Monaro

Cooma jail heritage listed

CENTRE’S CHALLENGING HISTORY RECOGNISED

HERITAGE: The official ceremony to acknowledge the State Heritage listing of Cooma jail took place last week. Attending the ceremony and unveiling the plaque were Commissioner of Corrective Services NSW, Gary McCahon, and Minister for Corrections,

Shed policy criticised

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THERE has been strong rural opposition to a proposed Snowy Monaro Regional Council policy, designed to crackdown on unauthorised residential occupation of farm builds, sheds and garages.

At last week’s council meeting, a new policy - SMRC Expanded Dwellings (Studios), Garages, Urban Sheds and Farm Buildings Policy – was included in the agenda papers for possible adoption.

Councillor Reuben Rose led calls for the policy to be deferred, asking for council staff to hold a workshop with councillors on the policy and the issues it seeks to address.

“While a wellintentioned policy, it has caused community concern,” Cr Rose said at the meeting.

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

COOMA Correctional Centre has been honoured with an official plaque to recognise its inclusion on the NSW State Heritage Register.

The plaque was unveiled last Thursday by Minister for Corrections, Anoulack Chanthivong, and Corrective Services NSW Commissioner, Gary McCahon, amid speeches and a ceremonial marching of the Corrective Services Honour

Guard, with entertainment by the Corrective Services NSW Band.

The event recognised the challenging past of Cooma jail, a correctional facility used exclusively between 1957 and 1984 to imprison people based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.

The inclusion of Cooma Correctional Centre on the NSW State Heritage Register acknowledges the jail’s difficult history and will ensure the physical

site is preserved for generations to come.

“It’s an important occasion because listing on the State Heritage Register is not about the buildings and premises of the correctional centre being recognised and protected by law; it’s about public recognition of the site on which we’re standing and the unique role it’s played within Australia’s history, in more than 150 years,” Commissioner McCahon said.

“It was first opened in 1873, and as many of you already know the role of the centre has not always been a bright one. For close to three decades Cooma operated as the world’s only gay prison, specifically designed for men convicted of homosexual offences, trans women were also housed here as well as non-binary people, so they could be kept separate from heterosexual male inmates housed at other prisons.”

■ Read more on page 7

MASSIVE RECLINER CLEARANCE

COOMA FURNISHING CO

“Most councillors weren’t aware this was in development. We need to arrange a workshop to consider a range of issues.”

Rural landholders have labelled the policy as an over-reach, and believe it will create additional red tape.

■ More on page 9

Anoulack Chanthivong.

PHOTO: Melinda Cairns Hack

Alex quick to praise others Michelago Bank of Bins re-opens

REPAIRS to the Michelago Bank of Bins are now complete with the facility re-opening to the community earlier this month.

This marks the end of months of closure, which began in January 2025 due to extensive vandalism and resulting public safety concerns.

“Council appreciates the community’s patience during the closure. To support residents through the upcoming transition, the temporary Saturday morning waste collection service operated until Saturday, 21 June,” a council spokesperson said.

Residents are asked to assist in managing demand during the initial re-opening period by limiting their disposal volume, and to be mindful of increased activity at the site. Households may dispose of up to 120L of waste and 120L of recycling each week at the Michelago Bank of Bins.

Service user access codes have been updated. Subscribed households will receive their new code by post, with letters having gone out earlier in the month.

“Contact council if you are a paid user and did not receive a letter with a new access code by Friday, 13 June,” the spokesperson said.

For residents with disposal needs beyond the 120L waste and recycling limits, visit the nearby Bredbo transfer station or one of council’s other waste facilities across the region to dispose of any large loads or excess waste and recycling.

Patrons are asked to be courteous and mindful of neighbouring homes in the area, and to limit noise and disturbance as much as possible when accessing the Michelago Bank of Bins.

Hardworking volunteer recognised for efforts

By NATHAN THOMPSON

COOMA’S Alex Aitkenhead is a humble man. Despite being the recipient of multiple community honours and awards, most recently the Cooma Monaro RSL Sub-branch ANZAC of the Year, Alex is quick to praise those around him.

Alex, a former member of the Australian Defence Force, received the ANZAC of the Year accolade at this year’s ANZAC Day service in Cooma. His award recongises his work with local organisation, Honour Our Fallen - We Will Remember Them Monaro.

Honour Our Fallen maintains the Memorial Drive precinct on the northern entry into Cooma, a site recognising the contribution of the region’s service personnel.

Alex said he wouldn’t be able to achieve for the community what he does without the support of his wife, children, members of the sub-branch and volunteers he serves alongisde.

“The ANZAC of the Year award wouldn’t be possible without the many others in my life, in particular my wife Fiona. She is constantly guiding me, without her my community

facilitator of Honour Our Fallen - We Will Remember Them Monaro. For a number of years, Mr Johnston has regularly

ident of the sub-branch, Alex is focussed on helping veterans talk about their mental health. “A few of us hold a veterans

the

has previously volunteered with the then

CENTRAL MONARO PLAINS DEEP LANDSCAPE VALUES ASSESSMENT

WHEN: WHERE:

Wednesday, 2nd July - 5.30pm to 7.30pm (5.45pm start) The Alpine Hotel Sharp St. Cooma

This

Cooma Monaro State Emer gency Service since 2018 and

Cooma RSPCA.

SERVICE: Cooma’s Alex Aitkenhead is a hardworking volunteer in the community. Despite the accolades

PHOTO: File

Council calls for landfill feedback

Jindabyne waste drop-offs are currently restricted due to facility approaching its capacity limit

By TRISTA HEATH

RESIDENTS and commercial customers of Jindabyne Landfill attended a Snowy Monaro Regional Council community update session on Thursday evening, to learn more about the ongoing planning and future feasibility of the facility.

At each of the two sessions, the three potential paths forward for Jindabyne’s waste facility were discussed.

Option three involves a full concept and design of a Resource Recovery Centre (RRC), estimated to cost around $15 million. Plans for this option were first released to the public in February.

Option two is a reducedscope version of the proposed RRC, and option one is an interim transfer station, with waste collected and transported to another location, such as Cooma.

Option one includes retaining the existing site and facilities, with a two-lane weighbridge to be re-installed.

This option is the lower cost solution which incorporates and separates commercial use and domestic use all while staying compliant with NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

Option one would involve reusing crushed concrete to maintain metal hardstand and second order access roads. Council would make use of existing upgrades without abortive or redundant works undertaken.

Option three, the Jindabyne RRC, would consist of a community recycling centre, resource recovery area, transfer station, site office and education centre, buyback shop and supporting infrastructure.

The centre would be capable of receiving up to 40,000 tonnes of waste per year comprising of up to 10,000 tonnes per year of mixed municipal waste, mixed commercial waste or other waste containing food.

Also, up to 30,000 tonnes of household bulky waste and recyclables, household hazardous waste, building and demolition waste and other commercial dry waste and recyclables.

The RRC would process incoming waste to separate recyclable, reusable, or resellable items, keeping them from going into landfill.

Diverted material will also generate additional revenue for council through the recycling of valuable raw materials and the re-sale of recov-

ered consumer goods at the ScrapMart tip shops.

As the most expensive option, council would need to seek grant funding for the RRC before any action could be taken, resulting in an undetermined timeline for completion.

The RRC option would maximise landfill reduction, cater for commercial use, provide the community a waste solution, maximise income with recovery and is aligned with EPA standards.

However, the RRC would increase labour and maintenance costs and is therefore the highest capital cost option.

The key difference between option three and option two, a reduced scope and cost of RRC, is reduction in pavement/concrete (limited to under shed and directly in front of push pit) replaced with blue metal.

Also, the removal of the wash point and potential removal of the shop as well as reduction in size of the waste transfer sheds.

Material selection would be scrutinised including using colorbond sheds instead of brick, and civil works reduced.

This option maximises landfill reduction and in-

come with recovery, caters for commercial use, provides the community a waste solution and is EPA aligned.

It also increases labour and maintenance cost.

One negative aspect of the RRC discussed at the session was the construction of the facility at a site adjacent to the current landfill site, mak-

ing it visible to the community, unlike the current waste facility, which is out of view.

Providing the update at the session was council’s corporate projects manager, Greg Thompson; chief community services officer, Tony Murray; supervisor of Jindabyne Landfill, Wayne Beswick; and senior project manager,

Tyron Bicknell. The community is urged to have its say on which option is preferred before being presented to Councillors in the August council meeting. For more information visit www.snowymonaro.nsw. gov.au or contact council on 1300 345 354 and council@ snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

OPTIONS: The future of the Jindabyne Landfill is up for community discussion.

PHOTO: Trista Heath

SES youth internship program opportunity

NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Cooma-Monaro unit is running the SES Youth Internship Program again in term three for students in Years 9 and 10.

The program is for any teenager who would enjoy experiencing volunteering and community service, who would like to learn about the various roles within NSW SES, meet other emergency services, grow leadership skills and build teamwork.

A parent/student information night is being held at the Polo Flat headquarters tonight, Wednesday, 25 June.

The NSW SES was founded in 1955 and serves the community of NSW as the lead agency for flood, storm and tsunami, as specified by the State Emergency Service Act 1989 (NSW).

The NSW SES combines its corporate services, operations and capability and training teams, comprising of paid staff and volunteers, who work together to support its mission to saving lives and creating safer communities with a vision of being a trusted volunteer-based emergency service, working together to deliver excellence in community preparedness and emergency response.

Ninty-seven per cent of members are volunteers coming from all walks of life and are the core of NSW SES.

NSW SES strives to create and maintain a culture of diversity and inclusion that provides an environment for staff and volunteers to bring their whole selves to work and is a living expression of the organisation’s values.

Register interest at the website to attend the parent/student information night which will be held between 6-7pm at the SES head quarters at 11 Geebung Street, Polo Flat, Cooma.

Adaminaby deserves its fair funding share: Corkill

Chamber president calls for better community support in Adaminaby

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THE president of the Lake Eucumbene Chamber of Commerce has criticised the distribution of the Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund, saying the Adaminaby district has not received its fair share.

Tim Corkill, president of the chamber and chair of the Snowy Scheme Museum in Adaminaby, is calling for the fund to better support communities across the Snowy Monaro region.

The $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund was established following the sale of the NSW government’s share in Snowy Hydro to the Australian government.

Mr Corkill is critical of the distribution of funds to the Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct, a $196 million state government allocation to deliver seven priority projects in Jindabyne.

“The fund should be delivering projects across the entire Snowy Mountains, including here in Adaminaby township and on Lake Eucumbene,” Mr Corkill said.

“Adaminaby is just as important to the Snowy Scheme’s legacy and now Snowy 2.0 as any one

town in the region but we have received very little benefit from the fund.

“A small amount of money would go along away in Adam inaby. We desperately need to provide a tourism and economic injection into the town.”

While Mr Corkill acknowledg es the importance of Jindabyne to the region’s economy and its place as the most visited town in the Snowy Monaro, he said it is time Adaminaby and other areas receive their share.

“It’s not all about Jindabyne. It’s great for their community to have so much going into the town, but it’s not fair for the rest of the region to receive noth ing through the SAP,” Mr Corkill said.

Last month, a community meeting was held for locals and visitors to have their say on a range of projects needed to drive further investment, improve liveability and boost tourism in Adaminaby, Old Adaminaby, Anglers Reach and surrounding areas.

“The legacy fund could be allocated towards some of the projects identified,” Mr Corkill said.

“We see this as entirely appropriate given that Adaminaby was the site of the official opening of

the Snowy Mountains Scheme in 1949 and in many ways, has been most impacted by the scheme.”

Projects identified include completing the upgrading and sealing of the Bobeyan Road to improve access to the ACT. The meeting also discussed a Lake Eucumbene shared trail to connect Anglers Reach to Old Adaminaby and Cemetery Point. Mr Corkill said he hopes all

three levels of government will support Adaminaby’s push to install electric vehicle charging stations.

“We are in the prime spot for chargers. It will help visitors coming from Snowy Valleys and into the Riverina. The closest charger to Adaminaby is in Cooma and when headed into the Snowy Valleys there isn’t one until Tumut.”

New to living on the land?

At South East Local Land Services, we are boots on the ground helping landholders with farming, biosecurity and caring for your property and livestock. Find out more at www.lls.nsw.gov.au or sign up to our newsletter for tips, events and updates to help you get the most from your land.

FAIR GO: Lake Eucumbene Chamber of Commerce president, Tim Corkill, says Adaminaby has been forgotten in the distribution of the Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund.

PHOTO: File

By TRISTA HEATH

THE Op Shop Jindabyne is not your ordinary thrift shop. As well as offering a range of quality second hand clothing, accessories and homewares at affordable prices, the Op Shop Jindabyne is a vibrant and bustling community hub.

Offering many different services, community minister for Alpine Uniting Church, Reverend Wendy McHugh, and chairman of the Alpine Uniting Church council and the op shop management committee, Don Hayman, said they provide a safe space for the community to come together and meet new people.

Hosting its first Monday soup and dessert night of the season on 16 June, volunteers served up more than 50 litres of soup to more than 150 people.

“We also had 250 sales on Monday for the Op Shop Food Pantry, a very busy and successful first soup and dessert night for the season,” Mr Hayman said.

Every winter season for many years now, the Op Shop Jindabyne volunteers host the popular soup and dessert night each Monday evening throughout the winter season. They sometimes serve more than 80 litres of soup to more than 200 people a night.

“We want to provide the

community with a free warm meal, and the op shop stays open during the evening to give people the opportunity to get what they need,” Ms McHugh said.

“Our soup nights are in the hall and provides the community with a space to come together, meet new people and gives reprieve to those just starting their jobs who may not have had much work yet and not getting paid much.

“The Monday night meals are free and in the op shop and food pantry, we keep the prices right down. The money raised through the

op shop sales we then put back into the community.”

The Op Shop Jindabyne’s Food Pantry is a popular staple to the community providing people with lowcost basic grocery items.

With a limit of 10 items per person, Mr Hayman and Ms McHugh understand that many are doing it tough right now with the cost-ofliving crisis and urge those facing hardships to contact them for further assistance.

“We don’t want people to go without the necessities of food and warmth and urge anyone facing difficult situations to get in

Op Shop Jindabyne supports community

speak to someone if they need,” Ms McHugh said.

“Another service we offer is Bible Study on Wednesdays at the hall starting at 6pm. All are welcome to attend.”

The Op Shop Jindabyne is open Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, check their Facebook page for opening hours.

All donations need to be washed, clean and in good condition and are only accepted during opening hours. Volunteers urge the community to not leave donations at the gate.

contact or come along to the op shop for a chat,” Ms McHugh said.

“At the op shop, nothing goes to waste. After a fourmonth shelf life, if the items don’t sell, we pack them up and ship them to one of the many charity organisations we are involved in and in need of similar items.

“We ship items to ‘one ten bags’ an enterprise that is committed to responsible export of second-hand textiles to overseas countries in need of quality clothing,” Mr Hayman said.

“We also provide certain items to other op shops in

more isolated rural parts of Australia that are in need, as well as provide winter gear to charity organisation Roundabout Canberra.”

The Alpine Uniting Church provides a church service every Sunday morning at 9.30am. New parishoners are always welcome to join the small congregation and to take part in a morning tea in the hall afterwards.

“We also open up the church every Monday night and serve hot chocolates to those who may need to utilise the space for prayer or take the opportunity to

Mr Hayman and Ms McHugh thank the community, volunteers and businesses who donate items and food for their soup nights, including Woolworths, the Friendly Grocer, Seven Mile Bakery and Snowy Produce among others.

“If it wasn’t for our volunteers there would be no op shop. It is amazing the help we get from so many people and we survive from the donations given from the community,” Mr Hayman and Ms McHugh said.

“We receive from the community so that we are able to give back to the community. We all work together to support each other.”

Visit www.facebook.com/ theopshopjindabyne or www.alpineunitingchurch. au for more information.

The Op Shop Jindabyne’s Food Pantry is fully stocked and ready for the community.

COMMUNITY: The op shop volunteers served more than 50 litres of soup during their first soup and dessert night for the season.

Snowy cobbler to shut up shop

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

COBBLERS are increasingly harder to find in towns across the country, and Cooma will soon be without the services of its own cobbler, with Snowy Mountains Cobbler to close its doors on the main street.

In what is becoming a more disposable society, coupled with cost of living pressures, repairing shoes and buying quality made-tolast footwear is a thing of the past, business owner, Dean Messerer, said.

“It’s a general trend occurring with these types of businesses, especially inland. It’s not just Cooma, the shoe reps told me it’s happening everywhere with shoe shops,” Mr Messerer said.

“I’ve been in the shop since 2011. There’s been two-and-a-half years where there’s not been enough business it’s just been very quiet.

“Cost of living is the main reason why, everything has gone up in price so people are holding on to their money more. But I think there are a lot of reasons why it’s quietened off.”

To stay afloat, Snowy Mountains Cobbler has carried belts, hand bags, knife pouches, shoes, purses and wallets.

“The shoe repair side of

the business is not enough to stay open, I need to sell things as well,” Mr Messerer said.

“There are so many people who come into the shop and say ‘we used to have a cobbler where I live, but they closed down’. I think if they weren’t selling shoes as well, they would not have survived for the last 20 years. Maybe 30 to 40 years ago you could just be a cobbler, but not now.”

News of the store’s closure has increased trade over the last couple of weeks.

There isn’t a huge amount left in the shop as the discounted items have been running out the door, but there is still some women’s

footwear available and a limited range of other stock.

Mr Messerer said as stock had been moving so slowly over the last few years, he ended up with more than 2000 pairs of shoes.

“You have to order a lot of the footwear ahead, for it to arrive in six months’ time. I had more stuff coming in and nothing going out; so I had to stop that and wait for things to pick up, but for two-and-a-half years it’s just been very quiet. I still had to pay rent, electricity, insurance, an accountant so it wasn’t working out,” he said.

Mr Messerer said consumers are buying their footwear from outlets selling cheaper, lower quality products.

“It doesn’t last, but it’s cheap and you throw it away and buy another pair,” he said.

He added repairing shoes is not creating a great amount of business these days, as shoes in general now are moulded, and not designed for repairing.

“The moulded soles are not latex rubber, they are synthetics and the glues don’t stick to them properly.”

Born in Cooma, Mr Messerer has been in local business since 1988.

A motor trimmer by trade, once the shoe shop is officially closed he will be returning to this occupation full-time, operating from a shed near Polo Flat.

In 2000 he stopped motor trimming because the work dried up; now the demand is back as people take renewed interest in restoring cars.

“I have a lot of work restoring vehicles. I have actually been doing it, in addition to running the shoe shop, for the last five years. I started supplementing my income working from home,” he said.

“I learnt what I needed to move into shoe repairs from the previous owner of the business. Being a motor trimmer is similar with sewing, stitching and glues.”

Mr Messerer said he will miss being in the main street of town, and meeting and chatting to locals and

visitors.

“Since word of the shop’s closure has spread people are making sure they bring in their shoes for repair. It’s a shame to close, but I am lucky I have something else to go to.

“With the upholstery restorations, I’ll be busy until next year plus motor trimming involves vehicle seat repairs, fixing fallen down car headlining and so on. I won’t be doing shoe repairs, certainly not in the near future.

“Maybe next year I might do the odd job here and there, but there won’t be much room in the shed to set up any cobbling from home.”

FRANCHISE PARTNER

Repairing shoes will soon be a thing of the past in Cooma as Dean Messerer has come to the decision to close the shop.

A closing down sale is now happening at Snowy Mountains Cobbler as owner Dean Messerer is closing the shop.

END OF AN ERA: Snowy Mountains Cobbler is closing down in Cooma bringing to an end a service to locals that is now hard to find. Cobbler, Dean Messerer, is returning to his former trade of car upholstering.

PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

Ceremony marks jail’s heritage

Plaque unveiling recognises correctional centre’s challenging history

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

A FORMAL event to ac knowledge the Heritage List ing of Cooma Correctional Centre and its challenging role in the historical perse cution of homosexuality was held at the jail last Thursday.

The milestone celebration was important recognition of the centre’s historical signifi cance, and proud contribu tion to the correctional sys tem. It was a day to recognise and promote the correction al centre’s staff, and its con tinued contribution to the community which included a presentation on the his tory of the site, the process of achieving heritage listing, and the key role Cooma has played – and continues to play – in corrections in NSW.

It presented an opportunity to openly apologise for its chequered past as a correctional facility used exclusively between 1957 and 1984 to imprison people based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.

The plaque unveiling was conducted by the Minister for Corrections, Anoulack Chanthivong, and the Commissioner of Corrective Services NSW, Gary McCahon.

Special guests included

senior executive and correctional centre staff and community leaders.

The Correctives Services NSW band entertained guests with a musical program prior to the ceremony and provided accompaniment for the jail’s guard of honour march.

Commissioner McCahon said the Cooma Correctional Centre listing on the NSW State Heritage Register is a momentous occasion.

“It’s a prison with a varied

and at times dark past that must be protected for future generations,” he said.

“It is both distressing - and perhaps almost unbelievable - that such archaic attitudes could have existed as recently as 1984, when homosexuality was decriminalised in NSW.

“Discrimination and the persecution of others for their sexuality, race, religion or any other quality, has no place in society today,” Com-

missioner McCahon said.

The event acknowledged the struggles and the resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The inclusion of Cooma Correctional Centre on the NSW State Heritage Register acknowledges the jail’s challenging history and will ensure the physical site is preserved for generations to come.

Gay men, trans women and non-binary people were

incarcerated at Cooma jail for the crime of homosexuality, a crime that remained illegal in NSW until it was decriminalised in 1984.

Minister Chanthivong said the inclusion of Cooma jail on the State Heritage Register is important because it acknowledges and preserves the history of those who were unjustly treated.

“On behalf of the Minns Government I reiterate our apology to those who were

incarcerated for no crime other than expressing their identity.

“In the interests of not ignoring history lest we be doomed to repeat it, let us also be clear that the history of the jail should serve as a stark warning of the perils of discrimination,” he said.

Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, although unable to attend the event, said in a statement despite its challenging history, Cooma jail has been “a prominent landmark for the Cooma township for generations, serving as a visible reminder of our heritage as one of the state’s original prison towns”.

Cooma jail historian and journalist, Patrick Abboud, said the government’s formal apology and the acknowledgement from the NSW State Heritage is “a step towards healing for those former inmates still living with past traumas, and the redemption of the memory of those we have lost”.

Following the plaque unveiling ceremony, a prison tour took place across the facility with a focus on the history of the building, the textile industry activities and the inmates’ rehabilitation program.

OFFICIAL: Christopher Sergent, (left), Beau Jenkins, Mathew Lee and Mick Chesworth were at the formal ceremony. PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack The Correctional Centre Guard of Honour parade.

By TRISTA HEATH

Sustainable Snowies launch new winter litter campaign Meeting to discuss aged care system

SNOWY Monaro Regional Council and Cooma Health Service are working together to provide an information session on accessing Aged Care Services.

The aged care services information session - How the Aged Care System can assist you through the health system and community aged care services - is on Wednesday July 2, at 10am at the Jindabyne Bowling Club.

Councillor Narelle Davis (Chair of Community Services Advisory Committee) and Councillor Nick Elliott are working with health, council and the community to improve the community understanding how the aged care system works.

Many older people have no experience of the aged care system or services that can assist them until they become unwell or have an accident.

The system is complex and very confusing for the older person and their families.

To assist the Jindabyne community to understand and navigate this complex system Cooma Health Services Aged Care team member, Lucille Ingram, (RN) will explain how the aged care system works if you become unwell and are admitted to hospital or attend the emergency department.

Ms Ingram will also cover the following topics:

What is an Aged Care Assessment, what community supports can be provided from this assessment.

My Aged Care program. What is it, how do you register and why.

What services are available and how to access these services.

Who can help you with navigating the system, the Community Aged Care Service will also attend to provide further information.

What services and contact points are available in Jindabyne.

Changing system – What are the expected changes, and more information sessions will be available to the community from Snowy Monaro Regional Council.

A NEW consumer awareness campaign is launching this snow season at retailers across the Snowy Monaro, aiming to prevent retail packaging litter from contaminating the alpine environment in the region, at the resorts, and within Kosciuszko National Park.

Led by the local sustainability and environmental group Sustainable Snowies, the new initiative rolling out this week is being supported by Snowy Monaro Regional Council, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, and the Perisher, Selwyn, Charlotte Pass and Thredbo resorts.

The collaborative approach will help ensure the campaign reaches as many visitors to the region as possible, so that no matter where people stop to shop

this winter, they’ll know how to do the right thing with their tags, packaging, and other retail waste.

Council’s education engagement officer, Dayna Green, said the Winter litter prevention campaign centred around snow sport retail packaging and rubbish.

“We see an increase in litter in winter and a lot of this are tags, helmet boxes and clothing plastic due to people buying new gear and not disposing of the packaging properly,” Ms Green said.

“We have created a poster which we will be taking to local snow sport businesses and asking those businesses to display these posters and start up a conversation with their staff to ask visitors to leave their packaging with the store all in the hopes to minimise litter in the resorts and Jindabyne.”

Emma Stafford, nvironmental

management officer with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Resort Environmental Services team said that too many boxes, tags and plastic display hooks were not being discarded properly over winter. Emma’s team started thinking about how to tackle the problem, and the new education campaign was born.

“Sustainable Snowies has brought together the key local resorts and public sector organisation to lead this new initiative, with the support of other local businesses across the region,” Ms Stafford said.

“This is the first time we have run this initiative and we’re hopeful the local business can really get behind us to make this campaign a success.

“Throughout the winter, we are going to see if we can get smaller

retail stores to keep data on how much extra rubbish they are getting from their customers leaving packaging with them.

“We estimate this could see as much as a 20 per cent reduction in litter volume, and we’re looking forward to see how the campaign goes over the 2025 snow season.

“There are a lot of people visiting the region this time of year, coming to see the snow and have fun. With their minds set on hitting the slopes, visitors aren’t always mindful of where their rubbish winds up.

“We want to remind people that it is everybody’s responsibility to keep our towns, resorts, and alpine environment clean.

“This is a beautiful and precious part of Australia and we all have a part to play in protecting it and preventing litter this winter.”

LITTER: Representing Snowy Monaro Regional Council and Sustainable Snowies is Dayna Green and Emma Stafford.

PHOTO: Trista Heath

Fire fighters battle blaze

Extreme temperature causes freezing of hoses, pumps at Carlaminda Road emergency

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

COOMA Fire and Rescue responded to a call out at the request of the Rural Fire Service to a structure fire at an address on Carlaminda Road at 4.50am on Monday.

Upon arrival, the section of the house affected was totally involved and had close to a 100 per cent roof collapse.

Extreme temperature of -10 degrees made fire fighting conditions challenging, with hoses and pumps freezing.

According to Cooma Fire and Rescue captain, Jimmy Nichols, the two occupants of the property had managed to keep the fire from spreading to the rest of the house.

“The area affected by the fire was part of the house but given the oldstyle construction of the house, it meant there was a wall that created a fire break, which stopped the fire spreading into the main structure,” he said.

“It took about an hour-and-a-half to completely extinguish the blaze.”

The cause of the fire is currently being investigated.

Captain Nichols has again emphasised the importance of smoke alarms inside buildings.

“Although in this case, the fire wasn’t in the residential part of the house it is still an important message to have working smoke alarms to protect your home,” he urged.

This month Fire and Rescue NSW officers in the local area have been visiting homes to check smoke alarms are working and if not, install a new 10-year smoke alarm free.

Captain Nichols said now is an ideal time to book a free fire safety visit.

RESPONSE: Emergency services battled a blaze at a property on Carlaminda Road during the early hours of Monday morning.

Councillors criticise proposed shed policy

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THERE has been strong rural opposition to a proposed Snowy Monaro Regional Council policy, designed to crackdown on unauthorised residential occupation of farm builds, sheds and garages.

At last week’s council meeting, a new policy - SMRC Expanded Dwellings (Studios), Garages, Urban Sheds and Farm Buildings Policy – was included in the agen-

da papers for possible adoption.

Councillor Reuben Rose led calls for the policy to be deferred, asking for council staff to hold a workshop with councillors on the policy and the issues its seeks to address.

“While a well-intentioned policy, it has caused community concern,” Cr Rose said at the meeting.

“Most councillors weren’t aware this was in development. We need

to arrange a workshop to consider a range of issues.”

Rural landholders have labelled the policy as an over-reach, and believe it will create additional red tape.

The policy proposed a garage, shed or similar structure shall not be erected within an urban zone or R5 zone (large-lot residential) unless and until a dwelling is approved under construction.

The policy also proposed that

a garage or shed may include a bathroom facility with a toilet and wash basin but not a kitchen, shower or laundry facilities.

Councillor Bob Stewart said he had concerns with how the policy was developed and echoed calls for further revision.

“We should defer this and have councillor input into the policy before we go to the community,” Cr Stewart said.

In the business paper report

outlining why the policy was put to council for possible adoption, it stated the policy is important to provide clarity on permissible uses, ensure compliance with legal precedents and uphold planning controls that prevent unauthorised residential occupation of non-residential structures.

Council said increased instances of non-compliant buildings had led to the need for the policy to be formulated.

PHOTO: Cooma Fire and Rescue NSW

Unsettled by Kate Granville: book review

By NICK GOLDIE

‘THE Secret River’ is the story of Kate Grenville’s convict ancestor Solomon Wiseman, of Wisemans Ferry and the Hawkesbury River, and is her best known book.

It was successful as a novel, and later as a fictional TV drama, an account of British colonists and their dealings with the Indigenous people of the district.

Her new book ‘Unsettled’ leaves fiction for fact. It is an account of a journey of discovery, by car, across northern New South Wales, starting off by way of Settlers Road, taking in the Hunter Valley, Murrurundii, Tamworth and Goonoo Goonoo, the Namoi River and Myall Creek, Gunnedah, and Guyra.

But this is no travelogue or getaway puff-piece. Grenville is in fact following her family as they spread out from Wisemans Ferry, and more importantly, following the history of the First Nations people and their relations with the white ‘settlers’, their horses and guns, and their sheep and wheat.

Happy birthday, Judy

COOMA’S Judy Costello celebrates her 90th birthday on Wednesday, 25 June. Judy is well-known in Cooma and across the Snowy Monaro region for her long involvement with multiple community groups and for her social columns in the Cooma Monaro Express newspaper.

Judy compiled her popular weekly ‘Judy’s Jottings’ for about 17 years. Her jottings were always a popular part of the paper, providing updates on what community groups were up to and keeping readers informed of social happenings around the region.

Judy is marking the occasion with a quiet day with her family and friends.

OH JEEPERS, TAKE COVER! HERE COMES A HUGE WILLY WILLY.

Hence the title ‘Unsettled’.

This is an unsettling book, about settlers, kicking off with the failure of The Voice Referendum, a recent opportunity to settle the matter, writes Grenville, an opportunity now lost.

This could be preachy, but it’s not.

Grenville is a persuasive writer who knows her subject and knows when to share the stories she collects along the way. Some of these stories are indeed unsettling, as in her search for the (demolished) old Caledonian Hotel, known as ‘The Cally’, once owned by her family, which is now a K-Mart parking lot; or the hoons in the Gunnedah park. Most of her stories are entertaining, especially the family reminiscences, but it’s the landscapes in which her descriptions shine.

“... the road heads straight at an imposing range of steep hills . This is a place of wild gullies and peaks, of gray granite lumps pushing up through the ground, of huge rounded tors piled on each other …”

One of her references is to Canberra

historian Bill Gammage and his ‘The Biggest Estate on Earth: How Aborigines Made Australia’, which chronicles how quickly and how thoroughly the settlers and their farms changed the Australian landscape.

Grenville has little good to say about her forebears and regards the respectable London-based Establishment as little more than up-market thieves, helping themselves to the wealth of this newfound-land by the use of legal fictions. This form of organised robbery was uniquely applied to the colony, in contrast to the complex treaty arrangements which defined New Zealand and the Americas.

Above all, this is an examination of how we Australians could and should relate to one another: old Australians, new Australians, white and brown, man and woman. It is unsettling, and highly recommended.

‘Unsettled’ by Kate Grenville,

Stove’s celebrate 73 wonderful years

FORMER Nimmitabel couple, Fred (Pinkie) and Rae Stove, recently celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary. The couple now lives on the Far South Coast after calling Nimmitabel home for most their lives.

Member for Bega, Dr Michael Holland, visited the couple to pass his congratulations to the Stoves on the remarkable milestone.

“It was an absolute pleasure to meet Mr and Mrs Stove and offer my heartfelt congratulations on their 73rd wedding anniversary, a remarkable milestone and a beautiful example of lasting love and commitment,” Dr Holland said.

“I wished them both continued happiness, good health, and many more cherished moments together.”

MILESTONE: Member for Bega, Dr Michael Holland, congratulates former Nimmitabel couple, Fred and Rae Stove, on their 73rd wedding anniversary.

PHOTO: Robyn Bain

EVERYONE HANG ON AND PREPARE YOURSELVES, AS THESE MONSTERS ARE SO POWERFUL THEY COULD...

Salvos thank generous community

I AM constantly amazed by the ability of Australians to come together when it matters most.

We have seen it countless times in our history as a nation, during times of national crisis, natural disaster, financial unrest and so much more. Aussies know how to come together and help out a mate.

As The Salvation Army, we have also seen this time and time again. We have been helping people doing it tough for over 145 years in Australia, through times of extreme hardship, and the common thread during all those times has been

the ability for people to help each other out when they are struggling. Indeed, we have seen it once again through our Red Shield Appeal this year. While there is still a long way to go, we have been blown away by the generosity of Australians to our Appeal so far. It is through Aussies digging deep and giving what they can that allows the Salvos to help one person every 17 seconds in Australia.

To all the readers who have supported the Red Shield Appeal, on behalf of The Salvation Army and all those we support every day, we want to offer an enormous thank you.

Photo of the week

OUR latest photo of the week has been submitted by Annie Kater. Annie’s lovely image is of Cambalong Creek at Red Cliff, Bombala.

If you have an image taken in the Snowy Monaro, be it of a landscape, an event, people, or something else that has taken your interest, you can send it editor@monaropost.com. au for consideration in our photo of the week section.

We know times are tough for so many right now, which makes the generosity we have seen so much more powerful. We can’t do our work without your support, so again, thank you. But it’s not over yet. The Salvation Army is still calling on Aussies to dig deep for our Red Shield Appeal, which aims to raise $38 million by 30 June. These funds will ensure we can continue to support those in our community doing it tough into the future. You can be the hope people desperately need right now. We trust that Aussies will once again be generous to the Red

Shield Appeal this month, and this isn’t a blind trust. It is founded on the fact that we have seen it many times before, and we believe we will see it again. So once more, to all those who have supported the Red Shield Appeal so far, and to all those who will, we say thank you.

To make a taxdeductible donation to The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, please visit salvationarmy.org. au or call 13 SALVOS. You can also donate at any Salvos Store.

Nathan Thompson (02) 6452 0312

editor@monaropost.com.au

Trista Heath (Jindabyne) 0491 214 722 trista@monaropost.com.au

Melinda Cairns Hack (Cooma) (02) 6452 0312

mcairnshack@monaropost.com.au

Elle Thompson (02) 6452 0312 elle@monaropost.com.au

Last of the Kiandra Greys

By ERNIE CONSTANCE

OH they’ve sent up the choppers and riflemen high

To snipe at our brumbies from up in the sky

Farewell to the black colts and baldy faced bays

And the last of the Kiandra greys

The decision was made by those big tops, of course

Who’ve ne’er even saddled or straddled a horse

To murder our brumbies on the mountains they graze

The duns and the chestnuts and the Kiandra greys

Stock bred from bush horses, of the settlers of old

None gamer or stouter have ever been foaled

Like the old mountain stockmen, and the old droving days

It’s goodbye to our history and the Kiandra greys

The stallions and mares, and the young foals that prance

Are all gunned to the ground, with never a chance

They’re slaughtered in gullies and up on the rise

Then left for the wild dogs, the bush pigs and flies

HAVE YOUR SAY

The Monaro Post welcomes contributions of Letters to the Editor. Letters can be posted, emailed or dropped to our office. Preference will be given to letters concerning local issues. Letters may be edited for reasons of clarity, removing defamatory or offensive content or due to space constraints. Preference will be given to letters which are less than 500 words in length. It is the editor’s prerogative to print or not to print letters. The editor’s decision is final.

Email editor@monaropost.com.au

Address 59 Vale Street, Cooma

Jim Walker-Broose 0408 425 484

jim@monaropost.com.au

Keely Pressley 0456 217 012 keely@monaropost.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS (02) 6452 0318 classifieds@monaropost.com.au

Aasta Arctander aasta@monaropost.com.au FEATURES

Lisa Ashurst

Colonel Rodney Walters The Salvation Army.

Monaro High recognises cafe supporters

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

OVER a selection of finger food and hot beverages, the Monaro High School community has thanked those who have contributed to the continued success of the school’s AIM Cafe.

Students from the special education unit, their parents and other family members, school staff and business owners gathered at a “Rise and Recognise” school community morning tea on 16 June which highlighted the generous donations by Debbie and Mick Johnson of Monaro Milk.

AIM Cafe runs every Tuesday during first break. The students take orders and deliver a delicious morning tea which consists of cakes/slices, toasted sandwiches and coffee to appreciative staff and senior school leaders.

“The building which now contains the cafe is a glorious place to be, especially if the sun is out on a cold winter’s day, and it’s a wonderful facility for our students, your children,” principal, James Armitage, said.

“Today is about celebrating something that’s been at MHS for a long time and we have some people attending who were involved from the early days of the cafe.

“The cafe was originally called D cafe, as it was situated in D block, when I arrived here as the deputy. It was a really high functioning service and it was at that stage when the coffee machine was purchased and things started to grow from strength to strength, particularly with the staff,” Mr Armitage recalled.

“It was a really lovely, inviting space and many of the staff would relax at the D cafe, and the kids would serve them morning tea. A small number of regular staff would attend, then it grew and when this place was built it was a priority for Leanne [Wiggins, special ed teacher] to make sure the coffee machine was moved to the new building.

“It took a long time to convince the Department of Education that we needed a coffee machine in this space, so a lot of work went on to get the machine in place and to get it functioning.”

Mr Armitage said now, on average, 30 staff are served coffee and food on a Tuesday.

The students work all year in AIM Café serving staff members morning tea once a week with

the small profits paying for student excursions or put towards resources.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for our students in this area of the school to engage with the rest of the school and the staff. They love it and look forward to it every week,” he said, “it’s a really positive engagement with many of these students who from time to time find school a bit difficult.”

Mr Armitage congratulated and

thanked all those who have been involved and had a part to play in the cafe’s long history.

Support from local business, Monaro Milk, is greatly appreciated with the company now in its fourth year of donating milk to the cafe.

“Our staff at Monaro Milk really enjoy having the kids come into work once a year, it’s a blessing,” Monaro Milk’s, Michael Johnson, said.

Mention was also made of Woolworths which regularly donates food for the cafe when it is not home-baked by school staff.

“And our now deputy principal, Nathan, has been providing the coffee free-of-charge for quite a while, although he gets a bit of a kick-back as they will make a coffee for him whenever he’s in need,” Mr Armitage said.

“All of that, as a whole, allows

and put back into resources for your children in this area,” he added.

Additionally, student, Kobe Taylor, was praised for his contribution and assistance on a Tuesday in the cafe.

“Kobe’s engagement here is amazing to watch,” Mr Armitage said, “it’s been wonderful to see that smile on his face on a Tuesday.”

COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Monaro Milk proprietors, Debbie and Michael Johnson with deputy principal, Nathan Schubert, (far right), principal James Armitage (third from right), and special education teachers, Leanne Wiggins (second right) and Troy McNab (far left).

Bonita Pakoti (left) and Kaylee Stewart attended the second Rise and Recognise morning tea event at Monaro High School.

Monaro High School student, Kobe Taylor, with his family “pop” Jeff Burns (left), and Mum and Dad, Robyn and Brandon Stanford.

Regulator issues heavy vehicle warning

Almost 1000 defect notices in Snowy Monaro region,

THE National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has delivered an urgent reminder to operators and drivers to ensure their heavy vehicles are roadworthy, with an alarming number of vehicles found to be defective last year in the Snowy Monaro.

NHVR chief operations officer, Paul Salvati, said the region was of particular concern, after 965 defect notices were issued in the area in 2024.

“Concerningly, safety and compliance officers found 60 major defects related to brakes or wheels and tyres maintenance,” Mr Salvati said.

“This poses a serious safety risk requiring immediate rectification, particularly during winter when drivers face more difficult road conditions.

“Allowing a heavy vehicle on the road with a major defect puts both the driver and other road users in significant danger.”

The NHVR recently released its National Roadworthiness Survey (NRS) 2024 report, following the largest ever health check of Australia’s heavy vehicle fleet.

The report showed around a third of units (33 per cent) surveyed had multiple defects, an increase from the previous 2021 survey.

Mr Salvati said the start of the snow season is a timely reminder for industry, with more motorists and ultimately more lives on the road.

“Heavy vehicle drivers will now share the roads with many more

light vehicle drivers, particularly along the Monaro and Hume Highways, as people head to their snow and ski destinations,” Mr Salvati said.

“Last winter, the Monaro Highway at Cooma and Hume Highway at Yass saw more than 16,600 heavy vehicles and over 32,000 light vehicles pass through.

“Tragically, in 2023 there were seven crashes involving heavy vehicles in the snow region, one of which was fatal.

“In 2024, it was pleasing to see this figure halve, with zero fatalities from accidents involving heavy vehicles.

“I’d like to thank industry on this great outcome and remind drivers that it’s one we can make happen again by ensuring heavy vehicles are fit for the roads.”

Almost 70cm of snowfall has already hit ski resorts during the first weeks of winter.

Mr Salvati said conditions in the region can rapidly change and will impact how heavy vehicles operate and manoeuvre.

“These weather events can make brakes, wheel bearings or tyres wear faster than usual, so it’s imperative to conduct daily checks, as well as regular maintenance, to ensure they’re roadworthy,” he said.

“These inspections should be completed prior to a truck commencing its journey, and failing to do so could very well change the outcome of your life and other road users.”

drivers urged to stay vigilant during winter

Council updates

Jindabyne information session

Council is coming to Jindabyne Memorial Hall on Thursday 26 June 2025 from 5pm to 7pm to discuss planned renovations for the Jindabyne Town Centre public toilets.

Urgent maintenance was completed last week ahead of the ski season, but substantial work is required to bring the facility up to a high standard permanently.

No RSVP required, all welcome to attend.

Council meeting

Councillors will meet in Cooma at 1pm on Thursday 3 July 2025 to consider matters carried over from the June meeting.

Visit https://qrco.de/SMRCmeetings for the upcoming meeting’s business paper.

A live webcast of the meeting will be available at the link above on the day.

The public are also welcome to attend inperson from 1pm at Cooma Chambers.

No need to wait: Stay up-to-date

Local swimmers are advised that Jindabyne Pool will be closed for essential maintenance works from Monday 7 July to Wednesday 9 July 2025.

Contractors will be on site in July to undertake the replacement of the pool filter media, with additional maintenance work to be confirmed pending additional supply and contractor availability.

Council thanks patrons for their understanding during this closure.

Our fortnightly e-newsletter is your best source for the most up-to-date news on Council decisions, projects, public notices, news updates and local events.

Sign up to Council News today to make certain that when there’s important news to share, it’ll be right there in your inbox.

Visit https://qrco.de/SMRC-newsletter to subscribe ahead of the next edition.

You can access past editions any time on the news section of Council’s website.

Employment opportunities

Council is proud to be one of our region’s largest employers, giving Snowy Monaro locals from all walks of life the opportunity to serve their community and help make our region even better.

Learn more about working with us on our website. Visit https://qrco.de/Work4SMRC.

You can view all of our current vacancies directly at https://qrco.de/SMRCjobs.

Applications are being sought for the following employment opportunities:

Closing Wednesday 25 June 2025

• Recreation Planner

Full-time – Location negotiable

Closing Wednesday 2 July 2025

• Team Leader Reticulation

Full-time – Jindabyne

Closing Friday 4 July 2025

• Manager HR Services

Full-time – Berridale or Cooma

Please contact us if you’d like to discuss any of these opportunities in more detail.

Closure at Jindabyne Pool in July

SAFETY: The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s latest roadworthiness survey has released concerning figures showing the Snowy Monaro had 965 heavy vehicle defect notices issued last year.

PHOTO: File

From family commitment to future snowsport champions

WITH the 2025 snow season officially underway, it won’t be long before competitors and their families begin flocking to Australia’s snowfields for the Interschools Snowsport Championships.

This year’s events are expected to attract more than 7000 students from nearly 700 schools. With teachers, coaches, volunteers and officials also in tow, the Interschools community extends well beyond the number of competing students.

Parents, siblings and extended family members also add to the vibrant community. From shuttling children to and from competition, taking time away from work, enduring long commutes and overnight stays and ensuring gear and equipment is prepped and packed, snowsport families are a driving force of this mammoth annual series.

Brad and Melisa George have supported their children Juan and Airish since they first learnt to ski. Both children are now members of the Snow Australia Emerging Talent Program (ETP) having experienced Interschools success from an early age.

From starting to snowboard as a way to learn new skills and make new friends, to competing overseas and having dreams of representing Australia, Interschools provided Juan and Airish with the foundations to build their skills.

“(In the beginning), competition wasn’t something on our radar, we just wanted Juan to enjoy his snowboarding and meet some friends, otherwise he was riding with us all the time,” Melisa said.

“He joined the part-time program when he was 10 and was keen to try the Interschools competition. It is a great introduction to competition, testing their skills and having fun meeting kids from so many other schools.

“In his first year of Interschools, he became the Australian Champion for Snowboard Cross, and that really sparked the fire within,” Melisa said.

Airish followed in Juan’s footsteps and loved her time on the snow. After a few years of skiing, she was keen to get on a snowboard and started her Interschools journey at eight years old, taking out individual regional, state, and national championships.

“Interschools has been such a great introduction to competition and is a lot of fun, not just for the kids, but also for the parents. It’s competitive but very encouraging for all levels, with a great emphasis on coming together with friends from school and racing as a team,” she said.

The upside of long days on snow is the friendships that have been forged, some of which Melisa says have become lifelong.

“As parents, we’re the ones

encouraging them to do their best and have fun, cheering them on at the finish line. It’s so exciting to watch them race down and check their times as they cross the line. It’s also heart-warming to see the kids gather at the finish, cheering on their friends, riding the chairlift together for the next run, and then heading out to free ride after the races are done.

“These days have taught them not only snowboarding skills but also independence and how to enjoy all that the mountain has to offer,” Melisa said.

The family now spend upwards of three months each year in Canada and the US, where Juan and Airish train at Copper Mountain and compete on the USASA circuit.

A former professional snowboarder who competed in slopestyle, big air and snowboard cross at World Cup level, Brad is now a qualified coach through Snow Australia and coaches Juan and Airish when they are on the road.

As members of Snow Australia’s ETP, Juan and Airish receive access to performance services and education through Snow Australia coaches and athlete mentors in a variety of settings including development camps, dry-land and off-snow training and access to the National Snowsports Training Centre (NSTC).

“It’s a fun and supportive pro-

gram where they get to meet other talented snowboarders and skiers, and for us as parents, it’s a way to connect with other families on the same journey,” Melisa explained.

“We are so fortunate to have access to the NSTC facility for airbag training, arco, and gym, which we use consistently both at home and in Jindabyne,” she said.

As well as finishing school, the children plan to progress their snowboarding here in Australia

GREG COWELL LANDSCAPING

and overseas. From there, they want to earn a place on the Australian team and become professional athletes.

“They aim to work toward opportunities such as the Youth Olympics, World Cups, the Winter Olympics, and international invitational events and, most importantly, to live the snowboarding dream wherever the journey takes them,” Melisa said.

CHAMPIONSHIPS: The George family, Juan, Brad, Airish and Melisa.

PHOTO: Supplied

INSPIRING: Athlete and member of the Australian Olympic Team Tilly Offord speaking to students in Bombala last week.

Triathlete Tilly Offord visits Bombala School

students welcomed a visit from rising triathlon star Tilly Offord last week.

The visit was part the Olympics Unleashed program that takes Olympians and aspiring Olympians into Australian schools to inspire and motivate students to be their personal best.

“We were thrilled to welcome the incredible athlete Tilly Offord to our school,” Bombala Public School said on its Facebook page.

Near miss prompts fire warning

AS TEMPERATURES drop across the Snowy Monaro and fireplaces across the region are roaring back to life, Snowy Monaro Regional Council is reminding residents of the importance of handling wood-fire ashes carefully.

This reminder comes after a local household’s bin suddenly caught alight due to ashes that had been binned before they had completely cooled.

ensure that the ashes from their winter fires have cooled completely, and are wrapped and disposed of in kerbside waste bins.

“Damage caused to bins by hot ashes can be costly. If you burn your bin, you’ll need to pay for a replacement and all ratepayers foot the bill when our trucks or facilities are damaged by fire.”

Avoid bin, house, and truck fires. Always:

sure the ashes are cold

Put your cold; ashes in a bag before disposing of them into your red-lidded waste bin, or lime-green lidded FOGO bin for Cooma residents.

Hot ash in household rubbish bins causes numerous house fires across Australia every year and in 2019, caused a large fire in the back of one of council’s waste collection trucks.

“To avoid fires at home, in the waste collection truck, and at local waste facilities, it’s vital that everyone with a wood-burning fire in our region knows how to handle their ashes safely and responsibly,” a council spokesperson said.

“Ashes will remain hot enough to reignite and cause other flammable materials to combust for several days –much longer than many people would expect. Everyone has a responsibility to

- Put hot ash in a suitable metal container with a lid;

- Only half-fill your ash containers, allowing them to cool efficiently;

- Make sure the lid is secure to starve smouldering ashes of oxygen and prevent sparks and embers escaping;

- Regularly check and stir the ash container, adding water over the course of a few days to ensure any fire is fully extinguished;

- Do not empty the ash container into the bin until 100 per cent

This incident was brought under control quickly, but the cost of repairs and the delay to bin collections were both substantial.

Wood ash contains a large amount of lime and potassium and can be used as a nutrient booster for compost and soil.

“If you’re using ash in your garden, remember to be cautious and do your research. Wood ash affects soil and compost alkalinity, which can cause negative effects if used inappropriately,” the spokesperson said.

“Her inspiring story and and your journey is one we’ll as you chase your dream ofpics and we’re certain we’ll be watching you shine on

Boco Rock funding applications closing soon

THERE is under two weeks remaining for community groups to submit an application for the 2025 Boco Rock Community Enhancement Fund.

Local Snowy Monaro community groups and organisers of community initiatives and events, are encouraged to apply for the yearly grant, which provides an opportunity to secure valuable funding for community projects.

Applications close at 11.59pm on 6 July, with

payments to successful applicants to begin in October.

The entire Snowy Monaro region is eligible to apply following the NSW Government’s approval of the second stage expansion of the Boco Rock Wind Farm in 2024.

The Boco Rock Community Enhancement Fund is a condition of the State Government approved Boco Rock Wind Farm project. The funding operates on an annual

timetable and is offered once a year to eligible applicants whose project or event will benefit the Snowy Monaro. The total amount of funding allocated in the 2024 round was $285,768.27. The funding amount for 2025 will be confirmed following the release of the June quarter CPI.

To apply, download the required documents and review the program guidelines online at https://qrco.de/bocorock

Expressions of interest

Maintenance services | Michelago

Council is seeking expressions of interest (EOI) from suitable parties with the capacity and capability to enter into a contractual agreement to provide Michelago village maintenance works.

Submissions are sought for the following contract works:

• Year-round public toilet cleaning of playground amenity block, including emptying of public rubbish bin

• Fortnightly ride-on mowing of oval and surrounds, including tennis court perimeter, with additional work during the growing season

• Ride-on mowing of area above tennis courts and oval including playground and area behind toilet block

Weeding of playground and whipper-snipping where necessary

• Ride-on mowing non-residential main street verges including whippersnipping around signs and culverts

• Litter picking main street areas, oval, tennis court, and playground

• Pruning of autumn trees on Ryrie Street and Mount View

• Additional maintenance on an as-needed basis

Opening and closing dates

Council will accept expressions of interest from 9am AEST on Monday 23 June 2025.

All submissions must be received by Council prior to 5pm AEST on Friday 4 July 2025. No late submissions will be accepted.

How to make your submission

Submit EOI online through the VendorPanel procurement platform. Visit www.vendorpanel.com.au to register a free account. Any correspondence or enquiries must be via the VendorPanel platform.

Terms and conditions

Submissions must be fully received by the closing time. Late submissions will not be accepted. This EOI process is not an offer of engagement to provide services. Responses received will be used by Council to assess respondent suitability for the advertised opportunity. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a detailed proposal as part of a selective tender process. All submissions, queries, and correspondence related to this EOI process must be directed to Council through the online VendorPanel platform at www.vendorpanel.com.au. Any submission, query, or correspondence of any kind made by any other means will not be

Bombala students were all smiles getting to meet Ms Offord.

PHOTO: Bombala Public School

ATO reminder on interest deductibility changes

THE Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is reminding taxpayers, from 1, July 2025, interest charged by the ATO for late payments or underpayments will no longer be tax deductible.

The Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Incentives and Integrity) Act 2025 is now law. This means any general interest charge (GIC) incurred on and after 1, July 2025, regardless of whether the debt relates to an earlier income year, will no longer be tax deductible.

Like any other commercial loan, interest is applied if an amount of tax or other liability remains unpaid after its due date, or if there is a shortfall of payment due to an amendment or correction. This is designed to encourage timely payment of tax and

compensate the community for the cost of late payments.

The change is designed to ensure that taxpayers who do the right thing and pay their tax in full and on time are not disadvantaged relative to those who do delay payment.

ATO assistant commissioner, Anita Challen, is reminding taxpayers to pay in full and on time to avoid general interest charge accruing on overdue debts.

“These changes will mean it will cost more to carry a tax debt and, while taxpayers won’t feel this change until next tax time, ATO general interest charge is currently charged at 11.17 per cent and compounds daily making it so important to get on top of your tax obligations,”Ms Challen said.

“If you have a tax debt

you’ve been putting off paying – now is the time to pay.

“Setting aside your GST, pay as you go withholding and super from your business’s cash flow in a separate bank account can help ensure you have the funds available when it’s time to pay.”

Ms Challen said if you’re unable to pay on time and in full, you may be able to set up a payment plan with the ATO using its online services, or you can contact your registered tax professional. While debts are under active management in an agreed payment plan with the ATO, you will avoid debt recovery actions.

Interest charged by the ATO that was incurred before 1, July 2025, can still be claimed as a deduction this tax time.

Navigating your property goals

Monaro Finance Brokers here to help

AS TAX season approaches, it’s an opportune moment to assess your financial landscape and align it with your property aspirations.

With interest rates experiencing fluctuations, refinancing could also offer more favourable loan terms.

Monaro Finance Brokers specialises in guiding clients through the complexities of the mortgage landscape.

Leveraging home equity

For existing homeowners, your property’s equity can be a powerful tool. Whether you’re considering investing in additional properties, renovating your current home, or consolidating debts, Monaro Finance Brokers can assist in unlocking this potential.

Comprehensive Financial Solutions

Beyond traditional mortgages, Monaro Finance Brokers offer assistance with:

• Upgrading to your next or dream home

• Financing renovations or new constructions

Debt consolidation and refinancing

• Securing loans for car or asset purchases

• Accessing cash to address ATO debts

Monaro Finance Brokers’ commitment is to provide personalised solutions tailored to your unique financial situation. The local company offers online, weekend, and after-hours appointments to accommodate your schedule. Connect with Monaro Finance Brokers Embark on your property journey with confidence. Visit www.monarofinancebrokers.com.au to learn more or schedule a consultation.

Let Monaro Finance Brokers be your trusted partner in achieving your property goals this tax season.

Tax time preperation steps

By SERVICES AUSTRALIA

MANY people lodge a tax return at tax time, which is from July to October every year. When you lodge a tax return, you report your income and claim deductions.

You’ll find out how much tax was withheld last financial year and if you owe any more.

If you need to lodge a tax return, you may need some information about the payments and services you get from Services Australia (SA).

Work out if you need to lodge a tax return

There are different reasons why you may need to lodge a tax return. This may be because you: had tax deducted or withheld from your income or Centrelink payments;

• need to confirm your income so SA can balance your Family Tax Benefit (FTB) or Child Care Subsidy (CCS); and have a child support assessment.

The easiest way to work out if you need to lodge a tax return is by using the do I need to lodge a tax return tool on the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website.

If you got FTB or CCS, you can also use SA’s checker tool to see what your family needs to do at tax time.

Get your information ready

If you need to lodge a tax return, there’s some information from us you may need to help you fill in your tax return. We’ll share some of your

payment details with the ATO so it pre-fills for you in your tax return.

A Centrelink payment summary shows most taxable and nontaxable payments you got from us within a financial year. The ATO needs to know about these. Most of these payment details will pre-fill in the ATO’s myTax by late-July.

You’ll need to know the details of any taxable payment you got

from us that doesn’t show on your payment summary.

If you’re not eligible for Medicare but need to claim the Medicare levy exemption at tax time, you’ll need a Medicare Entitlement Statement.

You’ll also need the amount of child support you paid in the financial year, if you paid child support. Read more about what to do at tax time if you paid or

Local leadership, client first focus Kenmir Accounting thrives in community

FOR the past three years, Kenmir Accounting has been under the passionate leadership of local partners and owners Mark Kenmir, Lisa Rowbotham, and Jodie Dobbie.

The trio, with nearly 90 years of combined experience in the accounting industry, is proud to have brought the business back to its community roots, having been initially established in Cooma by Mark back in 1996. Clients continue to enjoy the reliable, friendly service they’ve come to expect, however there’s a renewed energy in the firm with a strengthened commitment to the local community.

Kenmir Accounting also has an incredible local team of experienced accountants, book-

keepers and administration staff that offer businesses and investors sound advice and services in a relaxed, yet professional environment. With offices in both Cooma and Berridale and online appointments also available, Kenmir Accounting can tailor their advice and services to assist at a time and place that is convenient to you, allowing you time to focus on what you do best, whilst leaving the accounting and bookwork to its reliable team.

Offering a broad range of services, from business startup to complex tax advice, the team is always focused on providing forward-thinking solutions to help clients maximise their wealth and manage their tax obligations. With the lat-

est in cloud-based software, they ensure clients spend less time in the office and more time doing what they need to be doing.

Whether it’s an in-office consultation, an online meeting, or a visit to your business, the team at Kenmir Accounting is committed to offering flexible and personalised support.

To learn more about how Kenmir Accounting can assist with your business, taxation, bookkeeping or self-managed superannuation fund needs, give the friendly team a call on 6452 6775 or visit the website at www.kenmiraccounting. com.au

Kenmir Accounting - where local knowledge meets professional expertise.

received child support.

Read more about what to do before you prepare your tax return on the ATO website.

How to protect yourself online at tax time

Scams and identity threats often increase during tax time.

Scammers and online criminals may try to get your personal information, such as your myGov sign in details. They often contact

people pretending to be from Services Australia or myGov. They tell you to click on a link or give them information. They then use this to gain access to your account to conduct fraud, for example by claiming or redirecting payments. Find out how scams work and how to protect yourself against scams and identity theft. You can also learn how to avoid and report scams.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 1.00 The One That Got Away. 2.00 Fake Or Fortune? 3.00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 3.25 Anh’s Brush With Fame. 3.55 Love Your Garden. 4.40 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Joanna Lumley’s Danube. 8.45 Grand Designs Australia. 9.45 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip. 10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.30 NBC Today. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Line Of Duty. 9.50 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.35 Whose Line Is It Anyway? 2.55 Doctor Who. 4.05 QI. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 Hard Quiz. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Would I Lie To You? 9.05 Gruen. 9.45 Planet America. 10.15 Bronwyn Kuss: Sounds Good. 11.05 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Chris Watts: Confessions Of A Killer. (2020) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 8.30 MOVIE: The Proposal. (2009) Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds. 10.50 To Be Advised. 12.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 American Pickers. 1.00 Pawn Stars. 1.30 Highway Patrol. 2.30 The Force: BTL. 3.30 Billy The Exterminator. 4.00 Frozen Gold. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 16. Port Adelaide v Carlton. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 Kick Ons. 11.30 Late Programs.

Thomas And Friends. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Saved By The Barn. 10.10 Secret Life Of The Wombat. New. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Australia’s Most Identical. 1.30 Find My Country House Australia. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Judge Judy. 12.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 10 News: Lunchtime. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 10 News: Afternoon. 4.00 Neighbours. 4.30 The Bold

6.00 Get Clever. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 The Resident. 3.00 House Of Wellness. 4.00 The Goldbergs. 5.00 Naughty Cats Make You Laugh Out Loud. 6.00 Bondi Vet. 7.00 Judge Judy. 7.30 Kitchen Nightmares USA. 9.30 Kitchen Nightmares. 10.30 Ramsay’s Costa Del Nightmares. 11.30 Late Programs.

Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 17. Penrith Panthers v Canterbury Bulldogs. 9.45 Thursday Night Knock Off. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Outback Opal Hunters. 12.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Midsomer Murders. 2.00 As Time Goes By. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Josephine And Men. (1955) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Paramedics. 8.30 Emergency. 9.30 A+E After Dark. 10.30 Panic 9-1-1. 11.30 Late Programs.

7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 17. Newcastle Knights v Canberra Raiders. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 MOVIE: The Jackal. (1997) 1.00 Next Stop. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs.

Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 Hard Quiz. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Would I Lie To You? 8.35 MOVIE: Hall Pass. (2011) 10.20 ER. 11.05 Rage. 12.05 Unforgotten. 3.15 Late

Beach. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars.

6.00 Danger Man. 7.00 Creflo. 7.30 Skippy. 8.00 TV Shop. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Midsomer Murders. 2.00 Are You Being Served? 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Now And Forever. (1956) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Find My Country House Aust. 8.30 TBA. 1.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Get Clever. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 The Resident. 3.00 Frogger. 4.10 MOVIE: SpiderMan: Into The Spider-Verse. (2018) 6.35 MOVIE: Big Daddy. (1999) 8.30 MOVIE: DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story. (2004) 10.25 MOVIE: Step Brothers. (2008) 12.25 The Glades. 1.20 Shopping. 1.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00

ABC SEVEN NINE

Lamb numbers lift in Yass

LAMB numbers lifted and the quality was plainer at last week’s Yass sheep sale.

There were very limited numbers of prime trades and heavy weights with the bulk being light or secondary lambs. There were big lines of light Merino hoggets.

The market trend was softer but it was more quality related even though there was a regular buyer not operating. Feeder and restockers were the main drivers of the secondary lambs and lambs with

weight sold to the better rates.

The feeder lambs to 18kg sold from $119 to $189 with most 900c to 1000c and the higher prices were for the heavier lambs that had a very short skin.

Trade lambs 20kg to 24kg ranged from $182 to $244/ head and averaged 970c and the 24kg to 26kg lambs, $245 to $270/head or 1000c/kg.

Lambs heavier than 26kg sold to $308/head and averaged 980c to 1030c/kg. The one pen of extra heavy weights reached $325/head.

The big runs of Merino hoggets $54 to $132/head were back $25 and heavy Dorper hoggets reached $234/head.

Mutton numbers lifted and the quality was plain. Prices were $20 to $30/head cheaper with most stock in one and two score condition.

Medium weight ewes sold from $106 to $160 and heavy crossbred ewes reached $220 and big skin Merino wethers made to $213 head. Most sold from 580c to 660c/ kg.

Local producers ready for MeatUp Forum

PRODUCERS in the Snowy Monaro are encouraged to attend the upcoming MeatUp Forum in Wagga Wagga on 15 July, a flagship event in Meat and Livestock Australia’s (MLA) national producer adoption and extension program.

The forum is designed to deliver regionally relevant research insights and practical tools to support onfarm success.

The Wagga Wagga forum will bring together lead-

ing researchers, producers, and industry experts to explore the latest developments in livestock productivity, pasture utilisation, and business sustainability.

Attendees will gain valuable knowledge through presentations on decision making in difficult seasons, animal health, and market trends, all tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of southern production systems. In addition to expert-led

sessions, the forum will feature interactive workshops and provide a platform for producers to connect, share experiences, and learn from local case studies that highlight innovation and real-world outcomes.

This event is an ideal op portunity for producers looking to stay ahead of industry trends and imple ment practical, evidencebased solutions on their properties.

Feeder heifer markets gains momentum

By LEANN DAX, MARKET REPORTER

AT LAST week’s Wagga Wagga cattle sale there was a lift in numbers. This increase in supply has brought a mix of quality to the market, with a lot of lighter weight young cattle looking very wintery in condition.

However, there have been some standout pens featuring well-finished cattle, with some off crop or grain assisted. Competition was somewhat erratic.

Notably, coloured cattle have seen prices slip by as much as 20c/kg in some instances. This dip in prices has created opportunities for re-stockers, many of whom are taking advantage of the lower prices.

While most buyers were present at the sale, it’s worth noting that not all export

companies were active. This absence influenced the inconsistency in competition particularly in the feeder steer market.

Trade cattle were few and processors did bid strongly for the correct types. Trade steers and heifers fetched between 374c and 430c/kg. The feeder steers market experienced fluctuations, particularly with a certain breed commanding premium prices. Lighter weight feeder steers traded between 356c and 460c, gaining 32c to average $1594/head.

Medium weight feeder steers remained mostly unchanged, with prices increasing by up to five cents, selling in the range of 370-464c/kg.

In a notable shift, the feeder heifer market gained momentum, lifting by 15-35c/kg.

The majority of heifers sold within a range of 330-

419c/kg. In contrast, lighter weight steers targeted at restockers struggled to establish a consistent base rate, with better-quality types selling from 330-452c/kg. Additionally, heifers returning to the paddock fetched prices between 255-380c/kg.

On the export front, young heavy well-finished steers suitable for processors were scarce. Heavy steers weighing between 500-600kg sold for 380-388c/kg. In contrast, aged bullocks faced discounts, contributing to a downward trend of 35c/kg, with bullocks selling from 335-385c/kg.

The cow market varied in quality across all categories. Heavy cows saw a modest improvement of 7-8c, averaging 326c/kg. Equally, leaner cows under 520kg with some cover ranged between 222294c/kg.

Submissions invited for land management code

THE NSW government is inviting submissions on proposed amendments to the Land Management (Native Vegetation) Code 2018 (the Code).

The Code is part of the Land Management Framework, which works to regulate native vegetation on private rural land in NSW.

A statutory review of the native vegetation provisions of the Local Land Services Act 2013 was completed in 2023.

In 2024, the NSW government released the NSW Plan for Nature, its response to the statutory reviews of the

Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the native vegetation provisions of the Local Land Services Act 2013.

The NSW Plan for Nature commits to implementing all 13 recommendations from the Local Land Services Act statutory review, with two variations.

It also committed to adopting additional actions to strengthen environmental protections in the Land Management Framework, including making amendments to the Land Management (Native Vegetation) Code 2018 (the Code).

The proposed amend-

ments aim to strengthen environmental protections in the Code and were committed to as part of the NSW government’s Plan for Nature. Find out more about the proposed amendments and lodge your submission at https://bit.ly/43TSTiq

Submissions close on Friday, 4 July.

There are two ways to submit feedback - email: consultation@lls.nsw.gov.au; postal: Land Management (Native Vegetation) Code Amendment Order 2025 Discussion Paper, Local Land Services - Policy Division, PO Box 411, Inverell, NSW 2360.

Source:AWEX

Forbes: Tamworth: Cooma:

LIVESTOCK: Close to 19,000 sheep and lambs were yarded at last week’s sale in Yass. PHOTO: File

HAVE YOUR SAY: The NSW government invites submissions on proposed amendments to the Land Management (Native Vegetation) Code 2018. PHOTO: NSW government

Quick shear event honours Mitchell

THE best shearers from across the Monaro and country came together in Bombala on Saturday to honour talented shearer, Mitchell Power.

The Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear is held in honour of Mitchell, who passed away in 2021. Mitchell was highly regarded for his shearing abilities, having worked in sheds locally, across Australia and in New Zealand.

On Saturday, the fourth quick shear was held. The event has grown each year and in 2025, there was more than $20,000 in prize money on offer.

The winner of the open event was Whanake Whare, ahead of Jimmy Samuels and Jake McArdle. In the senior category, Jack Yorkston finished first, Jasper Bruce in second and Dean Miners third.

A strong field in the intermediate category saw Alex Kimber win with Emma McDonald second and Tom Anderson third.

In the novice section, Eliza Booth was the fastest and won the final, ahead of Aaron Wilson and Locky Miners.

Shearers set a quick speed in the novice category of the Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear event in Bombala.

Nathan Thompson

Shedway puts shearer’s mental health first

By NATHAN THOMPSON

NIMMITABEL’S Taya

Evans is a well-known and respected figure in the Monaro shearing industry. A talented shearer and wool classer, Taya is encouraging fellow shearers and those involved in the industry to head along to a local event that will put mental health in the spotlight.

Taya is part of notfor-profit organisation, Shedway, a first of its kind in the shearing industry.

Shedway is the first, shearing industry specific mental health organisation, focussed on delivering positive mental health in shearing sheds across the country.

The Shedway team was present at the Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear on Saturday to promote their group

and help start important conversations amongst shearers.

“Shedway has been very well received at the events we have been to since the group started. Everyone in the industry knows there is a need to talk about mental health,” Taya said.

On July 12 at the Nimmitabel Pioneers Memorial Hall, Shedway will host a workshop that will provide skills around suicide prevention. The workshop will be delivered by Living Works Australia.

Bookings are filling quickly, head along to Shedway’s Facebook page to register your interest. The workshop runs from 9am to 2pm, and is $30 with the money going towards Shedway.

Shedway started in late 2023 when founder, Carol Mudford, decided

something needed to be done following the loss of a number of shearers across the country.

“In 2023 we lost shearers across Australia to suicide, and one was a local shearer in Dubbo I knew well,” Carol said.

“Shedway’s goal is suicide prevention and to promote positive mental health in shearing sheds.”

Taya said events like the Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear are important occasions for the industry to come together.

“We were all good friends with Mitch. The quick shear is a day about supporting each other. It was good to see so many celebrating him,” Taya said.

If this story has raised any issues, Lifeline can be contacted by phone - 13 11 14, or texted via 0477 13 11 14 or chat online.

Shearers from across the region and country gathered in Bombala for the Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear.

Local shearer, Emma McDonald, finished second in the intermediate division.

Carol Mudford shows her skills during the heats of the quick shear.

FAST:

PHOTOS:

MENTAL HEALTH: The Shedway team of Coreene Horenko, Carol Mudford and Taya Evans is encouraging local shearers to attend a workshop in Nimmitabel that will discuss suicide prevention. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Nothing but views and serenity

ASKING: $630,000

THIS is an amazing lifestyle opportunity for those who want a little more land and room to grow, with beautiful rural views to enjoy. The shed/house is currently divided

into two separate spaces. One half features two bedrooms with built-inwardrobes, open kitchen/dining and living area with an enclosed verandah off the side. Perfect for additional space while entertaining, housing the indoor plants or creating a quiet place to unplug.

The second half contains the laundry and is perfect for adding

Located along the sealed Snowy River Way, this property is a very convenient grazing opportunity.

• Boasting 143.9ha/355.577ac the property consists of open grazing and lightly timbered country

• Watered by frontage to the perennial Attwater Creek as it flows into the nearby Maclaughlin River

• Original Maclaughlin River Cottage ruins are still found along with remnants of the stock yards and sheds

• Zoned RU1 Primary production, above the minimal lot size, with legal access the property should benefit from a building entitlement Inspections are by appointment with the agent, so call us today.

additional bedrooms, living space or studio.

The newer shed is the perfect man cave with two roller doors, hoist and plenty of storage or workshop space. The driveway up to the living complex is fenced and lined with blue metal gravel making it suitable for all vehicles in all weather.

The property features

14.09ha/34.816ac fenced into four paddocks watered by dam and well. The paddocks contain light timber, perfect for shelter and shade and the fencing is in good-new condition. An ideal property for starting out and enjoying the rural lifestyle with the convenience of being five minutes from town. What’s not to love?

lovely family friendly home in a great location, close to amenities.

3

• Heated by natural gas heater, reverse cycle air conditioner and slow combustion heater equipped for cooking in the kitchen

• 1518m2 block with established gardens and lawns

• Covered BBQ area, man cave/pool room, garden sheds

This would be a great entry to becoming a home owner for an astute first home buyer.

40 Young Street, Bombala

for a family!

ADDRESS: 110 Pipe Clay Springs Road, Bombala

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 Name a prized fine wool (6)

7 What is a crack, gap, or other opening (8)

8 What is a sculptured image of a person (6)

9 Which crystallised violet quartz is used in jewellery (8)

11 What are facial expressions (7)

13 Which oil is used in making paints (7)

15 Name a short cord for securing something (7)

17 Name a tall, long-necked, spotted ruminant (7)

20 Which chair has arms that support elbows (8)

23 What is a tonsorial artist (6)

24 Which steroid hormone promotes masculine characteristics (8)

25 To decapitate, is to do what (6)

DOWN

1 What is junk mail, sent via the email (4)

2 Which term implies that something is free of cost (6)

3 What is a moral obligation (4)

4 When one encounters someone, one does what (5)

5 Name a champion Australian tennis player, Patrick ... (6)

6 What do we call the hours of darkness (5)

9 To be affected with pain, is to be what (6)

10 What might we call one who deals in leather (7)

12 Name an eight-legged predatory arachnid (6)

14 What, perhaps, describes the hoi polloi (6)

16 What are rough, coarse, or uncouth persons (6)

18 To be silly, is to be what (5)

Letters have a number value

Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

19 Name the unit of electrical capacity (5)

21 Which term describes a method (4)

22 When one chills something, one does what (4)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

WHICH WORDS

(c)

BIYWORD

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES:

Afro-American musical form (5)

Board of Studies (3)

Break apart (5)

Determined (3)

Drags vessel ashore (5)

Fifth note (3)

Multiplies by two (7)

Six (comb.Form) (3)

Spiral (5)

Weaknesses of character (7)

FOOTY TIPPING COMP 2025

June 28, 2025. Social Bowls at 12.30 AGM at 3pm. All members and anyone interested in playing are most welcomed.

1992 Toyota Camry Manual, dark blue, 6 cyl, touring model, reg till Jan 2026 (AQS72A), one owner, clutch and gearbox need work, tow away from Jindabyne, $10,000 - all offers considered. Ph 0473 454 346.

Specialist Domestic, Family & Sexual Violence (DFSV) Case Worker

Location: Cooma, NSW (with outreach across the Snowy Monaro region)

Type: Full-time (Monday to Friday), fixed-term contract until June 2026

Salary is negotiable based on experience, SCHADS Award 2010.

About Us: Monaro Community Access Service (MCAS) is a locally based not-for-profit organisation serving the Snowy Monaro region for over 30 years.

We support people aged 16+ who are at risk of homelessness, experiencing domestic and family violence, or dealing with complex life challenges.

About the Role

We’re seeking a passionate, trauma informed case worker to support individuals impacted by domestic, family, and sexual violence.

You’ll provide one-on-one case management, safety planning, advocacy, and referrals across a range of service areas; from legal support to housing access to helping our clients feel heard, empowered, and supported.

Qualifications and Experience Required

To be considered for this position, you must have one of the following:

• A relevant four-year degree with at least one year of relevant experience, or

• A three-year degree with at least two years of relevant experience, or

• An Associate Diploma with relevant experience, or

• Lesser formal qualifications with substantial experience (minimum five years) in DFSV or a related field

You must also have:

• Demonstrated knowledge of DFSV impact issues, trauma-informed care, and crisis intervention techniques

• Experience working with diverse client groups, including those in crisis or from marginalised communities

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills

• A current Working with Children Check, National Police Check, and a NSW Driver’s Licence Selection Criteria

Please answer these two questions in your cover letter:

• Tell us about your experience working with victim-survivors of domestic, family and sexual violence. How have you applied trauma-informed care in your work?

• How do you build trust and engagement with clients from diverse backgrounds, including those in crisis or from marginalised communities?

(Your response should highlight relevant qualifications and experience in DFSV case management and client advocacy.)

To Apply

Please email the following to andrew@mcas.ngo.org.au:

A cover letter addressing the 2 selection questions. Your current CV (including 2 referees, one of whom must be a current or recent supervisor)

Copies of your Working with Children Check, National Police Check and NSW Driver’s Licence. Applications close July 13, 2025.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be working in a supportive, community-driven environment that values compassion, integrity, and empowerment. We offer flexible work conditions, salary packaging options, and meaningful opportunities to make a difference in people’s lives.

Happy 90th Birthday Judy!

Wishing you a very happy 90th birthday on June 26, 2025, Judy!

~ Love from all your family and friends.

GARNOCK, Shirley. Passed away peacefully on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Imlay House, Pambula. Formerly of Kilbrechin, Bombala. Aged 97 years.

Dearly loved wife of Jamie (William Graham, dec).

Much loved mother and mother-in-law to Anne, Bill, Pen, John (dec), Jum and Trion. Dear Nan to Kate, Charlie, Trine, Belle, Georgia, Rosie, Emily and Will and her eight great grandchildren.

The relatives and friends of the late Shirley Garnock are invited to attend her funeral service to be held at St Matthias Anglican Church, Bombala TODAY, Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 12 noon.

Hyundai Kona EV: an elite package but a little pricey

By CHRIS RILEY, MARQUE MOTORING

LAUNCHED by Hyundai in 2017, the second-generation Kona was revealed in December 2022.

It is available with petrol, mild hybrid, hybrid and battery-electric powertrains, while the earlier diesel engine option is no longer offered.

Unlike the first version, Hyundai claims second-generation Kona was designed first and foremost as a batteryelectric vehicle before it was then adapted for use as other variants.

Whichever way it swings, it has been designed to blend in with the current environment, with no discernible radiator grille regardless of what’s under the bonnet.

Still, accommodations must have been made during the design process which means some compromise.

STYLING

In effect, there are three electric versions of this car: Kona Electric Standard Range ($54,000), Kona Electric Extended Range ($58,000) and Kona Electric Premium Extended Range ($68,000), all of them front-wheel drive.

The basic version comes with a 99kW electric motor and 48 kWh battery, with a range of 370km.

The extended range has a 150kW motor, larger 64kWh battery and range of 505km.

Premium extended range with the 150kW motor and larger 64kWh battery as standard has a range of 444km, due to the fact it has larger 19-inch wheels.

You can’t get the Standard Range in premium trim.

The sporty N Line option pack brings the price of the basic version to $62,000 and the premium to $71,000.

Any colour other than white or green adds $595.

The optional Meta blue of our car appears mauve in some light.

N Line includes body-coloured cladding, exclusive bumpers, skid plates and side effects, wing-type rear spoiler, 19-inch alloy wheels and N Line badges/wheel centres.

Our test vehicle was the top of the line Kona Electric premium with 19-inch wheels, premium paint and optional interior trim, priced at $68,890 plus on-road costs.

Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, DRLs and tail lights, dual-zone climate control, interior Vehicle To Load (V2L) power outlet, heat pump cabin heating, battery conditioning and a wireless smartphone charger.

On another note, Kona Electric is the first EV in its segment to come standard with a spare tyre, which is comforting when it comes to longer journeys.

Kona Electric is covered by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, with a separate

AT A GLANCE

MODEL LINE-UP:

KONA ELECTRIC STANDARD RANGE: $54,000

KONA ELECTRIC EXTENDED RANGE: $58,000

KONA ELECTRIC PREMIUM EXTENDED RANGE: $68,000

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your Hyundai local dealer for driveaway pricing.

eight-year/160,000km warranty on the battery. Service is due every 24 months or 30,000km.

SAFETY

Despite an extensive list of active safety and driver assistance features, Kona only scores four stars for safety.

It falls short in two key areas: safety assist and vulnerable road user protection, achieving only an adequate result in the performance of its autonomous emergency braking system in tests with pedestrians and cyclists.

DRIVING

Second generation Kona Electric is bigger and roomier, 18cm longer with a 6cm longer wheelbase than its predecessor.

This means a bigger boot and more legroom, with 7.7cm more legroom and 1.5cm more headroom in the back.

Seating is comfortable without being inviting and perhaps a bit narrower than before.

Heating comes from an energy-saving heat pump, with physical temperature controls below the touch screen.

Up front, you get two retractable cup holders, a 1.5-litre drink bottle holder in each door and generous centre console storage.

In the back, there’s 700ml bottle holders in each door and a fold-down centre armrest with two cup holders.

The luggage area has grown by 33 litres to 407 litres, with a 27-litre plastic frunk up front which is handy for stashing charge cables.

Never quite rising above its humble origins, hard plastic abounds in the cabin, disguised by soft touch material in such places as the

Lifting the tailgate exposes a luggage area that looks oh-soaverage in generic grey felt.

The look is distinctive with a long thin light bar that spans the breadth of the bonnet, matched by a tail light strip at the rear, which together give the car a space-aged appearance.

There are four drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow˗plus iPedal one-pedal driving (no need to brake separately).

With 395Nm of torque, the first generation could accelerate from 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds.

Heavier and with less torque, this one does it in a slower 7.9 seconds.

Steering wheel mounted paddles can be used to control the level of regenerative braking (lesser or greater brake drag).

There’s also a smart mode.

With a DC fast charger, Hyundai claims 10-80 per cent charging can be achieved in 41 minutes, compared to 18 minutes for some of its 800volt models.

SUMMING UP

Kona Electric is a well-engineered, well equipped small crossover style wagon that doesn’t cut many corners.

But the result of this strategy is an unexpectedly high price tag, perhaps too high. Tick all the boxes and the Kona is just over $77,000 by the time you put it on the road. And that’s before you start thinking about installing a Wallbox at home which is really the only practical solution to charging. It means you won’t be constantly worrying about when and where you can charge your shiny new toy. At this point, thoughts will probably turn to cheaper Chinese alternatives.

Kona’s Main rival is the BYD Atto 3 which tops out at $47,499 plus on-roads. Over to you.

RATINGS: Looks: 7

Performance: 7

Safety: 7

Thirst: 7

Practicality: 7.5

Comfort: 7 Tech: 7.5

Value: 6

Overall: 7

SPECIFICATIONS

(Hyundai Kona Electric Premium Extended Range, 150kW single electric motor, singlespeed auto, RWD SUV)

STANDARD WARRANTY

Five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty

Separate eightyear/160,000km warranty on the battery

FUTURISTIC: The Hyundai Kona EV sports a novel look, with no discernible radiator grille.

Weekly cattle, sheep market wrap

By EMILY TAN, MLA MARKET INFORMATION ANALYST

Cattle market

THE cattle market remained positive with most indicators increasing. Yardings also remained stable, easing slightly by 560 to 68,308 head.

The Feeder Steer Indicator led the way, rising 14 to 398/kg liveweight (lwt) - outperforming the Heavy Steer Indicator

which finished at 372/ kg lwt. Feeder steers and heifers saw consistent price lifts, rising 25/kg for feeder steers at Moss Vale and 15–35/kg for heifers at Wagga.

The Processor Cow Indicator rose 10 to 282/kg lwt, with prices up 7–8/kg at Wagga and similar gains at Roma.

Sheep market Heavy and trade lamb

prices remain above 1000/ kg carcase weight (cwt) but overall, the sheep market eased. Combined sheep and lamb yardings rose by 154,256 to 360,348 head.

The Heavy Lamb Indicator rose 12 to 1060/ kg cwt while the Trade Lamb Indicator eased 19 to 1030/kg cwt. Extra heavy lambs set a Ballarat record at $424/head while a price correction was evident at Wagga and Forbes.

Slaughter - Week ending 13 June 2025

Cattle

Cattle slaughter eased by 6258 to 146,272 head, facilitated by NSW (-3,845) and Victorian (-3,957) declines. Queensland slaughter reached a fiveyear high at 81,026 head. SA experienced a substantial increase by 1788 to 4562 head. Year-on-year (YoY) slaughter remains strong,

now sitting 13 per cent above 2024 numbers.

Breakdown of cattle slaughter in remaining states:

• Tasmania: down by 21 per cent to 1136 head

• Victoria: down by 16 per cent to 21,577 head WA: up by 22 per cent by 2476 head.

Sheep Lamb slaughter eased in all states except WA.

National slaughter eased by 74,793 to 386,865 head, mostly driven by Victorian slaughter decline (-67,736 head). YoY slaughter is down 7 per cent from 2024 numbers. However, sheep slaughter increased by 9610 to 187,528 head. NSW and Victorian slaughter both lifted. NSW by 15 per cent or 11,059 head and Victoria by 23 per cent or 13,543 head.

SPORT

Heelers reach half century

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THE Bombala Blue Heelers are on the march up the Group 16 first and reserve grade ladders following impressive wins at home.

For the second Sunday in a row, the Blue Heelers first grade side reached the half century

milestone, this time against Moruya.

The 58-6 triumph produced 10 tries, six coming in the first

would be pleased with his side’s defensive effort, keeping the visitors to just one try.

Bombala’s consecutive wins

win over Moruya. Tries went to Tasere Inia with a double, Jone Waqaliva with two and individual tries to Cooper Inskip

in the league-tag match. Both are undefeated through eight rounds.

The High Heelers received

Cats eye home clashes for break-through win

THE Southern Cats women’s side will be hoping a home ground advantage this Saturday can deliver the team an historic win.

Since making their competitive debut this season, there has been plenty of interest in the fortunes of the Southern Cats’ first women’s Aussie Rules side.

Comprising mostly players from Cooma (the spiritual home of the Southern Cats), the side has shown improvement as the season has progressed.

A tough loss to Woden on Saturday (126-0) has dampened spirits ahead of another Cooma match this Saturday.

The Southern Cats were looking forward to hosting its women, men and another match last Saturday but forfeits in the men’s game left the Cats women as the sole match.

On Saturday, 28 June the Cats face Molonglo in women’s and men’s fixtures. At 10am, the Cats’ women face the sixth placed Molonglo at Snowy Oval.

The men take on second placed Molonglo at 12pm.

The Cats’ men need a win to keep their finals hopes alive. If the two matches aren’t enough Aussie Rules action, then a third game at 2pm between Belconnen and Molonglo is scheduled.

IMPROVING: The Southern Cats inaugural women’s side is showing plenty of skill and determination each week.

PHOTO: Supplied

Colts brave in latest home matches

THE cold Cooma temperatures didn’t deter the Cooma Colts on Sunday with the club hosting its latest round of home matches.

There were impressive performances across the ages with tackle and league-tag sides showing improvement each week.

A highlight of the day was the effort from the Cooma Colts under 14 division side. The Colts secured an 18-all draw against ladder leaders Gungahlin.

Tries went to Beau Gallagher,

p STRONG: In the Cooma Colts under 11s match, Cooper Shaw was one of the best for his side. He made line breaks and scored a long range try in a terrific performance.

t The Colts under 14s team delivered a top effort to finish 18-all with ladder leaders Gungahlin.

Baldwin tops Bombala Saturday stableford

THE Bombala Golf Club, like the rest of the district, experienced huge frosts over the weekend. The dams on the course were frozen in the afternoons but the days were nice which prompted good fields.

Some impressive scores were recorded. Tony Baldwin was the winner with a great round of 45 points.

Balls were won by Bald-

On Saturday, the event was a stableford for L. Jones trophy. Golfers wish him the best as he is currently in Canberra Hospital.

win, Shane Michelutti on 40 points, Daniel Douch 39 points, Darren Forrester 37 points and Nick Ryan 35 points.

Nearest the pin was won by Wayne Elton and golden shot went to Ray Crawford.

Sunday was a three stick

event for club trophy. Numbers were down with players supporting Bombala’s rugby league sides at home.

The winner on a countback was Shannon Gulliford with 35 points from Darren Forrester. Both were ball winners.

Winter freeze for Coolamatong golfers

By COOLAMATONG GOLF CLUB

GOLFERS were greeted with winter conditions on Sunday after an overnight freeze, and even though most players hit off at 10am, there were still frozen greens to contend with until conditions warmed up.

One unlucky golfer could even see their ball on the 6th hole, as it sat on top of the frozen pond.

In the first of the two monthly medal rounds, Maureen Rupcic had a nett 70 to edge out Megan Haigh on a countback.

In A grade, Jason Christie had 73 nett, B grade, Tony Perry 74 nett on a countback, and Ben Hearn had 71 nett in C grade, including his best run of pars ever, five in

a row during his mid-round.

The Sunday ball comp ran down to 75 nett, including Ben Hearn 71, Kevin Cramer 73, Chris Brown 74, Cam McKid 74, Carl Fenton 74, Aaron Fenton 74, Steve Dunn 75, Andrew Haigh 75, Vero Rupcic 75, and Nigel Bolton 75.

The men’s near pins were Tim Caldwell on three, Owain Jones on eight, Andrew Haigh on 15, and Vero Rupcic on 17.

The ladies near pins were Janeece Peters on eight and Michelle White on 17.

On Wednesday, Ken Kable won the day with 38 stableford points, and Cody Dixon was runner-up on 35 points.

Wednesday’s ball comp ran down to 30 points, in-

cluding Geoff Murphy 35, Jayden Brown 31, Stephen Jermyn 30, and Soeron Stoettrup 30.

Near pins were Cody Dixon on 15 for the men, and Jan O’Halloran on 8 and Kylie Woodcock on 17 for the ladies.

The men’s match play draw, nett and scratch, will be posted on the Facebook page and website by Tuesday afternoon, and all members should have received the email with the draws.

Everyone in round one must complete their first round draws by the end of July, the second round draws by the end of August, and the third round draws by the end of September.

All members are advised

that club membership renewals are now payable, and you must pay before the end of July, or you will incur a penalty fee.

All players are advised to read the whiteboard for the latest local rules after recent work has been completed around the course.

Members are advised that they should be aware of the club’s and golf etiquette.

Players on Sunday wished stalwart club members Betty and Ross Thompson a happy birthday, Betty on Sunday and Ross on Monday.

Ross was generous enough to find most members on Sunday morning and offer them a winter warmer nip of rum to help their day and celebrate the birthdays.

Nearest the pin went to Brad Yelds. Golden shot was shared between Wayne Elton and James Baker.

With a number of places very wet on the course, the committee is asking golfers to keep carts off these areas.

Program for the week

Ladies

Wednesday, 25 June - stableford, club trophy

Members Saturday, 28 June - stableford, club trophy ind acc Sunday, 29 June - par, B. Weston trophy

Cooma golfers contest stableford

PHIL Amey has won the Cooma Golf Club’s Saturday stableford with a solid 36 points. David Stewart took out A grade with 34 points, Tony Clark won B grade with 34 points and Warren Bray claimed C grade with 35 points.

Place-getters were Alan Kelly, Mitch Hynes, David Robinson, Claire Caldwell, Wayne Flynn and Stephen Young.

Nearest to the pin went to Hynes on nine and Stewart on 17.

The four-ball-best-ball multiplier was won by Amey and Warren Bray.

The weekly stableford

competition held on Wednesday, 18 June was won by Wayne Flynn. He finished with a score of 36 points.

The runner-up was Steve Wheatley after a score of 33.

Barry Williams claimed nearest the pin on 17.

Place-getters went to Barry Williams, Mark Rainsford, Jenny Rainsford, John Harris, David Stewart, Alexandre Courtillat, Simon Allen, Gino Gerro, Gary Batten and Chippy Boller. This weekend, both competitions are stableford events.

Colts under 14 forward, Isiah Peisley, charges ahead for his side. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

Stallions fall short in thrilling finish

HERITAGE ROUND CELEBRATES 1993 PREMIERSHIP SIDE

By NATHAN THOMPSON

A FAST-finishing Cooma Stallions couldn’t run down the Eden Tigers in an exciting first grade clash on Saturday.

With a large crowd on hand as the Stallions celebrated heritage round, a late try to halfback, Keegan Caldwell, almost delivered a thrilling finish.

The Cooma Showground was brimming with Stallions cheer as

the club honoured its 1993 reserve grade premiership side and ladies day.

The Stallions first grade outfit had the better of the first half but Eden proved too strong, winning 28-20.

In the opening 40 minutes, the home side controlled the ball well and capitalised when given the chance inside Eden’s attacking zone.

The Stallions crossed for the

opener after producing one of their favourite plays close to the line. A nice short ball from hooker, Luke Bracher, found captain and prop, James Cahill, who barged over next to the posts.

Prop, Richard Bensley, led up front with strong carries. He, along with backrowers, Tristan Hamilton and Riley Casey, laid a solid platform for the outside backs.

Centre, Mitch Sullivan, broke through the defence to put Cooma

again in an attacking spot.

A few plays later, a nice Stallions backline play to the left saw Casey crash over for the side’s second try.

The Stallions took a 14-10 lead into halftime. Eden started the better of the sides in the second half, racing in two quick tries.

Eden’s backs were hard to handle and the visitors extended their lead to 28-16.

Despite a late resurgence from the Stallions, the side couldn’t

CELEBRATION: The Cooma Stallions held its annual ladies day on Saturday. Stallions first grade captain, James Cahill, walks onto the field with his daughter and partner.

PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

overturn the difference.

All Stallions sides head to Batemans Bay on Sunday.

Best for the Stallions was Bensley who received three points and players’ player.

Cahill collected two points and one point went to Hamilton and Caldwell.

A highlight of the match was the first grade debut of Mitch McMahon who was solid off the bench.

Tristan Hamilton receives his special jersey from dad, Steve Hamilton.

The Stallions heritage round celebrations featured the 1993 premiership side. Five-eight in that side was Darren Peisley, he presents Liam Rankin with his heritage round jersey.

Stallions first grade centre, Mitch Sullivan, looks to beat an Eden defender during the first half.

Bushpigs community gives generously

WHEN the Jindabyne Rugby Union Club holds a fundraiser, it certainly never disappoints.

The club has again delivered anther memorable legacy day event, this time raising money for their own. In previous years, the rugby union community has raised more than $100,000 for charities and groups in the Snowy Mountains.

On Saturday, the Jindabyne community generously reached into its pockets to raise more than $30,000 for the club. The funds will support ongoing projects and future infrastructure needs, not only for the club but for the community.

The majority of the fundraising effort came through the auctioning of Jindabyne Miss Piggies and Bushpigs playing jerseys. The special jerseys generated feverish bidding at the legacy dinner event held following the day’s on-field action.

Special guest at the dinner was Wallaby prop, Angus Bell, who shared stories of his career with the audience.

While the results were mixed with the Miss Piggies defeating Bungendore and the Bushpigs losing, the night was definitely a success.

Eden Klemm of the Miss Piggies auctions off her playing jersey.

PHOTO: Supplied At the legacy day dinner, the Miss Piggies players gather for the occasion. PHOTO: Supplied

a Bungendore play backwards.

Bushpig prop and captain, Billy Small, looks to

TOUGH: The Jindabyne Bushpigs came up against a strong Bungendore side at John Connors Oval on Saturday. PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

Snowy Bears bounce back

RUGBY LEAGUE

THE Snowy River Bears are now just one win outside the top four following a 20-10 win over Googong.

The Bears bounced back from last round’s defeat with a strong team showing delivering the side’s third win from five matches.

Two tries to winger

Joshua Dyball and one to hooker Tui Samoa led the Bears to an away win.

The victory keeps the side in close reach of the top four with a big clash ahead this Saturday at John Connors Oval against Crookwell.

Crookwell sits in fifth on the ladder, on the same points as the Bears with three wins and two losses.

A win should take either side into the top four as the race for the finals heats-up.

Kick-off at 2.30pm.

In the Bears ladies’ league-tag fixture, despite an improved performance, the side lost a close match to Googong 14-8.

The team faces a strong Crookwell side on Saturday at John Connors Oval. Kickoff at 1.15pm.

The Bears men’s side can jump into the top four with a win at home this weekend.

Winter bowls rolls on

LAST Wednesday was a near perfect day for a roll up with friends. Many bowlers came along to enjoy the good greens and sunny conditions.

Rink 1: Bruce Stewart and Graham Vale (visitor) led 9-6 over Mary Bowerman and Don Menchin in the early stages. However, the game changed and after end 17, Mary and Don led by 20-10.

Final score was 20-15.

Rink 2: Mick Boyce, Max Butler and Col Roberson were even with Wendy Spender, Bruce McDermott and Judy Locker for 15 ends.

Then the former scored 6 and 2 to lead 23-12. Final score 24-16 to Colin’s team.

Rink 3: Carmel McDermott, Bob Douglass and Leonie Snell were up 4-0

after three ends, then down 4-14 after eight ends against Wendy Nixon, Diane Wilkins and Steve Bowerman.

A big fightback ensued and after 15 ends, the score was 15-14 to Steve’s team. They hung on to win 20-15.

Men’s minor pairs nomination forms are now on the board. All men are eligible to nominate.

Stallions celebrate

BACK TOGETHER: Players from the Cooma Stallions 1993 premiership winning reserve grade side reunited as the club celebrated heritage round.

CLUB EMBRACES HERITAGE ROUND, LADIES DAY

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THERE was plenty to celebrate for the Cooma Stallions over the weekend with the club embracing heritage round and ladies day.

The Stallions paid tribute to women of the club - from players, volunteers, supporters and family - with its annual ladies day again a popular event.

In a special moment, first grade players walked onto the Cooma

Showground with their partners, daughters and mothers by their side.

Heritage round festivities saw the Stallions 1993 reserve grade premiership winning side reunite.

The majority of players from the team came together to reminisce about the season and a successful period for the club, which saw reserve grade defend its title to win the 1994 premiership.

Captain/coach of the 1993 side,

Dean Lynch, spoke of the side’s camaraderie and talent in the squad.

Members of the side presented the current first grade squad with special heritage round jerseys, featuring the names of the 1993 players on the back.

On the field, there were mixed results for the club with the Fillies and first grade defeated by Eden, while reserve grade bounced back to win a tight game.

The first grade clash was an en-

tertaining match with the Stallions losing 28-22. A try to halfback, Keegan Caldwell, in the dying stages put the Stallions within a converted try however the side was left to rue a slow start to the second half where Eden crossed twice inside 10 minutes.

Reserve grade won 24-18 with strong efforts from forwards Jake Byrne and Tyrell Bartlett, and halfback, Jack Newson.

A highlight of the match was

Cooma Colts president, Creedence Bartlett, playing alongside his sons Tyrell and Darnell.

In the league-tag, a strong Eden side put 44 points on the Fillies. Best for the Fillies were Ash Steinke and Brianna Rankin.

All Stallions sides head to Batemans Bay on Sunday for what shapes as important clashes. Each side sits just on the edge of a top five finals spot.

■ More on page 33

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson