At its 24 February meeting, Kiama Council supported Councillor Draisma’s urgency motion to advance plans for a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP), ensuring the council can apply for the Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant before applications close on 12 March.Councillor Draisma emphasised the importance of moving forward with the process, stating, "We need to strengthen our application and get a good outcome for the community." While staff confirmed that the council’s existing resolution met the threshold for application, Councillor Draisma highlighted the need for councillors to discuss which areas should be included in the draft precinct to support the bid.Proposed Locations - Kiama Town Centre and GerringongThe primary focus of the proposed precinct is Kiama’s town centre, including Terralong Street, Shoalhaven Street, and the Harbour Precinct.However, the draft motion also acknowledged Gerringong as a potential satellite precinct. A review of Gerringong town centre’s planning framework could allow for the inclusion of additional sites or lots, pending community consultation.A working group of local creatives and businesses has already provided input on the proposed areas, and further consultation will be essential in shaping the final precinct boundaries.Grant Funding and Development ApprovalCouncil staff confirmed that if successful, the grant, ranging from $50,000 to $200,000, would fund essential planning work, including an acoustic report and community engagement.However, they clarified that establishing an SEP would not override the need for development approvals.“This does not give retrospective approval to venues,” staff noted. “Businesses will still need to comply with existing planning processes.”With council’s endorsement, the application process will now proceed, with further community consultation to follow if funding is secured.

The Bugle would like to congratulate the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club (GSLSC) on their new clubhouse, which has raised a lot of community discussion.The facility was a key topic at the Kiama Council Meeting on 18 February, where councillors examined issues concerning the club’s lease, kiosk operations, and accessibility compliance.Gary George, Building and Property Manager at Shoalhaven City Council, addressed councillors during the public access session in his role as Club President. He clarified the club’s stance on its temporary 12-month licence agreement and sought guidance on the future of the clubhouse’s kiosk. Following discussion, councillors supported an amendment from Cr Draisma, accepted by Cr Brown, which included:Congratulating GSLSC on securing funding to build a new clubhouse and acknowledging its ongoing commitment to the community.Working with GSLSC to ensure the club can fully occupy the facility to patrol Werri Beach and run its training programs.Receiving a report on the history of the kiosk, including its compliance under the current lease, land classification, and zoning.Facilitating construction of a concrete footpath from Pacific Avenue to the public toilet facilities to improve accessibility.One concern raised was the operation of the kiosk, which exceeds the 10 sqm size permitted under the Kiama Local Environmental Plan 2011. Another issue was unauthorised subletting. Under the Local Government Act 1993, subletting council-owned facilities requires prior approval, which the surf club had not obtained.GSLSC President Gary George stated they were unaware of this requirement and sought a resolution allowing the kiosk to continue operating.The council also discussed why a lease had not been finalised upon completion of the clubhouse, noting the facility currently operates under a temporary 12-month licence.Additionally, councillors highlighted accessibility concerns, particularly the lack of a compliant pathway to the accessible toilet.GSLSC has offered to build the footpath, and Council is reviewing the planning requirements to facilitate this.Council has approved the 12-month licence agreement to allow time for a full review of the site’s planning, lease, and compliance requirements.A Plan of Management review will be placed on public exhibition, allowing community feedback before a final decision is made.