It was standing room only at Kiama Anglican Church for the latest successful instalment of the Classical Kiama Concert series, performed by Goldner String Quartet on 7 April 2024. With approximately 120 people in attendance, this sell-out show marked one of the final performances for the distinguished Goldner String Quartet. The musicians announced their disbandment late last year after collaborating since 1995. Each having performed with prestigious companies such as Australian Chamber Orchestra and Sydney Symphony Orchestra, the quartet is comprised of Dene Olding and Dimity Hall on violin, violist Irina Morozova and cellist Julian Smiles. Hall and Smiles are a married couple, as are Olding and Morozova.PerformersPerforming a “potpourri of quartet excerpts”, as described by band member Dene Olding, the quartet moved seamlessly through works of varying energies from classical composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Schumann, alongside up-and-coming young Australian composer, Harry Sdraulig. Perfectly timed notes from all musicians filled the intimate space with a richness that clearly captivated all in attendance. A heartfelt round of applause upon conclusion inspired an inevitable encore, with the quartet performing a piece by Czech composer, Dvořák, which shone a spotlight particularly on Smiles’ brilliance on the cello.Roslyn, Nick & Anne“The Goldner Quartet were superb. We are really lucky to have had them in Kiama. It was a beautiful program, and the encore was just magical,” says regular attendee of Classical Kiama concerts, Karen Lateo.The energy in the Church that evening was undeniably uplifting. This was felt too by the quartet, who – despite their looming disbandment – would warmly welcome a return to our region in some capacity.“We really enjoyed performing for Classical Kiama. We were thrilled with the capacity audience, which was very welcoming, responsive and appreciative,” says Hall.Natalia & Diana“The location is spectacular, and the Anglican Church is a perfect venue for chamber music. The acoustic is lovely and the ambience warm and intimate. We would gladly return in some form or other and we wish Classical Kiama all the best for their continuing series of concerts.”Remaining Classical Kiama events for 2024 include Daniel Röhn (violin) and Olena Nikulina (piano) on 16 June, Jesse Flowers (guitar) on 18 August, and Simon Tedeschi (piano) and George Washingmachine (jazz violin and vocals) on 6 October. An end of year concert will follow in December, with details to be announced shortly. For further details and bookings, visit the Classical Kiama Facebook page.

On Wednesday, 10 April, Kiama Community Radio hosted a senior’s high tea at the Kiama Leagues Club. The event brought together local seniors in the Kiama district for a lovely afternoon of good food, connection, and vintage music. Among the distinguished guests was Mayor Neil Reilly, back at the helm, and MP for Kiama Gareth Ward. In his address, the Mayor took a moment to express his gratitude for the opportunity to spend time with the seniors of our community, as well as the efforts of both Kiama Community Radio and The Bugle as direct outlets for community news and stories.Helen, Julieanne, Elaine, Gail, Mila, Kathy and Kathleen enjoying the festivitiesDeclaring the high tea officially open, Mayor Reilly reflected on his love for community radio and its important role in our tight-knit community. Gordon Bell & John Larkins (Kiama Lions President) catching up over high teaOne of the attendees, Gordon Bell, said he was grateful to have heard about the event from the last edition of The Bugle newspaper. We advertise events just such as this in print and on our What’s On page online, updated frequently.   The event was organised to celebrate the seniors in our community and get them connected to Kiama Community Radio. There was a raffle with some generously donated prizes to be won: A $50 voucher from Burnett’s on Barney, supplied by the owners of Edessa arcade with a bottle of champagne, and also a $200 voucher donated from The Sebel Kiama.Madeleine & FranEvents such as these are a wonderful demonstration of the generous nature of the community in Kiama and thanks are owed to the owners of Edessa Arcade and The Sebel Kiama for donating the raffle prizes. The initiative for the event was $1400 in funding from the small events grants programme from Kiama Council. Kerrie, Gabi & Bernie - movers and shakers in KCRAdditionally, The Kiama Leagues Club not only provided the event space but also the t-shirts worn by KCR volunteers during the afternoon. The high tea delicacies were sourced from Cakes on Collins, Bakers Delight and Woolworths. Overall, the high tea was a resounding success, underscoring the importance of honouring the contributions of Kiama’s seniors. With events like these, the spirit of togetherness and appreciation continues to thrive within the community.  Hopefully more of our community will tune into the fabulous programmes offered on Kiama Community Radio. You can access their music directly from The Bugle app also.

After recent storms that left the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club roof in disrepair, the community displayed an inspiring show of solidarity and kindness to help fundraise to mend the damages – on the very weekend of predicted further wild weather! Fortunately Kiama was not hit as hard as neighbouring areas or the evening could have been very different for the guests.Leading this charge was Pritpal from JJ's Indian Restaurant, Kiama, who offered to cook a lavish Indian banquet for 100 attendees, free of charge with proceeds going to the roof restoration.The event on Saturday 6 April, held at the club, was nothing short of magical. It transformed into a vibrant celebration of community spirit, with a Bollywood DJ spinning tunes, lively dancing, and even a conga line snaking through the room. Attendees added to the colourful atmosphere by dressing in beautiful saris, enhancing the festivity.Club President Phil Perry took on the role of waiter for the night, while Club Treasurer David Gorman meticulously hand-washed every dish—a true testament to the dedication and teamwork within the club.Pritpal and JJ's Indian Restaurant have long been pillars of the Kiama community. For 13 years, they've been offering free meals to the homeless and affordable $5 student meals to international students at Wollongong University.Monica from JJ's was thrilled to see the community enjoying their culinary delights and wasted no time hitting the dance floor, sparking a night of joy and camaraderie."The event was a massive success," said Club President Phil Perry, "not only in raising funds to repair our roof but also in showcasing the strength and spirit of our community."The Kiama Surf Life Saving Club extends its heartfelt gratitude to Pritpal, JJ's Indian Restaurant, and the entire community for their overwhelming support during these challenging times.Check out these awesome pics from the event

Leanne Brookes, and Jessie Spinx - Kiama CouncilFrom left to right: Trent Hilaire-Hill To Air, Craig Morris, and Mark Jacoub-Snap Fitness. From left to right: Erin Egan, Anne Marie Esler, Claire Lux, Jenny Miles- On Print, Carla Juta and Paul Randall- South Coast HolidaysMarty M -South Coast Wine AcademyCatherine Glover -Principal Kiama of Kiama High School and Cameron McDonald- Cullerton Lawyers Susan Spence- Hartwell Floral and Trish Fallon- Marriage CelebrantFrom left to right: Anna Saunders (Leadership creativity), Kathryn Martens (Release Coaching) and Meg Storey (Marketing Movement)From left to right: Brendon Comber and Gareth Ward (MP) Glenn Haworth - Resolve Business coaching and Bede Crasnich Marie Beikmanais From left to right: Michael Hatfield-Kells Lawyers, Fiona Pollard, Ann Marie Campbell - H. Parsons Funerals and Andy WhartonShamayne Anderson, and Michael Emmett - Bluestone BuildingMeryll Faulkner, Nardia Giullaumier- Gold medallist, World Indoor Rowing Championships 2024 and Ann Garard- Kiama Charter Services

Black Beach came alive with KiamaSala on Sunday 25 February, the first major Indian festival in the region. Festival goers were blessed with a dazzling summer’s day as the perfect backdrop to the day’s festivities, where food and market stalls complemented a stage packed with entertainment.Stand out stalls offered Indian fashion, Henna artists, and traditional Homewares and Décor, with plenty to take home. A selection of Indian food kept attendees nourished, with Kiama local JJs a clear favourite.The main stage was the hub of the action. A dynamic MC kept the energy flowing, and excited the crowd with giveaways, facts about India, and Kiama-based trivia, with one lucky person going home with an Adam Gilchrist signed cricket bat.A packed event schedule kicked off with a morning Yoga class and a welcome to country, and later included traditional drum performances, DJ’s and musical talent, and a host of Bollywood dancers. The highlight of the day was the performances by the students from Bollywood Exclusive Dance. In vibrant traditional costumes, they wowed the audience with their blend of traditional Indian and modern western dance styles, and even joined the crowd on the grass to share some Bollywood moves in a joint performance. Dance teacher, Viji, was ecstatic, and had glowing praise for her students.“They’ve all worked so hard in the lead up to this, and they’ve done an amazing job.”For one event goer, this event was a highlight of their year so far.“It’s been such a great vibe. I loved watching the performances, and it was really nice to see everyone get involved”With the success of the event, we’ll be sure to see KiamaSala return next year even bigger and better.

The Kiama Farmers' Market returned for its tenth year on Wednesday, bringing locals and visitors fresh produce and ready-to-eat food at Coronation Park with the enviable backdrop of Surf Beach.Market co-ordinator Tricia Ashelford shared with The Bugle some of the new vendors this year.“We’re really excited to have a new grower from up at Wollondilly, they grow their own strawberries on their farm so they’re doing chocolate-covered strawberries.”“It’s great to have Schottlanders Wagyu back after a little break, they’re back with their beef from Gerringong. Pecora Dairy with their award-winning sheep’s cheese from up at Robertson is back as well, that’s been fantastic. And there’s so much ready-to-eat food around as well. So it’s a nice spot to come and sit out and listen to some music, have something to eat and enjoy the view.Brittony MayOn 7 February, the Kiama Farmers Market will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a slew of activities as well as a cake to celebrate the milestone.LeylaMichael from Pecora DairyLisa from Schottlanders WagyuLiam and Shawnie from AmigosIvy and Adam from Buena Vista FarmIvy and Banjo

Photos courtesy of Darren ParlettAn estimated 15,000 people from within and outside the Kiama LGA made their way to the harbour on New Year's Eve to witness one of the town’s biggest New Years Eve Sky Shows to date.Fireworks kicked off at 9pm, with families hanging around town to enjoy the rest of the festivities including the Family Carnival at the Old School Flat, and food from local eateries such as Miss Arda, Hungry Monkey, Moist N Glazed, Kiama Sweet Co. and Saltwater.What could be the biggest Kiama New Year’s Eve Sky Shows is also the most environmentally friendly. Kiama Council teamed up with Fireworks Australia to use fireworks made from rice straw and calcite materials rather than traditional cardboard, making it more biodegradable and minimising waste. The new fireworks also use 30 per cent less black lift powder.

Gerringong Library hosted a school holiday challenge for kids to explore their creative sides with Lego. The kids worked with hundreds of Lego pieces provided by the library to create some exciting water vessel designs. The Waterworks challenge posed designs for fountains, swimming pools, and waterwheels and the kids were given free creative reign over their designs. The young builders were eager to show off their ideas, with some choosing to incorporate water slides and surf board pieces to complete the look, sticking to the theme. Kids and parents alike had a blast building together. All creations are to be displayed in the library for the public to see. The library continues to hold similar activities for the remainder of the school holidays, most of which are free. These activities are a fun and cost effective way to keep the kids entertained this summer.The next activity at the library will be held on Thursday 4 January where participants will learn how to use green screen effects to script and shoot a short film. Looking ahead there is another chance to explore the world of Lego on Tuesday 9 January with a competition open to ages 5-12 years old. For more information or to make a booking you can visit the library website. 

Wet weather couldn’t stop the Kiama LGA from showing out for the Carols in the Park, or should we say Carols in the Leagues Club!The 2023 Carols in the Park on Wednesday 20 December was relocated to the Kiama Leagues Club Auditorium, and the town packed out the room with friends, families and plenty of kids who joined in on the Christmas festivities.Santa Claus himself made an appearance, much to the delight of the younger crowd who flocked to Jolly Saint Nick for presents and treats.The NSW Fire Brigade made their way on stage to sing a few Christmas classics with the kidsAlana, Kerry, Kirsty and Alex Emanuel, Mary, Chris and Mel Dion and HenryLincoln, Rose, Joey, Josè and Mathew Donuts courtesy of Moist 'N' GlazedHair extensions courtesy of Hair by Courtney Anne

Here's your guide to what you may have missed over the weekend of 9 - 10 December 2023Amazing raceLeft to right: Luke Doepel, Emma Lau, Natalie Maloney, Nicola Flynn, Luke Maloney, Kartik Mishra.Residents of Gerroa on Saturday 9 December 2023, especially along Headlands Drive would have spotted teams of different walkers in different team colours doing their own version of the Amazing Race Challenges.There were various stations on the way (including a portable hydration station moving from station to station with watermelon and ice) for the competitors on one of the hottest days of 2023.Challenges were timed and included such tasks as stringing Cheezels while blindfolded.The whole exercise was to celebrate the 30th birthday of Jessie Holder of Gerroa, and by all reports much fun but also much sweat was had by all!Dynamic MovesDynamic Moves Dance studio of Dapto performed their end of year dance extravaganza at the Kiama Pavilion on Sunday 10 December.Belinda Kawalek, the principal of Dynamic Moves Dance Studio, which is in Dapto, said in the Grease booklet: “As we bring the curtains down, we invite you to carry the memories of this performance. Cherish the emotions, the laughter, and the moments that touched your heart. Dance has the unique ability to inspire, entertain and connect people, and we hope this show has done just that.”The Pink Ladies were led by Atayah Irvine as Sandy, and were Olivia Bianchi, Phoebe Block, Mikayla Rytkonen, Harlee Ferraro, Zara Meikle, Mila Erikson, Juliet Pinto and Amelia Croft.The T Birds were led by Hannah Tate as Danny and were Zoey Erikson, Addison Szabo, Zoey Dorfmueller, Claudia Abrahams, Alissa Hardwick, Emilia Loprieato, Shayla Bryson, Gabrielle O’Shea, Anastasia Mastrioanni, and Lisa Sawyer.Over sixty dancers hit the stage in various choreographed performances of all the songs from the hit musical Grease.One feature was the all ages, all levels of talent , and all levels of ability inclusive nature of the performances with dancers aged from 3 years to seventy years on stage at the same time either just there for the joy of dance or seeking a more professional career.Dinner with a detectiveMike Cains, NSW Detective Sergeant now retired Damien Loone and retired detective Frank SanvataliA fascinating and highly topical talk was held at the Kiama Bowling Club on Sunday with NSW Detective Sergeant now retired Damien Loone, who worked on the high profile Chris Dawson case, which was featured in the high profile Teachers Pet podcast which helped gather evidence for the case.The Cheryl Grimmer case was also discussed, with retired detective Frank Sanvatali joining the panel, after a recent breakthrough where a new witness to the toddler’s disappearance in 1970 at Fairy Meadow Beach has recently come forward. Frank Sanvatali has worked on the Cheryl Grimmer case for many years.The witness was found by the podcast Fairy Meadow hosted by former BBC journalist Jon Kay who contacted Damien Loone only about a month ago, in November 2023.It was clear that a popular podcast could bring new witnesses forward who had never spoken to police about the cold case before.Both agreed that the age of both cases meant that vital witnesses were dying, simply of old age. Detective Sergeant Loone, when asked by The Bugle about the effectiveness of true crime podcasts, agreed that they work best on reviving interest in cold cases, rather than open cases where any citizen investigators could reveal lines of inquiry the police would rather keep confidential from any suspects.There is certainly enough material for anyone thinking of starting up a Kiama true crimes podcast. Kiama has had a number of high profile and even gruesome murder cases over the years, such as the murder of Kim Barry, whose body was found at Jamberoo, by the notorious Graham Gene Potter, and currently has at least two open cold cases, those of Rachelle Childs, whose body was found at Gerroa in 2001 and whose murder was never solved, and Kiama woman Jackie-Lee Walsh who disappeared in 1989 and is presumed murdered but whose body was never found.Why not contact Kiama Community Radio if you are interested in starting up a Kiama True Crimes podcast?The talk was hosted by Mike Cains, President of the Kiama branch of the Liberal Party. The local branch also hosted the event. See you next weekend!

Members of the MX-5 Club of NSW have helped raise money for two separate causes as they made their way down to Kiama for High Tea on 7 December 2023.The club, for owners and fans of Mazda’s MX-5, from all across NSW made their way to our shores, including members from Sydney chapters, the Illawarra, and of course, Kiama.More than a third of the MX-5 Club are women, and there were more than 32 women who attended on the day, bringing 20 different MX-5s to High Tea at the Joyce Wheatley Centre in Kiama.Proceeds from the event go to CareFlight, a non-profit aeromedical organisation that undertakes pre-hospital and medical retrieval efforts using NSW Ambulance helicopters.The event was also to help bring awareness to the Club’s participation in the 2024 Shitbox Rally, a major fundraising effort for the Cancer Council of Australia.Drivers from the club will get behind the wheel of Margot The Tarago as it travels 3500 kilometres in seven days from Adelaide via Uluru to Perth.Margot The TaragoThe Club initially set out to raise $5000 for the Cancer Council, but has already raised more than $11,000 with many months left to go.You can donate to the team here.

The Pavilion was pumping for the Kiama High School Year 12 Ball.Parents and well wishers were snapping photos in the warm evening before guests were ushered into the Pavilion. Kylie from the Pavilion told The Bugle that canapes were served to about 50 parents and students prior to the main event.Champagne themed tables welcomed the young adults into the ball room. Chef's and staff were prepping for a great evening celebrating the 2023 year.Bridie Giles, Lucy Clark and Abbey O'ConnorGrace Peseta, Cassidy Warfield and Mica HeslopJackson Morris, Abbey O'Connor and Hannah BrianJessica Werfel, Patrick Wilbraham and Ella WainmanIvy Smith, Eleisha Shake, Milly Wall and Shae MoirKiara Foye and Molly CondonMaddison Obryne and Tonnrey KnoxMia Yardley and Jenna TaberPauly, Ben, Kade, Azriel and BaileySaffron Willoughby and Tiago De-Jesus Sienna Bell and Holly WishartPaulo Morand, John Cooke, Joe Sabo and Brendan Greenaway from The Pavillion preparing a feastAnd finally, Kylie Harding event assistant from The Pavillion with the editor for The Bugle.

Val, Gerry, Yvonne, Lesley, Marilyn, Maureen, Judy and John at Gerroa for CMRI Melbourne Cup LuncheonCMRI Gerroa Melb Cup lunchThe Men's Best Dressed parade at Kiama Leagues Club on Melbourne Cup dayMaree McLean taks out Best Dressed woman at Kiama Leagues Club on Melbourne Cup dayLucy Hill - President, Kate Quinn, & Lorraine Peade at CMRI Melbourne Cup Luncheon in Gerroa Fishermans ClubJosh Duhamel (in spirit), Tracey & Norm Callaghan celebrating Tracey's 50th & the Cup on the same day at Kiama Golf ClubJanna Farrell (white) & Trust Gilbert (orange) sport pretty fascinators at CMRI Melbourne Cup Luncheon at GerroaJan Eadon, Penny Scott & Sue Thorley celebrate Melbourne Cup at Kiama Leagues Club

Meals on Wheels had a big party for all their volunteers on 31 August 2023 at The Sebel. The Bugle featured this story prior to the event. Link.Above and below are photos from the celebration day.From left to right: Joan Cooper, Bob Young, Annette Young, Peter Cooper.The Bugle congratulates Meals on Wheels volunteers for their great work.

The Jamberoo Rural Fire Brigade held its first trivia night to raise funds for specialised equipment at Club Jamberoo on 9 September.Tickets for the night were a hot button item, with all 100 tickets selling out in 10 days to 10 tables of trivia enthusiasts.The night was hosted by the quizmaster and Deputy Captain John Temlett, who swapped out his orange firefighting gear for a retro velvet purple suit, assisted by firefighter Jen Maclean.Quizmaster and Deputy Captain John TemlettThe night included six rounds of questions interspersed with games like “First in Best Dressed,” where participants dressed up like firefighters.The charity auction was hosted by Brigade Vice President and veteran firefighter David Butcher, who sold a wide selection of items like artworks and a rare opportunity for a family portrait by well-known photographer and firefighter Linda Faiers.Brigade Vice President David ButcherShowing true dedication to firefighting, Brigade Captain Hannah McInerny left the event to respond to a grass fire and returned in full firefighting garb later that night.Captain Hannah McInerney with firefighters Jordan Casson-Jones and Marc McLaren after returning from a grass fireJamberoo Rural Fire Brigade wants to show its appreciation for the support it received from local businesses and individuals who donated items to auction and prize packages for the highest-scoring teams.Pictures supplied by Linda Faiers

After months of planning, the Rotary Club of Kiama would like to say “thank you, thank you, and thank you” to everyone who came out and shared their “Christmas In July” Trivia Night on Friday, 21 July 2023.There was a flurry of excitement, with over 200 people in their Christmas costumes adorning the Kiama Pavilion and eagerly decorating their team tables. Flashing lights, Christmas Trees, Christmas bonbons, Santas and reindeer were out in abundance. The wonderful Kiama Pipe Band welcomed the trivia teams with Christmas Carols and other well-known tunes. There was fierce competition between the teams, with a tie being the final result.A great night was had by all and was made possible by wonderful Community, Sponsors, Donors and the Rotary Kiama team. A special vote of gratitude to the Kiama Pipe Band for the fabulous music, Dave Evans from Laughter House Entertainment and our Rotary friends who stepped up to help on the night. Thanks also to the team at, Camden & Kiama Furniture One, Kiama Leagues Club, Collins Street Dental, The Sebel Harbourside – Yves Bar & Bistro, PCL Money, Kiama Farmers' Market, Wildginger Kiama, Shellharbour Wild, Jamberoo Action Park, Coastal Float, Endota day spa Kiama, Jamberoo Bowling Club, Tussta Hair, Manning Street Cellars, and Hello Weekend.The “Christmas in July” Raffle was drawn during the evening with thanks to Tonia Barnes, District Governor, Rotary District 9675, for drawing the prizes.  Congratulations go to the Raffle Winners:1st Prize: Ticket #0846 Deidre Backhouse: Weber BBQ donated by Kiama and Camden Furniture One 2nd Prize: Ticket #0127 Greg Davies: Shellharbour Whale Watch Voucher donated by Shellharbour Wild 3rd Prize: Ticket #0142 Anne Doorn: Yves Cocktail & Bistro Voucher donated by The Sebel Harbourside Kiama 4th Prize: Ticket #0549 Jill Wilson: Wildginger Kiama Voucher donated by Wildginger 5th Prize: Ticket #0195 Katrina Evans: Jamberoo Action Park Voucher donated by Jamberoo Action Park Funds raised from this event will support Rotary Kiama's local, national, and international projects. Thanks to Kiama for all the support.

The annual Kiama Winter Festival has wrapped up, celebrating another successful year of icy fun. Fun for young and old in the ice skating tent and local food to warm up after the cold encounter! The lighting effects and the general ambience definitely a success story for Destination Kiama. Destination Kiama hosted a networking function on 12 July to cap the proceedings for 2023 at the Old School Flat in front of The Sebel and Penny Whistlers with food catered by Yves and drinks provided by Henry Clive Caravan Bar. Some social pics of some in attendance enjoying the vibes. Supporting local is so important in a regional community and this was a great example. The upcoming campaign by the business chamber seconds that. And why not have fun at the same time! Cheryl Lappin, John Sullivan & Rita SullivanJackie Hall & Cameron ThomasJustin Dunning, Rebecca Dunning, Belinda Doyle, Sheree Bailey & Zeynep TestoniOlivia Deans & Kylie HardingThe Bugle's Belle Wood and Donna PortlandNibblies and drinks provided by the lovely crew from Henry Clive and Yves

Last night's Business Chambers meeting, hosted by The Bugle, saw local businesses get together for a night of socialising, drinks and networking.It was also the perfect chance for fellow businesses to meet the new Bugle team.See the night's events below.

Kiama Lions Club held its annual dinner to celebrate the changing of the guard, as President Peter Scifleet handed the reins over to incoming President John Larkins.The Club also presented awards to outstanding members for their contributions to the community over the past 12 months.Kiama Mayor Neil Reilly spoke on the close relationship between Council and the local chapter of the Lions Club since it was founded in 1970Kiama Lions Club Secretary Bobbie English, The Bugle's Belinda Woodfield, Kiama Lions' Bill & Franca Lyon, and outgoing President Peter ScifleetNew Kiama Lions Club President John Larkin with his son, Councillor Stuart LarkinTony GrangerCheryl MosesChris & Claire KilmoreKen & Stella McLeishBill & Franca LyonsJanet Bruce, who was awarded the Keith Small Gold Honour Award, and outgoing President Peter Scifleet