MP020425DigitalEditionAastaArctander by Provincial Press Group

Pha’s Thai a winner

SUCCESS: Pha and Steve Anderson of Pha’s Thai restaurant in Cooma are proud to receive the award for most popular Cooma business.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

By NATHAN THOMPSON

FOR the regulars who dine at Pha’s Thai in Cooma, it will come as little surprise the restaurant has been awarded Cooma’s most popular business.

Owners, Steve and Pha

Former officer avoids jail

By NATHAN THOMPSON

FORMER NSW senior constable, Kristian White, has avoided a jail term for the manslaughter of Cooma grandmother, Clare Nowland.

White was sentenced to a community corrections order for two years by Justice Ian Harrison in the NSW Supreme Court, on Friday 28 March. One of the conditions of the order is to complete 425 hours of community service.

Justice Harrison said the crime fell at the ‘lower’ end of objective seriousness for a manslaughter case. Justice Harrison said White posed no risk to the community and a custodial sentence for a police officer would be ‘unduly onerous’ due to being placed in protective isolation. Justice Harrison, in his further reasoning to not give a prison sentence, said White has already suffered some punishment through losing his employment and becoming an unwelcome person in the Cooma community. Justice Harrison also said White was unlikely to re-offend.

Anderson, accepted the award at last week’s Snowy Monaro Business Awards gala night in Jindabyne.

The event recognised the region’s finest businesses, of which Pha’s Thai is certainly one.

“We’re beyond proud to win the popular choice award from Business NSW,” Mr Anderson said.

“This family-run restaurant has always been about good food and good people, so this

Mr Anderson said the team is proud to be named Cooma’s most popular.

one means a lot.”

Cooma businesses enjoyed success at the awards night, with Sandy’s Grooming Tails and K9 cafe taking out first place in the innovation category.

■ More coverage from the business awards on pages 6 and 35

White was found guilty of manslaughter by a jury in December 2024 for tasering 95-year-old Mrs Nowland in her Yallambee Lodge residence in Cooma. Mrs Nowland’s family has told The Monaro Post they are ‘ saddened’ by the sentence handed down.

■ More on page 3

Jindabyne is the place to live: TSM chair

GOOD LIVING IN JINDABYNE

By TRISTA HEATH

JINDABYNE has long been celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and dynamic seasonal tourism, and with so many innovative developments taking place, Robert Lloyd, Chairperson of Tourism Snowy Mountains says the town is set to become an even more desirable destination for visitors and new residents.

The $198 million investment under the Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct (SAP) is designed to transform Jindabyne with future-proof infrastructure, including upgraded roads, utility networks, and facilities designed to accommodate the town’s growing population and tourism industry.

One of the SAP projects includes the Jindabyne Education Precinct, totaling $116.7 million for the construction of the state-of-the-art facilities for Jindabyne Public School and Jindabyne High School.

The Snowy Mountains Grammar School is also undergoing a multimillion-dollar transformation with a NSW government funded $4.5 million Learning Hub, which is part of a larger $24 million investment.

The National Snowsports Training Centre, a world-class, multi-purpose, $12.7 million facility, funded by Snow Australia, the NSW government, and other partners, reinforces Jindabyne’s status as a premier winter sports destination and year-round training hub for athletes.

The $27 million Snowies Alpine Walk and the $9.7 million extension of the Thredbo Valley Track enhance Jindabyne’s appeal as a year-round adventure hub, while protecting the natural environment.

Jindabyne’s essential services have received significant upgrades, including a $14 million state-of-the-art police

station, a $1.5 million skate park, and a $3.3 million new library. Additionally, the Lake Jindabyne Shared Trail project secured $11.8 million in funding to create a network of scenic trails.

The Gaden Trout Hatchery has been expanded with $8.6 million in state-of-theart upgrades, supporting local tourism and ecological initiatives.

“For those seeking tranquillity and a vibrant community, Jindabyne offers an enviable lifestyle,” Mr Lloyd said.

“Residents often describe their move to Jindabyne as an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in favour of

a healthier, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

“The town also boasts a growing arts and culture scene, with local artists and performers contributing to a rich tapestry of events throughout the year. Its thriving dining and hospitality industry ensures residents and visitors alike can savour diverse culinary experiences, from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments.”

A proposed marketing campaign “Visit and Relocate” crafted in partnership with real estate agencies, builders and government departments is designed to attract visitors, investors and new residents alike. Key angles of the

campaign include destination appeal, educational opportunities, economic potential and lifestyle benefits.

“As Jindabyne evolves, its trajectory mirrors iconic destinations like Byron Bay, transitioning from a holiday hotspot to a thriving, year-round community,” Mr Lloyd said.

“By blending its natural allure with robust infrastructure and a welcoming spirit, this alpine haven is redefining rural living. Whether you’re visiting for adventure, investing in property, or seeking a new place to call home, Jindabyne offers an unparalleled experience. A perfect harmony of lifestyle, opportunity, and prosperity.”

The new multimillion-dollar Jindabyne Public and High School.

GOOD LIVING: Jindabyne’s newest land release, Mountainside, captures pristine views.

PHOTOS: Supplied

Nowland family ‘disappointed’ over sentence

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THE family of Clare Nowland has spoken of their frustration and disappointment over the sentence handed down to Kristian White.

Former NSW senior constable, Kristian White, avoided a jail term for the manslaughter of Cooma great-grandmother, 95-year-old Clare Nowland.

White was sentenced to a community corrections order for two years by Justice Ian Harrison in the NSW Supreme Court on Friday, 28 March. One of the conditions of the order is to complete 425 hours of community service.

Mrs Nowland’s daughter Lesley and Lesley’s daughters Kym Lloyd and Clare Aitchison have told The Monaro Media Group they are ‘extremely’ disappointed White was not handed a custodial sentence.

“I feel cheated, my nana deserved better,” Clare said.

“Everyone has a nana, and we have had so many people reach out saying they can’t believe the sentence.”

Lelsey said the family is shocked by the decision.

“Our family is enormously disappointed that White only got a two year good behaviour bond for manslaughter,” Lesley said.

“Fairness and justice was our only agenda. It’s an insult he was only placed on a corrective services order.

“What happened to my mum wasn’t an accident or mistake, the decision is upsetting.”

UPSET: The family of Clare Nowland has spoken of its disbelief and disappointment former police o icer Kristian White was handed a two year corrective services order for the manslaughter of 95 year-old Clare Nowland.

PHOTO: Supplied

further reasoning to not give a prison sentence, said White has already suffered some punishment through losing his employment and becoming an unwelcome person in the Cooma community.

Justice Harrison also said White was unlikely to re-offend. White was found guilty of manslaughter by a jury in December 2024 for tasering 95-year-old Mrs Nowland in her Yallambee Lodge residence in Cooma.

White, a then Cooma-based senior constable, tasered Mrs Nowland on 17 May, 2023. Mrs Nowland was using a walking frame and holding a knife when White tasered her.

Mrs Nowland died a week later in Cooma Hospital.

The family told this masthead the support from the Cooma community has been overwhelming and much appreciated.

“Thank you to our community for its amazing support. We have had so many people reach out saying they are thinking of us, it’s very touching,” Clare said.

I feel cheated, my nana deserved better: granddaughter

Kym Lloyd said the family believes justice has not been delivered. She said there was shock in the court room when White was handed a community corrections order.

“After 22 months the anxiety around it all hasn’t gone away,” Kym told this masthead.

“There was a lot of emotion in the court room. We could sense it wasn’t going our way during the closing remarks.

“The sentence is disproportionate. It feels like there is no penalty.”

Justice Harrison said the crime fell at the ‘lower’ end

of objective seriousness for a manslaughter case.

Justice Harrison said White posed no risk to the community and a custodial sentence for a police officer would be ‘unduly onerous’ due to being placed in protective isolation.

Justice Harrison, in his

Lesley said this support has helped the family.

“There has been lots of love from Cooma. At the supermarket checkout, walking down the street, there has been so much support,” Lesley said.

‘We have definitely felt the love of Cooma.”

The Nowland family is hopeful an appeal into White’s sentence will take place.

Beautiful Hellebores

Thredbo raises the bar for winter 2025

Public notice

REFERENCE: Cambalong 1, SC2148 ENQUIRIES: 1300 345 345 In pursuance of the provisions of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Snowy Monaro Regional Council proposes to close the Council public road listed in Schedule 1.

SCHEDULE 1

Upon closure of the road reserve, Council intends to open a corresponding road corridor over the constructed road, then dispose of the former road corridor land in exchange for land acquired, as per Council resolution. All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal in writing, addressed to the Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, by mail to PO Box 714, Cooma NSW 2630 or by email to council@smrc.nsw.gov.au.

Submissions must be received within twenty-eight days of the date of this advertisement, closing Wednesday 30 April 2025. Please note that under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, such submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration.

Once the submission period is over, Snowy Monaro Regional Council will consider all duly-made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the road closure proposal.

Portion of Council Road, shown in blue labelled Cambalong Road, through land located at lot 2 DP 810693, Cambalong, County: Wellesley.

Tess Russo enjoying fresh powder from 2024 winter season.

ACTION: Learn to ski at Thredbo Resort this winter.

PHOTO: Thredbo Media

Delegate calls for meaningful consultation

Stakeholder concern over possible visitor centre review

By KAREN FORMAN

DELEGATE Progress

Association has called on Snowy Monaro Regional Council to conduct ‘meaningful consultation’ prior to any decision which could lead to the closure of the Bombala Visitors Centre.

Association vice-president, Karen Cash, said the association had been dismayed to read a motion presented by Cr Reuben Rose to the 20 March council meeting concerning the centre.

In the motion, which was included in the 20 March business paper but not debated due to time constraints, Cr Rose asked council to include in its draft 2026 Delivery and Operational Plan a process to conduct a formal review to assess the cost-effectiveness of the Visitor Information Centres (VICs) in Cooma and Bombala.

The motion is set for debate at an extraordinary council meeting on Thursday, 3 April.

He suggested the review should evaluate whether the current funding allocation provided the best return on investment for tourism support.

“The review should also explore alternative strategies to enhance visitor engagement and regional tourism growth,” he said.

Cr Rose said recent consultation with senior tourism leaders in the Snowy Monaro region had suggested that the visitor centres in Cooma and Bombala were not cost-effective in delivering benefits for the area in a digital age.

“Given the low visitation numbers, changing tourist behaviour, and the significant costs of maintaining the Cooma and Bombala VICs, a review is necessary,” he said.

“Notably, the Eurobadalla Shire closed their VICs in 2021 because of low visitor use.”

However, he said his motion did not assume the closure of VICs but calls for a data-driven evaluation to ensure that the council’s tourism funding aligned with modern visitor needs and delivered the most significant benefit to the Snowy Monaro region.

Mrs Cash said Cr Rose had stated he had consulted widely with industry (but) this was incorrect.

“He has never spoken to Delegate Progress Association and we are the

main player in tourism in the southern part of the electorate,” she said.

“We wonder if he has even visited the Delegate region to see what we have or taken the time to study any of the aspects of our tourism sector.”

Mrs Cash said the association relied on both VICs “to help us drive tourism to our area”.

“Visitation to our area is totally different to that of the mountains and while no doubt visitors use the internet prior to the visit, once here they value the ability to talk face to face.

“We would definitely not like to see the Bombala VIC close. A closure would be yet another loss of service to our area and another loss of support to our small businesses.

“We would like to see meaningful consultation occur prior to any council decision and strongly suggest any councillors in favour of the motion come to Delegate and discuss the matter with us face-to-face.”

Cr Rose listed background issues associated with the need for a review including what he described as a low utilisation of current visitor centres.

located in an area with limited parking, making it inconvenient for passing tourists, particularly those with caravans or large recreational vehicles.

already have an alternative at the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, which offers tourism information alongside a well-established attraction.

derful VIC at the National Parks building in Jindabyne.

even fewer visitors, raising concerns about its effectiveness in reaching and assisting tourists. Bombala needs to be put on the tourist map in our region, and digital tools could help tourists discover this hidden gem.”

been a shift to digital information sources.

“Most travellers now rely on websites, apps, and social media for trip planning and real-time information, reducing the need for traditional, inperson visitor centres.

“Many regional councils have adapted to this trend by shifting funds toward digital tourism campaigns, self-service kiosks, and

tourists more accessible and flexible ways to obtain information.”

Cr Rose also suggested funds could be re-deployed into tourism initiatives where there would be more impact, such as digital marketing to attract visitors, enhancing local tourism infrastructure, working with the industry to

wayfinding signage, or supporting events and partnerships that drive economic benefits for local businesses.

“By re-allocating resources to modern, high-impact strategies, the council can ensure a better return on investment and more substantial support for the region’s tourism industry.”

Business resilience celebrated

Snowy Monaro operators recognised for hard work

By NATHAN THOMPSON

UPON collecting their third win of the evening, Wildbrumby’s, Brad Spalding delivered a simple but powerful message to the 200 people in attendance at the Snowy Monaro Business Awards.

Mr Spalding praised their resilience of the local business community and encouraged business and tourism operators to work together as attention turns to the coming winter season.

“We all work well together and it’s a great business community to be part of it,” Spalding said.

“Now we hope for early snow and lots of it. We need a much better season this year.”

Wildbrumby received first places in outstanding visitor experience, outstanding employer of choice and for employee of the year through Sebastian Druege.

The awards gala night was held on Friday, 28 March at Jindabyne’s Station Resort. Almost 200 people attended to celebrate the success of local business.

Winners and highly commended awards were shared across the region.

Sandy’s Grooming Tails and K9 café in Cooma won the best business for innovation, in recognition of its enterprising business model.

Jindabyne’s Birchwood café added another award to its already impressive resume.

Birchwood received the excellence in small business honour.

A focus of the Snowy Monaro Business Awards is on the region’s tourism operators. The coveted award for sustainable tourism was won by Olivier and Jacquie Kapetanakos at Avonside Alpine Estate.

Community organisations are recognised in the business awards with a dedicated category honouring the outstanding local not-for-profit groups. A popular choice for this year’s award was The Fly Program, run by Matt Tripet. The Fly Program helps men and their mental health.

■ More on page 35

Foster carers called for in the Snowy Monaro

FOSTER carers are urgently needed in the Cooma district to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

If that special someone is you, or you know someone who would make a great foster carer, Marymead CatholicCare is holding an on-line information session this Thursday, 3 April at 5.30pm.

Marymead CatholicCare is also keen to hold an in-person information session in Cooma, depending on expressions of interest.

By joining the information session, prospective carers will learn about:

• different types of care and explore the ways they can make a difference;

• roles and expectations and understand what it takes to be a carer;

• challenges and rewards by hearing from experienced foster carers and case managers; and

• the assessment process, getting insights into the steps

to become an approved foster carer.

Marymead CatholicCare

Canberra and Goulburn has a wealth of experience, providing permanency and out-of-home care programs in Canberra, Goulburn, Wagga Wagga and Young, supporting children under NSW Court Orders.

Marymead CatholicCare, a not-for-profit agency, is hoping to expand its footprint in NSW, including the Cooma region, reaching out to children in great need for a stable, supportive and loving home environment.

All types of carers are needed, including respite, emergency and short-term care (from a few days to several months) or a long-term commitment as a foster carer.

The agency needs carers who can support children to return to their family to restore their connection. Sometimes this also means a foster carer can apply to ultimately become

the child’s legal guardian or adoptive parent where they cannot return home.

Carer Recruitment team leader for Marymead CatholicCare, Michelle Redman, said being a foster carer can be challenging and therefore potential candidates need to have good physical and mental health, as well as a safe home.

“They will be opening their home and lives to children who’ve experienced lots of trauma, so they will need to learn new parenting strategies and manage difficult behaviours in a positive and gentle way,” Ms Redman said.

“Carers need to be able to work well with others and be capable and calm when under pressure.”

To book in for the information session or to arrange a further conversation, contact the carer recruitment team on 02 4827 1600 or email CarerRecruitment@mccg.org. au

DARE TO CARE: Marymead CatholicCare Canberra and Goulburn is hoping to attract foster care interest from the Cooma region.

PHOTO: Supplied

HARD WORK: Cooma Chamber of Commerce president, Lynette Armour (le ) presents Brad and Monika of Wildbrumby Distillery with the employer of choice award. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

The team at popular Jindabyne cafe, Birchwood, take out the top gong for excellence in small business.

Sandy’s Grooming Tails and K9 cafe is awarded excellence in innovation. Judie Winter and Sandra Brabon of the business collect the award.

Alex helps post cyclone clean-up

Local volunteer supports those in need

By KAREN FORMAN

EX-SOLDIER Alex Aitkenhead might be retired, but the 47-year-old Cooma husband and father hasn’t been resting on his laurels since ending his career with the Australian Army.

Instead, Mr Aitkenhead, who was medically discharged from the services, spends much of his time volunteering for three different emergency service organisations. He combines his skills and experience gained during his time as a serviceman with his passion for helping people.

Alex possesses a love of the outdoors and a zest for adventure. To say he is an avid volunteer is somewhat of an understatement.

Mr Aitkenhead recently returned from a two-week stint serving with Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) on the Gold Coast to help the clean-up after Cyclone Alfred and has assisted at Brisbane and Townsville flood events, local road accidents and searches as part of his membership of the Cooma-Monaro State Emergency Services (SES) unit where he is a rescue officer.

He also intends to become a support member of the Cooma branch of the Rural Fire Service (RFS) once he completes the bush firefighter course.

“I am fully retired so I have the time to be on call for rescue,” Alex said.

“I think volunteering in the emergency services is a really great thing to do whether you are retired or not.

“You can do as much or as little as you have time for and are helping people on their worst day. Knowing you have done what you can to help someone and working as a team to achieve it, is a great feeling.

“The Snowy Mountains is also a great place to serve as a volunteer with emergency service organisations. There is always a lot going on.”

Mr Aitkenhead first came to the mountains with his parents when they moved to Jindabyne in the mid 1990s.

He joined the army in 1995 and returned to the region after he was medically discharged in 2013.

“My wife Fiona and three kids and I came down to Cooma as we were looking for somewhere smaller than Brisbane and to give the kids a better life. My parents were still in Cooma at that stage.”

Initially he worked for Repco for a couple of years, then moved on to do his own thing.

“I was looking for an organisation that had similar values as the army, so I joined the SES eight years ago. Nothing will ever compare with the military, but the uniforms, mateship and working hard bit, they all cross over,” he said.

“I also started with Disaster Relief Australia, a veteran-led not for profit organisation which does similar things to the SES. It unites the skills and experience of military veterans, emergency services specialists and motivated Australians to aid disaster recovery operations.

“We maintain a roster of thousands of volunteers with the ability to rapidly organise and assist cleanup operations in communities affected by disaster and can operate independently or integrate into existing emergency management arrangements.”

Unlike emergency services which provide immediate disaster response, DRA’s focus is on either side of the emergency in the preparedness and recovery phases.

“We work with communities to identify risks, develop disaster mangement strategies and build their capability to face future challenges,” Alex said.

When disaster strikes, DRA shirts its focus to recovery during the response phase but the DRA can be called in by Local and State Government in the clean up/aftermath phase.

“I am part of the ACT team, part of a strike team made up of ex-Defence, first responders and a good mix of civilians,” he said.

“How it works is that the damage assessment comes in, a team leader is appointed who then gets a team together, we get several jobs and we work our way through them, usually in strike teams of four or five. We do our training in and around Canberra.”

Aitkenhead said.

Initially, Mr Aitkenhead was planning to respond to an SES call to deploy volunteers to help with the cleanup after Cyclone Alfred struck, as he had helped out with the February floods, but when it didn’t send anyone from the area and the opportunity to head off with DRA came up, his hand shot up.

“I was deployed to Nerang and we spent the first couple of days conducting rapid damage

the Botanical Gardens clearing up a large area cut down by the winds, to get it open again.”

He said Nerang itself wasn’t too badly affected, although the supermarkets were empty.

“Once we got into the Hinterland we could really see the damage, powerlines, trees, sheds and bits and pieces. It was definitely visible that a large storm had gone through,” he said.

“I have been through some cyclones when stationed in

Hinterland area. A lot of people had their own generators.”

Serving with the SES closer to home, Mr Aitkenhead said he had attended some large scale road incidents.

“At the end of the day, everyone knows what to do and how it’s done. It’s hard to put into words. But it’s a great thing to do, to use skills and experiences from my military days,” he said.

“There is also a bit of adrenalin involved, too, I guess.”

HERE TO HELP: Cooma’s Alex Aitkenhead has returned home from helping communities recover post Cyclone Alfred. Alex is a committed local volunteer with the SES, Cooma Monaro RSL Sub-branch and We Will Remember Them on Monaro.

PHOTO: Karen Forman

Locals encouraged to stay active daily

DURING April Falls Month older people living in south-east NSW are being encouraged to look after themselves with regular exercise and activity to help maintain independence.

‘Falls Prevention is everyone’s business’ is the theme of this year’s April Falls Month, an annual event supported by the NSW Fall Prevention and Healthy Ageing Network to encourage older adults to become more active and reduce falls.

Brodie Palmer, Health Promotion Officer at Southern NSW Local Health District, emphasised the importance of staying active.

“Keeping active is one of the best things we can do to maintain our independence as we age. Regular exercise helps improve balance, strength, and confidence, making everyday activities easier and reducing the risk of falls,” Ms Palmer said.

“Whether it’s joining (or starting) a Heart Foundation Walking group, taking part in a local exercise class, or using the active and healthy directory to find a program that suits you, there are many ways to stay moving. Every little bit of activity counts, so find something you enjoy and make it part of your routine.”

Ms Palmer said the health district’s physiotherapy teams work closely with community members to provide targeted support and interventions for those at risk of falls or frailty.

NSW Fall Prevention and Healthy Ageing Network lead advisor, Professor Cathie Sherrington, said staying physically active is the single most important thing to do to stay independent.

“During ageing, our bodies change, losing muscle strength and coordination so the more active we remain, the better chance we have of maintaining our physical function,” Professor Sherrington said.

Improving balance and strength in the legs allows older adults to complete regular daily activities more easily, including getting up and down stairs, in and out of cars, negotiating uneven surfaces and reducing the risk of falling.

If older people are feeling unsteady on their feet or are having eyesight changes or pain in their feet seeing specialists such as a physiotherapist for balance and strength testing, an optometrist for vision changes and a podiatrist to reduce foot pain can help to maintain independence. See a GP for any worrying issues and for referrals to other health practitioners.

Health CEO pleased with Cooma ED results

PHOTO: Karen Forman

Cooma treatment times above NSW average

SOUTHERN NSW Local Health District (SNSWLHD) is among the state’s top performers for emergency department and planned surgery performance, despite treating a high number of critically unwell patients during the October to December 2024 quarter.

At Cooma Hospital, there were 2737 emergency department (ED) attendances during the quarter. More than nine in 10 patients (93.5 per cent) started treatment on time, above the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (76.5 per cent).

Almost all patients (99.7 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, which is also better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (95.4 per cent).

The majority of patients (82.2 per cent) left the Cooma Hospital ED within four hours, which is in line with the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (77.7 per cent). There were 47 planned surgery procedures performed

during the October to December 2024 quarter and all (100 per cent) were performed on time.

SNSWLHD chief executive, Margaret Bennett, praised the efforts of staff in providing high quality care to patients during the early summer period.

“This latest Bureau of Health Information Healthcare Quarterly report for October to December 2024 shows our district was among the state’s top performers for key ED indicators including the percentage of patients starting their treatment on time, leaving the ED within four hours, time to transfer care from ambulance to hospital staff, and planned surgery wait times,” Ms Bennett said.

“I extend my sincere gratitude to our dedicated staff members, as these impressive results are a testament to their hard work.”

The district performed 1287 planned surgeries during the last quarter of 2024, an increase of 4.3 per

cent compared to the same quarter in 2023.

SNSWLHD had one of the best results in the state for the percentage of planned surgeries performed on time, with almost all patients, or 99.8 per cent, receiving their planned surgery on time.

This includes 99.5 per cent of urgent planned surgeries, 99.8 per cent of semi-urgent planned surgeries, and 100 per cent of non-urgent surgeries performed on time.

During October to December 2024, there were more than 30,000 presentations to EDs across the district.

Of these there were 3980 by patients with an imminently life-threatening condition (emergency or triage category two), an increase of 5.6 per cent compared to the same quarter in 2023.

Across the district, there were also 10,778 patients presenting with potentially life-threatening conditions (urgent or triage category three), an 8.4 per cent increase when compared with the same quarter in 2023.

Despite the high demand, more than seven in 10 patients (76.5 per cent) started their treatment on time, which is better than the NSW average (65.3 per cent). The majority of patients (72 per cent) also left the ED within four hours of arriving, also better than the NSW average (56.6 per cent).

Almost all patients (95.1 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark time, which is well above the NSW average (83.4 per cent).

“Our staff have implemented a range of improvement strategies over the past 12-18 months to achieve these impressive results,” Ms Bennett said.

“Strategies include daily huddles across all facilities, ongoing ED education programs to strengthen nursing triage protocols, regular reviews of clerical processes and systems, as well as management of discharges and delays.

“The most important outcome of this work is that patients in Southern NSW are given the very best care, as quickly as possible.”

HEALTH: Cooma Hospital’s emergency department has performed above the state average for patients starting treatment on time and leaving the hospital.

WILL GET THINGS DONE IN EDEN-MONARO

IMPROVING LOCAL ROADS

Under the Liberals, major road upgrades have been delivered across Eden-Monaro, improving productivity for industry and business and importantly ensuring safer journeys for locals.

These upgrades included the Barton Highway, the Hume Mwy at Marulan, Braidwood Road, and planning for the Kings Highway and Princes Highway upgrades. Anthony Albanese and Labor cut $3.5 billion from major infrastructure projects in NSW, including the Southern Connector Road in Jindabyne and the ripping of funding for twice promised, Dunns Creek Road, Googong.

Only the Liberals will fight to deliver funding and projects to upgrade our roads across Eden-Monaro, including the Brown Mountain.

BACKING SMALL BUSINESS

My husband and I are both small business owners. We know small businesses are the lifeblood of our community. That is why a Dutton Liberal Government will back small business as the key driver of economic growth and security.

This is why we have already committed to extending the value of assets eligible for instant write-off to $30,000, for businesses with annual turnover up to $10 million.

Whether you’re in hospitality, tourism, agriculture, construction or retail, we will implement a pro small business agenda focused on saving time and money and delivering less government intervention and greater business freedom.

ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES

I’ve listened to you about the difficulty of accessing a local GP or specialist health, mental health and aged care health services.

The Liberals’ have a plan to address key challenges in our health system and to deliver quality healthcare.

That’s why we have already announced we will restore the Liberals’ doubling of Medicare-subsidised mental health sessions from 10 to 20 on a permanent basis and will invest $400 million to rebuild the GP workforce and encourage junior doctors to become GPs.

I know there is much more to be done, to ensure equity of health resourcing for our region and access to GPs and local mental health services.

A STRONGER REGIONAL NSW

A Dutton Liberal Government will have a strong regional perspective on all decision making, and always look for opportunities to ensure equity and fairness.

We will address critical gaps in access to essential services. Regional communities contribute significantly to our national economic and social fabric and deserve quality local services. We will improve access to telecommunications and high speed internet because we have a proven track record - the Liberals delivered 29 Mobile Black Spot Program projects when in government.

JO VAN DER PLAAT

LETTERS TO THE

Cowbed bridge replacement finally underway

At last, the replacement of the timber Cowbed bridge over the Wullwye Creek on the Rocky Plains Road is finally underway.

This project will bring joy to the hearts of all the residents who live to the Western side of the bridge who have experienced considerable additional costs to their businesses by having to divert lorries which exceeded the load limit on the structure.

The great news is that Council has confirmed the new bridge will be a two lane concrete and steel structure replacing the very old single lane timber bridge.

The work is being carried out under the State Government’s timber bridge replacement program with funding of about $1.3M. Construction has started and the project is expected to be

complete within a month (says the contractor).

The work has required the construction of a temporary bypass bridge on the downstream side of the existing timber bridge because the new bridge is being constructed in the same position as the bridge being replaced.

The contractor advised me that the steel piles driven to support the new structure, sit on bedrock and I would expect the same bedrock upstream of the bridge.

Now, this is where the alignment issues are similar to the Matong bridge that I wrote to you about last week. The existing Cowbed bridge was on very poor alignment with a very sharp turn on the Western end.

Drivers’ expectations of having to negotiate the bridge slowly

were a given due to the bridge being single lane and a bit rough.

Unfortunately, the new two lane bridge is being constructed in the very same footprint as the existing bridge. This means two lanes of traffic will have to navigate the extremely sharp turn on the Western side which will increase the chances of a collision when two vehicles meet in that locality at speed.

Like the Matong bridge, the new bridge should have been constructed on the upstream side of the existing bridge. It appears that the reason the new bridge had to be erected on the same footprint as the old bridge is that to improve the alignment, would have involved acquiring some Crown land which is subject to an Aboriginal Land Claim. That

In this election, let’s vote for our kids’ future

THE federal election campaign is in full swing, with cost of living at its front and centre. And when we talk cost of living, we must also talk climate.

Climate chaos is costing us. Fires, cyclones and floods devastate communities and livelihoods. Insurance premiums skyrocket.

The recovery costs for climate driven disasters go into billions. Food prices surge as crops fail. Heatwaves cost more lives every year.

Our unique plants and animals are at risk. Right now, the world is heading for more than two degrees Celsius warming by the end of the century.

That means, we are to lose our snow, and our beloved Monaro will change beyond recognition. Is this the future we want for our children and grandchildren?

We know what causes global warming – our burning of fossil fuels. The only sensible

solution is a fast transition to clean energy from sun, wind and water.

After years of political climate inaction, Australia’s clean energy rollout is finally on the way. 40 per cent of our energy came from renewables in 2024.

Over four million households and businesses put solar panels on their roofs. Nearly 70 per cent of Aussies support clean energy.

There are over 180,000 electric vehicles on our roads. Now is not the time to slow down – it’s time to go faster, bigger and bolder on renewables.

It’s time for Australia to become a clean energy leader in the global community and to once and for all phase out the climate wreckers - oil, coal and gas.

In this election, there is a lot at stake. The next term of parliament takes us nearly to the end of this decade that is so vital for climate action.

The achievements or failings of our political leaders in the next three years will shape our climate future for many decades to come. We can’t afford to get it wrong at the ballot box.

In this election, let’s vote for the candidates and political parties with the strongest climate policies. We need a government that speeds up the clean energy transition, ends our dependency on fossil fuels and better protects our communities and our unique environment from the impact of climate chaos.

Let’s not fall for nuclear fantasies that our very own science authority, the CSIRO, has rejected as too costly and too late to serve our energy needs. Australia’s future must be renewable, not radioactive. In this election, let’s vote as if the future of our kids depends on it. Because it does.

Rita Brademann Cooma

Crown Land consists of the travelling stock reserve to the West of the bridge.

The current Rocky Plains Road alignment severs part of the reserve leaving a narrow strip of the reserve between the road and the Wullwye Creek. To improve the road and bridge alignment would have involved the government granting to Council an area of land between the road and the creek of no more than 500 square metres.

Now, that land claim may or may not be successful but due to the inability of our Council and the State Government being unable to come to terms on what is the public interest and the public good means that our community is burdened with a road that is on poor alignment

for the life of the bridge which could be well over 100 years. Surely it must have been possible for some sanity to prevail where the Government, which granted the funding for the bridge, can immediately override part of the land claim in what would be the best interests of the community. As a result of that inflexibility, our community is stuck with a bridge on an inferior alignment and with the possibility of traffic accidents. It has been three years since that project funding was granted so why does it take so long for simple issues to be sorted in the public good. This sort of inability and rule inflexibility to stick by the rules is simply not good enough.

Dutton ignoring climate crisis

OPPOSITION leader Peter Dutton is wilfully ignoring the climate crisis with his promises to halve the tax on fuel for 12 months and to ramp up gas production.

Prolonging the use of fossil fuels will only make the climate crisis worse. What he should be doing is providing incentives for electric vehicles, not encouraging voters to keep their polluting cars with internal combustion engines.

As for gas, a domestic reservation policy on the east coast is a good idea but increasing the actual amount of gas produced is not. Australia has plenty of gas to supply its own needs and does not need to produce more. It just needs to reserve more for domestic use rather than export 80 per cent of it.

Gas not only produces greenhouse gas emissions when burnt, it releases fugitive methane emissions when mined. Methane is a much more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.

Australians need to be weaned off gas and provided with incentives to ‘electrify everything’ with electricity coming from renewable energy sources, namely wind, solar and hydro, backed up by storage (batteries or pumped hydro).

More gas means more extreme weather events such as droughts that lead to bigger fires, heavier rain that causes severe floods, and ultimately higher insurance premiums for Australian families.

As for the earlier nuclear proposal, it has been repudiated by a number of studies and bodies, not least the Climate Change Authority, as being too slow and too expensive.

Reactors would not be ready by the 2040s and we have to have made the energy transition to renewables long before then if we are to avert dangerous climate change.

Jenny Goldie President, Climate Action Monaro

HAVE YA RECOVERED FROM ALL THEM LEECHES STUCK TO YA SKIN AFTER SWIMMING IN THE DAM?

YEP, AND I’M CERTAINLY NOT GONNA DO ANYTHING STUPID LIKE THAT AGAIN, THAT’S FOR SURE!

Phil Daley Berridale

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Cromwell Street, Cooma, issues need addressing

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

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

When I sold my original house at 20 Cromwell Street Cooma, the new

owners took many photographs that match the survey along the 20/24a boundary.

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

Neighbours then alleged that I had raised the level on my land across the boundary. The neighbour’s

own original photos and professional survey of 24a contradict that allegation. Despite my protests, Council declined to release their own records. It took the intervention of the legal branch of the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal for Council eventually to release the bogus claims neighbours reported, stories on which Council had acted without checking.

Council staff involved still remain silent, rather than admit mismanagement – well documented – short term CEO filed my records, unread, and threatened to place me on council’s unreasonable complainants conduct register. Where is a councillor who will check my records?

Janet Stalvies Cooma

ANZAC of the Year

THE RSL Cooma Monaro sub-branch is seeking nominations for the ANZAC of the Year Award 2025. The award recognises one person’s outstanding contributions to the local community over a period of time. Last year’s recipient, Tony Nassar, said it was a great honour to receive the award. Tony is involved

in many volunteer roles in the Cooma community, as well as owning the popular Rose’s Restaurant, which has a strong ANZAC connection. A dessert on the menu at the family-run restaurant, ‘The Drunken Soldier’, pays homage to the connection between Tony’s family home town in Lebanon and

the Australian soldiers stationed there during World War II. Tony was inspired by the story his grandfather told him of the cheerful diggers who shared a beer with him. Tony said he will be present at the ANZAC Day service, proud to see the 2025 award handed over to the new recipient. Nomination forms, eligibilities and

conditions are available from the reception of the Cooma Ex-Services Club, Vale Street, Cooma, or the Cooma Monaro RSL Sub-Branch Facebook page.

Completed nomination forms can be returned to the Cooma Ex-Services Club or emailed to rslcooma@gmail.com. Nominations close Friday, 18 April.

By LISA ASHURST

I RECENTLY revealed the surprise I felt when my young grandchildren had no idea what paper currency was, which highlighted the impact of them only seeing card purchases. It was a bit disconcerting to be honest, but it seems there are many things that, while common knowledge for me and my children, are mysterious things for my grandchildren’s generation.

Like, it’s weird when they don’t know what a DVD is. I kid you not. CDs are an unknown thing too (because you get music via Spotify etc on your phone now) and this all came to light when my granddaughter came across a DVD and had no idea what it was. Was it a book or something, she wondered.

My daughter explained it was how people used to watch movies. Anyway, for a child who has grown up with everything under the sun available at the press of a button on the remote for the smart TV, I suppose a DVD and player would seem weird.

GROUP EDITOR

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

JOURNALISTS

Independent newspapers serving the Snowy Monaro Region. Subscribe to our Digital Edition at www.monaropost.com.au

The Monaro Post welcomes

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

Karen Forman 0425 675 555 kforman@monaropost.com.au

Melinda Cairns Hack (Cooma) (02) 6452 0312 mcairnshack@monaropost.com.au

I can’t imagine what she’d think if she ever came across a video.

I can remember my sister and I asking our grandmother about things in the “very olden days” (her youth) and I can understand now why she looked a bit blown away for a moment. I mean, who wants to hear their salad days referred to as “very olden”?

But it has made me think; what other common place things which have been a general part of my life, are going to leave my grandchildren mouthagape? Should I tell them about dial phones?

Or maybe the telephone exchanges that were still in use in a few rural towns

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

ADVERTISING

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

Published by Hartley Higgins for Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd (ABN 121 288 060), 59 Vale Street, Cooma NSW 2630. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Group Editor Nathan Thompson. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is copyright of Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission. The Monaro Post is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Monaro Post itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

up until the 1980s?

I remember seeing the three-page telephone book (it was dated 1987) for one of them, which also included the instructions on how to use the “new” automatic telephone service.

Okay, so maybe I shouldn’t mention them yet. Why blow their young minds at this stage. I’ll wait a couple of years and then entertain them with these stories.

And they will be entertained, just like my sister and I were, about things like ice chests (before electric fridges), the clothes prop man and some of the strange gadgetry my grandmother kept in her kitchen drawers.

And black and white televisions with only three or four channels (and no such thing as “catch-up”) with a dial to manually change from one channel to another because there were no remotes.

Although I do remember one model, from when I was very small, having a cable that ran from the TV to a gadget that allowed you to change a channel from a lounge chair. The cable was really short however, so you’d have to sit very close to the set. I don’t think they really took off. I know my own kids thought these were hysterically funny (and to be honest, I did too).

But they were also intrigued with my electronic typewriter, wondering what kind of computer it was.

I know, right? But they thought it was “really cool” when I explained what it actually was because they had never seen a typewriter.

All these years later, they still think it’s cool. Perhaps I should show it to the grandchildren. Roll a sheet of paper into it maybe?

But how “old” do I want to feel?

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Aasta Arctander aasta@monaropost.com.au

FEATURES WRITER

Lisa Ashurst

Member

HONOUR: Last year’s ANZAC of the Year Award recipient, Tony Nassar, with Cooma Monaro RSL sub-branch president, Raymond Peter-Smith.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Cooma trees to be removed

NINE trees will be removed along the western edge of Cooma Showground from the middle of this month, with the ornamental nonnative species reaching the end of their safe useful life expectancy this year. All of the trees removed will be replaced with new plantings.

Safe useful life expectancy is a standardised measure used in civic planning to ensure decorative plants are safe, healthy, and beneficial to the public spaces in which they are planted.

These grant-funded public safety works begin from mid-April, and will see six cottonwoods and three willows removed.

One additional cottonwood tree will be pruned and have dead limbs removed.

Community groups and organisations that use Cooma Showground will be invited to work with Council to develop the re-planting program that will determine species, placement, and numbers for the future replacement tree plantings.

Walkers and cyclists can expect minor delays and disruptions along the showground pathway while these works are underway.

Council to hold extraordinary meeting

SNOWY Monaro Regional Council hold an extraordinary meeting in Cooma this week to consider outstanding matters carried over from the March ordinary meeting.

The business paper for the meeting on Thursday, 3 April is available on council’s website. 24 notices of motion will be discussed.

Members of the public can attend in-person from 1pm at Cooma Council Chambers, located at 81 Commissioner Street, Cooma.

The upcoming session will be livestreamed on council’s website.

A recording of the webcast will be available at the same link within 48 hours of the meeting’s close.

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.

Thought provoking, deep art experience to open

By TRISTA HEATH

JINDABYNE’S

Metissa

(May) Ward is excited to open her first art exhibition, ‘The Invisible Cage’, at the Snowy Region Visitor Centre, Jindabyne, inside the National Parks and Wildlife Service building.

Celebrating the opening of her exhibition with close friends and family, before opening to the public, May has always been creative.

She has a background in architecture, interior design, and photography but painting became the space where she could express something deeper.

May said she started during a time when she finally began listening to the voice within, and it helped her translate what she was feeling and seeing into something visual and meaningful.

“Art, for me, is a way to connect with the soul, not just mine, but others too,” May said.

“The Invisible Cage’ is a journey through twelve paintings that explore identity, fear, transformation, and awakening.

“Each piece represents a different stage of breaking free from the limitations

we don’t always realise are shaping us, it’s about moving from illusion to clarity, about remembering who we really are.”

May explains the exhibition is a way for her to share what she has learned, lived, and felt through her own awakening journey.

“ I wanted to create something that not only speaks through beauty, but also invites people to reflect on themselves, I hope it gives others permission to feel, question, and re-connect with their truth,” May said.

“Each piece came from a

Berridale

By TRISTA HEATH

BERRIDALE Lions Club will be hosting its annual Easter Fair on Saturday, 19 April at Berridale Lions Park with more than 50 stalls already booked for the occasion. Market stalls from across the region, Canberra and South Coast will be brimming with unique products for one of Berridale’s biggest fairs of the year. A new addition to the fair this year is the Cooma Concert Band coming to entertain fair-goers, along with the usual events including the silent wood auction. The Berridale CWA will have a stall selling scones with jam and cream as well as various baked goods under the annex, behind the Berridale All Saints Anglican Church on Myack Street.

The church will be opening its doors on the day for a special viewing of the iconic Jesse stained glass window.

The club will be hosting the barbecue serving up sausage sizzle, steak sandwiches and more. Come along to the Berridale markets this Easter Saturday for a family fun day out.

moment of deep reflection or emotional experience, sometimes pain, sometimes peace.

“I was inspired by dreams, memories, intuition, and things I couldn’t always explain. I created this series to express what words can’t always say, and to help others feel seen in their own journey.”

Inspired by the unseen, May’s motivation to create ‘The Invisible Cage’ came from energy, emotion, and stories beneath the surface.

“Nature, light, symbolism, and the subconscious all

speak to me. But most of all, I’m inspired by people’s inner worlds, the parts they hide, and the light they carry,” May said.

“I believe art can be healing, it can help us remember who we are beyond roles, expectations, and fear.

“This exhibition is an invitation to pause, reflect, and feel something real, you don’t need to understand it, you just need to let it speak to you.”

May’s exhibition is open to the public from Monday, 7 April until Friday, 2 May.

ready for big Easter fair

CONNECTION: ‘The Invisible Cage’ contemporary artist, May Ward, to host her first art exhibition.

PHOTO: Suppled

Local author, Noel Braun, is always happy to chat at the events he attends. He will be selling his books at the Berridale Easter Fair.

The Snowy River Woodturners are a popular presence at the region’s events. They will be showcasing their skills at this year’s fair.

Market stalls o ering a wide-range of handmade products will be on display at this year’s Berridale Easter Fair. The fair is located in Berridale Lions Park.

EVENT TIME: The Berridale Lions Club is looking forward to hosting this year’s Easter Fair. The event grows each year and is one of the region’s most popular events. PHOTOS: Trista Heath

Celebrating strength of human spirit

Book launch reveals power of storytelling

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

THE individual experiences of 12 migrant women having landed in Australia and facing a vastly different life far from family and friends, has presented Serbian-born author, Vesna Cvjeticanin, with powerful and evocative material for her new book “An Unexpected Life”.

The book details the remarkable journeys of these migrant women from countries all over the world: Romania, Afghanistan, Serbia, Sri Lanka, Peru, North Macedonia, Chile, Bosnia, Malaysia and South Africa, who embarked on a courageous path to Australia as adults, each confronting formidable challenges along the way adding to the colourfulness and beauty of the book.

Vesna visited the Cooma and Jindabyne libraries recently to launch “An Unexpected Life”, which documents not only the beginning of a new life and a reflection of childhood of her migrant friends, but also her own personal experience migrating to Australia when there was war in Yugoslavia.

The launch involved Vesna reading excerpts of some of the personal experiences her friends have shared.

She began with the story of a young mother (an Italian and French professor) and her

four-year-old son.

A refugee from war torn Bosnia and Herzegovina, she escaped besieged Sarajevo to the eventual safety of Australia, and in a completely unexpected turn of events, now drives a bus for ACT Transport, a job she has held for several years.

“She never thought they would come to Australia, but they have been here for more than 25 years, and she happily drives a bus around Canberra after a number of earlier unsuccessful attempts to become a language teacher,” Vesna said.

“I met these 11 women through various aspects of my life and work and different activities in the community in Canberra.

“The one common theme that applies to all of us is we came to the Canberra region as adults, we left our lives of successful professional qualifications, having experienced adult life – got married, had relationships, broke relationships, had children, lost children – all of this happened before we came and then all of a sudden, we found ourselves in Canberra.

“That was lucky, but on the other hand it was hard as well.

“Through resilience and determination, we not only overcame adversity but thrived against the odds.

“Some are stories of struggle from our early days, and some

are fine portrayals of innocence and gentle family nests in which we grew up. These have all formed us and built our toughness to face challenges of migration,” Vesna said.

“Each of these stories also depicts an unexpected life: we all had to start anew after landing in Australia, which required a great deal of enthusiasm, energy, strength and self-belief.”

Vesna said despite often facing discrimination, economic hardship, and personal struggles, these women emerged triumphant, proving that with unwavering resolve, anything is possible.

“‘An Unexpected Life’ is a book about women’s vulnerability, it’s about a desire to give, even though no one gave you anything - but there is no bitterness and that is something wonderful I find in these stories. There is always the feeling of gratefulness. For me personally I can say that Australia is something that happened in the best possible way.

“I would like to think that our narratives inspire hope and illuminate the transformative power of resilience, reminding the reader that amidst life’s uncertainties, unexpected opportunities for growth and fulfilment await.”

“An Unexpected Life” celebrates the indomitable spirit of

the portrayed women, offering a testament to the human capacity for triumph in the face of adversity. Vesna said this book is a must read for anyone who has experienced migration under any circumstances, as a refugee or as an intended migrant.

along the way, embellish these 12 stories on every page of this unique, gentle and lovingly created book.”

“An Unexpected Life” can be purchased from Amazon.

Council updates

An extraordinary meeting is scheduled for 1pm on Thursday 3 April 2025 in Cooma.

Members of the public can attend inperson at Cooma Council Chambers, located at 81 Commissioner Street, Cooma.

Visit https://qrco.de/SMRCmeetings to access the business paper for the meeting, or to watch the live webcast from 1pm on Thursday 3 April 2025.

Closing Monday 7 April 2025

• Operator Network (Water and wastewater)

Full-time – Jindabyne

Closing Wednesday 16 April 2025

• Construction Worker (Roads)

Full-time – Two positions available 1x Berridale and 1x Cooma

• Assets Ofﬁcer Full-time – Cooma

If you’re looking for a career with purpose, consider joining the team here at Council.

Visit our website to learn more about working with us, application tips, or to see more of our current opportunities.

Head to https://qrco.de/SMRCjobs today to take the ﬁrst step in an exciting new career, and help us as we work to build a better Snowy Monaro.

Jindabyne Landﬁll: Changes in effect for in-person waste and recycling disposal

Changes to waste and recycling drop-offs at Jindabyne Landﬁll came into effect as of Friday 28 March 2025.

These changes have been implemented due to Jindabyne Landﬁll approaching its end-of-life storage capacity limit signiﬁcantly earlier than expected.

Site plans were in-place for a two-year transition to a new facility and operating model, but with the limit approaching and rising operating and construction costs Council has had to act to preserve service.

Council is working with the EPA to identify a long-term solution for the facility.

COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS:

• A 1m3 load limit applies to commercial waste from Friday 28 March 2025 for waste-to-landﬁll and recycling loads

• No changes to disposal of scrap metal, green waste, concrete rubble, oil, mattresses, or recycling

• All loads must be sorted before arrival

• Loads to be emptied into skips by hand

• Commercial loads above this limit must be disposed of at Cooma Landﬁll

• Jindabyne commercial accounts can be used at Cooma Landﬁll

RESIDENTS & NON-COMMERCIAL WASTE:

• Waste and recycling must be pre-sorted before arrival at the landﬁll

• Customers to unload by hand into waste and recycling skip bins

• Staff on site to assist patrons with navigating changes

• Please follow staff directions

• No changes to Jindabyne-area kerbside bin collection service

• No changes to disposal of scrap metal, green waste, concrete rubble, oil, mattresses, or recycling

Job opportunities available at Council: Applications open now

MIGRANT STORIES: Author, Vesna Cvjeticanin, launched her book, “An Unexpected Life”, at Snowy Monaro Regional Library in Cooma recently.

PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

APRIL IN THE GARDEN

Mid-Autumn, a magical time of year. Crisp nights, foggy mornings, and pleasant day temperatures. With the last of the summer vegetables harvested there are plenty of opportunities to work in the garden, there is lots that can be done!

Add compost and manure into garden beds in preparation for planting bare rooted trees and roses in winter. Spring Bulbs have arrived and now is the time to plant for spring displays.

A er leaf fall spray Peach and Nectarine trees with copperbased fungicide to help prevent onset of Curly Leaf in the spring. Another application will be required at bud swell come spring.

Remove fallen leaves and place in the compost pile. Do not pile against tree trunks as this leads to ring barking and provides a ‘pest hotel’ for things like codling moth and fruit ﬂy.

Erect exclusion netting, think sheer curtains, to protect leaves of vegetables from White Cabbage Moth laying its eggs. Alternatively check the underside of leaves daily and squash caterpillars and eggs or use Dipel, an environmentally friendly pesticide for leaf chewing pests, applied before dark which is bee friendly.

Give shrubs a ﬁnal tip prune before winter. Decrease fertilizer frequency/quantity to reduce excessive so new growth. Allowing leaves to harden gradually with the cooler nights will help avoid frost burn. When pruning it’s also a good time to check for signs of pests, disease and deﬁciencies, and act accordingly.

The best times for lawn maintenance are spring and autumn, when there’s ideal growing temperatures. In Autumn it’s important to rake fallen leaves regularly to prevent them from smothering the grass, allowing the lawn to breath and receive ample sunlight. The lawn will need fertilize as the lawn roots are looking for nutrition to recover from summer and to strengthen and build resilience for winter. Seed can also be spread to thicken lawns, although spring is optimal for major works.

Prepare frost sensitive plants for winter, such as lemon trees and other plants which need protection for the ﬁrst few winters until established. It’s important when covering plants that the shade or frost cloth does not touch the foliage of plants to avoid damage. Cooma H Hardware has portable ﬂeece and clear poly tunnels to assist in increasing growing temperatures and frost protecting during winter.

Plant Spring Bulbs: Da odil, Tulip, Snowﬂakes, Hyacinths, Dutch Iris, Ranunculus, and Jonquil, Freesia, Anemone, Allium and Ixia.

Create pockets of color by refreshing pots and baskets to winter potted color such as primula, pansy/viola, and polyanthus. Why not plant them over your Spring bulbs?

Sow ﬂower seeds of Aquilegia, Bee & Butterﬂy mix, Calendula, Cat grass (can be sown all year round).

Sow seed of Green Manure, Shallot, Parsnip, Onion, Radish, Carrots.

Plant Winter vegetables of Garlic, Leek, Spinach, Cauliﬂower, Broccoli, Cabbage, Silverbeet, Pak Choi, Broad Beans.

Happy Gardening!

Big turn-out in Nimmitabel

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

NIMMITABEL was bursting at the seams recently with not just classic bikes and cars, but plenty of interested people of all ages, when the first Cycles on the Green was held in the village.

Hosted by the Snowy Mountains Motorcycle Club and Nimmitabel Country Club, organisers were surprised and pleased with the numbers that attended and expect to continue this great new event on the motorcycle calendar.

“The roll up exceeded our expectations,” a spokesperson for the Snowy Mountains Motorcycle Club said.

“At around lunch time we estimated that at least 300 bikes had turned up. Not a bad effort for an inaugural event.”

Nimmitabel Advancement Group president, Vickie Pollard, congratulated the clubs involved on such a successful day.

“The organisers, especially our two local lads

Pete Lowry and Mark Creely, did an awesome job, I have not seen Nimmitabel pumping like this for years,” she said.

Cycles on the Green was a chance to show off not just bikes and vehicles, it was also held to promote the important conversation about mental health.

Among the many stalls at the event was the Healthy Communities Foundation Australia,

ourselves, friends and family.

Healthy Communities Foundation Australia representative, Glenn Cotter, was available for a chat about bikes, cars, family while trialing the foundation’s Mental Health Check in and Tune Up program.

There were also resources available from R U OK?, Black Dog Institute and the National

Get inspired, get writing

COUNTRY Press NSW, the peak body representing independent regional newspapers, is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year with a special writing competition.

The competition is open to primary and secondary school students, and adults, living in readership areas of the Country Press NSW newspaper network, and president, Lucie Peart, urges them all to take part.

“In 1900, local newspapers were the primary source of news for country residents of this state, and all these years later, that remains true: our member newspapers remain trusted news providers, owned by country people, and always here to support and encourage rural and regional NSW,” Ms Peart said.

“So, help us celebrate this milestone by being part of our writing competition; you can get inspiration from the pages of our many newspapers situated in all parts of country NSW.”

Entry forms can be downloaded through the Country Press NSW website: cpnsw.org.au.

The competition is opening in time for students to write their stories over the school holidays and throughout Term Two, with the deadline for entering closing on 4 July.

Entry is free, thanks to

generous sponsorship of the statewide event by Australian agribusiness company, Manildra Group.

Short stories entered may be on any topic or theme, or set in any time period, but must have one special inclusion: the words “local newspaper” must be included as part of the story.

Please note that entries must be posted to the central mailbox listed on the entry form.

Judging of the Country Press NSW 125th

anniversary writing competition will be carried out by leading creative writing organisation, the Fellowship of Australian Writers (NSW). FAW (NSW), which will provide a panel of judges from its 14 country branches, specialises in helping people develop their writing talent and has resources available to help youngsters and adults improve their writing experience (visit fawnsw.org.au for more information).

Press NSW 125th anniversary writing competition this school holidays. PHOTO: Supplied

SUCCESS: The Cycles on the Green at Nimmitabel, the first to be held in the Snowy Monaro, was declared a great day. PHOTO: Supplied

WINTER WARMING

Searching for cost efficient heating

By LISA ASHURST

ENERGY efficiency is a constant concern for all of us, especially with living costs continuing to rise.

We need to heat our homes in winter, but with energy prices also at a premium the desire for more cost efficient heating is greater than ever.

There are several options out there though, so it depends on which is going to be the best performer to meet your home heating needs while saving money on your power bills.

Reverse cycle air conditioning is a popular choice for many households. It’s very efficient and the cost per hour of running time to warm a room is quite low. Whole-house systems will naturally increase the cost, but still come in as relatively low.

Split systems are usually less

expensive than ducted systems to purchase and install, plus they allow you to control the temperature to each indoor unit, but both systems are a lot less expensive to run than an electric heater.

Electric radiant panel heating systems are also worth considering as they are easy to install and have no need for pipes to a central boiler. They are attractive, unobtrusive, provide excellent warmth at a low cost and are maintenance free. They also provide a very comfortable and natural heat and are available in a variety of forms, from in-floor water tubing to radiant wall and ceiling panels.

A great option for new-builds and renovations is underfloor heating (UFH), and the good news is that the system can now be installed in existing builds via retro-fit panels. This system

of heating is available in two types; electric underfloor and hydronic underfloor.

Hydronic is considered much more efficient and a better fit environmentally. It provides a comfortable, even heat distribution across the room, is highly energy efficient and uses the science of naturally rising heat. It’s space-saving, safe and family friendly, there are no hot or cold spots and it does not dry out the room.

Hydronic UFH is very low maintenance, requiring only the occasional heating system service, while the electric system requires no maintenance at all, and temperature control with both systems is hassle-free.

Installation costs for a UFH system can be higher than that of other systems and can sometimes take time to install, and a retro-fit system in an

existing build will cost more per square metre than a new build installation, but after the initial expense, you can sit back and enjoy the savings on your energy bills, as your UFH system will begin to pay for itself very quickly.

A popular choice of heating with passive homeowners is an infrared heating system, which is ideal for passive homes, due to the homes’ high insulation levels and other energy efficiencies.

Eco houses are designed to be highly efficient, and their heating requirements are quite low, which is what makes an infrared system so right for them. The panels are streamlined and unobtrusive and can be on either the wall or ceiling.

Infrared uses minimal electricity to generate heat, yet provides a lot for its size, and is

safe enough and cost efficient enough to leave on overnight. The system does not emit any harmful radiation either. Infrared is also rated carbon neutral as it does not produce emissions like a gas or oil-based heating system does. This is a very clean heat.

Cost wise, infrared heating is said to be the least expensive of them all, with apparent savings of up to 50 per cent in comparison with some other conventional types of heating and it’s very easy to install. It produces a naturally feeling, comfortable sun-like heat and those who have an infrared system swear by it.

With the many options available in efficient heating today, it is so much easier to find a system that will not only suit your budget and your needs, but will save on your power bills as well.

WINTER WARMING

Elgas ready to keep you warm

Elgas LPG

WINTER’S bite is a given here in the Snowy Monaro. Elgas LPG provides a dependable, efficient solution for staying warm, backed by a strong local presence.

Elgas is the Snowy Monaro’s local LPG expert, with a dedicated depot in Cooma. Drivers with familiar faces who understand our unique needs, they ensure reliable service and prompt assistance, with a genuine community connection.

LPG’s portability ensures warmth reaches even the most remote properties. Delivering superior heat compared to natural gas, and unlike electricity, remains reliable during blackouts. Beyond convenience, LPG burns cleaner than wood fires, contributing to improved local air quality, a crucial benefit for those with respiratory sensitivities.

SERVICE: Elgas is ready to help Snowy Monaro residents stay warm as the cooler nights and days start to come. PHOTOS: Supplied

supporting local people delivering local service.

Local Service, Exclusive Purple Perks: Elgas is dedicated to serving the community.

By choosing Elgas, you’re

Unlock Purple Perks, a rewards initiative, offering discounted gift cards for everyday essentials like groceries and fuel, plus access to thousands of special offers across dining, entertainment and travel. It’s Elgas’s way of saying thank

you for local support (details available at elgas.com.au).

Winter efficiency tips:

• Service appliances regularly for optimal performance and efficiency.

• Upgrading to modern LPG heaters, with improved efficiency and heat output.

Don’t forget the NSW gas rebate. Concession and pensioner card holders can receive a rebate annually for LPG use (contact Service NSW for details).

Elgas, with its long-standing

commitment to Snowy Monaro, provides flexible payment options and expert advice. Choose Elgas LPG for reliable warmth, community support and the peace of mind that comes from knowing local drivers are looking after you. Contact Elgas today on 131 161.

• Invest in quality insulation and seal air leaks to minimise heat loss.

Elgas prides itself on reliable and friendly customer service.

Beat the big chill, draught proof your home

By LISA ASHURST

THERE’S nothing more unwelcome than those chilly draughts snaking into your home during the icy months of winter, and they will inevitably find their way in if they can find access.

So it’s worth taking some time to check all the obvious access points and sealing them, and now would be a good time to do it.

Draughts can enter via the most obscure places and older houses especially are often the most leaky houses when it comes to draughts, especially if they are on stumps.

But even newer builds can harbour places where chilly winter winds can find access, creating cold spots and impacting on the temperature inside the home.

Draughts, while similar to ventilation, which is good for you and your home, differ in that they are uncontrolled and can let in too much cold air.

Which is why draughtproofing is well worth the effort, as it will go a long way to preventing the warm air inside the home from escaping, which will not only keep the inside temperature more consistent and comfortable, but will also save on your energy costs.

Choose a breezy day and listen for rattling and whistling which is a sure sign of a draught. Moving curtains can also indicate air is entering via a small gap.

Check around the doors and windows first; these are common areas where draughts can enter, but sealing them can be as simple as applying some weather stripping.

Check for gaps where skirting meets the walls and also in floorboards and if yours is an older home with ventilation points in the walls, look at replacing them with closable options.

These vents used to serve as ventilation for when homes first began using gas and kerosene for heating and unless you are still using such heating appliances, they are no longer necessary. You can remove them and plaster over the gap, but closable versions are available if you prefer to keep them.

Exposed rafters, stairways and fireplaces can also provide access to chilly air, so check around these features for sneaky gaps and seal them up if you find any.

And don’t forget the faithful door snake.

An oldie but a goodie, door snakes are ideal for keeping chilly draughts from entering

NOW STOCKING JINDARA

through a gap beneath your doors. Bear in mind how much heat can escape through your windows too. The best way to combat this is to hang heavier, lined curtains during the winter months. Leave them open on sunny winter days to allow the

sunshine in, but once the sun goes, close them to keep the warmth in.

Most draught-proofing jobs are simple and can be done by the householder in a weekend but even if it’s a job that requires you to bring in a tradie, it will be well worth it. For those DIY jobs though, there are plenty of sealing options available and your local hardware store should be able to advise you on the best ones for the job. Do it now, before the winter sets in. It will mean a warmer home, and that means a warmer you.

WINTER WARMING

A winter retreat in your own home

By LISA ASHURST

CAN you believe it’s already autumn, which means winter is just around the corner.

When the icy weather hits, it’s lovely to come home to a place that exudes a warm and welcoming ambience as soon as you walk in the door.

Well, with very little effort you can easily create that cosy appeal in your own home with some simple but savvy design features, and it doesn’t have to be costly. You can warm up your home’s visual appeal with just a few accessories in colours and textures that will chase those cold weather blues far, far away. Colour and texture are winners when it comes to creating a cosy look, making your living spaces, your kitchen, the bedrooms, hallways and even the bathroom warm and inviting on those cold winter nights.

Go plush. Heavier fabrics, seasonal designs and soft snuggly throws will all bring an extra layer of warmth and comfort to your rooms.

Look for thick textured weaves in soft fibres and if you have any tucked away in the cupboard, pull out those heirloom and country style quilts.

cosy nostalgia to a bedroom and even a smaller quilt will look attractive draped over a chair or make a wonderfully cuddly throw for an evening snuggled up on the couch.

If you have a fireplace, re-arrange the furniture, if possible, to create a conversation area around the fire. If that’s not an option though, you can draw attention to the fireplace with some clever decorative touches that will still

and spread the visual warmth throughout.

Hallways are often overlooked when it comes to creating a warmer space, but you can remedy this and brighten yours with a good quality hall runner that is soft underfoot. It will not only brighten your hallway but keep it warmer too.

Thick, soft floor rugs will do wonders for warming up any room. Even if the room already has a floor covering, a rug will

Colour is your best friend for creating a cosy ambience, so accessorise with spicy reds and vibrant tangerines, deep moody blues, mossy greens and soft olive tones. Compliment them with rich creams, warm whites and pastel greys and then wrap it all up with elements of earthy forest tones.

These colours work wonderfully well in creating the appeal of a warm, winter haven, making them the ideal hues for

cuddly throw rugs, big snuggly cushions and thick, soft floor rugs.

These colours will also work beautifully as warming elements in your kitchen too. Look for accessories that will add those pops of colour.

A plant pot for the windowsill, a decorative plate for the wall, or even a picture of brightly-hued vegetables. They will all help to draw in the cosy ambience you want to create.

Use lamps to brighten shadowy spaces and dim corners, and candles for softer, more ambient lighting.

Replace the table runner with a long fine-knit scarf, or use a thin blanket in a warm hue as a tablecloth. It will give an inviting touch to your dining area.

Opt for thick, luxurious towels in the bathroom and a soft, generously-sized bath mat, as both will create a comfortable and welcoming space.

Bathrooms can be chilly places sometimes, but a few simple additions can make all the difference. It’s all about creating that look and feel of warmth and comfort.

What could be better?

Make your home your favourite place this winter.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 Which term describes a mother or a father (6)

7 Who has terminated a marriage (8)

8 What are heavy steel blocks on which metals are hammered (6)

9 What is the art of prose (8)

11 To be trembling, is to be doing what (7)

13 Name a tropical American pear-shaped fruit (7)

15 Which animal has eight sucker-bearing arms (7)

17 Which contrivance is used to support a horse rider’s foot (7)

20 Name an alternative term for theology (8)

23 What do pilots earn their money doing (6)

24 To weaken, is to do what (8)

25 What is a superabundance (6)

DOWN

1 To yearn or long, is to do what (4)

2 Which term implies a relationship to literature in verse form (6)

3 What is a mark left by a healed wound (4)

4 Name a drupaceous piece of fruit (5)

5 To take back, is to do what (6)

6 Name a noted Australian painter, Sir Sidney ... (5)

9 When one responds, one does what (6)

10 What is any of two or more forms of a particular chemical element (7)

12 Who played the role of Mrs Miniver, Greer ... (6)

14 To be bear-like, is to be what (6)

E-QUATIONS 7

Letters have a number value

16 What are wild, drunken festivities (6)

Some values are in the right hand cells.

Letters

18 Name a once popular two-way communications system (5)

19 When one prompts, one does what (5)

21 What is another term for an elevator (4)

22 What is another term for lubricates (4)

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

WHICH WORDS

1 PECCADILLO

(a) A trifling fault

(b) A hog-like South American animal

2 SOJOURN

(a) To dwell for a time

(b) To comfort in distress

E-QUATIONS

Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

BIYWORD

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

CLUES:

Chinese complementary force (3)

Documentaries (coll.) (5)

Hindi ﬁlm genre: ...wood (5)

Japanese monetary unit (3)

Nocturnal ﬂying animal (3)

Organic poison (5)

Peaceful (7)

Screw-like curves (7) Tiny (5)

Tributary of Derwent River (Tas.) (3)

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Miniseries: Best Interests. 2.00 Grand Designs Australia. 2.55 Back Roads. 3.25 Grand Designs. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.25 Antiques Roadshow. 6.25 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Restoration Australia. Return. 9.00 Grand Designs Australia. 10.00 Grand Designs Revisited. 10.50 ABC Late News. 11.05 The

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Auction Squad. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs.

Programs. 2.30 Whose

2.50 Doctor

3.35 A

4.05 QI. 4.35 MythBusters. 5.25 Heartbreak High. 7.00 My Family. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Hard Quiz. 9.00 The Weekly. 9.30 Gruen. 10.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 11.00 ER. 11.45 Rage. 12.45

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: The Sisterhood. (2019) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. 9.45 The Amazing Race. 11.15 The Chernobyl Disaster. 12.15 Damnation. 1.30 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Late Programs.

11.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.25 Builder Brothers Dream Factory. 5.20 Kangaroo Beach. 5.50 Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Odd Squad. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 10.05 Merlin. 10.50 Late Programs. 6.00

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Death She Wrote. (2021) 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 5. Canberra Raiders v Cronulla Sharks. 9.55 Thursday Night Knock Off. 10.40 9News Late. 11.10 Outback Opal Hunters. 12.05 Next Stop. 12.35 Tipping Point. 1.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 10 News First: Lunchtime. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Neighbours. 4.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Gogglebox Australia. 8.30 Taskmaster Australia. 9.40 Law & Order: SVU. 10.40 10’s Late News. 11.05 The Project. 12.05 Late Programs. 6.00 Shopping. 8.00 What’s

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Pawn Stars. 1.00 Highway Patrol. 2.00 The Force: BTL. 3.00 Billy The Exterminator. 3.30 Storage Wars: NY. 4.00 Mountain Men. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 4. Collingwood v Carlton. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 Kick Ons. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10 ER. 2.55 Doctor Who. 3.40 Would I Lie To You? 4.10 MythBusters. 5.00 Heartbreak High. 6.30 My Family. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You?

8.30 MOVIE: A Time To Kill. (1996) 10.55 ER. 11.40 Rage. 12.45 Breeders. 1.30 Extras. 2.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Unforgotten. 2.00 Grand Designs Australia. 3.00 Back Roads. 3.30 Grand Designs Revisited. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.35 Gardening Australia. 8.35 Under The Vines. Final. 9.20 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. 9.50 Hard Quiz. 10.20 Melbourne Comedy Festival Allstars Supershow. 12.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 5.20 Kangaroo Beach. 5.50 Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 TV Shop. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Days Of Our Lives. 1.50 Yes Minister. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Carry On Cowboy. (1965) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 RBT 8.30 Emergency. 9.30 A+E After Dark. 10.30 My Feet Are Killing Me. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Dancing With The Stars: All Stars. 3.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 4.00 Anh Does Vietnam. 5.00 Bondi Vet. 7.00 Judge Judy. 7.30 Kitchen Nightmares. 8.30 Ramsay’s 24 Hours To Hell And Back. 11.30 First Dates UK. 1.40 Kitchen Nightmares. 2.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Pawn Stars. 2.00 Nature Gone Wild. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Storage Wars: NY. 4.00 Mountain Men. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 4. Geelong v Melbourne. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.15 GetOn Extra. 11.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Murder At The Country Club. (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 5. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Sydney Roosters. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 MOVIE: The Foreigner. (2017) 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 10 News First: Lunchtime. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Family Feud. 4.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Soccer.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Days Of Our Lives. 2.00 A+E After Dark. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: On The Fiddle. (1961) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 West Coast Cops. 8.30 MOVIE: My Big Fat Greek Wedding. (2002) 10.30 MOVIE: Wedding Daze. (2006) 12.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Dancing With The Stars: All Stars. 3.30 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 4.30 Frogger. 5.30 The Amazing Race. 7.00 MOVIE: Babe: Pig In The City. (1998) 8.55 MOVIE: Tooth Fairy. (2010) 10.55 MOVIE: Fatherhood. (2021) 1.10 Prison Break. 2.00 Shopping. 3.00 Prison Break.

From Cooma show to Sydney Royal

PASSION FOR AGRICULTURE, ANIMALS INSPIRES EMILY

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

COOMA represents for the third year in a row in the state final of the Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman competition, with Cooma Show ambassador, Emily Lucas, selected as a zone 3 finalist. Emily, 23, is jointly representing the zone along with Goulburn Show ambassador, Claire Liversidge.

Young Woman finalists are normally selected based on the number of entrants in each zone, when there are more than 11, two are selected to progress to Sydney.

As the 2025 Cooma Show Young Woman, Emily is honoured to be representing the district and looking forward to the experience of being a finalist at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. She will be in Sydney from 8-13 April.

The Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman competition is a statewide program run by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS). The program identifies female ambassadors to promote the Sydney Royal Easter Show, and the agricultural show movement across NSW. It is open to women aged 18 to 25 years, residing in NSW.

At the local level, as well as being an ambassador and involved and participating in the local ag show, entering the competition provides an opportunity to attend a personal development weekend, represent their local area at the zone 3 showgirl final, learn new skills and build professional development.

The state final opens doors for making contacts and networking with other young women from rural NSW and industry leaders, furthering personal and professional development and life skills.

The 16 finalists are presented with an opportunity to represent their NSW zone with accommodation, meals and travel expenses paid.

They receive a behindthe-scenes experience at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and a chance to be selected for the Woolworths Agricultural Business Scholarship Program.

The winner is awarded $7500 and the first runner up $3500.

The Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman then acts as an ambassador for NSW during her year and represents the RAS, AgShows NSW and her local show society at various functions.

Emily decided to enter the competition after following the

progress of other successful local young women, who had participated in the program.

“This inspired me to put myself out of my comfort zone and try something I wouldn’t typically consider for myself,” Emily said.

“It’s an opportunity to challenge myself, meet like-minded people, grow personally, and professionally. I am excited to gain confidence in public speaking, networking, and become an ambassador for my local region, hopefully empowering other young women to do the same,” she said.

Emily attended Lumen Christi Catholic College in Pambula, while living with family in the Bega Valley.

After finishing her secondary education she enrolled at Cooma TAFE to complete a Certificate III and IV in Business Administration as a part of a 12-month traineeship with

Sturt University Wagga Wagga in 2023 to complete my Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, which later evolved, as I am currently studying as a second year Bachelor of Animal Science student,” Emily said.

“Through this process I am excited to apply for scholarships and extra curricular courses that will allow me to travel and gain experience.

“I would like to complete the elective/honours components of my degree in the United States, with the aim to broaden my knowledge and bring new ideas back to the Australian livestock industry.

“The experience of living and working remotely prompted me to continue my education closer to home, moving to Charles

“Longer term, I plan to take on more responsibility within our family enterprise and start my own business.”

family enterprise and start my own business.”

Emily grew up on her family’s sheep and cattle property in the Snowy Mountains.

lifestyle, spending my free time working with horses and dogs, mustering, processing livestock and working on the farm. I am a keen camp-draft competitor up

and effort put into preparing a team of horses.”

“I fell in love with the rural lifestyle, spending my free time working with horses and dogs, mustering, processing livestock and working on the farm. I am a keen camp-draft competitor and enjoy travelling to local events to catch up with friends, compete, and showcase the time and effort put into preparing a team of horses.”

also activities Emily enjoys, and

for women’s rugby 12s, having joined the Wagga Agricultural

Skiing and snowboarding are also activities Emily enjoys, and tries to make time for, when at home. Plus, she found a passion for women’s rugby 12s, having joined the Wagga Agricultural Club.

“So far on my Young Woman’s Journey I have learnt to make the most out of every opportunity, step outside my comfort zone and embrace challenges head first, learning on the go. I am excited for the opportunity to travel to Sydney and experience ‘behind the scenes’ at the show, along with spending time with like-minded women and attending the development programs.”

Adaminaby’s Emily Lucas has focussed her studies on rural-based courses and is currently studying as a second year Bachelor of Animal Science student. PHOTOS: Supplied

FINALIST: Emily Lucas, 2025 Cooma Show Young Woman, was selected last month as a zone 3 finalist for the Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman competition.

Weaner selling season starts

NUTRIEN and Elders held their first weaner sale for 2025 on Wednesday, 19 March.

Agents yarded 4850 cattle with calves presented in excellent condition given the dry season over the last six months.

The sale was in line with the current market being seen in southern NSW at the moment. Buyer attendance was very solid with calves heading to southern QLD, all across NSW and into Victoria as well as locals securing lines of well-bred cattle.

The volume buyers were the three commission buyers all competing for the lines of easy doing cattle the Monaro is known for, many of these return orders.

Yearling steers were first off the block with the top pen making $1820 for a pen of heavy Angus feeders, coming back at $3.80c/kg.

Hereford yearlings sold well, topping at $1420 but

Yearling Steers

were in store condition, highlighting the season being seen.

Weaner steers kicked up a notch with buyers from Roma to Victoria competing hard to secure the larger lines.

Topping at $1440, the majority of the well bred Angus steers were making $4.00c/kg or a touch over, with the lead runs all more than $1000 and only coming under it once weight dropped off.

Coloured cattle in the weaner section saw buyers become selective and the rate come back slightly, which is in line with the current national markets.

Heifers presented very well at the top end with MB Trading cattle being the highlight of the day. Return buyers competed hard for these lines of well bred Angus calves out of the high country.

The lead runs of heifers made more than $1000 and plenty with some weight making $800-$1000. Once weight dropped off in

the younger calves, this opened up the opportunity for more buyers and the c/kg rate rose.

Nutrien Cooma livestock agent, Damien Roach, said the sale was a success given the current season.

“The vendors have once again spoiled us with the quality of cattle they’ve sent in and are a real credit to them,” Roach said.

“Hopefully we can get some much-needed rain before the next sale and see the market start heading up again.”

Nutrien Cooma, Nutrien Bombala and Elders Cooma thanked all vendors for entrusting their cattle to them, the yard staff and scanning crew who helped make the sale happen, the buyers for their continued support and to the catering staff who kept everyone fed for the two days.

The next Cooma Weaner sale is on 16 April with bookings still being taken, reach out to your local Nutrien or Elders agent.

Jim Murray ELD 22Angus $1,720

Lake Bullenbalong ELD 6Angus $1,700

Glenavon NUT 15Angus $1,660

Rick Moore ELD 19Angus $1,660

BA & CF Clarke ELD 3Angus $1,660

Glenriver Past Co NUT 7Angus $1,640

V & M Minell NUT 14Angus $1,640

Sally Flat P’Ship ELD 16Angus $1,600

M Burke

BC 12P/Hrfd $1,580

W & P Mansfield NUT 9AngusX$1,560

A & J Ownes NUT 8Angus $1,520

RG Crowe NUT 7Angus $1,510

G & T Ferguson ELD 9Angus $1,485

Dovecote NUT 7Angus

N Prutti

5B/Baldy$1,450 Ty Fallins

Roach

D & D Outhres

D &

5Angus

11Limo $1,310

COOMA MONARO

FEATURE WEANER SALE

| Wednesday 16th April 2025

Cooma Saleyards Commencing 11am 2500 Monaro Bred Weaners. Please

Challenges continue for ag machinery market

By TRACTOR AND MACHINERY ASSOCIATION

TRACTOR sales for February enjoyed a solid rise from the previous month with just more than 800 units sold however this figure is around six per cent below the same month last year.

On a year to date basis, the industry is 10 per cent below 2024 in terms of units sold but in retail turnover terms the figure is around 29 per cent down, a reflection on the slow start to the year for larger tractors.

Looking at the state-bystate picture some states have shown improvement with Victoria up six per cent for the month but still trailing 2024 by 15 per cent. South Australia recorded a rise of eight per cent and are now only four per cent behind year to date.

Queensland sales were six per cent behind the same month last year and are now two per cent behind YTD. NSW was 14 per cent behind for the month and now 13 per cent down year to date, dry conditions across the state appear to be having an impact on demand at present. Sales in Western Australia were off 10 per cent against the same month last

200HEAD

year, now 16 per cent behind year to date, Tasmania remain five per cent up and NT are down on last year by 16 per cent

Signs of life in the small under 40 hp (30kw) category which was up 31 per cent to be 21 per cent ahead on last year. The 40 to 100hp (3075kw) range was down by 12 per cent, now seven per cent behind YTD and the 100 to 200hp (75-150 kw) category reported a rise of seven per cent but is still down on last year by 12 per cent .

Finally, the 200 hp (150kw) PLUS range was 42 per cent down for the second month in succession to be 42 per cent behind YTD.

Combine Harvesters enjoyed a bounce in February as manufacturers and dealers seek to stimulate the market after a subdued 2024.

Baler sales were steady for the month but sit 39 per cent behind last year. Finally, sales of Out – Front Mowers sank again to be down 30 per cent compared to last year.

COOMA CATTLE SALE

HEAD200

FRIDAY 11TH APRIL 2025

COMMENCING 10AM

200 SCALE & STORE CATTLE

Young leaders attend training weekend

A JOINT-effort between Monaro Farming Systems (MFS) and the Peter Westblade Scholarship has helped young sheep and wool enthusiasts to expand their industry knowledge and skills.

The two organisations hosted a training weekend recently at Jimenbuen where 32 young peple, aged 18 to 30, helped the region’s next generation of agricultural leaders.

The Peter Westblade Scholarship honours the late Peter Westblade a visionary, passionate about breeding profitable sheep and a strong supporter of young people interested in agriculture.

The Peter Westblade Scholarship exists to promote the practical skills associated with the sheep and wool industry and aims to deliver hands on experience and mentoring to young people aspiring for a career in this dynamic industry.

“The training weekend was a highly valuable initiative for MFS to undertake in partnership with Peter Westblade Scholarship,” MFS chair, Mandy Horton, said.

“The overwhelmingly positive participant feedback reinforces its success, and we look forward to continuing to support the next generation of industry leaders through similar opportunities.

“A huge thank you goes to Jimenbuen Pastoral Company for hosting us, as well as to our generous sponsors and dedicated speakers who made this event possible.”

The training w eekend was

hands-on, offering participants the opportunity to learn by doing.

Sessions included ‘hands-on health with Coolac vets Tom Graham and Jock Munro, ‘pasture pro’ with Phil Graham and sheep selection with Sally Martin, Al McGufficke, and Mitch Rubie. Stockmanship training, led by Boyd Avejard, was another highlight, allowing attendees to refine their handling techniques and put their newly acquired skills into practice.

In addition to technical expertise, the weekend covered invaluable personal development topics.

A particularly impactful session was led by Sammy Longmore, who shared her powerful story of resilience following a tragic accident that left her with physical disabilities. Her message of determination and optimism resonated deeply, with her motto, ‘I say yes first and figure out the logistics later’, embodying the spirit of the weekend.

The final session, a business panel discussion, was a crowd favourite. Monaro producers Richie Taylor, Bea Litchfield, John Murdoch, and Darcy Larritt, guided by Sally Martin, shared insights on key industry topics.

Discussions covered employment expectations, strategies for managing seasonal variability, pathways into agriculture for those from non-farming backgrounds, and the complexities of succession planning.

Feral pigs in LLS sights

SOUTH East Local Land Services (LLS) have feral pigs in its sights with a series of workshops taking place this month.

The workshops will include practical demonstrations of different feral pig management tools and techniques, as well as presentations from experienced industry leaders and South East LLS staff.

Feral pigs are one of the most damaging pest animals in the South East region, impacting on primary production, the environment and general biosecurity.

Workshop locations and dates:

Rugby - Rugby Hall, 4 April, 9 am – 1 pm

Yass - Mullion Hall, 5 April, 9 am – 1 pm

Cooma - “Kunuma” Bull Shed, 19 April, 9 am – 1 pm

Numeralla – RFS Shed, 20 April, 9 am – 1 pm

Local Land Services is currently delivering the Feral Pig Program 2023-24 on behalf of the NSW government in response to widespread numbers of feral pigs across NSW.

IMPROVEMENT: National tractor sales increased during February, in a more promising sign for the ag machinery industry.

PHOTO: Supplied

Monaro stock horse branch riding high

THE newly re-formed Monaro branch of the Australian Stock Horse Society is looking forward to a productive 2025, following a successful 2024 where they held their first competition day at Dalgety in November.

“Our challenge day in November was a great success, we had a good number of competitors who were both already stock horse members, but also those who weren’t, who came to try our event,” branch secretary, Breanna Arnold, said.

“We had some really great feedback from that event and a lot of interest.”

After the success of the November event, the branch was set to run a training day on Sunday, 30 March at the Cooma Pony Club grounds. Wet weather forced the cancellation of the training day.

The branch will look to hold another day soon, where skills and training sessions will be run on general horsemanship, show preparation, and obstacle course practice.

The branch is involved with other equine events within the community, sponsoring an award at the Adaminaby Campdraft in December, as well as an encouragement award at

both of the recent Dalgety and Cooma Shows.

This award was given to a competitor within the Australian Stock Horse (ASH) classes who showed potential and represented the breed and society positively.

The recipient was selected by the judge for each respective show.

At Dalgety, Lydia Jamieson riding Eltyme Cruze Control was selected by judge Cate Edwards, and judge Graeme Sawers at Cooma chose Han Worsley and Han’s young gelding, Rainwood Park Just George, for the award.

No budget to feed future: NSW Farmers

FARMERS must not be left without the funding needed to put Aussie grown food on tables, NSW Farmers warned as the Albanese government delivered its federal budget last week.

Poor infrastructure, telecommunications and biosecurity are just some of the challenges farmers will be left to face alone if federal funding is not increased, NSW Farmers president, Xavier Martin, said.

assure our food security into the future.”

Funding commitments to keep Rex Airlines afloat and regional bank branches open had come as welcome news for farmers, alongside commitments to drive competition reform, create a National Food Security Strategy and deliver cost of living relief for communities Australia wide.

COMMITTED: The Monaro branch of the Australian Stock Horse Society sponsored an encouragement award at last year’s Dalgety Show.

“Billions have been promised to fix roads and rail in the cities, but we don’t know whether there will be any allocated to fix the roads, railways and bridges that are falling apart throughout the bush,” Mr Martin said.

“Meanwhile, our telecommunications are in ruin and farmers are fighting a losing battle against a growing number of biosecurity threats.

“Promises to upgrade the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness and deliver $11 million to fight pests, weeds and feral animals are only a drop in the ocean, and we need much more funding to deliver a serious biosecurity regime that will defend our industry and

However, Mr Martin warned more targeted investment in regional, remote and rural communities would be essential to ensure farmers could keep growing the Aussie food and fibre the nation needs.

“Investing in farming communities drives productivity and will deliver food security – and there’s no better investment you can make than that,” Mr Martin said.

“Our government keeps talking about a future made in Australia, but how about a future grown in Australia

“As we head to the polls, our politicians can’t forget the fact that people need fresh, Aussie grown food at fair prices.

“More than ever before, we need to keep our farmers farming.”

Conveniently located grazing/ lifestyle block

Address: “Muriel’s Paddock” Gullies Road, Jindabyne NSW 2627

Located only 10 minutes drive south of Jindabyne is “Muriel’s Paddock”, a 184.50 hectare or 455.91 acre rural/lifestyle block, home to stunning views of the Main Range and an emu or two. Comprised of granite derived soils, some shale, and scattered stands of Eucalypts including Manna Gum, White Sallee, and Snow Gums.

“Muriel’s Paddock” is fenced into two paddocks, mostly sheep proof with some areas of give and take fencing. The property is bound by Steels Creek to the west, boasts three dams, and some of Old Hut Creek in the southeastern corner.

Over the years, “Muriel’s Paddock” has traditionally been stocked with 180 – 200 wethers, mostly merino. Consider the opportunities this property presents, a blank canvas, plenty of room for a farm shed, cattle, sheep, or horse yards. Perhaps consider a tiny home or two, all subject to any current local or other government requirements of course.

Don’t miss this opportunity, contact our sales team on 02 6456 7232 to co-ordinate your own private inspection.

“Muriel’s Paddock” Gullies Road, Jindabyne NSW 2627 goes to auction – online & in room – on Tuesday, 15 April 2025. Online – Realtair Website. In Room – 1 Park Street, Berridale NSW 2628.

Locatedonly 0minutesdrivesouthofJindabyne,accessedvia ulliesRoadandfurtherviaROC alongacurrenttrackinuse.

BoundbySteelsCreektothewest,fencedinto twopaddocks,boastingthreedamsandsomeofOld HutCreekfencedin to thesoutherneasterncorner.

Allfencesmostlysheepproofwithsomegiveand take fencinginplace. ranitederivedsoilswithsomeshalepresent,scatteredstandsofEucalyptsincludingManna um, WhiteSalleeaswellasSnow ums. ative pasturescurrentlyaffected by SerratedTussock,StJohn sWortplusothers. Muriel sPaddock hastraditionallybeenstockedwith 80-200mostlymerinowethersover the years. StunningMainRangeviews.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

ThecloseproximitytoJindabyneandmountainscombinedwithsizeput Muriel sPaddock intherare category. Thepropertywouldbestbedescribedasagrazingandorlifestyleblock. Plentyofroomforfarmsheds,cattle,sheep,orhorseyardsandperhapsatinyhomeortwoallsub ectto any currentlocalorothergovernmentrequirements.

Muriel s Paddock formspartofthe estate ofwellrenownedmountainhorsemenBrian Dooley Pendergastandmustbesoldaspartofwindinguptheestate.

Don thesitateandcontactoutoffice now for your own privateinspection

Contact: Nick Kirshner Maddy Kirshner P: 0264567232

Locatedabout70kmsouthofCoomaandsome20kmtothewest ofBombala,withdirectaccessfrom TheSnowyRiver Way, abitumenroad.

Fenced into 7paddocks,withastandoffelectricwireonallfences.

Securewater supplyvia25dams,BrucesCreek,WalkersCreek,numerousspringsplusleakyweirs, borerunningonmainspower,pumping to threeelevatedtanksholdingacombined60,000L (approx.),reticulating to 4troughsacrosstheproperty.

Thelandgentlyundulating,predominantlybasaltderivedsoilswithsomegraniteandshalepresent.

ScatteredstandsofEucalyptsthroughoutwithanestimated90-95 arable.Currentpasture developmentisestimatedataround40-45 byvendors.Some60Hacurrentlysowed downtowheat asawintercropplusafurther60Ha to pasture.

mprovementsincludecrutchingshed,steelandtimbersheepaswellascattleyards.

ThezoningisRU ,thecurrent LEPallows foraminimumlandsizeof40HaasperBombalaLEP 20 2, Clovelly thereforeholdsnumerousdwellingentitlementsandcouldbesubdividedsub ect to approvalsfromallrelevantauthoritiesofcourse.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

Propertiessuchas Clovelly arearare findindeed,thecarrying capacityundercurrent managementhascontinuouslybeen intherangeof6-7DSE Ha,theBOMrainfallrecordsshowa 00yearaverageofapproximately650mm PA.Regenerationof somedrygulliesaswellasrevegetationpro ectshave alltaken placeover thepastdecadeorso,withstrategicfencinginplace to ensurelongtermsuccess. Clovelly wouldbetheperfectstandaloneorperhapsaddon blockwithampleroomtofurtherimprove, perhapsbuildyour dreamhomeplus staff orfamilyaccommodation.

Aonceinalifetimeopportunity,sodon twaitand call now to arrangeaninspection

Prime retail space in blue ribbon location

Address: Unit 8, 5 Snowy River Avenue, Jindabyne NSW 2627

In terms of location, it does not get better than this.

Unit 8, 5 Snowy River Avenue, Jindabyne NSW 2627 presents a unique opportunity, arguably a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire a prime retail space in the well renowned Nuggets Crossing.

Positioned on the corner of the main and most used entrance into Nuggets Crossing, no stairs, no elevator, simply outright pole position. The space entertains front and rear access from the carpark and the courtyard.

486.965 Ha or 1,203.31 Acres (Approx.)

Located about 30 minutes drive NNW of Bombala and less than hours drive south of Cooma with good all weather access via Snowy River Way and Gunningrach Road. entlyundulatingandpredominantlybasaltderivedsoilswithsmallpockets ofgranitebasedsoils present, minimal shale.

Secure water via Stockyard Creek, three spring fed dams as well as two natural basalt lakes. Reticulating water trough system feedingatotalof 0troughs. Two standwoolshedonmainspower,sheepyardsandcattleyards.

Soundfertiliserhistory, vast pastureimprovementprogramsconducted over theyears,including lucerne,phalaris,cocksfoot, rye grass,subclover,fescue to name usta few, balancenative.

Estimated 0 lightlytimbered,including red gum, grey box,peppermintandyellowbox. Exceptionalcarryingcapacity.

Minimal noxious weed burden.

Spacious circa 1954 built cement block home, updated around 1966, 4 bedrooms, 2 living areas, originalkitchenwithwoodfired stove, features2bathrooms.

Mains power, landline phone.

Fully fenced house yard.

Outbuilding double garage with storerooms plus meat

House water supply via rainwater and creek.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

Located in the renowned Gunningrah area, “Talbot” is being offeredforthefirst timein75years.Thedurationofthistenure speaks clearly for itself. This is an outstanding opportunity, to perhapsonceinalifetimesecureanexceptionalgrazing property with basic infrastructure in place. There may well be plenty of scope to further improve the already outstanding carryingcapacitywiththeuseofmodernfarmingorgrazing techniques.

Don’t hesitate and contact

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

Online Auction: Tuesday 8th April 2025 Commencing 6:30pm Venue: Online In Room Park Street, Berridale NSW 2628 Inspect: By Appointment with Exclusive Agent Only.

KIRSHNER MACKAY

This premises has been operating as High Country Outfitters for 37 years, and have made the most of the 85m2 space over the years, earning themselves a well-known reputation. Don’t miss out on the opportunity this prime retail space in a blue ribbon location presents. Unit 8, 5 Snowy River Avenue, Jindabyne goes to auction – online and in room – on Tuesday, 29 April. Don’t wait until it is too late, contact the KMPL sales team today on 02 6456 7232 to find out more.

85m2ofprimeretailspacelocatedad acent to themaincarpark at streetlevel.

o stairs,noelevator,outrightpoleposition.

Enterfrom two sides,carparkaswellascourtyardentrance.

Outstandinglocationalongmainandmostusedaccesspointtothewellrenowned uggets Crossing. HasbeenoperatingasHighCountryOu itters for 37yearsinthesamelocation.

Was originally two retailshopsconverted to one37yearsago.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

ThisisaonceinalifetimeopportunitytoacquirearetailpremisesinJindabyne s uggets Crossinginsuch alocation,positionedonthecornerofthemainentrance.

A er37yearsourvendors have decided to pullupstumpsand go fishing Don thesitateandcontactoursalesteam to bookyour own privateinspection

Contact: Nick Kirshner

Maddy Kirshner

P: 0264567232

W: kirshnermackay.com.au

Online Auction: Tuesday29thApril2025 Commencing6:30pm

Venue: Online& nRoom

Snowy Monaro

Perfect first home or holiday base

Address: 30 Monaro Highway, Cann River

Asking: $290,000

Agent: Nutrien Harcourts Bombala

WITH nothing to do but move in, this is the perfect property for first home buyers or holiday makers alike.

The home is neat as a pin and contains three bedrooms - all with built-in wardobes, spacious bathroom with fullsized tub and shower, modern kitchen featuring lots of bench space and goodsized pantry, open lounge and dining area with timber floors, slow combustion heater and reverse cycle air conditioning.

Covered deck area out the back allows for weather-proof outdoor entertaining and the huge backyard is set up so that you can have multiple levels making it easy to keep the children, pets and vegetable garden out of each others’ way.

Ramp access both front and back make this home accessible for all mobilities.

Single car garage, two carports, garden shed, cubby house, fenced vegetable garden to name a few - the list of practical improvements is extensive and gives first home buyers a great head start.

Located in Cann River, the home is also a perfect home base for the family that loves exploring the beautiful East Gippsland area and all that it has to offer.

Located on the edge of Bibbenluke, this is a great opportunity to immerse yourself into a village lifestyle.

•Currently features a concrete tennis court, vacant block/paddock and house

•Large block 1.29ha/3.187ac (approx)

•House features 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, open living, kitchen/dining

•Single car garage accessed by concrete driveway completes the residential package

•Rain water tanks and bore

•Substantially commenced, 7 lot staged subdivision approved over the property

Embrace the relaxed village lifestyle or invest to develop, the choice is yours!

If living amongst nature and enjoying the beauty of the Australian bush are on your wish list, then look no further!

•O grid homestead features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, formal sitting and dining rooms

•Everyday living areas - kitchen with slow combustion stove and gas cooking that opens to living and dining area with slow combustion heater

•89.03ha/219.993ac of native bushland with 1 fenced paddock near the homestead

•118,000 litre rain water tank and 3 dams

•Bushfire prepared with sprinkler system on the house

If you are ready to embrace tranquility, then book your inspection today!

Snowy Monaro

Digging Up The Dirt On The Monaro For Over 40 Years

ROADS - Access tracks, driveways, subdivisions, and suppliers of decomposed granite.

WATER - Dams, water features, and agricultural water systems.

LANDSCAPING - Fence line clearing, site preparation and leveling, erosion control, drainage, and garden services.

BUILDING - Sheds, pergolas, retaining walls, fences, paths, and rock features. LOCAL. PROVEN. RELIABLE. Lic 376640C

59 Vale Street, Cooma (02) 6452 0318

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT PERISHER VALLEY INCLUDING 5G

Optus plans to upgrade the telecommunications facilities at the below mentioned address with the addition of new 5G equipment: Perisher Valley, adjacent to the water supply tank, Smiggin Holes NSW 2624 (RFNSA: 2624002)

The proposed 5G upgrade will consists of:

• Installation of three (3) new Optus panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);

• Replacement of four (4) existing panel antennas with four (4) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);

• Replacement of existing Remote Radio Units (RRUs) with nine (9) new RRUs;

• Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment, including a GPS antenna, mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and

• Internal works within existing equipment shelter.

Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), the based on the description above. The Review of Environmental Factors for minor telecommunications works in environmentally sensitive areas is being assessed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. The proposed infrastructure will comply with ACMA EME regulatory arrangements.

In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code 2020, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Vanessa Wan at Service Stream Limited, 0447 240 015, Optus.Submissions@servicestream.com.au or Zenith Tower B, Level 3, 821 Paciﬁc Hwy, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Thursday 17 April 2025.

If you would like to know more about the site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/2624002 or by scanning the QR Code below.

TELSTRA PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 4G/5G AT: PERISHER VALLEY EXCHANGE, PERISHER SERVICES PRECINCT ACC ROAD, (OFF KOSCIUSZKO RD), PERISHER VALLEY NSW 2624

1.The proposed works on the existing 12m timber pole consists of:

•Removal of (2) Omni Antennas, (3) Panel Antennas, and (6) Tower Mounted Amplifiers

•Installation of (3) 2.688m long Panel Antennas and (3) 0.793m long AIR on a new spoked headframe

•Installation of (6) Tower Mounted Amplifiers, (3) Remote Radio Units and (3) Junction Boxes to be strap mounted to the timber pole

•The overall height of the facility will be reduced by 0.43m to a total height of 12.35m

•Internal works in the existing Telstra Exchange Building

•Installation of (3) Small EME Safety Signs on the Perisher Valley Waste Transfer Station

2. In accordance with Section 7 of C564: 2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal.

3. Please direct comments to: Emily Wardlaw on behalf of Telstra, 0422685472, PO BOX 586, Elsternwick VIC 3185, consultation@acquirecomm.com.au by Thursday 17th April 2025.

4.Further information can also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3220069

Telstra Limited A.C.N 086 174 781 Acquirecomm Pty Ltd A.C.N: 603 876

POSITIONS VACANT

DELIVERY DRIVER: FULL-TIME

Around Cooma and/or Mountain Monday- Friday

Must have Full Car Drivers Licence

TRUCK DRIVER: NEW POSITION, FULL-TIME Linehaul COOMA – CANBERRA and other delivery work as required

HR Preferred

Please contact Terry 0428 781 124 or call o ice on 02 6430 7201

Email resume to depot@williamstransportcooma.com.au

Call into our yard a er 2pm Mon-Fri Shed1 2a Utah Circuit POLO FLAT

Is looking for a full-time wait person. No experience necessary. Need to be 18+, driver’s licence, RSA or be willing to obtain.

See Wendy at Snowstop Village Cooma or call 6452 4525.

SCHOOL LEARNING SUPPORT OFFICERS

Temporary Fulltime Position and Casual Position for immediate start.

SLSOs provide support for students in classrooms and other learning environments under the direction of a teacher to support the achievement of educational outcomes.

Essential requirements:

• Sound literacy and numeracy skills

• Working with Children Check clearance

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as a part of a team

• Ability to work with students with diverse learning needs

• Awareness of the needs of students with emotional, physical, or intellectual needs

• Effective communication skills

• Completion, or willingness to complete, mandatory training as required by the Department of Education

Please send through your application to Monaro-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

CLEARING SALE

Vehicles/Trailers – Toyota Dyna stock truck with crate, unregistered; Jayco fold down compact camper van; Mitsubishi Magna, unregistered; Subaru wagon, unregistered; Single axle fencing trailer, unregistered; Dual axle home built trailer, unregistered; Toyota Hilux 4Runner wagon, unregistered; Tipping trailer for 4-wheeler, single axle, unregistered; Ford Falcon station wagon, unregistered; Collectables – Condamine bell; Blade shears; Rabbit traps; Old fashion iron; Book makers; Shoe last; Ammunition boxes; Wooden drench boxes; Axe heads; Miner pick heads; Branding irons; Rabbit trap setters; Clawfoot bath feet; Old farrier tools; Horse/saddlery – Blacksmith forge, home built; Assorted saddles, bridles, horse shoes, etc; Assorted blacksmithing tools, collectable; Building Materials, Workshop Equipment & Tools –Fiat Dozer with tree pusher, D4 Equivalent; Homelite chainsaw; Bench grinder; Qty workshop tools; Qty steel; Block & tackle; Steel work bench with vice; Qty timber posts; Belt driven firewood mill; Husqvarna 445 chainsaw; Husqvarna 450 chainsaw; Husqvarna 369 chainsaw; Husqvarna 55 chainsaw; Qty corrugated iron; Farming Equipment & Materials – Seed drill; 3PL Super spreader; Electric portable crutching hand piece; Uforce CF Moto 600; Polaris 4-wheeler; Massey Fergusson Tractor with front end loader & roll over bar; Sunbeam electric twin box wool press; Spray tank with 25m manual hose reel; Wedderburn wool bale scales; Peak Hill sheep handler; 3PL scarifier; Hay forks, home made; Silvan spray unit on trailer with 50m (approx.) hose; Rippers; Qty old oil tanks; Portable sheep yard panels; Under axle blade; Weed wiper, parts only; Kawasaki Mule side by side, parts only; Outdoor/Garden – Honda log splitter; Miscellaneous – Pfaff industrial sewing machine; Meat saw; Plus so much more!

Inspections: 8am | Auction: 9am Pre-registrations available via the KMPL office Refer to kirshnermackay.com.au for further details, photos & inventory.

2 Awa Place, Cooma Saturday, April 5 8am start

Caravan 2015 Jayco Silverline. 22 Foot expandable, sleeps 2, mint condition, dual axle, enclosed annex, electric brakes. Bathroom, shower, toilet, washing machine and full kitchen. Fully kitted out. $62,000 ONO. Ph 0408 747 929. Located Bombala.

kirshnermackay.com.au

GRAND COURT

CHINESE COOMA

BARRON, David Michael. Passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at Cooma. Aged 60 years.

Dearly loved husband of Glenda. Father and father-in-law of Joshua and Polly, Andrew and Aleesha. Adored Pa of Jasper, Maisie and Piper.

The relatives and friends of the late David Michael Barron are invited to attend his funeral service to be held in the St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Cooma, on Saturday, March 29, 2025, commencing at 11am.

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

CAIN, Kenneth Walter. 25/3/1936 – 23/3/2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Kenneth announces his passing.

Loving father and father-in-law of Robert and Sharon. Adored grandfather and great-grandfather.

Loved uncle and friend to many. Loved and always remembered. A private cremation has been held.

WARD, Peter James. Passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at his residence in Bobundara.

Aged 48 years.

Dearly loved husband of Michelle, father of Harry, Darcy and Arthur. Adored brother of Joanne, Michael, Robert, Carolyn, Daniel, David, Patricia and Timothy.

Forever in our hearts. ~ Glynis and family, Cheryl and Trevor, Peter and Robyn. DEATH NOTICES

Relatives and friends of the late Peter James Ward are invited to attend his funeral service, to be held in the St Patrick's Parish Church, Cooma on Saturday, April 5, 2025 commencing at 12noon.

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

In loving memory of our father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

MUGRIDGE, Howard. 21/1/1939 – 27/3/2011

Snowy Monaro Business Awards

Region’s finest businesses honoured

RECOGNITION: The

and commitment of local businesses with honoured for their efforts over the last 12 months.

The Monaro Media Group attended the business awards dinner to cover the event. Images of winners and highly commended recipients from a number of

Laurent and Amy Steiger of Rogue Ascent Group are all smiles following their highly commendable award in the outstanding new business category.

Snowy Monaro outstanding employee award went to Sebastian Druege of the Wildbrumby Distillery. The award is presented by category sponsor, Cooma Rotary Club president, Peter Davis.

PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

Liz Reilly from the Dalgety Brewing Company wins the most popular Dalgety business award.

Di of the Little Garden Nook celebrates winning most popular Bombala business at the Snowy Monaro Business Awards.

Manuela Berchtold of High Country Fitness accepts her award from Nicole Weber for excellence in diversity and inclusion.

Alan Dodd – Director Family owned and operated (02) 6452 2094

Double snowboard cross silver for Jindabyne’s Baff and Lambert

JINDABYNE snowboard cross riders have claimed two silver medals at the World Cup in Montafon, Austria. Adam Lambert was second in the indi vidual event and then joined with Josie Baff for another runner up placing in the mixed team event. The double podium performance gives great confidence for the Australian team heading into the World Championships next week in the iconic Swiss resort of St Moritz.

Lambert continued his recent form to secure back-to-back individual World Cup medals, winning every heat from the round of 32 through to the semifinal to secure his place in the big-final.

In the big-final medal round Lambert faced a difficult proposi tion against three French riders, Loan Bozzolo, Aidan Chollet and Merlin Surget. Lambert was mid-field for most of the final but worked his way into a strong position for the best run to the finish line, overtaking Chollet for second place and the fifth World Cup podium of his career. Bozzolo took the win, Chollett was third and Surgent fourth. 2023 World Championship silver medallist Josie Baff advanced through to her fourth big-final of the season, after crossing the line in second place in her quarter and semi-final heats. In the women’s big-final, Baff finished in fourth place, trailing French women Lea Casta

in first, Julia Pereira de Sousa in second and Charlotte Bankes of Great Britain in third.

Other Australian results included Cameron Bolton 13th, Mia Clift 16th, Abbey Wilson 18th on debut, James Johnstone a personal best 24th, Jarryd Hughes 28th, Declan Dent 37th, Cameron Turner 46th on debut and Matthew Thomas 52nd. In the mixed team event, Lambert and Baff combined for

Australia’s second team’s medal of the season. The pair moved through the quarter and semi-finals in second place to advance to the big-final against France 1, France 2, and Great Britain 1. First to drop were the male riders and Lambert had a tough heat, almost crashing out in the middle section finishing fourth, 0.44 seconds behind France 1 in first.

Baff rode well in the final women’s run, making up the time differential from the first run early and then battling it out with the two French teams for the win. Baff fell just short of victory in a thrilling photo finish, missing the win by just three hundredths of a second to the France 2 team of Pereira de Sousa and Chollet. Rounding out the podium in third was the France 1 team of Casta and Bozzolo.

Bombala leads Monaro Shield by two points

By BOMBALA BOWLS

BOMBALA 2 retains the lead in the Monaro Shield by two points after a hotly contested round four of the Monaro Shield in Bombala on Sunday 23 March.

With Jindabyne 1 just three points behind, the next rounds are expected to be highly contested.

The sun shone for a great afternoon of lawn bowls which was again followed by a social gathering of the players

from the competing Monaro towns.

The results are as follows:

Bombala 1 played Cooma 2.

Cooma 2 Paul Fuller, Mary Bowerman and Olga Jebbink defeated Bombala 1 Eileen Hampshire, Joyce Cotterill and Neil Brotherton 17-14.

Bombala 1 Billy Calloway, Karen Brownlie and Russell Yelds defeated Cooma 2 Diane Wilkins, Judy Locker and Leonie Snell 24-9. Bombala 2 played Jindabyne 1.

Jindabyne 1 Paul

Livissianos, Richard Burn and Eliza Ryland defeated Bombala 2 Matt Cootes, Aurora Reed and Kyle Richardson 22-17.

Bombala 2 Warrick Ingram, Art Frances and Greg Griggs defeated Jindabyne 1 Cathy Burn, Michael Hamilton and Mick Turner 30-11.

Cooma 1 played Jindabyne 2.

Cooma 1 Kathy Venables, Gayle Schouten and Steve Bowerman defeated

Jindabyne 2 Brenda Byrne, Barbara Johnson and Ken McCorie 19-13.

Jindabyne 2 Jenny Smith, Pauli Bradshaw and Geoff Brown defeated Cooma 1 Bruce Stewart, Evelyn Hamilton and Cheryl Mellion 25-19.

Ladder

Bombala 2 - 21 points

Jindabyne 1 -18 points

Cooma 1 – 12 points

Cooma 2- 9 points

Bombala 1 -9 points

Jindabyne 2 -3 points

Snowboard cross qualifying at the World Championships in St Moritz is on 27 March and the final the next day on 28 March, then the mixed team event on March 29. Representing Australia in the women’s event will be Josie Baff, Mia Clift, and Amber Essex and in the men’s event Adam Lambert, Cameron Bolton, Jarryd Hughes, and Declan Dent.

Bombala singles games continue

By BOMBALA BOWLS

BOMBALA

Bowling Club

Championship Singles continued with another three singles games played during the week.

Brad Tonks played Noel Batey. Noel started the game with his skilful drawing shots conceding only two ends to Brad in the first 10 ends leading the match 13-2. Despite Brads efforts he couldn’t match Noels brilliant drawing game taking the match 26-10.

Cary Elton played Don Tattersall these bowlers were evenly matched with the game fluctuated until the 13th end when Don scored the maximum four shots followed by three on the next end taking the score to 17-9 but Cary showed his skill and determination taking the next five ends, decreasing Dons lead.

Don fought back winning the next end with three shots keeping the score even but Cary found his rhythm and put some down great bowls in the final ends, taking the game 25-21

Peter Jones played John Ryan, Peter took charge of the game with some brilliant shots taking the lead 11-5 by the ninth end, John wrestled back winning the next three ends decreasing Peters lead to two.

The game fluctuated for the next 10 ends with only one shot separating them, but Peter out played John in the final six ends not allowing him to score taking out the match 26-13, great game.

Bombala bowlers have been in top form during the Monaro Shield competition.

LOCAL SPORT: The Monaro Shield is producing high-quality bowls across the district.

Josie Ba and Adam Lambert (le ) on the podium, both winning silver in Austria.

SILVER: Jindabyne’s Josie Ba and Adam Lambert celebrate silver wins together in Austria. PHOTOS: Giovanni Zenoni

Jindy touch season finishes in style

THE Jindabyne Touch Football Association runs one of the most popular sporting competitions in the South East.

Another busy touch football season has come to a close with five exciting grand finals taking place, some of them under the new lights at John Connors Oval.

In the masters over 35 years competition, team Easier Said Than Run defeated Touched Up 7-4. In the seniors (21-34 years) division, Chafing the Dream was too strong for Try Hards, winning 12-5.

A tight contest in the young guns division (15-20 years) saw Soggy’s Team win 13-10 over Off in Church. In the cadets B division (10-14 years), Lil Rebels won a thrilling match 5-4 over Little Rascals.

In cadets A, Don’t Touch Me won 10-2 against the Dill Pickles.

Easier Said Than Run are all smiles following their win in the masters over 35 years division of the

Association summer competition.

Record number for Harry Nichols Shield

THE Harry Nichols Shield is a competition steeped in history. It honours the late Harry Nichols, a well-known Cooma rugby league volunteer.

The shield brings together hundreds of school students from across the Snowy Monaro, who contest tackle and league-tag competitions (the latter sponsored by Fortitude Physio).

The 2025 Harry Nichols

Shield took place last week with one of the organisers, Creedence Bartlett - Cooma Colts president, declaring this year’s shield the biggest yet. In the stage three, St Patrick’s Parish School won the tackle competition and Cooma North Public School won the stage three league tag. A record number of students laced the boots for an exciting day of rugby league.

Cooma North students excel at annual footy gala day

COOMA North Public School students enjoyed the annual Harry Nichols gala day, showcasing their skill, teamwork and sportsmanship.

With points allocated to the stage two and three teams, the competition was fierce but played in great spirit. The day was filled with outstanding teamwork, resilience and

champions, taking home the prestigious Fortitude Physiotherapy Trophy. Their dedication and teamwork set them apart, making them worthy winners of this top

The seniors (21-34 years) competition was claimed by Chafing the Dream.

Soggy’s Team claim victory in the young guns division, 15 years to 20 years. They defeated O In Church 13-10.

WINNERS:

Jindabyne Touch Football

PHOTOS: Jindabyne Touch Football Association

SPEED: This Jindabyne Public School student shows plenty of agility to beat a number of defenders. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

TOP EFFORT: Cooma North Public School students showed plenty of determination during the Harry Nichols Shield rugby league gala day last week.

PHOTO: Cooma North Public School

Tigers roar to third straight title

Robinson, Saare li Jindabyne to premiership

By NATHAN THOMPSON

A DOMINANT performance from the Jindabyne Tigers has secured the club its third straight Monaro cricket one-day premiership.

The Tigers delivered its best batting effort of the season in a comprehensive 132-run victory over the Berridale Whitetails in Saturday’s grand final.

The premiership decider became a 32-over-a-side affair with rain delaying the start of the encounter.

Sent into bat, Jindabyne lost opener, Isaac Dawson, in the first over when Berridale

quick, Jack Dunn, had the in-form batter caught behind.

The early wicket did not stop opener, Liam Robinson, taking the game to Berridale’s bowling attack. Robinson found the boundary regularly, hitting 63 off just 45 balls. His attacking onslaught was well matched with the steady hand of Luke Saare, who finished with 59.

Jindabyne raced to 100 within 12 overs before Berridale captain, Russ Haylock, collected the wicket of Robinson.

Berridale’s slower bowlers of Haylock, Dan Watts and Billy Small put the brake on

Jindabyne’s innings, bringing the scoring rate down.

Small picked up two wickets, while Watts delivered five overs for only 16 runs.

Jindabyne captain, Lucas Rixon, held the innings together during the middle overs with 35.

Jindabyne finished its 32 overs with 196. While not the side’s highest total of the season, it was the side’s best batting effort.

With Jindabyne boasting a strong bowling line-up and Berridale arguably the most destructive top order in the competition, the grand final was evenly poised.

Berridale’s fortunes for

in the opening seven overs when Justin McCarey, Zac Mckenzie and Thomas King were all dismissed.

Haylock and vice captain, Ben Hearn, tried to launch a recovery effort but Jindabyne’s bowlers maintained the pressure.

Jindabyne opened its bowling innings with spinner Lucas Rixon, a move that worked wonders as he finished with 3/24 off seven overs.

Robinson and Steiner collected a wicket each, while Chad Stevens finished the innings off with three wickets and a run-out.

claim its third premiership in a row. For Berridale, the side enjoyed a successful season after winning the T20 A grade title, and reaching the one-day grand final.

Berridale’s resurgence came on the back of a number of impressive batting efforts through the season from McCarey, Mckenzie, King and Haylock.

King hit 197 against the Cooma Titans and followed up with a century against Jindabyne, while McCarey’s 145 not out in last week’s semi-final against Coffey’s propelled his side to the grand final.

Fourcade races to victory for local connections

RACING and success has continued for Monaro-based owners including for Moruyabased trainer, Shaun Coady, who produced Fourcade at Goulburn on Friday, 28 February to win a 1200 metres Class 3 Hcp when ridden by Amy McLucas.

The mare is raced by mainly Monaro locals Len Manton, Brendan and Maryanne Rudd, Tony Russell, Jackie Harmey and Chris Byrnes. Also in the ownership syndicate are Neville and Lesley Clarke, Lachie and Mary Owen along with “Nifty” Noel Bridle, all from the Tumut district.

Fourcade went on to contest the Country Championship Wildcard race but finished unplaced after a luckless run.

At Moruya on Sunday, 2

March, Cindy Pearson had Hello Jack in prime condition to take out the BM 66 Tuross Cup over 1425 metres when ridden by Jeff Penza. Starting at 15-1, Hello Jack is raced by Bombala identities Bob and Tim Stewart.

A big crowd was on hand in hot conditions to watch six keenly contested events at the Yass Picnic Races on Saturday, 1 March.

The main race, the Yass Picnic Cup over 1350 metres, was taken out by Namarari trained at Tumbarumba by Mont Waters and was ridden by his daughter, Emily Waters.

The locals couldn’t crack it for a winner but did get some minor placings. David Kelley’s Mia’s Dream led in her 900 metre race to get claimed on

the line by the Allen McRae, Yass trained, Texas Open, beaten a short neck.

Clare Mansell’s, Spirited King, got a long way back in the dust but ran home strongly for third, while in the last race Kevin Byrne’s, Rager, was very good in finishing third. Gwennybegg ran a very good race in the 1350 metre Cup but, being a 1600 metre specialist, found the journey too short.

Racing was at Canberra on 9 March and the JJR team had a great day out. Zouatica ($15), ridden by Andrew Adkins, took out the National Sprint by a nose from the Wagga Wagga trained, Cliff House. They were also successful with Win The Day and Sturn Words, both ridden by Alysha

Collett. In winning, Sturn Words defeated the Matt Kelley trained Stupendo ridden by Nash Rawiller. The JJR team also had Too Darn Sassy win at Goulburn on 11 March ridden by Alysha Collett.

Too Darn Sassy ($12) is raced by owners including J J R Partnership, Mike Walcott, Terry and Leanne Moreing and former Jindabyne resident Roger Power.

Cooma grazier, Damien Rudd, had a winner with Goodnight Barlow(NZ) at Sapphire Coast on 15 March. The horse is trained in Canberra by Rob Potter and was ridden by Brodie Loy. At the same meeting Becky Byrne achieved a training double with wins by Oh What A

Knight and Rager, both ridden by Damon Budler.

Both horses are raced by Becky’s parents Kevin and Fay. Rager is usually trained by Kevin but he had transferred him to Becky for the race as he was enjoying the Queensland rain.

Having commenced their preparations in October last year, David Kelley’s Mia’s Dream and Walk Up Start have begun a well earned spell. They finished the season with Walk Up Start winning four races, Adaminaby, Sapphire Coast twice and at Cowra, and being placed three times. Mia’s Dream had two wins, at Cooma and Queanbeyan, and she had a further four placings. Sapphire Coast is racing this Friday.

Berridale o -spin bowler, Dan Watts, delivers five top overs in the premiership decider.

WATCHFUL: Jindabyne captain Lucas Rixon lets a ball go during his innings in the Monaro one-day grand final. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

Students winning

MONARO High School (MHS) has recently enjoyed sporting successes, with students qualifying to represent the school at the regional and state level.

Year 7 student Emily Payne has qualified for the state swimming carnival after her success at the regional competition in Dapto on Tuesday, 11 March.

Emily swam in six events and a relay on the day, qualifying for state in the 100m butterfly and 100m backstroke events.

The MHS open girls’ basketball team claimed the Eurobodalla Zone Championship title in Merimbula on Thursday, 20 February. Winning all their games on the day, the girls showed skill and determination to come home with the win. They competed in the South Coast finals at Goulburn on Thursday, 27 March, winning one of their two games.

While it is not a schoolbased competition, some MHS students also participated in the ACT Underage Athletics Championships in February at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.

SUCCESS: Matilda, Chantelle and Arabella at the ACT Athletics Championships in February. PHOTOS: Supplied

successes recently,”

MHS principal, James

Other students who had podium finishes on the day were Chantelle Douglass, Ashton Jamieson, Tahlia Jamieson, Mitchell Adams, Ethan Adams, Emily Payne, Arabella Andrews and Skye Adams.

“I would like to congratulate all our students who have achieved sporting

Matilda Wilson, Year 9, went home with a gold in ships in Kelowna and the Trevor Craven championships in Vancouver.

“While many of them are naturally gifted, it also takes dedication and training to get to the level they are at. They all represented our school with respect and with pride and I wish them all the best in their upcoming competitions.

“I’d also like to mention the support of the students’ parents, especially when it comes to transporting them all over the state to compete in these events.”

Women’s cricket ready to launch

By NATHAN THOMPSON

A REGULAR women’s cricket competition in the Snowy Monaro is off to a promising start with three come and try days attracting plenty of interest.

The Monaro District Cricket Association (MDCA) hopes to establish a social women’s competition next season with teams from across the region. Three sessions in Cooma were held during February and March, bringing together new and returning players.

Women and girls aged 12 years and older, no matter their cricket ability, are encouraged to register their interest for next season.

The MDCA is planning on running training sessions and matches throughout autumn and winter for women and girls keen to improve their skills.

Monaro cricket volunteers, Russ Haylock and Ben Hearn, ran the come and try sessions, with both commending players on their enthusiasm and effort.

“It was great to see

the interest. We had a wide range of ages and a number of mother/ daughter combinations which was terrific to see,” Hearn said.

“We want women and girls in the Snowy Monaro to have their own dedicated competition to play in.

“There appears to be enough interest, so hopefully we can start a women’s competition next season.”

Interested players can contact the MDCA via its Facebook page or by emailing monarocricket@ gmail.com

The MHS open girls basketball team celebrate winning the Eurobodalla Zone Championship in Merimbula.

Red Devils ready to launch

WOMEN’S SIDE MARKS HISTORIC MOMENT FOR COOMA RUGBY

By NATHAN THOMPSON

SEASON 2025 is set to be one of the Cooma Red Devils best in a number of years with a stronger playing roster than seasons past, and the re-formation of a women’s team.

Enthusiasm is high amongst the Red Devils coaches, players and supporters ahead of round one on Saturday.

The season starts with two blockbuster clashes against local rivals, the Jindabyne Bushpigs and Miss Piggies.

In a first for Cooma in 25 years, a women’s tackle side will run onto the park. The team enjoyed a strong outing at the pre-season Boorowa rugby carnival over the weekend, winning two of its three matches.

A key player for the women’s side will be Brianna Rankin who is expected to lead the side as flyhalf. Rankin is well-known locally for her rugby union and rugby league talents.

Rankin said the side is excited for its first match of the season.

“Really exciting to see the

girls coming together to create something that hasn’t been around for a long time,” Rankin said.

“We have a great culture here. There are still lots of players learning so it’s a good opportunity to start if you haven’t played before.”

The women’s 10-a-side fixture will mark a historic moment for the Red Devils who will field a women’s team for the first time since 1999.

The opening round of the season at Rotary Oval kicks off at 3.30pm.

Where the Flick

A strong off-season recruitment drive and a committed pre-season training regime, has the men’s Red Devils side ready for its best season in a number of years.

In 2024, the Red Devils were competitive in most matches, and despite finishing down the ladder, were not too far off the top sides. They face a tough test to open the season against premiers, the Jindabyne Bushpigs.

The Bushpigs completed three straight titles when they defeated the Bungendore

Mudchooks 42-25.

The men’s fixture starts at 4.30pm with a large crowd expected for the season opener.

Both matches will start later than usual as the rugby community honour late Red Devil Peter Ward.

Before the women’s fixture, a special unveiling will take place of the Betty Mattner OAM scoreboard.

The Red Devils will name the scoreboard in Mrs Mattner’s honour, to recognise her many years’ contribution to the club. Mrs Mattner died last year.

Book in for dinner or lunch on Saturday and visit the iconic ‘Little Bush Pub in the middle of nowhere’

HISTORY: When the Cooma Red Devils women’s side run out on Saturday, it will be the first time in 25 years the club has fielded a women’s team.

PHOTO: Cooma Red Devils

DECISION UPSETS NOWLAND FAMILY

SNOWY MONARO FARMER FEATURE

Egg-static win Jindabyne’s prosperity

By NATHAN THOMPSON

JINDABYNE and Snowy Mountains business operators are celebrating their success at the recent Snowy Monaro Business Awards with multiple enterprises recognised as industry leaders.

Eagles Range farmstay and egg farming operation received the coveted Snowy Monaro Business of the Year accolade and new business of the year, solidifying its standing as one of the region’s best run setups.

Mark and Jen Mooney run Eagles Range, in Jindabyne, the fourth successful business they operate. Their pastured egg business started just over 12 months ago and has quickly grown.

Ms Mooney said the pair is ecstatic to be recognised as the region’s most outstanding business.

“We were completely shocked to receive two awards at the Snowy Monaro Business Awards,” Ms Mooney said.

“We were already running three businesses and decided to do something with our farm. Those of you who know me, know that I can’t sit still. So just over 12 months ago, we started a pastured egg business, just perfectly timed before a major egg shortage.

“We have never worked 9-5 but now we are working 5-9 (as it is with farming).”

By TRISTA HEATH

RECOGNITION: Mark and Jen Mooney of Eagles Range receive the Snowy Monaro Business of the Year award.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Ms Mooney said their business model is inspired by an enterprise in the United States.

“We invested originally in a single chicken caravan and within 12 months, we

have three. These innovative solar-powered trailers allow us to pasture raise the hens on rotational grazing, re-generating our farm in the process,” she said.

“Pasture raising chickens

is ethical, sustainable and produces the most fantastic eggs. Re-generative farming is such a rewarding way to look after our land.”

■ More on the business awards on pages 6 and 35

JINDABYNE has long been celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and dynamic seasonal tourism, and with so many innovative developments taking place, Chairperson of Toursim Snowy Moutnains, Robert Lloyd, says the town it is set to become an even more desirable destination for visitors and new residents.

One of the SAP projects includes the Jindabyne Education Precinct, totaling $116.7 million for the construction of the state-of-theart facilities for Jindabyne Public School and Jindabyne High School.

The Snowy Mountains Grammar School is also undergoing a multimillion-dollar transformation with a NSW Government funded $4.5 million Learning Hub, which is part of a larger $24 million investment.

The National Snowsports Training Centre, a world-class, multi-purpose, $12.7 million facility, funded by Snow Australia, the NSW Government, and other partners, reinforces Jindabyne’s status as a premier winter sports destination and year-round training hub for athletes.

■ More on page 2

Tigers’ triple treat

JINDABYNE

CRICKETERS LIFT FOR THIRD STRAIGHT TITLE

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THE Jindabyne Tigers’ trophy cabinet will soon need an upgrade following the club winning its third straight Monaro one-day cricket premiership.

The Tigers are again the toast of Monaro cricket after a dominant 132-run win over Berridale in the grand final of the Monaro District Cricket Association one-day competition. A strong batting effort from the Tigers set up the victory in a rain-affected final at Rotary

Oval. Despite missing two key players in Simon Partell and James Joyce, Jindabyne showed its depth.

Captain, Lucas Rixon, praised his side’s commitment and effort throughout the 2024/25 season when he accepted the Norm Devereaux shield after the grand final.

“We trained hard all season and knew if we delivered our best cricket we could win,” Rixon said.

“We were hard to beat during the one-day competition.”

With play looking unlikely Saturday morning as persistent rain fell, the hard work of Rotary Oval curator, Steve Summerville, helped the match proceed. With a delayed start, the Tigers were sent into bat in the 32-over contest.

Half centuries from opener Liam Robinson (63 off 45 balls) and Luke Saare (59 off 63 balls) put Jindabyne in a strong position. The side raced past 100 inside the opening 13 overs before Berridale’s slower bowlers reduced the scoring.

Where the Flick

Jindabyne set Berridale 197 for victory. Early wickets through Rixon and Robinson had Berridale on the back foot.

Wickets continued to tumble as the Tigers dismissed Berridale for 64. Best of the bowlers were Rixon 3/24 off seven overs and Chad Stevens 3/4 off five overs.

Saare received the coveted Mark Williams ‘Willy’ award, judged the best and fairest player of the final. Saare won the award last year as well.

The Willy award honours long-serving Monaro cricket

president, player and volunteer Mark Williams, who died three years ago.

Berridale enjoyed a resurgent season, reaching its first one-day grand final in more than a decade.

Led by Russ Haylock, the side won the T20 premiership before finishing the one day competition in fourth.

A masterful batting performance in the semi-final secured the side a spot in the premiership decider.

■ More on the match on page 38

Book in for dinner or lunch on Saturday and visit the iconic ‘Little Bush Pub in the middle of nowhere’

CHAMPIONS: The Jindabyne Tigers celebrate three straight Monaro oneday cricket premierships.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

MP020425DigitalEditionAastaArctander

Pha’s Thai a winner

Former officer avoids jail

Jindabyne is the place to live: TSM chair

GOOD LIVING IN JINDABYNE

Nowland family ‘disappointed’ over sentence

Beautiful Hellebores

Thredbo raises the bar for winter 2025

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Public notice

SCHEDULE 1

Delegate calls for meaningful consultation

Stakeholder concern over possible visitor centre review

Business resilience celebrated

Snowy Monaro operators recognised for hard work

Foster carers called for in the Snowy Monaro

Alex helps post cyclone clean-up

Local volunteer supports those in need

Locals encouraged to stay active daily

Health CEO pleased with Cooma ED results

Cooma treatment times above NSW average

WILL GET THINGS DONE IN EDEN-MONARO

IMPROVING LOCAL ROADS

BACKING SMALL BUSINESS

ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES

A STRONGER REGIONAL NSW

LETTERS TO THE

Cowbed bridge replacement finally underway

In this election, let’s vote for our kids’ future

Dutton ignoring climate crisis

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Cromwell Street, Cooma, issues need addressing

ANZAC of the Year

Cooma trees to be removed

Council to hold extraordinary meeting

Do you love country music?

Thought provoking, deep art experience to open

Berridale

ready for big Easter fair

Celebrating strength of human spirit

Book launch reveals power of storytelling

Council updates

APRIL IN THE GARDEN

Happy Gardening!

Big turn-out in Nimmitabel

Get inspired, get writing

WINTER WARMING

Searching for cost efficient heating

WINTER WARMING

Elgas ready to keep you warm

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Beat the big chill, draught proof your home

NOW STOCKING JINDARA

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A winter retreat in your own home

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

E-QUATIONS 7

WHICH WORDS

E-QUATIONS

BIYWORD

From Cooma show to Sydney Royal

PASSION FOR AGRICULTURE, ANIMALS INSPIRES EMILY

Weaner selling season starts

COOMA MONARO

FEATURE WEANER SALE

Challenges continue for ag machinery market

200HEAD

COOMA CATTLE SALE

HEAD200

FRIDAY 11TH APRIL 2025

COMMENCING 10AM

200 SCALE & STORE CATTLE

Young leaders attend training weekend

Feral pigs in LLS sights

Monaro stock horse branch riding high

No budget to feed future: NSW Farmers

Conveniently located grazing/ lifestyle block

Prime retail space in blue ribbon location

Perfect first home or holiday base

Digging Up The Dirt On The Monaro For Over 40 Years