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