If you happened to see what you thought was a bus crash on the weekend, it was not what it appeared.More than 100 emergency personnel had their skills tested at a simulated bus and car crash exercise in the Illawarra on Saturday.Planning started last November for the BUSted simulation exercise – led by NSW Police – aimed at enhancing multi-agency responses and preparedness to a major incident.Emergency personnel go through their paces at the training exercise. Photo: NSW Police ForceThe exercise involved a simulated bus and car crash on Mount Ousley Road, where a driver was trapped in a vehicle after colliding with a bus which was carrying 26 passengers.About 130 emergency services personnel – including NSW Police attached to the Lake Illawarra, Wollongong, South Coast Police Districts, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, NSW Police Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit and Crash Investigation Unit – were joined by Fire and Rescue NSW, State Emergency Service, Rural Fire Service and NSW Ambulance at the Fire and Rescue NSW training centre at Shellharbour Regional Airport, in Albion Park for the training exercise.A range of government and non-government agencies were also involved, including NSW Health, Homes NSW, Volunteer Rescue Association, Transport Management Centre, Red Cross, Wollongong City Council, Rapid Relief Team, Office of Transport Safety Investigations, Premier Buses.Participants were provided with a range of challenges including managing road closures on the main arterial road, extricating trapped patients who were seriously injured, and assisting patients from a non-English speaking background.A training exercise is run each year as part of the Illawarra Local Emergency Management Exercise Schedule to test the emergency response to a major emergencies.Southern Region Commander and Regional Emergency Operations Controller (REOCON) for the Illawarra South Coast, Assistant Commissioner Joe Cassar, said the exercise was an opportunity to test the multi-agency response and build confidence and trust between emergency services and welfare agencies.“This scenario was chosen as historically we have had a large number of incidents on Mount Ousley Road requiring a multi-agency response…. once you cut off that main arterial road, it becomes very problematic, not only for people approaching that location but the immediate drivers that are locked in that footprint,” Assistant Commissioner Cassar said.“Not only do we need to respond to the actual site, we have to look at how we can move people are in the gridlock.. so, it’s important that we establish a command and control response at the first instance and then we start to activate that response to clear those roads and get people to safe environments.“The exercise was developed to mirror a real-life scenario and challenge emergency services to troubleshoot while under immense pressure. We had role players as patients, bystanders who stepped in to assist, media arriving on scene, as well as family members wanting to get access to their loved ones. "These are all aspects emergency service personnel are faced with, in addition to the initial response to the patients in danger.“The exercise was a success and I think all agencies should be proud of their own individual response and more importantly of the emergency management response."NSW Police Regional Emergency Management Officer Jenna Conran organised the exercise as part of their mission to be at the ready when large transport incidents occur in NSW."When something major like a bus crash, plane crash a larger car crash any incident of that nature, it’s important emergency services have the chance to exercise their response and test their inter-agency relationships to make sure we are providing the best service for our community,” she said.“Exercises like this allow us to test any new policies that have been implemented to circumvent any issues that emergency services might find such as convergence or communication. "It provides us with a playground to work out those processes, cut out the teething problems and allows us to activate efficiently and effectively on site to an event like this.”

The third annual South Coast Domestic Violence (DV) Awareness Cup was held last Thursday with Shoalhaven High School taking out the boys’ competition and Ulladulla High School claiming the girls’ title.Held at the Bomaderry Sporting Complex, the event aims to educate and empower young people to take a stand against domestic and family violence - all while enjoying a day of rugby league.The tournament brought together the South Coast Police District, Group 7 Rugby League, NSW Rugby League, the NRL and more than 200 students from Years 9 to 11 across the Shoalhaven.“Today was the brainchild of some of our really good people who wanted to partner with rugby league to tackle the rise in family and domestic violence - by bringing young people on that journey with us,” said South Coast Police District Commander Superintendent Darren Brand.“I’m really proud. It’s a fantastic event, now in its third year, and we’ve welcomed an additional school this year, bringing the total to six. It’s really starting to grow - and it’s about much more than just footy."In the lead-up to the Gala Day, South Coast police officers visited participating schools to educate students on key issues such as respect, healthy relationships, and how to seek help if they or someone they know is experiencing domestic or family violence.(From left) Darren Brand with Emma Wood and Ashton Sims.Shoalhaven-based government and community organisations were also on hand at the event, providing information and support to students and families about available services aimed at breaking the cycle of violence.“All the information stands are designed to be engaging for the kids. It’s about raising awareness - which leads to empowerment. And with empowerment comes choices. "When young people know their options, they’re more likely to reach out for help when they need it,” said Emma Wood from South Coast and Country Community Law.“This event works because the kids are involved, they’re having fun, and that’s the best way for them to connect with services and take in important information."To ensure students actively engaged with the support services, Group 7 South Coast Rugby League football operations manager Ashton Sims revealed that the match draw was deliberately structured.“There’s always a school that’s scheduled to rotate through the service areas. "They speak with police at the police van, take part in discussions, and collect some form of educational resource,” said Sims.“Today isn’t just about rugby league - we’re using the game as a platform to deliver domestic violence prevention messages and help shape a safer future.”Dylan McFadden warming up before a game.Services used interactive tools to connect with students, including educational games like the red flag/green flag activity that Ulladulla High School student Dylan McFadden participated in.“At these stalls, they actually explain things in more detail than we usually get in school. "The way they keep us interested really works. At one of the stands, they played a game where you raise a red or green flag depending on whether a sentence they say is a warning sign or a healthy behaviour,” McFadden said.The six local high schools taking part include Nowra, Vincentia, Shoalhaven, Bomaderry, Ulladulla, and St John the Evangelist Catholic High Schools - and organisers are hopeful this number will only grow in years to come.

The recent TAFE Connects Workshop in Kiama asked local community leaders to offer their insights into improving opportunities for local educational pathways.Based on the vibrant discussions, the Workshop delivered a range of viewpoints about how TAFE can play its part in helping people to reach their employment goals.There is a need within the local government area for more accessible and flexible education and training options, particularly those that align with employment opportunities in sectors such as hospitality, care and emerging technologies.Some of the key priorities identified by the Workshop include improving mental health support for students and young workers, enhancing public transport within and beyond the LGA, and fostering inclusive, community-driven approaches that amplify youth voices, support families, and address housing needs for an ageing population.There is a need to integrate schools, TAFE and universities, with a focus on improving communication, increasing completion rates and aligning training with local industry needs.Sustainable economic growth needs to be supported by innovation, better infrastructure and expanded public transport, alongside a desire for more responsive community engagement and support for all age groups and abilities.The absence of a local education campus means that transport barriers are exacerbated for Kiama residents. Shellharbour is the closest TAFE campus.Concerns were also raised about teacher shortages, digital disconnect and the need for more inclusive and responsive services that reflect the diverse needs of the community.There is a clear emphasis on supporting youth and community engagement through digital literacy, confidence-building, and tailored upskilling for students and service workers.Local employment in Kiama is projected to increase by 5.4% over the three years to 2028, above the forecast growth rate for NSW of 4.1% for the same period.Within the LGA, the healthcare and social assistance industry is the largest employer, followed by construction and retail trade.Healthcare and social assistance is forecast to around 160 new jobs in the next three years with education and training (around 80) and and accommodation and food services (around 70) also expected to increase significantly.The ageing population will increase demand for aged care and disability services, with the occupation of carers for the aged and people with dsability set to experience the largest employment growth over the three years to 2028.The Kiama LGA benefits from strategic transport links, including the Princes Highway and rail connections.However, gaps in local transport infrastructure, such as footpaths, cycleways and public transport, challenge accessibility within the region. Improved connectivity is key to enhancing liveability and economic growth.TAFE NSW is now looking to put the feedback from the Workshop into a Local Action Plan to tailor programs to suit people within the Kiama LGA.

When Mark Foster set up shop in Kiama in 2007, he brought with him more than just a pair of shears and a confident scissor hand.He arrived from Manchester, England, carrying a legacy that dates back to 1886 - a six-generation tradition in the art of barbering, sparked when his great-great-great-grandfather Tom Foster won a pair of shears in a card game and put them to good use.Since then, 57 barbers have followed in the family footsteps - and Mark is proudly continuing the lineage here on the South Coast.Mark’s reputation as one of the region’s premier barbers is well-earned.With over 35 years in the business, including owning and running three successful salons in the UK, he blends old-world craftsmanship with a modern touch.Whether it’s a straight razor shave, a classic cut or an on-trend style for today’s modern man, Mark has witnessed the evolution of the industry and continues to evolve with it.Since opening Premier Barbers in Kiama nearly two decades ago, the business has grown in reputation and reach.Last October, Mark expanded his services to Gerringong with a second barbershop on Fern Street, answering a long-standing call from locals seeking the same professional care closer to home.This year also marks another major move. Premier Barber has relocated its original Kiama location from Terralong Street to 24 Collins Street Terrace - next door to the historic Pines Pantry (established in 1854).Mark and the team at the Collins Street barbershop. Photo: The BugleIt’s a fitting new home alongside another long-standing local institution - both businesses linked by heritage and a shared commitment to quality.Mark isn’t just cutting hair - he’s cultivating future generations.His team now includes five local staff members, including an apprentice barber in training, ensuring traditional techniques and personalised service continue well into the future.“As much as things change in the barbering world,” Mark says, “the essence stays the same - precision, pride, and the personal touch. That’s what we’re about.”From Kiama to Gerringong, from 1886 to today, Premier Barber is more than just a haircut - it’s history, style and community in every snip.Premier Barbers – Kiama: now at 24 Collins Street TerracePremier Barbers – Gerringong: 35 Fern StreetBookings and walk-ins welcome.

With power costs on the rise, local residents are being encouraged to access affordable solar and battery solutions, helping cut bills and boost energy resilience.Kiama is one of four local councils who have teamed up for the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation (ISJO) Community Renewables Program.The program aims to make it easier for residents and businesses across the region to have access to cleaner, cheaper energy options.In partnership with delivery provider Shine Hub, the program provides an end-to-end solution to support the community's shift to solar power, battery storage, and participation in a Virtual Power Plant (VPP).ISJO net zero manager Patrick Whitford said the program's goals were to reduce energy bills, cut carbon emissions, and empower households and businesses to take control of their energy future.“The Community Renewables Program is a region-wide opportunity for our residents to access affordable, sustainable energy options,” said Whitford.“This initiative removes key barriers to renewable energy, while building local economic resilience and reducing emissions across all four council areas.”The program was developed in direct response to community demand for accessible and practical ways to contribute to climate action. It offers information sessions, tailored guidance, and access to high-quality solar and battery systems at exclusive rates.A key feature is the opportunity to participate in a regional VPP, allowing communities to share energy and enhance the local grid’s stability.Key goals of the program include:• Reducing upfront costs of solar and battery storage technologies.• Expanding access to renewable energy for households and businesses, including renters and those without suitable rooftops.• Supporting job creation through partnerships with local installers and service providers.• Educating the community on energy efficiency and the benefits of distributed energy systems.“Kiama Municipal Council is pleased to see the launch of the Community Renewables Program – reducing emissions is something our community has told us repeatedly they’re interested in and this regional solution helps us get closer to our net zero goals," Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said.Residents and businesses can express interest and access further information at: www.shinehub.com.au/isjo.

Kiama Knights got retribution for last week's nail-biting loss to the Stingrays by claiming a hard-fought victory in their own thriller against the Jamberoo Superoos.It was all Kiama early in Round 10 of the Group 7 competition at Kevin Walsh Oval, with the first points coming in the eighth minute. Halfback Cameron Vazzoler placed a perfectly weighted kick into the hands of Kye Andrews, who rose above the pack to score.Four minutes later, a crucial mistake from Jamberoo led to Kiama’s second try. After a half-break returning from their own line, the Superoos spilled the ball. Kiama swooped on the loose possession, swinging it to the sideline and back before Killmore broke through the line, drew the fullback, and passed to Callum Hodgson to finish the move - turning a defensive scare into another four points.Killmore crossed for a try himself in the 23rd minute, and it looked like Kiama were poised to run away with the game.Kiama are third on the Group 7 ladder. Photo: @SticksPix_But, as footy pundits often say - the tide always turns. It did so in the 29th minute when Jamberoo’s dummy-half Mason Phillips burrowed over to score.Momentum shifted completely as Jamberoo crossed twice more before the break - one through a forward crash-over and another in the corner - leveling the scores at 16-all at half-time.In contrast to the high-scoring first half, the second half featured just one try. In the 47th minute, Kiama centre Max Jennings looked to have bombed a golden opportunity when he went himself on a two-on-one overlap in the corner. But in a desperate effort to get the ball away while being tackled, Jennings managed to offload to Callan Thistlewaite, who scored in the corner.That proved to be the match-winner. Kiama led 22-16 with 30 minutes to play, and the scoreline remained unchanged until the final whistle.Jamberoo have struggled with injuries throughout 2025, but still remain close to the top five. Photo: @SticksPix_Jamberoo had a golden chance late in the game when fullback Jack Talbott took a quick tap and appeared destined to run the length of the field. But a desperate ankle tap from Killmore brought him down, and the Superoos were unable to capitalise on the opportunity."Very similar game to the week prior,” said Jamberoo coach Jono Dallas. “We were right in it and had enough chances to win, but unfortunately, we just keep getting unlucky with personnel in crucial moments.“We lost Kyle Stone and James Gilmore in the opening 20 minutes, then Clarkey (Dreau Clark) with 20 to go. "Already having a long list of guys out just makes it hard. The boys are doing their best but just don’t have the experience yet."Kiama coach Matt O’Brien was thrilled to secure the two competition points. "Good to win away from home after a close loss last week. Always tough games against Jamberoo out there," he said.Next week, the Knights host Nowra-Bomaderry Jets, with Kiama also celebrating the reunion of their 1985 first-grade premiership-winning team.In the other local match on the weekend, the Gerringong Lions dominated the Berry Magpies with a commanding 44-6 win. They'll look to carry that form into this weekend's local derby against the struggling Superoos.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander songkeeper Jessie Lloyd is bringing her Sing On Country show to Kiama’s Folk By The Sea festival in September, hoping to create a “pub-choir vibe” for audiences to embrace the chance to learn songs that tell Aboriginal stories in Aboriginal languages.Lloyd, who describes herself as a “hunter and gatherer” of her peoples’ stories and songs, developed the Sing On Country concept after being left disheartened by the failure of the 2023 referendum to enshrine an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the Australian Constitution.“I took the ‘NO’ vote (in the referendum) personally,” Lloyd admits. “I made the commitment to stop singing in English as my own protest at the result."Then I was convinced by music teachers to teach songs suitable for Australian classrooms because they were struggling to include Indigenous content.”“Music is a powerful way to connect people and find commonality.” she says.Sing On Country is a collection of songs Lloyd has either written herself or collaborated on from around the country that seek to share First Nations culture and stories.Jessie describes one of her songs as a “modern songline of Australia”.“These songs are safe, not over-complicated, and a beautiful way to approach difficult subjects,” Lloyd says.Topics range from explanations of the colours of the Aboriginal flag and Acknowledgements of Country to the title song that takes its audience on a musical journey around Australia singing the Indigenous names of the places where Australia’s state capitals are located, in the original languages of the people of those places.Sing On Country also includes a song with deep family connections, from Lloyd’s Mission Songs Project from 2017, which revived the folksongs of Aboriginal Australians forcibly removed from their land onto state-run reserves and Christian missions in the early 20th century.That project was inspired by Lloyd’s paternal grandmother, Alma Geia, who had been taken as an eight-year-old from her family in Cooktown and sent to live in a children’s dormitory on Palm Island, the notorious mission settlement off the North Queensland coast.Lloyd used her grandmother’s composition Down In The Kitchen, about the mission children surviving on rations of damper and tea, in the Mission Songs Project and in Sing On Country. Having originally developed her Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander songbook for schools, her Sing On Country is a live show of the songbook. Lloyd is currently road-testing the songs as a show for audiences of all ages.“It is a good chance for people to learn basic facts and words from Aboriginal languages from around Australia."I am looking forward to bringing the show to Kiama – hoping we can create a pub-choir kind of vibe at the festival, with people singing and dancing along and learning new words from our Indigenous languages,” she says.You can hear all the Sing On Country songs on her website at www.jessiesclassroom.com.Lloyd is part of a line-up of 40 acts from around Australia at Folk By The Sea, organised by the Illawarra Folk Club.Other acts include multi-Golden Guitar winner Darren Coggan, Americana/bluegrass duo The Weeping Willows, Indi-folk band Hand Over Hammer and Triple j Unearthed-winning folk rock/alt country duo Ally Row from Victoria, folk-country actthe Sam Fletcher Trio from NSW and Kiama’s own The Water Runners.Early Bird ticket and volunteering information is available on the festival website folkbythesea.com.au.Folk By The Sea artists listAlex Randles (ACT), Ally Row (VIC), Balkan Boogie, Charles Maimarosia (VIC), Chloe and Jason Roweth, Darren Coggan, Fly Little Sparrow (QLD/NSW), Grace Barr, Graeme The Scotsman McColgan, Hand Over Hammer (VIC), Good Tunes, Humbuckin; Pickups, Jessie Lloyd’s Sing on Country, Kane Calcite, Karen Law (QLD), Kiama Blowhole Buskers, Kiama Pipe Band, Kiama Sea Shanty, Louzco Fouzco, Marco and Rusty, Noel Gardner and Alex Bridge (QLD), Oceanique (VIC), Oliver Roweth, Robyn Sykes, Rhys Crimmin (VIC), Russell Hannah, Sam Fletcher Trio, Scupriri, Slippery John Sausage and his Bayou Boys, Southern Cross Band, Square Pegs, Stonybroke, The Butter Trackers, The Con Artists, The LoftyMountain Band (SA), The Water Runners, The Weeping Willows (VIC), Whistle, Wood n' Hide.

Committee member Elizabeth Burnett opened the Kiama Business Network night on Thursday by endorsing the newly launched Kiama Business Awards. A total of 49 local businesses have entered the inaugural awards, with judging now underway.Mark Bryant, the force behind the prestigious Kiama Sevens, then announced that Kells Lawyers had re-signed as major sponsor for the local rugby event for the next three years.He also spoke about the proud history of rugby in the region and how Australia’s upcoming hosting duties for the British and Irish Lions this year, along with two other major global events, the men’s 2027 and women’s 2029 Rugby World Cups, would be a massive tourism boost to the country.Bryant also acknowledged the club’s tireless volunteers and the longstanding tradition of the Kiama Sevens, which continues to attract tourism and top talent to the region.The 2026 Kiama Sevens, locked in for February 28, will feature 44 elite teams competing for prizemoney and trophies.Rounding out the evening was guest speaker, Wallabies legend Glen Ella.He praised the local sevens tournament’s unique setting beside Surf Beach and saluted its 54-year legacy of top-flight rugby while sharing some family anecdotes.Elizabeth Burnett opened the Kiama Business Network night. Photo: The Bugle

Darren Brady has returned to Kiama Council as Director of Infrastructure & Operations. A civil engineering manager with experience in state and local Government, he has previously worked with Campbelltown, Fairfield, Liverpool, Wollongong and Kiama Councils from 2006 to 2022. During his first stint at Kiama Council, he was Acting Director multiple times to deliver a range of capital infrastructure works, asset maintenance and waste services. “I’m very excited to be back working within the Municipality that is Kiama. "It’s great to see what has been achieved since I was last with Council three years ago, and I look forward to being able to lead the way when it comes to delivering more great work in the coming months.” Brady saidBrady has most recently worked with Transport NSW as a Natural Disaster Recovery Project Manager, where he oversaw and approved hundreds of disaster recovery infrastructure projects across several LGAs with approximate total value of over $200m in the past three years. "It is wonderful to have Darren back with Kiama Council in this leadership role,” Council CEO Jane Stroud said. “His established connections to staff and community will be welcomed as he takes on this executive position within Council."

Textile Turnover is a community event organised by Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Kiama Inc. (R3 Kiama) with the support of Kiama Municipal Council and the Kiama Downs Surf Life Saving Club. R3 Kiama invites everyone to clean out their sewing and crafting stash and donate their unwanted items to this event on Friday 25 July at the Kiama Downs Surf Club.Fabrics, balls of yarn, knitting needles, patterns, thread and haberdashery are all welcome. Embroidery kits and similar fabric-based crafting items and tools can also be donated.From one stitcher to another, you are encouraged to come and share the love of all things crafty! The main objective of the event is to ensure your unwanted items are rehomed or recycled, preventing valuable textiles from ending up in landfill.All items must be in a clean and “as new” condition - items that you would be comfortable gifting to a friend. No bed linen please as these items are best donated to the Kiama local community group “Simple Gift of a Bag”.The idea is to rehome or recycle these textiles, rather than adding them to landfill.You can drop off your unwanted sewing supplies between 1.30pm and 5pm, before the fun begins with the doors opening for people to grab themselves a bargain basement bag of knitting and sewing nirvana. Pay a nominal amount for what your new crafting supplies are worth. All donations go towards Reduce, Reuse, Recycling Kiama Inc to fund their sustainability projects.There are limits on how much you can drop off, but no limit on how much you take home.All unusable fabrics not rehomed will be sent to Upparel Australia for recycling into new products.For full details, visit the Kiama Council website.

Kiama artist Helen Pain paints with a sense of rhythm - as though the music within her spills out onto the canvas.Her artworks are filled with fluidity and movement, a natural extension of her musical background.Before picking up a paintbrush, Helen had an extensive career as a professional singer in musical theatre and opera, followed by a series of influential roles in regional and state music education - including Choral Director and later Associate Director of the Schools Spectacular.After retiring, she needed a new outlet for the creative energy that had always defined her. That’s when painting entered her life.“My dad was an artist, and my mum was a china decorator,” Helen said.“So I grew up with a lot of art around me, but I was so busy performing and enjoying music that I didn’t really explore art until I retired.”Over time, Helen began to realise just how deeply music had shaped her approach to art.“I never paint anything that doesn’t have movement or flow,” she said.“I don’t listen to music while I paint, but I find myself painting musically anyway - thinking about rhythm and timing, repetition and contrast. There’s always that sense of motion.”Some of Helen's works. Photos supplied.Now, Helen is preparing to launch her new solo exhibition Light Up My World, on display at Kiama’s Old Fire Station gallery from Friday 27 June to Wednesday 2 July.The opening event on Friday promises to be extra special, with a live performance from the Bonaira Ukulele Group at 3pm - a group Helen herself plays with.“We’ve been playing together for a couple of years now - there are 14 of us - and we have such a great time,” she said. “We’ve done a few performances, mostly in retirement villages, and I thought, what better way to open my exhibition than to bring together my two great passions: music and art.”Helen is also a former president of the Kiama Arts Society, a role she held for seven years. She credits the group with helping her grow as a painter.“It’s a fantastic community for ideas, encouragement, and friendship,” she said. “Some of the most valuable lessons came from informal interactions with other members.”Though she often paints landscapes, Helen’s works are far from literal. She approaches scenes with an impressionistic eye - and a unique creative process.“I don’t like to paint places I haven’t been,” she said. “I take lots of photos when I’m out, then I put the photos away and ask myself: what do I actually remember about that place?"What drew me to it? What was the feeling? Then I try to paint that - the memory, not the photo.”Now, she’s excited to share her latest work with the local community - in a space she holds dear.“It’s just lovely to hear people’s reactions, to connect, and to be part of such a vibrant local arts scene. Kiama has so many incredible artists - it’s amazing how it’s growing."We’re really lucky to have a public space like the Fire Station for exhibitions that’s right in the heart of town.”Make sure to stop by the Old Fire Station from 3pm on Friday to enjoy Helen Pain’s colourful blend of visual art and live music - a celebration of a life lived in creativity.

Esther Keenan has some sage advice for anyone embarking on big life and career choices: your passion now might not be your passion in the future, be open to opportunity. “It really needs to be emphasised, especially to kids, that if you find a passion now it doesn't mean you have to still be doing that in 20 years’ time,” says the Kiama businesswoman who set out on a nursing career pathway and is now printing with purpose. “Taking the chance and doing something you love is so fulfilling, and you just never know where that’s going to end up.” Esther is the owner of Kiama’s Known Design and Print, a bespoke business that started locally and has grown to provide printing and design services across the nation. She says starting a small business was a happy “accident” from an opportunity after a family trip overseas. Esther and her husband had taken their four children, whom she home-schools, to the US to represent Australia in the World LEGO robotics competition. While in the States, Esther came across clothing with “inspirational, thought-provoking prints” such as Love Fearlessly. The messaging resonated with her and, once back home, she regretted not bringing home some shirts. “I thought about getting some posted over but the cost was really prohibitive,” she said. “So I bought an entry-level vinyl cutter instead to make my own prints, just for fun.” Esther gave the printed shirts to friends and family and, through word-of-mouth, her clothing was soon in hot demand. Limited by single colour vinyl printing, Esther decided to take the plunge and invest in a commercial printer. “It was a very scary experience,” Esther said. “Luckily I have a very supportive husband who said let’s do it.” Initially, Esther says she was “terrified and overwhelmed” not only because of the large financial investment but also because she had to figure out how to use a commercial-sized machine to make prints for her clothing range. In a stroke of luck, Esther realised she could also create product labels and decals with her newly purchased printer. Another happy accident that helped her business grow. “As soon as I started to tell people locally that I could offer product labels and decals as well as clothing prints, the business went boom,” she added. What started as “a very local Kiama-based business” five years ago has now grown to include customers from across Australia, with coffee distributors and candlemakers among big-name clients. Esther now has three commercial printers to meet demand and has branched out into packaging and branding prints while still creating a “local” experience with small in-store signage, such as car decals, for clients. “Known Designs is more than a business - it's a demonstration of our love for creative expression and the satisfaction of delivering exactly what our customers envision,” said Esther, who continues to home-school her children (and can add teacher to her impressive skill set) while balancing her business and life in general. “Home-schooling hasn’t been a COVID thing for us, it’s been a life thing, so if you want to talk about careers that’s a full-time one,” she added with a laugh. Her advice for those considering a career path or pivot: “Back yourself and find people who will back you”. “It’s so important to surround yourself with the right people. And there are no shortage of them here in Kiama.” Esther’s point of difference to bigger print organisations is that she does small print runs for suppliers starting out their own business - capturing a South Coast market filled with creative types and entrepreneurs. “I don’t charge more for small runs,” says Esther. “So, if you're a candlemaker launching a small run as you start out, I will print 10 labels, instead of the minimum order of hundreds at a time.  “A lot of my customers have been on the same journey that I have, launching a small business is terrifying so if I can help them to make it easier, then that’s my niche.”

The Bugle is pleased to kick off a new fortnightly feature with Kiama High School, bringing you the latest news and events from the school.Great Barrier Reef tripKiama High School’s Year 12 Geography and Marine Studies students travelled all the way to Port Douglas and Cairns recently for a five-day trip as part of their study of the Great Barrier Reef.The students examined the biophysical interactions which operate on the reef, the impacts humans have on the health of the reef and the ways in which the reef is managed.The group enjoyed an outer reef tour, Fitzroy Island and the Daintree Rainforest. They snorkeled several times and saw turtles, reef sharks and numerous other species.The students had a great time and were a credit to Kiama High School the entire trip.Tennis successThe KHS boys and girls tennis team headed to Bomaderry on an extremely windy day recently.In the trying conditions both teams were undefeated and progressed to the South Coast finals.The boys’ team of Zane Finley, Clay Allchin, Vinnie Sherrell and Henry Mortimer dominated all ties and only dropped two sets for the whole day.The girls’ team of Nyasa Nakhate, Nellie Johansson, Mahala Probert and Savannah Hedstrom defeated a strong Ulladulla team to win the zone final for the first time in many years.Congratulations to all players on displaying excellent sportsmanship and effort in the difficult weather. On to the next round.Comedy for a CauseThank you to all of the people who came along to the Comedy for a Cause night at the Kiama Leagues Club recently.The school was thrilled to see close to 100 people in attendance.With more prizes than ever before, they are especially thankful for the local businesses who generously donated prizes to the raffle: Kiama Leagues Club, The Sebel Kiama, Blooms the Chemist Kiama, Jamberoo Action Park, Drifta Stockton, Endota Spa Kiama, Natural Necessity Gerringong, King’s Patisserie Jamberoo, Curries and Spirits Gerringong, Mystics Mechanics Minnamurra, The Bookshop Bowral & Kiama, The Hill Bar and Kitchen Gerringong, The Core Store Gerringong, and Jemfish Takeaway Kiama.Many happy raffle prize winners went home with more than a few laughs.Year 10 Geography fieldworkKiama High’s Year 10 students headed out for a day of Geography fieldwork activities on Warilla Beach recently.Despite very cold and windy conditions, students were able to complete their work looking at the various management strategies that have been put in place to combat erosion in the area.With the help of staff from the Illawarra Environment Education Centre, students observed and sketched the different management approaches undertaken at Lake Illawarra and Lake Elliot, conducted scientific testing and observation in the dunes and discussed the use of engineering to manage erosion in the area.All students were also able to walk over to Windang Island and enjoy lunch with a magnificent ocean view.These fieldwork days are a compulsory part of the Geography syllabus and are vital in allowing students the chance to observe and experience geographical processes in the real world.They connected classroom learning with actual environments, helping to solidify concepts taught back at school.HPGE innovationOver the past few Wednesdays, our High Potential and Gifted (HPG) students have been making the most of an exciting opportunity to experience high school-style learning at Kiama High School.In the Bibara Gym with Mrs Lewis, students enjoyed some friendly competition while engaging in team challenges using high school equipment.More recently, they joined Mr McKay in the science labs to explore distillation and get hands-on with beakers and bunsen burners.These sessions have sparked curiosity, built confidence and given our students a valuable taste of what lies ahead in their learning journey.

One of the recently ordained Hidden Treasures of Kiama, Boni Maywald, reflected on a successful exhibition of knitters, quilters, and crochet items at the Kiama Library over the past two weeks, while also celebrating Worldwide Knit in Public Day. “The quality of work and the art in the craft was world standard and Australian standard,” Maywald said. “We are very proud of the two-week exhibition.  “Local Brian McCarthy’s hand spun, hand dyed fine hand knits… the art embroidery by the Kiama Quilters Group, at least ten of those are top quality across Australia. Beautiful pieces.”The displays were a clear indication of the rich qualities of not only the arts and crafts within the Kiama region, but also the engagement from the community. “There is a lot of creativity here,” she said.  Arts and crafts can be traced back to the Palaeolithic (hunter and gatherer) period and is still relevant in society today with many cultures globally producing items for exhibition and everyday uses. A few of the items that were on display will be donated to the organisation Wrap With Love which coordinates the making of blankets to give to people who have been displaced due to disasters or are vulnerable. “They do about 20,000 blankets a year, so over 33 years that is about 600,000 blankets, which is a lot of knitting!” Maywald said. “10% of global deaths every year are caused by people who cannot get warm for a range of reasons.”Maywald estimates that the Kiama region finishes more than 500 blankets a year. “Myself, my husband and Tia Blanche have been coordinating a collection of blankets, squares, anything that is made locally and we either donate it directly here to people in need, or we take a carload up to Alexandria in Sydney to Wrap With Love. “This year we have just finished our 42nd blanket for Indigenous themes that have been going to children in palliative care units at Randwick and Westmead Children’s Hospital’s and also some to Steve Burrows Foundation who support vulnerable communities.”  Whilst the crafter is donating their piece of art to provide support to others less fortunate, Maywald explained the many benefits.“To knit, crochet, or stitch by hand gives as much in mental and physical health benefits to the maker as this also does for the receiver of the homemade gift,” she said.   For those who are new to the area or looking to put their hands to task with knitting, quilting or crochet, there is something for you.  “We support a read, knit and chat group once a month at Kiama and Gerringong Libraries,” Maywald said. Kiama Library holds the ‘read, knit and chat group’ on the first Thursday of the month between 2-4pm. Gerringong Library holds the same group on the last Friday morning of every month between 11am – 1pm.

St George Illawarra need to win eight of their final 11 matches to have any hope of qualifying for the NRL playoffs.The Dragons have their third and final bye this week before an 11-game unbroken stretch to finish the regular season.They have dropped to 12th spot after last Thursday’s 30-18 loss to Cronulla at Shark Park when they coughed up a 12-point half-time lead in conceding four unanswered tries in the second term. Despite their modest record of five wins from 13 matches, they will likely finish Round 15 just two points outside the cut-off mark for the finals.But they face a daunting task to remain in the finals equation when they return to the field next week. To be any chance of sneaking into the final eight, they need to win eight more times but after losing five of their past seven matches, that is looking highly unlikely.They return to WIN Stadium next Saturday when they will face former Dragons star Zac Lomax and the Parramatta Eels, who are at the bottom of the ladder and will be without halfback Mitchell Moses due to the calf injury which ruled him out of Origin II in Perth this week. The Dragons then travel to Canberra to face the in-form Raiders, take on the Roosters at Kogarah and competition leaders Canterbury at Accor Stadium. In the ensuing seven rounds, Shane Flanagan’s squad faces three more teams - Canberra, Cronulla and the Warriors - who are currently in the top eight as well as premiers Penrith.One of the bright spots for their season has been the rise of Gerringong duo Hamish Stewart and Dylan Egan into the NRL ranks. Egan scored three tries in his eight appearances before an ACL tear ended his season last month during their win over Brisbane.Stewart, another 20-year-old forward, has racked up 12 matches in his rookie season, averaging a fraction over 30 tackles per match. He was only given 22 minutes of game time off the bench against the Sharks last week but still managed to power through 21 tackles.

A showpiece beachfront home in Kiama Downs that evokes the feel of a tropical resort has broken the record for the suburb’s top sale price.With a sweeping resort-style pool, direct access onto the sand and Noosa-inspired design touches, the four-bedroom masterpiece brings five-star coastal luxury to the NSW south coast.Designed by award-winning Queensland architect Paul Clout and built by owner Glenn Jones, the property at 42 Johnson Street channels the look and feel of a luxury retreat, right down to the glass bridge, curved, black-tiled shower, and palm-fringed gazebo beside the pool.After more than 200 days on the market, the house sold on June 2.With a price guide of $5.9 million to $6.3 million, records show it has set the new benchmark for Kiama Downs, eclipsing the previous suburb record of $5.9 million set in October last year. Innovate Property Group director Mark Spinelli, who managed the sale, said it was a privilege to be showcasing a standout property in the area.“This is probably the best home that has been sold in Kiama Downs,” he told The Bugle.“It’s very unique. It’s the builder’s own home, and the attention to detail is next level.“He had to build the beautiful, resort-style pool first, and the house has an amazing entry, with a massive glass door.“When you walk in, you can see the pool and see straight through on to the beach.”A key drawcard is the home’s genuine beachfront position, offering rare step-off-the-lawn access to Jones Beach.“It’s pretty rare now to get actual beachfront around Kiama,” Spinelli said.“A lot of properties are waterfront, around cliffs, but there aren’t many where it’s straight off your backyard onto the sand.“Every single window and door have curved gyprock, and you’re walking on a glass bridge that looks directly down to the pool. It’s pretty cool.”The layout includes four bedrooms, three bathrooms, plus a powder room and underfloor heating.Outdoors, there's an alfresco area, outdoor shower and double garage.The showpiece pool cuts through the middle of the home and is visible beneath parts of the interior floor, connecting different wings of the residence with a flowing, high-end design.A sandstone and timber gazebo beside the pool adds to the tropical holiday vibe.Inside, standout features include louvre windows, stackable doors, polished concrete floors, and a Tasmanian Oak ceiling above the main lounge.One of the bedrooms opens directly to panoramic beach views, while the living area offers uninterrupted sightlines to Minnamurra Headland and Cathedral Rocks.Spinelli said the home, built by high-end operators Glenn Jones Homes, had been the full-time residence of Jones and his family since completion several years ago.The buyer is believed to be a local, despite strong interest from Sydneysiders.The sale adds to Spinelli’s recent string of top-tier results, including a recent property deal in Kiama that also set a new benchmark.“The surprising part was the amount of demand we had for an in-town, single-level weekender for between $3 million and $4 million,” he said.“It was mostly Sydney buyers looking for a weekender. Kiama is still very appealing to out-of-town buyers.”

Kiama Business Network has been inundated with nominations for the inaugural Kiama Business Awards. Entries closed earlier this week for the first competition which recognises and celebrates excellence across the local business community.Everyone who submitted an entry will be invited to the Awards Ceremony at The Pavilion in Kiama on Thursday 3 July.At the ceremony, winners will receive trophies for the seven award categories:Outstanding EmployeeExcellence in SustainabilityOutstanding New BusinessExcellence in Micro BusinessExcellence in Small BusinessOutstanding Young Business LeaderOutstanding Business Leader (20 employees and under).The overall Kiama business of the year will then be announced from the seven category winners. Also, the winners in each category automatically progress as finalists to the Illawarra Business Awards later this year.Kiama Business Network executive officer and market manager Mel Scarr said the idea for the Awards came about after Business Illawarra director Coralie McCarthy asked why Kiama did not have a competition of its own.‘We were going to do it for next year because we had six weeks to launch ours but then we thought let's go for it and launch our own one,” Scarr said.“So, we did. And judging by the amount of entries that we had, it's been very well received. “We ended up with a good number of entries. We were surprised by how well it was embraced. And obviously, there was a need for it in the community by the amount of entries we got in such a short time.”The judging period is now underway with a panel of local business leaders going through the various submissions. Finalists for each category will be announced on Monday, 30 June in the lead-up to the awards night. “This being our first awards, we weren't sure what to expect, but the quality of entries and the enthusiasm has exceeded all expectations,” Scarr added.“The response has been incredible so it shows how ready our community is to celebrate local success.”One of the strengths of the Kiama business community is its diversity from microbusinesses popping up all over the local government area to bigger, established businesses which have stood the test of time.

Kiama’s iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks celebrations are in danger of going up in smoke after Council withdrew funding for the 2025 event. Destination Kiama now has to find sponsors to make up the $92,000 cost of staging the popular event or there will be no fireworks lighting up the harbour to ring in the new year.The decision has disappointed Destination Kiama chair, Councillor Matt Brown who said Council should have prioritised money in the budget for this event rather than use ratepayer dollars to fund new Council Chambers. “It’s a shame that that funding has been cut from the budget. The only years we didn’t do it was during COVID,” he said.“We were presented with a choice of New Year’s Eve or event funding. The event funding is important as it spreads spend to attractions right throughout the year.“But a smallish spend for New Year’s Eve results in a nearly 15 times return on investment.”Council director of planning, environment & communities Ed Paterson provided Councillors with Spendmapp's "Event Tracker" data which revealed there was $1.76 million in local spending on New Year’s Eve, which was the highest total recorded across recent major events.Compared to other weekends, that result was 4% higher than the Changing Tides Festival 2023 and 24% above last year’s event, and more than $630,000 higher than a standard non-event weekend. The New Year’s Eve Sky Show drives increased spending in hospitality, retail and related sectors, beyond what is usually expected on a busy summer weekend. Kiama's New Year's Eve celebrations attract visitors to the town all day long. Photo: Peter Izzard PhotographyCr Brown said local families and businesses will be extremely disappointed if the fireworks display vanishes into thin air.“I know how much local businesses and local families enjoy our New Year’s night show. They choose to stay in Kiama rather than go to Wollongong or Sydney,” he said.“It’s a huge financial injection into our local businesses and at a cost of only $9 per household.“I’m disappointed that it’s come to this. We could have gone without a new Council Chambers and had the fireworks, for instance. It’s all about priorities - we spent $250,000 on new desks, carpet and video equipment for our Council Chambers. Now we can’t afford fireworks.”Cr Brown said Kiama’s iconic event is Australia’s biggest coastal fireworks outside of Sydney.“I appreciate our financial situation at Council and I’d love to see businesses wanting to sponsor this event to reduce the burden,” he said.“We might be able to resurrect New Year’s Eve fireworks.”Kiama Council Chief Executive Officer Jane Stroud said in an ideal world, they would be able to cover the full costs but the reality of working under a Performance Improvement Order meant that alternative measures needed to be taken.“What Council has resolved is that they would like Council to self-fund New Year's Eve,” she told The Bugle.“New Year's Eve is great - last year we had over 16,000 people come and watch but it does cost the ratepayers up to $92,000.“We will need to do up a package and put that out to the market and see if there are people, companies, businesses who would like to partner or sponsor, and contribute to the funding of the fireworks.“It's a really lovely way to see the year out. I'm really hopeful we'll find some interested businesses and sponsors who want to be part of it because it's pretty incredible.”Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald was also hopeful that a solution can be found to keep the event alive.“We are mindful that it does cost us a lot of money as a Council and it is ratepayers’ money in this time when we're under a PIO,” he said.“The influx and the dollar spend for our local community and our local businesses is significant, so it's a matter of weighing that up as to how we approach it.”

Don't be concerned if you see emergency services descending on Shellharbour Airport on Saturday.NSW Police have advised local residents that a training exercise will be conducted on Saturday in and around Shellharbour Airport.The exercise will be conducted between 8am and 5pm, and residents are advised there may be an increase in emergency services vehicle movements in the vicinity.There will also be a drone in operation, all part of essential emergency services training.Strict safety protocols will be adhered to at all times.NSW Police have assured the community there will be no risk to the public.