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.”

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 local business, Making Faces Makeup Studio has won the 2025 Wedding Industry Award for Bridal Hair and Makeup in the Illawarra and Southern Highlands.The Wedding Industry Awards, recognise excellence over 30 regions of Australia and are considered the pinnacle of recognition in the Australian wedding industry.Owner of Making Faces Makeup Studio, Meryll Faulkner, and her team of six, bring world-class expertise to South Coast clients. Meryll has trained under Oscar-nominated makeup artist Tina Earnshaw in Los Angeles, in Paris with Atelier Maquillage, and with renowned fashion artist Victor Noble in New York.“It’s good, not just for me, it's for all our team. Which is really lovely,” said Meryll.“I think it's great for the industry to know that you're experienced. You know what you're doing. You're pretty professional”.After establishing Making Faces Makeup Studio in Sydney, Meryll made the decision to relocate her business to Kiama. The move was a significant shift for someone who spent years building a reputation in Sydney’s beauty industry.“I was just married to the business… life is about balance,” said Meryll.“I think you can have a business run you, instead of you running it. So, I think that coming to Kiama has been a good thing”.As a multi-year winner of the Australian Bridal Awards for Excellence and nominee for Australian Makeup Artist Awards, Meryll has trained leading makeup artists and worked across television, film, and high-profile events including a Channel Nine Today Show wedding segment.What distinguishes Meryll’s bridal work is her combination of skill, experience and personal approach to each client's unique style and needs.“Brides have to connect with you. I think that's really, really important, and it's such a special day,” she said.Beyond weddings, Meryll actively supports the Illawarra’s growing film industry, working as a lead makeup artist for the Channel 10 TV series ‘Mass to You at Home’, and local productions including ‘I’ve Got You’ and ‘Lesley’.As a NSW and ACT distributor for Atelier Maquillage professional makeup, her company supplies artists across television, theatre, and film.“It's really not about me, it's about the client and it's about being reliable and professional when things happen...experience just tells you how to handle a challenge,” Meryll said.Meryll’s achievements demonstrate what’s possible for creative professionals based outside major cities. She successfully navigates servicing local and Sydney clients whilst gaining herself national recognition for her work.As Making Faces Makeup Studio grows its local presence, Meryll remains committed to supporting local creative industries and emerging talent.The Wedding Industry Award recognises not just individual achievement, but the quality of talent in the area. For Illawarra brides, having access to award winning artists in the local area reinforces the region's growing reputation for wedding excellence.Making Faces Makeup Studio is located in Kiama and services the South Coast, Highlands, and Sydney regions.More information can be found on their website makingfacesmakeup.com.au

Have you ever wondered what inspires someone to make travel not just a passion, but a profession?For Peta Godfrey, owner of Travel Focus Group in Gerringong, it all started with a spontaneous snowboarding trip to Austria at age 16, a decision that would shape her entire future.Q: What was the main reason you became a travel agent?A: It all started in 1997 when my best friend asked me to go snowboarding in Austria. I had just started Year 11, but a trip to Europe seemed far more important. My parents were incredibly supportive, and I took six weeks off school. Being in Europe at 16 was incredible, especially discovering there was no legal drinking age in Austria!When I returned, I walked straight into an English exam. Knowing I had no chance of passing, I made a bold decision: I left school, enrolled in a travel course, and have never looked back.Q: What are the main changes you’ve noticed in the industry?A: I caught the tail end of paper tickets, with my trusty red pen in hand. The shift to e-tickets was exciting, but the biggest changes have come in the last three years, thanks to COVID-19, Travel 2.0!What kept me going was our community. Loyal clients would stop me in the street to ask when we’d reopen, or if I could book their next trip. That support reminded me why I started in this industry.Q: Do you think travel agents are more important now than ever?A: Absolutely! Clients find the internet overwhelming. There is too much information and too many scams. Travel agents are the solution, and we’re busier than ever.At Travel Focus Group, we’ve seen a huge rise in demand. To keep up, we’ve expanded our team and brought on some fantastic new staff. They’re already working closely with clients to plan, refine, and book travel that’s seamless and personal.Q: Is travel still a great career to pursue?A: For anyone with a true passion for travel, it’s absolutely worth it. The perks are fantastic, and the camaraderie is like nothing else. Helping people bring their travel dreams to life is so rewarding. We love it when clients come in after a trip and relive their journey with us!Q: What’s left on the bucket list?A: As many African countries as possible … plus, a sneaky trip to Antarctica!Want to see what expert travel planning feels like? Chat to one of the experienced Travel Focus advisors.This article is paid content courtesy of Travel Focus in Gerringong

Finding an appointment to see a GP can sometimes feel as rare as hen’s teeth these days, with already overworked doctors busier than ever before.MedClinic Kiama has addressed the community demand for trusted, quality GPs by recently employing two new doctors at the practice, which has been providing healthcare to the region for more than a decade.“Kiama is a small community, and our doctors, nurses and administration team pride ourselves on knowing our patients on a first-name basis and providing quality care and treatment for multi-generations of families,” said practice manager Nada Vukovic.The practice employs five doctors, Dr Linda Moore, Dr Jonathan Bala, Dr Abdel Mohamed, Dr Jacqueline Wong, Dr John Oh and two new GPs Dr Haleh Samai and Dr Feng Guo.Each Tuesday, Dr Bala provides skin cancer checks and is accredited to carry out skin excision and minor surgeries where required.Dr Mohamed specialises in alternative treatment for patients suffering from chronic conditions where other treatments have failed to provide relief.These conditions can include osteoarthritis, back pain, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, anxiety, depression and/or mood disorders, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, inflammatory bowel disease and cancer-related symptoms.Dr Mohamed bulk bills all standard appointments, however fees apply for alternative medicine consultations.MedClinic’s other GPs, Dr Moore, Dr Wong, Dr Oh, Dr Samai and Dr Guo currently bulk bill all patients.MedClinic welcomes all patients, with or without a Medicare card. They are open Saturdays and these appointments are bulk billed.“Our practice is fully accredited with GPA 5th Edition Standards which means patients are getting the best safety and quality standard of care,” Nada added.MedClinic is located at 10/65 Manning street with on-street parking available.Books are open for new patients, who should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment to complete a registration form.

Gerringong’s Stoic Brewery has taken home three medals - including two golds - at the prestigious 2025 Australian International Beer Awards in Melbourne.The AIBAs are one of the largest annual beer competitions in the world. There were 2300 entries from 391 breweries across 22 countries, including 242 from Australia for this year's competition.“It's such a good feeling,” said Stoic’s head brewer Brent Edwards. “Because you know how much hard work goes into creating every brew. When you write a recipe for a beer, you start with the vision of what you want in the glass, then deconstruct it and work backwards.“You don’t always get it right the first time. You make little tweaks with each batch - maybe try a different yeast strain - and slowly build toward a better result. It’s all about always trying to be better.”Originally from New Zealand, Edwards has spent the last year and a half brewing at Stoic. One of the first beers he created with the team was inspired by his homeland - an NZ Pilsner - which earned gold at the awards.“That was the first beer I brewed at Stoic. They asked me early on what I wanted to make and I said, ‘Let’s do a New Zealand Pilsner.’ It uses all New Zealand hops, all New Zealand malt, and a lager yeast strain,” he said. “NZ hops are punchy - they bring flavours like white grape and passionfruit. Most Pilsners aren’t dry-hopped, but we dry-hopped this one. And it has stuck around because it’s been so popular.”The brewery’s XPA also won gold in the Australian Style Pale Ale category, while its American-style Pale Ale took home bronze.“The XPA is a clean, refreshing beer - quite tropical,” said Edwards. “It uses New Zealand malt, with a mix of American, New Zealand, and Australian hops. The pale ale is all-American hops and designed in that classic American style.”With Australia’s growing love of craft beer, Edwards says he’s excited to be part of such a collaborative and creative industry.“One of the great things about craft beer is the community. Brewers become mates, and there’s a lot of collaboration - people helping each other out. Not many industries work like that,” he said.“And it’s also about educating people who say, ‘I don’t like beer.’ There are over a hundred beer styles out there— - here’s something for everyone.”He also loves how Stoic Brewing are embracing innovation to keep the beer experience fresh - quite literally.Some of the ingredients and material on the top floor of Stoic Brewery.“We’re doing more beer and food pairings - matching beer with desserts and cheeses. "We just launched our oyster stout, using oysters from down the coast. We even had a portable oyster bar in the brewery for it. It was such a cool day,” said Edwards.All of Stoic’s beers are brewed fresh and on site, and customers can enjoy them right among the tanks where they’re made. Their next limited release, a pickle sour beer, launches 1 June.Find out more or plan your visit: www.stoicbrewing.com.au.

Gerringong’s Emma Veiga-Malta has worked in the creative industry for almost three decades as an artist, graphic designer and business mentor. Her latest project - The Creative Business Summit – is one of her most ambitious and important; a conference to help creators overcome the “starving artist mentality” where a career in the arts is seen as financially unstable. When Emma moved to Gerringong, she noticed a skills gap for artists looking for advice, and the confidence, to make money from their passion and turn their talent into a sustainable career. So, she drew on her industry experience and years of networking and organised a conference, the first of its kind in the region, designed specifically to help creatives value their work and know their worth. “We have been raised in a society where creativity has always been considered a soft subject, something you will never make money from, or not a real job because you are doing something you love,” she explains. “As artists we have to value our work, because if we don’t, who else will? People wouldn’t dream of asking other professionals to do their job for free. But they think it’s OK to say to a musician ‘I'll give you some pizza if you come and sing at the pub tonight’. “There will be no room for the starving artist mentality at The Creative Business Summit.” The event, at The Pavilion in Kiama, will cover a range of topics including self-care, navigating social media and marketing, grant funding, pricing your work properly, gaining creative confidence and what is often the “elephant in the room” among creatives - understanding artificial intelligence. “AI is not something we should be afraid of,” says Emma. “People were very sceptical about the internet when it first came out, but we've realised it’s just a tool and I think AI is exactly the same. “There are both ethical and unethical ways to engage with AI and as creatives we need to educate ourselves on it, whether we decide to use it or not, so we can protect our work and our intellectual property.”The conference - supported by a Kiama Council cultural development grant - is an opportunity for hobbyists starting a new venture or experienced creatives with established businesses to network, learn and draw inspiration from like-minded colleagues. “It’s important for creatives to realise they are not on their own, not the only ones struggling with the business of making money,” says Emma, who has hosted many virtual mentoring meetings and online group sessions for creatives. “But never anything as big or exciting as this. It really gives you a confidence boost when you're in a room full of like-minded creatives. “A lot of the magic happens in the space between speakers, when you're having a cup of tea and you realise you've made some amazing connections. It could be your next client, your next collaborator or your new creative bestie.” Tickets are on sale for the Creative Business Summit at The Pavilion, Kiama on August 14, from 9am-5pm.

The Kiama Business Network (KBN) has launched its inaugural local business awards, and for the first time, category winners will automatically qualify as finalists in the prestigious Business Illawarra Awards.With nominations open until 13 June, this is a valuable opportunity for startups, sole traders, micro and small businesses across the Kiama LGA to gain recognition and support.KBN President Cathryn Lyall says the local awards are designed to reflect the strength and diversity of the local business community. “This is about giving our businesses a platform,” she said. “The winners of each of our categories go straight to the Business Illawarra Awards. That’s never happened before. It gives our local businesses a real shot at regional and even state-level recognition.”To be eligible, entrants must be KBN members. A discounted membership offer is available for businesses who join before 30 June, with full membership kicking in from 1 July. “That way, no one misses out just because of timing,” Lyall added.Mat King, a local business owner and past finalist in the Business Illawarra Awards, says the process is valuable beyond the prize. “It’s not just about winning,” he said. “Sitting down and reflecting on where your business is at, what you’ve achieved, and what’s ahead – that process alone is so worthwhile. You gain clarity, and you realise how far you’ve come.”Winners will be announced at a celebratory event in early July, with the local Business of the Year selected from among three key categories.To find out more or submit your nomination, visit the KBN website or head straight to the nomination portal.It’s quick to enter, and support is available if you need help getting started.

Twenty-five businesses in the Kiama local government area are celebrating after being named finalists in this year’s Local Business Awards. The popular awards recognise excellence across many types of businesses in Illawarra and South Coast, from cafes and restaurants to retail shops and service providers. For many businesses, being a finalist or winner offers recognition within the region. Many familiar names from Kiama have made the cut. From new enterprises to well-established businesses, the list highlights how diverse Kiama’s local scene is. Local business Acai Fix is among this year’s finalists. The popular Acai bar has built a strong following since opening six months ago by Kiama local Amelia Beahan. “It feels pretty amazing that the Kiama community has just pulled together to support my small business. I think it shows how strong our little community actually is," she said. "I've put lots of time and effort into building a community presence, and so for them to show up for me and vote me in to become a finalist, it feels pretty amazing."For Amelia, community involvement plays a key part in small business success. She has sponsored several local sporting teams, including the Kiama Knights rugby league club, the Kiama under-14s rep netball side, and teams from Gerringong."I really like to chat with all of our customers and make sure that they know I'm interested in who they are. They're not just a customer to me,” said Amelia.“I like to make their visit really personal, and I think that has helped me build a really strong sense of community."For all the local finalists, the awards night brings valuable networking opportunities, where other business owners can meet and learn from each other."A business can sometimes be lonely and you feel like you're doing it on your own, but getting to attend these awards nights and come together with other local business owners provides an opportunity to know that there's other people out there doing it with you as well,” Amelia said. Businesses become finalists based on the number of public nominations they receive, and once they are shortlisted they will be judged to determine a winner. There is a clear set of criteria, including a questionnaire where the business shares details about how it is run and its successes, and its online presence. This ensures a fair approach for businesses of all sizes."We also get a secret shopper, so a judge who comes and pretends to be a customer and we serve them our product and they do some judging there,” Amelia said. One of the most rewarding things for Amelia about running her business is not the awards or success but her staff. “I have a team of six young women. So I think watching the girls really come into themselves and become confident, we’re all under 21,” she said.“We're all watching us just pull the business together and see the growth and our hard work really paying off has been one of the most rewarding things.”Winners will be announced at a presentation evening on 2 July, at The Fraternity Club in Fairy Meadow. The event will bring together business owners, staff and supporters for the night of celebration. The complete list of Kiama Municipality finalists for the 2025 Local Business Awards includes: Acai Fix, Belinda Doyle - South Coast Photography, Burnett Trees, Butchers Nook Kiama, Coloured Bubble, Crooked River Estate, Deer Willow, Entwine Glass Designs, Epics Music, Feather & Heart Candle Collective, First National Coast & Country - Kiama, Gerringong Pet Accommodation, HILL to AIR, Jamberoo Valley Meats, Kiama Academy of Early Learning, Kiama Family Before and After School Care, Lucy Rose Flowers, Marketing Movement, Meats and Greet BBQ Kiama, Miss Arda, Native. Kiama, Platinum Solar Designs, The Chronic Creatives, The Collective Beat Gerringong, The Farmer’s Table.

In a world built for speed, Slow Dough is an act of quiet rebellion.Tucked just off Kiama’s main drag, the little bakery with the Snail of Approval is proof that food made slowly, shared generously, and sourced thoughtfully still has a place and a devoted following.Richard and Lucy King didn’t set out to start a movement.They simply wanted to share their growing sourdough skills during lockdown, first in Melbourne, then by leaving loaves on the doorsteps of new neighbours in Gerringong.But what began as a friendly gesture has since blossomed into Slow Dough Bakery, a three-day-a-week operation with a five-day baking process, a rotating seasonal menu, and a fiercely loyal customer base.Their secret? Time, intention, and a commitment to local connection.From trading excess pumpkins and basil with neighbours to building partnerships with local food producers like The Pines and the Passion Project, Richard and Lucy’s bakery is more than a place to buy bread.It is a model of circular economy in action, grounded in a belief that great food should nourish people, place and purpose.That ethos has now been formally recognised with a Snail of Approval from Slow Food Saddleback, an international movement that champions good, clean and fair food.Slow Dough’s connection with Slow Food Saddleback began long before their Snail of Approval. While still baking out of their garage, Richard and Lucy were invited by a Slow Food member to provide bread for a community pickling workshop.That early collaboration grew into a warm, ongoing relationship marked by shared values around local food, sustainability, and community education.Since opening their bakery, they have continued to support and host Slow Food events, including a focaccia-making course, and have become enthusiastic ambassadors for the movement.The Snail of Approval they received is more than a badge, it is a reflection of their deep alignment with the Slow Food ethos and their commitment to nourishing both people and place."To us, the snail stands for intention," says Lucy. "Every step, from the flour we choose to the way we serve our customers, is done with care."The real revolution is not just in the oven. It is in how they have transformed their space into a hub where sourdough starters meet community starters, compostable cups tell quiet stories of considered choices, and Friday to Sunday service is backed by a five-day process of slow fermentation and fastidious care."Nothing we do here is overnight," Richard says. "We have built this by staying curious, listening to our customers, and staying rooted in why we started, to bring people together over beautiful bread."That guiding purpose is visible in everything from their rotating menu to their waste management system. Offcuts and compostables are collected weekly by Kerryn McInnes from the Passion Project, who turns Slow Dough’s scraps into garden gold.Customers, too, are part of the cycle: some bring lemons, tomatoes or rhubarb from home gardens in exchange for loaves. In a time of rising costs and environmental anxiety, this small exchange feels like a balm.Lucy brings her background in corporate sustainability to the heart of the operation. “We could not do what we do if we were chasing perfection,” she explains. “But we can make considered decisions, partner thoughtfully, and create an experience that reminds people why food matters."Their past lives in the corporate world also help shape the culture inside the bakery.Empowering their team, from casual weekend staff to young mums returning to the workforce, is as important to them as sourcing quality flour. "Everyone here is part of the story," says Lucy.Slow Dough’s approach is a reminder that value is not always measured in speed or volume.It is found in the long ferment, the imperfect peach Danish made with fruit from the Wednesday market, and the casual team member who feels part of something bigger.For Richard, who once worked in corporate change management, the bakery has become a different kind of leadership project, one where growth is measured in meaning, not scale."Sure, we’re a business," he says, "but we’re also building a culture, for our team and for everyone who walks through the door."Slow Dough’s snail may be small, but it carries a big message: local food made with care can still be delicious, inclusive, and economically viable. It just takes time, and people willing to bake the difference.

Opportunities are opening up for dairy exports, but here in our region, short-term leases and rising land prices continue to limit our ability to seize them.Indonesia’s plan to deliver milk to 60 million school children by 2029 could significantly expand demand for dairy across Southeast Asia.According to a new report by Rabobank’s RaboResearch division, the program may require more than two billion litres of milk annually, opening the door for new export partnerships.Yet, as the global opportunity grows, the local reality remains constrained.Kiama’s dairy industry is led by a vibrant generation of young farmers. Many lease land, invest in equipment, and breed award-winning cattle. But they do so under mounting pressure. “Sustaining the industry here isn't about capability, it's about capacity,” one local farmer explained.With Kiama’s coastal lifestyle in high demand, land values continue to climb. The only buyers who can afford to enter the market are wealthy sea/tree-changers or developers banking on future zoning changes. That leaves commercial dairy farmers relying on short-term leases, a precarious foundation for long-term investment.Meanwhile, young farmers in the Kiama LGA are quietly holding up the industry. They’re leasing land year-to-year, investing in equipment they don’t own the ground beneath, and trying to future-proof a legacy that is always at risk of being edged out.RaboResearch senior analyst Michael Harvey said the Indonesian school milk initiative, part of a wider Nutritious Meals Program, represents a major policy shift by the newly elected Indonesian government. “If successful, it could double the size of the white milk market,” he said. While the primary focus is on building domestic supply, Indonesia will remain a net importer of dairy, presenting opportunities for countries like Australia.Harvey believes the greatest potential lies in exporting UHT and recombined milk products, as well as live cattle, genetics, and farm expertise. “To meet the increased milk demand, the local supply would require a fourfold increase in the domestic herd,” he said. “That means importing over one million dairy cattle in the next five years.”Australia is already a long-standing exporter of dairy cattle to Indonesia and holds a strong position thanks to trade access and well-regarded genetics. But Harvey cautions the growth will not be a “game changer” for the Australian industry. It is, however, “a potential growth opportunity.”For Kiama’s farmers, those words ring both hopeful and bittersweet. The global prospects are strong, but local conditions make it difficult to build for the future.What these farmers need isn’t just access to global markets. It’s secure, long-term leases and a recognition that productive agriculture has a place in regions as desirable as Kiama.Without that, export dreams may continue to curdle. 

Lifts for Life offers practical and stylish lift solutions with a commitment to helping their clients stay comfortable in the homes they love.Based in Albion Park Rail and open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm, the family-run business makes homes and businesses across the Illawarra more accessible.Lifts for Life CEO Fiona Wilkinson says the highlight of working in this region is being able to work within the local community to help people stay in their homes and make their lives more accessible. “One of the most rewarding experiences was a guy who was house bound for three years and he was unable to get out of his home,” Fiona said. Lifts for Life was able to assist this client with their custom-designed lift solutions that suited his needs, making his home accessible and comfortable. With years of experience in accessibility solutions, Lifts for Life offers home lifts, wheelchair lifts, commercial lifts, comprehensive services, and ongoing maintenance.“Home lifts are becoming quite popular, and there are lots of options for different types of homes and different needs,” Fiona said. In towns like Kiama, where older generations value staying in their family homes, installing a lift can be the alternative to moving. Not only does it improve accessibility, it can also add value to the property.“They’re not your shopping centre lifts, they’re made specifically for home and there are a lot of options, we can generally find the right option for everybody,” said Fiona. “We provide consultations where people can come and figure out what’s right for them.” Lifts for Life offers reliable service and personalised options to clients, helping them to make their spaces safer and more comfortable for years to come. 

This year marks nine years since Cheryl and Jamie Warren became joint owners of the historic Jamberoo Pub - but their family’s connection to the venue runs much deeper.Built in 1857, the pub has had a long and colorful history. Its relationship with the Warren family began in 1987 when they first started running the business.“We've been running the Jamberoo Pub since 1987,” Jamie says. “So I've basically worked there ever since - it's really the only job I’ve ever had.”Jamie became co-owner with his father in 1995, around the same time he and Cheryl got married.“Jamie and I met many years ago, and I actually worked at the pub back in the early ’90s,” says Cheryl. “I’m a CPA and tax agent, and while I’d been working for other accountants in public practice, I was already deeply involved in the pub’s accounting.”But Cheryl’s ties to the pub go even further back than she originally realised.“I later found out that the man who changed the pub’s façade in the 1950s - giving it the look it has today - was actually my uncle’s stepfather, a Welsh opera singer who owned it at the time,” she says.In 2018, Cheryl and Jamie officially bought out Jamie’s father to become co-owners. Since then, they’ve been running the pub together, and the love they have for it has never faded.“It’s always been a classic old country pub that needed some work, but it had this incredible atmosphere,” Jamie says. “That’s something that’s stuck with me all these years.”Jamie and Cheryl on the Jamberoo Pub veranda on their wedding day (11 February 1995). Source: Jamie WarrenJamberoo has long been a farming town, and Jamie reflects on how the pub’s patrons have changed over the years, even if the essence hasn’t.“Having first lived in Kiama and then moving to Jamberoo, it was a real farming community. And the crowd you would have in the pub most afternoons would be the dairy farmers with their dogs, pigs, snakes, even horses at times,” says Jamie. “It was just very jovial and there was a lot of camaraderie. There's obviously not as many farmers now and a lot of new people. But there is still that farming vibe - we still have roughly 15 to 20 dairy farms - but we have also connected with the various sporting bodies in town and community groups. There’s still a real sense of togetherness here.”The past nine years of ownership, though, haven’t been without challenges.“We’ve been through one of the most tumultuous periods in recent history,” Jamie says. “I think you'd be hard-pressed to find a publican in Jamberoo who’s dealt with what we’ve faced - especially the COVID pandemic.”“Getting through COVID, following all the rules, and trying to keep things going - it wasn’t easy. Even before that, bushfires and other events hit businesses across the South Coast. It’s been a tough run, but we’re finally starting to see improvement.”One of the more meaningful additions to the pub is the Johnny Warren Room, which honours Jamie’s uncle and godfather - legendary Socceroos player and SBS commentator, Johnny Warren. The room is filled with memorabilia and photos celebrating his life.“It’s a really special space,” Jamie says. “Every day we get to celebrate his legacy and share it with everyone who walks through the door. It’s the last thing people expect to find in a country pub.”“The number of people who come in and say, ‘Wow, I was at that game,’ or ‘My dad took me there’ - it’s incredible,” Cheryl adds. “People from all generations connect with those memories, and it’s amazing to hear their stories.”While Cheryl and Jamie have only officially owned the pub for nine years, their goal remains the same: to keep the Jamberoo Pub a warm, welcoming place for locals and visitors alike.“We want people to walk in, be wowed by the history on the walls, and experience something they can’t find in many other places,” Jamie says.

It is impossible to meet David Butcher and not be completely enthralled. Here is a man who has spent his life working with animals, building institutions, and leading organisations, all while maintaining an unshakable sense of curiosity and ingenuity. And yet, when you ask him about the highlights, he shrugs.No big deal. Just built a zoo from scratch in the middle of nowhere, under budget and almost on time. Just fired the public works department when they became an obstacle. Just changed the way people think about conservation, animal welfare, and agriculture. Just.David Butcher and his partner Amanda Large are both heavily involved in their local community Born in New Zealand, David started his veterinary studies at Sydney University in the early 1960s. In those days, there was no veterinary course available in New Zealand, so students had to go abroad. He began his career in dairy practice in Taranaki at a time when the industry was shifting rapidly. The days of small family-run farms with 30 cows were disappearing, making way for larger-scale operations. New Zealand’s approach to pasture management was evolving, and David was in the thick of it, working with farmers as herd sizes grew into the hundreds.But his career wasn’t just about cows. After a stint working with thoroughbreds, he became disillusioned with the racing industry.What followed was a wildly varied career, each phase as remarkable as the last.Locum work at Taronga Zoo turned into a full-time offer to lead the establishment of what would become the Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo.In true David fashion, he took a haphazard, bureaucratic project and got it done. He became a quantity surveyor, a project manager, a civil engineer, and when needed, a demolitions expert.He worked with a crew of farmhands, bushies, and practical problem-solvers to build roads, enclosures, and entire animal habitats. And he did it all in 13 months, delivering the project for $2.7 million and $300,000 under budget.Transporting animals became one of the most fascinating parts of his career.Giraffes from Taronga had to be carefully lowered as trucks passed under low bridges. Elephants from England were transported on cargo ships, surrounded by stacked containers forming enclosures.Aboard planes, giraffes had to descend slowly to prevent fainting from air pressure changes. David worked with Qantas to fly animals across the globe, including the first koalas to Japan. Every transport was a logistical puzzle, requiring creative solutions and careful problem-solving.After eight years at Dubbo, he returned to Taronga Zoo, this time as Assistant Director. But the politics of big institutions never suited him. He soon moved on to run the RSPCA, where he worked to reform animal welfare enforcement and modernise the organisation.His career then took him to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), where he spent a decade leading conservation efforts across Australia and the Asia-Pacific.Under his leadership, WWF tackled major environmental issues, including the preservation of marine habitats, reforestation projects, and climate change mitigation.His work with WWF took him to some of the most remote and fascinating places on the planet, collaborating with international organisations and governments to drive sustainable environmental policies. He played a key role in projects that addressed overgrazing in Tibet, the deforestation crisis affecting the Yangtze River, and sustainable farming practices that protected local ecosystems.Later, he led Greening Australia in New South Wales, pushing for streamlined national management in a sector that often tripped over its own bureaucratic complexity.Throughout these roles, David remained committed to veterinary practice.Except for his years at the zoo, he continued to work part-time as a vet at his practice until 2014 when Bankstown Veterinary Hospital was sold. His career also included a stint in North Yorkshire in mixed practice adjacent to that of Alf White, known as James Herriot. He still holds his veterinary registration, though today his continuing education is largely focused on wildlife issues.His stories are endless.Tales of solving a power crisis in Broken Hill by changing dairy cattle feed to disrupt a flock of 10,000 corellas. Of discovering an old army tip site by watching a bulldozer sink into the earth, spitting up army rations as it went.Of an elephant who, given medication disguised in a loaf of bread, promptly spat it out after rinsing her mouth with water.David’s approach to life is simple: trust people, empower them, and get the job done.And if something isn’t working he gets rid of the roadblocks and handles it himself.

Something delicious is brewing at The Farmers Table every Sunday, and if you have not pulled up a chair yet, what are you waiting for?Owner Alan Smith and chef Sam Prescott Smith are on a mission to make Sundays the tastiest day of the week, serving up mouth watering feasts that have the whole town talking..This Sunday, they are going modern Australian, with Chef Sam serving up pulled pork with apple and ginger chutney, paired with a crisp fennel slaw in their signature pitta.The slaw is a colourful mix of red and green cabbage, fennel, carrot, and shallots, bringing fresh crunch to the slow cooked goodness.And it is not just the food that makes Sundays special.This week, Kiama’s own Shy Boy Steve will be providing the perfect soundtrack, bringing his unique style to round out the atmosphere.Alan and Sam do not settle for the usual.They are constantly scheming, testing, and perfecting each menu, making sure every Sunday has something fresh and exciting to offer.Even naming the dishes becomes an event, with plenty of brainstorming, trial and error, and a few laughs along the way.If you have already been, you know what the buzz is about. If you have not, all you need to do is keep an eye on what is coming next and book yourself in for a Sunday treat.The Farmers Table is fast becoming the place to be, with food that surprises and delights, an atmosphere that feels like home, and a team working tirelessly to make it all happen.The only question now is, what will they come up with next?Whatever it is, you can bet it will be worth the wait.

Kiama’s skyline could soon change, with zoning amendments paving the way for six storey developments. But will developers take the leap?Rising construction costs, strict regulations, and community concerns could prove major hurdles. Some see opportunity, while others remain wary.Recent zoning changes have made Kiama more attractive for six storey developments, particularly within the Central Business District (CBD).In November 2023, Kiama Council approved amendments to the Local Environmental Plan, increasing height allowances in key areas.Additionally, the New South Wales Government’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, coming into effect on 28 February 2025, supports mid-rise housing within 800 metres of key transport hubs.Given these regulatory shifts, some developers are considering new projects in Kiama, but many remain cautious. Recent analysis suggests that Kiama, alongside Byron Bay and possibly Shell Cove, is one of the few regional areas in New South Wales where six storey developments may be financially viable.This is due to Kiama’s high real estate values, which rank among the highest in regional New South Wales.Outside of these select locations, developers are generally finding Class 2 apartment buildings unfeasible due to soaring construction costs. The construction sector is still grappling with stricter regulations introduced in response to high-profile structural failures, such as the Opal Tower.Post-Opal reforms have imposed increased safety, compliance, and defect rectification measures on developers, leading to higher costs and project timelines.While zoning changes now allow for six storey developments, Kiama’s traditionally lower-density planning approach, aimed at preserving the town’s character and views, could lead to pushback from the community and council.Public concerns about infrastructure strain, traffic congestion, and overshadowing remain at the forefront of discussions.However, Kiama’s Director of Planning has pointed out that despite the changes, the amount of R3-zoned land within the 800m radius where six storey developments are allowed is minimal.Furthermore, Kiama’s Development Control Plan (DCP) requires a minimum 25-metre lot width for residential flat buildings, a condition that further restricts viable locations. While six storey buildings are now possible on paper, the actual opportunities for development are significantly constrained. Higher taxes, levies, and infrastructure charges present another hurdle. In some regions, these expenses now account for up to 41% of total development costs, making apartment projects less financially viable.In smaller markets like Kiama, where land values and demand differ significantly from major cities, these added costs require developers to undertake rigorous financial assessments.Additionally, bank lending restrictions have tightened in the wake of past failures, making it harder for developers to secure financing, especially for large-scale residential projects.Many developers are now relying on experienced quantity surveyors to ensure project feasibility before committing to new builds. Kiama’s property market caters primarily to families, retirees, and lifestyle-driven homebuyers, who often favour houses, townhouses, or low-rise developments over mid-rise apartment complexes.While recent zoning changes could increase housing supply, it remains uncertain whether demand will be strong enough to justify large-scale investment.Unlike Sydney’s high-density areas, Kiama does not have the same investor-driven property market. This makes six storey developments a higher-risk venture, particularly if rental demand or resale potential fails to meet expectations.  One major concern among locals is that rapid high-rise development could erode Kiama’s unique identity.Comparisons have been made to Shell Cove, where modern developments have created a landscape that some argue lacks distinct character. Critics warn against Kiama becoming just another featureless coastal town, a risk sometimes referred to as "the geography of nowhere."Urban planning experts stress that successful six storey developments are not just about height but also about the pedestrian experience.Poorly planned buildings risk becoming isolated, characterless towers rather than contributing to a vibrant, walkable town centre.Thoughtful design that prioritises street-level engagement, shading, and pedestrian-friendly elements will be crucial in preserving Kiama’s charm. The broader construction sector continues to face skilled labour shortages, particularly in regional areas where experienced builders for mid-rise developments are harder to find. Material costs and supply chain delays have also contributed to increased building expenses, adding further risk to large-scale projects. While Kiama’s zoning changes and government-backed housing policies make six storey developments possible, they do not guarantee a surge in construction.Developers must weigh the financial, regulatory, and market risks before moving ahead.Those who do proceed will need to conduct rigorous feasibility studies, engage quantity surveyors, and carefully navigate community concerns.For now, Kiama is at a crossroads. Will six storey buildings become a fixture of its evolving landscape, or will the barriers prove too great for developers to take the plunge?

The Shoalhaven Hospital redevelopment is leading the way in getting more women onto building sites. With 13 per cent of its workforce female, the project has more than tripled the NSW Government’s trial target of four per cent for women in trade-based roles.It is also ahead of the industry average, where women make up just 13 per cent of the overall construction workforce and a mere two per cent of trades. This project proves targeted initiatives can shift entrenched industry norms.But while women are stepping into construction roles, the same cannot be said for men entering traditionally female-dominated fields.The numbers tell the story. In health and social assistance, women dominate, making up 79 per cent of the workforce. Education sits at 64 per cent female. Administrative and clerical jobs are overwhelmingly staffed by women. Yet men are barely moving into these spaces.Cultural norms still dictate career paths. Young men are steered towards trades and engineering while caring professions are seen as “women’s work.” Pay is another factor. Construction jobs typically offer higher wages than healthcare or education, making them more attractive to men.Workplace culture plays a role too. Just as women in trades face challenges being accepted, men in nursing or early childhood education can feel out of place.Governments have backed programs to boost women in construction, but there has been little effort to encourage men into female-dominated industries. Recruitment campaigns, better career guidance and policy incentives could help shift the balance.The Shoalhaven Hospital project shows change is possible when governments and industry work together. But for true gender equality in the workforce, that change needs to go both ways.

Kiama Council is taking a hard look at how it manages community assets after several high-profile projects, including the stalled Jamberoo Cycleway, faced cost blowouts, delays, and funding shortfalls. It’s not the only project that has raised concerns.The Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club rebuild and Blue Haven Bonaira aged care project also exposed planning and funding shortfalls, with Council forced to cover unplanned expenses at critical stages.Meanwhile, community groups have grown frustrated with slow asset maintenance, leading some to take matters into their own hands by securing grants or external funding, only to return to Council for final approvals, often without a clear framework in place.A motion put forward by Councillor Melinda Lawton (Item No. 20.3) at the Kiama Council Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday, 18 March 2025 aims to fix these problems by introducing clearer policies, better project oversight, and more transparency in how Council manages public infrastructure.The move follows a 2024 internal audit that highlighted gaps in planning, funding, and asset maintenance, leading to frustrations among community groups and unexpected financial burdens for Council. The Jamberoo Cycleway was meant to provide a safe connection between the village and Kiama’s broader cycleway network, but costs surged from $2.5 million to $5.4 million, leaving a $2.9 million funding gap.With no immediate solution, Council is now considering returning the grant to Transport for NSW. Cr Lawton’s motion proposes a State of the Assets report in Council’s annual review, six-monthly updates to the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee, and a stronger project management framework. The aim is to prevent similar issues from derailing future projects. Council’s CEO Jane Stroud has backed the proposal, recognising the need for more project management resources and stronger governance.The motion will be considered as part of the 2025-26 budget process, with further reports expected. If adopted, these changes could ensure that major community projects, whether led by Council or local groups, are delivered on time, on budget, and without the headaches.

At tomorrow night's council meeting, councillors will vote on whether to withdraw from the Jamberoo Cycleway project due to increased costs that exceed available funding.If endorsed, council will formally notify Transport for NSW, return $2.5 million in grant funding, and submit a final claim to recover $170,000 in project expenses.Council will also explore future grant opportunities under better financial conditions.Council secured $2.5 million in 2021 to fund the construction of the 7-kilometre Jamberoo Valley Cycleway, which was planned to link Jamberoo with the rest of Kiama’s cycleway network.Council secured $2.5 million in 2021 to fund the construction of the 7-kilometre Jamberoo Valley Cycleway, which was planned to link Jamberoo with the rest of Kiama’s cycleway network.Construction was scheduled to begin in the 2023-24 financial year, but council cited staff turnover and a shortage of project management resources as factors contributing to the delays.According to council the full design documentation was completed in December 2024, and now Council must decide on the next steps, as the project funding remains critical.The most pressing issue is the updated cost estimate, which now stands at $5.4 million, $2.9 million more than originally planned.With the funding gap still unresolved and limited options available for securing additional resources, Council faces a choice: proceed and find additional funding or withdraw and return the grant.What if the funding had been used when first allocated?Would the project have been completed before costs escalated?The first stage opened in 2012 with a vision to extend the cycleway to Jamberoo.At the time, council determined a preferred route and secured funding that included land acquisition.Some landholders raised concerns about fencing, flooding, and the impact on their operations.In response, funding was set aside to provide compensation and land acquisition support, similar to the approach taken for the coastal walking track.As the project progressed, council reconsidered the route and explored an alternative along Swamp Road.This approach reduced the need for land acquisition and addressed concerns raised by some landholders.The latest extension brought the cycleway to Browns Road, but it stops short of Jamberoo.Cyclists and walkers now have to join the busy tourist road, creating a safety risk at Fountaindale Creek Bridge.Cyclists and walkers now have to join the busy tourist road, creating a major safety risk at Fountaindale Creek Bridge.Cyclists who use the route say this is a challenging part of the journey.For Jamberoo, the cycleway is more than just infrastructure, it is an opportunity to boost local business and create a safe, accessible link to the coast.Regular cyclists and visitors already use the existing sections, but without a complete connection, Jamberoo cannot fully benefit.Local resident Kim Ryan, who regularly cycles in the area, believes the cycleway would bring a much-needed economic boost to the village."You will have group gatherings, they will eat and have coffee, they will bring money into the town. So why would you not extend the cycleway and make it safe for all these people?It's not only for cyclists. There are people who run, people who walk, people who walk their dogs, children who walk," she said.A scenic ride through rolling hills, farmland and rainforest. Photo source KBug websiteWith project costs now exceeding available funding, council is considering whether to withdraw and return the remaining grant money.Some in the community are questioning whether returning the funding is the right approach.A recent comment on social media highlighted concerns about how grant money has been managed in the past."The cycleway funding was reallocated in 2021 from leftover funds from the Minnamurra River Boardwalk project, which had originally been allocated $4.5 million to $5.4 million, depending on government reports at the time.The boardwalk project was ultimately abandoned due to cost blowouts. If the cycleway is also cancelled, it would mean that only one of the four projects funded from that reallocation has been completed."The comment also raises the point that Transport for NSW has verbally agreed to extend the grant deadline to March 2026, suggesting that there may still be time to reassess options.Given the safety concerns for cyclists and walkers at Fountaindale Creek Bridge, some argue that a staged approach to completing the cycleway could be considered rather than returning the funding.The idea of a fully connected cycleway clearly has community support.Some see potential tourism benefits, while others focus on the safety and wellbeing aspects of a dedicated pathway.Landholder concerns have been an important factor in decision-making, and any future plans would need to consider both community needs and private property impacts.What if a way forward can be found?Could a revised design allow the project to continue?For now, the future of the Jamberoo Cycleway remains uncertain.But what if the conversation is not over yet?The Bugle will update you tomorrow after council deliberations.