A SNAPSHOT of country life was on display at the Nimmitabel Show on Saturday.
Nimmitabel Show Society president, Ben Litchfield, said the main focus of the committee was to ensure show patrons enjoy themselves and are happy.
The opening ceremony featured a special presentation by the Royal Agricultural Society to show stalwart and well-known Greenland Merino Stud grazier, John Alcock.
Mr Alcock was more than a little surprised and humbled by the recognition and said he was honoured to receive the award.
The activities and events around the show ground kept patrons entertained, the most popular being the shearing competition, horse ring events, yard dog trials and chain sawing demonstrations and competition.
“The sheep and cattle were well-attended and there was plenty of good competition,” Mr Litchfield said.
“The shearing was well-run and had good, strong fields in the open (professional) and novice sections, which was great to see.”
■ More on pages 25 and 31
Underground work stopped in further project delays
By NATHAN THOMPSON
IN A further setback for Snowy 2.0, some underground operations have been halted following safety concerns workers have with the project’s refuge chambers.
Concerns workers are not properly trained to operate the refuge chambers or lastresort chambers have stopped tunnel boring machines (TBM)
Florence and Kirsten.
Both machines, as well as drill and blast operations in the power tunnel caverns and waterway tunnels, were stopped early last week.
The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) claims workers have not been trained in the operation of the refuge chambers and underground emergency evacuation procedures.
“The workforce has decided enough is enough and out of frustration and genuine concern for their safety, decided they had no option but to stop working underground until their concerns are appropriately addressed,” AWU NSW secretary, Tony Callinan, said.
In a statement to this masthead on Wednesday January 29, Snowy Hydro said
it takes safety concerns
‘very seriously’ and is taking steps to address previous concerns.
“Some underground work at Snowy 2.0 has temporarily stopped while principal contractor Future Generation Joint Venture (FGJV) takes steps to ensure a back-up safety system meets strict safety requirements,” a Snowy Hydro spokesperson said.
“The matter relates to the project’s refuge chambers, last-resort areas where workers
Show season starts in district Safety concerns halt Snowy 2.0 progress
can shelter in the unlikely event that both primary safety systems are compromised and evacuation routes are blocked.
“Snowy Hydro expects FGJV to maintain the highest safety standards and requires the contractor to resolve matters relating to certification, management plans and additional training requirements, before underground work in the affected areas can begin again.”
■ More on page 5
OPENING: Nimmitbel Show Society president, Ben Litchfield, past president of the RAS NSW, Robert Ryan, Young Woman 2025, Charlotte Pateman, Rural Achiever representative, Taya Evans, team leader of major sponsor, Zinfra, Matt Evans, and Merino sheep steward and past president of Nimmitabel Show, John Alcock.
PHOTO: Melinda Cairns Hack
Chamber has bumper year planned
Jindabyne committee ‘strongest’ in years
By TRISTA HEATH
JINDABYNE Chamber of Commerce has a full schedule coming into 2025, after hosting its first successful event for the year with Rocking the Lake on Sunday January 26.
This free event featured local artists on the Claypit stage with roughly 500 community members and visitors attending.
Consisting of nine members including Olivier Kapetanakos, Fiona Latham-Cannon, Kerin Jarvis, Nicole Webber, Gary Grant, Nic Davoli, Lizzie Willett, Reece Brase and Simon Partell the chamber has all confidence in the committee’s success.
Chamber secretary, Fiona Latham-Cannon, said they have a full house of nine very committed chamber committee members, the strongest team they’ve ever had.
Plans are well underway for the Snowy Monaro Business Awards in March then the popular Jindabyne Snow Ball event in May, while continuing to host Jindabyne Connect meetings every month.
“The committee announced the annual Snowy Monaro Business Awards, with nominations
now open until the end of February,” Ms LathamCannon said.
“To support businesses in their award nomination applications, the next Jindabyne Connect is scheduled for February 20 at the Brumby Bar, where I will offer guidance.
“I will be on hand to answer any questions about the responses and the wording as well as any other questions businesses may have.”
After a successful Snow Ball last year, the committee has begun planning this year’s event with a theme announced recently.
“This year, we have a bigger Snow Ball committee and we’ve already held our second meeting,” Ms Latham-Cannon said.
“The committee has chosen Fire and Ice as the theme for this year’s event and started seeking volunteers to help with the event as we need at least a dozen people to work within the timeframe that we’ve got to set up at the Jindabyne Bowling Club.”
The committee has already secured entertainment for the ball and expect numbers to soar from last years with all money raised to go towards the ‘Light up Jindabyne’
project, another chamber initiative.
“This project, to illuminate Jindabyne to support our night time economy hasnt been without its challenges in finding the right solar technology to be used in the right places,” Mr Kapetanakos said.
“Never the less, we are working closely with Council stakeholders and the suppliers for a solution.”
Amongst the many chamber initiatives, one close to the hearts of all members is the Lake Reflections Project.
Announced last year, the chamber worked with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to collaborate on the development of an engaging and culturally enriching community project named the Lake Jindabyne Reflection Stories.
This initiative will bring to life the rich history and cultural heritage of the Snowy Mountains, including stories from local Olympians, Indigenous traditions, the Snowy Scheme, ski resort development, war veterans and the longstanding local farming families.
Ms Latham-Cannon said
PHOTOS: Supplied
the committee wanted to try and create some kind of recognition of cultural significance for the lake foreshore.
“Our perspective is that we want to raise the tourism attractions in the area, whether it be an event or some kind of cultural installation, something that is going to give tourists something to do when walking the lake foreshore,” Ms Latham-Cannon said.
“And as a result, increase the visitation rates and increase the positive effect it would have for our town’s economy.
“Jindabyne Chamber of
driving tourism to the Jindabyne area.”
In the last few years, the chamber’s membership has skyrocketed, going from only a handful of memberships to having more than 60 members today.
Ms Latham-Cannon said it has helped fund the extra work that’s involved in sourcing, maintaining and administering all the projects that the chamber has chosen to do.
Last year, the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce were awarded the Outstanding Local
finalists in the NSW State Business Awards, something the chamber feel proud of.
Planning to attend the awards again next year, the chamber will continue its efforts for the Jindabyne community.
Visit the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce Facebook page for updates on initiatives and meetings, and contact secretary@ jindabynechamberofcommerce.org.au for more information on the chamber and how to get involved.
EVENT: Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce secretary, Fiona Latham-Cannon, president, Olivier Kapetanakos, and treasurer, Kevin Jarvis, at the 2024 Snow Ball.
Council satisfaction declines during year
Libraries rate highly, roads need attention
By NATHAN THOMPSON
COMMUNITY satisfaction with the performance of Snowy Monaro Regional Council has declined over the last 12-months, according to the organisation’s latest community satisfaction survey.
The survey, commissioned by Council and conducted by the Taverner Research Group, found overall satisfaction with Council’s performance had decreased from 2.39 (out of five points) in 2023 to 2.33 in 2024.
The result remains lower than Taverner’s regional NSW council average of 3.17.
Council libraries and the cleanliness of streets received the highest satisfaction rating, while development related services and the condition of roads were among the lowest ranking.
The survey was conducted between October 21 and 28 and captured the views of 400 residents in the Snowy Monaro local government area.
The survey took place a few weeks after the Council elections and resignation of CEO, David Hogan.
Snowy Monaro mayor, Chris Hanna, said Council will use the results to guide future planning and budget allocations.
“This yearly survey helps us
understand what matters most to our community. Where we’re getting things right, and importantly, where we need to do better,” Cr Hanna said.
“The importance of services has remained pretty stable over the four years that the survey has been running. We know we’ve got more work to do, and these results will play a big role in informing our planning and priorities.”
The 2024 Community Satisfaction Survey results, mark the fourth consecutive year for the survey which provides community feedback to benchmark Council’s performance and guide the organisation’s future strategic direction.
The survey results, available on Council’s website, provide insight into community priorities and satisfaction levels across Council services and operations.
Conducted between late October and early November last year, the 2024 survey highlights several key focus areas for the Snowy Monaro community.
Road infrastructure remains residents’ top priority, with the need to find the right balance between development and community needs, and Council leadership and governance rounding out respondents’ top three priority areas.
Key survey results
Overall satisfaction
Council Customer Services
PERFORMANCE:
Regional Council mayor, Chris Hanna (right) and deputy mayor, Tricia Hopkins, say the results of the most recent community satisfaction survey will guide Council’s planning and priorities.
“We encourage everyone to head to Council’s website to read through the detailed survey findings,” Cr Hanna said.
Four hundred residents took part in the survey with 41 percent declaring Cooma as their closest town.
The survey results are expected to be discussed at the February ordinary Council meeting on Thursday February 20.
Community satisfaction decreased this annual reporting period, with the overall satisfaction score mean (2.33) falling below the 2023 result (2.39). This is higher than the lowest regional NSW result in the Taverner database (2.16), however, remains significantly lower than the regional NSW Council average (3.17).
Council facilities, services
Libraries and cleanliness of streets were rated positively (rated four or five, out of five) by 50 percent or more respondents in 2024 and were the highest-ranking facilities and services. Development related services - finding the right balance between development and community values and Development Applications (DAs), and the condition of roads were among the lowest ranking facilities and services.
Community care was identified as an emerging area of high importance among residents, with this metric being perceived as a critical area for Council to direct funding in future years. It was also one of the top five metrics for having the strongest relationship with overall satisfaction scores.
Other areas of high importance included sealed roads, waste and recycling, councillor leadership, and balance development and community values.
The mean score for satisfaction with Council customer service increased from 2.73 in 2023 to 2.85 in 2024. Additionally, the proportion of respondents rating Council’s handling of their enquiry as ‘very poor’ also decreased from 37 percent in 2023 to 31 percent in 2024.
Of the 52 percent of residents surveyed in 2024 who had contacted Council in the past 12 months, the most common reasons for contacting Council were regarding development applications, road and footpath improvements, and garbage/ waste management. Around three-quarters of these residents needed more than one contact to have their issue resolved.
Council
finances
Just four percent of respondents felt Council finances were stable, while 73 percent believed they were unhealthy or very unhealthy (with the balance unsure).
One-fifth of residents surveyed were supportive of a “back to basics” program (described as “cutting approximately five percent in discretionary community used services and facilities expenditure each year over the next 4-5 years”), while 45 percent were opposed. A further nine percent were neither supportive nor opposed, with 26 percent saying they were unsure.
Snowy Monaro
PHOTO: File
You Matter Berridale, the town’s first op shop
By TRISTA HEATH
BERRIDALE resident and stay at home mum, Hayley Michelle, has received a strong response from a single Facebook post asking the community if its own op shop would be of interest.
With an overwhelming number of comments, what was an idea dreamed up overnight, quickly turned into a reality for Hayley and the town as the ‘You Matter Berridale’ op shop, selling only clothing and shoes, readies to open.
Currently, no second-hand stores exist in the small town where, according to the 2023 census, a population of nearly 2,000 people reside.
Needing to travel to Jindabyne or Cooma for affordable clothing options, Hayley wanted the community’s feedback which has resulted in hundreds of items being dropped off to her home in Myack Street.
Hayley said everyone she has come past has loved the idea, with many offering their help and support to get the young mum’s venture underway.
“Once the word spread, I started receiving lots of donations and pretty quickly half of my verandah was covered in bags of clothes,” Hayley said.
“I had originally planned to open in a month’s time to give myself time to sort the
donations and make it neat and tidy, but the sheer volume of donations has pushed the date forward.
“I was a single mum for a while, and I can understand how people struggle with things being so expensive.”
With the increase in cost of living, op shop prices have also gone up making it sometimes hard for those struggling to afford its items.
Hayley’s vision for her You Matter Berridale store is to make it affordable, save clothes going to landfill and offering a space for the community to come together to socialise while picking up a bargain.
“When I was a small child and op shopping was more popular, I remember buying items for $2, I wanted to bring the concept back of a gold coin donation,” Hayley said.
“I’m very conscious of the environment and have always tried to find ways to stop things going to landfill, and I understand some op shops have policies on what can and can’t be donated, but for me there are no rules.
“If there is a tear in the clothes or a small stain, I will put it out and if you want it, you can just pay for it what you can.”
Hayley said the idea is to collect donations and after a month a couple of different local organisations will go into a poll on Facebook for the
community to choose where the funds should go.
“That way the community can see exactly how much has been donated and where the money is going,” Hayley said.
“And if anyone does need help with clothing and shoes who can’t spare a gold coin donation, come and have a chat with me, I am happy to help where I can because at the end of the day the money isn’t for me it’s to go back to the community.”
The community jumped on board straight away offering to pick up items from people who wanted to donate, offering their space to hold items and even some businesses offering to be a drop off point for the op shop.
Centrally located in Berridale with flat pathways, a fully enclosed verandah, a big yard for children to play and all at a very little cost to set up, Hayley is ready to welcome her community to You Matter Berridale.
With a supportive partner, a group of great friends and family by her side, come along to the open day at 68 Myack Street, Berridale from 10am to 2pm on Saturday February 8.
Enjoy a gold coin donation welcome barbecue, fresh produce gathered from Hayley’s vegetable gardens and surrounding neighbours and freshly baked goods while browsing the best op shop in Berridale.
FEBRUARY 8-9 2025
STARTING AT 12 PM COOMA SHOWGROUND
Open: $500 prize money (Cooma Furnishing Co)
Maturity:
COMMUNITY: You Matter Berridale founder, Hayley Michelle, looks forward to o ering a ordable op shop prices to the community. PHOTO: Supplied
Snowy 2.0 faces further delays
Work temporarily halted due to safety concerns
By NATHAN THOMPSON
CONCERNS for the safety of the Snowy 2.0 workforce has forced the temporary halt of ‘some’ underground work on the pumped-hydro project.
In another setback for Snowy 2.0, tunnel boring machines (TBM) Florence and Kirsten have stopped work, as has drill and blast activities in the power tunnel caverns and waterway tunnels.
Work stopped early last week following workers raising safety concerns over the project’s refuge chambers or last-resort chambers.
The Australian Workers’ Union said on Wednesday January 29 workers have not been trained in the operation of the refuge chambers, emergency evacuation procedures, firefighting and medical emergencies.
“Refuge chambers are crucial for survival if there is an emergency underground, they are meant to be inspected regularly to ensure they work,” AWU NSW secretary, Tony Callinan, said.
“Workers need to be trained how to use the refuge chambers and how
to respond in the event of an emergency.
“The workforce has decided enough is enough and out of frustration and genuine concern for their safety, decided they had no option but to stop working underground until their concerns are appropriately addressed.”
In a statement to this masthead on Wednesday January 29, Snowy Hydro said some underground work had stopped and it takes safety concerns very seriously.
“Some underground work at Snowy 2.0 has temporarily stopped while principal contractor Future Generation Joint Venture (FGJV) takes steps to ensure a back-up safety system meets strict safety requirements,” the statement said.
“The matter relates to the project’s refuge chambers, last-resort areas where workers can shelter in the unlikely event that both primary safety systems are compromised and evacuation routes are blocked.
“Snowy Hydro expects FGJV to maintain the highest safety standards and requires the contractor to resolve matters relating to
certification, management plans and additional training requirements, before underground work in the affected areas can begin again.”
In the statement, Snowy Hydro said FGJV expected all work to resume shortly. At the time of going to print on Monday afternoon, all work had not re-commenced.
The temporary halt is the latest delay for TBM Florence. TBM Florence was stuck in hard rock for most of 2023, and then faced further issues in May last year when abrasive rock forced operators to halt the machine.
Snowy Hydro has commissioned a fourth TBM to help meet its 2028 completion date.
In November 2024, Snowy Hydro chief executive officer, Dennis Barnes, declared the months leading into November as some of the project’s most productive.
“Overall the project is around 60 percent complete and there is a strong sense of momentum, with good tunnelling progress by TBM Lady Eileen and other two TBMs performing well,” Mr Barnes said in the November update.
Some Snowy 2.0 underground work, including TBM Florence, has been halted due to safety concerns workers have with the refuge chambers. Pictured is the entry to the headrace adit. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson
WORK HALTED: Snowy Hydro has stopped work on TBM Florence and Kirsten and some drill and blast activities following workers’ concerns over sta training to use the refuge chambers.
PHOTO: Snowy Hydro
Vandalism closes bank of bins
MICHELAGO’s bank of bins are temporarily closed due to vandalism and safety concerns for residents and Snowy Monaro Regional Council staff.
The bins, located on the corner of Ryrie Street and Burra Road, are closed following ongoing vandalism on foot and by vehicles.
NSW Police are investigating additional reports of alleged threatening and violent behaviour being directed towards members of the public using the facility.
A Council spokesperson said the facility is currently being subjected to serious, repeated, and ongoing vandalism by perpetrators on foot and using vehicles.
“Council will not re-open the facility until it is satisfied that the safety of service users, staff, and the general public can be guaranteed.”
In addition to the continuing police investigation, a comprehensive structural assessment of the building needs to be undertaken and necessary repairs completed before service can resume.
A temporary Michelago waste and recycling collection service started on Saturday. Council will hold a weekly waste and recycling collection service each Saturday from 8am to 10am near the Michelago sportsgrounds. This service will continue until the bank of bins has re-opened.
As the Michelago Bank of Bins is closed, residents are not to enter the building under any circumstances.
Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by visiting https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au
Reports can be anonymous.
Trusted local journalism is key for factual reporting
META’S plans for the removal of fact-checking services on content posted to its platforms and the government’s decision to introduce age limits for access to social media has brought a renewed focus on the importance of regional, rural and local news publishers, according to Country Press Australia (CPA).
Country Press Australia president, Andrew Schreyer, said publishers have never been tasked with so many layers of responsibility, and it’s never been more vital for the work they do to be appropriately recognised and valued by government and the broader community.
“The decisions local newsrooms make about content, photo selection, accuracy, fairness, balance and integrity go to the heart of the craft of journalism,” Mr Schreyer said.
“Our papers don’t engage in clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not allowed to fester in the communities we serve.”
Mr Schreyer said the vast majority of Country Press Australia publishers are the only local media outlet with boots on the ground in these communities, producing public interest place-based journalism that fulfills a vital role in our democracy.
“Country Press Australia is disappointed at Meta’s decision to abandon third-party fact checking on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in the US.
“Third-party fact checking has not yet been abandoned on
Meta platforms in Australia, however the move in the US may be an indication of Meta’s intentions worldwide and is a worrying development regardless.”
Equally, Country Press Australia has welcomed Communications Minister, Michelle Rowland’s, strong comments that came in the wake of Meta’s announcement and her support for high quality fact checked information for the public, such as the place-based public interest journalism produced by Country Press Australia’s 240 member mastheads.
“We are also heartened
by comments from eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, on the harms of social media and the responsibility to comply with Australian law,” he said.
“The mis and disinformation that spreads on Meta’s platforms are harmful to people’s health, wellbeing and to social cohesion.
“This information can be hard for consumers to recognise.
“The removal of third-party fact checking will see the levels of mis and disinformation on social media increase exponentially.
“Without any fact checking mechanism the rates of mental
health issues caused by social media will no doubt rise.”
He commended the government for its recently announced News Bargaining Incentive and News Media Assistance Program funding which will help Country Press Australia member publishers continue to produce the quality local public interest journalism that is so well trusted by its audiences.
“Professionally produced local public interest journalism, such as that produced by Country Press Australia mastheads, is the antidote to mis and disinformation and this has been well recognised by the government,” he said.
Life-saving defibrillators installed
ORGANISATIONS in Cooma and Delegate have received funding from the NSW Government for new, potentially life-saving, defibrillators.
The Cooma Bocce Sporting Club and Delegate Country Club will be able to purchase defibrillators.
Member for Monaro, Steve
Whan, said with more people than ever participating in sport and active recreation across Monaro it’s vital that the local, often relatively isolated facilities, are equipped with these potentially life-saving devices.
“We know that people often travel long distances to receive
life-saving medical care in Monaro. It’s for this reason that the Local Sport Defibrillator Program is so important to us,” Mr Whan said.
“These devices are safe and easy to use, meaning if someone should need assistance, any member of the public can feel comfortable and confident
using a defib to potentially save someone’s life.
“It is important for all people to know that you do not need to be an expert to operate one of the modern defibrillators if someone is need, the device will tell you what to do, so be confident to use it if it is required.”
TRUSTED JOURNALISM IS VITAL: Country Press Australia president, Andrew Schreyer, is disappointed at Meta’s decision to abandon third-party fact checking on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in the US.
PHOTO: Country Press Australia
Calls to improve creek condition
By NATHAN THOMPSON
JUST like his dad at the same age, 11-year-old Finn
Caldwell loves fishing. If there’s a body of water, Finn is a strong chance of casting a line and trying his luck.
Like his dad, Marcus, Finn enjoys spending time fishing with friends at the Cooma Creek. Unlike his dad, Finn isn’t able to enjoy clear flowing water and safe access to the creek.
Last year, Finn caught a 40cm brown trout between Sharp and Massie streets. Now, with the long grass and dirty creek, he is unable to fish with friends at the creek.
The Cooma Creek is a regular talking point amongst locals, be it for trolleys thrown in it, overgrown weeds and its untidy look.
Marcus is hoping a joint effort from Snowy Monaro Regional Council, community groups and community members can help the town take its first steps towards improving the condition of the creek.
Cooma Creek flows through the CBD of town and joins with the Cooma back creek at Nijong Oval. Marcus said its current condition is embarrassing when compared to other country town creeks such as Tumbarumba.
“Surely we can do better with the appearance of
Cooma Creek. I drive through other country towns a lot for work and their water streams are the pride of the township. Ours is a disgrace and really embarrassing,” Marcus said.
“My son, Finn, and his mates would rather be fishing than sitting at home playing computer games. But you wouldn’t know what’s in the long grass, you wouldn’t let them near it in the current state.
“The weeds have completely taken over, in spring Finn would walk the creek and count the number of trout he could see. We walk it now and you cannot even see the water let alone the fish.
“The creek has changed a lot since I was a child playing with my sisters in it. We would fish, catch yabbies and swim.”
Marcus is calling for Council to apply for grants to tidy the creek. He said the community would help where allowed to clean-up the waterway.
“There are grants out there we can apply for. Give some recent school leavers a traineeship in land conservation or something similar, skill them up, improve the quality and appearance of the creek,” he said.
Earlier this month, Marcus and Finn found dead fish in the creek, near the Massie Street causeway.
Annual Kosci Klimb campaign just days away
More than a climb: Cerebral Palsy Alliance CEO
SIXTEEN young Australians are only days away from embarking on a journey to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko.
The group is raising funds for Cerebral Palsy Alliance as part of the Krazy Kosci Klimb, annual event empowering participants to redefine their limits.
With a $500,000 target to reach, the 16 young people will take on the 18km challenge on Saturday February 8.
This year, the Krazy Kosci Klimb will celebrate its 10-year Klimbiversary. The event has raised more than $2.5 million,
positively impacting the lives of more than 140 young people with cerebral palsy.
By funding CPA’s sports programmes and accessible gym facilities, the event has provided tailored therapy, equipment, and support, empowering young individuals to achieve greater independence, physical fitness, and self-confidence.
“This event is more than a climb. It’s about conquering challenges, smashing boundaries, and creating opportunities. The incredible spirit of the climbers and
their teams inspires everyone to push beyond what seems possible,” Cerebral Palsy Alliance CEO, Rob White, said.
“Every dollar raised fuels programs that give young Australians with cerebral palsy the chance to live their best lives.”
These funds have also been instrumental in providing access to qualified exercise physiologists, specialised gym equipment and inclusive exercise and sporting programs. Through transformative sports camps, young people with disabilities
have built confidence, independence, and physical strength.
This year’s participants include inspiring individuals like Anika Facer. After suffering a stroke at birth and facing an uncertain prognosis, Anika (aged 8) is thriving thanks to early intervention therapy, which began at just six weeks old. Excited to dress up with her team, Anika is ready to take on the new challenge of climbing Kosci.
Preparation for the Krazy Kosci Klimb started months ago, with teams engaging in practice hikes and innovative fundraising campaigns, rallying
support from families, friends, workplaces and the broader community. Each team is powered by the generosity of a corporate sponsor, who joins participants on this journey while fostering diversity and inclusion within their organisations.
Cerebral Palsy Alliance is inviting friends, families, businesses and local communities to rally behind these extraordinary climbers.
Whether you’re cheering from afar or hiking alongside as a support team, every step helps to ensure that young people with cerebral palsy can achieve their personal best.
Cooma Creek at the Massie Street causeway. Locals are calling for the creek, particularly in the CBD, to be tidied up.
Cooma Creek now has dead fish it. Cooma resident, Marcus Caldwell, says the current condition of the creek is embarrassing.
ACTION: Calls are growing for Cooma Creek and Cooma Back Creek to be cleaned-up to improve the look of town.
PHOTOS: Marcus Caldwell
Matthes welcomes new head of South East Arts
By NATHAN THOMPSON
CHAIR of South East Arts, Lisa Matthes, says she is looking forward to working with the organisation’s new executive director and continuing to enhance the region’s arts and culture sector.
Ms Matthes, a Jindabyne resident and well-known advocate for arts and culture in the south east, has welcomed the organisation’s appointment of Kate Bradbury as its new executive director. Ms Bradbury replaced Andrew Gray who farewelled South East Arts late last year after 16 years at the helm.
Ms Matthes said the board is also looking forward to working with Ms Bradbury who brings extensive governance experience from roles in the Northern Territory government and coordinating the Indigenous Garma Festival.
“Kate has the talent and the skills we need for the road ahead, which is filled with both opportunities and challenges,” Ms Matthes said.
“As senior executive co-ordinator of the Garma Festival, she helped stage Australia’s largest cultural and most influential annual indigenous event, while her recent role as senior policy
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
officer with the NT Department of Territory families, Housing and Communities focussed on Closing the Gap priority reforms.
“We are pleased to welcome her to the team and look forward to working with her to expand regional growth and employment.”
Ms Bradbury said she is ready for the challenge of driving greater participation in the arts and culture sector throughout the south east.
“As I settle into the role, I am eager to get to know everyone and start building meaningful connec tions,” Ms Bradbury said.
“Whether we have crossed paths before or you are someone I will be meeting for the first time, I am looking forward to collabo rating with you and learning from each other.”
South East Arts covers the Snowy Monaro, Bega Valley and Eurobodalla council areas, pro viding support for the ongoing development of arts and culture in these regions. In the Snowy Monaro, South East Arts works with many committees to stage events, exhibitions and performances. The organisation partners with groups, such as the Lake Light Sculpture, to run events locally.
Justice centres closures ‘devastating’
THE peak body for local government in NSW is calling on the State Government to reverse its decision to close all Community Justice Centres (CJCs) in June.
Local Government NSW (LGNSW) president, mayor Phyllis Miller OAM, said shutting down the free mediation service would have devastating consequences for some of the state’s most disadvantaged residents.
“CJCs offer an equitable legal pathway that vulnerable people in our communities might not otherwise afford, providing mediation and dispute resolution services and avoiding costly formal legal action,” Cr Miller said.
“Whether it be a dispute over fencing, overhanging branches, pets, privacy, access to land, or building/ renovation works, the mediation services provided by CJCs are critical to helping communities resolve issues outside of court.
“I have heard from mayors and councillors across NSW that the elimination of CJCs will create a costly barrier to justice.
Individuals and families in
Informative open day at Cooma TAFE
TAFE NSW’s Cooma campus open day last Thursday drew a good number of prospective enrolments.
The interested potential students were given a guided tour around the TAFE campus and an opportunity to learn more about courses offered, in areas such as automotive technology (light and vehicle mobile plant), business administration, horticulture, hospitality and commercial cookery.
Teaching and support staff were on-hand to discuss facilities as were the customer services staff who could answer queries on applying and enrolling, fees and financial support and student support services.
vulnerable circumstances will feel the biggest impact, especially in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis
“It will also force many residents to turn to formal legal channels - if they can afford them - clogging the courts, tying up police resources, and delaying outcomes for countless individuals and families.”
In 2022-23, 79 percent of CJCs mediated neighbourhood disputes were resolved. Mayor Miller said that removing options for free mediation would be corrosive to social cohesion, potentially escalating tensions.
“The lack of consultation with councils in reaching this decision is deeply disappointing. Late last year LGNSW wrote to the NSW Attorney General expressing concern about reports that all CJCs would be closed from June 30, 2025,” Cr Miller said.
“The NSW Attorney General has now responded confirming the closure. LGNSW strongly opposes this move and urges the State Government to reconsider and commit to funding CJCs beyond June 2025.”
Daryl Ella-Ritchie - Aboriginal education and engagement coordinator, with Malory Morris - Aboriginal student support o icer at the NSW TAFE Cooma campus open day last week.
TAFE open: Checking out the Cooma TAFE campus commercial cookery kitchen are (from le ) Zoe Kofler, Maizie Schulz, Evie Schulz, Kylie Blyton (front) and Felix Schulz, with TAFE sta Maree Stevenson (class preparation assistant), Deirdre Jory (head teacher hospitality), teachers Brett Kryskow and Neil Mackenzie and Lisa Petro (front, TAFE services co-ordinator). PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack
TOP JOB: Kate Bradbury has taken on the role of executive director of South East Arts. Ms Bradbury says she is looking forward to working with local groups and committees to promote arts and culture in the south east. PHOTO: South East Arts
Board holds planning day for Raglan’s future
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
RAGLAN Gallery volunteer board members have been busy planning the gallery’s future.
The planning day on January 23 began with a combined meeting with two members of Monaro Art Group where items such as sharing gallery sitters, exhibition co-operation and sharing publicity on social platforms were discussed over a continental breakfast at the gallery.
Four separate sessions were incorporated into the day’s program; the first being securing the future of the Raglan - where does the board want to take the gallery, consideration of three future proposals and raising the gallery profile. Its volunteer base and how to attract and recruit more volunteers, especially those with relevant skills and time to assist with grant applications and raising money, and maintenance of the gallery building were also subjects of discussion during session one.
The remaining sessions
covered the Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s Arts and Culture draft Strategic Plan - how it effects the gallery; relationship to other arts and culture organisations in the Snowy Monaro and South East Arts; grants, other ways to gain financial support; identifying opportunities for administration improvements; and a session on policy and increasing the gallery’s target audience.
Raglan Gallery and
Cultural Centre’s current exhibition features art by local, Benni Phillips Nozdrachev, which closes on March 2.
Coming up in the Tillers Gallery from March 26 to May 4 is artist Graham Hearn, with “Farmscapes”, to be officially opened by Paul West on Saturday March 29.
Raglan Gallery is located at 9-11 Lambie Street, Cooma. Gallery hours are from Wednesday to Sunday 10:30am to 3:30pm.
Council briefs
Conserve water notice
Nimmitabel residents and businesses are being urged to limit their water usage to conserve bore water currently being used to supply the town.
Bore water is in use following the detection of blue-green algae in Lake Wallace Dam and the MacLaughlin River on January 13.
The conserve water notice will remain in place until it’s safe to resume sourcing water from Lake Wallace Dam.
Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s water and wastewater team is closely monitoring local water quality, working closely with Water NSW, NSW Health, and the Environment Protection Authority to ensure this situation is resolved swiftly and safely.
Town water in Nimmitabel remains safe to drink and use.
Don’t bin batteries
Council is reminding the community
on the safe storing and disposal of batteries to help combat a nationwide surge in house, rubbish truck and waste facility fires.
The Canberra Region Joint Organisation (CRJO) has launched its latest battery safety campaign ‘Don’t Bin Batteries: It only takes one battery to spark a fire’ to raise awareness about the risks of throwing their batteries out in the bin.
Battery fires are becoming an increasing concern in Australia, with incidents rising significantly in recent years. Batteries disposed of in household red and yellow bins are believed to have caused the fire which destroyed Canberra’s recycling plant on Boxing Day 2022, according to an investigation conducted by ACT Fire & Rescue.
In the Snowy Monaro, used batteries can be dropped off – for free – at many local shops, council’s community recycling centres, and a number of other council facilities.
February in the Garden
Wasn’t it good to have some rain in January before moving into the last month of Summer. In February we continue to reap rewards in the veggie garden as tomatoes ripen, zucchini and cucumbers continue fruiting, and capsicums and chillies thrive in the warm weather. Remember to keep the water up to them during the hot weather.
February is less about planting with more focus on preparing garden beds for autumn/winter veggies or other plantings. This is best achieved by digging through organic matter such as compost or decomposed manure. To create your own organic matter, you can grow green manure seed mix in an empty garden bed. Keep moist and dig into the soil before flowering. 6 weeks latter your garden is full of new life and ready to feed its next crop the following season.
Late February is a good time to pot-up or plant out root bound plants. Remember to feather out and prune spiralling roots to a straight point. This makes plants sprout new roots which will grow down (not around) once they have more space to grow, forming a strong anchor to secure them in their soil. An application of Seasol and some temporary shade will assist with plant reestablishment.
If you are looking for something new to grow, try Microgreens indoors. Microgreens are young vegetable greens that fall somewhere between sprouts and baby leaf vegetables. They have an intense aromatic flavour and concentrated nutrient content and come in a variety of colours and textures.
Summer bulbs and colours in the garden are on full display this month and include Dahlia, and Gladioli, Pineapple lily, and Lilium which were planted in spring to early summer. February is also time to plan what you can enter in the local show.
FEBRUARY GARDEN TASKS AND PLANTINGS
•Plant vegetables with a maturity up to eight weeks (when first frosts usually start) peas of all kinds, lettuce, baby beetroot, rhubarb, thyme, chives, oregano, mint, parsley, sage and rosemary, baby carrot, spinach, dwarf beans, bok choy.
•Liquid feed heavy feeding plants like tomato and other veggies for fast plant nutrition. Follow up with slower acting, soil improving organic additives such as Dynamic Li er, Organic Extra or Whoflungdung.
•Prepare garden beds for planting garlic, asparagus and other autumn and winter vegetables such as brussel sprouts, broccoli, spinach, silver beet, swede, turnip, onion and peas. Seeds of these can be sown towards the end of the month.
•Look out for signs of fungal infection, especially powdery mildew and black spot as wet and humid conditions are prime for them to infect and spread.
•Watch for lace bugs, mites and thrips on Azaleas and Rhododendrons treat promptly with a horticultural oil.
•Watch and treat sucking pests on your veggies and treat with a food safe product.
•Deadhead and lightly prune annuals, perennials to prolong flowering best done before seeds develop so plant energy goes into growth and flowers, not seed.
•Remove spent flowers from bulbs, continue to fertilize as foliage dies back. This fertilizer feeds the bulb for strong blooms for next summer.
•Hydrangea flowers can be displayed/dried indoors or enjoy aging flowers on bushes through Autumn. Prune geraniums to promote bushiness.
•Look for microgreens to grow and boost your nutrition naturally.
•Give a flowering fragrant plant as a lasting Valentines gi .
Happy Gardening!
Jodie and Jannene
Jen Coles, Hilary Smith, Bob Coles, Janet Johnston, Glen Dewing, Lea Monticone, Wendy McDougall and Merilyn Minell meet at the gallery for the first planning day for the year.
PHOTO: Melinda Cairns Hack
SHOW season has started in the Snowy Monaro with Nimmitabel the first. Held on the first Saturday in February, the show is popular amongst locals and visitors from the Far South Coast.
This year’s show was well attended with lots of fun for the whole family. Well done to Nimmity Show Society president, Ben Litchfield, and his committee for an excellent show.
The committee not only put on a great show but a terrific concert with country music star, Amber Lawrence, performing twice on show day.
We have a break before our second show, Delegate, on the first Saturday in March. This starts a busy few weeks with the Dalgety Show the day after on the first Sunday of the month, followed by the Cooma Show and then Bombala Show. What a busy but exciting month March promises to be.
Snowy 2.0 is experiencing another setback, this time some underground work has been temporarily halted due to worker safety concerns. Workers are worried about a lack of training and maintenance regarding the refuge chambers, known also as the lastresort chambers.
Snowy Hydro said it is working with principal contractor, Future Generation Joint Venture, to meet all safety requirements.
In a statement sent to this masthead on Wednesday January 29, Snowy Hydro said the underground work that had to be stopped will resume shortly.
One wonders when shortly loses its meaning. At the time of going to print (Monday February 3) work was yet to fully resume on the project.
Cooma’s Cindy Chawner is on her way to Vancouver to represent Australia in the Invictus Games. Cindy’s effort over the last 12-months to prepare for the games has been first class.
Cindy, 59, was medically retired from the Royal Australian Air Force in 2023. She said leaving the force at a time not of her choosing led to a difficult few months ahead.
Training and being part of the Invictus Games setup has helped her rehabilitation and recovery.
Channel Nine will be showing the Invictus Games across its channels. Keep an eye on The Monaro Post Facebook page for updates on Cindy’s efforts. We wish her well.
LETTERS
Why are Council meetings making the public and our councillors angry?
IT SEEMS to me, that there are councillors who are there to genuinely represent their constituents and carry out Council business as efficiently and as calmly as possible.
There are also others, alleging ‘corruption’, and using the Council as an angry forum, disrupting the expected progress on local issues.
This behaviour results in no tangible outcomes, and anger. Will this cause our Council to be put under administration? Probably.
My experience tells me that anger is first of all, a personal thing. Each councillor is an individual, either behaving well and responsibly, or behaving badly,
THE Union of Concerned
Scientists called US President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement on climate ‘disgraceful and destructive’. It was indeed.
The decision was particularly heinous in light of the Los Angeles fires which, all experts agree, were made worse by climate change.
At a crucial point in history, when the world needs to be getting on a war footing to mitigate climate change, Trump calls ‘drill, baby, drill’ and does all he can to support fossil fuels at the expense of renewable energy.
It’s not just the still-burning Los Angeles fires. In 2024, hurricanes Helene and Milton caused catastrophic
and making a constant, hullaballoo.
The only effective way for people to complain about alleged corruption in a Council, is to write down suspicious actions with supporting evidence for each action, and to send it to the State Minister for Local Government, and to ICAC (the Independent Commission against Corruption), which was set up for this purpose.
Stirring up anger in expensive Council time is as ineffective, as it is wasteful, unless the intent is anarchism.
Some of us can accept that ‘life is unfair’, control our anger by breathing deeply (or meditating, or running
damage in the United States. The last couple of years saw record-breaking water temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico thanks to climate change. Higher sea temperatures mean more powerful storms.
President Trump’s failure to act on climate change, indeed, make the situation worse, will likely backfire on him. US citizens will be hurt by more frequent and more intense extreme weather events. They will be hurt by higher tariffs that will restrict the flow of renewable products from China, such as electric vehicles and solar panels.
The LA fires are costing hundreds of billions of
etc), and react reasonably to provide realistic opportunities for ourselves and others.
On the other end of the continuum, people with lesser controlled dispositions bring their hidden anger (and its extreme discomfort) into play to arouse discomfort in others, blaming others for their pain. Most of us manage somewhere in the centre of this coping/not coping continuum. However, as a near octogenarian and ex-professional counsellor, I can tell you that nothing good ever comes from expressed anger. Unmanaged anger is highly destructive. Is each councillor genuine in their intent, or is anger their only motivation for having stood for Council? If
dollars and threaten the collapse of the insurance industry. When people are no longer able to insure their homes, they may well turn around and blame their President for his profound lack of responsibility. By withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, the United States will join Iran, Libya and Yemen as the only four countries not party to the agreement, which was set up to avoid environmental catastrophe. If one is judged by your friends, then Iran, Libya and Yemen are hardly countries that will enhance your credibility.
Former President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was a monumental effort
anger is motivating them, they should now show their genuine non-selfish, democratic intent in calm Council interactions, taking only their fair share of the talking time (about four minutes per hour), or resign, and give way to others who have the region’s best interests at heart.
Those angry councillors, not motivated by positive intent, and absenting themselves, must write well-researched letters to the institutions above, for action.
Then, there won’t be any anger in the Council chambers.
to financially underpin the energy transition to renewables, a transition critical if we are to minimise climate change. The IRA spurred rapid growth in solar and wind power.
Despite the IRA, emissions levels stayed relatively flat in the US last year because demand for electricity surged nationwide. If Trump dismantles the IRA as promised, emissions will rise again thanks to continuing demand and fewer renewables to meet that demand, making it ever harder for the world community to achieve a safe climate.
Jenny Goldie President, Climate Action Monaro
Narelle Moody Wambrook
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Remembering our fallen service men and women on the Monaro
COOMA’s Memorial Driveway, on the Monaro Highway north was established in 1955 and restored in 2020.
The Memorial Driveway is located within the road reserve on the Monaro Highway, 2.4km north of the Polo Flat Road and Monaro Highway intersection roundabout.
The Memorial Driveway forms part of the Remembrance Driveway between Macquarie Place in Sydney, through Canberra’s Australian National War Memorial to terminate here in Cooma’s Memorial Driveway Park.
The Memorial Park is located on the traditional lands of the Ngarigo people adjacent to the Monaro Highway, on the west side, one kilometre north of the Snowy Hydro visitors centre here in Cooma between Yallakool Lane and Yallakool Road.
Memorial Park was gazetted as a public recreation park in 1964 and sedicated on Wednesday November 4, 1964.
The dedication was conducted by the chaplin of
Life on the funny farm
By Paul Dorin
the
the Royal Military College, Duntroon, Padre Johnson to the memory of all our service men and women.
The commissioner of the Snowy Mountains Authority, Sir William Hudson, delivered the Remembrance Day address at the dedication.
More than 320 children from all the schools in Cooma were transported to and from the dedication.
Also attending was the Cooma Citizen Military Force Unit, Cooma band, members of the clergy and the public.
At the time of dedication, the 12,000 pound, 24 acre park already had more than 300 trees and shrubs planted, the internal roadworks were 50 percent complete and the area seeded.
Members of the public and organisations were invited to purchase and plant trees and shrubs to remember and honour our fallen. Over the following years the number of plantings grew to more than 450.
In 2020, the committee,
supporters, and volunteers of the association “We Will Remember Them On Monaro” and the organisation “Honour Our Fallen” began the huge task of restoring both these memorial sites.
These sites remember and honour the more than 581,100 Australians who have served in the ADF to date, and the more than 103,044 Australians, including many first Australians who have died as a result of their service to our nation defending our freedom and way of life.
These important sites aim to acknowledge all those currently serving in the ADF and those who will do so in the future. These sites also aim to build pride in our community, respect for others and ourselves.
Cooma’s Memorial Driveway Parks are places of remembrance, respect, reconciliation, cooperation and learning.
Respectful visitors to the parks are always welcome.
The organisation
Honour Our Fallen has
Honour Our Fallen has the aim of developing respect in the virtues of service to our nation through our youth and community by recognising those currently serving and returning from deployment, including an understanding of their physical and mental issues when returning to civilian life.
The national organisation Honour Our Fallen also aims to place a 900mm Australian national flag on the grave or memorial of all passed service people across our nation.
If you or someone you know would like a service person honoured with a flag on their grave or memorial on ANZAC and Remembrance Days each year or you would like to volunteer, support us, or learn more please email - wewillrememberthemonmonaro@ gmail.com
EVERY now and then, along comes a new fitness regime, which may, or may not, be a good one to get into. Like skateboard pilates. How good is your balance now, and how well do you ride a skateboard these days anyway? You could safely give this one a miss I think, if you’re experiencing any concerns about bruises or broken bones.
I don’t know how long skateboard pilates has been vying for a fitness spot to be honest, because until now I’d never heard of it, but I have recently heard about another called weighted hula hoops.
Hula hoops were a craze when I was in primary school and the majority of us could keep them up around our waists without too much gyrating, but how I’d go with one now is anyone’s guess. I haven’t even thought of them in years, let alone used one. Our hula hoops weren’t weighted either. But as a fitness tool, do they fall into the same category as weighted skipping ropes? These were designed to not only make your skipping experience more sensory, possibly the result if you had a skipping glitch and it hit you in the face, but were alleged to aid greater fitness levels being achieved more quickly.
But just skipping with a standard rope, a real rope that is, not the waytoo-light nylon version, will tone you up just as nicely, I’m sure.
So I’m guessing the weighted hula hoop also claims to do whatever it does faster than the standard one. Which now comes back to how well you managed to keep that standard one
up around your waist in the first place.
If you were one of the minority who just couldn’t, then how do you think you might go with a weighted one?
Okay, so it will definitely have some sort of benefit if you consider all that jiggling around to try and keep it up and circling your middle, and then there’s all the bending down and up again as you retrieve it repeatedly from the floor.
At least you’re moving.
But do you really need fitness-specific items to up your routine? If the item is labelled fitnessspecific it will have the price tag to match. After all, anything “fitness” is part of an industry and you will pay for that.
On the other hand, you can take up walking. If you’re already doing that and want to increase your activeness, walk a bit further than usual. Or hop up from the couch and do some simple aerobics while watching the telly.
Follow up your lounge room routine with some isometrics and you’ll soon be wondering why you even bothered to check out the price of those pilates skateboards, weighted skipping ropes and their cousins, the weighted hula hoops, because hey, you have already lost some kilos and are looking nicely toned.
And if your lounge room is your gym, you won’t need to shell out on the pricey active-wear either.
Well, you don’t have to anyway even if you’re walking circuits of your local park or jogging around the block. If people want to judge your comfy old trackies, let that be their problem. Doesn’t matter what you wear. Labels won’t make you fitter. Weighted hula hoops may. Then again, maybe not.
Elle Thompson (02) 6452 0312 elle@monaropost.com.au
ADVERTISING
Jim Walker-Broose 0408 425 484 jim@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.
Local leadership initiative launched
COUNTRY Universities Centre (CUC) Snowy Monaro, in partnership with the University of Canberra, has unveiled a local leadership program to boost young people’s confidence and develop their public speaking skills.
Last week, CUC Snowy Monaro hosted 10 local and aspiring young leaders at the inaugural SPEAK UP program. The program is a dynamic leadership and public speaking initiative designed for young people aged 16-18 in the Snowy Monaro region.
The program provides participants with the skills, confidence, and connections necessary to become tomorrow’s local leaders.
Young people from across the Snowy Monaro applied for the inaugural year of the program, eager to develop their public speaking abilities, enhance critical thinking skills, and build a network of mentors in leadership and communication.
The 10 students who have now successfully joined the program include:
• Jindabyne High School students - Emelia Greville and Hunter Clark
• St Patrick’s Parish School students - Hanna Aby and Lilly Coombe
• Snowy Mountains Grammar School student - Kai Pietrass-Wong
• St Mary MacKillop College students - Ben Porter, Oluhle Gasa, Kaitlyn Bosco (formerly of St Patrick’s Parish School) and Caleb Ventura and Molly Taylor (formally of Snowy Mountains Christian School)
“The SPEAK UP program is designed to be transformative for the participants, equipping them with the confidence and skills to engage in meaningful discussions and contribute effectively to future academic and professional settings,” manager student equity and participation at University of Canberra, Laurie Poretti, said.
“We are proud to be partnering with CUC Snowy Monaro to provide the young people of the Snowy Monaro with this unique, place-based opportunity.”
Participants benefited from a series of workshops, oneon-one mentorships, and hands-on training sessions. They mastered public speaking techniques, including body language, vocal strategies, and audience engagement.
The young leaders were shown how to develop the ability to structure speeches for clarity and impact.
They also gained leadership insights from local leaders: Member for Monaro, Steve Whan; Member for EdenMonaro, Kristy McBain; Snowy Monaro mayor, Chris Hanna; and Clr Narelle Davis. Community leaders Richard Swain, Abby McNab, Dr Charles Massy and professional speaker coach Bradley Roche from TEDxCanberra also spoke with participants.
“SPEAK UP is not just about public speaking; it’s about building resilience, encouraging collaboration, and creating a platform for diverse voices to be expressed and listened to. Here we have some of our local, young people who have issues they would like heard and this program is designed to develop their skills and give them the tools to do that well,” centre manager CUC Snowy Monaro, Nadine Holland, said.
At the completion of the program in April, members of the public will be invited to come and hear the future leaders speak at the Cooma Little Theatre.
“This program has been made possible by the generous support of Snowy Hydro Pty Ltd., University of Canberra, Bradley Roche, and an additional community donor,” Ms Holland said.
Eileen’s hard work praised
Development application
Council has received the following development proposal, which is being advertised for public exhibition.
APPLICATION NUMBER 10.2024.316.1
PROPERTY ADDRESS
Waste Transfer Station / Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne 2627
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
Lot: 51 DP: 1286726
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL
Construction of a single-story Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) to enable closure of Jindabyne Landfill
APPLICANT & CONSENT AUTHORITY
Snowy Monaro Regional Council
APPROVAL BODIES
State Regional Planning Panel
This application and its accompanying documents will be on display at all Council offices and online at Council’s website at https://qrco.de/SMRC-DA or https://qrco.de/masterview for twenty-eight (28) days, ending Wednesday 5 March 2025. Council is seeking community comment on this proposal. All submissions should be made in writing to CEO Stephen Dunshea. All submissions will be treated as a public document. Any person making a submission is required to disclose any reportable political donations or gifts at the time of making the submission. For more information, please contact Council’s development and planning department at the Jindabyne Council office. Visit https://qrco.de/DAinfo to learn more on our website.
Development application
12 Brown Street, Berridale NSW 2628
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
Lot: 2 DP: 1253498
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL
Concept DA for 26 Residential Lots & Stage 1 Approval
APPLICANT
Jack Atkinson Surveying Pty Ltd
CONSENT AUTHORITY
Snowy Monaro Regional Council
This application and its accompanying documents will be on display at all Council offices, online at Council’s website at https://qrco.de/SMRC-DA, and https://qrco.de/masterview, for twenty-eight (28) days, ending Wednesday 5 March 2025. Council is seeking community comment on this proposal. All submissions should be made in writing to CEO Stephen Dunshea. All submissions will be treated as a public document. Any person making a submission is required to disclose any reportable political donations or gifts at the time of making the submission. For more information, please contact Council’s development and planning department at the Jindabyne Council office. Visit https://qrco.de/DAinfo to learn more on our website.
HARD WORK: A er 30 years working as a carer and an enrolled nurse, Eileen Pevere has completed her registered nursing degree. Mrs Pevere is a highly respected member of the Cooma Hospital and Health Service team.
Folk lovers again choose Numeralla Festival magic at popular event
By FRAN ROBERTSON - NUMERALLA FOLK FESTIVAL COMMITTEE
IMAGINE a place with two beautiful rivers flanked with grassy banks where anyone can pitch a tent or park their van to camp.
Imagine a time when a feast of talented musicians, poets and dancers perform all day and late into the night.
Imagine all of this is totally free and anyone can go. No, it’s not a fairy tale. It’s the Numeralla Folk Festival.
How does this magic happen? Not by the spells of wizards, but by the generous efforts of dozens of volunteers.
Folk from our region, Canberra and the South Coast entertained those attending, and local folks prepared the hall, cooked up a storm and served ravenous customers all weekend.
Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s outdoor staff worked their own magic by sprucing up the village, and Mother Nature sprinkled her enchantment with welcome rain to swell the rivers and cast a hue of green over the valley.
The festival, in its 48th year, was held on the long weekend, and was attended by visitors from all over the state as well as enthusiastic locals. Feedback from those attending was very
consistent - such as ‘thank you for a lovely weekend’, ‘we had such a wonderful time and it’s so beautiful here’.
The festival opened on Friday evening with a concert featuring Canberra band, The Banksi Sisters.
These gifted musicians performed songs from the last half a century of folk music as well as more traditional Irish tunes. Featuring Cassidy Richens (guitar, bazouki and vocals), Simone Dawson (flute and mandolin) and Rita Woolhouse (cello), they wove flowing instrumental melodies with tender vocal harmonies to bewitch the audience.
Corryong poet, Phil McManus, took the audience on a journey back in time to recreate the times and trials of Henry Lawson - his loves, his friendships and tales of country folk and humour.
Shoalhaven band, Blue Mallee, concluded the evening with folk at its gentlestoriginal thought-provoking lyrics accompanied by lullabylike instrumentals.
Saturday presented an opportunity for visitors to make their own magic with beginner workshops for button accordion and African drums. No-one needed to bring an instrument. Thanks to drummer, Paul Mackay, and accordionists, Linda Bruce
and Andrew Klippel, a box full of button accordions and a van full of drums magically appeared. The budding musicians were enthralled.
One lad was so keen that by the end of the weekend he had acquired his own accordion. And to top it off, he won first prize in the raffle - tickets to the National Folk Festival. This festival will provide him with an opportunity to participate in
four mornings of workshops for beginner musicians to learn to play traditional tunes. Magic!
Saturday afternoon’s Blackboard Concert provided plenty of entertainment and the evening bush dance was fun for young and old with lively dancing accompanied by a fine bush band, led by Ray Mulligan.
The country market on Sunday morning was a perfect
Council updates
Nimmitabel: Conserve water notice
Residents and businesses in the Nimmitabel area are advised that a conserve water notice is in effect.
Council is asking everyone in the area to limit their water usage as much as possible to conserve the bore water currently being used to supply the town, following the detection of blue-green algae in Lake Wallace Dam and the MacLaughlin River on Monday 13 January 2025.
The conserve water notice will remain in place until it’s safe to resume sourcing water from Lake Wallace Dam.
Council’s water and wastewater team is monitoring local water quality, working closely with Water NSW, NSW Health, and the Environment Protection Authority to ensure this situation is resolved safely.
Town water in Nimmitabel remains safe to drink and use.
Please visit https://qrco.de/NimCSN to see the conservation measures now in place for all properties connected to town water.
way to relax after the previous day’s activities, by enjoying a cuppa, catching up with old friends and new, and browsing about the stalls.
To top off a magic weekend, the afternoon concert was the perfect wind down.
The festival committee thanks all the people who made this magic happen. Now everyone only needs to wait until 2026 before the spell is cast again.
Community satisfaction results
Council last week released the results of the 2024 Community Satisfaction Survey.
This marks the fourth consecutive year for the project, which provides invaluable community feedback to benchmark Council’s performance and guide the organisation’s future strategic direction.
The comprehensive survey results, available now on Council’s website, provide insight into community priorities and satisfaction levels across Council services and operations.
Conducted between late October and early November last year, the 2024 survey highlights several key focus areas for the Snowy Monaro community
Road infrastructure remains residents’ top priority, with the need to find the right balance between development and community needs, and Council leadership and governance rounding out respondents’ top three priority areas.
Learn more at https://qrco.de/SMRC-CSS24
Employment opportunities
If you’re looking for a career with purpose, consider joining the team here at Council.
Visit https://qrco.de/SMRCjobs to learn more about our work and how to apply for our employment opportunities.
Closing Wednesday 12 February 2025
•ARIC Chairperson
Contract – Cooma
• Operator Network (Water & Wastewater)
Casual – Berridale
• Operator Network (Water & Wastewater)
Full-time – Cooma
Closing Wednesday 19 February 2025
• Assistant Operator Combination Truck
Full-time – Jindabyne
Closing Friday 21 February 2025
•Technician Wastewater
Full-time – Jindabyne
•Operator Water & Wastewater
Civil Maintenance
Full-time – Cooma
Visit our website for more opportunities.
We’re here to help. Contact our friendly customer service team today. Email: council@smrc.nsw.gov.au | Phone: 1300 345 345 | Facebook:
POPULAR: Numeralla Folk Festival organisers are pleased with the turnout to their ‘magic’ festival.
PHOTO: Melinda Cairns Hack
Stephanie Kimber: From farm girl to international emergency response leader
By KAREN FORMAN
WHEN A 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila, triggering landslides, crushing cars and flattening buildings a week before Christmas last year, Snowy Mountains born “farm girl” Stephanie Kimber swung into action.
The 50-year-old daughter of Bombala couple Heather and John Kimber lives in the city, working as First Secretary Development for the Australian High Commission.
The population of around 49,000 people is considerably larger than what she grew up with in Bombala.
Fortunately their own home was not taken and she was able to remain in the city and do what needed to be done - “looking after stranded Australians who were confused, traumatised and scared while also working to get the right people and equipment from Australia to save lives.”
It was a long way from the family farm where she was born and raised, but a task her mum, Heather, says she was probably preparing her whole life for.
“We are very proud of her,” Heather said. “She has worked very hard and is doing wonderful things.”
Stephanie was with her husband, Orlando, at the Chancery Café when the quake hit.
“I am so grateful that I knew he was safe as we lost all comms about five minutes after and didn’t get them back for days (except where there were Starlinks),” she said.
“I watched the work swimming pool tsunami over the sides, tiles popping up and plates smashing everywhere.
“I won’t be able to think of the ground being solid again.”
Stephanie described days after the quake which struck 30km west of Port Vila on December 17 as a blur as she and her colleagues “leapt into gear and did what needed to be done”.
It wasn’t her first earthquake. She was deployed as a humanitarian officer to Nepal in 2015 as part of a six-person crisis response team.
“I did a two week deployment and was awarded a humanitarian overseas medal.
“Coming in after the Nepal earthquake, the after shocks (in Vanuatu) were disconcerting but living through the big one I understand now why my Nepal post colleagues were the first out of the building when an after shock hit.
“I used to be pretty blasé about the tremors but not now.”
Stephanie led the Humanitarian Response team in Vanuatu for 10 days straight, working with her team for long hours to get 64 Queensland fire and rescue experts, two teams of Australian medical professionals and tonnes of supplies (sanitation and hygiene, dignity kits, shelter kits etc) into Vanuatu on numerous RAAF flights.
“The mental fatigue of holding so many things in your head over days and days at the
same time as having no power, comms or water at home is exhausting,” she said.
“Running a loud generator for days was driving us mental.
“Orlando was busting a gut hauling heavy jerry cans and refilling the generator several times a day.
“We were lucky and didn’t lose too many things inside the house so could stay at home and not be evacuated.”
Stephanie said she had been to the Billabong shop and the building housing her diplomatic friends from NZ, UK, USA and France and found it a shocking sight.
After the frenzy of the weeks after the event, Stephanie was able to have a week off to rest
Bombala born “farm girl” Stephanie
and process everything that happened.
“I will just say that the Australian team in Vanuatu is the best and our leaders are kind, caring and calm,” she said.
Back at home, Heather told The Monaro Post she was relieved and proud.
“She has had an amazing journey,” she said. “She enjoys her work, has travelled a lot and is good at her work.”
A quinessential “farm kid”, Stephanie went to school at Ando, 10km towards Bombala, but neither her school nor much else, apart from a community hall, remains.
She went to Bombala High then to boarding school at
All Saints in Bathurst before heading to Sydney to study a Bachelor of Arts with Honours (Politics).
“She was just a farm kid, rode bikes and helped with stock and stuff like that,” Heather said of her daughter.
“She always had an interest in politics and at uni was involved in the newspaper and the usual student blockages when they were putting in a major motorway in Sydney.”
Stephanie also holds a Masters in International and Community Development from Deakin University.
“She loves travelling and has also lived in England, Netherlands and New York,” her mum said.
“It’s easy to be a proud Aussie when you see the dedication, professionalism and skills of our disaster response teams. Truly world class.”
Stephanie has worked with the Department of Foreign Affairs for 11 years and her current posting is for three years.
“She was previously in Canberra, Ghana and Washington and I had the chance to visit, but Washington was too cold and Ghana too hot, so I didn’t go,” Heather said.
“She comes home every few months so we do see her.”
Heather has two other daughters, one a counsellor in Lakes Entrance and the other an artist in Bombala.
Chicken and king yams in Vanuatu.
Stephanie Kimber with husband Orlando.
Custom dancing on Rhu Island in Torba province.
Kimber loves travelling and is living her dream working in Vanuatu.
Stephanie Kimber with Minister for Foreign A airs Penny Wong on her visit in 2023. PHOTOS: Contributed
Education foundation helps locals study
THE latest recipients of the Country Education Foundation of Snowy Monaro (CEFSM) grants program have come together to celebrate their successful applications at the organisation’s yearly presentation evening.
For more than 30-years, CEFSM has financially supported the post-high school education, training and vocation dreams of the region’s young people.
It is a not-for-profit organisation that supports young people aged between 16 and 25, and covers the Snowy Monaro local government area.
Last week, the latest cohort to receive financial assistance were praised for their hard work and committment to pursuing post high school study.
CEFSM chair, Amanda Steinke, congratulated the recipients and encouraged them to continue their study and work.
With a decorated history in helping locals pursue university and vocational study, CEFSM exists to ensure the region’s young people are not disadvantaged due to their location.
The organisation is also seeking new committee members to help keep the group running successfully.
Mrs Steinke, who has volunteered with the CEFSM for more than a decade, and has stepped into the role as president, is calling for nominations for the two vacant positions.
“The CEFSM is a dedicated, and proactive committee. We only meet every two months, and the commitment isn’t too
SUCCESS: The latest recipients of a
“It’s an excellent committee to be part of. We have a diverse range of people, representing many areas of the community.
“We serve a vital role in the community by supporting young people’s education and career goals.”
The generous financial contributions of locals, and grant funding, allows
delivering its own grant program.
“The application process was very easy and I was struck by how kind the committee was during my
Aanika Grant is the Snowy Monaro CEF treasurer, a role
part of the Snowy Monaro community,” Ms Grant said Mrs Steinke served as the Snowy Monaro CEF vice-
Committee members, Mandy Reeks (far le ) and Amanda Steinke (far right), congratulate Lucy Kamenz (middle) on receiving a Country Education Foundation Snowy Monaro grant to help with her tertiary studies. at the presentation event.
recipients and families for attending the organisation’s yearly presentation evening.
Country Education Foundation Snowy Monaro grant to help with post high school education, training and vocation. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson
Bertold is Citizen of the Year
MANUELA Berchtold was born and raised in Jindabyne, a local girl with her community at heart. As a teenager Ms Berchtold stepped onto the world stage in the sport of mogul skiing. As an athlete she had a long and distinguished career, competing for 12 years on the world cup circuit. The pinnacle of her career was becoming a two-time Winter Olympian competing in 2002 and 2006, and in 2006 was the first Australian woman to make an Olympic moguls final.
During this time, Ms Berchtold was overwhelmed by the generosity and support provided to her by her local Jindabyne community. On retirement she vowed to give back generously to that same community.
After retiring from competition in 2006, Ms Berchtold opened High Country Fitness. Her hard work and dedication has seen her business steadily grow, and for the past 20 years has provided Jindabyne with a wonderful facility to enhance health and fitness.
Ms Berchtold is passionate about facilitating opportunities
for the youth of Jindabyne, inspiring them to strive for their goals. She provides sponsorship, fitness programs and gym memberships to a large variety of local sporting groups, school students, emerging and elite level athletes. She generously puts time, money and effort into building the dreams of Jindabyne’s future stars.
Ms Berchtold also started the Future Olympic Scholarship fund to help emerging Olympians cover the costs associated with winter sports. She has put many hours into coaching, mentoring and training athletes to help reach a life goal and get the opportunity to represent Australia at Olympic level.
Ms Berchtold encourages students to follow their dreams and embrace a fitness and wellbeing lifestyle, she has regularly been a guest speaker and personal mentor at local schools and community events. Her High Country Fitness business has provided Year 10 students with the opportunity to do work experience and has been the starting point for many entering a career in
fitness. Her gym in conjunction with the Australian Institute of Personal Trainers provides a remote learning facility for the local community to gain qualifications in the fitness industry. Ms Berchtold teaches, mentors and trains students, helping them to start a career in the fitness industry without having to leave Jindabyne to study.
Some of the fundraisers she has been a part of are Monaro Committee for Cancer Research Spectacular last year helping raise over $200,000; supporting Australia Defence Force veterans in the Marine Corps Marathon in the USA; the Australasia Birth Trauma Association; Gotcha4life mental health; and the Beat the Burn for Fire and Rescue.
The Berchtold family are wellknown amongst the community for their generosity, community involvement and what they give to the sporting future of Jindabyne athletes.
Ms Berchtold, now following in her mother’s foot-steps, is the second family member to win a prestigious award at the Jindabyne annual ceremony.
Ursula Berchtold was awarded
Clark honoured to be named Young Citizen of the Year
IT IS often spoken about, the concerns for the future and if the next generation are going to be able to continue to ‘save our world’.
Hunter Clark is well on her way to making that possible.
Ms Clark has just completed Year 11 at Jindabyne High School where she was house captain, Jindabyne Lions Youth of the Year winner and was awarded the Citizenship and Service award by Kristy McBain. She is the 2025 School Captain and has commenced her final year of high school. During 2024 she represented Jindabyne on both the 11-day Young Endeavour Voyage and the school at the GRIP Student Leadership conference. GRIP Leadership exist to train and develop leaders with a special focus on school students and educators. She was also on the student council and
participated in numerous fundraisers including for Cancer Council and men’s health.
Jindabyne High School principal, Kelly Henretty, said Ms Clark exemplifies the values of leadership, dedication and excellence, making her a truly deserving candidate for Young Citizen of the Year.
“Academically Hunter’s achievements are outstanding, and her academic performance is a testament to her diligence, resilience and intellectual curiosity,” Ms Henretty said.
During the past year , Ms Clark has volunteered at various community events with TS Orion Cadets including Australia Day, Carols in the Park, Cooma Show and the annual seniors Christmas lunch.
As a very active member of the TS Orion Cadets, Ms Clark
is a Cadet Chief Petty Officer and Flotilla Cadet Advisory Council Member and has attended selective training courses like the Warrant Officer Promotion.
To round off her commitments, Ms Clark was a cheerleader for the local football teams last year and involved in the very successful School Spectacular and other school events in the technical production team.
Ms Clark’s outstanding achievements, her leadership roles and her active participation in local community events highlight her as an inspirational young person.
Ms Clark is recognised as a role model and tireless community worker.
Her dedication has a positive impact on the lives of those around her.
the Sportsperson of the Year at the 2022 Australia Day Local Citizenships awards. There is no doubt Ms Berchtold is recognised as a
dedicated, generous member of the community and it is fitting to celebrate her services to business, education and community.
SES commander receives award
MOST of us have used the term from the Ghost Busters movie – “Who ya Gonna Call?” and for the region, the answer would be State Emergency Services (SES).
Malika Bailey is the local commander for the Snowy River Unit SES, looking after Cooma, Jindabyne, Bombala and assisting other alpine search and rescue units.
In recognition of her dedication, Ms Bailey received the 2025 Special Achievement for Emergency Services award at the Australia Day ceremony.
SES units help communities prepare for, respond to and recover from natural disasters.
Both paid and volunteer SES staff work together with the mission of saving lives and creating safer communities.
assist in flood rescue, alpine search and rescue, removing people and domestic animals from threatened physical danger and storm and water damage operations. They also work along local emergency services for bushfire responses, medical emergencies, motor vehicle crash scenes and managing crowds.
Ms Bailey is the driving force in the local SES and is committed to bringing its volunteers together to work and train for all scenarios. She encourages younger generations to give back to the community by volunteering with SES.
“It was lovely to be recognised, even though I know there is a whole team behind me at SES that makes
CELEBRATED: Manuela Berchtold celebrates receiving Jindabyne’s Citizen of the Year award with mother, Ursula Berchtold.
PHOTO: Trista Heath
Australia Day Ambassador, Ethan Butson.
Community service strong in Nimmitabel
Linda Evans, Gary Hayes recognised for contributions
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
TWO valued and respected Nimmitabel residents received Community Service Awards at the village’s recent Australia Day ceremony.
The voluntary contributions to the community by Gary Hayes and Linda Evans were recognised at the village’s annual celebrations hosted by the Nimmitabel Advancement Group (NAG) and Nimmitabel Lions Club.
Their certificate citation reads: “In recognition and appreciation of the valuable time, effort and commitment given by you to the local community”.
A large crowd was in attendance to congratulate this year’s award recipients and enjoy the celebrations.
Snowy Monaro Regional Council Councillors Tanya Higgins, Lynda Summers and Narelle Davis, Nimmitabel Show Society president, Ben Litchfield, Nimmitabel Show Society Young Woman of 2025, Charlotte Pateman, and Nimmitabel’s Rural Achiever program representative, Taya Evans, were part of the official ceremony.
In welcoming those at the event, Clr Higgins said Australia Day “can be a tricky day for some people and I would like to acknowledge it may feel different to some people and that is ok”.
“We are all here today and that is part of what we can celebrate today, standing together celebrating the survival of Aboriginal people and how they have invited us to share the oldest living culture with us,” she said.
“We celebrate a lot of things, coming together recognising that we are in the lucky country...our beautiful natural environment, our weather and that facilitates our great lifestyle we have, our diversity of culture and experience and beliefs, and our community.
“As you all know I love community and Nimmitabel has that in spades.”
Clr Higgins said the best thing about the Snowy Monaro is its people.
“We’re tough, but we are also spirited and happy, hopeful and active. A community like Nimmitabel, the small towns and villages we have, absolutely encompass what that is.
“I see how the people of Nimmitabel work together for better outcomes,” Clr Higgins said.
“Nimmitabel is a shining example of how all of you in different groups, and as individuals, work together to make Nimmitabel welcoming, safe and supportive.
“It is an honour to join you today as you celebrate that success and recognise the efforts of those in your community who have made a difference.”
As part of the program, Nimmitabel Show Society president, Ben Litchfield, was given the opportunity to speak about last Saturday’s 2025 Nimmitabel Show and
also introduced two younger generation volunteers, Taya Evans and Charlotte Pateman, and Clr Davis addressed those gathered at the ceremony.
“Congratulations to Taya and Charlotte, it’s so good to have the next generation of Nimmitabel young people being really involved in our community,” Clr Davis said.
“I am absolutely passionate about volunteers and the fact that volunteers are our quiet achievers, our unsung heroes in our community and there are so many families present today that have generations of volunteering.
“We should be so proud of what we achieve.”
Clr Davis thanked and congratulated the NAG and Lions for planning and hosting a wonderful community day each year.
The first of the two Community Service Awards was presented to Gary Hayes by Clr Summers.
NAG president, Vickie Pollard, said Mr Hayes has contributed to various groups and organisations in Nimmitabel for more than 20 years.
“Gary may have gone unnoticed over many of these years, but he has given huge amounts of hours and energy to
help groups and organisations in our village,” she said.
“Gary was a member of the NAG in the early years and it was during this time with NAG, he worked on a water committee campaigning for improvements to the quality and quantity of our village water supply. Over a period of 10 years Gary volunteered for community radio 2MNO as a presenter and programmer.
“In 2010 Gary volunteered his time and expertise editing a booklet for the 60 years’ reunion of the people who worked on Snowy 1. Gary joined the Nimmitabel Men’s Shed, volunteering as secretary from 2013 to 2017, as a volunteer Gary was also secretary for three years for the Australian Labor Party’s Cooma branch.
“He was a volunteer member for the Nimmitabel Pioneer Hall Committee and volunteers at the St Andrew’s Church Committee.”
The second community service certificate was awarded to Linda Evans, presented by Clr Higgins.
“Linda has been a part of the Nimmitabel community for many years, since marrying husband Skeety in 1997,” Ms Pollard said.
“As a volunteer Linda is
always reliable and willing to make an ongoing commitment to any organisation, so that together they can serve their community and help make a real difference.
“Like many volunteers, Linda has dedicated many hours of her time to help various community groups within our village.
“Linda was very involved with the pre-school and primary school while her three children were there. As her own children progressed in school, Linda turned towards early childhood education as a career, taking on study as part of an already busy life.
“Linda worked as a teachers’ aide at Nimmitabel Public School and then became preschool director for a number of years. Linda now works with the students at Nimmitabel Primary School.
“Many children have been helped to begin their education under Linda’s watchful eye and care.
“Both Linda and Skeety have contributed many years’ of service with the Nimmitabel Pony Club. Linda was an active parent, volunteer and organiser, as soon as their children were members. Pony club was a big part of the Evans family life for
years,” Ms Pollard said.
“Now that the club has adult riders, and without children to run after, Linda, is herself able to ride and compete with pony club. The volunteer workload has not decreased, and Linda recently spent many hours working to ensure the Nimmitabel Gymkhana went ahead in 2024 for the first time in years.
“Linda spends a great deal of time at the Nimmitabel Show each year, taking on any job required in the horse rings, working before and after the show to set up and clean up.
“She and Skeety have long supported many sports through the Nimmitabel Magpies, the Evans Cup for school sport and sponsorship at the show events.
“Linda is an inspirational role model for us all, and the Australia Day 2025 Community Service Award is an honourable way to recognise Linda’s outstanding contribution she has made over the past years to the local community,” Ms Pollard said.
“Volunteers are, and always will be, a community’s greatest asset.”
Mr Hayes and Ms Evans stated how honoured they were to receive the award and be a part of a fantastic community.
Clr Narelle Davis (le ), Nimmitabel Show Society president, Ben Litchfield, Nimmitabel Show Society Young Woman of 2025, Charlotte Pateman, Nimmitabel Advancement Group president, Vickie Pollard, and Nimmitabel’s Rural Achiever program representative, Taya Evans.
Sue Lucas paints Sarah Sayeg’s face at the Nimmitabel Australia Day event, hosted by the Nimmitabel Advancement Group and Nimmitabel Lions Club.
VALUED: Nimmitabel Australia Day 2025 Community Service Awardee, Gary Hayes, receives his certificate from Clr Linda Summers and Nimmitabel Advancement Group president, Vickie Pollard.
PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack
Nimmitabel Australia Day 2025 Community Service Awardee, Linda Evans, receives her certificate from Clr Tanya Higgins and Nimmitabel Advancement Group president, Vickie Pollard.
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Surf Patrol. 9.30 NBC Today. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Auction Squad.
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SBS
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Programs. 2.00
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4.30 MythBusters. 5.20
I
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10.40
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6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Days Of Our Lives. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 1.55 Keeping Up Appearances. 3.15 Antiques Roadshow. 3.45 MOVIE: The Blue Lamp. (1950) 5.30 Our Yorkshire Farm. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Yes Minister. 8.30 MOVIE: Letters To Juliet. (2010) 10.40 The Closer. 11.40 Late Programs.
ABC SEVEN NINE TEN
Nurturing boutique olive oil
NUMERALLA FARM DELIVERS AWARD-WINNING PRODUCE
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
HERE’S the good oil (to use an Aussie expression) on some good oil ... an award-winning ultra premium extra virgin olive oil, in fact - grown and produced here on the Snowy Monaro.
If you enjoy indulging in the flavours and aroma of gourmet olive oil then Snowy Mountain Estate Ultra Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil is for you.
Sourced from olives grown on a high-altitude, cold-climate farm among the rolling hills of Numeralla, the Aoun family has successfully reached the pinnacle of their Australian dream, creating a boutique farm growing and cultivating premium olives and a select range of cold-climate produce including cherries and white and purple garlic.
It didn’t come easily at first, the original grove of 4,000 trees failed - but through resilience, patience and perseverance Nick and his father’s efforts were finally rewarded with Mother Earth deciding their years of labour and care of the land would produce abundant fruits.
An olive grove took hold and is thriving to this day. The grove consists of frost-hardy varieties - mainly the Italian Frantoio, but also Hojiblanca, Arbequina and Californian Queen olives.
All the trees are frost-hardy and have proven to handle temperatures of -7C. They are snow proof and acclimatised to high altitude frost conditions.
And father and son could not be happier.
With the success of the product comes change and expansion, and new ideas.
“We’re building up a nursery at the moment,” Nick said.
“It may take about another year-and-a-half to two years until we have enough to start cataloguing and selling - with olive, cherry, fig, grape, apricot, almond, nectarine trees and others available.
“We have recently taken 30 mature Frantoio (Italian olive from Tuscany) trees out of the ground to allow for expansion on the farm as I need more storage space for the olive shed. I need to be able to store bottles, packaging for cherries and everything else. It has to be a dry, vermin-free environment.
“At the moment they are still in shock as they have been recently pulled out, but when they are ready in 18 months time, having been nurtured and
re-shaped, we will sell these mature olive trees,” Nick said.
Processing machinery in the purpose-built olive shed has recently been upgraded.
The 60kg/hr processing machine has been replaced with a 200kg/hr machine.
“Demand and yields on the trees have increased. The trees are now bigger, so one tree now is essentially four trees that we had 10 years ago,” Nick said.
“As time goes on and we re-shape the trees, we will get more yields. We are not planting any more fields, we are concentrating on what we have got at the moment.”
The new machine de-leaves and washes the olives, which was a time-consuming task previously done by hand.
“It was a tedious process with the smaller machine, now it’s just me in the shed so it’s gone from a four-man job to a one-man job.”
Once the olives are ready late April to early May, there is a two-week harvest before the frost comes in and spoils the fruit.
Nick said the farm location, although productive, means yields can be hit and miss at times depending on the weather conditions.
“Maybe half an hour closer to the coast would mean a yield every year, but in this scenario, we get a yield one year, we don’t get one the next year, which is why our oil is limited release.
“The weather is very extreme; it’s really hard to grow things the higher you go but if you can and are successful, it will be the best product,” Nick said.
In 2023 Snowy Mountain Estate was awarded silver in the Australian International Olive Awards.
“We hardly get a chance to pick 100 percent because of the resticted harveting time, but
what we pick is sought after by the olive industry. Everyone loves our olive oil ... mountain grove estates in Omeo Victoria, and in Tasmania, are the only ones who come close to us,” Nick said.
“Year-on-year Tasmanian groves are successful in international-ranked awards, as they are in mountainous areas and have pretty much the same climate as around here.”
The hand-picked harvest method (less bruising of the fruit) using manual hand rakes is another reason Snowy Mountain Estate olive oil is so highly regarded.
Crafting exceptional extra virgin olive oil and establishing a name for high quality olive oil (which chefs and restaurants are keen to source when it eventually is sold in bulk) is an achievement the Aoun family is extremely proud of.
LOCALLY GROWN: The Aoun family is proud of their coldclimate olive oil, produced near Numeralla.
PHOTO: Melinda Cairns Hack
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INCOMING Nationals Upper House MP, Nichole Overall, is backing calls on the NSW Labor Government to provide certainty to landholders across the state who have raised concerns over the new Native Vegetation Maps.
The NSW Nationals have raised questions around the accuracy of the maps, the potential for large areas of land to be ‘locked up’, and concerns for ‘hefty penalties’ to be incorrectly levied.
“Labor needs to go back to the drawing board with these rules, because they have the potential to further restrict a farmer’s ability to manage their own land and stop vital agricultural production in its tracks,” NSW Nationals leader, Dugald Saunders, said.
“The reality is the native vegetation laws have never been a free-for-all – you always had to check with Local Land Services before you cleared anything – but the way the map shows it, you could slash a paddock and be charged under the new system.
“It’s a classic case of the Minns Government telling landholders what they can and can’t do without actually understanding the situation, or carrying out the proper
“It will also have the opposite effect of what is intended, because locking up land will create a haven for feral pests and animals, leading to worse environmental outcomes.”
Agriculture Minister, Tara Moriarty, was pressed on the issue in a Budget Estimates hearing in September where she claimed the maps are accurate.
Nichole Overall, set to be
Tales from the SHOW
Over the years Cooma Show has seen many remarkable horse people winning ribbons and progressing to royal shows. Many horsey families have competed at the annual show, and others, successfully. Pictured this week are the late Phyl Goodwin and her daughter Sue Linton-Ffrost, both accomplished horsewomen and long-time supporters of the show.
Last week’s historic image showed a group of young cattle judges.
They were, from left, Brian, Doug and Greg Tozer, David Jardine, Rob Woodhouse, Brian Seears, Philip Reid, Richard Brown, Alan McPhie, David Woodhouse and Oliver Osborne. Photo supplied by Brian Seears.
land clearing review is causing angst for communities in the Monaro region.
“The assertion that these maps are accurate is the opposite of what many landowners I’ve spoken to are saying - they dispute them,”
Mrs Overall said.
“There are several instances where country that was previously classified as ‘unregulated’ has now been
and livelihoods at risk.
“It’s a seemingly rushed move. Our farmers can’t afford to pay the price for this Labor Government’s knee-jerk reactions, which is why I’ll continue to raise this when I get to Parliament.
“It’s clear landholders haven’t been given a proper say in this matter and I’ll make sure their concerns are heard and their interests are represented.”
FRIDAY 7 TO SATURDAY 8
COOMA MONARO FEATURE WEANER SALES
Proudly supported by Monaro Media Group
Photo from Sue Linton-Ffrost.
WORRIED: Member of the Legislative Council and former Member for Monaro, Nichole Overall, says local landholders are concerned over the state government’s new native vegetation maps. PHOTO: Supplied
Hundreds ready for Three Oaks clearing sale
SPONSORED CONTENT
CLEARING sales are well attended events on the Monaro. They are social occasions and an opportunity to pick-up a bargain.
Come Saturday February 15, one the region’s most anticipated clearing sales is taking place at ‘Three Oaks’ Nimmitabel.
Located at 320 Greenlands Road, the beautiful property will host a clearing sale with hundreds of items for sale.
From a Toyota Landcruiser to tractors, to household items, there is a widerange of items on offer at the Three Oaks clearing sale.
Hosted by Nutrien Ag Cooma, the clearing sale is set to attract hundreds from across the south east.
The property has sold and its items must go. From utes, posthole diggers, spray units, a 700L chest freezer, snowboards, and garden equipment, everyone’s interests are covered at the upcoming clearing sale.
AUCTION: This tractor will go under the hammer at the Three Oaks clearing sale on Saturday February 15.
PHOTOS: Supplied
Outside entries invited and recommended, contact Damien Roach at Nutrien Ag Solutions Cooma on 0427 253 250.
Sale by bidder card system. ID required for registration. Payment required on the day. Cash and EFTPOS accepted.
Busy times for Landcare
UPPER Snowy Landcare invites volunteers to attend a planting day at 25 Riverbend Drive, Dalgety on February 22, at 10am.
The site is already prepped with holes dug for 60 plants, all is required are willing hands to help put trees in the ground (a mix of frost hollow grassy woodland species), construct tree guards, and water plants in.
The host, Neil Lasker, has kindly offered a barbecue lunch. He will also be celebrating his birthday that evening with family; volunteers are welcome to hang around and share a drink after planting if they like.
RSVP on the Upper Snowy River Landcare Network’s website where dietary requirements can also be advised.
Following on from the Nimmitabel
Show stall on February 1, Upper Snowy Landcare is running a stall at Dalgety Show on March 2, with a large range of resources and information available.
Visit the stall for information on the group’s current projects, Landcare initiatives, conservation funding, volunteer opportunities or just for a general chat.
If you are interested in discussing conservation agreements, the Biodiversity Conservation Trust will also be in attendance.
This year Upper Snowy has partnered with Saving Our Species who will be running a craft stall next to the Upper Snowy Landcare stall at the Dalgety Show, rolling out some great craft activities involving threatened grassland species. Come along to see what they have on offer.
Keep the water cool for stock
AS WE move through another hot summer, Local Land Services (LLS) is reminding livestock producers of the important steps they should take to ensure stock are well hydrated.
“As the weather warms up, livestock will have a harder time maintaining daily functions, just like us,” LLS principal program manager of agriculture, Andrew Lieschke, said.
“Livestock drink considerably more water in hotter weather, with beef cattle, depending on their class, consuming up to 100 litres per head per day and sheep and goats up to 10 litres a head per day. However, actual intake will vary based off water quality, environmental and animal factors.
“Livestock will also avoid warm water so it’s important to provide shade and shelter for water resources, as well as stock.
“It’s vital that producers are aware of the steps they can take and factor these into their livestock and property management to ensure stock are well hydrated and remain in good condition over summer.”
Farmers mustering, handling and transporting livestock during the warmer months, are being urged to meet essential basic animal welfare standards, such as:
• Move livestock during early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
• Provide sufficient shade and shelter for animals to rest and cool down.
• Ensure you have sufficient feed available during the summer period to maintain animals in a healthy condition.
• Consider drafting off all animals suitable for sale via saleyards or directly to a processor if required.
CLEARING SALE
heavy duty bale forks and pallet forks; EastWind 40Hp 4WD tractor with Hanmey FEL and 4 in 1 bucket, combo pallet and bale forks; Toyota Hilux ute 1996 2.8D with rego until May 2025; Box trailer 7 x 4 with rego until Jan 2026; Postie bike CT110, Outside entry - Toyota Landcruiser 2012 V8 Turbo Workmate w/ lift kit, canopy, light bar, roof rack, winch, snorkel & diff locks. 6 mth rego, 380,000kms. Equipment: 3pl Posthole digger with 4 different size augers; 3pl Super Spreader; 3pl Slasher; 3pl Stick rake 1800mm; 3pl Grader blade with tines 1800mm; 3pl Single tine ripper / pipe layer; 3pl Carryall; Drag Harrows; 600Ltr Rapidplas spray unit with 100 metre remote control reel; Generator 8Kva; Fencing gear incl. Spinning Jenny, post puller, driver etc; Chainsaw 390 Farm boss; Garden rotary motor hoe; Cement mixer; Backpack sprayers; Hand mower; Pressure washer.
Farm Items: Hinge Lock, chicken wire, gates; Electric fencing braid wire and posts; Calf puller, calf chains, feeding bottles, splints and calf rugs; Cow sling; Saddles plus saddlery gear; Horse rugs; Poly and PVC pipe and accessories; Jerry cans; Endless chain; Motor oil for 4WD & tractors.
Household: Chest freezer - 700 Litre; Fowler jars – many sizes; Home brew beer bottles; Grolsch swing top bottles; Snowboards and boots; Large industrial stainless-steel sinks; Patio heater; Full gym set; Clothes dryer; Office desk x 2; Printer; Bookshelves – large and small; 5 shelf stereo stand; Chest of drawers and bedside tables; Bunks beds x 2; Coffee tables; Buffett; Outdoor table; Outdoor chairs –small and large; Kitchen cookware; Glasses; Underfloor heating (hydronic) pipe; Double glazed window (landscape).
Workshop Items: Large heavy-duty workbench 3 metre; Hardwood sleepers; Natural stone for landscaping or paving; Besser blocks and bricks; Shelving, cupboards – many; Ladders; Trolley; Tools – gardening; Multiple buckets of nuts, bolts and everything in-between; Fluro lights x 5; Old Golf clubs; Landcruiser Roof racks; Possum trap; Egg incubator; Heavy duty marine battery (new); Extension cords. For more information, contact: Outside entries invited and recommended, contact below.
Sale by bidder card system. ID required for registration. Payment required on the day. Cash and Eftpos accepted
Farming equipment and workshop items will be hotly contested at the Three Oaks clearing sale.
A 1996 Toyota Hilux with registration until May this year will likely gather plenty of interest at the clearing sale.
Woodbourn’s Tasmanian Murray Grey cattle suit a wide market
By WOODBOURN MURRAY GREY STUD
WITH centuries of history behind farming and the breeding of beef cattle in the United Kingdom, it was quite a coup to send Australia’s own beef breed to Britain.
In fact three shipments were sent from Tasmania in the 1980s, with Charles Wallace, Woodbourn Murray Grey Stud, at the helm.
It was exciting times to see these beautiful docile grey cattle being loaded on to a jumbo jet, along with race horses and off to England.
Once there, these cattle did very well and Charles Wallace visited the properties both in England and Scotland and judged at agricultural shows over there.
Quarantine rules and restrictions, biosecurity regulations and more have since prevented these shipments of live animals taking place, and the industry now has to rely on semen and embryos to add new genetics to their enterprises.
These days, the Woodbourn Murray Grey Stud concentrates on its market within Australia and its annual sale in March.
Stud Murray Greys are sent to all states in Australia from these sales.
Interestingly, COVID has helped with widening the Australian market for the Woodbourn stud with people unable to travel to production sales during lock downs, they had to rely on electronic means to see the animals and do their bidding.
Many of those previously unwilling to use such technology, found they enjoyed watching videos of the sale cattle in the comfort of their own home, they could read detailed descriptions, scanning and assessment data and then with the press of a button, make their bid.
have been widely accepted with occupational health and safety being a big factor as well.
Taking videos of each animal, setting up electronic systems for viewing the cattle, replacing the traditional sale ring with a seating area in front of screens all took some doing. But the new systems
As a stud based in Tasmania, not only does Woodbourn promote the qualities they believe their cattle have, but also the ease with which cattle from the Woodbourn sale can be transported home to their property, whether it be Roma,
Albany, Dubbo, Claire or wherever.
It is organised by the sale agents and Woodbourn makes a very generous contribution to freighting costs, including free delivery to Melbourne.
The wide acceptance of the Woodbourn Murray Grey cattle would not take place if they were not good cattle. The 40 bulls offered show strength,
structural soundness and appeal with Breedplan figures which would be hard to beat, especially carcase.
“Buyers appreciate the honesty of production at Woodbourn,” Mr Wallace said.
All calves are weighed at birth, DNA tested and without exception are tested for Pestivirus, inoculated with seven in one and the bulls with
Vibrovac. Mr Wallace added that the majority of his bulls are purchased by commercial cattle men, who are return buyers. So after 56 years of breeding Murray Grey cattle in Tasmania, the passion is still there, the quality is still there and the opportunity is still there to view these magnificent cattle and maybe take one home.
Cattle being loaded for a flight to the United Kingdom.
All board, Woodbourn Murray Greys making their way to the United Kingdom in the 1980s.
Woodbourn Murray Greys are sold to all states in Australia.
TEAMWORK: Charles and Janet Wallace have created a successful operation at Woodbourn Murray Grey Stud. PHOTOS: Woodbourn Murray Grey Stud
2025 NIMMITABEL SHOW
Popular show draws in big crowds
Local event provides a snap shot of country life
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
UNDER a brilliant blue sky show-goers, competitors, stall holders, officials, exhibitors, stewards and farm animals arrived in their droves to Nimmitabel for the start of the Snowy Monaro show season.
Nimmitabel Show Society president, Ben Litchfield, promised the 2025 show would be jam-packed with exciting events and demonstrations, as well as the traditional show attractions, and it certainly was, with an appearance later in the day and again in the evening by Australian country music star Amber Lawrence.
From the start of the show, to the end of the day, those involved with the running of the event made sure the patrons were happy and entertained.
Mr Litchfield said all events were well-supported from the entrants in the livestock sections, through to the pavilion, horse ring events, shearing and yard dog trials.
“The show was wellattended, we got a good crowd through the gates,” he said on Monday.
“The horse ring events were split into two days. Taya Evans and the horse ring committee did a wonderful job getting through all the competitors over the two days.
“The shearing was popular, as well as the chain sawing demos and country music singer, Amber Lawrence, engaged really well with the kids and the crowd.
“I really appreciate all the help from our committee and volunteers, they made it all come together, and we couldn’t do the show without them.”
The show was officially opened by fifth generation Nimmitabel district resident, Matt Evans, team leader of the show’s major sponsor, Zinfra, installer of the Eastern Gas Pipeline.
During the ceremony, Mr Litchfield acknowledged the Ngarigo people, and the past and present generations of
the Nimmitabel community “who have contributed to the lifestyle and the benefits we all enjoy today in the district”, and welcomed past presidents, federal and state politicians, Snowy Monaro Regional Councillors, the Nimmitabel Show Society Young Woman for 2025, Charlotte Pateman, Rural Achiever representative, Taya Evans, and the wider community.
He ensured two supporters and stalwarts of the Nimmitabel Show, Pat Tozer and Rod Hassall, who died recently, were recognised with some heartfelt words, a minutes’ silence and a flower presentation to family members.
The ceremony highlight was the presentation of a Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) medallion to well-known grazier and past president of the Nimmitabel Show Society, John Alcock, of Greenland Merino stud.
The medal of appreciation was presented by Robert Ryan, past president of the RAS NSW and current managing director of wool broker and stock and station agency Schute Bell.
“From the RAS’s point of view, in my time as president there, there wasn’t one year that we went by without seeing John Alcock,” Mr Ryan said.
“For the contribution you have made within the community here, as well as representing the Alcock family, it obviously has been significant, and the RAS recognises this so it is my pleasure to present the medal of appreciation for work done not only in this community, but the agricultural community in general, and also the southern district of the RAS exhibition in Sydney,” Mr Ryan said.
Mr Alcock was more than a little surprised to receive the award.
“It’s a great honour to receive this medal, and a real shock,” he said.
“Working with the local show has always been a pleasure and of course it can’t happen
without a very good team to make it a successful show. There’s always other people who help.
“The RAS has done a wonderful job of showing excellence in agriculture...I have been involved with the show for many years and I am still learning,” Mr Alcock said.
“Thank you very much for the acknowledgement, it’s been a pleasure to work with everyone.”
Tom Alcock, of Greenland, with Grand Champion Merino ram, presented by Nimmitabel Show Society Young Woman,
Ben Alcock (le ) with Champion Supreme superfine wool ewe from Merino stud, Greenland, and Pete Lette, from Conrayn, with his Reserve Champion superfine wool ewe exhibit.
Steve Sellars of Numeralla and his dog competing in the popular yard dog trials on Saturday.
exhibited by Keith McGrath (second from le ) with David Venables holding Reserve Champion, member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain (le ), and Snowy Monaro Regional Cr Tricia Hopkins and mayor Chris Hanna. PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack
The shearing competition was again very popular at Nimmitabel Show.
Balgownie Farm
Agent: Elders Real Estate Cooma
Contact: Tim Schofield 0428 526 733
eldersrealestate.com.au ‘BALGOWNIE FARM’ Delegate, NSW | 166 HA / 410 AC
‘Balgownie Farm’ is the perfect place to live the dream lifestyle in the country
•3 bedroom brick veneer homestead with wrap around verandas.
•Extensive views of the beautifully established gardens.
•Around 4km frontage to the Delegate River
•Various garage and workshop spaces
•Shearing shed plus sheep and cattle yards
•Improved pastures with fertilizer history
•Excellent fencing subdivided into 15 paddocks
•Large hay and machinery shed
•Numerous dams and troughs
•Carrying capacity estimated at 1,000 DSE
•9km from Delegate and 21km to Bombala
• Separate camping hut on the banks of the Delegate River boasting Trout and Platypus.
Auction Friday 7th March, 11am
Venue Delegate Country Club
Tim Scho eld 0428 526 733 tim.scho eld@elders.com.au
Sam Green 0428 973 520 sam.green@elders.com.au
Elders Cooma eldersrealestate.com.au/300P175230
*Approx.
Monaro
10 Dickinson Street, Bombala
Immaculate family home in ideal location!
Rarely does a home of this caliber come on the market, and now a er 6 decades, 10 Dickinson Street, has hit the market.
• 3-4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
• Open kitchen/dining with breakfast bar
• North facing loungeroom
• Natural gas ducted heating
• Home o ice
Garaging for 3 vehicles and a workshop
• Established gardens and lawns
This is a well maintained family home that will tick a lot of boxes, so book your inspection today!
Lifestyle or grazing opportunity
Address: 1026 Lower Bendoc Road, Bendoc
Asking: $500,000
Agent: Nutrien Harcourts Bombala
Located in the well renowned Bendoc area with favourable rain fall averages and good pastures this property is set up for reliable livestock production.
Featuring 71.46ha/176.578ac (approx) of predominantly improved annual and perennial pastures with minimal native grasses and a small portion of native timber at the back of the property that joins with the Bendoc State Forest. Bisected by Spring Creek the property is well watered with multiple spring fed dams and an average rainfall of 980mm.
The property is well subdivided into five paddocks with fencing in good condition. Access lane through the middle for a neighbouring property allows for all weather access.
Former residence (now uninhabitable) should ensure building entitlement with mains power formerly connected.
Small but mighty, this is a wonderful opportunity to start out or add a productive block to your portfolio.
The majestic grandeur and classic opulence of Stradone can’t help but turn heads.
•
•
• Modern conservatory with French doors and reverse cycle air conditioning
• Rumpus room with private patio
• Beautiful pressed metal ceilings
• Sweeping verandah around two sides
• Established trees and gardens
• Paved driveway around to single carport
• Short stroll to the main shopping centre/centre of town
Once in a lifetime properties of this stature come on the market, now is the time to make Stradone yours. Snowy
Snowy Monaro
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 What are the titles of emperors of Japan (7)
8 Name another term for lucerne (7)
9 Which radioactive element is the basis of nuclear reactors (7)
10 Name that part of the skull that encloses the brain (7)
11 Which name is popularly used to refer to the USA(7)
12 What is a written summary, note, or memorandum (6)
14 Who is the treasurer of a college or university (6)
18 To be harsh in manner, is to be what (7)
21 Name a mythical tribe of female warriors in South America (7)
22 To be more mirthful, is to be what (7)
23 Name a colourless, flammable liquid obtained in the distillation of petroleum (7)
24 Who was the Biblical disciple and companion of the apostle Paul (7)
DOWN
1 Name a silver-white divalent metal occurring in limestone, gypsum, etc, symbol Ca (7)
2 Which term describes anything worthless or discarded (5)
3 That which is unlawful is considered to be what (7)
4 Name a political movement among the Kikuyu of Kenya, aimed at driving out European settlers (3,3)
5 What is an alternative name in cards for the Jack (5)
6 What are small ornamental table napkins (7)
7 Apia was formerly the capital of which group of islands in the Southern Pacific (5)
E-QUATIONS
13 What is a patent medicine known as (7)
Letters have a number
Some values are in the right hand
15 Kyiv is the capital of which eastern European republic (7)
16 Name the male of the domesticated fowl (7)
17 To be close at hand, is to be what (6)
18 To confess is to do what (5)
19 What is a decree issued by a sovereign or other authority (5)
20 Name a specific poisonous product that might cause tetanus, diptheria, etc (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
(c)
(b) Pertaining
(c) Nourishing
E-QUATIONS
Create remaining values using
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
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.
1. W & J Crowe - Air compressor x 2; 395 Husqvarna chainsaw; CF Moto 4-wheeler 500; 50 sheets particle board; Antique furniture; Round cedar table & chairs; BBQ; Fence energisers; Power tools; Honda 4-stroke post driver;
2. A & M Burchall – 10 packs roofing iron; Scaffold; Grating expanded mesh; 2nd hand iron posts (approx. 100); Yardman mower;
3. T & J O’Ryan – Polaris 6x6 motorbike; Plus, so much more!
ALEXANDER, Lendon John “John”. Passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Cooma Hospital. Formerly of Binjura.
Aged 86 years.
Dearly loved husband of Janet, father of Maree, Dianne, Debra, Bryan, Wendy, Stuart and Keith. Grandfather and Great-Grandfather.
The relatives and friends of the late Lendon John Alexander are invited to attend his funeral service to be held in the St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Cooma on Friday, February 7, 2025 commencing at 11am.
A er which a private cremation will follow.
RIEPON, Darren.
Aged 57 years. Darren Riepon passed away on January 28, 2025. Formerly of Cooma, much loved son of Marj and Ken.
The family of the late Harold Bowden, or George as he was known, would like to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who attended George’s funeral on January 17 and also to those who have sent messages of condolences.
Your kind words and support during this di cult time are deeply appreciated. You can still donate to George’s fundraiser www.community.salvationarmy.org/t/ in-memory-of-george-bowden
be placed before 10am Monday prior to printing
phone 02 6452 0318 by 10am Mondays
phone 02 6452 0318 by 10am Mondays
A service to remember Darren will be held on Friday February 7 at 3pm at the Norwood Crematorium, Mitchell, Canberra. All welcome In lieu of owers, donations to
cancer research.
High standard of sheep exhibited in Nimmitabel Show’s Merino stud section
THREE studs - Conrayn and Greenland, from the local area, plus, Billa Burra Burra, from Yass
- battled it out in the Nimmitabel Show’s Merino sheep section.
Nimmitabel Show 2025
AGRIWEST stud Merino sheep section results are as follows:
Superfine Wool Ram March Shorn
Class 1: Ram 2 tooth
1st Conrayn
2nd Greenland
3rd Conrayn
4th Greenland
Class 2: Ram 4 tooth
1st Conrayn
2nd Conrayn
3rd Conrayn
Superfine Wool Ram August Shorn
Class 3: Ram 2 tooth
1st Greenland
Class 4: Ram 4 tooth
1st Conrayn
2nd Conrayn
Champion Superfine Ram
- Conrayn
Reserve Champion Superfine Ram
- Greenland
Superfine Wool Ewe March Shorn
Class 5: Ewe 2 tooth
1st Conrayn
2nd Greenland
3rd Conrayn
Class 6: Ewe 4 tooth
1st Greenland
2nd Greenland
3rd Conrayn
Superfine Wool Ewe August Shorn
Class 7: Ewe 2 tooth
1st Greenland
Class 8: Ewe 4 tooth
1st Conrayn
2nd Conrayn
Champion Superfine Ewe
- Greenland Reserve Champion Superfine Ewe
- Conrayn
Fine Wool Ram March Shorn
Class 9: Ram 2 tooth
1st Greenland
Class 10: Ram 4 tooth
1st Greenland
Fine Wool Ram August Shorn
Class 11: Ram 2 tooth
1st Greenland
Class 12: Ram 4 tooth
1st Greenland
Champion Fine Wool Ram
- Greenland
Reserve Champion Fine Wool Ram
- Greenland
Fine Wool Ewe August shorn Ewe
Class 15: Ewe 2 tooth
1st Greenland
Class 16: Ewe 4 tooth
1st Conrayn
Champion Fine Wool Ewe
- Greenland
Reserve Champion Fine Wool Ewe
- Conrayn
Fine/Medium Wool Ram March
Shorn
Class 18: Ram 4 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
Fine/Medium Wool Ram August
Shorn
Class 19: Ram 2 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
Champion Fine/Medium Ram
- Billa Burra Burra
Reserve Champion Fine/Medium
Ram - Billa Burra Burra
Fine/Medium Wool Ewe March
Shorn
Class 21: Ewe 2 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
Fine/Medium Wool Ewe August
Shorn
Class 23: Ewe 2 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
Champion Fine/Medium Wool Ewe
- Billa Burra Burra
Reserve Champion Fine/Medium
Wool Ewe - Billa Burra Burra
Medium/Strong Wool Ram August
Shorn
Class 27: Ram 2 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
2nd Greenland
3rd Billa Burra Burra
Class 28: Ram 4 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
Champion Medium/Strong Wool
Ram - Billa Burra Burra
Reserve Champion Medium/Strong
Wool Ram - Billa Burra Burra
Medium/Strong Wool Ewe March
Shorn
Class 29 Ewe 2 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
2nd Greenland
3rd Billa Burra Burra
Class 30 Ewe 4 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
2nd Billa Burra Burra
3rd Billa Burra Burra
Medium/Strong Wool Ewe August
Shorn
Class 31 Ewe 2 tooth
1st Billa Burra Burra
2nd Billa Burra Burra
3rd Greenland
Champion Medium/Strong Wool
Ewe - Billa Burra Burra
Reserve Champion Medium/Strong
Wool Ewe - Billa Burra Burra
Grand Champion Ram - Greenland
Grand Champion Ewe - Billa Burra
Burra
Supreme Merino Exhibit - Greenland
Class 33 Pair - Ram and Ewe
1st Billa Burra Burra
Most Successful Exhibitor - Greenland
The Nimmitabel Show Society thanked the sheep section’s valued sponsors, and is extremely appreciative of their sponsorship.
Sponsors included Abbey Animal Health Pty Ltd, Agriwest Cooma, Sullivan Family, Haylock Partners, Nutrien Cooma and Southern Farm Supplies, Bemboka.
The Nimmitabel Stud Sheep section was very well supported by local studs.
One stud travelled from Yass this year, bringing 41 entries of a very high standard.
The Nimmitabel Show sheep stud officials expect they will do very well during the rest of the show season as well as at the Royal Shows.
Judge, Brian Seears, in his finishing remarks, stated all the entries this year were a great example of productive sheep that the industry is very much in need of to keep quality wools and great frames.
novelty chook cake.
Nimmitabel Show Champion, floral section Marie Hampson.
Young Woman 2025, Charlotte Pateman, and Merino sheep judge, Brian Seears, with Tom Alcock from Greenland - awarded Supreme Merino Exhibit.
Grand Champion ewe, Billa Burra Burra Poll (Yass), presented to Keith McGrath, by past president of the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS), Robert Ryan.
Champion Fine Wool ewe exhibited by Simon Pateman, of Greenland, (right), with Reserve Champion ewe exhibited by Jamie Lette of Conrayn.
HIGH STANDARD: Champion Fine Wool ram exhibited by John Alcock, Greenland, with Nimmitabel Show 2025 Young Woman, Charlotte Pateman.
PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack
Cannonball Festival ready to launch
THREDBO’s iconic Cannonball Festival launches next week with the best mountain bike riders in the country set to tackle the world-class Thredbo trails.
A week of exciting riding starts on Tuesday with hundreds of riders and thousands of spectators headed for Thredbo.
Osprey All-Mountain Enduro
- Tuesday February 11
A brand new addition to the Cannonball line-up, The Osprey All-Mountain Enduro will test the strength and stamina of the best in the business, as the iron men and women of MTB tackle the three stage nine-kilometre track.
The course will cover the entire mountain, starting from behind Eagles Nest and finishing back at Valley Terminal with a range of rock rolls, pinch climbs and steep switchbacks to push even the most avid enduro purist.
Fox Flow Motion Cup -
Wednesday and Thursday February 12, 13
The Fox Flow Motion Cup is set for a mid-week spectacle, featuring a variety of new sections. This exciting re-fresh of the fast racecourse promises action from start to finish.
Although not super technical, this race requires a fit efficient type of rider. A stack of huge berms and long traverses ensures that cornering and pedalling ability will be paramount.
Slalom is back in 2025, featuring racers competing head-to-head on the Friday Flat ski slope. This event adopts a relaxed approach to course design, incorporating off-camber grass turns from top to bottom, promising plenty of action, excitement and drifting. Riders will complete a qualifying run on Thursday morning, with the top competitors advancing to the head-to-head finals.
Pump Track Challenge on Friday night. A test of ultimate skill and stamina, as riders pump, double and manual around the perfectly sculptured course.
Riders will lay down a qualifying run on Friday morning, with the top riders going through to the final heats held under lights.
The Rockshox Australian Open DH will take place on Thredbo’s iconic Cannonball Downhill, featuring the exhilarating upper fire road. Riders will tackle a high-speed downhill course that includes rock gardens, challenging chutes, massive jumps, and rugged terrain. This event promises the biggest payday in Australian downhill history.
Abbasi blasts quick-fire innings
By RUSS HAYLOCK
THE Alpine Hotel
Monaro District Cricket Association one-day competition reached its halfway point last Saturday, with Coffey’s pushing further ahead on top of the table.
Their win over Rhythm was headlined by a star performance from representative all-rounder, Hunter Caldwell.
Caldwell’s return of 3/22 in the first innings was instrumental in keeping Rhythm to 9-159. Shri Veluru (2/17) was the next best with the ball, while Kasun Basnagoda made an unbeaten 63 with the bat to give Rhythm a decent score to bowl at.
Kel Macnab’s first spell put Rhythm right in the game, with his three wickets reducing Coffey’s to 3/44. This brought Nathan Thompson and Caldwell together at the crease. Thompson (30 not out) provided the perfect foil to his partner’s attacking play, with Caldwell hitting nine fours and four sixes in his score of 76 not out to get his side comfortably home by seven wickets.
There was plenty of big hitting at Dalgety as well, with Titans batter Aqib Abbasi blasting 90 from just 33 balls. The hosts
had made 177 batting first, including a halfcentury to Nolan Holland. Abbasi’s onslaught included 10 fours and seven sixes, a total of 82 runs in boundaries.
Abbasi’s hitting was bought to an end by Rylee Holland (2-11) who helped inspire some quick wickets, but in the end the Titans eased to a four-wicket win.
Half centuries from Whitetails batters, Russ Haylock and Ben Hearn, trumped those made by Bombala’s Jason Cikos
and Mick Sullivan in the match played at Berridale. Sullivan (59) and Cikos (56) threatened to take the game away from the hosts, but three wicket hauls for Haylock (3-45) and Billy Small (3-27) helped them haul their opponents back in. Bombala fell from 3-157 to 179 all out as a result of this, and would require early wickets with the ball.
Brent Lucas provided just that, snaring the competition’s form batter, Tom King, for six in the
first over. Brad Claughton and Haylock then put on 50 to help recover the innings, with Hearn coming out at number four and putting Bombala to the sword.
He struck 12 boundaries in his score of 64*, and alongside Haylock (88*) they led their side to an eight-wicket victory.
This Saturday sees Jindabyne take on Coffeys at Rotary in a top-ofthe-table clash, while Berridale travel to battle Bombala once again and Dalgety host Rhythm.
Whip Wars (invite only for riders) returns to centre stage on Saturday afternoon. The rider who lands the biggest ‘moto-style’ whip will claim the top honours, with bonus points awarded for those who exceed 90 degrees. It’s not all about the whips, with the best freestyle riders in the country throwing down on the hunt for the best trick award.
Cooma golfers contest monthly medal
By COOMA GOLF CLUB
THE Cooma Golf Club was busy over the weekend with the monthly medal on Saturday and stableford competition on Sunday.
In Saturday’s monthly medal, David Stewart came out on top, with a score of 69 nett. The A Grade winner was Sean Bradshaw on a countback with score of 70 nett, Tim Bedingfield won B Grade with 73 nett and the C Grade winner was Donna Smith with 71 nett.
Nearest the pin on hole four went to Tony Clark, the ninth to Roy Hankinson, 11 to Martin Gelling and 17 was claimed by Simon Potter. Place getters were Chris Brown, David Robinson, Martin Gelling, Simon Potter (from Murrumbidgee Country Club), Mitch Hynes, Harry Mould and Greg Abraham.
The long drive winners on the day were Chris Bailey for A Grade, Dylan Litchfield in B grade Laurence Cowie in C Grade, and Angela Andrews took the women’s long drive.
In Sunday’s stableford competition, Rodney Connell was the overall winner with a great score of 42. Balls went to Helen
Crawford, Garry Cornish, Mark Kenmir, Jimmy Nichols, Gaye Wilson and Ryan Morgan.
In last week’s midweek stableford, Steven Wheatley was the overall winner with a solid score of 40 points. The A Grade winner was David Robinson with 39 points, Brian Johnson won B Grade with 38 and the C Grade winner was Garry Cornish with 37 points on a countback.
Balls went to Harry Mould, Tim Bedingfield, Paul Fuller, James Ewart, Simon Allen, Jason Brazulaitis, Gaye Wilson, Matthew Kelly (from Burns Golf Club Belconnen) and Brian Searl.
Nearest to the pin on nine was Lyndon Taylor and on 18 Steven Wheatley was the closest.
This week’s midweek competition is a stroke competition. The Snowy Mountains short course is on this weekend. Saturday is an open single stroke competition and Sunday is a two-person ambrose. All are welcome to play in either event - tickets are available now: https:// www.trybooking.com/ CXYFP
The following weekend is the Cooma Ladies Open.
TOP SCORE: Cooma Titans batter, Aqib Abbasi, registers the highest score over the weekend in the Monaro one-day cricket competition. Abbasi blasted 90 o just 33 balls.
PHOTO: Monaro District Cricket Association
ICONIC: Thredbo’s Cannonball Festival brings the best mountain bike riders in the country together for arguably the most exciting week of racing on the calendar. Hundreds of riders and thousands of spectators are expected at this festival next week.
Foursomes winners shoot great 27 hole score Tony Brady memorial
By COOLAMATONG GOLF CLUB
THE Coolamatong Golf Club’s foursomes championships were played over a very hot 27 holes of golf on Sunday.
The men’s scratch winners for 2025 were Jordan Sell and Matthew Bell who had an excellent score of 117.
Scoring 41, 38 and 38 across the three nines of golf, the highlights included two birdies on the second nine on holes 10 and 16. As much as they won by eight strokes, Sell said they managed to bungle a few shots, not that it mattered in the end.
Runners-up in the men were Charlie Filtness and Steve Dunn who won on a countback with a score of 125. Their score suffered damage with an eight on the sixth hole, and then a nine on hole 12 after they found the out of bounds.
The winning nett score of 105 for the men was Adam Foster and Chris Bevan, the pair showing consistency and staying out of trouble by not shooting any big number holes.
In the ladies’ foursomes, the winners were Jan O’Halloran and Nadine Archibald with a score of 151, the duo consistent across their three nines of golf. In runner-up position on 153 were Michelle White and Kylie Woodcock.
The winning nett score for the ladies on 108 was Elfie Doran and Maureen Rupcic with 108.
The format of alternate shot is always a testing event, and several groups were in striking distance of the runner-up position in the men’s event.
same nine holes and improve 14 shots to shoot par figures 35 and finish on 127.
An 18-hole stableford event was conducted for those not paying in the championships, with Carl Fenton winning with 37 points to collect a voucher, and Cameron McKid runnerup with 34 points winning two
Bicanic won with a nett 64 in the stroke round to win by two shots from Richard Hendriks.
Commenting after the round, Andy said it was his best round ever at Coolamatong and said he concentrated well and did not make too many mistakes.
“Just played consistent and nothing stupid, which is unusual,” he said.
Hendriks may well feel he was robbed, shooting 66 nett in a stroke round to run second.
In A grade, visiting from Vincentia Golf Club on the South Coast, Mark Dennis had 68 nett which even surprised himself as he stated he had not played much recently.
In B grade, Laurie Whitehead had 68 nett including shooting three over par the front nine. In C grade, Bicanic was top with 64 nett from Richard Hendriks on 66.
The ball comp ran down to 72 nett including Kim Weston 69, Alan Parsons 71, Maureen Rupcic 71, Karen Caban 72, Nadine Archibald 72, Alan Butterworth 72, Gregg Quinn 72, Carolyn Major 72, Terry Stevenson 72, Mick Thoms 72 and Robert Haigh 72.
In the four-ball-best-ball,
By BOMBALA GOLF CLUB
THIS was the last weekend of the Bombala Golf Club’s summer chicken runs. On Saturday, there was a small number of players with many travelling to Bega for the races.
Pepper Thompson came in a very happy golfer, winning with a good score of 40 points. Runner-up was Glen Hampshire 34 points. Golden shot went to Hampshire. Nearest the pin was won by Neil Thompson.
On Sunday, the winner of the chicken run was out done by Ray Crawford. Crawford had the shot of the day hitting the flagstick on 17 with the ball dropping straightinto the hole, for a hole-in-one.
The sweetest shot he has ever hit. This is Crawford’s first official hole-in-one. Golfers congratulated him on the achievement.
Wayne Elton had a great round winning with 40 points, from Crawford on 37 points, (score on 17 would have helped), and Darren Forrester 36 points.
Nearest the pin on the fith was not won.
Golf program
Saturday February 8 - Tony Brady memorial day. Four-man ambrose, draw for partners. 10am shotgun start, egg and bacon roll. Lots of prizes. BBQ following golf, everyone welcome.
Sunday February 9 - Opening day, chapmans (choose partners). c.Stewart and D.Douch trophies
Pennants win for Cooma golfers
COOMA golfers have enjoyed a strong start to the men’s pennants season with wins to the A-scratch and B-handicap teams. Both sides played their first matches of the season on Sunday and recorded impressive wins.
The A-scratch side won against Burns four-two and the B-handicap team accounted for Murrumbidgee Golf Club
3.5-2.5.
WINNERS: Cooma Golf Club’s pennant A-scratch
Mark Burke.
consists
PHOTOS: Cooma Golf Club
Wednesday February 12 - Ladies, stableford. Club trophy
Colts trio earn rep honours
THE rugby league season has started for three Cooma Colts juniors with three players selected in representative sides. February and March will be busy months for Nate Stokes, Judah Filiga and Ella Barker who start their representative campaigns this weekend.
Stokes will represent the Monaro Colts (under 16s) in the Andre John’s Cup and Eligia will line-up for the Colts (under 18s) in the Laurie Daley Cup. Both players are preparing for their first match of the representative season with round one on Sunday February 9 and at Raiders HQ Bruce. Stokes takes to the field at 10am and Filiga 11.20am.
Barker has been selected in the Colts under 17s team for the Lisa Fiaola Cup.
Colts president, Creedence Bartlett, praised the efforts of the three players in reaching the next level of their rugby league careers.
“We are so proud of the outstanding efforts that earned them a place on each of the teams that will play against the Northern Rivers Titans on Sunday February 9. We wish them the best of luck,” Bartlett said.
TOP FORM: Men’s foursomes winners, Matthew Bell and Jordan Sell, and ladies winners, Nadine Archibald and Jan O’Halloran.
PHOTO: Coolamatong Golf Club
Winning their opening match is the B-handicap side of (le -right): Paul Lloyd, Mitch Hynes, Steve Wheatley, Wayne Ryan, Sean Smith and Shannon Fergusson.
team
of (le -right): David Stewart, Thomas Stewart, Phil Ingram, Ben Langdon, Lyndon Taylor and
Silver succes for brilliant Baff
By INTERNATIONAL SKI FEDERATION
JINDABYNE’S Josie Baff stormed on to the International Ski Federation (FIS) Snowboard Cross World Cup scene two years-ago with a string of podium finishes, including her first World Cup win in Les Deux Alpes.
Baff ended that season, 2022/23, in third place overall in the World Cup, and also won silver at both the World Championships and Junior World Championships.
Last year, she proved that she is a serious contender by finishing fourth on the World Cup tour, with five podium finishes – although no wins.
Just 22 years-old, Baff started the 2024/25 season well with second place at the World Cup in Cervinia before Christmas and now has another silver medal to her name following a terrific weekend at the latest World Cup meeting in China.
The result is a testament to the work she put in over the off-season, which was both physical and mental.
“The off season is a great time to work on weaknesses and minor tweaks that might take some time to improve, so I spent my time trying to do that and enjoy some cheeky holidays in between,” Baff said.
“I’ve been focusing a lot on the energy and intention I bring into physical sessions. I also started incorporating mental exercises into my training which in my opinion is a major contributing factor in performance.
“On snow training it’s similar too, my main goals are consistency and to
blitz
strength of the Australian Snowboard Cross team.
Not only did Baff finish second in Cervinia, but her compatriot, Cameron Bolton, matched her achievement in the men’s competition, after he finished third overall in the standings last season.
Baff is thrilled to be part of the growth of the sport in Australia.
“I think the future for Australian SBX is very bright, in my opinion the team is the best it’s ever looked with depth it has never had, particularly on the women’s side. It’s exciting and that energy is definitely felt in the snow sports community, lots of young kids are eager to try Snowboard Cross,” she said.
Baff herself followed her older sister Georgia into the sport, after switching from Alpine Skiing when she was younger, and she says she was inspired to chase the dream by watching Georgia compete.
These days, she says “almost all” her competitors inspire her to keep improving.
continue building on my skills one small thing at a time.”
Baff said this focus on constant improvement is something she takes into racing, too.
“Learning is such an enjoyable part of our sport, so I hope to improve my riding each race and feel satisfied with the energy I bring to each race as well as my riding and tactical abilities. If that goes to plan then I believe the results will follow and ultimately I’m
chasing those podiums and wins,” she said.
As a young rider, Baff’s potential was clear. She won gold at the Lausanne 2020 Youth Winter Olympic Games and made her senior World Cup debut in Bakuriani the following year. At the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, she finished 18th overall.
“It’s super cool to return to China. It always feels exciting to fly to a World Cup especially outside of Europe,” Baff said.
“The Beijing Olympics were very special for me. It was both my first Olympics but also an Olympics during COVID, so I’m looking forward to going back to Asia with less restrictions and the possibility to explore the culture more.”
But she also has ambitions beyond tourism.
After three World Cup events, Baff is ranked third on the women’s standing.
Her latest silver effort came after a fifth finish in
the first meet of the World Cup round in Beidahu. Baff won the small final to claim fifth spot.
While Baff is maturing as a rider, her approach to Snowboard Cross remains the same.
“My expectations are higher for myself and I have more confidence, but my main goal remains the same, to always ride to my best and to have fun whilst doing so,” she said.
“The more fun I’m having the better I ride, so fun is a top priority for me.”
Helping her enjoy the sport is the current
“Everyone has different strengths and slightly different approaches which is cool to see,” Baff said.
“The field of girls is changing a fair bit at the moment with a few younger girls coming through and with Eva (Adamczykova) and Chloé (Trespeuch) both not racing this year.
“It is going to be a great battle among the experienced riders and the younger girls coming through.
“I’m very eager to get racing again and to see who has what’s needed to be on the top box the most.”
Registrations open for Masters Games in Canberra
THE Australian Masters Games (AMG), one of the nation’s most exciting and inclusive multi-sport events, is officially open for registrations via the AMG website.
This iconic event will take place from October 18 to 25, 2025 and will see thousands of masters athletes converge on the nation’s capital, Canberra.
The Australian Masters Games is a biennial multisport event for masters athletes regardless of ability, or experience.
Founded in 1987, the AMG were the first games specifically created for masters athletes and they have become a cherished tradition in Australian sport, promoting health, wellness, and lifelong engagement.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a casual
participant, or just looking for a reason to stay active, everyone is welcome.
With 30 sports and counting on offer currently, and more to come, anyone can play without limits.
Be a part of popular sports like netball, basketball, dragon boating, or try an up-andcoming sport like pickleball, yoga sports and more.
Adam Drinkwell, General Manager of the AMG is excited to welcome the masters community back to Canberra for the 20th Australian Masters Games.
“The Australian Masters Games is a celebration of community, wellbeing, and the love of sport at any age,” said Drinkwell.
“Whether you’re here to win medals or just have fun, this event promises to create
memories that will last a lifetime.
“We’re thrilled to invite athletes of all backgrounds back to Canberra for the first time since 2003,” Drinkwell said.
“The AMG is a festival of sport, bringing friends together for competition and a week of good times.
“Canberra is the perfect city to host this year’s AMG. I encourage everyone to take the time to explore Canberra during the Games. From its world-class museums and galleries to its stunning outdoor spaces, there’s so much to see and do. Combine this with a week of sport, and you’ve got an experience like no other,” explained Drinkwell.
“With its iconic landmarks, rich cultural history, and vibrant community, Canberra
offers participants a unique and inspiring backdrop for the AMG. From the beautiful landscapes to the warm hospitality, Canberra will make this event truly unforgettable,” Drinkwell concluded.
How to Register
Visit the official Australian Masters Games website to secure your place.
There is currently 25 percent off the Standard Registration fee during the Gold Registration period, which is available now until 4 May 2025.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of an unforgettable experience.
Key Highlights of the 2025
AMG:
Dates: 18 – 25 October, 2025
Location: Various sporting venues across the ACT and surrounds Sports: Over 50 disciplines,
from athletics and swimming, to niche sports such as yoga sports and shooting.
Participants: Open to everyone aged 30 years old and above, regardless of skill level.
Some sports have lower age minimums, such as gymnastics, which is 20 years old and above.
The Games are owned by the Confederation of Australian Sport (CAS) and conducted under its charter of “Sport for All”, providing participation and competition opportunities for people over the age of 30 years, regardless of their background or ability, aimed at encouraging healthy active lifestyles and lifelong participation in sport.
The 20th Australian Masters Games is also proudly supported by the ACT Government.
Jindabyne star ready for World Cup
SNOW: Josie Baff’s stellar career reaches new heights. PHOTO: Chris Hocking
Jindabyne’s new squash tournament
By TRISTA HEATH
JINDABYNE Bowling and Sports Club will host the first-ever Snowy Mountains Open Squash Tournament over a two-day event in February.
Beginning Saturday February 15, this brand-new competition welcomes players of all levels and features a round-robin, timed format, ensuring every participant gets at least three matches.
Jindabyne Bowling Club Board Director, Ryan Petrov, said you don’t have to be a professional player, or a frequent player to register and play.
“If you enjoy the game and are keen to meet new people, as well as play a variety of players, then this is a good opportunity to come along for a weekend of social squash,” Petrov said.
“The Snowy Mountains Open Squash Tournament is open to everyone, and the focus of the tournament is less on the competitive side of the sport and more on its social aspect.
“It is all about having fun and getting players come together from across the region, including Canberra and the coast, to visit Jindabyne and join in on a weekend of fun
squash playing.”
Squash is a racket sport played by two (singles) or four players (doubles) in a four-walled court with a small, hollow, rubber ball.
The players alternate in striking the ball with their rackets onto the playable surfaces of the four walls of the court.
The objective of the game is to hit the ball in such a way that the opponent is not able to play a valid return.
The Snowy Mountains Open Squash Tournament’s top players will advance to the semifinals and finals, which will be played as best-offive games.
With the goal of attracting squash enthusiasts from across NSW, this exciting event is limited to 60 players to ensure all matches can be played over the two days.
The tournament currently has more than 20 registered players, with the hopes of around 30 to 40 total before registrations close.
Petrov said if players don’t have their own gear, equipment can be hired through the Jindabyne Bowling Club.
“If the first tournament is a success and interest is shown, we hope to make it an annual event, similar to the tournament held at
Pambula Beach that runs every November,” Petrov said.
“We chose the tournament to be in February to tie into other events in the squash calendar, such as state championships, and February allows for the Christmas rush and back to school hurry to be over and settled so visitors can enjoy the town without the crowds.”
The tournament director and format creator, Cooma based squash player, Corey Bedingfield, is an experienced player and organiser after having run similar tournaments along the coast.
To add to the fun, a tournament dinner will be held at the club on Saturday night.
This event is proudly supported by Jindabyne Bowling and Sports Club, Banjo Paterson Inn, DLC Joinery, Sticky Fingerz and Eastern Ridge Electrical.
Petrov said he looks forward to welcoming players and spectators to what promises to be an exciting addition to Jindabyne’s sporting calendar.
Entry form and tournament conditions are available at www. jindabynebowlingclub. com.au/snowy-mountainsopen-squash
Squash players from across the region and NSW are expected to travel to Jindabyne for a two-day round-robin tournament.
PHOTO: Supplied
Jindabyne Sports and Bowling Club this February.
PHOTO: Trista Heath
Chawner’s remarkable journey
INVICTUS GAMES SUPPORTS
COOMA ATHLETE’S RECOVERY
By NATHAN THOMPSON
COOMA’S Cindy Chawner is no stranger to competition snowboarding after years of watching her daughter, Mia, race at the national and international level.
The roles will be reversed this week when Chawner takes to the Whistler slopes for the Invictus Games.
Rather than being at the bottom cheering Mia on, it will be Chawner, 59, competing for the first time.
Chawner’s journey from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) to Vancouver for the 2025 Invictus Games has been one of hard work, dedication and self-discovery.
Chawner was medically discharged in 2023 after serving for 24 years, mostly as a personal capability officer.
Taking part in the Invictus Games had not been on Chawner’s radar until a chance meeting with Invictus staff at Canberra Airport last year.
What followed has been a remarkable journey, one Chawner said has helped her recovery since leaving the RAAF.
“Training for the Invictus Games and being part of the Australian team has been great for my recovery and rehabilitation.
“When I was medically discharged (both for mental health and physical reasons) I didn’t realise how isolated I would become,” Chawner said.
“I served for over 24 years and my retirement wasn’t
planned to go that way. A lot of my identity was attached to being a military officer.”
When Chawner dons the green and gold for the Invictus Games opening ceremony, she and Mia will share a special bond, having both represented their country.
“I can’t wait to share this feeling with Mia. When I’ve been feeling overwhelmed, I’ve been able to talk to her about the pressures of competing,” Chawner said.
“I have also been able to tap into Mia’s coaches which has helped me immensely.”
Chawner has also been working under the guidance of Invictus Australia coaches and Jindabyne trainer and Winter Olympian, Manuela Berchtold.
With only days before the Invictus Games starts on February 8, Chawner said the nerves and excitement have set in.
“I’m feeling excited and incredibly nervous, and slightly overwhelmed,” Chawner said.
“The games have come up so quickly. I started on this path 12 months again when I first met the Invictus team.
Where the Flick
“The whole way through it’s been something I’ve been working on that’s months away. Now it’s just days.
“I’ve been very lucky to work with Manuela.”
If training for snowboarding wasn’t hard enough, Chawner is set to represent her nation in four other adaptive sports - wheelchair basketball, rowing, swimming and skeleton.
“I’m most confident about snowboarding as I’ve done a lot more of it than the other sports,” Chawner said.
“Skeleton is somewhat
terrifying as I have never had a tried it before, the Invictus Games will be the first time.”
The idea of winning for Chawner doesn’t come via a medal or placing.
It will be when she walks alongside her teammates at the opening ceremony.
“My teammates are inspiring and an amazing group. I can’t wait to share that moment with them.”
Chawner will be cheered on by her husband, Terry, and Mia in Vancouver and her five other children and nine grandchildren at home.
READY TO GO: Cooma’s Cindy Chawner will represent Australia in the Invictus Games, in five adaptive sport disciplines.
PHOTO: Nathan Thompson
CHAMBER’S BUSY YEAR AHEAD
Baff dominates World Cup
JINDABYNE talent, Josie Baff, has delivered another stunning World Cup performance, this time securing a silver medal in the weekend’s meet in China.
The impressive effort marks the second silver of the season and 11th podium of her career.
After finishing fifth in the first World Cup in Beidahu the previous day, which included a victory in the small final to determine places five to eight, Baff made a great start on day two winning her opening quarter-final heat.
“Two seconds in a row now, I really want to win, I hope I can get that soon, but I was really happy to share the podium with the girls,” Baff said following her silver medal performance.
After three World Cup events, Baff is ranked third on the women’s standings.
In the men’s event, Jindabyne’s Adam Lambert was the highest finishing Australian in 10th, with Jarryd Hughes 13th, Cameron Bolton 25th and James Johnstone 52nd.
Safety concerns halt Snowy 2.0 progress
Underground work stopped in further project delays
By NATHAN THOMPSON
IN A further setback for Snowy 2.0, some underground operations have been halted following safety concerns workers have with the project’s refuge chambers.
Concerns workers are not properly trained to operate the refuge chambers or lastresort chambers have stopped tunnel boring machines (TBM)
Florence and Kirsten.
Both machines, as well as drill and blast operations in the power tunnel caverns and waterway tunnels, were stopped early last week.
The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) claims workers have not been trained in the operation of the refuge chambers, underground emergency evacuation procedures and medical emergencies.
“The workforce has decided enough is enough and out of frustration and genuine concern for their safety, decided they had no option but to stop working underground until their concerns are appropriately addressed,” AWU NSW secretary, Tony Callinan, said.
In a statement to this masthead on Wednesday
January 29, Snowy Hydro said it takes safety concerns ‘very seriously’ and is taking steps to address previous concerns.
“Some underground work at Snowy 2.0 has temporarily stopped while principal contractor Future Generation Joint Venture (FGJV) takes steps to ensure a back-up safety system meets strict safety requirements,” a Snowy Hydro spokesperson said.
“The matter relates to the project’s refuge chambers, last-resort areas where workers
can shelter in the unlikely event that both primary safety systems are compromised and evacuation routes are blocked.
“Snowy Hydro expects FGJV to maintain the highest safety standards and requires the contractor to resolve matters relating to certification, management plans and additional training requirements, before underground work in the affected areas can begin again.”
■ More on page 5
WORLD STAGE: Jindabyne snowboarding star, Josie Baff (left) finishes second in the latest World Cup meet. It’s her second silver medal effort this season. PHOTO: Miha Matavz
Firle awarded 2025 Special Achievement for Sport
THE community is forever grateful for the development of the Alpine Ski Fields and the many and varied people it brought to the area who eventually called the Snowy Mountains home.
Marty Firle is another ski tragic who for more than 30 years has devoted his life to the ski industry.
Since 1994 Firle has been a cornerstone member of the Perisher team serving as a ski instructor, trainer, coach and supervisor.
Since 2001 he has been in a training and examination role for the APSI (Australian Professional Snowsports Instructors).
This is the body responsible for producing ski instructors and guiding them through certification and career paths in the snow sport industry.
Firle has represented Australia for APSI at an international level and in 2015 was awarded a prestigious Life Membership and represented Australia for APSI at Interski 2011 in St Anton.
As well as a level 4 examiner and technical committee member, Firle has played a crucial role in maintaining high standards within the industry and works globally, coaching, leading and inspiring Australian mogul athletes at the Mogul Skiing academy.
One of Firle’s other passions for many years has been the Jindabyne Yabbies Surf Club – touted as Australia’s highest surf club.
Recently, Firle announced the end of an era with the closing of the surf club, because of the number of available qualified members needed to keep the club running.
Since 2009 Firle has been a member of both The Yabbies and Tathra Surf Clubs and devoted untold hours as a volunteer patroller and committee member. He fought tirelessly to raise
money, organise training sessions and competitions for the many local kids who would otherwise not have been introduced to the sport of surf lifesaving.
Firle’s passion for sports and community is evident with his work for other organisations like the Jindabyne Trail Stewardship on mountain bike trails, and his involvement with the Jindabyne Cycling Club, having served on these committees for many years.
He is a certified official for
mountain bike races and has additionally set up a Mixed Martial Arts club and promotes fitness and well-being within the community. Firle is inspirational to the community for his dedication to his profession and the community.
The 2025 Special Achievement for Sport was collected by wife, Desiree Firle, on his behalf on Sunday January 26.
Firle took to social media thanking the community for its nominations and kind words.
Where the Flick
Special Achievement for Sport award recipient, Marty Firle, with wife, Desiree Firle, at the 50 years of APSI awards in 2024.
PHOTO: Supplied
RECOGNISED: Snowy Monaro Regional Council mayor, Chris Hanna, Desiree Firle, and Australia Day ambassador, Ethan Butson. PHOTO: Trista Heath
