Celebrate Kiama’s amazing heritage
Visit the Pilots Cottage Museum, Blowhole Point
Treat yourself to a fascinating trip down memory lane. Learn how Aboriginal people and white settlers have made their mark on the local area. Find out more about the marks left by cedar gatherers, farmers and miners.
Discover Kiama’s leading history society
See how local people are fighting to defend the area’s heritage buildings and places, and celebrating the history of the area. Why not join up and become part of a growing movement that cares about our neighbourhoods?
Find out more about our local history
Find helpful hints on where to look for more information on the history of the area now known as the Kiama local government area. This includes on the Internet, and names of helpful organisations.
in October 2025 the Society hosted one our largest ever meetings. Dr Aunty Joyce Donovan and Tony Gilmour spoke on Aboriginal Kiama. Over 100 people discovered the deep connections within our local community and the role Aboriginal people played before and after settlement. and up to the present day.
Aunty Joyce was also awarded as our first ever Aboriginal patron, joining Kiama’s mayor, state MP and federal MP. Her talented great grandson Quinten entertained our members with his skills playing the digeridoo.
Historical society news
November 2025 marked the 50th anniversary of Kiama Historical Society’s foundation. Tony Gilmour has written a history covering the growth of the organisation and showing how we have played a major role in protecting the heritage of the Kiama area. Details of ordering this book are given below.
To celebrate our birthday we hosted a standing room only event at Kiama Library auditorium, complete with cake, bubbles and tall tales from the past.
Latest publications
Dr Tony Gilmour’s, our vice president has been busy writing in 2025!
Celebrating history tells how for over five decades Kiama Historical Society has brought to life fascinating stories from the area’s past. It has battled to preserve valuable local heritage against demolition and insensitive development.
Read all about Kiama’s legendary figures the Society has helped rediscover. From progressive writer and colourful character Charmian Clift to legendary Hollywood multi Oscar winner Orry-Kelly.
Click on the book image or button to buy the book for $25 + 50c fee (local delivery is free). All profits go to Kiama Historical Society
Published March 2025 Tony’s 286 page Rascals and respectables book tells the thrilling tale of hotels in Kiama, Jamberoo and Gerringong. From the first hotels in 1837 to the present day, drinking venues have shaped social life and character. This is LIMITED EDITION, most copies have already been sold.
Kiama was once a place of ‘besotted and shameless drunkards’, Bombo hosted an illegal ‘sly grog’ shop and Kiama’s 1899 great fire led to mass bingeing on stolen alcohol.
Click on the book image or below to buy the book for $29.90 + 50c fee (local delivery is free). All profits go to Kiama Historical Society
Events
Our popular monthly speaker events are held at the Kiama Library auditorium and attract a good crowd. After the presentation is a chance for questions, then afternoon tea.
We are planning an exciting program for 2026, starting with a Night at the museum in February. Follow this website for further updates.
Previous events - time to Podcast!
Our friends at Kiama Community Radio (KCR) have many of our recent events recorded as podcasts. Click on the images below to go to the Podcast.
