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 areaContinueAs she walked up her driveway to investigate she heard 29-year-old Nathan Peter Bernhard say you're kidding," she told the Nowra District Court on Wednesday Ms Lippis said as she moved closer and saw her husband Stephen and friend Bobby Kelsall lying on the road Nathan Bernhard is helped from the Nowra Police Station after being arrested in 2023 Picture by Glenn Ellard.Both Mr Lippis and Mr Kelsall died at the scene was charged with two counts of dangerous driving occasioning death and as his trial began in the Nowra District Court on Wednesday the jury was told the trio were all good mates who were having a get-together ahead of Mr Lipps and Mr Kelsall flying to Queensland the following day The trio had been drinking together for much of the afternoon according to a statement of agreed facts presented to the jury of eight men and four women before ending back at the home Mr Lippis shared with his wife Amy they were enjoying life," Bernhard's barrister Nadine Hopper told the jury but he returned shortly after 6pm according to the agreed facts But the afternoon of having a few drinks and a few laughs while preparing to put steaks on the smoker turned tragic as Bernhard went to leave about 6.40pm He travelled along Condie Crescent before performing a U-turn and driving back past the home colliding with his two friends who were lying on the roadway - their feet pointing towards the gutter and their heads towards the middle of the road Ms Hopper said the reason for the men lying on the road was "unknown" Crown prosecutor David Coulton said breath tests at the scene showed Bernhard had a blood alcohol level of 0.09 while a blood and urine test at the hospital later in the evening revealed an alcohol reading of 0.07 The agreed facts said post-mortem blood tests showed both Mr Lippis and Mr Kelsall had blood alcohol levels of 0.153 when they died and both also had traces of cocaine in their systems The tests also revealed cannabis in Mr Kelsall's blood Mr Coulton said at the time Bernhard had not switched on his headlights and was using just the LED daytime running lights in his ute The trial before Judge Christopher O'Brien is continuing Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily Today's top stories curated by our news team. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. 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. Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! Error: no decision tree source folder detected The search for a missing six-year-old girl from NSW south coast has come to a tragic end after she went missing over the weekend. NSW police believe they have discovered the body of a six-year-old girl who went missing from the state's south coast over the weekend.  Airlie Montgomery went missing from the North Nowra area on Sunday afternoon, where temperatures encroached 35 degrees.  The six-year-old was last seen about 2.15pm wearing a hot pink jumpsuit. When she could not be located, officers attached to South Coast Police District were called and commenced a wide-scale search of the area to find her. Police said her family were particularly concerned due to her young age and several medical conditions. Police said a body was located during the search near where Airlie went missing about 6pm on Sunday. "While it is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be that of the missing girl," NSW police said in a statement. An investigation into the incident has commenced A report will be prepared for the coroner. 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 areaContinueNathan Peter Bernhard faced the District Court in Nowra on Tuesday pleading not guilty to two counts of dangerous driving causing death Nathan Bernhard covers his face while leaving the Nowra Police station on June 1 after being charged over the deaths of two of his friends Picture by Glenn Ellard.The trial before Judge Christopher O'Brien is due to start on Wednesday died when they were run over on Condie Crescent When the case was presented in the Nowra Local Court as part of the trial committal process it was heard that the trio had been drinking together at various locations before visiting the North Nowra address he drove along the street and performed a U-turn Police evidence to the court said Bernhard had a blood alcohol level of 0.090 at the time 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 Your digital replica of Today's Paper Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over Council is calling on the community to be aware and drive safely to protect wildlife on one of its newest roads New wildlife awareness signs have been installed along the new arterial route linking North Nowra at Illaroo Road and Moss Vale Road at Cambewarra after several wombats were reportedly struck by vehicles following its opening in August “We are disappointed by the reported deaths of wildlife on our roads and work hard to protect native animals in and around our urban areas,” said Manager Environmental Services it can take some time for these animals to become familiar with the changed landscape I would urge all motorists using the thoroughfare to heed the new warning signs slow down and be conscious of wildlife in the area,” Dr Roberts said Council is also using the iNaturalist data collection app and website to identify roadkill incidents across the city and to help inform mitigation strategies into the future more than 600 roadkill observations have been made by residents who use the app across the Shoalhaven Local Government Area 41 species have been identified including 242 Eastern Grey Kangaroos 189 Bare-nosed Wombats and 63 Swamp Wallabies The greatest number of observations have been made in and around Kangaroo Valley “We are using the data to understand the problem areas and to identify the species most at risk Armed with this important information we’re able to consider the best measures to ensure the safety of motorists and to protect our precious wildlife,” Dr Roberts said The app is also being used to support a 12-month trial of virtual fencing that was installed at Bawley Point in February this year The fence posts are positioned at 25-metre intervals for a 1km stretch along Murramarang Road Each post emits light and sound when a vehicle approaches to deter wildlife from the road “That road is well known for wildlife strikes and we’re already seeing a significant reduction in the deaths of animals in that area since the fence was installed The iNaturalist app has been crucial in helping us to collect this data and understand the impact of the measures we’ve put in place,” Dr Roberts said To identify future problem areas, community members are encouraged to use the iNaturalist App and website to document roadkill incidents Council can be contacted on 1300 293 111.  Nowra City Administration Centre36 Bridge Rd, Nowra NSW 2541 Australia Ulladulla Branch Office14 Deering St, Ulladulla NSW 2539 Australia Picture supplied by NSW Police ForcePolice are looking for a woman who might be able to help with their investigation into the suspicious death of a man in North Nowra 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 areaContinueThe 60-year-old man was found unconscious and suffering serious head injuries on a fire trail near a gas pipe clearing on a rural property on McMahons Road Emergency services were called to the scene about 8.15pm that night but the man died at the scene The area where the fatally injured man was found Pictures supplied by NSW Police ForcePolice established a crime scene and formed Strike Force Bursteed to investigate the circumstances of the man's death They are now calling for any information from the public and are specifically appealing for a woman who was seen in the area at the time to come forward They also ask anyone with dashcam footage who may have been driving along McMahons Road or surrounding streets at the time to make contact Anyone with information can contact Nowra Police on 4421 9699 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 mostly covering social affairs and education Today's top stories curated by our news team The Joe Hyam Reserve in North Nowra has undergone a complete makeover thanks to a NSW Government grant.  the installation of brand-new playground equipment promises to delight local families shade sails and landscaping have turned the reserve into a recreational destination.   said Joe Hyam Reserve has long been popular with locals and visitors for its natural beauty.  “The upgrade to the park is a great boost to the local community so locals and visitors can get out and enjoy our beautiful city,” she said.  “These sorts of upgrades are an important part of boosting well-being in Nowra and across the region.  “Whether it’s bringing the kids for a play outdoors for parents and carers to join up and form connections or for travellers to enjoy a safe stop-over parks really do improve the amenity of our communities.”  The new playground equipment includes:  Deputy Mayor Matthew Norris said the transformation of the reserve was thanks to both the input from the community on the park design and a grant from the NSW Government.  “We’re proud to unveil the renovated Joe Hyam Reserve which has been created to bring joy to locals and visitors who want to spend their time in the great outdoors,” Cr Norris said.  “The exciting new playground equipment guarantees to keep kids active while the new landscape design makes it a family-friendly space where all should feel welcome,” he said.  "The stunning facilities provide a safe and enjoyable space for the community to come together and make North Nowra an even better place to live.”  The project is entirely sourced from a $318,000 grant provided by the NSW Government.  Community leaders say ‘words cannot describe’ the pain as they mourn a young girl who went missing in southern NSW Don't miss out on the headlines from Breaking News Followed categories will be added to My News A southern NSW community is in mourning after the desperate search for a missing six-year-old girl ended in tragedy Authorities launched a widespread search on Sunday afternoon after Airlie Montgomery was reported missing after she was last seen in North Nowra at about 2.15pm Police launched an appeal for public assistance to find the little girl saying they held serious concerns for her welfare given her age and medical conditions She was last seen wearing a hot pink jumpsuit and no shoes a body was found in the Shoalhaven River beneath the Grotto Reserve walking track in North Nowra on Sunday afternoon Police have confirmed the young girl’s death was not being treated as suspicious and was likely accidental Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White told media the community was shaken and mourning the death of a beautiful young girl “This is just an absolute tragedy,” Ms White told the South Coast News “Words cannot describe how horrible this is chat to your neighbours to see if they’re okay.” Two helicopters and about 100 community members were involved in the search for the missing girl Local resident Krishan told the ABC he helped search for the six-year-old until it was getting dark and was very saddened to learn that she had passed away “There were two helicopters - one arriving around 12 o’clock and a police helicopter at 5pm,” he said “This morning I was sitting on the bench there and saying a prayer for her and saying bye-bye to her.” Community members have shared their grief on social media with some saying they felt traumatised by the tragic event “Everyone is traumatised that this could happen in our quiet neighbourhood Sincere sympathies to family friends and schoolmates,” Lyndy Cracknell posted Tamika Johnson set up a tribute page and online fundraiser to support the family who are now grieving their beloved daughter “Airlie is going to be so dearly missed by all that knew her,” she said “Rest in peace gorgeous girl.” NSW Police said an investigation into the incident has commenced and a report will be prepared for the coroner Originally published as Tragedy as body found in search for missing 6yo girl in Nowra Cassocks competition: whose outfit will new pope wear Catholic Church's direction in the balance as conclave looms The tragic cause of death of six-year-old Airlie Montgomery Six-year-old Airlie Montgomery likely died from misadventure after she went missing on Sunday afternoon on the New South Wales south coast it has been revealed after the frantic search for her ended in tragedy Her body was found at the bottom of a nature reserve in the water with police believing her death was likely accidental She was found shortly after 6pm in the Shoalhaven River beneath the popular cliff-top hiking trail after she wandered away from her family home in North Nowra earlier that afternoon and NSW Police have said her death did not seem suspicious Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White said Nowra was a “town in mourning” and that Airlie’s death was an “absolute tragedy” “Words cannot describe how horrible this is,” she told The Daily Telegraph who was the last person to see the six-year-old girl alive told Daily Mail Australia she would often play on the grass strip near her parents’ home but a happy girl always smiling and blowing kisses when she saw you,” Cathy said Cathy said Airlie must have gone “over the edge” above The Grotto with a bunch of pink flowers on Monday after collecting her belongings was too distraught to speak about what had happened Ms Amess was being comforted by a neighbour after dozens of community members joined the search party to find her young daughter The NSW Department of Education released a statement which said it was “deeply saddened” by Airlie’s tragic death “Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected," it said "We are providing support to students and staff and will continue to do so for as long as it is needed." NSW Police are treating the death of six-year-old Airlie Montgomery as a tragic accident and have no reason to believe she was the victim of a crime Video showing Airlie wandering through the streets of North Nowra on Sunday afternoon wearing a pink jumpsuit are the last images of the little girl before she was reported missing and a frantic search by emergency services began Airlie’s body was located at around 6pm during the search in bushland in the southern NSW town Get the first look at the digital newspaper curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White said the community was devastated by the news Man stabbed, seven arrested after early morning brawlAustralia1 Min Read17 Mar 2025“This is just an absolute tragedy,” Ms White said “Words cannot describe how horrible this is chat to your neighbours to see if they’re okay Emergency services were involved in the massive search on Sunday with helicopters flying over the local bush before their worst fears were confirmed and Airlie’s body was found Inquiries into the incident are ongoing and a report will be prepared for the Coroner Latest EditionEdition Edition 5 May 20255 May 2025All-powerful Anthony Albanese says give me some R.E.S.P.E.C.T Picture suppliedA man accused of negligent driving causing the death of three people has had his case mentioned in court for the first time 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 areaContinueLachlan Anthony Stuckey, 22, of North Nowra, was not required to appear when the matter came before Goulburn Local Court on Wednesday Stuckey is charged with three counts of negligent driving occasioning death (first offence) and one count of driving a motor vehicle while licence suspended Court documents stated the charges related to a crash at the intersection of Collector Road and Bungendore Road police alleged Stuckey was driving a silver Hyundai at the time and that two women solicitor Tony Cullinan said Stuckey had been excused from appearing in person "I've spoken to his father in North Nowra and I'm instructed that he (Stuckey) is still in a neck brace," he said Mr Cullinan said he was awaiting further information from the crash investigation unit and understood the matter would be adjourned He told the court that blood tests taken in the ACT needed to be examined in NSW Mr Cullinan told the court he expected the matter to be taken forward by the Director of Public Prosecutions Police prosecutor Magistrate Geraldine Beattie adjourned the matter to November 20 at Goulburn Local Court She also agreed to Mr Cullinan's request that Stuckey again be excused from appearing in person if legally represented If you have a story to tell, drop me a line at louise.thrower@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0418 229 678. 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 The body of Airlie Montgomery is believed to have been discovered not long after she was reported missing in North Nowra Council is seeking feedback on two draft planning documents proposed to guide the development and delivery of a future new residential area in the new suburb of Badagarang known as the Moss Vale Road North Urban Release Area The draft Development Controls and proposed Local Infrastructure Contributions Framework for a 266-hectare site north of Moss Vale Road have been prepared to complete the initial planning work necessary to guide and enable the development of the new Urban Release Area The Urban Release Area was first identified for development in 2008 and will provide land for between 2,000 and 2,500 new homes The Urban Release Area will include a range of lot sizes and a mix of housing types including dual occupancies and secondary dwellings.  “The Urban Release Area will contribute a significant supply of new homes close to the key existing centres of Nowra and Bomaderry,” said Manager of Strategic Planning “Delivery of this future residential area is pivotal in ensuring Shoalhaven meets the housing targets set by the NSW State Government.” The draft Development Controls will guide design of subdivisions and dwellings protection of the environment as well as management of flooding and bushfire The proposed Local Infrastructure Contribution Framework identifies essential infrastructure and potential ways to fund and deliver it “Setting an appropriate contributions framework which works with the cap imposed by the NSW Government on developer contributions is essential to support the delivery of this new urban release area,” Mr Clark said The two draft documents are on exhibition from Monday 26 August until Monday 23 September 2024 For more information about the exhibition and how to make a submission, visit Council's Documents on Exhibition page Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time A desperate search for a six-year-old girl who went missing on Sunday afternoon has ended in tragedy after a body was found in bushland The girl was last seen wearing a pink jumpsuit and no shoes at 2.15pm in North Nowra A search for a six-year-old in bushland on the NSW South Coast has ended in tragedy officers from the South Coast police district were called and immediately began searching for her Family members held serious concerns for the girl’s welfare because of her young age and a number of medical conditions NSW Police said in an urgent appeal for assistance on Sunday afternoon Police described her as Caucasian in appearance A body was found in bushland near North Nowra about 6pm It is yet to be formally identified but is believed to be that of the missing girl Police have commenced inquiries into the death and will prepare a report for the coroner The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here Family members held serious concerns for the girl\\u2019s welfare because of her young age and a number of medical conditions The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories Body found in North Nowra area believed to be girl last seen on Sunday afternoon A body has been found during a search for a missing six-year-old girl Police were notified when the girl could not be located with officers from South Coast police district launching an investigation and wide-scale search for her Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email Police said a body was located during the search within bushland in the North Nowra area about 6pm on Sunday “While it is yet to be formally identified it is believed to be that of the missing girl,” NSW police said in a statement An investigation into the incident is under way Credit: SunriseThe Shoalhaven community have grieved on Thursday as parents Cory and Katie Montgomery celebrated the life of their “magic Airlie fairy” the six-year-old whose laughter and courage touched countless lives before her tragic death on March 16 and blew bubbles in tribute to the non-verbal autistic girl who wandered 800m from her North Nowra home and fell from cliffs at The Grotto Reserve Cory described visiting the site a few days earlier “I sat at the edge of those cliffs on my own you couldn’t have picked a more beautiful spot Airlie’s cousin Marley Mosman remembered her infectious ”belly laugh” “In these short few years she touched us in ways we never thought she could,” she said revealed how the ”bright little girl” had taught them to see beauty in overlooked details “She faced the world with courage and determination,” Claire said Fighting back tears Emma said “we are absolutely heartbroken to say goodbye.” She also said she knew as therapists they were teaching her Outside, hundreds of bubbles floated, as blowing bubbles was something Airlie loved to do. The funeral followed weeks of tributes at The Grotto, where teddy bears and flowers still mark the trail Airlie walked on her last afternoon. Police fear they have found the body of a six-year-old girl who went missing on the south coast of New South Wales On Sunday evening, police found a body believed to be Airlie Montgomery, who was last seen at North Nowra, 170km south of Sydney, at about 2.15pm the same day. When she could not be located or contacted, the South Coast Police District was called and officers immediately launched an investigation. Her family was very concerned for Airlie's welfare due to her young age and a number of medical conditions. A police statement said: 'About 6pm, a body was located during the search within a bushland in the North Nowra area. 'While it is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be that of the missing girl. 'Inquiries into the incident have commenced. A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.' 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Where 'soft-touch' Britain's asylum seekers are REALLY coming from No one seems to have shared their thoughts on this topic yetLeave a comment so your voice will be heard first. {{message}} The family of a six-year-old girl who was found dead in a waterway at the bottom of a cliff has visited her school to collect her belongings Airlie Montgomery was last seen in the NSW South Coast town of North Nowra at 2.15pm on Sunday Police were immediately concerned for her wellbeing due to her young age and several medical conditions Her home was just 800m from the cliff's edge A body, believed to be Airlie's remains, was found four hours after she was reported missing The remains were in a waterway beneath The Grotto NSW Police are not treating Airlie's death as suspicious with officers believing her death was a case of misadventure told Daily Mail Australia she was the last person to see Airlie alive before she wandered off and died in the tragic accident Cathy said Airlie normally played on grass strip out the front of a home two houses down from her parents' place but a happy girl always smiling and blowing kisses when she saw you,' Cathy said 'But then we found out she must have gone over the edge above The Grotto.' The family live just metres from North Nowra Public School left the school with a bunch of small pink flowers in hand after a visit on Monday Several more flowers have been left at the family's home was too heartbroken to speak on the loss of her daughter I can't say anything,' she said through tears as she was comforted by a neighbour was one of about 100 volunteers who helped search for the six-year-old He told the ABC he saw the little girl running along a housing estate on Sunday morning 'I feel very sad for the passing of a six-year-old girl,' Krishnan said 'This morning I was sitting on the bench there and saying a prayer for her and saying bye-bye to her.'  Krishnan returned home as it was getting dark and heard helicopters continue the search 'There were two helicopters; one arriving around 12 o'clock and a police helicopter at 5pm,' he said Shoalhaven mayor Patricia White said Nowra is a 'town in mourning' following news of the body's discovery 'This is just an absolute tragedy,' she told the Daily Telegraph.  'Hold your kids tight, chat to your neighbours to see if they're okay.' Several others shared their grief online, describing Airlie's death as 'unfair'. 'Incredibly sad. Fly high Airlie,' one wrote. 'My heart is broken for the family and her many friends,' another said. The NSW Department of Education issued a statement saying: 'We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our thoughts are with the family and all those affected. 'We are providing support to students and staff and will continue to do so for as long as it is needed.' A report will be prepared for the coroner.  {{message}} placed into a sign marking the entrance to The Grotto at North Nowra cream-coloured teddy bear sits atop a bunch of flowers at a sign above The Grotto at North Nowra 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 areaContinueIt is a small but poignant symbol of the NSW community's grief at a young life lost so tragically The death of six-year-old Airlie Montgomery just a short distance from her North Nowra home has rocked the community At North Nowra Public School where Airlie was a student the Education Department has arranged support for students and staff impacted by the tragedy The Department said that support would continue "for as long as it is needed" Gone too soon - six-year-old Airlie Montgomery Picture supplied."We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our thoughts are with the family and all those affected," an Education Department spokesperson said Meanwhile there has been an outpouring of grief throughout the Shoalhaven and further afield with many shocked by what is every parent's worst nightmare of a child escaping the safety of their own yard and wandering off In North Nowra's streets people have been seen embracing friends and loved ones as they try to come to terms with a young The Education Department has offered support for North Nowra Public School's students and teachers Picture by Glenn Ellard.Those same people were combing streets bushland and playgrounds the day before as the community mobilised once news of the missing youngster became public Many also gathered around the end of Yurunga Drive on Sunday afternoon where emergency services had set up a command post as local residents hoped for the best and looked for opportunities to help Flowers at The Grotto as a community expresses its grief Picture by Glenn Ellard.Once news of the young girl's death became public some left floral tributes at various locations around The Grotto was adorned with a tiny teddy bear - a symbol of innocence and joy for a child loved by so many Police investigating the incident have ruled out foul play and are preparing a report for the coroner Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date We care about the protection of your data. Read our Privacy Policy. Picture supplied.Police are asking for help to find a teenage girl missing from North Nowra 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 areaContinueAlly-Ann Brownhill was last seen at her home in North Nowra on Friday August 16 Police and family hold concerns for her welfare due to her age Ally-Ann has gone missing from her home in North Nowra but is known to frequent the Blacktown area Picture supplied.She is described as being of Caucasian appearance Ally-Ann is known to frequent the Blacktown area Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to call Nowra Police Station on 4421 9699 Picture by Fire and Rescue NSW NowraA North Nowra home has been destroyed by fire overnight during an emergency that left an elderly man running for his life 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 areaContinueFirefighters were called to the single-level fibro home on McMahons Road following a triple-0 call for help at 5.11pm on Wednesday When they arrived at the home it was a little bit unusual, Fire and Rescue NSW Shoalhaven Station Officer Ian Walters said "There was only smoke coming out the windows Forensic officers inspecting a fire damaged home on McMahons Road at North Nowra on Thursday Picture by Glenn Ellard."There wasn't flames outside or in any windows or doors it was pent up fire where it become oxygen starved The smoke and flames were spreading throughout the house." Firefighters put on oxygen cylinders and face masks and entered the burning home to search for occupants and to extinguish the flames but to look at it from the outside you couldn't see anything," Station Officer Walters said It took about an hour to extinguish the blaze with firefighters using a thermal imaging camera to check for hot spots in wall cavities and the ceiling space paramedics and police who were called to the scene with strict decontamination procedures put in place for crews after they exited the burning house "It's asbestos fibro so we had to be very careful to not get contaminated," Station Officer Walters said The cause of the fire is now under investigation by police Elderly man runs for his life as his North Nowra home goes up in flamesThe overnight fire is a reminder for everyone to have a working smoke alarm in their home Firefighters are so concerned about the number of house fires in the Illawarra they've teamed up with the Illawarra Mercury to provide free smoke alarms (including free installation) and fire safety advice for residents the smoke alarm is free and so is the fire safety advice If you're reading this story on your mobile phone click here to book, otherwise scan the QR code above to request a free smoke alarm. Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au 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. 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. Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Photo: Melissa Meehan/AAP PHOTOSA body has been located during a search for a missing six-year-old girl Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe girl was last seen in North Nowra with officers from South Coast Police District launching an investigation and wide-scale search for her "While it is yet to be formally identified it is believed to be that of the missing girl," police said in a statement This is probably not the page you’re looking for The devastated father of a six-year-old girl found dead after wandering away from her Nowra home has revealed heartbreaking details that may have contributed to the tragedy Airlie Montgomery was found at the base of a rock ledge known as The Grotto after a frantic four-hour land and sea search on Sunday Police say her death was a tragic accident Get the NewsletterBy continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Video showing Airlie wearing a pink jumpsuit on a street near her home at about 2.15pm on Sunday are the images of the little girl when he received the phone call from his partner He believes Airlie may have thought she was heading off on an adventure when she left home “She had no sense of danger, no sense of what the world was all about. She lived in her own little world,” Mr Montgomery told The Daily Telegraph Mr Montgomery said Airlie had never left the yard on her own before “It’s not like we’d ever had near misses with her this was the first time anything like this had happened.” or play with rocks … that was her happy place She had visited the Grotto where she was found once or twice previously with her family A GoFundMe set up to help Airlie’s heartbroken family has so far raised nearly $27,000 friends of the family told reporters that Airlie was seen crying on the day of her death and that was out of character Local neighbour, Cathy, told The Daily Mail, Airlie was crying and “no one knows why”. “She was a lovely little thing, non-verbal, but a happy girl always smiling and blowing kisses when she saw you,” Cathy said. “Except yesterday she was crying, no one knows why... and then I didn’t see her. “She must have wandered off. Everyone in the neighbourhood was so good. We all went out to look for her.” Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White said the community was devastated by the news. “This is just an absolute tragedy,” Ms White said. “Words cannot describe how horrible this is. “Hold your kids tight, chat to your neighbours to see if they’re okay. Airlie’s funeral is set to be held next week. Significant improvements are on the horizon for Joe Hyam Reserve in North Nowra as plans are underway to create a more family friendly community space popular for its natural beauty and recreational areas is the focus of a playground replacement project aimed at enhancing the experience for families and the wider community Mayor Amanda Findley explains the new and improved facilities will provide a safe and enjoyable space for families to come together “The transformation of Joe Hyam Reserve is a collaborative effort involving Council and the support of the NSW Stronger Country Communities Fund with the shared goal of making North Nowra an even better place to live,” Cr Findley said The project is funded with a $318,000 budget entirely sourced from a grant provided by the NSW Stronger Country Communities Fund Round 5 a government initiative designed to enhance regional and rural communities in NSW Gareth Ward MP for Kiama said he loves working hard and getting things done for the local community and is proud to help secure funding for these upgrades from the NSW Government to make this upgrade happen “I know that North Nowra residents want to see improvements to their parks and reserves and I’m so pleased we’ve been able to secure yet another investment that will make a real difference to a park that was largely unused but for a walkway “Having door-knocked residents in North Nowra to ask for their views I’m very pleased with collective efforts to transform Joe Hyam Reserve into a more family friendly and enjoyable space that will improve community amenity,” Mr Ward said the contract for the playground replacement project has been awarded to a team of contractors chosen for their expertise and commitment to ensuring the playground replacement's success Construction is scheduled to commence in February 2024 with the project anticipated to be completed by April 2024 in North Nowra following its opening in August 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 areaContinueShoalhaven Council is calling on the community to be aware and drive safely to protect wildlife after several wombats and other native species have died Wildlife rescuers like Belinda Donovan (pictured) are getting more reports of injured wombats along Bannada Way Picture supplied by Google Maps and Mudgeroo Emu Farm and Animal RefugeWildlife Rescue South Coast reported a shocking 53 wombat deaths on South Coast roads in August alone Wildlife Rescue's Belinda Donovan believes the real numbers might be higher no matter where or what has caused the increase in fatalities especially wombats who are in my heart," she said Council's environmental services manager, Dr Michael Roberts said the council was disappointed by the reported deaths of wildlife and was working hard to protect native animals. it can take some time for these animals to become familiar with the changed landscape," he said "I would urge all motorists using the thoroughfare to heed the new warning signs slow down and be conscious of wildlife in the area." New wildlife awareness signs have been installed along the new arterial route linking North Nowra at Illaroo Road and Moss Vale Road at Cambewarra. Picture supplied by Shoalhaven City CouncilMudgeroo Emu Farm and Animal RefugeMs Donovan also helps run Mudgeroo Emu Farm and Animal Refuge in Falls Creek which is one of the locations where injured wombats and their young are taken one of the members attended a wombat that was hit at about 2 am Thursday October 24 and left in the middle of the highway The animal was still alive when the assessor arrived but its injuries meant the wombat had to be euthanised Ms Donovan was grateful they were able to attend the animal and intervene "otherwise she would have suffered a long If you hit an animal you need to report it to Wildlife Rescue South Coast on 0418 427 214 so a representative can come collect the animal Ms Donovan said you should also check the wombat to see if it is still alive and look inside its pouch to check if there is a baby "The marsupial pouch gives the baby a good chance to survive because the way it is so nicely tucked inside really protects the baby," Ms Donovan said Mudgeroo Emu Farm and Animal Refuge has 20 orphans in care because people have stopped to check the pouch Council also encourages the community to report roadkill incidents across the Shoalhaven on the iNaturalist app and website "We are using the data to understand the problem areas and to identify the species most at risk," Dr Roberts said "With this important information we're able to consider the best measures to ensure the safety of motorists and to protect our precious wildlife." Information gathered on the iNaturalist data collection app reported that since January this year more than 600 roadkill observations have been made by residents across the Shoalhaven Local Government Area If you know any problem areas, community members are encouraged to use the iNaturalist App and website to document roadkill incidents To report an injured animal contact the Wildlife Rescue South Coast on 0418 427 214 If the animal is deceased and needs removal Worrigee and North Nowra in the following location to Evacuate by 10:00pm Sunday 9th August 2020 Residents should relocate personal possessions to a safe place leave the high danger area and move to safety outside the above identified areas Properties in these areas are likely to become inundated by flood water you may be trapped and it may be too dangerous for SES to rescue you Where to go: Those people relocating should attend family and friends in the first instance If you can’t go to family or friends please attend the Nowra Police Station located at 88 Plunkett St Nowra where you can register for emergency accommodation Should you be in mandatory self-isolation due to COVID19 please call the Public Health Information line on 1300 066 055 for advice 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 areaContinueA Transport for NSW spokesperson said the speed zones were reviewed in consultation with police and Shoalhaven Council and in accordance with the NSW speed zoning standard Speed limit changes in North Nowra and Bomaderry Picture supplied."The speed zone will be reduced from 60 kmh to 50 kmh for the 1.5-kilometre length of McMahons Road from the intersection with Illaroo Road to the intersection with Rock Hill Road in North Nowra," the spokesperson said "The review of this speed zone was carried out following concerns raised by community members for the safety of motorists entering and exiting driveways the review found 50 kmh was an appropriate speed due to the presence of pedestrians and cyclists in the residential area "The reduction will result in a travel time increase of about 18 seconds." The spokesperson said the speed limit will be reduced from 60 kmh to 50 kmh for a 2.5-kilometre length of Bolong Road from the Princes Highway to 100 metres east of Hanigans Lane Fixed speed cameras along this road length will be updated to reflect the new reduced speed zone "This speed zone review was requested by a local business who raised concerns regarding the safety of motorists and pedestrians in the area," the spokesperson said "The review found 50 kmh to be the appropriate speed limit due to the high volume of pedestrians and cyclists in the area which is expected to increase as more workers move into the developing industrial area Picture supplied."The reduced speed limit will improve road user and intersection safety while increasing travel time by about 25 seconds." The spokesperson said the speed limit will be reduced from 100 kmh to 80 kmh for a 3.6km stretch of Culburra Road from 180 metres east of Coonemia Road to 740 metres east of Strathstone Street at Culburra Beach "The review was requested by local residents over safety concerns given two fatal crashes resulting in three fatalities have occurred on this stretch in the past 10 years," the spokesperson said "Due to the crash history and the frequency of roadside hazards the review found 80 kmh to be an appropriate speed The reduction will result in a travel time increase of about 26 seconds." The spokesperson said factors considered when reviewing speed settings included crash history and the presence of vulnerable road users "Streets are not just about moving people and goods - they also interact with places where people live work and spend time," the spokesperson said "All of these aspects are considered when setting new speed limits "Speed limits are set to ensure motorists travel at a safe and appropriate speed for the surrounding road environment and to allow time for drivers travelling at the limit to detect a hazard and react quickly enough to brake or take evasive action "This reduces the risk of a crash occurring and means there's a greater chance of any collision being survivable." The speed zones are being installed at night from September 22 Signs will be onsite to advise of the speed zone changes for one week prior to installation and one week after Traffic control and reduced speed limits of 40 km/h will be in place for the safety of workers and road users while the new speed zone changes are being installed Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control The community is welcome to provide feedback about speed limits online at https://www.saferroadsnsw.com.au/haveyoursay.aspx Council advises the community of the Draft Review of Environmental Factors – North Nowra Surcharge Main currently on public exhibition from Monday 25 May – 15 June 2020 Shoalhaven Water is responsible for the collection treatment and distribution of potable water and wastewater in the Shoalhaven Shoalhaven Water proposes to upgrade sections of North Nowra surcharge main (NNSM) which extends from North Nowra to the Nowra Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) View the Proposed Replacement of North Nowra Surcharge Main Review of Environmental Factors By EMAP Consulting here. 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 areaContinueThe playground has undergone a complete makeover thanks to a $318,000 State Government grant The new play equipment at North Nowra's Joe Hyam Reserve Picture supplied.New playground equipment has been installed shade sails and landscaping have turned the reserve into a recreational destination said the play equipment was an instant hit with local children "I took the opportunity to visit the site on the weekend and it was wonderful to see the park getting a real workout," he said "The new park has an incredible array of activities for children of all ages." said Joe Hyam Reserve had long been popular with locals and visitors for its natural beauty "The upgrade to the park is a great boost to the local community so locals and visitors can get out and enjoy our beautiful city," she said There was plenty of action in the Joe Hyam Reserve when State Member for Kiama and Shoalhaven Councillor Paul Ell visited n the weekend Picture supplied."These sorts of upgrades are an important part of boosting well-being in Nowra and across the region "Whether it's bringing the kids for a play outdoors or for travellers to enjoy a safe stop-over parks really do improve the amenity of our communities," Ms Butler said The new playground equipment includes a combination slide tower Deputy Shoalhaven Mayor Matthew Norris said the reserve's transformation followed community input on the park design "We're proud to unveil the renovated Joe Hyam Reserve which has been created to bring joy to locals and visitors who want to spend their time in the great outdoors," Cr Norris said "The exciting new playground equipment guarantees to keep kids active while the new landscape design makes it a family-friendly space where all should feel welcome "The stunning facilities provide a safe and enjoyable space for the community to come together and make North Nowra an even better place to live," he said The Nowra Bomaderry Structure Plan (NBSP) 2006 identified several new living areas to be released in the Nowra-Bomaderry area over a 25 year period Council is seeking feedback on two draft planning documents proposed to guide the development and delivery of a future new residential area in the suburb of Badagarang These later became Urban Release Areas (URAs) with the commencement of Shoalhaven Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2014 The Nowra-Bomaderry URAs are recognised in the Illawarra-Shoalhaven Regional Plan as being regionally significant release areas To find out more, visit the Planning for Growth Nowra and Bomaderry Get Involved web page as the first of several wild storms rolled over the region 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 areaContinueThe bolt hit the driveway but the force reverberated all round the house “The force blew a telephone off the wall.” Mr Grady went outside looking for damage and still can’t work out how the roof stayed on the house was conducted along the steel reinforcement and blew three holes in the structure Mr Grady said it was lucky he was not standing in the driveway at the time The bolt also blew out street lights in the Lucas Street neighbourhood Mr Grady’s modem was also damaged but the television the recent storms produced torrential rain causing some sporting events to be called off including Wednesday’s summer soccer at South Nowra and junior touch at Vincentia At the HMAS Albatross Weather Station 10 millimetres of rain was recorded from Tuesday’s storm and from the heavy but brief storm on Wednesday The Bureau of Meteorology yesterday issued a coastal waters wind warning and predicted southerly winds reaching 35 knots and waves of up to five metres The forecast for today is for partly cloudy conditions with isolated showers in the north from the late morning Winds will be from north to north-easterly direction