The Bugle News 20 March 2026

FUEL“IT’SLIKECOVIDAGAIN” WHEREFRENZYHITSKIAMA TO FIND CHEAP FILLS

Amy Molloy

“It’s like Covid again,” said a petrol station attendant in the Kiama LGA when asked about rising fuel prices.

In a scene reminiscent of toilet-paper panic-buying, drivers across Australia have been stockpiling petrol and diesel, some even advertising

it online at inflated prices.

On Kiama Buy, Swap and Sell, “20-litre petrol containers” were listed with the note, “Stocking up? Petrol and diesel becoming unavailable.”

“People have been shocked looking at the prices,” says Krish, who works at BP Kiama, after witnessing diesel rise from $2.40 to

$2.80 in just a few hours. He noted the surge has hit the farming community hardest, for whom diesel-fuelled machinery is essential.

For drivers in Australia and beyond, the conflict in the Middle East is taking a measurable toll on fuel costs.

According to the NSW Government’s FuelWatch website, average unleaded

prices in the state have jumped about 60 cents a litre in less than a month, from $1.63 on 17 February to $2.23 on 16 March.

As of 16 March, Enhance Kiama on Collins Street offered the lowest E10 petrol at $2.20 a litre, followed by BP Kiama at $2.37. Local prices vary: $2.28 at 7-Eleven Shellharbour, $2.35 at

Shellharbour Berry, and $2.29 at Ampol Albion Park.

Small businesses in Kiama and surrounding areas are feeling the pinch as fuel prices rise. Delivery companies, tradespeople, and local service providers are facing higher operating costs, which are sometimes passed on to customers.

“Our deliveries are costing

significantly more,” says a Kiama small business owner. “We’re trying to absorb some of it, but it’s hard when prices change daily.”

Energy Minister Chris Bowen has urged Australians not to panic-buy.

On 13 March, the Albanese Government announced it

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Zoe Middleton

Scooter panic buying sparks safety fears Fuel frenzy hits Kiama

Soaring petrol prices and a brutal cost of living squeeze are forcing Australians including pensioners, to, make desperate transport choices, with some now turning to scooters that are going to auction from as little as $1.

As households feel the pain at the pump, one of Australia’s major bike and scooter retailers, Peter Motorcycles, has gone into voluntary administration, flooding the market with cut-price e-bikes and e-scooters as part of a closing down auction.

However, road safety experts have warned that inexperienced riders, unfamiliar with balance, braking and traffic conditions, can be vulnerable on scooters, particularly in busy urban areas.

With cost pressures accelerating the shift away from cars, the risk may not be the scooters themselves, but how quickly inexperienced riders are being pushed onto them by rising fuel costs and limited transport options.

Beau Rosser, owner of Kiama Cycles, now based in Oak Flats, says more residents are exploring alternative ways to travel.

“We're seeing more people asking about cargostyle bikes where they can put kids on them, drop them to school, and maybe reduce the running costs of having a second car,” says Rosser.

With rising expenses, many people are finding creative ways to manage transport costs. Bicycles, e-bikes and mobility scooters are increasingly being considered as the more affordable alternatives to driving.

“There’s definitely more people coming in and asking questions about how e-bikes and scooters work and whether they might suit them,” he adds.

According to Lloyds Auctions, more than 10,000 scooters, e-bikes and cycling items were offered across four auctions last weekend.

“For families, pensioners or anyone struggling with rising living costs, this is a rare chance to secure transport and save money,” a spokesperson for the company said.

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would release up to 762 million litres of petrol and diesel from domestic reserves to offset overseas supply shortages. Fuel companies will be allowed to hold less in storage, getting more fuel into pumps, with a focus on regional areas.

A government media release stated: “There is no need to stockpile or hoard fuel – take what you usually need so that no one has to go without.”

Also on 13 March, the NSW Liberals and Nationals unveiled a Fuel Transparency Plan to provide “greater transparency, stronger enforcement and long-term protection” for motorists facing rising petrol prices.

The plan follows reports of regional service stations running dry and warnings of further price spikes, highlighting the vulnerability of families and businesses to global shocks.

Key measures include ‘advance price notifications,’ showing motorists the next

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day’s fuel price before they fill up, and strict penalties for operators who mislead consumers or manipulate prices.

Meanwhile, individuals and businesses are finding ways to reduce fuel costs.

From adjusting holiday plans to switching to the train for Sydney commutes and carpooling, people are discovering practical ways to save fuel — and protect their wallets.

Electric vehicle (EV) dealers are reporting a spike in inquiries over the past few weeks, as motorists look for ways to shield themselves from fuel costs, and EV owners suddenly become the envy of diesel drivers everywhere..

It comes as the federal government reviews the fringe benefit tax exception for electric cars. The tax cut for some electric cars purchased through novated leases was introduced in 2022, but has been claimed by more motorists than expected.

Francis Vierboom is the

CEO of Rewiring Australia, a non-profit dedicated to representing communities in the energy system, and isn’t surprised by the boom in EV sales.

“Battery-powered EVs can run on electricity we make in Australia, including ultracheap rooftop solar, while the energy in our fossilfueled cars is imported from one of the world’s least stable regions,” he says.

“Australians will be spending over $700 more a year at the bowser because of instability on the other side of the world.”

On the upside, rising fuel costs could have a silver lining for regional tourism, as people look to stay close to home or enjoy destinations within easy reach of Sydney.

“I’m meant to be driving to Western Australia over the Easter holidays, but I’ve just cancelled my trip,” says a local builder who drives to Dapto to fill up because it’s cheaper. “It’s just not worth travelling across the country for the cost. I’ll be staying local for now.”

Longboard club makes waves

Amy Molloy

On Instagram, the bio for Seven Mile Log Club says it all: ‘The newest and hottest longboard club that you didn’t know you needed.’ Since mid2025, the social group, run by 31-year-old local surfer Jacob Fryer, has grown from an idea between mates to a thriving community of nearly 100 members, with big ambitions.

“I had the idea a couple of years ago,” says Fryer. “Finally, I pulled the pin and got together with a few mates to make it happen.” Their first committee meeting

was at Gerro Fisherman’s Club. “Over a few beers, of course,” he laughs.

The goal was simple: bring the local longboarding community together in a fun, inclusive way. But first, they wanted the blessing of Mal-nutrition — a longboarding group that has been running on the South Coast for decades.

“I rang up the president of the club and said, ‘Look, we want to start something in Gerroa,’” recalls Fryer. “Once I got their blessing, we could start from scratch.”

After scheduling their first meet-up, they were hoping for a handful of attendees — but got close to 60.

“Now, we have just under 100 members,” Fryer says.

Meetings are held once a month during the warmer seasons, attracting people of

all ages and skill levels from across the Illawarra — and even Sydney.

“Longboarding is smaller than shortboarding, so it’s a great excuse to hang out and meet like-minded people,” he says. “Whether you’re just getting started or you’re a seasoned cross-stepper with plenty of tip time under your belt, everyone’s welcome.

The focus is on inclusivity, connection, fun, no egos and no pressure.”

By day, Jacob works as a carpenter; by night, he shapes boards under his brand Journey’s Craft. He dreams of expanding the club further, with sponsorships or council grants to host more events.

“We’re a growing club,” he says. “It would be great to get even more people on board.”

Hey big spender... Regional travellers have deep wallets, survey reports

Regional Australians are expected to take more holidays, stay longer, and spend more than their city counterparts in 2026, according to new research released by media collective Boomtown.

The study, Where Travel Brands Go to Grow, commissioned through Australian Regional Insights, surveyed domestic travel behaviour across Australia, highlighting a growing appetite for regional tourism.

Findings show

regional travellers plan to spend an average of $5,770 per trip, $286 more than metropolitan holidaymakers, and stay away for around 10 nights, compared with nine nights for city-based visitors.

Longer stays also mean more local economic impact: 72 per cent of regional travellers plan to spend money with local businesses while on holiday, compared with 56 per cent of metro travellers. Road trips remain popular, with 47 per cent planning to travel by car and 22 per cent opting for caravan or camping holidays.

Laura Allen, research and insights director at Australian Regional

Insights, said regional Australians are motivated by relaxation, family time, and discovering new destinations.

Boomtown marketing lead Francesca Ryan said the research points to 2026 becoming the “year of two trips” for many regional Australians.

She also highlighted opportunities for travel brands to influence planning, noting that one in three regional travellers are not in loyalty programs and only 17 per cent use AI tools to plan holidays.

“With Australians planning multiple trips to a wider variety of locations, regional media offers prime opportunities for brands to engage early,” she adds.

Waste changes and financial responsibility

Councils, like households, are having to make increasingly careful decisions about how money is spent.

At Kiama, we are currently working through our budget review, Delivery Program and Operational Plan, alongside the requirement by the Governmentenforced Performance Improvement Order to return to a balanced budget by 30 June 2027.

Over the coming months, that work

will involve some important, and at times difficult, decisions about how we deliver services into the future.

Our focus is clear: maintaining essential services, while making sure they are delivered in a way that is efficient, sustainable and financially responsible.

One example of this approach is the upcoming changes to our waste service.

Local residents will receive a letter from our CEO, Jane Stroud, outlining these changes. I want to take a moment to reinforce why they are being made and what they mean for our community.

The changes are based on detailed analysis of how the service is currently used.

Recent audits show many

recycling bins are either not put out each week or are only partially full when collected. At the same time, all waste collected in Kiama must be transported outside the region for processing, with fuel, transport and the NSW waste levy continuing to increase. Adjusting the frequency of recycling collection and updating collection routes for the first time in more than a decade allows Council to better align the service with actual usage, reduce unnecessary vehicle movements and manage these rising costs responsibly.

From July 2026, yellowlid recycling bins will move to fortnightly collection, and many households will see changes to their collection

day as routes are updated to improve efficiency across the municipality. Importantly, nothing will change before July, and residents will receive clear information and updated collection calendars well in advance.

We recognise that households use this service differently. For those who generate larger volumes of recycling, additional bin capacity will remain available.

In terms of New Year’s and Christmas collections, we have listened to the community feedback and examined bin usage data. We will ensure there is a weekly service for that period.

Our local waste collection team will remain in place.

These decisions are not

taken lightly. They are about ensuring we can continue to deliver reliable waste services for the whole community, while managing increasing costs and planning responsibly for the future.

We will continue to provide updates in the months ahead, and I look forward to sharing more with the community about Council’s broader budget planning and longterm direction.

If you want to learn more visit: https://www.kiama.nsw. gov.au/Services/Waste-andrecycling/Waste-2026

“It was like a river”: Waters rise on Jamberoo’s flood issues

Jamberoo has experienced several significant rainfall and stormwater events in recent years, resulting in flooding across parts of the village. For many residents, the problem is not new - and frustration is growing over how long it is taking to resolve.

The issue was raised at a recent meeting of the Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association (JVRRA), where residents called for clearer answers from Kiama Municipal Council about what is being done to protect the community from future flooding.

There are four key infrastructure problems affecting the village: Stormwater drainage issues at Young Street and Wyalla Road; road erosion at William David Bridge; blocked drainage infrastructure near Allowrie Street, where pipes pass through farmland; and two blocked culverts at Colyers Creek, restricting water flow.

Overlaying these is the broader Jamberoo Flood Risk Management Plan, which

remains incomplete.

The Bugle spoke with Jamberoo resident and retired engineer Roger Lyle, who addressed the JVRRA meeting and has been examining several of the drainage concerns. Mr Lyle said residents are trying to work constructively with Council, but a key question remains why problems that have been identified for years remain unresolved?

Kiama Councillor Erica Warren has submitted a question with notice seeking updates on the Jamberoo Flood Study design, repairs to William David Bridge, and the status of the Colyers Creek culverts.

She is also seeking clarity on funding timelines, noting that ongoing issues - including Allowrie Street drainage and vegetation within the Colyers Creek culverts - require urgent attention.

For some residents, the consequences have been severe. Maria Luff, who lives in Owen Street just south of Allowrie Street, says her home sits at one of the lowest points in the area. During the April 2022 rain event, overwhelmed

drains flooded her home, leaving it uninhabitable for five months.

Three years later, another heavy rain event in April 2025 caused further flooding after a blockage developed in the drainage system. Maria said that “it was like a river.”

Investigating the issue, Mr Lyle found that stormwater

YOUR VILLAGE CLUB JAMBEROO GOLF CLUB

pipes intended to carry water to the creek instead discharge onto nearby private farmland. He believes livestock movement may have damaged sections of the pipework, restricting flow. “The whole thing needs cleaning out,” he said.

Council acknowledged the issue, stating it has attempted

to contact the landowner to gain access for clearing works but has been unable to establish contact. Council also noted that, “The boomgates at Swamp Road have worked really well since they were installed last July as part of a coordinated flood response system in partnership with Shellharbour City Council.”

A Council-commissioned study into stormwater issues at Young Street and Wyalla Road, begun in 2020 and completed in 2022, has yet to result in remediation works.

CEO Jane Stroud said the current stormwater drainage designs for Young Street and Wyalla Road are being reviewed and are considered incomplete for publication, adding “Further works are required from the design consultancy and negotiations are continuing.”

However, with no confirmed completion date for the design - previously expected by June 2026 - the project cannot proceed.

The eastern abutment of William David Bridge has been eroded by floodwaters in Hyams Creek. Despite being raised with Council in

May 2025, the issue remains unresolved.

Council has engaged a specialist consultant to undertake geotechnical investigations and develop a concept design. Once complete, it intends to seek disaster recovery funding and obtain approval to carry out works within the waterway. Following these approvals, detailed designs will be finalised and tenders called for the construction of the repair works. Council will liaise with the NSW Government departments to secure these approvals.

Progress on the broader Jamberoo Flood Risk Management Plan has also been slow. Council stated: “At this stage a timeline for completion cannot be provided. In conjunction, Council is completing the Flood Risk Management plan with its consultant and has completed 4 out of the 11 milestones for the complete plan and risk management process.”

Grant funding to implement the plan can only be pursued once it is finalised.

Back to the future with rate pain

The Reserve Bank’s decision to lift the cash rate to 4.1 per cent lands with a particular thud in a place like Kiama, where a lifestyle economy hides some very real financial fragilities. We are a town of small retailers, cafés, trades and tourism operators riding the same economic waves as Sydney, but without the deep pockets and population of a capital city to help wide the wave.

On paper, and through official media release, the RBA is chasing a genuine problem. Inflation has been re-stoked by global conflict and subsequent surging fuel costs, with economists warning that higher petrol prices alone could shove inflation back above 5 per cent if oil supply constraints and pricing stay elevated. At our local bowsers, it’s well over $2.30 a litre for E10, with some regions seeing prices push towards $2.50 as the impacts of the Iran conflict are quickly being felt. For Kiama commuters driving to Wollongong or Sydney, that’s not a discretionary extra; it is the price of simply reaching work, school, or healthcare.

Layer an interest rate of 4.1 per cent on top of that, and you are effectively taxing both the roof over people’s heads and the fuel in their tanks in the same breath.

Mortgages swell, rents follow, and the “leftover” money that once paid for dinner on Terralong Street or a drink at the

local quietly disappears. Kiama’s economy is powered by our local small businesses, many of them heavily reliant on day-to-day cashflow. When locals cut back a coffee here, a mid-week dinner out there, or that extra kids’ activity in upcoming school holidays, the impacts may be immediate.

Tourism has long been our shock absorber; Kiama’s visitor economy injects hundreds of millions of dollars and supports hundreds of jobs, and our town has been repeatedly recognised as one of NSW’s top tourism destinations. But when visitors drive here over the long weekend, they’ll now arrive with tighter budgets and higher home loan repayments lurking back in Sydney’s suburbs. Council is working on a night-time economy and broader investment strategy to stretch visitor spending beyond peak weekends, yet these gains are fragile when you’re up against global conflict and national monetary policy.

This is the uncomfortable truth for Kiama – the RBA’s blunt tool may be necessary nationally, but locally it is slicing into the very spending that keeps our streets lit and shops open. The challenge for all levels of government now is to ensure the fight against inflation does not come at the cost of hollowing out the coastal communities like ours.

THE MISSING SOLUTION

Amy Molloy

At Minnamurra Public School assemblies, a giant spinning wheel appears on a screen. Inside it are the names of students who have attended school every day since the last assembly — each automatically entered into a prize draw for a canteen voucher.

The room fills with anticipation as the wheel spins before finally landing on a name.

It’s a simple incentive, but a powerful one. For some students, the chance of a reward is enough to get them through the school gates on mornings when they would rather stay under their doonahs.

Across New South Wales, however, keeping students in classrooms has become an ongoing concern.

In Australia in 2025, the attendance rate for students in Years 1–10 was 88.8 per cent, up slightly from 88.3 per cent in 2024. But nationally, attendance levels have not returned to pre-covid levels, highlighting a persistent challenge for schools.

For decades, one of the state’s key responses has been the Home School Liaison Program, established in 1986 by the NSW Department of Education. The program supports students at risk of chronic absenteeism through

a casework model, with trained teachers working directly with families to address barriers to attendance.

But that approach is now facing a significant shake-up.

In early March, the department made almost 100 teachers working in the program redundant, in a major restructure of the State’s truancy intervention strategy.

A source told The Bugle the decision came as a shock to schools across the Illawarra.

“I’ve heard they’re moving the roles to clerks who will contact families and send letters,” the source said. “Our concern is it won’t provide the same level of support and engagement for families. It was a big shock to all our schools.”

For some families, the attendance battle is deeply personal.

Rebecca Bishop says her son has struggled with school attendance for years after traumatic experiences in the classroom.

“My son has struggled to attend school since Year 2, when he was horribly bullied,” she said. “Then in Year 6 a teacher behaved inappropriately with the class and it caused him significant trauma. He didn’t attend school consistently again until Year 9.”

Now in Year 10, she says her son is “persisting” but still finds the experience of

schooling exhausting.

“My advice to parents is that you know your child better than anyone,” she said.

“Work with them, work with their strengths, reward them for even trying and showing up. Punishment for nonattendance doesn’t work. People really don’t understand how hard it is for them.”

Experts say attendance problems are rarely straightforward.

Carly Dober, a clinical psychologist and owner of Enriching Lives Psychology, says it’s important to recognise the difference between truancy and what is often called school refusal.

“School refusal is not the same as truancy,” she said. “It’s rarely about defiance or lack of interest. More often it’s the outward expression of deep distress.”

For some children, she says, separation anxiety makes it nearly impossible to leave home. Others struggle with social fears, performance pressure, or the sensory overwhelm of a busy classroom environment that isn’t meeting their needs.

Dober says the most effective response requires collaboration.

“Caregivers, teachers and mental health professionals need to work together to identify the underlying issues,” she said.

“Behavioural approaches

such as gradual exposure can be highly effective — starting with very short school visits and slowly increasing the time as the child’s tolerance builds.”

For some students, however, even that pathway can be difficult.

Megan Gilmour, CEO of the charity MissingSchool, works with children who cannot attend school because of physical or mental health challenges. She believes the term “school refusal” is often used too loosely.

“When a student cannot physically attend school, our education system typically pauses service until the student is back in the classroom,” she said.

“This one-size-fits-all approach leaves some of our most vulnerable students disconnected from their education and social connections at precisely the time they need more support. No amount of school funding or quality teaching is reaching them.”

The consequences extend well beyond the classroom.

“Research shows that school non-completion costs Australia nearly $1 million per student in lost opportunity,” Gilmour said.

“That leaves a multi-billiondollar economic gap and liability for young people that we simply cannot afford to ignore.”

Shoalhaven ends 200km “waste stream”

Shoalhaven’s recyclable waste no longer has to travel almost 200 kilometres to Sydney’s western suburbs for processing.

The new $38 million Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in West Nowra means the region can now sort and process its own recyclables locally — ending a longstanding “waste stream” and giving the community confidence that their kerbside efforts truly make a difference.

Patricia White, mayor of Shoalhaven City Council, said the facility was a major step toward strengthening the region’s circular economy.

“The MRF is a state-of-theart facility that will deliver significant environmental benefits and create new employment opportunities for local residents,” Cr White said. “This facility means our community can have confidence that the effort they put into recycling at home genuinely makes a difference.”

The plant can process up

to 15 tonnes of recyclable material per hour, with an annual capacity of around 24,720 tonnes. About 12,000 tonnes of recyclable material are generated in the Shoalhaven each year, leaving room to provide services to neighbouring councils.

Recyclables from kerbside bins, waste depots and council operations are delivered to the facility, where materials are separated using a combination of automated systems and manual sorting. Once sorted, paper, cardboard, aluminium, steel and plastics

are compacted into bales and sold to manufacturers.

Glass recovered at the facility will be processed at the nearby glass recycling plant and used in road asphalt and pipe bedding for civil construction projects.

Representatives from nearby local government areas attended the launch to see how the facility operates and assess whether it could offer a regional alternative to sending recyclables elsewhere.

The MRF is expected to be fully operational in April and will run five days a week.

Man drowns at Werri Beach

Myah Garza

Aman believed to be in his twenties has died after being caught in a rip while swimming at popular Werri Beach on Sunday 15th March.

Emergency services launched a major search after the swimmer failed to return from the water at about 3:20pm.

Surf Life Saving NSW patrol members had earlier noticed the man caught in a rip current near the southern end of the beach, outside the flagged swimming area.

Despite efforts by lifesavers to reach him, the swimmer disappeared from sight.

A multi-agency search was launched involving

NSW Police, Marine Area Command, Surf Life Saving NSW volunteers and NSW Ambulance paramedics.

A helicopter was also deployed to assist with the operation.

Authorities located the south-west Sydney man in the water just after 5pm, but attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald expressed condolences to the man’s family and thanked emergency services personnel, lifeguards and members of Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club who responded to the incident.

The tragedy follows another fatal incident earlier this week at

Give Peace Park a chance

‘Colin can't believe that the rose bushes have been stolen’

he says. “If so, a few hours each week with like-minded volunteers might restore the satisfaction of gardening, as well as providing the chance to make new friends.”

He stressed that gardening experience is not required.

“You don’t need to be a gardening expert to help at Peace Park,” he adds.

Many visitors remark that Kiama’s Peace Park is “a gem”. But according to coordinator Colin Hollis, it could be even better - and he has a plea for the local community.

“We have plans to expand the planting in the park,” says Hollis. “But without more volunteers it simply

isn’t possible. We’re flat out maintaining what we already have.”

Currently, just six volunteers spend a few hours in the park each Tuesday, carrying out all the work except mowing the grass, which is handled by council.

“Perhaps someone who has downsized to Kiama is missing their garden,”

The group is currently replacing roses that were stolen or vandalised last year. Despite the setback, the park continues to attract visitors, many of whom comment favourably on the work being done.

“It’s a great pity that the lack of volunteers is preventing the park from reaching its full potential,” says Hollis.

There was recently some welcome news for the volunteer team. One of Australia’s most respected fertiliser companies, Neutrog, has agreed to supply all the fertiliser and mulch used in the park free of charge.

According to Hollis, the generous support means funds previously spent on fertiliser can now go towards purchasing new rose bushes.

“All we need now are a few more volunteers to help make the park even more attractive,” he said.

Anyone interested in helping can visit Peace Park on a Tuesday to speak with the volunteers and see what is involved, or contact Colin Hollis on 0408 295 223.

“It’s a challenge”, says Mayor: 2027 goal to balance budget

Myah Garza

K

iama Council faces “significant” decisions in the coming weeks as it works towards delivering a balanced budget by mid-2027, Mayor Cameron McDonald said following the latest Council meeting on March 17.

Council remains under a state-imposed Performance Improvement Order (PIO), with one of the final requirements being to eliminate its operating deficit by the 2026–27 financial year.

Mayor McDonald says Councillors will finalise the upcoming delivery program and operational plan in the next few weeks: “One of the last remaining seven items is to have a balanced budget by the 30 June 2027 financial year. Essentially that is a challenge.”

Last month’s quarterly

business review reported a projected deficit of $4.5 million as the starting point for next financial year’s budget. Whilst that is Kiama Council’s lowest ever deficit starting point. it’s going to be very hard to bridge that gap. Council has worked overtime to meet the PIO but finding that last $4.5million will require deep thinking and strategic moves. This includes reviewing its assets as part of upcoming budget discussions, including the potential future sale of some council-owned land. In response to a question from Cr Erica Warren, staff confirmed there are several residential-sized parcels of land, not all currently zoned for housing, with any future sales potentially used to “assist Council’s cash position.”

The process to make land sale-ready can take 18 months and requires approv-

Kiama’s AI rockfishing surveillance “a success”

Myah Garza

Kiama’s rock fishing safety push has gained momentum, with early success from a new AI surveillance trial coinciding with Council’s move to opt into stricter state legislation.

Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said the 14-month SAIL Project, which uses AI-enabled cameras at the Kiama Blowhole, has already helped save lives.

The system has identified rock fishers being swept into the water and enabled a rapid emergency response.

“Artificial intelligence

has picked up the person being swept off, and we’ve been able to really quickly mobilise rescue resources,” said Pearce. In at least two incidents, those involved were wearing lifejackets, allowing them to stay afloat until help arrived.

“From what we’ve seen so far, it has been a success,” he added.

The trial comes as Kiama Municipal Council votes to opt into the Rock Fishing Safety Act following a series of coastal fatalities. If approved, lifejackets will become mandatory at seven high-risk locations, with $100 fines on the spot from Police or Fisheries Officers for non-compliance.

Cedar on Collins continues to make its mark in the local community

CWalk to Work Day

On Friday March 27 it's Walk to Work Day.

The annual initiative encourages employees and workplaces to ditch the car, lace up their sneakers and walk to work to raise awareness for the benefits of walking on mental health and to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute.

Around one in five Australians experience a mental illness each year. The latest research from Black Dog Institute highlights that mental illness is estimated to cost businesses more than

$39 billion each year through lost productivity, absenteeism and staff turnover. Black Dog Institute Fundraising Director, Laura Edwards, said that regular physical activity has been shown to play a powerful role in supporting mental health.

“This is because exercise promotes positive changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation and new activity patterns that support calm, focus and overall wellbeing,” Laura said.

In addition to supporting wellbeing, walking to work can also be a low-cost way to get to work whilst also reaping

the benefits of exercise.

Laura Edwards went on to say that workplaces have an important role to play in creating mentally healthy environments.

“Initiatives like Walk to Work Day are a simple and cost-effective way for organisations to prioritise wellbeing while supporting positive, sustainable habits with their employees and the results are a happier workplace with significant savings to your bottom line,” Laura said.

More information, including how to fundraise, is available at walk.com.au.

ommitment to community has been high on the agenda for Cedar on Collins Retirement Community heading into 2026.

For the first time, Cedar joined in at the popular Kiama Show over the January long weekend.

Janine Williams, Vice President of the Kiama Show was thrilled with Cedar’s participation as first time sponsors at the Kiama Show, particularly with their support in sponsoring the Wallop Water Station and providing free reusable water bottles.

The station was a popular freebie feature, offering attendees bottomless H20 fill ups throughout the two-day event. It served as a key hydration point for families enjoying the event's traditional shows, fireworks and woodchopping.

Many attendees highlighted this as a valuable community service.

According to Wallop Water, approximately 1,429 litres of water was consumed, which prevented 2,858 single-use plastic bottles from reaching our landfills and the oceans.

Cedar hosts first Open Day for 2026

Fast forward to 12 March and Cedar on Collins were the ones to play host at their first Open Day of the year.

40 people came through the grounds of this premium retirement community, situated in the heart of Kiama on Collins Street. Some were repeat visitors—back for a second or third time.

As usual the warm and friendly welcome from current residents and staff alike, as well as the dulcet tones of musician and saxophonist Aria Stone, and plentiful refreshments, made for a fantastic day.

Cedar’s residents are enthusiastic advocates for the place they call home and were delighted to answer questions and show the

guests through the wonderful facilities, amenities and outdoor spaces.

Laura Hooper, Cedar’s Community Manager was pleased with how the day went. "Everyone who came through were genuinely interested in what the residents had to say and there was a strong sense that we brought to life what this community is all about.”

Cedar on Collins is now turning its attention to hosting their muchanticipated annual event, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea at The Pavilion on 21 May 2026.

This event is in its 3rd year and after last year’s soldout event, hosted by Kiama Radio’s Bernie Hems, tickets are sure to be snapped up quick, with all proceeds going to the Cancer Council’s work to support those living with cancer.

Set a reminder for 7 April when tickets go on sale.

Older, techier

s technology becomes part of daily life, many in the local community, especially seniors and small business owners are finding it challenging to keep up. Local residents and co-founders of 4T Solutions, Dev and his wife Tili, are working to change that.

Through volunteering and community engagement, they’ve been supporting seniors with everyday tech needs such as setting up phones, managing emails, and staying connected with family. Their focus is simple: make technology easier and less stressful.

“We often see people struggling with small things that can make

a big difference in their daily lives,” Dev says. “Having someone patient to guide them builds confidence.”

They’ve also been assisting local businesses, including Illawarra John's Mobile Air Conditioning Automotive Service, with practical IT support from google business profile optimization, resolving email, messages issues to improving basic systems that keep businesses running smoothly.

With more services moving online, there’s also a growing need for awareness around online safety. Dev highlights that simple steps like recognising suspicious messages and securing devices can help prevent bigger issues.

Now, through 4T Solutions, they are offering local home visits and tailored IT support for individuals and small businesses, focusing on clear, practical help without technical jargon.

“Our goal is to be approachable and reliable,” Dev says. “We want people to feel comfortable asking for help.”

As the digital world continues to grow, having trusted local support is becoming more important than ever.

Contact Information : dev. rasnakawewa@4tsolutions.com.au 0428769157

How Penny Whistler’s new guard won over locals

“People were critical”:

When Bhanu Rathore first took over Penny Whistlers, he knew that he had big shoes to fill. After working in business for over 15 years in Jaipur, he had a strong understanding of business dynamics, but winning over the local community was an initial challenge.

“The initial three to four months I think everybody was looking very critically because the previous owner obviously did a terrific job in setting up a great venue,” he says. “People were watching very closely on how we were going.”

Despite the challenges of taking over an established business, Rathore felt that he and his team rose to the challenge and won over the local community.

“I think we could live up to

the expectations of service, standards, food, the coffee. And I think after that time, we felt accepted,” he says.

Rathore also runs four other businesses throughout the region but felt that starting out in Kiama was an excellent learning opportunity.

“Pennys [sic], in itself, taught us a lot of things. Those teachings and the experiences we had, I think it made us more comfortable setting up these venues.”

In addition to Penny Whistlers, Rathore also owns and operates The Ugly Duckling at the University of Wollongong and Sea Vista at Gerringong, Pink Flamingo in Albion Park, Ambiance Ristorante, Unanderra and has goals to expand further throughout the region over the coming years.

His secret to operating more than one successful

business?

“I don’t sleep,” he laughs. “And you’re as good as the team you have, so I think I’ve been lucky on that front that we’ve been able to…build the team who feels equally for the business.”

Rathore knew that once he had a good foundation, he would then be able to look at scaling up. But it’s not just the future of his businesses that he’s thinking about.

He also wants to impart his knowledge onto the younger generation. In particular, to his daughter Shaambhavi Rathore, who is undertaking business studies at her high school. Shaambhavi helps out at her father’s restaurants and as a result, is now able to practically relate to what she is learning about in school.

“It’s worth it if the next generation is equally keen to pursue that and grow that long with you. Thankfully,

I’ve got that synchronisation from my kids. They really want to take it forward from when I hand it over to them,” he says.

Rathore is aware that there may be new challenges on the horizon due to the rising cost of living and the conflict in the Middle East.

“The prices of coffee, food, veggies, meat everything is obviously going up,” he says. “On the contrary, when you jack up the price of your coffee by even 50 cents you know, people question you about that.”

To remedy this, he has centralised his vendors, which gives him some leverage in price negotiation and helps to keep costs stable for his patrons.

The future of the economy may be uncertain at the moment but Rathore is ready to face to whatever challenges may come their way.

Beyond the stalls

“Shop and Eat Local” map connect markets to main street

The Kiama Business Network proudly launched its new “Shop + Eat Local” illustrated map at the recent Kiama Seaside Markets, offering a fresh and creative way to encourage visitors to explore the wider region beyond the market grounds.

Beautifully illustrated by local artist Felicity Gardner, the map captures the character and charm of Kiama and its surrounding towns, including Kiama Downs, Minnamurra, Gerringong, Jamberoo and Gainsborough.

Through playful and engaging artwork, the map highlights the region’s coastal lifestyle, local businesses, dining experiences and iconic landmarks, inviting visitors to discover more of what our community has to offer.

Developed as an initiative of Kiama Business Network, the map forms part of a broader strategy to support local businesses and strengthen the visitor economy. With thousands attending the Kiama Seaside Markets each month, the map provides a simple and accessible way to encourage people to extend their stay and explore local shops, cafés and experiences

throughout the area.

Adding to the initiative, the maps were distributed on the day by KBN’s youth market crew; a local employment program designed to provide young people with hands-on work experience. The team plays an active role at each market, assisting stallholders while also sourcing coffees and food from Main Street businesses, further strengthening the connection between the markets and the town centre.

This combined approach not only supports local business visibility but also fosters community connection and opportunities for young people to engage in the local economy.

KBN is also launching a digital version of the map, which their members can embed on their own websites. This not only helps businesses showcase their location but also encourages visitors to explore the wider region; extending the impact of the initiative well beyond market day.

Copies of the map can be obtained from the Kiama Business Network office or at the Market Crew Tent on seaside market days.

Is styling your home for sale really worth it?

When preparing a property for sale, one question often comes up: is styling really worth it? Our property expert Sam Scobie weighs in.

The truth is, styling isn’t a necessity. Many homes sell successfully without it, and there’s no exact way to measure truly how much value styling adds to a final sale price. However, what styling can do is create a powerful first impression and in

today’s market, that can make a real difference to buyers.

Buyers aren’t just purchasing a property; they’re buying into the famous Kiama lifestyle.

A well-styled home helps them visualise how a space can be lived in, making rooms feel warmer, more functional, and more inviting. It removes the guesswork and allows buyers to emotionally connect with the home from the moment they walk through the door.

“There’s

From a marketing perspective, styling also enhances photography and online presentation which is often nowadays where buyers first find a property. More engaging images typically lead to more enquiries, more inspections, and ultimately more competition.

And that’s where the real benefit lies.

Even one additional buyer at an open home or one extra bidder at auction can have a meaningful

impact on the final result. Increased competition often leads to stronger outcomes, regardless of the sale method.

While styling isn’t essential for every property, it remains one of the many effective tools available to maximise buyer interest and create momentum throughout a campaign.

For more tips on what you can do to make your next move easier, please reach out anytime.

no off ramp”: Buddhist centre’s AI warning

Myah Garza

As artificial intelligence reshapes how people work, learn and connect, scholars at Nan Tien Institute are asking a deeper question — what should remain distinctly human?

At the Institute’s Humanistic Buddhism Centre, conversations about ethics, technology and wellbeing are increasingly central to its work, particularly at a time when many people are searching for meaning and hope in a rapidly changing world.

This year marks the centre’s 10th anniversary, celebrated as part of broader Nan Tien Temple initiatives running throughout the year.

Project Engagement

Coordinator Joseph Frawley says the centre was created to bring Buddhist philosophy – developed over more than 2000 years – into dialogue with contemporary life.

“Humanistic Buddhism in particular is very hands-on… an outreach, very personoriented style of Buddhism,” he says.

“We are engaged in conversations that are resonating with people’s concerns at the moment… the effects of AI on our society, the environment, approaches to learning.”

Frawley said the rapid rise of generative AI presents both opportunity and risk that cannot be ignored.

“There’s really no off-ramp for our relationship with generative AI,” he says.

Instead, he said the focus should be on how people engage with the technology in a thoughtful and measured way: “We have to ask ourselves, what skills am I happy to lose?”

While tools such as AI can streamline everyday tasks, he warned against outsourcing core human abilities.

“If we are taking critical thinking or complex friendship relationships… and offloading those to a generative AI chatbot, those are not skills that humans should be willing to lose.”

Rather than rejecting new technologies, the centre promotes a more balanced and compassionate way of engaging with them – one that prioritises human connection and responsibility.

“It’s not about rejecting them, but it’s about our relationship with them … how do we use these things wisely?”

He compares AI to a car.

“The company that makes it is responsible for its safety,” he says. But once you get the keys, you’re responsible for how you use it. Drive recklessly, and that’s on you.”

That approach extends to broader ethical questions, including data use and digital responsibility, areas

in which the centre has contributed to international discussions through its research.

Over the past decade, the centre has grown from “very humble beginnings” into a globally engaged hub, combining academic rigour with community outreach and practical programs designed to meet people where they are.

Among its initiatives are ‘Sunday check-ins’ – a weekly series of sessions focused on self-reflection, discussion, and Dharma practice.

Open to anyone, these hybrid sessions attract participants locally and around the world, with recordings available for those unable to join live.

“It was originally meant to be temporary, but it’s become a vibrant way for people to connect, reflect, and support one another,” says Frawley.

Despite its global reach, he said its work remains grounded locally – and in the idea that shared humanity remains central.

“What we do can’t be done without the Illawarra community,” he adds.

Anniversary celebrations include a documentary and commemorative ebook, From Aspiration to Impact.

A fabric of the community

Olivia Funnell

There’s a science to curtains and blinds, according to owner of Bombo Curtains & Blinds, Steve Mcdonald.

After starting Bombo Curtains & Blinds in his garage in 2006 Mcdonald knows all there is to know about the world of window furnishings.

For one, black blinds absorb light and allow for a better view whereas white blinds reflect light and will somewhat block the view. Mcdonald believes this depth of knowledge is what sets Bombo Curtains & Blinds apart.

“Not everyone can do curtains well,” he says.

But it’s not just having knowledge about optics that makes for a successful business. You also need to understand fabrics, sell a wide range of choices, offer different price points and have an ability to listen to what the customer really wants. These are all cornerstones at Bombo Curtains & Blinds.

In addition to this, Mcdonald touts his success to prioritising a follow-up service and developing good relationships and even friendships with his customer base. Which often leads to word-of-mouth referrals.

Having lived in Kiama and

the surrounding area since he was 16, Mcdonald is certainly one of the old guard within the community and has witnessed how trends have changed over time when it comes to home furnishings.

“Curtains became very trendy I think after The Block 15 years ago. It was a revival. Curtains were huge all into the 70s, 80s and then in the 90s there was a fall off and there was [sic] timber venetians followed by roller blinds. There was an epidemic of roller blinds,” he said.

But like many trends, curtains came back around again with the addition of furnishings that adapt houses for climate change. As the planet continues to heat, customers now also look for shutters, awnings, and block out blinds.

As trends and the climate continue to change, so too does the economy. Despite experiencing a boom during COVID, Mcdonald admits that the last 18 months have been slightly tougher but he and his team have managed to stay afloat.

“We’re still puddling along alright,” he says.

Looking ahead, Mcdonald is passing the torch on to his daughter, Brin Mullan,who will carry the business into the future.

Tiffany Springett

Local artists are increasingly turning to social media as a powerful tool to share their work, grow their audience and build a recognisable creative brand. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow artists to showcase their artworks, connect directly with followers and collectors, and promote exhibitions, workshops and commissions in real time. By combining creativity with smart social media marketing, these artists are not only gaining visibility but also creating meaningful connections and opportunities within their communities and beyond.

Behind the canvas

The Illawarra artists thriving on the ‘gram

Based

to expressive abstraction, come together to produce uplifting

and

Based in Gerringong, Veiga-Malta is an artist and designer, bringing more than 25 years of international creative experience. She is now mentoring creatives through The Creative Business Hub while also continuing her fine art practice.

Love thy neighbour

seemed to know everyone else’s business as well.

The ‘for lease’ sign made its appearance recently on the verge outside our neighbour’s property, marking the end of yet another era. Cleaners soon arrived for the end-of-lease spruce-up, making way for someone new.

Who will they be? A young family, a couple, singles? Will they be late-night partygoers or quiet and reserved? Friendly? Will they mow their lawns?

All these questions will soon be answered. It also made me think of the many neighbours I’ve had over the years, and how deeply they’ve shaped my memories and my life.

As a child growing up in Bondi in the sixties, everyone knew everyone. That was normal. The adults, at least,

Across the road lived the Hughes family — Mum, Dad and seven little Hughes — often seen even in midwinter playing outside in little more than nappies or the skimpiest of clothes. They were always smiling, always welcoming, a noisy, happy constant in the street.

Further down lived Mr and Mrs Dawe and their grown daughter Joan, who had waistlength glossy black hair and worked as a professional hula dancer in local clubs. As a little girl, I loved watching her practise, hips moving at incredible speed to lively Hawaiian music. I could never master the hula myself, but I adored the leis, hair garlands and woven skirts she sometimes let me try on.

Next door, Mrs Berridge had

a fat black cat named Smudge, who preferred our house — likely because my sister fed it straight from the fridge. Mrs Berridge was deeply religious and firmly opinionated, and made sure I attended Sunday School under her watchful eye.

Years later, at university, I rented a room in a share house with a couple and a single man. We all kept to ourselves, coming and going at different times. We rarely crossed paths, and neighbours barely registered.

After uni came work, marriage and a move to the suburbs. Our neighbour, Mrs

Payne, was a kind and chatty elderly woman. Mr Payne, however, was a Payne by name and a pain by nature.

He took an immediate dislike to us — perhaps because our beloved Dog occasionally wandered into his yard. He objected to our veggie patch, our corn stalks growing near his fence, the way we parked, and any noise when we had visitors.

It was a long seven years.

Leaving Sydney for the South Coast was, at first, a wrench. For the first time, we moved to a remote property on Berry Mountain, knowing

Kiama High: Out and about

Celebrating inclusion and community connection

Kiama High School recently marked International Women’s Day, with students taking part in a range of activities reflecting this year’s theme, ‘Balance the Scales’. Members of the Student Representative Council attended a special event at the Civic Centre, highlighting the importance of equity, opportunity and education in shaping future pathways.

Attendance focus supports student success

Attendance continues to be a key focus at Kiama High School, with an emphasis on students achieving at least 90 per cent attendance. Students demonstrating outstanding commitment are recognised each term, with those achieving 100% attendance acknowledged at school assemblies.

This initiative reinforces the importance of consistent

not a soul. Then, one day, neighbours from down the road knocked on our door to introduce themselves.

Within weeks, the small Beaumont community had embraced us. Over the next four years, we shared a life of genuine connection — supporting one another through the bushfires of 2019 and the isolation of Covid. It was a time of camaraderie, resilience and friendship.

We thought we would always be part of that community — until it was time to move on again, this time to Kiama.

Now, neighbours are physically close once more, but interaction is minimal. A nod, a wave, perhaps a brief chat about the weather or health — and that’s about it. Everyone is busy, absorbed in their own routines.

Or maybe life is just more complex now.

Still, I find myself looking forward to meeting our new next-door neighbours. Who knows what friendships might form, what memories might be made?

After all, loving your neighbour can be as simple as knocking on their door.

The Bugle is pleased to present a fortnightly feature with Kiama High School, bringing you the latest news and events from the school.

engagement in learning and celebrates students who demonstrate dedication to their education.

Netball team unbeaten in zone competition

Kiama High School’s Under 15s netball team delivered an outstanding performance at the recent South Coast Zone Knockouts in Ulladulla.

The team remained undefeated across five matches, demonstrating strong teamwork, skill and sportsmanship throughout the day.

They now progress to the next round of competition in Shoalhaven.

Opportunities beyond the classroom

Students are also encouraged to get involved in a range of extracurricular activities, including Dance for Sport, which is currently preparing routines for Southern Stars. The program welcomes students of all experience levels and focuses on building confidence, teamwork and performance skills.

In addition, a new wellbeing initiative, Salty Sessions, has recently launched in partnership with headspace and One Wave. The program brings students and the wider community together through early-morning activities that promote mental health, connection and resilience.

Kiama High School continues to foster a supportive and inclusive environment, providing students with opportunities to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Young Minnamurra artist eyes Archibald Prize

Tiffany Springett

At just 10 years old, Minnamurra Public School student Lilli Davis is stepping confidently into the art world, entering this year’s Archibald Prize in the Junior category for ages 9–12.

Davis’ entry, a pencil portrait titled ‘First Best Friend’, captures her cousin, Theo. Drawn carefully over six to twelve months during weekly one-on-one sessions at Inclusive Experiences South Coast, run by Pheona Saunders, the artwork reflects both patience and a natural artistic talent that has been steadily growing since she first discovered her abilities at around eight years old. Inspired by an Aboriginal book, Lilli attempted greyscale drawings and discovered she had a hidden talent.

Davis’ love for drawing people and animals, combined with her strong connection to her Aboriginal heritage, plays a significant role in shaping her artistic style.

Her mother, Lisa, says creativity runs in the family, mentioning Lilli’s grandmother, who has created artwork for

local council projects and Aboriginal sporting teams, and who spent time growing up in Bombo on Dharawal Country.

For Davis, being creative while learning about and connecting to the land her ancestors have lived on for thousands of years is especially meaningful.

This is not her first attempt at the Archibald. She entered previously through her school, but this year’s submission marks a new level of confidence.

Behind Davis’ growth is the support of her art teacher, Pheona Saunders. With nearly three decades of experience in visual arts and music education, and 15 years in Special Education, Saunders supports young people with disabilities and neurodivergent conditions through art and music.

The connection between teacher and student has been transformative. “It’s been a real positive in Lilli’s world,” Davis says.

Davis,whoisneurodivergent herself, attends weekly lessons tailored specifically to her interests and strengths. Finding school challenging, she has the opportunity to relax and focus without getting overwhelmed in the lessons.

“Music and art really help her refocus,” Saunders says.

Davis has already shown her creative flair in other ways, winning a school-wide design competition for her artwork, which is currently used on student reward tokens. But the Archibald represents her independence and confidence.

Thousands of entries were submitted this year, and the

competition is fierce. Finalists will be announced on April 30, and winners will be revealed on July 4, with a total prize pool exceeding $400, including a cash prize of $200. The exhibition will run from May 9 to August 16 at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. And if Lilli does win the $200 cash prize? She already has an idea of what she would spend it on: “Probably art supplies.”

“It’s a social shift” Packed crowd for menopause expo

t was standing room only at the Ignite Menopause Expo with more than 400 women cramming into Kiama Pavilion to hear health experts from across the region shine a light on what was once a taboo

Integrative health specialists and women’s health advocates from across the South Coast came together to provide women with the information, help and treatment they deserve to manage the major life transition.

A transition which, according to Gerringong & Kiama Physiotherapy clinic’s Bec Collins, many women will spend a third of their lives navigating. The physiotherapist, who specialises in strength, stretching and exercise in the third age for perimenopause and menopausal women, was one of a dozen health experts who led

the series of evidence-based presentations and workshops.

The information sessions were so popular that crowds spilled out of rooms and onto balconies to listen to talks from GPs, dieticians, physiotherapists and social workers.

The Ignite Perimenopause and Menopause Expo is the brain-child of integrative GP and menopause expert

Dr Charlotte Middleton and women’s health advocate Emma Magill, who founded Ignite after sell-out screenings of award-winning documentary The M Factor - Shredding the Silence on Menopause.

“We wanted to get the message out there to women in regional areas, that menopause is not something to be feared,” says Magill, who experienced first-hand “the climbs, the dips and the loops” on the roller coaster that is perimenopause.

After a year of planning the pair brought the Ignite Expo to Kiama and they were blown away by its success.

“This expo has been created to help women navigate and celebrate this stage of life with confidence and surrounded by

community," says Magill. "We wanted women of all ages to walk away feeling connected, confident and completely seen and that’s exactly what we achieved."

The expo even held a session for men, led by Simon Shroeder and titled Men on pause: a bloke’s guide to not f***ing it up, to help them better support women.

Dr Middleton says the expo tapped into a “seismic societal shift” led by women to address an issue that blindsides many in their busiest and most stressful years.

“Perimenopause and menopause symptoms begin at a time when women are at the peak of their careers, often raising teens who are also dealing with their own hormonal shifts,” she says. “They might also be looking after elderly parents, but they are caring for everyone else while often forgetting about their own health,”

All proceeds from the notfor-profit event will go to the Illawarra Women's Health Centre and HER Centre, Monash University. For more information visit igniteillawarra.au

Tuned In: KCR

Between the Covers at KCR: The Kiama Book Space

Every town has its quiet corners where good conversations happen. In Kiama, one of those corners is the KCR Book Space, which streams every Friday at 10:30 am.

The show brings together a lively mix of local voices who share a love of reading and storytelling. The five-presenter team comprises journalists, writers, passionate readers, and even a former Kiama Mayor: Campbell McConachie, Diane Ellison, Karen Lateo, Jane Parbury, and Neil Reilly.

Each week, in a changing roster, they explore classics, contemporary fiction and hidden gems, with a liberal serve of non-fiction plus a pinch of literary pop culture. They chat, they debate and, most importantly, these book lovers have a lot of fun.

Recent programs have taken listeners on some thrilling literary journeys. Award-winning local writer Dean Koorey demonstrated the art of crafting a story in just 100 words, while a discussion of Jacqueline Maley’s Lonely Mouth revealed its surprising connection to Oprah Winfrey. The team explored Charmian Clift’s childhood ties to Kiama, celebrated the ballet production of The Great Gatsby, and chatted about the upcoming film adaptation of Enid Blyton’s The Magic Faraway Tree.

Food lovers were treated to a celebration of the 30th anniversary of Stephanie Alexander’s The Cook’s Companion and, as a side dish, a lively discussion about culinary fiction. Listeners have also enjoyed segments on humour in fiction, the pros and cons of self-help books, hard-boiled crime fiction, gothic chills with Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, writing competitions, recent best reads, and other novel ideas - making every Friday morning a feast for curious minds and book lovers alike.

The Kiama Book Space isn’t just about the presenters. The team encourages local readers to make literary discoveries and share recommendations, creating a genuine sense of community conversation around books.

In an age of endless scrolling and digital distraction, the Book Space offers something refreshingly simple: good books, thoughtful discussion, and shared curiosity.

Tune in Fridays at 10:30 am on KCR.org.au, or via your favourite streaming app.

Coming soon, the KCR Book Space Podcasts will make favourite episodes available on demand, so you can catch up anytime.

Along-standing Illawarra and Shoalhaven support organisation has marked a significant milestone, unveiling a new identity and renewed vision aimed at strengthening support for women and families in crisis.

Formerly known as SAHSSI, the organisation has officially rebranded as SASSI, signalling what leaders describe as a bold new chapter after nearly 50 years of service to the community.

Led by CEO Penny Dordoy, a Kiama local, the organisation says the change reflects both its evolution and a commitment to meeting the growing and changing needs of women experiencing homelessness and domestic violence.

“The new name represents strength, resilience and dignity,” Ms Dordoy said. “We wanted a brand that feels

Zoe Middleton

The annual SurfLife Music Festival in Gerringong, taking place on 28 March, is set to bring live music “right on our doorstep,” according to event coordinator Amy McEwen.

“It’s a great way to engage with your local community, especially when we usually have to travel so far for events like this,” she says.

The festival will be a day filled with live music for the community to enjoy. From street buskers and acoustic sets to soul and surf rock, the event promises something for everyone. It will be a chance for people to relax, have fun, and dance with their friends.

One highlight of the festival is ‘The New Kids on the Block’, featuring young musicians who have recently started their own bands and are eager to perform.

The lineup will also include local artists and bands from Wollongong, Kiama

accessible and professional, and ensures that when a woman reaches out, she feels supported and empowered to build her own stability.”

From humble beginnings to regional impact

The organisation’s journey began in 1976 with a single house and a $50 donation. Since then, it has grown into a Tier 2 Community Housing Provider delivering critical services across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.

In the past financial year alone, SASSI supported 2,491 women and children, with 831 individuals provided safe housing. Since 2014, the organisation has delivered more than 493,000 nights of secure accommodation.

SASSI also operates the Shoalhaven Homeless Hub, a vital drop-in service offering emergency relief and support for people experiencing hardship in the region.

and Gerringong, including Autumn Sunset, Hot Pursuit and Ren McArdell.

Not only is the festival a great opportunity for local families to come along, “have a boogie” and support their town, it will also give visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the region’s relaxed, surfy lifestyle.

“It’s just a perfect way to come down and enjoy local culture,” McEwen says. “I don’t think there are many festivals around like this that capture such a laid-back coastal atmosphere. 90 minutes down the coast from Sydney and you experience a complete change of culture, music and community. It’s something you cannot get everywhere.”

The festival will also raise money for Headspace, an organisation that works to improve youth mental health through wellbeing services, activities and workshops. Proceeds from ticket sales and funds raised through the festival raffle will be donated to the charity.

Simplifying access to support

A key driver behind the rebrand is improving accessibility. The organisation has introduced a redesigned website and service approach that removes complex pathways to assistance, replacing them with a clearer, more direct way for women to seek help.

Across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, SASSI provides a suite of core services including crisis accommodation, transitional housing and case management, alongside its operation of the Shoalhaven Homeless Hub. The organisation says its new digital platform, available at sassi.org.au, has been designed to make accessing these services simpler and more intuitive.

Whether a woman is alone or with children, SASSI aims

to ensure she can quickly access safe accommodation, guidance and ongoing support.

Expansion underway in 2026

The rebrand comes as the organisation prepares for further growth. This year, SASSI will deliver 29 new crisis and transitional housing units across Dharawal and Yuin Countries, significantly boosting housing availability for women and children fleeing domestic violence or homelessness.

Ms Dordoy said the expansion reflects both rising demand and the organisation’s long-term commitment to community safety.

As SASSI enters its next phase, the focus remains clear: providing safe pathways and long-term stability for women and families across the region.

Music, surf and good vibes

All dressed in orange: schools celebrate diversity

Amy Molloy

Schools across the region are preparing to turn playgrounds orange for Harmony Week, running from Monday, 16 March to Sunday, 22 March.

The week-long celebration, which recognises Australia’s diversity, is all about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.

During a previous Harmony Week, young people at Kiama Public School made a video welcoming other students to school in their ‘home and first language.’

“In 2026, more than half

At Minnamurra Public School, students and teachers are invited to “wear a splash of orange” or another bright colour with their full uniform on Tuesday, 24 March. At local childcare centres and preschools, children will do the same — from orange ribbons in their hair to orange socks and bucket hats.

of Australian residents are migrants or the children of migrants,” said Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia.

“In 2025, we marked the arrival of our one millionth refugee. All the people and communities who have shaped who we are as Australians have added immeasurably to the richness, diversity and unity of our peace-loving, modern nation.”

On Instagram, Kiama

Letters to the Editor

Music and sport deserve equal space

It seems that the Council does not recognize the true value of ‘music’ and ‘performance’ in our lives. Where are the bright lights and banners, as in nearby Milton and Thirroul, announcing all kinds of forthcoming events?

The Cologne chamber orchestra comes to Kiama each February, but the audience is squeezed into a small old church. Bless the Anglican church , but in the middle of Summer it’s hardly a comfortable air conditioned venue with a packed house.

Our once planned arts venue attached to the old Fire Station would solve so many of our performance space restrictions. The night lights need to burn a little brighter here in Kiama once the rugby 7’s have left the field.

We do sporting events well here, but there is so much more effort needed to give our town more suitable performance facilities for life after sunset.

Greg Martin Vale Kiama

Praise for local trade talent

I just read the story in The Bugle on local builders, thank you. It’s great (and about time) that people realise there are incredible builders on the South Coast, and that they no longer need to bring Sydney teams down… actually we all do it better down here. There’s so much talent here.

Brydie Kiama

Starting conversaions that matter

First superannuation fraud, now Voluntary Assisted Dying in The Bugle. It’s so good to see. You are bringing this local paper into modern times and opening up real conversations that matter.

Natasha Kiama

Council highlighted the celebration, writing: “Kiama is such a great place to live. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and making sure everyone feels they belong. This week encourages us to reflect on what it means to respect each other and our differences.”

According to the Harmony Week website, almost half of Australians were born overseas or have at least one parent who was.

Cash splash for a country bash

Amy Molloy

The Minns Labor Government is backing regional investment with a $1.5 million injection for events across regional NSW through the Regional Event Fund for events held in the 2026/27 financial year.

Event organisers can apply for grants of up to $50,000 to help deliver events that attract visitors, drive overnight stays, and boost local economies.

Managed by Destination NSW, the Regional Event Fund forms part of the NSW Government’s plan to grow the NSW visitor economy by enabling communities to host events that reflect their local culture and create authentic experiences that drive visitation and generate expenditure for local businesses.

The latest Tourism Research Australia data shows regional

NSW welcomed more than 15 million domestic and international visitors in the September 2025 quarter alone, injecting over $6 billion into the regional visitor economy.

A key strategy for continuing growth in regional tourism is supporting the array of events delivered in regional towns across the state.

Last year, the NSW Government released the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, outlining its ambition of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2035.

With almost half of this target ($44 billion) expected to come from regional NSW, ongoing investment in events is essential to supporting growth of regional visitor economies and reaching the NSW Government’s stretch goal.

Through the ‘incubator event stream’ new events in their first or second years can receive up to $20,000 in seed funding to support activities that help establish an event as a key driver of visitation. Emerging events that have been running for more than two years can receive $20,000 grants to increase their profile and attract visitors. Events that have already received three annual grants will be eligible for grants of $30,000 over three years. Meanwhile, established events that have previously received and completed triennial funding through the ‘flagship event stream’ can receive grants of up to $50,000.

Applications for the Regional Event Fund 2026/27 will close at midnight on Sunday 12 April 2026. For more information visit, destinationnsw.com.au

what’s on?

Coos & Colour

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

Abergail Farm Nowra

Meet highland cows and paint a cow on canvas Ignite! The Perimenopause and Menopause Expo

Sun 15 Mar, 10am-3pm

Kiama Pavilion

Ignite your knowledge and embrace the changes happening during perimenopause and menopause

Kiama Sea Shanty Club

Wed 18 Mar, 7:30pm-9pm

Kiama Inn Hotel

A group of singers enthusiastic about a gregarious celebration of the songs of the sea.

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

Jazz and Blues at Berry

Thu 19 Mar & Sun 22 Mar

Queen Street, Berry

Solo sets and full-band performances with a modern edge

Easter Chocolate

Bilby Class

Fri 20 Mar, 3pm-4pm

The Treat Factory, Berry

Create your very own chocolate bilby and mini Easter eggs

Bundanon Artists & Makers Market

Sat 21 Mar, 9am-3pm

Bundanon Art Museum

Discover jewellery, textiles, ceramics, weaving, and more.

Kiama Senior

Knights Launch

Sat 21 Mar, 12pm

Kembla Grange Race Course

Launch the 2026 season with a day at the races

Retro Tennis Tournament

Sat 21 Mar, 4pm-6pm

Diggies Kiama

Inspired by the Aus Open, expect DJs, a pop-up bar, food stalls and a tennis tournament

Kiama Baptist Church Easter Service

Sun 22 Mar-Thu 26 Mar, 10am

Kiama Baptist Church Journey to Easter

Kiama View Club

Wed 25 Mar, 12pm

Kiama Leagues Club

Monthly meeting

The Simple Gift of a Bag

Thu 26 Mar, 9:30am-1pm North Kiama

Neighbourhood Centre

Sewing workshops & morning tea sponsored by Burnetts on Barney Business Bootcamp

Thu 26 Mar, 9:30am-2:30pm

Kiama Pavilion

Exclusive workshops by Glenn Haworth of Resolve Business Coaching.

South Coast Housing Forum

Fri 27 Mar, 10am-11am

Fern Street, Gerringong Housing, Community and the Future of Our Region seminar

SurfLife Music Festival Gerringong

Sat 28 Mar, from 11am

Gerringong Town Hall

The day is jam packed with live music starting at midday and into the night Easter Family Fun Day at Club Jamberoo

Sun 29 Mar, 2pm Club Jamberoo

Lineup of fun waiting a special visit from the Easter Bunny

Jamberoo Village Markets

Sun 29 Mar, 9am-1pm

Reid Park, Jamberoo

A variety of stalls with arts and crafts, sourdough, cakes, jewellery, collectables, books, toys, plants, fruit, live music, and more.

Youth Art and Design Exhibition

Wed 1 Apr- Thu 30 Apr

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

Holy Thursday Thu 2 Apr, 7pm

St Peter and Paul Church, Kiama

1 hour of Adoration after Mass

Kiama Seaside

Markets- Easter

Fri 3 Apr, 9am-3pm

Black Beach, Kiama

Good Friday markets with over 100 stores

Kiama Baptist Church

Easter Services

Fri 3 Apr-Sun 5 Apr, 9am

Kiama Baptist Church

Good Friday Stations of the Cross Services

Fri 3 Apr- Sun 5 Apr, 10am

Kiama, Jamberoo and Gerringong Kids Stations

Gerringong Anglican

Church Easter Services

Fri 3 Apr- Sun 5 Apr, 9am

Gerringong Anglican Church

Jamberoo Anglican

Church’s Easter Services

Fri 3 Apr- Sun 5 Apr, 9am

Jamberoo Anglican Church

Kiama Presbyterian Church Easter Services

Fri 3 Apr- Sun 5 Apr, 9am

Kiama Presbyterian Church Easter Vigil

Sat 4 Apr, 7:30pm

St Peter and Paul Church, Kiama

Please bring a torch or electric candle

St Peter and Paul Church Mass

Sun 5 Apr, 7:30am and 9:30am

St Peter and Paul Church, Kiama

St Mary Star of the Sea Church Mass Sun 5 Apr, 9:30am

St Mary Star of the Sea Church, Gerringong

Berry gets the Blues

Village venues join forces for live music weekend

Live jazz and blues will fill venues across Berry this March as the village collaborates to push to build a regular live music scene outside the traditional weekend peak.

The next instalment of the A Day Well Spent music series will see multiple venues host performances on Thursday March 19 and Sunday March 22.

The program sits within the broader Extend the Weekend campaign, supported by the NSW Government’s UPTOWN Grant Program, which aims to keep the good times rolling beyond traditional peak days and encourage visitors to linger a little longer in town.

Precinct Coordinator Kate Dezarnaulds said the series struck the right note during its debut in February.

“The first weekend exceeded our expectations,” Dezarnaulds said.

“People were genuinely surprised by the calibre of musicians performing across

the town and the response from audiences was fantastic. There was a real buzz around Berry and venues are already asking how they can be involved.”

The buzz wasn’t just local. Word travelled fast enough to draw music lovers from interstate.

“We’re even hearing stories of people travelling interstate to see particular bands, including visitors from Melbourne who had never been to Berry before,” she said. “The aim is to create a new rhythm of live music in Berry that works for locals and visitors alike.”

Some venues were caught off guard by the turnout.

Bridie Brooker from the Great Southern Hotel said the opening weekend crowd outdid itself.

“We genuinely didn’t expect it to be that busy and had actually sent a couple of staff home early,” Brooker said.

“But the place filled up and we had to call them back in.

There were lines out the door at one point and a fantastic

buzz around town.”

Musicians performing in the series are paid through the UPTOWN grant, allowing venues to collaborate on a shared program across the village. Some venues have already begun contributing their own funds after seeing the audience response.

Artists have also welcomed the chance to play outside the usual Friday–Saturday rush, with Thursday and Sunday gigs offering more opportunities to perform and earn income.

The March weekend features a lineup led by the internationally recognised Frank Sultana Blues Band.

Sultana, winner of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, is widely regarded as one of Australia’s leading contemporary blues artists.

He’ll be joined by South Coast favourites Tall Shaun & The Resolution, known for their energetic mix of blues and soul.

Also appearing across the weekend are Jr & The Jewel

Tones, Wollongong guitarist Tyler

and a contemporary jazz lineup

Sultana, who previously lived in nearby Kiama, said the South Coast still holds special meaning.

“I lived in Kiama for a few years, so it’s great to be back playing on the South Coast,” he said.

“Events like this help build a real live music culture in regional towns, which is something musicians really value.”

Upcoming A Day Well Spent dates include: • March 19 & 22 – Jazz and Blues • May 21 & 24 – Indie • June 18 & 21 – Funk and Soul

Full program details are available at extendtheweekend.berry. org.au.

Every Monday Every Monday it’s more than just an artistic hobby

Kiama Creative Crafts Kiama Creative Crafts

Join us for a morning of socialisation and crafts

9am-11:30am at kiama uniting church

Bootcamp to kickstart local businesses

The Business Bootcamp, a series of practical business workshops, will be held in Kiama later this month, offering local entrepreneurs and community members the chance to gain new skills and confidence.

Hosted by business coach Glenn Haworth of Resolve Business Coaching, the workshops will take place on Thursday, March 26, at the Kiama Pavilion. Participants can choose to attend one of three workshops, but are encouraged to enrol in all three sessions throughout the day. The workshops are

designed to help individuals develop both their business knowledge and personal confidence, offering practical strategies that can be applied in everyday life and work.

The first session, Mindset Reset – Design a Life You Actually Want, begins at 9:30 in the morning and focuses on motivation, goal setting, and

staying focused. Participants will explore ways to learn tools for managing stress, build sustainable daily habits, and craft vision boards that support long-term success.

At noon, the Supercharge Your Instagram workshop will guide participants through strategies for growing their presence on social media.

The session will cover content creation, audience engagement, brand building, and practical tips for using tools such as hashtags, stories, and reels.

The final session, at 2:30, ChatGPT and AI for Everyday Life, introduces participants to the growing world of artificial intelligence. The workshop will explore how AI tools can help with planning, writing, research, and productivity in everyday life. Each workshop runs for approximately two to three hours and is open to members of all backgrounds, from business owners and professionals to complete beginners.

Youth art exhibition showcases Shellharbour talent

Young artists from across Shellharbour will showcase their creativity at the 2026 Youth Art & Design Exhibition, opening next month at the Shellharbour Civic Centre.

Presented by Shellharbour City Council, the exhibition highlights the talents of young artists aged 12 to 24 who live, study, or have a strong connection to the Shellharbour region.

Visitors can expect a diverse range of artworks spanning multiple media, including painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, digital

art, and mixed media.

Chris Homer, Mayor of Shellharbour City, said the exhibition showcases and uplifts young creatives, offering the community a chance to recognise their contributions.

“Our young people bring fresh perspectives, bold ideas, and extraordinary imagination,” Homer said.

“The Youth Art Exhibition is a chance for them to tell their stories, build confidence, and have their work showcased in a professional public setting.”

With the Civic Centre welcoming hundreds of visitors each month, the display offers young artists

valuable exposure while allowing the community to connect with their creative voices and interpretations of the world around them.

The exhibition will run from April 1st to April 30th, coinciding with NSW Youth Week, a statewide celebration recognising and empowering young people.

Applications for this year’s exhibition have now closed, with organisers receiving a strong response from young creatives across the region.

Shellharbour City Council encourages artists who missed out to keep an eye on the Shellharbour Civic Centre website for future exhibitions.

Bob Blomley, an active member of the Kiama Tennis Club during the golden age of tennis in the late 1950s and 1960s, passed away last month aged in his nineties.

Blomley competed in Saturday afternoon mixed and Sunday morning men’s competitions, as well as the Kiama Tennis Club Championships, winning the men’s singles titles in 1964 and 1965. A fierce competitor, Bob was known for his huge slice

backhand and for wielding a particularly heavy racquet.

At district level, he was one of the “Big Three”, alongside Peter Crisp and Ken McDonald. The trio shared victories in the Open Men’s Singles, with Bob becoming KSDTA Champion in 1964.

In 1967, Blomley teamed with Ken McDonald, Doug Berry, Ted Goodwin and Keith Berwick in the Blackwell Cup, conducted by the NSW Hardcourt Association.

In 1969 he again competed alongside Goodwin, Berry, Crisp and Arkinstall. The

prestigious competition featured players such as Roche, Newcombe, Rosewall and Edmondson during its history.

His tennis journey began in his birthplace of Yass, where he honed his skills hitting balls against a brick tank stand behind his home.

One day in 1947, at just 11 years old, Yass hosted Australian champions Ken McGregor and Dinny Pails for an exhibition match at the local courts. Times were tough and Bob could not afford a ticket, so he found a vantage

point on the roof of an old corrugated iron council shed beside the courts.

About half an hour later an official from the Yass Tennis Club approached him on the shed.

“Bob, go straight home and get your tennis gear on,” the official said.

Thinking he might be in trouble, Bob dutifully ran home and soon returned the racquet in hand. His mother quickly ironed his tennis shorts and Bob was ready to go.

Blomley initially worked

Loss of a tennis champion

for Southern Highlands Electricity and in 1961 moved to Kiama to take up a position with the Illawarra County Council as a linesman.

Local Kiama bank manager Ron O’Shannessey once approached Blomley to ask if he would hit with his young son Stuart, an emerging junior player.

He and Stuart spent many hours practising together ahead of junior tournaments across Australia. Years later, after returning from the United States, Stuart O’Shannessey became coach

at the Kiama

Blomley continued playing into his sixties and later joined Tennis Seniors, where he was selected to represent New South Wales at the Australian Teams Carnival. He competed for his state in Newcastle in 1995, as well as in Canberra and at Sydney’s White City. He was always well supported by his wife Dorothy and passed on many of his skills to his son David Blomley. He will be remembered as a true tennis champion and a local hero, both on and off the court.

Young swimmers shine at surf beach challenge

Lleyton Hughes

Kiama’s next generation of surf lifesavers have taken on a new challenge, with the Kiama Kingfishers hosting their firstever Kendalls to Surf Beach Swim.

Held last Sunday, the event saw 46 young swimmers and 16 board paddlers aged from 9-14 tackle the open water course, which was estimated at around 600-1000 metres.

The initiative, run by Kiama Surf Life Saving Club’s Nippers program, was designed to

push young athletes outside their comfort zones in a safe and supportive environment.

Kiama SLSC publicity officer Kate Mansell said the idea was first proposed by life member and under-12s age manager Nick McInerney, with the aim of creating a new end-ofseason goal for participants.

“It was about giving the kids something to work towards and showing them what they’re capable of,” Mansell said.

Open to under-10 to under-14 competitors, the event allowed younger participants to complete

the course on boards if they preferred, though many still chose to swim the full distance.

Despite the huge distance, the challenge proved less daunting than expected for the young nippers.

“I had my under-13s rate the swim beforehand, and they thought it would be about a seven out of 10 in difficulty,” Mansell said.

“Afterwards, they were saying three or four - they absolutely loved it. The kids came out beaming.”

The event was backed by extensive safety measures,

with 29 water safety personnel and five powered vessels in place - enough to support up to 200 participants in the water.

Organisers deliberately over-resourced the event to ensure both children and parents felt confident.

“It’s not just about the kids - it’s about the parents feeling comfortable as well,” Mansell said.

“We made sure we communicated everything clearly in the lead-up, from the conditions to the safety procedures, so everyone knew exactly what to expect.”

Those preparations,

combined with ideal weather and ocean conditions, helped create a positive and successful first running.

Beyond the swim itself, Mansell said the event highlighted the importance of building resilience and confidence in young surfers.

“In Nippers, conditions are always changing,” she said.

“This shows kids they can go further than they think, and that they have the support of the club behind them.”

The swim also brought together the broader Kiama Surf Life Saving Club community, with volunteers,

parents and senior members all playing a role in delivering the event.

Special thanks were given to Reece Gregory, Sharon and Nick McInerney for coordinating the logistics and planning.

Following the success of the inaugural event, the club is hopeful the Kendalls to Surf Beach Swim will become a regular fixture on the calendar.

“Our aim is for this to become an annual event,” Mansell said. “And after this year, it’s something the kids can look forward to and build towards each season.”

Lleyon Hughes

After missing out in 2025, Jones Beach Boardriders (JBB) returned with a vengeance at the 2026 Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final.

Held on March 7-8 at Burleigh Heads, JBB sent a team of Nick Clifford, Rhys Bombaci, Oceanna Rogers, Dayan Conti and Alice Hodgson to take on the best boardriders clubs in the country. “Like always, we were punching above our weight, coming from a smaller talent pool in the community,” JBB president Hayden Bombaci said.

“We’re up against massive

Sydney clubs that have double or triple our membership size. So we focus on quality, not quantity, which is one of our little secrets to success.”

Surfing in round one on day one, JBB put together a series of high-quality waves to post a combined total of 33.18.

“We didn’t get the best waves, but the surfers made the most of what they had, which was phenomenal,”

Bombaci said.

The stakes were high, with only the top three teams progressing to day two.

“I was really proud that we finished third, especially considering we didn’t get the best opportunities to showcase our surfing,” Bombaci said.

“That left us with a sense

of potential, excitement and hunger heading into day two.”

Conditions proved challenging in the second round, with JBB unable to find their rhythm.

“They had to surf through a full tide with a fading swell, which made conditions really difficult,” Bombaci said.

“What started as three-tofour wave sets dropped to single waves, with six surfers competing for them. It meant some people were always going to miss out.”

Bombaci said the result wasn’t due to effort or strategy, but simply timing.

“We were just out of sync. When the waves came through, we weren’t in position - someone else was.”

Despite the setback,

reaching the quarterfinals was a significant achievement for the club.

“To be in the quarterfinals against the best boardriders clubs in Australia is pretty humbling, especially for a small club like ours,” he said.

“We’re building confidence and belief. Over the next five or six years, I think we’ve got a big result in us.”

JBB also stood out for its strong female representation.

“We were one of the few clubs with two female surfers,” Bombaci said.

“We also selected Alice Hodgson as our junior, which is a great reflection of the strength of female surfing in the Kiama area.“It’s a real theme for us - having strong women in our talent pool.”

Jamberoo rower claims double gold at world champs

Jamberoo’s Nardia Guillaumier has conquered the worldtwice in one night - claiming two gold medals at the 2026 World Rowing Virtual Indoor Championships held in the last two weekends of February.

Competing from a converted dairy shed in Jamberoo, Guillaumier delivered a remarkable performance across two vastly different events, taking out both the 1-minute sprint and the 5000m race to cement her status as a four-time world champion.

Her first test came at 1:43am, where she powered through the 1-minute sprint to win gold with 334 metres, finishing ahead of strong international competition from Great Britain and Canada.

Previously, in the heats for that event, Guillaumier set a new Australian record reaching 337 metres.

Just hours later, at 4:10am, she was back on the rowing machine for the gruelling 5000m final.

“It was a game of cat and mouse the whole race,” Guillaumier said.

In a tightly contested battle, she held off Canadian rival Anne-Marie Fequet to secure her second gold medal by just 3.9 seconds, finishing in 19:16.5.

“To win two gold in one night - in the middle of the night - is incredibly satisfying,” she said.

Guillaumier’s success didn’t come by chance.

Under the guidance of Jamberoo-based coach Alan Swan, she has built an extraordinary training base, clocking more than 2.5 million metres over the past year.

Her preparation included both high-intensity sprint work and endurance training, carefully structured to allow her to compete at the highest level across contrasting events.

“I trusted every ounce of my training,” she said. “I was focused on the plan and what I had to do.”

Despite the physical challenge, Guillaumier said racing at such unusual hours presented one of the biggest obstacles.

“You’re fighting your body clock. You can’t eat or fuel

the way you normally would - it does weird things to your body,” she said.

Now entering her 50th year, Guillaumier says her drive is as strong as ever.

“How do you want to age?” she said. “I want to be the hardest person to catch in the nursing home.”

Kiama Cavaliers bow out after two valiant defeats

Lleyton Hughes

The Kiama Cavaliers’ 2025-26 season came to an end over the weekend, with both first and fourth grade sides losing their finals matches.

For first grade, it marked the team’s first finals appearance in eleven years, as they faced competition leaders Lake Illawarra.

Before the match, club president Bernie Brown was optimistic, noting Kiama had defeated the strong Lake Illawarra side earlier in the season.

“The Cavs are brimming with confidence and excitement and are keen to reproduce the efforts that saw Kiama defeat the reigning premiers in round 10,” Brown said.

The Cavaliers took the field first at Howard Fowles Sports Oval and began strongly, dismissing the openers quickly to have Lake Illawarra reeling at 2-15, thanks to some sharp bowling from Niall Owers and Nick Heineke.

However, it was the next two Lake Illawarra batsmen who proved decisive, combining for a 118-run partnership that set their side on the path to a formidable 234 from 50 overs.

Glenn Cleary was Kiama’s top bowler, taking 3-33 from his ten overs, while Niall Owers and Adam Ison claimed two wickets apiece.

In reply, Kiama struggled to build momentum, with the first five batsmen unable to reach double figures. The Cavaliers were given a glimmer of hope through Josh Battishall, who blasted 93 from just 61 balls. Unfortunately, he lacked support at the other end, and Kiama were bowled out for 162 in just 34 overs. The fourth grade match followed a similar pattern, with the Cavaliers taking on second-placed Gerringong at Myimbarr on Saturday. Kiama again started well in the field, reducing Gerringong to 3-61.

But, once more, a key middle-order partnership proved costly, with a 66-run stand helping Gerringong reach a competitive total of 176.

Adam McCrone was Kiama’s best with the ball, taking two wickets, while the Cavaliers impressed in the field with four run-outs. Kiama began their chase positively, with opener Adam McCrone capping off a strong all-round performance with 38. However, it proved the highest score of the innings as the Cavaliers fell short, dismissed for 133.

Despite the two losses, the Cavaliers enjoyed a memorable season, celebrating their 170th anniversary while showing strong growth across the senior ranks.

JAMBEROO VS GERRINGONG2ND GRADE CRICKET

KIAMA NIPPERS

Local Lens

Darren “Dazzie P” Parlett @darren_parlett

A proud Kiama local, Parlett’s connection to the area stretches back to 1962, when his family first began holidaying at Easts Beach. Having called Kiama home for the past 36 years, he has developed a deep appreciation for the region’s natural beauty - something he captures with a keen eye. Keep an eye out for upcoming Dazzie P Photography exhibition.

KIAMA NIPPERS

KIAMA NIPPERS