Kiama Council will vote next Tuesday on a development application for a four-storey development on the southern side of Akuna Street.The developer is planning to build a mixed use development of three commercial units, 38 “shop top housing” residences and spaces for 93 cars at 14 Akuna Street, which is currently a split level car park.The estimated cost of the project is $21 million. Kiama Council’s director strategies and communities Ed Paterson has tabled a report for the meeting which recommends approving the plan which has been recently declared a State Significant Development by the NSW Government.Under the plan, the existing structures and car park will be demolished and two trees removed.A previous development application for the project was previously lodged but withdrawn at the recommendation of Council staff due to “deficiencies” in the proposal relating to issues such as potential groundwater contamination and pollution, sustainability measures, aesthetics, non-compliances with the Apartment Design Guide relating to common open space, visual privacy, solar and daylight access, acoustic impacts between land uses and unacceptable car parking design and waste collection arrangements.The staff recommendations have been incorporated into the amended design for the current application.There is a relatively minor encroachment to the 11m building height limit as a result of the sloping topography and the change in building height limits across the site, according to Paterson’s report.Council will also vote on a proposal to extend the lease for Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club until October. Council received 93 submissions in relation to the proposed lease when it was placed on public exhibition from 26 October to 23 November with 82 in support. Director corporate and commercial Joe Gaudiosi has advised Council that, in accordance with the Local Government Act, having seven objections means NSW Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig will be required to give his consent before Council can agree to a proposed 20-year lease with the Surf Club.Council staff will meet with the executive of the GSLSC to negotiate the specific lease conditions taking into account the feedback from the submissionsIn Gaudiosi’s report to Council, he states that “overall, the submissions acknowledge the significant community value and services provided by the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club, with most submissions (approximately 80%) supporting the proposed lease. “Notwithstanding this support, the submissions raise matters requiring further consideration and negotiations with the Surf Club executive prior to finalisation of the lease terms, including community access and use.” At Tuesday’s meeting, Council is also set to vote on the public’s preferred option for the long-awaited Jamberoo Dog Park.Five designs for a fenced off-leash area were presented with the final option getting the most votes - separated dog parks comprising a 30m x 30m small dog area in the east and a 45m x 22.5m large dog area in the west of the reserve on the corner of Gibson Crescent and Church Street.

Community radio thrives on people power and at KCR, volunteers are at the very heart of everything we do. From presenting shows and producing content to supporting events and working behind the scenes, volunteering with KCR is an opportunity to connect, create and contribute to a strong local voice. If you are interested, we would love to hear from you!About KCRKCR is a 24/7 streaming community radio service sharing stories, music, conversations and local content that reflect the diversity, creativity and lived experience of our region. We champion local artists, highlight community initiatives, promote local events and provide an inclusive platform for voices from across the Kiama LGA and beyond.Why volunteer with KCR?- Make a real impact by helping shape local media that informs, inspires and connects the community.- Enjoy creative freedom to explore music, storytelling, interviews, technology and original ideas.- Learn new skills through hands-on experience in broadcasting, audio production, marketing, social media and events.- Be part of an inclusive and supportive culture welcoming all ages and experience levels.- Join people-powered, independent, grassroots media created by the community, for the community.Volunteer roles available- Presenters and Co-hosts- Audio Producers and Editors- IT and Technical Support- Social Media and Marketing- Administration and Membership Support- Event Helpers- Youth and Diversity Advocates- Fundraising and Grant WritersWhat our volunteers say“I never imagined I’d have my own radio show - now I’m sharing music and stories I love every week.” Felicity, presenter“KCR gave me a chance to reconnect with my community in retirement. It’s been a joy.” Mark, volunteer“I always dreamed of being in radio — and now I’ve done it.” Glenn, presenterGet involvedWhether you can spare an hour a week or dream of launching a show of your own, KCR welcomes new volunteers.Be heard. Be connected. Be part of KCR.

You think that women may have tough lives today and in many ways they do.Well, here is a story that will give you an idea of what women were up against 80 years ago.My mother, Elva Walker, as she was in 1945, had received a good education. My grandparents could afford this as Elva was an only child.At the outbreak of the Second World War most of the men in the Kiama local government area joined up for some sort of military service. That meant jobs that had been traditionally done by men had to be taken up by women. This was common around the world.Elva went to work in the Gerringong bank which was in the building on the western side of the road where the pedestrian crossing is now.It was one of the highest buildings in the town. As well as working in the bank, she also had to devote an hour a day to climbing onto the roof with her friend Helen, who was a teacher at the school. Donning a steel helmet like the one the soldiers used, they used binoculars for the hour, trying to spot Japanese planes as a prelude to an invasion. I know this might sound like a “Dad’s Army” story but it was deadly serious for a time during the war.When the war finished, the men returned. In 1946 Elva received a “pleasantly worded” letter from the bank that basically stated that, even though her work had been first class, she was now out of a job. It wished her the very best in any career she might undertake in the future. What career that may be is not speculated.I was invited to a pleasant afternoon tea at The Bugle office recently and a number of professional workers from various neighbouring businesses were in attendance. There were more women than men.The opportunities for women these days to have a full and satisfying career in any field are so much better than the olden days. Very often women were forced to “retire” from their occupation when they got married in professions such as teaching.

Construction has officially kicked off on the Yellow Rock Road upgrade in Tullimbar, with Shellharbour City Council breaking ground on the project this week.A ceremony was held on Friday to mark the move from the planning phase into actual construction.In attendance were Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer, Member for Whitlam Carol Berry, and representatives from Cleary Bros, the local firm appointed to carry out the works.The project focuses on the stretch of Yellow Rock Road between the Illawarra Highway and Araluen Terrace.The goal is to improve safety and connectivity for the growing local community as more families move into the area.Mayor Chris Homer thanked the Australian Government for its financial contribution through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program and the Road to Recovery program.“I want to thank the Australian Government for its strong support of this upgrade,” he said.“This partnership will help us deliver safer, more accessible connections for the growing Tullimbar community.”The upgrade includes:New road pavement and upgraded intersections at Wongawilli Street and Hereford Chase.Improved pedestrian paths and crossings to make walking safer.New kerbs, gutters, and stormwater drainage to prevent flooding.Better on-street parking and overall accessibility.Council recently held drop-in sessions with the contractors to walk residents through the construction timelines and access arrangements.Work will continue over the coming months, and residents can keep track of the progress via the Council’s "Let’s Chat" website.

Exhilarating, humbling, spiritual: these words describe an unforgettable life experience I was so fortunate to have, and by sheer accident.It was 2015 and for four months, 52 campsites and 22,000km, I travelled around Australia with hubby, towing a caravan.The sights, the sounds, the smells, the vastness, the colour, the magnificence of our sunburnt country is renowned worldwide. But it still leaves you breathless when you're in the moment yourself, actually living the dream by exploring this ancient and incredible land at your own pace. Which we had decided was going to be casual and unhurried. There is so much to see and do and experience in Australia, and we made it a rule to take our time.Except that, sometimes, you need to be in a certain place at a certain time, or you may just miss out on something special.Which is exactly what happened to us when we arrived in Coral Bay on the Coral Coast of Western Australia one very warm afternoon in late July.Coral Bay and nearby Exmouth are the gateway to the glorious turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage area and the feeding destination each year of whale sharks. These gentle creatures, the largest fish in the world, can grow to 18m in length, and are harmless filter feeders, living on plankton and krill. They are very comfortable allowing humans to be in their space, to swim alongside them. This practice is thankfully strictly controlled by marine authorities, with only a few eco tours operating on the Reef to ensure the creatures’ safety, and that they will keep returning to Ningaloo year after year.I'm so excited. I can't wait, I've wanted to do this forever.Off we go to book our swim.But taking our time in this instance had been a big mistake.We had missed the opportunity.The whale sharks had left Ningaloo, and would not be back for another year.My disappointment, let alone annoyance at myself, is palpable.But not for long."Would you consider", asks the tour operator who'd just broken to me his devastating news re the whale sharks, "seeking out the giant manta rays?".Disappointment immediately evaporated like morning dew in the sun, replaced with a real sense of eagerness and anticipation. A very quick "yes" was our response.So the very next day, donned in wetsuits, flippers, snorkels and masks, we jumped into the cool, crystal clear waters of the Reef from our tour boat.Within seconds, eight elegant black and white beauties appear, gracefully gliding through the water straight towards us. They sweep past us, their wing spans, which can reach up to seven metres across, enormous. Then they're drifting back towards us again, seemingly to check us out. They float, they twirl, some appear to break the surface in majestic leaps, it's as if they're dancing to music our human ears can't hear. Indeed, it is a performance very like an underwater ballet. With twinkling shafts of sunlight breaking through the water, the scene is magical. The mantas are very close to us now, very calm, their floating and cruising so poised, so effortless.A few more turns, and then, too soon, they disappear as gracefully as they had come to us.We stay in the water.And within a short while we are joined by some very inquisitive sea turtles, who just paddle by us nonchalantly. They play, dip and dive around us with no fear, and we are close enough to see their freckly markings, their nostrils, and beaks. These living prehistoric creatures seem to be enjoying our company as much as we are marvelling in theirs. Turtles haven't evolved all that much over the last 200 million years, but they're living relics, remarkable survivors. And we have been lucky enough to interact with some of them in their natural environment, if only briefly.Hauling ourselves back into the boat, with pruney fingers, salty skin and chattering teeth, we're revived by hot drinks and cakes, before the time comes to head back to shore. Excited conversations revolve around each swimmer's personal experience, how amazing the whole adventure was, how cold the water was, but above all, how elated everyone was feeling. For those of us who love the natural world, and more especially, the sea and its creatures, what we'd done today was for all of us a life highlight.And swimming with those whale sharks?Watch this space - 2026 may be the year I have another crack.

One of the real privileges of being Mayor is seeing our community at its very best. Not just in the headline moments, but in the small, steady acts of service that so often happen quietly, without fuss or recognition. The Kiama Show is one of those occasions that brings community spirit into sharp focus.Year after year, across generations, it draws together volunteers, families, locals and visitors in shared experience. Events like this don’t simply appear on the calendar. They are the result of year-round contribution. From early starts to long days, there are countless locals working behind the scenes to make sure everything runs as it should. Whether it’s helping with horse parking, preparing the woodchop arena, contributing to the Pavilion or keeping things safe and organised, these quiet contributions are what hold the Show together. As you walk the grounds, you’re reminded that community spirit isn’t just a feelgood catchphrase, its volunteers lending a hand, local businesses stepping up with support, and people pitching in because they believe these traditions are worth protecting. The Pavilion displays, the produce, the art exhibitions and the home-grown offerings all tell the same story: this is a community rich in creativity, skill and generosity. What humbles me most is how many people give their time year after year without any expectation of recognition. And when we do pause to acknowledge long-serving contributors – those who have mentored others, passed on knowledge and quietly held things together – it reminds us just how deep those traditions run. The Kiama Show remains strong because the people behind it are committed, proud and deeply connected to this place. That same sense of belonging was evident at our Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at Gerringong Surf Club, where we welcomed Kiama’s newest Australian citizens. It’s always a lovely moment, people from different backgrounds and life stories choosing to formally call this place home. Community isn’t something we simply inherit, it’s something we actively build together. Whether it’s a volunteer rolling up their sleeves at the Show, a local artist sharing their work, or a new citizen taking that final step, these moments all point to the same conclusion: strong communities are built by people who show up, look out for one another, and take pride in where they live. As Mayor, I’m proud to be part of that. Not just in an official capacity, but alongside the many humble people who give their time and energy to make Kiama the place it is. That spirit of service and connection is something worth protecting, nurturing and celebrating.Please note - this is paid content

As we come towards the end of summer, I always notice the same thing in gardens. A lot of perennial plants start to get a little bit tired, and it’s the same with a lot of our annual displays.They’ve given us a great show, but by now they can look a bit worn out.The good news is there’s one way that you can actually resurrect your plants so that you can get another burst of color out of them as we move into autumn.A gorgeous little Marguerite Daisy, for example, can start looking a little bit tired and worse for wear at this time of year. But all we need to do is come in and really just give the plant a decent haircut.Yes, we’re going to sacrifice some flowers on there. But that doesn’t matter, because in a matter of weeks, the plant is going to bounce back.You’ll have all this lovely new growth, and you’ll end up with a second flush of flowers coming through, probably around about March, April.It’s very easy to do. Don’t be afraid of cutting these ones back.The Marguerite Daisy is one of my favorites in landscaping. It grows to about a meter tall. Sometimes they’re referred to as one year wonders, because they often only last a year.But they’re great because they grow so fast and they fill holes within the garden.If you find you’ve got a spot where there’s something that won’t grow, or you’ve lost a plant, why not look at putting in a Marguerite Daisy?And again, don’t be afraid to prune it back hard. Once it’s finished flowering, it’s going to regenerate for you.The same thing applies to a lot of these perennials. Your salvias might be looking a little bit worse for wear after coming through the heat of summer.A simple process – just get in there and cut them back by at least a third, up to a half – and they will regenerate again.The same goes for lavender. Lavender is a stunning little plant. It does respond very, very well to pruning, but most people forget to prune it.When do they stop flowering? It can be hard to tell. You’re going to have to sacrifice a few flowers, but we can come down and take off roughly a third, maybe a little bit more.The one thing we don’t want to do is go back into the older wood on our lavender, because it does take some time to regenerate.Regular pruning, immediately after flowering, means you’re going to get another flush of flowers.So don’t be afraid to get out there this weekend and tidy up your perennials and your annual plants.Prune them back. You’ll get another flush coming through. As we move into autumn, they’ll come good.And remember – plants are very forgiving. Don’t be afraid to cut them.Please note: This paid content

Musicians on the South Coast are getting a wonderful opportunity to learn the craft of songwriting when The Regional Sessions comes to Kiama for the first time on Monday.Run by music rights management organisation APRA AMCOS, with support from Sound NSW, the one-day event brings keynote speakers, workshops, panel discussions, live performances and networking opportunities to songwriters, producers and composers of all abilities.There are five being held in regional NSW, kicking off with Bega and Broken Hill earlier this week with Kiama followed by Port Macquarie next Wednesday and Lennox Head on 21 February.An eclectic mix of musicians will be workshop mentors at the Kiama event at The Pavilion which will culminate with an evening performance at The Grand Hotel.Elana Stone is a double ARIA Award-winning singer, songwriter and instrumentalist celebrated for her inventive blend of folk, electronica, indie pop, and balladry who has produced four acclaimed solo albums and performed widely with Missy Higgins and the John Butler Trio.Bec Sandridge is a queer-pop shapeshifter who has been performing for more than a decade and is known for her striking black-and-white hair and a voice reminiscent of David Byrne and Kate Bush. Wiradjuri artist Zeppelin Hamilton is a member of Velvet Trip, a psychedelic-pop band which blends psych-rock, soul, and indie-pop into a rich, genre-defying sound. Zeadala is a singer-songwriter of Thai/Iraqi heritage who has performed locally and internationally since 2015, exploring themes of social justice and healing through knowledge of self.The Regional Sessions have been held in NSW, Victoria and Western Australia over the past five years and previous mentors have included Ben Lee, Powderfinger guitarist Darren Middleton, Jem Cassar-Daley, KLP, Mo’Ju and Oscar Dawson. Chris O’Neill, director of creative programs at APRA AMCOS, said the Regional Sessions provided multiple benefits to local musicians.“The purpose of the day is to allow local songwriters an opportunity to firstly meet each other in the local region,” he said. “What we've seen is that many times we've hosted these events and people have lived in a local town for a long time and not yet met all of their songwriting counterparts.“We're bringing in some really incredible songwriters for them to share their approach to songwriting and give local songwriters a better understanding of how they write, how they collaborate with other people.“So the idea is for local songwriters to really walk out of that room connected with each other but also armed with new songwriting skills.”There's a real appetite for local songwriters to learn from other people from outside of their area and what we’ve found is that it just has such a great community building element to it. “That's often something that can lack in regional areas - community is really important in regional areas and particularly around the South Coast, we're seeing such incredible bands come out of that area.”At the end of the all-day workshop, the participants and mentors will kick on to The Grand to put together a free live performance for members of the public from 5.30pm onwards.

One minute, you’re asking AI to spellcheck your Word document — the next minute, you’re asking a faceless robot to soothe your soul, validate your feelings, and talk you through a 2am spiral.According to data from Open AI, the company behind ChatGPT, over 2.5 billion prompts are posted on the platform — per day.For many people, using AI is a slippery slope, from a first crush to co-dependency. Now experts are warning that, although AI has its place, as with all relationships, it’s important to have boundaries.A recent study from MIT Media Lab reported that “excessive reliance on AI-driven solutions” may contribute to “cognitive atrophy” and the shrinking of critical thinking abilities — essentially, the more we outsource our thinking, the less we practise it ourselves.A new study published in the Harvard Business Review warned that AI-generated ‘workslop’ is destroying productivity. The phrase is being used to describe AI-generated content that “masquerades as good work but lacks substance.”And then there’s the downsides of “AI companions” — the rise of people using artificial intelligence as their confidante, therapist and pseudo-partner.Research by Common Sense Media, a US-based non-profit, has found approximately three in four US teens have used AI companion apps, such as Character.ai or Replika.ai. Their data is striking: one in three teens have used AI companions for social interaction and relationships, including role-playing, romantic interactions, emotional support, friendship, or conversation practice.“AI companions are emerging at a time when kids and teens have never felt more alone,” said Common Sense Media Founder and CEO James P. Steyer.“This isn’t just about a new technology — it’s about a generation that’s replacing human connection with machines, outsourcing empathy to algorithms, and sharing intimate details with companies that don’t have kids’ best interests at heart.”However, it’s not all bad.For every warning, you’ll hear an anecdote of an AI user who feels it has genuinely supported their life: offering words of comfort in the midst of a mental health spiral, advice for eating healthier, or a non-judgemental space to process big emotions.For most people, it comes down to balance.As a writer, I use AI as an editorial assistant — an intern who writes my social media captions and tells me what’s trending but isn’t trusted with content I care about.After a brief stint using AI as a therapist, I’ve returned to human-generated empathy.I’m happy for AI to spellcheck my articles but not hold my heart.

South Coast Police are calling on Nowra residents for urgent assistance following a suspicious incident involving a nine-year-old girl earlier this week.At approximately 3pm on Tuesday, a young girl got off a bus at the corner of Btu and Nowra Hill Road.She was approached by two unknown men who attempted to convince her to get into their vehicle.Displaying incredible quick thinking, the girl ran from the scene and hid in nearby bushes until the men drove away.Police are looking to identify two individuals and a specific vehicle seen in the area: the men are described as being of Asian appearance and in their early 20s amd their vehicle was a silver sedan or small SUV.Investigators are particularly interested in anyone who may have dashcam footage from the Nowra Hill area between 2.30pm and 3.30pm on Tuesday.If you saw anything suspicious or have information that could assist, please contact Nowra Police directly or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.auAll information is handled confidentially. Please do not report tips via social media, as these channels are not monitored for official reports.

A chance discovery by a Kiama resident during a spring clean-out of their house has led to the original plaque being brought back to life on the old Council Chambers building in Jamberoo.The plaque has been placed back on the facade of the original building which is now home to Jamberoo Valley Meats, adding an extra dash of yesteryear to the picturesque township.Stuart Richards from the Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association and local welding and fabrication business owner Paul O’Keefe were integral in getting the plaque looking shiny and new again so that it could return to its original location.The plaque was probably removed from the Jamberoo Council Chambers building after the 1954 amalgamation with Kiama and has been lost since then.When the Kiama resident stumbled upon the piece of Jamberoo history four years ago among a pile of rubbish, it was given to Jamberoo publican Ross Warren, who mentioned the discovery to Stuart when they were catching up at a function.“I went and had a look at it and thought we need to get this back up on the building,” Stuart recalled.“It was engraved but it didn’t have any gold lettering on it. It was very plain - you could only just see the engraving.”Stuart re-embossed the gold lettering and Paul had a plate made up, which was powder-coated, to hold the plaque.No ceremony was required - in typical Jamberoo style, they just put it up and if anyone asked, they told them the story of the long lost plaque’s circuitous journey.Butchery owner Steve McCure said it was great to have the plaque in pride of place at the front of his shop and it was a nice talking point for his customers to chew on.The Council Chambers building was built in 1934 and the wife of the Minister for Labour and Industry (the Hon. J.M. Dunningham) was given the honour of unveiling the plaque.Jamberoo Mayor David Weir as well as the mayors of Gerringong and Shellharbour and the deputy mayor also attended the opening in what the Kiama Independent at the time described as “a red-letter day for Jamberoo”.Paul O'Keefe and Stuart Richards. Photo: Supplied The opening of the Council Chambers was described as one of the biggest works undertaken recently, along with the construction of a new road to Kiama.“The tablet has the inscriptions of all the aldermen at the time,” Stuart explained.“They had a big do at the Jamberoo School of Arts and a dinner to celebrate the opening.”The Municipality of Kiama was proclaimed on 11 August 1859 and has undergone a number of name and boundary changes.On 24 April 1871, the Municipal Districts of Gerringong and Broughton’s Vale were created out of the former Gerringong Ward of the Municipality.Initially there was a borough of Kiama and East Kiama.But on 31 March 1892, Kiama became known as the Municipality of Jamberoo and East Kiama became the Municipality of Kiama.The municipalities of Kiama, Jamberoo and Gerringong amalgamated on 11 June 1954 to form the Municipality of Kiama while the Municipality of Broughton’s Vale had become part of the Shoalhaven Shire in 1947.

Minnamurra Lions have entered an exciting new era, celebrating their inaugural official dinner meeting at the Kiama Golf Club. This special evening featured a keynote presentation from Jenny Barclay, District N2 instructor for the Lions Eye Health Program (LEHP). Jenny’s talk emphasised the critical importance of early detection vision screening and described the increasing momentum behind the LEHP initiative throughout the Kiama–Shoalhaven region.During the event, Minnamurra Lions confirmed their commitment to community health by announcing their upcoming participation in the next LEHP children’s vision screening. This screening is scheduled for 1 March at Kiama Surf Life Saving Club.The club’s involvement in this initiative underscores their ongoing dedication to supporting local families and strengthening health-focused community projects.The evening was marked by the induction of John Dawson as the newest member of the Minnamurra Lions. John is a long-standing resident of the Kiama Downs and Gainsborough area and brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career in education, including many years teaching at Kiama High School. He is also renowned for his extensive community service record.John’s volunteer contributions span numerous local sporting groups, such as the Kiama Cavaliers and the Kiama District Sports Association. His commitment to the community has been recognised with a Kiama Council Local Government Award and the honour of being named Kiama Municipal Council Senior Citizen of the Year for 2025–2026.In his address, John said he and his wife are “deeply entrenched in the area” and have a strong passion for “giving back to the community”. Minnamurra Lions president Dennis Beyon reflected on the significance of the evening, stating that it established a solid foundation for the club’s future.“With new members, new partnerships, and new opportunities to serve, Minnamurra Lions is building real momentum.”For more information about the Minnamurra Lions, visit their website at https://minnamurralions.org.au/

Check out this week's edition of The Bugle to get your fill of local news and views from our South Coast community.Our main story is an investigation into the federal government's social media ban and how local teenagers are working their way around the controversial legislation.READ THE DIGITAL EDITION HEREWe also bring you the heart-warming story of a long lost Jamberoo Council Chambers plaque which was rescued from a pile of rubbish and returned to its rightful position at what is now the town's butcher's shop.There is also an update on one of the developments at Kiama's Akuna Street, a local musical family and how clean energy is lighting up the region.You can also read plenty of community stories including how The Drink Show went last weekend at The Pavilion, how to navigate the latest interest rate hike and the ongoing demolition of the old nursing home at Havilah Place.In sport, you can read about Kiama Cricket Club's 170th anniversary celebrations, the Jamberoo Sevens and a windsurfing event which will be held in the near future at Gerroa.And our intrepid photographer Brian Scott has been out and about snapping community sports stars doing their thing.For the green thumbs, John Gabriele is back with more advice for your garden.The paper is available from all the usual outlets around the Kiama local government area - grab yours before it's too late.

On a Saturday night in Kiama, the sound of crashing waves is finally competing with a more vibrant local nightlife.For years, Kiama’s identity was wrapped almost entirely in daylight - cafes, beaches, blowholes, brunch.Night was for going home or heading up or down the highway.The opening of Uncle Fuku's, the town’s new karaoke bar, is another example of Kiama finding its voice after the sun sets.Kiama Leagues Club, the Bowling Club, Little Betty’s, the Golf Club to the north and Cin Cin’s to the south are great places to spend a night out without having to go out of town.The kebab shop across the road from the leagues club is doing a decent trade into the wee small hours, always a good sign that a town’s nightlife is healthy.Many people actually like hanging out with each other past 9pm.This is what a night-time economy looks like at the grassroots: many venues taking a risk, giving people a reason to linger in town rather than leave it.The same energy will pulse, probably at a more energetic scale, on 21 February when THAT takes over the Kiama Skate Park and will transport it into a dancefloor like non-other.These events, and the Sounds of Jazz & Blues set to take place in March show that “nightlife” doesn’t have to mean nightclub.It can be all-ages, family-friendly, and rooted in the creativity that already exists here.A lit-up skate bowl and a packed crowd under the stars say something powerful: our public spaces don’t shut down when the sun does.As Kiama grows, so does our understanding of what liveability actually mean.It’s no longer just quiet streets and ocean views - it’s also having somewhere to go after dinner, somewhere for teenagers to be seen and heard rather than having to make the trek to Wollongong, somewhere for musicians and hospo staff to work locally instead of commuting.A thoughtful night-time economy supports safety, diversity and social connection.It creates jobs, nurtures culture and makes it possible for more people to build a whole life here, not just a daytime one.Change can feel uncomfortable, especially in a town that treasures its calm.But the choice isn’t between “peaceful village” and “rowdy and overdeveloped party strip.”It’s between a town that slowly empties out and one that carefully curates its evenings to reflect its values.The hum of activation and excitement within town are Kiama’s way of choosing the latter – embracing growth, and with it, a richer, more vibrant life after dark.

Shellharbour City Council is encouraging residents to look closer to home this Valentine’s Day, launching a suite of local activities designed to celebrate connection and community.Mayor Chris Homer said the day is an opportunity for residents to support local businesses and facilities while spending quality time with loved ones, whether that be with partners, friends, or family.The festivities begin early at City Library on Friday, 13 February.Between 10.30am and 11.30am, the community is invited to celebrate Library Lovers’ Day — a global event honouring the role of libraries and librarians.Visitors can enjoy a celebratory cake in the foyer and participate in the popular "Blind Date with a Book" initiative, where readers can select a mystery title to take home.For those looking for an alternative to traditional flowers, the Shellharbour City Council Nursery is promoting indoor plants as a gift that keeps growing.Located at River Oak Place in Oak Flats, the nursery offers a wide range of greenery that provides a longer-lasting sentiment than a standard bouquet.The nursery is open weekdays from 7.30am to 3.45pm.Couples looking for an active outing can take advantage of a 2-for-1 deal at Shanx Mini Golf, located at The Links Shell Cove. Bookings are available until 8.15pm on Valentine’s Day, allowing visitors to pair a round of golf with a meal at the adjacent Tavern at The Links.Council hopes that by offering a mix of creative, cultural, and leisure activities, every resident can find a meaningful way to celebrate.

By David Graham The Kiama and Shellharbour District Tennis Association men's night competition got underway last week with 46 teams representing six local tennis clubs. The bulk of the teams are from Kiama (16) and Jamberoo (12).Five apiece are from Gerringong and Minnamurra with three from McDonald Park in Albion Park Rail.There are six divisions with Division Five broken into two groups.Kiama and Jamberoo are frontrunners for the number of winning divisions but the overall strength and standard is quite high. Bob Morgan, Bill Summerside and Mick Puglisi (Kiama) alongside Paul Berry, Dave O'Connor and Peter Quine share favouritism in Division 3. In Division 1 all teams are in the mix and it will be a very closely contested competition. The Kiama 2 team of Jason Clark, Richard Welsh, Jeff Brown and Darren Johnston are marginal favourites ahead of the Kiama 4 team of Dave Lehman, Frank Wallner and "young gun" James Cain. It will be very interesting to see how the McDonald Park Division 1 team performs with Harrison O'Keefe, Tom Howle and youngster Hayden Sleigh. Hayden is aged 14 and is a KSDTA top junior who recently won the Champion of Champions singles event at Ulladulla and followed that up with a strong performance in the recent state finals at Penrith.Kiama and Shellharbour district is one district that is "bucking the trend' in relationship to tennis competitions. Canterbury-Bankstown, one of the larger Sydney metropolitan districts, has no night competitions. Many tennis players are opting now to try the current craze of pickleball. The current men's night comp has two full rounds, with the semi-finals scheduled for early June.

As the dust settles over the historic grounds of Havilah Place, Kiama Council has confirmed the demolition of the old Blue Haven nursing home is on track for completion next month.The site has been undergoing an $850,000 transformation - funded via Council’s Capital Works program - into level, vacant land that is safe to use but for what purpose? While the site has been officially designated as a "catalyst site" under the Strategic Finance & Governance Improvement Plan, a Council spokesperson clarified that no formal masterplans have been developed yet.Any future use will be subject to the usual community consultation. Once the derelict buildings are cleared, the area will be fenced off to allow for grass regrowth and to protect the site from vandalism, leaving an area that Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has previously described as “an open book”.This transition marks the end of a storied chapter that began in the 1870s when the land served as a State Rail Quarry, providing the blue metal that paved the streets of Sydney. By the 1970s, the site took on a more humanitarian purpose. Kiama State Quarry Rose Series PostcardAt a time when the local hospital was overflowing and elderly residents were being forced into nursing homes as far away as Sydney, the community rallied to build a local solution. After years of political turbulence and funding delays during the Whitlam and Fraser eras, the facility finally opened in 1979, serving as a cornerstone of local aged care for four decades.As the demolition crews complete their work, Council’s Finance and Major Projects Committee will begin the complex task of fitting the site into a larger "jigsaw puzzle" of community assets. The future of Havilah Place is expected to influence the redevelopment of the nearby Kiama Sporting Complex, with residents already floating ideas ranging from affordable housing and retail space to expanded parkland. Nursing home and hostel 1979While the original 1979 structures are being removed, Council has assured the public that Blue Haven Terralong and the Kiama Community Garden will remain untouched, ensuring that even as the landscape changes, the legacy of community service that defined the site for 50 years continues in a new form.

Gerroa will take centre stage in Australian windsurfing later this month when the 2026 Severne East Coast Titles arrive at Gerroa Beach on February 21-22, marking the grand finale of the New South Wales Wave Sailing Association (NSWWSA) season.Initially scheduled for 14-15 February but postponed due to weather conditions - the event comes amid renewed momentum for the sport both locally and nationally. Just last week, Gerroa hosted a NSWWSA Youth Wave Sailing Camp, drawing more than 20 young sailors from across the state, while internationally the profile of windsurfing has surged following 17-year-old West Australian Sarah Kenyon being crowned Junior Girls’ Wave World Champion.For local sailor James Hayward, who will line up in the amateur division, the event represents both a personal milestone and a celebration of the sport’s unique culture.“I’ve been windsurfing since I was 13, and I’m part of a generation that saw this sport explode in the 80s,” Hayward said. “What keeps me coming back is the camaraderie - and now the real thrill is seeing the new blood coming through.”Hayward said the mix of generations on the water is what gives the amateur division of the East Coast Titles their distinctive feel.“You’ve got guys like Stuart Rennie, who only started five years ago and is already ripping world-class waves in Hawaii. That progression, and the way everyone supports each other, is what makes this event special.”Gerroa is widely regarded as the spiritual home of wave sailing in NSW, with its reliable north-easterly sea breezes providing ideal cross-shore conditions for high-performance sailing. “The summer NE winds here are what everyone hopes for - cross-shore power, proper ramps for jumps and great down-the-line wave riding,” Hayward said. “It’s also just a postcard location. When conditions line up, there’s nowhere better.”Hayward said the competition field is stacked with elite talent across multiple divisions. “The Open Men’s fleet includes Logan Haggerstrom, Peter Puhl, Tom Squires and Duncan Osborne, all known for pushing the limits with radical wave riding and aerial moves,” he said.“In the Women’s division, Laurie Menviel is again expected to shine, while the Masters division features world-class experience, including Pacasmayo Classic World Cup holder Adrian Levy, NSWWSA president Jason Juretic and veteran Oliver Barta.”While the event carries International Windsurfing Tour (IWT) 2-Star status and world ranking points, organisers say the heart of the weekend remains firmly rooted in community.“For locals, it’s a moment of pride to see our home beach transformed into a world-class stage,” Hayward said. “There’s a real sense of tribe here - you’re competing hard, but you’re also sharing waves, stories and time with mates.”Spectators are encouraged to take in the action from the Black Head Reserve headland for a bird’s-eye view, or from the beachfront near the Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park, where the event hub will be set up.

The South Coast’s independent spirits scene received a significant boost last Saturday when the highly anticipated arrival of The Drink Show took over The Pavilion Kiama for its boutique regional debut.The event, which focused on quality over scale, attracted an engaged crowd of spirits enthusiasts to sample rare, small-batch offerings from some of Australia’s most acclaimed artisanal producers. From the botanical complexities of North of Eden Gin and Karu Distillery to the agave-inspired Florcita Tequila, the Pavilion floor was a showcase of craft innovation not typically found on local bottleshop shelves.The day was punctuated by three tasting sessions and a series of intimate masterclasses that allowed for deep-dives into the distilling process.Amber Lane Distillery cellar master Rod Berry led a highlight session, “The Secret Blend Behind Australia’s Best Whisky 2025,” where attendees stepped into the role of blender. Using barrel samples and syringes, participants recreated elements of award-winning blends, gaining firsthand insight into the premium techniques that have put the distillery on the national map.Meanwhile, Felix Clarke of Ester Spirits brought a summer vibe to the Pavilion with his “Summer Drinks” workshop, demonstrating how to elevate the award-winning Old Tom Gin for home entertaining.While many major city festivals rely on sheer volume, event coordinator Mick Turner says that Kiama’s success was measured by the depth of interaction.“For a debut event in Kiama, we were pleased with the atmosphere and level of engagement,” Turner said. “The crowd was compact but genuinely curious and interested in the producers, reinforcing the appetite for curated drinks events in the region.”Exhibitors including Banks & Solander, Phoenix Distilling Co., Noble Bootleggers, and SoHi Spirits reported high levels of engagement, with many attendees opting to purchase bottles directly from the makers – a clear sign that the "meet-the-maker" format resonated with the local community.The success of the Kiama event serves as a proof-of-concept for bringing high-end, independent drink tours to regional hubs. The intimate nature of the sessions ensured the "story behind the bottle" remained the focal point.“Kiama confirmed the value of bringing independent Australian drinks producers into regional communities in a curated, considered way,” Turner added. “The learnings will shape future tours, with Maitland in May set as our next stop.”As the sun set over Surf Beach, it was clear Kiama’s palate for independent spirits is only just beginning to wake up.