Waste collection is delayed for Zone 1 (Kiama Heights/Gerroa) and Zone 2 (Kiama township) today (Monday 5 May) due to industrial action Council apologises for the delay and asks residents to put their bins out one day later than normal for collection from tomorrow (Tuesday 6 May) Kiama Council is seeking information from the public about vandalism over the weekend at Blowhole Point “It is extremely disappointing that vandals have used their vehicle to damage a significant part of the grassed area near the Blowhole Point lighthouse.” “Reserves in the Municipality are recovering from recent wet weather and will now need further rate payer funding to restore.” Council asks anyone who can help identify the people or vehicles involved to contact our Customer Service team on (02) 4232 0444 or via council@kiama.nsw.gov.au Contact us Kiama Municipal Council acknowledges the Wodi Wodi people on Dharawal country as the traditional custodians of the land on which our Municipality is located. We pay our respects to Elders past We are committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land waters and seas and their rich contribution to our community Winter in the Kiama area is a season of golden light and world-class experiences without the crowds more than 35 local businesses have teamed up to offer exclusive winter-only deals across accommodation and adventure — inviting visitors to embrace the slower season and enjoy everything this stunning South Coast destination has to offer From boutique stays and indulgent spa sessions to whale watching and coastal cycling Kiama is the perfect place to coast in and chill out With savings of up to $500 on select bookings Destination Kiama and local partners are building on strong momentum following the success of last year's 'Coast In. Chill Out' initiative, which delivered record-breaking winter results — including 1.8 million visitor nights and $362 million in total visitor spend "The success of last winter's campaign shows exactly what we're here to achieve," says Sally Bursell Manager of Tourism and Events at Kiama Municipal Council "It's about levelling out the peaks and troughs in visitation so our towns aren't overwhelmed in summer or school holidays and businesses aren't struggling to attract customers in the cooler months These kinds of results prove that with the right collaboration and creativity we can make winter a truly thriving season for our local economy." "Initiatives like this bring real energy to the area create lasting value for operators like us and show visitors that Kiama is a year-round destination You're doing a fantastic job — keep it going!" Said Roger Lloyd "Kiama continues to prove that winter isn't a time to wind down — it's a time to shine This campaign is a testament to what can happen when our local business community comes together with a shared vision," said Destination Kiama Chair Cr Matt Brown we're proud to offer experiences that are as warm and welcoming as the people who create them and discover just how magical Kiama can be in the cooler months." or a mini-break with adventure and wellness in equal measure — Kiama delivers This collaborative winter offering reflects the strong partnerships between local businesses and Destination Kiama working together to highlight the magic of the region and welcome visitors during this quieter — but no less spectacular — time of year Browse all the deals at: kiama.com.au/escape-to-kiama-this-winter-deals or check out our selection of blogs where you can find a complete itinerary to your taste Kiama Council has issued a public appeal for information following a vandalism attack on a grassed area at the town’s picturesque Blowhole Point over the weekend “It is extremely disappointing that vandals have used their vehicle to damage a significant part of the grassed area near the Blowhole Point lighthouse.” “Reserves in the Municipality are recovering from recent wet weather and will now need further rate payer funding to restore.” Council is asking anyone who can help identify the people or vehicles involved to contact its Customer Service team on (02) 4232 0444 or via council@kiama.nsw.gov.au Information and Events for Local Councils throughout Australia Contact us: newsdesk@insidelocalgovernment.com.au there will be a minor delay in waste collection and some cleaning services across the Municipality United Services Union (USU) staff in Council’s waste services team made a unilateral decision early this morning to take strike action as part of the negotiations relating to Council’s decision to exit Waste Hire Services For the community this means the following tasks will not be undertaken today (Monday 5 April 2025): The weighbridge and Community Recycling Centre at the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Facility All services are expected to resume tomorrow on Tuesday 6 May 2025 with the Domestic Waste collection being a day behind All residents are asked to put their bins out one day later than normal this week (eg: if your normal collection day is Tuesday put your bins out for Wednesday) and we will endeavour to service your bins as soon as possible We thank the community for your patience and understanding and apologise for any inconvenience caused Council has been in discussions with the United Service Union and Waste Staff since 7am this morning and an agreed plan forward has been arranged This industrial action is out of step with the actual workplace / award process which is still in consultation phase with no decision made Kiama is taking on the tourism big guns in the most anticipated ballot for 2025: the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards Voting for the awards closes this Sunday (4 May) with Kiama facing off against larger rivals in Newcastle and Shellharbour Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters has thrown down the gauntlet to our opponents in the final days of campaigning and the warm welcome of a tight-knit community." "It's the kind of place people come for a weekend and end up wanting to live here." Destination Kiama Chair Matt Brown said the NSW Top Tourism Awards were not just about tourism bus drivers and tour guides right through to the people who make up hotel beds and clean bathrooms "Your vote is a vote for every local who goes above and beyond to make visitors feel at home." "We like a good David vs Goliath story and who doesn't want to see Kiama knock off the big cities?" without all the hassles of lining up and filling in voting forms for 'that other ballot' this weekend https://nswtourismassoc.kartra.com/survey/TopTourismTown Photo: Our Destination Kiama team accepting the Top Tourism Town Award 2024 - yes we're defending champions in partnership with the Kiama Business Network today hosted a community breakfast information session and expert panel discussion on our draft Local Housing Strategy at The Sebel The information session is part of Council’s extensive consultation on the draft Local Housing Strategy which is on public exhibition until 27 April The session featured a presentation on the Housing Strategy as well as a local housing expert panel discussion with: The session was attended by Kiama Councillors Kiama High School students and local media you can watch a video of Director Ed Paterson’s recent interview with KCR Radio’s Bernie Hems on the Strategy: To download the draft strategy and make a submission, visit: https://yoursay.kiama.nsw.gov.au/local-housing-strategy   Kiama’s Acting (Deputy) Mayor Melissa Matters has issued a call for both the NSW and Federal Governments to stop ignoring the pressing needs of our community starting with a new preschool premises for Jamberoo and proper support for one of our region’s most vital transport links Cr Matters delivered a clear and uncompromising message: “Enough is enough.”  Families face waitlists stretching months just to access care,” she said without the funding it needs for a new facility.”  the response from higher levels of government has been silence Cr Matters warned that the issue is no longer just about education.  “This isn’t just an education issue And it’s not acceptable,” she said.  The provision of funding for a new Jamberoo Community Preschool is now listed as a top priority in Council’s Draft Delivery and Operational Plan which is currently on public exhibition.  But the preschool isn’t the only area where Kiama Council has been left to carry the burden alone.  an essential regional route used daily by residents will once again be closed for major repairs from early May 2025 Council is only able to rebuild to outdated standards due to State and Federal funding limitations.  “We are doing the heavy lifting again because that’s what the rules say,” Cr Matters said.  “Building back better isn’t allowed under the current disaster funding arrangements Kiama Council has called on the NSW Government to take over responsibility for the road and for both State and Federal Governments to fund a proper rebuild before another landslip or tragedy occurs.  Cr Matters said she will continue knocking on doors until the region gets the support it deserves.  we’ll keep raising our voices,” she said.  View the Draft Delivery and Operational Plan and have your say: draft-delivery-program-operational-plan-and-resourcing-strategy   Kiama Council’s Leisure Centre has today re-opened after it received a bomb threat Staff acted promptly to notify police and evacuate the building Police attended the site for a full investigation All members of the public were safely evacuated and Kiama Council thanks NSW Police our staff and visitors for their swift action and assistance in following instructions Kiama Leisure Centre closed to the public while the Police conducted their work Unfortunately this impacted the Combat Australia Boxing and Kickboxing MMA Tournament that was taking place at Kiama Leisure Centre today Please direct all further enquiries to NSW Police.  is once again a finalist in the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards This continued recognition highlights our regions strength as one of the state’s most loved visitor destinations dedication and hospitality that defines our community coordinated by the Australian Tourism Industry Council celebrate towns that deliver outstanding visitor experiences and demonstrate a strong commitment to tourism development and promotion Deputy Mayor and restaurateur Melissa Matters said tourism remained a cornerstone of the Kiama economy injecting vitality into local businesses and nurturing a vibrant community “We are proud to be recognised once again among NSW’s top tourism destinations This nomination is a true credit to our local businesses and the wider community – all of whom go above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences for our visitors.” Programs like the Top Tourism Town Awards provide an important opportunity to shine a spotlight not just on Kiama reinforcing the value of tourism and helping to share our story with the world.” encouraged residents and visitors alike to show their support by casting a vote for Kiama “Public voting is a key component of the judging process and plays a vital role in determining the overall winner,” Cnr Brown said “By voting you’re showing your appreciation for the many passionate and hardworking locals bring our town to life - from cafes as well as our tour guides of all stripes.” “These people are the heartbeat of our tourism industry and they do an incredible job every day representing all that’s great about our corner of the world.”     Members of the public are invited to vote by visiting:  nswtourismassoc.kartra.com/survey/TopTourismTown Kiama Council is embarking on an inclusive and dynamic journey and encouraging every member of the community to actively participate in this pivotal conversation that will shape the trajectory of Kiama's future.  The growth conversation delves into the intricacies of our evolving landscape.  and local government’s role in managing growth we aim to collaboratively identify suitable sites for growth and define essential infrastructure which are fundamental for responsible growth A revised Draft Strategy was endorsed by Council on 18 February 2025 The Draft Local Housing Strategy (Draft v2) is now on public exhibition to enable community and stakeholder comments Local Housing Strategy engagement page Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has called upon the NSW Government to lift a 30-year old ban preventing Council from selling 5 lots of residential land in Glenbrook Drive imposed in 1991 due to the nearby Bombo Quarry activities from constructing any homes on these fully-serviced lots which has a negative impact on Council improving its financial situation (as mandated by the NSW Government issued Performance Improvement Order) and prevents the construction of much-needed housing The five Council-owned residential lots in Glenbrook Drive have connections to power In the 30+ years since the covenant was issued other homes in the street have been built around Council’s parcel of land some of which are closer to the quarry.  “Australia is in the grip of a housing crisis and Kiama Municipality has been issued a NSW Government target to build 900 new homes by 2029 which we’re obliged to comply with,” said Mayor McDonald we’ve been ordered to improve our financial sustainability by the NSW Government It makes no sense at all that we have five build-ready blocks here that we’re not able to utilise preventing a number of family homes from being built and annual rates from being collected,” he said Kiama Council has written on numerous occasions to the NSW Government over the years requesting the covenant be lifted In August 2022 Council received a letter from the previous NSW Government Minister for Regional Transport and Roads advising that he would not lift the covenant Mayor McDonald and members of Council’s executive team met with the Hon the current NSW Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport Mayor McDonald and Council CEO Jane Stroud also met personally with Minister for Planning and Public Spaces the Hon Paul Scully in November last year to discuss the blocks in the context of the housing strategy Several meetings have also been with our local Member for Kiama Ms Stroud also met recently with our local MLA the Hon and raised the issue of the Glenbrook Drive lots and Council’s nearby Spring Creek land both of which are subject to the restricted covenant These meetings are ongoing and it’s hoped that this issue will progress “It’s absurd that we’ve been issued a Performance Improvement Order by the NSW Government instructing us to improve our finances and yet that same government is preventing us from doing just that,” Cr McDonald said We are divesting surplus land where we can and we want to provide much-needed homes for families We call on the NSW Government to lift this 30-year-old covenant so we can move forward and continue our journey towards financial sustainability,” said Cr McDonald There are two parcels of Council-owned land affected by the covenant Glenbrook Drive – 5x lots (2,772 sqm) approved and registered with NSW Land Registry Services Spring Creek – a parcel of Council-owned land with capacity to yield upwards of 90 lots (91,873sqm) This is a parcel of residential-zoned land of approx 92,000sqm The lot is a key component of the West Kiama Urban Expansion Area as proposed by the draft Local Housing Strategy This site has the potential to connect Bombo Quarry a strategically identified regional growth precinct by the State’s Illawarra-Shoalhaven Regional Plan with adjoining growth opportunities.  We’re excited to support your journey in hosting an event in our beautiful region This page is your go-to resource for navigating the process of organising events in the Kiama area that align with our Community Strategic Plan.  As stewards of Kiama’s public spaces we recognise the vital role events play in driving economic growth Our objective is to foster a dynamic events culture while ensuring safety Organising an event can seem overwhelming, but we’re here to make it easier. Our Events Toolkit(PDF, 5MB) provides a detailed roadmap and essential resources to help you navigate council policies and state guidelines this toolkit ensures your event runs smoothly and meets local requirements Not sure where to begin? Complete our Preliminary Event Enquiry Form to determine the specific steps required for your event This will help you understand what approvals or additional support you may need to move forward with confidence We look forward to working with you to create unforgettable events that contribute to the vibrant community spirit of Kiama ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ If you are wishing to reserve Council owned or managed land (such as a park reserves or beaches) or infrastructure (such as a picnic shelter Approval is not required for gatherings that do not wish to reserve an area for their gathering; however please keep in mind that others may have already booked the area you intend to occupy in this instance they will have priority use If you wish to incorporate things that may cause a disruption to other public space users or nearby residents, this may also signify the need to gain Council approval. See page 9 of the Events Toolkit(PDF, 5MB) for more information Step 1: Consult the council’s events toolkit it’s recommended to review the Council’s Events Toolkit to understand the requirements What type of land are you proposing for your event Once you have reviewed the Events Toolkit(PDF, 5MB) please use the below resources to apply for your event and how Council can best support you.   Check out these resources if you’re an event organisers or wish to host an event on Council land within the Kiama Local Government Area Some events or activities on private land may require you to apply for approval Check here to see if you require approval for your public event on private land We have a number of indoor venues perfect for your next event Community Halls as well as conferences and meeting rooms Are you considering organising an event in the Kiama LGA We provide financial and in-kind support for destination and major events Applications are to be submitted at least six (6) months in advance of the event date Let as many people know about your event as possible Kiama Council has installed off-season covers at Jamberoo Pool to reduce the clean-up costs when the pool opens each summer The 25-metre main pool and toddler pool are usually left uncovered over the off-season other debris and a significant number of local ducks have added to the time equipment and chemicals required to get the pools spick and span each summer Council has invested $14,140 to have two pool covers and a roller installed The covers are also designed to dissuade the ducks Kiama Council is investing more than $55,000 in local events through Round 2 of the Destination Event Funding Program "It's particularly exciting to be supporting some vibrant new cultural events such as The Orry Kelly Gala and the Spanish and Latin American Fiesta," Cr Brown said highlighted the long-standing partnership between Kiama Council and local event organisers: “Elite Energy has partnered with Kiama Council and Tourism for over 12 years across many styles of events we have had a fantastic relationship and support "Both Council and Elite Energy strive to build visitation and work with the local businesses and community to grow lasting exposure and visitation to this inviting vibrant seaside town,” Mr Emerton said •           Kiama Beach Tag (Kendalls Beach) - Saturday 1 March ($8,000) •           THAT event Kiama Skate Park) - October ($5,000) •           Kiama Triathlon (Minnamurra) - 10 May ($10,000) •           Distilled (The Coop Gerringong) - 8 to 9 June ($5,220) •           The Orry Kelly Gala: Dressing Hollywood (Various locations •           Going to the Southeast Saltwater exhibition (Seven Marks Gallery) - 6 September to 11 October ($4,220) •           Folk by the Sea 2025 (The Pavilion Kiama) – 12 to 14 September ($6,000) •           Spanish & Latin American Outdoor Fiesta (Hindmarsh Park) – 11 October ($10,000) Further information on our Destination Event Funding Program and recipients: www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/Services/People-and-community/Grants/Destination-Event-Funding-Program Kiama Council is asking our community to have ‘Your Say’ on the future of our library services with the release of our draft Kiama Library Strategic Plan 2025-2029 Manager Library and Cultural Hubs Michelle Hudson said Council provided a highly respected and vibrant library service at our Kiama and Gerringong branches and also had a strong online presence “Our libraries are at the heart of our community and inclusive places where people can come together to learn and share creativity through our programs and events,” Ms Hudson said “Our dedicated and creative library staff are extremely passionate about the role of libraries in our community and the social connections we help forge that build resilient and cohesive communities.” and are custodians of our cultural history.” “Our Kiama Library Strategic Plan 2025-2029 will allow us to continue the important role our library services play in our community as our community changes over the next few years.” Ms Hudson said the Strategic Plan included a number of key recommendations: “Integrating the Local Studies Collection and Family History Centre will provide a stronger narrative around local history that includes personal stories and genealogical records fostering a deeper understanding of the community’s identity.” “It will also realise service efficiencies and further enhance opportunities for staff professional development.” The draft Strategic Plan was developed in consultation with key stakeholders including library members It incorporates feedback from customer surveys We invite you to review the draft Strategic Plan and share your feedback by Sunday 30 March You can also discuss the Strategic Plan with our staff at our next community pop-ups: Further information: yoursay.kiama.nsw.gov.au/library-strategic-plan Kiama Council is pleased to announce we’ve re-opened the playground at Reid Park (Jamberoo) The playground was damaged by fire last November leaving only a few pieces of play equipment able to be used who were able to secure and install the replacement equipment well ahead of schedule Our thanks to the many families and children who regularly use Reid Park for your patience while the playground was out of action.  A transformation is underway at the Minnamurra rail corridor behind Minnamurra Public School with a dedicated rejuvenation project breathing new life into the area Led by Kiama Council’s Roving Horticulturalist and supported by the local school and community the area is now set to flourish with a carefully curated mix of native and existing plants The project includes low-edge plantings to soften the landscape as well as a mix of vines to go along the fence line to provide natural screening These improvements aim to not only enhance the visual appeal of the corridor but also contribute to local biodiversity by offering habitat for pollinators “This project is about more than just aesthetics,” said Jesse “We’re creating a green corridor that benefits the environment while also making the area more inviting for the community.” The success of the initiative has been boosted by strong local collaboration with Minnamurra Primary School playing a key role by allowing Council teams to access the site via their playground during the school holidays This access enabled the smooth movement of equipment Council’s Parks & Gardens Coordinator highlighted the importance of community-driven improvements “It’s great to see this space getting the attention it deserves is turning the corridor into an area everyone can enjoy.” The project is funded through Council’s operational budget and aligns with ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance public green spaces While the initial groundwork and mulching have been completed further planting is planned to complete the revitalisation the renewed rail corridor will provide a leafy natural buffer between the railway and the school offering both practical and environmental benefits Areas on either side of the school along the Minnamurra rail corridor feature a number of ‘guerilla gardening’ projects that are popular with locals and visitors making this a popular and vibrant community space The transformation shows what can be achieved when local government and community members work together to create a greener Kiama Municipal Council and Hall & Prior Aged Care today marked the settlement and transition of ownership of Blue Haven Bonaira Residential Aged Care Home Independent Living Units and associated services Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said this was a moment to reflect and feel proud of Council’s 40+ year involvement in aged care provision in our municipality “I hope our staff and our community feel pride in the facilities the services and the staff providing those services that we have delivered here at Blue Haven Bonaira and Blue Haven Terralong for many years.” “Blue Haven encapsulates Kiama Council’s strong history of caring for our community. That’s why when the previous Council resolved to sell Blue Haven Bonaira and that staff would retain their conditions and entitlements.” “It’s also because we care for our community that we’re handing over Bonaira to aged care specialists Hall & Prior and we warmly welcome the Hall & Prior team to our area,“ Mayor McDonald said Hall & Prior CEO Graeme Prior thanked Kiama Council residents and the Kiama community for their warm welcome to the neighbourhood “We’re absolutely delighted to take the reins at Blue Haven Bonaira We acknowledge the effort and spirit shown by Kiama Council and the wider community in creating and supporting this valued service over the years A sincere thank you to all the staff and executive team who have contributed to a smooth transition." “We’re excited about the future and committed to enhancing the services and facilities for residents and the broader community for many years to come we’ll soon begin a series of upgrades starting with improvements to the Independent Living Unit bathrooms and Barroul House,” said Mr Prior “We’re investing $1.2 million in refurbishments that we know residents have been looking forward to,” he continued “These works will elevate the offering at Barroul House and allow us to extend its opening hours giving even more people the chance to enjoy this special place." “We’ll also be completing a number of important maintenance tasks to ensure the facilities are operating at their best." “Our transition team has been on location at Bonaira on and off for the past few months working hard to ensure a smooth handover We hope any changes noticed by residents and their loved ones are positive We’re looking forward to getting started.” Photo: At the press conference announcing the settlement - Graeme Prior with resident representative Peter Hayes and Mayor Cameron McDonald Kiama Council is excited to invite our community to celebrate the 2025 Seniors Festival (3 to 16 March) The 2025 Seniors Festival offers a fantastic lineup of events to celebrate and enjoy a free BBQ and hamper (for the first 50 attendees) A delicious hands-on experience for chocolate lovers Get creative in a stunning natural setting Dust off your dancing shoes for an afternoon of fun and music Build confidence in using technology with hands-on learning Our Seniors Festival 2025 has been made possible thanks to grant from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice We also invite local community groups to share details of their own Seniors Festival events so we can promote them Web: www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/seniorsfestival Email: communityevents@kiama.nsw.gov.au offering insights on how Kiama is tracking across key areas like population trends This data isn’t just numbers—this data helps us measure our impact and ensure we’re meeting the needs of our community this is a valuable resource for understanding our community’s trajectory and shaping the way we plan and deliver services There are some key insights worth noting—our population has dipped slightly over the past five years our waste and recycling efforts continue to be a standout and we’re seeing a shift towards an older demographic It’s important to note that while there has been a slight dip in population recently, the Kiama community is set to grow with an extra 6,917 people anticipated to call the area home by 2041 as detailed in the Local Housing Strategy The full dataset will be finalised by the Office of Local Government soon but this preliminary report gives us key insights into our community’s trajectory.  For more details or to explore comparisons with neighbouring councils, visit the Office of Local Government’s website.  More statistics on Kiama Council can be found in our Annual Report, State of our Municipality Report and monthly Business papers (Council meeting agendas) Kiama Council is excited to welcome another amazing service organisation to our newly-renovated Joyce Wheatley Community Centre The Kiama Girl Guides have moved into Joyce Wheatley and are already enjoying the larger space and modern facilities For more than 50 years the Guides have called Hindmarsh Park home most recently meeting in one of the historic cottages next to our SENTRAL Youth Services The move into Joyce Wheatley is a step up from the old cottage Council (with help from the NSW Government) has invested more than $190,000 to upgrade the popular community centre as well as a new (inside) paint job.  Guides Leader Jessy Wiggins said the move marked a new chapter in the long and proud history of the Girl Guides in Kiama “For more than 80 years girls in Kiama have enjoyed local and given service back to the community,” Ms Wiggins said Kiama Council is giving us the opportunity to carry on the tradition of fun and adventure that so many local girls have had with Girl Guides.” Kiama Woodcraft Group and more recently the Kiama School of Performing Arts as regular users of the facility If you’re interested in what the Girl Guides have to offer Monday 6pm to 7.30pm - girls aged 10-14 years Tuesday 5.30pm to 7pm - girls aged 7-10 years You can also find out more via their website: www.joinguides.com.au To find out more about our community halls and make a booking visit our website: www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/Facilities/Community-Halls-for-hire Take me back Kiama Council is pleased to announce the opening of Round 2 of our Community Grants and Donations Program The Community Grants and Donations Program provides financial support to local events Round 2 opens 3 February and closes 7 March 2025 The Small Community Grants and Donations Program is open all year round Grants of up to $7,000 are available for programs or events that provide significant community benefits that facilitate community participation and arts-based businesses delivering arts and cultural initiatives Grants of up to $2,000 to not-for-profit community organisations and school groups for projects that enhance health and environmental sustainability Small Community Grants and Donations (open all year round) Provides up to $500 to community groups for activities that provide social cultural and sustainable outcomes for our community Online Information Session - Monday 10 February we strongly encourage you attend this information session Register now  We also encourage you to book a meeting with our Community Development Officer to discuss your project ideas and learn more about our Grants and Donations guidelines Email: grantdonations@kiama.nsw.gov.au www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/grants Visit the Smarty Grants portal: kiama.smartygrants.com.au Kiama Council is updating our Community Land Plan of Management for Neighbourhood Parks Council has over the past few years acquired 36 new parcels of community land that need to be added to the Plan of Management for Neighbourhood Parks We’re also taking the opportunity to update the Plan of Management to cover all Parks General Community Use and Natural Areas of community land in our municipality Community Land refers to property which Council retains for use by the general public and requires a plan of management identifying how it will be managed and used The updated Plan further breaks down community land as Natural Area This change is to provide clearer information for our community Park land is mainly for (non-sporting) recreational General Community Use land can be used for any community purpose The updated Community Land Plan of Management is currently on public exhibition until Wednesday You can read the Plan and make a submission via our Your Say page We’re also hosting a public hearing on Thursday 10 April (5pm to 7pm) for you to ask questions and provide feedback (register now) Chat to our staff face-to-face about the Plan at one of our community pop-ups: Your submissions and feedback from our public exhibition and community pop-ups will be included in our final report to Council before the new Plan of Management is finalised make a submission or register for our public meeting https://yoursay.kiama.nsw.gov.au/community-land-plan-management Kiama Council is continually exploring new technologies and ways to gain efficiency in our operations This involves investigating emerging technologies which have potential to enhance our current service delivery for areas including customer service The NSW Government has recently published policies and guidelines around Artificial Intelligence and Kiama Council is watching these developments with interest Any and all new technology that Council adopts requires due diligence including cybersecurity checks and also must follow Council’s procurement policies and processes Customers may see a ‘live chat’ option pop up when they visit Council’s website in the next few months as part of a trial Participation in the trial will be completely optional We invite our community to continue to contact our helpful Customer Service Team via the traditional channels – phone email or in person at Council’s Administration Centre in Manning Street We will keep the community updated on any further developments.  Kiama Council Mayor Cameron McDonald has announced a major investment in the community’s future with the purchase of a prominent commercial property adjacent to its Works Depot on Belvedere Street The $6.3 million acquisition of the Shoalhaven Street site known locally as the old Big River or Cukuna property is set to unlock significant opportunities for both Council and the community The newly acquired site will enable Council to reimagine the use of our current depot which we have owned for nearly a century and has served as a hub for outdoor operations since the 1960s the facility has reached its limits in terms of safety Council now plans to move its operations to a consolidated safe workspace for Council’s outdoor staff Mayor McDonald said the purchase was a unanimous decision by the newly elected Council He expressed his enthusiasm for the new plans and said it highlights Council’s commitment to making impactful decisions that shape a sustainable future for Kiama.  but it’s also a big opportunity for our community,” said Cr McDonald “Our current depot site is outdated and no longer fit for purpose By relocating to a custom-built facility at Minnamurra we’re prioritising the safety of our hardworking staff while also freeing up a valuable site here in the heart of Kiama for future development.” Council aims to rezone the Belvedere Street site for residential development helping address the local housing shortage and making productive use of centrally located land a short walk from the train station and Kiama’s town centre This strategic move aligns with our broader goals of fostering responsible growth and addressing pressing community needs.  “We’re very excited to reimagine this site for residential use,” said Mayor McDonald “It’s a suburban site that’s increasingly ill-suited to industrial operations but is the ideal location to add much-needed housing This project is just one example of Council working together to make bold decisions that serve Kiama’s long-term interests.”  While the relocation and development plans will unfold over the coming years Council views this announcement as an essential first step toward creating a vibrant and more connected Kiama.  Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud said “There are lots of processes to be worked through —rezoning and our workforce has welcomed the news and looks forward to the opportunities this move will open up.” Cr McDonald said: “We’re committed to a strong vision for our town’s future Today’s announcement demonstrates that we’re not only thinking ahead and working collaboratively The purchase will be paid over three years ensuring fiscal responsibility while enabling a smooth transition for Council operations Kiama Council is sharing this news today to inform our community staff and stakeholders of this important decision and make them aware of our plans we are committed to transparency and keeping the community and our staff informed and engaged as we advance through the process Photo: Mayor Cameron McDonald with Kiama Council's Works Depot Manager  Kiama Council continues to work towards solutions for its disused Residential Aged Care Home and the surrounding site at Havilah Place the former Residential Aged Care facility at Havilah Place is in an advanced state of dilapidation making the premises unsafe and unhealthy to enter or occupy A series of nightly break-ins occurred earlier in the year with thieves stealing electrical cables and piping which affected the electrical supply to the units in Blue Haven Terralong Village pipes being stolen have caused flooding at the site Council has appointed two security guards to monitor Havilah Place as we prepare the paperwork for a tender to demolish the building This work is expected to occur in the 25-26 financial year and has been budgeted for as part of adopting its Strategic Finance & Governance Improvement Plan in June 2024 resolved to progress the subdivision of the disused residential aged care home facility from the remainder of the Blue Haven Terralong site The subdivision plans will also ensure that the Kiama Community Garden is situated on community land rather than Blue Haven Terralong operational land Draft subdivision plans have been prepared by Council’s surveyors The finalisation of this subdivision will occur as part of Council’s catalyst sites program Council is working through all the above steps diligently and with due process and progress is being made.  Kiama is celebrating the talent and creativity of women artists through Paint the Town Femme an art project bringing vibrant new works to public spaces across the Municipality This initiative showcases the incredible artistic abilities of women while enhancing the visual landscape of Kiama with striking new murals and panels adding color and character to key locations New artworks have been completed—or are in progress—at several sites The talented women behind these artworks are: Supported by Kiama Council and the NSW Government Paint the Town Femme is a lasting tribute to the power of female creativity and the role of public art in storytelling and community expression Keep an eye out as these works continue to take shape and visit these locations to experience the beauty and impact of their work firsthand Mandy Schöne-Salter's artwork in progress Kiama Municipal Council acknowledges the Wodi Wodi people on Dharawal country as the traditional custodians of the land on which our Municipality is located. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future. We are committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to our community. traffic and travel across the Illawarra and beyond All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueStay up-to-date with what's going on as the day progresses Council bin pick-up delayed this week as Kiama waste staff take snap strikeThe blog is free for all Illawarra Mercury readers but some article links may only be accessible exclusively to our subscribers and anything else the news team needs to know You can join the conversation in the comment section below; scroll down to discuss today's news Are you reading this on your mobile? Download our news app. It's faster and easier to read, and we'll send you alerts for breaking news as it happens. Download it from the Apple Store or Google Play Today's top stories curated by our news team Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over Your digital replica of Today's Paper Kiama’s councillors have elected Cr Cameron McDonald as Mayor and Cr Melissa Matters as Deputy Mayor at their first council meeting tonight Both Cr McDonald and Cr Matters will serve two years in their positions The election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor completes the make-up of our new Council that will serve a four-year term: Chief Executive Officer Jane Stroud congratulated Crs McDonald and Matters and said she looked forward to working with all the councillors during a critical time for Kiama Council “Council’s primary obligation remains achieving long-term financial sustainability and addressing the requirements of the performance improvement order,” Ms Stroud said “Once the Councillors have completed their inductions and have developed an understanding of the business we’ll then be able to support them to establish their priorities for this term.” Mayor McDonald said he was honoured to be chosen by his fellow councillors to lead Kiama Council at such an important period for both council and our community and I am absolutely determined to ensure we not only continue that work but realise the goal of financial sustainability,” Cr McDonald said “I’m confident with the quality of the people in my fellow councillors we can deliver this for our community.” All Kiama's councillor profiles are available on our website (photos will be updated shortly): https://www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/Council/Mayor-and-Councillors On behalf of all of the staff of Kiama Municipal Council and Blue Haven we welcome and say congratulations to the newly elected Councillors The makeup of our next Kiama Council has been confirmed following the counting of preferential votes Our newly elected Councillor team will consist of the following (in alphabetical order): Results were confirmed at 14.51 this afternoon There is now a 24 hour window for anyone to object and demand a recount.  Our successful candidates will officially become councillors when they are sworn in by the CEO prior to public access on Monday 14 October* The new Councillors will vote for a Mayor and Deputy Mayor in their first Ordinary Meeting from 5pm on Tuesday 15 October 2024* The result of the constitutional referendum on whether to change to the direct (popular) election of the Mayor by the voters of the Kiama Municipality was a no (54.67%) CEO of Kiama Council Jane Stroud said “I offer my sincere congratulations to all the elected Councillors and thank everyone who ran in the local elections I look forward to working alongside you all throughout the next term of Council.” Behind the scenes a comprehensive induction program is being finalised to help welcome the new Councillors as well as outline the wide range of services facilities and legislative responsibilities that Kiama Council undertakes.  Meetings schedule Picture supplied.The rise of the Wollongong Vikings continues unabated after Andrew Barrett's team accounted for Bowral on Saturday All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe win against the Blacks sees the Vikings sit on top of the competition table just two years after sitting out the season The Vikings have now won three of their four games to date The all-conquering Shoalhaven remain the only team yet to lose in 2025 Tommy Sawden played a leading role in the Vikings' 21-15 victory at Bowral Rugby Park contributing nine points from a try and two conversions David Capp and Te Kauri Henare also scored a try each for Vikings while Hamish Pinn bagged two five-pointers for Bowral Meantime, last season's beaten grand finalists, Kiama downing a gallant Shamrocks 35-24 at Ocean Park The visiting Cows outscored Shamrocks five tries to four on the way to picking up their first competition points Camden prevailed 23-19 in their local derby over Campbelltown Harelquins Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening Get the latest property and development news here Find out what's happening in local business Test your skills with interactive crosswords Looking for things to do these school holidays Kiama Council has a range of facilities offering fun activities to keep children and young people engaged and entertained.  From craft and creativity to movement and outdoor exploration there’s something for everyone.  Kiama and Gerringong Libraries are hosting a full program of activities across the school holidays movie nights and STEM-inspired challenges. Activities are designed for different age groups Please visit their website to see what’s available.  Library activities KLC activities While the SENTRAL Youth holiday program has now reached capacity young people aged 12 to 24 can still take part in Youth Week celebrations celebrate creativity and support local performers in a relaxed Visit the SENTRAL webpage to learn more.  SENTRAL activities there’s plenty happening in and around Kiama to keep them engaged these holidays.  We encourage families to check age guidelines venue details and cancellation policies before confirming their place.  Kiama Municipal Council has taken a significant step forward in the divestment of Blue Haven Bonaira to Hall & Prior Aged Care with Councillors unanimously endorsing the final letter of variation to the sale agreement at tonight's Council Meeting (in confidential session) The revised agreement adjusts the gross sale price from $95 million This adjustment reflects various building matters identified during the due diligence process which involved multiple engineering assessments to ensure the site met all necessary standards and building requirements.   The settlement for Blue Haven remains on track for February 2025 The adjusted price results in a surplus of $19 million from which Council’s $15 million TCorp debt will be cleared Kiama Council Mayor Cameron McDonald highlighted the importance of this milestone and provided further context for the adjusted sale price:  "I thank the Councillors for their collective decision to move the sale of Blue Haven Bonaira forward This has been a long and challenging process; any contract and sale of a going concern business this size Ultimately the adjustment to the price was necessary to reflect the reality of the building’s condition and the work required to address these issues,“ Cr McDonald said “This was not a decision made lightly but one that demonstrates our Council’s commitment to transparency and ensuring the best possible outcome for our community.” "This divestment is critical to our path toward financial sustainability as outlined in our Performance Improvement Order It allows Kiama Council to refocus on our core responsibility of delivering municipal services while ensuring Blue Haven Bonaira has the support it needs to thrive under Hall & Prior's experienced care." "To be frank I think this Council (and future councils) can learn significant lessons from this substantial project Areas for improvement include project management operational planning and improved reporting to Council on funding and variations.” “I’m pleased to see this transaction moving closer to settlement in February and I thank our staff and community for their patience and understanding,” Cr McDonald said Hall & Prior CEO Graeme Prior and his team were onsite at Blue Haven Bonaira this week to meet with staff and their families as part of the transition process Mr Prior said: "The Hall & Prior team enjoyed meeting with Blue Haven Bonaira staff and residents onsite and online to discuss matters that will ensure a seamless and respectful transition for staff we are focused on ensuring the sale process is handled with care This includes safeguarding the continuity of care and maintaining the high standards of service that residents Kiama Council has maintained transparency throughout the Blue Haven Bonaira divestment process providing regular updates via the Kiama Council and Blue Haven websites The sale of Blue Haven Bonaira marks a pivotal moment in ensuring a sustainable future for Kiama Council while retaining a large residential aged care facility in our municipality that ensures high-quality care for residents and a supportive workplace for staff.  Council has been aware of building issues and defects since completion of the Bonaira site in late 2019.  Council has worked to address issues as they arose and has fixed many of the issues These issues have been discussed and shared publicly many times with Residential Aged Care Facility (RACF) and Independent Living Unit (ILU) residents As part of the due diligence process associated with the divestment further investigations and engineering assessments were conducted by both Hall & Prior and Kiama Council’s independent assessors These assessments uncovered additional building issues that require rectification across the site The defects have had a material impact on the value of the asset and have impacted residents and families living within the complex Hall & Prior has stated they will work hard to resolve building issues as the company assumes ownership Council resolved in July 2024 to commence legal recovery processes against the contractor that built Blue Haven Bonaira. The legal case is being compiled and is on foot Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said: “Our new Council came into office with a good awareness of the issues involved with the Blue Haven Bonaira build and associated project management.” “Any new Council or leadership team will face challenges associated with the legacy of prior decisions and Kiama is no different in this respect grateful for my fellow Councillors’ support in making the tough decisions that are needed and that are in the public interest and now we are focused on putting the past behind us getting on with business and moving forward for our whole community.” A series of collection drop-off days was held across the Illawarra in partnership with Wollongong Shellharbour and Kiama Councils and Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation (ISJO) from November 2024 – February 2025 underscoring the Illawarra Shoalhaven community's commitment to sustainable waste management The pilot aimed to assess the feasibility and impact of organised soft plastics collection events across the region Total participation: The pilot project witnessed strong community participation with a total of 1,366 attendees across all events This high level of participation highlights the community's keen interest in responsibly managing soft plastic waste Total weight collected: The collection events successfully amassed 2,400 kilograms of soft plastics This substantial figure demonstrates the effectiveness of these drop-off initiatives in diverting waste from landfills and promoting recycling At Kiama Council’s Waste and Recycling Facility we saw 193 attendees with a total of 856kg of soft plastics collected ISJO determined that all material collected will be sent to Close the Loop via their partner organisation based in Minto The materials will be extruded and shredded then aggregated with other materials for shipment to Close the Loop has over 20 years of experience developing solutions for complex waste streams like soft plastics is an asphalt additive made from recycled waste toner and soft plastics It enhances road performance and longevity while being 100% recyclable as Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Data collected from the trial will be presented to all participating Councils including the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation board to determine if a permanent soft plastics collection will be established for the region.  a Soft Plastics Taskforce established with major supermarkets Coles Woolworths and ALDI is conducting a pilot in-store collection program with select stores in Victoria and NSW.  A proposal to extend this program until 31 July 2026 has been sought with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Kiama Council has today been notified the Southern Regional Planning Panel (SRPP) has recommended several amendments to the Kiama West (Springside Hill) planning proposal Kiama Council expresses its strong concern that the SRPP decision is in fact not in accordance with the Local Environmental Plan Making Guidelines of 2023 that govern such matters Council respectfully requests Hon Minister of Planning Paul Scully “immediately intervene in the SRPP decision call in the matter and to allow time for the polls to be declared and the elected body of Kiama Municipal Council to take office” Once this occurs the sensible outcome should be that the applicant provides a new planning proposal to council completing all steps and addresses concerns raised by council and the SRPP Council is currently in caretaker mode and the date issued by the SRPP for action aligns with the date of the election polls being declared (4 October 2024) This means our new council will not have been sworn in prior to the proponent agreeing or refusing to make amendments required by SRPP and the Council will not have an ordinary meeting to allow it to provide any formal comment on the matters Council’s concerns centre on the following facts: Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud said “Any time planning decisions and powers are taken out of the hands of local government planning as a profession is embarrassed by the system it puts the decisions in the hands of others “We have over 300 recent submissions on our draft housing strategy that we are currently working through and many focus on this development Local voices are not being listened to in this process.” “Our previous council voted unanimously against this proposal for virtually for the same reasons that SRPP now wants 14 issues addressed.” “Council when presenting to the SRPP noted real concerns with issues like roads shortages of employment lands and flooding issues.” “Today’s SRPP decision throws those concerns to the wind the community is left pondering a decision on its future being made by a panel with the ultimate chairman’s call.”  that even when the applicant refused to submit a basic scoping proposal or provide essential reports that adequately address issues as geotech “We have sufficient growth outlined in our draft housing strategy to meet our housing targets set down by the State government This large greenfield development will scar the green rolling hills squeezes in over 1500 lots and sends thousands of cars onto the existing road network every single day That is not the legacy that good planning seeks to leave.” “The creation of communities is more than just housing and target numbers good urban outcomes supported by essential funded infrastructure.” “I realise Kiama is one of the most highly desirable unaffordable coastal communities in all of NSW but grabs for land and cash shouldn’t come at the expense of sensible planning for new greenfield communities “I have personally met the applicant several times and will continue to collaborate with them professionally in the interests of the whole community.” “I understand the proponent has done much good work here and in other LGA’s but it is essential that due process and political representation is afforded on this decision too.” I worry that it’s simply agreeing to growth at all costs and I hope the Minister helps ends this most unusual circumstance” including the decision of the SRPP are available here: www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/rezoning-reviews/under-assessment/planning-proposal-rezone-land-long-brush-road-jerrara-and-greyleigh-drives-and-jamberoo-road Kiama Council congratulates Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) on the completion of the new club house and kiosk and has now issued a temporary 12-month licence to occupy the premises In Council’s ordinary meeting this week Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said: “Council unanimously congratulated Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club for their hard work in building the new club house It’s a wonderful community asset and I’m very much looking forward to attending the official launch on 1 March.” Council’s professional Lifesavers and volunteer life guards for their efforts to keep beachgoers safe over what has been a difficult summer season with several drownings Council has now issued Gerringong SLSC with a 12-month temporary licence This will allow time for negotiations in relation to a new longer-term lease for the operation of the Surf Club and for Council to review its Plan of Management to ensure all requirements for the Surf Club are captured within this Plan of Management The proposed new lease will be placed on public exhibition as per the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993 enabling Council to seek comments and submissions from the public Hall & Prior Aged Care would like to provide the Kiama community with an update regarding Blue Haven Bonaira Hall & Prior remains committed to completing the transition process over the coming weeks The majority of the Bonaira staff have accepted our offer of employment and we are excited to partner with them to continue the great care provided to all residents and clients We expect to receive all regulatory approvals from the Department of Health and Aged Care for the intended transfer of the Residential Aged Care and Home Care services in the next week or two Part of this approval will require that the Home Care services are transferred to Hall & Prior on the first calendar day of the month the intended transfer date of all Blue Haven Bonaira services to Hall & Prior is 1 April 2025 the Hall & Prior team will be onsite at Blue Haven Bonaira commercial completion and handover will occur and we will be responsible for all Bonaira operations In an Extraordinary Meeting on Thursday 6 March Kiama Council has agreed to a settlement date of 31 March 2025 Hall & Prior’s CEO Graeme Prior confirmed that his company was continuing to carry out its settlement preparation work ensuring the facility would meet the safety and high care standards of Hall & Prior’s other facilities in NSW “Hall & Prior and Kiama Municipal Council both remain committed to completion and we look forward to welcoming the Bonaira team to the Hall & Prior family in a few short weeks,” said Mr Prior residents and their loved ones for their patience and understanding as we continue to finalise all requirements necessary for the sale of Blue Haven Bonaira to Hall & Prior the care and wellbeing of staff and residents is of paramount importance,” said Mr Prior Download Hall & Prior's Media-Release.pdf(PDF, 169KB) Grass is Greener Marketing CommunicationsT: 0429 976 718E: lisa@gigmarketing.com.au  1. Note the correspondence from Hall & Prior on Tuesday 25 February 2025 seeking a final extension to settlement of the contract to 31 March 2025 and subsequent correspondence dated 5 March 2025 and received Thursday 6 March 2025; 2. Exercise its rights within the Sale Contract and pursuant to resolution 25/069OC from the extraordinary meeting on 24 February 2025 to accept the compensating payment from Hall & Prior for the further delay 3. Accept Hall & Prior’s irrevocable commitment to not seek any further delays or extensions to settlement beyond 31 March 2025; 4. Notwithstanding the irrevocable commitment above reserve its rights within the Sale Contract to further cost recovery should further delay requests be received; 5. Acknowledges the delay for the transfer approval of the Home Care Program by the Department of Health & Aged Care; 6. Notes the recent confirmation by the NSW Industrial Relations Commission regarding the staff transfer arrangements to Hall & Prior; 7. Requires Hall & Prior in conjunction with Council to prepare immediate communications to Bonaira residents and staff concerning this matter; and 8. Will work with Hall & Prior regarding an official opening event and public media on 1 April 2025 Kiama Council has installed two Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations at The Pavilion are at the south-east end of The Pavilion car park Mayor Cameron McDonald said the new stations marked a modest but important first step for Kiama Council supporting local EV infrastructure “Installing council-owned EV charging stations is a major part of Council’s Corporate Emissions Reduction Plan (CERP),” Cr McDonald said “It’s critical if we want to encourage the transition to low carbon transport especially with the many tourists who visit our area.” Funding was provided by the NSW Government thanks to a Drive Electric NSW EV Destination Charging Grant customers simply download the Exploren app onto their smartphone and create an account A support number is also provided for users encountering service difficulties The charging stations are free to use until February 2025 when the following rates are planned to be introduced: Details: EV charging stations at The Pavilion Photo: Mayor Cameron McDonald with members of Electrify Kiama at the charging stations CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Kiama Council is revising and updating its Community Strategic Plan for 2025-2035 and wants your help The Community Strategic Plan (CSP) outlines our community’s vision It also includes strategies for how we will work together to achieve them While Council’s main focus for the next four years is our financial, structural and operational reforms as directed by the Performance Improvement Order (PIO) dreams and feedback to help us shape our community's vision and goals for the next 10 years An online survey so we can learn a little about you environmental and social priorities as well as our civic leadership.  Post your thoughts and ideas online including photos and video links for discussion You can also comment or simply ‘like’ posts by other people Choose your council funding priorities using your allocated points budget Chat with Council staff and Councillors at our community pop-ups on the following dates: After we wrap up our community consultation at the end of January we’ll prepare a draft Community Strategic Plan for public exhibition in April 2025 Community members will get a chance to comment on the draft CSP before the document is finalised A final CSP will be presented to Council for adoption by the end of June 2025 Take our CSP survey via our your say platform: Take the CSP survey  Picture by Kiama CouncilKiama Council aims to sell off some land holdings to help with its goal of being financially sustainable by next year Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe draft budget is part of a suite of documents going before councillors at Tuesday night's meeting and includes a list of "catalyst sites" that could either be sold or invested in These include the council's administration centre in Manning Street, the Havilah Place nursing home, Blue Haven Terralong and various council depots The council documents state these sites "could provide revenue opportunities either via divestment or through redevelopment with future leasing arrangements" Work on strategic business cases and master plans for these sites is continuing The council sites include the works depot in Belvedere Street, where the council has purchased a neighbouring site with the view to relocating the depot and turning over the site for housing council plans to develop the abovementioned catalyst sites which aim to generate additional revenue in the future," the council papers stated surplus properties identified as non-strategic will be sold Proceeds from these sales in 2025/26 are utilised to establish a healthy unrestricted cash reserve "Proceeds from subsequent years are then allocated to the land development reserve specifically earmarked to fund the development of these catalyst sites." Also in Tuesday night's business paper is a mayoral motion from Acting Mayor Melissa Matters who wants the state government to change the rules after the council was knocked back for entertainment precinct funding Cr Matters - who is serving as acting mayor while Cameron McDonald is on leave - noted the council's application to the Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant Program was declared ineligible The funding to help establish a Special Entertainment Precinct could have been worth up to $200,000 The application was ineligible in part because the application did not meet the criteria because it was not supported by existing strategic documents particularly as the NSW Government has previously advised council of our emerging entertainment precinct status," Cr Matters' motion stated "Without the funding afforded under the Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant Program councils across NSW will be unable to support the NSW Government's Vibrancy Reforms." Cr Matters' motion stated the criteria worked against smaller councils that may not have the resources to create the required documents in the period since the government's Vibrancy Reforms were passed in November 2023 "It is entirely unreasonable to expect under-resourced councils to have consulted their community undertake public exhibition processes and adopt a Visitor or Night-time Economy Strategy in such a short period of time," the motion stated It called on the council to push the government to review its criteria so as to "recognise that regional councils do not have the resources to have previously prepared all the necessary strategies etc and to acknowledge when there is a clear intent to undertake the necessary work" I'm an award-winning senior journalist with the Illawarra Mercury and have well over two decades' worth of experience in newspapers. I cover the three local councils in the Illawarra for the Mercury, state and federal politics, as well as writing for the TV guide. If I'm not writing, I'm reading. Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. Love footy? We've got all the action covered. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Get the latest property and development news here. Find out what's happening in local business. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. 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Alex Moore lives in Australia's most expensive regional town Link copiedShareShare articleWhen Alex Moore walks out his front door he sees a "for sale" sign in front of the house across the road It's a reminder of a dream that feels completely out of reach "[It is] currently going for around $3 million — an average house The 21-year-old student lives in the idyllic beachside town of Kiama on the New South Wales South Coast it is the most expensive place to buy a home in regional Australia Labor and the Coalition have launched their pitches to help young voters hoping to get a foot on the property ladder Labor will allow all Australians to buy their first home with a 5 per cent deposit and is promising to build 100,000 homes reserved for first-home buyers The Coalition will allow people to dip into their superannuation for a house deposit and claim interest paid on a mortgage as a tax deduction providing it is a new build Young people like Alex Moore living in Australia's most expensive towns are disappointed with both major parties' housing policies "This is a bandaid solution — this isn't anything long term that is going to be suitable for people of my generation which includes the popular beachside town of Byron Bay is the least affordable seat in regional Australia by 57.4 per cent compared to 34.1 per cent in the capital cities Byron Bay continues to attract the rich and the famous but its housing crisis is repelling young people Chandre McSweeney does not feel the major parties are thinking about young people It took social worker Chandre McSweeney three months to find her share house in the Byron Shire town of Mullumbimby The 29-year-old lives with four housemates and is still paying more rent than ever but I just don't think as a single person that is a possibility," Ms McSweeney said Byron Bay and Mullumbimby sit in the electorate of Richmond the most difficult electorate in regional Australia to buy a home A housing affordability analysis by CoreLogic found it was also the least affordable electorate in the country to rent It would take a household a median time of 16.5 years to save a 20 per cent deposit while tenants were paying a median of almost half their income on rent Ms McSweeney doubts either major party will improve her situation "I don't think they really are thinking about young people like me," she said Want even more? Here's where you can find all our 2025 federal election coverage Experts are worried that both major parties' policies are likely to drive up the cost of housing Research from the McKell Institute found the superannuation for housing policy could see median home prices increase by $150,000 in Adelaide and $70,000 in Sydney The public policy think tank's executive director said the scheme was particularly unhelpful for young people and women "It has been quite disappointing to see so much of the opposition's rhetoric has been around how this will help women and young people when these are the people who do not actually have those funds in their superannuation to begin with," she said Ms Thistleton said the Coalition's other policy of claiming interest as a tax deduction would mostly help wealthier individuals the more that policy actually rewards you," she said Ms Thistleton welcomed Labor's pledge to build new homes for first-home buyers but was sceptical about whether the scheme would move the needle on supply because of construction constraints but high prices make it hard for young people to live there The housing policy neither major party wants to talk about this election is tax reform many homes in both Kiama and Byron Bay are leased as short-term rentals "It is actually quite attractive for people to have an investment property in a coastal or a regional area and have it up on a short-stay website and negatively gear it," Ms Thistleton said Mr Moore and Ms McSweeney believe the policy settings in place favour people who already have homes and property investors at the expense of people such as them Neither major party is likely to get their vote at this election Kate Dezarnaulds says neither major party has the courage to tackle housing affordability who is running in the Kiama electorate of Gilmore says voters dissatisfied with the "short-term sugar hits" offered by the major parties are backing minor parties and independents "The status quo just seems to keep on keeping on and the gap between the haves and the have-nots gets bigger and bigger," she said "How are we going to get back to a place where there is housing as a human right and get out of this two generations of housing as an investment class that is benefiting an increasingly narrow group of our population?" Alex Moore doesn't think he'll ever be able to afford to live in his home town Ms Dezarnaulds wants government investment in long-term rental stock and establishing schemes to house essential workers in regional communities Mr Moore just wants a future in the town where he grew up "It is very difficult to have this idealism that we can have a better world when you're looking right in front of you and there's just no future ahead of it for you," he said Having trouble seeing this form? Try this link.