This land was my grandfather’s dairy farm.
He sold it in 1963. He could see what was coming. Kiama was growing, and he knew he could not lock the gate and pretend nothing would change. He understood that growth was part of the town’s future. A future where families could build lives and stay connected to place.
He did not stop dairying. He moved his dairy operation to Jamberoo, where he continued to farm. But the land he left behind, the 40 hectares that had once been his, has remained unused for over 60 years.
That land is now the subject of one of the most significant development proposals in Kiama’s history. It is on public exhibition, and Council is inviting community feedback.
We cannot change the fact that houses will be built. What we can influence is how they are built, who they are built for, and whether they add value to the community around them.
What kind of neighbourhood do we want this to be?
Will it offer a genuine mix of housing types?
Will young people, key workers and older residents be able to live there?
Is there real affordability, or only the suggestion of it?
Are the streets designed for walking, cycling, and connection?
Are there safe paths to parks, schools and shops?
Will people of all ages and abilities be able to move freely and comfortably?
Will the development support a sense of community?
Are there green spaces, places to sit, talk, gather and rest?
How does it respond to the land itself?
Are the waterways, trees and escarpment views protected?
Is the development prepared for a changing climate?
Does it respect the Country it sits on?
My grandfather saw change coming and made his peace with it. Now, more than sixty years later, we have an opportunity to shape what that change becomes.
Submissions are open now until 5pm 9 July 2025 on the Kiama Council website . This land holds history. What it becomes next is up to all of us.
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