The iconic Kiama Blowhole is one of two sites that Surf Life Saving NSW has begun trialling new Artificial Intelligence camera technology to help prevent rock fishing tragedies over the next 14-month period. Funded by NSW and federal governments, the SAIL (Surveillance AI for Lifesaving) project aims to improve coastal safety by identifying lifesavers or rescuers when a rock fisher has been washed or enters the water unexpectedly. Rock fisher Chengchao Zhao who is a design engineer and a resident of western Sydney, has experienced the dangers of rock fishing with a close call at the popular casting spot of the Kiama Blowhole.  “I felt the conditions were OK and the sea was not very strong but after 10 minutes, all my fishing gear was gone,” Chengchao said. “That kind of wave is very scary!”Along with the AI camera technology, the NSW Government is investing $23 million over four years, delivering jet skis and emergency response beacons up and down the coast. Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said this trial and funding will not only support the work of NSW lifesavers for quick responses but provide greater data for research improvements. “Both Kiama and Little Bay have sadly seen too many heartbreaking incidents,” Dib said. “By working with Surf Life Saving NSW, we’re taking practical steps aimed at making the NSW coastline safer – and already, we are seeing lives saved.” Kiama MP Katelin McInerney is pleased to see this technology being trialled at the Kiama Blowhole. “Our community has been impacted too many times over the years when people have been swept off rock platforms, and it’s encouraging to see innovative safety solutions being trialled to help save lives,” she said.Both McInerney and Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce had a strong message for rock fishing enthusiasts this summer.  “I encourage everyone to stay alert to conditions and always wear a life jacket while enjoying our coastline," McInerney said."Rock fishing remains one of the highest risk activities and I urge rock fishers to wear a life jacket every time they fish and avoid situations where they put their lives at risk this summer," Pearce said.There is a national average of 13 people who die per year because of rock fishing, with a total of 126 fatalities in NSW since 2004. Chengchao welcomes the new technology and encourages all levels of government and departments to continue education programs for those engaging in rock fishing. “Some people I know who rock fish don’t have enough awareness or education around the dangers, which is very frustrating – hopefully the government can help,” he said. Chengchao explained that because of the unpredictability of rock fishing, he is ritualistic in his approach.   “I always wear a life jacket when fishing, always go with my friend to keep an eye out for each other, and I also do comprehensive research before I go and fish,” he said. “Checking the forecast which includes checking the tide and swell height and direction, wind (speed and direction), what is the appropriate gear for that rock fishing area – these are just some of the many variables I must consider.” The NSW government recommends it is safest to wear a lifejacket whenever rock fishing or exposed to ocean swell, but it is only enforced in declared areas, which interestingly does not include the Kiama Blowhole. Flagged earlier this year as a potential site for the trial, Surf Life Saving NSW South Coast branch president Shane Wicks told The Bugle that there had been at least four rescues off the Kiama Blowhole fishing area in the first six months of 2025. Kiama Council provided permission for the trial to be undertaken on Council land with Mayor Cameron McDonald explaining that the monitoring systems are in two locations around Blowhole Point.Council is also undertaking community consultation for opting into the NSW Rock Fishing Act 2016 which would include Kiama's coastal regions from Minnamurra Headland right down to Black Head Beach in Gerroa. At the recent Local Government NSW Annual Conference in Penrith, Council was successful in advocating for two important motions which included rock fishing safety reforms, in response to the tragic increase in fatalities along the NSW coast and was attended by Mayor Cameron McDonald, Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters, and Councillor Stuart Larkins."When councils unite, we can achieve meaningful outcomes. Seeing Kiama's motions adopted shows the power of collaboration," Deputy Mayor Matters said. The other site undertaking the SAIL project trial is on the south-eastern coastal region of the Randwick LGA, where the trial has already recorded a successful rescue of a rock fisher who was swept off the rocks during a heavy swell at Malabar. For more information about rock fishing lifejacket laws and declared areas head to: https://www.nsw.gov.au/environment-land-and-water/coasts-waterways-and-marine/rock-fishing-lifejacket-law For more information on Surf Life Saving Australia's Coastal Safety Brief Rock Fishing head to: https://www.surflifesaving.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/05/Surf-Life-Saving-Australia-Rock-Fishing-Coastal-Safety-Brief-2020.pdf For more information on Kiama Council's community consultation regarding rock fishing safety in the Kiama area head to: https://yoursay.kiama.nsw.gov.au/rock-fishing-safetyBelow is a video example of the new AI camera in action

When 18-year-old Ava Groves travelled from Nowra to Sydney for the State Final of the 2025 Regional Public Speaking Competition, she didn’t expect to leave Parliament House as one of the top three speakers in NSW.“I was definitely surprised,” Groves said. “The competition was insane. Everyone there knew what they were doing, they're all experienced public speakers – I really didn’t expect it.”Groves, who has just graduated from St John the Evangelist Catholic High School in South Nowra, represented the Queanbeyan round after winning her regional event earlier this year.Groves taking third place next to Richard MarlesThe State Final, held on 5 December, brought together six outstanding students from across regional NSW as part of the NSW Legislative Council’s Regional Roadshow program.The program, launched during the Council’s Bicentenary, aims to strengthen young people’s connection with the democratic process by taking public speaking competitions and youth forums to regional centres.This year’s roadshows visited Grafton, Queanbeyan, Tamworth, Griffith, Cessnock and Orange before finalists were selected to speak in the Legislative Council Chamber.Groves’ prepared speech, titled “The lies we tell ourselves,” examined the small but constant fictions many people use as coping mechanisms – from insisting everything is fine to convincing ourselves we’re doing enough for causes like the environment.“It wasn’t targeted at anyone,” she said. “It was more for the general public, because we all lie – there are always things we could be doing better.”Despite being new to the craft, she found the impromptu section of the competition less daunting than expected.“Everyone had the same 15 minutes to prepare,” she said.“Not as much is expected of you compared to the prepared speech, so I felt more reassured. I could just get up there and talk.”According to Groves, the regional finalists all got on very well. “We were all pretty close by the end,” she said. “Some of the places they were from I’d never even heard of.”Finalists (not in order) Gabrielle Eveleigh, Maitland Grossmann High School, Ava Groves, St John The Evangelist Catholic High School, Nowra , Jonah Grimshaw, Condobolin High School, Hannah Lennon, St Paul's College - Walla Walla, Ben Reeve, Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School, Ruby Woods, Oxley High SchoolGroves hopes her achievement encourages other regional students to take chances on opportunities that may seem out of reach.“People think regional towns are disadvantaged and don’t have as much opportunity, which can be true, but it’s also a myth,” she said.“If someone like me, who’s never done anything like this, can give it a go, then anyone can."You’ve got nothing to lose.”Ava Groves giving her prepared speechShe credits her parents for their steady support throughout the competition.“They’ve listened to so many drafts and supported me non-stop. I wouldn’t have done it without them.”With her HSC behind her, Groves is planning to study a combined law and arts degree at university – a path strengthened by her newfound confidence in public speaking.“This really awakened my enjoyment of it,” she said. “If I pursue a legal career, it will absolutely benefit me.”For Nowra, her success is both a personal milestone and a reminder of the talent thriving in regional communities when young people are given a platform to speak.

At 92, Noel Creighton has become something of a Kiama treasure.He’s lived here all his life, watched the town grow around him, and for more than 65 years has carried the mantle of the South Coast’s very own Santa Claus.He smiles when he recalls that his childhood home once stood where the Kiama Leagues Club is today.“So when I’m having dinner at night, when I do go, I’m actually sitting in my bedroom,” he laughed.One of 11 children, Noel first put on the red suit in December 1957.The extended Creighton family would gather in the old Tennis Hall near Hindmarsh Park for Christmas Eve, and with countless nieces and nephews racing around, Noel’s sisters decided someone needed to be Santa. That someone, it was determined– would be him– a tradition that would carry out to this day.Noel as Santa with Wendy and his son, also NoelFrom that first family Christmas, Noel’s Santa duties quickly spread into the community.Each year he’d appear around town– at the primary school, Rotary events, even at hospital Christmas parties. One of his favourite memories is arriving by boat from the harbour to the school.“I carried a bunch of towels with me– I wanted to make sure it was stable so I didn’t fall off!” he chuckled.Over the years he became known for his grand entrances. He has arrived in a horse and carriage, a helicopter, boats, and even on a motorbike.“I arrived on an old motor bike with the beard blowing in the wind, you got no idea, a lot of fun.” He shakes his head. “They were good days.”For the past 25 years, Noel has been Santa for Kiama Meals on Wheels, and this December he received a Community Service Award recognising his decades of joyful dedication.Noel with his Community Service Award at Central Park Cafe“He loves the Meals on Wheels and they love him,” his daughter Wendy Toomey said.Wendy laughs when she remembers growing up with a Santa father. “I guess I didn’t know for a long time. My brother and I didn’t really realise it was Daddy. Then he used to come up to school and I still didn’t know Santa was Dad.” Still now, living in Kiama with her husband and father, she still calls Christmas “a special time of year.”Noel as Santa before Meals on Wheels last week Noel’s life in Kiama has never been just about Christmas, though.For many years he has volunteered at the Presbyterian Church, where his son served as pastor for more than 20 years. Noel still tends the gardens there.“The reason I do the gardening is because out the front, people are always saying good morning and good afternoon. I meet a lot of people—it’s amazing!”He is still a familiar face around town– and often recognised.“Some people up at Woolies, as I’m walking past, I don’t know their name, I just say hi or hello, and you know what they do? ‘Hi Santa,’” he laughed.At 92, he still drives, keeps himself busy, plays bowls – “I can hold my own at the old bowling greens,” he said proudly – and enjoys chatting with visitors.“People come into Kiama for the weekend and he finds out all about them,” Wendy said. “It is a lovely community– Kiama.”One of Wendy’s favourite memories is of a little boy who came to their front door.He had recognised Noel as Santa and wanted to be sure. “He asked Dad if he was the real Santa,” Wendy said. Noel told him gently, “Santa has lots of helpers – I’m one of Santa’s helpers.”Noel has seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, and it’s clear within minutes of meeting him that he’s lived a life filled with gratitude and purpose.“Life’s what you make of it– pull a muscle,” he jokes.Faith has always been at the heart of Noel’s Christmas spirit.He often shares a poem he loves, Santa’s Christmas Prayer, which tells of Santa kneeling before the nativity, recognising Jesus as the true meaning of the season.“May they give You all the glory, for You’re the One True Christmas story,” the poem closes – words Noel shows still move him after all these years.And perhaps that’s Noel’s greatest legacy – not just the red suit or the memorable entrances, but the quiet reminder he offers to everyone he meets: that joy is meant to be shared, that community is built on kindness, and that Christmas, at its very core, is about God’s love. In Kiama, you don’t need December to spot Santa. He’s already here, gardening out the front of the church, rolling a bowl at the greens, or chatting to strangers who don’t stay strangers for long. And whether he’s in the suit or not, the spirit of Christmas seems to follow him everywhere.

In April 2024, Kiama 10-year-old Indi Whittaker had an idea for a street pantry. It was a fully formed idea, with drawing and signage and purpose, and she sent a letter to Kiama Council and all the Councillors asking if she could build it on Council land. Eighteen months later, with much involvement from the broader community, the Community Care Cupboard has been installed at the Kiama Uniting Church on Manning Street and will be operational by Christmas. Indi had seen a similar idea in the street in Coniston and immediately thought that it would be great for Kiama, having noticed people sleeping rough in various parts of our town. Council didn’t respond officially, but (then) councillors Karen Renkema-Lang and Kathy Rice were impressed by Indi’s letter and approached Reverend Kath Merrifield from the Kiama Uniting Church. Local architect Madeleine Scarfe was involved in the early stages to turn Indi’s vision into a formal drawing and the Men’s Shed were engaged to build it, so it has truly been a community project. The slogan Indi created is “Take what you need, Give what you can”. Her vision is that the community provides the supplies for the Community Care Cupboard for those in need to take. The Care Cupboard will include toys and books for kids, non-perishable food, toiletries and blankets and towels in winter. It is vital that the Community Care Cupboard be well stocked and maintained if it is to be a success - the plan is that this will be managed by a community-based roster, but the details are still being ironed out. For more information, or to get involved, email Annie at annie_lou@y7mail.com or if you would like to “give what you can”, you could just put your donations in the cupboard.

Sydney-based developer Level 33 has moved to reassure the local community that its plans for a high-rise complex on Akuna Street will “enhance the town centre” rather than detract from Kiama’s unique charm.Managing director Eddy Haddad told The Bugle that they were “aware of the concerns and are taking them seriously” following a backlash to the proposed $66 million development.Level 33 recently withdrew its legal action against Kiama Council and has engaged with the Housing Delivery Authority to complete the project.The HDA could allow the developer to go beyond the seven-storey limit to the 10-14 range for the complex which could house two supermarkets.When asked why the Land and Environment Court case, which was due to be heard this week, had been withdrawn, Haddad said: “The HDA has accepted the site into its program and has gone out to tender with a panel of architects. “At this stage, we could not gain further traction with Council on progressing the approval without the matter proceeding to a full hearing in Court, which we wanted to avoid.”Haddad would not say how many storeys Level 33 wants its development to be but added: “The project has now gone out to the HDA’s architectural panel for a redesign, so the final height will be determined through that process.“This will ultimately be determined by the State Government Architect and the Design Review Panel. Heights shown to date are indicative only and subject to further assessment and planning.”It is understood that the HDA will make a recommendation to Planning Minister Paul Scully who can then declare the project a State Significant Development, which means it would not need to conform to Council’s height limits.Local residents and business owners are concerned Kiama does not have the infrastructure in place to cope with a rapid increase in developments such as this one, plus two other multi-storey proposals for Akuna Street and the Council-owned Shoalhaven Street Precinct which could result in 450 homes being built in an eight-storey development opposite Kiama Bowls Club.“We intend to deliver a landmark development for Kiama that will enhance the town centre, including significant retail activation and additional retail and resident car parking,” Haddad added.“The (Level 33) site is proposed to include over 200 parking spaces for both residents and the retail precinct, which will support the town centre.”Haddad said they intended to “work collaboratively with Council throughout the process”.“We aim to commence construction as soon as possible following approvals.”Kiama MP Katelin McInerney has described the potential 14-storey development as “completely inappropriate” for the town.McInerney and Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald have written to Scully to voice their opposition to the project going above seven storeys.Cr McDonald has encouraged disgruntled local residents to also write to the Minister to express their opposition to high-rise development dwarfing the town centre.In his Mayoral Minute for next Tuesday’s Council meeting, he has reiterated his opposition to the Akuna Street development. “I do not support 14-storey buildings anywhere in the town centre of Kiama. "The community can rest assured we are advocating on its behalf for the Minister to refuse the application and ensure that the heights are more appropriate for a community of our size and scale.”Cr McDonald also pointed out that he was “aware that concerns have recently been published around the integrity and governance structures of the HDA”.“The NSW Leader of the Opposition has recently called for an independent review of all HDA recommendations as it has been revealed that an unauthorised AI tool was used to collate information before the HDA. “The integrity of any planning process must be maintained.“Council welcomes the news that the NSW Audit Office is undertaking a review of the governance arrangements for the HDA.”The Akuna Street site was sold by Council to Level 33 in late 2022 for $28 million.The dilapidated area of the old Kiama Independent newspaper headquarters has been decimated by vandals and squatters with abandoned cars, smashed glass and graffiti throughout the site.On Tuesday morning, Level 33 closed down the car park due to safety concerns but reopened access a few hours later and will allow motorists to park there for another month before it gets shut down permanently.

The NSW Government has released figures which show bed block in public hospitals in the Illawarra Shoalhaven has surged by approximately 25 per cent over the past year. Despite this, emergency department (ED) treatment times are continuing to show signs of turning around with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) achieving an improvement in T2 emergency treatment times.The latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) quarterly report shows T2 emergency treatment on time has increased across ISLHD by 2 percentage points to 51% including Wollongong up 8.8 percentage points to 55.5%.T2 emergency patients are among the most unwell including those suffering from chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe fractures, serious abdominal pain and sepsis - and need to be treated within ten minutes.It is particularly noteworthy given the July-September quarter is generally regarded as the busiest of the year, as winter illnesses circulate the community.Data released in the latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) MyHospitals update reinforces this improvement, showing that despite having the highest demand for emergency care in the country, NSW hospitals had the shortest emergency care wait times in the country for 2024-25.This improvement is part of the NSW Government’s broader work to rebuild essential health services, by recruiting more health workers, delivering more beds and expanding urgent care options.The number of semi-urgent and non-urgent presentations to ISLHD EDs have decreased by over 1500 in the July-September 2025 quarter compared to the same quarter the previous year.The number of patients exceeding their estimated date of discharge in ISLHD because they are waiting to access a Commonwealth aged care or National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) placement increased from 101 to 126 in the year to 30 September 2025.The biggest yearly increases have occurred at some of the state’s largest hospitals:Shoalhaven – from 6 to 16Wollongong – from 5 to 14Minister for Health Ryan Park said Commonwealth bed block has surged in NSW hospitals by over 50 per cent in just a single year "and this is simply not sustainable".“Commonwealth bed block has serious consequences for our state hospitals – from wards, to surgeries that can’t be conducted, to people waiting for beds in the ED.“I want to thank our health workers for delivering another yearly improvement in ED T2 emergency treatment time performance.“This is a result of fewer people presenting with semi-urgent and non-urgent conditions, thanks to people contacting Healthdirect and receiving treatment through virtual and urgent care.” Kiama MP Katelin McInerney is concerned about the older demographic in her electorate.“Our electorate has a significantly older demographic and no older person should be left languishing in our hospitals due to a shortage of aged care beds.“We need more investment from the Federal Government to ensure our older residents have access to quality aged care, and I will continue to be an advocate for investment and early planning for these aged care developments and for the investment in new housing for the workforce required to provide these services.”

For many parents this week’s social media ban brings a sense of relief; no more dinner table or bedtime battles over screens.But for many young people it comes with a sense of loss and isolation from their social networks.From Wednesday, anyone aged under 16 was locked out of accessing platforms like YouTube, TikTok, SnapChat, Instagram and Facebook and social media companies who don't enforce the ban could face hefty fines of up to $50 million.But parents also have an important role to play in ensuring kids don’t find workarounds to the safeguards.Kiama Unplugged founder Jane Bourne says many parents and young people have been preparing for the ban for months by joining the charity’s screen-free activities.The Unplugged initiative - organised by Jane, a civil celebrant, and her husband Ian, a pilot, all at their own expense - has been helping the community to disconnect from their phones and reconnect with each other through a range of social activities since September last year.Now, with the world’s gaze firmly on Australia to gauge the impact of the bans, Kiama Unplugged has stepped into the breach to help parents and young people successfully navigate the new rules.“In the coming weeks, with the new law around delaying social media until children are 16, we know there are going to be a lot of stories to be told and shared,” says Jane.“As the founder of Kiama Unplugged, and also Australia Unplugged, I really want to support young people and their families, and to help people see the benefits that this age delay will have.Jane and Ian Bourne. Photo: Ella Gunning“On Wednesday we had a stall at Kiama Farmers Market and so many families engaged and connected with us about the ban.“It's so important for parents to have conversations with their teenagers about the age delay, be curious, and find out what social media meant to them and what they'll miss. We need to be validating their emotions.”Kiama MP Katelin McInerney popped by the market stall on Wednesday, saying the ban was “a good step in the right direction”.“Our young people will need more support over the coming holiday period and in the next school year adjusting to their new social media free norm.“All of us can do our bit to check in. It’s great to see Unplugged offering great screen-free alternatives for real world connection in our beautiful backyard.”Jane believes listening to “the voice of young people” is essential to successfully navigating social media changes.“Our information gathering session was a key driver in understanding the views of local high school aged kids so we can work alongside young people to ensure they remain socially connected when they are offline,” says Jane.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the ban “will change lives for Australian kids, allowing them to just have their childhood”."It is one of the biggest social and cultural changes that our nation has faced," he said."It's a profound reform, which will continue to reverberate around the world in coming months, to assist not just this generation, but generations to come. It is about our families taking back control."Jane says the fact that the ban is encouraging different forms of engagement and interaction means it is already working and young people are genuinely craving real social connections.“We ran activities like decorating skateboards - kindly donated by local business Creative Kooks - and talked to young people about the positives and negatives of this ban,” says Jane.Photo: Ella Gunning“We had games and a lucky dip to win giveaways donated by local businesses.“There were lots of conversations about how people can get more involved in Kiama Unplugged, sign our pledge to delay smartphones and volunteer to join our youth advisory board.”While Jane understands banning social media won’t solve all of the issues faced by teens in today’s fast-paced world, she hopes it will better protect youth mental health and in some instances, save lives, in part by reducing the online bullying many teens can face on social media.“Online bullying follows kids from the moment they wake up, to school, to their bedroom until they finally sleep,” says Jane.“There is often no escape and the relentless bullying through group chats, screenshots and shares can have devastating consequences.”Kiama Unplugged has long been an advocate to “let kids be kids through play, connection, sport and support”.“We need to replace that sense of community many kids feel through their social media channels,” says Jane.Many experts have called for a return of the Active Kids and Creative Kids vouchers without means tests.This would allow a wider cohort of teens to find their tribe outside of screens, without adding more financial pressure on families.Jane also recommends making a plan for the summer holidays.“They will have all this time that they used to spend on social media, find and encourage other ways for them to discover that sense of belonging, identity and creativity, but in real life,” says Jane.“New outlets for creativity could be video, photo or music editing, creative coding, writing or journaling, learning a language or music.“The way our 12- to 15-year-olds were accessing dopamine has significantly changed, and we need to help them find healthier and more positive ways to replace that.”

Every Monday morning, as sunlight spills through Kiama Uniting Church’s windows, tables begin to fill with colour – fabric squares, embroidery threads, paint palettes, half-finished cards, and quilts in progress.This is Kiama Creative Crafts – a group that has shaped community life for more than two decades, built on the simple idea that people need people.The group meets from 9am to 11.30am during school terms, hosting crafters working across an enormous variety of skills: crocheting, embroidery, tapestry, quilting, card making, candlewicking, applique, and more.In the Lecture Hall, artists paint in every medium from watercolour to oils.Despite being hosted in the Church, most who come are not church members.Kiama Creative Crafts every Monday at Uniting Church. Photo: Ella Gunning“There’s less than a dozen actually connected to the church – most people are not,” said coordinator Deirdre Teague. “There’s people that come from Nowra, one from Sydney, some from Campbelltown, and a few from Shellharbour.”For many, attending is more than an artistic hobby. “For some people, this is the only social connection they have all week,” Teague said.Social chatting before artists get to work “From this they can get help for other people, and our minister here is very supportive – if there’s somebody who needs something she’ll make sure to follow up.” Members can contribute $5 for tea or coffee, an amount that accumulates into local support. “That $5 ends up going to different charities, so we give quite a sum, $500, to Kiama for their breakfast for high school, to homelessness, and the CRMI.” The group also supports the Carols and provides Christmas hampers to three local schools: Kiama High, Kiama Primary, and Minnamurra. As Teague put it, “It’s a well-being situation. Push the small groups, support each other.”People come for the craft, but stay for the companionship.Bill Jauncey, a former Kiama High geography teacher, has been coming every Monday for around a decade, and what began casually quickly became part of his weekly routine.“It’s not a formal sort of class,” Jauncey said. “I’ve always wanted to dabble a bit more in painting but this just sets up the ideal situation to do what you want.Jauncey's recently finished and admired wave painting"You go around and talk about ideas, and see what everyone else is doing and how they’re doing it, get some ideas to make it work.“This group’s been growing… this whole thing is really important for people getting out – it’s the social thing and chatting for a lot of people here.”Ken Mitchell, who joined a little over 12 months ago, described the easy rhythm of the mornings: “It’s great. It’s nice to chat to everybody."Everybody’s talking away in the morning when we first start off, then by say 10 o’clock everyone goes quiet working away for an hour, then just before 11 o’clock they all start getting up and talking again. It’s really a social event, and it’s very good.”Some projects become almost landmarks of the group’s history.Gladys Ling, who has been attending since 2001, recently finished a quilt she began before COVID in 2020.Flannel flowers, gum nuts, Christmas bells, and gum leaves make their way across the fabric – a patient, years-long labour of love completed in 2025.Ling's "not for sale" quilt that she began before COVID and recently completed. Photo: Ella GunningKiama Creative Crafts remains a place to create, chat, and reconnect. Open to everyone, the group hopes to gain more members in the coming year.  “Particularly since COVID, we’ve realized how important it is – we need more people coming in,” Teague said. 

This week's edition of The Bugle is full of local news and views from our South Coast community.There is a report on Sydney developer Level 33 claiming the proposed multi-storey complex on Akuna Street will enhance the town centre despite plenty of criticism in the community.READ THE DIGITAL EDITION HEREManaging director Eddy Haddad told The Bugle that they were “aware of the concerns and are taking them seriously” following a backlash to the proposed $66 million development.Level 33 recently withdrew its legal action against Kiama Council and has engaged with the Housing Delivery Authority to complete the project.The HDA could allow the developer to go beyond the seven-storey limit to the 10-14 range for the complex which could house two supermarkets.“We intend to deliver a landmark development for Kiama that will enhance the town centre, including significant retail activation and additional retail and resident car parking,” Haddad added.You can also read plenty of great community stories including the latest on the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival being placed on pause, the impact of the social media ban for teenagers and how to adopt a pet from Shoalhaven Animal Shelter.The Shelter cares for dogs, cats and other animals who come through the doors needing stability and a bit of luck. If adoption isn’t suitable for you, please consider other donations. You can send the shelter fast-tracked reindeer treats to PO Box 42, Nowra. Things like dog and cat treats and toys of all kinds and sizes are appreciated and vital for the continued enrichment and love the staff give their animals.In sport, you can read about all the latest in South Coast cricket, the Hawks' up and down week and a local surfer making plenty of waves.Kiama's Kyah Shipley is sitting in second place in the Open Female division heading into the Sydney Water Surf Series finale this weekend.

After exploring every possible option to keep the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival afloat, organisers have announced it will not proceed in March.They are hopeful of reviving the Festival in 2027 but Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has announced Council was hoping to make late moves to keep the event on next year’s calendar.For nearly four decades, the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival has brought the town alive by connecting local businesses, welcoming visitors, showcasing original Australian music and offering moments of joy, surprise and cultural pride.Festival director Becky Guggisberg announced on Thursday that organisers had exhausted “every available avenue” before making the call.“This is not a decision we made lightly,” she said.“Despite our best efforts, we’ve reached the end of the window in which we must commit to artists, venues and partners.“A combination of factors has made it impossible to deliver the Festival to the standard and integrity our community deserves:capacity restrictions at a key central venue,ongoing delays in local development approvals,significantly reduced financial support,the financial risk of a ticketed model,the long lead time before the Special Entertainment Precinct comes into effect.Guggisberg said in recent years, their partnership with Fillmore’s had been central to the Festival’s viability, acting as a vital hub, supporting multiple stages, providing a consistent artistic home and underpinning the Festival’s financial sustainability.She added that the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Fillmore’s development approvals had placed significant pressure on the Festival’s planning.“Due to the delayed DA decision and a resulting 50-person capacity limit at a key venue, we cannot sell the number of tickets needed to sustain the Festival,” she said.“It directly removed our ability to ticket at scale.“Our move to ticketing was designed to fairly pay artists and keep the Festival viable long-term. With one of our core venues restricted to only 50 people and no clarity on capacity or DA approval, we cannot responsibly contract musicians or commit to programming.“Without certainty, sustainability is not possible.”Guggisberg’s message for Kiama Council is “live music needs certainty to survive”.“Timely approval processes and support for creative venues are essential to cultural events. We hope this moment sparks a conversation about valuing music infrastructure and the economic and social return it brings to regional towns.“The DA for Fillmore's, a key venue that supports the Festival has been in progress for eight months, the Special Entertainment Precinct is described as a ‘trial in 2027’. We have raised the alarms with our Mayor and Councillors since July and a last resort attempt to apply for a Temporary DA gave no certainty.”Cr McDonald issued a statement later on Thursday morning to say “like many in our community, we are disappointed by the decision”.“We want to be clear that the Festival has always been able to operate under existing approvals, as it has done successfully for many years,” he said.“Council recently approved a $7000 grant for the 2026 event and remains fully committed to supporting a vibrant live-music culture in Kiama.“Because this Festival means so much to our community, Council considers it too important to simply disappear from the calendar for 2026.“Despite the organisers’ decision, Council is already exploring whether a viable alternative event or modified program can be delivered in partnership with local venues, businesses and artists.“We are in the early stages of these discussions and will update the community as soon as more information becomes available.”Guggisberg said the option of a reduced version of the Festival risked underpaying artists and compromising quality.She was adamant this is a pause for the Festival, not an end.“We are pausing to protect the integrity of the Festival,” she said.“Our intention is to return in 2027 for the 40th celebration - with strength, sustainability and community support behind us.“We acknowledge the impact on artists who rely on performance income, on businesses who reshape their spaces for the Festival, and on audiences who look forward to the music each March.“Pressing pause is an act of respect for them - not a withdrawal from commitment.“While this pause is heartbreaking, it is temporary. We now turn our focus to 2027 - the Festival’s 40th anniversary - with the aim of returning stronger, more stable and with the creative spark that Kiama knows and loves.“We remain committed to protecting the Festival’s legacy and ensuring it thrives for decades to come.“With the right support, KJBF can return stronger for its 40th year — delivering economic uplift, cultural identity, and community energy that money alone cannot buy.”Kiama Tourism and Economic Advisory Committee chair Matt Brown said it was “a real shame” to hear about the Festival announcement.“We hope to see it return sometime in the future.”

Lake Illawarra Police are appealing for information after an elderly pedestrian was critically injured in a crash on Wednesday night.About 6.50pm, emergency services were called to Pioneer Drive, Blackbutt, following reports of a crash.Lake Illawarra Police officers attended and found that an elderly man had been hit by a Nissan utility while crossing a driveway.The man – aged 86 – was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to St George Hospital in a critical condition.The driver of the utility – a 17-year-old boy – was uninjured and taken to Shellharbour Hospital for mandatory testing.Police have started an investigation into the incident.As investigations continue, police are urging anyone with CCTV, dashcam vision or information about the incident to contact Lake Illawarra Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

This year as Christmas approaches, most of us imagine families coming together for the holidays. Homes lighting up and small moments of joy filling the summer days ahead. At Shoalhaven Animal Shelter, the season brings something else as well - hope.The hope that the animals waiting in their care will find a safe and loving home before the year ends. Hope that the community will open its arms to pets who deserve a second chance. Hope that this Christmas, more animals will wake up surrounded by people who simply adore them.The shelter works year round to reunite lost pets with their owners, but the holidays carry a special urgency. Families travel, routines change and more animals find themselves separated from home. The staff move quickly to match pets with their owners, knowing how important it is to bring them back before the celebrations begin.For the animals who do not have a family waiting, Christmas becomes an opportunity for a fresh start. Shoalhaven Animal Shelter cares for dogs, cats and other animals who come through the doors needing stability and a bit of luck. Some have been abandoned, others have simply never had the chance to know what a real home feels like. The team looks after them with patience and kindness until the right people arrive.The weeks leading into Christmas represent one of the best times to consider adoption. Many families have more time at home, more space to settle in with a new companion and a bigger sense of giving. For anyone thinking about adopting, the shelter encourages people to meet the animals and spend time with them. Every pet has their own personality and story. Some are playful, jumpy and goofy. Some are quiet and gentle and cuddly. All of them are waiting for someone to choose them.The staff make it clear adopting is not a gift to unwrap and forget. It is a commitment and a relationship that grows over time. A pet is a family member, not a present. Shoalhaven Animal Shelter guides adopters through every step so they understand the responsibility. When the right match is made, the change in the animal is unmistakable. They realise they finally belong somewhere.Microchipping is another service the shelter offers, and it becomes especially important during the Christmas rush. A microchip helps pets find their way back if they wander off, and the team is trained to make the process simple and safe.For the staff and volunteers at Shoalhaven Animal Shelter, Christmas is not measured in presents. It is measured in reunions, wagging tails, soft purrs and the moment an animal finally leaves the shelter for a new home.With so many pets hoping for a family, this season could be the moment their lives change forever. Shoalhaven Animal Shelter is ready to help them find their way, one Christmas miracle at a time. Get in touch with the team in Nowra to meet some of the beautiful animals in their care this year.If adoption isn’t suitable for you, please consider other donations. You can send the shelter fast-tracked reindeer treats to PO Box 42, Nowra. Things like dog and cat treats and toys of all kinds and sizes are appreciated and vital for the continued enrichment and love the staff give their animals. Stay up to date on their Facebook page at Shoalhaven Animal Shelter or via Instagram @shoalhavenanimalshelter.

The NSW Government released the draft Illawarra Shoalhaven Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) on Tuesday, a 20-year vision to guide the region’s transport future and support one of the most strategically important and fast-growing regions in the state.And the government wants the community to have their say on how the region's transport future should be shaped. For the first time in over a decade, the Illawarra and Shoalhaven communities will be able to view an integrated long-term plan that sets out priorities based on evidence, data and extensive consultation with more than 40 stakeholders, including councils, members of parliament and community groups.The draft plan identifies a range of short, medium and long-term actions across public transport, active transport, roads and freight to support the region’s population growth and changing needs.“The Illawarra is growing fast, and our transport network needs to grow with it. This draft Plan gives our community a clear view of what the next twenty years can look like," Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said.“This work is about helping people get to work, school, the hospital and the beach more easily while keeping freight moving to support local jobs and industry.“For locals, it means more reliable public transport, safer roads and stronger connections between our towns, suburbs and regional centres.“I encourage the community to take a look and share feedback so we can keep shaping a strong transport future for the region.”Community members can view the draft Plan and provide comment until Monday, 9 February at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/illawarra-shoalhaven.Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the draft Plan would lay "important groundwork to support the Illawarra and Shoalhaven’s fast-growing community".“As a major and fast expanding centre our community deserves transport planning for the future," the Wollongong MP said.“By working closely with councils and community groups, we are making sure the long-term vision for our region is coordinated, evidence based and ready for delivery.”A community survey has been designed to help people provide feedback easily, and more detailed submissions can be uploaded or sent to engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au or PO Box 477, Wollongong NSW 2520.Minister for Regional Transport and Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said a well planned, people-focused transport network was needed for the growing region.“We heard loud and clear that people want more travel choices, safer roads and better connections between towns and regional centres. This draft Plan reflects those priorities," she said.During the public feedback period, Transport for NSW staff will also be out across the region speaking directly with residents at local pop-up sessions. South Coast MP Liza Butler said local communities had been calling for safer roads and stronger connections between towns for many years. “Reliable transport options make a real difference whether you live in Ulladulla, Nowra or our smaller coastal villages.”Shellharbour MP Anna Watson said the draft Plan represented “an important milestone for our region". “The plan sets out achievable actions that can improve public transport, strengthen safety and make life easier for the community.”Kiama MP Member for Kiama, Katelin McInerney added that with the expected rapid rise in population, the transport network needs to keeps pace with that change.“This draft Plan outlines practical ideas to improve public transport, boost safety and make it easier for people to access work, study and essential services.”

The NSW Government has announced a new framework for road management in NSW with a recategorisation system which will provide councils with certainty over who will manage and maintain different roads, allowing for more targeted investment for communities.The system to decide whether a road should be managed as a state, regional or local road was politicised under the previous government, according to Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison.Many roads are still categorised based on how they were used decades ago, despite major changes in population, traffic volumes, freight movements and local growth.Aitchison said this unfair, outdated approach created long backlogs and increased pressure on local councils, who manage around 90 per cent of the state’s road network and continue to face huge challenges from climate change, worsening weather events, rising construction costs and a growing workload after repeated natural disasters.The new road recategorisation framework includes:Clear statewide criteria to support consistent, needs-based decision makingAn always-open application pathway, replacing decade-long review cyclesA new online self-assessment data tool to help councils understand early whether a proposal is likely to meet the criteria, reducing administrative burdensPrioritisation for roads that unlock housing, freight efficiency, resilience and major infrastructure delivery.She added that these reforms will put the right roads in the right category, cutt red tape, reduce duplication and improve how maintenance and investment are delivered across the network.The online portal is now live so local councils and road managers will be able to put forward proposals for recategorisation.Reviews of the system and processes will be conducted at three months, six months and then annually to refine the model.Aitchison said they were "rewriting the rules so councils have a clear, fair and reliable way to get roads into the right category".“For decades, councils have been stuck with a slow, ad-hoc system. From today, decisions will be driven by evidence and need, not politics or outdated processes.“Drivers don’t care which level of government manages a road. They care that it’s safe, accessible and well maintained."This new system is designed to help roads receive the appropriate investment and ongoing care, supporting better outcomes for our communities.“Local councils are our partners. Collectively, they manage about 90 per cent of the NSW road network, and we understand the pressures they’re under."After years of floods, fires, storms and rising costs, we know they can’t do this alone. This framework helps us work together in a more consistent, transparent and practical way.“Clear criteria and modern data tools mean these decisions are no longer left to chance or politics."Everyone can see the basis for a category change, and that brings greater transparency and confidence to the system."Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said "local governments have been calling for a fairer and more responsive road recategorisation process for years".“This change will make a significant difference for councils especially those in regional and rural NSW where roads aren’t just a means to get from A to B, they’re a lifeline for these communities.”We want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here

The school holidays are here and the South Coast is bursting with festive fun.Whether your kids love crafts, fairies, hikes or water slides, this season’s line-up of activities promises magic, adventure and plenty of memories.Christmas CrafternoonNext Friday (19 December), bring the kids to Kiama Library for an afternoon of Christmas craft. A free event for children aged 5-12 and their caregivers, participants can create Christmas cards, festive decorations and tree ornaments to take home.Bookings are recommended. Summer activities at local libraries also include a Lego marble run and a Star Wars Escape Room.Bush MagicBush Magic’s school holiday programs offer kids a chance to connect with nature, build friendships and enjoy the freedom of unstructured outdoor play.Set in beautiful bushland at Don’s Farm in Avondale, sessions run from 16 December onwards for children aged 5-13, with activities including shelter building, archery, fire making and bush craft.For children with NDIS funding, they also offer a therapeutic program. bushmagictherapy.com.auFairy spottingA favourite with local families, the Enchanted Forest returns at Illawarra Fly.Part of the treetop walk, kids will love spotting the mermaids, dragons and fairies dotted along the trail, with stops at Gnome Meadow and Pixie Hollow.Every little visitor also receives a free activity book to fill in on the walk or take home. illawarrafly.com.auHoliday hikesAfter a period of closure, the two bridges of the Lyrebird Loop Walk at Minnamurra Rainforest are now open, just in time for a festive family hike.The new bridges are wheelchair and pram-accessible and have been built at a higher elevation above the river to ensure flood resilience.Tell your construction-loving kid they were built off-site and delivered by helicopter. nationalparks.nsw.gov.auDive-In MoviesDive-In Movies at Jamberoo Action Park will return on Saturday nights throughout the summer school holidays.Shown on the big screen at Outback Bay, the first movie will be Despicable Me 4 on 20 December, starting at 5pm. There’s no additional cost beyond your entry ticket.Kiama UnpluggedNo screens. More connection. Kiama Unplugged is moving its popular Sunday afternoon events from Finding Fillmore’s to Kiama Surf Life Saving Club for the summer season - think Sunday Sippers but without the scrolling.Bring the whole family for an afternoon of games, live music, drinks and community connection. www.kiamaunplugged.comWe want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here

This week's Bugle Bulletin brings you the best of the week’s local stories.Our lead story is about Grand Pacific Health being selected to run Nowra’s new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, bringing the long-awaited service closer to opening.Set for Scenic Drive near Shoalhaven Hospital, the clinic will offer fully bulk-billed care for non-life-threatening conditions for extended hours seven days a week.Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles, Health Minister Mark Butler and Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips were in attendance for the official announcement.The Kiama and Minnamurra Lions used their community initiative to help the Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council to cut the grass at the former police residence property on Terralong Street.While the Gerringong Co-Op was buzzing on Saturday night as Starshine lit up the venue with a high-energy show, A Tribute to Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac.Fans sang along to favourites like Rhiannon, Landslide and Go Your Own Way, with the band’s powerhouse lineup - including former members of “Dreams” and Las Vegas performer Nikki Canale - recreating the magic of the Fleetwood Mac era.In sport, the Illawarra Hawks' NBL title defence is looking shaky after they slumped to their 10th loss in 15 matches when they went down to last-placed Cairns Taipans.At The Bugle, we’re committed to pairing impactful visuals with meaningful local storytelling - delivering a news experience that’s informative, entertaining, and deeply connected to our community.Subscribe to The Bugle News Kiama on YouTube so you never miss an episode!

The old School of Arts hall, where the GLaM is now, was the centre of all social activities in Gerringong for many years.Whenever there was a 21st birthday, engagement party, dinner dance, celebration night after Gerringong had won a premiership in sport or any other great social occasion, it was held in this building.My personal memory of this wonderful building was that it was for many years, the Scout and Guide Hall.Many a splinter was picked up sliding on the floor during games.But after the end of the Second World War, it was felt that a new, larger and more solid building was needed to reflect the progress our town was making.So, it came to be that a proposal was put forward by the Mayor G.E. Chittick and the Town Clerk A.M. Trevallion to gauge the interest from the community.There was certainly enough interest. This proposal was sent out in 1946 and here is a ticket to the Grand Civic Ball to commemorate the opening of the hall in November 1948 by J.J. Cahill just two years later.The tickets cost five shillings, about 50 cents.Gerringong Town Hall has been a centrepiece of the town ever since.Any person living in Gerringong after the end of the war would have fond memories of going to functions there.My personal favourites were going to the pictures and performing in the school play in the last term of the year at Gerringong Public School, which, at the time, was just next door.We want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here

As e-bikes surge in popularity across NSW, particularly among teenagers, the NSW Government is introducing measures to improve safety and reduce risk for families.With around 600,000 households now owning an e-bike, and many more expected to buy one this Christmas, parents are being urged to check that any new device is safe, compliant and appropriate for young riders.The Government is reducing the maximum legal power output of e-bikes in NSW to 250 watts, bringing the state back into line with all other Australian jurisdictions.This reverses a previous regulatory change that increased the power limit to 500 watts, which has contributed to a wave of high-powered bikes that can be unsafe for children and difficult for parents and police to identify.The change is aimed at keeping kids safer on roads, bike paths and local streets by reducing access to devices that behave more like electric motorbikes than pedal-assisted bicycles.The NSW Government is also reviewing the definition of an e-bike in road rules to close loopholes that allow motorcycle-level devices to be sold and ridden as though they are bicycles.These state changes complement national action. The Commonwealth Government has now committed to reinstating import requirements that ensure e-bikes sold in Australia meet the European safety and quality standard, EN 15194.This will help keep low-quality, easily modified and dangerous devices out of the country.The updated rules are expected to take effect within months and will be done in consultation with retailers and the community to ensure a fair transition. Parents buying an e-bike this Christmas are encouraged to look for:A clear EN 15194 sticker or certificationA motor output of no more than 250 wattsA reputable brand with proper safety documentationA model that has not been modified, “chipped,” or had its speed limiter removed The Government is also urging parents to talk to their kids about responsible riding: wearing a helmet, not carrying passengers, sticking to bike paths and roads where permitted, and never modifying a device to go faster.“E-bikes are fantastic for getting kids outside, active and independent but they need to be safe," Minister for Transport John Graham said.“We’re seeing devices on the market that are far too powerful, too easy to modify and too hard for parents to assess.“This is about making sure the bike your teenager rides behaves like a bike, not a motorbike.“Our message to parents is simple: check the sticker, check the wattage, and have a conversation with your kids about staying safe.”Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver has urged people to make sure e-bikes comply with NSW law.“Don’t get pressured by your children, peers or salespeople into buying the most powerful bike.“Police don’t want someone to make a mistake that costs them their life or causes them serious injury.“We don’t want a Christmas present to become the ultimate buyer’s regret.”The Christmas warning comes after police ran an education and compliance operation in the south Sydney area last week.Operation Trance is a high-visibility policing strategy, involving mobile and stationary enforcement, focusing on distraction and compliance offences.The operation focuses on general compliance issues including restraints, pedestrians, bicycle riders and vehicle standards, along with the use of non-compliant e-bikes and food delivery motor scooters.Fines- $818 for illegal e-bike use.- $410 for not wearing an approved helmet.- $410 for holding a mobile phone.- Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol can lead to fines or imprisonment.- Penalties apply for negligent or dangerous riding.

As the donation period draws to a close, The Salvation Army, Newcastle Permanent, and Greater Bank are encouraging the South Coast community to support their annual Christmas Toy Drive Appeal and help share the spirit of the season.A long-standing tradition between The Salvation Army, Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank, each year the annual Toy Drive delivers thousands of gifts to children and families facing hardship at Christmas time.Plenty of gifts have already been donated, including classics like play sets, LEGO, vouchers and Barbies, which will all find their way into hands on Christmas morning, bringing joy to children across the region.The Salvation Army’s Public Relations and Community Fundraising Manager Rod Dibley said whilst the community’s generosity has been remarkable, there are still hundreds of families needing support.“If you would like to offer your support, we recommend gift vouchers for teens, with books, toys, and sporting equipment for younger children,” Mr Dibley said.“We are seeing more need than ever before, so even the smallest donation can make a meaningful difference for a child this Christmas.”NGM Group’s Head of Community and Sustainability Kirrah McClelland said that every child deserves to share in the wonder of Christmas.“It has been very moving to see all the beautiful gifts that have been donated so far by our customers and our community,” she said.“We are so grateful to everyone who has supported this initiative with us, and we hope to help as many families as possible this year to make Christmas truly special.”With over 7,500 gifts donated at Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank branches last year, The Salvation Army Toy Drive Appeal hopes to maintain this momentum and bring Christmas magic to families across the region.Donations can be made at any Newcastle Permanent or Greater Bank branch until Friday (12 December).Gifts should be new and unwrapped and are accepted for all ages, including teenagers.We want to hear from you - Take The Bugle survey here