22/08/2020
We travelled further south from home to revisit the towns of Kiama and Gerringong.
These places are beautiful places to visit, they have that community feel still alive and present.
Standouts in Kiama would be the historic buildings around the town and the fabulous cafe's and restaurants. Depending in your budget, there is high end eating and your trusted fish and chips along the main strip. Of course, the harbour is just gorgeous!
On days where the swell is big, head to the Kiama Blowhole for a show of random spurts of water.
Market day was on today (Saturday), this is along the esplanade and had various stalls selling doggie treats of all kinds, home made jams and spreads, face masks, deli sausages, jewelry, clothing, etc.
The old fire station held a smaller hand made pop up - selling goods like jewelry, cards, artwork and hand-made journals.
Standouts in Gerringong would have to be the views down to the beach from the village high street. There are a number of places to eat and shop if that's your thing. It's also a great place to whale watch during migration season. The viewing platform isn't huge but is great for spotting whales with some information plaques to give you some info on whale migration...don't forget to bring some binoculars.
Another standout is the bakery on the high street, not only is the bread delicious and fresh, the sweets/cakes/tarts/pastries are simply divine! We managed to get there before it closed for the day and picked up a pear frangipane tart, lemon tart, chocolate eclair, apple turnover and a crusty seeded sour dough.
One thing that struck a nerve today while visiting Gerringong was all the yellow ribbons and references to the colour around the high street.
There have been 5 people who have taken their own lives in a matter of weeks in the small communities of Gerringong, Kiama and Jamberoo. This has impacted the close knit communities and the yellow ribbons, ties and pompoms is to show the families affected by the loss of their loved ones support from the community.
This also shows us, that it's even more important to touch base with friends and family and ask, "are you okay?" With Covid changing the way we live, it is more important than ever to reach out. Your voice and words could be what helps someone struggling with their mental health or just in need of a shoulder.
On that note, stay safe, keep living and lets all support one another. I'm always strapped for time, though I would drop everything to help out a loved one in need.
Don't be afraid to ask for some company or help if you need it.
