A former TV presenter from Better Homes And Gardens and garden landscaper designer, who started enjoying growing tomatoes from the age of seven, and a fireman . Jason Hodges has won nine Logie Awards, and also the Silver Gilt medal for the eight time with his team at the Chelsea Flower Show in the UK. He’s also a four-time winner at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show, where he did a design called, “Welcome Garden” for this year’s edition.Jason now lives in Berry, enjoying the good life. He runs his own business as a Buxus farmer – ‘Green Art Gardens‘ and also Canary Island Palm Farm. The members enjoyed the talk given by Jason, a very knowledgeable, funny and down-to-earth guy, who had us all laughing and learning. You might spot him enjoying a coffee at the local cafes to say hi too. 

As National Walk Safely to School Day approaches on Friday 10 May, Shellharbour schools are gearing up to embrace the initiative with open arms. Mayor Chris Homer is encouraging children and their parents or carers to ditch the car and lace up their walking shoes. The initiative aims to highlight the numerous benefits of regular walking, particularly to and from school. Tullimbar Public School in Shellharbour is one such school participating in the initiative. The annual National Walk Safely to School Day is in its 25th year of promoting physical health, the importance of road safety and environmental consciousness due to decreased car dependency that causes air pollutionMayor Homer emphasised the significance of daily physical activity for children’s overall health and mental wellbeing saying, “I have always been an advocate of leading a healthy lifestyle. This initiative is a wonderful way of setting up regular walking habits for children.”  The initiative is championed by the Pedestrian Council of Australia. Their Chief Executive Harold Scruby adds, “Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. We should encourage them to take a walk before school, during and at the end of their day.”For more information click here.

By Rev. Jodie McNeillSenior Minister, Jamberoo Anglican ChurchThe Primate of all of Papua New Guinea (PNG), Archbishop Nathan Ingen, visited the Jamberoo Anglican Church as part of his visits to churches in the Sydney region. Archbishop Ingen is the leader and spokesperson for the three million Anglicans scattered over hundreds of remote communities.Archbishop Ingen was invited by the Archbishop of Canterbury to attend the Primates Meeting in Rome, but chose to accept the invitation of the Archbishop of Sydney to nurture the partnership his Diocese shares with like-minded, gospel-centred Anglicans, in fellowship with Gafcon Global Anglicans. The Senior Minister at Jamberoo Anglican Church, Jodie McNeill, hosted the Primate during the Sunday Service on 5 May at 4:00pm, and took the opportunity to interview the Archbishop in front of the congregation.Archbishop Ingen is a rural clergyman, serving as a bishop in the Diocese of Apro Rongo, in a place he describes as, “on the top of a mountain” in the highlands of PNG. During the interview, Archbishop Ingen identified three challenges to his role: “finances, training pastors, and reaching remote communities”. In PNG, the church provides 98 percent of the health and education services, bringing practical care to a country that lacks many of the everyday necessities, which are often taken for granted in Australia. Close to his heart is the recruitment and training of pastors, and Archbishop Ingen remains deeply thankful for the financial partnership provided by churches in the Sydney Diocese, such as Jamberoo Anglican. At present, they are building a theological college in the highlands of PNG, and they are seeking additional funds to set up another ministry training facility in Alotau, near Milne Bay, on the East Coast.

Nobody died and the boat didn’t sink. But nonetheless, the return of the Signa to Kiama Harbour managed to create quite a stir, with locals braving the drizzling weather to occupy vantage points along the foreshore. Many people have memories of the Signa, and a significant number of them showed up in Kiama on May 8 to commemorate its return after two years in dry dock at Albion Park.After an estimated 12,000 hours of volunteer labour, the boat, which was originally launched in 1970, has been lovingly restored to its former glory with new windows, new engines, and new fittings.  Those showing up to mark the event included former charter operators, fishermen who used to hire the boat on weekends and even the children of the original builder of the boat, Bob Riddell, who built the boat in the coffin factory his boss Jack Paton owned. It was one of the first dedicated game fishing boats ever seen in Australia, and large by the standards of the day. Signa being lowered into Kiama Harbour. Photo: John Stapleton.The boat is named after Jack’s wife, Signa. Bob Riddell’s daughter, Jane Dove of Woy Woy, drove down to Kiama for the event. “Just to see the boat is fantastic, my father built it and 50 years later, it is still going,” she said. “We never got a trip on it. My father was a very quiet person, he was just going to work building a boat.”Son Greg Riddell remembers to this day the boat being launched near Silverwater Bridge in Sydney. “My father would have loved to have been here,” he says. The Riddell children might never have gone out to sea in the boat, but plenty of other people did, including, famously, actor Lee Marvin of Hollywood fame, along with Bob and Dolly Dyer of Pick-A-Box, a television program familiar to any Australian old enough to remember the 1960s. For a time, the boat was owned by the famous Sydney restaurant Doyles, which used it for their high-profile customers. A clearly delighted John Hansen, who funded the project, wants above all to pay tribute to the many people who helped restore the boat.Those he wishes to thank by name include his wife Sandra, who has been an enthusiastic supporter, Rex Jones, Richard Roman aka Don, Peter Rook, Lawrie Lovegrove, Graham Williams, Rob Hoffmeister and Geoffrey Farrer. “It was ten times bigger than we thought,” he says. “It was a labour of love. We were all retirees, they all played golf together. And once they started on the boat it was a labour of love, they just loved doing it.”Sandra and John Hansen. Photo credit: John Stapleton.As to how it all came about, John Hansen says he and a friend Rex Jones had previously rebuilt a small fishing boat and as retirees were looking around for another project. The Signa came up for sale, and the rest is history. Except they had no idea quite what they were buying into. The boat was in poor condition, having basically been rotting in the harbour for some time, and having been officially declared unseaworthy. “We suddenly realised when the boat was ours how complicated the project was,” he recalls. “We have basically rebuilt the entire boat.”As Sandra recalls: “The bones of Signa, the hull, was good, it was a good boat, it just needed attention. The deck and the roof and parts of the floor inside were just rotted. We took out nearly two tonnes of rubbish.”Signa is expected to stay at mooring in Kiama Harbour for the next several weeks as the timber boat adjusts to being back in the water, the new engines settle in and the final bits of cosmetic work, including cabinetry and carpeting. “Cosmetic stuff,” Sandra calls the final adjustments. “The kitchen’s been done, the bathroom, all the hard stuff has been done.”Sigma being maneuvered. Photo credit: John Stapleton.And there it is, back in Kiama Harbour, a boat full of memories, as many of those in attendance were quick to recall. Kevin Adams, who went out on the boat with his father, Bruce, who helped build the original refrigeration, said his father, too, would have loved to have been there. “It is amazing what they have done with the refurbishment,” he says. “They have done a great job. At the time Signa was a master, it was one of the biggest boats around built out of wood.” Wayne Hollingsworth, who before he retired to the South Coast used to come down from Sydney with a group of mates and hire out the boat for fishing trips, says: “Seeing it brings back a lot of memories. It was a good boat, solid in the water. I used to see it in the harbour in recent years, it was just rotting away.” One of the most obvious things about the freshly restored Signa is how good the woodwork, including the original teak, looks. Retired carpenter Lawrie Lovegrove, when asked why he was prepared to spend so many hundreds of hours on the project, including countless hours sanding, just shrugs: “Silly old bastard.”Well, thanks to a lot of silly old buggers, Kiama now has a beautifully restored and intriguing part of Australia’s maritime history in pride of place.  

Within the last five years, Michael Williams, his best mate Josh Walton, and his younger brothers, Ben and Tom, all played their 200th game for the Kiama Power Senior AFL club. Michael plays in the backline, Josh is a utility, Ben’s in the midfield and Tom’s a forward.They have also won three premierships together: in 2009 (versus the Bomaderry Tigers), in 2011 (versus Wollongong University) and in 2018 (versus the Wollongong Lions).The Bugle reached Michael on an morning off from work to chat about his 200 games landmark moment.1) When did you reach the 200-game milestone?“Myself, I reached it in 2022. Josh and Ben, both did in 2019. And Tom last year,” he says.Brothers Ben, Tom and Michael Williams. Photo credit: Michael Williams.2) How did it feel?“It felt really good.”“Me and Josh have been playing for Kiama since we were 10-years-old in 2000, which was the second year for the Junior club. Josh played in the first-ever year for the Juniors in 1999.”“We both started playing for the senior club in 2006, Ben in 2008 and Tom in 2010.”3) How was it celebrated that you'd played 200 games?“The whole club and team made it a big deal. It was a bit embarrassing. But the others got the same treatment, so it was good,” he chuckles.4) Did you receive anything to commemorate the occasion?“They gave us a beer mug with the 200 games engraved and the Kiama logo during the end-of-year presentation. I got it in the living room, in a display cabinet.”“It’s been a good journey, playing together with my two brothers and my best mate. I feel lucky,” he concludes.

The Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) have teamed up with Bakers Delight for the annual Pink Bun campaign to shed light on the diverse experiences and needs of Australian women, navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. This year’s campaign features three unique narratives from Kansas, Sam and Jill, hailing from different corners of Australia, who have come together to share their stories and the invaluable support received from BCNA. Kansas received her diagnosis as a 24-year-old in rural Victoria and credits BCNA’s Pink Lady Match for her timely diagnosis. The Pink Lady Match acted as a reminder for Kansas to get a lump on her breast checked out. Sam contacted BCNA’s free helpline to share a confronting experience when she went through an airport screening with a breast prosthesis, which prompted BCNA into action to advocate for and help give people like Sam a voice. Jill faced metastatic breast cancer and also benefited from BCNA’s advocacy, with her medication now being subsidised on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). These stories highlight BCNA’s vital support in empowering breast cancer patients nationwide. The campaign runs from 9-29 May. During that time, you can purchase a 6-pack of Fun Buns from Bakers Delight. There’s also an option to host Pink Bun Parties throughout the month. The newly opened Baker's Delight store in Kiama is eager to participate in the campaign. The Bugle caught up with the Store Manager on Thursday 9 May who said the community response has already been positive adding that he and his team are happy to be part of such a good cause. With the remainder of May ahead of us, head to Bakers Delight to support the Pink Bun Campaign! Through advocacy, support programs and other community initiatives, much like the Pink Bun campaign, BCNA continues to empower patients and raise awareness about breast cancer in Australia.

A Kind of Hush - The Magic of Karen Carpenter: Anita’s Theatre Thirroul, April 26. The enduring magic of The Carpenters’ music is the combination of Karen Carpenter’s beautiful voice, which had an unusual range of three octaves, and the songs that her brother Richard wrote for her. Unusually, a female singer who decides to sing a Carpenters song must set the key by the lowest note, not the highest. A Kind of Hush - The Magic of Karen Carpenter was billed as a concert rather than a tribute, and clearly that was necessary because none of the headliners could match the range or quality of Karen Carpenter's voice. The show was put together by Katie Noonan, and she was joined on stage by Melinda Schneider, Abby Dobson, newcomer Layla Havana and an ‘all-female’ backing band, which had turned half-male, by this the second last of a 16-show tour. Katie Noonan displayed by far the best trained and controlled voice, but the least suited to the Carpenters’ songs, excelling as she does with precision and control in her highest register and bringing with it her own musical style. Melinda Schneider’s songs by contrast were delivered unceremoniously, completely straight and unadorned but she is such an accomplished performer that I was most relaxed when she was centre stage. Abby Dobson was having a bad night; at least, I choose to believe that because surely she would not have been included in the line-up had she sang that badly all the time. She did mention that she was exhausted and hungry but as an audience member that’s not what I want to hear, implying that the effort she had invested in earlier audiences was impacting on her current performance. At the start the number of notes she missed was jarring to the ear but she did warm up towards the end, singing an unexpectedly sweet version of “The Rainbow Connection.” Ironically, 15-year-old Layla Havana was the only one of the four singers, who hit the mark without fail, with her beautifully clear warm voice. She can only get better as her voice and her confidence matures. The banter between the three headliners was full of in-jokes and shared knowledge, which actively excluded the audience while we assume that their intention was to do the opposite, to include us in their private world. It did not help to be told that half the promised ‘all-girl’ band was absent because they got a better offer. At the end, Noonan gave a speech about how important it is to support independent musicians but in context it sounded more like an apology that everything was a bit amateurish. The audience was generous; however, and eagerly participated in the curated singalong opportunities (“On top of the World” and “They Long To Be (Close to You)”), which was well suited to the community hall vibe of Anita’s Theatre.It was an enjoyable evening but in the end the pips that got stuck in my teeth ended up detracting from the sweetness of the fruit. 

The City of Wollongong overcame a strong field to win the right to host the 2026 Local Government NSW Annual Conference in late November 2026, Local Government NSW (LGNSW) announced in a media release.The Annual Conference is the local government sector’s primary event every year, which sets the agenda for the advocacy that the organisation pursues on behalf of the state’s 128 local councils.LGNSW President, Councillor Darriea Turley AM, congratulates the City of Wollongong for beating off a raft of high-quality cities to host the conference.“I am delighted that the conference in two years will be held in the City of Wollongong,” Cr Turley says.Wollongong City Lord Mayor, Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM, is also delighted that Wollongong will be hosting hundreds of councillors, general managers and council staff from across NSW.“Here they’ll be part of constructive conversations focused on sharing new ideas and industry best practice.”Wollongong City Council General Manager, Greg Doyle, believes Wollongong is making its mark as a city. “We’ve been working hard in recent years to redefine Wollongong as a city that embraces the arts and culture, that facilitates and delivers greener active transport through our investment in cycleways and support of a shared e-scooters trial, and that is working to address climate change through planning and policy,” said Mr Doyle.“Plus, we’ve hosted world-class sporting events, and got one of the fastest-growing residential areas in NSW outside the Sydney metropolitan area.”

Sunday saw a flash flood warning in effect for the Illawarra region, with Kiama potentially being one of the hardest hit areas, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. But the torrential downpour didn’t stop the Kiama Knights in their round five meet-up against the Nowra Bomaderry Jets at The Castle (aka Kiama Showground).First out, under a grey sky, were the Reggies. They gave a good performance, considering the wet conditions, and beat the Jets 30-05.The dreary weather definitely didn’t deter the fans, who dressed in their finest winter gear, gathered under the protection of the stands or watched from the protection of their car boots.The Kiama Knights first grade took the lead against the Jets after 12 minutes of play with a penalty score. Meanwhile, the rain kept pounding, both horizontally and vertically.Three minutes to half time, the Kiama score board showed 8-0. The Jets had yet to score. Right at half time, Kiama scored again - 12-0.A converted try from the Jets in the second half, with 6 ½ minutes remaining of game time, put the final score at Kiama 18 - Jets 6.Kiama Knights JuniorsDuring the weekend, the juniors also played in the rain at Kiama Showground. “They did really well,” says President of the Junior Knights, Carl Middleton. “And they really enjoyed it.”Occasionally, games are called off due to the weather. For now, however, it was decided to keep the Showground open.“It was good for them to experience playing in the wet weather,” says Middleton.At the forefront of his mind when it comes to the season, he continues, “is that the kids are having fun and learning to play footy. To play in a really nice area in Kiama, to make good friends and to have coaches, who’ll become mentors.”

Mother’s Day has ancient beginnings and a good place to start is with the Romans, who honoured Cybele (the Great Mother).She was the goddess of nature, fertility, mountains and wild animals. Raucous celebrations were held in spring, which included games, feasts, sacrifices and eunuchs.The early Christians held a celebration on the fourth Sunday of Lent for the Virgin Mary, although with less sacrifices and eunuchs. This was called Mothering Sunday and it’s still part of the Catholic tradition.The modern celebration of Mother's Day grew out of calls for peace after the American Civil War (1861-65). The writer and women's rights activist, Julia Ward Howe, wanted women to unite and bring peace throughout the world.The idea didn’t take off until 1908, when Anna Marie Jarvis, an American woman, held a church memorial to honour the legacy of her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, a pacifist and abolitionist.Anna pushed to have a day set aside to honour all mothers. Her campaign paid off when in 1914, US president Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May to be Mother's Day.Mother’s Day was captured by commercial interests in the 1920s in favour of a more benign celebration of mothers, with breakfast in bed, a card and a red rose.The Suffragette vision of women rising as a political class with important political and social roles to play outside the home was bypassed - but not forgotten by women in the 1960s and 70s.UK Suffragettes in actionIt wasn’t until 1924, following the slaughter of World War I, that the first Mother's Day was held in Australia.Sydney woman Janet Heyden started the tradition after seeing so many poor and lonely women in the Newington State Hospital. Many were left widows after the Great War.Historian and Emeritus Professor Richard Waterhouse from Sydney University says Christmas Day, Easter Sunday and Mother's Day, still bring people together.“In a secular society, those days have lost their importance as occasions for religious celebrations but (they) are still significant for the purpose of family gatherings,” Professor Richard Waterhouse says.“Mother’s Day will continue to be important but the role of mothers will be celebrated in different ways. Women are no longer regarded as the moral guardians of the home but equal workplace participants with their husbands.”“Mother's Day is not just about thanking women for their domestic contributions to families but also their wider contribution as wage earners and equal partners in family life.”

Mother’s Day RaffleThe Lions continue to sell tickets in their Mother’s Day raffle each Saturday on Fern St and outside the IGA. There are four great prizes. First prize is a $300 voucher from Blue Swimmer restaurant at Gerroa; a $100 voucher from 34 Degrees Gerringong and a $30 voucher from The Collective Beat at Gerringong. Second prize is a $200 voucher from Norfolk & Co Gerringong and a $100 voucher from Tilda and Cacao Gerringong. Third prize a $150 voucher from Tonic Facial Gerringong and a $100 voucher from Curries and Spirits restaurant, Gerringong. Fourth prize is a rug valued between $200 and $300 from Holy SpiritYarn Group in Sydney. All proceeds from the sale of tickets are going to the SAHSSSI Women’s Refuge in Nowra.Training Day for the LionsIncoming President, Steve Pottie, along with incoming Secretary, Peter Jeffries recently attended a training day at Dapto to bring them up to date with their obligations and procedures as they prepare to take over the administration of the club for 2024/25. Outgoing President Peter Jeffrey joined them and all three commented on what a positive experience it had been.Steve Pottie, Peter Jeffrey, Peter Jeffries at Lions WorkshopNew MemberGerringong Lions welcomed a new member last week. Greg Schultz, who relocated from Sydney was welcomed into the best Lions Club in Gerringong by President Peter Jeffrey and was inducted by Lion Mark Westhoff.Peter Jeffrey, new member Greg Schultz, and Mark WesthoffAnzac Day CeremonyA very moving ceremony was held at the Dawn ANZAC Service on the headland last Friday with MC Mike O'Leary doing a great job and the very large crowd appreciated the singing from Merryn Lee Perez & Chris Cutting, plus the Gerringong Public School Choir. Many groups and organisations laid commemorative wreaths, including the Lions Club of Gerringong, which was represented by President Peter Jeffrey.Lions Club President Peter Jeffret with wreath at the Anzac Day CeremonyThe return of the Rugby BoysMarc Booker, (left), Henry Cleare (centre) and Jacob Booker (right) had come straight from training, to attend a recent Lions meeting at The Blue Goose to report back on their representative Rugby tours.In April 2023, Marc, Jacob and Henry along with other Junior Rugby Union players from all over the state and interstate were selected in The Australian Raptors Academy Rugby sides.Marc Booker, Henry Cleare, Jacob BookerThe three local boys had collected recyclable items and utilised the Tomra Return and Earn reverse vending machines to aid in their efforts to raise funds for this journey in their lives. The Lions Club of Gerringong, through their own Return and Earn project, thought it fitting that funds from this project be utilised to donate $1000 to each boy to assist in their quest to raise sufficient funds for their sporting adventure.Marc was selected in the Under 15 boys side and embarked on a life-altering journey through the rugged terrains of the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, North England and Scotland. This wasn’t just a rugby tour, it was a cultural exchange and a chance to form bonds with peers from lands steeped in rich rugby traditions. Similarly, Jacob and Henry were part of the U16 Men’s team, and journeyed to California to experience international competition. They played in San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego.It was obvious to the Lions present that their assistance had been well worth it, as the boys impressed with the way they spoke and related what this journey had meant, not only for their playing careers but also for their personal development.

National Volunteer Week (20 to 26 May 2024) is just around the corner, and Kiama Council urges any local volunteer organisations wishing to take part in this year’s Volunteer Expo to ensure their registration is submitted by 5:00pm on Friday 10 May 2024. The Volunteer Expo will take place at the Kiama Farmer’s Market on Wednesday 22 May from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. No doubt this event will showcase the region’s strong community spirit and compassion similar to the 2023 event. “Last year, we had nearly 30 volunteer-based organisations take part in our first-ever expo, which was an amazing turnout for such a small community,” reflected Deputy Mayor, Imogen Draisma. “The vibe on the day was unbelievable, both from the community groups, not-for-profits, service groups and charitable organisations, as well as the locals turning up to see the many and varied ways they could lend a hand for a worthy cause. The Volunteer Expo is an outstanding example of how a small council such as ours can play a large role by helping our local community groups and charities recruit more people to support the important work they do.”Local organisations who are keen to spread the word about their heartfelt mission, and perhaps recruit some new volunteers or recipients, are encouraged to head to the Kiama Council website to register by 5:00pm on Friday 10 May 2024!

On 19 May, Jones Beach will once again host the 2024 NSW Junior Regional Series (South Coast). The cut-off date for entering is Friday 10 May, and young surfers in particular are encouraged to register.The South Coast region covers Minnamurra in the north to Lake Tabourie in the south.“Many athletes from this region have gone on to compete at Aussie titles and World Juniors, such as Keira Buckpitt from Ulladulla Boardriders. I would encourage every young surfer to enter this event via the Surfing NSW portal,” says Jo Collinge, who has recently taken on the voluntary role of Surfing NSW Regional Director for the South Coast. “Numbers in each division are small, and Ocean and Earth are donating some great prizes,” she continues.Lani Cairncross, who went on to place third at Australian Titles after progressing through State Titles. Photo credit: Kirsten Cairncross.The 2024 NSW Regional Series serves as the initial pathway to the 2024 NSW State Titles Junior Surf Series and the 2024 Australian Junior Titles.“Traditionally, this region has had a strong presence progressing to Aussie titles. Often, these surfers have had to work harder for that success because we don’t have access to elite coaches and opportunities that are available to Sydney and North Coast athletes,” says Collinge.Collinge has enjoyed putting on the event for three consecutive years with the help of Jones Beach Boardriders, where she previously served as secretary for the past eight years.“I’ve been driven to provide a professional event for our local surfers to test their surfing skills at an entry-level competition on their own beach,” she says. “Generally, surfers need to travel to Sydney and even further up the coast to Northern NSW to get a taste of competition surfing, which comes at quite a cost to parents for travel and accommodation.” Enter online at 2024 NSW Junior Regional Series (South Coast). Registrations close on Friday, 10 May at 5:00pm AEST.SponsorsSurfing South Coast is also looking for sponsors wishing to support surfing in the local community to ensure this event can continue in its current format for future years. “I want to continue to create and provide opportunities for young surfers that weren’t available to my kids five to six years ago, and build an inclusive community that provides equal access for surfers of all abilities,” Collinge explains.For more information, please contact: [email protected].

With Mother’s Day just around the corner on 12 May, I want to focus on ways of staying active for women in their middle age (45-64 years old) – an important but often invisible group in our community. Middle age is a crucial time for staying active, as it is when our physical capacity starts to naturally decline. Unfortunately, many during this stage may become less physically active. Women in middle age have unique barriers to being physically active, which makes them less likely than men to exercise regularly. For example, while women make up 47 percent of the paid workforce, they also perform three quarters of the unpaid domestic and care work. Often described as the ‘sandwich generation’ because of their multiple roles caring for ageing parents and their own children, twice as many middle-aged women than men are primary carers. With so many competing demands, prioritising self-care often goes out the window in the service of caring for others. Exercise may be considered a luxury or self indulgence.My argument to the women that I regularly see in my physiotherapy practice, who find themselves suddenly unable to fulfil their myriad duties due to an injury or illness and struggle to be regularly active is this: they must put on their own oxygen mask first. If they don’t take care of their own health, including being regularly physically active, then eventually they will be no help to the people who rely on them when they themselves become incapacitated.  Re-framing exercise not as self-care, but as a necessity to continue to serve others is one way to prioritise physical activity without the guilt that women so often feel when doing something for themselves. If you would like help to get more physically active, my research team is evaluating a new program aimed at supporting women aged 50 and over to become more physically active. You can find more information out about it here: activewomenover50.org.au or by scanning the QR code:

When you think of Venice, you might have idyllic images of gondolas cruising down the grand canal guided by Venetian men in striped shirts. This will not be the case for four local ladies who will be taking place in a 33-kilometre race around the islands of Venice. The Vogalonga (which is a Venetian expression for a ‘long rowing race’), has been organised yearly since 1974, when it began as a protest about the damage caused by motorboat traffic in the Venice lagoon. There are now 2000 non-motorised craft and over 7,000 participants taking part in the event. The big day is 19 th May.Four members of the Illawarra Dragon Boat Club: Heather McAlpine, Annie Boulton, Julie Campbell and Ann Harrison will be joining others to accept the challenge in a 20-person dragon boat. The other 16 paddlers come from Jindabyne, Moruya and Narooma Clubs. Going under the descriptive name of ‘Dragons Downunder’, they will be ready to wave the Australian flag in this race, open to all countries and all types of non-motorised boats. There’s such an array of rowing boats – Venetian and English styles along with dragon boats and kayaks. There are even SUPs!“International events bring such a dynamic mixture of training towards the goal. It’s an exciting time to be part of a team,” Heather says. “But there’s bonding and team camaraderie in any event. Each year we compete in the Lunar New Year Festival on Darling Harbour, and the Sydney International Regatta Centre. We also have interstate competitions.” But there are other local options for those interested in trying dragon boating. The club trains regularly on Lake Illawarra. “I’m such a nature lover, and most training sessions we get to see a massive black swan community in flight or just chilling around us, as well as egrets and pelicans. Although I don’t broadcast this loudly,” she says with a chuckle, “as we’re supposed to be focussed in the boat!”One of Heather’s annual dragon boating highlights is being part of the Shellharbour Festival of Sport. “This competition includes community teams, such as schools and sporting clubs. Last year, even our church in Kiama created a team,” she says.Anyone interested in finding out more, please visit the Illawarra Dragon Boat Club at www.idbc.org.au. 

Labor MP Fiona Phillips encourages residents of Gilmore to get their annual influenza vaccine now, ahead of the peak flu season which usually occurs between June to September. In a recent statement, Ms Phillips explained that most residents can now access a range of vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19 shots, through their accredited community pharmacy. With vaccines now available through many pharmacies in the Gilmore district, it conveniently saves time and any additional costs associated with visiting a GP. Residents can make appointments online through their local pharmacy website.Vaccines can save lives and prevent individuals from becoming seriously unwell. Ms Phillips urges residents to take advantage of the National Immunisation Program Vaccinations in Pharmacy (NIPVIP).Some people are eligible to get the flu vaccine for free, including children aged six months to under five years old, individuals aged 65 years and older, Aboriginal people, pregnant women, and those with serious health conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, and immune disorders. The flu is a serious respiratory virus that circulates widely in Australia over winter and can cause more serious complications, including hospitalisation and death – even in healthy people. Ms Phillips emphasises the importance of getting annual flu shots to protect yourself, your family and your community, particularly amidst a 40 per cent increase in flu cases this year, compared to last. 

Mother’s Day gifts don’t have to be expensive to be impactful. These inclusive ideas will warm the heart of your mum and mother figures in your life.Share the LoveIf words of affirmation are a mum’s love language, putting thoughts on paper is priceless. ‘Love Jars’ are a cost effective gift that little kids will love – upcycle an empty jam jar, cut up paper strips and encourage children to write down or draw things they love about their mother, grandmother or caregiver. After you give the jar as a gift, your family can continue to fill it with things they’re grateful for or happy memories. The online design tool, Canva has free templates, you can fill in and print out – just log onto the website and search their templates for ‘things I love about you.’ canva.com.auSay Their NameThe first Sunday of May is known as Bereaved Mother’s Day – a day that honours mothers who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. But Mother’s Day on 12 May is also for these mums too. Meagan Donaldson is the author of the book, Still a Mum, having experienced infant loss with her first child, Violet and third child, Remy. “You can help include a bereaved mum simply by just remembering them as a mum,” she told The Bugle. “Saying their baby’s name is something most bereaved mums love to hear. A text message as simple as, ‘Violet is so lucky to have you as her mum’ means the world.”Embrace their HobbyOn 12 May, how can the whole family get behind a mother’s passions and interests? This could mean joining a mum for their morning ocean swim – with minimal complaining about the cold water. Or, putting the kids on their scooters and bikes, so the adults can go for a run together. The annual fun-run, the Women in Super Mother’s Day Classic, will be held again in Wollongong this year, with money raised for breast cancer and ovarian cancer charities. You can even download a free ‘tribute bib’ to showcase the person you’re running to remember. mothersdayclassic.com.auCelebrate your ‘Bonus Mums’In addition to celebrating the woman who gave birth to you, Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate and thank the mother figures in your life. Although the term ‘bonus mum’ is commonly used to describe a step-mother, its origins are much wider – any woman who offers the love and support of a mother. Thanks to the diversity of modern families, you can buy ‘Bonus Mums’ cards, including e-cards, which can be text or emailed – just search Google, and celebrate your ‘other mothers’ too.

Gerringong has many facilities for people of a ‘mature’ age to assist them in their later years. These may include retirement villages or nursing homes. In some cases, however, nurses or other people may come to an elderly person’s own home to assist with daily tasks including preparing meals, housework and gardening so they don’t have to move out. Of course, many elderly people live with relatives through choice, but the point is just that: many now have a choice.These choices were usually not available many years ago. Care of the aged and infirm invariably fell upon the shoulders of family members. A single family member may have often had to ‘sacrifice’ part or all of their own life to do this ‘duty’. This ‘sacrifice’ was usually given freely and without complaint.As a Chittick, I can remember part of my own family history, which was pretty typical of the time. A family in Ireland on a farm in the mid eighteen hundreds. Dad died leaving mother and large family destitute, being unable to run a farm properly. Mother then sold the farm and left with all the family and what possessions they could carry on a boat to Australia. On the way out, she died.As a result, the eldest girl, Ellen, no longer had a life of her own. No marriage. No children. No career. No, her life was one of duty, caring for her siblings. All we have of Ellen Chittick is a photo and a Bible.Ellen Chittick’s BibleI remember reading biographies of family members which would often state that, ‘Auntie so and so spent the last five years of his or her life living with their sister’s family’. My father wrote a story about such a duty. And often the duty fell upon a selected female member of the family. His name is Clive Emery, and this is his story …It has never been my privilege to understand just what represents a level playing field in a person’s lifetime. How some members of a family can seem to have a dream run, lots of opportunities in work and relationships. Other members of a family can seem to have a life of duty and service. How inequities seem to appear, often through no fault of any person.Take the case of two maidens, sisters of my acquaintance who would normally work on their father's farm until they married.  At sixteen and eighteen their grandmother fell ill, and this was where the inequity began. The grandparents lived and farmed a long way from their neighbours, in a town 10 kilometres distant.They did not have the convenience of a car. The road to their mountain farm was rugged in the extreme, so the only connection with civilisation was by sulky or cart.  There was no electricity and no water, except what gathered into a tank off their roof. They called on their daughter for assistance because she could easily spare one of her two daughters as a housekeeper and companion for granny. But, which one?The decision did not come from the toss of a coin. It came from the need, and from their individual accomplishments, such as who was the best worker and could milk the cows the fastest! And so the younger girl lost and had to go and look after her granny and grandpa.  For how long? One month … one year? No, five years, until granny's death! It meant being parted from her family during her youthhood. Parted, too, from the comfort and protection of the family unit.It was five years of virtual imprisonment before she was able to return to the fold and be accorded a twenty-first birthday party at her home! How wonderful?! That gap in a young girl's life could not be assumed to be helpful, nor could an equation be reached to evaluate her loneliness - the escapades and jollity of family living, of sleeping in her own bed and the companionship of her two brothers, sister and parents! She went without a word of protest as a silent companion and carer of an aged woman. Try that for size! A level playing field, indeed!Then there was the case of my own cousin, who from 5 to ten years had to sleep in the same bed as granny. When granny died it was the first time she had a bed to herself!She always loved granny, she said. It was a mournful way to spend her girlhood, but at least she had the school days to herself and her playmates.

Religious groups including faith leaders are bringing their message to local MP Fiona Phillips on Friday, May 3 that they want an end to coal and gas projects as part of the government’s action on the climate crisis by holding a protest outside her office asking her to take their message to the Prime Minister.Across Australia, environmental groups and others are holding similar actions outside of Government MPs’ offices between April 29 and May 10 to say that if the Albanese Government is serious about keeping people safe from the impacts of changing the climate such as bushfires and floods, there can be no more coal and gas projects. “This year the Labor Government will decide whether to approve a lot more potential coal and gas projects. The world’s climate scientists have made it clear that a safe climate is not compatible with any new fossil fuel projects anywhere on Earth”, said Rev John Brentnall from Berry Uniting Church. Those attending come from Catholic, Anglican, Uniting Church and Buddhist communities. “As people of faith we are united in saying that this is a clear moral issue on which this Government must act.” “Here on the south coast people know only too well how serious it is to keep upping the chances of more bushfires and floods. It’s bad enough what nature throws at us anyway without pouring fuel on the fire by saying yes to new coal and gas,” said Rev Brentnall. The faith communities are joining forces with other concerned local people.“This is something that concerns people of all faiths and none,” said Rev Brentnall. “We’re all deeply concerned.” In recent times, faith communities have been increasingly vocal about the issue. In October 2022 more than 100 senior religious leaders from across Australia and the Pacific sent an open letter to Prime Minister Albanese (https://www.arrcc.org.au/open_letter_climate_justice) calling for an end to new coal and gas projects.Senior leaders from Christian, Muslim and Buddhist faiths followed up on the open letter in November and February by holding meetings in Canberra with the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff, Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, Minister for the Pacific Pat Conroy and Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek. They also met Shadow Climate Minister Ted O’Brien.