MonaroPostWednesdayJuly232025

Cooma business boost

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Cooma’s retail and hospitality businesses have welcomed the in ux of school holiday visitors to town, in what some business operators have declared as one of the busiest holiday periods in a number of years.

With the region’s snow resorts reporting their best snowfalls in three seasons, holiday goers have been ocking to the Snowy Mountains. Cooma, as the main gateway to the resorts, has reaped the rewards with a constant ow of visitors visiting cafes, restaurants and retail spaces.

Simon Bolton, owner of Mainstreet Clothing in Cooma’s main street, said the school holdays have been a welcomed boost to town.

“It’s been our best holiday period since Covid lockdowns ended. When they ended, there were lots of people about and with more money to spend,” Mr Bolton said.

“These holidays just gone have been our best in a number of years.

“Town has been very busy, it’s been very pleasing to see.”

Pilot’s body found in wreckage

Multi-agency search hampered by tough terrain

By NATHAN THOMPSON

A pilot’s body has been found in his aircra ’s wreckage following a multi-agency search for a plane reported missing last week.

On Friday, 18 July, rescue crews located a body in the wreckage about 10 kilometres east of Khancoban.

The pilot, believed to be from the Far South Coast, was ying from Wangaratta in Victoria to Moruya on Tuesday, 15 July.

Riverina Police District

has been di cult to nd in the steep, overgrown terrain.”

report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

“The terrain is very steep, there is lots of snow and the crash site is di cult to reach,” Superintendent Spliet said.

“Getting to the site initially has been almost impossible. The site

Commander Superintendent, Andrew Spliet, said rescue crews had to negate tough terrain and heavy snowfalls in the search for the missing aircra .

At 4.30pm on the Tuesday, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority was noti ed by Air Services Australia an aircra was overdue arriving at Moruya airport.

Mr Spliet said on Friday, before the body was located, that the crash was unsurvivable. A

COOMA FURNISHING CO

“You wouldn’t recognise the wreckage as a plane.

“There was a signi cant impact, the plane had a fair bit of speed when it crashed into the mountain range.”

■ More on the crash pages 6 & 7

ECONOMY: Simon Bolton (front), owner of Mainstreet Clothing in Cooma, said the July school holidays have provided a much needed boost to the local retail sector. Simon is joined by Mainstreet workers Jess (left) and Laura (right). PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Halt on Barry Way upgrades Brown Mountain road works continue

UPGRADES: The Barry Way in Jindabyne roadworks are on pause while the NSW Department of Education’s infrastructure team relocate water supply pipes.

Work will soon start on the last remaining landslip site on Brown Mountain.

Brown Mountain, the main road linking the Snowy Monaro to the Bega Valley and Far South Coast, has long been plagued by landslips.

On Brown Mountain, a series of natural disasters in 2022 and 2023 caused landslip damage at nine separate sites.

Work on the nal site, located about 2.7 kilometres west of the Brown Mountain Power Station, will start in the coming months. Work is to be carried out in two stages.

Repair e orts are also taking place on Cambewarra Mountain.

“With $2.8 million in joint funding from the Australian and NSW governments, we’re making sure these essential landslip repairs on Cambewarra Mountain and Brown Mountain can get underway and keep communities connected and safe,” Federal Minister for Regional Development and Member for EdenMonaro, Kristy McBain, said.

“This builds on the $1.7 million worth of works on Brown Mountain that are almost nished, and follows a huge e ort last year to get Moss Vale Road fully reopened for the rst time since those severe weather events hit back in early 2022.”

Project pipe relocation required

By TRISTA HEATH

The Barry Way Jindabyne

upgrades started in November 2024 and since, this complex road construction project has been the subject of much community discussion over the quality of the work and its completion.

Recent complications have put the roadworks on hold, con rmed Member for Monaro, Steve Whan. Work has come to a halt while the project team relocate a water pipeline.

The NSW government funded $47 million to the project, which is said to be completed by January 2026.

The commitment to enhancing Barry Way is in addition to the previously announced $196 million for the Snowy Mountains special activation precinct (SAP)

announced in early 2024.

The project is being delivered by the NSW Department of Education, and a er long delays on the road, potholes and deep divots, upset community members reached out to Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, regarding the road condition and why people aren’t seeing much progress.

In June’s Snowy Monaro Regional Council meeting the chief of infrastructure and projects, Tony Lickiss, said his team plan on having further consultation with the project leaders as he is not happy with the progress so far.

“There have been many complaints from the community who have voiced they are not happy with the progress of the roadworks either,” he said.

“It’s not a complicated job.

It’s only a 2.5 kilometre stretch of road, it should be almost complete by now, and we need to have a conversation around onsite performance.”

Mr Whan said the upgrades are on track for its January 2026 completion date despite shortterm complications arising during works.

“The infrastructure team has hit a complication with the current works causing a pause on the roadworks while the team are required to relocate a water supply pipeline from one side of the road to the other and the services that go along it,” Mr Whan said.

“This work is ongoing and has approximately another six weeks before it is completed and can then recommit to working on the road itself.

“The reason works are taking so long and the community aren’t seeing much progress right now

is because of relocating previous infrastructure, we are required to move the infrastructure before works can recommence on the road.

“In the meantime, I have been working with the infrastructure team about tending to potholes and ensuring they are lled wherever possible, obviously weather creates a problem but there’s also hopes of putting down a temporary seal.

“A temporary seal will reduce some of the issues, and a er receiving complaints from the community we have asked that the team be more vigilant with lling potholes and grading the road more o en as we look into the temporary seal option.”

Mr Whan said he thanks everyone for their patience and for driving carefully through the road works and promises to keep the community informed with updates along the way.

PHOTO: Trista Heath

Pedestrian safety concerns in Jindabyne

Lack of footpaths connecting town pose risk: Residents

By TRISTA HEATH

Concerned Jindabyne residents are calling for a community update from Snowy Monaro Regional Council on footpath upgrades around the town.

Councillor Rueben Rose and Councillor Nick Elliott spoke in last week’s council meeting on the issue of footpaths in Jindabyne, an issue concerning the community for many years now.

Cr Rose put forward a motion on pedestrian safety in Jindabyne, the motion included community feedback received during recent planning exhibitions and informal consultations which has highlighted ongoing safety concerns for pedestrians in Jindabyne’s town centre, particularly in areas of high winter foot tra c such as Gippsland and Munyang Streets.

“Patrons leaving venues at night o en walk along poorly lit streets with no footpaths, posing a real risk to safety,” Cr Rose said.

Cr Rose said although council adopted a Transport Strategy in June 2024 that referenced these needs, no clear prioritisation appears to have followed.

The motion read that the 2024–25 Operational Plan allocated $144,871 for footpaths however did not list

any speci c projects, and the 2025–26 allocation is embedded in a broader capital pool without clear line-item accountability.

Cr Rose said this lack of transparency makes it difcult for councillors or the public to assess whether urgent needs are being addressed.

Cr Rose said this motion seeks to establish a structured and safety-focused approach to pedestrian infrastructure not simply based on vehicle tra c volumes, but on actual foot tra c and risk.

It also requests data on what has been delivered to date and encourages council to explore grant options to support safer active transport infrastructure in key tourism and residential zones.

“There is a major lack of marked crossings, limited street lighting making it a real risk for pedestrians. The transport strategy highlights these areas of being high priority for footpath upgrades but there’s no timeline or resource allocation,” Cr Rose said.

“I am asking for council to provide a public update to the community on pedestrian safety risks and what’s being done by council to rectify these issues.

“I have heard from the Jindabyne community that footpaths have been a longstanding issue that is not being addressed, something needs to be done.”

Cr Elliott agreed with Cr Rose and said footpaths have been an issue raised in Jindabyne for quite some time.

“Some people have even gone to the lengths of submitting very detailed plans on where we are lacking footpaths and more,” Cr Elliott said.

“There are areas where there’s narrow cuttings and holiday makers are forced to walk on roads. There’s a big frustration in Jindabyne that nobody is listening when they’ve said we need footpaths and gone through the trouble of submitting a plan and either had no response or very little response.”

Resident and founder of Jindabyne Action Group (JAG), Toni Clarke, entered a lengthy submission to council on the state of the town’s footpaths and outlined the many connectivity issues and disjointed path structures followed by a list of suggested xes to certain issues.

Ms Clarke said the state of Jindabyne’s footpaths has the potential to cause serious injuries to those visiting or living in Jindabyne, describing it as a disaster waiting to

happen.

“We would also like to remind council of your responsibility around safe access to the town’s essential services for those with disabilities,” Ms Clarke said.

“Lower Gippsland Street is a frequented route from shops, restaurants, school and medical centre and main route to churches and our very busy Op shop and soup kitchen. It leads to the many holiday units and new housing area on upper Gippsland that does have a footpath but goes no further than Munyang Street.

“This has been a main trafc route since the new town was built more than 60 years ago and still there is no path either side of lower Gippsland, only dirt track.

“Jindabyne’s visitors come through Bredbo and Cooma or up from Bombala bringing money to the whole area but it is the residents of Jindabyne who struggle with the strain on our town.”

Ms Clarke said there is not enough parking, it’s di cult to access services, there is congested tra c conditions and poorly thought out and maintained pedestrian footpaths, and believes Jindabyne deserves better and its residents deserve better.

Resident and JAG member, Bill Euston, said when the

new school was being built TAFE NSW and the department of education put out a request for public comment regarding access and many responded to say that there were no existing footpaths.

“I wrote a fairly compelling letter with ideas for obtaining funds for these

critical paths, parents were already complaining about not being able to walk or ride to school,” Mr Euston said. “My letter was received by council, but then passed onto the roads supervisor and that was back in November 2024, and I have not had an answer yet.”

Feedback sought on amenities block

Community has say on Jindabyne town centre toilets

By TRISTA HEATH

Snowy Monaro Regional Council recently held a community information session to review and discuss several options for the upgrade of the Jindabyne Town Centre toilet block.

Council heard from the Jindabyne community on the di erent options being considered and other ideas for the nal design.

Options on show included, external render colouring in dark grey or sand, several design options for privacy screens, and three di erent colour options for internal features.

A council spokesperson said the feedback received during the session identi ed a preference towards a sandy external colour, to blend the Memorial Hall with the darker library, along with a mural on the end of the town centre.

Corten steel was the preferred material choice for the privacy screens, that could include an Australian themed etching such as gum leaves or an Australian animal or bird.

Corten steel would also complement new signage that is being installed around the foreshore and throughout Jindabyne.

The preferred internal colour scheme was warm caramel cubicles with green vanity surface top,

PHOTO: Trista Heath

and oating vanity rather than to the oor.

“It was suggested that a local artist be engaged to provide a visual picture of the old town in two bordered locations at the front,” the spokesperson said.

“It was recognised that these toilets are the rst stop for the majority of tourists when arriving in Jindabyne.

“A visual representation of the Jindabyne history was suggested and will be investigated further,

rather than two photos.”

A new path and small grass courtyard out the front of the building was also supported by

Schedules works will include upgrades of old piping where required, CCTV to be installed around the toilet block to deter vandalism, brickwork to be retained, bricks to be rendered to update facade while still blending in with the surrounding buildings.

Also including a compliant path, and a new complaint staircase, a garbage bin locker will be placed at the rear of the building, repairs and upgrade to roof, new ttings and xtures, disabled toilets and a unisex parent’s room.

The spokesperson said due to changes in the focus of the SAP funding from the town centre to the foreshore along with issues of underground services, the plan to knock down and rebuild the toilet block in a di erent site is not feasible at this time.

“This project will improve the toilet block, surrounding pathways, and garden, broader town centre upgrades are outside the current scope,” spokesperson said.

“We know there are many di erent views and priorities. Working together, we will be able to undertake an upgrade that pleases both our community and visitors.”

Cross-border communications set to improve: trial

Frontline responders working between NSW and Victoria will soon be able to access improved radio communications to help better protect local communities.

Emergency services agencies are working to improve communications when responding to natural disasters across borders, with a new radio communications trial announced at the National Emergency Ministers Meeting in Darwin last week.

The trial is testing rst responders’ ability to seamlessly switch between state radio networks, allowing teams to coordinate responses during emergencies, even when crossing borders.

This will enable them to operate on the same radio network and prevent them having to carry two radios to improve emergency response e orts.

Under the trial emergency service crews’ radios will automatically connect to the local network, enabling rst responders to stay in touch without changing devices or settings.

This is will boost responses during large-scale emergencies like bush res, oods, or storms, where teams from multiple agencies and states o en work together.

The trial builds on Australia’s rst interstate radio roaming services, launched by NSW and Queensland in 2023.

This service was critical during the response to Tropical Cyclone Alfred earlier this year when Queensland’s radio infrastructure was inaccessible, and emergency teams were able to switch seamlessly to the NSW network and continue operations without disruption.

The trial is expected to begin later in the year and will be led by the NSW Telco Authority and Emergency Management Victoria.

In NSW, the Public Safety Network is used by emergency services and government agencies to coordinate responses and is the state’s most important communications network a er Triple Zero.

“State borders shouldn’t be a barrier to public safety. This collaboration re ects a shared commitment to ensuring rst responders have the tools to keep communities safe and connected,” Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, said.

“As technology improves, we need to look at new ways to harness it to improve our emergency response. This is yet another example of how we’re improving communications to assist in a crisis.

“Through enabling seamless roaming and stronger network interoperability we’re ensuring emergency responders can communicate clearly and stay connected when it matters most.”

UPGRADE: Jindabyne Town Centre Toilet Block will receive upgrade works a er the winter season a er community had the opportunity to have their say on the design plans.

Coota-Gundagai given green light to split De-merger calls welcomed by local groups Councillor Stewart recognised

By NATHAN THOMPSON

The president of Save Bombala, a group calling for the de-merger of Snowy Monaro Regional Council, says a recent decision to separate another forcibly amalgamated council is a positive step forward.

Grantley Ingram, Save Bombala president and chair of De-merger Alliance NSW, has welcomed the state government’s decision to allow the Cootamundra-Gundagai Council split.

“The Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, has listened to the community and not the bureaucrats,” Mr Ingram said.

“Leaving the de-merger process to the council to manage internally is a real winner, no sacked councillors, no administrator, no bloated new executive appointed, no increased administrative costs.

“I suspect the de-merger cost will be minimal and having the council in control will keep the lid on spending. Their estimate was $2.5 to $3 million but it will be less than that.”

Mr Ingram said the decision delivered last week bodes well for the communities of the former Bombala, Cooma-Monaro and Snowy River Shire Councils.

“I have already received a number of calls from people in Jindabyne

and Cooma looking at bringing a demerger on,” Mr Ingram said.

“The minister is well aware of the perilous state of our council and that of many merged councils and the last thing he needs is a heap of councils under administration.”

In October 2023, the Minister announced his support to split Cootamundra–Gundagai Regional Council provided it could develop a robust implementation plan for two separate councils.

“Cootamundra and Gundagai are two councils that should never have been merged,” Minister Hoenig said.

“Within several years of the merger I spoke with mayor Abb McAlister and remember being impressed with the work the council had done calculating the cost of the merger on the new council. The community’s opposition was not just philosophical, it was financial and practical.

“De-merging a council is significantly more complex than amalgamating one. The Council’s own implementation plan highlighted there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to get to a point where two new councils can be proclaimed.”

“May it stand as the folly that it was, so we can finally discard forced amalgamations for amalgamations sake into the waste bin of history.”

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Snowy Monaro Regional Councillor, Bob Stewart, has been recognised for 30 years service to the community and local government sector with a medal presented to him at last week’s council meeting.

Cr Stewart was honoured at the Bombala Show in March for his three decades of service but received a local government medal at the ordinary meeting in Bombala last Thursday.

“I really enjoy my time on council. I owe the community a big thanks, especially the Bombala community,” Cr Stewart said.

“When working with the community, we need to bring them along for the journey and we can all work well.”

New council chief executive o cer, Noreen Vu, read out a long list of achievements Cr Stewart has overseen.

Cr Stewart has served as a local councillor since 1995 when he was elected to the former Bombala Shire Council. He served as Bombala mayor from 2004 to 2016 when the council merged with Cooma-Monaro and Snowy River Shire Councils to form Snowy Monaro Regional Council.

Council sta , fellow councillors and the community thanked Cr Stewart for his e orts.

Amongst his accomplishments, Cr Stewart was recognised for his e orts in establishing the Bombala timber mill and

helping the district transition into the timber industry.

His work in promoting Bombala as a tourist destination, upgrades to the local hospital, road

improvements and advocacy for enhacning the town’s CBD were listed as just some of the many projects he has been involved with.

‘Rugged terrain’ hampers rescuers

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Steep terrian, heavy snow and inclement weather have hampered the e orts of a multi-agency search in reaching the wreckage of a missing aircra .

Riverina Police District Commander, Andrew Spliet, said last Friday (before the pilot’s body was located) that the crash site could only be accessed from the air due to heavy snow and the terrain.

The search e ort concentrated on the Dargals Trail area of the Ko-

sciuszko National Park, the plane’s last known GPS location.

The aircra was reported missing on Tuesday, 15 July July a er taking o from Wangaratta airport, headed for Moruya.

“The terrain is very steep, there is lots of snow and the crash site is di cult to reach,” Superintendent Spliet said.

“You wouldn’t recognise the wreckage as a plane.

“There was a signi cant impact, the plane had a fair bit of speed up when it crashed.”

Mr Spliet said the crash was unsurvivable.

“Getting to the site initially has been almost impossible,” he said.

“The site has been di cult to nd in the steep, overgrown terrain.”

Rescue teams from the NSW Police, NSW State Emergency Services alpine operations, National Parks and Wildlife Services, Snowy Hydro and interstate teams all joined the search e ort.

New CEO arrives

By NATHAN THOMPSON

community’s priorities over the coming months and years.”

Tender opportunity

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s (SMRC) new chief executive o cer Noreen Vu started in the role last week.

Ms Vu replaced interim CEO, Stephen Dunshea, who lled the role for nine months following the resignation of David Hogan in October 2024.

Ms Vu’s rst week saw her visit council depot sites in Cooma, Jindabyne and Bombala, as well as presiding over her rst council meeting.

“It’s a real privilege to be joining council here in the Snowy Monaro, and I’m looking forward to getting to know the people and places that have made this region so wellrenowned across Australia,” Ms Vu said.

“In my rst week here, I’m busy hitting the road to meet the hardworking teams at our depots, facilities and o ces across the region. With so much exciting and important work ahead of us, I want our people to know that I’ll be working closely with them to deliver our

Ms Vu arrived in the Snowy Monaro following her tenure as head of Weddin Shire Council in the NSW central west. Weddin Shire Council has 3,700 residents in its local government area.

Snowy Monaro mayor, Chris Hanna, welcomed Ms Vu into the top job and said he looks forward to working closely with her.

“Ms Vu’s demonstrated commitment to local grassroots engagement, connecting with community members face-to-face and focus on working with local people on the decisions that a ect them was a key factor in her appointment to the role,” Cr Hanna said.

“There’s plenty of work ahead of us. Ms Vu brings the experience and skills to provide the leadership we need as we continue to plan and deliver the projects and strategies the Snowy Monaro needs right now and for the future to come.”

Ms Vu has worked across all levels of government in areas of strategy, policy and asset management.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council is seeking tenders from suitably qualified contractors for trail upgrades and construction of new trails.

VP468534 – Jindabyne Shared Trails

Sections 1.1 and 2.2

Trail Upgrade and New Trail Construction

• Section 1.1 – Tyrolean Village to Kunama Estate and Rainbow Drive (Construct)

• Section 2.2 – Tyrolean MTB Park (Design & Construct)

VP468545 – Jindabyne Shared Trails

Section 2.1

New Trail Construction

• Section 2.1 – Kunama Estate to East Jindabyne (Construct)

This package includes design, construction works and supply of material in accordance with the project brief, BCA/NCC, and health and safety compliance.

Interested parties must obtain copies of the tender documentation from Council’s VendorPanel e-tendering site at www.vendorpanel.com.au.

OPENING AND CLOSING DATES

This tender opens 4pm AEST on Wednesday 16 July 2025.

All submissions must be fully received by Council prior to 4pm AEST on Thursday 14 August 2025.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

MANDATORY SITE INSPECTION

A mandatory pre-tender site meeting will be held on-site at 11am on Monday 28 July 2025.

Attendees to meet at the intersection of Kosciuszko Road and Jerrara Drive, East Jindabyne.

Suitable footwear and PPE is required to attend the inspection.

ENQUIRIES

Enquiries should be directed to the VendorPanel online forum.

SUBMISSIONS

Completed responses must be submitted via the electronic tender box only, using the Microsoft Word and Excel versions of the schedules.

Upon completion, respondents will receive a receipt with the time and date of their submission.

Should assistance be required, respondents can access the online manual under the support section of the VendorPanel website.

The VendorPanel customer support team can be contacted by email at support@vendorpanel.com.au or by phone at (03) 9095 6181.

Late submissions will not be considered. This is not an offer of engagement to provide services. Council will use responses to assess respondent suitability for the advertised opportunity. All submissions, queries, and correspondence must be submitted to Council using the VendorPanel platform at www.vendorpanel.com.au. Submissions, queries, or correspondence made by any other means will not be considered and will not receive a response.

coomaselfstorage.com.au

SEARCH: Rescuers located the wreckage of a plane reported missing over the Snowy Mountains last week. Rugged terrain and heavy snow impacted search e orts.

PHOTO: NSW Police

Aircraft crashes near Southern Cloud location, another life lost

By NATHAN THOMPSON

The Snowy Mountains ranges can prove di cult for pilots with adverse conditions and steep terrain making navigating the ranges challenging, particular in inclement weather.

The ranges claimed another life last week when a Far South Coast pilot’s light-aircra crashed about 15km east of Khancoban, near Dargals Trail.

His plane was reported missing on Tuesday, 15 July when emergency services were noti ed of a possible crash in the vicinity of Dargals Trail.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) was noti ed by Air Services Australia that a plane took o from Wangaratta in Victoria, bound for Moruya Airport; however, it never arrived.

A command post was established, and a search commenced involving o cers attached to the NSW Police Alpine Operations Unit, with assistance from NSW and Victoria Ambulance Service, National Parks and Wildlife Service, and the Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre airwing, but the plane could not be located.

A er negotiating rugged terrain and with help from the sky, rescuers located the wreckage on Thursday and the pilot’s body on Friday.

The location is close to arguably one of the nation’s greatest air mysteries, the crash of the Southern Cloud on 21 March, 1931.

When the Southern Cloud disappeared without a trace while ying from Sydney to Melbourne, it became Australia’s rst ‘big’ civil airline disaster.

Despite extensive searches, including by Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, owner of the airliner which ew the Southern Cloud, the plane could not be found.

There were eight fatalities, six passengers and two aircrew.

That was until Snowy Scheme worker, Tom Sonter, stumbled upon the wreckage on 26 October, 1958. Sonter, a carpenter, le his camp at Happy Jacks and came upon the rusted metal of the aircra .

The Southern Cloud was found on the south west side of the heavily timbered mountain ridge. In memory of the disaster and the discovery by Sonter, the

Southern Cloud Memorial was erected in Cooma. The park took on its name during the seventh festival of the snows in October 1962.

The memorial, erected by the Cooma Lions Club, is made of concrete wings 40 feet across that soar from the blunt apex of a triangle.

A grill encloses the face of the memorial and the recovered engine parts of the Southern Cloud and other historic relics. Recorded

information is available, telling the story of the Southern Cloud. The eight people killed on the Southern Cloud were laid to rest in Cooma Cemetery. There is a monument in the cemetery with their names and details of the accident.

In recent years, the Southern Cloud Memorial site has become a site to remember and honour other aviation accidents in the region, including the death of three US airmen aboard Bomber-134.

•

aircrew, were killed when the Southern Cloud crashed in the Snowy Mountains.

This plaque details the opening of the Southern Cloud Memorial on Sharp Street Cooma by the Cooma Lions Club.

REMEMBERING: The Southern Cloud Memorial in Cooma pays tribute to the lives lost in the Southern Cloud crash in 1931. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

Trout festival ends after 50 years

Community plans for new fishing competition

By TRISTA HEATH

A er 50 years of the Snowy Monaro hosting the Snowy Mountains Trout Festival, organisers announced the event will no longer continue.

In a statement released last month, organisers of the Snowy Mountains Trout Festival said the decision to close the event was not made lightly.

“Over the decades, the festival has brought together anglers, families, and our wider community in celebration of our beautiful region,” the statement said.

“However, in recent years, we’ve experienced growing challenges in maintaining the event, particularly in securing the level of community involvement and support required to keep the festival running to the high standard it deserves.”

The last event was hosted in November 2023 for six days bringing keen anglers from across the country with the peak of the event seeing hundreds of anglers register in hopes of taking rst place in the competition.

With shing being some of the best over the past few years, the 2023 festival had more than $30,000 in prizes up for grabs.

The major prize up in the 2023 event was a $20,000 boat, motor and trailer package.

The festival’s wind-up will be carried out in line with the o cial guidelines set out by the NSW Department of Fair Trading, ensuring transparency and proper closure of all related matters.

The Snowy Mountains Trout Festival Committee said they are grateful to all the volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, and attendees who have supported them over the years.

“While it’s the end of an era, we hope the spirit of the festival continues in the hearts of all who have taken part,” the statement said.

“Thank you for 50 memorable years.”

Lake Jindabyne and Lake Eucumbene were two major waterways that drew anglers to the competition and since the announcement of the event ending, many shing enthusiasts have taken to social media groups in hopes of starting a new competition in the area.

Disappointed with the news of the festival no longer running, local man Aaron Page reached out to the community asking for interest in starting up a new committee

to run its own shing com petition in 2026.

Mr Page said he has decid ed to run the competition/ festival as a business struc ture, this will help incentiv ise certain particular indi viduals with the skills and knowledge to get involved.

“The reason to operate such an event as a business structure means people will be paid for their commit ment and contributions as sta to the event and they will have the peace of mind by being covered by work ers compensation. It also removes almost all personal liability from individuals,” Mr Page said.

“It also alleviates the poli tics of a committee. The business structure is being designed to bene t the com munity socially, economi cally and environmentally and should see the event able to self-fund as well as support local charities and community groups for many years to come.”

sent a notice of intention form.

The new competition guidelines will be based on a catch and release competition with an emphasis on environmental sustainability.

Mr Page is currently in the process of talks with the Snowy Monaro Regional Council events team and has

“Once the events team gets back to me with what permits, licencing and insurances will be required, I will be reaching out to land holders and the appropriate organisations to submit applications,” Mr Page said.

“There is a lot of nuances to be considered and com-

munity input will be sought by holding a public meeting for everyone to attend and hopefully live streamed through YouTube and/or Facebook for those that cannot make it in person.

“I will give one-month notice to everyone for the meeting date, and will also be making appearances to local small businesses, chari-

ties and community groups to see what I can do from my end to gain involvement to bene t them.”

Mr Page looks forward to being involved with the community and local businesses to start up this new shing competition and continue bringing tourism to the area.

Bastin Brown caught by angler in Lake Jindabyne during the 2023 Snowy Mountains Trout Festival.

FISHING: Brown Trout caught by an angler in Lake Jindabyne during the 2023 Snowy Mountains Trout Festival. PHOTOS: Supplied

Brightening children’s futures

MacKillop Family Services calls for local foster carers

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

Life for a foster care family of four in Bombala, and their support carers in Cooma, is chaotic and challenging, but also very rewarding.

Despite its challenges, single mum Joanne, who fosters four siblings (and has two of her own older children, with one son still living at home), and her Coomabased parents, Margaret and John, thrive on o ering a stable, safe and secure environment and life for these vulnerable children.

They are part of the MacKillop Family Services foster care program which supports children and families in communities within WA, Victoria, ACT and NSW.

The agency is running a weeklong foster carer recruitment campaign in July, titled ‘Foster A Brighter Future’.

Right now, MacKillop Family Services needs foster carers who can provide nurturing care and support to children and young people unable to live at home.

The campaign is aimed at reaching out to people in the community to share the importance of foster care so children can develop to their potential.

As respite carers for four children, who their daughter Joanne fosters, Margaret and John recommend being carers, and in doing so know they are assisting

in changing a child’s life just by opening their heart and home to them.

This is an important role –providing support to full time carers - and is also a way someone can be a foster carer without taking it on full time.

Through respite care they, like Joanne, are investing in the children’s lives – helping to ‘foster a brighter future’.

Joanne fosters two girls and two boys, the oldest is nine and the youngest is four.

The two older children started living with Joanne four years ago, then were joined by their younger siblings two years later.

“It was a very big decision for Jo to take the younger ones and have the four of them,” Margaret said.

“It’s something the whole family took on; Jo’s two kids say that’s my little brother or little sister. So, they are 100 per cent included in the family.

“We take two kids at a time every couple of weeks. Jo is amazing she looks a er the four of them, all the time, and has one of her own children,” Margaret said.

“It gives them a bit of a break, gives Jo a break and o ers the kids something di erent as well. John is the male gure for the boys, as Jo is a single mum.

“We are called Nanna and Pop...I will take them to the park, Pop will take them to the lake, go shing and boating. Just do the things Joanne doesn’t have the

time to do with them.”

Prior to the four siblings, Joanne, 38, had opened her home to foster children before so has been fostering for a total of six years now.

“My sister is also a foster carer living in Queensland and has been doing it for about 30 years,” Margaret said.

“When we all started considering this, we had someone to ask what is involved. She has done short time, long term, respite.

“We get to love these kids and care for them. We can give them something that makes them happy and give them opportunities, which they very likely wouldn’t have had.

“Some kids get put into moteltype situations, not into a family home, so I can’t even imagine a child having to do that,” Margaret said.

There are times when it becomes a bit chaotic, but Margaret said the family wouldn’t have it any other way.

“It’s not always easy, as they do have behaviours and trauma and anger, but that’s an opportunity for us to help them as well, for them to grow with a family who loves them,” Margaret said.

“But we just work with that, calm them down, using music, play, go outdoors. It helps us see that not all kids get to have the best life, but we are here to give them their best life.

“There are de nite visible

OUT: A Bombala family fosters through MacKillop Family Services, an organisation which focusses on supporting families so they can build on their strengths, and create an environment where children can develop to their potential.

changes in their behaviour that we are noticing over time. And we have the full support from MacKillop Family Services, it is an amazing organisation. They are always there if you need them to guide you or support you and provide on-going training.

“I would 100 per cent recommend fostering. We are respite carers, so we don’t have the children all the time, but it does impact on your life. It’s about being able to help these little ones

have a better way of life.

The children see their biological parents every few months.

“Joanne keeps the connection with the children’s biological parents and other family members like their uncle, and that’s important,” Margaret said. If you’d like to nd out more about how foster care works, and this incredibly rewarding journey, contact MacKillop Family Services.

When there are bushfires, floods or storms, Emergency Services issue simple warnings to help you make faster, safer decisions. There are three warning levels:

Yellow Advice level means you’re not in danger yet but stay alert.

Orange Watch and Act level means start taking action now. Conditions are changing.

Red Emergency Warning level means take action immediately. Any delay puts your life at risk.

Emergencies can escalate quickly, so staying alert is important.

Learn more at nsw.gov.au/GetReadyNSW

REACHING

PHOTOS: Kirby Rae Photography

The other side of the fence with Phil Daley

How o en do we hear in a council meeting the term ‘that’s an operational matter’?

The answer is unfortunately, too o en. It’s a term used by sta to remind councillors, that what they are proposing is stepping outside the boundaries of their role as a councillor.

Even councillors are now o ering the ‘it’s an operational matter’ statement when they make a comment, move a motion or even ask a question. That is how easily an accepted misconception can become reality.

Even if the question, statement, motion is not an operational matter, I notice there are times when sta haven’t corrected the councillors assertion that what they have said is ‘an operational matter’ when in fact it’s not.

One can only wonder why? In other words, ‘it’s an operational matter’ has simply become a statement of expediency to have something to hide behind.

The Local Government Act of 1993 de nes the interaction between sta and councillors in order to limit the interaction between the two groups which could be perceived as a councillor directing or interfering in the day to day running of the council.

Fair point you might say, we don’t want councillors running around telling sta what potholes to patch, what letters to write or what parks to mow. That would create confusion and would make for poor management and unnecessary oversight.

The environment is so controlled that council even has a policy listing which of its employees is permitted to interact with councillors. As our elected representatives, the councillors’ role, is to develop policies that will ensure that its adopted programs are delivered in a nancially sustainable, an organisationally e cient and responsible manner and to ensure the CEO is resourced

Busy times for Cooma CWA

On 14 July, at the Cooma Country Women’s Association branch regular meeting, the group welcomed a guest speaker.

The speaker was Michelle Janes, senior projects and programs officer of the South East Local Land Services (LLS). Michelle gave an outline of the kinds of activities LLS carries out, such as soil conservation, pest management, livestock health issues and more.

One new project, for which the NSW Government has allocated $20 million, is restoring the Upper Murrumbidgee to remove willows and erosion control, as well as dealing with feral goats.

Another project involves Northern Corroboree Frogs in Micalong Swamp. The frogs are threatened by blackberry bushes and LLS is spraying the blackberries.

adequately to carry out the adopted plans and policies in an e cient manner.

Sadly, this council has insu cient policies to allow councillors to fully execute their mandated roles and there are too few adopted policies to make sta accountable to the councillors.

I wonder if our councillors understand the rami cations of the policies they adopt. For example, council was asked to adopt a revised procurement policy at its June meeting in order to update the policy to re ect the current requirements for procurement.

The introduction states that the policy ‘outlines the guidelines and foundations required by those engaging in procurement on behalf of council’.

It states the policy applies to all council’s procurement activities including persons such as sta , volunteers, consultants, contractors etc.

In council’s June newsletter

there is a section wherein council is inviting contractors to participate in the upcoming tender for our new plant and equipment hire panel through the online VendorPanel procurement platform.

The goal of this new initiative is to create an internal panel of contractors that are operating in the plant and equipment hire sectors.

How will the vested interest test be applied to those contractors? What is so lacking in the expertise of our sta that inhibits their ability to specify, tender for and select plant and equipment?

I wonder if our councillors, in adopting the procurement policy, were aware that they would be inviting contractors to be engaged in the procurement process? Additionally will those contractors be paid for their time? How will the operational sta who will be the end users of the new plant feel when a contractor has in uence in what

plant item will be purchased?

This is where the policy/ operational divide muddies. The policy mentions contractors but there in no mention of the sort of detail those contractors will be engaged in or if payment is involved. Was it explained to councillors at a brie ng as to what was being proposed?

Additionally, will it enable them to ful l their control and direct obligation or was the action simply considered “an operational matter”? No wonder there is confusion. Councillors cannot control and direct if there are insu cient detailed organisational policies to permit the required oversight.

If a council does not have policies which require the sort of reporting that it needs to ful ll its role then it needs to introduce that level of oversight. Without adopted detailed policies, sta can do pretty much as they wish because there is nothing to require them to perform di erently.

Church service times across the Snowy Monaro region

Cooma Baptist Church: 10am Sunday

Michelle felt that the LLS and CWA shared a common aim, being to help rural people and that CWA could work with LLS in many aspects of LLS’s projects.

Some of the CWA policies, arising from motions passed at its state conferences, con rm this observation. The branch thanked Michelle for her informative talk.

On Friday, 25 July, the CWA Cooma Branch is holding its popular frozen soup and casserole street stall, in Sharp Street, between the NewsXpress and Hook’s Pharmacy, with proceeds going to CWA NSW community projects. The group is calling on the community to support its stall and enjoy delicious soups and casseroles.

For further information, contact Kaye 6452 1782 or Margaret 0407 493 879

HEY MR COWLAN! RAT AND I ARE GONNA RIDE IN THE ‘TOUR DE DUST’ CYCLING CHALLENGE, AND WE’RE WONDERING IF YOU’D BE INTERESTED IN SPONSORSHIP?

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 Church: 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 Church Adaminaby: 3pm first and third Sunday each month

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

St Andrew’s Catholic Church Nimmitabel: Saturday vigil mass 5pm on the weekend of the third Sunday, Liturgy with Holy Communion other Saturdays 5pm

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

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

NOT A PROBLEM COOKIE. I’M A BIG SUPPORTER OF BUSINESS AND SPORT WORKING TOGETHER TO PROMOTE ONES INTERESTS.

SO, IF YOU KIDS PAY ME, SAY, FIVE DOLLARS A DAY FOR THE DURATION OF THE RACE, I’LL GLADLY TELL ALL MY CUSTOMERS ABOUT IT.

OK, THAT SOUNDS FAIR. ( UMMM...HEY...HANG ON... ) WHAT THE?

Photo of the week

Holly

residents have their say

Nathan Thompson (02) 6452 0312

editor@monaropost.com.au JOURNALISTS

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

Melinda Cairns Hack (Cooma) (02) 6452 0312

mcairnshack@monaropost.com.au

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

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

Monaro Post

Snowy Monaro

Chris Chambers, Cooma Keeping the council on track, and making sure they’re working for the community.

Cindy Chawner, Binjura It will be a challenging role, her first focus should be on teaching councillors how to play nicely together in the sand pit.

Alex Aitkenhead , Cooma Removing party politics from local council would be a good start.

John Britton , Cooma The new CEO should work towards strengthening council’s working relationship with community organisations.

Our photo of the week comes from local photographer, Holly Dowell.

has captured the stunning Monaro landscape. This image is taken from the top of the second brother at The Brothers, a significant and important part of the Monaro vista.

PHOTO: Holly Dowell

Legacy celebrates Christmas in July

Cooma-Bombala Legacy has hosted a well attended Christmas in July luncheon with the event recognising the work of Legacy in the Snowy Monaro community.

The organisation has a long and proud history of supporting families of Australian defence force personnel who died or have been injured as a result of service.

The luncheon at the Cooma Ex-Services Club was attended by Legacy members, friends and bene ciaries from across the region.

Di Good

Impact of cost shifting blowout, $500 per ratepayer

Snowy Monaro Regional Council and councils across NSW are now absorbing $1.5 billion in cost shifting from state and federal governments each year – a cumulative $11.3 billion over the past decade – according to a new report commissioned by Local Government NSW (LGNSW).

Cost Shifting 2025: How State Costs Eat Council Rates was prepared by independent consultants Morrison Low. It reveals the $1.5 billion burden on councils is an increase of approximately $140 million (10 per cent) since the last report for the 2021/22 financial year, when the total cost shift was estimated at $1.36 billion.

Cost shifting occurs when state and federal governments force councils to assume responsibility for infrastructure, services and regulatory functions without providing sufficient supporting funding.

LGNSW President Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said councils faced unprecedented financial strain and warned the practice of cost shifting – overwhelmingly from the NSW government - must end.

“Councils are at breaking point. The combination of relentless cost shifting, rate capping and inadequate state and federal funding is eroding the sector’s financial sustainability,” Mayor Miller said.

“Councils are having to foot the bill for state and federal functions and services that they didn’t design and aren’t funded to deliver.

“This includes the collection of the NSW government’s Waste Levy and payment of the Emergency Services Levy, and the huge shortfall in funding for our beloved libraries. There’s also the significant loss of income when councils aren’t allowed to charge rates on certain properties even though they are big users of council services.”

Nearly $500 per ratepayer in NSW is being diverted from essential local priorities like roads, libraries, sporting facilities and community programs.

“These are services our communities need, want and deserve, and they’re being severely compromised by councils needing to pick up the bill on behalf of the state,” she said.

Multiple inquiries into the financial sustainability of councils at both state and federal levels over the past 18 months confirmed the severity of the situation.

The November 2024 report of the NSW parliamentary inquiry into the ability of councils to fund infrastructure and services called for the NSW government to identify opportunities to reduce cost shifting to local government.

Mayor Miller called on the NSW government to

commit to genuine reform, including regulatory changes, proper budget support, and fair funding.

“As always, LGNSW stands ready to work with the state government to finally put an end to cost shifting and ensure councils have the resources they need to serve their communities appropriately,” Mayor Miller said.

Top cost shifts include:

- Forced rate exemptions: Where councils are required to exempt profitdriven state-owned corporations and other organisations from paying rates, even though they use and benefit from local government services and infrastructure.

- The Waste Levy: An invisible state government tax collected through waste management fees.

- Development assessment and regulatory functions: Including where the NSW government sets fees well below the actual cost of these functions.

- Emergency services obligations: Including the requirement that councils fund 11.7 per cent of the NSW government’s Emergency Services Levy cost.

- Library funding: The NSW government originally committed to funding up to 50 per cent of libraries’ cost for many councils. It now funds just 6 per cent of total costs, leaving councils to make up the shortfall.

Nominations sought for council’s cemetery committee

Membership applications are invited for vacancies on the Snowy Monaro Regional Council Cemetery Advisory Committee, a communityled committee responsible for the oversight of active and historic cemeteries across the region.

Meeting once every three months, committee members provide direct feedback to council about the region’s cemeteries, and will have the opportunity to shape operational management of these facilities and policy development through discussion and collaboration.

Council invites all civic-minded residents in the region to apply.

If you’ve been looking for your next opportunity to give back and do something for your community, serving on a committee is a great way to make a real di erence with only a small, recurring commitment of your time.

Complete a self-nomination form and help ensure that these local cemetery services meet the needs of our community. Committee members help preserve regional history and engage with residents from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.

Nomination forms are available on council’s website

A completed form can be submit-

ted by email to council@smrc.nsw. gov.au or in-person at any council o ce by Thursday, 31 July. Nominees will need to provide a short summary of their professional background and previous involvement in the community.

Forms can also be returned by post to PO Box 714, Cooma, NSW, 2630.

To learn more, or if there are questions about whether serving on a council committee is right for you –get in touch with council’s team.

Call 1300 345 345 during business hours, or email council@smrc.nsw. gov.au

Karen Sutton kept the lunch crowd entertained. She receives a present from Santa for her e orts.

COMMUNITY: Join SMRC environmental management o icer Noelene Whiting on the cemetery committee. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson.

Bill Fogarty and Rosie Robins join a large gathering for the popular lunch held by Legacy.

SOCIAL:

enjoys her time at the CoomaBombala Legacy Christmas in July luncheon. PHOTOS: Brian Farmer

Paul’s inspiring PNG experience

Tour a ‘special’ time for military historian

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

Footballs, tennis balls, skipping ropes, frisbees, books, shirts and football jumpers were handed to excited children in Papua New Guinea (PNG) by Cooma’s Paul McGu cke, while he was visiting the country to commemorate ANZAC Day at a dawn service in Bomana, Port Moresby in April.

A Cooma resident and military historian, Mr McGufcke’s, luggage was considerably lighter on the return trip to Australia, but he carried the biggest smile back home a er an inspiring and heart warming journey.

During the 11-day tour, nicknamed ‘Kokoda without the trekking’, Mr McGu cke not only commemorated fallen soldiers from the Monaro who are buried in Bomana War Cemetery but he and his fellow tour members made the lives of many PNG children brighter with some generous gi s.

Also packed carefully in Mr McGu cke’s luggage were four hand-made timber plaques featuring signi cant war memorabilia, which he placed at the site of each of the 11 locals buried at Bonama War Cemetery.

At the ANZAC Day dawn service at Bomana, Mr

McGu cke estimated there were 800 to 1000 people in attendance.

“The weather was perfect, actually it was good for almost the entire 11 days,” Mr McGu cke said.

“Torrential rain fell once overnight for about threefour hours when we were at Buna, but a er a few hours all that water was gone.”

There were many amazing experiences shared and memories made during the tour.

“A lot of people from the group had relatives who fought in PNG, some had fought along the Kokoda Track, some of their relatives were at Buna Beach, or at an air eld we visited, it was very emotional for them.

“We had a wide cross-section of people from across Australia within the group, I would have been the second youngest. I didn’t have relatives who had fought in PNG but it was just as special for me.”

Mr Gu cke said while taking in the military history was important, delivering equipment to the local children was a real highlight.

“While the group of 13 was touring around Port Moresby looking at WWII sites, we pulled up at a supermarket and one of the ladies yelled

out she was was going into the supermarket to buy the kids some books, stationery and pencils ‘as that bearded idiot has got all the sporting equipment sorted’ and everyone bought bags and bags of books and stu and handed these out to the kids as well,” Mr McGu cke said.

“A few of the group members said to me at the end of the tour the military history was incredible, but the handing out of the footballs, the tennis balls, the frisbees and the books and pencils, was really special.

“That’s why I took everything over there with me, I knew it would be a highlight. I had like 30 kilos, everything was jammed into my suitcase. We le pretty much everything with the villagers, even some of our clothes.”

He said the residents were very appreciative of the items le .

“They were blown away with what we gave them,” Mr McGu cke said.

“When we turned up at Buna for three days, we kicked the football and mucked around with the kids, it was great.”

This was not the rst time Mr McGu cke had visited PNG. He attempted the Kokoda Track in 2022, but after nine kilometres he could

Wood.

not go on.

Every year, Australians and Papua New Guineans walk the Kokoda Track to test their limits and re ect on the sacri ces made during the Kokoda campaign.

“I was shattered when I had to turn around and go back,” Mr McGu cke said.

“I knew exactly what I was getting myself into at the time, I had done all the training, but it just wasn’t meant to be.”

Next year’s ANZAC Day will be spent in Belgium at a dawn service at Polygon

Polygon Wood is a forest located between Ypres and Zonnebeke, West Flanders, Belgium. It was the scene for several battles during the First World War and there are at least two cemeteries of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in the immediate vicinity of the wood.

Mr McGu cke expects there will be 500-800 people in attendance at Polygon Wood.

“It’s a special little cemetery, there are still about

2000 people buried there, each service and location are di erent.”

There is no favourite ANZAC Day service for Mr McGu cke, although he did regard the service he attended in 2019 at Gallipoli as special “because it’s Gallipoli”.

“The ANZAC Day dawn service at the War Memorial in Canberra is special, and so is the one in Cooma even though it is o en referred to as the coldest ANZAC Day dawn service in Australia,” he said.

Council updates

Get Grubby Program for Families

From the stars of dirtgirlworld and Get Grubby TV, dirtgirl, scrapboy, and Costa the Garden Gnome are on a mission to spread the story of sustainability.

Council is providing free access for local families to this award-winning education program for kids in grades K–2.

Visit https://qrco.de/SMRC_GetGrubby to learn more or sign up today.

Draft strategy open for feedback

The draft Residential, Commercial and Industrial Lands Strategy is open now for community feedback.

Visit https://qrco.de/lands25 to learn more or provide your feedback today.

Public drop-in session dates are scheduled for selected towns and villages. Visit the website linked above to learn more.

Community feedback is open until 11.59pm Monday 1 September 2025. Find out more online at https://qrco.de/lands25

Council welcomed Noreen Vu as she assumed her new role as Council’s permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Joining Council after a successful tenure leading Weddin Shire Council, Ms Vu brings substantial public sector leadership experience and impressive academic credentials to our region.

Visit our website for the full story.

Want to do business with us?

Council invites businesses across the Snowy Monaro to register for a free VendorPanel account today.

As Council’s procurement platform, VendorPanel is the only place to find our tenders, EOIs, and requests for quotations. Visit https://qrco.de/VPregister today to sign up and register your business.

By registering, you’ll also get access to listings from thousands of organisations across the public and private sectors.

Employment opportunities

Council is proud to be one of our region’s largest employers.

We give Snowy Monaro locals from all walks of life the opportunity to serve their community and help make our region even better.

Find out more about working with us on our website and discover all the benefits that Council employment has to offer.

Visit https://qrco.de/Work4SMRC today for all the details.

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

Closing Thursday 24 July 2025

• Construction Worker Parks & Gardens

Full-time – Berridale

Closing Sunday 27 July 2025

• Infrastructure Project Engineer

Full-time – Berridale

Contact us for further information about these employment opportunities, the application process, or working with us.

Noreen Vu is Council’s new CEO

Some PNG children with their gi s from Paul McGu icke.

SPECIAL TOUR: Cooma resident and military historian, Paul McGu icke, with some of the gi s handed out to Papua New Guinean children while he was on tour of the country. PHOTOS: Supplied

Homelessness increasing in Snowy Monaro: Mission Australia

Impacts felt by people of all ages on our doorstep

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

A cold and snowy winter season is widely welcomed by many local residents as it brings visitors to the region, and tourist dollars, but for those who do not have access to food, warmth and shelter, winter can present considerable challenges.

Statistics show that many people in the region are experiencing homelessness; this silent, hidden social issue is becoming increasingly prevalent in communities in our own backyard.

National Homelessness Week in Australia is an annual event held during the rst full week of August, aiming to raise awareness about homelessness and advocate for solutions.

In 2025, it will be held from Monday, 4 August to Sunday, 10 August and is a time for community groups and homelessness organisations to come together to highlight the issue of homelessness, the solutions needed to end homelessness, and promote access to safe and secure housing for all Australians.

The theme this year is “Homelessness action now”.

Mission Australia client, Daniel Munchow, 43, with his four-legged Sta y mate, Ayla, have been searching for several months for accommodation in the area.

Daniel has not been able to put a roof over his head in this time, despite advertising for accommodation/a room, and being a client of Mission Australia.

He now is in Bega, in a secure and warm environment, a er a last desperate e ort to obtain petfriendly accommodation over the harsh winter period.

Daniel arrived in the Snowy Monaro seven months ago with Ayla. With a history of depression and anxiety, Daniel needs Ayla in his life.

“She’s a beautiful girl, she’s got me through so much, she’s like family to me,” Daniel said.

He understands having a dog may limit his chances of nding somewhere to live, and a job, but Ayla is his support and companion, and he could never be without her.

Originally from Melbourne, Daniel had visited the region in the past; growing up he would o en spend time shing at Lake Eucumbene and has many fond memories of the area.

So, he packed up his car with some belongings, and with Ayla beside him, headed to the Snowy Monaro to start a new life.

He had no prior arranged accommodation, so set about looking for accommodation in the area upon arrival. Daniel soon found out how di cult it is to nd a place to stay and ended up camping in a swag, with a tarp over the top to keep out the rain, above the high-water mark on

especially now with the Monaro’s bitterly cold winter elements to contend with.

“I pretty much stayed at the same spot at Lake Eucumbene for the whole time, as it was somewhat sheltered from some of the winds up there.

“I came into Cooma twice a week for a shower, using facilities at Y-space, kept in regular contact with Mission Australia to somehow organise some accommodation, I put up posters everywhere for a room and spoke to the Salvation Army and Saint Vincent de Paul, there were a few people on the ground who were trying to help.

“I am very grateful for their assistance of a number of local organisations, including Cathy Guion from Y Space in Cooma, the sta and volunteers at the local op shops and Mission Australia.”

When it started snowing at Daniel’s lakeside camp, and access became di cult as the cold set in, he knew it was time to move.

“I contacted Link2home as a last resort. They found me some emergency temporary accommodation in Bega, and I have been here for about 10 days,”

Daniel said.

“There wasn’t anything in Cooma at all. So, I got out of the bush and moved down to Bega.”

With limited options in front of him, Daniel can’t make any plans at the moment for his immediate future.

“I need to have a permanent roof over my head before I go out and get myself a job.

“I still have room wanted ads in and around Cooma, so hopefully someone may o er a room.”

Daniel’s mental health, despite the challenges, is holding up.

comes with di culties because it does play on your mind a er a while and can amplify my depression and anxiety, so it has been tough at times.

“I want to give a shout out to everyone who helped me at Cooma, I couldn’t thank them enough. They’ve been lifesavers for me, I might have decided to hang the boots up a long time ago if it wasn’t for them.

“There’s a lot of people on the ground willing to help, I think the government really needs to supply more a ordable housing for people like me who are in this position,” Daniel said.

Acting co-ordinator, Mission Australia Cooma region Homelessness Support Service, Brittany Hynes, con rmed there has been a notable increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness in the Snowy Monaro region.

“We don’t see people sleeping rough in our region and this can lead to the consensus that we don’t have people experiencing homelessness. This is incorrect. A lot of our homeless community are either ‘hidden’ in more regional or secluded areas, or they are living in over-crowded housing and couch sur ng with friends or family.

“The number of clients experiencing homelessness who we are supporting has increased by more than 50 compared to the same period last year, and we are seeing more people come to us when they are at a crisis point.

“The increase in people seeking support is not necessarily tied to the season and is linked to the impact of cost-of-living pressures on individuals and families and

the lack of a ordable housing options in the region.

“There is a lack of rental housing at this time of year, due to the increase in holiday rentals, and this makes it harder for locals to nd safe and secure housing.

“I would say those experiencing homelessness are not coping,” Ms Hynes said.

“It’s di cult as they’re o en treated poorly, they’re vulnerable and quite o en experience mental health concerns. Accessing support services and medical help is di cult in a regional area even for a person who is not homeless, but for someone who is, it can be even more challenging.

“Everything is expensive, and people who are homeless o en struggle to a ord basic necessities.”

Ms Hynes said homelessness impacts individuals, families and people of all ages.

“We also see clients with very complex needs who are experiencing mental health concerns, substance misuse or other challenges while seeking homelessness support. Domestic and family violence continues to be a major factor in women and children becoming homeless.”

In Cooma, local services and organisations which operate alongside Mission Australia include Lifegate Community

Foodcare, The Salvation Army, Saint Vincent de Paul, Monaro Community Access Service and other services in Jindabyne and surrounds.

“Mission Australia has an opendoor policy and welcomes anyone seeking assistance,” Ms Hynes said.

“We encourage people who are doing it tough to reach out early for support so we can help people to stay in their homes and avoid homelessness.”

There are ways residents within the community can support these groups and organisations.

“We o en accept donations of non-perishable food items to donate; we can help facilitate donations of larger items as well.

“The community is amazing with donations such as beanies, scarves, and blankets and I would encourage anyone to donate these practical items. Be aware that there are vulnerable, homeless people among us in the community and remember to be compassionate regardless of what someone looks like or how they appear,” Ms Hynes said.

“You can always call our o ce or pop in if you have any questions regarding donating items or if you have concerns about someone who might be experiencing homelessness and/or housing insecurity.”

homelessness; this silent, hidden social issue is becoming increasingly prevalent in communities in our own backyard.

Snowy Hydro grants power many community initiatives

Adaminaby Races receives funding

By TRISTA HEATH

Community organisations across the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys and Towong communities will receive funding to support a variety of initiatives and projects through Snowy Hydro’s Community Grants Program.

More than $200,000 will be distributed to 40 community projects, a er 115 applications were received by the Community Grants Program - a 29 per cent increase from 2024.

The funding plays a key role in fostering economic, social, and regional resilience across Snowy Hydro’s local communities.

Successful funding applications in 2025 include support for the running of the annual Adaminaby Races, receiving $5000 of the funding.

The grant funding will also facilitate wilderness rst aid training to improve local emergency preparedness for the Rotary Club of Tumbarumba, and the creation of a dedicated group study area to support tertiary education in Corryong through the Country Universities Centre. Snowy Hydro head of social impact and community, Sarah

Norris said the applicants demonstrated strong community support for meaningful local initiatives.

“It has been great to see the high calibre applications for Snowy Hydro’s Community Grants Program. These diverse, community-driven activities support education, sustainability, and local capacity building, re ecting our commitment to regional excellence,” Ms Norris said.

“Last year, funding from Snowy Hydro helped the Country University Centre in Cooma deliver a program to help empower future leaders in the region.”

The Raglan’s new exhibits

The Raglan Gallery is set to welcome two new and exciting exhibitions later this month.

Following the success of the Heads Up Portrait Prize, which nished on 20 July, the Raglan Gallery will unveil its new exhibitions on 23 July.

In the Mitchell Gallery, the ‘Other Wordly’ exhibition will showcase photographs by Vivek Weddepohl who has focused her lens to macro viewing to show us new worlds around us on miniature scales. The images on the walls will be large to play with scale.

and well-attended annual

maintenance and upkeep.”

Adaminaby Jockey Club president, Lynley Miners, who has been part of the club for more than 35 years, said the funding helps run the Adaminiby Races for the community to enjoy.

“Snowy Hydro are a big piece to the puzzle of the club running the races each year and we are very grateful for their support,” Mr Miners said.

“A big percentage of the funds will also go towards advertising the event as far and wide as

The present location of the racecourse is only 50 years old due to Adaminaby moving for the Snowy Mountains Scheme and the making of Lake Eucumbene. The buildings were moved from the old racecourse, which is now submerged.

Mr Miners said the historical style buildings were transported from the racecourse’s original location to its now location in the 1950s. The buildings need ongoing maintenance to keep them in good condition.

The CUC Snowy Monaro has also bene tted from a Snowy

Monaro, Nadine Holland, said it wouldn’t have been possible to establish the program without Snowy’s support in covering essential costs such as venue hire and marketing.

“The impact of this initiative is already evident. Participants are emerging as motivated, engaged, and proactive contributors in our community ready to drive positive change, and shape the future of our region,” Ms Holland said.

The Community Grants Program is open for applications twice yearly, visit snowyhydro. com.au for more information.

In contrast, in the Tillers Gallery, artist Carleta Delac will show landscapes of snow of her two favourite playgrounds.

The exhibition is titled ‘Kosciuszko to Niseko’. Delac has a passion for cold climate locations and hopes to draw in viewers to her dreams and possibly theirs.

In a timely show mid-winter, this is the perfect exhibition to give you one last blast if you are travelling home from the ski elds.

Both exhibitions start on the 23 July and end on 31 August.

The Raglan Gallery is open between 10.30am and 3.30pm Wednesdays to Sundays.

In a beautiful historic building and gardens, on the charming Lambie Street of Cooma, the Raglan is a great place to stop and admire local and visiting artists’ work. For more information, visit raglangallerycooma.com

Do you love country music?

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.

ARTS & CULTURE

SUPPORT: Adaminaby Races is a much-loved

Alpine Health Centre puts you first

By ALPINE HEALTH CENTRE

The Alpine Health Centre, located in Jindabyne NSW and Rosedale VIC, proudly o ers fully bulk-billed, evidence-based Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy for individuals su ering from depression who meet Medicare eligibility criteria. The centre has achieved impressive results with TMS therapy, signi cantly improving the symptoms of depression in its patients.

Who can bene t from TMS Therapy?

TMS therapy is particularly e ective for treating depression, as well as other conditions such as anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How does TMS Therapy work?

TMS therapy is a safe, noninvasive treatment that enhances mood and mental health through neuroplasticity - the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. This allows the brain to develop new patterns and achieve longterm bene ts. Many patients begin to notice improvements a er 12 to 15 sessions, with full e ects o en felt a er completing a treatment course of 35 sessions.

Research shows more than 50 per cent of individuals with depression do not respond to

TMS Therapy Consider HEALTHWELLBEING &

standard rst-line treatments. Additionally, around 30 per cent remain unresponsive even a er trying multiple di erent antidepressant medications. The Alpine Health Centre o ers TMS therapy as a medication-free alternative for treating mood disorders, including depression, anxiety, and OCD. Moreover, recent studies indicate that patients o en respond better to psychotherapy following TMS treatment.

Post TMS treatment sessions

Patients are able to drive and resume their normal activities immediately a er each session. Side e ects are generally mild and temporary and may include scalp discomfort, mild headaches or fatigue, which decrease a er treatment. Severe complications, such as seizures, are extremely rare, occurring in less than 0.002 per cent of cases.

Medicare bulk billing

To qualify for Medicare coverage, a referral is required from a general practitioner (GP), nurse practitioner (NP), or psychiatrist. Detailed referral information can be found on the Alpine Health Centre website at www.alpinehc.au.

Medicare Bene t Scheme (MBS) criteria

•18 years of age or older, •Diagnosed with depression, •Failed to improve despite

DEPRESSED & ANXIOUS

trialling:

- two di erent classes of antidepressants (unless contraindicated), - psychological therapy (unless contraindicated).

•Has not had TMS therapy before. Department of Veteran A airs (DVA) Clients

DVA-funded TMS therapy for veterans is also available. Criteria apply.

Private clients

Private clients do not need a referral to begin treatment. However, they will not be able to claim treatment from Medicare without a medical referral.

Services o ered

Clinicians at the Alpine Health Centre are highly quali ed and adopt a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care and e ective pain management that considers the physical, psychological and social needs of individuals.

Get in touch

If you need more information, please contact the Alpine Health Centre by phone, through their website, or via email. To learn more about TMS therapy or to schedule an appointment, call 1300 360 791 or email info@ alpinehc.au. You’ll also nd a wealth of helpful information on the Alpine Health Centre’s website at www.alpinehc.au.

HOLISTIC: Alpine Health Centre’s, Kristine Ciok, a transitional Nurse Practitioner (NP) and a Registered Nurse. PHOTO: Supplied

HEALTHWELLBEING &

Rebuilding strength with movement

MONARO PHYSIO’S PATH BACK TO SPORT, MOVEMENT

Injuries linger. Recovery stalls. And sometimes, progress feels impossibly distant.

At Monaro Physio, we see this not as failure, but as an invitation, a call to reconnect with movement, meaning, and purpose.

The truth is, our brains aren’t designed to process long-term setbacks. Persistent stress from ongoing injury can trigger protective survival responses: fear, tension, avoidance. These reactions, although primal, o en sti e progress and keep people sidelined, not just from sport, but from life.

That’s where we ip the script. At Monaro Physio, we help clients build toward something, not just away from pain. We know that meaningful recovery is powered by connection: to your sport, your community, your goals. Whether you’re preparing for your next half marathon or just want to return to weekend hikes,

your body’s current ability, and work to expand it thoughtfully. Through targeted strength and conditioning, mobility drills, and pilates-based rehabilitation, our them. No quick xes, just durable results.

And yes, the road isn’t always smooth. There are moments

People stressed when seeking support: report

One in ve people in Australia are experiencing signi cant impacts from mental health issues and a growing number are turning to people they know for support.

A new report from Beyond Blue’s landmark Australia’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Check reveals the functional impacts of mental health issues in Australia.

The report, Trends in Mental Health and Support Seeking, shows that almost one in three Australian adults are experiencing a social and emotional issue that is negatively impacting their daily activities.

For one in ve, or 4.5 million adults, these impacts are causing them to cut back on work or other activities to an extent they describe as ‘moderate’, ‘quite a bit’ or ‘extreme’.

The report also shows that almost one third of people in Australia are experiencing mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and that compared to two years ago, more people are experiencing severe symptoms.

Yet 49 per cent of people are highly distressed when they seek the professional support they need, and fewer people with signi cant mental health challenges say they’re getting the support they need when they need it.

“This data clearly demonstrates the need for greater focus on earlier intervention and prevention in Australia’s mental health system,” Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman said.

“As the report notes, the scaling of novel, outcomes-driven earlier intervention support models and workforces would mean millions of

Australians could be e ectively supported to manage through early and mild symptoms of depression and anxiety, preventing these symptoms becoming more severe or people reaching crisis.”

The report shows that two in ve people are seeking support for their mental health issues, either from the mental health workforce or from someone they know. Now, 23 per cent of support-seekers are turning to people they know for support, a signi cant increase from two years ago (20 per cent).

“Given the high rate at which people turn to someone they know for support, it is important to have appropriate resources and supports available to people who are supporting others,” Ms Harman said.

The research is conducted by Beyond Blue and the Australian National University’s Social Research Centre with a nationally representative sample of more than 5000 people. It is conducted every two years, and the most recent dataset was derived in July 2024.

Beyond Blue last year released survey ndings that show people nominate nancial pressure, relationship challenges and housing a ordability as the biggest drivers of distress in Australia today. That release also showed one in eight people wait more than one year and up to tenplus years before seeking support and that costs, waitlists and increasingly shame are barriers to support-seeking in Australia.

The survey found that one in six people in Australia connect with Beyond Blue for information, support and advice about their mental health, and that Beyond Blue is recognised by 94 per cent of people in Australia.

that ask you to persist through discomfort, challenge your expectations, and trust in the process. But with guidance and grit, those e orts plant the seeds of resilience.

At Monaro Physio, we don’t just

x what’s broken, we help you rebuild what’s possible. Whether it’s sport, activity, or simply the con dence to move again, our team stands beside you, every stretch, sprint and step of the way.

“Get back to doing what you love.”

Monaro Physio is an integrated physiotherapy clinic in the heart of Cooma. Their friendly and professional approach is popular amongst their clients.

HELP: Louise and Steve of Monaro Physio are here to assist you in returning to sport and helping achieve the movement you desire.

6.00

Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Top Of The Class. (2020) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. 8.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles. 9.30 Air Crash Investigations. 10.30 Million Pound Pawn. 11.30 Autopsy USA. 12.30 Life. 1.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 The Zoo. 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: Accident Files. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 The Zoo. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Line Of Duty. 9.50 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Caught On Dashcam. 1.30 Highway Patrol. 2.30 The Force: BTL. 3.30 Billy The Exterminator. 4.00 Counting Cars. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 20. Hawthorn v Carlton. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 Kick Ons. 11.30 Late Programs.

The Zoo. 9.10 The Wonderful World Of Kittens. 9.55 Dance Life. 10.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 ER. 2.45 Doctor Who. 3.35 A Bite To Eat. 4.05 QI. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 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. 9.45 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. 11.00 ER. 11.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.10 Engineering Reborn. 3.00 Living Black. 3.35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw. 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.10 Little Disasters. Final. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Bay Of Fires. 2.00 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 2.55 Love Your Garden. 3.45 Fake Or Fortune? 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Patience. 9.20 Hard

5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Motorbike Cops. 8.30 MOVIE: The Break-Up. (2006) 10.45 MOVIE: Hellboy II: The Golden Army. (2008) 1.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.20 Doctor Who. Final. 3.50 You Can’t Ask That. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 House Of Games. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Would I Lie To You? 8.35 MOVIE: Tammy. (2014) 10.10 ER. 10.55 Rage. 12.00

Andy’s Global Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Thomas And Friends. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.50 MOVIE: Looney Tunes: Back In Action. (2003) 9.25 Robot Wars. 10.25 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Sister Dating Swap. (2023) 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 Rugby League. NRL. Round 21. Sydney Roosters v Melbourne Storm. 9.45 Thursday Night Knock Off. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Outback Opal Hunters. 12.00 Next Stop. 12.30 Tipping Point. 1.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Midsomer Murders. 2.00 As Time Goes By. 3.10 Antiques Roadshow. 3.40 MOVIE: Two Way Stretch. (1960) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. Return. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 RBT. 8.30 Emergency. 9.30 A+E After Dark. 10.30 Panic 9-1-1. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Falling For The Manny. (2022) 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 Rugby League. NRL. Round 21. Brisbane Broncos v Parramatta Eels. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood. (1982) 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Midsomer Murders. 2.10 Are You Being Served? 3.10 Antiques Roadshow. 3.40 MOVIE: Chase A Crooked Shadow. (1958) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Police Rescue Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Dog. (2022) 10.30 MOVIE: Gringo. (2018) 12.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 The Resident. 2.00 Revenge. 3.00 First Dates Australia. 4.00 New Idea Test Kitchen. 4.25 MOVIE: The Mitchells Vs The Machines. (2021) 6.35 MOVIE: Hotel Transylvania. (2012) 8.30 MOVIE: Happy Gilmore. (1996) 10.30 MOVIE: Downhill. (2020) 12.15 Late Programs.

ABC SEVEN NINE TEN SBS

A trip 480 million years in the making

Local landholders have taken a step back in time, about 480 million years, as part of a tour exploring the unique landscapes, soils and geological features of the Upper Murrumbidgee region.

South East Local Land Services (LLS) hosted the event, the latest instalment in its Monaro Soils and Geology tour, now in its h year.

Guest presenters included Dr Leah Moore from the Australian National University, Brian Jenkins from the Soil Knowledge Network and LLS senior agricultural advisor, Jo Powells.

Together, they helped participants connect the dots between the region’s geology, soil characteristics and the way land can be best managed for agriculture and conservation.

“The group got to see everything from our youngest and most highly productive alluvial soils found around the Numeralla–Murrumbidgee River junction, through to the region’s oldest and most constrained soils around Shannons Flat and Adaminaby, where soil acidity, erosion risk and low fertility really limit land use options,” Ms Powells said.

Much of the region’s geology was formed during the Ordovician period, 458–480 million years ago.

Soils derived from this era’s sandstone, mudstone and siltstone can be di cult to manage. They’re typically low in fertility, dispersive, and o en quite acidic.

These features, along with fault lines running through the region, have in uenced not just the soils, but the course of the Murrumbidgee River and the wider landscape.

Participants said the chance

to see rock formations and soil pro les in person, supported by expert commentary, made the science more accessible and practical.

deep-time story, the tour helps support practical, informed land management, and encourages greater appreciation of the con nection between geology, soil characteristics and sustainable land use.

“I am always very impressed with the enthusiasm of the participants on these eld trips. It is fabulous when locals share their knowledge of the landscape with us, and it is very satisfying contributing to their greater understanding of Monaro and district landscapes,” Dr Moore said.

“My hope is that initiatives like this will ensure that science will continue to underpin wise decision making.”

Mr Jenkins said he valued the interactions not only between

to a more complete story.”

Ms Powells said the ongoing interest in the tour re ects a strong commitment by local land managers to understand the landscape they work with.

“This region has some quite complex geology and soils,” she said.

“It’s been great to work with over 200 land managers over many years on these tours, so we can all gain a better understanding of how the Monaro landscape has evolved and how we can best manage our soils.”

Trade heifers sought after Wagga Wagga sale

In another wintery yarding, cattle numbers remained steady, with a good percentage presented in secondary condition.

Most export and domestic buyers were present at the sale, although there was a noticeable absence of feedlot orders and restocking inquiries.

Despite this, the market was robust and showed strength for a particular breed across all weight categories.

Trade heifers 400kg to 500kg were the majority of cattle suitable for domestic processors, accompanied by a select few vealers.

The vealers fetched prices ranging from 400-430c/kg, re ecting strong Victorian demand.

Trade heifers were particularly sought a er, especially those that were grain-assisted, with prices jumping by an impressive 43c, selling between 360-440c/kg.

The feeder steer market was well supplied, with lighter weights 330-400kg seeing a modest gain of two cents, averaging 470c/kg.

Medium weight feed steers experienced a notable uptick of 25c, with prices ranging from 396-498c/kg.

Heavy feed steers, weighing between 500kg and 600kg, improved by eight cents, selling within the range of 382-472c/kg.

Feeder heifers quality was

mixed and prices at times re ected this.

Lighter weight feeder heifers were unchanged selling from 356-428c/kg.

Medium weight feeder heifers sold from 394c to 440c/kg.

Heavy steers and bullocks suitable for processors showed strong demand, with prices rising by up to 25c, selling between 382-428c/kg.

Bullocks 600kg plus, intended for feeding topped out at 435c/kg.

Well-shaped heavy heifers averaged a solid 393c/kg, further contributing to the positive market.

The cow sale saw an increase in buyer participation, which positively impacted prices. Heavy cows gained nine cents, averaging 362c/kg.

However, the market for leaner cows under 520kg was more erratic, with prices fluctuating between 230-356c/ kg.

group about the causes of soil erosion and how to prevent or manage it near Adaminaby.

Tour participants at the fault line on Bobeyan Road where four di erent geologies can be seen in the roadside cutting and are then reflected in the surrounding vegetation and landscape.

Shearer’s mental health in focus at Nimmity event

sHedway forum focusses on support

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

O the back of the Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear in Bombala last month, a sHedway forum was held in Nimmitabel recently.

Local shearers took part in the forum, resulting in there being more people within the shearing shed industry with the skills, knowledge and support to observe when someone might be struggling, how to talk to them and where to go for expert help.

sHedway is a charity for suicide prevention and positive mental health in the shearing sheds of Australia, started and run by a team of shearers and shed family.

The group’s forums are about making it normal to talk about mental health and suicide prevention, and sharing the skills of how to pick up when someone might be struggling, how to help them keep safe and where to go for the expert help when needed.

The forum at Nimmitabel included a safeTALK workshop in the morning, facilitated by sHedway’s Carol Mudford and Nicole from LivingWorks

Australia, and a brief a ernoon session took participants through what support services are available, such as Lifeline for suicide crisis and StandBy Support A er Suicide for help when grieving, and concluded with an introduction to joining the sHedway team.

sHedway committee member and local shearer, Taya Evans, was thanked for organising and catering for the workshop facilitators. The support from NSW Health, and Andrew Jones Earthmoving of Cooma for funding the event, was appreciated.

At the end of each workshop a certi cate is provided to participants to recognise their new skills.

LivingWorks safeTALK is a four-hour training event that equips people to be more alert to someone thinking of suicide and better able to connect them with further help.

Using a simple yet e ective model, LivingWorks safeTALK empowers everyone to make a di erence.

With more than 120,000 people attending each year, it’s the world’s fastest-growing suicide prevention skills training

course.

In LivingWorks safeTALK participants will learn how to reach out to someone thinking about suicide and help them keep safe by promptly connecting them to further support.

The role as a connector is the main focus of this training, which features: Trainer presentations, facilitated discussion, and skills practice; videos that illustrate what

happens when signs of suicide are overlooked, and how you can contribute to safe outcomes when these signs are heard and addressed; opportunities to further explore organisational applications of the training; and a community resource person will be on hand at the workshop to support a person’s safety and comfort.

More information about the program is available at www.livingworks.com.au

Landcare lunch serving vital info

Upper Snowy Landcare Network’s (USLN) popular Landcare winter lunch is on Friday, 1 August.

This year, USLN is working together with Local Land Services (LLS) to deliver an informative and interactive day focused on biodiversity markets: what they are, how they work and how to get involved, or more importantly, why.

The information forum will again be held at the Cooma Hotel’s function room from 10am to 3pm.

Monaro landholders have new opportunities to enter into the markets of biodiversity stewardship, environmental plantings, natural capital accounting and xed price o er covenants.

What is the relevance and nancial bene ts to local landholders, and how do farmers/landholders get started?

For answers to these questions and more and to join in the discussion with the experts make sure to register.

The day will include key presentations from eld experts Melissa Henry of Local Land Services on Natural Capital Accounting; Sandra Walpole of Department of Environment will discuss Biodiversity Stewardship O setting Agreements; and Hannah Windley of BCT will present on Biodiversity Fixed Price O er Agreements.

The event provides a catered lunch and market forum with the opportunity to network with other landholders, and have discussions with a range of experts involved in a market stall style set up around the room. This is a free event made possible with the support of the NSW government through the Landcare Enabling Program and funding from LLS.

More information can be found on USLN’s Facebook page.

ITEMS

Nimmitabel, is a certified workshop on suicide awareness skills for anyone over the age of 15, who is ready to hear talk about suicide safety. PHOTO: Supplied

Corner block, prime spot

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 on this exciting opportunity.

44 Corrowong Road, Delegate

River Cottage - Quintessential lifestyle opportunity!

Welcome to River Cottage, the perfect place to escape the chaos of the world and enjoy a peaceful rural lifestyle.

• Recently renovated extensively inside and out now fitted with double glazed windows and fully insulated with Earthwool

• 3 bedrooms, modern bathroom/laundry, large commercial-style kitchen, open living and dining

• 1.91ha/4.72ac fenced into two paddocks and well kitted out for hobby farm with steel cattle yards with vet crush, chicken coop and pig pens

• Raised vegetable garden beds, flower beds and established trees that attract an abundance local bird life

Beautifully appointed & finished, River Cottage is ready to welcome you and your family to a new relaxed & comfortable lifestyle!

This is an amazing lifestyle opportunity for those who want a little more land and room to grow with beautiful rural views to enjoy.

• Shouse contains 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom with open living areas and options for increasing living space in other half of building

• The newer shed is the perfect man cave with two roller doors, hoist and plenty of storage or workshop space

• The property features 14.09ha/34.816ac fenced into 4 paddocks watered by dam and well

• Living complex fenced separately and contains established lawns and gardens Perfect for starting out and enjoying the rural lifestyle with the convenience of being 5 minutes from town, what’s not to love!

110 Pipe Clay Springs Road, Bombala

Snowy Monaro

Blank canvas, sound grazing block

ADDRESS: The Big Hill, Matong Road, Numbla Vale NSW 2628

For genuine sale by a motivated vendor as it forms part of the family succession plan. A blank canvas and proven sound grazing block with spectacular views as far as the eye can see.

Located some 20 minutes drive south of Dalgety, The Big Hill presents an opportunity for all, whether you’re looking for a starter or add-on block, or your perfect getaway or recreational block. Approximately 214.20 hectares or 529.29 acres with good natural shelter from various eucalypts, estimated 60 per cent timbered, 40 per cent open grazing, and

• Located some 20 minute’s drive south of Dalgety.

• Access via Matong Road, a council maintained gravel road, followed by a short right of carriage way.

• Granite derived soils, fenced into one paddock, estimated 60% timbered, 40% open grazing, with an estimated total of 90% grazable.

• Good natural shelter, spectacular views as far as the eye can see.

• Water supply via three dams, springs and soaks.

• Timber consisting of various Eucalypts including Ribbon Gum, Apple Gum, Manna Gum, as well as some Wattle, plus others.

• Was last sowed down to rye grass and a mix of clovers around 2012.

• Owner estimates 250 DSE or equivalent pending seasonal conditions.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

“The Big Hill” would be a perfect starter or add on block as it clearly represents a blank canvas, as well as a proven track record as a sound grazing block. Alternatively, this would make the perfect getaway or recreational block.

“The Big Hill” is for genuine sale by a motivated vendor as it forms part of family succession plan.

Contact: Nick Kirshner & Maddy Kirshner P: 02 6456 7232 W: kirshnermackay.com.au

Online Auction: Tuesday 5th August 2025 Commencing 6:30pm Venue: Online & In Room 1 Park Street, Berridale NSW 2628 Inspect: By Appointment with Exclusive Agent Only.

&

an estimated total of 90 per cent grazable. Watered by three dams, springs and soaks, granite derived soils, and fenced into one paddock. The property was last sowed down to rye grass and a mix of clovers around 2012, and the owner estimates a carrying capacity of 250 DSE or equivalent, pending seasonal conditions.

The Big Hill, Matong Road, Numbla Vale goes to auction, online and inroom, on Tuesday, 5 August 2025.

Enquire now with Kirshner Mackay sales team on 02 6456 7232 before you miss out.

Starter or add-on block, or rural getaway, the opportunity is there.

• Located just a short distance from the main CBD of Cooma, less than an hour to the Snowy Mountains, roughly an hour drive to Canberra, and 1.5 hours to the South Coast.

• acant land block in an elevated corner position fronting the Monaro Highway on the eastern boundary and North Street on the southern boundary.

• oned R2 ow Density Residential, dwelling entitlement under current E , minimum lot size 500m2.

• Close proximity to shops, motels, supermarkets, schools, and businesses alike.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

Being one of the last land blocks available on the northern end of the main drag of Cooma, this property presents an outstanding opportunity to secure a block of such potential on an elevated north easterly facing aspect. The potential is there to build something to invest in for the investor or homemaker alike. Don t miss out on this outstanding opportunity in a great location in the bustling heart of ooma, contact our sales agent today!

Contact: Aaron Mackay P: 02 6456 7232 W: kirshnermackay.com.au

Online Auction: Tuesday 29th July 2025 Commencing 6:30pm

Venue: Online & In Room 1 Park Street, Berridale NSW 2628 Inspect: By Appointment with

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 Name an item used in weightlifting (7)

8 Which social worker is attached to a hospital (7)

9 To postpone to a future meeting, is to do what (7)

10 Which disease is known as the bends (7)

11 Name another term for a garbage can (7)

12 What is a token, or an indication (6)

14 Name a piece of photographic apparatus (6)

18 Which number is one thousand times one thousand (7)

21 What is used for preventive inoculation (7)

22 What is the official proving of a will as authentic (7)

23 To be staggering, is to be doing what (7)

24 Name the final course of a meal (7)

DOWN

1 What is the dead body of an animal (7)

2 Which term describes the boundary of something (5)

3 Name the loss of the sense of smell (7)

4 Which spirit is distilled from the fermented juice of grapes (6)

Letters have a number

5 What, in India, are kings or princes called (5)

6 To be free from variations, is to be what (7)

7 Which fabric is woven from flax yarns (5)

13 Name an alternative term for a scaffold (7)

15 What are Parisian gangsters called (7)

16 Which term relates to a large allotment of rural land (7)

E-QUATIONS

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

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

17 To turn upside down, is to do what (6)

18 What is a light, lowpowered motorcycle, equipped with pedals (5)

19 To be angry, is to be what (5)

20 Name some flightless birds of New Zealand (5)

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

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

1 FECUND (a)

(b)

(c)

2 GENAL (a)

(b) Sympathetic (c)

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:

Before (poet.) (3)

Corundum mix for grinding (5)

Equals (5)

Made a mistake (5)

Propose: ... the question (3)

Small printers’ measures (3)

State of great suffering (7)

Time period (3)

Top quality (5)

Mid-19th century war (7)

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Council is considering a one (1) year stock grazing lease of the above unused road corridor to an adjoining property owner. This serves as notice of fencing and two (2) public gates to be installed by the lessee on-site.

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FASCH, William “Bill”.

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, 16 July 2025 at Cooma Hospital, formerly of Bulong Road, Binjura.

Aged 90 years.

Dearly loved husband of Kay (dec), Father of Klaus, Daniel and Trent. Grandfather of Jenny, Harry, George, Archie, Oscar, Daisy, Ruby, Hughie and Poppy.

The relatives and friends of the late William “Bill” Fasch are invited to attend his funeral service to be held in the St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Cooma on Monday, 28 July 2025 commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of the service, a private cremation will be held.

MCDONALD, Donald Cecil “Don”.

Passed away peacefully on Sunday, 13 July 2025 at Cooma Hospital, formerly of Amaroo, Billilingra Road, Cooma.

Aged 91 years.

Dearly loved husband of Patricia (dec), Father of Linda, Rowen and Andrew (dec). Poppy to Alison, Megan, Charlotte, Kyah, Emma, Colby and Justin.

The relatives and friends of the late Donald Cecil McDonald are invited to attend his funeral service to be held in the St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Cooma on Friday, 25 July 2025 commencing at 2.30pm.

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

MOONEY, Elaine Mary.

The relatives and friends of the late Elaine Mary Mooney are invited to attend her funeral service to be held in the St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Cooma on Friday, July 25, 2025 commencing at 11am

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

FLEMING, Helene May. 5/7/1938 – 17/7/2024

It has been 1 year since we lost you, but just remember, we are not apart. You are with us in our memories And always in our hearts.

IN MEMORIAM

Cats women celebrate inaugural season effort

There’s much more to sport than winning. A season’s success should be judged on camaraderie, building a community and playing in the right spirit.

If you take these into consideration, then the inaugural season for the Southern Cats women’s side has been a success and then some.

A er years of work o the eld, the Cats etched a new chapter in the club’s long and

proud history when its women’s team took to the paddock in season 2025.

The side’s debut season came to a close on Saturday at Snowy Oval in front of supporters, family and friends, all proud of the team’s e orts.

When Amy Morgan scored the side’s lone goal for the match, a loud cheer went around the ground. Morgan snapped from about 30 metres and when the

Sherrin bounced through the goals, she was quickly embraced by team mates.

While the side didn’t record a win this season, the players’ commitment and dedication have been praised and admired by the Cats faithful.

Under the guidance of coach Damien Asanovski and captain Sarah Burns, the side improved through the season and never gave up.

IMPRESSIVE: Southern Cats fullback, Tayla Wilson, kicks from the backline during the first quarter. Wilson has been one of the side’s best all year. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

Emily Perkins sends a kick into the midfield. Perkins has impressed this season.

Cats men keep

The Southern Cats men’s side has kept its nals hopes alive following a dominant win at home.

Playing in front of their Cooma fans for the nal time this season, the Cats needed a win to stay in touch with the top four sides in the AFL Canberra community men’s division two competition. The Cats were strongly defensively, only conceding three goals in the 76-21 win.

A four goal opening quarter set the match-up as the Cats donned pink jerseys for the club’s Breast Cancer Network fundraiser. While only slotting one goal

Saturday’s match also doubled as the club’s main fundraiser for the season, raining funds for the Breast Cancer Network. The women’s and men’s side wore special pink jerseys for the occasion before players and supporters enjoyed a social function to raise further funds.

The Cats women’s side will take a well-earned rest ahead of a big season in 2026.

Bombala golfers make most of top conditions

By BOMBALA GOLF CLUB

Although there have been huge frosts, golfers have enjoyed lovely winter days on the course.

out to score the Cats lone goal for the game. She is quickly embraced by team mates following the goal.

finals hopes

in the second quarter, the Cats held opponents, the Australian National University Gri ns, to just one goal also.

At the main break, the home side led 38 to 9.

The Cats’ winning margin could have been much larger if not for 22 behinds during the contest.

alive

The win keeps the side in h, one win o Batemans Bay in fourth.

The Cats will collect a forfeit against Cootamundra this week before facing Eastlake in the nal round. They will require a win in this match and Batemans Bay to lose to sneak into the nals.

Interschools championships

Last week marked the successful conclusion of two Interschools Championships events, held in Thredbo and Falls Creek.

At Thredbo, the Subaru Sydney Interschools Championships wrapped up on Friday a er four exhilarating days of competition.

A total of 1100 students from 107 schools took part across ve snowsport disciplines, with over 2000 entries received. The event closed under perfect race conditions clear blue skies and no wind.

Elite athletes Sammie Gaul, Daisy Thomas, Ben Tudhope, James Johnson, Maya Billingham, and Abi Harrigan presented medals to podium winners throughout the week.

“We also extend our appreciation to the volunteer course o cials, school coordinators, families, and the Thredbo race department and resort management, whose contributions helped deliver a professional and memorable event,” an interschools spokesperson said.

Warwick Payne, school coordinator from Shore School, had 60 students compete in this week’s event. Re ecting on the

competition, he expressed his joy in watching rst-time participants succeed.

“They were absolutely thrilled to achieve success in their Division 6 events,” he said.

“Many came into the competition with little knowledge of competitive snow sports, and now they’re eager to keep competing a er experiencing what interschools is all about.

“One of my students, who usually specialises in slopestyle, took part in alpine, ski cross, and moguls as part of a team and had a fantastic time. Another student, who took a break last year, returned to competition this year and had an incredible experience as well.”

Looking ahead, the interschools series heads to Perisher for the Subaru ACT-Southern NSW Championships, running from 22 to 25 July. With 1200 students from 142 schools registered, it’s set to be the largest event in the series so far this season.

On Saturday, the event was a stableford for the Cattle Dog Trophy. Darren Forrester who has been the bridesmaid the last couple of weeks came in the winner with 36 points, ahead of Shannon Gulliford and Neil Thompson both on 35 pts.

Nearest the pin was won by Darren Forrester, golden shot went to Brendan Weston.

Sunday’s golf was a stroke for the monthly medal. Considering members were playing a stroke there was a good roll up.

What a di erence a day makes. Sunday’s winner had a shocker on Saturday but turned his game around coming in the winner with 69 nett. The winner was Wayne Elton who might lose the shot he just got back. Balls went to Elton, Forrester 71 nett and Nick Ryan on a countback from Neil Thompson 73 nett.

Nearest the pin was claimed by Weston and golden shot went to Elton. Program for the week

Ladies

Wedesday, 23 July - stableford, club trophy

Members

Saturday, 26 July - draw chapmans, R.Crawford and R.Fermor trophies Sunday, 26 July - stableford, club trophy

wrap in Thredbo

Three-way

battle for Sunday comp

By COOLAMATONG GOLF CLUB

There was a battle of A-grade golfers hoping to claim Sunday’s stableford competition, with three players shooting 39 stableford points in what was a perfect weather day for golf.

Michael Thoms won the day on a countback, his 21 points on the back nine enough to edge out Steve Cu and Ben Beattie.

Thoms had one over par on the back nine, including a birdie four on hole 13, and his ve over the front nine would have been better without a wipe on the eighth hole.

All three golfers’ scores were hurt by one bad hole, Cu hitting out of bounds on the third, and Beattie having a triple bogey on the seventh hole.

The ball run down included Jackson Holtham with 37, Bob Haigh 36, Cameron McKid 36, Nigel Bolton 35, Wayne Tuckwell 35, Felix Bertossi 34, Jan O’Halloran 34, and Aaron Fenton 34.

The men’s near pins were won by Glen Staker on three, Steve Cu on eight and Nigel Bolton on 15. The ladies’ near pins were won by Jan O’Halloran on three and Kylie Woodcock on eight and 17.

Last Wednesday, 16 July, Janece Peters won the day with 40 points, Donna Tuckwell was runner up on 38 points, and Wayne Tuckwell placed third with 37 points.

The Wednesday near pins were won by Andrew Haigh on three, Ron Duncan on eight, Cole Haigh on 15, and Soeron Stoettrup on 17.

Local students shine at MacKillop rugby trials

The ladies’ near pins were won by Janece Peters on eight and Donna Tuckwell on 17.

Match play

There are only two weeks le for all players to have nalised their rst round of match play in the nett event before players will be scratched from the event.

Membership

The annual golf club fees are to be paid by the end of July or incur a small increase in member’s fees.

There is a link on Golf Genius in the top banner to pay by credit card.

Course renovations

There has been extensive work on the golf course, with 50 dead trees removed, a new dam being built on hole 16 to assist with drainage, and several mounds of dirt being placed for new works, including the right side of hole 13.

Players should read the notice board and abide by any signage on the course for grounds under repair and new hazards.

August greens cored

The club expects to commence the annual coring of the greens in the third week of August, resulting in the August monthly medals being played prior.

“It was an unforgettable experience for these local athletes and a proud moment for their school community.”

Barnes wins Cooma stableford

By COOMA GOLF CLUB

The Saturday stableford competition featured a eld of 38 golfers. Misook Barnes was the overall winner with 37 points on a countback.

A grade was topped by Thomas Stewart, also with 37 points. David Douglass claimed B grade with 36 points, while Nate Quodling secured C grade with 36 points.

Place-getters were Charles

Quodling, Brian Tugwell, Fletch Jones. Phil Amey, and John Harris. Nearest the pin was Gino Cerro on the ninth hole and David Douglass on 17. Saturday was also round one of the four-ball-best-ball Winter Cup, which is currently lead by father-son duo Charles Quodling and Nate Quodling.

Benson Ingram from Bombala Golf Club was the overall winner an impressive 41 points in Sunday’s stableford competition. Har-

ry Mould followed with 34 points on a countback.

Place-getters were Thomas Stewart, Claire Caldwell, Stephen Young, Wayne Flynn, and Philip Ingram, and Greg Abraham.

The midweek stableford on Wednesday was won by Tim Beding eld with 38 points. Mark Rainsford won A Grade with 35 points, Jason Brazulaitis took out B Grade with 34 points on a countback, and Kerry Blencowe topped

C Grade with 36 points on a countback.

Place-getters were Chippy Boller, Shannon Fergusson, David Stewart, Greg Abraham, Steven Wheatley and Benson Ingram. Nearest the pin winners were David Stewart on the ninth and Greg Abraham on 17.

All competitions this week are stableford, with Saturday also including round two of the four-ballbest-ball Winter Cup

Tight finishes in Bombala pairs comp

By BOMBALA BOWLS

Bombala’s Joyce Cotterill and Noel Batey have taken out the pairs competition title.

Bombala Bowling Club’s major and minor pairs competition was played over three rounds of 21 ends. Joyce and Noel’s excellent performance saw them beat all their opponents in very close fought games.

In round one, Joyce and Noel played Mal O’Brien and Athol

Dent. With Athol’s steady in uence they took the lead early 8-0 but Joyce and Noel fought back with some brilliant drawing shots taking the next ve ends leading 9-8. The game then uctuated between the teams and Joyce and Noel took the game 19-18 on the 21st end.

In round two, Joyce and Noel played Art France and Ray Fermor. This was another closely contested game. Ray and Art came out strong taking three of the rst

four ends but on the h, Noel and Joyce scored a maximum six shots taking the lead. Art and Ray fought back taking the next three ends, then Joyce and Noel took the next three to lead 12-9. The game wavered with Art and Ray taking the lead 17-15 on the 17th, Joyce and Noel drew on their experience at drawing shots and took two ends with ve shots each, taking the game at 25-22. The nal was played between Joyce and Noel and Aurora Reed

and Neil Brotherton. Joyce and Noel got the lead early with some brilliant drawing shots 10-4, but Aurora and Neil were not phased and both put some great bowls down bringing the de cit to 18-12. It was a tight struggle to separate the teams with each bowler threading their bowls between their opponent’s bowls taking end for end, until Joyce and Noel scored the needed two shots on the 21st end taking the game 2119.

EFFORT: St Patrick’s Parish School students (from le ) Thomas Hill, Emilio Brazulaitis, Cooper Shaw and Blake French represented their school and the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn at the prestigious MacKillop Rugby trials.

PHOTO: Supplied

Cooma Stallions push hard but Dogs have last bark

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Despite having the better of eld position and territory for much of their clash against ladder leaders, the Merimbula-Pambula Bulldogs, the Cooma Stallions were unable to crack the opposition try line.

The Bulldogs delivered a top defensive e ort at home to continue their undefeated run with a 28-0 win over the Stallions.

A committed Stallions side had multiple attacking opportunities inside the Bulldogs’ 20 metre zone throughout the rst half.

Strong carries from the Stallions forwards and errors from the Bulldogs saw the visitors set up camp inside the attacking half.

Stallions hooker, Tristan Hamilton, went close to scoring four minutes in. Hamilton was held up over the line a er a trademark burst from dummy half.

Stallions co-captains and forwards, James Cahill and Noah Saddler, led the charge for the team. Both made tough metres through the middle and were well supported by forwards Richard Bensley, Ryan Castle and Will Cahill.

The Bulldogs produced the rst points with a nice backline move down the le edge. Their second try came against the run of play a er a Stallions knock-on.

The home side ran in a third try to take a 14-0 lead into the second half.

Stallions fullback, Keegan Caldwell, shi ed into the halves and provided a spark for the side.

Stallions young gun, Dempsey Woolf, showed his talents with a

number of hard runs.

A valiant Stallions put in a solid performance against the top placed Bulldogs but were unable to apply any scoreboard pressure.

In reserve grade, the Stallions’ e ort was not re ected on the scoreboard against an undefeated Bulldogs side.

The Stallions trailed 16-12 at half

time following a tough opening 40 minutes. The Bulldogs extended the lead to 28-12 with two tries to the start the second half.

A resurgent Stallions hit back with two tries, one to centre Damon Smith and one to forward James Russell.

The Stallions were within a try of the Bulldogs with 10 minutes

remaining. Three further tries to the home side took the match away from the Stallions.

Group 16 has a competitionwide bye round this weekend. The Stallions face Narooma on Sunday, 3 August with the club hosting its rst multicultural round.

The Stallions will wear special

jerseys designed by club players Lee Morgan, Kleis Kaiarake and community member Rebecca Morgan, along with the Ngarigo community.

The under 18s, Cooma Fillies, reserve grade and rst grade will all be in action on 3 August.

Bensley praised for commitment, hard work

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Hard working, tough and rock solid are just a few of the terms used to describe Cooma Stallions forward, Richard Bensley, with the club favourite celebrating his 100th rst grade match for the Stallions.

Bensley had the honour of

leading his side out for its clash on Sunday against MerimbulaPambula, and while the result didn’t go the Stallions way, Bensley again stood tall.

Big minutes, tough carries and a strong worth ethic in defence have been the hallmark of Bensley’s rugby league career.

Ahead of his milestone match,

Stallions coaches, Bensley’s team mates and committee members praised the Cooma product’s commitment to the jersey and club.

“It’s a pretty big achievement to reach 100 games in bush footy, particularly for the one club,” Stallions president and premiership winning captain/

coach, Todd Williams, said.

“The milestone is a credit to Rich and the dedication he has show. He is very committed to our club and we couldn’t be prouder of him.”

Williams has coached Bensley and played alongside side him when the Stallions won the 2017 Group 16 rst grade premiership.

Stallions rst grade coach and club life member, Jason Kelly, said Bensley has been one of the club’s most reliable players for a number of years now.

“Rich has been one our best players across the years, he is always rock solid,” Kelly said.

“He’s always one of the best blokes you will meet.”

Bensley (ninth from le standing) celebrates the Stallions 2017 premiership. Stallions president Todd Williams (kneeling le of the premiership shield) has praised Bensley’s dedication to the club. PHOTO: File

MILESTONE: Cooma Stallions forward, Richard Bensley, charges ahead during his 100th first grade game for the club. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

ATTACK: Cooma Stallions hooker, Tristan Hamilton, looks to pass out wide during the first half of the Stallions first grade clash against the Merimbula-Pambula Bulldogs. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

In reserve grade, Stallions centre, Damon Smith, pounces on a loose ball and dives over for a try in the second half.

Stallions co-captain and prop, James Cahill, charges towards the tryline.

Bushpigs, Miss Piggies shine

Stalwarts thanked, Piggies claim minor premiership

The Jindabyne Rugby Union Club enjoyed one of its best weekends of the season with the Bushpigs and Miss Piggies all in the winner’s circle.

The Bushpigs nished their season in style with a thrilling one-point win over the Australian Defence Force Academy on Saturday at John Connors Oval.

A 27-26 win in the side’s last game was a tting farewell to club stalwarts, Lucas Rixon and Matt Jones.

Both players were celebrated for their contributions to the club, particularly their e orts in the recent premiership run.

In Bungendore, the Jindabyne Miss Piggies clinched the minor premiership with two resounding wins.

Game 1 vs Easts

The team came out ring, determined to play fast, physical rugby and they did just that. A strong kick-o chase set the tone early, with the backs showing excellent support play and direct running, while the forwards dominated at set piece through scrums and lineouts.

It was a con dent and cohesive

performance, highlighting just how far the team has come this season, and providing the perfect platform to build momentum as nals approach.

With a shortened game format, the

knew they had to hit the ground running and they rose to the challenge.

Sticking to their structure and bringing plenty of physicality, they played a fast-paced, composed game, moving the ball well and nishing strongly.

Jindabyne rugby fans were treated to a top performance from the side.

Bushpigs prop, Isaac Maw, charges into the defence.

Tough carriers were the order of the day for the Jindabyne Bushpigs.

Game 2 vs Batemans Bay

Miss Piggies

Try scorers included Lily, Tils, Bernie, Eden, and Rhi, each crossing the line multiple times, while Sass celebrated her rst try, a standout moment for the team.

STRONG: Matt Jones finished his final game for the club with another top performance.

PHOTOS: Trista Heath

Young guns take on Project Shred

The future of snow sports in Australia turned heads at Thredbo’s infamous Project Shred.

Bringing together 170 rising kids and 15 of Australia’s top-tier snow athletes - including seven Winter Olympians - Project Shred was a day all about progression in a purpose-built terrain park.

Designed to inspire, educate, and stoke the re for freestyle snowboarding and skiing, Project Shred o ered young athletes the rare opportunity to learn from the best in the game.

Across the custom-built playground, the next generation sent it - from rst park laps to stomping brand new tricks with con dence and style.

Leading the charge were an all-star line up of coaches including Paralympian Ben Tudhope, Olympians Tess Coady, Scott Kneller, Josie Ba , Abi Harrigan, Russ Hen-

alongside Thredbo Ambassadors and elite athletes Jye Kearney, Juan George, Airish George, Joey Ellis, Arkie Ellis, Charles Beckinsale, Beau Goodwin, Nate Goodwin and Andy James.

Each brought their unique experience, energy and stoke to the mountain - mentoring, motivating and celebrating every progression milestone with the kids.

Built exclusively for the

tailored to grom-friendly progression, o ering a variety of features designed to build con dence. Coaches provided one-on-one tips, technique breakdowns, and plenty of hype.

“Project Shred is about more than just tricks,” Thredbo Events Manager, Sam Noller said.

“It’s about mentorship, community and sparking a lifelong passion for the

Bargain buy repays faith

Bargain buy, Wish You Were Here, ridden by Coriah Keatings, quickly repaid her purchase price to Cooma owner Peter Lewis by winning a Maiden Handicap over 1280 metres at Canberra earlier this month.

A $100,000 yearling purchase in 2023 by Trilogy Racing, the three year-old lly by Zoustar (AUS) from Merten Maid (AUS) was recently purchased online by Mr Lewis for $2000 a er she had been beaten by a combined 30 lengths in her only two starts in Victoria.

When the lly arrived at the Canberra stables of Matt Kelley, he was impressed with her presentation but, like Mr Lewis when considering her as a racing prospect, he was intrigued that her only two starts for her previous owner/s and trainer, had been over the unusually long distances of 1950m and 2550m.

As Matt introduced Wish You Were Here to his training

routine, it became evident she was much better than her previous form suggested, providing some optimism for both the owner and trainer. That was until she went to the barriers for a tness gallop and misbehaved signicantly in the barrier structure, casting jockey Coriah Keatings aside, and generally being unruly.

Nonetheless, the jockey and trainer persisted and Wish You Were Here was subsequently presented at Canberra in a 1280m handicap on 20 June, using a barrier blanket and blindfold to assist her nervousness, where she nished a creditable fourth.

Much to the delight of all concerned, particularly Miss Keatings,the barrier behaviour of Wish You Were Here last Friday was excellent, and she subsequently had a good run in transit in the 12 horse eld. On straightening, it was up to Keatings to get o the rail from third

position to overtake the two leaders to their outside. In what seemed easy for Wish You Were Here ($26), she took over with 50m remaining to come away and score by two and a quarter lengths. She looks to be above average, proving a very astute purchase by Mr Lewis.

For the followers of I’ve Bean Tryin’, he will contest a race over 1600m at Randwick on Saturday.

The winner of seven races, including the 2023 Barn Dance at Randwick of $250,000, the now six yearold has had various setbacks over the past 12 months but his run at Rosehill recently provided trainer Matt Kelley with con dence he is back on track.

I’ve Been Tryin is raced by David, Lindy and Luke Bracher, Linley and Ann Miners, Kevin and Ruth Biilman, Terry and Leanne Schoeld, Alan Guthrie, Georgina Guthrie and Stephen Johnson.

33

Finals fever hits Red Devils

COOMA RUGBY SET FOR BIGGEST WEEKEND IN YEARS

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Finals rugby has eluded the Cooma Red Devils since 2015.

A er some tough seasons of late, the club is ready for its rst nals charge in 10 years with its men’s and women’s sides eyeing premiership glory.

The Cooma Devils Angels returned to competition rugby union in 2025 a er a 24-year hiatus. The side instantly impressed with its attacking play and determined attitude.

The Devils Angels nished the regular season second on the ladder following two dominant wins over the weekend.

The side will host the club’s rst home semi- nal in about 20 years when they clash with Bungendore at 1.15pm at Rotary Oval on Saturday.

Devils Angels captain, Brianna Rankin, praised her side’s e orts this season.

“Being captain and having the team go so well in the rst year is something I’m proud of and it makes me very happy and excited for what is to come,” Rankin said.

“No one would have thought we would make it to semis in our rst year but here we are.”

The Devils Angels have won 11 of 14 matches and comfortably nished second on the ladder behind the Jindabyne Miss Piggies.

Rankin said the key to the team winning through to the grand nal will be a strong e ort in the middle of the park to allow the Devils Angels’ speedy backline the chance to run.

“We just need to play our

game and not get stuck into the opposition’s game,” Rankin said.

“They will be strong up the middle so we will all need to muscle up and compress then burn them on the outsides when the time is right.”

The Red Devils men’s side claimed the Gordon Litchfield Wool Boots n All trophy on Saturday with its second win for the season over Yass.

Despite the win, the Red Devils couldn’t jump into third spot.

Where the Flick

They face the Australian Defence Force Academy on Saturday at the Dowsett rugby fields at 2.30pm. This is an elimination final.

Devils captain, Damien Roach, said his side will need to work on its discipline and handling to

secure a win.

‘We are working hard on tidying up some silly errors in our game. If we can hold onto the ball and play tight rugby we will go well,” Roach said.

FOCUSED: Cooma Red Devils captain, Damien Roach, and Devils Angels player, Imogen McGrath, say their sides are ready for a premiership tilt. The Red Devils will feature in finals rugby for the first time since 2015.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson