Summer’s Sudden Exit: Shire Residents Brace for Early Winter

Finn Seabrook | Local Correspondent | Sutherland Shire Gazette

18 January 2025

In a dramatic twist befitting a soap opera, the Sutherland Shire’s hot and sunny summer has been unceremoniously cut short by a sudden bout of rainy weather, leaving residents scrambling to pack away their beach gear and dust off their winter woollies.

“This is it,” declared local amateur meteorologist Barry “Bazza” Thompson. “Summer’s done. We’ve skipped autumn. Winter is coming, and it’s early. Better get the Ugg boots ready.”

The downpour, which began on an otherwise perfect Sunday afternoon, has sparked a wave of speculation across Shire Facebook groups. “I felt a cool breeze with that rain,” posted one concerned resident. “Should I buy a heater?”

“I just put away my Christmas tree, and now I’m prepping for winter? What is this madness?” lamented Shire local Mandy, who had planned to spend the next few months beach-hopping and avoiding sunscreen applications.

Theories are flooding social media, with some suggesting the rain is a sign of global weather patterns shifting, while others blame it on a “rain dance” performed at a recent backyard BBQ in Kirrawee.

“They wanted to cool things down, and now look what they’ve done!” quipped a commenter.

In response to the weather chaos, local retailers have reported a surge in sales of hot chocolate, umbrellas, and cozy blankets. “It’s like winter panic buying,” said a cashier at Miranda’s department store. “People are even asking if we’ve got snow gear!”

Council spokesperson Nancy Drizzle assured residents that summer is not officially over. “It’s just a few days of rain. Summer is very much still here,” she said, dodging a raindrop. “We suggest everyone enjoy the cool change while it lasts.”

Despite reassurances, Shire locals aren’t taking any chances. “I’m not waiting around to see if the sun comes back,” Bazza added, pulling on a beanie. “Better safe than sorry. Winter’s knocking, and I’m answering.”