Monaro

RFS issues warning Childcare proposal rejected

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

The Snowy Monaro fire season does not officially begin until 1 October, but the Rural Fire Service (RFS) is already on alert to the potential risk of grass fires in the Snowy Monaro region. This comes at the same time Fire Commissioners and Chiefs

released AFAC’s Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for spring.

AFAC is the Australian and New Zealand National Council for fire and emergency services.

Despite large parts of the country more likely to receive wetter than normal conditions, there remain parts of the east and west where there continues to be

a heightened risk of fire. With the change from winter to spring and the prevalence of highly flammable and combustible African Love Grass (ALG) in the region, measures to avoid fire risk should be implemented even before the October 1 bush fire danger period, according to RFS district

officer, Snowy Monaro, Inspector Langdon Gould.

“ALG is a highly flammable noxious weed that spreads easily through transport and stock movements, that is difficult to remove, burns with extreme intensity and can quickly regrow after rain and warmth,” he said.

■ Read more on page 3

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

Local families who have been left without a child care service since the recent closure of Milestones early learning centre in Cooma have been provided an update by the company, Affinity Education Group, on the progress of the potential new ownership of the centre.

A spokesperson for the group said on Monday despite discussions and a proposal put forward for a local operator to take over the lease, the proposal was rejected and as a result the lease will be terminated and the landlord will launch their own search for another operator to take on the centre.

“Affinity had reached agreement with another childcare operator to take over the running of the centre so that services could continue,” Affinity Education Group’s, Jade Seabury, said.

“The operator already manages another centre in Cooma, and we had hoped this would allow for a smooth transition.

“Late last Friday, however, we were advised by the landlord’s legal representative that they had decided not to approve this transfer, citing concerns about the operator’s experience.

“Affinity has now reached agreement with the landlord to terminate our lease, and we understand they intend to begin their own search for a new provider.”

■ Read more on page 5

WARNING: Vaino Keskula, Terry Oliviera, Ben Hayden and Ronnie Smith of the Cooma RFS.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

By TRISTA HEATH

The Snowy Monaro was strongly represented at this year’s NSW South East Busi ness Awards, with a number of local businesses recog nised for their excellence and contribution to the region.

Jindabyne’s Birchwood Cafe were the proud winners of the Excellence in Small Business award, owners, Laura and Kane Stamp, said it felt ‘incredibly rewarding’ to receive the recognition.

“Running a small business comes with a lot of unseen ef fort and long hours, so to be recognised at this level means a lot to us and our whole team,” Ms Stamp said.

“It is a huge honour. We are proud of what we have built and continue to build at Birchwood. This award is a reminder of how far we have come and that the work we do matters. Not just to us, but to our community and to the broader hospitality industry we are part of. We were up against some truly impressive small businesses, so to be rec ognised among them made it even more special.”

Ms Stamp said this award was judged on overall excellence, not just the outcomes but the depth of what goes into running a small business behind the scenes.

“The application process asked us to reflect on the past 12 months, what we set out

“We’ve learned a lot about our business and ourselves, made some tough calls and some great ones, and stayed focused along the way. At times, we’ve had to back ourselves, trust our instincts, and kept moving forward even when things felt uncertain.”

Snowy Monaro Businesses shine

showing up, doing the work, and embracing the wild ride of small business with a positive attitude and an open mind.”

Ms Stamp said a big thank you to their team for showing up every day and giving it their all. And to the local

coveted Business of the Year.

Owner of Wildbrumby Distillery, Monika Spalding, said it was a wonderful surprise to be recognised in multiple categories, especially given the strong competition, saying it was ‘an immense privilege to have its behind-thescenes efforts acknowledged

“Receiving Business of the Year is a tremendous honour and reflects the hard work, dedication, and consistency we’ve maintained over the

“It also highlights the deep roots we have in the Snowy Mountains community and our ongoing commitment to excellence, hospitality, and authentic local spirit,” Ms Spalding said.

“Our success stems from strong leadership and a dedicated team that truly cares about our customers.

“We value and recognise those who return to Wildbrumby year after year during their visits to the ski fields or hiking trails. After

we’re open and ready to welcome tourists, travellers, and snow enthusiasts alike.”

Ms Spalding said the awards reflect not just the work, but the strong support they receive from the local community - those who share the Wildbrumby experience with visiting friends and family.

“We also rely on local suppliers and wholesale customers, many of whom we consider neighbours and friends.”

RFS urges fire vigilance

Lovegrass fire warning ahead of warmer seasons

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

The Snowy Monaro fire season does not officially begin until 1 October, but the Rural Fire Service (RFS) is already alerting the public to the potential risk of grass fires in the region to residents and landholders.

This warning comes at the same time Fire Commissioners and Chiefs released AFAC’s Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for spring.

AFAC is the Australian and New Zealand National Council for fire and emergency services.

Despite large parts of the country more likely to receive wetter than normal conditions, there remain parts of the east and west where there continues to be a heightened risk of fire.

With the change from winter to spring and the prevalence of highly flammable and combustible African Love Grass (ALG) in the region, measures to avoid fire risk should be implemented even before the October 1 bush fire danger period, according to RFS district officer, Snowy Monaro, Inspector Langdon Gould.

“ALG is a highly flammable noxious weed that spreads easily through transport and stock movements, that is difficult to remove, burns with ex-

treme intensity and can quickly regrow after rain and warmth,” he said.

It has been a major problem in the Snowy Monaro for many years, particularly around Bredbo.

“It’s not only highly flammable, it spreads quickly, and makes grass fires burn hotter and as a result much harder to control.

“With hotter weather ahead, it’s more important than ever to stay alert and know how grass fires could impact the extended community,” Inspector Gould said.

“Fires in ALG areas have always been difficult to contain with its exceptionally high flammability. They show characteristics of being able to spread rapidly with great intensity, even under the most benign days of low temperatures and very little to no wind. Love grass combusts readily, meaning it’s also easy for it to ignite from things like hot work, welding, grinding, hot exhausts.”

Inspector Gould encourages residents to start preparing and planning their property’s fire survival plan and discussing with family about what to do in case of fire.

With the Monaro experiencing a lack of rainfall over the last 12 to 18 months, the dry conditions create a higher risk of grass fires occurring and of spreading quickly.

For more information about fire safety and how to prepare properties and establish a fire survival plan, visit rfs.nsw.gov.au or contact the Monaro RFS team on 6455 0455.

Jindabyne Seniors Group supports mcCr with donation

By TRISTA HEATH

Jindabyne Seniors Group hosted a lunch on Tuesday, 9 September to present the Monaro Committee for Cancer Research (mcCr) with funds raised through its annual The Biggest Morning Tea event in early July.

The Seniors Group president, Donna Kelleher, presented a cheque of $5127.30 to mcCr secretary, Gabrielle McFarland, alongside the Jindabyne Bowling Club manager, John Riordan.

“Thank you to the Jindabyne

Seniors Group for their amazing fundraising efforts,” Ms McFarland said.

“The funds will go towards the mcCr local families assistance scheme which aims to provide practical financial support for individuals or families struggling with the challenges of a cancer diagnosis and related treatment issues for the population of Snowy Monaro Regional Council.”

Ms Kelleher praised the Jindabyne community for their involvement in helping raise these funds.

“We wish to thank the Cooma and Jindabyne businesses that kindly donated to the Biggest Morning tea raffle and all the locals who participated and bought baked goods.

“We also thank the Jindabyne Bowling Club for hosting the Biggest Morning tea event and their support in making this happen.”

Mr Riordan said the club are proud to support community groups such as the Seniors Group in fundraising efforts for such a great cause.

Just make a decision: residents

Community frustrated over hostel delay

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Berridale residents are frustrated the future of the Snowy River Hostel remains in limbo, 18 months after expressions of interest closed for the future use of the site.

Residents are calling for the hos tel to remain in community hands following Snowy Monaro Regional Council closing the facility as a resi dential aged care home in January 2024, as part of its residential aged care divestment.

services through the re-purposing of the Snowy River Hostel in Berridale.

As the months tick by without a decision, residents are increasingly worried the hostel will be sold.

“The process has gone on for far too long. The community is worried that council wants to sell the site,” Berridale resident and member of the Snowy River Hostel steering committee, Cheryl Mould, said.

“Our community doesn’t want to lose this asset. We have waited for over 18 months for a decision, we just want one made.

“We desperately need aged care services here in Berridale to support the town and those living nearby.”

Expressions of interest closed at the end of February 2024, after council called for submissions to provide short-term respite care or similar

Cooma Challenge, a local not-forprofit organisation, submitted the only expression of interest. Cooma Challenge delivers NDIS and aged care services across the Snowy Monaro.

Cooma Challenge CEO, Angela Ingram, said the organisation is hopeful of taking on the Snowy River Hostel to provide much-needed aged care services in the region.

“We put in an expression of interest to provide NDIS and aged care services to the people of Berridale, Jindabyne and Dalgety,” Ms Ingram said.

“We believe we are best placed to provide these non-residential services to support people living at home.

“Cooma Challenge is hopeful council looks favourably upon our

Cooma Challenge was asked to provide further information, which they did in August 2024. Ms Ingram delivered a presentation to councillors and council staff last month.

Mrs Mould said she is disappointed council will not consider the hostel’s future at this week’s meeting.

“Some residents were told by council that the matter would come before council at its September meeting,” she said.

At the time of going to print, the matter had not been included in council’s business papers.

This masthead put a number of questions to council regarding the EOI process, condition the hostel is currently in and when the community could expect a decision. Council declined to comment, saying ‘there is no further information to share at this stage’.

Axed program to hurt businesses

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Snowy Monaro business expert, Fiona Latham-Cannon, believes the NSW Government’s decision to cut a key support program will hinder the efforts of local businesses and discourage new businesses from starting.

The Business Connect program will cease on September 30, a move Ms Latham-Cannnon says is short-sighted and will place further stress on Snowy Monaro business owners.

Ms Latham-Cannon has spent the last three years working as a business advisor with Enterprise Plus, a not-for-profit group delivering business support programs for the state and federal governments, including the NSW Business Connect program.

Ms Latham-Cannon said the program provided independent, tailored advice to business operators. She is dismayed the state government has defunded the service.

“Cutting the program is disgraceful,” Ms Latham-Cannon said.

“There was no warning this was coming. The numbers stack-up, it shouldn’t have been considered to be punted.”

Ms Latham-Cannon’s position as a Business Connect advisor finished last week, despite there being increased demand for the

program from local businesses.

“12 months worth of advertising has been spent in the last three months. We have seen increased interest in the program,” she said.

“It’s a hard place with new businesses wanting support but we are no longer able to provide it.”

At a time when new business owners are faced with increasing challenges to open their doors for the first time, Ms Latham-Cannon said cutting Business Connect has caused worry across the region.

“Our clients are angry the program has been cut,” Ms Latham-Cannon said.

“Anxiety is through the roof currently. There is no program of its type to replace it.

“The program provided individual support and advice, business owners lose that valuable support. Being in small business is very stressful, this will not help.”

In NSW Budget Estimates last week, Small Business Minister, Janelle Saffin, caused further upset to the business community when she suggested operators could ‘just Google’ business advice when she was questioned on why the NSW Government had scrapped the program.

“The comments from the minister are an absolute insult. It made me angry and upset,” Ms Latham-Cannon said.

Child care centre proposal rejected

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

Local families who have been left without a child care service since the recent closure of Milestones early learning centre in Cooma have been provided an update by the company, Affinity Education Group, on the progress of the potential new ownership of the centre.

“Affinity had reached agreement with another childcare operator to take over the running of the centre so that services could continue. The operator already manages another centre in Cooma, and we had hoped this would allow for a smooth transition,” Affinity Education Group’s, Jade Seabury, said.

“Late last Friday, however, we were advised by the landlord’s legal representative that they had decided not to approve this transfer, citing concerns about the operator’s experience.

“Under the lease arrangement, the landlord’s approval is required, and they are within their rights to make this decision.

“As a result, Affinity has now reached agreement with the landlord to terminate our lease, and we understand they intend to begin their own search for a new provider.”

Ms Seabury added this news was disappointing,

and “not the outcome we had been working so hard to achieve”.

“We remain committed to supporting families and educators through this transition,” she said, “and we will continue to work constructively with the landlord and any future operator to help secure continuity of care for the community.”

Ms Seabury said Affinity Education Group will continue to share updates with parents as soon as more information becomes available.

Before these latest developments were announced this masthead contacted Affinity Education Group to seek further clarification on the closure as many impacted parents were left feeling abandoned and unsatisfied with the action by the company.

“The closure this has impacted the whole community,” a concerned parent said last week.

“The other centres available are now at capacity and there are no other options available for the families. Additionally there were staff who also had their own children there and are now unable to find suitable work as they also have to provide care for their children.

“My husband and I both work full-time and are trying to juggle working and finding care for both of our children between family and friends.

“This is now an ongoing stress and with the cost of living issues, reducing our work is not really a feasible option.

“I have always had concerns with the upper management of Affinity Learning and believe they could have done a lot more earlier to avoid this devastating outcome.

This resulted in staff burn out, amazing educators leaving and several incidents impacting the children’s safety. It was very rare that the senior level management attended the centre to provide additional support.”

The parent said at one point the operator did arrange for staff to support Cooma Milestones from their other centres.

“However they didn’t advise the families and our children struggled with multiple unfamiliar faces and frequent change.

“During the initial notifications of the reduced hours and closure the families and educators were given only a few weeks notice to make alternative arrangements.

“Additionally I believe they re-located some staff and then subsequently closed not long after.

“The notifications we received were very vague, financially focused and I can only assume the staff were having a similar experience to the families.

Cooma parent and earlychildhood educator, Arielle Savill, had two children enrolled full-time at Milestones Cooma, and was also a staff member who was made redundant.

The closure has brought on an instant child care crisis for families with the lack of services available, she said.

“Parents have been forced to cut work or quit.

“Without care, parentsincluding me - are reducing hours, taking unpaid leave, or considering leaving jobs altogether.

“This is a big hit to household income and local businesses that rely on us.

“For me, as an educator and a parent, I’ve lost my position and my children’s care at the same time.

“It has financially and emotionally impacted us.

“There simply aren’t enough places in Cooma to absorb all these kids,” she said.

made quickly, however, is a result of sustained staffing shortages that have made it not viable to continue to operate the centre safely and consistently.

“Over the past year, we’ve invested heavily in keeping the centre open.

“This has included flying in staff from Sydney at our expense, covering accommodation, offering paid visa sponsorships of up to $12,000 to support long-term re-location to Cooma, and more recently reducing opening hours to help ease pressure on the local team and prevent burnout.

“Despite these efforts, we have not been able to maintain a stable, permanent team and without that, we have reached the point where without the team we need, we cannot continue to guarantee the standards of quality and care that families rightly expect and deserve.”

“Ultimately our children’s early childhood education and social aspects have been impacted by this closure with little to no support from Affinity Learning.

“We need urgent, co-ordinated action to open extra places and support local services to take these families now,” she said.

The spokesperson said the company takes its commitment of the highest standards of care and education seriously.

“We observed staff working full day shifts and for a long day care operation, I would estimate they were working up to 11 hours a day.

“We are though very grateful for the support and efforts of the educators over the last few years to provide care for our children.”

Affinity Education Group has responded stating despite their best efforts, the difficult decision was made to close Milestones Early Learning Cooma, effective 1 August.

“This is not a decision that has been taken lightly or

“Given the ongoing workforce constraints that, despite all our efforts, we have not been able to materially improve over the past year, continuing under current conditions would risk compromising those standards, which we are not prepared to do.”

GREG COWELL LANDSCAPING

Application number 16.2025.54.1

Property address

289 Bobundara Road, Berridale NSW 2628

Legal description Lot: 2 DP: 788154

Applicant Hundon Pty Ltd

Development application 10.2025.54.1

Consent authority

Snowy Monaro Regional

to learn more.

Land claim on former school site

Aboriginal land councils seek unused Jindabyne Crown land

By NATHAN THOMPSON

The site of the former Jindabyne Central School is currently subject to two Aboriginal land claims - one by the Bega Local Aboriginal Council and the other from the NSW Aboriginal Land Council.

The former school land, located on Park Road Jindabyne (close to the town’s CBD), was used by the NSW Department of Education up until the end of last year.

A new education campus opened on the Barry Way, incorporating the Jindabyne Public School and Jindabyne High School.

In January this year, the Bega Local Aboriginal Land Council lodged its claim and in March, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council lodged another.

Chair of the Bega Local Aboriginal Land Council, Marcus Mundy, said the council has put forward a claim in the hope of unlocking the unused land.

“Our people who have cultural connections to this Country here in Jindabyne do not have access to this land. They cannot access housing or employment and do not have the ability to share our culture or history, or establish economic ways to ben-

efit from the land,” Mr Mundy said.

“By unlocking this unused land, it will enable our people to share culture, practice culture, and establish enterprises.

“This will positively impact not only our people but the wider Jindabyne community.”

The chair of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Raymond Kelly, said he hopes the land is returned to the Bega Aboriginal land Council to improve the health and social outcomes for Aboriginal people in Jindabyne and Snowy Monaro.

“While this specific claim is currently one of the more than 42,00 unresolved claims, NSWALC is currently working with the state government to ensure these are processed as quickly as possible, with the land returned to the LALC to commence Aboriginal management,” Mr Kelly said.

“We hope to see this site returned to Bega LALC so it can support economic, social and cultural outcomes for our people. A process that will benefit the entire community.

“NSWALC is deeply committed to supporting all of the 121 Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs) to ensure land and assets that are part of a land claim process are

TRAFFIC ADVICE:

THE NEWEST TBM COMPONENTS ARE ON THE MOVE!

returned to the local community in which it is situated.

“Through the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW) (ALRA), a Land Claim refers to “disused” Crown Land that is not being used or maintained by the Government.

The Jindabyne site satisfied

Major components for the newest Snowy 2.0 Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) are starting to arrive. Large loads will be transported via Cooma and the Snowy Mountains Highway for delivery at the Marica work site near Yarrangobilly Caves.

All oversize components will be transported with appropriate escorts. These moves may involve minor delays for motorists. Please adhere to directions from pilot vehicles and NSW Police. To minimise road disruptions, loads wider than 4 metres will travel on the delivery route at night.

Throughout 2025 an 2026, there will be an increase in heavy vehicle deliveries to and from Snowy 2.0 remote work sites.

Please take care when driving around the Snowies.

For travel times and more detailed information on project truck movements, scan the QR code.

Please note, the timing of these deliveries may be subject to change.

For more information, contact the 24-hour Snowy 2.0 Community Infoline - 1800 766 992

this term as it was unused Crown land.”

Under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council and Local Aboriginal Land Councils have a statutory right to lodge land claims on Crown land.

Once lodged, land claims

must be assessed against strict non-discretionary statutory criteria in the Act, including whether the land is Crown land that was lawfully used or occupied at the time of the claim, or was needed for an essential public purpose.

If the land is found to be lawfully used, occupied, or likely to be needed for an essential public purpose, the land claim will be refused. If a land claim is granted, the Crown land is transferred as freehold land to the ownership of the claimant land council.

Park

ROTARY SPRING MARKETS

SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER

All the usual favourite stalls

Come and help celebrate Spring! Everyone welcome. Stall holders from 7am, markets open at 9am until 1:30pm See you all there with a little SPRING in your step.

UNUSED: The former site of the Jindabyne Central School is the centre of two claims by Aboriginal Land Councils.

PHOTO: Trista Heath

Rebuilding Selwyn from scratch

Lucy BlytonGray tells her story to Women In Winter event

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

Taking time out from a very busy schedule, Lucy BlytonGray, general manager of Selwyn Snow Resort and Charlotte Pass, travelled to Mt Buller in Victoria to be a guest panellist at the annual Women In Winter event.

The event was attended by more than 50 women (and some men) last week on an evening where guests in some places were climbing over mounds of snow with more threatening through the night.

The snowfields across Australia are currently experiencing the best winter season for many years.

For Lucy Blyton-Gray it was a levelling experience giving her views on what has been a journey of recovery following the 2020 bushfires in NSW and rebuilding a complete snow resort from scratch.

Lucy described how devastating it was to view the remains of what had been a busy ski resort brought to ashes.

Lucy took on her current role as general manager at Charlotte Pass earlier this year but is no stranger to this special snowbound ski area. She’s done almost every job there except for driving the over-snow.

Her family bought Charlotte Pass

a crisis – such was the case when Selwyn was completely wiped out in the 2020 bushfires.”

During the question and answer time of the event all guests were asked what they thought about climate change and what the future holds.

Lucy said that climate change was being looked at, predicting what each season may bring is impossible.

“The years 2022 and 2025 have been the best years ever – we just don’t know; seasons could go either way, going to great or crappy,” she said.

Lucy lives full time with her husband at Charlotte Pass, which is currently snowbound.

“The only way we can get off the mountain is by over-snow vehicles,” Lucy said.

“It is quite different to other resorts, which have road access.”

And when asked what attracted her to the mountains and skiing?

back in 2007 so the connection for her is a deep and personal one.

Lucy’s university studies were in business management and she went on to become a chartered accountant with stints working at Ernst & Young in risk and assurance, then with Westpac before coming back to the family business at Selwyn Snow Resort following the bushfires.

She said there was absolutely nothing left and even the sewerage system had been destroyed by the intense fires.

It took some three and a half years to rebuild the resort to what

it is today – a thriving ski resort once again.

She said the best years for a long time had been 2022 (with rebuilding still underway) and again this year.

Getting people back to the resort had been a big effort, especially after a couple of bad snow seasons – 2023 and 2024 – but this year has seen a resurgence in visitors with plenty of snow.

She told this publisher that the resort had gained a bushfire recovery grant of $1 million which restored the car park area only.

The remainder of the rebuild had to come from insurances and family support.

Lucy described her strengths gained from the experiences and how she had been supported by her husband, family and employees.

“To gain strength you identify the gaps between what you are and what are related to you, and what you want to achieve,” Lucy said.

“Identify the areas you are not familiar with and push through –you will get there in the end.

“There is always a solution to

“I was privileged to have grown up in resort management – it’s infectious and it can be a lifetime course,” she said.

Again, she reiterated “you just push through the hard times to achieve where you want to be and what you want to gain,” she said.

Lucy talked about being called back to life in the mountains after a stint away and that is something many will connect with.

She currently serves on a number of boards connected to her community and industry and leads the team at Charlotte Pass –which is not just her work, it’s her home.

GROUP PANEL: The hosts and panel for the Mt Buller Women In Winter event (from left): Rhylla Morgan, BSL PR and Communications officer; Lesa Brown, Mt Buller Race Club; Sue George, Mt Buller Ski School manager; Michelle Stevenson, National Alpine Museum Australia manager; Lucy Blyton-Gray, general manager, Selwyn Snow Resort and Charlotte Pass; and Caroline Brauer, Snow Australia Women In Winter member.

PHOTO: Pam Zierk-Mahoney

Jindabyne’s CWA community ties crucial

SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY

By TRISTA HEATH

The Country Women’s Association of NSW (CWA) was established in 1922 with the aim of improving conditions for women living in rural areas.

Today, the organisation remains at the heart of regional towns, supporting community initiatives and families.

Yet in Jindabyne, both the Day Branch and the Evening Branch are contending with dwindling volunteer numbers, threatening the vitality of local programs that rely on member involvement.

The Jindabyne Day Branch’s mission is to support local families and women through education and community activities.

Branch members say their fundraising directly benefits the community, including disaster relief efforts both in Australia and abroad.

“There is an evening branch and a day branch due to work commitments and the challenge of driving at night to CWA meetings from out of town,” the group said.

The Day Branch originally held meetings in the late afternoon but migrated to an earlier time to accommodate

more residents, leading to the formation of an Evening Branch for those with work commitments.

Among the branch priorities are providing companionship for women in the local area and opportunities to contribute beyond the town’s borders.

“Through connections, small communities can support disadvantaged members and those in need,” the group said.

However, the reality in Jindabyne mirrors a common obstacle for regional CWA groups as membership is slipping.

The Day Branch reports 35 members, though not all are active, with a core group sus-

taining activities.

Smaller communities like Jindabyne face particular challenges in recruitment, even as the town continues to grow.

“We are continuing to grow our membership and help the community,” the Day Branch said, pointing to initiatives such as the Jindabyne Art Group and other activities that engage schools and foster a sense of companionship and community spirit.

The Jindabyne Evening Branch shares a similar outlook, focusing on friendship, fellowship, and learning, while aiding marginalised groups and raising funds for disaster relief.

Their programs include supporting local needs and medical research, assisting at community events and emergencies, and sharing games, handicraft, and cooking tips.

The Evening Branch credited Chrissi Webb with initiating the concept to enable working women to participate, noting that both branches attend CWA Monaro Group events and state events, including the annual conference.

“The Evening Branch does not handle catering unless asked by the Day Branch, but we advocate locally and at the state level for improvements to the lives of women and families in our area,” the

group said.

They also highlighted how CWA serves as a welcome resource for new residents and a platform for connection, questions about services, and a sense of instant support.

Looking ahead, the Evening Branch outlined a busy year, with planned meetings featuring guest speakers, themed discussions, and local and Canberra outings, in addition to a trivia fundraiser on Saturday, 25 October at the Jindabyne Bowling Club.

They will continue participating in Monaro Group activities, international dinners, and Christmas dinners.

“We look forward to another great year of supporting

our community and having a lot of fun while doing it,” they said.

The Jindabyne CWA’s situation underscores a broader trend confronting regional branches nationwide: the need to recruit and retain volunteers to sustain the programs that help families, nurture education, and provide vital disaster relief.

As the organisation contends with changing demographics and associations perceived by some as an “old ladies’ group,” the Jindabyne branches insist that CWA remains relevant and adaptable, inviting women of all ages and backgrounds to join and contribute to a resilient, connected community.

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Jindabyne CWA Evening Branch members.

keep their valuable community initiatives alive. Pictured, Jindabyne CWA Day Branch members. PHOTOS: Supplied

Rezoning DAs headline busy council meeting Council briefs

Road costs

Councillor Tricia Hopkins has requested further information on the anticipated costs for council acquiring land for the Bobeyan Road upgrade.

The Chief of Infrastructure and Projects response said council has an allocation of $700K for this process, based on indicative Public Works estimates.

This process is in early stages and final expenses will be finalised in the future.

Sale of land

Cr Reuben Rose has asked council to provide further details on the sale of lot 21, an area along Mittagang Road in Cooma North.

Cr Rose asked if affected residents were consulted prior to the sale of the block. In reply, council staff said the area sold (770.4 m2 of road corridor) was done so in line with the legislative requirements and a council resolution.

The applicant, as the adjoining landowner, had their proposal publicly tabled via the business paper ahead of the council meeting.

Affected residents were consulted in accordance with the Roads Act 1993 NSW.

By NATHAN THOMPSON

A proposed freight transport facility on Carlaminda Road, Cooma, and an application to rezone land adjacent to a large Jindabyne residential subdivision will come before Snowy Monaro Regional Council this week.

Council’s monthly meeting will be held on Thursday in Jindabyne where six development applications will be considered.

An application for a heavy vehicle facility near the Polo Flat industrial area on Carlaminda Road, proposes to construct a gravel hardstand area for the parking of up to 15 trucks.

The land is zoned RU1 primary production and is currently vacant land used for grazing and pasture with no current buildings on the site.

The applicant is seeking council approval for traffic movements from the site between 4am and 8pm on a daily basis.

Especially our own Aussie singers. Many of 2MNO’s presenters play country music.

Thursdays are a particular country music day from 10am through to 4pm, non-stop.

But that’s not all. Look up 2mno.org.au/programs for more country music programs.

You’ll be surprised and delighted.

The report before council said the traffic impact statement indicated a 24-hour operation.

The development does not propose any permanent structures or lighting on the site.

Councillors will also vote upon an application to rezone land on the Barry Way to allow for 26 large residential lots. The land is currently zoned C3 environmental management with the application requesting its change to R5 large lot residential.

The subject site is located at 415-417 Barry Way, Jindabyne.

The site has access via the adjoining large lot residential subdivision that will provide vehicular access from Barry Way. The site is currently used for stock grazing and horse riding.

The area of land to be rezoned forms part of Lot 111 DP 756686 and is located directly adjacent to an approved 113 large lot residential subdivision, which comprises of stages 1-4.

POST & RAIL

Who will provide assistance?

I write about issues I have been experiencing with Snowy Monaro Regional Council regarding impact to my property.

After the subdivision of 22 and 24 Cromwell Street Cooma NSW, a survey was taken. A second survey, taken before any building work on 24a Cromwell Street began, matched that taken originally.

When I sold my original house at 20 Cromwell Street Cooma, the new owners took many photographs that match the survey along the 20/24a boundary.

Two years after their purchase, they removed soil to lower the land on their side of the boundary adjacent to my balcony and took a new collection of photos of their new land levels.

Neighbours then alleged that I had raised the level on my land across the boundary. The neighbour’s own original photos and professional survey of 24a contradict that allegation.

Despite my protests, council declined to release their own records. It took the intervention of the legal branch of the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal for council eventually to release the bogus claims neighbours reported, stories on which council had acted without checking.

Council staff involved still remain silent. Short term CEO filed my records, unread, and threatened to place me on council’s unreasonable complainants conduct register.

Where is a councillor who will check my records?

Janet Stalvies Cooma

Berridale CWA needs your help

In CWA Awareness Week it seems fitting to remind everyone of the good that the CWA has done in Berridale in the last 94 years.

This year CWA Awareness Week in 2025 from Sunday, 7 September and Saturday, 13 September was again the platform to draw attention to the issues and challenges facing our regional and rural communities. It’s a chance to encourage thought and debate at a local and state level around solutions to such challenges.

Awareness Week in 2025 was about promoting the benefits of seasonal eating, focusing on the urgent need to change how we think about, purchase and consume food. It will be a time to discuss the importance of reducing food waste in Australia and improving food security for all Australians.

According to Foodbank, more than 7.6 million tons of food go to waste each year. It costs the nation $36.6 billion despite 70 per cent of it being perfectly edible, while 640,000 households in NSW and ACT experience severe food insecurity. This is felt more acutely in the regions, with 36 per cent of households

compared to 28 per cent in metropolitan areas.

This year, the campaign has two ambassadors to help spread the message, with Orange-based food writer and seasonal eating advocate, Sophie Hansen, and food relief organisation Foodbank’s CEO, Brianna Casey, both partnering with the CWA of NSW.

A big motivation for people to learn to make the most of food they spend their money on, is to reduce waste, and make your household budget go further. At the CWA Berridale we’re also concerned about the number of households experiencing food insecurity in regional and rural areas.

Things need to change and following this Awareness Week you can turn your focus to these issues, and showing our community how they can make a big difference, not only in your own homes, but in their communities and for other Australians.

CWA Berridale meet the first Wednesday of every Month at 9 Myack Street, Berridale.

HEY RON? ANY PLANS FOR THIS WEEK?

Louise Hendricks Berridale

Photo of the week

Our photo of the week is sure to put a smile on your face. Wellknown Cooma brothers, Kristian and Kyle Sandercoe, have added more medals to their trophy cabinet following impressive runs in the multi-class event at the state championships.

Kristian claimed gold and Kyle bronze. Both love their skiing and have won many medals across their years competing.

Church service times

Cooma Baptist: 10am Sunday

St Patrick’s Catholic Parish: 10am Sunday, Weekday mass 10am Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays

St Paul’s Anglican Parish of Cooma: 9.30am Sunday

St Andrew’s Cooma Uniting: 9.30am Sunday

Lifegate Christian Church Cooma: 9:55am second and fourth Sunday each month, 4pm first and third Sunday each month

Cooma Presbyterian Church: 9am Sunday

St John’s Anglican Adaminaby: 3pm first and third Sunday each month

St Peter’s Anglican Nimmitabel: 11.30am third Sunday each month

St Andrew’s Catholic Nimmitabel: Saturday vigil mass 5pm on the weekend of the fifth Sunday Alpine Uniting Church Jindabyne: 9.30am Sunday

Columbkille Catholic Church, Jindabyne: Mass 5pm Saturdays Village Church Jindabyne: 5pm Sunday

All Saints Anglican Church Berridale: 9.30am Sunday

All Saints Numeralla: second Sunday of the month liturgy 5pm, Fourth Sunday of month 5pm mass

St Matthias’ Bombala: 9am every Sunday

St Philip’s Delegate: 11am every third Sunday

St Matthew’s Bibbenluke: 3pm every 4th Sunday

If your church would like to be added to this list, please contact us editor@monaropost.com.au

Nathan Thompson (02) 6452 0312 editor@monaropost.com.au

JOURNALISTS

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

www.monaropost.com.au

The Monaro Post welcomes your thoughts and feedback on issues in the Snowy Monaro community.

If you have a story lead or prepared article and photographs you’d like published contact the Group Editor Nathan Thompson on (02) 6452 0312 or call in to the Monaro Post office at 59 Vale Street between 9-5pm Monday to Friday. We also welcome letters to the editor.

Melinda Cairns Hack (Cooma) (02) 6452 0312

mcairnshack@monaropost.com.au

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

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

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Aasta Arctander aasta@monaropost.com.au

Kristian and Kyle Sandercoe.

PHOTO: Jan Sandercoe Life on the funny farm

By Paul Dorin

Snowy 2.0 names fourth TBM

Monica’s artwork wins Indigenous naming comp

The fourth mega tunnel boring machine on the Snowy 2.0 project will be named after a talented Tumut High School student who scooped top prize in an Indigenous art and storytelling competition.

Aspiring engineer, Monica Brimmer, 15, wowed the judging panel with a stunning piece that reflected the spirit and purpose of Australia’s largest renewable energy project.

Inspired by flowing water, connected dams, mountains, energy, an underground power station and a connection to Country, Monica’s creation was awarded top marks in the competition, organised by Snowy Hydro in partnership with the Stars Foundation and Tumut High School.

Cheered on by her delighted schoolmates during a special school assembly, Monica said her artwork represented the creation of renewable energy

and symbolised a ‘greener future in which the land and our animals are better cared for’.

“When my name was read out I felt nervous and surprised but also really proud. I had hoped to win the competition but I really didn’t expect it,” she said.

“Knowing there’s something really important to the project out there with my name, in the mountains, is really cool.

“I’ve been interested in engineering for quite a whileand it’s pretty cool to put art and engineering together as part of something I could put my mind to.”

Snowy Hydro chief delivery officer Snowy 2.0, Dave Evans, said the winning artwork perfectly encapsulated the project’s role in underpinning Australia’s clean energy future.

“Monica’s artwork and the story behind it blew all the judges away,” he said.

“The lightbulb shines bright and displays the power that we’re going to generate for the east coast of Australia through Snowy 2.0’s huge 2200MW ca pacity.

“It also perfectly highlights our workforce who are almost 1km deep underground in the Snowy Mountains build ing one of the world’s biggest power stations.”

Tumut High School prin cipal Brad Taylor said the calibre of entrants was excep tional.

“Monica is a highly aca demic student, and someone that we’re very proud of at the school, so I’m not surprised she’s produced such thought ful artwork,” he said.

The TBM will shortly be gin its assembly at the Mar ica work site, located on the Snowy Mountains Highway near Yarrangobilly Caves, ahead of tunnelling starting in late 2025.

Snowy Hydro million dollar milestone

Snowy Hydro is celebrating a significant milestone, with more than $1 million donated to local organisations in the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys and Towong regions through its Community Grants Program.

Snowy Hydro said the major achievement highlights Snowy’s ongoing commitment to the communities it operates in and comes as the latest round of funding opens for applications.

Since 2022, the Community Grants Program, which is open to applications twice a year, has supported a diverse range of local organisations and grassroots initiatives, helping to make a tangible difference to rural communities.

Community groups and not-forprofit organisations across the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, and Towong regions are now invited to apply for funding.

More than $200,000 in funding is available, with eligible applicants able to apply for grants of up to $10,000.

Snowy Hydro head of social impact and community, Sarah Norris, said achieving $1 million

in funding was a proud moment and a testament to the work of local organisations.

“This million dollar milestone represents hundreds of important local projects, from upgrades to local facilities, to new equipment for local hospitals. We’re incredibly proud of the organisations we support,” Ms Norris said.

“We’re looking forward to seeing what great ideas are submitted this round and we encourage any eligible group that has an initiative to apply.”

Earlier this year, more than 100 applications were received for the first round of funding in 2025 and this went to improving accessible living infrastructure in Cooma, support for the Tumbarumbra Spring Flower Festival, and the installation of security and technology upgrades at the Corryong Craft Shop.

Funding from Snowy Hydro recently helped local wildlife rescue group, LAOKO, to purchase two large animal enclosures that will provide a safe and secure space for injured and orphaned wildlife to be rehabilitated.

George, said that as a volunteerrun organisation, any funding they receive makes a huge difference to the outcomes for the native wildlife they care for.

“We don’t receive recurrent government funding, so this kind of support is invaluable. Thanks to this funding from Snowy, our trained volunteers

community groups must be a not-for-profit or charity with an Australian Business Number and the project, event or initiative must directly involve or support

WE SERVICE ANYTHING THAT HAS TO DO WITH TREES

At Snowy Monaro Tree Service, we help households, businesses and organisations with tree removal, tree trimming, wood chipping, stump grinding, mulching and forestry mulching, vegetation management, site and roadside clearing, and traffic control. Contact us for an inspection insurance claim or if your property has been damaged by trees in a storm.

September 2025 until 12 October 2025, with winners informed in late November. For more information and to apply, visit snowyhydro.com.au/ communitygrantsprogram.

Bagged Firewood

• Bagged Kindling

• Bagged charcoal • Bagged Ironbark –cooking

storytelling competition. The fourth Snowy 2.0 TBM will be named Monica in honour of TO: Snowy Hydro

SUPPORT: Country Universities Centre Snowy Monaro manager, Nadine Holland (left), and Snowy Hydro’s, Sarah Norris (right), hold a $5015 cheque which funded the Speak Up program earlier this year.

Top honour for school manager

Jindabyne Public School’s administration manager, Danielle Golby, has been honoured for her efforts, winning the top gong in the NSW School Support awards in the impact on school op erations category.

Ms Golby took out the hon our ahead of 400 other nomi nees.

Last week, public schools across NSW celebrated School Administrative and Support Staff (SASS) Recogni tion Week.

SASS staff hold a wide range of roles that are dis tinct from teaching but just as essential. They include school administration staff, school learning support of ficers, Aboriginal education officers, school counsellors, youth workers, library staff, and general assistants.

This year the Department of Education introduced the inaugural NSW School Support Staff Awards, to recognise those SASS who make an outstanding impact on operations, students or the community.

Danielle is a highly valued member of the Jindabyne Public School (formerly Jindabyne Central School) team. After working with the Department of Education for more than 14 years, she has

support to colleagues, stu dents and families.

Her nomination not only reflects her exceptional commitment to everyday responsibilities, but also highlights her leadership during the complex de-merger of Jindabyne Central School into two new schools. She expertly managed the accurate sharing and sorting of finances, assets and records while maintaining effective communication, all while supporting student outcomes. This often involved work-

ing late into the evening and on weekends to meet the required timelines. Danielle also ensured the school community, and their needs remained at the heart of everything she did.

SASS Recognition Week recognises and celebrates the efforts and impact of these vital contributions.

From the front office to the classroom and beyond, they bring warmth, care and commitment to ensure that every student feels welcome and given every opportunity to

Danielle’s recognition is a proud moment for Jindabyne Public School and the wider community. Her achievement not only reflects her personal dedication but also highlights her strength and commitment to the school as a whole.

“As we celebrate SASS Recognition Week, Danielle’s success reminds us of the invaluable role our support staff play in shaping the lives of young people in regional NSW,” a Jindabyne Public School spokesperson said.

“The hard work and care of support staff ensures schools like Jindabyne Public continue to thrive as welcoming, supportive places for students and families.”

Rural crime presentation

What do you know about rural crime? What measures can you take to prevent it from happening? How is rural crime tackled?

The ladies of Cooma’s Probus Club were recently enlightened and informed by the meeting’s guest speaker, Detective Michael Calleja, Rural Crime Prevention Team co-ordinator based in Goulburn.

Armed with sample bags of promotional and useful material, Detective Calleja talked about the theft of livestock, machinery and equipment and also about the use and storage of firearms.

Although the area he oversees is huge, extending from Goulburn and the Southern Highlands to the South Coast and to the Monaro, he commented that thankfully, crime is not out of control in the Monaro area.

However, the increasing use of drones suggests that properties are being observed.

Theft of livestock, especially by neighbours or employees can be difficult to prove however new radio tags allow access to the national livestock database which police can consult.

Equipment such as bikes, chainsaws, fuel and generators are temptations for opportunists, particularly drug users looking for a quick turnover, especially

Council updates

Loosen up to recycle right

Over winter we’ve seen a rise in the rate of recycling contamination in our region.

Putting the wrong thing in the wrong bin means all of your recyclables could end up being sent to landfill, instead of getting reused and repurposed.

The most common problem we saw this winter was recyclables in bags or boxes.

To make your recycling count, only place loose recyclables into your kerbside bin.

when items are housed in open bay sheds and with keys left in the ignition. Recording serial numbers of equipment is advised.

The storage of licensed firearms is paramount, is required by law and inspections are done to ensure security. If breaches are not rectified the firearms can be seized.

The helpful handbook titled ‘Tackling Rural Crime’ details how to go about preventing crime on rural properties. It also provides web addresses to access templates for farm security assessment, firearm registry and safe storage assessment, and also templates to use to report stock and fuel theft.

The booklet includes instructions and contacts for reporting rural crime.

It was a most interesting and eye-opening talk, not only for the Ladies Probus members who live on farms but also for those living in town. Probus ladies like to be kept informed on all matters and Probus is a great place to learn new things.

During the meeting Rosie Robertson was inducted into Cooma Ladies Probus Club by president, Liz Martyn, while guest Lorraine Brown and potential members, two Barbaras, Schubert and Menchin were welcomed.

As the weather warms there will be more social outings; a picnic and a high tea are anticipated soon. Details at the next meeting on Wednesday, 10 September at 10am in Cooma ExServices Club where a warm welcome is guaranteed.

Pedalling out this spring? Make your ride a safe one – for all of us.

Bike riders hitting the Jindabyne trails and shared paths this spring are asked to do their part to keep things safe and welcoming for other trail and path users. Please dismount and walk your bike when crossing the narrow roadside path over the Jindabyne Dam Wall.

It’s for your safety and the safety of others.

Public exhibition of development application 10.2025.212.1

Property address: Adventist Alpine Village 122 Tinworth Drive, Jindabyne NSW 2627

Legal description: Lot: 102 DP: 812902 Ph Clyde, Lot: 4 DP: 823491 Ph Clyde

Development proposal: Additional shortterm caravan and camping sites. Ten (10) manufactured cabins, recreation centre, amenities buildings, ancillary infrastructure including roadworks.

Applicant: Accent Town Planning

Consent authority: Snowy Monaro Regional Council

This application and accompanying documents are on display at all Council offices and online at https://qrco.de/ SMRC-DA or https://qrco.de/masterview for twenty-eight (28) days, ending Wednesday 15 October 2025.

Council is seeking community comment on this proposal. All submissions should be made in writing to CEO Noreen Vu.

Free end-of-life planning advice

Council is holding a free end-of-life planning drop-in information session at Bombala Community Centre on Friday 19 September 2025 from 10am to 12pm.

All are welcome, with free advice on offer about wills and estate planning, funeral services, burial and interment, and everything you need to plan ahead.

Connect with local service providers and staff from Council’s cemeteries team.

All submissions will be treated as a public document.

Any person making a submission is required to disclose any reportable political donations or gifts at the time of making the submission.

For more information, please contact Council’s development and planning department at our Jindabyne office. Visit https://qrco.de/DAinfo to learn more.

Dam wall safety reminder

Snowy Monaro

INFORMATIVE: Detective Michael Calleja, Rural Crime Prevention Team co-ordinator based in Goulburn chats with Elizabeth Apps (left) and Jan Freimanis.

PHOTO: Cooma Ladies Probus Club

Remembering Adela’s influence

Community stalwart an inspiration

The Monaro community lost one of its long time volunteers and well-known locals in July when Adela Roach, aged 97, passed away.

Adela has been fondly remembered for her many decades of community service, particularly to the Numeralla district.

Adela’s family has provided the following words about her remarkable life.

Adela was born in Glen Innes to parents Ida and Joe Joseph who owned a drapery shop. She was the third child of six, and attended high school at St Ursula’s College Armidale, a girls’ boarding school. She was academic and enjoyed sports like netball and was an A-grade tennis player.

The Second World War was happening when Adela was at high school, and she spoke about being rationed significantly. She recalled how each night the windows were blacked out in case of an attack from enemy aircraft.

She remembered this distinctly and said how much it upset her because her own brothers were away at war, and how many of her friends had lost fathers or brothers. Only a few years ago she mentioned again that the sniffling and crying of some of the girls in a dark dorm at night when they had been told that a loved one had been killed at the war, was something she could never forget.

Adela had a perfect attendance record at school except for the day peace was declared in 1945. She recalled vividly how she skipped school that day, and all the girls ran out of school and raced down to Armidale’s main street skipping, laughing and cheering as the church bells rang out and the whole town celebrated the declaration of peace.

After high school Adela returned to Glen Innes and worked in a solicitor’s office and then with Glen Innes Council. While there a memo went around council recruiting people to work on the Snowy Mountains Scheme. This was in 1951. It was 1000km from Glen Innes to Cooma, and Adela, a young, unmarried woman of Lebanese decent moved to Cooma to work with the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Authority.

There were about 30 women working with the Authority at the time. She worked in the payroll section and lived in the West Camp barracks with the other women. While there, she met Cyril ‘Stumpy’ Roach the love of her life, and they were married in 1954 in Glen Innes.

They actually kept the marriage a secret from her employer, because in those days if a woman was married she was not allowed to work. She had to give up her job when she became married.

So, Adela remained working at the Authority until she became pregnant, and had to resign before her pregnancy with their eldest child Maree showed. Around that time Cyril, who had been also working on the Snowy driving the big trucks, had changed over to payroll driver. He drove the pay master and guard into the mountain camps to pay the workers. Cyril mentioned that

REMEMBERED: Adela Roach left a lasting legacy on her family and community. Adela passed away in July aged 97.

PHOTOS: Roach family

the biggest pay they took in the mountains when he was there was £52,000. This was in cash, in the mid-1950s.

purchased their home at Numeralla. Maree, their eldest, was 12 and Kath, their youngest, was 2. Here they undertook the full-time business of the mail run, post office and the manual telephone exchange whilst raising six children. If anything happened, or you needed help in Numeralla, Adela was the one you would contact.

Although of limited means financially, when their close family friend Jim Alexander died in a tragic farming accident, they were determined to help his wife Mary who was widowed with six small children, the youngest only 10 months old.

They gifted two blocks of their land to Mary, thus allowing Mary to build a home across the road in Numeralla, and the Alexander children just blended in with the Roachs and vice versa. It was the same with the Agnew family who also had six children - everyone blended and all were good family people.

When arriving in Numeralla there were limited activities for the kids to do. So, the locals set about rebuilding the fallen down tennis courts. To raise money, Adela and Cyril set up tables and chairs throughout their home and held games nights on a regular basis.

The locals would attend, pay a fee and play euchre and dominoes to raise money to get the tennis courts functioning.

Cyril, along with Philip and Dennis Blyton and Rex Schofield, cut down trees to make the posts surrounding the tennis courts.

The council donated a roll of netting which encircled the courts until later when they were fully

until he became ill.

At one point, Adela was caring for a sick husband for four years prior to his passing in 1977, raising six children and working fulltime in the post office and telephone exchange.

By 1982 when the phone system was automated and the Numeralla post office closed, Adela was working basically 24 hours a day. The community gave her a wonderful thank you celebration and gifts for all her work in the business including a trip to New Zealand.

After a break from work in 1983, Adela became post mistress at Cooma North post office for 10 years.

On retirement she spent hours in her garden. Staying busy with the grandchildren who were at her home every afternoon after school, and the grandchildren from Sydney would be there for weeks every school holidays. She also watched them play their sport and was a regular at every fixture.

In April 2021 (COVID time) Adela learnt how to use an iPad. She was 92. She practised it most days but said she preferred being outside than working on a ‘computer’.

Adela did an enormous amount of work for her community. She was a firm believer in giving back to family, to the community and to anyone in need, even when she didn’t have much herself.

As part of Adela’s role with the Numeralla Cemetery Committee she worked extensively trying to identify the unnamed graves. She worked hard to get grants to ensure plaques were installed including at the burial site at Stockyard Creek where there were many children

Peak View Jerangle Cricket Club for a number of seasons. Many working bees were organised by her for the improvements at the Numeralla Hall.

Some of the committees Adela served were: secretary and treasurer of the Numeralla Hall Committee for 34 years; Numeralla Cemetery Committee for more than 40 years; treasurer of the Numeralla Tennis Club for 25 years; Numeralla District Association for 15 years; Numeralla CWA for seven years; Numeralla Folk Festival committee; member of the St Patrick’s Parish Council for two years; and at 89 years-old she was the treasurer of the Numeralla Fire Brigade.

Adela was nominated by her Numeralla community and selected to carry the Olympic torch at Nimmitabel in 2000. She was 72 years old. Adela was recognised for her community service by the Cooma Monaro Shire Council in 2006 when she was awarded Citizen of the Year.

Adela also did community service in other ways. She used to crochet rugs for the homeless and knit teddy bears for sick children. She made hundreds over the years. She always trimmed her crochet

rugs with a distinctive black shell stitch of five rows around the edge of each rug. She said it would make the people who used them feel more special.

About 10 years ago, Kath her youngest child was in Glebe, in inner Sydney, and it was early morning. She walked past an area where a homeless man often slept. He was there on this particular morning and was sleeping soundly, covered in one of Adela’s rugs with its distinctive black shell stitch around the edge. Her love and care for others spread far and wide.

Life for Adela was hard at times, but family and community were important. To countless people she gave, and never wanted anything in return. Adela lived a very full life and leaves cherished memories for many people.

Adela was a very private and humble person whose faith was incredibly important to her. For the past five years her daughter Regina gave up her work to look after Adela, so as she could remain in her own home at Numeralla around her family. Adela will be missed.

In recognition of her community efforts, Adela was chosen to carry the Olympic torch in the lead-up to the Sydney Olympics.

A proud grandmother, Adela watched her family’s sporting pursuits with much interest. She is with grandsons Damien Roach, Harry Roach and Nathan Boate.

Adela dedicated much of her time to knitting toys for sick children.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 To injure or harm, is to do what (6)

7 What is an illicit lover called (8)

8 To be borne on water, is to be what (6)

9 What is the use of more words than are necessary (8)

11 Name the purveyor of food or provisions (7)

13 What is a gross or stupid mistake (7)

15 What is a palebrown colour (7)

17 Which term describes the diameter of a bullet (7)

20 To be leading in, is to be doing what (8)

23 Which term suggests that one is having a meal (6)

24 What are inflatable rubber bags, used as children’s toys (8)

25 What is an instrumentality (6) DOWN

1 Name a renowned Australian bushranger, Ben ... (4)

2 Which monkey has a dog-like muzzle (6)

3 Name a carbonated soft drink (4)

4 What is a situation that is highly tragic (5)

5 What is a goatfish also known as (6)

6 To cover with glass, is to do what (5)

9 To be open to all the people, is to be what (6)

10 Which ancient officials performed clerical duties (7)

12 Name another term for riffraff (6)

14 What is sight also called (6)

16 Which element occurs in a pure state as charcoal (6)

18 To be chopping, is to be doing 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 a renowned game of football (5)

21 Who was the Australian Prime Minister 1966-67, Harold ... (4)

22 Which term describes “no one”, or the like (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

(a) Refusing to face unpleasant facts (b) Given to show (c) Forming a connecting link

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:

Biblical: to father (5)

Cricket: common sundry (3)

Exclamation mocking stupidity (3)

Fever-producing agent (7)

Go inside (5)

Hardened (3)

Howled at the moon (5)

Mends socks (5)

N. American dog-like animals (7)

Report someone (coll) (3)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The

12.00 Seven’s National

At

1.00 MOVIE: A Stepmother’s Secret. (2022) 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. 8.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. 9.30 Why Bridges Collapse. 10.45 What The Killer Did Next. 11.45 Kick Ons. 12.15 Life. 1.15 Travel Oz. 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Air Crash Inv. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Line Of Duty. 11.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Highway Patrol. 3.00 Talking W. 3.30 The Force: BTL. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Family Guy. 8.00 American Dad! 8.30 Family Guy. 9.00 American Dad! 9.30 MOVIE: The Longest Yard. (2005) 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Silent Witness. 2.00 Grand Designs Australia. 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. 3.25 Grand Designs. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Spicks And Specks. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Back Roads. 8.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. 9.15 The Family Next Door. Final. 10.10 ABC Late News. 10.25 The Business. 10.40 Grand Designs. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.20 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.45 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Rugby League. NRL National Schoolgirls Grand Final. Central Coast Sports College v Marsden State High School. 1.50 Rugby League. NRL National Schoolboys Grand Final. Patrician Brothers Blacktown v Keebra Park State High School. 3.30 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Athletics. World C’ships. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 M*A*S*H. 1.00 Midsomer Murders. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: She’ll Have To Go. (1962) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Clarkson’s Farm. 8.40 Fawlty Towers. 10.00 Blackadder The Third. 11.20 French And Saunders. 12.00 Late Programs. 6.00 It’s Academic. 7.30 Kitty Is Not A Cat. 8.30 Flushed. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules: High Stakes. 11.40

6.00 Morning Programs. 3.35 Richard Osman’s House Of Games. 4.05 A Bite To Eat. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 House Of Games. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Would I Lie To You? 8.35 Hard Quiz. 9.05 Gruen. 9.40 Planet America. 10.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Ticketyboo. 3.40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw. 4.10 My Grandparents’ War. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00

6.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 ER. 2.50 Heartbreak High. 3.35 Richard Osman’s House Of Games. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.35 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 House Of Games. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Would I Lie To You? 8.35

6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL. First prelim. Geelong v Hawthorn. 7.30 Surveillance Oz. 8.30 MOVIE: Last Vegas. (2013) 10.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. 1.15 Our State On A Plate. 1.45 My Way. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 To Be Advised. 10.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. 11.30 Transplant. 12.30 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. 4.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 M*A*S*H. 1.00 Clarkson’s Farm. 2.10 Fawlty Towers. 3.30 MOVIE: Spring In Park Lane. (1948) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Find My Country House Aust. 8.30 Yes Minister. 9.00 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. 10.30 TBA. 1.00 Late Programs. 6.00 It’s Academic. 7.30 Kitty Is Not A Cat. 8.30 Flushed. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules: High Stakes. 12.00 9-1-1. 3.00 First Dates UK. 4.00 A Moveable Feast. 4.25 Grand Crew. 4.55 MOVIE: Flushed Away. (2006) 6.40 MOVIE: Beethoven. (1992) 8.30 MOVIE: Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle. (2017) 11.00 MOVIE: Nightmare Alley. (2021) 2.10 Late Programs.

Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.

Monaro Farming Systems (MFS) is supporting Local Land Services in running a ‘Five Easy Steps’ workshop in the Jerangle area.

This soil testing and decision support program will give producers the skills to interpret soil test results with confidence, plan fertiliser use effectively and make informed livestock and pasture management decisions.

Using the ‘Five Easy Steps’ tool, participants will work out suitable levels of phosphorus fertiliser to support temperate pastures grazed by sheep and beef cattle on acid soils in southern Australia. The tool guides the process – but the decisions remains yours.

As part of the workshop, participants will receive two free soil tests (conditions apply - free soil tests are available to those who have not participated in the previous Soil and Fertiliser Decisions Making programs). Additional soil tests can be purchased at land-

holders’ expense.

Participants will also be invited to the MFS Soils Field Day in December to build on learning. How it works:

Step 1: Learn correct soil sampling techniques and receive your soil sampling gear;

Step 2: Attend follow-up sessions to interpret your soil test results and develop a fertiliser plan.

Participants will learn how to read and interpret soil test results; plan fertiliser use with confidence; and boost pasture growth and farm productivity.

Workshop overview:

Step 1: Soil testing – October 2025

Step 2: Join the two-day face to face workshop March/April 2026

Contact Fiona Leech on 0427 201 805 or email fiona.leech@lls. nsw.gov.au Register at monarofarmingsystems/upcomingevents

“SUTHERWOOD” CLEARING SALE

Saturday 27th September 2025

Account: ‘Est of Phillip Bolton’ ‘Sutherwood’ 788 Coolamatong Road, Berridale NSW Start 10am onsite. Inspections from 9am

Hazeldean’s 160th attracts hundreds

More than 350 people attended Hazeldean’s 160th celebrations recently as the Litchfield family hosted a wool and bull themed party to mark 160 years of seedstock operations. Clients from across the country and hundreds from the Monaro, joined the Litchfields to mark the significant occasion.

Farm Plant & Machinery: 1990 Caterpillar EL200B Track Excavator with 3 bucket attachments and ripper. Caterpillar D4 Bulldozer with tree pusher. Chamberlain Tractor with blade. Connor Shea Coil Tyne Drill 2.7m. 8” Slasher 3pl, 3pl Rotary hoe, 3pl chisel plough, Massey Ferguson small square baler (parts), Disel 2200 Trench ripper with blade on front, Heavy duty disc plough, Small bale accumulator (not working), Tow behind Spray tank (weathered)

Cars & Motor Vehicles: Landrover 1954 – Series 2A with canopy (serial number 10919292), 1988 Nissan Patrol with steel tray (Not registered – runs well). Kawasaki 2 wheel motor bike, Dual axel tipper trailer with sides and crate (registered), Bedford Tipper truck, Tolco 2wd light truck (parts) Fiat Tray Truck 358***kms, not running, wooden tray deck, Crane truck (parts) Jeep Grand Cherokee (parts) Several vans & cars for parts, single axle box trailer 4x7, box trailer 3x7, Speed boat with V6 Holden engine (not working) Livestock & Fencing: Mac Lodge King Pinner Hydraulic Wool Press, Lister Electric shearing grinder, Old Kurts wooden wool press, Sunbeam manual wool press, Shear equipment incl hand pieces, steel loading platform

Workshop & Sundries: Tow behind welder, wood lathe, tool boxes, bench drill, drop saw, pipe bender, steel guillotine, work shop bench with vice, various tools air compressor, plumbing fittings, Stihl 046 magnum chainsaw, Stihl MS310 Chainsaw, Honda pumps, Small generator, poly pipe (varies lengths/sizes) pipe fittings, Diamond petrol powered spot light, wire cable, welding equipment & accessories, scrap steel, fire fighting hose, canvas tarps, various bricks, large ‘W’ strap steel, thick checker plate steel, corrugated iron lengths, heavy duty reo bars, Steel trusses, 2 x garage roller doors, pallet forks, 4 Bay storage shed

Antiques & Furniture: Exercise bike, antique scale weights, antique manual hand iron, Canberra Metts wooden stove, fishing equipment, push bikes, piano, children’s car seat, household furniture (some antique items) old glass wear, Stirling silver tea set, working model train, Old fuel station pump

Outside Entries: Berends jib crane; 3 pl carryall; 3 x Sunbeam shearing machines; petrol crutching machine; Waratah hinge joint strainer with tension gauge; 3 x Husqvarna chainsaws; Electric concrete mixer; Ajax piston pump; Mono helical rotor pump with motor; 400Lt plastic tank (new). 150 x Iron posts (new).

Outside entries welcome. Please contact Damien with item details.

Photos available via Nutrien Cooma’s Facebook page Drivers Licence/ID required to register to bid Cash or Eftpos payment on day

Selling agents: Nutrien Cooma Damien Roach - 0427 253 250

Nutrien Ag Solutions Cooma

20 Murray St, Cooma NSW

02 6452 6565

NutrienAgSolutions.com.au

Derrick and Holly Dowell join in the celebrations at Hazeldean.

SOIL STEPS: Monaro Farming Systems is supporting Local Land Services in running a soil testing workshop. TO: Supplied

Delegate’s Andrew Guthrie and Robin Guthrie congratulate the Litchfields on 160 years of seedstock operations.

Catching-up are Jess Walker, Lisa Phillips, Alison and John

SOCIAL: Cynthia and Athol Brooks enjoy their time at Hazeldean’s 160th celebrations. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

A proud family history, many cherished memories

Ken Miners recalls time at ‘Biggam’

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

It was a time of celebrating and re-living memories for 90-year-old former long-time Cooma resident, Ken Miners, when he returned to the area recently for his 90th birthday celebration marking the occasion with twin sister, Lola van der Plaat.

Ken and wife, Daphne, now live on the Gold Coast, moving there a few years ago to be closer to family.

While back on the Monaro they attended Hazeldean’s spring bull sale and 160th anniversary of seedstock event on 5 September.

Ken was excited to be at a Hazeldean sale again and reunited with the Litchfield family.

“I’ve been to a few sales, I even had a run in with a bull at one sale,” he recalled.

Ken was born at ‘Biggam’, Rocky Plains and in 1952 he started working at ‘Biggam’, owned by the Litchfield family.

Ken worked for three generations of Litchfields - JF, James and Jim - in his time with the family, retiring in 2003.

“I would do anything and everything at ‘Biggam’; there were only two of us working on the 6000 acre property. Then I bought 800 acres joining ‘Biggam’ as a weekend job,” Ken laughed.

“Most of the time I was on ‘Big gam’,” Ken said.

“My father, Bill, went there in 1927 and we managed the place from 1927 to 2000, I think, when Litchfields sold the property.”

Ken took over the manage ment role of ‘Biggam’ from his father, and then when he decid ed he wanted a change from the property, one of his brother’s, took over managing ‘Biggam’.

“There’s been a lot of changes over the 50 years. I first started working mainly with draught horses and cart.

“There wasn’t much mechani cal equipment to help you in those days and none of the tech nology that’s used in farming to day either.

“They always had sheep. When we were kids, ‘Biggam’ didn’t have a shearing shed and we drove the sheep from ‘Biggam’ to ‘Hazeldean’ to get them shorn and dipped. It used to take two days,” Ken said.

8180 sheep yarded: Yass sale Numbers increase

There was a slight increase in lamb numbers but the quality still remained mixed. There was a better run of Merinos and most of the crossbreds were secondary trade

There were a few lines of neatly shorn lambs around 18kg to 20kg that went onto feed and a small offering of new season lambs. Prime heavy and extra heavy lambs were very limited. The old lambs were $10 to $15 cheaper.

New season store lambs sold from $164 to $213/head or 1200c to 1260c/ kg cwt and trade weights $200 to $248/head or 1150c/kg.

Ken is one of nine children, to Bill and Barbara Miners, and the only surviving brother of fourRon, Ken, Noel and Les.

“Ken and Noel worked on ‘Biggam’, Ron was on Myalla and Les was at Hazeldean,” Daphne said, “and their father beforehand.”

This connection between the Miners and Litchfield families is

REUNION: Ken and Daphne Miners with Bea Litchfield and two of her children, the seventh generation of Hazeldean Litchfields, Stirling and Fred.

still going strong to this day.

“Ken’s niece, Jennifer, who is Les’s daughter, still works here in the office. Four generations now; it may come to an end with Jennifer though,” Daphne said. Jim Litchfield is especially proud of this aspect of Hazeldean’s rich history.

“It certainly was more commonplace years ago to have fam-

PHOTO: Melinda Cairns Hack

ilies that stayed in the one place and job for a long time.

“We are very proud of the association we have had with the Miners family. Jenny is our office manager now. I think it was her great grand-father who started working for the family in the late 1800s and that connection has been maintained since then.”

Old two score processing lambs sold from $125 to $183/head averaging 950c to 1020c/kg cwt. Trade weights ranged from $201 to $268/head ranging between 1050c and 1100c/kg, heavy weights $253 to $298/head or 1020c/kg cwt and extra heavy lambs topped at $370/head.

The better run of Merino had prices up $15 to $20/head on most lambs with a skin value and reached $224/head. Mutton numbers eased and the quality was mixed but prices were stronger with the medium and heavy weights gaining $12 to $15/ head.

Crossbreds reached $244 and Merino wethers $225/head and most ranged between 750c and 820c/kg cwt.

Unlock this property’s potential

ADDRESS: 11 Victoria Street, Cooma

ASKING: $540,000

Three bed, two bath

If you’re looking for a property with solid bones and plenty of potential, this is your opportunity. Set on a generous 1,600 square metre block in an elevated pocket of Cooma, this home offers space, privacy, and the chance to add serious value.

Freshly painted throughout, the interior is clean and ready for its next chapter. The carpets have already been removed, giving buyers a head start

on renovations and the freedom to choose their own flooring.

With three generously sized bedrooms, including a master with a walk-in wardrobe and updated ensuite, the home offers comfortable living as-is, with plenty of scope for future improvement. The remaining two bedrooms both feature built-in wardrobes, and the main bathroom includes a separate toilet for added convenience.

The layout is practical and familyfriendly, with a spacious living area kept cosy in winter by a slowcombustion fireplace. The adjoining open-plan kitchen and dining area

•

provides a functional space that can be easily refreshed or fully transformed to suit your style.

A separate laundry with external access leads out to a newly constructed ramp, adding to the home’s accessibility and ease of use.

Step outside and you’ll find a large, levelled backyard that’s fully fenced and ready for your ideas- whether it’s a landscaped garden, a large garage, or a second dwelling (STCA), the space is there to create something truly special.

From the front verandah, enjoy sweeping eastward views over town and the surrounding hills, with the home’s elevated position offering both

privacy and perspective.

Built in the late 1990s, the home retains its original character while offering the comfort and layout suited to modern living. With solar panels already installed, the property also ticks the box for energy-conscious buyers.

Whether you’re an owner-occupier looking to personalise your space or an investor seeking a project with strong upside, this is a home that offers much more than meets the eye.

With its generous land size, fresh start inside, and so much potential, 39B Orana Avenue is ready for its next chapter- are you?

Prime lifestyle property

Recreational escape near Cooma

ADDRESS: Alumdale, 808 Jones Plain Road, Shannons Flat, NSW 2630

Alumdale is a nature’s paradise. The perfect location for a recreational escape or permanent residence located some 30km northwest of Cooma.

Approximately 40 hectares or 100 acres of gently undulating landscape and an abundance of wildlife, ranging from lightly to heavily timbered over an estimated 70 per cent of the block by Peppermint, as well as some Ribbon Gum, Wattle plus others.

Alumdale is bound by Alums Creek along the eastern boundary, offering a secure water supply to prospective purchasers, and is fully fenced into three paddocks.

The property enjoys a dwelling entitlement and has previously approved house plans in place, meaning you could jump straight in or redesign to make them exactly what you want.

In terms of infrastructure already on the property, you will find a three-bay steel shed with roller doors and an additional fully enclosed bay, which is currently used as a bush camp with a solar system in place. Properties like these don’t come up often and isn’t one to be missed. It must and will be sold.

Alumdale, 808 Jones Plain Road, Shannons Flat, NSW 2630 is scheduled for auction, online and in room, on Tuesday, 21 October 2025 at 6:30pm.

Contact the KMPL sales team on 02 6456 7232 to schedule your private inspection. Don’t wait, life is too short for regrets.

“The Warren” “The Warren”

• Located in the quaint settlement of Old Adaminaby, only a stone throw from the pristine waters of Eucumbene Dam, well renowned for its superior trout fishing. A short 35 minute drive to Mount Selwyn, as well as about 40 minute’s drive to Cooma and only perhaps 10 minute drive to Adaminaby.

• The circa mid 1980s built home, situated on 671.50m2 of near level land on the corner of Clancy and Hill Street with the main entrance via Hill Street and the front deck.

• Featuring 3 good sized bedrooms, open plan living, dining and kitchen, woodfire adding to the ambiance, making sure the place is well heated during the colder times of year. Bathroom with bath as well as shower and hand basin, separate WC. Laundry with direct access to backyard.

• Front deck, the perfect location for a BBQ offering some filtered water views.

• Rainwater storage for approximately 25,000L in plastic tanks plus one steel tank.

• Septic onsite sewage management system in place, single phase mains power.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

A great location not far off the beaten track perfectly suited as full time residence or holiday home within short distance to Eucumbene Dam, National Park, including Kiandra Goldfields, Mount Selwyn, and so much more. Adaminaby Easter Fair, or perhaps the Adaminaby Races in November, maybe a spot of fishing, mountain bike riding, hiking, horse riding, certainly plenty to do, or just kickback and enjoy the peace and quiet. Don’t hesitate and contact our sales team now!

Contact: Maddy Kirshner & Nick Kirshner

P: 02 6456 7232

W: kirshnermackay.com.au

For Sale: Asking $420,000

Inspect: By Appointment with Exclusive Agent Only.

• Located approximately 30kms northwest of Cooma, accessed via Jones Plain Road, a councilmaintained gravel road.

• Approximately 40 ha or 100 acres of gently undulating landscapes, an estimated 70% lightly to heavily timbered with an assortment of predominately Peppermint, as well as some Ribbon Gum, Wattle and others.

• Fully fenced into 3 paddocks.

• Bound by Alums Creek along the eastern boundary, offering a secure water supply.

• 3 bay steel shed with roller doors and additional fully enclosed bay currently used as a bush camp with a solar system in place.

• Dwelling entitlement exists with previously approved house plans.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

“Alumdale” is an original parcel, a rare opportunity to secure a prime lifestyle property. A natures paradise with an abundance of wildlife calling this property home. The perfect location for a recreational escape or perhaps your permanent residence. With previously approved house plans in place, you could jump straight in or redesign to make them exactly what you want.

This property must and will be sold!

Don’t hesitate and contact our sales team today!

Snowy Monaro

Auction on next Thursday

ADDRESS: 1 High Street, Bombala

AUCTION: On-site 25 September 2025, 11am

Unlock the potential of this exceptional corner block, perfectly positioned for your dream home or a savvy investment development.

With R1 zoning, the possibilities are endless -don’t miss this rare opportunity to secure a standout property in a sought-after location.

This corner block was formerly known as the Lions Park and still contains the old toilet block and some of the established trees from that time.

Boasting 1426m2 with frontage to High Street and Stephen Street the property is a short walk down to the Bombala River parklands, railway precinct and the main shopping centre of town.

NBN, town water, sewerage, mains power and natural gas are all nearby for connection.

Going under the hammer on 25 September, there will be no second chances, so now is the time to seize the day.

Located on the edge of Bonang this is an amazing bush block opportunity for those who love spending time in nature.

• Easily accessible with frontage to the sealed Bonang Road and has fire trails and bush tracks throughout for ease of getting around the property

• 169.2ha/418.118ac predominantly mature native eucalypts with small clearings throughout

• Approx 2kms of frontage to the Bonang River

• Former house site found not far into the property and just up from the river, would now make for an excellent camp site

• Property contains the entrance to a former gold mine owned by the Aurora Mining Company active around 1850’s-1890’s

Whether bushwalking, hunting, fishing or just enjoying the sensory experience is your passion in nature, this bush retreat should not be overlooked!

975 Old Bendoc-Bonang Road, Bendoc

Get back in tune with nature

Tucked out of sight, surrounded by native timber, it’s easy to forget you are only 10 minutes from Bendoc and not deep in the Australian wilderness.

• 8.09ha/19.99ac with lovely flat cleared grassland, perfect for creating you own private camping oasis

• Frontage to Hutchinson Creek with a lovely pond, with pontoon, that completes the oasis feel of the property

• Open bay machinery shed, perfect for storing caravan/campers so you don’t have to tow them down every weekend

• Established netted orchard

• Half built closed storage area that would be perfect for locking up items you would like to leave behind once completed or just as additional area out of the weather

With so much to see and do in the local area this is a great block for the family that loves the adventures found in the outdoors.

$420,000

467 Bonang Road, Bendoc Idyllic bush retreat

Digging Up The Dirt On The Monaro For Over 40 Years

BUILDING

TO JOIN THE TRADES?

If

PHONE:

EMAIL: sales@monaropost.com.au

59 Vale Street, Cooma (02) 6452

CLAIM THE DATE

11th October 2025

4627 Kosciuszko Road, Avonside NSW 2627 Enter via Kerry Lane off Kosciuszko Road A/C: Estate of Swift + Outside Entries

Saturday 8th November 2025

188 Chakola Road, Chakola NSW 2630

A/C: J Clarke + Outside Entries

Saturday 29th November 2025

50 Tirrike Lane, Hill Top NSW 2628 A/C: M & K Pilz

Inspections: 8am | Auction: 9am Refer to kirshnermackay.com.au for further details, photos & inventory

P: (02) 6456 7232 E: info@kirshnermackay.com.au W: kirshnermackay.com.au

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Cooma Monaro Race Club Inc invites groups or individuals to submit an EOI for the catering role for the club’s marquee at the December 6 2025 race meeting.

Preference will be given to NFP organisations.

For more details, contact the secretarymanager at cooma.races@gmail.com

Classifieds Work!

In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1. If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act. Schedule 1:

• Crown road at Avonside, those within and adjoining property known as ‘Woodhouse’ at 185 Geikle Creek Road. (File Ref: 22/07382, Cluster: 677957)

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement.

Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road. Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 For the Manager, Divestments

For further enquiries please visit the website roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au or contact Margaret Attwater by email at Margaret.Attwater@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 6640 3935 quoting file references above.

Notice of 1080 Aerial Baiting

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will be conducting aerial baiting programs using meat baits containing 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) poison for the control of wild dogs. The program will be CONDUCTED between Monday 22 September 2025 and Friday 26 September 2025.

Baiting programs will be conducted in the Dalgety/Paupong, and Corrowong/Tombong/Merriangaah and Adaminaby/Yaouk Wild Dog Plan Areas. This includes the following sections of Kosciuszko National Park: The Yaouk/Adaminaby area from Lone Pine Trail to Lake Eucumbene and Denison; Ingebyra; the Snowy River; Byadbo Wilderness Area and Corrowong. Baiting programs will also be undertaken in Scabby Range, Yaouk, Merriangaah and Quidong Nature Reserves. All baiting locations will be identifiable by signs. All baiting locations will be identifiable by signs.

Please be reminded that domestic pets are not permitted on NPWS Estate. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

For further information please contact the NPWS Jindabyne Office (02) 6450 5555.

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION TRAINEESHIP 2026

Blaxland Mawson & Rose are looking for an enthusiastic and hardworking individual to join our busy and growing team as a receptionist and administration support trainee.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who might be interested in starting their career in a law firm. This traineeship is an entry-level position under the Legal Services Award that combines study and work. It is best suited to recent school leavers or those looking to start a new career. You will develop your legal knowledge as you complete a Certificate III in Legal Services whilst being responsible for reception and administration support.

As a Business Administration Trainee, you will be responsible for:

Reception Duties – greeting clients, answering client enquiries both on the phone and via email and directing calls to relevant staff members.

Collecting and distributing mail.

Ordering stationery and office supplies.

Assisting other staff with tasks as necessary.

We are looking for candidates with:

Great customer service skills.

Excellent attention to detail.

Demonstrated maturity and initiative. Excellent personal presentation and communication skills.

The ability to work well in a team environment.

A solid work ethic and a genuine desire to work in administration.

The ability and willingness to learn on the job, as a trainee.

Applications close October 10, 2025

Applicants can email a CV and cover letter to jasmine@bmrlawyers.com.au

For further information please call Jasmine Trevanion on 02 6452 1266.

BLYTON (née Byrne), Angela Therese.

Passed away peacefully surrounded by love at Cooma Hospital 10 September 2025. Formally of Dalgety Road, Berridale. Aged 53 years.

Cherished daughter of Greg and Suzanne (dec). Sister to Grant (dec). Beloved wife of Rick. Adored mother of Ky (dec), Kara and Tully and step-mother of Emma.

The relatives and friends of the late Angela Therese Blyton are invited to attend Angela’s funeral service at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Berridale, on Saturday, 20 September 2025 at 11am, followed by burial at Gegedzerick Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Monaro Committee for Cancer Research www.mccr.org.au.

Angela’s service can be viewed via livestream at

DARBY, Hugh Phillips. Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, at Cooma Hospital. formerly of Moloola Ave, Cooma. Aged 93 years.

Dearly loved husband of Vivienne (dec). Father to Sally, Robert and Margeret. Father-in-law to Anthony, Marina and Ross. Grandad to Raven, Bea, Grace, Henry, Hamish, Arturo and Elisa.

The relatives and friends of the late Hugh Phillips Darby are invited to attend his funeral service to be held in the Saint Paul’s Anglican Church, Cooma, on Friday, 19 September 2025, commencing at 1.30 pm.

At the conclusion of the service, the cortege will proceed to Cooma Lawn Cemetery, Cooma.

Australia’s newest citizens welcomed

Six new Australians were celebrated at the Cooma Multicultural Centre on Friday, 12 September with a citizenship ceremony.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council held the official ceremony, with the citizens taking pledges to become official Australians.

Stephen Leeder, Bikash Yadav, Nasir Sajarati, Rebecca Dorsay, Afsaneh Mostaghimi and Hayley Wooff were joined by family members for the occasion.

From Canada, England, Nepal and elsewhere, some of the new citizens had already lived in Australia

officiated the ceremony.

“Today, we come together in the hear of Cooma to acknowledge the commitment of those who have chosen to call Australia home,” mayor Hanna said.

“Becoming an Australian citizen is no small feat. It is the start of a journeyone that involves not only adapting to a new country but also embracing its values, its culture, and its way of life.

“Cooma, with its rich history and connection to the Snowy Mountains Scheme, has long been a place where people from

a community, we understand the power of hard work. And now, as new citizens, you become part of this story.” Cooma Multicultural Centre manager, Yvi Henderson, also shared her story with the new citizens. Moving here from Switzerland after meeting her husband while here as an exchange student, Yvi said leaving her home and culture was not an easy decision. Adjusting to her new life came with challenges, which steered her into a career in assisting multicultural people create connections and community

BOND, Richard Gregory.

The Bond family would like to convey our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all who offered their support and condolences, following the passing of Rick on August 22, 2025.

Your thoughtfulness, presence and care have been a great comfort to us during this difficult time, and we are deeply appreciative of the love shown to Rick and our family.

BROWNLIE, Jennifer Mary.

To family and friends, my heartfelt thanks for your kind words and support at this sad time, have been very appreciated.

~ Thank you Lou Griggs.

JONES, Eric (Spec).

Greta Jones wishes to pass on her most heartfelt and sincerest gratitude to the Jindabyne and surrounding community after the recent passing of Eric ‘Spec’ Jones in Bombala Hospital.

I pass on my personal thanks to the local GP’s, Bombala Hospital and Bega Hospital staff, and all those who attended Spec’s service and for their support.

All the condolences, generosity and support shown during this difficult time has been truly heart-warming.

~ Many thanks from Greta and extended family.

Arts in Action a must attend event

This mosaic work titled ‘Jen’ by Linda Prowse may be familiar as it is the portrait she created for the HEADS UP Portrait ex hibition earlier this year. It also won the People’s Choice Award.

The Raglan Gallery and Monaro Art Group (MAG) are thrilled that Linda will be one of the experts at the Arts in Action event demonstrating their practise and sharing some secrets for anyone inter ested in using mosaics in their own practise.

Arts in Action will be held at the Raglan Gallery on Sunday, 28 September from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

The Raglan and MAG have joined forces to present this day of art demonstrations They have nine different artists showing their skills. There will also be two Talks. One is by Kate Bradbury, the South East Arts Organisation Director, who will reveal all that SEA has to offer for anyone in the arts industry, and the other by photographer Wendy McDougall who will share her experience in a talk called ‘The Art of Exhibiting’ based on her experience of

being involved in over 70 exhibitions in her career.

Aside from mosaics there will be painting, weaving, pottery, calligraphy, drawing, mixed media and textiles demonstrations and everyone is welcome to come ad chat with each artist to ask anything they like about the work.

Other artists involved include Andrew Dawes, Liz Sherlock, Rita Brademann, Tein McDonald and Judith Truter.

The day is also designed for non-artists who might benefit from watching and listening to artists. From this we hope they may feel more comfortable in visiting galleries anywhere. For just $5 you can buy a cake with a cup of tea of coffee throughout the day. Buy tickets in reception and redeem at food table in the Tillers Gallery. There is also a raffle to win an original painting by the artist Carleta Delac.

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

IN MEMORIAM

Action event this month. Linda’s most recent work, Jen, was one of the most talked about works in the Raglan’s recent portraits exhibition. PHOTO: Raglan Gallery

Weston, Elton claim four-ball championship

By BOMBALA GOLF CLUB

Spring has arrived with beautiful weather for the four-ball-best-ball championships.

On Saturday, for the first 18 holes of the championships, the leaders were Wayne Elton and Brendan Weston with a round of 76, ahead of Brad Yelds and Steve Tatham,

and Joel Cherry and Daniel Douch on 78.

The leaders of the handicap were Pepper Thompson and Ray Crawford 64.5 nett, ahead of Yelds and Tatham 65 nett. The winners on the day were Thompson and Crawford.

Crawford claimed the golden shot and Yelds won nearest the pin.

Sunday was the final round of the championships. The leaders from Saturday played consistent golf to maintain their lead. Weston and Elton 77 came in one shot ahead of Yelds and Tatham 78.

Weston and Elton won with a total of 153 and were crowned the four-ball-best-ball champions for 2025.

Handicap champions were Thompson and Crawford one shot better than their Saturday round, scoring a nett 63.5 with a 36 total of 128 nett.

Runners-up were Yelds and Tatham on 130 nett.

Winners on the day were Crawford and Thompson 63.5 nett.

Crawford won golden shot. Nearest

the pin was not won.

Program for the week

Ladies

Wednesday, 17 Septemberstableford, club trophy

Members

Saturday, 20 Septemberstableford, club trophy

Sunday, 21 September - stroke, monthly medal

Bushpigs celebrate a successful 2025 at presentation night

The Jindabyne Rugby Union Club celebrated the Miss Piggies grand final win and a new era for the Bushpigs at the senior club presentation night last Saturday. Speaking on the night, club president, Matt Want, said it was the 42nd year of the club, and the first time they had celebrated a Miss Piggies premiership.

“How good is that?” said Matt as he noted that next year will be the 20th year of Miss Piggies.

“We have thirty-three new players to the club this season across men’s and women’s teams,” said Want.

Want said the most pleasing statistic was the 14 junior players who took the field this year in the men’s senior teams.

Talking through the highlights of the year, Want particularly noted that Bernie Lai had scored 27 tries for the Miss Piggies, and 135 points in total, but was outshone by Eden Klemm, who scored a huge 229 points for the Miss Piggies.

The club will now look forward to next year, where the Miss Piggies will be defending their premiership, and the men’s Bushpigs strive to improve further in what was a relatively new squad in 2025.

p Coach’s award was won by Taylor Deer and Carlie French. Pictures (l to r) Liam Seiler, Taylor Deer / Bushpigs, Carlie French / Miss Piggies, Rhianna Burke and Noel Harper.

AWARDED: Best Forward was presented to Tom Chamberlain / Bushpigs (centre) and Leanne Saare / Miss Piggies (absent), by Daniel Josifovski and Eve McGrath. PHOTOS: Steve Cuff

Senior Club Person of the Year presented by life member Nicole Raine (right) to joint winners Daniel Josifovski and Saskia Dutch.

The Players Player award was presented by life member Nicole Raine (centre) to Darcy Alexander / Bushpigs and Millie Mugridge / Miss Piggies.

Bushpigs Jed Frank won the Best Back award, presented by Dylan Johnson.

Miss Piggies Eden Klemm was presented with the Best Back award by Dylan Johnson.

Best & Fairest winners were Patrick Killin / Bushpigs and Lily Godding / Miss Piggies.

Kenmir wins midweek, weekend stablefords

By COOMA GOLF CLUB

In an impressive display of consistency, Mark Kenmir won all three golf competitions over the week.

In Saturday’s stableford competition, Kenmir was the overall winner with an impressive score of 40 points. Mark Kelly was the A Grade winner with 37 points,

Garry Cornish won B Grade with 36 points and the C Grade winner was Nate Quodling with 39 points.

Nearest the pin on the ninth was David Goggin, Stephen Young was closest on 17, and Kenmir was nearest on the second shot on hole 18.

Place-getters were Claire Cald-

well, Mark Rainsford, Charles Quodling, Gino Cerro, David Goggin, Lyndon Taylor, Mark Cooper, and Dave Stewart. To round off the weekend, Kenmir won the Sunday stableford with 38 points. The runner-up was Dave Stewart.

In the midweek stableford, Kenmir again led the field with 39 points, with Alan Kelly the

runner-up with 38 points.

Nearest the pin on hole nine was Phil Amey, while Frank McKnight claimed 17.

Place-getters were Mark Rainsford, Garry Cornish, John Harris, Col Langdon, Phil Amey, Harry Mould, Dave Stewart, and Steven Wheatley.

This Saturday is the M & T Mo-

tors junior golf fundraiser. This two-person ambrose is open to all golfers, with or without an official handicap.

Everyone is in with a chance of winning $10k in the Cooma Rugby Old Boys $10,000 hole-inone on 17.

Online bookings are now open www.trybooking.com/DFGJF

Stallions celebrate 2025 season

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

The Cooma United Stallions Club’s annual presentation last Saturday night saw first grade co-captain, James Cahill, awarded the Cooma Ex-services Club Player of the Year.

In what turned out to be a successful night for Cahill, he was also presented with the Elmore Evans Hill, and Players’ Player awards.

The function at the Cooma Ex-services Club acknowledged the upward trend of the club, noting the club’s strong position with four grades involved, and the efforts of fielding a women’s league tag side each week, despite dwindling numbers from the promising interest of 24 at the beginning of the season to just 11 players each week.

Club president, Todd Williams, thanked all those involved in the club, from the players’ performances and commitment across the season, to the volunteers who willingly staffed the canteen or sold raffle tickets.

“We pride ourselves on our culture at the club and our new players took this on board straight away. I also want to thank the coaching staff of all grades,” Williams said.

Williams spoke of the ability of coaches especially in the U18s squad, to bring it together each week, at training and on game day.

Special mention was made to Col Shingles, the Fillies women’s league tag coach.

“He’s been the pillar of our league tag and he’s really built it up and is always willing to make the game grow. His passion, his commitment and dedication he shows to make sure the game progresses is appreciated.

“He has a club first mentality and people don’t realise the amount of work he does off the footy field as well. I thank for him for the amount of effort he’s put in to the Fillies,” Williams said.

Reserve grade coach, James Boller, and first grade coach, Jason Kelly, were also congratulated for their dedication and to make finals this year.

“It was pretty dire at one stage for our club but three out of our four teams played finals this year, within two years of a re-build, and that’s a fantastic achievement,” Williams said.

“Jason brought in fresh faces who were great footballers but they are club men first, and that’s what we need. Jason is fully committed and passionate and you’re probably a mate to everyone before you are a coach and our club appreciates that.

“Looking to the future I think we are on the way up and good

Williams thanked his committee, stating the work the members do does not go unnoticed.

“The executive committee has also made my job so easy. Without you the club goes nowhere, and I appreciate everything you do for us.”

Special acknowledgement was made to the late Rick Bond and Mark Kaufline for the legacy they have left on the club.

Awards:

U18s - Most Improved, Andrei Moruz, Coaches Award, Sash Thomas; Most Consistent, Mitchell McMahon; Players’ Player, Jermaine Bartlett; Best and Fairest, Nates Stokes. League tag - Most Improved, Jordy Breden; Coaches Award, Alyssa Arnold; Most Consistent, Maddie Banks and Jess Clark; Players’ Player, Brianna Rankin; Best and Fairest, Ruby Barnes. Reserve grade - Most Improved, Gus Brabham; Coaches Award, Travis Kelly; Most Consistent, Jack Newson; Player’s Player, Tom King, Jake Byrne; Best and Fairest, Jake Byrne.

First grade - Most Improved, Brock Halls, Coaches Award, Mitchell Sullivan; Most Consistent - Keegan Caldwell; Players’ Player, James Cahill; Best and Fairest, Noah Saddler.

of the Year, Dempsey Woolf; Mick Pearson Tackling Award, Richard Bensley; Monaro Post Leadership Award, Tristan Hamilton; Elmore Evans Hill Award, James Cahill; Thomas Family Club Person of the Year Award, Tammy Byrne; Theo Bruyns Club Player of the Year, Riley Casey; Andy Hayden Top Try Scorer, Maddie Banks; Mark Williams Highest Point Scorer, Ruby Barnes; Fillies Player of the Year, Ruby Banks; and Cooma Ex-services Club Player of the Year, James

Year

Todd Williams.

Riley Casey receives the Theo Bruyns Club Player of the

from president

Mick Pearson Tackling Award was presented to Richard Bensley by

James Cahill won the Elmore Evans Hill Award, presented by president Todd Williams.

George Kaufline Rookie of the Year Award, Dempsey Woolf, with Richard Nichols.

PERPETUAL AWARDS: Cooma Exservices Club Player of the Year, James Cahill, with Stallions president, Todd Williams and Cooma Ex-services Club representative, Rhianna Clark. PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

Monaro Post Leadership Award, Tristan Hamilton, with club president, Todd Williams.

Maddie Banks won the Andy Hayden Top Try Scorer award, presented by Cooma Stallions Life Member, Chippy Boller.

Mark Williams Highest Point Scorer, Ruby Barnes, with Honourable Life Member, Chippy Boller.

Fillies Player of the Year, Maddie Banks, with Craig Schofield.

Engines to roar on Monaro

The roar of engines and the kick-up of dust are set to return to the heart of the Snowy Monaro as the Monaro Stages Rally makes its comeback on Sunday, 5 October.

After a brief hiatus, this iconic event is ready to write a new chapter in its storied history, promising a day of high-octane action, challenging stages, and a celebration of the grassroots spirit of Australian rallying.

For years, the Monaro Stages has been a staple on the motorsport calendar, revered for its blend of fast shire roads and technical forest tracks. This year’s format, with stages spanning the roads around Cooma and the forests of Bombala, will test the mettle of every competitor.

The 177 competitive kilometres on offer are a testament to the organisers’ commitment to a rally that is both a thrilling spectacle for spectators and a formidable challenge for crews.

The event’s return is a welcome sight for the rallying community, which thrives on the camaraderie and adventure that events like the Monaro Stages provide.

It’s a chance to see some of Australia’s best drivers and co-drivers pushing their machines to the limit, while also

tion Group (AMSAG) South ern Cross Rally Series adds an extra layer of competition, ensuring that every second counts in the battle for cham-

Monaro Stages Rally spokes person said.

“From the dedicated volunteers and officials to the local businesses that welcome the

tral hub for competitors and spectators alike to gather and share their love for the sport.

The event will have three spectator points, with in-

closed from 2pm to 7pm on 5 October to allow the safe passage of cars as they navigate these shire stages.

“The Monaro Stages Rally

a promising look at the fu ture of Australian rallying. So, whether you’re a seasoned rally fan or new to the sport, mark your calendars.

MONARO STAGES RALLY

EXCITING: The Monaro Stages Rally will return to the roads of Cooma and Bombala this October in a boost for the rally driving community.

PHOTO: Monaro Media Group

Bombala rallies around Jone

By NATHAN THOMPSON

The Bombala Blue Heelers reserve grade grand final should have been one of the highlights of Jone Waqaliva’s exciting rugby league career.

The powerful back-rower and centre had led his side into the premiership decider following two outstanding performances in the finals series.

A premiership victory was on the cards with the Blue Heelers heading into the grand final in form. But, early in the match, disaster struck as Waqaliva suffered a leg break.

The popular player hobbled off the field. Waqaliva is unable to work for the next few months and with the NRL insurance only providing little support, he is facing a tough road ahead.

Like they so often do, the Bombala community is rallying around one of their own. The Blue Heelers have setup a Go Fund Me page to support Waqaliva’s recovery.

Originially from Fiji, Waqaliva came to Australia to chase work and pursue his love for rugby league. He quickly became a muchloved member of the club and Bombala community through his smile and humble nature.

“We are reaching out to our community, friends, and the wider rugby league

family to rally around him in this difficult time,” the Blue Heelers said.

“Every little bit will go directly towards helping Jone with his living costs, medi-

cal expenses, and ensuring he can focus fully on his recovery without the added stress of financial hardship.

“Let’s show Jone what the rugby league community

in Bombala and as a whole is all about: mateship, support, and standing together in tough times.”

To donate, search Go Fund Me Jone Waqaliva.

Cooma bowlers secure top spot in tournament

The Cooma Bowling Club has hosted a popular triples tournament, attracting bowlers from across the Snowy Monaro, Far South Coast and Queanbeyan.

Cooma’s Mark Buckley led his team to victory, ahead of a Queanbeyan side and team from the coast featuring former Cooma bowler Wayne Lodge.

The Cooma Bowling Club would like to thank its sponsors for supporting the event.

BOWLS: Wayne Lodge, Mel Storta and Geoff Venables catch-up at the Cooma Bowling Club tournament held earlier this month.

PHOTOS: Cooma Bowling Club

Milestone week for Para Snowsport community

Last week, marked a significant milestone for Para Snowsports in Australia, with activity spanning elite competition and grassroots participation.

From hosting FIS-sanctioned Para-Alpine races as part of the National Championships, to launching the inaugural Finskos Cup and spring instalment of the Adaptive Festival, it’s been a

landmark week for the Para snowsport community.

The National Championships brought together rising stars and legends of the sport for three days of competition across downhill and slalom racing.

Among the field were Australia’s most decorated Winter Paralympian, Michael Milton, and 2026 Paralympic hopefuls Josh Hanlon and

Georgia Gunev, supported by her sighted guide Ethan Jackson.

In addition to marking the return of FIS racing to Australia, the event provided athletes with a valuable opportunity to earn FIS points on home terrain.

The Adaptive Festival, which started last week, welcomes both new and experienced participants with in-

clusive programming across alpine, snowboard, and, for the first time, cross country. Delivered in partnership with Disability Wintersport Australia and Paralympics Australia, the festival provides a welcoming environment for adaptive skiers and snowboarders to connect, learn and experience Para Snowsports.

Adding to the momentum,

the inaugural Finskos Cup took place at Perisher on Saturday, 13 September. This community fundraising race honours Para sport pioneer Ron Finneran OAM and supports Snow Australia’s Para Development Pathway.

More than just a race, the all-inclusive Finskos Cup is a celebration of community spirit, bringing together Para High Performance and

Emerging Talent Program (ETP) athletes, recreational skiers and supporters in a shared effort to raise vital funds for Para Snowsport development. You don’t have to compete to support. Tax-deductible donations to the Para Development Pathway are still open and help ensure more Australians can access inclusive opportunities on snow.

p SUPPORT: Bombala Blue Heeler, Jone Waqaliva, suffered a serious leg injury during the side’s grand final match. He is unable to work for the next four months. The Bombala community is supporting Waqaliva through a fundraising page.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Powerful centre, Jone Waqaliva, delivered two standout performances in the final series to take his Blue Heelers side into the grand final. PHOTO: Razorback Sports Photography

National honours for players Bridge bonanza

The Monaro Bridge Club has been enjoying a busy 2025 with its members shining at a national level and the club raising funds for the Cooma Hospital Auxiliary.

Within the club’s ranks is a very promising junior player, Natalee White. Natalee who attends St Patrick’s Parish School is only 14 and earlier this year, represented the ACT youth team at the Australian National Bridge Championships.

The event was held in Brisbane in July with Monaro Bridge Club members raising funds to help Natalee and her mum travel to the championships.

Natalee played four days of Bridge, each day running from 9am to 6.30pm. The days comprised of four sessions, with each session consisting of 16 boards. There was a different opponent each session.

Natalee played 144 boards during the competition. The ACT team finished fifth. Natalee was also able to meet some of the world’s best Bridge players.

“All the players from every state were lovely to meet and play against and I also got to meet some incredible people including Kate McCallum the six times women’s world champion for bridge and the two current best Australian players,” Natalee said.

“I would like to thank everyone for the support and generous donations that helped me get to the competition. Overall, it was an amazing and educational experience.”

Monaro Bridge Club members are extremely proud of Natalee’s achievements.

Further success has come the way of Monaro players at the Australia wide nove pairs event (for players with under 50 master points).

Two of the club’s novice players, Tineke Tamis and Ian Wheeldon, secured first place in Australia with an incredible 70.6 per cent. This competition is played simultaneously throughout Australia with more than 3000 pairs participating in the event.

The competition is played with the same boards being dealt at Bridge clubs Australia wide.

The Monaro Bridge Club held its AGM recently with a new committee to take charge for the following year. There were two awards handed out on the day. The trophy for the club person of the year went to a very deserving Christine Crowe. The trophy for most improved player went to Sue Wallace.

A fundraising day was held for the Cooma Hospital Auxiliary in August at the Cooma Ex-Services Club. The club kindly donated a light luncheon for the Bridge club members as well as beverages.

This fundraising day is an annual event for the Monaro Bridge Club, where members donate much-needed funds for the Cooma Hospital Auxiliary to buy extra equipment for the local hospital.

The afternoon of Bridge was quite successful and the club was able to raise $650 for the auxiliary. Winners north/south Sue West and Janet Strzelecki and for east/ west Judi Knighton and Dorothy Venables.

RECOGNITION: Monaro Bridge Club president, Edith Grumley, presents Christine Crowe with the club person of the year honour. TOS: Monaro Bridge Club

Standout season

JACK WILLIAMS WINS

EELS TOP GONG

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Season 2025 has been arguably the best of Jack Williams’ NRL career.

The former Cooma Colt and current Parramatta Eels forward took out the top honour at the Eels end of season awards night last week.

Williams, 29, was presented with the Ken Thornett medal, the Eels highest playing accolade.

Williams was declared the club’s player of the year after a season where his consistency and leadership shone through.

Highly regarded for his strong defence, it was Williams’ running game that made a real impression on Eels fans.

Williams is one of the fittest and strongest players in the NRL. He played big minutes all season, averaging 64 minutes up front in his 11 games at prop and 70 minutes when playing in the second-row.

The Snowy Monaro product has a loyal following in the region with former junior teammates, Cooma Stallions and Colts members and many locals following Williams 145-NRL game career closely.

Williams made his NRL debut in 2018 for the Cronulla Sutherland Sharks against the Canberra Raiders, where he played junior representative rugby league. He played for the Sharks until the end of the 2024 season before making the move to Parramatta.

Williams’ off-field contributions

Snowy Monaro product, Jack Williams, has been awarded the Parramatta Eels player of the year for his consistent performances throughout 2025.

PHOTO: Parramatta Eels TOP EFFORT