight weeks ago, they were “blown away” by the support of locals — some relieved fish and chips were still on the menu, many excited by the prospect of smoky specials. “Naturally, we knew we couldn’t get rid of fish and chips, but wanted to add our own flavour,” says Keenan. “This is where Michael’s experience and enjoyment of smoking meats and being creative with food came into the picture.”

Pre-orders are open for their second Smokehouse Saturday on 28 February. Locals can pre-order limited-edition, slow-smoked items, including their signature 24-hour brisket, pork belly lollipop, or a ‘full-tilt smokehouse spread’ made for sharing. Their first Smokehouse Saturday in January sold out.

“There was a great atmosphere,” recalls Keenan. “We had acoustic live music on the pavement, with locals bringing camp chairs and enjoying their smokehouse packs scattered around the front of the store.”

Next on the menu? A catering service, offering their signature smoky menu for events and parties. The couples have four children each, with ages ranging from eight to 19, so it’s a busy time for the four entrepreneurs, who are bonded by shared aspirations. “Both families have very full lives, with a whole bunch of kiddos on board,” says Esther. “Some [of our kids] love working in-store — and others just enjoy the food they get to eat.”

For pre-orders, visit hookandember.com.au.

Red hot savings: Music lovers buy local

For local businesses in Berry, there was an upside to the return of fans for Red Hot Summer, the touring rock concert series that stopped in town on Valentine’s Day.

Many festivalgoers were returning for an encore after previously attending Red Hot Summer when it took place at Berry Showground in October — and they had learned money-saving strategies that had a positive impact on the local community. “Instead of buying food in the venue, we arranged to go out to eat in Berry beforehand,” said a festivalgoer in his 70s.

He had been gifted tickets to the October show by his children and grandchildren for Father’s Day and enjoyed it so much he returned for last weekend’s concert.

Despite paying for ‘fast pass entry’, his group still chose to enjoy a leisurely lunch in Berry before heading to the Showground — proof that, despite an abundance of food trucks on site, the influx of people pouring into town was still spending locally.

“Last time, we rushed to the venue to get good seats, but this time around we wanted to spend time in the town as well as enjoy the music,” he added.

Berry Chamber of Commerce & Tourism secretary Anthony Colfelt said the dual concerts over summer had delivered “a strong economic boost for Berry and surrounding areas”.

“With thousands of visitors in town for the weekend, local accommodation providers often book out, while cafés, restaurants, pubs and retailers benefit from increased foot traffic and spending.”

For local businesses, it’s the ripple effect of the festival which makes the difference.

“Many concertgoers arrive early or stay on after the event, exploring the town and supporting a wide range of local businesses,” says Colfelt.

“Beyond the immediate impact, events like this showcase Berry as a vibrant destination, attracting new visitors who return again in the future.”

Festivalgoers took to the Ticketmaster website to applaud the event — and air their grievances. “We have been going to the Red Hot Summer Tours for many years,” wrote one fan.

“The event was extremely well run, employees were polite and professional, good security was in place and good quality food was available. And to all the performers — they gave it their all.”

Others were less complimentary, including a disgruntled attendee who paid for the ‘RocketBar’ package, which cost $299.90 and included access to a bar and a barbecue dinner.

“We really appreciated the fast-pass entry — tick! Tables, chairs and umbrellas — tick! Separate bar — tick! Barbecue dinner — dismal,” they wrote.

“It was basic at best — sausages, undressed salad and white sliced bread. C’mon guys, if you are offering a premium experience, a lot more thought could have been put into this economically.”

Unimpressed, they chose to leave the private bar to buy food elsewhere.

It’s bad news for the food trucks inside the venue, but good news for the local community — especially with the event expected to return next year.

Tuned In: KCR

KCR showed up for local creatives at The Regional Sessions

KCR (Kiama Community Radio) was at the heart of the action when APRA AMCOS brought The Regional Sessions to The Pavilion Kiama on Monday 16 February.

The one-day event brought together songwriters, producers and composers from across the South Coast for a full programme of conversations, workshops, live performances and networking. Designed for beginner, emerging and mid-career artists, it gave regional creatives access to industry insight without the need to travel to Sydney.

For a station committed to championing local voices, it was a natural fit. Throughout the day, artists shared stories of their creative journeys, explored the realities of the music industry and connected with others building careers in regional communities.

The atmosphere was collaborative and encouraging.

The event reflected much of what KCR stands for:

• Supporting local artists and creatives

• Creating opportunities for participation and skill development

• Strengthening community connection

• Giving people a voice.

As a volunteer-run, notfor-profit station streaming 24/7, KCR serves the Kiama community — from

Jamberoo — and celebrates the region’s cultural life. Being present at The Regional Sessions was not just about visibility; it was about backing local talent and reinforcing that creative people in the area are valued.

Gabriela Cabral and Madeleine Scarfe attended on behalf of KCR, speaking with artists about the role community radio can play in supporting emerging talent.

“For many musicians, that first airplay or interview can make a real difference,” Madeleine said. “It was inspiring to see the level of creativity and commitment in our region.”

Gabriela said it was particularly meaningful to reconnect with Helen Lear, Public Relations and Communications Manager at APRA AMCOS, who was part of KCR’s original team. “It was wonderful to collaborate again,” she said. The day concluded with networking drinks and live performances, reinforcing the strength of the region’s music community and the importance of collaboration in sustaining it.

KCR continues to encourage local musicians, songwriters, producers and creative artists to connect with the station to share new music, upcoming performances and creative projects.

Creatives interested in airplay, interviews or collaboration can get in touch via kcr.org.au.

Sounds of Swamp Critters ‘grooving the blues’ for Yves Social

Myah Garza

With the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival on hiatus this year, local live music fans won’t go without.

Opening the communityled Sounds of Jazz & Blues weekend at Yves Social on Friday 6 March are the Swamp Critters, a four-piece Illawarra blues band with deep roots in the regional music scene.

“It’s the first time for us, so we’re excited to have a spot there at the Jazz and Blues,” said band member Tim Kierse.

Formed in 2018 but everchanging in its membership, the band now also comprises Mark Wallis, Steve Whitworth and Kate Whitworth.

The seasoned musicians have graced stages across the South Coast to Sydney – from pubs and clubs to private

parties, and at regional events including the Goulburn Blues Festival.

“The Swamp Critters have always been focused on a more southern flavour of blues than what we saw on offer at venues at the time,” Kierse said.

The band draws on a wide range of influences – from Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley and Junior Wells, to contemporary acts such as Smokehouse, Owen Wilson, Southern Culture on the Skids, and Bonnie Raitt – a mix that allows them to tailor performances to Saturday night dance crowds and more relaxed Sunday afternoon audiences.

The current line-up has been together since December, with drummer Steve Whitworth the only original member. Their sound, described as “grooving the blues,” blends

traditional blues structures with a soulful edge.

“Blues is kind of an allencompassing term. It’s different things for different people,” Kierse said.

“But sort of our style of it, and some of the songs that we play, there’s definitely a bit of a soul tinge to some of the songs, and some that actually get in a bit of a groove. Not too fast, not too slow, but something to get your head nodding and your feet tapping.”

Primarily a pubs-andclubs band, the Swamp Critters thrive in intimate environments.

“It’s not unusual to have people dancing literally within arm’s reach of the band at different venues,” Kierse said.

Like many regional musicians, the band faces the challenge of fewer venues supporting live music.

“There’s a lot of bands out there and there’s not a lot of venues that actually support live music these days,” Kierse said. “So it’s a bit of a challenge to actually get regular gigs, especially for a band such as us that are focused more on lesser well-known songs.”

For Friday night at Yves Social, the plan is to start slow and build into a lively two-hour set. “Pretty much we’ll start out slow and finish strong. Normally what we would do is we would have our set list of songs and more dancey-type numbers for the Friday night crowd, and we’ll see how it goes and how the crowd reacts,” Kierse said.

In a year without the festival, Swamp Critters are showing that Kiama’s live music scene endures – fueled by musicians and venues determined to keep the blues alive.

Crystal clear: Gemtopia’s showcase to shine at Pavilion

Crystal lovers across Kiama and the Illawarra are invited to immerse themselves in a weekend of gems, jewellery and wellness when Gemtopia arrives at The Pavilion Kiama next month.

The two-day event will feature more than 35 stallholders, showcasing an extensive range of crystals, minerals, gemstones, opals, carvings, statement pieces, handmade jewellery, and spiritual and wellness products. Visitors can browse, learn and purchase unique items across all budgets.

Special guest Jaymin from The Young Guns Opal Hunters, known from the television series Opal Hunters

Vibrant start to Lunar New Year

Belle Wood

Kiama Leagues Club was alive with colour, flavour and festive spirit on Wednesday night as guests gathered to celebrate the Lunar New Year at Cedar Cutters Sports Bar.

The special Lunar New Year set menu delivered exactly what was promiseda bold, banquet-style dining experience designed for sharing and savouring.

Guests enjoyed the generous offerings from the carefully curated menu that highlighted classic Asian flavours and techniques.

It was a lively, social atmosphere, with diners sampling the variety while enjoying the buzz of the soldout event.

Australia, will be in attendance with opal pieces available to view and buy.

The event on 7-8 March will also include demonstrations and expertise from the Illawarra Lapidary Club, offering insights into the art of lapidary.

Additional attractions include crystal readers, lucky door prizes, and a free crystal quiz and gift for children.

Gemtopia runs Saturday 9.30am–5pm and Sunday 10am–4pm at The Pavilion, 2 Bong Bong Street, Kiama.

Entry is $5 for the full weekend, with free admission for under 18s.

Organisers say the event is designed to be a welcoming, familyfriendly experience celebrating natural beauty, creativity and wellbeing.

Entrees featured steamed pork and chive dumplings alongside duck spring rolls with salt and pepper squid.

The main course selection was equally impressive, with Cantonese soy and ginger barramundi, Kung Pao chicken and rich braised beef short rib, complemented by seasonal Asian greens.

The event showcased the club’s commitment to offering diverse dining experiences and celebrating cultural occasions within the community.

Hats off to executive chef Sarah Rebbeck for delivering an outstanding event that was widely praised by diners.

The banquet-style format encouraged sharing and conversation, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere in keeping with the spirit of Lunar New Year.

The Cedar Cutters Sports Bar proved a perfect venue, with its extensive sports coverage screens themed for the occasion to enhance the setting.

One fellow diner even suggested the banquet could inspire a regular seafood feast to follow on from the popular Oyster Sundays - an idea many would welcome. Judging by the strong turnout and positive response from diners, the Lunar New Year banquet was a standout success and a welcome addition to the club’s calendar of special events.

The meal ended on a high note with a coconut and kaffir lime pannacotta, offering a light yet indulgent finish - all favourites that reflect the warmth and generosity traditionally associated with Lunar New Year celebrations.

Harbour sink rivals in South Coast Lifeguard Challenge FROM A SOLO HARBOUR WALK IN KIAMA TO 100 LOCATIONS

Shellharbour City Council’s lifeguards have continued their remarkable run of success, winning the Illawarra and South Coast Lifeguard Challenge in a thrilling contest of skill, teamwork and endurance.

Lifeguards from Wollongong City, Kiama Municipal and Shoalhaven City councils pushed hard, but the local team of Storm Balmain, Will Fowler, Leivi Willis, Wade Anderton, Lucas Krstevski and Jordan Simpson secured the title for Shellharbour for the fourth straight year.

Shellharbour also placed third with the team of Sean Ritter, Kyah Shipley, Mack Elliot, Baxter Devine, Callum Balcon and Nicole Sims, while Wollongong finished second.

“This is an incredible feat by our dedicated lifeguard team. Winning this title four years in a row is a testament to their skill and spirit,” Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said.

“Our lifeguards demonstrate outstanding professionalism, resilience and teamwork all year round.”

The annual event, hosted this year at Shellharbour Surf Life Saving Club on Thursday evening, featured 54 lifeguards from across the region competing in a series of demanding beach- and water-based relay events.

The Lifeguard Challenge tests strength, speed and

coordination in conditions that mirror the demands of real-life rescues in a friendly but fiercely contested environment.

Nine teams competed, each featuring six lifeguards including at least one female and one member aged over 30.

“The Lifeguard Challenge is more than a competition. It celebrates the vital role these teams play in protecting beachgoers and showcases the strong bonds between lifeguards across the Illawarra and South Coast,” Cr Homer added.

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said it was a great evening, despite the result.

“There’s always a bit of friendly rivalry involved, but the real highlight is seeing crews from Kiama, Shellharbour and Wollongong come together.

“It’s a chance to test skills, build connections and share a few laughs - all while recognising the serious work they do keeping our beaches safe.

“Good to be there with Kiama’s lifeguard coordinator Craig Bowley and to catch up with Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer.

“Proud of our Kiama team for the way they represented our coastline … and to all the lifeguards who give their time and energy each summer so our community can enjoy the water safely.”

Man Walk milestone:

Lleyton Hughes

Almost nine years after Kiama local Mark Burns went for a walk around Kiama Harbour and came up with the idea for The Man Walk, the initiative is preparing to launch its 100th location.

With 93 locations across Australia, four in New Zealand, one in Japan and one in England, Burns still struggles to comprehend how much the grassroots movement has grown.

“It’s unexpected - that’s probably the best word for it,” Burns said.

“The Man Walk has been this inadvertent success since late 2018, when I went for a wander around Kiama Harbour just to get myself on the right foot.

“It was about starting the day in the sun, clearing my head - simple stuff. It worked for me. Then my mates crashed my walk and from there it grew to Wollongong, then Coolangatta, and then a viral social media post in 2019 that reached 1.3 million people.”

Originally, the goal was to launch 12 new locations each year. Since 1 July 2025 alone, 21 new walks have started.

“The most recent ones include Bribie Island, Chelsea in Victoria, Rutherglen, and Rockhampton, and we’re at 99 now,” he said.

“It’ll be a bit of a race to see which becomes number 100. It might be Sylvania in Sydney - or maybe Chelsea in the UK. Pretty cool to have Chelsea, Victoria and Chelsea, London.”

As the initiative expands, Burns says the responsibility

behind the scenes has grown too. On the tougher days, he draws motivation from the stories he hears from participants.

“What’s really powerful is hearing from the blokes who walk regularly. It’s mostly older men - it’s open to anyone 18 and over, free and weeklybut some of the stories are incredible,” he said.

“I’ve had guys say, ‘This is my first friend in 40 years,’ or ‘The Man Walk saved my life.’ When I get bogged down in governance, insurance and strategy - which I never thought I’d be worrying about - I think about those stories.”

per cent said it helped them engage socially with others.

The program’s impact is now being measured more formally through a longitudinal study with Charles Sturt University.

“Professor Julaine Allan specialises in community connection and social wellbeing. They had some funding available and reached out after seeing what we were doing online,” Burns said.

“She and her team designed a thorough study looking at demographics, cultural background, economic position, alcohol consumption, and anxiety and depression scales. We survey ambassadors and walkers in March and October each year for five years. As the same men continue participating, it strengthens the data.”

A whopping 97 per cent of men surveyed said The Man Walk has had a positive impact on their mental and physical health while 99 nine

The first phase of the study concluded: “The Man Walk is a community-based program that effectively fosters social connection, routine and wellbeing, especially for older men and those in regional and lower socioeconomic areas.”

Despite the growth, Burns insists the core of The Man Walk remains unchanged.

“The purpose hasn’t changed. It’s still a lowbarrier, easy opportunity for connection - shoulder-toshoulder, walk and talk. That simplicity is the magic, and I don’t think that will ever change,” he said.

“Growth has been entirely organic so far, but we’re starting to identify areas of need more strategically,” he said.

In the near future, the organisation will host ‘One Big Walk for Men’s Health and Wellbeing’ - a 400km trek from Tathra to Kembla Grange from June 13 to 20, more than a marathon a day.

“It’s about raising awareness and funds. We’ll pass about 14 active Man Walk locations along the coast and connect with them. Funding a free organisation is tough,” Burns said.

“We’re hoping 15 people will commit to the full eight days, each raising $5,000. Others can join for a day and aim to raise $1,000.”

The group will finish at Kembla Grange on Race Against Suicide race day.

“It’s a big challenge - I’ve got the walking shoes on already - but it’s exciting. We’re proud of where things are heading. It’s definitely onward and upward.”

“What has evolved is that we now offer more. There are mental health education programs and wellbeing check-ins. And with so many locations, there’s a bit of ‘Man Walk tourism’ - like park run tourism. Some blokes have walked at 30 or 40 locations around Australia.” Once the 100th walk is confirmed, Burns hopes another 500 established over the next decade.

A hoot of a show at the Old Fire Station

Until The Sky Falls Quiet:

Gaza documentary goes behind the shocking scenes

Lleyton Hughes

Until The Sky Falls Quiet, the 2025 Australian documentary featuring powerful insider footage of life inside Gaza, will screen at Warrawong’s Gala Cinema on Saturday, with the directors urging as many people as possible to attend.

Directed by Erica Long and Jason Korr, the film follows two Western Sydney doctorsDr Sanjay Adusumilli and Dr Siraj Siratravel - as they travel to Gaza on a medical mission, risking their safety to provide aid on the frontlines.

“It came about after we met Dr Sanjay and Dr Siraj, and Dr Siraj’s wife, Veena, when they contacted us to make a promotional video for their medical mission to Gaza,” Long said.

“We filmed that first, and then right before they left, we pitched the idea of a documentary. They agreed.”

Long said she felt compelled to tell the behindthe-scenes story because she believed Australian media coverage was not fully capturing what was happening on the ground.

“I was seeing humanitarian doctors speaking at the UN about what they witnessed. I was reading opinion pieces from doctors like Dr Irfan Galaria, who described what he saw in Gaza as an annihilation and not just a war,” she said.

“It made me realise that what we were being shown was probably nowhere near the full reality.”

Because of restrictions on independent media entering Gaza, the doctors themselves filmed much of the footage.

Initially, Long expected the material would only support a short film - but that changed when they returned.

“They were using phones,” she said. “And one of the aid workers they were with, who’s from the UK, turned out to be a photographer.”

Additional footage was provided by MSF and three other humanitarian workers - Dr Bushra, Dr Jamal Murai and Khaled Cheikhshir - who were working at the same hospital.

“With six aid workers contributing raw footage, it gave us enough coverage to piece together what it was like working in Rafah and at Al-Aqsa Hospital in central Gaza,” Long said.

As the project evolved, so did its focus. What began as a behind-the-scenes account shifted toward a more human-centred narrative.

“The Gaza–Israel conflict is so polarising. Some people switch off as soon as they hear ‘Gaza–Israel’ because they think about protests and political division,” Long said.

“What we realised was that we wanted to humanise Palestinians and show that they’re not just numbers in the news. They’re human beings. We wanted people to be confronted with the question: How can you, as a human being, watch all of this and be okay with it?”

The film presents Gaza through the lens of the two doctors, immersing viewers in their emotional journey.

“You feel what they feeltheir pain and their moments of hope,” she said.

The documentary does not shy away from confronting material. Long described the difficult editorial decisions involved in handling graphic footage.

“There were images of deceased people. On one hand, you don’t want to show something graphic. On the other, if no one shows it, will people understand the brutality?” she said.

“Jason, my partner and codirector, is a doctor. Some photos were so graphic that even he couldn’t make out what was happening because the injuries were so severe.”

Ultimately, the filmmakers chose to

focus on individual stories that had deeply impacted the doctors, including young patients treated in the hospital. Despite the devastation, the film also highlights resilience.

“There’s a scene where kids are running around playing with a blown-up disposable hospital glove as if it’s a balloon,” Long said.

“You see little Zico, who’s 10, trying to help at the hospital. And medical students stepping up to assist wherever they can. These people are living in hell on Earth and yet still they try to find joy and help one another.”

In one moving sequence, Dr Siraj asks children at the hospital to draw pictures. Their drawings reveal both grief and hope.

“There was such a range - one child tried to draw Dr Siraj, another drew their father who had passed away. You realise how much they’ve already experienced,” Long said. “But there were also rainbows and doves. At the end of the day, they just want it to stop. They want to live in dignity.”

As the film prepares to screen locally, Long encourages audiences to approach it with an open mind. “Put politics aside and come for the human story,” she said. “It’s about two Australian doctors on a medical mission. Whatever your political views, you can connect with their journey.”

Until The Sky Falls Quiet will screen at Gala Cinema on 21 February, followed by a Q&A with director Erica Long and Dr Sanjay Adusumilli. Tickets are available via the cinema’s website and you can watch the trailer here: https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=u9wzfV6EY8I

Owls and opals

Myah Garza

Kiama’s beloved Old Fire Station gallery has undergone a vibrant transformation, with WOMAN-O-FEST opening its doors on Thursday night in a bold celebration of fine art and high-end craft.

Running through to Wednesday, 5 March, the exhibition has turned the familiar community space into a colourful sanctuary of painting, jewellery and creative flair. Curated by artist Auguste Blackman – son of the late Australian icon Charles Blackman – the show brings together an impressive lineup of Illawarra-based talent.

Blackman has handpicked each contributor, creating a dynamic exhibition that blends established names with distinctive local voices.

Among the highlights is Harvey and Jules, presenting a mesmerising collection of polished Australian Boulder Opal jewellery.

Naturally fused with ironstone, these opals are prized for their deep flashes of colour, hidden sparkle and organic forms.

Each stone’s striking natural striations ensure no two pieces are alike, making them highly sought after by collectors and jewellery lovers.

The gallery walls feature works by respected Indigenous

artist Randall Sinnamon, alongside contributions from Leah Wilde, Bob Dixon and Machteld Hali, a combination of regional creativity.

Additionally, Blackman has created 45 bespoke owl paintings especially for the Kiama exhibition – filling the space with his trademark wit and personality.

The official opening was held on Thursday evening, welcoming art lovers to meet the artists and celebrate the local creative scene.

With rare gemstones, bold canvases and more than a few wise owls in residence, WOMAN-O-FEST is shaping up as a standout on Kiama’s cultural calendar.

News in Brief

A man has been refused bail after an incident in Kiama in which he was arrested over domestic violence allegations. About 9.30pm on Sunday, police attended a home in Cooinda Place, Kiama, to arrest a man in relation to an alleged DV incident.

During the arrest, police allege the 32-year-old man punched a male constable in the throat and face before the constable deployed OC spray to effect the arrest. The 32-year-old was taken to Lake Illawarra Police Station where he allegedly made threats towards the same male constable and a male leading senior constable.

Police allege that while in custody, the man punched the leading constable in the face, breaking his glasses and causing cuts to his eyebrow and nose. He was charged with assault police in execution of duty without actual bodily harm, two counts of hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty, two counts of intimidate police officer in execution of duty and assault police officer in execution of duty cause actual bodily harm. Police also charged him with stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm.

Cleanout events to reduce clutter

Kiama Council is bringing back two waste-reduction events, Second Hand Saturday and the Household Bulky Waste Drop Off, making it easier to clear out the post-Christmas clutter in a safe and sustainable way.

Second Hand Saturday will be held on 7 March, giving residents the chance to sell, swap or trade pre-loved items and keep them circulating within the community.

All Kiama ratepayers can collect a free native plant at the event. The Household Bulky Waste Drop Off Event will run from 14-22 March, perfect for items that can’t be placed in your kerbside bins.

Witness appeal over abduction attempt

South Coast Police are calling on residents for urgent assistance following a suspicious incident involving a nine-year-old girl last week. At approximately 3pm last Tuesday, a young girl got off a bus at the corner of Btu and Nowra Hill Road. She was approached by two unknown men who attempted to convince her to get into their vehicle. Displaying quick thinking, the girl ran from the scene and hid in nearby bushes until the men drove away.

Police are looking to identify two men described as being of Asian appearance and in their early 20s and their vehicle was a silver sedan or small SUV.

Myah Garza

Even though rain fell over Kiama on Sunday, it did little to dampen the colour and music at Kiama Surf Life Saving Club’s Pride Sunday Sips.

The club marked Surf Life Saving Australia’s Rainbow Beach initiative with a Pridethemed patrol followed by a vibrant Sunday Sips gathering - drawing an impressive crowd despite the drizzle.

Event coordinator Jane Bourne said the idea began late last year when Surf Life Saving Australia invited clubs to request free Pride Packs.

“My husband and I are very involved with the surf club,

and we thought that looks like a great idea,” Bourne said. “We checked with the water committee and they were like, ‘Yep, great’.”

While the official NSW date was the 14th, the club shifted celebrations to align with its regular Sunday Nippers and Sippers.

“It made more sense for us to do it on the 15th and they were very happy for us to change the day,” she said.

Lifesavers flew the rainbow flag and wore rainbow zinc, armbands and whistles as part of the patrol.

“The whistles, the zinc and the rainbow armbands were all part of the pack. It was lovely,” Bourne said.

Upstairs, Sunday Sips took on a Pride theme, with local DJ Brendon Reece

RFS to get ‘a

first-class

Anew Rural Fire Service brigade station at Dunmore will ensure local firefighters are better equipped to do their lifesaving work.

The NSW Government has announced six new combined Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centres and 18 new rural fire stations as part of a $34.5 million project to help coordinate the response to bushfires and other emergencies such as storms and floods.

Kiama MP Katelin McInerney welcomed the announcement from Minister for Emergency Service Jihad Dib.

“Having met the amazing volunteers at Dunmore RFS with Minister Dib last year, I know firsthand that this investment will ensure they have the modern amenities needed to train and attract more volunteers, particularly women,” she said.

Pride Patrol shines at rainy Sunday Sips

generously donating his time to keep the atmosphere lively.

A glitter and glam station proved especially popular.

“It was mainly kidsalthough some bigger kids got themselves bedazzled and glittered up too,” Bourne said.

Moist & Glazed supplied fresh donuts, while a 100-square fundraising board raised $500 for the surf club, alongside $500 in cash prizes.

Despite steady rain –conditions that would normally see Sips cancelled – organisers decided to press ahead.

“We’ve got an indoor space at the club, and I thought, we’ve got a DJ, we’ve got these people coming – let’s

keep it on,” Bourne said.

“It was a really good turnout, especially for a rainy Sunday. Loads of new faces, new families – people who don’t normally come.”

Members of the local Pride community, including representatives from an Illawarra-based Rainbow choir, attended and expressed interest in future collaborations.

“We reached out to Rainbow families and Pride groups in the area, as well as our regular locals. We wanted to make sure that the community knew they were welcome,” she said.

Beyond the music, glitter and donuts, the day carried a clear message about belonging in the Kiama community.

“Inclusion and visibility are vitally important everywhere,” she said. “The Surf Club serves the community. We teach young children life skills and lifesaving skills. It’s important that everyone feels welcome.”

In a regional town, she said, that visibility can be especially powerful.

“It’s so important to show people who perhaps feel different that you are absolutely welcome, you are wanted, you can be yourself –and people will support you.”

Bourne hopes Pride at Sippers will become an annual event aligned with Rainbow Beach, and a springboard for more Pride celebrations across Kiama in the future.

station for the future’ at Dunmore

“The new station will provide change rooms that will cater for all members, a multi-purpose room for training and general meetings. The new station will also overcome the lack of space in the current building and will provide a first-class station for the future.

“The brigade currently responds to 120 jobs per year, including in the Kiama electorate.”

Dib said the Government was committed to “ensuring our volunteers have what they need to do their job”.

“Our focus on the state's firefighting capability reflects our deep respect for the people who step up when it matters most.

“This summer has already served as a reminder of our reliance on our volunteer firefighters, who have tirelessly responded to bush

fire emergencies in NSW, Victoria and beyond.

"We are planning for the future and investing in firefighting facilities so they have the infrastructure they need, both on the fireground and to coordinate effective emergency response operations.

"Rural firefighting response has been a partnership with local government for one hundred

years and I thank councils for their shared contribution in keeping communities safe."

Shellharbour MP Anna Watson said region communities “deserve the strongest possible protection and this investment delivers exactly that”.

“These new and upgraded RFS facilities will ensure our volunteers have the modern resources they need to keep people safe during bush fires, storms and floods.

"I'm especially proud to see a new brigade station being delivered for Dunmore.

“I was happy to work with Mr Tony Hardy, who was a tireless and relentless advocate for a new upgraded facility.

“Sadly, Tony has passed before he could see his vision come through and I would like to extend my thanks to Tony's family for their ongoing support on behalf of their father."

Gerringong Lions sign up for national vision screening program

Three members of the Gerringong Lions Club have undergone initial training to take part in Lions National Children’s Visual Screening Program, considered one of the most comprehensive programs in the country.

Free Vision Screening is provided to children from three years old, in childcare centres, schools, sporting clubs or community groups.

It is a screening service only. If there is any concern about a child’s vision, a full eye examination by a local optometrist may be recommended.

Since the program started in 2018, there have been 56,132 children who have been screened, with 11,556 referrals to optometrists recommended.

As part of their training, the Gerringong Lions went to the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club and asked for

volunteers to come forward to be screened.

Eleven parents consented for their “nippers” to be screened. Three of the 11 were found to have sight issues with a recommendation to follow up with an optometrist.

A state-of-the-art piece of equipment, The Spot Vision Screener can be used to identify, myopia (near sightedness), hyperopia (far sightedness), astigmatism (blurred vision), anisometropia (unequal refractive power), binocular

vision (eye misalignment) and aniscoria (unequal pupil size).

Visual acuity is tested to determine how sharp vision is at longer distances.

Colour perception is also part of the screening regime and stereo depth perception, to assess binocular function of eyes at near tasks, rounds out the battery of screening tests.

Once their training is complete, the Gerringong Lions are hoping to offer the program to local pre-schools, schools and sporting groups.

Loui’s filling late-night dining gap in Kiama

As a journalist, it can be difficult to be unbiased at times, especially when you love Italian food and you’re tasked with writing about pizza (there are worse jobs, I suppose).

The assignment from The Bugle was to check out the local pizza scene.

However, this journalist went to one of Kiama’s newest pizza joints, Loui’s, and decided she’d seen all she needed to see in regards to pizza and anything carbohydrate related.

Upon walking into Loui’s, owned by Morgan Lewis, also the proprietor of Fillmore’s, I instantly felt welcome.

The layout is spacious yet cosy, with plenty of natural light and the staff are friendly

Renovated by Morgan using recycled wood, the interior strikes a balance between openness and warmth.

He had the goal of creating a space where locals - although tourists are also welcomewould feel comfortable eating alone at the bar and chatting to the staff.

He also wanted to offer late-night dining to the local community, something of a rarity in Kiama.

And in particular, he felt it was important to create a safe space for women to dine alone.

In addition to the welcoming atmosphere, the food at Loui’s is certainly something to write home about.

Based on traditional Italian food, which at its core is simple and uncomplicated, Loui’s offers a variety of pizzas and pastas which prove less is always more.

create a simple yet satisfying menu.

Having previously worked together at Fillmore’s, he said “it’s a really good partnership, it works great”.

This is evident as they laugh and chat about the menu that they developed together.

Despite the simplicity, the ingredients are high quality and local.

“It’s very important to have really good, fresh produce. And everything is made fresh on-site daily … and it’s ever evolving,” Morgan said.

Some recommendations from Morgan and Adam are the potato pizza and the salami pizza, which of course I had to try and, as expected, they were tasty and fired to perfection.

If you’re looking to feed a crowd, the table of nine that I dined with shared five pizzas which was enough to satiate us all.

While sipping on wine curated by Yakka and waiting for our pizzas to be woodfired, I caught glimpses

of Adam kneading and tossing the pizza dough fresh to order (oh, to be the dough).

After pizza, it was time for dessert. On offer were ovenroasted, glazed peaches served with pistachio or vanilla gelato.

The peach itself was somewhat tricky to eat with a spoon, so I suggest picking it up and biting into it while simultaneously manoeuvring the gelato into your mouth.

Although be warned - you might feel like you should buy the peach a drink before consuming this way.

If you still have room after dessert, why not treat yourself to an affogato with coffee from a local roastery, Little Earth.

Loui’s is open Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5pm-10pm, Fridays and Saturdays 5pm-10:30pm.

what’s on?

WO-MAN-O-FEST

Thu 19 Feb- Wed 4 Mar

Old Fire Station Kiama

Exhibition with multiple artists displaying a range of art and jewellery

Paint n Sip - Margaritas & Masterpieces

Fri 20 Feb, 6pm-8:30pm

Georgia Rose Shell Cove

Kick off the night with a margarita, then dive into a painting inspired by Mexican Culture.

Gerringong Rotary

Markets

Sat 21 Feb, 8:30am-1:30pm

Gerringong Town Hall

Variety of stalls with foods, books, toys, arts and crafts, clothes, leather goods.

THAT. Skate Park w STÜM

Sat 21 Feb, 2pm-7pm

Kiama Skatepark

Transforming the park into a dance floor with live music

Jamberoo Village Markets

Sun 22 Feb, 9am-1pm

Reid Park, Jamberoo

Includes craft stalls alongside fresh food, fruit, and vegetables, local crafts, flowers, and homewares.

Berry Village Market

Sun 22 Feb, 10am-3pm

Berry Bowling Club

Over 80 unique stalls selling quality products

Live Cooking Class

Wed 25 Feb, 12pm-3pm

Kiama Pavillion

Live cooking class and health talk

The Simple Gift of a Bag

Thu 26 Feb, 9:30am-1pm

North Kiama

Neighbourhood Centre

Sewing workshop and morning tea

KISS Arts Festival

Fundraiser

Fri 27 Feb, 7pm-11pm

Kiama Surf Club

Fundraiser night of trivia, musical bingo, performance and surprises to support the KISS Arts Festival

Kiama Sevens

Sat 28 Feb, 7am-6pm Kiama Showground

44 teams competing, come for a great day of footy, fun, and frivolity

Clash of Steel

Sat 28 Feb, from 6pm Unihall, University of Wollongong

Featuring trained fighters competing with real steel weapons inside a steel cage

Kiama Sounds of Jazz and Blues Weekend

Fri 6 Mar-Sun 8 Mar

Multiple venues Local venues come alive with smooth jazz, soulful blues, and great vibes

Sky, Earth, Water exhibition

Sat 7 Mar - Tue 14 Jun

Bundanon Art Museum

Explores Rosalie Gascoigne’s deep connection to the material landscape alongside Lorraine Connelly-Northey, Janet Fieldhouse and Glenda Nicholls

Gemtopia

Sat 7 Mar-Sun 8 Mar

Kiama Pavillion

Over 35 amazing stallholders with crystals and jewellery Coos & Clay

Sun 8 Mar, 9:30am-12:30pm

Abergail Farm, Nowra

Meet highland cows and mould a clay cow sculpture

Zonta High Tea

Sun 8 Mar, 10am-4pm

Kiama Leagues Club

Celebrate International Women’s Day with a high tea experience

Blues Bash

Sun 8 Mar, 8pm

Kiama Bowling Club

Frank Sultana and his Horns Orchestra hit the road

Open Day – Cedar On Collins

Thu 12 Mar, 9:30am-12:30pm Cedar On Collins, Kiama

Explore the living experience on offer to residents.

Coos & Colour

Sat 14 Mar, 9:30am-12:30pm

Abergail Farm Nowra

Meet highland cows and paint a cow on canvas

Gerringong Anglican

Church Explorers to Lucas Heights

Thu 19 Mar, 8:30am-3:30pm Lucas Heights Nuclear Facility

Excursion with guest speakers from Australia’s Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation Expressive Art Retreat

Fri 20 Mar- Sun 22 Mar

Golden Ridge, Yellow Rock

A weekend of Art & Bliss!

Unlock your inner artist YOHKA™ KIAMA

28-29 March

Kiama Showground

Whether you’re racing for a podium, tackling the course for fun or soaking it in from the sidelines - this is fitness entertainment that you don’t want to miss.

Berry Quilt Show

Fri 1 May-Sun 3 May

Berry School of Arts

Bi-annual Quilt Show with raffles and challenges

her artistic success

Thanks to the generosity of well known Sydney artist, Robyn Ross, the next Gerringong fundraiser for Children’s Medical Research Institute will be a charcoal drawing workshop.

The event will be held on Saturday, 28 March at Gerringong Surf Club from 10am to 3pm with tickets available from the Trybooking website from 2 March.

Cost is $95 per person and includes tuition, paper, charcoal and lunch (catered for by CMRI members).

This is a great opportunity for artists from beginners to the more accomplished as Robyn is a very experienced and inspiring teacher who will show you how to create images using charcoal and all the techniques required in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Always expressing a particular interest in people, Robyn specialises in portraiture.

Her style and media are eclectic. Equally proficient with paint, charcoal and pencil, she draws different qualities from each medium to create a diverse output of work.

Fascinated by the personalities behind the faces, Robyn’s zest for life and interaction with people informs her work with remarkable results.

Celebrity portraits include Russell Crowe, Sir Tim Rice, Bette Midler, Gordon Ramsay and Harry Connick jnr – and, somewhat controversially –Christine Forster and her now wife, Virginia Edwards.

Considering herself to be mostly self taught, her formal art study includes periods at the Gallery School,

Meadowbank and Julian Ashton Art School.

Robyn’s clearly a woman proficient across the creative spectrum.

Her aim is to paint and share something she’s seen in her subject, leaving her audience to further interpretation.

Her art practice includes sittings, photographs and constant dialogue with her subjects. Robyn’s been an invited artist at more than 80 group exhibitions and various solo shows.

Career highlights include, invitations to exhibit at the Australian Embassy in Washington and the First International Biennale Izmir Turkey, as a guest artist.

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Goethe Institute in Germany, Robyn was invited to show one of her works in an exhibition that toured Europe in 2011.

Twenty years ago Robyn established Hunters Hill Art Group, has run workshops for Northbridge School of Visual Arts, Charles Sturt University and Lucca, Italy, as well as various art societies.

As a long-term supporter of Children’s Medical Research Institute, Robyn’s donated works have raised more than $150,000 in Jeans For Genes art auctions.

She recently completed two striking portraits of Professor Frank Martin, paediatric opthamologist, and Jennifer Philps, CMRI community relations manager. The CMRI Gerringong committee is very excited to have Robyn in town to share her knowledge and talent with our community.

Book from 2 March at https://www.trybooking. com/DJJOH.

9am-11:30am

Suzanne LYONS

Sadly passed away at the age of 70 on 8 February 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. A beloved wife and dearly loved and truly devoted mother and grandmother, her joy, eternal optimism and enthusiasm for life will be deeply missed.

A not so funny thing happened on the way to the art gallery

Goddard

There they were, about a dozen or so, spread along the rooftops about 100m ahead, above where I was headed on foot.

Police with rifles raised, snipers. Not what you'd expect at 6pm on a Monday in Sydney's Darling Harbour.

Four of us had left Happy Hour at our Harbourside hotel to walk to dinner. Something was up, you could feel it.

There were police officers everywhere, poised, on alert.

The police presence on the ground as we approached the International Convention Centre was enormous. So many young police officers, and plainclothes personnel. Standing in groups of two or three. Watching, and waiting. For what, I wondered.

With so many people, tourists, visitors and locals

alike, milling around the harbour front or making their way to the various cafes, bars and restaurants, this was a fragile, possibly tenuous, definitely not-yournormal Monday evening sort of situation. Two helicopters hovered overhead. Their noise was a little reminiscent of Apocalypse Now.

Blame my imagination. Blame my heightened sense of Something Not Quite Right. Then, the lightbulb moment. It suddenly occurred to me that the President of Israel had arrived in Sydney earlier that day.

The public walkway was crowded, and hubby and I were uneasy, though our dinner partners ahead of us were blissfully unaware as they hungrily forged ahead towards our Chinese restaurant of choice.

Not much further along, we

were stopped and asked by an armed police officer if we were attending the imminent meeting inside the Centre. We were diverted through to Chinatown where we spent the next delightful, anxietyfree hour eating, drinking and catching up with our friends. Before we meaningfully avoided the uncertainty and scariness of the return walk by using the Light Rail, a first for me! How great is an opal Card. Hubby and I had come to Sydney earlier in the day, ostensibly for an exhibition, Ron Mueck Encounters, at our gorgeous Art Gallery of NSW. I could quite happily spend an entire day at the Gallery, especially a rainy day. Which it was. But weeks ago we had decided to make our trip an overnighter, so that we had a bit of time to see for ourselves what had been happening in this lively part of the city since

we'd last been here, quite a few years ago. Barangaroo, an eye-watering assortment of very high rise apartments and skyscrapers blotting out the sky, more coffee shops than customers, many more bars, and myriad construction sites, that's what's happened. The beauty of our Harbour though, still remains, though becoming cluttered. What is also unchanged is the fun of getting out on the water in one of our iconic ferries. It's always a must do for me.

If you find yourself in need of an awesome art experience, do make the time to at least check out the Ron Mueck exhibition, only in Sydney at the Art gallery of NSW, until 12 April. Mueck is a sculptor whose work is unparalleled for its exquisitely crafted realism. You'd be forgiven for thinking the sculptures are alive.

John’s a Gerringong living legend in art

Mark Emery

Ayoung girl came into the Gerringong Museum the other day and spent some time looking at all the history while waiting for a train back to Sydney.

She was so impressed with the Kiama district, the history and the scenery. She said artists must flock to this place as it is so beautiful. I pulled out my phone and showed her a set of paintings by an artist from Gerringong. She was very impressed.

His name was John Downton. I first came across John when he opened Hilltop Gallery as my sister was one of a group of artists who exhibited pieces there.

Other artists who did the same were Michael McCarthy, Leonard Long and Vinh N Trieu. The gallery was located on

the first hill as you come into Gerringong from the Omega bridge. The Mercure Resort is there now. John was born in San Souci in 1939. His father was a veteran of horrible battles on the Western Front in World War I.

He first moved to Werri Beach when he was eight and immediately began a lifelong love affair with the beach and the sea. One great memory he has is of the old steam trains and the whistle they made as they passed the Omega station nearby.

Sometimes John joined Bob Holman who was the fettler on the local railways, and they would run the length of the line checking all the bolts and sleepers.

Even though John, with his family, or by himself, has moved away from Werri at different times,

such as a move to Eden, he always seemed to return.

His first job was as a watchmaker. One day he met a REAL artist, Leonard Long.

Long was a brilliant landscape artist in his own right and was still painting when he was 100.

He was a watchmaker, like John, in Bowral but sold the business to become a fulltime painter in 1955.

John was so impressed he was spurred on to become an artist himself. Often both of them, with other artists such as McCarthy, would go for road trips to find beautiful scenery to paint.

John started his painting career in 1973. He attended art classes at the Royal Art Society of NSW. To outline all of the achievements that John has attained in his long and rich career would take three or four full-page articles in The Bugle.

I will try to outline just a few highlights. John received an Australian Navy award in 1987 and he has had a long association with the Australian Navy. He was the Navy artist in East Timor in 2000. The Navy named a gallery inside the Fleet Air Arm Museum at Nowra the ‘John Downton Gallery’.

He was the first artist to be invited to hold an exhibition at the Mitchell Library in Sydney. John has received numerous accolades from countries such as Japan and Ireland. The Japanese awarded him cultural awards in 1989 and 1999. The Irish invited him to hold an exhibition during a historical celebration in Dublin.

He has won the Caltex Art Award three times.

John received an OAM in 2017.

Support Local

Blow Your Bugle

If I was Mayor for the day ....

What would l love to do for Kiama if given Mayoral duties?

1. Kiama seriously needs to tidy up the harbour area with a building or two to house a seafood bar and grill. At the moment the Council has two buildings facing Black Beach harbour with great views.

Sadly they are both toilet blocks. One near the lap pool and the other opposite the courthouse. So many visiting friends search for a seafood restaurant celebrating an ocean view and the rolling waves aspect of our town.

Sadly at the moment there are none.

Main Beach has the showground facilities on the Northern end. Just recently the stables for the show horses were renewed. This quite harsh, metallic horse facility is used for two days a year

How wonderful it would be if a restaurant could be erected at this location above the stables with rent going to the Kiama Show society.

Visitors to our town would

then able to celebrate the glorious coastal view for 365 days each year, along with the horses (for two days).

The Show's grandstand has its back to the ocean view with the horse facility below.

It’s such an under-utilised aspect, as though we are turning our backs on just how specially located this town is.

2. Many towns along our coast operate small specialist cinemas other than the multiplex fare on offer at Shellharbour. To enjoy a cinema experience offering French, Italian and arthouse screenings, it's an inconvenient 30-minute drive away, at least. Many times we visit Warrawong's arthouse Gala Cinema and many patrons are from Kiama.

Towns like nearby Huskisson and Ulladulla offer the chance to watch New York's Met Opera, London's National Theatre live apart from the predictable mainstream fare on offer at our nearby shopping mall. Many, highly

regarded, Oscar nominated films don’t ever get a screening there.

Gerringong offers ONE screening a month, sadly with Kiama's very arts aware population, it's often a trip to Sydney to catch a special film.

3. Many times our town has pitched a plan to include an arts centre wrapped around the Old Fire Station. The current Fire Station gallery is a valuable component in our town but the area could offer so much more.

Not long ago, adjoining buildings were demolished, the ambulance facilities were moved, it seems all for nothing. Plans were drawn up and approved, to include a little theatre, just like the one in nearby Milton, offering musos and theatre groups a chance to play to our community.

Kiama needs to address so many reasons we have to leave town to enjoy other aspects of life, apart from beaches and ice creams, be it a movie, a seaview

restaurant, or a concert in a purpose-built facility.

4. The old Manning St Council building stands proudly in the historical end of town. How wonderful it would be if this welcomed visitors with a wide open front door as a regional art gallery.

The old chambers look fabulous decorated at Christmas time but for the rest of the year the front doors remain firmly closed.

No member of our community has ever been able to enjoy this building as a community hub.

It's a grand structure, used by office workers, who could be housed anywhere.

We need to look at ways to take another look at current structures to benefit the quality of life here in our special community.

Toilet blocks, ugly horse stables and old heritage buildings could be reimagined to benefit our town in ways so far unimagined.

Greg Martin Vale Kiama

The Kiama Lions Club held their first dinner meeting of the year on 12 February, a date recognised worldwide for its importance to science and discovery.

The evening was filled with enthusiasm as members gathered at Kiama Leagues Club to celebrate the dedication and achievements of the club’s long-serving volunteers as well as the

presentation by David Evans, the chairman of the Nurses Scholarship Foundation.

The organisation formally honoured five members for their exceptional commitment, presenting them with Lions International Service Chevrons as a mark of their enduring service:

● Ian Chellew – 15 years

● Jim Webb – 35 years

● Ross Simmons – 45 years

● Rob McKinnon – 55 years

● Warren Steel – 60

Josh is a fine example of local youth

Iarrived on the train from Sydney close to midday on Thursday, 29 January.

As I went to tap my Opal card on the machine closest to the road, it slipped from my hand and disappeared a long way down into overgrown grass and bushes never to be seen again.

Or so I thought given how far down it landed and how steep the terrain was.

I knew I would soon be applying for a new one.

As my friend and I were about to walk away, a small group of young boys, who had obviously witnessed the event, appeared.

Without a second thought, one of them scaled over the fence and, somehow finding a couple of tenuous footholds, lowered himself to the ground.

He was able to retrieve the card after fossicking through the dense foliage

We all held our breath wondering how he would get back up.

The alternative wasn’t a good one.

It seemed no trouble for this young man despite the return journey taking longer and being more arduous.

A small crowd had by now gathered and along with his two or three mates he was given rousing applause.

I was incredibly grateful and in awe of his kindness and ability. His name was Josh, he was probably about 14 (I'm 75), wearing a cap and glasses and he and his mates had skateboards and were off to catch a train.

I hope he or someone he knows reads this story because it is my way of saying thank you Josh! What a fine example of youth.

Eileen Guthrie Willoughby East

Our town’s not being kept beautiful

have lived and been coming to Kiama now for 58 years.

My family have lived in the area for over 100 years.

And today I look at this once beautiful town and think to myself what has gone wrong?

This town is now filthy. The toilets have not been cleaned for it looks like years and, in general, the town is heading fast down a lane that will not

be reversible. Who is in charge? Where is the money going?

I am positive it’s not going into the beautification of the town.

Come on, Council. Lift your game or get out and let someone who cares take over and fix this once beautiful town again.

Stephen Cook, Kiama

years

Each of these milestones represents decades of service, leadership, and commitment to supporting the Kiama community - fundamental values of the Lions movement.

Evans spoke about the Lions Nurses Scholarship Foundation, an initiative that supports nurses undertaking further education to advance clinical skills and strengthen patient care across NSW.

David was joined by Carmen Wood, a respected nurse educator who received a Lions scholarship last year.

Also in attendance was a local nurse, Cate Schneider, who expressed strong interest in the scholarship program and the opportunities it provides for professional development.

Kiama Lions president Susan Hudson said the evening set a positive tone for the year ahead.

“Recognising the extraordinary service of our members and hearing firsthand the impact of the Lions Nurses Scholarship reminds us why we serve,” she said.

Ashton stars as Souths edge out Dragons

Gerringong junior Ashton Ward is making a strong case for a spot in South Sydney’s Round 1 side after a strong performance in the Charity Shield win over St George Illawarra at WIN Stadium on Saturday night.

The 22-year-old five-eighth, who did well in his six firstgrade appearances when he made his debut late last season, came up with a try assist in the 28-24 victory over the Dragons.

There is a vacancy in the halves for the Rabbitohs in the opening round with Jamie Humphreys out suspended so coach Wayne Bennett may use Ward alongside Cody Walker for the clash with the Dolphins in Brisbane on 8 March. Ward was thrilled to play

his part in the triumph with Souths fielding an inexperienced side against what was virtually a full-strength Dragons line-up.

“It was unreal, it was good to get back out there with the boots back on. It’s been a long pre-season so it was good to get a bit of footy under the belt,” he said.

“Especially for something like the Charity Shield it’s always good to get one up on the Dragons.

“We were completing well, kicking to the corners, not try and complicate things too much - that’s what we did and it got us the win.”

Ward also scored bragging rights over fellow Gerringong products Hamish Stewart and Hayden Buchanan, who

turned out for the Dragons.

Stewart peeled off 37 tackles to be the equal leader in that category for the home side with prop Emre Guler while Buchanan made a couple of tackle breaks in racking up 56 metres from just three runs after he also entered the fray from the bench.

Stewart was named in the squad that travels to Las Vegas at the end of this week to take on Canterbury at Allegiant Stadium next Sunday but Buchanan missed the cut.

St George Illawarra have wrapped up their pre-season campaign while South Sydney, who finished among the also-rans last year, will take on Manly at Glen Willow Oval in Mudgee this Sunday as they gear up for the season ahead.

Ex Servos boilover

Lleyton Hughes

Ex Servos put a huge dent in North Nowra Cambewarra’s finals hopes with an upset win in round 15 of the South Coast cricket season on Saturday.

With three rounds left, North Nowra are now 13 points adrift of Kiama in fourth place and need other results to go their way even if they peel off three wins to finish the season.

Ex Servos managed only 98 in their low-scoring affair at Bernie Regan Oval, anchored by John Bowern’s 41 as Jason Moschioni (4-22) and Matt Hickmott (3-41) tore through the batting line-up.

After progressing to 1-41, Andrew Wilson (3-17), Kuldeep Singh rana (2-4) and Jovan Croese (3-54) triggered a dramatic collapse to bowl North Nowra out for just 80. Their 18-run win gives Ex Servos hope of offloading the wooden spoon, now just three points behind Albion Park.

The Eagles went down by 30 runs to Kiama after the Cavaliers posted 7-176 on the back of solid contributions from David Coleman (46), Ryan Butta (42) and captain Jaya Hartgerink (37).

Park’s top order crumbled to be 4-38 and they had

no answer as Coleman completed a fine all-round performance with 4-30.

Bomaderry’s playoff hopes are also fading after they lost a nail-biter to competition leaders Lake Illawarra at Artie Smith Oval.

The hosts only managed 87 with the bat as allrounder Jake O’Connell (4-25) and fellow seamer Jarryd White (3-30) ran amok.

But the premiers went from cruising at 1-76 to losing 6-11 before limping over the finish line after Lachlan Duggan took 4-7 and Brad Cross bagged 3-25.

Shellharbour maintained a share of second spot with a five-wicket win over the Kookas, chasing down the total of 182 with 4.4 overs to spare while Bay and Basin beat Oak Flats by eight runs in another rain-shortened game with Dolphins skipper Brock Balgowan (41 and 4-34) guiding his team to victory.

This Saturday, North Nowra host Bay and Basin, Lake Illawarra take on Oak Flats at Geoff Shaw Oval, Kiama are away to Shellharbour in the match of the round, Albion Park are away to Ex Servos and the Kookas visit Bomaderry.

Ladder: Lake 90, Harbour, Bay & Basin 79, Kiama 75, North Nowra 62, Bomaderry

60, Oak Flats 41, Kookas 35, Park 33, Ex Servos 30. In the women’s competition on Friday night, the Kookas sealed the minor premiership by thrashing Oak Flats Ratatouilles by 78 runs.

Mel Nolan’s 48 and an unbeaten 34 from April Wells powered the Kookas to 2-133 before five bowlers were among the wickets in restricting Oak Flats to 8-55. Oak Flats Ratettes sunk Shellharbour 128-77 with Anne Boatswain top-scoring with 46 while Lake Illawarra trounced Ex Servos.

Nakita Boatswain and Anthea Godwin made 43 apiece but Kiana Dovern belted 55 not out as Lake chased down the total with seven overs up their sleeve. Annette Thornton took 3-14 as Kiama bowled Albion Park out for 73 before Ebony Winston blasted an unbeaten 40 as the Cavettes hauled in the target without losing a wicket.

This Friday, the Ratatouilles meet Shellharbour and the Ratettes face Ex Servos at Myimbarr, Kiama host Lake and Albion Park take on the Kookas at Albion Oval.

Ladder: Kookas 44, Ratettes 30, Ratatouille 28, Kiama, Lake 24, Park 18, Ex Servos 16, Harbour 4.

Hawks surrender title with barely a whimper

Paul Suttor

Disappointing, underwhelming, deflating - there are many ways to describe the Illawarra Hawks’ NBL title defence. And none of them are good.

After the ecstasy of last year’s run to the championship, breaking a trophy drought which stretched all the way back to 2001, the Hawks never got out of second gear this season.

They got off to a slow start, which can partly be attributed to their participation in the FIBA Intercontinental Cup in Singapore, losing their opening three matches.

Injuries played their part too, along with the signing of import guard JaQuori McLaughlin, who lasted three games before the 27-year-old was told his services were not required after he averaged 7.7 points and four assists.

The monumental signing of

Cavettes dominate Albion Park to keep finals hopes alive

Kiama Cavettes kept their South Coast women’s cricket finals hopes alive with a dominating win over Albion Park on home soil, chasing down their target in just nine overs.

Kiama have been locked in points with Lake Illawarra over the past few weeks, making every match a mustwin with only two rounds remaining. The Cavettes chose to bowl first at Bonaira Oval, and Kiama Cricket Club president Bernie Brown said they started strongly.

“The Kiama side began well, with Emma Ford breaking through midway in the 3rd over with a caughtand-bowled,” Brown said.

“Annette Thornton then came on in the 6th over and took a wicket with her very first ball, expertly caught by Naomi Poole, who snared her maiden catch in four seasons of cricket. It was a tremendous

moment, and the Cavettes converged for an excitable, extended celebration. Albion Park slowed to 2/24.”

Albion Park finished with a respectable 73-run total from 19.3 overs. Thornton finished with 3-14 from 3.3 overs, while Ford and Carolyn Perry each took two wickets.

Kiama then went out to bat with their very successful opening pairing of Ava Sloan and Ebony Winston, and the rest was history.

“It was a classy and complete chase by the Cavettes, with Winston 40* (31) and Sloan 14* (16) carrying their bats and knocking over the total in just nine overs,” Brown said.

This Friday, Kiama will face Lake Illawarra in the match of the round at Bonaira Oval, with both teams locked on 24 points in 4th and 5th place, respectively.

early but recovered thanks to David Coleman (46), captain Jaya Hartgerink (37), and Ryan Butta (42), taking the total to 176. Kiama’s bowlers struck early in the second innings, with Niall Owers taking three wickets and reducing Albion Park to 6-70.

A bottom-order partnership lifted Albion Park to 7-110, but Brad Ison’s second wicket of the day broke the stand, allowing David Coleman to take the final three wickets and end the game. Albion Park finished 146 all out from 46.3 overs.

Third Grade also recorded a win over Albion Park on the road, keeping their slight finals hopes alive.

Kiama batted first, with Robert Miller (31) and captain Daniel Reilly (25*) helping set a total of 112.

Olympic champion and threetime NBA championship winner JaVale McGee turned out to be a good move in getting attention on the club.

But his style did not mesh with his teammates and although his stats were for the most part impressive, it did not translate into enough victories. He put up 19.3 points on 56% shooting and 10 rebounds per outing, averaging two assists, whichto be fair to him - was never a strong part of his game during his lengthy NBA career.

The all-round teamwork that symbolised the Hawks’ superb season and ultimately successful playoff campaign was nowhere to be seen when McGee was on the court.

McGee has said he has a “high temptation” to come back to the NBL next season but it’s highly unlikely the Hawks will roll the dice on the 38-year-old again.

He is winging his way to

China to play for the Beijing Ducks.

Fellow import QJ Peterson, who replaced McLaughlin mid-season, is also plying his trade in the CBA with Fujian and he has not been signed for next NBL season as well.

Star guard Tyler Harvey, who is on the way to becoming a naturalised Australian, is signed up for next season while centre Sam Froling has two more years on his deal.

Fan favourite Davo Hickey and defensive specialist Wani Swaka Lo Buluk are also locked in for the next two seasons so the bulk of the current roster will be back on deck for the 2026-27 season.

And coach Justin Tatum is also on board for a redemption mission.

The Hawks finished their season on Wednesday night in Tasmania with a 103-90 consolation win over the JackJumpers. They are set to finish the regular season in

seventh with a 13-30 record. Illawarra recorded backto-back wins on only three occasions during the season and were never able to string together three on the trot.

Their hot and mostly cold performances meant they never seriously entered the conversation as title contenders despite keeping the majority of the team which went all the way last year.

Off the court, the Hawks are booming. Ticket sales have never been better and the club is getting a brand new arena after the recent announcement that WIN Entertainment Centre would be demolished.

The new arena will have a capacity of 9500, more than 4000 seats higher than the current venue.

But the team needs to be playing much better than this season otherwise it’s going to be tough to fill a bigger arena.

Smiles on dials: Disabled Surfers Association returns to Gerroa

Myah Garza

The South Coast Disabled Surfers Association is heading back to Gerroa – and while participant spots filled in just one week, organisers are calling for more volunteers to help make the day possible.

“We only do four events a year,” said South Coast DSA president Ian Picton.

“It’s about giving back to the community and making an easy day for people that don’t get the opportunity to go into the water.”

For some participants, it’s the only time they surf all year. “The only time they go into the surf is when they come with us.”

after year. “I know a young fellow that started at five years old,” Picton said.

“He’s 35 now and he keeps surfing with us. He’s been with us for 30 years as well. It’s just a great place, great way to give back to the community and what a lovely environment to do it in – on the beach, having a good time, helping someone have a surf.

“Kiama will be eyeing a second finals berth for the first time in three years, although they will need to bring their A-game against a Lake side in red-hot form,” Brown said.

“The Cavettes boast some of the best stats in the competition this season, including leading in wickets lost - having only lost 17 wickets from 12 games, which is an amazing statistic.”

Kiama had mixed results across the other grades.

First grade continued their winning streak and is almost guaranteed a spot in the finals.

Batting first at home against Albion Park, Kiama lost both openers

Their bowlers then dismantled Albion Park, taking all ten wickets in 35 overs, with Lennox Holz taking four, leaving Albion Park just nine runs short of the target.

Second grade and fourth grade weren’t as fortunate. Seconds bowled first and faced Albion Park’s total of 167.

Jacob Lee took four wickets and Jacob Lewis three, but despite Nathan Battishal’s superb 62-run effort, Kiama fell short, all out for 138. They remain third on the ladder.

In fourths, Kiama were bowled out for 90, and Oak Flats chased down the target in 21.1 overs. Kiama sit third, with finals hopes still alive.

First grade will face Shellharbour (away), second grade has the bye, thirds will take on Jamberoo (away) and so will fourths (home) this Saturday.

“They’re very hard to organise. You do need a lot of volunteers.”

The event that is Sunday, 1 March at Seven Mile Beach already has 50 surfers booked in, with a growing waiting list. But to safely get participants into the water, the organisation needs between 140 and 180 volunteers.

“Our ratio is six to one in the water,” Picton explained. “But when a participant goes out, there’s generally about 15 people in the group looking after that one person.”

Six boards typically operate at once, forming a carefully coordinated “runway” of volunteers in the surf. As the wave rolls toward shore, volunteers line up on either side, ensuring safety and support if the surfer falls.

“Gerroa is perfect for what we do,” Picton said. “When the waves break there, they roll right in up the beach – It’s fantastic and it’s safe.

The DSA has been operating on the South Coast for 32 years. “Every dollar donated goes to putting stuff on the beach and getting people into the water,” Picton said. “We’re a truly voluntary organisation that’s been doing good stuff for 32 years.”

The group supports people with a wide range of disabilities – physical and intellectual – and adapts the program as needed. Swimming or surfing experience is not required for participants or volunteers.

“What DSA does is like plasticine,” Picton said. “We mould what we do to suit our participants’ needs. We don’t discriminate against disability. We just make sure we can get them into the water safely.”

Volunteers aren’t even required to get wet. Roles range from registration and beach support to water assistance. Local schools, families and community members regularly take part with many returning year

“Not everyone’s going to stand up. A lot of people will only lay down on the board. Just that feeling of catching a wave – it’s something that you can’t make up.”

And the reward?

“What we call smiles on dials,” he said. “Everyone goes home tired, but happy. You’ve got that feeling in your belly and in your heart that you’ve done something really good for the community.”

Bunnings South Nowra will provide a free barbecue for all participants and volunteers on the day. Volunteers are encouraged to register via Humanitix by searching “Disabled Surfing – Gerroa/ Seven Mile Beach.” Walkups are also welcome on the morning of.

With community support from Nowra to Wollongong, organisers are hoping this year’s event will once again deliver what they promise every time: “No one goes home disappointed.”

JAMBEROO SEVENS SOCCER - WOMEN’S

KIAMA KEEN TO CONTINUE HOT STREAK AT 54TH SEVENS

Lleyton Hughes

Kiama Rugby will be looking to build on their 2025 dominance and go one better at the 54th annual Kiama Sevens, aiming to win their division for the second time in three years.

Fresh off winning the Illawarra premiership in first grade and finishing runnersup in reserve grade, Kiama can’t wait to get back on the field on 28 February.

“We’ve got a lot of talent from last year coming through,” said Kiama Sevens coach Dante Patrick.

“They’re eager to get out there and represent Kiama in probably one of the most prestigious sevens tournaments outside the international stage.

“The majority of our squad is homegrown, with a few local players who might usually play league or AFL. We just put the team with the best

chemistry on the field, and the boys are looking strong so far.”

Kiama compete in the NSW Country Cup division of the tournament, which they won two years ago, and managed to get all the way to the grand final in 2025 before losing to The Lakes Rugby Club.

“We won two years ago, then lost in the grand final last year. We’re always competitive, but teams come from all over the region and give us a good crack,” Patrick said.

“Being the host team adds a bit of extra pressure tooeveryone wants to knock us off.”

The loss to The Lakes continued a budding rivalry that started a few years ago.

“They hosted their sevens tournament in 2022, and we went up as an invitational team. We beat them in their own grand final,” Patrick said.

“Then they came down here and beat us in our tournament. So it’s a rivalry we’d like to keep

going. If we meet again, it’ll be a big one.”

Regardless of the outcome, Patrick said the team is proud to be part of such a significant local event and to represent their town.

“Every year, the tournament gets bigger and better.

“Mark Bryant and the crew do an awesome job keeping it going,” he said.

“COVID obviously affected it for a while, but the way they’ve bounced back and grown the

tournament is incredible. For a small coastal town like Kiama, hosting events like this really puts the town on the map, and we’re proud to be part of it.”

The 54th annual Kiama Sevens kicks off on 28 February, with the Kiama Sevens Media Launch taking place at Kiama Leagues Club at 12pm on 20 February, featuring a couple of very special guests in Olympian Charlotte Caslick and former Wallabies star Scott Bowen.

UNDER 12 GIRLS

UNDER 14 GIRLS OZTAG