Kids Helpline, run by yourtown, has unveiled a new mental health care platform called ‘My Circle,’ in response to the growing demand for mental health support digitally. In collaboration with several stakeholders, including the Bupa Foundation and the University of Sydney’s Cyberpsychology Research Group, My Circle offers a free, private, and anonymous social network, moderated by clinical professionals and provides a safe space for peer support. The platform introduces a new level of accessibility for how young people access and receive mental health assistance.Tracy Adams, CEO of yourtown, emphasises the urgent need to address mental health challenges that young people face today. “We cannot allow mental ill-health to become the new norm in children and young people,” she states.Supported by a $1M investment from the Bupa Foundation, the platform has already gained significant traction with nearly 4,000 new users last year, 70 per cent of which falls within the age group 13-17. With an age range of 12-25 years old, young people in the Kiama area are encouraged to join the free platform. My Circle has seen a lot of growth since it began in 2021 and is a safe and private way for our youth to connect on matters that are prevalent to their peers with qualified Kids Helpline Counsellors monitoring. With its innovative approach, involving young people in the design and implementation of the platform, and commitment to empowering young people, My Circle represents a significant step forward in the provision of mental health support for teenagers in Australia. Fore more information and to join the platform you can click here.

At just 21 years old, Sam Scobie is already making waves in the real estate industry as a dedicated agent at Ray White Kiama. With a family legacy spanning three generations in real estate, Sam has a passion for his work. This is evident in his commitment to providing exceptional client services. Sam began his journey in real estate less than three years ago, yet swiftly proved his dedication. He was awarded Youth Business Person of the Year in 2022 at the age of 19. Despite his youth, Sam has extensive experience in various roles within the industry. These credentials have allowed him to develop his skills and understanding of the market dynamics. He places great value on client experience and his professional approach exemplifies this. Sam has finished his apprenticeship with Ray White and is now a licensed real estate agent. He finds his young age can occasionally be considered a disadvantage. However, his work speaks for itself. His genuine commitment to the job and his clients serve as a testament on its own.  For Sam, every day in real estate is an adventure filled with new and unique opportunities. He thrives in a dynamic and fast paced environment, and has proven he is not afraid to rise to challenges. Beyond his professional life, Sam talks of his love for the Kiama area. Having grown up in the region with no plans to leave any time soon, he knows the town like the back of his hand. This knowledge and passion enhances his ability to excel in his job. In his spare time, Sam likes to play golf, swim and spend time with friends and family. He has a laser focus for building his career and watching it grow.  Sam is undoubtedly a rising star in the industry. He has made a significant impact in a short time, no doubt with greater things yet to come. Need proof? Check out Sam’s two latest listings in Kiama Heights; a grand waterfront reserve at 42 Elanora Road & a gorgeous three-bedroom house at 24 Kalang Road.Whether you are buying, selling or seeking expert advice, Sam is your go-to agent in Kiama. You can reach him at [email protected] or 0451 523 680.

During lunch breaks at Kiama High School, groups of year 7 and year 8 students can be found taking part in an unexpected lunchbreak activity — the fantasy role-play tabletop game, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). Led by school counsellor and registered psychologist, Chris Scobie, the school has been hosting D&D groups since 2022. In the last year, it has grown in popularity, and even become an unexpected form of therapy.“I started the groups in mid-2022 with a Year 8 boys group and a Year 7 mixed gender group,” says Scobie. “The handy thing about ‘DnD’ is that you can pack up and set up relatively easily. This, combined with DnD being illuminated in popular culture with [the Netflix show] Stranger Things, motivated me to get the groups going at Kiama High.”In case you’re not familiar with the game — which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year — it involves players forming an ‘adventure party’ who explore fantasy worlds together. There isn’t really a ‘winner’ in the conventional sense. As the makers of the game explain: ‘While the goal of many games is to score the most points or win, the ultimate goal of D&D is to tell a story’. You may remember the backlash against the game in the eighties, when D&D was accused of encouraging witchcraft and satanism. Today, its reputation has taken a dramatic up-swing, as the mental health sector explores its therapeutic benefits for people of all ages.A recent Australian study found that, after taking part in eight weeks of D&D gameplay (1 hour session per week), participants demonstrated significant decreases in depression, stress, and anxiety and significant increases in self-esteem and self-efficacy over the period. A separate study from Manchester Metropolitan University suggests the game increases confidence, helps people to express themselves and makes them feel connected. For children, the benefits were even more promising, increasing their empathy, creativity and strategic thinking.Since starting D&D groups at Kiama High School, Chris Scobie has seen these benefits first-hand. “Dungeons & Dragons combines escapism, teamwork, collaborative and creative problem solving, acting, strategy, silliness and fun,” he explains. “It creates good-old structured social interaction around a table, which has become more rare these days with our culture’s obsession with screens.” Since the popularity of the D&D groups, he has also started a ‘Warhammer’ club. Students collect, build and paint miniature figures, and fight strategic tabletop battles. Warhammer offers an accessible alternative to sports-based clubs and activities. “Sport is not for everyone and students who don’t pursue sport often pursue electronic interests,” says Scobie. “A state of ‘flow’ or ‘absorption’ can be achieved in any challenging task, be it sport, music, academic, social or artistic.”For most students taking part, they simply enjoy the adventure. As a Year 8 student from Kiama High School told The Bugle: “It’s just fun! I get to raid a dungeon, purchase a donkey with my loot, then get the donkey to kick down the goblin kings’ throne room door after I persuaded his minions to mutiny”.

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.

COORDINARE and Grand Pacific Health are collaboratively rectifying unforeseen issues surrounding building work approvals that have resulted in the delayed opening of headspace Kiama. The facility anticipates opening its 11/65 Manning Street doors in the coming months to provide young people aged 12-25 years with support for mental health issues, alcohol and other drug abuse as well as work and study support. Commissioned by COORDINARE, the South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network, and funded by the Australian Government’s national headspace program, the service will be operated by Grand Pacific Health. Progress is well underway, with building plans submitted and builders contracted. The facility is expected to be up and running within approximately 10 weeks of approvals being received to commence building works. Prudence Buist, CEO of COORDINARE, assures that all parties are working to get the new facility operational as swiftly and effectively as possible, with resources ready to roll once the green light is given.“There has been consultation with young people on the look and feel of the service to ensure the service will be one of a kind. Plus, there has been a consortium of partners formed and ready to assist in delivering services at headspace Kiama,” says Buist. “All headspace Kiama staff have been recruited and are working from headspace Shellharbour until headspace Kiama site opens.” Until headspace Kiama becomes operational, telehealth services via phone or video are available. Additionally, Kiama-based young people can access in-person support at headspace Shellharbour, and Kiama High School students are provided with onsite support.“From Term 2, headspace Shellharbour will be offering services onsite at Kiama High School for Kiama High students. These arrangements will stay in place until headspace Kiama is operational,” says Buist. The Bugle will continue to provide updates on the much-anticipated opening of headspace Kiama. In the meantime, if you or someone you know needs support, please phone headspace Shellharbour on 02 4225 5670 or pay them a visit at 162-172 Shellharbour Road, Warilla.   

In yet another tale of community dedication, the Illawarra region welcomes a new face to its educational landscape. Last year, Sarah Sharp and her family made the decision to settle down in this locale, bringing with them a wealth of experience in teaching Maths and Science for over two decades.But as life often beckons for change, Sarah found herself at a crossroads, seeking a fresh avenue to channel her passion for education. It was during this time that the transformative power of Kumon Education came into focus. Witnessing firsthand the remarkable progress of her own children through the Kumon method, Sarah felt a calling to become a part of this renowned educational initiative.Celebrating its 40th anniversary in Australia this year, Kumon traces its origins back to Japan, where a father's dedication to his son's mathematical development laid the foundation for a global educational phenomenon.  Last August, Sarah and her team proudly opened the doors to the Albion Park Kumon Centre, marking a new chapter in an educational journey. Since then, the centre has become a hub of learning, nurturing young minds and fostering a culture of academic excellence.Reflecting on the strides made by their students, Sarah is very proud. From beaming smiles to tales of newfound confidence, the transformation is palpable. Students eagerly share stories of academic achievements, proudly showcasing awards won at school and revelling in newfound abilities and confidence. They embody the spirit of perseverance and achievement that lies at the heart of the Kumon philosophy.As Kumon continues to witness the blossoming growth of their students, the Albion Park community is enriched by their unwavering dedication to nurturing the next generation of scholars. It provides a great opportunity to avail your children to the transformative power of great education tools to boost and encourage learning.There are some great specials being offered currently – check out their current advertisement.

Youth Week began in 1989 as a NSW Government initiative and has since become a nationwide celebration. Gareth Ward MP highlights the event’s focus on young people’s involvement in shaping their communities and addressing issues that matter to them. This year’s theme is “Express. Empower. Get Loud!” in the hopes of encouraging young people to showcase their talents, voice their opinions and participate in local community events. John Larkins from Kiama Lions advocates for getting involved with Young Leo’s.  Youth can also have a voice in volunteering in various areas in the community and getting involved.“As somebody who myself participated in Youth Parliament, I have always believed that the role of today’s leaders is to create future leaders,” says Gareth, emphasising the need to encourage the young people in our area to take an active role in the future of their communities.Throughout Youth Week there will be several youth-led activities that are designed to increase participation, overcome barriers, and strengthen connections to communities. These initiatives provide opportunities for skill-building and foster a sense of recognition and belonging among young people. As Youth Week unfolds, it serves as a vibrant celebration of the contribution and potential of young people in shaping the present and future of our society. 

In a world where every road presents a unique challenge, the ability to navigate safely isn't just about knowing how to operate a vehicle, it's about mastering the complex interplay of preparation, awareness, judgment, and decision-making. This is the core philosophy behind Think Drive Survive, a revolutionary course designed by Keith Calvert, founder of Human Factors Driving Solutions (HFDS).Calvert's journey into the realm of driver education began with a personal revelation, one that many parents can relate to: teaching his own children to drive. "When I taught my kids to drive, it made me think!" Calvert chuckles as he recalls those early lessons: "After bumbling through the first session, I realised there had to be a better way."Drawing from his background in aviation, where meticulous training is a matter of life and death, Calvert saw an opportunity to revolutionise driver education. "I mapped out a manual, introduced concepts like logbooks to driving, but initially, there was little uptake," he shares. "But eventually, the industry started to embrace these ideas, and the THINK DRIVE SURVIVE course was born."The journey didn't stop there. Inspired by discussions with his daughter, an airline pilot, Calvert ventured into the realm of cognitive performance for aviation. His online training system for pilots quickly gained traction, expanding from 10 companies to over 100. The success in aviation training paved the way for a groundbreaking adaptation: a four-module program focusing on preparation, judgment, decision-making, and awareness for drivers."What we learned in aviation translates seamlessly to driving," Calvert explains. "We're not just teaching people how to operate a vehicle; we're developing their thinking skills." Each module is carefully crafted to engage learners and embed critical cognitive processes, ensuring they emerge not just as drivers, but as safe, responsible road users.The THINK DRIVE SURVIVE course isn't just for novice drivers. It's designed to accommodate learners at their own pace, with the flexibility to complete modules on their schedule. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate, validating their newfound skills. But Calvert didn't overlook the importance of parental involvement."We recognised that parents play a crucial role in shaping young drivers' behaviours," Calvert notes. "That's why we developed a training module specifically for parents, empowering them to support their children through this journey." From navigating difficult conversations to reinforcing positive driving habits, the parent module equips caregivers with the tools they need to foster responsible driving behaviour.It's not just parents who benefit. THINK DRIVE SURVIVE extends its reach to include a section for grandparents, recognising the roles members of a young drivers’ extended family members play in shaping their experience.Through a blend of innovation, expertise, and a deep understanding of human factors, THINK DRIVE SURVIVE is driving change, one learner at a time. After all, when it comes to road safety, thinking, driving, and surviving are all interconnected.You can find out more at the THINK DRIVE SURVIVE website. 

Kiama Primary School held a family fun night Friday 22 March, packed with an array of activities and entertainment for the whole family. The attendees enjoyed various games, explored stalls, and were treated to live music. Kids had the chance to get creative with paints at the 'Expressive Art' stall and the local fire brigade came in tow with two trucks and helmets provided, allowing the kids to climb on board and explore.Always a great time for the school’s parents and teachers to come together and celebrate the community. Expressive Art - Michelle & Tiffany Springett George Hicks & Andrew McKenzie

What began with a bucket, a brush, and a mop has blossomed into a thriving enterprise thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of 13-year-old Harrison Hallams. At the tender age of 11, Harrison embarked on a mission to raise funds for a new mountain bike. This gung-ho spirit ultimately led to the creation of his bin concierge business. Now, two years later, alongside his father, Lloyd Hallam, the father and son team clean bins from Jamberoo to Shellharbour, and have transformed one of the most mundane of chores for any householder into a flourishing business venture for themselves.Cleaning bins is a task that many would baulk at, with its unpleasant encounters with maggots and sickly odours. When asked about the most challenging aspect of the job, Harrison didn't hesitate to point out, "the smell… Especially in summer!"Despite the challenges, Harrison and Lloyd dedicate two hours every day after Harrison finishes school to clean bins, the duo often tackling five bins daily. Balancing extracurricular activities and school pick-ups, Lloyd emphasises the importance of making the time for their growing business. Although they started with just a bucket and brush, their dedication and success led them to invest in a trailer attachment for their car, equipped with specialised bin cleaning equipment. This upgrade not only streamlined their operations but also increased the number of customers they could serve effectively. What initially began as a means to acquire a mountain bike quickly evolved. Such is the success of their business that they've had to enlist the help of another worker to manage the workload from Tullimbar to Shellharbour.For those tired of dealing with smelly bins, Harrison and Lloyd offer a solution worth considering. By supporting these local superstars, not only are you ensuring a fresh and clean environment, but you're also championing the entrepreneurial spirit of a young innovator and his dedicated father. Find their heartwarming updates on Facebook or Instagram. 

Every Friday afternoon in the white cottage building adjacent to Hindmarsh Park, the Youthie comes alive. Run by Kiama Council, SENTRAL Youth Services runs a “Drop In” service at the youth centre from 3-8pm each Friday, where young people are welcome to pop in, hang out, and connect.At the helm is one of their own; a fellow young person with the education, experience, and passion to deliver a vital service to the young people of the Kiama LGA. At just 21 years of age, Kayla Mulholland may be the youngest Youth Services Coordinator across all services in the Illawarra and South Coast region, and likely further beyond.Kayla came on board as acting coordinator in July 2023 during a tumultuous time for the service, and has flourished in her role.As Kiama locals will know, the last few years have been incredibly challenging for the young people in the Kiama LGA, with a tragic cluster of young people taking their own lives during this period. Former coordinators, Melissa Andrews and Steven McAllan, did a stellar job of reaching out and connecting with the youth of the Kiama LGA, and rallying with the community to ensure that young people know they are supported, and that help is available. The Youthie cemented its role as a pillar of support for young people, and a safe place to engage with the help they may be seeking. Even as Kiama Council itself was managing the ongoing challenges of restructuring and reorganisation, the Youthie continued to provide vital services to young people.July of 2023 saw Steven resigning from his role to take up an opportunity supporting young people in disadvantaged communities in the Northern Territory. The Youthie wished him all the best, but was left with a massive gap to fill.This is where Kayla stepped up. Having worked closely with both Melissa and Steven throughout their tenure, Kayla rose to the challenge, and filled the role as acting Youth Services Coordinator.Having built rich relationships with young people and external stakeholders, Kayla’s friendly face was a welcome sight in the role, and she eagerly took on the challenge. Her qualifications in youth work, extensive experience in the field, and immense personal passion for the support, development, and wellbeing of young people all combined to give her the ideal launch into the role.With Kayla at the helm, the youth centre continues to be a hub of safety, support, and creative expression. The service has been able to maintain its diverse range of offerings that engage and inspire young people. Despite all the responsibility, Kayla remains down to earth and accessible to all. Nothing is as rewarding to her as seeing the growth and wellbeing of the young people that she serves every day. Kalya is both a mentor and a role model, and her compassionate and welcoming style cultivates a sense of belonging and empowerment.However, such a big step up was never going to be a walk in the park for the young leader, and a steep learning curve saw her navigating brand-new responsibilities, managing staffing challenges, and continuing to provide high-quality services under tight budget constraints amidst broader council upheaval.But perhaps Kayla’s biggest challenge has been pushing past the initial surprise that other services had at seeing a young person at the helm. Other youth centres, local schools, funding bodies and government agencies were all more than a little surprised to see such a young face at the helm. It was up to Kayla to prove that not only did she belong, she was also up to the task. Kayla has achieved just that. During her time, she has managed the onboarding of new staff, reinvigorated the music studio project, continued to provide one on one support to young people in need, facilitated and managed 3 successful holiday programs, secured the continuation of key projects including Queer Club with Kiama High School and Sentral Music Crew, and held multiple successful Sentral Sounds youth talent showcase gigs. Her dedication and service saw her rewarded with a contract to officially fill the role until April 2024, where broader changes are set to occur. She even boasts being on first-name basis with the mayor.“Niel is absolutely lovely, and really supportive. It feels a bit weird calling him by his first name, but he insists!”During last Friday’s “Drop-In” at SENTRAL, I had the pleasure of witnessing Kayla doing what she does best; connecting with young people. Among the multitude of her responsibilities that evening, Kayla spent her time giving one on one support, sharing her personal passion for music with young attendees during gigging and song production practice, and organising the next Sentral Sounds youth music showcase gig. Kayla’s passion, youthful exuberance, and personal experience as a young person is a clear asset, one that brings a fresh and relevant perspective to the role. These qualities are balanced with her experience and training, dedication, and desire to deliver professional, high-quality services. Her journey from troubled teenager to a leader in the community is a testament to her commitment, her drive, and her desire to make a difference.“I love working with young people. When I was going through life as a teenager, I had no idea that there was such a thing as Youth Worker that could help me through the stuff that I was going through. Now, I get so much out of being that person for other people, the person that I never got to have” An upcoming restructuring within council will see the role of Youth Services Coordinator absorbed into a broader Community Development Team, where a team of dedicated community development workers will take on not just the work of Sentral Youth Services, but also the broader work of outreach, activating the richness of council spaces, and revitalising the community. With recruitment already underway for the new team, Kayla is set to remain in the top job until the restructure comes into effect in April 2024, after which, her exact role within the team is to be determined.While Kayla hopes to remain onboard as a key part of the Youth Services team in Kiama, she can be proud to hold the title, as a young person, as Kiama Council’s last Youth Services Coordinator.

Shellharbour has just hosted a workshop for young people who want to implement positive change in the Illawarra and the South Coast regions. The community organisation On the Cusp designed the two-day workshop, held last weekend, as a way to help people aged 16-35 to work together on the issues that are important to them. Titled Reimagining Shellharbour, the event asked participants: Are you sick of politics as usual and want to create a better future for Shellharbour? Maybe you wish there were better public transport options in town. Or you’d like to see action to protect the local environment. Perhaps you want better jobs and working conditions for young people in the community.Emily Jones, a Shell Cove local and founder of On the Cusp, said young people across the region were keen to play an active part in shaping the future of their communities. “I know our communities could benefit so much from more young leadership,” she says.The event aimed to encourage young people to work together to address challenges such as improving public transportation and mitigating the cost of living crisis.Emily feels strongly about creating space and opportunities for young people to advocate for themselves and their future. There is a notable lack of these spaces for young people, particularly outside of high school or an education environment. One participant, Lily, said the meeting proved to be a great experience with an engaged group of passionate young people. They said organisers did a great job navigating past any nervous tension in the beginning and straight into collaborating together. Emily hopes the meeting will empower participants to move into the community and form their own networks. On the Cusp offers mentoring and coaching with online seminars that help to link various networks across the community together.As the region looks toward the future, the involvement and voices of its young people promise to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the community. Leadership and advocacy are crucial skills for the next generation and this inaugural meeting hopes to pass on the skills necessary to encourage positive change.

Year 12 Geography students travelled to Sydney to study the processes of urban decay and renewal at Barangaroo. The excursion gave students the chance to see firsthand the urban dynamics that we have been studying in the HSC Geography course. Later in the year, the class will be travelling to Cairns to study the Great Barrier Reef. Year 12 Geo BarangarooOn Thursday the 14th March, Year 8 Geography students spent the day at Mt Keira. There, they learned about the formation of the Illawarra escarpment, the variety of plants and animals present there, and the various ways in which Mt Keira is valuable. i.e. aesthetically, culturally and economically. Year 8 Geography students at Mt KeiraYear 11 Geography students spent the day at the Minnamurra River to apply the learning we have been doing about Earth's Natural Systems. The students examined the ways in which the Earth's atmospheric, hydrological, geologic and ecological systems interact in the river environment. Year 11 Geography students at the Minnamurra River

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) is urging not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) in rural areas to collaborate with local young individuals to implement or adapt one of six project ideas conceived at this year’s ABC Heywire Youth Summit. These ideas arose in response to the pressing concerns identified as most relevant and critical for youth in remote, rural, and regional Australia and empower rural youth to lead local change. Through the FRRR ABC Heywire Youth Innovation Grants program, grants of up to $10,000 are accessible to jumpstart initiatives promoting equitable access to local services and nurturing a sense of belonging and connection among peers and to the land.The six ideas were developed by 35 young summit participants during the week-long event dedicated to youth leadership and skills development. The ideas are as follows:1. Bussin’: Creating more accessible transport options for young people in regional and rural communities.2. MEE (Mentoring Educating Empowering): Closing the gap in accessing quality education for young people in regional, rural, and remote areas.3. A Place for You: Improving accessibility to mental health services in remote and regional areas of Australia.4. The Bigger Picture: Empowering young people in regional towns to celebrate their differences and foster connection among themselves.5. Safe Sphere: Ensuring that young people in regional and remote communities receive relevant and comprehensive sexual education.6. Youth 2 Grassroots: Promoting a stronger connection between individuals and their land by fostering a culture of environmental protection and stewardship.A total of $100,000 in funding is available nationwide, thanks to the generous support of The Sally Foundation, David Mactaggart Foundation, and private donors. Amy a 2024 Heywire Winner, was part of the group that developed the Youth 2 Grassroots project. Expressing her excitement, Amy stated, “I love living in rural Queensland, and it was incredible being given this opportunity through Heywire to come up with an idea to improve life for other country kids. I'm so excited to see what comes from our idea.”Deb Samuels, FRRR’s People Portfolio Lead, emphasised the significant outcomes for young people and communities resulting from the Foundation’s long-term partnership with ABC. She highlighted the impact these young leaders and their projects have had on rural Australia, addressing issues of equity and well-being.Justin Stevens, ABC Director News, noted that the FRRR ABC Heywire Youth Innovation Grants program empowers young people to actualise their ideas, providing tangible support to regional communities.Applications for grants close at 5 pm AEST on Wednesday, 29 May, with recipients to be announced in August. About FRRRThe Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) is the only national foundation specifically focused on ensuring the social and economic strength of remote, rural, and regional communities. Since its establishment in 2000, FRRR has delivered $177 million to more than 14,000 projects.About ABC HeywireHeywire, supported by various Australian government departments and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, provides young people in regional Australia a platform to share their stories and ideas. Since 1998, Heywire has empowered youth through platforms like the Heywire Regional Youth Summit and the FRRR ABC Heywire Youth Innovation Grants.

The National Youth Mental Health Foundation, headspace, is urging young women to actively seek opportunities for social connection within their communities. Recent research reveals a trend indicating that young women are more susceptible to feelings of loneliness and isolation compared to their male counterparts. The headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey has uncovered some statistics stating two in three (67%)  young women report feeling left out often or some of the time, while more than three in five felt they lacked companionship (62%) and felt isolated (61%) from others. The survey indicated that young women between 18-21 experience loneliness more than any other age group among Australian youth. Nicola Palfrey, head of Clinical Leadership at headspace acknowledges the difficulties associated with this stage of young adulthood, usually marked by significant milestones and life transitions. People in their late teens and early twenties are gaining independence, leaving school, adjusting to new routines and expectations leave young women susceptible to feelings of loneliness. These things can be exciting and full of potential but they can also be overwhelming and a cause of stress. However, there is some good news. The survey also shows results that indicate women are more likely to seek support from mental health professionals than their male counterparts. Though, despite their willingness to seek help, over half (67%) of the group said they preferred to cope with emotional challenges independently. The survey also shows that social media is a prominent cause of feeling lonely, isolated or overwhelmed. Women between 18-21 are shown to engage in social media in concerning ways. Social media offers constant access to images of people having a great time, surrounded by friends, and seemingly ‘perfect’ lives. The constant exposure to these unrealistic standards can often worsen feelings of loneliness or isolation.Headspace encourages young women to take proactive steps to combat loneliness by exploring options for community involvement. Getting involved in activities such as volunteering or joining university or community clubs that align with personal hobbies and interests. There are a variety of reasons why young adult women may feel lonely or isolated. For more information you can visit the headspace website, visit a headspace centre for support or access eheadspace seven days a week 9am-1am AEST (1800 650 890).Below are the key findings from the research: Experiences of loneliness are common among young Australians.A large proportion of young people felt they lacked companionship often or some of the time (60%). Just over three in five young people felt left out often or some of the time (62%), and slightly fewer felt isolated from others often or some of the time (58%).The following groups of young people were more likely to experience loneliness (as per the three-item loneliness scale):Young women (5.5), compared to young men (5.0).Those aged 18-21 years (5.9) and 22-25 years (5.6), compared to those aged 12-14 years (4.7) and 15-17 years (4.8).Young women aged between 18 and 21 years old were the most likely of any cohort to experience loneliness, scoring 6.2 on the loneliness scale.76% of young women in this age group felt they lacked companionship often or some of the time.79% of young women in this age group felt left out often or some of the time.76% of young women in this age group felt isolated from others often or some of the time.Young men (43%) were more likely to deal with emotional problems on their own compared to young women (38%).Young women aged between 18 and 21 years old (52%) were the most likely to deal with emotional problems on their own among any other age group of women.Young women (52%) are more likely to make comparisons between their own life and what they see on social media compared to young men (42%).

Kiama High School is gearing up to mark its 70th anniversary this year with an exciting fundraising initiative to get the community involved and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. As part of its anniversary celebrations, the school is inviting supporters to participate in their Brick by Brick fundraiser where path pavers can be purchased and personalised to form a pathway on the school grounds. The pathway is set to be unveiled later in the year during the birthday celebrations. For those interested in participating you can contact Kiama High School for a form to fill out and return. Orders close on 8 May. Kiama High School hopes that the initiative will not only honour its past 70 years of service and education to the community but to also pave the way for a bright future in education for many years to come.

When logging onto the online portal for Kiama Leisure Centre, local parents are used to seeing the warning: ‘Kiama Leisure Centre Swim School is currently at a high capacity of enrolments’. Due to increased families moving into the area and a country-wide shortage of swim teachers, parents and carers are struggling to get a spot in the popular swim school, especially when juggling the schedules of multiple children.In 2023, Kiama Leisure Centre closed its waiting list for swim school places in a temporary move that has now become permanent. It’s a similar story at swimming schools across the country.Whilst the NSW Government’s Active Kids vouchers are now means tested, as at February 2024, the First Lap program — which provides $50 per year towards the cost of swimming lessons — is still open to eligible children, regardless of their family’s income. This program, however, has increased the pressure put on swim schools, as parents take advantage of the government program. Living in a coastal town, Kiama families are acutely aware, it’s important for their children to learn to swim confidentially. So where can you learn to swim if spots are scarce? Luckily, there are local alternatives:Shellharbour and surroundsA popular alternative for local parents is Oak Flats Pool, where swim school spaces in the heated outdoor pool are still limited, however, there is an active waiting list. Alternatively, Shellharbour Swim Academy is a private swim school with two locations in Albion Park and Barrack Heights. They also offer a ‘large family discount’ for families with more than two children taking part in lessons. Swim intensivesDuring school holidays, Kiama Leisure Centre and Shellharbour’s three pools — Albion Park, Oak Flats and Warilla — all hold intensive swim programs. You can sign up your child to go for swimming lessons for five days in a row (or four days, if it’s a week with a public holiday). It’s a great way to adopt skills quickly and your child doesn’t need to be enrolled in a weekly lesson to sign up to the program. To be the first to know when enrolments open, follow the Facebook pages for Kiama Leisure Centre and Shellharbour City Council.Private lessonsIf your child can’t get a spot in a group class, both Kiama Leisure Centre and Oak Flats Pool do offer private one-to-one sessions with an instructor. They are more expensive ($50 per lesson) however, you can still put your First Lap voucher towards the cost. Available times depend on the schedule of individual instructors, so contact each facility for more details. At present, Kiama Leisure Centre has closed enquiries for private lessons until further notice.Future expansionThe shortage of swim instructors hasn’t gone unnoticed. Shellharbour City Council has just closed recruitment applications for a new Swimming Development Coordinator. One goal of this role is to ‘develop and expand the delivery of safe and sustainable Learn to Swim programs’. Meanwhile, Royal Life Saving Australia has called the instructor shortage an opportunity for school leavers looking for a role in the aquatic industry. If you’re a water-lover who is interested in a career change, find more information on royallifesaving.com.au. 

Amidst the usual hustle and bustle of a school day, the serene atmosphere of Kiama High School's quad was infused with the delightful sounds of music as the school's bands took centre stage for a lunchtime Valentine’s Day performance. Under the guidance of their dedicated educator, Head Teacher of CAPA, Scott Wright, the Kiama High School Band and the Senior Band captivated the passing traffic through the quad.As they played, their passion and commitment shone through, leaving a lasting impression on their peers and teachers alike. As the final notes echoed through the quad, the lingering melodies served as a reminder of the profound impact of live music and the importance of supporting arts education in schools. Principal Catherine Glover and Head Teacher CAPA Scott Wright emphasised the significance of events like these in nurturing students' artistic talents and fostering a sense of community within the school.For the members of the Kiama High School Bands, the lunchtime performance was a culmination of months of dedication and practice throughout 2023. The Future includes to incorporate more wind and brass instruments into their ensemble to enhance their sound to work on more complex musical material, challenging themselves to reach new heights of musical excellence.

In a thoughtful display of generosity, Sheila Lyne, a resident of Kiama, has made a significant contribution to Kiama High School. Sheila's thoughtful donation encompasses top-notch sound equipment for the Music department and a collection of books belonging to her late husband, Ken Methold, a remarkable figure in literature, education, and the arts.The donation of sound equipment, including microphones, mixing desks, recording gear, and audio cables, promises to elevate the learning experience for budding musicians and performers at the school. Sheila's gift ensures that students have access to high-quality resources to nurture their talents and explore their musical abilities fully.HowHowever, the generosity doesn't end there. Sheila also bestowed four boxes of books that once belonged to her late husband, Ken Methold. Ken's legacy is a rich tapestry of accomplishments, spanning various roles as a teacher, writer, publisher's agent, bookseller, and film producer. As a full-time writer from 1974 onwards, Ken's impact on literature was profound. He served as the Chairman of the Australian Society of Authors from 1984 to 1987, demonstrating his commitment to supporting fellow writers and fostering literary talent.Ken's literary contributions extended beyond traditional writing to include over 200 textbooks on communication and readers for students of English as a foreign language. His creative endeavours also led him into the realm of film and television, where he founded his own company in 1986. Among his notable works are two feature films, "Jackson's Crew" (1986) and "Contagion" (1987), a children's miniseries titled "Animal Park" (1991), and an animated children's feature called "Ketchup" (1997). Additionally, Ken's talent extended to writing plays and documentary scripts for esteemed broadcasters such as the ABC and the BBC.The school community extends a profound thank you to Sheila Lyne for her remarkable generosity and celebrates the enduring contributions of Ken Methold to literature, education, and the arts. Sheila's donation, alongside the memory of Ken's legacy, will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, enriching the lives of students for years to come.