“Electrifying.” That’s how Laura Stokes from Shellharbour Village describes her first-ever ice bath. “I was nervous to do it, but it’s good to prove that it can be done,” says Stokes. A beaming Sandra BiggsStokes, along with two other brave women, were the first ones to take the plunge at the pilates and ice bath-event at Killalea State Park on Saturday 21 April.The event, organised by Snap Fitness Kiama, introduced a local group of women to ice baths, which can help with muscular relief, pain reduction, inflammation and overall recovery.Laura Stokes lets it all sink inIt can also give you an “ice-bath high,” explains assistant club manager at Snap Fitness Kiama, Sam Baskerville. “It’s a bit of a serotonin boost, so it’s going to make your mood lift. And it will last ten times as long as when you exercise. Up to 24 hours,” explains Baskerville.But voluntarily soaking yourself in an ice bath with a temperature of 3°C, containing 10-15 bags of ice, takes guts.Ice bath debutante, Cassi Nash from Nowra“I was nervous about how cold it was going to be,” Stokes recalls, as she sits on a bench afterwards, face turned toward the warm autumn sun. “Especially as she [Baskerville] had the temperature, I thought, ‘oh, no’.”“The first bit was not bad. After 10 seconds it got harder. I was waiting for the timer so I knew it was time to get out,” she says.Most of the women chose to sit, each in a portable bath, for between two to five minutes. If you’re an ice bath-novice, Baskerville says the secret is to go slow.Sam Baskerville from Snap Fitness counts down the time for the women in the ice baths“Yeah, if you’re never done it before, start slow. Bring your breathing down. And the more you do it, the frequency, it gets easier,” recommends Baskerville.“Eventually, you’ll be able to go for longer and will keep getting into a little state of calm,” she adds with a smile.

Once upon a not so many years ago Max “Bunny” Hair, 93, was the returned veteran who, prouder than proud, would raise and lower the flag at ANZAC Day ceremonies in Kiama.Then Covid hit, and he was deeply upset that government restrictions meant he could not pay his respects to fallen comrades, and could not wear, with pride, his own medals along with the medals of his father and his two brothers, all of whom also served. And so neighbours, Glenn and Kerry Shepherd, decided to organise a small ANZAC Day ceremony at the bottom of Max’s driveway in Kiama Downs. “We rallied around the neighbourhood and people wanted to be part of it,” he recalls. “Max has been a good friend and neighbour to us all and is highly regarded. Everyone was locked down, we were all told we couldn’t go. Then the government told us we could go to the end of our driveways and celebrate. So we decided to do it at the end of Max’s driveway.” “We were probably doing the wrong thing, but we did it anyway. It has gotten bigger every year. For me, to see that man so proud when he stands there, why wouldn’t you be there. We show respect to our service people through Max.”  “If that’s not a good thing, what is?”  Max Hair, 93, honors Anzac Day at the bottom of his driveway in Kiama Downs.That was 2020, and what began as a small, essentially humble event has grown in strength. Over the intervening years, other neighbours joined in with Glen to mark the spirit of the occasion, pinning paper poppies on their chests and setting up candles in their own driveways.This year, some 30 neighbours and relatives gathered for the Dawn Service, led by Max himself.His chest festooned with medals, he welcomed everyone in a clear, strong voice before relaying stories from his time in the navy, and reading out the famous Ode of Remembrance as his son lowers the Australian flag to half-mast: They shall grow not old,as we that are left grow old;Age shall not weary them,nor the years condemn.We shall remember them. And then the playing of the last post as the sky lightens.A relative read out the list of his medals, including one for good conduct, to which Max cheerfully cuts in: “I don’t know how I got that!”Max, “Bunny”, joined the navy in 1948 and served in the Korean War. He is one of the last survivors of those with whom he served. “It was a big part of my life being in the service. I am Navy through and through. My only regret is I didn’t talk my two boys into joining the Navy.” Max Hair in his Navy days in the 1940's. “As to the meaning of Anzac Day, I think of my father, and I think of the camaraderie. Remembrance.” And he laps into an unusual silence. “Remembrance, the service life. Most of them have gone by, have left now.” An encounter with the Hair family leaves you with one impression, just how loving they are, including Old Max. You give love to receive it, and the biggest excitement in the family is the impending arrival of their fourth great grandchild. “He tells me every single day how much he loves me,” his wife of 65 years Josie says, beaming. “Max has been a wonderful husband. He was always for the family. We have been very, very lucky, and very very happy.” The family pore over photograph albums, commenting with astonishment at some of the images of their father and grandfather when he was young. Daughter Debby, who lives in Jamberoo and works at Shellharbour hospital, recalls when her father used to go up to Sydney for the Anzac Day march. “When dad marched past us, he used to always break rank and come over and give us a cuddle,” she recalls. This year's ceremony ended with Max thanking all the friends, relatives and neighbours who had shown up. “Next year will be bigger and better,” he declares.

Over the past few years many Dressage Clubs have struggled to survive as drought, bushfires, floods and Covid19 brought all things equestrian to a standstill for months and years, eliminating almost all opportunities for Clubs to raise the funds necessary to meet administration costs, maintain grounds and equipment and ultimately reward members.   Shoalhaven Dressage Club is no exception. It is a non-profit organisation generating income from membership, entry fees from holding regular competitions, and sponsorship. Dressage is an Olympic sport and during this time there were many broken dreams as Competitions were cancelled and opportunities lost.Based at Worrigee Equestrian Common, Shoalhaven Dressage Club has proved its durability over the years, and will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary later in 2024.Rather than giving up during bleak timeS, then President Alycia Targa and her committee set out to fulfil the dream of having an all weather,  Olympic size Dressage arena at the Club’s home ground.  Over the past three years President Wendy Collin and her Committee have continued to pursue that dream, applying for grants and raising further funds. They can now proudly announce that the new arena will be completed in July this year. It will be maintained by Shoalhaven Dressage Club but available to the Equestrian Community at large for training and competition use.   Local Equestrians like SDC member, 13 year old Skyla Parker, who was recently crowned Novice Champion at the Australian Arabian National Championships in Victoria on her horse Iconic Al Sahrac, will reap the benefits of having a first class training facility in their local area. 

Kiama Rugby’s opening game on 13 April didn’t only mark the club’s first win of the season, but also Scott Duncan’s 300th game for the club. The Bugle caught up with the long-time Kiama player, as he reflected on this impressive milestone. Duncan becomes the seventh player in the club history with 300 games under his belt.How was it running out for your 300th game?“Pretty emotional, actually. Everyone, friends, family and the whole club, were there supporting me. My dad passed away earlier this year, in February. He had supported me during my whole career. We had spoken a lot about my 300th game. It was a funny feeling that he wasn’t there,” Duncan says.“When Mick Cook and Al Marsden, former players, presented me with the jersey ahead of the game, they said that dad’s looking over me.”Reflecting back, is there any game or any period that has stood out in particular?“Look, we were pretty successful in the early 2000s. We won a couple of grand finals.”Kiama Rugby won the first grade premierships in 2002 and 2003, and the Illawarra club championship in 2003.“Every game, I’ve really enjoyed. All the people that I’ve met. Every time I go to New Zealand, I visit people. I know guys in Ireland,” Duncan adds. What are you looking forward to this season?“Just that the club has recruited really well. It’s probably the youngest second grade I’ve ever seen. Lots of really good juniors. It’s shaping up to be a cracking year,” he concludes.Quick factsAge: Turning 42 this MayBorn and bred: KiamaHome club: Kiama Rugby Football Club (I started playing for Kiama Rugby in the juniors in 1995).Position: I play in the forwards mostly at #8. But when I was younger (and faster), I played at #7 (openside flanker). I can also play inside centre, if called upon. 

This ANZAC Day, the NSW Government again acknowledges the sacrifice and bravery of all that have fought for our country. Regional and rural NSW monuments can be found honouring the sacrifice made by soldiers from across the state who enlisted, often from regional communities with a population smaller than the average present day city neighbourhood.In the first World War (WW1), thousands of young men from regional communities, many who had never even been to Sydney let alone Europe, left safety of their normal lives for war. This was a sacrifice that was echoed through World War 2 (WW2), Korea, Vietnam and even today in ongoing operations around the world.NSW recorded the highest enlistment rate in the country during WW1, with 164,030 people signing on to join the war. Approximately 21,000 never returned home, leaving bereft communities throughout the state.When WW2 broke out, the people of NSW once again stood up to defend our nation. Many of the 276,741 people who answered the call to go to war were sons, brothers or relatives of those who served in WW1, still tainted by the fresh memory of the horrors of war.Today, the reminder of regional NSW’s sacrifice is seen through the war memorials that can be found in nearly every regional and rural town. These monuments have a sombre history in country towns where they were often used as substitute graves that family and friends of those who died in battle overseas were able to visit to remember and pay respects to their loved ones.Today these monuments act as a congregating place for the local community to come together and commemorate the bravery and sacrifice, and continuing service being from those in our present armed forces.“The role of regional NSW communities in contributing to the war effort in WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam and even in present day peace-keeping operations cannot be overstated,” says Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty. “Families in these communities saw their sons, brothers, and fathers go off to war overseas and were left bereft when many never returned home, having made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.“Today we honour the contribution of all service men and women throughout the country and throughout our history and I thank them for their service, contribution and sacrifice that they have and continue to make in order to keep our country safe.”No doubt many will continue to gather at The Anzac Memorial in Sydney’s Hyde Park, which sacredly houses 1,701 samples of soil within the walls. This soil represents the names of every town, city suburb and homestead WW1 enlistees once resided in. “The Hall of Service demonstrates the geographical reach of the call to serve, and signals the willingness and enthusiasm of so many from diverse regions who answered the call to join the war. It contains the incalculable loss and grief of communities across the state whose men and women did not return,” says Minister for Veterans, David Harris.“On ANZAC Day, we come together as a community to remember our veterans and current serving members of our Defence Force, many of whom come from regional areas across our state. We pay tribute to their service, and we thank them for their efforts to allow us the freedoms we afford today.”For this ANZAC Day and all that follow – Lest We Forget. 

PCYC NSW and the Greater Charitable Foundation have announced a partnership to better support young people in realising their full potential. The collaboration signifies a commitment to addressing youth disengagement and providing pathways to brighter futures. With a substantial contribution of $411,096, the partnership will see the implementation of four Fit for Work (FFW) programs over the next two years. These programs are designed for people aged 16-18 to address disengagement from their family, education and employment. Successful completion will help to reduce crime and ultimately lead to employment opportunities. The FFW initiative spans a ten-week period, aligning with NSW school terms, with participants attending three days per week. Activities within the program include resume writing, mock interviews, work placements, and other educational components designed to instil confidence and motivation to transition into employment or apprenticeships. CEO of the Greater Charitable Foundation, Anne Long, emphasises PCYC’s strong track record in providing effective programs for communities. “Together, we are not just changing individual lives. We are shaping the fabric of our future society, fostering a rising generation of resilient, skilled and engaged community contributors,” says Long.By providing tools and opportunities for personal and professional growth to our young people, the partnership aims to create a positive impact. This not only applies to individual lives, but the community as a whole. Click here for further information.

The Albanese Government recently announced that Manildra Group’s Shoalhaven Starches food manufacturing facility in Bomaderry will receive a $44.45 million helping hand to undergo energy efficiency upgrades thanks to the Powering the Regions Fund. The fund will allocate $330 million in total across nine clean energy and emissions and reduction projects at heavy industrial sites around the country. One of those sites being Shoalhaven Starches, which processes wheat to produce flour. The Bomaderry facility also produces gluten, starch, ethanol, animal stockfeed and syrups.Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, believe the grants will future-proof Australia’s heavy industries in a decarbonising world, with nation-wide projects cutting 830,000 tonnes of emissions annually. This equates to removing over a quarter of a million cars from Australian roads.Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, explained that the goal of the Shoalhaven Starches project is to recover heat to enable transformative emission reductions.“The project will deploy a suite of heat recovery upgrades and enabling infrastructure to reduce gas demand,” she said.“It’s estimated that emissions will be reduced by 95,266 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per annum.”Mrs Phillips also praised the project for creating new jobs during construction and securing existing roles at the plant, which will continue to support local families and the community. Shoalhaven Starches has 510 employees and 400 independent contractors. Additionally, upward of 80 temporary jobs will be created during the project. 

The Kiama Bugle has launched self-service business advertising, personal ads and social group listings!As a community focused newspaper, The Bugle has launched a new way to get your business or group out there! If you are a business owner, we know things are tough, but we want you on the community hub and so have a special deal if you are a business chamber member.We have created an easier way for you to add your digital listing to our website, with a listing that links directly to your website.Just head to the The Bugle website, navigate to the category your listing pertains to, and click the teal button at the top of the page. We have a directory for local schools, social groups, church groups, service clubs, sporting clubs, trades listings, you name it! Additionally, we’re taking family notices from the community. If you have a birth, marriage or funeral announcement, let us know. Community announcements are also an option, with our job vacancy section.You can now list your classified ads. Do you have a house to rent, or are looking for a house to rent? Are you looking for a gardener? Or are you a gardener looking for work? Are you a pool attendant or looking for a pool attendant? A cleaner, or looking for a cleaner? Are you feeling romantic? Are you looking for a date? We’re open to all sorts of classified advertising. Let us know For a small fee, discounted for the remainder of 2024, you can enjoy the benefits of exposure in our tight knit community. We want you!

Kiama Rugby followed up their season-opening wins with another two big wins on Saturday, 20 April, as they faced off Woonona Shamrocks on their home ground.“Two really good wins. It was a tough fixture, playing them up there,” says players rep for the Kiama Rugby Football Club, Jack Smith. “No one can explain it but you’re in for a tough battle. Saturday was no different.”Plus the weather added another hurdle for players, throwing wind, rain and just about everything at them. But they withstood the elements as well as the Shamrocks.“The first grade defended their line for a solid 20 minutes and held out,” says Smith. The second grade defenders also held out.A solid defence resulted in a final score of Kiama 47 - Shamrocks 21 for the first grade, and Kiama 56 - Shamrocks 0 for the second grade. First grade try scorers were: Mick Taylor 3, Robert Sitiene, Frank Prodger, Darius Mafile'o, and Matt Forsyth.Second grade try scorers were: Jasper Scobie 3, Ben Wade 2, Jack Smith, Isaac Kaunicaramaki, Waisake Sukavakarua, and Lawarance Gock.Kiama Rugby next faces Campbelltown in the third round on Saturday, 27 April, at 1:30pm at Kiama Showground.Thank you to Linda Faiers for providing the photos.

What does the world look like from the perspective of a creek? What do human behaviours look like through the eyes of cockatoos?The Sutherland Shire Environment Centre’s 2024 RD Walshe Memorial Writing for the Environment Competition is now open.This year’s topic is Through the eyes of Nature, inviting writers to tell a story from an alternative perspective - to write as if looking at the world through the eyes of nature. The writing must, consider elements related to the environment and broader sustainability concepts.“We forget, sometimes, that we are but one species amongst millions,” said Ian Hill, Chair of SSEC. “This year, we’d like writers to select some non-human element of nature and write from that perspective.”Some examples that writers can choose could be a waterfall or a cold, crisp morning in the desert, dolphins in the surf, and so on.“We are keen to hear about our world, our environment, our actions for sustainability from non-human eyes,” says Ian.Participation is free, and there are three age categories – Under 19, 19-26 years, and Over 60 – with cash prizes of $500 for the winner of each category. Runners-up will also receive a cash prize.The Sutherland Shire Writers Group also offers an additional prize of $100 for a junior writer, the “Pat Strong Award for a Young Writer”, which honours one of the Group’s foundation members.More details for the competition and submission can be found here Details about the competition and how to submit your entries can be found here. Entries close on Friday, 28 June 2024.

Shadow Minister for Police and the NSW Police Force are reminding motorists that double demerits will be enforced over a five-day period, covering ANZAC Day. In a bid to crack down on illegal and reckless behaviour behind the wheel, double demerits will come into effect from Wednesday 24 April at 12:01am and remain in place until 11:59pm on Sunday 28 April. During this period, offences such as speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, driving under the influence or illegal use of a mobile phone will attract higher fines and double demerit points. Shadow Minister for Police, Paul Toole, warned that there will be a strong focus on targeting drink and drug driving. “Many people like to enjoy themselves on ANZAC Day by partaking in a game of two up or sharing a beer with a mate. No matter your plans, there is no excuse for getting behind the wheel after drinking,” he said.“We often see people underestimate the effects of ‘a few drinks’ and take the risk of driving. Even the morning after a night out, alcohol can still be impeding on a driver’s ability to function properly.”Mr Toole urged all Australians to opt for plan B if consuming alcohol for ANZAC Day celebrations, such as safely leaving the car at home and utilising public transport. This, of course, applies for the entire double demerits period which, for many, may well become an extra-long weekend. “The ANZAC Day public holiday coincides with the end of school holidays, and we anticipate a very busy few days on our roads,” said Mr Toole.“Every time you get behind the wheel of a car, please think of those passengers in the car with you and other motorists on our roads so that everyone can reach their destination safely.”This is a timely reminder that speeding, fatigue and drink and drug driving remain the biggest killers on NSW roads. NSW Police Force assure they will be heavily present on our roads during the double demerits period. Anyone caught doing the wrong thing will pay a hefty price. 

Gerringong couple Judy and Kevin have taken up the task of rallying support in the community for an Indigenous youth-centred program in Australia’s Central West. Down the Track (DTT) works with disengaged and marginalised youth aged 10-20, who live in remote areas, such as Lake Cargelligo and Murrin Bridge, Central West NSW. Judy and Kevin are passionate about the cause, contributing to help the program “keep kids alive, out of jail and thriving.” The program focuses on early intervention, providing pathways to real and sustainable jobs, education and community connections for Indigenous youth. By offering diversionary activities, training and mentorship, Down the Track aims to empower young people to reach their full potential and break the cycle of disengagement. Youth crime, anti-social behaviour and youth incarceration have seen a significant decrease since the commencement of the program.Judy and her husband moved to the Gerringong area to advocate for Down the Track in their local community. They hope to inspire others to join the cause by raising awareness about this incredible program. By working together, they believe that no young person should be left behind. In line with the beliefs of Down the Track, they want to see young people given every opportunity to reach their greatest potential. To learn more and find out how you can support a good cause, visit Down the Track and sign up to their newsletter.

Some hearing aid providers are using high pressure sales tactics such as touting hearing tests and pushing the most expensive brands, to maximise hidden commissions to elderly locals.Chain stores such as Bay Audio and Audika are ‘vertically integrated suppliers’, which means they are sales-driven and have commercial and preferred supplier arrangements with specific hearing aid manufacturers. Current hearing aid prices range from $1,500 to $10,000 a pair.Bay Audio is now trading in the Kiama Village, 150 metres from Audika Kiama and Hearing Sound Solutions on Terralong Street.HEARING SOUND SOLUTIONSKiama Audiologist Stacey Clark owns Hearing Sound Solutions on Terralong Street. She said there was a significant difference between her independent and Australian-owned clinic and the rest.“Ethically, patients should be offered a full range of hearing devices that are tailored to their needs and budget.”Ms Clark said Audiologists were accredited clinicians with a Master's degree in Audiology whereas Audiometrists have a diploma qualification from TAFE.“Hearing Sound Solutions is the only local private practice with a fully qualified clinical Audiologist in Kiama. We are not aligned with or owned by a hearing aid manufacturer,” Ms Clarke said.“This gives us the advantage of offering, prescribing and fitting the most comprehensive range of technologically advanced hearing aids from all brands to suit each individual.”The President of the Independent Audiologists Australia, Dr Tegan Keogh, warned consumers that the hearing industry was not regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and some businesses used commissions, targets and incentives for their clinical and front-of-house staff.“This might result in patients feeling pressured to engage with a particular service provider, or purchase a specific device, and in our opinion that is not appropriate for a healthcare setting,” Dr Keogh said.In 2017, an ACCC investigation found commissions, incentives and other mechanisms to drive sales created conflict with clinical independence and professional integrity.“This conflict is particularly troubling in the sale of hearing aids, given that consumers who require hearing devices are often disadvantaged or vulnerable due to their hearing loss, age or other medical conditions.”The ACCC was critical of the use of undisclosed sale commissions as high as 15 per cent, in a healthcare setting where consumers expected to receive impartial advice.National Seniors criticised some retailers upselling hearing aids without their members having an understanding of the comparative cost benefit of the product being sold.“Older people can feel pressured to purchase more expensive hearing aids if an audiologist claims that the less expensive model is not adequate. Some of our members are concerned there is an emphasis on selling the product rather than assisting with hearing health,” a National Seniors spokesperson said.AUDIKA KIAMAAudika's head office in Sydney did not reply to questions about the ownership structure of the Audika Kiama business or the rate of sales commission.The Kiama store is part of a chain of more than 300 Australian stores owned by Demant in Denmark.Audika has an interest-free payment plan with a 20 percent deposit using direct debit.BAY AUDIO KIAMABay Audio in Kiama ejected this reporter from its office and did not wish to be part of the story.According to its website, Bay Audio sales staff participate in profit-sharing based on sales. It’s job advertisements on Seek state sales staff ‘must meet daily and monthly targets’.Its staff are now touting for business in the Kiama Village, where people are asked to take a free hearing test.Bay Audio is owned by Amplifon and has preferred supplier agreements with Starkey, Oticon, Resound and Signia.Some sales-driven hearing centres are asking clients to take out loans to purchase hearing aids. Interest charges can be as high as 25.90 percent.Prospective clients may be eligible for subsidised services and devices through the Australian Government Hearing Services Program and they can check their eligibility here.Australians under 26 years of age and who are citizens or permanent residents, may also be eligible for services under the program.

Earlier in April, The Bugle featured local businesswoman Korin Koutsomihalis and the worthwhile ongoing work Korin is involved in to motivate and support the local community through her Gerringong-based small business SOUL FIT CO (which includes a program of group fitness classes at the Gerringong Bowling & Recreation Club). Korin already has an impressive list of community and fitness-based awards, including Kiama Council’s 2023 Australian Citizen of the Year. Korin explains that she actively seeks out awards programs and collaborative initiatives to build awareness around her business and its community projects. It’s not for personal glory but as a means to fulfil her life’s purpose to reach and help more and more people to live long, healthy and meaningful lives.Recently, Korin was notified that from an impressive 5,000 nominations, SOUL FIT CO had been selected as a finalist in the 2024 Australian Small Business Champion Awards in the Fitness Services category. On Saturday 13 April at a glamorous National Presentation Evening at The Star in Sydney, SOUL FIT CO was awarded the 2024 Australian Champion Small Business-Fitness Services. In her acceptance speech, Korin said of her business: “What we have at SOUL FIT CO is uniquely special and is helping so many people train for life. I’m very proud to see people of all ages, from 10- to 103-years old, with various abilities and fitness levels, inspired to move together in the one fitness class, without hesitation and with so much teamwork.”A SOUL FIT CO class group.The Australian Small Business Champion Awards, founded in 1999 by Precedent Productions, were originally NSW-only awards. The awards base expanded in 2007 to recognise the vision, commitment and achievements of the most outstanding businesses from all over the country. There are an estimated 2.5 million small business operators across Australia, and these awards seek to celebrate, recognise and highlight the achievements and contributions of the best of them.Judges assess nominated businesses on a range of criteria including: milestones achieved; short-term and long-term goals; and commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives and wellbeing of the local community. We congratulate Korin on her latest award.Read more here

In the heart of Kiama's Community Radio scene, a new voice has emerged, bringing with it a wealth of diverse experiences and a passion for the airwaves. Peter Sullivan, a recent addition to our area and Kiama Community Radio, boasts a journey that spans from the microscope to the bonsai garden, with stops at biochemistry, genetics, naturopathy, and even dispute resolution along the way.Born in Manly, Sydney, Peter's upbringing was steeped in the hospitality industry, thanks to his father's role as a hotelier. It was his formative years in Wagga Wagga, surrounded by two siblings, that laid the foundation for his eclectic interests and curious mind.Venturing to Canberra for university studies in microbiology and genetics, Peter found himself immersed in a world of microscopic exploration and meticulous experiments. "Patience," he emphasises, "was key in unravelling the mysteries of microbes and bacteria." It was here that he honed the invaluable skill of meticulous attention to detail, a trait that would serve him well in his future endeavours.Peter's introduction to the world of radio was a journey into the melodies of pop and easy listening, where the dulcet tones of Casey Kasem held sway. With admiration for the American DJ's global broadcasts, Peter reminisces, "We would sit on the beach in Wagga, tuning in to the top 40 on our transistors. I guess the younger generations would have no idea what that meant."His university days were filled with the vibrant sounds of live performances, where the likes of Ralph McTell's "Streets of London," Maria Muldaur's soulful "Midnight at the Oasis," Don McLean's timeless "American Pie," and Janis Ian's poignant "At Seventeen" resonated deeply. Amongst the rich tapestry of Australian music, names like Richard Marks, Sherbet, and an abundance of Aussie rock from the '60s and '70s added to the soundtrack of his youth.Reflecting on his personal style during those rebellious times, Peter recalls with a chuckle, "Yes, I sported shoulder-length locks, though mine tended to curl at the ends, perhaps less cool than intended. Clad in a lumberjack coat, torn jeans, tie-dye shirts, I exuded an air of rugged discontent." During an era marked by protest and societal upheaval, Peter didn't shy away from voicing his dissent, participating in demonstrations against the sacking of the Whitlam government, a stance that brought lectures to a standstill. "I believe it's a rite of passage to embrace a bit of rebellion during your formative years," he muses, "ultimately paving the way to becoming a responsible citizen."During his tenure at the Australian National University, Peter delved into the intricate dynamics of marine biology, focusing on the yellowfin and skipjack tuna and their genetic interactions within the ocean’s currents encircling Australia and New Zealand. Amidst the bustling activity of tuna trawlers along the coast, he meticulously sampled, froze, and analysed specimens, discovering that despite their cohabitation within the same current, these tuna populations remained distinct species, segregated by the nuances of their migratory patterns. This discovery echoed in his subsequent research on rabbits in Urana, where he explored population genetics and the biological intricacies of interbreeding. In his work on the Wallaroos of the Atherton Tablelands he concluded that they also did not interbreed. A major highway effectively prevented interbreeding between the highway and mountain populations, with different skull size, teeth and eye socket measurements showing the differences. It all sounds a little CSI!Peter met Barbara during his university days and that marked the beginning of a lifelong journey together. They have been blessed with three daughters and seven grandchildren, bringing endless joy and laughter into their lives.Peter’s professional trajectory took him through various avenues, from his tenure at ANU to roles in defence science and technology, where he navigated the intricacies of human resources and IT as a business analyst. It was during this time that he honed his skills in dispute resolution, delving into mediation and conflict resolution.Transitioning into a second career in naturopathy ignited a passion for holistic healing, fuelled by an avid interest in iridology and herbal medicine. Under the tutelage of esteemed naturopath Dorothy Hall, he immersed himself in courses, embracing a plethora of "ologies," from astrology to Bach flowers. Though his endeavour to establish a health centre was met with love and enthusiasm, the harsh realities of entrepreneurship led him to reassess, realising his preference was for hands-on involvement rather than administrative duties.Peter’s next focus was on Lifeline, where he volunteered in warehouse operations, and later at Lifeline’s second-hand bookshop, Book Lovers Lane where he managed the music.Retirement three years ago gave Peter time for his bonsai collection, also volunteering at the National Bonsai and Penjing collection at the National Arboretum. Post-retirement last January, Kiama drew him in; he liked the proximity to Sydney. He knew Kiama had a community radio, and there was a Bonsai group in the area!  “The draw to Kiama was real but I had been established in Canberra for over fifty years. Life here is so relaxed, and it is a different climate – much cooler in Canberra and very cold winters. I was beginning to feel the cold in my bones.”In Canberra, Peter worked for Radio Artsound for five years and Queanbeyan FM for four. He got involved with Artsound because they invited seniors (over 55) into broadcasting. He trained with Gabriela, who also does the training at KCR. His own blues program followed.BLUES IN THE NIGHTJoin Peter on Tuesday nights for a soulful journey of “Blues in the Night! “Get your dose of Australian and international blues, R&B, soul, funk, and a sprinkle of jazz, all in one place! From established legends to emerging talents, Peter's got you covered, with a special focus on artists from 2000 to now. But that's not all! Peter will also be taking a trip back in time, diving into the history of blues with some classic tunes from the 1900s. Don't miss out! Tune in every Tuesday from 7-9 pm on Kiama Community Radio, where every Tuesday is Bluesday!

With the autumn school holidays drawing to an end, the beach patrols will continue until Sunday, 28 April. This ends the beach patrol season until the October school holidays.Kiama Council lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers will be on duty during the school holidays at the following beaches:Jones Beach (Kiama Downs)Surf Beach (Kiama)Werri Beach (Gerringong). Beachgoers are reminded to use patrolled beaches, swim between the flags and follow water safety advice. The same rule applies to everyone, regardless of swimming skills and experience: no flags means no swimming.The Council’s lifeguards particularly warn people against swimming at drowning black spots, South Bombo Beach and Blowhole Point.Thank you to our local lifeguards and lifesavers, who put in more than 400 patrol days each season, so that locals and visitors alike can safely enjoy the district’s beautiful beaches.

Former Red Rooster owners Steve Willis and his wife Jo have sold more than half a million pieces of chicken to the Kiama community over the past 16 years.Last month the pair, along with their son Grady, who has worked at the store since he was 12, handed over the keys to the new owners with little fanfare.“We slipped out quietly, kept it low key, we didn’t want to upset the apple cart and wanted the transition to be as smooth as possible for staff,” said Mr Willis, who estimates he and his wife have employed around 200 local Kiama kids, including his now 20 year-old son.Now all three family members are putting their feet up for a well-earned break before they decide what their next business move will be. But Mr Willis, who is president of the Kiama Leagues Club, is certain they will stay in Kiama.“We love this community, the 16 years we owned Red Rooster were a big part of our lives. There were a few tears from my wife Jo when we hung up our aprons, but not from me. I’d be happy not to handle another raw chicken again,” he said, chuckling.  Mr Willis, who grew up in Cootamundra, has had 31 jobs across his working life and ran five businesses with his wife by his side. He was an apprentice mechanic straight out of school, worked on the Cootamundra railways for eight years, and spent some time in the meatworks before leaving at the age of 21. He headed to Bowen to pick mangoes, and worked at a seed farm in Griffith, where machinery would knock seed pods from plants and he would sort through the piles and remove the twigs and leaves.“It was a terrible bloody job,” he recalls. But Mr Willis was a hard worker, a trait that stood him in good stead when he moved to Milperra, then Wollongong to manage pubs.He met his wife Jo, a Barrack Heights local, in Wollongong and the pair opened the first of many hospitality businesses in inner city Sydney. One was a sandwich shop near Central Railway Station during the Sydney Olympics. To say it was busy was an understatement. The couple moved to Kiama for a seachange and took over the Kiama Red Rooster store when Grady was four. For the next 16 years they became stalwarts of the Kiama community, feeding hordes of hungry families and tourists alike. It was the longest time Mr Willis stayed in one job.“Red Rooster was a whole different kettle of fish for us,” he said. “The business, which opened more than 35 years ago, was one of only a few fast food outlets in Kiama. “When we took the shop on, my son was a year away from starting kindy,” Mr Willis recalls. “One of the reasons we bought it was so that one of us could be home before he went to school and the other when he came home from school.” The days were long and the couple did everything from cleaning drains, prepping chicken, managing staff and mopping floors. By the time their son Grady was a teen he was working alongside his parents, and never missed a day of work in the six years he helped out, testament to the work ethic instilled in him by his parents.“Two of my son’s greatest achievements is that he’s never missed a day of work or a day of school,” said Mr Willis. “He went to Kiama High School for six years and had 100 per cent attendance. Only a handful of kids before him have achieved that. His number one trait is grit and I’m very proud of him, and all of the other young people we have worked with over the years.“One of the most rewarding parts of this job has been watching staff grow from 13 year-old kids to young adults. We’ve employed several sets of siblings over years, been to two weddings of staff we employed as teens and proudly watched young people move on to roles serving in Afghanistan, as teachers and electrical engineers.“We just wanted to take this opportunity to say a really big thank you to the Kiama community who supported us over the years. It’s a great community and so many of the kids who grew up here have worked for us.”

Miss Zoe's Dance Studio has achieved a milestone by being named a finalist in the 2024 Australian Small Business Champion Awards. This marks their third time as a finalist in this competition.The studio's journey to this recognition includes previous wins such as the Most Outstanding Dance Studio in the 2023 Illawarra & South Coast Local Business Awards, along with wins and finalist spots in previous years. They were also finalists in the Australian Women's Small Business Awards in 2024, 2020, 2019 and the Australian Small Business Champion Awards in 2020 and 2019.Miss Zoe, the studio's founder, has also received acclaim, being nominated for Outstanding Business Person of the Year in the local business awards in 2018 and 2019.The upcoming awards ceremony will see Miss Zoe's Dance Studio competing with 19 other studios nationwide. Miss Zoe expressed gratitude to their community for their support, acknowledging that this achievement wouldn't be possible without them.Their dedication, talent, and passion are sure to shine on the national stage, and we wish them all the best in the upcoming awards.

“It’s finally my turn to shine,” laughs Foxground artist Robyn Sharp. “I’ve always been the director's wife, now I’m the star.”The director Robyn refers to is her husband Lindsay, the former head of Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum and world-renowned museologist. While her comments are tongue-in-cheek, the curation of this show, held in the Gerringong Art Gallery adjacent to the Gerringong Library and Museum (GlaM), is all Robyn’s with her husband happily following directions on where to hang her stunning artworks. Paintings and drawings which use a range of mediums, including pencil, acrylic and charcoal and capture the beauty of the Australian bush in all its variations; fire, flood and in full bloom.It is the elements that have inspired Robyn’s third show Dreaming of Dharawal Days. Much of her recent work focuses on the local landscape, at Bundanon, Jervis Bay, Moreton National Park, and of course her beloved Foxground - home to the hidden gem that is her Cedar Ridge Art Studio.It is where Robyn and Lindsay watched in terror as ash from the 2019 bushfires rained down on them, and a raging inferno edged ever-closer to their property. Thankfully their home and Robyn’s studio was spared.“But after the fires I had to create a lot of artwork to get it out of my system, I dealt with the trauma through art,” she explains, pointing to a detailed depiction of a grass tree.“This is one of my favourites. I painted it shortly after the fires when Lindsay and I went for a walk in the Moreton National Park. The bush was deathly silent, there were no birds, no animals but the grass trees were in full flower. It was so heartening to see such beautiful regeneration after the fires. It gave me hope.”Hope is something we could all use more of, given the extreme weather events that have lashed the coast in recent years.“With climate change comes more intensive weather systems and we get flooded in on our property at least once or twice a year now,” says Robyn. “When you live in a beautiful place you are often at the mercy of the elements.”But she wouldn’t trade her picturesque studio for any other in the world, and she has had a few; in the United States, Canada, England and a “little flat in Paris”.“One of the benefits of being the director’s wife is that I could go to art school in Chelsea (during Lindsay’s stint as the director of London’s National Science Museum in the early 2000s). I had some incredible teachers and mentors who shared their knowledge of figurative drawing and sculpture during that time,”But Robyn credits the free university scheme under Gough Whitlam’s government for kickstarting a long and illustrious career as an artist.“I won a scholarship to the National Art School in Sydney, under the then Whitlam Government’s free university education scheme. I had a living allowance of $10 a week for food and board, can you believe it,” she asks incredulously. It is this sense of wonder, of how far she has come as an artist, that endears the artist to members of the community who poke their head into the gallery as she sets up her Dreaming of Dharawal Days exhibition, the first show to be held in the Gerringong gallery space. A husband and wife offer to help Robyn hang one of her works and walk away with a breathtaking landscape before her show has officially opened. Dreaming of Dharawal Days will be on display at GLaM to April 24, before moving to Cin Cin’s Wine Bar May 7.