The Bugle

24/12/2025

🌊 🎄Merry Christmas from The Bugle

Whether you’re by the beach, around the table or enjoying time with loved ones, we wish you a wonderful Christmas.

Thank you for reading and supporting The Bugle.

24/12/2025

🚴‍♂️ At just 19 years old, Jonathan Keenan has launched That Bike Guy, a mobile bike repair service aimed at providing fast, knowledgeable, and convenient servicing for all kinds of bikes – from e-bikes and road bikes to mountain bikes.

Jonathan spotted a gap in the market for quick, local repairs and is already seeing strong community support, with calls coming in just days after his first flyer drop.

“I love being able to help someone out, fix up their bike, and get them back on the road,” he says.

The business offers brake services, tyre changes, general tune-ups, bike builds, and same-day repairs, especially handy with Christmas approaching.

At just 19 years old, Kiama local Jonathan Keenan has launched his own bike repair business, filling what he identified as a clear gap in the market for fast, knowledgeable and convenient servicing.

24/12/2025

🚨 Kiama High-Rise Proposal Moves Forward 🚨

Sydney developer Level 33’s plan for a high-rise on Akuna Street has been granted State Significant Development (SSD) status, allowing the project to potentially exceed the six-storey limit set by Kiama Council and reach eight storeys.

The $66 million proposal could include two supermarkets, new retail spaces, and resident parking, but local residents and council members have raised concerns about infrastructure capacity and the impact on Kiama’s town centre character.

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald says “The state’s decision to advance an eight-storey proposal is not consistent with those locally adopted controls and community expectations”

Sydney-based developer Level 33's plan to construct a high-rise building on Akuna Street is a step closer to reality after the NSW Government decreed it has been granted State Significant Development status.

23/12/2025

🏫 Major upgrade underway at Vincentia High School

Construction has begun on a $13 million project delivering a new two-storey building with 16 permanent classrooms, upgraded bathrooms, and improved internal roadways.

Once complete in 2027, the school will accommodate up to 1,300 students, supporting growth in the South Coast community.

Recontstruction starts for Vincentia High School

23/12/2025

💛 The Sam Matters Cup returned this month, with about 120 golfers turning out in difficult conditions to honour Sam and support su***de prevention efforts through the Saving Sammy Foundation.

While the weather cut play short, it couldn’t dampen the spirit of a community united by remembrance, conversation and care for one another.

More than 100 people braved rain and lightning to participate in the Sam Matters Cup at Gerringong Golf Club.

23/12/2025

🎄 More than a Christmas decoration ⛄

From Frosty the Snowman to nativity scenes and tiny skiers, Kiama local Jane Wall’s Christmas creations look festive - but each recycled golf ball tells a much deeper story.

A former professional golfer and police officer, Jane uses crafting as a way to manage PTSD, turning recycled materials into meaningful gifts that honour loved ones, bring comfort, and spread joy.

This Christmas, her “Wall Balls” are a reminder that kindness, creativity and community support can change lives.

The little drummer boy sits beside Frosty the Snowman, the sunlight bouncing off his pointy orange nose. Next to him is a nativity set and a family of skiers all lined up waiting for Santa to arrive.

22/12/2025

🎄 Gerringong Christmas Parade Highlights 🎄

22/12/2025

🚤 A summer reminder for boaters on the South Coast

With the holiday period underway, Marine Rescue NSW is urging boaters to take extra care when crossing coastal bars across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.

Lake Illawarra, Crookhaven River and Sussex Inlet bars can quickly become dangerous if conditions are misjudged - particularly for visiting skippers unfamiliar with local waterways.

Patience, preparation and local advice can be lifesaving decisions.

The Illawarra Shoalhaven’s coastal bars may offer access to some of the region’s most popular waterways, but Marine Rescue NSW is reminding boaters they can quickly become dangerous if conditions are misjudged.

22/12/2025

🗞️ Our Favourite Front Covers of 2025! 🗞️

Here’s a look back at some of our most memorable front pages from the year. What was your favourite? 🤩

📲 Download our app to see our top stories of 2025, posted daily!

22/12/2025

🌞😎 School holidays are here and the region is bursting with family-friendly activities - from Laurie’s Kiama Family Carnival and Husky Carnival to Jamberoo Action Park, rainforest walks and surf lessons.

Add in beaches, coastal walks and local events, and there’s something for every age group.🌊

The Bugle has everything you need to plan your summer.
Read our summer round up on The Bugle App 📰

With more than 100 beaches and popular coastal villages, the South Cost is preparing for summer with safety and tourism priorities in focus

21/12/2025

🔙 Looking back on 2025: A defining South Coast moment

It took Shellharbour 56 minutes to break through Kiama’s defence in the Group 7 Grand Final - and by then, the Knights had already laid the groundwork for a famous premiership win.

From relentless goal-line defence and key moments under pressure to late tries that sealed the result, this was a Grand Final defined by grit and togetherness.

As part of our end-of-year series revisiting the moments that mattered on the South Coast, we look back at Kiama’s unforgettable triumph at Centenary Park.

🔗 Read the full story on The Bugle App

It took Shellharbour Sharks 56 minutes to finally break through the Kiama defence in the 2025 Group 7 Grand Final at Centenary Park - but by then, the Knights had already laid the foundations for a famous win.

21/12/2025

🎨 Five generations of women from the iconic Boyd family are finally taking centre stage at Bundanon.

The Hidden Line: Art of the Boyd Women is now open, showcasing more than 300 works across painting, design and photography - many never seen before.

Running until 15 February 2026, this landmark exhibition anchors Bundanon’s summer season.

👉 Read more on The Bugle App

Five generations of women from one of Australia’s most prominent artistic families are being brought to the forefront at Bundanon, as The Hidden Line: Art of the Boyd Women anchors the organisation’s summer exhibition season.