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Page 2 of 14

The History of Kiama

kiama-webKiama is the name of this coastal town which was said to mean “where the sea makes a noise” as translated from local aborigines’ language – undoubtedly referring to the

thundering of the famed blowhole on the rocky headland. George Bass, exploring the area in 1797, referred to the “tremendous roar” which issued forth from the subterranean passage.

In 1819 “Kiarami”, as John Oxley called it, was surveyed and, soon afterwards, timber cutters arrived to strip the bush of its cedar and other fine hardwoods to be used in construction of fine, new houses in Sydney.


Kiama Harbour

The development of Kiama’s harbour, which began early in the 19th century with mooring chains attached to rocks – still visible – was completed in 1876. Kiama’s quarries produced basalt gravel and large quantities were shipped away to Sydney for tramway and railway construction. The quarries still operate, turning out rail ballast and road base for New South Wales transport needs.

As local roads improved and a rail link was established, more and more of Sydney’s citizens were drawn to this easily accessed coastal town. It became the preferred holiday destination and, from 1946, a focus for retirees.

Jamberoo, to the west of Kiama and set hard against the escarpment, is a quiet village surrounded by rolling green hills. The district was opened up for grazing in the 19th century and, at the time, much of the original rain forest was shipped out to Sydney as building material. When visiting Jamberoo be sure to make a stop at the Jamberoo Bowling Club for afternoon tea they provide great coffee & cake specials & have a great view too!


Kiama's Magnificent Blowhole

When a south-easterly wind is blowing, the blowhole is at its most spectacular. The sea is whipped into the mouth of the cavern and driven upward by the tidal force sending a plume skyward. The area is floodlit until 9.30 pm.

Kiama Lighthouse (1887) was built next to the blowhole after ships were wrecked on the rocks. It converted to electricity in 1969; its sweeping light piercing the darkness for 27 kms.

The Pilot’s Cottage and Heritage Centre, down the hill from the lighthouse, has been restored by Kiama Historical Society and serves as a local maritime museum. Open on Saturday,  Sunday and Monday from 11 am.

Next door, why not visit The Beach & Bush Gallery for lunch which overlooks the ocean & is located right next door to the Tourist Info Centre.


Lots to see and Do in Kiama

Kiama Terraces in Collins Street date from about 1886. These weather board houses were built for the quarry workers’ families and are now classified by the National Trust. They have largely been restored and house vendors who cater to tourists needs in cafes, book shop or any number of various crafts and souvenirs and memorabilia.

There is a wide range of accommodation in Kiama from motels, caravan parks, B & B's and hotels , the Kiama Terrace Motor Lodge is a nice choice located across from the terrace houses on Collins St as all rooms are air conditioned and the motel is located in the heart of Kiama with an easy walk to shops and the harbour. Easts Beach Holiday Park is also a great family park overlooking the ocean on Easts Beach.

There are a wide range of Cafes, Restaurants and retail stores in Kiama such as Scoops Ice creamery & Cafe located across the road from Hindmarsh Park, they serve the best icecream in town!

For a splendid view over the countryside, travel along the Jamberoo road to the Saddleback Mountain lookout turn off. At the summit is a vista that stretches as far as Wollongong in the north to Jervis Bay south.

There are many things to see and do at Kiama and Jamberoo & Kiama Scenic Tours located in Kiama know the area better then anyone & provide affordable tours of the area ensuring that you don't miss any of the sites!




 
 
 
What's On

diary-web'What's On' on the South Coast NSW

July 2010

What’s on in the South Coast this month


  1st-4th July- NSW Open Surfmasters Titles
With ten state titles up for grabs, the best surfers in the state are set to converge on Kiama for this event. Held at Kiama & Gerringong beaches, visit www.surfingnsw.com.au or phone 9349 7055 for details.


2nd & 3rd July- South Coast Fibre Muster
Spinning and Weaving Exhibition & Sales 9.00am-5.00pm, held at the Berry School of Arts, Berry, 2 great days of spinning, weaving & fibre crafts. Only $2, kids entry free. The Muster features competitions, demonstrations, an antique sock making machine, "Most Outrageous" tea cosy competition, lucky door prizes, stalls selling wool, tops, yarns, quality craft goods and workshops on selected aspects of hand craft.  Lunch and light refreshments will be available. Ph Maree on 4448 6267 or Noelene on 4464 3021 for further details.

3rd July- Sydney Symphony Fellows & Cushion Concert
A classical recital by the Sydney Symphony Fellows at 3pm, $25pp. Also – Cushion Concert for children at 11:30am, no booking required. Ph: 4464 2629 or visit www.berrymusicale.org


3rd- 29th July- Lady Denman ‘Elyard Centenary Exhibition
Featuring paintings from the Lady Denman & other collections. Dent St, Huskisson.  Ph 4441 5675 for details.

4th July- King of the Mountain Footrace
Run from Nowra to Kangaroo Valley via Mt Scanzi. Ph Kevyn on 4447 8309 for details.


4th July- Bridal Expo
See the exhibitiors, fashion parade & Bride of the Year, free admission. Held at the Bomaderry Bowling Club in Meroo St. Ph Denise on 4421 9123 for information.


4th-11th July- Naidoc Week
The festival showcases indigenous art and culute and explores the subject of reconciliation by celebreating the struggle of Illawarra’s Aboriginal community. Entertainment includes local, regional & nationally renowned indigenous singers, dancers, DJ’s & bands. Ph 4221 6035 for details.

7th-10th July- Nowra Players ‘Aladdin’
July 7-10th 2pm & 7:30pm show, bookings essential. The Players Theatre, Meroo Rd, Bomaderry. Ph: Lyn on 4421 0829 for ticket information or visit www.nowraplayers.com.au

7th June- 30th August- The Journey of Landscape by Janine Coddington
A collection of prints & paintings held at Number 10 Arts Precinct, 10 Allowrie St, Jamberoo from 10am-3pm Mon, Thurs, Fri & Sat.
www.numberten.cc

11th July- Archer Miniature Railway
Held on the 2nd Sunday monthly from 10am-3pm at the Archer Racecourse, Albatross Rd, Nowra. Ph 0412706045 for details.


11th July- Illawarra Light Railway Museum
See the action, have a ride, take a picnic, on the second Sunday of every month. Free entry, parking outside, children’s play area, BBQ facilities. Visit www.ilrms.com.au or phone 4256 4627 for more info

22nd July- ADFAS- Jan Steen’s Hilarious Households
A 17th Century paradox- presented by Mr Tim Stumson BA Hons. Ph Dennis on 4464 2918 for details. 116 Broughton Vale Rd, Broughton Vale.

25th July- Music Shoalhaven ‘Sydney Brass’
Sydney Brass specialise in brass music & is lead by Paul Goodchild (principal trumpet for Sydney Symphony). Tickets $30, $20 members or $8 students/unaccompanied children, accompanied children free. Held at the Nowra School of Arts, Berry St, Nowra at 2pm. Ph Maurice on 4464 2245 for information or visit www.musicshoalhaven.net.au, no booking required.

30th July-14th August- Oliver ‘Roo Theatre Production’
Oliver comes to the Roo Theatre in a dazzling production. This much loved musical vividly brings to life Dickens’ timeless characters with it’s ever popular story of the boy who asked for more. Ph Roo Theatre on 4297 2891.


31 July 1 Aug- 2010 Ulladulla Harbour Classic
250 km tour of the Illawarra, Southern Highland & Shoalhaven. With 2 static displays for the public to view- Sat at Crescent St, Rotary Park from 9am-10:30am & Sun on the wharf at the Ulladulla Harbour from 10-11am. Ph Lyn on 4456 4660 for more details.


31st July – 1st August- Berry Camellia & Flower Show
Held at the Berry School of Arts, Alexandria St, Berry from noon until 4pm Sat & Sun 10am-2pm. Last year over 1400 Camellia Blooms were displayed. Ph Michael on 4448 6044 or visit berrygardens.org.au/camellia-flower-show