MP041224_Digital_Edition_AastaArctander

Rotary takes DV stand White found guilty of manslaughter

February sentencing

By NATHAN THOMPSON

A JURY has found NSW Senior Constable, Kristian White, guilty of the manslaughter of 95-year-old, Clare Nowland.

White’s trial lasted eight days in the NSW Supreme Court where he maintained a not-guilty plea to the manslaughter of Mrs Nowland, who he tasered in her Yallambee Lodge residence on May 17, 2023.

Mrs Nowland died a week later as a result of the incident.

The jury handed down its decision on Wednesday November 27 on its fifth day of deliberations.

White, 34, alongside another NSW police officer and two NSW ambulance officers, attended Yallambee Lodge in the early hours of May 17, following a triple-zero call from a Yallambee Lodge worker.

Mrs Nowland was found walking around Yallambee Lodge with a knife.

White tasered the Cooma great-grandmother, saying ‘bugger it’ before deploying his taser.

STAND-UP: Cooma Rotary Club members are urging the community to join them on Friday in wearing purple and take stand against domestic and family violence in the region. An event in Cooma’s Centennial Park will be held on Friday.

By NATHAN THOMPSON

COOMA’s Rotarians are urging the community to take a stand against domestic and family violence by participating in a phone-drop off program, provide items for escape bags and attend a special event this week in Centennial Park.

Throughout the trial, White’s defence team did not contest that the tasering killed Mrs Nowland, but argued the officer’s actions were in proportion to the risk faced.

After removing photos and sim cards, phone owners can drop these into the Cooma Salvation Army on Vale Street where the phones will be forwarded to the DV Safe Phones organisation.

The Cooma Rotary Club is calling for a whole-of-community approach to end coercive control and is starting this move by collecting old smart phones (4G and 5G).

“Our club will also be collecting items to put in escape bags to give to women and families who often leave their homes with nothing more than the clothes on their backs,” Cooma Rotary Club’s, Glenys Maddren, said.

On December 6, Purple Friday, Rotarians will be in Centennial Park, Cooma, from 4pm to take a stand against domestic and family violence.

Crown Prosecutor, Brett Hatfield SC, told the Supreme Court that White had breached his duty of care and his actions were of someone ‘fed-up’ with the situation.

On Friday, Judge Harrison continued Mr White’s bail, ahead of sentencing in February 2025.

■ Story continued on page 3

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Bombala welcomes aged care expansion

$40 million MPS project

By KAREN FORMAN

BOMBALA’S aged care leaders have applauded news that design work is to start on the expansion of the town’s multi-purpose service (MPS), which will increase the number of aged care beds back to previous levels.

Aged care advocate, Catriona Garnock, of the Bombala and District Aged Care Committee, Currawarna Independent Living Hostel Inc chair, Dr Keith Campbell, and regular visitor and helper, Annie Caldwell, have all hailed the news as a step in the right direction.

The state and federal governments have committed $40 million to deliver improved access to residential aged care services to meet the current and future healthcare needs of the community.

The expansion will increase the number of residential aged care beds by 20 to a total of 30, returning the bed numbers to levels prior to the closure of Currawarna as a nursing home a few years ago.

It will also enhance support areas and deliver staff accommodation, to

help attract and retain more health workers to the region.

A joint announcement by both governments late last week indicated that the promised work was set to start.

APP Group project managers, Nordon Jago Architects, and cost managers from Wilde and Woollard, have been engaged following a competitive tender process to plan and design the health facility.

As well, Health Infrastructure, Southern NSW Local Health District and the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care will engage with staff, residents, patients, carers and the broader community as the project progresses.

Ms Garnock, who with the committee worked hard to get Currawarna reopened after it was closed down as a nursing home several years ago, said she was escited about the project and welcomed any progress on the promised expansion.

“We are really excited about the project and having those extra beds,” she said.

“We are very grateful for this whole expansion project. It means we will have 20 extra aged care beds on top of the existing 10. We lost 30 when we lost Currawarna.

“Delegate MPS has some aged care beds which have been vital in this whole scenario and it is important to keep the Delegate MPS.

“This will get us back to what we were. We don’t want to go back.

If anything, we want to go forward. The population is aging. We want our oldies to stay in our community.”

Ms Garnock said the committee would continue to support the project as best it could.

“It is up to government to build it, fund it., but down the track we can fundraise for anything that is needed,” she said.

Ms Caldwell who visits the MPS three times a

week, said the expansion was well received.

“We have Kennedy Homes happening, Currawarna opened, and this expansion, it is so good,” she said.

“I’ve been visiting people in the hospital for 10 years and it is so important that local people can spend their last years, whether one year or 10, here and not be sent away.

“When Currawarna closed, people were sent

to Cooma, Pambula, etc and were separated from family.

“I think having this expansion will make people people feel so much more comfortable knowing they are close to home and family.”

Dr Keith Campbell said he was ‘absolutely delighted’ at the news.

“I think the expansion of the MPS, which is across the road from Currawarana, is fantastic,” he said.

“The MPS is a hand in glove with Currawarna. It provides the next level of care for our oldies.

“The Currawarna board fully supports this approach. It starts to make Bombala a leader in aged care for the shire.

“Currawarna can provide low to intermediate care, but then, once a person needs higher care, they need to go to a facility which can provide that.

“The MPS can provide that and it is only across the road so the transition can be smooth and without much stress.

“We really are excited to provide service to the whole shire which was a part of Currawarna constitution.”

The Bombala commuity is looking forward to the next stage of the upgrades.

AGED CARE: The federal and state governments announced a combined $40 million for the Bombala Multi-Purpose Service earlier this year. Design work will soon start, with community leaders welcoming the news.

PHOTO: Melinda Cairns Hack

Jindabyne SAP projects to deliver lasting benefits White trial

By NATHAN THOMPSON

SENIOR Constable, Kristian White, has been suspended from the NSW Police force following a jury finding the 34-year-old guilty of Clare Nowland’s manslaughter.

THE Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct (SAP) projects are progressing across Jindabyne, including work on upgrading Barry Way to deliver a new purpose fit approach for the Jindabyne Sport and Education Campus.

Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, and Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, visited the sites of a number of SAP projects to inspect works and deliver an update for residents.

The Barry Way upgrades, which started in November, include landscaping works, and providing a safer and easier drop-off section for parents, children and staff when the new school opens in early 2025.

The project to enhance the Barry Way carries a $47 million tag with funding through the state government.

“The Snowy Mountains SAP is playing an important role in creating long-term economic prosperity in the region and I am pleased to expand the precinct commitment by $47 million to include important upgrades to Barry Way around

the new school precinct,” Ms Moriarty said.

“These projects are progressing but there is more to be done and I am ensuring this happens appropriately and in a timely manner.”

One of the SAP projects is constructing a new Jindabyne water treatment plant. The project is currently in the

concept design phase, with a construction tender expected to be issued in 2025.

Lake Jindabyne foreshore will be improved with a 3.5km shared path upgraded between Banjo Paterson Park and Widows Creek, a new playground will be installed, a pump track and improved lawn areas.

“Now that public consultation is closed, design works are progressing on the foreshore design, roadworks are underway to finish the Jindabyne School Precinct and a new sewerage and water treamtent plant will help ensure the town’s growth is sustainable,” Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, said.

The verdict was delivered last week following an eight-day trial where White maintained a not-guilty plea.

Following the guilty verdict, Crown Prosecutors lodged a detention application, arguing White should be taken into custody ahead of his February sentencing.

Supreme Court Judge Ian Harrison rejected the application and continued White’s bail.

“This case is unlike any other that I have had to confront. It is unique in my experience, not merely rare or unusual,” Judge Harrison told the court.

“I am simply not comfortable making, and I am not prepared at this stage to make, a decision as a bail authority with respect to Mr White based on a conclusion that he ‘will be sentenced to imprisonment to be served by full-time detention’ when that decision can at present only rest on materials that are not only unlikely to be complete, but are certain to be incomplete.”

The Nowland family was present in court when White was convicted of the manslaughter of their mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

INSPECTION: Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, and Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, check the progress of Jindabyne Special Activation Precinct projects.

PHOTO: Trista Heath

Postman John lights up Jindabyne

By TRISTA HEATH

THE most famous Christmas Light display in Jindabyne lit up Bent Street on the evening of Friday November 29, drawing a large crowd to see the impressive display.

With an exciting new look, John Mcloughlin, known as Postman John among locals, has totally revamped his display this year, after almost a decade.

In its 36th year, there are new lights, new displays, a new entrance, and a lot more interactive displays throughout the yard of 14 Bent Street.

Home to John and Doreen, the display draws hundreds each year with a coin donation upon entry, as they raise money for local organisations.

John said this year all funds raised will be divided among The Fly Program, Thredbo Early Childhood Centre, and Snowy Mountains Community Association.

“This year we will also be running various competitions with a bunch of prizes up for grabs for both adults and children, thanks to Jindabyne BWS who donated the prizes,” John said.

“We will be having our usual Christmas auction, with something in the auction to suit every age right through to mum and dad being wined and dined.”

The main competition will run from December 1 to

December 20. Ask John for more information upon your arrival.

John, with the help from friend Nick Elliott, wife Doreen, and his number one helper for many years now, Ryan Rowson, began building the display on September 15 ready for its official opening to the community on Friday November 29.

“All my sponsors have been absolutely fantastic as usual,” he said.

“They have all donated either cash and prizes for various competitions that we have going this year.

“I would like to make a special mention to Doc Pender, for coming out of retirement to help me with any carpentry work I may need and Sue McKid for helping and pushing me each day to get the lights complete.”

Waiting on the final touch to arrive, a brand new Santa’s letterbox, children can still write their letters to Santa with a guaranteed response.

There are so many exciting additions this year, including a life size Mickey Mouse upon entry.

John is looking forward to welcoming the community to his display and seeing the Christmas joy it brings.

John and Doreen will keep the lights switched on each evening from 8pm until January 1 next year.

Christmas cheer has arrived at Jindabyne thanks to Postman Johns impressive display.

The interactive pieces displayed around the garden of Bent Street.

Another incredible Christmas display by John Mcloughlin.

Community and visitors gather to celebrate Christmas.

Postman John lights up his Bent Street home with the town’s most famous Christmas light display.

Sue McKid with her Christmas helpers, Patty and Banjo.

John Mcloughlin and Sue McKid, with neighbourhood children, enjoying the first night of Christmas cheer.

CHRISTMAS: John Mcloughlin welcomes the community to his 36th Christmas light display. PHOTOS: Trista Heath

A message from NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner, Rob Rogers AFSM

THE NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), which I have the privilege of leading, is the world’s largest volunteer firefighting organisation, with more than 70,000 dedicated members working tirelessly to protect lives and property across the state.

When combined with the expertise of Fire and Rescue NSW, Forestry Corporation, and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the bush fire management resources available through the NSW Government form a robust and highly capable force. These resources are a vital

line of defence, standing ready to assist communities during their time of need. However, no amount of preparation can substitute for individual and community vigilance.

After several years of wetterthan-average conditions, it is critical that we do not allow complacency to take hold as we continue through the 2024/25 bushfire season.

Every resident should take a moment to assess their personal risk. Ask yourself – am I, or is my property, at risk of bush or grass fires?

The reality is simple – if you live, work or travel near

bushland or grasslands, you are in a fire risk area.

The next step is to determine your level of preparedness. Our research indicates that only 70 percent of residents in bushfire prone areas have a plan in place, and of those, only half have actively prepared their homes. This is a concerning statistic.

The RFS strongly encourages all residents to develop a bushfire survival plan. Creating a plan is a straight-forward but crucial step in safeguarding your home, and loved ones. It can take as little as five minutes to start, yet the benefits can be life-saving.

For those who already have a plan, it is equally important to review and update it regularly.

Changes in family circumstances, property conditions, or the presence of pets and livestock can significantly impact your preparedness.

Bushfire safety is not something to ‘set and forget.’ Comprehensive resources and step-by-step guidance are available on the RFS website at rfs.nsw.gov.au. I strongly encourage every resident to use these tools to enhance their understanding of bush fire risks and improve their readiness.

This bushfire season, my hope is that all communities across NSW will remain safe and well. However, preparedness is your greatest defence against the unpredictability of bush and grass fires.

Let us work together to protect lives, property, and the communities we hold dear.

Commissioner Rob Rogers has served the NSW Rural Fire Service for 45-years, beginning as a brigade volunteer in 1979. A holder of the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM), he has been Commissioner since July 2020.

Locals join rally to stop coal exports

RESIDENTS from Cooma, Jindabyne and Numeralla joined a large rally on the lawns of Parliament House in Canberra last week, calling for the Federal Government to stop coal and gas exports.

Climate Action Monaro president, Jenny Goldie, said despite the rain, it was a productive rally and the protesters were in high spirits.

“It would have been appreciated had the Prime Minister emerged to speak to us but the only politician who did so was Senator David Pocock who encouraged us to keep campaigning against fossil fuels and their export from Australia,” Ms Goldie said.

“Australia is almost on track to meet its 2030 emission reduction targets and we commend the government on that.

“Nevertheless, such positive progress is more than offset by the continuing export of coal and gas. Wherever coal and gas is burned, the emissions still add to global warming.

“At some point, the rest of the world will no longer want our fossil fuel exports.

“Far better that we value add to our ores such as iron here onshore.”

Colleague’s ‘vibrant spirit’ remembered at service

By NATHAN THOMPSON

FOR the team at the Cooma Correctional Centre the ‘vibrant spirit’ of former colleague Michael Singh will always be remembered.

Local corrective services staff joined Snowy Monaro community members for a special Corrective Services NSW Remembrance Day gathering at the Cooma Correctional Centre last week.

Corrective Services NSW hold Remembrance Day services annually to honour the lives of staff who died while on duty, in service or in retirement.

On Friday November 29, Cooma staff paused to reflect on Mr Singh’s contribution to the centre. Mr Singh was a respected team member who died in June this year.

“This year, our Remembrance Day service holds particular significance. As we gather together to remember, we also mourn the loss of our beloved colleague and friend, Michael Singh, who tragically passed in June 2024,” Cooma Correctional Centre manager of security, Troy Seychelles, said.

“His loss has left a profound impact on all of us, and while we reflect on all those we’ve lost, it is the pain of Singhy’s passing that weighs most

heavily on our hearts today here at Cooma Correctional Centre

“His vibrant spirit, his wicked sense of humour, and the joy and laughter he brought to those around him will never be forgotten.”

A permanent tribute to Mr Singh was unveiled at the centre, with a plaque to honour his life and legacy.

“This plaque will not only serve as a constant reminder of Singhy’s contribution to our team, but it will also ensure that

his presence is felt here, day in and day out,” Mr Seychelles said.

“He will forever be a part of this place, a fixture in our hearts, a part of our history, and now, a part of our centre’s story.”

The service was attended by NSW Police Officers, Snowy Monaro Regional Council mayor, Chris Hanna, and Salvation Army Chaplain, Bryan Bartlett.

Mr Seychelles told the service, the occasion is a

reminder of the strength found in our community.

“It is important that we continue to check in on one another, reach out for support, and provide care for those who may be struggling.

“As we move forward, let us honour the memories of all we’ve lost, while working together to build a future grounded in compassion, support, and understanding.”

If you need support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.

Jindabyne comes alive following quiet period

By TRISTA HEATH

THE Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko saw more than 3400 athletes travel to Thredbo for an unforgettable mountain challenge over three days last week.

Bringing athletes, spectators, volunteers, and support crews, Thredbo served as a base camp for competitors throughout the event.

With run clubs and outdoor adventure rapidly gaining popularity across Australia, it’s clear why this event sells out year after year.

Jindabyne saw a much needed boost to its economy after the Town Centre and Nuggets Crossing was lively with visitors before, after and during the event.

“It is lovely to see the town with so many people about again.

“People have been coming in and out of the store which is great; it’s has been a really good thing for businesses,” Fiona Dubois, from High Country Outfitters, said.

After a few quieter months and a slow winter season for local businesses, the sudden increase to visitors in town was a welcome trend over the three plus days.

“It has been wonderful having a nation-wide event being hosted in our area, to see visitation and the town bustling again is what Jindabyne is all about as a tourist town,” Diana McInnes, from Design & Detail, said.

Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko is also part of the UTMB World Series, with all distances offering the chance to earn Running Stones, the qualification pathway for the prestigious UltraTrail Mont Blanc.

This, along with the event’s infectious atmosphere, is one of the reasons athletes flock from around the world to take on this challenge and watch from across the globe.

Pinot Wine Bar owner, Hannah Kirsh, said she has marshalled for the event for the past two years and has enjoyed having the Ultra-Trail in

the town, and being able to provide an experience where locals get involved then see them at their establishment after.

“I have met a lot of people from this event and seeing them come to Pinot’s after the event is great,” Ms Kirsh said.

“After the first day’s event, three people came into Pinot’s who I met at last year’s event.

“It is really nice to see the return visitation and being able to re-visit the venues they went to last year with some making a little tradition of it when traveling back for events like this. It has been great having them here.”

Events such as this play a crucial role in regional communities, whether it is providing opportunities for participation, skills development, volunteering and social, cultural and economic it brings with it a relief to struggling businesses.

Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko is an annual event and the local community yearns its return in 2025.

Perisher

joins efforts to restore lake foreshore

By TRISTA HEATH

PERISHER Ski Resort staff recently teamed up with Snowy Monaro Regional Council to provide help in restoring Lake Jindabyne’s foreshore precinct.

The precinct had been extensively damaged following the 100 percent filling of the lake in early 2022.

The removal of tree stumps along the Lake Jindabyne foreshore, between the Clay Pits and NRMA Caravan Park, is the final phase of works.

The clean-up project is being delivered thanks to disaster recovery funding.

Perisher’s vice president and general manager, Nathan Butterworth, said the teams were happy to lend a hand.

“We had noticed that the recovery of the lake had been slow and complex with parts of the shared pathway becoming heavily overgrown, restricting access and lake views,” Mr Butterworth said.

“Our teams decided to lend a hand and I couldn’t be prouder of all they achieved.

“There was 15 truckloads of green waste removed from the foreshore.”

Perisher teams from various departments inlcuding lift maintenance, paint crew, workshop, snowsports, administration, IT, civil and building, health, safety and environment and human resources supported the community improvement project.

While some of the clean-up crew were used to heavy lifting, those who are normally desk-bound enjoyed getting on the tools for

the community, rolling up their sleeves to help improve a section of the Jindabyne shared pathway and Claypits area.

“A lot of re-growth cutting was undertaken, as well as brush cutting, whipper snipping, mowing, raking and rubbish collection,” Mr Butterworth said.

“It was hard work in the heat, but the work done means there are now fewer hiding places for summer snakes.

“Seeing the finished foreshore was great reward for our efforts.”

Jindabyne foreshore. PHOTO: Perisher Media

Fireworks spectacle returns for Jindabyne Carols milestone year

By TRISTA HEATH

JINDABYNE Carols in the Park will celebrate its 30th year, providing the community with a fun-filled evening full of Christmas cheer on Sunday December 15 starting at 5pm on the Jindabyne Claypits stage.

The momentous occasion will see fireworks return after a five-year hiatus due to bushfires, Covid-19 and floods.

This has been made possible through generous donations from the Jindabyne Bowling and Sports Club, Jindabyne Lions Club, Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre and Jindabyne Mitre 10.

“The continuation of bringing the cheer theme is an extension on the Shop Local Promotion from Nuggets Crossing and Jindabyne Mitre 10 this year to promote and support local businesses in these financially tough times,” store manager, Jason Small, said. Enduring a few tough

years, the carols are back stronger than ever to celebrate its three-decade innings.

Organiser Sue Sell is proud to host another great annual event for the community.

“We’ve seen many members of the Carols crew come and go, big bands, small bands, full choirs, solo singers, young talent just starting out, old hats who just loved to perform, and through it all the thread that keeps it all together is the love and joy of Christmas,” Mrs Sell said.

“The reason for the season and an ever-evolving group of people who want to share and provide a free family-friendly event the community can count on.

“Thirty years is a great innings for this community event.

“We would love to see as many friends as possible this year as a show of support and gratitude for all the folk who make it happen.”

In supporting the community through Christmas cheer, Jindabyne Carols in the Park donated more than $4,000 to Haymate charity organisation in 2019 after bushfires swept through the region.

This amount was raised from gold coin donations from the community during the 2019 carols evening.

Mrs Sell said it was a very impressive effort from the community to raise much-needed funds for this well-deserving charity.

“After what was considered to be a pretty sad winter season this year, we want to bring some Christmas cheer back into

the community and get spirits high with a night of free entertainment,” Mrs Sell said.

Board chair of Jindabyne Sports and Bowling Club, Nick Oakman, said this is the type of community event the club is proud to contribute to.

“This seasonal and annual event allows people to get outdoors and enjoy the lake front and after not holding fireworks for a number of years we are glad to support bringing the popular fireworks event back to the community,” Mr Oakman said.

Jindabyne Lions Club board member, Nira Windeatt, said the club is a proud supporter of the

Carols in the Park and see it as a very important community event.

“Any positive gathering that brings the community together is welcomed,” Mrs Windeatt said.

Providing goods for the evening, the Kosciuszko Scouts will host a barbecue, TS Orion Cadets supplying food and drinks, face painting by Lara Elliot and Jindabyne Swim Club equipped with glow sticks and battery candles.

Onstage from 5pm, the pre-entertainment includes K Brothers, Gabi Forman Music, Miss Millie’s Dancers, Em and Pais and The Chuffs will kick start the evening with free, lively entertainment

before well-known carol musicians lead all the Christmas favourites from 7.30pm.

Wrapping up the 2024 event, fireworks will light up the sky over Lake Jindabyne from 9pm. The Jindabyne Sports and Bowling Club will be providing a shuttle from the club to the carols and back to allow space for car parking and give the community the opportunity to enjoy dinner at the club before attending the carols.

For those interested in joining the carols crew and to lend a helping hand, this year or in future years, contact suejsell@ gmail.com

Fireworks display over Lake Jindabyne in 2016.

COMMUNITY: Jindabyne Carols in the Park attracts hundreds from around the region each year to celebrate some Christmas cheer. PHOTOS: Trista Heath

Future students explore tertiary education

RECENTLY, 32 locals from the Snowy Monaro area jumped on a bus and headed to an exciting day of exploration and education in Canberra.

The group joined the Country Universities Centre (CUC) Snowy Monaro Common Ground Program, which has held workshops and events since 2023 supporting Cooma locals to access and understand certificates, degrees, and other opportunities in higher education.

The Canberra trip was attended by a range of people interested in higher education, from adults looking for a career change to high school students considering their options post-school.

Participants toured the University of Canberra, Canberra Institute of Technology, the Australian Catholic University, and the Australian National University, as well as an engaging session on accessing support and studying online run by the University of New England.

This broad group helped locals to explore more than one campus.

“It was great seeing the different sized unis all on

explore cutting-edge facilities, including the CISCO lab, where they experienced the innovative work of students in virtual reality (VR) and robotics.

At the Australian Catholic

The visit to the Australian National University (ANU) was a highlight for many.

Like all the campuses, they were very passionate about including rural students.

“We didn’t have any

expectations, but it ended up being very insightful. We stayed back for an extra hour with Felipe who gave us a slower tour through ANU’s engineering and IT sections,”

CUC will continue the Common Ground program in 2025 and encourages locals to keep an eye out for future events including an International Student Workshop and a Settling into Study Workshop.

New location for Council services office

SNOWY Monaro Regional Council’s community services office in Berridale is moving from its current location at Highdale Shopping Centre to the main Council office at 2 Myack Street, Berridale, with services operating from the new location as of Wednesday December 18.

“This re-location brings local community services and programs together under one roof, improving accessibility and coordination of care for residents. The office provides vital assistance to both older residents and community members living with disability,” a Council spokesperson said.

“Residents can continue to access the full range of support programs at the new location, including community transport services, meals on wheels deliveries, home care package co-ordination, Commonwealth Home Support Programme services, and NDIS-related assistance.

“There will be no interruption to any community support services due to this move.”

The team will maintain the same office hours at the new location, ensuring consistent support for those accessing aged care services and disability support programs.

Council said by moving to its main Berridale office, local staff will be better integrated with the broader Council workforce.

“This move to a single location for all Council services in Berridale will significantly improve service delivery for clients, carers, and partner organisations – while maintaining the same high standard of individualised care and support,” the spokesperson said.

LEARNING: Han Worsley, the education co-ordinator at the Snowy Monaro Country Universities Centre, talks with participants of the Common Ground Program, an initiative helping locals better navigate tertiary education.

OUR Snowy Monaro region received very welcome rain over the weekend. The heavy falls on Saturday didn’t dampen the spirits of performers, competing in the grand finals of the Australian National Busking Championships in Cooma.

Well done to the event organisers on holding a street parade, the first in the event’s history, and for providing a terrific day. The parade showcased Cooma’s proud multiculturalism and gave community groups the chance to participate.

There was plenty of local talent on show throughout the day with buskers from across the region in action.

Reports from the Monaro Grasslands Reference group that its first meeting in four years was productive, are good to hear. The group is lobbying the NSW Government to re-think its native vegetation mapping, that has caused plenty of concern for local landholders.

The finalisation of the current draft maps was not supported by landholders until further consultation has occurred.

Members said the meeting was positive and a good sign moving forward.

On Friday December 6, the Cooma Rotary Club will hold an event in Centennial Park, calling on the community to take a stand against domestic and family violence. Rotarians are encouraging the community to wear purple on Friday and head to the park from 4pm - to the stop the violence and end the silence.

Well done to the Cooma Rotary Club for its efforts in raising awareness of domestic and family violence in our community.

Next week will see the start of Council’s new library outreach service. This service replaces the mobile truck that visited towns and villages across the region.

This new operating model provides a monthly pre-booked pick-up and drop-off library service to residents in the Adaminaby, Berridale, Bredbo, Dalgety, Delegate, Michelago and Nimmitabel areas.

We heard during Council’s consultation for its 2024/25 operational plan, where the replacement of the mobile library was proposed and then introduced, that many residents valued the previous service and hoped it remained.

It will be interesting to see how the new service is received.

2024 Bravo Performing Arts cruise

SEVERAL Cooma residents took advantage of the opportunity to experience a Bravo Cruise of Performing Arts with cruise company Carnival in mid-October joined by 2,100 passengers.

Artists included Marina Prior, Teddy Tahu Rhodes, Mirusia, Il Mondo, Mark Vincent, Issi Dye, Julian Jones Trio and many others.

Opportunities were arranged to meet the artists outside of their performances.

The cruise was planned for Noumea but due to political unrest was diverted to Airlie Beach, many other cruise

Claire’s carousel

liners also requiring berths there.

Trip down memory lane

Friends who own a historical home, built in 1870 in Cooma by a Mr Mawson for his staff, were delighted when they noticed an elderly woman gazing into their home from the footpath at the front of their house.

They immediately spoke to her to discover she had lived in their home when she was 11 years old, she is now 93.

Accompanied by her daughter, the current owners invited her in.

She showed them her bedroom and spoke about different aspects of how the

home had changed. Many photos were taken.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Many residents are already decorating – and lighting up their home and garden – in preparation for Christmas.

What a festive atmosphere they are creating.

Let’s all get started as it’s a wonderful feeling when one sees the children’s faces light up when viewing the decorations.

Library festive season hours

Cooma Library closes December 24 and re-opens January 7 2025;

Aged care is the casualty of governance, policy

WHEN I returned home one evening last week, I returned a missed call. Friends had phoned to let me know that the 80 year-old whose birthday party we went to in October was back home after a month in hospital in Geelong.

This unexpected news concerned me. The following morning per ABC, radio confirmation that ‘the frail and aged are often concerned that they might be a burden’.

The Oxford English dictionary defines burden variously as ‘a load,

encumbrance, obligation and Biblically a heavy fate’. At the end of last week, the new Commonwealth Aged Care Act was passed. It will be enforced from July 1, 2025. In 2028 it is estimated that 34 percent of Australia’s population will be over 60. As a community, what do we want aged care to look like? We need to prepare for planned changes. There might not be the reforms and benefits articulated in the original Royal Commission Report and recommendations of the late The Hon

Richard Tracey. We have the time and opportunity to get it right in terms of aged care and frailty in our community, region and beyond. The process of divestment does not mean we do not now exist. It does not mean we are expendable as of April 20, 2024. What happens is to be determined by community, families and organisations on the ground here to achieve the integration of health, provision and aged care support with dignity.

Bombala Library closes December 20 and re-opens January 7 2025; and Jindabyne Library closes December 21 and re-opens January 7 2025. You may borrow more books. Please speak to staff.

Get-together

Members of an ex-line dancing group lunched together at the Cooma Ex-services Club with their former teacher, June, who travelled from Canberra for the occasion. Among the group was Anne Caldwell, Jan Reid, Rhonda Garside, Terri Rick and many others.

Accumulated debt both structural and operational and poor governance should not be reasons for a policy of divestment.

Education, training, orientation and flexibility are required to meet the needs and complexity of life from birth to death.

As we approach the Christmas season let us remember Simeon’s words, ‘’et now your servant depart in peace’.

Elizabeth Laught Cooma

Life on the funny farm

By Paul Dorin

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Grant funding and road standards

THE draft Annual Report (2023-24) delivered in councils business paper of the November 2024 meeting made a statement relating to the Avonside Road upgrade, stating that “Council completed significant upgrades to Avonside Road, with six kilometres of previously unsealed road now sealed and paved. This transformation of Avonside Road from a rough unsealed surface to today’s high-quality sealed road was made possible through the NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program. Council completed this project within the approved scope, timeframe, and budget set by Transport for NSW.” Now, I don’t know if the writer of that report has actually looked at the finished product but the reality is far from what has been reported to Council and ratepayers in the annual report. Yes, the road has certainly been transformed from a previously rough unsealed road to a sealed road but the “high quality” road statement is very questionable.

I am appalled that a newly sealed road has been constructed to a standard that is not in keeping with acceptable design and construction standards of this day and age. The alignment of the road is such that a 100kph design speed should be expected but the new road has a 70kph posted speed limit even though most of the alignment is within 100kph design parameters. Within the first kilometre, a crest exists that is designated as 60kph safe travel simply because the designer did not apply an acceptable design principle to allow the crest to be eased by the “cut and fill” technique in order to allow for safe stopping sight distance on what should have been designed as a 100kph design speed road. This may have been a design factor in order to get the maximum amount of road re-constructed but the principle if flawed. One section of the road within the 70kph posted speed limit has a straight alignment with oodles of sight distance which would

allow for safe overtaking even at 100kpk but has been line marked with double barrier lines which makes any overtaking on that section illegal. To add to the woes is the fact that the pavement is falling apart within six months of the work being sealed. The reason for that is either the base material was poorly compacted or did not meet the pavement standards necessary or the sub base layer was inferior or insufficiently compacted. I am advised that the survey and design work was done by a consulting engineering firm to a brief which was supplied by council. For whatever reason, that brief is not available to the public I am told. So much for transparency and trust. The engineering consultants also supervised the construction and were also responsible for the quality certification so what has gone wrong in that department? What testing and analysis was done by the consultants on the pavement materials and how much compaction testing was carried

out to ensure compliance

out to ensure compliance with council’s construction standards? The project is an excellent example of trying to seal a previously unsealed pavement to get best “bang for the buck” but in doing so the result has delivered a road that will require millions of dollars to be spent over time correcting faults that should not have been created in the first place. It is important that council reviews its policy (if there is one) on how it accepts grant funds and the standards to which those funds are required to be applied. To build inferior infrastructure is inferior policy. If the grant funding authority requires substandard construction then the grant should not be accepted and additional funding sourced to ensure quality work. That way current design and construction standards can be achieved. I will comment next week on the newly sealed section of the Dry Plains Road.

Phil Daley Berridale

Church service times across the Snowy Monaro region

Cooma Baptist Church: 10am Sunday

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

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

St Andrew’s Cooma Uniting Church: 9.30am Sunday

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

Cooma Presbyterian Church: 9am Sunday

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

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

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

Alpine Uniting Church Jindabyne: 9.30am Sunday

Village Church Jindabyne: 5pm Sunday

All Saints Anglican Church Berridale: 9.30am Sunday

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

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

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

GROUP EDITOR

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

JOURNALISTS

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

Riposte

By LISA ASHURST

PERIODICALLY I still get “Friend Requests” on Facebook from people I don’t know and seeing as I don’t know them, I don’t accept. If the request indicates we have any mutual friends, I check with those friends to see who the person is first and then decide if I want to accept, but mostly I just delete the request because some of the names look so suss. I mean, what parent would call their child that?

But now I get “invitations” from oddly-named people inviting me to an online “event” and I just need to let them know if I wish to accept or decline. I’ve had quite a few of these lately and no, I don’t respond to the invitation because again, weird names, plus I don’t know them anyway. So much for Facebook filtering undesirables out. They just don’t. Like the ones who would reply to a comment of mine with a flowery blurb about how they loved my answer and were so impressed with my face and lovely smile etc, (really over the top sometimes) and would I consider sending them a friend request because their attempt to send me one had failed? Seriously? I don’t even use a photo of myself as my profile pic. It’s a beach scene. No face, no smile. But how many people, women mainly I guess, because these comments seem to come in to women, have maybe been taken in by it? I think most are awake to this one as it has appeared fairly often and sometimes is repeated

to almost every female who has commented on a particular post. I haven’t seen that one for a while though, as I think site owners have blocked it whenever it shows up.

I’ve also had the Messenger ones which have allegedly come from one of my friends claiming they think I’m in a particular video or photo and all I have to do is click on the link to see it. I don’t click. And just as well, because I no sooner get that and the genuine friend posts that they’ve been hacked and not to accept or click on anything from them because it’s not them. But now I’m getting text messages, allegedly from Telstra, claiming to be about my prepaid service, saying it is due to be recharged, except the day/date is not quite right. Plus the texts begin with “Hi Lisa” which is unusual and they have a link for me to click on so I can “recharge”. Which is why I think they are fake. The genuine reminders come in, sans salutations, a few days before the recharge is due to let me know the date and time when the service will expire, hence to recharge before it clicks over. So if the others are fake, and I think they are, how do they know my name? Whatever, I don’t click on links or use the Telstra app to recharge anyway. I go old school with a voucher and then call it in because I figured if some scammer has got my name and number, they can’t do too much else if I don’t click on any links to recharge. At lease, I hope not. It’s still a concern though. Seriously, I’m so over it.

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

ADVERTISING

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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.

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Aasta Arctander aasta@monaropost.com.au

FEATURES WRITER

Lisa Ashurst

Member

Snowy Monaro community.

Leslie in running for volunteer of year award

JINDABYNE’S Leslie Ludwig will head to the NSW Volunteer of the Year awards, after being crowned the Southern Inland senior volunteer of the year earlier this year.

Ms Ludwig’s long and dedicated service to Snow Australia was recognised with a Southern Inland award and now the hard working local has a chance to win the state honour next month.

The Southern Inland Volunteer of the Year finalists will join more than 200 of their peers in Sydney next month at a gala celebration to help mark the announcement of the NSW Volunteer of Year for 2024.

The NSW Volunteer of the Year finalists were chosen from 25 regions across the state and announced at local and regional celebrations over the past few months.

The Southern Inland Volunteer of the Year finalists for 2024 are: Southern Inland Adult Volunteer of the Year: Glenn Pinnuck from sleepbus; Southern Inland Senior Volunteer of the Year: Leslie Ludwig from Snow Australia; Southern Inland Volunteer Team of the Year: sleepbus, Queanbeyan

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said the awards had uncovered countless stories of people giving their time to help build better and stronger communities.

“More than four million people volunteer each year across NSW, contributing a staggering $178 billion in social and economic benefits,” Ms Rygate said.

“Volunteers across the Southern Inland region

are an important part of this incredible effort. We wish the Southern Inland Volunteer of the Year finalists the very best for the state awards.

“Most importantly we thank all the volunteers across the region for their selfless and remarkable contribution.”

The 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards Gala ceremony will be held in Sydney on Tuesday December 10.

High country droving heritage depicted

THE Lindleys are among a handful of Australian families still droving their cattle to the high plains of the Snowy Mountains each December to fatten on the sweet native herbage over summer. Their heritage and annual pilgrimage from their home in Gundagai with cattle is now the subject of a documentary, Lindley’s Last Ride, set for its Australian premiere on Wednesday December 12.

Produced by Ross Harmer of West Wyalong Movies, Lindley’s Last Ride will be screened at 2pm on December 12 at the historic Montreal Community Theatre, Tumut, and officially launched by former Member for Monaro, former CEO of Parks Australia and current member of the Australian Heritage Council, Peter Cochran, with Sammy Smith as MC. The screening is open to the public and is free to attend.

Kosciuszko State Park was declared a national park in 1967 with grazing banned in 1969 and the last snow leases terminated three years later, bringing to an end 135years of seasonal grazing in the Snowy Mountains.

The Lindleys retain one of the few freehold grazing properties within the park’s boundaries. Their freehold is located along what was once a main route for stockmen and prospectors from the NSW South West Slopes and Riverina to access the grazing areas of the Long, Cooleman and Currango Plains or the Kiandra gold fields.

Brothers John and Bob Lindley have been taking cattle annually to the family’s high country freehold for decades.

Lindley’s Last Ride was written by Riverina journalist Kim Woods, of Leeton, and filmed and

by

with additional footage by James Patrick O’Connor, narration by Lyndsey Douglas and poem narration by Grant Luhrs.

Historical footage was supplied by the National Film and Sound Archive, Cinesound Movietone Newsreels, family of the late Bill Ridley, John Hart, Beth Barass, and RVN 2/Prime 7. Interviewed on screen were John, Gordon, Peter and Bob Lindley, and Graham Elphick while the documentary was filmed on location in the Goobarragandra Wilderness Area.

Australian

edited

Steve Moore, Mayfly Media, Wagga Wagga,

DOCUMENTARY: Lindley’s Last Ride, set to have its Australian premiere on Wednesday December 12 at Tumut.

PHOTO: Supplied

AWARDED: Southern Inland Senior Volunteer of the Year Leslie Ludwig with Chris Duncan, Manager of Community and Recreation, Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council. PHOTO: Supplied

Council News

CREEWAH ROADWORKS

Drainage repairs begin on Creewah Rd, Cathcart from Tuesday 10 December 2024 between 8.30am and 3pm, weather permitting.

Creewah Rd will be closed to all traffic at the work site during these repairs, approximately 1.4km from the intersection with Cathcart Rd. Only local traffic will be permitted on Creewah Rd either side of the site, from Cathcart Rd to the south and Moore Springs Rd to the north.

It is expected that this work will be completed by 3pm on Tuesday 10 December 2024, but weather conditions and other potential delays may require an additional day on-site on Wednesday 11 December 2024 from 8.30am to 3pm.

JOB VACANCIES

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

Visit https://qrco.de/SMRCjobs to learn more.

Closing Thursday 5 December 2024

• Community Transport Driver Casual – Berridale, Bombala, or Cooma

• Librarian and Events Program Officer Full time – Cooma

• Support Worker Casual – Location negotiable

Closing Friday 6 December 2024

• Project Officer Full time – Location negotiable

Closing Monday 9 December 2024

• Customer Service Officer Casual – Multiple working locations

Closing Thursday 12 December 2024

• Construction Worker Full time – Berridale

• Resource & Waste Facility Attendant Part time – Cooma

CHILD POOL SAFETY

Adult supervision and compliant pool barriers are critical safety measures as the summer swimming season gets underway.

Learn how you can help keep our kids safe this summer at https://qrco.de/SMRCsafepools

ADOPT A FURRY FRIEND

Council's pound currently has several animals looking for their forever homes.

Adoption fees include desexing, microchipping, and initial vaccinations. All adopted animals come with a lifetime of love and companionship. To organise a meeting or learn more, call our team today on 1300 345 345. Visit our website at https://qrco.de/4furever to see who's available.

WEED OF THE WEEK

Our annual Weed of the Week series brings you the information you need to know about weeds and biosecurity in the Snowy Monaro.

Last Friday was our final article for 2024, but you can still visit our website to catch up on all of the year's articles at https://qrco.de/SMRCWeeds

Whether you work the land or just like spending time in the great outdoors, these articles help you play your part in keeping our region safe from local weed incursions.

Updates | Information | Consultation

DELEGATE BANK OF BINS

Following the introduction of a secure new bank of bins facility at the Delegate Transfer Station, Council is inviting residents in the region to apply for an access key to utilise the new facility. Complete the simple application form today to register for access. Visit https://qrco.de/BoBform or stop in at your local Council office to pick up a hard copy.

A yearly fee applies, billed and payable through your rates notice.

MOBILE LIBRARY

Snowy Monaro Regional Library’s transition to a new operating model for the Mobile Library is almost complete, with the service now known as the Library Outreach Service relaunching later this month.

Replacing the Mobile Library, the new model offers a monthly pre-booked pick-up and drop-off library service in Adaminaby, Berridale, Bredbo, Dalgety, Delegate, Michelago and Nimmitabel. How the Library Outreach Service works

• Monthly collection and drop-off points in Adaminaby, Berridale, Bredbo, Dalgety, Delegate, Michelago and Nimmitabel

• Pre-order library items by phone, email, or reserve items online

• To order by phone, call (02) 6451 1630

• To order by email, contact books@ snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

• To reserve online, visit www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au/Library

• Collect and return orders at one of the collection points across the region Library Outreach Service timetable for 2024

DateLocation Time

Monday 9 December

Michelago Public School 10.30–11.30am Bredbo Public School 12.45–1.45pm

Berridale Council Office 9.15–10.15am

Tuesday 10 December

Dalgety Campbell Street 10–11am Adaminaby Baker Street Playground 1–2pm

Wednesday 11 December Nimmitabel Police Station 10–11am

Thursday 12 December Delegate Bombala Street 2–3pm

Dates and times for 2025 will be released by the end of December 2024.

Council is aware of councillor discussions regarding a potential return to the truck-based Mobile Library service model. We will inform the community in the event of any further changes.

WATER SUPPLY UPDATE

Fluoridation has been paused at the Jindabyne and East Jindabyne water treatment plants, pending the completion of maintenance work at these facilities.

Drinking water supplied to properties in Jindabyne, East Jindabyne, Tyrolean Village, Berridale and Lakewood Estate will not contain added fluoride until this work is completed.

BERRIDALE COMMUNITY SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Community Support Programs staff in Berridale are moving from their current office at Highdale Shopping Centre to the main Council office at 2 Myack Street, Berridale, with services operating from the new location as of Wednesday 18 December 2024.

This change in office provides one location for our residents of the Snowy Monaro to access services to support independence, while conveniently located under one roof. Residents can continue to access all support programs at the new location, including Community Transport, Meals On Wheels, Home Care Package coordination the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, and NDIS-related assistance. The team will continue to be available the same days and times and services will not be interrupted.

FATBERG FLARE-UP

To protect our community's infrastructure and minimise ratepayer costs, Council is urging residents to practice responsible flushing and keep wet wipes out of our sewer pipes.

Most of us know that toilets should only be used to flush the ‘three Ps’ – pee, poo and (toilet) paper. But for years now, wet wipes marketed as ‘flushable’ have been causing an underreported epidemic in sewers around the world.

The term fatberg has been coined to describe the revolting masses of congealed wet wipes, fats, oils, grease, and other non-flushable items that result from a small number of people doing the wrong thing.

It’s not just wet wipes that cause problems and contribute to fatbergs developing though, as tampons, period pads, cotton buds, needles, condoms and food waste can all play a role in the formation of these blockages.

Fatbergs can set as strong as concrete and can require specialist equipment to remove.

Once formed, they can cause sewers to back up and overflow, polluting bodies of water and other sensitive parts of the environment.

We're reminding everyone in the region to remember to do the right thing when they're going number two on the loo.

LOCAL CITIZEN AWARDS

Nominations for the NSW Local Citizen of the Year awards close early January 2025.

You can nominate a local from the Bombala, Cooma, or Jindabyne areas who has made a substantial contribution to our region and its people over the past 12 months.

Nomination forms are available from any Council office or https://qrco.de/SMRCawards Completed forms can be submitted by email, post, or over-the-counter at any Council office. For 2025, our Bombala, Cooma, and Jindabyne Australia Day committees are accepting nominations across seven awards categories.

POOL OPENING DATES

Local public pools are open for the summer. Visit https://qrco.de/SMRCpools to learn more.

Cooma: Open now until Monday 31 March 2025. Bombala: Open now until Saturday 22 March 2025. Berridale: Open now until Sunday 2 March 2025. Adaminaby: Open now until Sunday 2 March 2025.

‘Vitally important’, Cooma Little Theatre members recognised

By KAREN FORMAN

COOMA Little Theatre’s Dave Unwin Memorial Award for 2024 has recognised not just one, but two members, for their contribution to the organisation and the arts.

The award, traditionally presented to a member who has made a huge contribution to the organisation, has been shared this year between Tony Nassar and Samuel Pevere.

CLT president, Caroline Fox, described the pair as “vitally important” members who had worked tirelessly for CLT.

“Tony Nassar is well known in the local community for his busy-ness, generosity, positivity and kindness,” she said.

“After Tony participated in the 2015 MCCR Strictly Musicals fundraising event, he reignited a passion for theatre, and he whole-heartedly joined Cooma Little Theatre.

“Since then, Tony has helped with maintenance

and repairs, has designed and built sets, has donated and also sourced many items of equipment, and Roses Restaurant has sponsored the theatre.”

Ms Fox said Samuel Pevere had joined Cooma Little Theatre in 2018 as a member of the Von Trapp family in Ron Dowd’s production of The Sound Of Music.

“Samuel was then 12 years old.

“He immediately took on a genuine passion and care for the theatre, both as a building and as an organisation. Like Tony, for Samuel it wasn’t just about being in the limelight. He took responsibility for cleaning, security, maintenance.

“He was eager to learn lighting and sound as well. He is another person who is involved in many different organisations and projects. Samuel has just completed his HSC exams, is planning to be in Cooma for another year, and is already planning his

sented at the party on the closing night of the CLT’s most recent production, The Flint Street Nativity.

The gathered throng applauded Geoff Simpson, who commemorates 25 years as Licensee this year.

Ms Fox said Geoff was yet another person who was involved in so many local projects and organisations.

“He has taken care of the theatre for over 40

years, from performance, to production, serving taking maintenance, and of course security,” she said.

Geoff was awarded Life Membership of Cooma Little Theatre years ago. At the closing night party, he was joined as Life Member by two more people: Liz and Ross Sherlock.

“When Charles Monticone passed away in 2010, Liz stepped into the position of technical

officer, having cut her lighting teeth in London’s West End,” Ms Fox said.

“As tech officer, Liz took on the gargantuan task of sorting and dealing with decades of lights and equipment, thousands of metres of cabling; auditing it all, and putting it all back together after the 2017 renovations.

“She has managed it all with her husband, Ross, at her side; all of it while managing a large local property, shearing sheep,

fighting fires, and more. Most recently, Liz and Ross were responsible for installing a cinema screen at the Little Theatre, with brackets designed and placed by Ross.

“The theatre’s whole ceiling is filled with innovations designed, manufactured and donated by Liz and Ross. While the lighting box is dedicated to the memory of Charles Monticone, the ceiling is a kind of Sherlock showcase.”

Tony Nassar and Samuel Pevere with the Dave Unwin Memorial Shield which they are sharing.

MEMBER FOR LIFE: New Cooma Little Theatre Life Member Liz Sherlock and president Caroline Fox.

Raglan Galley features Phillips Nozdrachev

SELF-TAUGHT multi disciplinary Ngarigo Country artist Benni Phillips Nozdrachev has opened his fifth exhibition at Cooma’s Raglan Gallery.

Phillips Nozdrachev, who lives at Numeralla, has named his exhibition Heads and Tails. It will be shown in two parts, with the first ending on December 22 and the second opening in mid-January and continuing throughout February.

The artist’s work has been exhibited in galleries, museums and symposiums in Australia, Finland, Germany, Estonia, Italy and Canada, most notable Alvar Aalto Museum (Jyvaskyla), Galleria Forum Box (Helsinki), Parnu City Gallery (Estonia).

It is included in public and private collections in Australia and internationally, including a public sculpture commission in 2019 in Joutsa, Finland. In 2024, Phillips Nozdrachev became a member of the Finnish Painters Union.

He lived in Germany and Finland for extensive periods of time.

After re-locating to Melbourne from 2002-2012, Phillips Nozdrachev lived and worked in Europe for 11 years.

He uses walking and gathering found objects as a conscious way to investigate and connect with small details

TALENT: Benni Phillips Nozdrachev’s painting, Furiosa’s

(detail) Acrylic, gouache on canvas 2024.

and abandoned objects are collected and concocted as marks of time and material banks of absorbed information.

He said by using a variety of this stockpiled material, his work merged into a cycle of order and disorder while exploring alternate perceptions within a direct environment.

“In the the exhibition Heads and Tails the focus is on painting while keeping this method,” he said.

“The paintings are still influenced by walking and observing/absorbing the direct environment.

ously completed paintings become the found objects. The previous painting becomes the foundation of the next. In this way, they continue to reach forward.

“They are over painted, deconstructed, reconstructed, conglomerated, erased, cut and sometimes painted blind. These techniques can be used alone or in any combination, composing dream-like ultimatums and the artists own alternating mentality and vision.”

The Raglan Gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday 10.30am-3.30pm in Lambie St, Cooma.

Christmas cheer across the Snowy Monaro

By KAREN FORMAN

CHRISTMAS is coming and Snowy Monaro communities have planned a number of public events to celebrate the season.

Almost every major town will host a carols event, and it seems that Santa will be busy getting around to most of them.

Saturday December 7, the Berridale Christmas Twilight Fair will be held on Jindabyne Rd, Berridale between 4pm and 9pm.

The fair, hosted by Berridale Lions Club, will feature stalls for Christmas gifts, the Lions BBQ, carol singers, Santa and a Christmas themed children’s fancy dress parade.

Also on December 7, the Bredbo Pie Shop on the Monaro Highway will offer Santa photos for all humans and pets for the cost of a donation to the Bredbo Rural Fire Brigade.

The event will start at 10am.

Sunday December 8, Jindabyne Lions Club will host its annual Seniors Christmas Lunch.

The event will be held from noon to 4pm at Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Centre on Barry Way, Jindabyne.

It is open to senior members (over 60s) of Jindabyne, Adaminaby, Dalgety or Berridale and carers are welcome to attend.

The lunch will include entertainment by local musicians.

Friday December 13 is the date for Christmas Carols in the Park at Centennial Park, Cooma, from 7pm.

Saturday, December 14, will see the Delegate Kids Christmas Party kick off with carols at the Presbyterian Church in Bombala St at 11am, a sausage sizzle and treats at the Delegate Country Club at noon and the all important visit from Santa at 1pm.

Every child will receive a gift and parents have been advised to reach out to Bec 0407089677 for more information about that.

Saturday December 14 will also be the day Christmas Carols at the Michelago Station 2024 will be held.

Presented by the Michelago Community Choir, the carols event will start at 5.30pm.

Bredbo Christmas Carols will also be held December 14 near the Gardem gazebo in Centennial Park.

Take a picnic and a chair. There will be craft from 4pm, singing with Cooma District Band from 5pm and a Santa visit from 6pm.

Parents have been asked to drop a gift valued to $10 to the hall during Post Office times prior to December 12.

Sunday December 15, Jindabyne’s Carols in the Park will be held at the Claypits stage, presented by Jindabyne Community Life Inc.

A host of local talent will provide entertainment from 5pm, with the carols starting as darkness falls. The event normally attracts hundreds of people, who take a picnic rug, chairs and snacks along to enjoy the music with the backdrop of Lake Jindabyne.

Call Rebecca on 64524512 as ask about our specially crafted festive menu

Trading hours during Christmas

* Monday to Saturday 10.30am-2pm (Lunch) and from 6pm Dinner

* Open Christmas Eve – A mixed sweet platter with every booking

* Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day

* Closed December 30 to January 2

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Thank you for your continued support.

Raincoat

Local youth graduate from SES internship

By KAREN FORMAN

STATE Emergency Services (SES) Snowy Monaro Chief Inspector

Mallika Bailey and Zone Commander South Eastern Zone Tom Jory travelled from Jindabyne and Goulburn to present 12 students with medals and certificates for completing the innovative SES Youth Internship Program.

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib sent a video message of congratulations and encouragement. Snowy Monaro Deputy Mayor Tricia Hopkins was also in attendance, supporting Cooma Monaro SES unit commander Amy Steiger and her team at the special presentation night.

The awardees were Kaysee Crouch, Ailia Reed, Teah Perov, Samuel Thompson, Thalia Riehs, Zoe Crawford, Molly Taylor, Rebecca Najar Andrade, Damien Bond, Ihan Mazzucco and Lizzy Morell and Grace Kelly (who were unable to attend).

Mrs Steiger said she had been pleased with the response to the program, with three schoolsMonaro High School, The Alpine School and Snowy Mountains Christian School - offering it to its students.

“Cooma was one of six units in NSW to offer the program, which gave year nine and 10 students the opportunity to experience life as an SES volunteer, learn new skills and make new friends,” she said.

“It has been good to see everyone getting involved as we have looked at personal safety, first aid, flood safety and all the things the SES does.

“There is no obligation but we would welcome any student who turned 16 and wanted to sign on as an SES volunteer.”

The Cooma course was

run over four nights and involved visits from the Rural Fire Service, first aid and CPR training and “a bit of smashing up cars”.

In his video message, Mr Dib said as a former school principal he was impressed the students had given up their free time to complete the course and become part of the SES family.

“One of the greatest things you can do is give to the community,” he said.

Mr Jory, also a former educator, thanked Mrs

Steiger and her team for giving up additional time to run the course and told the parents and carers in attendance the experience would prove of great value to the students.

“Thanks to the parents for giving the kids the opportunity to learn new skills and grow,” he said.

“You can’t replace this sort of learning with book learning.”

Student Damien Bond said he had enjoyed the course and would consider becoming an SES volunteer when he had completed his studies.

Snowy Monaro SES Chief Inspector Mallika Bailey and Zone Commander South Eastern Zone Tom Jory present graduate Thalia Riehs.

Teah Petrov.

Cooma Monaro SES unit commander Amy Steiger screens a message to the graduates from NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib.

Perov, Samuel Thompson, Thalia Riehs and (front from le ) Zoe Crawford, Molly Taylor, Rebecca Najar Andrade, Damien Bond, Ihan Mazzucco. Absent: Lizzy Morell and Grace Kelly. PHOTOS: Karen Forman

JCS alumni inspire next generation

JINDABYNE High School has hosted a special alumni event in its gym, celebrating the school’s legacy and strengthening its careers education program.

Graduates of Jindabyne Central School returned to share their career journeys with current students interested in following similar paths.

Supported by funding from the NSW Government’s Office for Regional Youth through the Regional School Alumni Events Program, the event also served as a farewell to the current school campus ahead of the relocation in 2025.

The event brought together 2025 Year 12 students, alumni, and teachers who had been at the school for a significant time. It provided a unique opportunity for students to connect with alumni from diverse career fields, including law, education, performing arts, sports management, paramedicine, and biomedical science.

Alumni engaged with students in small-group discussions, answering questions and offering valuable advice about life after school.

The event showcased the diverse career pathways taken by the 11 alumni who attended, offering valuable insights and inspiration to the current students.

Alumni travelled from Sydney, Tasmania, Canberra, and local areas to share their experiences.

Among them were a lawyer with the Australian Government Solicitor in Sydney, a scientist testing medical devices and medicines for the Therapeutic Goods Administration, and a paramedic with experience working in London and Canberra. Others included a real estate business owner with a background in mechanical engineering, a teacher who transitioned from economics and finance, and a drama professional who founded their own performance collective.

Alumni also shared stories of working in snow grooming before joining Snowy Hydro, combating human trafficking with the Australian Border Force, pursuing sports management roles with elite organisations, and studying a

Bachelor of Education inspired by their school experiences.

Another alumnus spoke about their current studies at the University of Tasmania. Each journey highlighted unique opportunities and challenges, underscoring the varied pathways available after school.

Graduate, John Hukins, now working in high-performance sport, reflected on the event.

“It was great to be back at JCS, reconnecting with fellow alumni and getting to meet some of the Year 12 students,” he said.

“I really enjoyed telling the students about my career in high-performance sport, and I hope they can take a few lessons home about how they can find a career that they enjoy.”

One of the highlights of the event was when the microphone

JUST ONE SPARK CAN START A FIRE

was passed around, giving teachers and alumni the chance to reflect on their favourite memories of the school. These stories, ranging from funny moments to pivotal experiences, celebrated the school’s vibrant history and the strong bonds formed within its community.

“I think there’s so much value in being able to meet up with past students and have them interact with some of the present students as well, to tell their stories,” long-time JCS/JHS teacher, Mr Kowalewski, said.

“It was so good to reminisce about some good times, some really challenging times as well, but really so many funny times. And I think to be able to have that sort of continuation, to pass on stories, and for current students to see the opportunities

others have taken, really shows how special Jindabyne Central/ High School has been.”

Year 12 student, Hugh Cooper, appreciated the advice shared during the event.

“I think the benefits of the alumni event was that talking to the past graduates it’s good to hear like advice for my career and what I want to do in the future. And, it was good to hear the funny stories of what the alumni did in high school,” Hugh said.

Year 10 students helped make the day a success by preparing the venue, serving refreshments, and documenting the event with photography. Guests enjoyed a light lunch and received commemorative gifts, including an engraved glass and pen featuring the school’s crest.

The school community thanked Ms Green, for instigating and co-ordinating the event. Her dedication ensured its success and demonstrated the school’s commitment to guiding students towards their future careers.

The event demonstrated the strength of the Jindabyne school community and its commitment to fostering connections between past and present students.

As the school prepares for its future at a new location, it continues to celebrate the achievements of its alumni and inspire the next generation.

FUTURE: Jindabyne Central School alumni gave Jindabyne High School students advice and spoke of their experiences a er finishing their high school studies. PHOTO: Supplied

Colour, glam of Adaminaby races

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

RACING action, a popular fashions on the field, socialising with family and friends, plenty of food and beverages, and beautiful weather all combined to create a very successful 2024 Adaminaby Races day on Saturday November 23. The event marked the 160th running of the Adaminaby

Cup, won this year by Last Quest ridden by Teaghan Martin for trainer Gratz Vella from Canberra and raced by a Bombala-based syndicate, which includes longtime owners and brothers Bob and Tim Stewart.

After the race, a delighted Tim Stewart said Last Quest’s win was a “big thrill”.

“It’s the biggest thrill with this one for a long time. We were one

of the roughies in the race too.

“The horse was bought from the sales in Melbourne as a twoyear-old, and has been with us for five years.

“We had recently turned him out because he bled from the nose.

“He had had a couple of bad preps, but has turned the corner with a new trainer.

“We’re very excited about

Teaghan’s ride today. She’s ridden the horse three times this year for two fourth places and a win.”

Mr Stewart expects Last Quest to be racing in this weekend’s Cooma Cup. Adaminaby Jockey Club president, Lynley Miners, said the 2024 event was a good day of racing in celebration of a special milestone.

“We are very happy with the event,” he said after the presentation of the Adaminaby Cup.

“The weather was good, and the crowd a bit bigger than last year. After having to call the races off three years in a row, due to Covid and wet weather, I am very happy to see the crowds building back up over the last two years.”

Kianna Fountain winner of the 14-18 years Best Dressed Filly category of Fashions on the Field.

Awarded Best Dressed Couple at the Adaminaby Races Fashions on the Field Belinda Dwyer and Thomas Southwell.

“Guppy” celebrated his birthday with mate, Ned Reilly, both of Sydney, at the running of the Adaminaby Races on November 23.

Tiny Tot category entrant, Henry Britton, aged seven months.

Winners of Best Dressed Youth Girl and Best Dressed Youth Boy.

Megan, daughter Lilly Easton, and Tegan Donald of Canberra visit Adaminaby on most race days.

Chris Dawe of Wagga Wagga and Judy Hayden of Adaminaby dressed to impress at Adaminaby Races.

Danielle Devine and Liza Cox of Jindabyne make a colourful duo at the races.

John Thompson and Julia Eyles (at front) of Adaminaby with Wayne and Louisa King-Gee of Cooma enjoying the shade under one of the large umbrellas at the Adaminaby Races.

RACE COLOUR: Tyla Owen, le , and Maddy Lloyd of Cooma at the Adaminaby Races. PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

Currawarna bus moves forward

By KAREN FORMAN

BOMBALA is well on track to having its own community bus service following a kickstart to Currawarna Assisted Living (CAL) Inc’s fundraising appeal from the local heat of the Australian National Busking Championships.

Event host, the Bombala and District Chamber of Commerce, has presented a total of $1491.43 to Currawarna for the appeal.

The money was raised through the sale of People’s Choice tokens and event stickers during ANBC Bombala, which flooded the town with competitive buskers, performers, supporters and members of the public on October 26.

Berridale siblings Filip and Justin Klempfner won the category and Currawarna volunteers assisted with the sale and counting of the tokens on the day.

“This is a great kick start to raising funds for a community bus,” CAL chair, Dr Keith Campbell, said.

“We see the bus as being an integral thing not only for Currawarna but also other people in the community.”

Dr Campbell said he was grateful the facility had been chosen as the charity partner of the event and looked forward to planning more fundraisers to achieve the $50-60,000 it requires to set up a bus service for the community.

“A bus will allow us to bring both our clients into the community and the community into Currawarna,” he said.

“The board has always been passionate about making Currawarna accessible to the wider community and encourages use of its office, kitchen and meeting spaces by community

groups as well as offering daycare/respite.

“The goal for the bus is for volunteers to be able to drive Currawarna residents and locals to and from medical appointments in Cooma and Bega and the like, as well as around the town for shopping trips and so on.”

Currawarna, which reopened as a hostel earlier this year after being closed as a nursing home a few years ago, now has 18 residents, with 10 beds left.

“We are right on track according to our business plan and are delighted with the support of the community, including the chamber of commerce and the ANBC for naming us as their charity partner,” Dr Campbell said.

Speaking on behalf of the CAL board and residents, Dr Campbell thanked the busking community and the chamber for their efforts on the day.

Council news in brief

New library service starts SNOWY Monaro Regional Library’s transition to a new operating model for the mobile library is almost complete, with the service, now known as the library outreach service, re-launching early this month.

Replacing the truck-based mobile library, this new operating model provides a monthly pre-booked pick-up and drop-off library service to residents in the Adaminaby, Berridale, Bredbo, Dalgety, Delegate, Michelago and Nimmitabel areas.

How the Library Outreach Service works

Monthly timetable of in-person collection and drop-off points in Adaminaby, Berridale, Bredbo, Dalgety, Delegate, Michelago and Nimmitabel

Pre-order library items by phone, email, or reserve items online

To order by phone, call (02) 6451 1630

To order by email, contact books@ snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

To reserve online, visit www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au/Library

Collect and return orders at one of the collection points across the region Library Outreach Service timetable for 2024

Monday December 9

Michelago Public School from 10.30 to 11.30am; Bredbo Public School from 12.45 to 1.45pm.

Tuesday December 10

Berridale Council Office, Myack Street from 9.15 to 10.15am; Campbell Street, Dalgety from 10 to 11am; Adaminaby Baker Street Playground from 1 to 2pm.

Wednesday December 11

Nimmitabel Police Station from 10 to 11am.

Thursday December 12

Bombala Street, Delegate from 2 to 3pm.

Creewah Road works

ESSENTIAL drainage repair works will be carried out on Creewah Road, Cathcart on Tuesday December 10

December in the Garden

With spring behind us its’s time to prepare for warmer weather and potentially less rainfall. Shade helps cool your garden and with mulch reduces evaporation.

Consider where you want to establish shade with hard structures, shade cloths, sails, some laserlites or trees, shrubs and hedges. These all help develop microclimates in your garden giving greater opportunity to plant shade loving plants. Which in turn help to cool your garden.

CHH have a selection of shrubs and hedge plants, shade, and fruit trees in various size pots. Or if you have a particular deciduous or fruit tree you would like us to try and source, let us know by mid-December so we can include with our bare rooted tree order, for winter delivery.

between 8.30am and 3pm, weather permitting.

Creewah Road will be closed to all traffic at the work site during these repairs, approximately 1.4km from the intersection with Cathcart Road. Local traffic only will be permitted on Creewah Road either side of the worksite, from Cathcart Road on the southern end and Moore Springs Road to the north.

Council’s roads team will be on-site next month to replace a damaged pipe culvert and its supporting headwalls, with these repairs preventing potential road shoulder collapse and ensure the ongoing safety of road users.

It is expected that this work will be completed by 3pm on Tuesday December 10, but weather conditions and other potential delays may require an additional day on-site on Wednesday December 11 from 8.30am to 3pm.

Full road closure required due to the elevated location and use of large equipment.

The closure times have been carefully selected to minimise disruption to local traffic, allowing time for morning and afternoon travel to work and school.

Tree stump removal

COUNCIL’S contractor has started to remove tree stumps along the Lake Jindabyne foreshore, between the Clay Pits and NRMA Caravan Park.

This stump removal is the final phase of works to clear dead trees from the Lake Jindabyne foreshore, which is being delivered thanks to disaster recovery funding. Weather pending, the contractors will be on-site for approximately three weeks. Residents and visitors are advised to keep clear of work areas, be alert to heavy vehicles and equipment, and follow the direction of staff and traffic control signage.

Access restrictions to work areas are only in effect while work is underway. Council will re-open these areas at the end of each day, and no work is being conducted on weekends.

If you are yet to establish your raised herb or veggie gardens there is still time to get planting with one of our new choices of raised garden beds. The Backyard Farmer Georgie Planter has optional accessories of a trolly or fitted protection canopy. Green Life Metal Designer Planters and Green Life Garden Beds come flat packed in various sizes, for you to construct and tailor for your requirements.

December garden tasks and plantings

•Plant last of veggies with 12-16 weeks to maturity to get crops before the big frosts return. Tomatoes, zucchini, pumpkin, cucumber, squash, capsicum, chilli, corn, peas, beans, celery.

•Consecutively plant: leafy greens, beetroot, onion, carrots, strawberries, coriander, parsley, sage, basil, mint, oregano and thyme.

•Flowers to plant: Dianthus, erigeron, snapdragon, gazanias, hollyhock, petunias, phlox, lobelia, alyssum, dahlia, nasturtium, alyssum, asters, zinnia and sunflower, Bee friendly mix, portulaca, nasturtium, marigolds, late summer, and autumn bulbs.

•Many plants are putting on their best floral and foliage displays throughout the warmer months so be sure to deadhead and fertilize regularly to keep them blooming, particularly roses.

•Trim your evergreen shrubs to thicken and tidy.

•Cut grass longer so roots lengthen to reach water further underground.

•Treat pests and remove weeds as soon as possible.

•Fertilize established thriving plants regularly, as per directions on your chosen fertilizer.

•New or struggling plants will prefer a tonic of Seasol or Charlie Carp to increase vigour.

•Less frequent deep watering in the evenings will help plants bounce back a er hot weather.

Happy Gardening!

Jodie and Jannene

Local talent shines in busking finals

 Berridale duo, The K Brothers, wow crowd with their musical talents. Filip and Justin finish with a highly commended award in the secondary category of the ANBC grand finals.

 Local group - Ron (right), Gaylene and Gus (far le ) are one of the most sought a er acts at the busking grand finals.

 Local artist, Gabi Forman, finishes third in the open age group of the ANBC grand finals.

 A first for the ANBC event is a street parade. The parade celebrates Cooma’s multiculturalism. Dancers from the Cooma Multicultural Centre provide plenty of colour and sound.

 Alpine Hotel owner, Kris Sharkey, ANBC volunteer, Leslie Spencer, and Cooma Chamber of Commerce executive o icer, Trish Williams, helping at the busking grand finals. The Alpine Hotel has been one of the ANBC major sponsors for many years.

PROUD: Australian National Busking Championships (ANBC) founder and organiser, Allan Spencer, stands in Cooma’s CBD as the street parade passes by. Despite the rain, a large crowd attended the ANBC grand finals in Cooma. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

Owen Smith, previosuly of Cooma, is a favourite at the ANBC events. Smith won the Central Coast regional heat to book his spot in the grand finals at Cooma.

Jindabyne artist, Tulli Oayda, is one of the longest serving performers at the Australian national busking championships. Tulli showcases her talents in the grand finals held in Cooma on Saturday.

Winners crowned as nation’s top buskers

Winners, Prizes & Sponsor List _2024 ANBC Grand Final

Primary winners are Belle Norman who finished first (second from right), second place, Georgia Sta ord (centre) and third is Paul Shorten with ANBC volunteers, Mathieu Nolte (le ), and Tony Nassar (far right).

in open, Gabi Forman and ANBC event manager, Mathieu Nolte.

PHOTOS: Karen Forman

6.00

7.30 7.30. 8.00

Happened

9.00

9.45

Or

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Mt Hutt Rescue. 3.30 Left Off The Map. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Miss Scarlet And The Duke. 10.50 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 MOVIE: Nightmare Student. (2021) 2.00 Surveillance Oz. 2.15 Catch Phrase. 3.00 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 1. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 1. 10.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 American Pickers. 12.00 Pawn Stars. 1.00 Highway Patrol. 2.00 The Force: BTL. 3.00 Billy The Exterminator. 3.30 Storage Wars. 4.00 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 1. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 8.30 MOVIE: Air Force One. (1997) 11.05 MOVIE: The Unholy. (2021) 1.05 Late Programs.

ER. 3.00 Doctor Who. 3.45 Speechless. 4.10 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Merlin. 6.15 Car S.O.S. 7.00 My Family. 7.30 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Hard Quiz. 9.00 Question Everything. 9.30 Gruen. 10.10 ER. 10.55 Not Going Out. 11.25 Speechless. 11.45 Late Programs.

10.45 ABC Late News. 11.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.40 Builder Brothers Dream Factory. 5.20 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.05 Kangaroo Beach. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.25 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.10 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.40 Doctor Who. 10.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Christmas Ball. (2020) 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 Great Getaways. Return. 8.30 Emergency. 9.30 A+E After Dark. 10.30 Casualty 24/7. 11.25 Resident Alien. 12.15 Tipping Point. 1.05 Cross Court. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Farm To Fork. 12.30

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 1.55 As Time Goes By. 3.15 Antiques Roadshow. 3.45 MOVIE: Home At Seven. (1952) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 The ’80s Top Ten. 8.30 MOVIE: You Only Live Twice. (1967) 10.55 Forensics: The Real CSI. 12.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Left Off The Map. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Buffy. 3.00 Modern Family. 4.00 Glee. 5.00 Modern Family 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares. 9.30 Ramsay’s Hotel Hell. 10.30 First Dates UK. 12.40 Kitchen Nightmares. 2.30 Hotel Hell. 3.30 Fresh TV. 4.00 First Dates UK.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 Exploring Northern Ireland.

Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Return. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? Final. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Shetland. 2.00 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission. 3.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 3.30 Long Lost Family. 4.15 Grand Designs: The Streets. 5.05 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Shetland. 9.30 Question Everything. 10.00 Hard Quiz. 10.35 The Cleaner. 11.35 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 5.20 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.05 Kangaroo Beach. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10 ER. 2.55 Doctor Who. 3.45 Speechless. 4.05 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 4.35 MythBusters. 5.25 Merlin. 6.10 Car S.O.S. 7.00 My Family. 7.30 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 MOVIE: The Commuter. (2018) 10.10 ER. 10.55

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Christmas Setup. (2020) 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 Find My Beach House Australia. Return. 8.30 MOVIE: The Accountant. (2016) Ben A ec Anna endric J. . Simmons. 11.00 MOVIE: Triple 9. (2016) 1.00 Our State On A Plate. 1.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. 12.00 Farm To Fork. 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 MOVIE:

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Close Encounters Down Under. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Jade Fever. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Pickers. 6.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Surveillance Oz. 8.30 MOVIE: The Woman King. (2022) 11.15 MOVIE: Resident Evil: Extinction. (2007) 1.05 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Left Off The Map. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Buffy. 3.00 Modern Family. 4.35 Bondi Vet. 5.35 Aust Got Talent. 7.00 MOVIE: Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. (2021) 8.50 MOVIE: Ghostbusters. (1984) 11.00 MOVIE: The Eyes Of Tammy Faye. (2021) 1.45 Shopping. 2.45 Fresh TV. 3.10 The Resident.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 1.50 Iconic Australia. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: San Demetrio, London. (1943) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Antiques Downunder. 8.30 MOVIE: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. (1969) 11.30 Late Programs.

DECEMBER, 2024

Phalaris producers survey underway

MONARO Farming Systems has finalised its project, Managing Long Term Phalaris Pastures, in collaboration with Tablelands Farming Systems.

The aim of the project is to assess current knowledge and management practices of phalaris amongst producers on the Monaro and Southern Tablelands and deliver recommendations to the Drought Hub of projects and activities that could be developed further.

Monaro Farming Systems and Tablelands Farming Systems conducted a survey of producer members of the two groups, with the results raising some a number of questions.

The summary of findings was then discussed by a panel of experts and producers including Jo Powells, Josh Barron, Lachy Ingram, Jim Virgona, Mandy Horton, Warwick Badgery and Nancy Spoljaric.

Some recommendations of projects going forward included addressing gaps in knowledge of phalaris staggers and introducing trial sites to research maintaining vigorous species composition in phalaris pastures.

Grasslands group calls for greater consultation

Important step taken as committee restarts

THE Monaro Grasslands Reference group met last week for the first time in more than four years. The meeting was well attended by Local Land Services staff as well as staff from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s vegetation mapping team from Sydney.

A large landholder contingent rounded out the attendees with Monaro Farming Systems (MFS) executives also present.

The difficulties in using satellite technology to map

grasslands were discussed and it was acknowledged the tablelands regions present further complications due to their unique characteristics. It was revealed that around 65 percent of Monaro farmland is listed as native/ regulated which is likely due to the inability of the mapping system to detect any pasture improvement pre-1990.

“During the superphosphate boom of the 60s and 70s, there were vast areas pasture improved and those improved paddocks have not been detected by the satellites, so

remain regulated,” member, Richie Taylor, said.

Other concerns centred around a lack of consultation on the implementation of the maps and the lack of trust within the farming community toward government environmental agencies.

Further concerns regarding a lack of consultation on the implementation of the maps and the lack of trust within the farming community toward government environmental agencies was raised.

“I think we have a real opportunity to create a positive

dialogue with the government on this issue and the restarting of this committee is a great first step,” Monaro Farming Systems chair, Mandy Horton, said.

“It was great that the mapping specialists from Sydney could travel down for the meeting and we look forward to more visits as we progress the consultation.”

The finalisation of the current draft maps was not supported by landholders until further consultation has occurred. The next meeting is planned for early 2025 and will coincide with a review into native vegetation management by the Natural Resources Commission.

PROGRESS: Snowy Monaro landholders are optimistic the resumption of the Monaro Grasslands Reference group will restart positive communications with the government agencies responsible for introducing new native vegetation mapping. PHOTO: Supplied

What are the new weeds on my doorstep?

THE introduction of the Biosecurity Act 2015 has changed the way in which many weeds are managed in NSW and it focuses the use of regulatory tools on high impact weeds which are in their early stages of invasion.

For these new weeds, because they are in such low numbers within the state or within a region, it is considered technically feasible to eradicate, or at least contain them.

Furthermore, the Biosecurity Act 2015 gives Council the tools, and in many cases requires Council, to enforce the control of these weeds.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council, as the local control authority in the Snowy Monaro region, is the agency primarily responsible for managing these weeds. Council weed officers are often asked, what are the new weeds that have now taken precedence over serrated tussock, African lovegrass and blackberry?

This article details some of the new and emerging weeds within the region and those which are on our doorstep that should be closely monitored and reported to Council if someone suspects their presence.

Orange hawkweed (Pilosella aurantiaca)

This highly invasive weed has allelopathic qualities which enables it to quickly outcompete beneficial plants and form a monoculture.

The only known infestations of orange hawkweed in NSW are situated within Kosciuszko National Park to the west of Snowy Plains and in some isolated pockets on private land at Snowy Plain. Drone surveillance identified several new sites during 2023/24. Immediate and persistent surveillance and control efforts have been implemented by Council, NPWS and private landowners to ensure

the best possible chance of eradication. Mouse-ear hawkweed (Pilosella aurantiaca)

Like orange hawkweed, this is an extremely invasive perennial herb and has become a major weed in New Zealand, Canada and the USA. The only known occurrence of mouse-ear hawkweed in NSW is on the main range near Mt Kosciuszko. Both hawkweeds are prohibited matter within NSW and are subject to statewide eradication programs.

Mouse-ear hawkweed has a very limited distribution on the main range and its eradication is highly likely thanks to the persistent efforts of NPWS staff, sniffer dogs and the many volunteers and agencies involved in the eradication program.

Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus)

Parthenium weed is a major pasture weed in Queensland and is known to cause severe respiratory problems and allergic reactions in humans.

Tracing efforts have identified three potential incursions of parthenium weed into the Snowy Monaro region in recent times from infested properties in QLD; two through suspected fodder movements and one from imported cattle. Each trace has been investigated by Council’s biosecurity team, however, no plants have been identified.

Like hawkweeds, parthenium weed is prohibited matter in NSW. The Biosecurity Act 2015 prohibits any dealings with this weed.

Prohibited matter weeds are notifiable weeds, meaning that members of the public must report suspect sightings. Council strongly encourages members of the public to adhere to this requirement to ensure that these weeds can be nipped in the bud before they have the chance to establish.

Council can access resources to assist landowners with their eradication efforts.

Silverleaf nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium)

Silverleaf nightshade significantly reduces pasture growth and crop yields. It can be toxic to livestock and is very difficult to control, having a root system that penetrates 2m–5m in depth.

Silverleaf nightshade has been detected on a property near Cooma where it is thought to have been introduced with fodder.

Silverleaf nightshade is known to occur extensively to the west of the dividing range, however, very few sites are known to occur within the south-east region of NSW.

For this reason, the South East Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan 2023–27 identifies silverleaf nightshade as a weed which should be aggressively managed, with the ultimate objective of eradication.

Spanish heath (Erica lusitanica)

Spanish heath is an upright shrub that somewhat resembles native tea tree. It has small white or pale pink tubular flowers and is a highly invasive weed.

A number of isolated sites are known to occur off the Monaro Highway, south of Bombala. Council’s biosecurity staff monitor these sites and treat new germinations from late winter through spring, to ensure that Spanish heath does not invade adjoining bushland.

Spanish heath is not widespread within south-east NSW. The South East Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan 2023–27 identifies Spanish heath as a weed which is unlikely to be eradicated from the region. It is therefore most appropriately managed through the adoption of containment strategies.

More Weeds of the Week will appear in next week’s rural pages of The Monaro Post.

YOUR STOCKIST

Free packet of Jelly Snakes with

LOCAL INFESTATIONS: Orange hawkweed has been found within Kosciuszko National Park and at Snowy Plain. PHOTOS: Supplied

Nimmitabel landholder praises e orts Sustainable wild dog management

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

A NOTABLE increase in native animals, particularly threatened species, is being observed on the Snowy Monaro as a result of an effective local wild dog management program.

In a letter to the region’s state and federal representatives and government agencies, Nimmitabel landholder Ant Waldren said despite the limited resources in funding for trappers in the area, widespread landholder support is primarily behind the program’s success.

Mr Waldren has urged local, state and federal government bodies, landcare organisations, Local Landcare Services (LLS) across NSW and the ACT to work together to create an efficient and effective solution to the wild dog issue.

“Landholder support through integrated 1080 bait runs for wild dogs and foxes, run effectively by our experienced local office of LLS and follow-up trapping by massively committed trappers, has seen a year-on-year increase in lyre birds, echidnas, wallabies and koalas on the Monaro’s eastern divide,” Mr Waldren said.

1080 is a naturally occurring chemical in plants and is harmless to native animals when used at wild dog and fox rates.

“The Monaro wild dog/fox program is nature-positive for many reasons, and if rolled out to the rest of the state, and in other states there would be an immediate increase in numbers of threatened native species.

“The huge success of our local program centres around our trappers,” Mr Waldren said.

“Using ethical soft jaw traps, they manage wild dogs coming onto private land and adjoining buffer zones of government land.

“This gives the dingo a chance to stay in pure family groups well within the park and these pure family groups are good at regulating sustainable family numbers without explosions in population, as happens with cross-bred dogs, and wild pigs.

“If there is no trapping the dingo will eventually die out, as they cross with domestic dogs when entering private land, and with dogs brought onto park campgrounds.

“Immediately they become a cross bred, and remain so in their breeding program into the future, no matter what percentage dingo they have in them.

“The pure dingo pack tends to localise well away from people, well within our great resource of national park.

“The dingo pack has an alpha female who controls the

breeding program, and don’t start breeding until three years of age. She dispatches of any pups in the pack which are not hers, until at some point she gets old and another alpha takes her place.

“This ensures sustainable numbers in the family pack, and the pack stays together.

“As soon as dingo crosses with a domestic dog, the breeding program changes to that of a domestic dog from then on, no matter the percentage dingo. The females then start to get into pup at five months of age, and have two litters per year.

“The result outside the Monaro has been a massive explosion of numbers of wild dogs, which are the major cause of native animal losses within the park and private land.

“Sheep farmers are going broke, cattle farmers are losing large numbers of calves and in a lot of cases their businesses are becoming unviable. At the same time the native animals on and next to their farms have been decimated.

“On places like the Ningaloo Coast, people are now being attacked on the beaches where they used to camp among echidnas, emus, wallabies and other native animals. All these native animals have been decimated by the wild dog.”

Mr Waldren said a massive

huge bait runs on government tenure land.

“This only kills the naive younger wild dogs, and the older ones don’t take the baits.

The result being a dispersal of the family pack, and a lot of individual dogs crossing with domestic dogs, and the situation is worse for native animals, campers on beaches, and farm business viability.

“There was a highly successful wild dog and feral cat program on the Ningaloo Coast close to 10 years ago.

“This was run by a wild dog contractor who engaged with and trained a number of Indigenous trappers. The result was an astounding increase in native animals, some being endangered, along that 350 kilometre stretch of coast.

“The other result was a great

and in many cases healing from the Indigenous trappers, who are now disillusioned to see the decimation of native animals, and the area being overrun by wild dogs, since the program stopped.

“The wild dog/fox program run on the Monaro, if rolled out around the country would be a fraction of the cost of current arguably less effective bio-security programs, and our ecosystems, communities and economy can thrive together.

“A big win will be the massive opportunity for integrated trapping programs in places like Bourke, Walgett and the Ningaloo Coast.

“Just another shout out for our local LLS, a mate of ours recently was on the Cooma Road and saw a Spotted Quoll cross the road at Pikes Saddle.”

ACTION: The wild dog management program on the Monaro is leading the way in e ectively controlling bio-security and ecosystem concerns.

PHOTO: PestSmart

Enviable development opportunity in Bombala

Address: 23-29 Maybe Street, Bombala

Asking: $250,000

Agent: Nutrien Harcouts Bombala

BOASTING 9870m2 (approx) with elevated views over the Bombala River Parklands, this is a fantastic opportunity to purchase four lots with potential for development in an idyllic location. Located along Maybe Street, the blocks all have frontage to the road as well as all town services nearby for connection. Lot 2, 4 and 5 are between approx 600-700m2 each and the larger, Lot 3, runs all the way down to the nearby parklands. This is a great opportunity if you would like to build your own home and either develop further lots later or to build your own oasis in town with river views.

Make your tree change today and develop the lifestyle you want, your way.

Looking for the perfect property to start your own rural dreams or additional country to compliment your existing holdings? Lot 206 Delegate Road is your answer!

• 3.7kms west of Delegate and bisected by the sealed Delegate Road

• Improved pastures on undulating hills that are lightly timbered with extensive fertilising history

• West paddocks are perfect for lambing and calving

• Majority of fencing in new condition

• 1.1km frontage to Delegate River and annual rainfall approx. 644mm

• Run o and spring fed dams complimented by reticulated trough system

• Raised board 3 stand shearing shed, powered by 10kva generator

• Steel cattle yards with crush and loading ramp, steel/timber sheep yards

• Storage machinery shed and grain silo

Going under the hammer 16th January 2025, 11am @ the Delegate Country Club, now is the time to book your inspections or contact the agents for further details.

Christine McIntosh

Lot 206 Delegate Road, Delegate

AUCTION

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

3 What, in the US, are law enforcement officers called (8)

7 Name a soft, subdued shade (6)

8 What is lack of appetite (8)

9 Name a tube through which liquid flows (6)

10 To pay out money, is to do what (8)

11 What is a faultfinder known as (6)

14 To have declared definitely, is to have done what (6)

17 Which term describes that which is open to dispute (8)

18 That which is devoid of lard could be termed what (3-3)

19 To be furnished with crossed strips, is to be what (8)

20 Name an alternative term for builds (6)

21 What do we call a person who tells a story (8)

DOWN

1 What is the diameter of a bullet known as (7)

2 What do we call those who engrave metals, etc (7)

3 Which term describes defamation (7)

5 Name a ballroom dance in 4/4 time (7)

6 What is marine algae known as (7)

11 Name a British comedian, film actor and director, Charlie ... (7)

12 What might we call one who denies or nullifies (7)

14 Name an Australian lawyer and diplomat, Sir Percy ... (7)

15 What do we call one who exacts satisfaction (7)

16 Which term describes those who deviate from the regular courses (7)

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

1 MOZZARELLA

(a) A short cape worn by popes and cardinals

(b) A privileged Christian under Moorish rule

(c) A softish cheese

2 NEPENTHE

(a) A sorrow-lulling drug or drink

E-QUATIONS 7

4 Melted cheese, sometimes mixed with beer, etc, is known as Welsh what (7)

Letters

Some

13 Name a simple musical wind instrument shaped somewhat like an elongated egg (7)

E-QUATIONS

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

(b) A rock-forming mineral

(c) A remote planet of the solar system discovered in 1846

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:

Deft (3)

Destroyed by fire (5)

Distress signal (3)

Fried sweet cake (5)

In support (3)

Organised sub-group (7)

Point of interest (5)

Restraint (7)

Small child (3)

Wreckage (5)

Solve

TRADES AND SERVICES

Concrete - All grades,

Landscaping - Tan Bark, Gravel, Sand, Aggregate, Bagged Cement, Concrete & Clay Pavers, Concrete Retaining Wall Blocks

•Structural landscaping services including paving retaining walls and irrigation. •All tree services including pruning, removal and stump grinding. •Consulting arborist tree hazard and risk assessment reporting.

CLEARING SALE

Saturday 7th December 2024

pavers; 1 x Pallet on concrete blocks; Weatherboards; 4 x Timber 10 pane French doors; Hardwood half glass exterior door; Yellow stringy deck boards (various sizes); 3 x Water IBC tank; Steel gantry; Full length workshop car ramps; Concrete finishinghelicopter; Commercial brickies barrow elevator; Stainless steel laundry tub; 3 phase electric welder; Metal pigeon hole storage shelving; Timber pigeon hole storage; Steel pipe storage rack; Old bridge timber planks; Farming Equipment & Materials – 1 x Sheep trough; 1 x Heiniger Evo

3PL carry all; Drawbar with harrows; 3PL grader blade; 3PL frame; Sunbeam electric wool press; Cattle scales; Pallet water valves; 2 x Steel barrier gates (150 x 75mm x 4.8m); 3 x Round steel guard rails (160mm x 7.3m); Qty curved galvanised iron; 4 x Steel bridge posts (150 x 250mm x 2.1m); 2 x Steel bridge beams (200 x 200mm x 7.6m); Cattle grid (2.7 x 1.8m); Tractor forklift attachment with mounting frame; Plastic water trough (1.0 x 2.1 x 0.5m); Cattle dehorners; Overhead belt operated shearing gear; H/D curved corrugated iron silo bases; Square hopper bin; Pallet press wheels; Large square steel water tank; Wooden posts – pine & hardwood; Heavy metal box frame (2.1 x 4m); 9 Boxes square

Tumbleweed composter; Outdoor gas heater; Outdoor white wicker side table; Adirondack chair; 2 x Wheelbarrows; Timber chest/log box; 5,000L Bushmans

(Slate gray, brand new, never used); 3 x Concrete laundry tubs; Various timber boxes; Enamel bath/trough; Dog kennel; Household Items – 2 x Wingback chairs; 2 x Pouffe; Side table; Piano stool; Various wall pictures; 2 x Bedside tables; 1 x Timber bedside table with drawers; 2 x Queen size beds; 1 x Double bed; Trundle bed; 2 x Single beds; Chest of drawers; Chest of drawers on castors; Bentwood chair; Timber rocking chair; Silvercast clawfoot bath; Burgandy cast clawfoot bath; Timber filing cabinet 3 drawer; Balinese coffee table; Various mirrors; French provincial table; French door timber drinks cabinet; Chesterfield lounge; Small green sofa; Farmhouse dining table; 4 x Dining chairs; Timber sideboard; Hallway runner; Large living room rug, Storage cubes; Buffet hutch unit; Balinese side tables; Vintage ‘Beard Watson’ Maple 3 door wardrobe; Various lamps; White slat venetian blinds (various sizes); Chest freezer; Fisher & Paykel French door fridge – 568L; Bread maker; Coffee grinder; Electric frying pan; Blender; Various kitchen items; Miscellaneous – Adventure Kings roof top tent; OZtrail dome gazebo; 2 x Tents; Recovery tracks; Water drums; Esky; Butchers bandsaw; Stefani water purifier; 20ft Grade A shipping container with built in shelves; 13ft Catamaran on trailer; Cast iron decorative panels; Assorted push bikes; Steel light posts; Outside Entries: 1. R Parker – Antonio Correro TRG9400 Tractor – fully reversible, approx. 240 hrs; Six spare tractor tyres & two front rims; 2023 Cattle yards (80 x 40mm x 1.8m x 2.1m panels, sliding gate, race, head bail & cattle ramp); Yamaha Kodiak 4x4 quad bike; New quad bike spray unit & upgrade pump; 600L Sylvan boom spray; Toro zero turn mower; Deep ripper with pipe laying facility; Super phosphate spreader; Massey Ferguson post hole digger (wide mouth); Diamond harrows; Wooden slat carryall; Chisel plough w new diamond points; Hydraulic adjustable disk plough; Three gang hydraulic roller mower; Slasher with oil filled clutch type gearbox, plus spares; 200L spray tank with 30m hose, upgraded gun & pump; Super seeder & combine super phosphate drill; Tractor tyre compressor; High side car trailer; Standard box trailer; 20” Echo chainsaw with new bar & chain; Maxi Trac ramps x 2; 1.8m fully remote glider with take-off carriage; DJI Mavic 2 Pro drone; 2. J & J Hedger – Portable loading ramp; Chainsaw/borer; Angle grinder; Spray unit; Chainsaw sharpener; Smoker; Post driver; 300 sheep rugs; Harrows 3. T Hedger – Motorcycle trailer – fits 3 bikes (unregistered) 4. E Corby – Chaff cutter; Single furrow plough; Horse drawn

EMPLOYMENT

DYNAMIC STAFF REQUIRED CUSTOMER SERVICE ATTENDANTS

We are looking for enthusiastic, outgoing people, with a zest for customer service!

The people we are seeking must be:

- Highly motivated

- Committed to outstanding customer service

- A team player

- Able to show initiative

- Reliable, punctual and flexible

The position involves providing customer service in a fuel and convenience environment.

As we operate 365 days of the year, successful applicants will be prepared to work weekends and public holidays. If all this sounds like you, please forward your application (attaching your resume): Shell Region Service Station 51 Sharp Street Cooma NSW 2630

SCHOOL CLEANER

The Alpine School, Cooma is seeking a cleaner or team of cleaners for our K-12 campuses, located in Cooma.

As a Cleaner, you will join our team of dedicated sta and play a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness and presentation of our school, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for our students, sta and visitors. The cleaning work is during school terms, commencing February 2025. You will need a Working With Children Check from Services NSW.

Please contact Katherine for more information and to apply: katherine@thealpineschool.nsw.edu.au or phone 6452 4004

FREEBODY, Edwin John “Ned”.

Passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at Yallambee Lodge Cooma and formerly of Kelton Plain. Aged 77 years.

Dearly loved brother, Uncle and mate to all.

The relatives and friends of the late Edwin John Freebody were invited to attend his funeral service which was held in the St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Cooma on Friday, November 29, 2024 and commenced at 11am.

At the conclusion of the service, the cortege proceeded to the Gegedzerick Cemetery.

BOTTOM, Anne.

Passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 28, 2024 at Hudson House Cooma.

Formerly of Monaro Highway, Cooma. Aged 84 years.

Dearly loved wife of Raymond (dec), Mother and Mother-in-law of David and Sue, James, Stephen and Mary-Jane. Adored Grandma to Natasha and Johnny, Joseph (dec), Hamish, Julia, Aidan, Samuel and Nathan.

Great-Grandma to Jack and Beau.

The relatives and friends of the late Anne Bottom are invited to attend her funeral service to be held in the St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Cooma on Friday, December 6, 2024 commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of the service, the cortege will proceed to Cooma Lawn Cemetery. The service will be live streamed. Please contact family for details.

WHEELER,

Warren Dalroy “Hooky”.

Passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at Eabrai Lodge, Weston. Formerly of Cobbin Creek Rd, Moonbah. Aged 86 years.

Dearly loved husband of Elizabeth. Father of Cheryl, Ronald, Susan, Jayne, Belinda and Steven and their partners. Brother of Chris.

Adored Poppy to his nineteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

The relatives and friends of the late Warren Dalroy “Hooky” Wheeler are invited to attend his funeral service to be held by the graveside at the Jindabyne Cemetery TODAY Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 11am.

Thank you from the family of McMILLAN, Bruce.

Maree (wife), Tristle (daughter) and family, Craig (son) and Terrie, and Karen (daughter), Ben and family; would like to thank everyone for their kind words and thoughts following Bruce’s passing. Thank you for attending his funeral.

Monaro’s market place

Cooma Races 2024

President Mick Schofield looks forward to Cooma Races

By MICK SCHOFIELD, COOMA MONARO RACE CLUB PRESIDENT

COOMA Monaro Race

Club continues to excel in NSW country racing.

Following on from a successful 2023, the club was once again awarded the special achievement award at this year’s Racing NSW annual awards.

The award is testament to the work which has been carried out over the last few years, with the club working hard to keep racing each year.

While our track is notoriously dry most years, 2023 saw us really battling the elements with two weeks of wet weather putting race day in doubt.

However, the committee decided to forge ahead, with the result of the full race program completed. I acknowledge the assistance and support of the 2023 stewards, who allowed the program to be shortened to allow all races to be run before the rain returned.

This year we are offering a seventh race, a 1880m benchmark 50 handicap. This race will start at the top of the straight, so racegoers will be able to see the horse jump out of the barriers.

Our long-time supporter, The Alpine Hotel, has offered the club an opportunity to run a calcutta this year.

Tickets will be available in the calcutta on Friday night at the Alpine.

I believe the calcutta will add a bit more excitement

and interest in this year’s race.

Fashions on the Field will be run again and will no doubt attract many entries. Thanks to the sponsors who make this event possible.

Racegoers will be able to access two ATM machines on course this year and there will be a good field of bookmakers on course as well.

While those in marquees have their catering sorted, there will be plenty of options for other racegoers.

The barbecue from the kiosk under the grandstand will be in full swing. The main bar will be in operation with Cooma Lions Club volunteers in charge.

Buses will again run from Centennial Park to the track and return during the day, so nobody needs to drive themselves to the races.

Due to the hard work of the local Corrective Services community service team, the racecourse grounds are in immaculate condition.

This work crew has also assisted the club with some general maintenance and painting which has really improved the appearance of the venue.

One again, my sincere thanks to the club’s committee members, volunteers and executive for their work in getting this year’s races underway.

Thanks also to the many sponsors of the Cooma races – it would be very difficult to hold a race meeting without the generosity of our sponsors.

All is set for a truly great day’s racing at Ti Tree Racecourse on December 7.

RACES READY: Cooma Monaro Race Club president, Mick Schofield, and vice-president, Cameron Johnson, celebrate the club winning best country and picnic race meet at the recent NSW Racing awards. The duo is looking forward to this Saturday’s races.

PHOTO: Cooma Monaro Race Club

Cooma Races 2024

Sundowners Cup honour roll - 1993 to 2023

THE past 31-years have produced some interesting races days at Ti Tree Racecourse.

The first Sundowners Cup, contested in 1993, was for amateur riders. By 1994, that had changed, with registered jockeys now legged up on the race hopefuls.

The previous winners are:

1993

1. Bluendi, rider Mrs Carol Dunn, trainer Mrs B Joseph, Bombala. Owners RH & Mrs PA Kimber, IJ & Mrs J Nixon; 2. Man Of Law, 3. Zoffaline 1994

1. Bentu, Roly Saxton, 2. Ivy Whistle

3. Impervious Time: 1.23.60; margins n x 1/2l

1995

1. Roma’s Delight, R Garland, GM Price, Canberra, PP Burke and GM Price; 2. Parelli,

3. Seattle Sue Time: 1.23; margins H x 2l

1996

1. Our Final Notice, K Sweeney, Peter Staunton, Canberra, JT Huet, CA Barallon, A Moore N Kennedy; 2. Doc Appleby, 3. Nettleton’s Creek Time: 1.24.3; margins 3l x 2/34l

1997 1. Life Cycle, Greg Farrer, Miffy Rae; 2. Cool Park

3. I’m A Roullah

Time: 1.22.40; margins 4l x 2 1/4l

1998

1. My Money, A Layt, Stuart Sturgeon; ST & Mrs AG Sturgeon; 2. Wuji, 3. Dancing Off Time: 1.22; margins 5/12l x H

1999

1. Taluk, P Millyn, Myffy Rae, Queanbeyan; Miss M Rae; 2. Pion, 3. Rising Glow, Time: 1.22.24 margins nose x 4l

2000

1. Oubladee, John Scorse, Barbara Joseph; 2. Stormy Desert. 3. Mutola

Time: 1.21.05; margins 2l x 1/2l

2001

1. Shy Prince, Ray Silburn, Chris Strickland; 2. Lord Andrio.

3. Justie John Time: 1.22; margins 2l x h

2002

1. Little Connie, Brent Poile, Darren Lucas, Adaminaby, 2. Brett Siinclair

3. Zhivago Time: 1.22.20, margins 4 1/2;l x 2l

2003

1. Yackety, John Scores, Stephen Hill

Kembla Grange, Mrs K Hill; 2. Jungle Girl, 3. Ken’s Barbie Time: 1.22.91, margins h x 1/2h

2004

1. Bliss Miss, Ray Silburn, Barbara Joseph, Canb, Mrs BM Joseph, GL Flint, PG Kimber, RG Logan, Mrs J A Kimber, BL & Mrs CD Day, AJ & Mrs D Greenwood & Mrs CL Maguire; 2. Jungle Girl, 3. Billigaboo Time: 1.21.10 (track record); margins:

3 ¾ l x 1/2l

2005

1. Song of Junee, Kevin Sweeney, Bernie Fraser, Canb, BW Fraser; 2. Colour Me In; 3. Dittman Time: 1.24.82; margins 2l x 1l

2006

1. Brado’s Girl, Cariisa Lambert, Libby Snowden Canb, All Enterprises (WA) Pty Ltd; 2. Zarbaru, 3. Lauren Lou Time: 1.23.02; margins, 1/2l x 1/

2007

1. Get Global, Jessie Whipp; John Nisbet, Canb; 2. Racers Spirit

3. The Catwalk Star Time: 1.24.83; margins 1; x 1 1/4l

2008

1. Miss Canberra, Shane Pawsey, Mick Miladinovic, M Milandinovic; 2. Poker Pro, 3. On The Barby Time: 1.22.10; margins 2l x H

2009

1. Big Noting, Jim Scobie, Gundagai, Miss KM Blay, JW Scobie, G &Mrs B Armour, C &Mrs G McGrath, M & Mrs J Bruce, P & Mrs S Mills

2. Call Me Combo

3. Beaubridge. Time: 1.22.25; margins H xh

2010

1. Four My Girls, Roly Saxton, John Nisbet, Canb, KC Jones, Mrs El Jones, Mrs P Jones, G, Jones, B Jones, Mrs N Jones, Mrs K Wyeth, A Wyeth.

2. How Discreet, 3. Little Hawk Time: 1.22.25; margins 2l x 2 1/4l

2011

1. Ain’t Half Hot, Michael Travers, Neville Layt, Canb; 2. Circuit, 3. Praise Time: 1.24.27; margins ln x 1/2l

2012

1. Mugga Lane, KG O’Leary, MT O’Leary. Aaron Clarke, Winona Coston. 2. Millset

3. King Mini Time: 1.21.70; margins 2 ¼ lengths

2013

1.Balinese Boy, Richard Bensley,, Shane Kember 2. Morshead

3. Stevos Regret Time: 1.23.17, margins 2 x 3.5l 2014

Meeting abandoned. Race not held

2015

1.Impulse, Shelley Walsh, Grant Bobbin.

GJ Bobbin, DR Spence, CL Schrader, DJ Armstrong, Mrs W Wilton and DN Wilton.

2. Biographical

3. Ghost Bunny

4. Time: 1.22.75, margin 0.8l

2016

Ay Oh Whey Oh, Rachel Hunt, Barbara Joseph and Paul Jones, Everley Girl, Luckier.

Time: 1.22.60. Margins 6 ¾ x l

2017

Orsippus, Kacie Adams, Kevin Byrne

The Revenant Bumbunga Time: 1.25.75. Margin s/n x s/n

2018 Save a Match, Magan Taylor, Trevor McIllrick

Trapper Tom Call the Clock

Time:1.21.18

Margins:3/4 x 1 1/2

2019

Mahjong Rose, Amy McLucas, Guntiss Lukss Bycromac, The Diggings, Time: 1:23.98 margins: 2.01, 3.44

2020

Royal Popcorn, Jess del Frari, Clare Mansell

The Diggings

Alpha Lane Time: 1.24.26

Margins: 2 x 2.2

2021

Wegee Lou, Ruby Haylock, Geoffrey Brother Low Altitude

Hayyu Time: Margins 1.81 x neck

2022

Eight Willows, Teaghan Martin, John Rolfe

Rage, Lonhro Lily Time: 1.21.38

Margins: 1.32 x2.05

2023

1.Danjel, Pierre Boudvillain, John Rolfe

2.Sherman

3.Threethumbsup

Time: 1:28:01; Margins:8.03 x8.49

Associated sponsors of the Cooma Races

Collies Ag; White Filly Boutique; Schofield Sheep Services; Schofield Shearing; Resources NSW; Elders Insurance; Cooma Auto Electrics; Blaxland Mawson and Rose; The Alpine Hotel; Alpine Motor Group; McGrath Real Estate; Michelago General Store; Monaro Freight; Monaro Meats; Summit Smash Repairs; Think Pink Plumbing and Gas; Your Workwear; South East Tile and Bathroom; Snowy Mountains Mechanical and Towing; Schofield Livestock and Property; One Agency; Quods Plumbing; Monaro Wool Services; High Country Truss and Frames; Elders Ltd; Cooma Tyres; Cooma Truckstop; BP Rhythm Snowsports; Caringo Partnership; Cooma Furnishing Co; Cooma H Hardware; Baker Provan; Banjo Paterson Inn; Bobingah Farms, Colliers, Monaro Media Group; Women in Racing; South East Printing; Shell Region Service Station; Roger Norton; Nebula Motel; Office Play; Macks Auto and Tyre Centre; Mainstreet Clothing; Massari Motor Repairs; M & T Motors; Gordon Litchfield Wool; Dave’s Computer Sales; Cooma Trophy and Gift Centre; Boller & Co; Dry Plains Contracting; Ben Neilson; Monaro Milk and Juice; Burke’s Plant Hire; and Top to Bottom Plumbing.

Race committee thanks its generous sponsors

COOMA Monaro Race Club says it is grateful for the support received from the community and especially its sponsors.

Major sponsors this year include: Snowy Hydro, McDonald’s Restaurant, Cooma Ex-Services Club, Hazeldean, Southern Disposal Services, Monaro Tyrepower, South East Rural Supplies and Colliers Ag.

The club is genuinely appreciative of the contribution made by these sponsors, some of whom have been supporting the club for literally decades.

Snowy Hydro has sponsored the Cooma Cup since 2021. The corporation is a strong supporter of local community events which bring people together and encourage visitors from outside the area to visit and experience our wonderful region.

Cooma Ex-Services Club has been a sponsor of the Sundowners Cup for most of its 31-years. Club secretary-manager Kade

Morrell said race meetings like Cooma’s are important to the local community, which is why the club is happy to support Cooma Monaro Race Club.

Local businesses McDonalds Restaurant, South East Rural, Southern Disposal Services and Monaro Tyrepower also value the contribution a

local race meeting makes to its community, and the local economy. A very warm thank you to all the sponsors, from Cooma Monaro Race Club.

GENEROUS: Through the support of local businesses and the hard work of its committee, the race club is able to help local organisations such as the Monaro Committee for Cancer Research (mcCr). The mcCr received a grant from race club president, Mick Schofield, and secretary, Gail Eastaway OAM, at last year’s meet.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Cooma Cup, a race day favourite

1988 Jon’s Harvest Ben Wymen

1989 Bruce’s Worry, L Black, 1.36.8

1990 Bemboka O’Neill, R Wheatley, 1.35.7

1991 Charm Boy, F Cleary, 1.552

1992 Mountain of Love, D Rolfe, 1.53.7

There

Nimmity Beau and Sebony, winning more than once. Scotch Tom won the cup three times, in 1972, 1973 and 1974. Sebony won in 2009, 2012 and 2013.

These are the winners from the last 60 years. Some details are missing due to incomplete records in some years.

1964 Bill, 1.37

1965 Delsound, 1.39.25

1966 Dual, 1.37.25

1967 Big Tide, 1.14.5

1968 Barjon, 1.36.5

1969 Light Scotch,

1970 Katoon, 1.38

1971 Miss Jet D’Eau Paul Graham, 1.35.45,

1972 Scotch Tom, Don Stewart, 1.36.5

1973 Scotch Tom, Don Stewart, 1.37

1974 Nimmity Beau, Leonie Creamer, 1.36.5

1975 Nimmity Beau Leonie Creamer, 1.37.5

1976 Scotch Tom, Don Stewart, 1.37.5

1977 Ladylike Grace, 1.37

1978 Chakola

1979 Reservoir, Barbara Jones

1980 Red Warrego, P Martin

1981 Sky Max, L Creamer

1982 Mac’s Bush, GJ Hanlon, 1.38.3

1983 Toll Bar, SR Cole, 1.38.9

1984 Lots of Space, K Carpenter, 1.24

1985 Mac’s Chariot, R Wheatley, 1.23.5

1986 King Again, L Black, 1.37

1987 Chapel Street Frank Cleary

1993 Glenidle Lad, B Callaghan, 1.53.8

1994 Dismasted, DJ Londregan

1995 All Angels, Bob Haire

1996 Handy Gift - Trevor McIllrick

1997 Cloud Dancing – Peter Crawford

1998 Mon Clown, David Matts

1999 Concorde Flight, Barbara Joseph

2000 I Knew The Judge, Doug Cole

2001 Macqueen, Keith Dryden

2002 Shagney Miss, Stephen Turner

2003 Lacristi, Chris Strickland

2004 Patent, Barbara Joseph

2005 Protective Custody, Chicka Pearson

2006 Bossy Matilda, Garry Clarke

2007 Lorenzo, Mick Miladinovic

2008 Gangleri, Darryl Rolfe

2009 Sebony, Chris Strickland

2010 Jymcarew, Amanda Collings

2011 Celtic Soul, Rado Boljun

2012 Sebony, Christ Strickland

2013 Sebony, Chris Strickland

2014 RAINED OUT NO CUP

2015 Asciepius, Len Hodgson

2016 Imminent (NZ) Matthew Strickland

2017 Girls Own, Barbara Joseph and Paul Jones

2018 Coolamine, Georchie Boucher

2019 Great Glen Damon Budler

2020 Charlie Royale Matthew J Stephens

2021 Goodrdigbee Marg Gee

2022 Nieces and Nephews, Barbara Joseph, Paul and Matt Jones.

2023 Nieces and Nephews, Barbara Joseph, Paul and Matt Jones.

SUCCESS: Nieces and Nephews has won the last two Cooma Cups for Joseph and Jones Racing.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Cooma Races 2024

Roger Norton, a race day favourite

By DAMIEN BOND, ON WORK EXPERIENCE

ROGER Norton has been a bookmaker for 63-years and counting, and has had a connection to the Monaro region for 200 years.

Mr Norton was always interested in the racing life. He started his hobby in bookmaking when he was 20. Mr Norton was an assistant secretary for one year, he was a councillor for Cooma Monaro Shire Council, and mayor, for seven terms. Being a bookmaker was never his sole source of income, he always had another job. He has been a lot of places for racing including Randwick, Rose Hill and Canterbury.

The Snowy Monaro has produced 14 bookmakers over the years and Roger is the last remaining bookmaker in the region. This year for the first time in Cooma, there will be seven programmed races with 13 bookmakers said to attend. Twelve have come from a long way, coming from as far as Cowra, Wagga and even Victoria and yet there will only be one local bookmaker.

The world has changed over the years, including the racing world. In 1983-84, there were 31 Cooma Monaro bookmakers at away events. One left with the growth of corporate bookmakers like TAB.

Mr Norton said the away bookmakers are receiving the markets live, so the punters are assured the very best prices. Because of the use of

computers, it’s a continued feed.

Mr Norton said going to a bookmaker has advantages such as having three different prices on all horses. There is also flexibility and longer price feeds. You also get your winnings are guaranteed straight away. When you use apps there is shorter price feeds, one set price and sometimes you must wait a period of time to get your winnings.

The first bookmaker meeting was in 1856 (five years before the first Melbourne Cup). Some people come to the races to bet some don’t and most like to go out to the races just to enjoy a nice day out to socialise.

Mr Norton was the president of the Cooma Race Club between 1994-98 and is a life member of both the Cooma and Canberra Race Clubs.

“It’s always good to go down and have a chat to the bookmakers if you need anything, they are very encouraging and will help out with what they can,” he said.

To become a bookmaker, you will need to be over 21, know the sport and the bookmaking industry. You will also need to have experience as a bookmaker clerk and not have any convictions of racing related offences. Bookmaking is a dying profession. There used to be about 1000 bookmakers and now there’s only around 100. Bookmaking will be back later in the future, technology can’t always be reliable but bookmakers will be at all the races to help you place bets and without the bookmakers, the races lose some atmosphere.

www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

PLACE YOUR BETS: Cooma races’ longest operating bookmaker, Roger Norton, will once again be taking bets this year. Gamble responsibly.

Long history of race club

THE first record of an organised horse race meeting is gained from the issue to Joseph Ward, on February 25, 1855, of a publican’s booth licence, for races to be held at Tea Tree Flat on March 20, 21, and 22, the licence being operative from 6 am till 10 pm.

Another meeting was held at the same place on October 26 and 27 of the same year.

In June, 1856, booth licences for races were granted to Joseph Ward and James Hain, publicans of Cooma, and Alexander Walker Davidson, of Reid’s Flat (now Bunyan), and the two first named secured licenses for a meeting on March 17, 18 and 19, 1857, and another meeting on Boxing Day.

Later, races were conducted on Cooma Creek, the finishing post being somewhere near where the Co-operative Mill was afterwards erected.

These were the premises that were used by Messrs. Ruddin and Co. as Freezing Works.

The first authentic race programme it has been

possible to discover is printed on a single sheet of paper, and is headed, “Beresford Picnic Races, 1867.” It comprises six events, and a perusal of it indicates the number of the horses belonging to the pioneers.

The Maiden Plate, The Ladies’ Purse, and The Beaten Stakes, were each run over a mile and a half course; The Bachelor’s Bag

was two miles, with 11Ist. up; in the big race, The Picnic Cup, horses were asked to run three miles carrying w.f.a. to win a prize of £10/10/0, whilst the Hack Race was run in mile heats, also w.f.a.

The name “Beresford” was probably adopted from the fact that Cooma is within the county of Beresford. On August 15, 1871, an area of 320

acres was dedicated as a recreation reserve, and on this racing has since been conducted.

The body controlling the sport has seen many ups and downs, but is now in a flourishing condition. It has had quite a number of changes of title, and in 1895 was known as the Manaro Jockey Club. In 1896 it became the Cooma Racing Club.

COOMA Monaro Race Club has won the Racing NSW Community and Picnic Race Club Award for the second consecutive year.

The awards were announced at the annual conference held in Sydney earlier this year.

President, Mick Schofield, and new vice president, Cameron Johnson, represented the club at the conference and also enjoyed a complimentary day at Randwick for Epsom Day.

Mr Schofield said he was delighted to accept another award for the club, especially after the challenges the club faced last year, with heavy rain in the weeks preceding the race meeting.

He thanked the hard work put in by the committee in ensuring the meeting could go ahead. He also thanked the race day stewards who worked with the club to bring forward the races so a full program could be completed.

The race club conducts an annual race meeting on the first Saturday in December.

The club has been in operation as Cooma Monaro Race Club since 1993, but thoroughbred racing has been held at the Ti Tree Racecourse since the1855.

In recent years, the club has managed to conduct its annual meeting despite weather events and a pandemic.

In 2023, the week preceding the meeting saw 100mm of train dumped onto the Monaro, including the Ti Tree Racecourse.

An emergency meeting held on the Wednesday afternoon prior to the meeting saw the management committee vote to proceed with the meeting, hoping the track would continue to literally weather the storm.

As it was, rain threatened on race day and the stewards, in consultation with the executive committee, agree to allow the races to be brought forward to complete the racing ahead of time.

The result was a successful race program, with all races being completed and 50 starters contesting the races.

Baker, and trainer, Tim Martin on winning race 6. The race club has a proud history of delivering one of the best, if not the best, country race meets.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Drink and gamble responsibly

WHETHER you are a regular punter or a once a year dabbler, there are risks associated with gambling.

Keeping gambling safe means knowing what your limits are both in terms of money and time and knowing when to walk away.

In order to ensure you have an enjoyable day at the races this year, here are some easy to follow tips: Gamble for the fun of it, not the money.

Set yourself a limit and don’t exceed it.

Think of the people who need your support.

Stay in control and gamble responsibly

Never borrow to gamble - make sure the money you are spending on gambling is your own.

Drink responsibly

The Cooma Races might be the town’s largest social event, but the importance of remaining safe whilst celebrating, especially as the festive season fast approaches, only continues to become more relevant.

The number one safety tip is to organise a safe journey home.

The emphasis on race day is ensuring patrons have a good time,

but obey the rules when it comes to alcohol consumption.

That includes not providing alcohol to anyone under the age of 18 years.

The National Guidelines for alcohol consumption also provide some handy hints that will keep you in good health.

These include:

Drink no more than four standard drinks on a single occasion;

Setting limits for yourself and sticking to them; Start with non-alcoholic drinks and then alternate with alcoholic drinks;

Drink slowly; Try drinks with lower alcohol content;

Eat before, or while you are drinking; and If you participate in rounds of drinks, try including some nonalcoholic beverages.

There will be buses running from Centennial Park and other stops around Cooma on race day, taking people to the track and return.

Cooma Radio Taxi are also a good option for safe travel to the races.

Fashions on the Field for 2024

The 2024 Cooma races will once again hold Fashions on the Field with Clare Aitchison and Lauren McMahon the two coordinators. As usual, the competition has categories to suit just about everyone.

The categories are:

· Fillies on the Field (18-28)

· Divas on the Field (29-40)

· Diamonds on the Field (40+)

· Best Dressed Man

made on the day. Due to the generosity of the sponsors, there are substantial prizes being offered for each category together with a sash.

The club sincerely thanks the following sponsors for their support for Fashions on the Field in 2024:

Mainstreet Clothing Birdsnest

Bush Basics

Calcutta, face painting, champagne bar to enhance race day experience

Club hasn’t won successive Racing NSW awards for no reason.

Each year the club tries to develop new initiatives to make Cooma’s only annual race meeting bigger and better than before.

To that end, this year the club welcomes back the

These two additions allow racegoers a ‘space’ to call their own during race day. Another innovation is live music which will be played straight after the last race for

about an hour, to allow patrons to finish their socialising, grab some last drinks and relax before heading back into town.

Popular musician Michael Horneman will entertain patrons this year.

As some racegoers like to bring their children to experience all the excitement of

race day, the club this year has engaged the services of a facepainter, so the little people can capture part of the essence of race day with an appropriate design.

One of the club’s long-time sponsors, the Alpine Hotel, will conduct a calcutta on the Sundowners Cup this year. The

calcutta tickets will be available for sale at the hotel on Friday night.

Some lucky punter could make their race day extra memorable by ‘owning’ the winning horse on Saturday. Buses to the race track leave Centennial Park from 10.30am and return after the last race.

A highlight come race day is the Wildbrumby Champagne bar. Last year, Sarah Burns and race club volunteer, Jacqui Schofield, enjoyed their time in the Champagne bar.

SOCIAL: The Cooma Races will bring thousands to the Ti-Tree Racecourse this weekend.

COOMA Monaro Race

Wildbrumby Champagne bar as well as the Trackside Tables which proved very popular in 2023.

THE local Australia Navy Cadet unit, TS Orion, is thriving in Jindabyne, with a 30 percent growth in cadets in the past 12 months.

TS Orion was also recently named runner-up ‘Best Unit in Flotilla’ - a region from Sydney to the southern NSW border.

TS Orion runs as youth development program for teenagers aged 13-17, where they enjoy water-based activities, overnight camps, and week-long camps with cadets from around the country.

As a leadership development organisation, opportunities like this enable cadets to use their interpersonal skills and become more confident interacting with a wide range of people.

“As a volunteer staff member for this organisation, it is such a privilege to support our cadets and be a part of their

development,” newly appointed, Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Lee Clark ANC, said.

“Many of the staff are also parents of cadets, and going on fun adventures like tallship rides and powerboating with your

child and their friends, is a great way to spend your weekends.”

TS Orion will host a come-andtry day on Saturday December 7 at 10.30 am. Teenagers aged between 12 and 17 are invited to participate in a range of cadet

activities such as learning how to tie knots, basic drill and action-based learning games.

TS Orion to hold come, try day

By TRISTA HEATH

LAURA Stamp and Samantha Denford held their first Snowy Community Market as hosts on Sunday December 1 and it was a

great success.

More than 20 stalls including Avalanche Honey, Poochie & Co, Wired4Imagination, Jindy 3D Printing, The Wild Gardner, Snowy Mountains Eucalyptus

Oil, Snowy Mountains Fermenting Co, Hearth & Homestead and more set up stalls on the day providing local products to the community. Christmas-themed, the

The day will showcase what Navy Cadets is all about and what a great experience it is.

TS Orion is located inside

Recreation Centre, opposite the athletics oval.

For further information, contact, TSOrion@navycadets. gov.au

New market hosts hold successful first event

markets saw the community enjoy a day of shopping, listening to live music from Harrison Denford with the opportunity to enjoy some treats from Birchy’s Kiosk.

The first markets have been deemed a success, Mrs Stamp and Mrs Denford said they look forward to hosting many more monthly markets in the future.

Local group focusses on fish habitat restoration Cooma to host Snowy fish talks

AUSTRALIA’S rarest fish are fighting for survival, and local fishers are stepping up to help.

OzFish will deliver the inaugural Snowy Fish Talks event, where local recreational fishers, conservation enthusiasts, and community members are encouraged to attend to learn about fish habitat restoration projects in the Snowy Monaro region.

The talks will provide a chance to find out how locals can get involved in preserving local waterways for future generations. Partnering with the Upper Murrumbidgee Demonstration Reach, the event will feature talks from local experts dedicated to restoring native fish habitats. Each speaker will share insights into current projects, challenges, and

the crucial role that community support plays in fish conservation. With lucky door prizes and finger food provided, Snowy Fish Talks promises to be an informative and enjoyable evening for all. Speakers and their topics: Ryan Lungu (OzFish) – The role of Recreational Fishers in Habitat Restoration; Mark Lintermans

(University of Canberra) – Habitat Restoration for Macquarie Perch in the Upper Murrumbidgee; Antia Brademann (Upper Murrumbidgee Demonstration Reach) – The Upper Murrumbidgee Demonstration Reach; Jillian Keating (NSW DPI Fisheries) – Saving Australia’s Most Endangered Fish: The Stocky Galaxias; and Leon Miners (South-East Local Land Services) –Riparian Restoration and Its

Impact on Fish Populations. There will also be fishing tips from locals, provided throughout the evening. The evening is free to attend, but registrations are essential. This event also marks a membership drive for OzFish, helping grow the local chapter and extend efforts to restore your fish habitats Snowy Fish Talks is on Thursday December 12 from 6pm to 8.30 pm at the Cooma Ex-Service’s Club.

The Conscious Crop supplied the community with fresh flowers.

The family friendly event was popular for all to attend.

The Cra y Artist set up with hand made cra ed wood items.

The Snowy Mountains Fermenting Co. selling delicious condiments.

Lee Clark and Hunter are encouraging young people to come along for the TS Orion come and try day.

Onboard the James Craig tallship.

DEVELOPMENT: The TS ORION squad is excited for Saturday’s open day. PHOTOS: TS Orion

Golfers raise thousands for Jindabyne swim club

By COOLAMATONG GOLF CLUB

SUNDAY’S two-ball ambrose event proved very popular with one of the biggest fields of the year supporting the fundraiser day for the Jindabyne Swim Club.

Winners of the scratch score were Michael Justen and Ian Wheeldon with a four under 67 score.

Runners-up in scratch were Michael Miakishev and Levi Tomesone with 69, and in third place Steve Dunn and Charlie Filtness with 69.

Justen and Wheeldon played particularly good golf and were helped by holing two long putts from off the green and Justen was unlucky to get pipped on the long drive hole after hitting a boomer drive.

In the nett scores, Carl Fenton and Jason Copeland had 38 points, winning on a countback from Steve Cuff and Josh Crawford, with Dan Wilson and Adam Foster in third place, all with 38 points.

The men’s long drive for handicap went to Soeren Stoettrup on the 11th hole and the non-handicap long drive went to Matt Ball.

The ladies handicap long drive went to Kylie Woodcock and the non-handicap long drive to Sonya Velteno.

The near pins for the men were Terry Stevenson on the third, Alan Manning on eight which came to rest less than 12 inches from the hole, Jason Copeland on 15 and Peter Wines on 17.

The players were very thankful of the great food served by the Jindabyne Swim Club, and the few words from Olympian swimmer and coach Graham Windeatt who won the 1500m freestyle silver medal at the 1972 summer Olympics.

In the swim club raffle, Steve Young won the first prize hamper, Ben Hearn second and Steve Cuff third.

Next Sunday is the W R Wallace trophy, and the following week the presidents v captains day.

Coolamatong club support Jindabyne community group

By BOMBALA BOWLS

BRAD Tonks, Bailey Jones and Peter Jones have won Bombala Bowls Club’s triples final.

The trio defeated Noel Batey, Chris Ryan (sub) and Robert Joseph 23-15 in an evenly contested game.

The lead alternated until end 15 saw the Jones team take a significant lead.

Team Joseph fought back to reduce that lead to only

December 15 will be the final round for the Eclectic, with Rainer Beissner leading the men on -28, from Richard Hendriks, Terry Stevenson and Geoff Murphy all on -27.

In the ladies eclectic, Carolyn Major on -30 has a three shot lead over Michelle White.

The final of the scratch match play event will be decided with Soeron Stoettrup taking on Steve Dunn.

Last Wednesday, you could be forgiven thinking it was presidents and captain day, as Alan Parsons won the day with 37 points on a countback from Geoff Murphy.

Both players had very consistent looking cards and it came down to the wire on the

countback, with Parsons 3 pointer on the 17th being the decider.

In A grade Chris Brown had 34 points.

In B grade, Alan Parsons had 37, Geoff Murphy 37, David Rubin 37, Kim Weston 36 and Gregg Quinn 34.

In C grade, Roy Gabriele was best with 31 and Kevin Kramer with 29.

The best of the ladies was Kylie Woodcock on 32 points.

Near pins for the men were Rob Haigh on the third, John Henderson on 15 and Pom Wheeldon on 17.

Near pins for the ladies were Jan O’Halloran on the third, Kylie Woodcock on eight and 17 and Carolyn Major on 15.

Triple treat for bowls winners in Bombala action

four shots.

Team Jones then dug deep, taking the championship win.

The first found on October 20 saw Scott Brotherton, Herbie Elliott and Athol Dent defeat Mark Guthrie, Don Tattersall and Cary Elton 31-14

Noel Batey, Pip Fuller and Robert Joseph defeated Matt Cootes, Joyce Cotterill and Bert Ingram 32-15. Karen Brownlie, Neil

Brotherton and Barry Crouch forfeited to Brad Tonks, Bailey Jones and Peter Jones

The second round resulted in Brad Tonks, Bailey Jones and Peter Jones beating Scott Brotherton, Herbie Elliott and Athol Dent 27-20.

Noel Batey, Aurora Reed (sub) and Robert Joseph defeated Art Frances, Doreen Dent and Ray Fermor 22-20.

Adaminaby residents to make a splash in summer

THE last of the region’s pools has welcomed its first swimmers with Adaminaby families and residents ready to make the most of their swimming season.

The pool opened on Tuesday December 3 and will open seven days a week from 1pm to 6pm.

Summer is almost here again and the team at Adaminaby Pool is

looking forward to welcoming local swimmers back for the season.

In welcomed news for residents in the region, Council has confirmed their local pool will be open seven days a week.

The Adaminaby pool will openfrom 1pm to 6pm until the end of season.

“The re-opening of the nearly 60-yearold facility had been

delayed by one day from the date announced earlier in the year, due to additional maintenance items discovered during preparations for the start of the swimming season,” a Snowy Monaro Regional Council, spokesperson, said. The swimming season at Adaminaby Pool comes to a close on Sunday March 2, 2025.

FUNDRAISER: Roger White congratulates Sunday’s scratch winners Ian Wheeldon and Michael Justen.

PHOTOS: Coolamatong Golf Club

Michael Justen just missed out on the long drive prize.

Jason Copeland and Carl Fenton won the nett prize in the two-ball ambrose fundraiser for the Jindabyne Swim Club.

Top exhibition of lawn bowls

By COOMA BOWLS

THE final of Cooma Bowling Club’s ladies singles championships was played last week with spectators treated to a masterclass of draw bowls.

Olga Jebbink and Leonie Snell, both in excellent form, put on a display of ‘never-say-die’ bowls.

Repeatedly, when one of the bowlers was holding two or three shots, the other would deliver a terrific shot to win the end.

Early in the match, Leonie led 4-1, then 7-4 after five ends. By the ninth end, Olga took the lead 12-7 after some precision bowling. By end 16, Olga continued to lead, in front 18-14, and 22-14 after end 19.

With outstanding accuracy, Leonie fought back to trail by just one shot, 22-21. Olga then produced three precise bowls to lead 25-22 after 26 ends, and retain the title of ladies singles champion.

The scorecard from the final of the Cooma Bowling Club’s ladies singles championships. A close match was enjoyed by the crowd and finalists, Leonie and Olga.

Farmer, tradies day produces ace event

By COOMA GOLF CLUB

THE Cooma Golf Club has hosted the fifth annual South East Tile and Bathroom Centre Tradie and Farmers Day.

Bailey Burke, Col Evans and Peter Mould won the event overall with 66.2 nett. The runners-up were Jason Brazulaitis, Dylan Litchfield and Jimmy Boller with 66.6 nett on countback from the third place team Andrew Rolfe, Oliver

Chapman and Timothy Keighley.

Nearest the pin on four went to Harry Mould, the ninth was claimed by Bailey Burke, hole 11 to Ben Abraham and 17 to Roger White from Coolamatong Snowy Mountains Country Club. Roger’s prize was a $1000 voucher from Caroma.

The winner of the hackers’ long drive was Max McCardle and the golfers’ long drive went to Jimmy Nichols.

The prize sponsors were the Alpine Hotel, Davco Australia, Ardex and Caroma.

On Saturday, only a few of the hardiest golfers took to the course in the torrential rain to play for the Klein Trophy and stableford.

Dave Goggin was the overall winner of the stableford with 38 points. Dave also won the Klein Trophy along with his playing partner Mark Burke with a

Mixed scores for Bombala golfers

By BOMBALA GOLF CLUB

THERE was no golf on Saturday at the Bombala course with much needed rain falling.

Sunday was a warm day, no rain. A reasonably-sized field played a stableford for club trophy. There was a mix of good scores and poor ones.

Wayne Elton was the winner, coming in with a fine score of 39 points. Ray Crawford also had a good score of 38 points.

Phillip Shilling would have been happy with his round, finishing on 35 points. The these three were the ball winners.

Nearest the pin on seven is proving difficult, no one found the

dance floor. Elton collected the golden shot again, he was won the last four.

Program for the week

Ladies

Wednesday December 4 - stableford, club trophy

Members

Saturday December 7stableford, club trophy

Sunday December 8par, club trophy

four-ball-best-ball aggregate score of 66 points. Balls went to Bailey Burke, David Stewart, Mark Burke and Claire Caldwell.

In Sunday’s stableford, Marcel Too was the overall winner with 42 points followed by runner-up Ben Rolfe with 39 points on countback from Tim Young.

Nearest the pin second shot on 18 went to Bailey Burke. Balls went to Tim Young, Bailey Burke,

Dylan Litchfield, Thomas Stewart, Paul Dyball, Shannon Fergusson, Paul Lloyd and Adam Schofield.

In last week’s mid-week stableford, David Stewart was the overall winner with an impressive 40 points. The A Grade winner was David Crawford from PambulaMerimbula Golf Club with 36 points, the B Grade went to Ray Berkery from Maryborough Golf Club and the C Grade winner

was Claire Caldwell with 37 points on countback from Dylan Litchfield. Balls went to Dylan Litchfield, Col Langdon, Warren Bray, John Harris and Barry Williams.

This Saturday is the medal of medals, the competition of the day will be a medley stroke all golfers can play in.

Saturday December 14 is the ham hit-out which will be held in conjunction with the captain v president Cup.

Tradtional tennis rivalry reaches 40-years

THE Berridale Tennis Club held its annual Rocky Plains and Berridale competition. The day was well supported by local tennis enthusiasts. This year marked the 40th anniversary of the local competition. Current Berridale club president, and one of the original organisers,

Robyn Reid, played on the day, with Wayne Hedger, Pat McPhie, Robyn Woodhouse and many other original players supporting on the day, cheering from the sideline.

Team Berridale won the day by four games.

A junior competition was also held with eight rising tennis stars

in action. Sister and brother duo, Sienna and Finn Penn, were the winners.

The Berridale Tennis Club runs a social night competition on Tuesday nights from 6pm and Monday mornings from 9am. Contact the club for more information. The club boasts five courts.

Jindabyne Sailing Club competes in Kembla Klassic

ON THE weekend of November 23, a number of the Lake Jindabyne Sailing Club (LJSC) Nacra fleet headed to the Kembla Klassic regatta at Port Kembla Sailing Club, Lake Illawarra. The Saturday proved very windy with most boats opting not to sail and they completed two races on Sunday. Alan Davis placed fifth amongst the Nacra fleet and Alistair and Lucy Cross came eighth.

Well done to all sailors in challenging conditions.

On November 24, LJSC completed Races 2 and 3 of the Spring Pointscore series following a number of abandoned races due to high winds in previous weeks.

The first race commenced in a very light one to two knot south easterly. Yet as soon as the race started the Lake Jindabyne wind did it’s usual, and the wind swung to the east and blew at around five to eight knots.

After three laps of close racing in Division 1, Dave Rubin came first, followed by Mal McLean and Kerry McGaw.

In Division 2, Matt Mason sailed his new Nacra 16 Pintop for the first time and close racing over four laps saw Adam Robinson finish first.

There was a change of course for Race 2 - using Peninsular and Town marks. Due to the start boat slipping it’s anchor, the start line was shortened causing Kerry McGaw to capsize on the start. Once back in his boat he then had to try to catch the fleet. After two laps Dave Rubin came in first. Division 2 sailed three laps

with Adam Robinson finishing first.

On November 27, an ever increasing fleet saw wind speeds of up to 13 knots in the fifth race of the twilight series. Using the quarry area as the start, the low water kept the sailors on their toes as they headed to club and then out to the middle of the lake. The club mark seemed to be in a wind vacuum, and the wind varied in strength and direction all over the lake.

In Division 1

Commodore Steve Osbourne took first place, and in Division 2 Thor and Freya Slater took line honours and first place after handicap in their first race of the season.

The sailing club is busy preparing for the bi-annual regatta on December 6 to 8. Details to register are on the website, lakejindabynesailingclub.com.

Races will be held from 10am to 4pm if you want to visit the club (off of Kosciusko road before the Thredbo turnoff) to watch.

Three Nacras get away from the start in the fi h race for the Twilight Series on Lake Jindabyne.

Smiling Barney Davis at Kembla Klassic.

SAILING: Al and Lucy Cross at Kembla Klassic.

PHOTOS: Supplied

Trail runners test limits

ON A day that had it all, from blue skies to storms, North American runners made their mark on Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko by UTMB, with Abby Hall (USA) and Quinton Gill (CAN) claiming victory in the 100km races.

Hall, a two-time UTMB Mont Blanc CCC (100km) podium finisher, demonstrated her class to lead the women’s race from start to finish, taking the tape in 13:05:01.

Sydney based Kiwi Juliette Soule (NZL), racing just her second 100km, finished as runner-up behind Hall in 13:22:46, with Bahu Bali (AUS) rounding out the podium in third in 14:29:56.

After enduring a frustrating couple of years while she recovered from a serious knee injury, Hall’s mantra for the day was to run with confidence and end her year on a high in a race and place she’s never experienced before.

“It’s so meaningful to me [to have a day like this]. I think anyone who’s been through a step back in the sport can attest to those little moments when no one’s watching and you’ve got a dream and you’re grinding away at it, and today is a meaningful step in the journey of what I’ve been working to get back to for so long,” Hall said.

“There was so much really amazing support. Thanks to all the awesome crowds and cheering, it was full on. It blew away my expectations, everyone

came out in full force.

“I love it here. I really love it here so much, I just had the best trip.”

Though her main goal was to put together a performance she could be proud of, another of Hall’s ambitions was to qualify for the CCC race at the 2025 UTMB World Series Finals in Chamonix, France. By finishing in the top three of the Kosci100, she did just that.

In the men’s Kosci100, Blue Mountains based Canadian, Quinton Gill, emerged victorious in what was his first 100km race in a time of 10:10:30. Behind him, Matt Gore (AUS) and Josh Chugg (AUS) worked together to create

Where

a gap between themselves and those chasing podium places, while Gore was able to squeeze a little extra out of his legs in the final few kilometres to pull away to finish in second, nearly six minutes ahead of Chugg in third.

“I feel ecstatic, words really can’t explain it,” Gill said.

“A lot of hard work has gone into this event, so it’s a little bit emotional right now considering the roller coaster of years I’ve had leading up to it.

“The support at aid stations was absolutely amazing. Obviously, my support crew who were there with me, I wouldn’t have been able to do without them.

But I think just the organisation

made everything very flawless and the transitions were just really quick and easy, course markings were fantastic, I never had to doubt myself once, which is always awesome.”

Gill spent weeks preparing specifically for his first 100km and UTMB World Series race, including a recon of the entire course three weeks out from the event. His hard work paid off and Gill couldn’t be happier.

“I think the biggest thing that I did that made this race possible for me is I came down to the course three weeks ago, and I did the entire 100km over three days and just broke it up like that,” Gill said.

“I honestly think that gave me the advantage because I knew where I needed to push and where I needed to slow down as we ran the course.

“I love races, but races are just the steppingstones to bigger and better things. They’re the cherry on top of all the hard work that we put in to show what the human body is capable of.”

Due to adverse weather conditions, the Kosci100 and KosciMiler races were paused for around two hours to ensure the safety of all athletes. Overall results were calculated based on each athletes’ finish time minus the time they were held.

WINNER: Quinton Gill of Canada took out the 2024 Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko by UTMB 100km title.

PHOTO: Luke O’Shea

Postman John brings cheer SAP projects progressing

JINDABYNE LIGHT DISPLAY TO RAISE THOUSANDS

By TRISTA HEATH

THE most famous Christmas lights display in Jindabyne lit up Bent Street on the evening of Friday November 29, drawing a joyful crowd to witness the impressive display come alight.

With an exciting new look,

John Mcloughlin, known as Postman John, has completed a revamp of his display this year after almost a decade. In its 36th year, the community can expect new lights, new displays, new entrance, and a lot more interactive displays throughout the yard of 14 Bent Street.

Home to John and Doreen, the display draws hundreds each year with a coin donation upon entry as they raise money for local organisations. John said this year all funds raised will be divided amongst The Fly Program, Thredbo Early Childhood Centre, and Snowy Mountains Community

Association. With so many exciting additions this year, including a life size mickey mouse upon entry, John is looking forward to welcoming the community to his display and seeing the Christmas joy it brings.

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UPGRADES to the Barry Way remain on track for completion before hundreds of school students start 2025 at the new Jindabyne education campus.

Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, joined Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, in Jindabyne earlier this week to inspect the progress of the Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct (SAP).

The Barry Way upgrades, which started in November, involve landscaping and works to deliver a safer and easier drop-off section when the new school opens.

The new campus includes a separate primary school and high school, known as Jindabyne Public School and Jindabyne High School.

Mr Whan and Ms Moriarty also visited other sites earmarked for SAP projects, including the Lake Jindabyne foreshore where a 3.5km shared path will be upgraded between Banjo Paterson Park and Widows Creek.

“The Snowy Mountains SAP is playing an important role in creating long-term economic prosperity in the region,” Ms Moriarty said.

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JOY: John Mcloughlin (Postman John), Ryan Rowson and Sue McKid celebrate the first night of Postman John’s famous Christmas light display.

PHOTO: Trista Heath

Trail runners test limits

THOUSANDS CONVERGE ON MOUNTAINS FOR TRAIL FESTIVAL

ON A day that had it all, from blue skies to thundery storms, North American runners made their mark on Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko by UTMB, with Abby Hall (USA) and Quinton Gill (CAN) claiming victory in the 100km races.

Hall, a two-time UTMB Mont Blanc CCC (100km) podium finisher, demonstrated her class to lead the women’s race from start to finish, taking the tape in 13:05:01.

Sydney based Kiwi Juliette Soule (NZL), racing just her second 100km, finished as runner-up behind Hall in 13:22:46, with Bahu Bali (AUS) rounding out the podium in third in 14:29:56.

After enduring a frustrating couple of years while she recovered from a serious knee injury, Hall’s mantra for the day was to run with confidence and end her year on a high in a race and place she’s never experienced before.

“It’s so meaningful to me [to have a day like this]. I think anyone who’s been through a step back in the sport can attest to those little moments when no one’s watching and you’ve got a dream and you’re grinding away at it, and today is a meaningful step in the journey of what I’ve been working to get back to for so long,” Hall said.

“There was so much really amazing support. Thanks to all the awesome crowds and cheering, it was full on. It blew

away my expectations, everyone came out in full force.

“I love it here. I really love it here so much, I just had the best trip.”

Though her main goal was put together a performance she could be proud of, another of Hall’s ambitions was to qualify for the CCC race at the 2025 UTMB World Series Finals in Chamonix, France. By finishing in the top three of the Kosci100, she did just that.

In the men’s Kosci100, Blue Mountains based Canadian, Quinton Gill, emerged victorious in what was his first 100km race in a time of 10:10:30. Behind him, Matt Gore (AUS) and Josh Chugg

(AUS) worked together to create a gap between themselves and those chasing podium places, while Gore was able to squeeze a little extra out of his legs in the final few kilometres to pull away to finish in second, nearly six minutes ahead of Chugg in third.

“I feel ecstatic, words really can’t explain it,” Gill said.

“A lot of hard work has gone into this event, so it’s a little bit emotional right now considering the roller coaster of years I’ve had leading up to it.”

“The support at aid stations was absolutely amazing. Obviously, my support crew who were there with me, I wouldn’t have been able to do without them.

But I think just the organisation made everything very flawless and the transitions were just really quick and easy, course markings were fantastic, I never had to doubt myself once, which is always awesome.

Gill spent weeks preparing specifically for his first 100km and UTMB World Series race, including a recon of the entire course three weeks out from the event. His hard work paid off and Gill couldn’t be happier.

“I think the biggest thing that I did that made this race possible for me is I came down to the course three weeks ago, and I did the entire 100km over three days and just broke it up like that,” Gill said.

“I honestly think that gave me the advantage because I knew where I needed to push and where I needed to slow down as we ran the course.

“I love races, but races are just the steppingstones to bigger and better things. They’re the cherry on top of all the hard work that we put in to show what the human body is capable of.”

Due to adverse weather conditions, the Kosci100 and KosciMiler races were paused for around two hours to ensure the safety of all athletes. Overall results were calculated based on each athletes’ finish time minus the time they were held.

WINNER: Quinton Gill of Canada took out the 2024 Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko by UTMB 100km title.

PHOTO: Luke O’Shea