Kiama Councillor Matt Brown is concerned about the old police residence on Terralong Street being an eyesore in the town centre and wants to see it restored to its former glory.Cr Brown put forward a Notice of Motion to Kiama Council at Tuesday night’s monthly meeting to advocate for a resolution around the former police residence at 30 Terralong Street, which has been snookered in a Native Title 1993 claim. He requested for Council to write to Kiama MP Katelin McInerney and the NSW Government to liaise with the state departments and the Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council [ILALC] to resurrect the heritage-listed building. “The residence is in a seriously devastated state and I think it’s concerning for everybody that we should have a beautiful building,” Cr Brown told the council meeting. Cr Brown said that he had spoken with ILALC CEO Adell Hyslop to gain a greater understanding of the predicament and said the proverbial legal handcuffs need to be removed. “I don’t have all the answers to how this should progress and that is why I am asking us to simply write to the local MP and try and work out a way forward in this somewhat complicated legal situation,” he said. “It is very unfair for anyone to point to the Land Council and say you need to do some work because they legally just can’t.”   Hyslop confirmed with The Bugle that the estimated cost for repair was between $2-3 million, and explained this was not a normal transaction of real estate for the circa 1850s residence. “We [ILALC] acknowledge that it is in a very dilapidated condition and that the building has become an eyesore,” Hyslop said. “The fact is that we have been working really closely with Crown Lands over the last couple of years, recognising that the costs now to potentially repair and restore both interior and exterior is going to be between $2-3m requiring restorations to be undertaken by a heritage expert.” Earlier in the meeting, Cr Brown tabled a letter from Ms Heslop to Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud, which provided an extensive overview of the situation. “The ILALC is very aware that the building, in its current condition, has become an eyesore in the main street,” Hyslop said in the letter. “We have been working closely with Crown Lands for approximately two years to obtain a hygienic report (now completed) and a builder’s report to assess [the] repair and restoration options.” The letter went on to detail the ILALC’s vision for the former police residence and how the transferring of ownership was under a successful land claim under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW) but goes on to explain the complexity of the next steps. “Because the claim was lodged after 1994, the land is subject to section 42 of the Act, which restricts dealings with land that may be subject to native title,” Hyslop said. “To initiate any type of dealing (i.e. direct use, issuing licences or leases) would require ILACLC to lodge a non-claimant application in the state courts to determine whether native title has been extinguished. “This process usually takes 12-18 months and costs approximately $20,000-$25,000.” Ms Hyslop further unpacks the complexities of the South Coast Peoples Native Title (SCPNT) claim, specifically, that the NSW Government would require the SCPNT to be finalised before the ILALC can lodge the non-claimant application. “Based on current timeframes, this determination [for the SCPNT] may not be concluded for another 5-8 years,” she said. “Following that, the ILALC would then need to negotiate with the registered Prescribed Body Corporate for the claim regarding agreed land use and/or financial or land compensation. “It is for these reasons, the ILALC cannot enter into licenses or leases for the property, as these would constitute ‘future acts’ under the Native Title Act 1993. “At this stage, the ILALC itself is unable to determine what use, if any, the property may have over the next 5-10 years. “The ILALC now owns a property that was poorly maintained for more than 20 years by successive government agencies – initially NSW Police and now Property and Development NSW – and which has become a significant financial liability. “The main purpose of land claims is to create wealth for Aboriginal people through land activation and business enterprises ventures. It is difficult to achieve this when land claims are encumbering with assets that are beyond economic repair.” Kiama Council voted unequivocally 8-0 (Cr Imogen Draisma declared a non-pecuniary interest as she is acting as the local MP’s electorate officer) for McInerney to advocate for greater support from the NSW government and its relevant departments.

It was a privilege to talk with Premier Chris Minns earlier this month ahead of the 13 September by-election. I used the opportunity to highlight the importance of strong local representation and to press the case for urgent investment in the priorities Council has identified through our Advocacy List.For too long, Kiama has missed out on the government support that neighbouring communities have received, with projects such as the Mount Ousley interchange, Shellharbour Hospital and Shoalhaven Hospital upgrades bypassing our area. That must change.Council has set out a clear list of priorities:• Redevelopment of Kiama Sports Complex and Leisure Centre into a Regionally Significant Sporting Facility (estimated at $110–$150 million).• A structure plan for the Kiama Urban Expansion Area, ensuring proper roads, stormwater, sewerage and services.• Urgent investment in Bombo Treatment Plant, which is nearing capacity and creating odour and overflow issues.• Lifting the outdated covenant on residential land near Spring Creek. • Fairer arrangements for Jamberoo Mountain Road, a regional link that should not be funded solely by local ratepayers.Council has shown progress is possible. We secured movement on Glenbrook Drive and continue to advocate with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation for better access to the new Shellharbour Hospital. But many pressing needs remain unmet.The recent announcement of 100 new preschools, with none for Kiama, underlines how far we are still being left behind.These are not wish lists. They are essentials. Every delay costs our community whether in sport and recreation, in housing, in education, in health or in basic infrastructure.Council has done the work to identify what is needed. I call on all candidates in this by-election to commit to these priorities. They reflect the voice of our community and the determination of your Council. We are ready and willing to partner with state and federal governments.Together, with the right support, we can secure the investment Kiama needs and deserves for the future.

As we wind up Local Government Week (4-10 August), I’ve been celebrating the many different roles Council plays across our community.Last weekend I had the privilege of attending the Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards, hosted by Shellharbour City Council in partnership with Wollongong, Kiama and Shoalhaven Councils.It was an inspiring night, one that celebrated the leadership, culture and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across our region.From the Smoking Ceremony to the Awards themselves, it was a reminder of the strength, resilience and depth of First Nations communities.I congratulate all the Award recipients, particularly Aunty Gwenda Jarrett and Uncle Stan Jarrett, who were recognised as Elders of the Year.I’ve had the privilege of working with Aunty Gwenda and Uncle Stan across a range of local government events and initiatives, and they’ve brought an amazing down-to-earth, everyday approach to sharing the history, culture, and practices of the Traditional Owners of this amazing place we all call home.I’m really looking forward to sharing the draft Reconciliation Action Plan Council which has been developing together with our local Elders and First Nations community members later this year.Adding a touch of glamour to Kiama, a blue plaque was recently unveiled for the internationally renowned, Kiama-born Orry Kelly, costumier to the stars from the golden age of Hollywood.I joined the Hon. Dr Sarah Kaine MLC, Councillors, members of the Kiama Historical Society and community for the event at The Sebel Kiama.On further region-wide Council business, I attended a strategic workshop in Wollondilly with Mayors and CEOs from eight LGAs from the Illawarra-Shoalhaven, Western Sydney and the Macarthur/Highlands regions.We’re working together to improve connectivity between our areas.Major issues like housing, infrastructure and funding were also on the agenda, highlighting why it’s so important that neighbouring councils are aligned and proactive in our advocacy and to collaborate with state and federal governments.Closer to home, Kiama Council’s Shoalhaven Street Precinct has now been listed by the NSW Government as a State Significant Rezoning project.This is a major milestone in realising the long-term potential of the site, right in the heart of Kiama, and a critical step in delivering a mix of housing types, including much-needed affordable options, as identified in our Local Housing Strategy.It’s a testament to the groundwork done by our staff to get us to this point.With the NSW Government now funding the expert studies and assessments needed to move this precinct forward, we’re well placed to deliver a thoughtful, community-led outcome.We got elected to make the strategic decisions that our community needs, and I am thrilled that our first unanimous strategic decision to purchase this site is moving so rapidly and is positioning us for a stronger future.Finally, I’d like to congratulate all the nominees and award winners at our Kiama Local Government Week Awards, held at The Pavilion this week. I’m proud to have such a great group of community-minded people in our LGA.This type of spirit is what sees our community thrive and reminds me once again what a privilege it is to be Mayor of Kiama.

Love them or loathe them, everyone has an opinion on their local council, and our Municipality is no different.Local Government Week (4 - 10 August) is our annual opportunity to proudly remind everyone the major role councils play in our everyday lives.Our residents would know Kiama Council is responsible for local roads, rates and rubbish, but may be less aware of the many other services we provide.We operate two free local libraries, a visitor centre, leisure centre, youth centre, art gallery, function centre, community halls and meeting rooms.Click here to view Cameron McDonald's Mayor Update on YouTubeWe also provide grants for all manner of major events and community activities, beach patrols in summer, and maintain our many playgrounds, sporting fields, parks and outdoor spaces (yes, including mowing the grass).We also advocate for the interests of our community in planning matters and other issues that affect local liveability, sustainability, safety and amenity.The collaboration of Council and our community in developing the new Kiama Local Housing Strategy is a great example of this.Overall, the 128 councils in NSW play a critical part in the day-to-day lives of eight million people who call the state home by:• Managing more than $140 billion of community assets – parks, pools and playgrounds; libraries, local festivals and lighting, cemeteries and childcare centres, museums and art galleries.• Employing nearly 60,000 people across NSW.• Driving local economies by employing lawyers, labourers and librarians; cleaners, carpenters and carers; electricians, engineers and educators.• Managing 90 per cent (164,000km) of the state’s local and regional road network.• Investing more than $2 billion each year caring for the environment via recycling and waste management, stormwater management, and preserving and protecting native flora and fauna.• Running 450 libraries that attract more than 34.8 million visits each year.• Managing an estimated 35 million tonnes of waste each year.So, if you do spot one of our many hard-working council staff during Local Government Week (or any other week for that matter), why not give them a thumbs up at the very least, they deserve it.

Kiama Council sent a contingent to the National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra this week, gathering information and ideas from the largest annual gathering of local government leaders in Australia.Chief executive officer Jane Stroud, Mayor Cameron McDonald and his fellow Councillors Stuart Larkins, Melinda Lawton and Mike Cains are representing Kiama at the assembly in Canberra. The attendees from 537 Councils are getting through a mountain of work at the five-day conference with 192 motions being put forward. “The conference essentially is Mayors, CEOs, Directors and Councillors from all over Australia. "The topics we are talking about are financial sustainability and local government, roads and infrastructure, emergency management, housing and homelessness, jobs and skills, community services, Closing the Gap on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander reconciliation, data and digital technology, climate change, environment and the circular economy.“Because of the structure - we're all created under state government - we then, as local governments, go through the process of what's important for us to advocate to the federal government about.“It's palpable how much local government and people who work in the sector love their community and love the people who make up their community. You talk to people and there is such a great willingness to better people's lives in those communities. It's not just rhetoric, it is actually there, you can almost taste it.”Cr Larkins said he was keen to enhance advocacy to the federal government around financial sustainability.“One of the things that's been an issue has been the financial assistance grant. Currently, 0.5% of GST is provided to the 537 councils across Australia through the financial assistance grants and ALGA's been advocating for an increase in that to 1% of GST,” he said.“So that's something that would benefit Kiama, if that was the case, to increase it. “Being an Aboriginal councillor it is great to be able to network with many other Councillors and Mayors across Australia and seeing what many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have been doing. I've been very heartened by the push for Reconciliation and the Indigenous heritage that are a big feature of this assembly.”Cr Lawton said it was her first trip to an ALGA conference and it was pleasing to an insight into other Councils and “understanding how we're all in a similar position”.“We seem to have a lot to do with very limited resources. In each locality, we've got different areas that we potentially suffer from. But at the end of the day, all of us are in the same boat where we're really trying to do as much as we can for communities with very limited resources.”She said an AI seminar offered up plenty of ideas around the planning sector. “That was very interesting, it could have great impacts, but it's a tool that has to be used wisely,” Cr Lawton said.Cr Cains said the Conference was a chance for “learning, networking and being inspired”.“We've been able to learn from so many of the different speakers, so many interesting insights into how different Councils overcome their different problems. “It really does bring us away with a wider aperture so that we can understand our own Council much better.“The networking opportunities are absolutely immense. We've been able to talk to councillors from everywhere, from Esperance to the Northern Territory, Queensland, and our neighbouring councils, Shoalhaven and Shellharbour.“It's been a really worthwhile and really fulfilling event to be a part of.”Stroud said she had been “catching up with peers and people I've worked with in the sector for the last 20-plus years”.“There was a really big session this morning on adaptation and resilience. Through ISJO, we've actually been doing a two-year project on that and it was good to see that kind of shared across the nation.“We're looking at a range of hazards, whereas, say, Hobart was only looking specifically at potential bushfire hazard. So we're looking at flooding, landslips, bushfires. Climate change is just going to keep coming at us."

Kiama Council Chief Executive Officer Jane Stroud is ready to build on “the amazing/difficult experience” of her first four years in the job after being retained for another three years.A contract renewal until 2028 was debated and voted on at the Council meeting on Tuesday night after she was rated as operating at a high standard at a recent performance review.Stroud joined Kiama Council as CEO in June 2021.With an extensive background in local government and strategic planning, she previously served as director and deputy CEO at Logan City Council and director at Southern Downs Councils in Queensland.At the end of Tuesday’s meeting, Councillors convened behind closed doors to discuss Stroud’s potential reappointment.Council acknowledged and approved a request from the CEO to renew her contract for a period of three years from 18 June 2025.Stroud’s employment contract will now run until midway through 2028 and she will receive a 3% pay rise as part of Council’s decision to keep her in the executive role.“Firstly, can I just say thank you to the Mayor and the Councillors for their decision. "It's the single biggest decision that Council and councillors ever make - they only get one employee and I'm really honoured and privileged to be their employee and to work with them,” she said.“It has been a really amazing/difficult experience working at Kiama Council over the last four years and I'm really grateful to be able to continue to be part of the direction that the organisation goes in and to keep working with the amazing staff and the amazing team that I have built an incredible relationship with over the last four years. “I have some absolutely fabulous people who work for me and who work on behalf of the community and do an incredible job. I'm proud to be their leader." Stroud joked that she lives in “PIO Land” in reference to the Performance Improvement Order which has been imposed on Kiama Council by the NSW Government due to past governance problems.“That's a shared challenge but that is the challenge,” she said.“I would really love to see the organisation have that PIO lifted and to be able to know that we have a sustainable future in front of us and that you can leave a legacy that nobody has to go through this again because it's been really tough.”Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said he was really happy that the Councillors have decided to support the CEO in keeping her around.“I think it promotes great stability in the administrative arm of Council,” he said.“Council has shown that they have confidence there that things are heading in the right direction. “We've only been here for nine months and essentially we've come in on the back of a Performance Improvement Order that is really important that Council are addressing and we've seen that the results so far are going very well under the CEO and the executive leadership group that the CEO has been able to assemble.“It provides great stability for the rest of our term and essentially I think it's really good to provide public confidence in Council that the councillors and the administrative arm are working cohesively with a set of objectives in mind.”

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald is proud of what Council has achieved under its Performance Improvement Order and is committed to Council getting back in the black by 2026-27.Cr McDonald says Council has come back from the brink and, while it has been a hard slog for both the previous and the current Councillors, as well as the wider council organisation, the results speak for themselves.“The Performance improvement order (PIO), is what’s mission critical for our council and has been since it was issued by the NSW Government back in November 2022.“The PIO is about balancing the budget and making sure that we’re financially sustainable and I’m really proud of what’s been achieved in 2.5 short years,” Cr McDonald said.A report from the CEO on the PIO in Council’s June Business Papers outlines Council’s progress, showing nearly all items are complete (70%) or underway.“We’ve seen our budget deficit reduced to a $3 million deficit – which means Council has achieved operational savings of $15 million – a huge achievement.”But that doesn’t mean Council can rest on its laurels, as there is still more to do. Council has introduced a rolling program of service reviews to ensure efficiencies and that it is delivering best practice. Service reviews are a local government requirement and they also reassure the community they’re getting a good return on investment.“The ratepayers are our shareholders and essentially they want to see their money being spent in the best way possible on services and for their local community. “So that’s where we definitely need to go. We need to be accountable to ratepayers.“Delivery of services within the restrictions imposed by the performance improvement order is the critical piece at the moment.”The Office of Local Government is looking closely at anyone who is under a performance improvement order to make sure that they are addressing their relevant issues and hitting their targets.While the Council may consider some increases (eg: the NSW Government/IPART-dictated 10% increase in domestic waste charges) and reductions of services, for example shorter seasonal hours at our Visitor Information Centre and Libraries, “it is about a partnership between the public and Council moving forward to make sure that we get that PIO lifted”.Council, like the rest of Australia, is subject to financial pressure from inflation and rising costs of living. The NSW Government’s IPART granted a rate increase of 3.7 per cent last year but Council’s wages bill went up by a similar amount, while the cost of electricity increased by double that, and Sydney Water charges have risen up to 18%.“Altogether, we’re tracking really well and if we all pull together, I’m confident we can clear the PIO and continue to deliver appropriate, effective and efficient services that benefit everyone in our wonderful Kiama community.”

Kiama Council has released the draft masterplans for both the Kiama Sports Complex and South Werri Beach Reserve.The draft masterplans will help the future layout and design of these two community facilities and are important part in attracting the necessary government funding to carry out the work.The masterplan for the Kiama Sports Complex (including the Kiama Leisure Centre) is designed to address the need for significant upgrades to the playing surface, lighting, buildings and amenities, which are nearing the end of their lifespan.It provides options for an integrated design with high-quality infrastructure and amenities, that enhance sport participation.The masterplan for the South Werri Reserve reflects the community’s desire to preserve as much native habitat as possible while creating more opportunities for recreation.This includes an improved playground, picnic area, skate park and pumptrack, new basketball court, renewed tennis courts, seating, pathways, shade trees and vegetation.The drafts were developed with extensive public and targeted consultation to learn what the community would like at each site.They also help realise our vision for a healthy, sustainable and caring community.The draft masterplans are now on public exhibition until Tuesday, 5 August 2025.

“Skate park to be removed.”When you read the summary of Kiama Sports Complex Masterplan, it seems clear: Kiama’s local skatepark will be demolished.However, for those who read the full 56-page document, the truth is buried behind the bullet points: the Masterplan suggests the skatepark is rebuilt in “Central Kiama”.This is good news for the thriving community of skaters, bikers and scooter fans who use the skatepark regularly, including Kiama Skater Kids - a social group that brings skate families together.The current skate park is old, especially compared to Berry’s Boongaree Park and Holborn Park in Berkeley.However, the local skate community do have concerns, especially the size, location and whether it’s fit for purpose.The Masterplan suggests there is space for a “small skate park” in Coronation Park or Black Beach Reserve.These have been chosen because of their “central location” and “better surveillance”.The current skatepark is covered in graffiti, tucked away in the corner of a carpark with poor lighting.Beachside skate parks make great Instagram photos, but what about the flooding and the sand that blows in? (Sand and skateboard wheels are not a good combination.)“I just hope they don’t reduce the size dramatically, and it’s built by someone who knows what they’re doing,” a local skater dad told me.My advice to Council? Ask the skater kids. This is their playground.Amy Molloy is a journalist and editor, and the creator of Kiama Skater Kids - a social group that brings kids who love to skate, bike and scooter together.

Around 380 residential lots are a step closer to being built after Kiama Council has received the development application for Stage 1 of the South Kiama Urban Release Area.Situated to the west of the Princes Highway between Saddleback Mountain Road to the north and Weir Street to the south, this URA contains 40 hectares of land that will also include public open space, environmental conservation and heritage areas, stormwater and associated infrastructure.The subdivision and development of the overall URA is being carried out over four stages and the DA for Stage 1, closest to Saddleback Mountain Road, provides for 81 residential lots between 300sqm and 700sqm in size.“This is the most significant housing development our Municipality has seen for many years and will affect most of us either directly or indirectly,” Mayor Cameron McDonald said.“I urge everyone, to have a look at what’s proposed, see what you think, and make a submission.”As part of the application, Saddleback Mountain Road will be upgraded and roads within the subdivision will be constructed, along with footpaths, bicycle shared paths and other infrastructure such stormwater worksRehabilitation work will be conducted on the riparian corridor, including bank stabilisation, rock batter retaining walls, bioretention basin and revegetation.Your community - Your stories Advertising is the backbone of the Bugle newspaper. We provide our print edition and The Bugle App free of charge, but we need your support to continue delivering quality content. Take action and support us today!Email hello@thebuglenewspaper.com.auA public park just under 2000 square metres will be a major part of the development, including a half basketball court, playground with soft fall areas, shade structures, seating and landscaping.Kiama Council will ensure the Conservation Management Plan protects heritage items such as Kendalls Cemetery and the existing dry-stone walls.The Stage 1 development application was placed on public exhibition this week for community feedback up until 5pm on 9 July.Kiama Council director of planning, environment & communities Ed Paterson said the Development Control Plan for the South Kiama URA would set specific controls for the subdivision and dwelling construction.“Having a site specific DCP for South Kiama ensures we can get the best possible outcomes from this development, for its future residents, and the wider community,” Paterson said.“I’d like to thank my planning staff for their efforts getting this DCP in place as well as working with the developers to ensure their plans adhere to the letter and spirit of the DCP.“Another win for our community is a Planning Agreement we’re negotiating, where the developer will provide land, works and monetary contributions to Council.”The Planning Agreement, once finalised, will also be put on public exhibition for community feedback.To view the development application and make a submission visit Kiama Council's website.The documents can also be viewed at Council’s administration office at 11 Manning Street, Kiama.

Whether you have a spacious backyard or live in an apartment, composting is for everyone.Kiama Council is hosting a free workshop on the 17 June at the Kiama Community Gardens on home composting.Joe Carter, who volunteers at the Kiama Community Gardens, will be providing an overview of the benefits of composting with participants.“The good thing about this is it works for people who live in apartments… it is not necessarily about having a garden,” he said.The event will guide participants through the basics of successful home composting, which includes three different methods.The methods are the ‘Dalek composting bin’, a worm farm, and ‘Bokashi One’ composting system. All participants will be provided with one that suits their residential needs.The worms are locally sourced from Gerringong and double in population every six months, but seem to manage their population.The event will provide a guide on how to use the different composting systems and which one is best for your home. It will also troubleshoot common problems people come across when they get their hands dirty in composting.Carter said that by composting at home, residents can help bring down the cost of landfill waste to councils.Research from the University of Southern Queensland highlights that food waste is a global concern, with around one third of food being wasted annually, which can have a flow-on effect onto council resources.Kiama is viewed as an Australian leader in the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) system since its implementation over a decade ago.“I was speaking to one person recently who started composting at the age of 14 and has now moved into a share house and has their housemates doing it,” Carter said.Thursday was World Environment Day and Carter said everyone can help out: “It does make you more aware… basically I’m composting all my food waste..“Composting makes sense and it’s a good feeling as well.”Bookings are essential for the workshop and can be made at the Kiama Council Website. Registrations close on 16 June at 3pm.

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said Council is ready to move ahead with its Housing Strategy at its meeting next month.After he recently met with NSW Housing Minister Paul Scully, Cr McDonald is hopeful of making progress after Council was inundated with feedback from the Draft Local Housing Strategy (Draft v2) being on public exhibition between 21 February and 27 April.“Council will consider the finalised strategy for adoption at our July Council meeting,” he said.“And accompanying that will be an analysis of all the feedback we received from our pop-ups, from our website, from public discussions to show that we've listened, we've considered, and this is the final strategy.”Cr McDonald described the catch-up with the minister as positive and along with CEO Jane Stroud and Director of Planning, Environment and Communities Ed Paterson, they were able to bring Scully up to speed on the housing strategy and assure him that Council is implementing the performance directions from the state government. Council is looking at various scenarios for the Housing Strategy which will be debated at next month’s meeting.“Council will consider the finalised strategy for adoption at our July Council meeting,” he said.“We’re looking at the bigger picture from a development point of view that will take into account the infrastructure needs that we require locally and not to look at developments in isolation that possibly don't trigger the need for aninfrastructure upgrade, but to consider the overall development framework and policy of the local area as a whole so that the necessary discussions with state agencies and other agencies can occur so that we aren't caught out,” the Mayor added.Despite written submissions to the state government and ongoing discussions with the relevant departments, there is still no resolution on Council’s request to have controversial caveats lifted so residential land can be sold in Glenbrook Drive, near Spring Creek.“We do have five blocks of land out there that are connected to water and sewage,” he said.“There are houses built between those lots and Bombo Quarry, which is the subject of the caveat - the operations there. So it doesn't make sense for that caveat to remain in place. “And while we're under a performance improvement whereby we need to have balance neutral finances by 2027, that would provide much-needed income for Council to be able to move forward and achieve our objectives.”

Shadow Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast Natalie Ward has accused the NSW Government of turning a blind eye to claims of a conflict of interest levelled at Kiama Councillor Imogen Draisma. Ward believes Cr Draisma should have declared a conflict of interest and abstained from voting at the recent Council meeting over a reclassification motion involving three local surf life saving clubs.Cr Draisma, who was one of five local Councillors who voted for the motion along with Matt Brown, Yasman Tatrai, Stuart Larkins and Mike Cains, is employed as an electorate officer for Wollongong MP Paul Scully, who is also the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Shadow Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman first raised concerns about Cr Draisma’s employment in NSW Parliament last Thursday, directing a pointed question to Scully.“Your staff member, Imogen Draisma, didn’t disclose a conflict of interest before voting on the 20th of May in favour of a Council motion to reclassify three surf life saving clubs from community land to operational land, allowing them potential sale,” Tuckerman said in Parliament.“That reclassification requires your approval. What discussions did you have with Councillor Draisma about this reclassification prior to the vote?”Scully responded with: “Well, well. This is deeply inquisitive, Mr Speaker. “I don’t discuss Council matters with Councillor Draisma but as for her declaration, I don’t know. I also don’t watch Kiama Council proceedings because I have got work to do.”When contacted by The Bugle about Tuckerman’s query, Cr Draisma was adamant there was no conflict of interest.“As the former Minister for Local Government, I would expect the Member to better understand the fundamental process of land reclassification under the Local Government Act,” she said.“I have, on the public record, diligently disclosed and removed myself from numerous items of business in the current and previous term of Council.“The motion in question is to commence a reclassification process of land subject to consent of each Surf Life Saving Club. The outcome of this consultation will be provided in a future report to Council. “It is not the policy of Kiama Municipal Council to sell any Surf Life Saving Club or the land that they sit on. “If the Member, or the person behind her, has concerns they are aware of the avenue available. “I will not be intimidated from serving my community by a politically motivated misinformation and disinformation campaign made under parliamentary privilege. I have written to the Speaker seeking a Citizens’ Right of Reply.”Ward said “locals are right to smell a cover-up”.“The Minns Labor Government is running a two-tier system where it is one rule for everyday locals, and another for Labor staffers sitting on councils voting on planning matters tied to their bosses,” she said.“The Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully, is the Minister for Planning and the employer of the councillor who voted on a land reclassification matter - a matter that will ultimately end up on his desk. “She didn’t declare a conflict, and he says he didn’t ask. From Macquarie Street, down through the Illawarra and to Kiama, Labor’s got a transparency problem.”Ward said Cr Draisma declared at the Council meeting “a significant non-pecuniary conflict” for Item 15.5 – Quarterly Planning and Development Report, and left the chamber during that item due to her employment with the Planning Minister. However, for Item 20.1, she participated in the debate and voted on a matter that Ward claims involves planning powers held by her employer, creating a clear perception of conflict.Cr Draisma opted not to respond to Ward’s claims when contacted by The Bugle this week.

Kiama Council is demonstrating its zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption with the release of its new Fraud and Corruption Control Policy.The updated policy, which is currently on public exhibition, is designed to protect Council revenue, expenditure, information and assets from any attempt to gain financial or other benefits by deceit.It includes a Statement of Business Ethics and the policy follows a comprehensive review, informed by the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption.Council has issued a statement to reinforce that "fraud and corruption are incompatible with our values and threaten our ability to serve our community in a cost effective, efficient and ethical manner".Staff members receive regular mandatory training to staff on fraud and corruption.The draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy and Statement of Business Ethics are on public exhibition until Friday 27 June 2025.You can have your say at the Council website.

Kiama Council is seeking feedback on our draft Property and Asset Recycling Strategy 2025-2028.The draft Strategy is a requirement of the NSW Government Performance Improvement Order and includes actions for our Strategic Improvement Plan (SIP).It will be used to guide how Council property is utilised, optimised and developed, to align with our service delivery. The intent is to use property assets to achieve better community and commercial value.The Strategy considers community, social, cultural and environmental factors in determining the preferred, alternative and least preferred options for each property or asset.It also ensures proceeds from recycling of assets are used to invest in Council infrastructure and assets, with funds held in restricted reserves.The Strategy will be reviewed every two years.To view the draft Strategy and make a submission, visit the Council website.

Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club is excited about the prospect of safeguarding its financial future so it can continue serving the community after getting the green light at last week’s Kiama Council meeting to have its new clubhouse reclassified.At last week’s meeting, Council voted to engage with three local surf clubs - Gerringong, Kiama and Kiama Downs - to understand if they have an appetite to reclassify, rezone and subdivide the lands that the three clubs sit on.The end goal for Gerringong SLSC is to be able to sublet space in the clubhouse for a commercially run cafe and provide a free meeting place for other local community groups.Council, as the owner and landlord of each surf clubhouse community facility, has offered Gerringong Surf Club a temporary 12-month licence agreement for the use of the building as a clubhouse for Surf Life Saving activities.Gerringong SLSC vice-president Richard Payne said they just want to explore their options and work constructively with Council to see what’s possible.“We’re super thankful for the Councillors who supported the motion,” he told The Bugle.“It’s really exciting that the Council is prepared to investigate reclassification and see what works for not only our Surf Club but the other ones as well. It’s a positive step.”Payne said it costs Surf Clubs around $100,000 annually just to get their patrols up and running, not to mention all the other costs associated with equipment, surf sports and nippers programs.He estimated it would cost Council more than $300,000 to replace the service that Gerringong SLSC provides.“This whole thing has been around our financial sustainability and ensuring that for the long term so we can ensure the safety of beachgoers.“We’re a vital organisation for developing youth, bringing people in and that’s huge in terms of mental health aspects and getting people involved in the community.”Councillor Matt Brown, who supported the motion which passed by a vote of 5-4, said the Surf Club simply wanted to go about running their business like North Wollongong, South Wollongong or Shellharbour City.Cr Brown said it was “scaremongering” to suggest that the club would use its new ownership status to privatise any part of the facility.“No one is suggesting or has thought of selling those assets. Who the hell would you sell a surf club to? The only people who would be interested in running a surf club is its current occupant - Gerringong Surf Club Club always gonna get run by Gerringong Surf Club.“I just find that really disingenuous because no one's thinking of doing it or wanting to do it - you can come up with a whole bunch of reasons to stop anyone doing anything by just making something.“The Surf Club has come to Kiama Council saying we need a lease and we need to be able to sub-let our kiosk. They don't want to have surf club members running a kiosk.“They want surf club members on the beach to patrol to save lives, not making coffee - that job is for a small business person the previous owner of the kiosk.“It’s a community club for the community - they want to rent space out for community groups but at the moment they're not allowed to under the licence agreement so we’ve just got a big white elephant sitting there.“We need to empower the surf club to go about doing their great community work.“They’re keeping the beach safe and costing Council nothing so if they weren't doing it for free, Council would have to put paid lifeguards there.”Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips was pleased to see progress being made.“When I delivered $5.5 million from the Albanese Labor Government for the new Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club building, it was to help secure the future for the club and its members,” she told The Bugle.“So volunteers into the future, just like those before them, could continue to protect our beaches and save lives, which benefits everyone in our community.“The resolution at Kiama Council was a significant win.”

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has issued a statement saying Council will review contribution plans in light of concerns raised by Councillor Erica Warren.She had called upon Council to enlist the services of a specialist consultant to prepare a new Section 7.11 Developer Contributions Plan and to include the cost of this work in the 2025–26 budget.Cr Warren said poor governance had resulted in a significant cost to Council from money that had not been collected from developer contributions.Mayor McDonald released a statement on Wednesday to address what he called community concerns about developer contributions.“Regarding recent discussion in the community about Section 7.11 and Section 7.12 contributions, I have tasked the CEO with providing a review of the process that has led to the policy adopted by Council. “All non-confidential information in that report will be provided to the community.”He has requested the review be presented to the July 2025 Ordinary Meeting.“Following the completion of Council’s Local Housing Strategy, Council may consider revisiting the policy to ensure the best return for residents from developer contributions,” Cr McDonald said.

Business owners and operators will get to have their say on Kiama's evening and twilight trading through a Night-Time Economy Forum.Kiama Council has announced the forum will be held on Monday 2 June from 3.30pm to 5pm, downstairs, at The Pavilion in Kiama.Council staff and representatives from the NSW Government’s Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, want to explore with local business owners how Kiama can responsibly and sustainably grow its after-dark economy.While Council was unsuccessful in its recent Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) Kickstart Grant application to establish a SEP in Kiama, there remains a strong appetite to support local businesses that are interested in expanding their night-time operations.“There’s little point changing the rules for businesses that don’t want to stay open later – but for those that do, we can support that ambition,” said Sally Bursell, Council’s tourism and economic development manager.The session will explore key themes such as trading conditions, planning and licensing opportunities, cultural activation, safety, and what local enablers or barriers currently exist.Council is aiming to build a vibrant night life while preserving Kiama’s unique charm and community amenity.Tourism and Economic Development Committee chair Matt Brown said the forum would bring together a cross-section of voices from Kiama’s business, hospitality, cultural and tourism sectors to help shape a shared vision for a vibrant, safe and sustainable night-time economy.“We know that Kiama has incredible potential to strengthen its twilight economy – not just for visitors, but for the benefit of our community, our creatives, and our small businesses,” Cr Brown said.This local initiative is part of Council’s broader engagement with the NSW Government’s Vibrancy Reforms and the work of the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, which seeks to support councils, businesses and the community to build vibrant, diverse, inclusive and safe 24-hour economies across NSW. The outcome of this forum will also feed into the Council’s Visitor Economy Strategy.Anyone interested in attending does not need to register, just turn up and share their thoughts.

Kiama Council is on the lookout for new faces to join its Finance Advisory Committee.The committee is aiming to add at least four suitably qualified community members for the term starting in July.Convening quarterly, the committee guides Council’s long-term financial plan and related reforms. Meetings are held in person at the Council Administration Building or virtually via Microsoft Teams.The committee aims to:provide expert advice which informs the future financial sustainability of Council;support and provide advice to Council’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer;act as a conduit between the community and Council on financial concerns;make recommendations to Council on specific financial concerns and matters.Council will consider several factors in determining whether members should be added to the committee.They must have relevant experience and expertise and be able to demonstrate that they are connected and representative of the community.Council will also consider whether the person is a resident of the Kiama Local Government Area, there is a gender balance on the committee and a representation from across the full Kiama geographical area, and that cultural and age diversity is represented.If you would like to apply for the committee, click here by June 8.