The Bugle News 30 Jan 2026

Drowning tragedies p7

Celebrating 170 years p24

Shane’s a true local hero

Danielle Woolage

For more than four

decades Gerringong’s Shane Wicks has kept his beloved community safe as a volunteer surf lifesaver, fire brigade member and medical support officer.

Earlier this week, as part of the Australia Day honours, he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to the community through emergency response organisations.

He is among thousands of volunteers across NSW who give up their time to make their communities a better place. If you live in Gerringong, chances are he has come to the rescue of you or someone you know as a life

Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club and Rural Fire Brigade. Wicks got his first taste of community service at the tender age of eight as a nipper at Gerringong SLSC, and as soon as he was old enough he began voluntarily patrolling the region’s beaches.

The recently retired paramedic is now the Surf Life Saving NSW South Coast Branch president and is mentoring nippers across the region to become future community heroes. Wicks also serves as the medical support officer for the Gerringong Lions Rugby League Club.

Like surf lifesaving, he joined his local footy club as a junior and was always the first to put his hand up to help out on and off the field.

In 1990, as a 15-year-old, he joined the NSW Rural Fire Service after a school teacher piqued his interest.

And like his beloved surf and footy clubs, has remained a dedicated community volunteer, serving as the Gerringong Rural Fire Brigade captain for several years before becoming the Shoalhaven RFS operations officer, a job he juggles with volunteering.

Wicks knows firsthand the importance of volunteers

- they are the glue holding together communities and few places can claim stronger social cohesion than Gerringong.

“I grew up in Gerringong,” said the 50-year-old.

“I want to be able to give back to my community and I’’m passionate about training other people with my paramedicine background.

“It’s an honour to be able to pay that knowledge forward to the next generation of young people.”

Wicks says the average patrol hours a season in the South Coast Branch is 50 hours.

“At city clubs that drops to 20-30 hours because of the sheer number of clubbers to draw from.

“Regional lifesavers give up a lot of their time volunteering and it’s a big ask but the social cohesion and skills they learn are invaluable.”

While he has saved many lives through dramatic fire, flood and water rescues, his proudest moments have been watching young people thrive and find a sense of purpose through volunteering.

When the Gerringong community was left heartbroken after several young people took their own lives in 2020 at the peak of the

pandemic, people like Wicks stepped up.

He was part of the Gezza Cares community-led support network for young people, wrapping those impacted by mental health and suicide in a collective hug.

Wicks continues to be an advocate and spokesperson for Gezza Cares and was instrumental in mobilising the community to adorn trees, letterboxes and gates with yellow ribbons and hearts in 2020 to raise awareness about mental health and the devastating impact of suicude.

He cites his role as a mentor to the town’s young people, through surf lifesaving, the football club and fire brigade, as an honour and says passing on the legacy of community service to the next generation is an even bigger win than his prestigious OAM.

Asked if there’s anything he doesn’t do, he jokes “my wife says I don’t clean the house”. But he might just get a leave pass while he continues to save lives and mentor the next generation of young people to take up community service so the older crew “can eventually hand over the reins and retire”.

More Australia Day local legends - p5

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Freebies bring smiles all round

Amy Molloy

The conversation around the Kiama Show water cooler focused on one topic: freebies.

As young families lined up at the Wallop Water Station, which offered free refills of filtered drinking water, it was clear the cost of living is on everyone’s minds this year.

Families were grateful for a reprieve from show expenses.

“There seems to be a lot more free activities this year,” a mum of two told The Bugle “Normally, it feels like we’re just handing out notes to our kids, but this year

there’s a lot of free activities. We’re all very grateful.”

One of the standout hits for kids was the Junior Tradies area, where children could play on construction sites and drive miniature construction vehicles.

One mum sounded shocked when she got to the front of the queue and asked where she had to buy tickets, only to be told she didn’t have to pay.

The petting zoo was also popular, along with the “Drop In Art” tent.

At the World of Wildlife Encounters tent, kids could meet and greet a carpet python or blue-tongue skink — free, unless they wanted a

photograph, which cost $5.

Parents also praised the show for its inclusivity, not only for young children but for neurodivergent kids as well.

“My little boy is autistic and doesn’t enjoy the big rides,” said the mum of a sixyear-old.

“This year, he had a lot more to do, and most of it we didn’t have to pay for.”

There was, however, one piece of common feedback.

“It would be great to have more shade next year,” said one mum.

“If there were a few umbrellas for downtime with the kids, we could have stayed all day.”

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New book spins yarns about Art in Illawarra Craft

Myah Garza

Five years of community creativity were brought together at the official launch of Art in Illawarra Craft 2020–2025 last Friday at the Kiama Show, with works in a range of mediums representing Kiama, Gerringong and the South Coast.

Launched by former Kiama Mayor Sandra McCarthy and compiled by local craft advocates Boni and Peter Maywald, the book documents textile and craft exhibitions held in libraries, community spaces, and care

facilities during and after the COVID years.

Boni noted that the publication is “more than just individuals,” showcasing how community groups remained creative and resilient throughout the past five years, starting during the pandemic.

The stories and maker’s statements that follow each photo reflect how creators remained resourceful and resilient through lockdowns – a time when they could not meet with friends or visit shops to buy materials.

“These stories talk about people reaching into their

stash, into the scraps, and even reaching out to their neighbours, asking, ‘What am I going to make?’,” Boni said.

Groups featured in the book include Berry Spinners and Weavers, Kiama Quilters and Wrap with Love participants, with displays held at Kiama Library, Gerringong Library and Museum (GLaM), Bonaira Care Home and Blue Haven Terralong independent living units.

Many contributors use their craft to support charitable organisations, including Wrap with Love, which is featured on the back cover.

Boni explained this was

intentional: “Love is on the back cover because so many people in the Illawarra support charity groups with their craft.”

In 2025 alone, Wrap with Love distributed more than 21,000 wraps in Australia and overseas. Over its 33year history, the organisation has distributed more than 650,000 wraps worldwide.

To ensure the stories are preserved and remain accessible, around 60 copies of the book are being donated from the 500 printed to libraries, community organisations and institutions.

One of the major works documented in the book, the Kiama Craft COVID quilt, will now be permanently displayed in a public community space.

More than just a book, Art in Illawarra Craft stands as a visual and social record of how creativity, collaboration and care helped local communities remain connected during an unprecedented period.

As Sandra said: “Don’t just look at the pictures – they’re wonderful to sit through and enjoy – but take the time to read the stories. That’s where the heart of this book is.”

Stunning Show lights up Kiama

Brilliant summer sunshine helped make the 178th Kiama Show a stunning success last weekend.

Crowds flocked to Kiama Showground to see the jampacked schedule on Friday and Saturday featuring the very best of agricultural life on the South Coast.

There was something for everyone from the gumboot toss, billycart races, the MadStyleMoto Bikes, the Farmfit physical fitness challenge and lawnmower races to cattle judging, showjumping, woodchopping and the pet show.

The iconic two-day event culminated in a spectacular pyrotechnic display with the fireworks lighting up the night sky over the showground.

Visitors to the popular Pavilion at the Show were treated to a wonderful display of art in the downstairs gallery – among them a select number of portraits in the KiaBald section.

There were generous cash prizes for first and second place, as well as the winner of the People’s Choice Award.

First prize went to The Bugle’s own Tiffany Springett for her vibrant portrait of her mother, Michelle, while Colleen Behl took out second place with her arresting selfportrait.

Fiona Turner’s endearing painting of her grandson, ‘My Boy’ was the worthy People’s Choice Award. Congratulations to all!

Tiffany is an artist already well known locally for painting the Kiama fire station’s popular cow sculpture and her work with Expressive Arts with her mum.

suggested opening it up to a ‘vibrant, contributing member of the communitydead or alive’.”

in a creative mixed media showcase of Kiama.

completing a Diploma of Agriculture. She holds Certificate III qualifications in Agriculture and Fitness. Through the program, she hopes to challenge herself, advocate for agricultural communities, and encourage young people, especially those without an agricultural background, to recognise the opportunities within the industry.

“It was a lovely painting. We knew straight away it was the right one,” said local artist Greg Martin Vale, who was on the judging panel.

“She has a real ability to spread joy through her work.”

Beyond individual works, he said judging prompted broader discussion about the future of the Kia-bald category and how it defines a “subject”.

“One of the best outcomes was talking about changing the conditions,” he said.

“Instead of limiting it to well-known identities, we

He believes that shift could encourage more entries and Kiama.

The Show introduced a special new award this year - The Robert Young Shield for the Most Successful Pot Plant Exhibitor. This award recognises more than 60 years of dedication to the Kiama Show by Jamberoo dairy farmer Bob Young, and in particular his extraordinary commitment of over 25 years as Head Steward in the Pot Plant and Cacti Section.

Another entry by Tiffany in the Kewpie Doll section also featured The Bugle, and yet another in the Kiabald category featured our general manager, Belle Wood,

Bob’s passion, time and knowledge have helped shape this section into what it is today. The perpetual shield is truly one of a kind — crafted from one of Bob’s own garden spades, set onto beautiful Jamberoo white cedar by the Kiama Men’s Shed, and expertly engraved by Jimani Trophies. Bev Hayes (née Unwin) was named the inaugural winner and also took out Best Plant Exhibit with her stunning, large, trailing 25-year-old Hoya. The Show also helds its awards presentation, announcing the 2026 Rural Ambassador, Rural Youth Ambassador and Young Woman.

Rural Ambassador: Courtney Marsh. A passionate community member with

strong agricultural roots, having grown up around her grandparents’ dairy and sheep farms. She has volunteered extensively at the Kiama Show, assisting with woodchopping clean-ups, pavilion exhibits, cattle leading, refereeing touch football and more.

Courtney has led cattle at Kiama, Albion Park and the Sydney Royal Easter Show and continues to show outstanding dedication to agriculture and community involvement.

Rural Youth Ambassador: Holly Sheridan. A dedicated young member of the Kiama Show Society who is actively involved in organising, stewarding and pavilion exhibits. She also supports the pet show and assists with show set-up and pack-down.

Living on a small Jamberoo property, Holly cares for a

range of animals and maintains a productive vegetable garden, earning multiple junior awards across decorative, handcraft and cookery sections.

Young Woman 2026: Mia Thompson. The 18-year-old from Albion Park recently transitioned from dairy farming into disability support work while studying veterinary nursing (with a focus on dairy cattle) and

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Dispute flares over Family History Centre changes

Myah Garza

Aproposed reduction to the Kiama Family History Centre has ignited anger and disbelief in the community, with plans to reduce the 38-year-old service to just two hours a week described by volunteers and researchers as a “slap in the face” and “deceitful”.

Kiama Council said the changes were intended to integrate the stand-alone Family History Centre with its Local History Studies services to create a “more streamlined and accessible experience for the community.”

Genealogist Carolyn Morrow, who was the coordinator at the centre for four years, said she was assured the facility would remain open, only to later be told her services were no longer required and that volunteer involvement would be drastically reduced.

“It’s been handled in a deceitful way,” Morrow told The Bugle. “Reducing a centre like this to two hours a week is ludicrous. For the volunteers, it’s been a slap in the face.

“People turned up religiously, week after week, for decades. This was not a financial decision. The centre ran at minimal cost and was largely volunteer-based. Even at its peak, it would have cost less than $5000 a year to maintain essential

subscriptions. It’s an extraordinary gold nugget of information - records that don’t exist anywhere else.

“People travelled from interstate and overseas to use this centre. This is not about my job. I’m ready to retire. This is about keeping the centre open for the volunteers and the community.”

Volunteers – some of whom have staffed the centre for decades – were notified by email of the changes, a move they described as deeply disrespectful. “This has given us a sense that all our work and dedication over the years

hasn’t been valued,” one longserving volunteer said.

Another added: “Volunteering at the centre had given me purpose and passion after my husband died. It gave me a sense of place, a sense of belonging.”

Council confirmed the centre has been closed while local history collections are relocated, and from March it will operate on Thursdays from 10am–12pm, with library staff and volunteers available by appointment outside of that two-hour window.

In announcing the changes, Council thanked Morrow and

the 20 volunteers for their contributions, emphasising that family history services would continue in an integrated form.

Kiama Council’s Director of Strategies and Communities, Ed Paterson, said the changes were being made to create a more streamlined and accessible experience for the community. Paterson said dedicated Family History Centres were rare in local councils throughout NSW and the new approach would reduce the financial burden for ratepayers in the Kiama LGA. “There’s certainly some

strong feelings about the decision and I can understand that people are feeling upset about the whole situation,” he told The Bugle

“Council is under a stateimposed Performance Improvement Order, so we have to ask ourselves whether a service we are offering is legally required to be provided and if that’s not the case, we have to ask should we provide it? We truly do value all the effort that volunteers have put in but we can’t continue to run it at a loss at the expense of the ratepayer.

“We are still going to provide

the service but in a different way.”

Paterson added that historical material would not be thrown away despite what has been suggested on local social media groups.

Volunteers say problems started long before the recent announcement. Essential equipment, like the centre’s printer, was removed. Large shelving units were installed in the middle of the room with little explanation, leaving staff and volunteers guessing.

“Receiving the email made me feel literally sick,” a volunteer said. “So much of what I love to do at the centre during the week has been destroyed. For what reason?

“Our researchers transcribed old documents to be made available online, worked on local cemeteries, the history of pioneer homes, and collated information about our town - and that was just on a Wednesday.”

Established in 1989 beneath the Kiama Library with funding from a $1 million Bicentennial grant, the centre has been a fixture of the community ever since.

During Morrow’s tenure as co-ordinator, the centre expanded outreach, handled commissioned research for interstate clients, and secured a $10,000 donation to preserve 662 invaluable microfiche or microfilm reels.

Why our local honourees deserve special recognition

We have now reached the time when it is officially too late to say “happy new year”. After a weekend of festivities with Music in the Park, the Kiama Show (and fireworks!) and Australia Day celebrations, it would be remiss of us not to celebrate individuals within our community who have been recognised in the Australia Day 2026 Honours list. The Illawarra was well represented in the list which identifies individuals for their contributions across many fields and services at a local, regional and national level.

Special recognition goes to Kiama’s very own Ms Margaret Snelling OAM and Mr Mitchell von Borstel ACM and Mr Shane Wicks OAM from Gerringong.

For Margaret Snelling, the Order of Australia for service to hockey is recognition of a lifetime of playing, coaching, umpiring and mentoring in the sport.

After six decades of service to the sport, no one has had a more lasting impact than Margaret in shaping the local Kiama hockey community.

The Kiama Hockey Club, where Margaret is a life member, put it best in their announcement: “Margaret, thank you for all you have done for our club and for hockey. You truly deserve this recognition”.

Did we also mention she volunteered for Kiama Meals on Wheels for 50 years? Margaret is an example of the best of our community, and her enduring contributions and positivity is what makes Kiama great.

Mitchell was conveyed

a Meritorious Award, the Australian Corrections Medal, for exemplary service in keeping our prisons and wider communities safe.

Acknowledged by the Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Graham McCahon for his intelligence-led search operations, calm management of high-risk incidents, and ability to deescalate volatile situations safely, his leadership, professionalism and operational innovations have strengthened systemwide safety, enhanced accountability, and advanced intelligencedriven correction practice across NSW.

Shane is the epitome of community and received the Order of Australia for service to the community through emergency response organisations.

A dual life member of the Gerringong Rural Fire Brigade and Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club, Mr Wicks has made a lifetime of contribution and providing support in two of the biggest threats to our community – bushfires and drownings.

He also volunteers with the Gezza Cares Program, assisting with the evergrowing issue of mental health with young adults in our community and has worked for the NSW State Emergency Service and NSW Ambulance Service.

The Australia Day honours list is a timely reminder of what makes our town the best place to live in the country, its people.

Please join us in congratulating all recipients for 2026.

Awesome foursome rewarded for lifetime of service to community

Kiama’s own Margaret Rose Snelling was honoured with a Medal of the Order of Australia on Australia Day for her outstanding service to hockey, following a lifetime of playing, coaching, umpiring and committee involvement.

Governor-General Sam Mostyn recognised 949 people for their exceptional achievements in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List earlier this week, with Snelling recognised for her more than 60 years of service to the sport of hockey.

Over that time, she has supported the game in almost every capacity, from player to coach, umpire and administrator, and is a Life Member of the Kiama Ladies Hockey Club.

Snelling has also made exceptional contributions to

South Coast women’s hockey, and is a Life Member of the South Coast Women’s Hockey Association (now Illawarra South Coast Hockey).

Following the announcement, Kiama Hockey Club shared a heartfelt tribute to Snelling on social media.

“Last year, we were so proud to have Margaret with us on the hill, cheering for our Kiama women’s teams at the Grand Final. It was a great reminder that her passion for hockey and for Kiama is still going strong,” the club wrote.

“Margaret, thank you for all you have done for our club and for hockey. You truly deserve this recognition, and we are proud to have you as a Kiama Hockey Club Life Member.”

Fellow Kiama resident Mitchell von Borstel received the Australian Corrections Medal for exemplary service

in keeping prisons and the wider community safe.

A Tactical Operator with the Security Operations Group, he was recognised for his intelligence-led search operations, calm management of high-risk incidents, and ability to de-escalate volatile situations safely. His leadership, professionalism and operational innovations have strengthened system-wide safety, enhanced accountability, and advanced intelligence-driven correctional practice across NSW.

Gerringong’s Shane Wicks was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his service to the community through emergency response organisations

Wicks has been a longserving dedicated member of the Rural Fire Brigade, Surf Life Saving as South

Coast Branch president, medical support officer for the Gerringong Lions and a driving force behind the Gezza Cares mental health resource hub.

Berry’s Ken Hutt, a former police officer and business honour, was also honoured with an OAM for his service to the community through a range of roles.

He has been a longstanding stalwart for the Rotary Club of Berry, a member of Sports Aviation Federation of Australia and he was a part of the Police Rescue Squad and Water Police during his time on the Force.

Hutt has contributed greatly to the End Polio Now campaign through paragliding activities at various locations including Mt Everest, the Lobuche Peak in Nepal and the Cho Oyu Mountain in the Himalayas.

‘Time and space for people’: Rebuild service lends a han

Myah Garza

Mission Australia’s Rebuild service officially launched

For people recovering from a suicide attempt or crisis, feeling seen and supported can make all the difference.

That’s exactly what Mission Australia’s new Rebuild program aims to do with face-to-face help and real human connection in South Eastern NSW.

Launched on Wednesday in Nowra by Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips and State Member for South Coast Liza Butler, Rebuild provides free, handson support for anyone struggling after a suicidal crisis.

Unlike traditional services, Rebuild doesn’t require a doctor’s referral. People can call, text, or scan a QR code, and a peer worker or support coordinator will respond, often within 24 hours.

“We wanted this service to be as simple as possible,” said Michele Lanigan, Mission Australia program manager.

The program focuses on practical support and connection, whether it’s helping someone access local groups, financial assistance, relationship support, or other social services.

“Sometimes it’s as simple as connecting someone with a local exercise group or a men’s shed. That can make a huge difference,” she explained.

Rebuild is inclusive and accessible. It supports people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The program can see clients aged 16 and over, with 14-year-olds allowed with guardian support, and the oldest client so far being 78.

“We don’t turn people away. Even if they don’t fit a particular criteria, we make sure they find the right service for them,” Lanigan said. “We’re seeing a 50/50 split of men and women, and people of all ages. It’s about meeting people where they are.”

Peer workers take action in the community, visiting local services and building relationships so people know the program is part of their world.

“We’re not just a telehealth service. It’s about forming strong connections and maximising our reach across the whole community,” Lanigan explained.

Peer workers Ella Davidson and Meg Tanner added that along with training, lived

experiences allow them to connect with people in ways clinical services sometimes cannot. That understanding is invaluable.

“Without purpose, it often makes it very difficult to get out of bed on a day-today basis. This service is about helping people find that new connection in the community,” Lanigan said.

“The beauty of this program is that we provide time and space for people - something many other services can’t offer.”

The federal and state representatives spoke about the program’s impact.

Phillips said: “We’re making sure people have access to real, compassionate care in their community when they need it most.

“The number of deaths by suicide in NSW is staggering, so it’s crucially important that we provide services on the ground that can reach people during times of distress.”

Butler added: “Recovering from a suicidal crisis is incredibly tough, and no one should have to do it alone.

“The right support can

truly make a difference. Feeling seen, heard, and genuinely supported is what helps people take those first steps toward healing and hope.”

Coordinaire CEO Prudence Buist highlighted the importance of partnerships in strengthening care.

“Our partnership with Mission Australia and Grand Pacific Health plays to the unique strengths of each organisation.

“Both services are based on the emerging evidence for peer work in helping people with suicidality on their recovery journey through connection, compassion, and tailored support.”

At the launch, care coordinators Rourke Armstrong and Rianna Steele, and peer workers Ella Davidson and Meg Tanner were present, reflecting the program’s focus on peer support and community connection.

Rebuild provides support for up to three months, giving people time, space, and practical pathways to recovery. With its focus on human connection, community engagement, and accessible support, the program offers a lifeline for those navigating life after a suicidal crisis in South Eastern NSW.

To access Mission Australia’s service email Rebuild@missionaustralia. com.au or phone 0459 598 958.

Local parents push back on problems with ed-tech

Amy Molloy

With schools returning this week, the clichéd challenges – school refusal, missing lunchboxes and shoes that don’t fit - have been overshadowed by a very modern problem.

Local parents are pushing back against the onslaught of “ed-tech” in schools, after a summer holiday that involved a little too much screen timeor none at all.

“During the rainy days, my kids had their fair share of screen time,” a mum of three from Kiama Downs told The Bugle

“I could see an immediate impact on their behaviour. All of my mum friends will relate.

“It’s really made me think about next year and setting better boundaries.”

Others had the opposite issue: they cut back on screen time during the summer months and reaped the benefits.

“The problem is, schools seem to be pushing tech,” one mum said. “It feels like we’re fighting a losing battle.”

New research from HP Australia has highlighted this digital dilemma.

According to the research, 65 per cent of parents say holiday screen time makes the transition back to school harder.

At the same time, an overwhelming 83 per cent of parents want to reduce their child’s screen time as the school year begins.

But what happens when the tech is prescribed by the

education system? From kindergarten upwards, many local schools now use an online system for homework reading.

Instead of being sent home with paper books, families are instructed to log onto an online “decodable reader” system, accessed via a computer, phone or iPad.

For some families, it’s easier and more accessible. For others, it leads to tears and overstimulation.

“We do our homework reading together before bed,” said one dad.

“So, I’m handing my child an iPad - after spending the evening trying to take a device away from them.”

As with most school-age issues, it’s not black and white. Many parents don’t realise they can still request “paper” home readers from their school, allowing them to take a more old-fashioned approach. Supportive educators have even taken the time to print out books from the online software, binding them into physical copies for students to take home.

And then there’s the social aspect.

“My seven-year-old asks to FaceTime her friends after school,” said a local mum.

“It’s become normalised. I’ve encouraged them to write notes and post them to each other instead - and they love it.

“I’ve bought a paper calendar and notebook for myself this year.

“It’s all a learning curve, but we can’t tell our kids to reduce their screen time if we can’t live without one.”

Danielle Woolage

It has been a horror season for drowning deaths across the South Coast, with two anglers washed off rocks while fishing at Gerroa’s Black Head.

The bodies of the two men were recovered earlier this week after an extensive search for the missing fishermen.

About 4pm on Sunday, Lake Illawarra Police District officers were informed of a missing person report, relating to two rock fishermen who travelled from southern Sydney to the South Coast and failed to return.

Following enquiries, they established a command post at Black Head Reserve, Gerroa and started a search with assistance from NSW Police Rescue Squad, State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue NSW, Surf Life Saving NSW and Lifesaver helicopter.

Police were told the two men from Blakehurst and Hurstville – aged 59 and 53 –who were known to each other were believed to frequent the Kiama, Gerringong and Jervis Bay area for rock fishing.

Initial inquiries have led police to believe that the body found on Sunday is that of the missing 53-year-old man.

About 2.45pm on Tuesday, the body of another man was found north of the Black Head Reserve.

The body is yet to be formally identified, but is believed to be that of the missing 59-year-old fisherman.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

There was another incident at Gerroa with a family rescued by first responders nearby less than an hour after the two fishermen were swept off the rocks.

The two fishermen were not wearing life jackets.

Earlier this month a fisherman was rescued near Kiama Blowhole after being washed off the rocks in large swells.

First responders say the man was wearing a life jacket and it likely saved his life, along with recently installed AI technology alerting emergency services who instantly responded.

Surf Life Saving NSW South Coast Branch president Shane Wicks said the fact the man swam away from the rock shelf was also key to his survival.

“Most fatalities occur when rock fishermen are swept off rocks and then pushed back onto them,” he said.

“Injuries from rocks make it harder to survive the conditions. Anglers who are washed off rocks have a much higher chance of survival if they are wearing a life jacket.

“In the Wollongong, Kiama and Shoalhaven regions,

Horror drowning season as two fishermen die at Gerroa

helicopters and water rescue craft can usually get to people in trouble within half an hour of being alerted to an emergency.

“If tgey are wearing life jackets they have much more chance of staying afloat until first responders arrive.”

He cited a recent incident where a rock fisherman was washed into the water at 2am off the Kiama coast but managed to stay afloat for several hours until emergency crews were alerted.

“A helicopter and rescue craft got there within half

an hour of the alert but the man had been in the water for several hours and only survived because he was wearing a life jacket.”

Wicks has called on anglers and swimmers to take a moment to assess the conditions before entering the water or rock shelves.

“There’s always a safer spot to go fishing or swimming if the conditions are too rough,” he says.

“If the conditions aren’t favourable, sit it out and wait until the next day, it’s not worth risking your life.”

He also reminded anglers and swimmers to “never turn their back on the ocean or swim or fish alone”.

“There is a lot more activity on the region’s beaches and patrolled areas fill up quickly,” he explains.

“But what we are seeing is people moving away from the busy flagged areas and getting into trouble.

“It’s really important that people, particularly if they aren’t familiar with the conditions, take a moment to assess the dangers before diving in, rely on local

knowledge by talking to surfers about the ocean conditions and always swim at patrolled beaches and wear a life jacket while rock fishing.”

In NSW alone, seven people drowned in the first five days of the new year - two of those at Jervis Bay, with Christmas/ New Year often described as the summer season’s most dangerous period.

However, the Australia Day long weekend has proven just as deadly with four fatalities - two anglers at Gerroa and two men drowning in a North Coast river.

BBQs, music and ceremonies for newest citizens

Myah Garza

Australia Day was marked across the Kiama local government area with barbecues, breakfasts, live music, cultural events and a citizenship ceremony at Gerringong Surf Club.

Early starts were made at Reid Park, Gerringong Bowling Club’s car park and

Kiama Downs Surf Club, where locals gathered over barbecue breakfasts to share food, conversation and a laidback start to the public holiday Jamberoo \joined in the celebrations with a wellattended Australia Day BBQ. Live music featured at Reid Park, where local singer Amber Kenny performed fresh from her trip to the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

held at Kiama Downs and Gerringong to commemorate the First Frontier Wars.

The ceremonies symbolise historic smoke signals once used along the East Coast to warn of the arrival of the tall ships of the First Fleet.

Cultural workshops, biodegradable wreath making and performances by First Nations musicians were held

alongside the ceremonies, providing opportunities for reflection and learning throughout the morning.

A formal Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony was held at Gerringong Surf Club from 10am, where new Australian citizens were officially welcomed.

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald addressed those in

attendance, reflecting on the significance of the occasion.

“It’s always a powerful moment.

"People from different backgrounds and life stories, standing together and choosing to formally call this place home," he said. “The ceremony is a reminder that community isn’t something we inherit - it’s something we

actively build, together. Becoming an Australian citizen is more than a legal milestone.

"It’s a commitment to shared values: respect, fairness, responsibility and care for one another.

"Values that are lived every day in communities like ours."

Power of flowers in full bloom

Nestled beneath the ancient forests of Minnamurra Falls, the once obscure hamlet of Jamberoo is now fast becoming a tourist destination all its own.

Adding to the impetus is the opening of a new shop in the main street, Number Nineteen Gallery, Floral and Gifts.

The business started as an off-street florist in 2021 but has significantly expanded its remit and moved to a new iconic location in the historic, character-filled Old Dairy Coop Building, attracting passing trade and tourists alike.

Aside from being a wellknown local florist, owner Rachelle Cove is establishing

herself as the manager of a curated gallery featuring work from Australia wide.

Number Nineteen exhibits artists, ceramicists and creatives.

Artists from the Jamberoo district on display include acclaimed local landscape painter Andrew McPhail, ceramist Jennifer Swann and South Coast photographer Kyle Coffee, whose works capture the beauty of our region's coast and countryside.

Also featured is the Kiama and Jamberoo Woodworkers Group, with their woodworking skills on full display.

Even the name of the street where Number Nineteen is located, Allowrie, draws tourists because of

the fascinating history of Jamberoo as one of the birthplaces of the dairy industry.

The florist business which was the foundation of Number Nineteen is now tucked into a space at the rear of the store. It thrives on its regular clientele and a steady stream of weddings, events and celebrations.

“This is a beautiful building, and a beautiful new location,” says Rachelle.

“It has been a five-year journey for me to get here.

“Moving to this new streetfront location has given us more exposure and creates a landmark for both locals and tourists to come and explore.

“Artists can apply to exhibit their work, and we hope

Number Nineteen grows into a curated space where smallbatch artists can exhibit.

“We are very excited to see our beautiful space grow over the next 12 months and look forward to presenting to you many more Australian artists and creatives.”

Peering through the windows of Number Nineteen, passers-by are invited to discover an ever-changing treasure trove: from stunning local artworks and handmade ceramics to whimsical wooden ornaments which celebrate the heart of the Jamberoo district.

To follow the new exhibits for Number Nineteen or order some flowers, go to @jamberooflorist and @number19jamberoo on Instagram.

Libs’ faith in Serena

Serena Copley has been given a second chance to win the state electorate of Kiama after the Liberal Party announced on Thursday she would be their candidate at next year’s election.

NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane is putting her faith in Copley to reverse last September’s result in which Labor rival Katelin McInerney won the seat in a landslide after it was left vacant following the resignation of Gareth Ward when he was found guilty of sexual assault offences. Copley said she was standing again to fight for the region as part of her commitment to give local families, households and businesses a strong voice.

“Labor made a lot of promises during the byelection, and I will be holding them to account every day to ensure Kiama gets more than just broken promises from this Government,” she said.

Copley has lived locally for more than 30 years, with four generations of her family calling the South Coast region home.

“Families have been doing it really tough under Labor.

“Household budgets are stretched to breaking point, housing is unaffordable, trains are slower and less reliable, essential services and infrastructure are falling behind, and our region isn’t getting the investment it needs.

“It’s not good enough - our community deserves better.”

The former Shoalhaven City Councillor worked hard to fix the finances, deliver better services, and secure upgrades to critical infrastructure, including local roads, when she held that role.

A volunteer with Meals on Wheels, she works professionally educating young people and partnering with local businesses to train and upskill employees with traineeships and sectorspecific qualifications.

Copley said the main issues she will be tackling revolve around standing up for local families, households, and small businesses and fighting for services, infrastructure and investment in the region.

“Our community is paying the price under Labor. We need a local who knows the issues and delivers results.”

Tasty treats on Kiama’s sandwich trail

Olivia Funnell

Kiama is famous for the Blowhole but there’s another local drawcard that’s got tongues waggingthe local sandwich scene.

Sandwiches are frequently overlooked as a culinary offering worth celebrating.

They are more than just a daily staple for school kids and office workers alike. Kiama is proving the humble sandwich is anything but boring. So, here is our local guide to some of the best sandwiches Kiama has to offer.

Scoops

60 Terralong Street

@cafekiamascoops

It’s 10am at Scoops and customers are already piling in to order ice cream and banh mi from Quang Nguyen, who started selling the traditional Vietnamese street food during the off-season.

Combining the flakiness of a French baguette with the fresh, tangy flavours that are signature to Vietnamese food, it seems banh mi is a strong choice for locals and tourists whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The banh mi sandwiches at Scoops draw inspiration from Quang’s grandmother’s secret recipe and are as good as they sound. A popular choice amongst tourists and locals is the Deluxe Crackling Pork banh mi.

And if that isn’t enough to

get your taste buds tingling, bao buns are also on offer. Similar to banh mi, bao buns are instead made from pillowy, steamed buns that are designed to be a convenient, on the go meal.

In fact, bao buns are considered an egalitarian street food in Vietnam and are consumed by people from varying economic backgrounds due to their convenience and affordability.

So, if you’re looking for a quick but tasty lunch on the go, then be sure to scoop one up for yourself.

Deliman 98 Terralong Street

@deliman2533

Luke O’Donohue opened one of Kiama’s newest food destinations, Deliman, after he first fell in love with Kiama six years ago and decided to permanently make the move.

Deliman boasts a range of Italian style deli sandwiches and also expands its offerings to meatballs and Roman pizzas, which are made using a focaccia slab rather than a traditional pizza base.

Despite sourcing fresh, local ingredients, including schiacciata bread, which is similar to focaccia but is flatter and chewier, from Parfait, Luke was at first hesitant about selling $20 sandwiches.

But he insists that people are happy to pay for good quality food. His point is driven home by a group of happy customers who can barely restrain their post-sandwich glee as they exit his shop.

He attests this customer satisfaction to a combination of good quality ingredients with a focus on bread and of course, a little bit of love.

If you’re yet to wrap your hands around a Deliman sandwich, then why not try The Don, made with double smoked ham, mortadella,

salami cotto, rocket, red peppers, pesto and deli dressing. It comes highly recommended by the deli man himself.

Native 58 Terralong Street @nativekiama

Though Twinkle Machado is not a native of Kiama, she certainly feels like one now.

The cafe owner first developed her passion for food at her family’s restaurant (also called Native) in Ulladulla before deciding to open her own location in Kiama.

In addition to the specialty iced drinks that come in branded cans and are filled and sealed to order, Native has also developed a name for itself as the local spot for bagel sandwiches.

The most popular is the Brekkie Bagel, which includes a house-made relish. All the sauces and condiments at Native are made from scratch by head chef Harold Tuscano, including Native’s newest bagel sandwich, the Chilli Bird which is made with lemon herb chicken, mayo, breadbutter pickles, rocket and chillies that are fermented on-site for seven days.

Delicious filling can only get you so far when it comes to bagel sandwiches as the bagel should be soft on the inside but still slightly crunchy on the outside.

As a former resident of Montreal - a city famed for its bagels - I can confirm that Native has certainly stepped up to the plate (literally) with bagels that bookmark its delicious ingredients perfectly.

Lane 4/42 Collins Ln @lane.on.collins

Lane is Kiama’s newest addition to the sandwich

game and welcomes vegans, vegetarians and meat lovers as part of its clientele. It really does seem that there is something for everyone, including those seeking gluten free options and the kiddos (yes, I’m referring to the big ones too) who will be thrilled to find Unicorn Bread, which is a nod to the childhood classic, Fairy Bread but also features white chocolate ganache.

Other popular options for those lacking a sweet tooth include the Chicken Katsu sandwich and the Miso Eggplant sandwich.

Keeping things simple has become an artform at Lane where owner Robbie Blackburn knows what he does and does it well.

But don’t be fooled, these aren’t your everyday, run-ofthe-mill sandwiches, oh no.

In addition to sourcing fresh bread from Parfait and insisting on using fresh ingredients that are sliced and crumbed daily, the sandwiches at Lane also feature its signature cross section garnish - a nice little flourish for a food item that represents simplicity and convenience.

And if all of that talking and eating has left you feeling a little parched, then there are plenty of tasty drinks on offer including a variety of matcha lattes (strawberry, pistachio and mango), spritzes and cold brew coffees on tap.What more do you need?

But get in quick because the sandwiches at Lane change almost as quickly as the seasons!

Some other notable mentions include the gyros at Souvla & Grill and the wide range of sandwiches at The Deli in Gerringong.

But a girl can only eat so many sandwiches in one day, so go and try them for yourself.

Tuned In: KCR

Kiama Community Radio update

KCR takes the mic at Kiama Show Kiama Community Radio made its first on-site appearance at the Kiama Show this year — and what a great way it was to connect with our community.

From the spot in the Local & Homegrown Hub behind the pavilion, KCR’s crew spent the weekend talking with stallholders, competitors, families and visitors, recording stories and soaking up the atmosphere that makes the Show such a special local event.

They captured everything from first-time visitors to long-time Show regulars, and these voices will soon be brought together in KCR’s Voices of the Kiama Show 2026 podcast - watch this space.

KCR was also pleased to speak with Show President Guy Stearn and many of the volunteers who work behind the scenes to make the event happen each year.

Being alongside local businesses and producers, including Bee Inspired, Stoic Brewery, Tom the Carpenter, Healthmade Tallow, Jamberoo farmer Suzanne Storrie, and Jamberoo Jerky & Biltong, really highlighted the strength of the local community.

In the lead-up to the Show, KCR featured daily interviews and previews on the weekday morning programs, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into putting the Show together.

Guests included Pavilion Chief Steward Sue Cox, Vice President Grace McGlinchey, Entertainment Coordinator Breeanna Cummins, and President Guy Stearn, who joined KCR live from the Show.

Memorial Cup close to Piers’ heart

One of the special highlights of this year’s Kiama Show was the connection between past and present, embodied by new KCR presenter Piers Parbury and the Philip Parbury DSO

MC Memorial Cup.

Piers, who has recently joined the KCR team, comes from a family with a longstanding association with the Kiama Show. The Memorial Cup honours his family’s legacy of service and community contribution, making this moment particularly meaningful.

One of the highlights for KCR was meeting people who were curious about community radio and keen to learn more. Many stopped by for a chat, to share their stories, or simply to say hello.

KCR is looking for new members and would love to hear from anyone interested in getting involved — whether you want to be behind a microphone, help out behind the scenes, or just be part of a friendly local group.

Thanks to everyone who visited, shared their time and supported KCR during the Show.

KCR is proud to be part of this community and looks forward to bringing more local voices to air in the months ahead.

Why Join KCR?

Become part of your local voice

KCR invites community members to become part of a vibrant, welcoming network that supports local voices, music, and stories.

By joining as a member, you help keep independent community broadcasting alive in Kiama.

Membership supports training, equipment, local programs, and podcasts — and helps ensure local issues and creativity stay on air.

Many members also enjoy being part of a friendly social group, with regular coffee mornings and other gatherings that build strong community connections.

Whether you’d like to present a program, work behind the scenes, or simply stay connected with a great bunch of locals, KCR welcomes you. For more information on becoming a member, visit kcr.org.au

Please note - this is paid content

Dancing through decades: Miss Zoe’s 20-year milestone

Miss Zoe’s School of Dance is marking a major milestone, celebrating 20 years of nurturing young dancers and building a communityfocused, non-competitive space where the joy of dance comes first.

The studio officially opened its doors on August 1, 2006, a date that studio founder Zoe McCarthy still remembers clearly.

August 1 falls on a Saturday this year, the perfect excuse, she says, for a big birthday celebration.

“I always wanted to have a dance studio,” McCarthy said. “I grew up in a really lovely, relaxed environment where it was all about the dancing –not competitions and exams – and when I moved to the Illawarra, I realised there wasn’t really anything like that here.”

At just 20 years old and still studying at university, McCarthy decided not to wait.

Balancing uni, another job, teaching classes and running the business, she took a leap of faith and opened Miss Zoe’s School of Dance earlier than planned.

“It was very full on,” she laughed. “But there was such a need for it. People really connected with the noncompetitive, non-selective

environment we created, and we’ve just rolled with it ever since.”

Over two decades, the studio has grown alongside its students – many of whom started dancing as preschoolers and are now adults, teachers, and even parents themselves.

“That’s probably what hits home the most,” McCarthy said. “Seeing students grow up, and now having some of them bring their own children back to dance here. It just shows the environment really meant something to them.”

The studio expanded from Wollongong to Kiama in 2018, a move McCarthy says felt natural given her own upbringing in Jervis Bay.

“Kiama has that strong community feel,” she said. “It’s very family-oriented, and people really embraced us. We’ve had so many students come back after taking breaks to try other activities.”

Now operating across Wollongong, Kiama, Coledale, with new spaces opening this year in Calderwood/ Tullimbar, Miss Zoe’s School of Dance continues to prioritise flexibility and inclusion, allowing students to come and go as their interests change and return when the time feels right –without pressure.

Beyond dance classes,

the studio has become deeply embedded in the local community, regularly supporting schools, charities and fundraising initiatives.

McCarthy has led longstanding involvement with organisations such as the Cancer Council, Relay for Life, Stars of Wollongong, local homeless services, food drives and school events.

“That’s always been really important to me,” she said. “I love to be able to give back to the community that supported me to get where we are today.”

McCarthy believes the benefits of dance extend far beyond learning choreography. “You see confidence grow so clearly,” she said. “Kids who can’t even walk into the room by themselves at first, and then suddenly they’re on stage, front row, thriving.

“And the friendships – some of the strongest friendships I know started in a dance class.”

To celebrate the 20-year milestone, the studio will host a birthday celebration on August 1, inviting former students, teachers and families back to honour the occasion. Miss Zoe’s School of Dance will also present its first combined end-of-year concert, bringing together all studio locations. The performance will feature

memorable routines from across the past two decades, re-performed as a full-circle, nostalgic celebration. “It’ll be like flipping through a photo album,” McCarthy said. “We’ll revisit routines from 2006 right through to now. I know I’ll be crying.” McCarthy reflects on both the highlights and the challenges, particularly navigating the studio through COVID-19.

“That was definitely the hardest part,” she said. “But I try to see everything as a learning curve. It changed how I view things and opened new doors and other ways of different technology that I hadn't really had to do before.”

The studio’s impact has also been recognised through ongoing local and national awards, including multiple wins and finalist nominations at the Illawarra & South Coast Local Business Awards and the Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

Miss Zoe’s School of Dance was named Most Outstanding Dance Studio in 2018, 2019 and 2023, with continued finalist recognition across 2024 and 2025.

“We feel so lucky to have been part of this community for so long,” she said. “It’s been really special – and we hope to keep dancing with the Illawarra for many years to come.”

Waiting....

Carol Goddard

While queuing for my coffee at Kiama Village, I glanced across and noticed an equally long line at the sushi bar.

It got me thinking about how much of our lives we spend waiting - for all sorts of things.

These days, we’ve mastered the art of passing the time.

We scroll aimlessly on our phones, enduring the wait until we finally reach the front of the queue and receive the service we came for.

Waiting has never been my strong suit. In fact, I’m terrible at it. Even now, though I’m working on it, I freely admit my patience is limited.

As a child, I was a master of the “are we there yet?” syndrome.

My teenage years brought their own trials - waiting for exam results, waiting for boyfriends to call, waiting for just about anything was pure torture. Job interviews were no better. In the days before mobile phones, waiting meant one long, nervous vigil for the landline to ring or the mail to arrive.

A short corporate career, followed by years as a small business owner, brought unexpected relief. My restlessness became an advantage: if something needed doing, I did it immediately. Procrastination? Not for me, thank you very much. Then

came childbirth - four times.

My impatience was legendary. Nurses, doctors and quite possibly my unborn children likely had a good laugh at my expense: “Just hurry up and get born, baby!”

Strangely, the child-rearing years were calmer. With so much to do, there was no time for impatience. By then I’d discovered jogging and the gym, and how exercise could calm my soul.

Now, a little older, my affliction is easing. I don’t shop online, click and collect, or wait for home deliveries. If I need something, I go out and buy it. I rarely play the waiting game and it’s bliss.

That was until last week, when the universe decided to pay me back. The culprit?

A timber delivery for home renovations.

I’d organised a carpenter to start once the timber arrived, so it wasn’t just me waiting - it was him too. On delivery day, I was up at 6am: showered, dressed, breakfasted … waiting. There was a delivery window, but as the hours passed, my agitation grew. By early afternoon, the carpenter had to leave for another job. Naturally, the delivery arrived moments later and the timber was the wrong size.

The moral of the story?

The replacement timber arrived the next day at 9.30am. The waiting wasn’t nearly as bad this time.

I let my husband handle it, while I slept in.

Water Runners return from Tamworth with trophy treble

Lleyton Hughes

The Water Runners

enjoyed huge success at the Tamworth Country Music Festival over the weekend, bringing home not one, not two, but three major awards.

The first was the Tamworth Songwriters Association Country Blues Award for their song Viking and the second was the CCMA (Capital Country Music Association) National Songwriter of the Year Award for their song Last Train from Central.

“We love to tell stories in our songs,” said lead guitarist and vocalist John Littrich.

“Often they are sad stories relating to historical events, but Viking and Last Train from Central are actually a little tongue in cheek.

“Viking tells the story of a musician walking into a pub to play, only to find the crowd looks like a wild mob of Vikings.

“Luckily, an Elvis song

saves the day! Last Train from Central tells a story that many can relate to - particularly those in the Illawarra - staying out in Sydney for one drink too many and having to run like crazy to make that late train home.”

The Kiama band’s third award came from The Australian Bush Balladeers Association Inc, which presented The Water Runners with the Music Excellence Award for their video Shelter, filmed at the Jamberoo Pub and surrounding areas.

“The themes in the lyrics for Shelter are quite universal - seeking comfort and safety in a troubled world - but the song is also upbeat, so we decided to create a story in the clip about the band being stuck on the side of the road in the rain with a brokendown car on the way to a gig,” said Littrich.

“They are ‘rescued’ by a passing motorist who takes them - instruments and all - to the gig, where they play

music while their rescuer dances along to the song.

“The clip was filmed in beautiful Jamberoo and at the Jamberoo Pub. The outdoor scenes look very rural, and the rustic old pub comes across as the perfect warm and cosy venue for a band to play.”

The clip also features Littrich’s son Dom, who is part of The Inspired Unemployed comedy group, as well as fellow band Pacific Avenue.

“When you look at the calibre of some of the other songwriters this year and in past years, it’s so encouraging to walk away with these awards,” John said.

“This should help open more doors for us in terms of future festivals around the country and lead to more people listening to our music. It’s so nice to be recognised by your peers.”

They also performed throughout the Tamworth festival and had an absolute blast.

“The Longyard shows really stood out for the way people wanted to talk with us about our songs during the breaks and after the show. Many had a story to tell about a place or event we had sung about,” said Littrich.

“Playing at the Tamworth Songwriters Association awards night was very memorable - and a little bit scary - with so many experienced songwriters and musicians sitting there watching us.”

Next up for the band is a mini tour through the Riverina, with shows in Wagga Wagga and Tumbarumba, a cruise ship performance in Sydney, and a folk festival appearance in Yackandandah, Victoria. Their most recent album, Shelter, includes the three award-winning songs and was recorded by Syd Green of Jervis Bay Studios, a wellknown local musical identity and drummer for Kasey Chambers.

Gerringong Gazette

Annual parade full of pizzazz

As well as their annual Christmas lunch, Rotarians showed up in their colours to participate in the Gerringong Christmas parade, while running the barbecue at the last markets for the year.

It was a bumper market with 51 stalls and so many

sausage sizzles that we had to go back to the butcher for more sausages. New members and friends always welcomesee www.gerringongrotary. com.au or contact secretarygerringongrotary@ gmail.com.

The Gerringong SurfLife Music Festival will return on March 28, bringing live music, coastal culture and community spirit to the iconic Gerringong Town Hall - all while raising funds for youth mental health.

After a strong response in previous years, the festival is once again calling on the community to turn up the music and support a cause, with a portion of ticket sales and raffle proceeds being donated to headspace Kiama.

The organisation provides vital mental health and wellbeing services for people aged 12-25.

Stephanie Kemp

Even the men sat up and took notice when Merryll Faulkner, makeup artist and owner of Making Faces Makeup Studio in Kiama came to speak to us. One of her longest engagements has been making up the priests on “Mass for You at Home” on Channel 10.

While initially resistant, Merryll convinces them to give it a try with her natural approach. They always enjoy

it and never end up “looking like chicken tandoori” on screen.

She trained with Max Factor in the 1980s. After starting in promotions in a department store, Max Factor offered her a job and she was part of a travelling team that included two makeup artists going from store to store.

After a number of years, she decided to formally qualify and studied with Patricia Hutchence (mother of Michael) in North Sydney.

She then went freelance,

Tips from a top makeup artist

which worked well with being a mum because she could work the hours that suited her, like doing makeup parties in the evenings.

She was invited to join the makeup team for the Sydney Olympics, doing the entertainers and then did a film makeup course in Los Angeles.

Her most recent film work has been the award-winning “Frances” about women’s homelessness with Screen Illawarra.

In 1998 she started her own studio in Mortdale in Sydney and also started teaching.

She did more training in France with Atelier Macquillage, whose natural looking products she still sells.

With her team of six makeup artists and hairdressers, she specialised in weddings.

In 2002, she reduced her operations and moved to Kiama where she sponsored the show girls and did their makeup for a number of years and continued doing weddings until the Covid pandemic intervened.

She now mainly

SurfLife Music Festival returning for a worthy cause out & about with Gerringong Rotary

Festival organisers say live music and community events play an important role in fostering connection, belonging and shared experience, particularly for young people.

The event will transform Gerringong into a hub of live entertainment throughout the afternoon and evening, encouraging locals and visitors to soak up the town’s laid-back coastal charm while enjoying performances across multiple spaces.

Free live music will feature along Fern Street, with soulful buskers Tayah Larsen and Iris Zarrella setting the tone as

visitors explore local shops and cafés.

Families are also invited to enjoy the Hour of Power, a free, high-energy session inside the Town Hall hosted by Ocean Wizard, offering music, dancing and fun for children and their grandparents.

The festival will also

erringong RSL Soldiers Memorial Hall was built with public subscription by the Repatriation Committee in 1921 as a permanent memorial to the sacrifices of local servicemen in World War I.

The RSL sub-Branch was formed in 1937 and took

showcase emerging local talent, with youth bands Dirty Merchants and Twisted Arrow taking to the stage as part of the New Kids on the Block segment, delivering highenergy sets and supporting the next generation of live performers.

For those seeking a more

relaxed experience, ticket holders can enjoy SurfLife Cocktails, Pizza and Grooves, featuring surf-inspired cocktails from the bar team and food by Gerringong Pizza.

The chilled atmosphere will be soundtracked by Kane Calcite, Ren McArdell and Night & Day.

The evening’s main event promises a high-energy, groove-filled celebration, headlined by indie-folk and roots duo Sunday Lemonade.

They will be joined by up-and-coming indie rockfunk act Autumn Sunset and party favourites Hot Pursuit, rounding out a diverse and

teaches, doing one-on-one consultations to help older ladies update their look to suit their changing complexions and to give younger girls that much needed confidence that they look good.

Her list of must-haves for every makeup drawer comprises lip balm, matte sunscreen, eye cream and night cream – good makeup starts with the skin underneath.

Tools are vital to applying make-up well and a good set of makeup brushes will last a lifetime.

ownership of the Hall in 1945, and it is currently used by the sub-Branch for its activities.

Local groups and businesses also use the Hall on a regular basis. It is a very important part of the Gerringong community.

The RSL is finding it difficult to recruit new

members from the ranks of ex-service men and women from contemporary service. It is vital we attract new members to ensure the legacy of past veterans is carried on.

Our Annual General Meeting will be held in the Memorial Hall on the corner of Fern and Belinda

energetic line-up. Organisers are also encouraging attendees to support the cause further by entering the SurfLife raffle, with a range of prizes on offer. Tickets are on sale now, with community members encouraged to secure their spot early for what promises to be a vibrant night of music, connection and purpose.

Date: March 28

Venue: Gerringong Town Hall

Tickets: $50 (Main Event or Cocktails, Pizza and Grooves) Website details: www.surflifemusicfestival. com.au

Streets on 16 February at 1pm.

We would like to invite anyone with an interest in the RSL, or any ex or serving personnel, to attend to meet with us and see what we are about.

We welcome any ideas to encourage veterans and their families to join us.

A look at Werri Estate’s 100-year legacy

On 30 January 1926, prospective buyers gathered at Werri Beach for an auction that would shape the future of one of the South Coast’s most recognisable seaside communities.

On that day, 280 blocks of land forming the Werri Beach Estate were offered for sale, marking the first formal subdivision of the area.

As a reporter for The Commonwealth Home wrote at the time: “This is one of the finest places for weekend homes for motorists and those who desire the outdoor life.

“We thoroughly recommend our readers investigate without delay, as prices are sure to rise with the many advantages.”

A century later, the milestone is being commemorated by the Gerringong and District Historical Society, which is preparing a program of events to celebrate the centenary of the original auction.

The 1926 subdivision was undertaken by James Muir Miller, a descendant of Robert and Elizabeth Miller, who arrived in Gerringong in 1838.

While the auction reflected an ambitious vision for Werri Beach, early sales were modest, with only 18 blocks sold on the day.

The remaining land took more than 20 years to be fully sold.

The area gradually evolved from a sparsely settled coastal landscape

‘It’s my turn’:

Why more women are travelling together in 2026

Something lovely is happening in the way women are travelling.

More and more Australian women are choosing to explore the world, and they’re choosing to do it together.

We’re seeing it every day. Women in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond who have raised families, built careers, supported everyone else… and are now finally saying, “It’s my turn.”

For many, this stage of life brings more freedom, more confidence, and a clearer sense of what they actually enjoy.

into the vibrant community which we know today.

To honour this history, the Historical Society will host a series of centenary events throughout April.

A commemorative book, bringing together historical research, photographs, and personal memories, is being prepared.

An accompanying exhibition, Werri Beach – Celebrating 100 Years, will be held at the Gallery within the Gerringong Library and Museum complex from 14-24 April and will be open daily.

On the weekend of 1819 April, a self-guided walking tour will depart from the Werri Beach Progress Hall, featuring interpretive signs outside houses and sites of significance, with historic photographs and stories.

Gerringong and District Historical Society president Geoff Webb said the celebrations would also recognise Werri Beach’s long-standing creative legacy.

“We will be celebrating the work of a number of [historical] artists,” he said. “During the Weekend at Werri walking tour in April, some of our current artists will also be opening their studios.

“The allure of living and creating in Werri Beach has been a magnet for artists since the 1940s, and this continues today.”

Contributions can be made by contacting werricentenary@gmail. com.

With over two million women aged 45–70 in Australia now single, divorced, widowed, or simply embracing a more independent chapter, it makes sense that travel is changing too.

Gone are the old days

where trips were about rushing around or ticking off landmarks. Now the focus is on connection, culture, comfort and enjoying the journey as much as the destination.

Women’s group travel is growing quickly, and not because it’s trendy.

It’s because it works.

Small-group trips offer the best of both worlds: everything is taken care of, but nothing feels rushed or rigid.

Think beautiful boutique hotels, unhurried days, great meals, local experiences, and time to actually sit, talk, laugh and breathe.

Many women are swapping big family holidays for trips with friends. No logistics manager role. No compromises. Just shared experiences, good conversation, and the kind of

laughter that only happens when you’re truly relaxed.

And for women who don’t have a ready-made travel companion? These trips often start with strangers and end with friendships.

What’s really interesting is that plenty of women in happy relationships are doing this too.

Not because they want to get away from their partners, but because travelling with other women offers something different.

It’s a chance to reconnect with themselves, nurture friendships and come home feeling refreshed rather than needing another holiday to recover.

At Travel Focus Group, we see this shift constantly. We talk to smart, capable women who know what they want and

what they no longer want. They want travel that feels easy, warm, well organised and genuinely enjoyable. That’s why we created ROAM*, our women-only touring brand built around connection, comfort, great food and meaningful experiences. If this sounds like your kind of travel, we’d love to meet you. Join us for a relaxed chat over coffee at our next ROAM Breakfast Club in Gerringong. There’s no sales pitch, just good conversation, shared stories, and a little inspiration for what might be next. Find out more at www. travelfocusgroup.com/roam/. A thought to leave you with - the best trips aren’t about escaping life, they’re about enjoying it.

Please note - this is paid content

Why Vietnam is Australia's rising star destination

Stapleton

For the past year, Australian travel media have repeatedly highlighted the flood of tourists heading to Vietnam.

Bali may still top the list of favourite destinations, but it's hard to find a negative word about Vietnam from those who have visited.

Australian visitors to Vietnam have surged significantly, with a 54% increase in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2019, outpacing many other international spots. More than 276,000 Australians arrived in the first half of 2025 alone.

Booking platforms like Klook reported massive spikes, with hotel bookings up 250% between March and June 2025 compared to the

previous year.

Vietnam excels on key factors that draw tourists: price, quality infrastructure, safety, friendliness, stunning landscapes, rich history, cultural uniqueness, climate, and exceptional food.

Above all, for working Australians facing rising living costs, affordability stands out. Step away from tourist areas, and you can grab a coffee or beer for a dollar, enjoy a bowl of pho for three dollars, or take an hour-long taxi to the airport for about 10 dollars.

Vietnam has earned an extremely positive reputation from travel writers over the past 12 months, driven largely by value for money and the positive impacts of its regulated economy.

Travel writer Chantelle Francis headlined a News Limited story: “Vietnam

surges in popularity, emerges as new favourite among Australian tourists”.

A Travel Money Oz spokeswoman told her: “Vietnam consistently offers Australians incredible value, and with the Australian dollar’s steady appreciation against the Vietnamese dong travellers can enjoy even more bang for their buck. This translates directly to your holiday budget, with an average meal or a taxi ride costing around just $5.”

The Vietnamese are industrious and hardworking, unburdened by the overregulation that hampers much commercial activity in Australia.

Suburban streets buzz with makeshift cafes, street-side eateries specialising in meals by time of day, and homebased shops selling everything from corn to mobile phones.

Where I stayed for months on Saigon's outskirts, morning stalls catered to schoolchildren with breakfast, pens, and books.

Part of Vietnam's allure, amid Australia's governmentgenerated crises, is glimpsing a prosperous, well-functioning Confucian society that values family, community, dignity, and self-worth.

What struck me most was how well-behaved and cherished Vietnamese children are. Each evening in my apartment complex's public space, swarms of kids ran, jumped, laughed, played, and rode trikes – all clean, tidy, immaculately dressed, with no tantrums.

They appeared genuinely happy and dearly loved.

This scene, with proud, watchful parents and grandparents, repeats nationwide across economic

levels, speaking volumes about the country.

These children represent why Australians are increasingly choosing Vietnam – a nation that endured extreme poverty until the 1980s but now enjoys a remarkable boom.

Vietnam has avoided Thailand's mistakes in chasing tourist dollars. Unlike Thailand's world-famous bars, clubs, and sex industry (where locals often resent foreigners), Vietnam remains socially conservative.

Drunken debauchery exists only in small, contained pockets, and with a former policeman leading the country, open drug use in Saigon's entertainment district of Bui Vien is now a thing of the past.

For Australians, it's astonishing we once fought in what we call the Vietnam War and they call the American

War. No one defeats the Vietnamese – they proudly recount sending off the French, Germans, Chinese, and Americans.

While Australian flags are rare in this country, the Vietnamese flag flies everywhere, and national pride is taken for granted.

My advice: wander freely. Every country has its con artists, of course, so don’t be stupid. But when a Vietnamese person invites you for a beer, coffee, or meal, accept with grace. You won’t regret it.

John Stapleton is the author of the 2014 book Thailand: Deadly Destination, which received international coverage and, he wryly notes, promptly became a bestseller on various pirate sites, none of which pay royalties. He is a regular contributor to The Bugle.

Unsung cultural gems of Kiama not to be lost

Rhian Thomas is an architecture post-graduate from the UK who is visiting Kiama. This her second article on her thoughts on planning issues in the town.

In light of recent development proposals in and around Kiama, such as Shoalhaven Street, Akuna Street and future projects west of the Princes Highway, it is important to celebrate the everyday elements of the town which make it unique.

It is the quieter, familiar places that shape how Kiama is experienced and remembered by those who live here

town, repurposed buildings preserve the architecture and history of Kiama. For example, the old fire station now acts as a community arts centre exhibiting the work of local artists.

Similarly, faded letting on new facades offer glimpses into Kiama’s history, revealing the layered development of the High Street.

The Post Office

Commissioned in 1878 at a cost of £3,300, the Kiama Post Office and its clock tower continue to serve their original purpose.

The rockpool

Kiama’s rock pool is a place where locals gather for a relaxing swim, while embracing the elements.

Integrated into the rock bordered by a grassy verge, people sunbathe, read, socialise or simply sit and watch the ocean.

The Surf Club

Surf Life Saving Clubs are undoubtedly large parts of Australian coastal towns and Kiama is no exception.

Established in 1908, Kiama Surf Life Saving Club is a physical presence on Surf Beach and one within the community.

Run by volunteers across coaching, patrol and management roles, the club brings together a variety of people, teaching younger generations how to safely navigate the sea. Here local knowledge, gained only through experience, is passed down.

Repurposed buildings and old signs

Scattered throughout the

An iconic silhouette at the bottom of the High Street, the structure remains one of Kiama’s most recognisable landmarks.

This building acts as an example of architecture designed to last and adapt over time.

Taking your garden to great heights with climbers

If you’re looking at taking your gardening to new heights, you really can’t go past climbers.

They are the ultimate in vertical gardening, offering a simple way to add structure, colour and fragrance without sacrificing precious ground space.

There’s a wide selection of climbers available, and what you choose will depend entirely on your situation and the support you have in place.

Hindmarsh Park

Just off the High Street, the covered areas beside the playground provide a casual place to gather.

Throughout the day, people stop to eat, chat and spend time outdoors.

In the evenings, groups meeting for barbecues or with takeaway food can be observed unwinding whilst kids play on the park equipment.

The adjacent green space also hosts events such as school activities and seasonal celebrations.

Visible from the High Street, it provides a natural buzzing backdrop and further contributes to the town’s relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

As Kiama continues

to grow and change, these unsung but meaningful places serve as reminders.

Kiama is defined not by major developments, but by the everyday spaces that support community life.

Climbers use various mechanisms to get themselves upwards: some are twiners, others scramble using recurved hooks, some cling with tendrils, and many simply need a little encouragement on a trellis, fence or pergola.

But the bottom line is they all grow vertically, and they all need vertical support to grow well.

One absolute standout for the garden is the everpopular star jasmine.

This beautiful evergreen climber produces masses of gorgeous little starshaped white flowers that are highly perfumed. In summer, it’s nothing short

of stunning and earns its place in gardens time and time again.

Alongside it is Trachelospermum ‘Tricolour’, much the same as star jasmine but with a lovely variegated leaf.

New growth comes through in pinks and whites before settling, making it a real feature plant.

Like many climbers, this one is incredibly versatile - it can be grown vertically or used as a ground cover. When planted this way it produces a dense mat that helps eliminate weeds, which is always a bonus for any gardener.

Then we move into some of the more special selections. One real beauty is a hardenbergia with dark, almost black, burgundy foliage - appropriately named ‘Out of the Dark’.

It produces beautiful peashaped purple flowers in spring and is a nice, slender climber.

It works particularly well when grown alongside another flowering hardenbergia - pink or white - so you get that striking contrast between dark

Combining climbers like this is a great way to change up flower colour and foliage colour, adding depth and interest to your vertical spaces.

Another Australian native well worth considering is Pandorea jasminoides, commonly known as bower of beauty - and for obvious reasons. The salver-shaped flowers are simply gorgeous, often pink with a deeper, darker throat.

Variegated forms are available, as well as straight green varieties, and flower colours range from pinks to whites and more besides.

Within this range you’ll also find lower-growing, more ground-cover types, but once they reach a vertical surface, they’ll happily head skyward. So whether you’re covering a fence, softening a wall or adding interest to a pergola, climbers offer a fantastic way to lift your garden - quite literally - to new heights.

You’ll be surprised what you’ll find at Burnetts … we’re not just a garden centre, we’re one of Kiama’s most loved

what’s on?

Kerry Bruce Exhibition ‘Where Flowers Dream’

8 Jan- 4 Feb, 8am-3pm

The Garden Berry

Kerry’s latest collection invites you into a hidden garden of richly textured, expressive works

Cows and Colour

Sat 31 Jan, 10am-1pm

Abergail Farm, Nowra Highland Cow Farm Visit + Painting with Expressive Art Experience Kiama Record Fair

Sat 31 Jan, 10am-4pm Masonic Hall, Kiama Local record sellers bring records to sell.

Daylight Disco

Sat 31 Jan, 4pm-10pm Kiama Leagues Club

The ultimate party for over30s who know how to have a big one without waiting for midnight.

Watercolour (Adults) with Gerri Kafer- Tues 3 Feb weekly, 10am-12pm Joyce Wheatley Building

Kiama

Watercolour painting classes for 8 weeks of learning and developing your painting skills

Kiama Scout Hall

Homestead of Hope weekly lunch

Tue 3 Feb Weekly, 11am12:30pm Kiama Scout Hall Weekly free 2 course lunch.

Watercolour (Adults) with Gerri Kafer- Wed 4 Feb weekly, 10am-12pm

Joyce Wheatley Building

Watercolour painting classes for 8 weeks of learning and developing your painting skills Kids Art Classes with Liv Deans

Thu 5 Feb, 5pm-6pm Joyce Wheatley Building

Afternoons of fun, creative art classes open to all experience levels. Oil Painting (Adults) with Liv Thu 5 Feb, 6:30pm-8:30pm Joyce Wheatley Building Oil painting classes for 8 weeks of learning and developing your skills

Cultural Connections to Waterways Kiama Sat 7 Feb, from 9am Minnamurra River

Cultural Connections to Waterways SUP Tour led by the local Dharawal people & a SUP Shellharbour instructor.

Screen Illawarra: Extra Casting Workshop

Sat 7 Feb, 10am-2pm Gerringong Town Hall The Drink Show Sat 7 Feb, 11am-8pm Kiama Pavillion

Tasting event and masterclass with samples, bottle sales, meet-the-maker moments.

Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club 170th

Anniversary Dinner

Sat 7 Feb, 7pm-11pm

Kiama Leagues Club

Celebrate 170 years, with Guest Speaker Mike

Whitney

Open Gallery WeekendRobyn Sharp

Sat 7 Feb- 8 Feb, 10am-4pm

Cedar Ridge Studio

Open Gallery to see Sharp’s studio.

After School Art

Class with Expressive Art Experience

Tues 10 Feb, 4pm-6pm

Expressive Art Experience

Weekly art classes for High school students, mixed media painting.

Friday Art ClubExpressive Art Experience

Fri 13 Feb, 9:30am-12pm

Expressive Art Experience, Kiama Downs

Over Five weeks you’ll work on a few different projects with oil paints

Cows and ClayValentines edition

Sat 14 Feb, 10am-1pm

Abergail Farm, Nowra Highland cow farm experience and sculpting clay cows

Matriarchs, Mentors and Aunties

Tue 17 Feb, 7pm-9pm Filmore’s Kiama

Nigeria focus for World Day of Prayer

The World Day of Prayer is coming to Kiama and Gerringong again in March.

This is an international, ecumenical initiative led by Christian women from various traditions.

It aims to bring together people of different races, cultures and backgrounds to pray and take action for peace and justice.

The event is celebrated in over 170 countries, fostering fellowship and understanding.

Each year the women of a different country prepare the service, and this year, it is from Nigeria, a country with the largest population in Africa.

The theme is 'I will give you rest: Come'.

In Kiama this year, the Presbyterian Church at 40 Shoalhaven Street will host this special service at 10am on Friday, 6 March.

In Gerringong, the Uniting Church at 24-28 Fern Street will host the service. Everyone is welcome.

Drink Show boutique event will lift spirits at Pavilion

Spirits lovers will have a unique opportunity to explore Australia’s vibrant independent distilling scene with the arrival of The Drink Show at The Kiama Pavilion next Saturday (7 February).

The boutique tasting event brings an exclusive lineup of small-batch craft producers to the South Coast, combining premium tastings, meet-themaker moments and expertled masterclasses.

Designed as an intimate coastal experience, The Drink Show invites attendees to sample rare spirits not typically found in bottle shops, purchase bottles direct from producers, and learn from industry figures in curated sessions.

With event capacity limited to 250 ticket holders per tasting session, organisers are urging early ticket purchase ahead of anticipated sell-outs.

Tasting sessions and masterclasses

Across the day, guests can join one of three tasting sessions - at 12.30 pm, 3pm and 6pm - while a dedicated Trade & Media session will run from

11.15am. Each session offers unlimited sampling of craft spirits from around Australia.

Two premium masterclasses provide deeper insight into spirit production and flavour:

“The Secret Blend Behind Australia’s Best Whisky 2025”, led by Amber Lane Distillery cellar master Rod Berry, which focuses on the blending processes that produced one of the country’s highestrated whiskies. Participants will blend their own samples under expert guidance.

“Summer Drinks with Ester Spirits”, hosted by Ester Spirits co-founder Felix Clarke, which explores innovative serves built around their awardwinning Old Tom Gin, with

practical tips for entertaining and drink creation.

Masterclasses are limited to 30 participants each and must be booked in addition to tasting session tickets.

Celebrating local and independent makers

The exhibitor list highlights a diverse range of artisanal producers from across Australia.

Representatives include boutique operations such as Florcita Tequila, Banks & Solander Distillery, North of Eden Gin, Phoenix Distilling Co., Noble Bootleggers, Karu Distillery and SoHi Spirits, each bringing a unique story and selection of handcrafted spirits to the Pavilion.

Organisers say the event’s focus on quality over scale creates a more engaging experience for curious drinkers and seasoned collectors, allowing meaningful conversation with makers and the chance to take home bottles that might otherwise be difficult to find. For tickets and full event details, visit https://drinkshow.com. au. Please note - this is paid content

When the country boys came to the big city

Mark Emery

Acentury years ago, it was a big thing for country people to go to the big cities like Sydney.

It took a long time to get there and many country people rarely, if ever went.

Country rugby league has always been strong. Many champions have started in the country teams before starring in the top grade in Sydney.

Gerringong legends Paul Quinn and Michael Cronin are but two examples.

Virtually all these players represented country teams.

Country rugby league is

divided into groups.

We are in Group 7 on the South Coast, based around Kiama.

A number of groups are joined together to make a region. In 1928 Group 7 joined with some other groups to make the South Coast region.

A 100 years ago the NSW. Rugby League decided it would conduct a Country Carnival. It was billed as the time the country boys came to conquer the city. First the country groups would play each other on a Wednesday.

On the following Saturday each country group would be matched against a city club.

In 1928 South Coast was matched against North Sydney. After these the best 26 players from the city and country would make two teams and play in the annual City/Country clash.

From this clash a NSW team would be picked and other representative teams.

Most of the time the country boys were outclassed,

mainly because they lacked the high fitness levels and combinations of the city players.

One famous example, however, of the country boys winning was in 1971 - it is a game close to Cronin’s heart.

The best moment was when he stole the ball from Arthur Beetson's hand and raced away to score.

These pages are from The Rugby League News in the late 1920s.

It shows a picture of the South Coast team and a program of the game in 1928. Some names of interest to us are C. Miller from Jamberoo, W. Pike of Kiama and Hedley Chittick of Gerringong.

Miller and Chittick’s names are spelt incorrectly unfortunately.

Hedley’s name came up regularly in the representative teams and he gave sterling service to Gerringong Rugby League.

A sad postscript to Hedley’s story occurred at the start of World War II. He had been heavily involved in the local

defence force when war broke out in 1939.

He tried to enlist in the regular army but was rejected, mainly due to his damaged knees from his football days.

He went to hospital to have an operation to correct the problem but unfortunately, he passed away aged only 35.

The saddest part of the story is he was engaged to be married.

REDFEB highlights the heart-stress link

WProbus celebrating 50 years

Probus is celebrating a major milestone50 years of bringing people together through friendship, shared interests and local connection.

Donna Portland

That sense of connection is being celebrated locally. Kiama Seaside Probus Club marked the 50th anniversary early, joining 10 clubs from Shellharbour to Gerroa for a lively District Probus Luncheon in October.

Kiama Seaside Probus president - and secretary of the liaison committeeLaraine Conder said the event showcased the strength and camaraderie of Probus across the region.

planning their next chapter, regardless of gender, cultural background or belief. It is not political, religious or commercial. Instead, it offers something increasingly valuable in later life: routine, purpose and a sense of belonging.

Research consistently shows that strong social connections play a critical role in wellbeing, mental health and quality of life as people age.

As opportunities for daily interaction often change in retirement, communitybased social groups like Probus help people remain socially, mentally and physically active.

Cardiologist Dr Avedis Ekmejian explains stress can damage the heart in sudden and gradual ways.

Acute stress, such as a major shock or emotional outburst, can trigger

heart attacks or stress cardiomyopathy, often referred to as “broken heart syndrome.”

Chronic stress, meanwhile, keeps the body in a heightened state of alert, contributing to high blood pressure, raised cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and an increased risk of coronary disease.

Clinical neuropsychologist Dr Miranda Say says prolonged stress also disrupts the brain–heart connection.

“Stress is meant to spike and then return to baseline,” she explains.

“When it never switches off, people experience poor sleep, constant tension, irritability and reduced focus - signs the body isn’t recovering.”

This February, Heart Research Australia’s REDFEB campaign is encouraging Australians to take small, achievable steps to reset their stress levels and support heart health. The free REDFEB Bingo Challenge focuses on four simple daily “resets”: Meals, Movement, Measurement and Mental attitude - from sharing a healthy meal to spending time outdoors or checking blood pressure.

Kiama Downs resident Michael Williams has become a passionate REDFEB advocate following the loss of his father to a heart attack. After losing his father to a heart attack, Michael has become a community advocate and fundraiser for REDFEB, raising awareness about heart disease and the importance of prevention and research. Wear red, take part in the REDFEB Bingo Challenge and support vital research by donating at heartresearch.com.au.

“It was wonderful to see so many members coming together, renewing friendships and enjoying the social spirit that defines Probus,” she said.

Founded in Australia in 1976, Probus was created with a simple but powerful purpose: to ensure people had opportunities for social connection after leaving the workforce.

Five decades on, that mission remains as relevant as ever. Today, Probus is a network of more than 1,300 not-for-profit clubs across Australia and New Zealand, supporting over 90,000 members and having helped more than half a million retirees stay active, engaged and socially connected.

At its core, Probus is about people. Clubs are run by members, for members, with activities shaped by local interests and communities.

From city centres to regional towns, Probus clubs offer regular face-to-face interaction through outings, guest speakers, special interest groups and simple conversation — all within a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Probus is open to retirees, semi-retirees and those

Probus CEO Silvana Martignago says the organisation’s enduring strength lies in its focus on connection. “Probus was created so people could enjoy life beyond work with friendship and community at the centre,” she said. “Fifty years on, that purpose matters more than ever.”

The 50th anniversary will be marked throughout 2026 with celebrations hosted by local clubs across the country.

A key commemorative event will take place on 3 February at Hunters Hill in Sydney - home to Australia’s first Probus Club - officially launching the national celebrations. The event will be attended by former Prime Minister John Howard, along with respected journalist Heather Ewart, who will serve as National Spokesperson for Probus.

From shared meals to lifelong friendships, Probus has spent 50 years strengthening communities - one local club at a time. And as Australia’s population continues to age, its role in fostering connection, friendship and positive ageing looks set to continue well into the future.

For more information about Probus or to find a local club, visit probussouthpacific.org or call 1300 630 488.

KIAMA SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

The stop-start South Coast cricket season resumes on Saturday after three extra weekends of no play.

After the fortnight break for the Christmas-New Year period, the first week back was called off due to extreme heat, then rain intervened before there was a scheduled break last weekend for the Australia Day weekend.

The forecast is fine for the South Coast this weekend for what should be a crucial round in determining the first-grade finals equation.

After 12 rounds of the one-dayers, the race for the top four looks to be a battle between six teams with two distinct groups on the ladder.

Premiers Lake Illawarra are on top with Shellharbour nine points further back. Bomaderry are tied with Bay and Basin in third with Kiama and North Nowra within striking distance.

Oak Flats, Kookas and Albion Park would need a dramatic form reversal to sneak into the top four while last-placed Ex Servos are nine

points adrift of the Eagles in their bid to avoid the wooden spoon.

This Saturday’s marquee match features Shellharbour hosting North Nowra Cambewarra in a result which could have a major bearing on the final standings.

Bomaderry are at home to Oak Flats, Kiama travel to Hayden Drexel Oval to face Ex Servos, Lake Illawarra are away to Albion Park and the Kookas fly south to Sanctuary Point Oval to face Bay and Basin.

Ladder: Lake 67, Shellharbour 58, Bomaderry, Bay and Basin 57, Kiama 53, North Nowra 52, Oak Flats, Kookas 32, Albion Park 30, Ex Servos 21.

The T20 final will be held this Sunday at Geoff Shaw Oval with surprise packets Oak Flats taking on Lake after the Rats topped the standings. In the only two matches that have been played this calendar year, Lake qualified for the decider after thumping Shellharbour by 81 runs after a superb captain’s knock of 98 from Kerrod

White and 76 from allrounder Jake O’Connell.

The Rats also managed to avoid the rain on the Friday night to record a 47-run triumph over Kiama with Dean Condello’s 40 powering them to a total of 5-147.

Despite a run-a-ball 42 from Blake Mackrell, the Cavaliers were unable to recover from a top-order collapse of 3-16.

Lake take on Gerringong in the second grade T20 final at Oak Flats at 10am before the main game at 2pm.

The South Coast women’s competition is back after a five-week absence on Friday night.

First-placed Kookas take on the Ratettes in a top-of-thetable tussle at Myimbarr West while the other Oak Flats team, the Ratatouilles tackle Albion Park at Albion Oval.

Kiama will be locking horns with Ex Servos at Bonaira Oval with Shellharbour up against Lake at Myimbarr East.

Ladder: Kookas 32, Ratettes, Ratatouille 22, Kiama 18, Lake, Park 16, Ex Servos 12, Shellharbour 2.

Stop-start season back on again with bumper weekend

Hodgson wins thriller to claim Taj’s Small Fries title

Kiama’s Alice Hodgson claimed the Under18s girls title at the Taj’s Small Fries surf event in Western Australia last week.

Taj’s Small Fries is one of Australia’s most iconic junior surfing events, founded by Taj Burrow and held in some of the best waves Margaret River has to offer.

The event is no stranger to local success, with

Gerringong’s Lucy Darragh winning the Under-16s division in 2024.

The competition began on 17 January, and Hodgson started the tournament steadily, placing second in her first two heats.

From the quarter-finals onward, however, she was unstoppable, posting three impressive wins, including two nail-biting finishes in the semi-final and grand final.

Hodgson edged out her

semi-final by just 0.3 points, before producing two strong scores within her opening three waves in the final.

Her opponent, Poppy Redman Carr, surged late with some big scores of her own, but it wasn’t enough to close the gap.Hodgson took out the final by a margin of just 0.34 points, telling Surfing WA she was thrilled with the result.

“I’m so happy! WA is such a great place, with super-fun waves,” she said.

“Our final was so close and could have gone either way, but I’m stoked that my hard work finally paid off. I got a left in my last heat and realised it could give me a couple of scores. I knew they were out there, and it worked out.”

The win marks another milestone for Hodgson, who made history in November as the first female competitor to win the annual Jones Beach Boardriders ‘Robbo’s Round’ event in its 43-year history.

Jones Beach Boardriders (JBB) congratulated Hodgson on her latest success.

“Competitors were treated - and tested - by a solid swell today, with plenty of size and power on offer,” the club said.

“Alice absolutely rose to the challenge, making a huge splash in the finals and showing confidence, composure and strength when it mattered most.

“We’re incredibly proud to see her step up and own it

in big conditions.” The club also acknowledged fellow JBB member Ruby Neil, who narrowly missed progressing to round two of the Under-16s division by just 0.04 points.

“Shout-out also to Ruby Neil, who represented Jones Beach Boardriders in the Under-16s, gaining valuable experience and holding her own in demanding surf - an important part of the journey,” the JBB team said. The future looks bright.

Cairncross wins premier Tasmanian surfing event

Lleyton Hughes

In a huge week for local female surfers, Lani Cairncross delivered an epic performance at the Red Herring Pro-Am in Tasmania over the weekend, taking out first place in the under-18s division and also claiming bronze in the open competition.

couple of good turns in, which felt great. I would definitely go back - such a great atmosphere and a great event.”

Her success follows fellow Jones Beach Boardriders member Alice Hodgson, who recently took out the under18s division at Taj’s Small Fries, highlighting a strong run of form for the club’s junior surfers.

Cairncross said she thoroughly enjoyed the event despite challenging surf.

“It was a great comp and the surfing community in Tasmania was so warm and welcoming,” said Cairncross.

“There are so many great surfers all over Australia, and these competitions bring everyone together. I really enjoy meeting new people.

“The conditions were variable, so everyone had to be patient. I was able to get a

The Jones Beach Boardriders club posted on social media with pride: “Taking on the national field and standing tall across two divisions, Lani is proving she belongs right at the pointy end. Calm, confident and absolutely ripping - this is a massive result.

“Jones Beach Boardriders is coming in hot for 2026, and our girls are on fire.”

The Red Herring Pro-Am is Tasmania’s biggest surfing

event and one of the largest competitions in Australia, drawing top junior talent and seasoned open competitors from around the country.

The Pro-Am also featured a boosted $25,000 prize pool across six divisions.

Competing in the opens and under-18s divisions, Cairncross was on fire from the outset, winning both of her heats on day one.

Day two featured just two heats in the opens division - with Cairncross already through to the under-18s semi-finals - and she produced one of the biggest scores of the tournament, posting an 8.57 on her second wave.

She won the heat comfortably and backed it up with another victory in round four.

On day three, Cairncross narrowly missed advancing

to the open final, losing the semi-final by just 0.53 points to eventual winner Mia MacMahon.

However, she bounced back strongly in the under18s division, winning her semi-final by a commanding 9.67-point margin before exacting revenge on MacMahon in the final, defeating her by 1.5 points to claim the under-18s title.

Lani’s parents said they were incredibly proud of her efforts.

“It is always nerve-racking watching every competition,” they said. “We are so proud of her and, like all parents, we think she has so much potential.

“She’s been through a few injuries and faced some obstacles, but slowly and steadily she’s finding her way through.”

Tennis trivia time

With the Australian Open finals on this weekend, it’s time to test your knowledge of the friendliest grand slam of the bunch.

Questions are in a separate box, upside down, at the bottom - don’t peak until you’ve gone through all 15 questions.

1. Who was the last Australian to win the men's singles title?

2. In what year did Melbourne become the permanent home of the Australian Grand Slam?

3. True or False? The Australian Open was the first grand slam to introduce indoor play under a retractable roof?

4. In what year did Novak Djokovic win his first Australian Open?

5. Who holds the record of winning 11 Australian Open ladies singles titles?

6. Who is the youngest winner of the ladies singles at 16 years of age?

7. What was introduced to the final set of singles matches to prevent marathon matches?

8. In which country were the Australian Championships held in 1906 and 1912?

9. Who was Lleyton Hewett playing in 2008 when the match concluded at 4.33am?

10. Who is both the oldest and youngest winner of the Australian Open men's singles?

11. How many kilometres of string is used to re-string about 5000 racquets each year at the Australian Open?

12. Who was the last Australian to hold the Women's singles title in 1978 before Ash Barty won in 2022?

13. Who did Serena Williams beat when she staged a huge comeback to win the 2003 title after being down 5-1 in the final set?

14. Who did Jack Crawford defeat in the 1930 men's singles final in five sets … and they later became our long-term Davis Cup coach?

15. Which Czech player won the Australian Open men's singles in 1989 and 1990?

Red-hot Hawks shoot down Bullets in record-breaking rout

Fresh off the announcement that they would get a long overdue new arena, the Illawarra Hawks have kept their NBL finals hopes alive with an emphatic win in Brisbane.

Sitting seventh with a 10-16 record after shooting down the Bullets, they are still a decent chance of qualifying for the top-six playoffs with seven matches remaining on their schedule as they try to reel in the Tasmania JackJumpers.

But after an up and down campaign, they need to string together more performances like their 11375 road win over the Bullets on Monday night.

It was their biggest win of the season, coming on the back of last Friday’s announcement by the NSW Government that WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong would be rebuilt into a new facility which would nearly double capacity to 9500 spectators.

The Government has announced a $17 million to develop a business plan as part of the revamp of the city’s sports and entertainment precinct.

WIN Stadium will also be getting a facelift with a new grandstand at the northern end, an upgrade

for a reconfigured southern stand, a southern plaza to replace the training oval and a beach promenade to be constructed behind the eastern hill.

For the Hawks, the stadium upgrade helps secure the team’s long-term future and is a win for fans with the arena regularly sold out over the past couple of seasons.

Their win over the Bullets was their biggest of the season and after a slow start, the bench got the Hawks going with a 12-2 run to lift them to a 22-11 lead by the end of the first term, restricting Brisbane to their lowest opening quarter of the season.

Back-up forward Daniel Grida suffered a bleeding nose midway through the second quarter but shook it off to keep the defence guessing with a series of cuts, a dunk and offensive rebounds.

Davo Hickey extended the lead to 29–11 with a threepointer and a drive to the hoop as part of his 17-point, seven-assist display.

The Hawks led 55–31 at the main break and with Todd Blanchfield heating up, they pushed the lead out to as high as 48 points with seven players in double figures.

Star import JaVale McGee registered 18 points and 10 rebounds while draining seven of his eight field goal attempts, with a couple of rim-rattling dunks thrown in for good measure.

Hawks captain Tyler Harvey added 22 points, six rebounds and five assists while fellow guard QJ Peterson made it at least three triples in six consecutive games after nailing three of his four attempts from beyond the arc in his haul of 15 points.

Illawarra set a new NBL record for the most consecutive free throws made in a game without a miss by sinking all 27 of their shots, breaking the previous record of 25 set by the Melbourne TIgers in 1994.

The 38-point margin was the Hawks’ biggest road win since 2003 and their 41 points in the third term was their highest in any quarter in the 10-minute format era since 2010.

Their upcoming schedule won’t be easy with a derby trip to Sydney before Saturday’s showdown with Perth in Wollongong. They are back home next Thursday against Adelaide before crossing the Tasman to take on the Breakers in New Zealand two days later.

170 years of cricket

Kiama Cavaliers mark historic milestone

Lleyton Hughes

Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club will celebrate cricket’s monumental history in Kiama at their 170th Anniversary Dinner on 7 February.

Founded in 1856, the club has been a central part of the Kiama community for many generations.

“Over that time the club has provided sporting opportunities and developed wonderful recreational amenities. It has brought people together and created a club that local residents have been proud to support,” said

club president Bernie Brown.

Over its 170-year history, Kiama has won five first grade premierships in six years between 1967 and 1973, including four consecutive titles, and has produced many outstanding players.

“Our junior base has consistently been the envy of other clubs and districts, with senior grades - particularly first grade - often made up entirely of former and current junior players,” said club historian and life member Bill Peters.

“Players such as Will Sheridan (Australia Under 19, Victoria, Melbourne Renegades), Mitch Gowland

(NSW Second XI), Dale Scifleet (NSW Country) and Trevor McDonald (NSW), among many others, have represented at higher levels, with others achieving junior representative honours as well.”

Peters says the club’s success hasn’t been driven solely by results on the field, but by its people and the community it has built.

“The most compelling thing about the Kiama Cricket Club is its ability to laugh at itself. Often it’s the incidents on the periphery of the cricket that are retold most often and remembered most fondly,” he said. “The

gatherings after the game - talking about the day’s cricket, where no falsehoods are accepted, only hard, plain facts - fuel the desire to do better the following weekend. And above all else, it’s about enjoying the game with your teammates.

“That is what best describes the spirit of the club and why it is as strong today as it has ever been.”

The anniversary dinner will bring together past and present players, supporters, families and friends for an evening of memories, laughter and celebration.

Adding to the occasion, the club will welcome Australian

cricket legend Mike Whitney as special guest speaker, who will share stories from his playing days and life around the game.

“We will also be fundraising through raffles and auctions featuring fantastic cricket memorabilia. More than anything, it’s a great opportunity for past and present players to reconnect, share stories, reflect on achievements and celebrate everything cricket over a twocourse meal,” said Brown.

“Come along and reconnect with the club, share stories and banter with past and present players, and celebrate cricket in Kiama

while strengthening the culture and camaraderie that will set the club up for the future,” Brown said.

Tickets are now on sale and early bookings are encouraged due to limited capacity.

You can buy tickets on the Kiama Cavaliers website: https://www. kiamacricketclub.com.au/ event-details-registration/ kiama-cavaliers170th-anniversary-dinner

Event details:

Date: Saturday, 7 February Venue: Kiama Leagues Club Time: 7pm

Tickets: $100

SOUTHCRICKETCOAST T20 - 2ND GRADE - KIAMA VS GERRINGONG