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SNOWY MONARO FARMER

Homelessness increasing Heritage listing calls

SERVICE PROVIDER SHINES

LIGHT ON COMMUNITY ISSUE

By NATHAN THOMPSON

WITH temperatures in the

Snowy Monaro falling below zero most nights in winter, many of the community’s most vulnerable are at risk of health issues due to a lack of adequate heating in their residences or if they are sleeping rough.

As National Homelessness Week approaches in August, service provider Mission Australia is hoping to give a voice to homelessness in the region. Cost-of-living pressures and rental prices are contributing to an increased number of people needing to access Mission

SUPPORT: Mission Australia workers, Sara Shaw and Brittany Hynes, are hoping National Homelessness Week will create more awareness for homelessness in the region, which they say is increasing.

PHOTO: Elora Plummer

Australia’s services.

Mission Australia’s acting co-ordinator Cooma region homelessness support service, Brittany Hynes, said hidden homelessness is becoming more prevalent.

“In our region we see more hidden homelessness due to the

cold temperatures. There are lots of couch surfers,” Mrs Hynes said.

“We are also seeing increases in people living in unsafe dwellings. This is due to rental market a ordability and cost-of-living issues.”

■ Read more on page 3

By NATHAN THOMPSON

A REPORT detailing the environmental, cultural and heritage values of the central Monaro plains has recommended the iconic setting be placed on state and national heritage lists.

More than 100 hundred Snowy Monaro landholders and residents attended a community meeting last week to hear the ndings of a report - Central Monaro Plains Deep Landscape Values Assessmentprepared by Dr Dennis Williamson of Geoscene International.

The area studied by Dr Williamson covers 336,000 hectares with the report nding more than 65 per cent of the central Monaro plains is of high to very high landscape value.

Dr Williamson found the iconic Monaro landscape has such signi cant environmental values it should be pursued for inclusion as a United Nations Educational, Scienti c and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Biosphere Reserve.

Currently in Australia there are only four biosphere reserves.

■ Read more in the Snowy Monaro Farmer on page 20

“Marsden” sofa bed

“Romeo” corner suite

Emergency services respond to multiple incidents across region

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

LOCAL emergency services were kept busy last weekend responding to several incidences, including a vehicle re near Cooma started by a lightning strike.

Cooma Rural Fire Service (RFS) attended the single vehicle car re on Sunday a ernoon at the time a storm event hit the area.

According to RFS Snowy Monaro the vehicle’s occupant was travelling along Ma ra Road towards Cooma at around 3pm when it was hit by lightning causing the vehicle to catch on re.

The car was fully alight when Cooma and Brothers Rural Fire Brigades attended the scene. No one was injured.

A two-vehicle accident occurred on Badja Road at Snowball, about 30 kilometres out of Numeralla on Friday a ernoon.

Once crews from Numeralla Bush Fire and Cooma Rural Fire Brigades, Cooma Fire and Rescue, and a brigade from Queanbeyan, arrived on scene the two cars were fully involved with re.

All occupants were out of the vehicles and being assessed by ambulance at the scene. No serious injuries were recorded.

RFS crews received the call at 2pm and remained on scene until 5.30pm.

Police and Fire and Rescue crews from Jindabyne attended a small

bus/converted motor home ac cident on the Snowy River Way late on Saturday a ernoon.

and Dalgety RFS also attended to assist police and re and rescue.

The road was cleared by 9.30pm.

A motor vehicle accident occurred on Kalkite Road at 9.30pm on Saturday.

The vehicle went o the road and into a ditch. The driver was airli ed out by helicopter.

Ambulance, police and re and rescue attended with Berridale RFS assisting. In other news, crews responded to a grass re at Michelago

ash from a wood heater outside on

Cooma Rural Fire Brigade to remind residents of the importance of disposing of hot ashes properly.

The RFS strongly advises against putting hot or warm ashes onto the ground due to the risk of re. Residents should ensure ashes are completely cold before disposing of them. Ashes will remain hot enough to re-ignite and cause other ammable materials to

combust for several days – much longer than many people would expect.

Safe ash disposal practices:

Use a metal container: Always use a sturdy, metal container with a lid for hot ash; Half- ll the container: This allows for better cooling and air ow to prevent smoldering and potential res; Secure the lid: A tight- tting lid helps to starve smoldering ashes of oxygen, preventing sparks and embers from escaping; Regularly stir and add water: Check the ash container regularly (every few days) and add a little water to help

cool and extinguish any remaining embers; Wait for complete cooling: Never dispose of ash in the bin until it is completely cold and you are 100 per cent sure it’s extinguished; Bag the ash: Once cold, bag the ash before placing it in your red bin; Do not place hot ash in plastic bins: Hot or warm ash will damage the bins and can cause res in the collection vehicle. By following these guidelines residents of the Snowy Monaro region can ensure the safe and responsible disposal of wood heater ashes, protecting themselves, their community, and the environment.

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Ti-Tree Racecourse Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you. People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the benefit of the entire community.

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless. We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of skills, however, sound business and financial management skills and objective decision-making expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Ti-Tree Racecourse Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 530006 at Cooma notified on 15-Aug-1871 for Public Recreation. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years. Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are

The head-on two-vehicle motor vehicle accident resulted in the vehicles being fully involved with fire when emergency services arrived.

A vehicle fire on Ma ra Road on Sunday a ernoon is believed to have been started by a lightning strike. PHOTOS: Supplied Cooma Rural Fire Brigade

By NATHAN THOMPSON

Calls to re-instate region’s mobile library Homelessness in spotlight

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THERE are renewed calls to reinstate the region’s mobile library truck and improve the outreach service currently o ered.

At last week’s council meeting, a continuation of the June meeting, councillor Bob Stewart declared the outreach service is not working.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council started a library outreach service in December 2024. The service replaced the mobile library and while still visiting the same towns and villages, residents are calling for the former service to be re-introduced.

“This has been a failure, and unfortunately I voted for it,” Cr Stewart said.

“We need to back those communities and get a better delivery.

“The two most vulnerable people we need to look a er are the elderly and the kids. We had a good system and unfortunately we let it go.”

The mobile library outreach service was back on the council agenda following Cr Tricia Hopkins putting forward a notice of motion, calling for community consultation to be undertaken to determine the current satisfaction with the service.

MISSION Australia support workers are calling for greater community awareness for the region’s most vulnerable ahead of National Homelessness Week in August.

Cost-of-living pressures and rental prices are leading to an increased number of people needing to access Mission Australia’s services.

With below zero temperatures and inadequate heating in many homes, more residents than ever before are struggling to stay warm.

Mission Australia’s acting co-ordinator Cooma region homelessness support service, Brittany Hynes, said hidden homelessness is becoming more prevalent.

“In our region we see more hidden homelessness due to the cold temperatures. There are lots of couch surfers,” Mrs Hynes said.

“We are also seeing increases in people living in unsafe dwellings. This is due to rental market affordability and cost-of-living issues.

“I’m not proposing to bring back the mobile library truck. We have moved on a lot, the outreach service we are o ering seems to be working well,” Cr Hopkins said.

‘Let’s chat to the stakeholders and users and ask them what is working well and what can be improved. It’s more than books, it’s a social connectivity issue also.”

“The service is not adequate in my view. The challenges are funding,” Mr Murray said.

“It’s currently a no-cost ser-

Snowy Monaro Regional Council chief of community services, Tony Murray, told the meeting council can apply for grant funding to deliver a more comprehensive service.

vice, there were no real plans to replace the mobile library truck.

“We need about $60,000 plus running costs.”

Cr Hopkins’ motion was passed unanimously. Council is undertaking feedback on the outreach service and will hold community workshops in coming months.

“Overcrowding is a real problem. People are living in dwellings that are uninhabitable and unsafe.

“Across Australia, there are more than 122,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night.

“From couch surfing to living in an emergency shelter, homelessness can look different for everyone.”

Bagged

LOCAL PUSH: There are fresh calls for the Snowy Monaro mobile library truck to be brought back and return the library outreach service to what it once was.

PHOTO: File

Vale Larry Adler

ON Saturday, 14 June, a pioneer of the Australian ski industry and well-known Australian sportswear icon, Larry Adler, passed away aged 96.

A beloved husband to Nanette, a father to Skye, Craig, Scott and Larry, a cherished grandfather, and a mentor to many, the family laid him to rest with a Celebration of Life on Friday, 27 June at St Peter’s Presbyterian Church in North Sydney.

Condolences came far and wide as Larry was remembered by many.

Larry was a proud member of the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance, his passion for the mountains

was legendary.

A er 10 years instructing at Mont Tremblant Canada and Charlotte Pass, he founded his pharmacy in Collaroy in 1965.

A few years later, he opened Larry Adler Ski and Outdoor, building a legacy that has lasted for decades.

His passion was infectious, and his impact on the Australian ski and outdoor community is immeasurable.

Larry’s legacy will forever be etched on the slopes he loved and in the hearts of the countless people he taught, employed, and inspired.

Adler’s business was a huge success, growing from a single store to many across New South Wales.

Safety upgrades for Jindabyne Dam

By NATHAN THOMPSON

RIDERS crossing the Jindabyne Dam wall are being urged to dismount and walk their bikes across the dam crossing.

In e orts to improve safety, Snowy Hydro (responsible for the dam wall), Snowy Monaro Regional Council and Transport for NSW will upgrade safety barriers along the dam wall.

The three stakeholders are working with the Jindabyne Trail Stewardship (JTS), a hard working local group who manages the shared trails, to call on riders to put their safety rst.

“The Jindabyne Trail Stewardship has been advised that new barriers are scheduled to be installed either side of the Jindabyne dam spillway. These barriers will make it harder for bike riders to ride around them, forcing people to dismount,” a spokesperson said.

“This is a temporary solution.

“We have been lobbying for safety improvements to the path over the spillway for nearly 10 years, last year we realised that we had a golden opportunity - as we could not only raise the issue and suggest solutions, this time we could also point to a source of funds that were available to x the problem.”

Snowy Hydro has already installed new signage at both sides of the dam wall crossing to reinforce to riders that they must dismount and walk their bikes across.

Snowy Hydro’s head of social im-

pact and community, Sarah Norris, said upgrades will deliver much needed safety improvements and instill greater con dence in riders walking their bikes across the wall.

“We are working with multiple stakeholders, including the Jindabyne Trail Stewardship, to strongly encourage riders to dismount before crossing the wall,” Ms Norris said.

“These are important upgrades, and ones Snowy Hydro is focussed on delivering in a timely manner.”

Snowy Hydro said it hopes the works will be complete before the summer mountain biking season.

“The Jindabyne Trail Stewardship

understands that the temporary barriers at the dam wall will cause some frustration amongst riders, but we concede it’s a necessary step for now,” the spokesperson said.

“It was clear that something had to be done to prevent a serious injury, or worse, at this location. It’s only with the co-operation of JTS, Snowy Hydro, Council and Transport for NSW that we will nd a solution that works for everyone, and JTS appreciates the willingness of all parties to come to the table on this issue.

“JTS will keep pushing for a permanent solution to keep all trail users safe and happy on the dam wall.”

VALE: Larry Adler was well-known among the Snowy Mountains community and he will be missed by many.

SAFETY: Cyclists crossing the Jindabyne dam wall are urged to dismount and follow signage instructions for safety. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Jindabyne’s aged care options

Community meets to discuss aged care services

By TRISTA HEATH

ON WEDNESDAY, 2 July, community members gathered at the Jindabyne Sports and Bowling Club to talk about aged care services and what is o ered in the region, speci cally Jindabyne.

Around 50 people attended the meeting led by Snowy Monaro Regional Council councillors, Narelle Davis, and, Nick Elliott.

Cr Davis is a retired registered nurse of more than 20 years and currently sits on the board of Southern NSW Local Health District, she carries a wealth of knowledge of the health care system and was the driving force behind the meeting.

Other health care representatives attended to share their knowledge on the local aged care system including, Cooma Hospital registered nurse, Lucille Ingram, Council Community Support co-ordinator, Rachel Roehl, and chief executive o cer at Cooma Challenge, Angie Ingram.

Lucille addressed the crowd rst, urging community members who need the help aged care services to register with My Aged Care, a government initiative providing information and support to better understand,

access and navigate the aged care system.

“Available to those 65-years-old and over, My Aged Care provides information on the di erent types of aged care services available, an assessment of needs to identify eligibility and the right type of care,” Lucille said.

“As well as referrals and support to nd service providers that can meet your needs and information on what you might need to pay towards the cost of your care.”

Lucille has been in the health care sector for more than 40 years and holds a vast level of knowledge on the aged care system, she also is an aged care assessor.

She understands how the aged care system can be complex, challenging, hard to follow and to navigate.

“My Aged Care can help you access services that can support you to remain living at home and in your own community,” Lucille said.

“You may be eligible to access local support to help you continue doing what you can for yourself, safely and with a focus on your strengths and goals.

“It is an entry level point to nd services for aged care in your region as well as pro-

vide information and services to those in more isolated parts.”

The Australian Government has developed a new Aged Care Act to strengthen Australia’s aged care system.

The Australian Parliament passed the Aged Care Act 2024 as the new law for government-funded aged care in Australia on 25 November 2024.

The new Act was supposed to start from 1 July and now has been postponed by the commonwealth until 1 November 2025 and will align with the launch of the new Support at Home program.

Ongoing challenges and reforms in the Australian aged care sector, especially for regional areas, means limited services o ered.

Lucille said the current services o ered in Jindabyne include Mable, Southern NSW Local Health District Transport for Health, Driving Miss Daisy and respite services through Cooma Challenge.

Rachel explained how Councils Community Support Programs provide a range of aged care services at locations across the region.

This includes residential aged care facilities in Cooma, as well as community-based options across the region.

nity transport programs, meals on wheels and home care packages to help with personal care and support, light housework and maintenance, shopping, medication support and more.

delivered through Council’s Community Support Programs.

Packages are available to residents of the Snowy Monaro region who meet eligibility criteria.

Home Care Packages o er intensive home support and case management services where you work with Council to design a package to meet your individual needs allowing you to stay connected to your community and living independently in your home.

Cooma Challenge understands that as an older person you may need assistance

respite cottage providing overnight accommodation for up to ve nights, to give respite to carers of older people who live in rural and remote areas.

“The cottage is shared with Monaro Community Access Day Program in Cooma East, the people who stay here are served home cooked meals and o ered 24-hour support,” Angie said.

“Monaro Community Access / Day Program provides centre-based care for older people being cared for while living at home, including people with early onset de-

monwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) which is one consolidated program that provides entry-level ple who need assistance to keep living independently at home in their community.

“Cooma Challenge Limited offers different CHSP services available for residents in Cooma-Monaro, Bombala and Snowy River Shires, respite care provides short-term, timelimited breaks for carers of eligible people.”

For more information on aged care services offered in the region contact Cooma Challenge on 6452 2156, Council’s - Community Support Programs on 02 6451 1059 or My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.

RESPITE: Cooma Challenge Snowy Monaro Respite Cottage in Cooma o ers respite for aged care.

Visiting for holidays, staying for lifestyle

The Staples’ journey to Snowy Mountains

GOOD LIVING IN JINDABYNE

By TRISTA HEATH

ROB and Cathy Staples would o en visit the Snowy Mountains from their home in Sydney.

A er many visits to the region, it didn’t take them long to make the move from visitors to residents.

In May of 1982 Rob saw an advertisement in the paper for an engineering position at the then Snowy River Shire Council and applied before quickly making the move to the mountains where Cathy also continued her career as a registered nurse.

The couple’s three children grew up in the Snowies, attending the local schools, and as a family took advantage of all the great things the region has to o er including bush walking, skiing and shing.

Their three children did not miss out either. School sport during winter time included skiing and in summer exploring the mountains.

“Since then we have seen some remarkable advances in education and opportunity available locally with the signi cant master planning upgrades at Snowy Mountains Grammar School (Rob was involved in the master planning process) and the relocation and construction of a new public school at Jindabyne with re-location to the Sport and Recreation Centre site south of the town,” Rob said.

Rob said what drew them to the region is all the amazing recreational activities the area o ers as well as the work opportunities and the sense of connection to the local community.

“We love the environment here and the outdoors, we are on 58 acres and every day we see kangaroos and wombats and so many species of native birds. We are surrounded by trees and rocks and have beautiful views across the Monaro,” Rob said.

“We’ve been able to build our professional careers and be part of the local community. The lifestyle is one of the things that keeps us here a er more than four decades since re-locating.

“Coming down as a visitor is one

thing, but then living here and being able to appreciate and see that there is so much more to the area than just the tourist spots has been incredible, we’ve really been able to explore the region, more than what we would have if we were just tourists.”

Forging an amazing career in the region, Rob has worked on major infrastructure projects and has seen the town of Jindabyne evolve from a sleepy mountain town in the early 80s to a bustling and thriving year-round tourist destination that it is today.

Rob worked extensively on many local projects including as project director for NPWS on the Perisher Range resorts infrastructure upgrade project from 2000 to 2007 where he oversaw the $80 million upgrades to sewerage, water supply, roads, drainage and waste services as well as many other projects.

Rob continues his engineering consultancy practice working on various projects within the region.

Rob said he knows the

importance of keeping the town’s roots intact while also building on its infrastructure to welcome people like him and Cathy, ‘tourists who become residents’.

Rob served as a director on the board of Tourism Snowy Mountains for eight years, bringing his expertise as an engineer to build on the collective knowledge of what will draw more visitors to town.

While he’s still working, Rob likes to take any opportunity he gets to go y shing in the various lakes and rivers located across the region.

“While working with Council I took on the role of secretary/ treasurer of the organising committee for the World Fly Fishing Championships which was based at The Station Resort in Jindabyne right here in the Snowy Mountains during 1999,” Rob said.

“The event showcased to the world the great y- shing available throughout the region and brought many people from 25 countries across the world

to Jindabyne. Thus began my passion for y shing and y shing administration leading to involvement in international events ultimately as National President of Fly Fish Australia.”

Professionally Rob was recently appointed as an Emeritus Member of the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia for his contribution to public works in NSW. This most coveted award is ‘the icing on the cake’ in his professional career.

Cathy too has been able to develop her career as a Registered Nurse focusing on emergency nursing and then later as a public health administrator working as Health Service manager in numerous hospitals throughout regional NSW.

Over the last 40 years Rob and Cathy have seen an incredible change to the township of Jindabyne speci cally.

“I remember in the early days, when I rst arrived in Jindabyne as a young engineer with the council, where the National Parks and

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Wildlife Services building stands now and where Nuggets Crossing sits now, this was vacant land, full of snakes, blackberries and rocks,” Rob said.

“Cathy and I have been lucky enough to have witnessed and be part of the process of seeing the town and our region evolve. We truly believe we have been blessed to be living in one of the most beautiful of locations where we have raised our children and had very ful lling professional careers in a wonderful community.”

Jindabyne’s permanent and visitor population continues to grow each year and during its winter months almost triples due to the in ux of visitors and resort sta ng. The town continues to grow its infrastructure and housing developments are not slowing down any time soon.

As the town progresses to become a year-round destination, with the support of Council and the State Government, the infrastructure will only continue to improve.

• 10-12” Hardwood for Stove / Pizza ovens

• Bagged Firewood

• Bagged Kindling

• Bagged charcoal

• Bagged Ironbark –cooking wood

LIFESTYLE: Rob and Cathy Staples have now lived in Jindabyne for more than four decades and have watched the town evolve. PHOTO: Supplied

Terry receives Rotary’s highest honour

Changeover event celebrates busy year for club

and representatives from local schools and community groups.

The event was an example of community coming together to support each other and recognised Rotary International’s core vales of service, fellowship, diversity, integrity and leadership.

Mr Maddren said he was “very surprised” and that it was most unexpected to be presented with a Paul Harris Fellow pin.

“When Peter [Davis] said can I grab you for a minute, I thought he wanted me to shi some furniture,” Mr Maddren said.

“I just do my bit in the background, so I am quite chu ed.”

In addition to farewelling the 20242025 executive, welcoming the new, and re ecting on the past year of service, the evening included certi cate of appreciation presentations to Cooma Rotary members, a number of speeches by guest speakers, interspersed with several jokes and verses thrown in by master of ceremonies, Kevin Dunne.

Outgoing president, Peter Davis, said the club delivered many “amazing” results this past year, with a strong focus on supporting families and children.

“Domestic violence awareness and victim

Alaina Steele, for the year. Alaina has grown into an upstanding and con dent young woman whilst being a wonderful ambassador for her country and for Rotary International,” Mr Davis said.

Mr Davis said additionally, two working bees were held in Centennial Park painting the wooden seats, with the biggest single physical club commitment being the

2024 was expanded to Cooma.”

Mr Davis said the Rotary Club of Cooma has punched well above its weight, delivering a ra of positive outcomes.

“None of this would have been possible without the sel ess dedication of all our members who truly live by Rotary’s motto of service above self,” Mr Davis said.

The incoming executive board for

“If we’re enjoying ourselves, we are more motivated to do good work together,” she said.

“The new leadership team is reduced in size to four members; with our club being small this will help us spend less time on administration and more time on hands-on projects.”

The Cooma Rotary Club is looking forward to another productive year.

Club president, Peter Davis (second from right).

HONOUR: Cooma Rotary Club member, Terry Maddren, receives the Paul Harris Fellow from the district governor, Rob Uhl, (le ), and outgoing president, Peter Davis.

PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

Felicity loves thrilling, challenging career

By TRISTA HEATH

PERISHER’S assistant ski patrol director, Felicity Coates, fell in love with the mountains the rst time she strapped on skis and for her, becoming a ski patroller was a no-brainer.

The professional ski patrol in Perisher Valley began in 1964, when Grant Turnbull was appointed as the rst professional patroller and has evolved into what it is today.

Felicity said from sunup to sundown, being an assistant ski patrol director is a thrilling and challenging role that’s all about keeping all guests, including skiers and snowboarders, safe on the mountain, around the village and surrounds.

“I’m talking early mornings to last chair li ; this job is a labour of love and not without its physical demands in every type of weather situation you could imagine,” Felicity said.

“My day-to-day involves assisting our ski patrol director, Steven Wynn, in overseeing the entire patrol operation.

“At Perisher we have 60 professional ski patrollers made up of a diverse mix of patrollers from Australia and overseas, over two large patrol zones, divided as Perisher and Blue Cow, and a total of nine individual patrol areas.

“From creating rosters, managing equipment, collaborating with other departments, assisting with incident investigation and reporting and supporting our patrollers on and o the mountain, 31 years of dedication to ski patrolling has been an incredible journey.”

From volunteering in 1994 to becoming a professional employed patroller in 2009, Felicity has continued reaching milestones like obtaining National Ski Patrol accreditation, ski patrol supervisor in 2019 and becoming assistant director in 2022.

Felicity said it has been an honour, especially as the rst female to have performed in both roles as supervisor and assistant director.

“Breaking ground in these positions has been a privilege, and I’m proud to inspire others,” Felicity said.

“It’s great to be in a position

where I can encourage both men and women to pursue their passions in ski patrolling and leadership.

“Some of our longer standing patrollers have taken ski patrolling on as a career, chasing winters here and overseas, others join our patrol for a few years before moving on to professional occupations or continue searching out jobs in the health sector.

“I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive in this industry, and I’m humbled to play a big role in helping others achieve their goals. Let’s work together to build a community that’s inclusive, supportive, and empowering for all.”

Ski patrollers are important for ski resorts as they are the rst line of response in case of an emergency, providing critical care and rescue services when it matters most.

Vail Resorts’ support and partnership with RTO, has resulted in a ski patrol team highly trained in advanced rst aid in the workplace and the alpine environment. The patrol also work in seamlessly with NSW Ambulance and the Perisher Medical Centre.

Felicity said ski patrol is the heart of the mountain and the mountain community, ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

“We’re also the eyes and ears of the terrain from the gentle Green trails to the more advanced areas,” Felicity said.

“Always doing our best to identify potential hazards and working to prevent accidents before they happen.

“Plus, we’re passionate about helping others and making a di erence in our community –it’s a privilege to be part of the ski patrolling family and play a role in making every day on the mountain an unforgettable one.

“And hopefully we have helped improve the quality of our guests’ experiences.”

This season Perisher ski patrollers are emphasising safety on the mountain with their “Know Your Zone” initiative.

Encouraging skiers and snowboarders to be aware of their surroundings and situational awareness understanding of the environment and its elements and

Day in the life of a ski patroller

to take responsibility for avoiding collisions.

The basic idea is to give others a ve-metre radius on all sides – it’s a simple but e ective way to reduce the risk of accidents and make the mountain a safer, more enjoyable place for everyone.

Felicity said there’s something special about knowing she gets to make a di erence in someone’s day, whether it’s helping them o the mountain a er a tumble

or just o ering a smile and some reassurance.

“What really gets me is the satisfaction of turning someone’s worst day into something slightly better,” Felicity said.

“Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when I’m assisting them, or wiping away a few tears, whether it’s a minor scrape or a major rescue, is the best reward.

“Plus, being a ski patroller lets me combine my passion for the

outdoors with my desire to make a positive impact – it’s a dream job, really.

“If you’re keen on joining our team, our door is always open for capable/ t new enthusiastic ski patrollers.

“Come and give it a go – we’d love to have you on board, simply ask to talk to one of our supervisors or any patroller for that matter and they should be able to assist with heading you in the right direction.”

MOUNTAIN: Perisher’s assistant ski patrol director, Felicity Coates, is proud of her achievements across her 31year career. PHOTO: Supplied

UNDERWAY: Council’s contractor working on the cricket nets o icially handed the new installation over to the projects team.

IN BIG news for Bombala athletes and exercise enthusiasts, Council can reveal that work on the major local project bringing new cricket, netball and spectator facilities to the Bombala Showground are nearly complete.

Earlier last week, Council’s contractor working on the cricket nets o cially handed the new installation over to the projects team. The re-seeded grass surrounding the site needs time to set root and grow in ahead of the new nets opening to the public this spring.

Construction of accessible pathways and the new showground driveway were also completed earlier in June 2025.

Contractors are currently awaiting the delivery of the additional spectator seating, scheduled to arrive on-site by the middle of next month. Thanks to the completion of the surrounding path network, installation and completion of the new spectator area will be able to go ahead as soon as the seats arrive.

Despite a wetter than expected start to winter, crews are also making great progress towards completion of the new netball court and over ow car parking area.

The court will open partway through this year’s local netball season, following line-marking work scheduled for spring and summer once the construction work has been completed.

The Bombala community will be able to enjoy all the new facilities when the site reopens to the public in full from spring and summer 2025.

Co-funded by the Australian Government and NSW Government through the Bush re Local Economic Recovery Fund, this project is providing greater access to sport and recreation opportunities for communities across the wider Bombala area.

In the background while all of this progress has been made on the ground, Council’s projects team has completed planning work for the proposed stage two of the project. With these shovel-ready plans in hand and ready to go, Council is now on the hunt for the grant funding required to undertake the phase two of the Bombala Sporting Facilities Upgrade Project.

Further details will be shared once grants have been secured and the scope of the stage two works has been con rmed. For more information about the Bombala Sporting Facilities Upgrade project, contact Council on 1300 345 345 or send an email to council@smrc.nsw.gov.au

Bombala showground’s sporting facilities

PHOTOS: Supplied

The Death of Stalin by Sheila Fitzpatrick: book review

By NICK GOLDIE

SHEILA Fitzpatrick’s new book is not entirely devoted to Stalin’s death. There’s a good 20 pages of context to get things rolling, and a very helpful timeline starting at 21 December 1879, o cial date of Stalin’s birth, and the formation of the Bolshevik faction in 1903.

The timeline ends in 2000, when Putin, an admirer of Stalin, becomes President of Russia. There’s an equally helpful Cast of Characters, many of them forgotten, some of them unforgettable, like the Dulles brothers, Nikita Kruschev, Lenin, Proko ev, and Harry S Truman.

In the USA “anti-Communism was a popular phenomenon

as well as government policy. Ordinary Americans saw Communism as the devil’s work and feared the Soviet Union was out to conquer the world.”

Soviet attitudes were not so negative. Russians were quite favourably disposed to America, especially in the years following the War. Stalin’s daughter Svetlana was majoring in American Studies at Moscow State University and her generation was “... wild about American literature (Hemingway), American lms, American jazz and American fashion.”

This was not the case in the dark ranks of the Politburo, where there were plots, counterplots, executions and

systematic terror. There was the Doctors Plot. And then came the death of the great man and the story devolves into the blackest of comedy.

Stalin lived alone and had become increasingly solitary, despite having a huge security entourage. One day he failed to emerge. What to do?

No one quite dared to go into the great man’s quarters and nd out. Eventually, the fearless guards decide to send in Valentina the housekeeper, who reported that Stalin was semiconscious on the oor. Call for the doctor! But Dr Vinogradov was “in prison and therefore unavailable.” Call Malenkov, as head of government. He arrived

with Kruschev, Beria, Bulganin – but even this group did not dare to provoke Stalin’s anger, so they crept out again.

Call Dr Rapaport! No, he’s in prison too.

Eventually, Stalin’s death is con rmed. There is national mourning, statues are erected (and later removed), his grave is honoured (and later removed).

Within three weeks of Stalin’s death there is a general amnesty, and a million prisoners are released from the Gulag.

The Death of Stalin by Sheila Fitzpatrick is published by Black Inc.

Out and about - have your say

The Monaro Post walked the CBD of Cooma last Friday to ask a cross-section of local residents if ‘council should re-instate the mobile library service?’

Kelly Martin

“I think it’s a vital resource that is needed by the community, to have that library that is connecting people to town, who can’t always get into town. I think that without that they are cut-o … so it’s really sad that council would do such a thing, to take that away from the people.”

Suzanne Dunning

“I live in town, and I choose to go to the library in town … but it does worry me that people who live out of town don’t have the convenience that I have … so I believe that a mobile library or a resource of some sort that makes sure people do have access to books if they are in those smaller towns or villages is very, very important.”

Brian Cli ord

“Well I think it’s so important for especially the outlying areas especially like where I am, Shannons Flat, or places like Adaminaby. A lot of older people can’t get into the big centres, and I thought it was terrible the service stopped.

I mean there’s a lot of other things I believe councils can cut but I don’t believe that ever should’ve been one. Even for the school children, the school children can access a lot of books and literature as well.”

Maureen Stone

“Well I think the mobile library is very essential in the area for older generations, especially people who are elderly and can’t get into town and I feel that’s why it’s so important. Kids out Adaminaby or Berridale, Dalgety their libraries in the school would be quite small … I had grandchildren going to the little Adaminaby school and also my children when they grew up they were all rural, so I didn’t always get the opportunity to take them to the library.”

OH CRIKEY

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Photo of the week

OUR photo of the week entry in this week’s masthead comes from Holly Dowell of Cooma.

Holly is a talented photographer who has captured this stunning

image of brumbies in the snow at Kiandra. Kiandra is a favourite spot for local photographers hoping to see brumbies and snow.

Holly took this image on Saturday, 28 June.

If you would like to submit an image for consideration in our photo of the week section, please send it to editor@monaropost.com.au. Images between 1mb and 10mb are preferred.

Dalai Lama turns 90, locals offer gratitude

ON 6 July, 2025, Tibetans and supporters worldwide celebrated the 90th birthday of Jetsun Jamphel Ngawang Lobsang Yeshe Tenzin Gyatso, better known as His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Church service times across the region

Cooma Baptist Church: 10am Sunday

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

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

St Andrew’s Cooma Uniting Church: 9.30am Sunday

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

Cooma Presbyterian Church: 9am Sunday

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

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

St Andrew’s Catholic Church Nimmitabel: Saturday vigil mass 5pm on the weekend of the third Sunday, Liturgy with Holy Communion other Saturdays 5pm Alpine Uniting Church Jindabyne: 9.30am Sunday

Columbkille Catholic Church, Jindabyne: Mass 5pm Saturdays

Village Church Jindabyne: 5pm Sunday

All Saints Anglican Church Berridale: 9.30am Sunday

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

St. Matthias’ Bombala: 9am every Sunday.

St Philip’s Delegate: 11am every third Sunday

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

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

Nathan Thompson (02) 6452 0312

editor@monaropost.com.au JOURNALISTS

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

Melinda Cairns Hack (Cooma) (02) 6452 0312

mcairnshack@monaropost.com.au

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

We joined this global chorus of celebration from the snowy slopes of the Australian Alps, sending heartfelt wishes and prayers for his long life, health, and continued inspiration.

The Dalai Lama’s life has been a beacon of hope, compassion, and resilience. His teachings on peace, environmental stewardship, and interfaith harmony resonate deeply, o ering a timeless guide for

navigating an o en turbulent world. Tragically, in occupied Tibet, the Dalai Lama’s birthday is not a day of open celebration. The Chinese authorities prohibit displays of his image, suppress mentions of his name, and criminalise even private commemorations of his life.

Here in Australia, in freedom, we are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s legacy openly. From the Australian Alps to every corner of the world, we o er our deepest gratitude and warmest wishes on this momentous occasion.

Choedon and Tom Coventry East Jindabyne

CELEBRATE: Locals pass on their birthday wishes to the Dalai Lama who turned 90 on 6 July.

Jim Walker-Broose 0408 425 484

jim@monaropost.com.au

Keely Pressley 0456 217 012 keely@monaropost.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS (02) 6452 0318 classifieds@monaropost.com.au

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

PHOTO: Supplied

Brumbies in the snow at Kiandra.

PHOTO: Holly Dowell Photography

WHERE

THERE’S A WILL THERE’S A WAY… What challenges can be made to a will?

1. Challenges to a will: intention and capacity

The most common form of challenge to a will is a Family Provision Claim, but that will be the subject of a later column. There are two other ways wills are sometimes challenged. The first is whether there was the intention that the document be a will. Most solicitors remember this rather rare first type challenge from a case where there was a competition among law students to write the shortest will. “All to Mum” with just eight letters, won the competition. The student died. Did he intend that to be a will?

These days the issue often arises with notes people make on things such as furniture, letters, and informal wills. Often there are scribblings which are person’s drafts. Rather sadly, the issue probably comes up most commonly now with suicide notes where people say what they want to happen with various assets.

An informal will can now be effective, but the issue is often whether it was actually intended to be a will at the time the person died.

A more common challenge is that the person making the will did not have the mental capacity to do so. The person making the will has to know firstly that the will disposes of their assets on death, secondly at least an outline of what assets they have, and thirdly who is in their family and who might expect to be considered. Any competent solicitor will make sure that all of these are covered when the will is made, and all other persons are excluded from the consultation. Sometimes a medical report is needed. It can be very difficult to put evidence together about these things. Usually the evidence comes from the solicitor who made the will, the witnesses to the will, and of course the persons treating doctor. It is very important when a will is made, that the capacity or ability of the person who is making the will has been covered by the solicitor.

Don’t leave these things to chance. Get your will and estate looked after by a competent legal professional with experience in the area.

Upgrade enhances Jindabyne Bowling Club Bowlo completes big renovation

JINDABYNE Bowling and Sports Club has completed its highly anticipated club upgrade project, a milestone that marks a fresh chapter for the beloved community hub.

With construction now wrapped, locals and visitors are being welcomed into an enhanced space that better serves the social, sporting, and hospitality needs of the Snowy Mountains region.

The project, which began in early 2025, has delivered a brand-new bar area with a modern design, improved accessibility features, upgraded lighting and audio visual, and a refreshed bistro t-out. These improvements re ect the club’s commitment to growing its role as a relaxed and inclusive meeting place for all.

“This project has been all about enhancing the experience for our members and guests,” club chairman, Nick Oakman, said.

“We’re investing in the future of the club - not just to provide a better space, but to increase visitation, drive new revenue opportunities, and be a vibrant hub that reects our community’s spirit and meets the diverse needs of our members, locals, and visitors.”

The bistro is one of the most noticeable changes, featuring a new layout designed for better service flow and social interaction.

The main bar has also received a complete makeover, creating a range of spaces for groups of different sizes and needs.

Mr Oakman also praised the management team and staff, who maintained full club operations throughout the construction period.

“It’s no small feat to run a club while you’re rebuilding it,” he said.

“Our management team has worked incredibly hard behind the scenes to keep things ticking along - and they’ve done it with real

passion and pride, whilst delivering this project on time and budget. It has been an extraordinary effort.”

As part of the club’s longterm strategy, the upgrades are designed to futureproof the venue and expand its offerings from sport and entertainment to food, drink, and function spaces. Locals are invited to come in and experience the changes firsthand. With a new winter menu and host of specials, along with the usual favourites like weekday happy hour, trivia, poker, social squash, Friday raffles, and bowls comps, there’s no better time to reconnect with the bowlo.

Dodgy

smoke dens targeted

THE NSW Coalition will introduce a bill in parliament to crack down on criminals in the hope of making NSW the hardest place in Australia to sell illegal tobacco and vapes.

Nationals Member of the NSW Upper House, Nichole Overall, said while other states have cracked down on illegal tobacco, the current NSW Labor government has let the state become the easiest place in the country for crooks to make money.

“Everyone knows what’s going on - illegal shops run by criminals are popping up all over NSW, including the Monaro. Labor has done nothing while our communities and small businesses wear the cost. If Labor won’t clean it up, we will,” Mrs Overall said.

“Our plan will shut these shops down, hit the criminals with million-dollar nes

or jail, and make it crystal clear - if you’re dealing illegal tobacco in NSW, your days are numbered. No more so touch. No more excuses.”

Shadow Minister for Regional Health, Gurmesh Singh, said criminals now see NSW as a so target given the state’s weak penalties and enforcement.

“Victoria, Queensland and South Australia have all stepped up with tougher penalties and strong enforcement. Chris Minns’ inaction has le NSW exposed to more criminals, more violence and more illicit tobacco,” Mr Singh said.

“Our laws will disrupt their business model by shutting the doors, tearing up the leases, and putting the crooks behind bars. If you’re breaking the law, under the Coalition, there will be nowhere to hide.”

PHOTOS: Trista Heath

Successful semester for CUC Snowy Monaro

By ELORA PLUMMER, WORK EXPERIENCE

THE Country Universities Centre (CUC) Snowy Monaro has had their ‘largest semester ever’ according to centre manager Nadine Holland, with 186 people registered to use the centre at the beginning of this year.

This record broke the previous highest registration set at the beginning of last year by 22 more students.

“The demand for the centre here and the facilities is increasing all the time, so we’re having to come up with ways to meet everyone’s needs with the facilities and services with our limited resources, which I think we’re doing quite well on that,” Ms Holland said.

Over the last 12 years, the CUC has supported 815 students studying a wide array of courses.

Health is currently the number one area of study for students at 22 per cent, followed by education at 21.5 per cent and psychology, social work and community services at nine per cent.

“We are very much a support service to allow people the opportunity to study what they want and through whichever organisation best suits their needs, so we can support them with that,” Ms Holland said.

Of the students studying at

the CUC, 35 per cent are studying at a post-graduate level and 29 per cent are studying at an under-graduate level, however Ms Holland also encouraged the use of the centre for vocational level of study.

“We also welcome anyone studying at vocational level to come and use the centre because we believe that if you have a good experience at a vocational level then you might consider going on and doing tertiary study a er that, sometime in their future, so we want to give them that good experience,” she said.

Student Jerome Arrow is studying a Bachelor of Medicine at Australian National University and has been using the centre to study while in Cooma for regional placement, coming into the CUC on lunch breaks, a ernoons and weekends.

“The facilities here are amazing. They’re fantastic to be honest. It feels very well catered in every sense technologically, but also, it’s just a good space to study for sure,” Mr Arrow said.

“There are some who come for a short six week period, and we have been recommending that they come down … it’s nice to not have to just study at your desk all the time so I have been recommending it to everyone I know.

“You meet other people who are studying all sorts of stu , so it’s kind of nice to have those connections as well. And all di erent ages as well, there’s a big range.”

The CUC welcomes stu dents of all di erent age groups with currently 32 per cent of students under 25 years old, 49 per cent between 25 and 44, and two students over 75.

“I think it’s good to have the regional placement students here because let’s hope that they stay in the region,” Ms Holland said.

“They’re embracing the regional lifestyle by coming to the CUC, by getting in volved in our local practices and local hospital and im mersing themselves in the community.”

Ms Holland said the centre has lots of exciting things planned for the rest of the year to further sup port the students, such as providing Year 12 students a study space in preparation for their upcoming exams.

“We have a really nice informal partnership with Monaro High at the moment, so Mr Armitage and I have worked together to have some of the Year 12 students come and study at the centre, at times that are convenient to them, in preparation for their nal exams,” she said.

“Mostly those students are

looking to go onto university study next year as well, so it’s kind of like practising in the adult study world by coming here to study for their Year 12 exams.”

The CUC will be open for registered students to study at over the upcoming school holidays allowing access to

the facilities from 5am to 2am every day.

Year 12 students looking to study to prepare for exams are welcome to use the facilities but only while sta are present and are required to register.

To register to study at the CUC, an online form is

available on their website www.cucsnowymonaro. edu.au under ‘want more information’ otherwise a time to register can be scheduled by contacting Nadine Holland via phone at 0437 344 620 or by emailing degrees@cucsnowymonaro. edu.au.

Council updates

In accordance with section 47(A) of the ‘Local Government Act 1993’, Snowy Monaro Regional Council gives 28 days of public notice that it proposes to grant short term (12 month) nonexclusive licences to successful Applicants for the following property (‘Land’):

Bibbenluke Land, Lot 7009 - 7011 DP 1028739, known as Bibbenluke Sports Ground, which is Crown Reserve: R46001, for the keeping and grazing of two horses. Making a submission

Written submissions may be made within 28 days and must be marked ‘Licences for Public Land’ and sent to:

Snowy Monaro Regional Council, PO Box 714, COOMA NSW 2630, or council@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

Bombala’s sports facilities upgrade

In big news for Bombala athletes and exercise enthusiasts, Council can reveal that work on the major local project bringing new cricket, netball and spectator facilities to the Bombala Showground are nearly complete.

The cricket nets are completed, with the reseeded grass surrounding the site needs time to set root and grow in ahead of the new nets opening to the public this spring.

Construction of accessible pathways and the new showground driveway were also completed earlier in June 2025.

Progress continues on the upgrades to the new netball court and overflow car parking area. The court will open partway into this year’s local netball season, following line-marking work scheduled for spring and summer once the work has been completed.

We look forward to seeing the Bombala community enjoying all the new facilities when the site reopens to the public in full from spring and summer 2025.

Jindabyne weighbridge opens

The Jindabyne community are set to enjoy quicker trips to the waste facility now that the new weighbridge has opened.

Thanks to the new equipment, calculations and processing of disposal charges for both residential and commercial customers will be significantly more efficient than during the temporary period of manual processing.

Council advises customers using the facility to be aware of traffic changes on site, particularly when entering and exiting the facility.

When entering, the weighbridge is now located on the right-hand side of the gate staff office. Please follow all staff directions and on-site traffic signage for your safety.

We appreciate the Jindabyne community’s patience and understanding during this longer than expected period without a weighbridge facility available.

For further information visit our webpage at https://qrco.de/wasteinfoSMRC

Notice under Section 47

LEARNING: Student, Jerome Arrow, is enjoying using the CUC Snowy Monaro facilities. He is joined by centre manager, Nadine Holland.

PHOTO: Elora Plummer

Red Cross luncheon a community favourite

A er 20 years, Adaminaby event may be last for group

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

THE weather Gods were once again kind for the Adaminaby Red Cross soup and sandwich luncheon on 26 June, with crystal clear blue skies shining above a sparkling snow-covered landscape a er the wild and snowy conditions the previous day.

Hosted this year by the Adaminaby Red Cross and Adaminaby branch of the CWA, the luncheon is traditionally a time to catch up with friends and support the Australian Red Cross, which has been part of the Adaminaby community for 109 years.

Numbers were slightly down due to the tricky road conditions following the weather event on 25 June, making travel from farms and local towns and villages dicult, but for those who were able to attend, they were not only treated to some great country hospitality and food, but also were able to see Adaminaby at its wintry best.

Adaminaby Red Cross branch president, Lilibet Stephens, was more than slightly relieved the weather co-operated for the event, but also mildly shaken from her “not so wonderful” trip into the Adaminaby Memorial Hall.

soup and sandwich luncheon,”

Lilibet said.

“We have always had a beautiful day for the luncheon followed by rain, snow and ice. This year it was snow and ice before the event, making it an adventurous journey for some, while others couldn’t make it due to the conditions.”

Federal member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, did make it to the event and was part of the celebrations honouring the branch’s e orts over the years.

She congratulated the current branch members for their service over the decades, and the branch’s contribution as a whole to the community in general.

Australian Red Cross exists to support people in their most difcult moments, to reach the most vulnerable - right here in our local communities, across Australia, and around the world.

The Adaminaby branch of the Red Cross began in 1916, and along with many other branches, it was formed as support for troops in Europe.

“At the Adaminaby meetings care boxes were put together for soldiers. One can imagine the love and tears that were packed in these boxes,” Lilibet said.

The branch closed for a few years in the 1920s, but re-started at the outbreak of WWII and contin-

ued regularly as a social and fundraising group. Over recent years the group has raised funds through street stalls and catering for functions, such as ANZAC Day, funerals and the soup and sandwich day.

“A er the war, Red Cross women had close alliances with the Returned Services League,” Lilibet said.

“On ANZAC Day there was a tradition to serve morning tea and lunch to the Returned Servicemen a er the march and service, then the men took the ladies out to lunch on Remembrance Day.

“Myself and the secretary, Marj Dingeldai, and treasurer, Pam Brayshaw, have been together for 30 years and over this time the three of us, plus three or four other members have catered at various events and we have sent more than $100,000 to headquarters to put to good use,” Lilibet said.

Pam joined in 1990; Marj joined in 1991 and Lilibet joined in 1993. Former members Annette Brayshaw and Anne Kennedy served for more than 20 years.

They are all aged between 82 and 91 years.

“We have won the prestigious Gibbons Rose Bowl twice - an award presented to a small branch for outstanding performance,” Lilibet said.

She thanked the Adaminaby CWA for generously sharing the workload, particularly Desiree Bickle and Glenn Dance.

“Except for Queanbeyan, we are the last branch remaining in the district.

“It would be nice to celebrate our 110th birthday next year, but without younger volunteers the branch will cease.”

“We are very grateful for Glenn for taking over the organisation of the luncheon, but sadly date of birth is catching up with us old timers and our future as a Red Cross branch is uncertain,” Lilibet said.

the massive cast-iron stove, The Younger Range, made by Fletcher and Sons Sydney.

Soup and sandwich luncheon organiser, Glenn Dance, with Susan Stacey.

Gathering at the luncheon are (le to right) Catherine Tyrrell, Caitlin Orzel, Vicki Fountain, Victoria Kane, Taesha Daley-Smith, Heidi Brayshaw, Julia Eales and Sonja Valenta.

Harold and Philippa Dodds of Anglers Reach enjoy the luncheon.

the Adaminaby Memorial Hall.

“The Duchess of Dog Plain” Claire Middleton (le ), Cheryl L Dickson and Jacky Dixon enjoyed the soup and sandwich luncheon hosted by the Adaminaby Red Cross and Adaminaby CWA branches last week.

Annette Brayshaw, (second from le ), Lilibet Stephens, Marj Dingeldai, Anne Kennedy, Pam Brayshaw and Ann Rocca, zone representative and Queanbeyan Red Cross branch member, with Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain (le ).

CATCH UP: Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, attends the soup and sandwich luncheon and assists with the presentation of gi s to Adaminaby branch members, including president, Lilibet Stephens.

PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

Students, council working together

THANKS to the initiative of two high school students at the Redlands High Country Campus in Moonbah, Snowy Monaro Regional Council is rolling out a new anti-littering campaign across Jindabyne this winter to help protect the environment and local public spaces during the peak tourist season.

Year 9 students Vivienne and Amelia approached council with their idea to raise awareness and work towards putting a stop to local littering, a er their experience participating in council’s recent community cleanup event on the Lake Jindabyne foreshore.

“This project came about when, in one of our subjects, we were tasked to raise awareness or solve an issue that a ects the Jindabyne or Snowy Monaro area,” Vivienne and Amelia said.

“We thought back to another one of our classes where we were sent o -campus to do rubbish collection around Lake Jindabyne. As a group, we lled up bags and bags of rubbish that was just le in bushes, on beaches and beside the road.

“That kick-started the idea of raising awareness of the rubbish problem that the Jindabyne area faces,” the students said.

The collaboration will see posters and signage distributed to businesses throughout the town, focusing on the public spaces that are most at risk and with the highest incidence of littering during the busy ski season.

Vivienne and Amelia’s goal for the project is to raise awareness, particularly amongst visitors to the region, about the problems Jindabyne faces with litter and littering over the winter season.

“We want to make a positive impact on the Jindabyne community, especially as Sydney students, by helping keep the beautiful lake and environment clean,” Vivienne and Amelia said.

Residents and visitors can keep an eye out for the posters and signage that is rolling out across Jindabyne over the next several weeks.

Businesses interested in participating in this student-led initiative can contact council for posters or further information about the project.

Locals and visitors can report illegal dumping through the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA) RIDonline platform at https://ridonline.epa. nsw.gov.au, by calling the EPA Environment Line on 131 555, or through the free Snap Send Solve app.

St Pat’s students settle in to modern new building

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

YEAR 6 students and their teachers at St Patrick’s School in Cooma have happily settled in to their new state-of-the-art classrooms which opened on 28 February.

The building, which consists of two joined rooms divided internally by soundproof glass sliding doors, accommodates 18 students per class.

Teachers, Emma Reneker and Bernadette Moser, along with their students, absolutely love the new space, technology and creature comforts of the new facility.

Christian school turns pink for good cause

“The classrooms are set up for ultimate learning, the technology is second-to-none, the devices are interactive - multiple kids at a time can be touching the screen and moving things around; it’s really nice that Year 6 can enjoy these beautiful spaces,” Ms Reneker said.

“And Bern and I love coming to work, everyday we have such big smiles - we want these classrooms forever!”

Despite the glass doors, students from both classes carry on with their work, without distraction.

“We thought they would be looking at each other through the doors, but that’s not happening, which is good,” Ms Reneker said.

The classrooms are tted out with carpet and a corner sink and cupboards, big windows and, most importantly, are climatecontrolled.

“The kids all signed the oor underneath, before the carpet was laid, so there’s a time stamp now,” Ms Reneker said.

This modern building in many ways is a very di erent environment to days gone by. There are still the usual desks, pencil cases, and basic class furnishings but all students have their own lap tops (or for those who don’t, they are provided with one by the school) on the desks, and the board at the front and centre of the room is now a large touch screen teaching device.

SNOWY Mountains Christian School has raised awareness about breast cancer and research by hosting a Go Pink Day last month.

The school’s student service council (SSC) organised the event, which included a wear pink day and a few other activities.

Before the day, the SSC handed out coloring in pages created by Imogen Walker. For this competition, students could only use shades of pink to colour their picture.

sta wearing pink. Some of the students and sta really embraced the colour and wore pink head to toe.

In the a ernoon, the students had a chance to ice and decorate milk arrowroot biscuits with pink icing and sprinkles.

They were also given a cra challenge to create pink birds using a set number of items. Some birds had loads of feathers, others had pink rhinestones everywhere. There were big birds and small birds, and birds of a new breed.

“Every classroom from K to Year 10 here has these Clevertouch screens, which is fantastic.” Ms Reneker said.

Assistant principal, Steve Joyce, said students still have their booklets and writing components, and whiteboards are o en used, but part of learning these days involve laptops, with access to iPads.

“It’s changing so quickly, which is why we invested in this technology,” Mr Joyce said.

“The kids need to work on their ngers and keyboard touch typing.

Even though it was challenging to use only pink, the results impressed sta .

The occasion presented a very pink day with the students and

“Without touch typing skills, it makes it harder for the kids to do the NAPLAN as it is now online.”

At the same time, the children do not go beyond 35 per cent of their classroom time each day looking at a blue light.

“We have to make sure there is a balance,” Mr Joyce said.

Special Year 6 graduation shirts have also recently arrived which the students, who have been together since kindergarten, are now proudly wearing featuring the green and gold colours of Saint Patrick.

The school raised $2278 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. This money will go towards the goal of achieving zero deaths from breast cancer.

GENEROUS: The Snowy Mountains Christian School community has raised more than $2000 to support the National Breast Care Foundation.

PHOTO: Supplied

IDEAS: Year 9 students Vivienne and Amelia. PHOTO: Supplied

Year 6 students and teachers of Saint Patrick’s School are enjoying their new building and custom Year 6 shirts.

Teacher, Bernadette Moser, demonstrates an interactive maths site on the Clevertouch screen which is used now as part of the teaching tools in a classroom.

NEW: Joe Luton is assisted with his school work by teacher, Emma Reneker, in one of the two bright and spacious new Year 6 classrooms.

PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

In the rolling hills of Boco

ADDRESS: Lot 1 The Snowy River Way, Boco

ASKING: $550,000

LOCATED along the sealed Snowy River Way, this property is a very convenient grazing opportunity.

Boasting 143.9ha/355.577ac the property consists of open grazing and lightly timbered country, with rolling hills and lovely views over the local countryside.

Watered by frontage to the perennial Attwater Creek as it flows into the nearby Maclaughlin River. The original Maclaughlin River Cottage ruins are still found along with remnants of the stock yards and sheds.

Zoned RU1 primary production, above the minimal lot size, with legal access the property should benefit from a building entitlement.

Further information on development options can be obtained from the local council, block identifiers are Lot 1 DP 229559. Inspections are by appointment with the agent, so call Nutrien Harcourts Bombala today.

•

•

house

• Raised vegetable garden beds, garden sheds and under house storage with power

Ready to become your family oasis, book your inspection today.

Snowy Monaro

Blank canvas, sound grazing block

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Water supply via three dams, springs and soaks.

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

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

• Owner estimates 250 DSE or equivalent pending seasonal conditions.

AGENTS COMMENTS:

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

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

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

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

&

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AGENTS COMMENTS:

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

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

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

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

6.00

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Love On Safari. (2018) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. 8.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles. 9.30 Air Crash Investigations. 10.30 Million Pound Pawn. 11.30 Evil By Design. 12.35 Life. 1.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.30 NBC Today. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Line Of Duty. 9.50 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Pawn Stars. 1.30 Highway Patrol. 2.30 The Force: BTL. 3.30 Billy The Exterminator. 4.00 Full Custom Garage. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 18. Carlton v Brisbane Lions. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 Kick Ons. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 ER.

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3.00 Play School. 4.00 Andy’s Global Adventures. 4.25 Rocket Club. 5.20 Thomas And Friends. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.40 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Junior Vets. 8.30 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.15 Saved By The Barn. 9.55 Secret Life Of The Koala. 10.45 Late Programs.

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5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Wildlife ER. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Pawn Stars. 2.00 The Car Club. 2.30 Desert Collectors. 3.30 Timbersports. 4.00 Counting Cars. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 18. Gold Coast Suns v Collingwood. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.15 GetOn Extra. 11.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: A Slice Of Chicago Romance. (2021) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 19. Cronulla Sharks v Dolphins. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12. Semifinals. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12 ate. Semi finals. 4.00 Late Programs.

Who. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent Down Under. 7.05 House Of Games. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Would I Lie To You? 8.35

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 World’s Greatest Transportation Marvels. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Beautiful Stranger. (1954) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 MOVIE: Blown Away. (1994) 10.00 Wimbledon 2025 PreShow. 10.30 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12. Semi-finals. 10.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Back With The Ex. 1.25 Funniest Ever Toddlers. 2.25 First Dates UK. 3.30 Black-ish. 4.00 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 6.00 MOVIE: Phenomenon. (1996) 8.30 MOVIE: The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty. (2013) 10.45 MOVIE: Basic Instinct. (1992) 1.25 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 News. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 10 News: Afternoon. 4.00 Family Feud. 4.30

ABC SEVEN NINE TEN

Monaro recommended for UNESCO biosphere listing

CENTRAL PLAINS LANDSCAPE OF VERY HIGH VALUE: REPORT

By NATHAN THOMPSON

A REPORT detailing the environmental, cultural and heritage values of the central Monaro plains has recommended the landscape be placed on state and national heritage lists.

More than 100 Snowy Monaro landholders and residents attended a community meeting last week to hear the ndings of a report - Central Monaro Plains Deep Landscape Values Assessmentprepared by Dr Dennis Williamson of Geoscene International.

The area studied by Dr Williamson covers 336,000 hectares with the report nding more than 65 per cent of the central Monaro plains is of high to very high landscape value.

Dr Williamson found the iconic Monaro landscape has such signi cant environmental values it should be pursued for inclusion as a United Nations Educational, Scienti c and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Biosphere Reserve.

Currently in Australia there are only four biosphere reserves.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are areas demonstrating a balanced relationship between people and nature, promoting conservation and sustainable development.

Community group REAL Monaro (Renewable Energy and Landscape for Monaro) hosted the meeting. The group believes the report provides further evidence in support of their calls opposing the proposed Coonerang Wind Farm at The Brothers.

‘The Central Monaro Plains represent a big landscape, a cinema-graphic landscape, a landscape that is at once subtle and understated, and at the same time, a landscape that tells an incredible Australian story,’ the nal paragraphs of the conclusion read.

‘It is a landscape of utmost importance in terms of the role it has played in Australia’s historic development, as well as its presentday environmental, ecological, and cultural signi cance and identity.

‘There may be di erent pathways to and recommendations for

the management and protection of the great region of Australia. As many of these pathways as possible need to be taken, including reconciliation between the Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal people of the Monaro.’

Monaro landholder and member of Real Monaro, Jim Litch eld, said the report highlights the signi cance of the plains.

“Any assessment of future land use and planning has to look at the Monaro wholistically and from every aspect and Dr Williamson has done an extraordinary job putting together the diverse and

unique attributes of the Central Monaro in this document,” Mr Litch eld said.

Prepared over a 14-month period of intense research and assessment, the report showcases the Monaro and its unique landscape diversity, highlighting the region as an ecological hotspot of threatened ecological communities and species, as well as an area rich in Indigenous cultural heritage and nonIndigenous heritage values.

The independent report concludes the landscape is of higher enough value to pursue:

- UNESCO Global Geopark

- UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

- Australian GeoRegion

- National Heritage List

- NSW Heritage List – Aboriginal dreaming and sacred areas

- NSW Heritage List – Monaro Railway and sweeping grassy plains

- NSW Heritage List – threatened Entities and the Monaro volcanic province

- Reconciliation and reconnection of Monaro Indigenous communities

- Extension of Scenic Protection

Land SEPP in SMRC LEP

Winter brings lift in prices: market update

By DAMIEN ROACH, LIVESTOCK ACCOUNT MANAGER, NUTRIEN LIVESTOCK COOMA

AS JUNE drew to a close, livestock markets across southern NSW and Victoria experienced notable shi s.

Despite a steady decrease in the number of livestock yarded this month, prices have li ed across all categories of sheep and cattle, o ering a silver lining for local producers.

Recent rainfall across southern NSW and Victoria has aided

re-stocker competition, with increased demand for stock to remain locally.

This climate boost has encouraged con dence amongst re-stockers and is supporting stronger prices, especially as crops sown earlier in the year are now set to bene t from improved growing conditions.

The sheep and lamb market has been exceptionally strong, particularly heavy lambs and heavy mutton.

Mutton prices got out to $310/ head and lambs hit $430 in Forbes

last week. Re-stocker lambs have followed the trend with the better end getting out to $200 as traders look to get some quick turn around lambs.

The cattle sector has particularly bene tted from reduced supply, with fat cattle prices enjoying a healthy rise due to the scarcity for processors.

In notable regional results, cows at Wagga li ed by 30 cents this week (as of June 30), and the Cooma cattle sale last Friday, 27 June saw increased competition for kill stock.

Northern orders, particularly for backgrounder cattle, continue to be present, although orders have tapered o in recent weeks.

The onset of winter has seen fewer numbers moving out of the Monaro region, a trend attributed to earlier reductions in herd sizes and producers’ willingness to hold stock until spring.

Despite a challenging autumn that has seen stock presented in less nished condition than in previous years, robust pricing has persisted across the markets. Re-stocker cattle are now sought

a er in the Riverina and Northern Victoria, with emphasis on pregnancy tested in calf cows or cows and calves to ll emerging orders.

Producers with suitable stock are encouraged to contact their local agents.

Looking ahead, the next Cooma cattle sale is pencilled in for 25 July, pending numbers. Producers with surplus cattle considering entering this sale are urged to reach out to their agents promptly to take advantage of these favourable market conditions.

ACTION: More than 100 Snowy Monaro landholders and residents gather to hear the findings of a landscape assessment of the central Monaro plains.

PHOTO: Supplied

Film highlights extent of eucalypt dieback

Local documentary showcases Monaro ecosystem collapse

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

GET the popcorn ready as another local lm production has been selected as one of 18 lms to be screened at this year’s Far South Film Festival, an annual event which showcases and celebrates stories told by regional and remote lm makers from around Australia.

The documentary ‘Manna - An Ecosystem Collapse’ (2024) is a short documentary (22:59) by producer/director/ cinematographer, Magdalene Lemcke - credited under her maiden name, Magdalene Shatrov - of Cooma.

Over the last 30 years, the Monaro region has experienced an insidious collapse of life because of the dieback of the dominant tree species, resulting in the landscape being littered with endless stretches of standing dead wood – an eerie silence now hangs over what was once a woodland haven in this harsh climate.

Magdalene is keenly interested in the creation of environmental documentaries and is the current co-ordinator of the Upper Snowy Landcare Network.

An independent documentary maker who graduated the University of Canberra with a Bachelor of Film Production in 2019, Magdalene has since worked on several projects with The Walk World Productions while also developing Foothill Films, her own business, covering events and creating documentary projects.

“This is my rst directed lm to be recognised in a festival -

there have been others screened at festivals when I was working on projects with Walk World productions as camera operator and cinematographer, but this is the rst project that has been selected with myself as director,” Magdalene said.

The Far South Film Festival, held in Merimbula on the third weekend of August each year, is in its sixth year and will be held on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 August at The Twyford, Merimbula, NSW.

Filmmakers are invited from regional and remote areas of Australia to submit short lms under 40 minutes or feature lms under 90 minutes in length to the festival, that re ect the people, environment and issues that matter to them. They can be unique, beautiful, scary and moving stories from lmmakers living outside metropolitan areas.

Selected lms will be in contention for the major prize of $1000 for Best Film, with cash and in-kind prizes for all festival categories totalling $5000, including Best Director, Best Youth Film, Best Performance, Best Use of a Regional Setting and People’s Choice Award.

Manna is a documentary project which explores the causes of Eucalyptus Viminalis dieback in the Monaro region, and the associated environmental impacts.

Manna explores the intricate nature of ecosystems and examines how these environmental collapses occur as a result of numerous stressing factors – usually linked to land

management practices and climate change.

Through a series of interviews with researchers, landholders, activists and artists, Manna investigates these factors, bringing the viewer to a discussion about the complications associated with such a large-scale collapse of life.

The lm’s synopsis states ‘What once was living, breathing woodland now stands with only the hollow wind to pass across the branches of dead trees. Manna is a discussion on the silent collapse of the Monaro grassy woodland ecosystem, a decline linked to land management regimes and climate extremes. These dieback events happen worldwide, o en slowly, and without notice. Manna explores how this particular event has come about, what the response has been and what the way forward looks like.’

Manna is an entirely independent project with no nancial backing which has certainly made it a slow process.

“From the very start (doing research, pen to paper and making phone calls to initial interviewees) to the very end of exporting a nal product, it was about four years,” Magdalene said.

She received generous support from local composer Dante Clavijo who produced the score and engineered the sound.

“Manna is striving to connect with viewers by using the audiovisual art form to generate both an intellectual and emotional response in the audience, encouraging them to deeply consider these important social

and environmental issues beyond the con nes of the cinema,” Magdalene said.

“The musical score is integral to this balance.”

The Far South Film Festival is produced by a volunteer team from Far South Film Inc, a not-for-pro t incorporated association of professional and emerging lmmakers and digital creatives living in south east regional NSW.

Tickets for the festival are available at farsouth lmfestival.

com/2025-program

LOCAL DOCO: Manna is a documentary project by local

Magdalene Shatrov, which explores the causes of

dieback in the Monaro Region, and the associated environmental impacts. It has been selected for screening at this year’s Far South

Festival.

Landholders have say on key land use strategy

LANDHOLDERS across the Snowy Monaro are being encouraged to provide feedback on a key strategy, designed to shape the future of housing, growth and land management in the region.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council has placed its dra residential, commercial and industrial lands strategy 20252045 on public exhibition until September 1.

At last month’s council meeting, councillors voted in favour of placing the document out for

community consultation for eight weeks.

Community drop-in-sessions will be held throughout the region during July and August.

The rst of these sessions will be held at the Kalkite Rural Fire Service shed on 16 July from 5pm to 7pm.

Sessions are set for Jindabyne, Dalgety, Bombala, Cooma, Berridale, Bredbo, and Adaminaby.

To provide feedback online, visit yoursaysnowymonaro.com. au/lands25

Nutrien Ag Solutions has the specialised knowledge and resources to take your farming business further.

The purpose of the dra Strategy is to:

•outline the location and type of future housing and employment growth for Snowy Monaro until 2045

•ensure there is an available supply of suitably zoned land to accommodate Snowy Monaro’s projected growth

•inform decision-making by Council, federal and state government service providers, the community and developers

•inform the preparation, assessment and determination

COOMA GOING FURTHER FOR

of planning proposals

There are six guiding principles that have been developed within the dra strategy:

- Growth and infrastructure/ services are aligned to promote liveable, walkable communities, make e cient use of existing/ planned infrastructure/services and minimise environmental impact.

- Settlement roles: development and growth will be focused towards strategic and local centres.

- Available supply of suitably

zoned land for housing and employment.

- Diverse: encourage diverse housing sizes and types to meet the needs of people of all ages and lifestyles, and improve a ordability.

- The unique character of settlements is maintained and enhanced.

- Resilient: not only must new housing be resilient to natural hazard risks, but responses to disasters and housing stress are planned for proactively.

filmmaker,

Eucalyptus Viminalis

Film

PHOTOS: Supplied

Concerns over African Lovegrass raised

Local landholders urge pollies to work together

MEMBER for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, has met with a local working group of landholders and farmers to hear concerns on African Lovegrass (ALG) and the environment, economic and re safety crisis it is causing, wiping out unique high value native grasslands and replacing it with a monoculture.

The group has also recently discussed the issue with the NSW Environment minister, Penny Sharpe, through Member for Monaro, Steve Whan.

Former grazier, Howard Charles OAM, established the working group in December 2023 a er widespread confusion in the Snowy Monaro over state and federal environment laws surrounding spraying out noxious weeds.

Group spokesperson, Ant Waldren, said farmers were being reported and prosecuted for spraying out infestations of ALG and sewing species to curb its further spread.

“These farmers, at their own considerable expense, were trying to improve their country and stop the spread of ALG, which has been reported as the number one risk to koalas today,” Mr Waldren said.

“Long time residents of Bredbo and Dalgety worry love grass res will burn their communities if these farmers aren’t allowed to farm the open country on the Monaro to halt ALG spread.”

There is only seven per cent of the Monaro le with high value native grassland, largely due to the massive spread of high infestations of ALG, which covered an area of 3000 HA on the Monaro in 1986 and increased more than 30-fold to

cover 100,000 HA on the Monaro by 2020.

“Ironically in the last ve years, with farmers being hampered by well-meaning but not- tfor-purpose state and federal environment laws, and inaccurate Native Vegetation Regulatory (NVR) Maps - which propose regulating 70 per cent of the Monaro Grasslands - high infestation of ALG has increased by another 50,000 HA between 2020 and 2025,” Mr Waldren said.

“Ross Sherlock, a landholder member of our working group, and long time Monaro Fire Brigade captain says he is seeing ALG res reach nine metres in height, and that there is no number of resources that can stop a re like this in the wrong weather conditions, and he will not put re crews near a re like this.

“ALG has now created a yearround re season on the Monaro, and in the interests of protecting our ora and fauna and community being overrun by res caused by ALG, we ask all politicians to support Kristy and Steve in implementing the ve-year pilot plan Howard Charles and our working group is proposing.”

The working group is calling on all levels of government to actively promote landholders with ALG infestations on the Monaro to implement a best practice ve-year intense spraying and cropping program on arable areas to increase high ground cover and fertility.

“This, every time, needs to be done with the carrot, and not stick approach, and incentive-based with tax rebates and longer-term low interest loans etc,” Mr Waldren said.

“The working group has thanked the Local Land Services (LLS) area manager for taking the Natural Resource Commission to see a high infestation of ALG in national park open country on the edge of Cooma.

“We ask the government to ensure national parks land and Crown land arable country around our towns and along the highways have the same ve-year intensive improvement program of boom spraying and cropping, to protect the areas in these paddocks of high value native grasses and protect our community from being overrun with re. We see this as a duty of care.

“Alongside this we ask the government to get rid of current NVR maps and get all agronomists in the area accredited to work with LLS and Monaro landholders to create on-farm maps identifying areas of medium and high value native grasslands, so they can protect these areas from noxious weed incursion.”

The working group is urging the local, state and federal members, and Independent ACT Senator David Pocock to meet with Howard Charles and Barry Aitchison OAM to discuss re management in the region’s national parks.

“The re trails in the mountains needs considerable mitigation,” Mr Waldren said.

“Since the 2019 and 2020 res there is a mass of fallen timber on either side, making future res likely to jump these trails.

“The 2003 res wiped out whole populations of mountain ash and scorched 2.5 million hectares of mountain country. Then in 2019, 2020 it happened again.”

Local Land Services’ annual farm census underway

SNOWY Monaro landholders are being asked to report their livestock numbers and land use information as part of Local Land Services’ annual farm census.

The annual land and stock return collects important information that helps shape the delivery of essential animal health and biosecurity services and prepare for emergencies such as bush res and biosecurity outbreaks.

Landholders must lodge their

return by 31 August via the online portal or by completing the paper form received in the mail.

Local Land Services’ Executive Director Delivery, Rob Kelly, said the annual land and stock return helped paint a picture of agricultural land use and livestock across NSW at the time of the 30 June census date.

“An accurate snapshot helps the NSW government respond quickly and accurately to

emergencies such as bush res and oods, monitor ock and herd health and carry out emergency animal disease surveillance,” Mr Kelly said.

“This helps protect NSW from the threat of pests, diseases and emergencies while supporting primary producers and keeping supply chains strong.

“We recognise many farmers have faced signi cant challenges recently that have impacted their stock levels, including drought

conditions in southern parts of the state.

“Despite these challenges, it is still important for everyone to lodge their annual land and stock return as this information allows us to better respond in emergency situations and deliver timely animal health and biosecurity advice.”

Those who need advice or support can reach out to Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 or visit the nearest o ce.

Those without stock still need to complete their returns to avoid unnecessary fees.

The Animal Health and Meat Industry Levy is automatically applied to a landholder’s next Local Land Services rates notice if they fail to complete their return.

Landholders can visit nsw. gov.au/alsr or scan the QR code on their annual land and stock return notice to submit their return online.

ACTION: A Snowy Monaro working group comprising landholders and farmers are calling on state and federal governments to act on their concerns over the spread of African Lovegrass.

PHOTO: Supplied

Positive cattle sale

By COOMA ASSOCIATED AGENTS

THE Cooma monthly cattle sale was held on Friday, 27 June.

With a lot of snow and ice around the district, the sale was reduced to 500 head of cattle with approximately 130 scales and 370 stores.

The sentiment of the sale was positive from the onset with the cows to the processor rm on last sale making $2.75 to $3.08 for the better covered cows.

There were a few pens of older heavier steers over the scales which were in good condition and plenty of weight made from $3.00 to $3.60 a kilogram returning up to $2572.

The cows and calves and pregnancy tested in-calf cows on o er attracted good competition, mostly from buyers away with

most cattle ending up in East Gippsland.

Most of the cows and calves made from $1520 to $1830 depending on age and breed of cattle.

With only a small run of weaner/yearling steers sold to solid competition, most pens made around $4 plus a kilogram returning from $1000 to $1445.

There was only a small run of weaner heifers, with a few re-stockers pushing the better presented pens resulting in them making $820 to $121.

Agents said they were pleased with the turnout and numbers at the sale, considering the heavy snowfalls across the district the day prior to the sale.

A number of vendors were unable to transport their cattle to the sale following the snow.

MARKET: Cooma Associated Agents conduct last month’s Cooma cattle sale. Heavy snow around the region saw a decline in numbers with some vendors unable to transport their cattle to the sale.

PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

Agents said the most recent Cooma cattle sale was a positive following strong interest from buyers, particularly in the East Gippsland region.

Producers set for carbon conversation

MONARO Farming Systems (MFS) will deliver its latest carbon conversations workshop later this month with a Cooma session planned to inform and educate landholders on carbon emissions and farming.

Ma ra sheep producer and grazier, Andrew Rolfe, will deliver the workshop alongside agribusiness manager, Jono Forrest.

Mr Rolfe has an agronomy background and Mr Forrest an

agri-accounting background.

The workshop is on 23 July at the Alpine Hotel between 9am and 3pm.

A total of ve workshops are scheduled to take place across the Monaro over the year, delivered with funding support from the Australian government via the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

The rst session was held in

Bombala in June.

Executive o cer MFS, Rebecca Kading, said those who attended the Bombala workshop were from a wide range of age groups, with strong participation from both male and female producers.

“Most enterprises represented were pastoral livestock and broadacre livestock, with additional interest in conservation, intensive animal industries, and horticulture,” Ms Kading said.

MLA delivers strategic plan

MEAT and Livestock Australia (MLA) has unveiled a bold new vision to li the Australian red meat and livestock industry’s productivity, pro tability and sustainability with its new Strategic Plan 2030.

MLA’s Strategic Plan 2030 sets out its investment focus across marketing and innovation for the $81 billion red meat industry over the next ve years. The plan is the result of a year-long, nation-wide consultation process with producers, peak industry bodies, supply chain partners, government, research and development corporations, and other stakeholders.

“Productivity and pro tability will underpin the sustainability and prosperity of our great industry,”

MLA managing director, Michael Crowley, said.

“By focusing on value creation and capture along the supply chain, we will deliver bene ts that translate into pro tability for the production sector.”

Mr Crowley said the Strategic Plan 2030 remains aligned to the wider industry’s strategic plan – Red Meat 2030. Red Meat 2030 has updated the industry’s goal from carbon neutral by 2030 (CN30) to ‘contributing to Australia’s net zero ambitions’, which moves the industry into alignment with the Australian government’s 2050 commitments.

“The red meat industry set its CN30 goal in 2017 before the government had established its climate goals. It drove investments of more than $100 million into sustainability projects,” Mr Crowley said.

“Our research, innovation and investment has paid dividends, and we won’t be slowing down. With the backing of our red meat industry bodies, MLA will continue our focus on reducing emissions and reducing emissions intensity per kilogram of production.”

According to a CSIRO study, the red meat industry has reduced net greenhouse gas emissions by almost 78 per cent, against the 2005 baseline.

“Reaching CN30 was dependent on the right levels of investment and policy settings, we now know we need more time, more support and more investment to reach our goal,” Mr Crowley said.

“We will keep pushing forward to reach our sustainability goals. It’s what our producers, our community and our customers demand.

“Productivity-led sustainability will ensure we can grow the herd and ock while delivering positive environmental outcomes. We will continue to invest in carbon storage and emissions avoidance initiatives. Additional leverage will be achieved through our partnership with Zero Net Emissions for Agriculture CRC.”

MLA’s Strategic Plan 2030 will accelerate investment in practical, science-based solutions, such as tools and calculators that help producers lower emissions and improve productivity. It also includes projects focused on land management strategies to build climate resilience.

INFORMATIVE: Ma ra sheep producer and grazier, Andrew Rolfe, will guide a conversation on carbon emissions and farming at a workshop in Cooma later this month.

PHOTO: Supplied

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

3 Which term describes a devotee (8)

7 Name the capital of Massachusetts USA (6)

8 Name the lead guitarist for The Beatles, George ... (8)

9 What is soft slimy mud or mire (6)

10 Which term suggests the killing of a monarch (8)

11 What is a defensive covering for the head (6)

14 Which term means customs or practices (6)

17 What is a means of climbing steps (8)

18 Which metallic element has the symbol Ag (6)

19 Springfield is the capital of which State in the USA (8)

20 To wrest from a person by violence, is to do what (6)

21 What are burning remains of a fire (3,5)

DOWN

1 Name a heavily armed foot soldier of ancient Greece (7)

2 What is a sporting facility, often enclosed (7)

3 To receive property etc, as an heir, is to do what (7)

4 What are trucks known as in England (7)

5 To be pitching or throwing, is to be doing what (7)

Letters

Some

Letters

6 What are competitors in races (7)

11 What is Indian hemp also called (7)

12 Name a small folded sheet of printed matter (7)

13 What are trips to convey messages (7)

14 What is the Latin name for Odysseus (7)

E-QUATIONS

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

1 TINTINNABULATION

(a) Tickling (b) Bellringing (c) A tantrum or fit of passion 2 ZENITH

(a) A protein found in Indian corn

(b) The greatest height (c) One who practises magic

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

CLUES:

Also (3)

Angelina (abb) (3)

Appendix-bearing structures (5)

Become a candidate (5)

European nation (7)

Magnetic Res. Interferometer (3)

Mediterranean island (5)

Prefix: nearness (3)

Tooth repair (7)

Topping (5)

15 Which term describes an altar attendant of minor rank (7)

(7)

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of experience and expertise.

Bears valiant in defeat

THE Snowy River Bears’ league tag came up against a red-hot and organised Harden Hawks team with the Bears struggling to shut down a fast and evasive attack.

Although the Bears managed a few line breaks, including a great solo try for Izzy Warby, Harden had the running of the game from the outset, the scoreboard 42-4 a true indicator of the result.

To the Bears’ defence, they were without any substitutes, and the team had not elded the same run on side all season.

In true Bears style, they celebrated their only try with a show of emotion and great team spirit.

NSTC Snowready Scholarship a curtain raise

THE rst students to take part in the National Snowsport Training Centre (NSTC) Snowready Interschools Scholarship Program have made the most of their dry-land training experience with participants bene ting from a day of coaching, tailored physical conditioning and educational sessions in the lead up to the rst Interschools event for 2025.

Held at the NSTC, the session attracted 35 students ranging from rst time attendees to the NSTC, to returning participants.

To nish o the day, participants and their parents came together to attend an engaging Q&A session with NSWIS athlete, Joey Elliss, and National Alpine athlete, Abbey Evans, who talked about their journey from Interschool participant to Olympic hopeful. Moguls Olympian, ex-Moguls coach and NSTC sta member, Nicole Parks, also shared some of her experience as an athlete.

training opportunities for Interschools participants from NSW, ACT, and Queensland.

Snow Australia’s community engagement manager, Rebecca Clark, said the initiative re ects a strong partnership with Perisher and Thredbo.

“Thanks to the generous support of Perisher and Thredbo, Snow Australia is able to o er structured dryland training experiences to Interschools participants across NSW, ACT, and Queensland as they prepare for their events,” Clark said.

It is the rst of ve sessions to be held throughout the season, with 120 participants applying to be part of the program in 2025.

Following a welcome and introduction from NSTC general manager, Cathy Lambert, participants took part in a warm-up before breaking into groups for the main activities of the day – a two-hour session on the airbag and an acro and physical literacy session.

A er a quick lunch to refuel and re-energise in the athlete lounge and kitchen, the groups swapped over for the a ernoon activities.

As well as smiles and enthusiasm, Lambert said participants walked away from the day with an abundance of new skills and knowledge that they would be able to put into practice during the season.

“The participants all expressed that they had a great time and some shared the goals they had set before attending the session and the progression they had made in achieving the goals,” Lambert said.

“We look forward to hosting upcoming events and seeing the participants return in the future.”

The NSTC Snowready Interschools Scholarship Program, supported by the Perisher and Thredbo Interschools Athlete Scholarship, provides free dry-land

“As well as helping kids get competition ready, the NSTC Snowready Interschools Scholarship Program is opening doors to broader opportunities in snowsports. We hope it will inspire greater participation and longterm engagement with our sport,” she said.

For many families, the program has already made a meaningful impact.

“Our girls have only tried alpine ski racing so the world of trampoline training and jump training was unexpected and scary at rst, but they came good and pushed themselves and did great,” parent, Holger Kohler, said.

An attempted tag by Izzy Warby as the Bears show plenty of fight in defence. It was a tough game but the team was valiant in defeat.

Dent wins Bombala handicap singles

By BOMBALA BOWLS

ATHOL Dent has won the Bombala Bowling Club Championship Handicap Singles in another top e ort by one of the district’s best bowlers.

Round 1

Aurora Reed (4), Athol Dent (18). Athol showed his skill outclassing Aurora and leading 19-1 by the 12th end, the game uctuated with each player winning six ends each 33-9 but Athol was scoring more shots and only needed two shots to take the game, Aurora didn’t faulter and came out with some great bowls during the next four ends reducing the de cit to 33-16 but Athol scored the nal needed two shots to take the game 35-16

Round 2

Athol played Mark Guthrie (6). Athol came out very strong taking the rst eight ends unanswered 16-0, Mark fought back with some great drawing shots in the next four ends depleting the de cit

by six but Athol showed his extreme skills and outclassed Mark taking the game 34-8

Round 3

Athol played Ray Fermor (16). The game uctuated with each player taking alternate ends apiece until the eighth end saw Athol regain control with his expert drawing shots taking the game to 21-8 on the 12th leaving him only two shots to win and despite Ray taking the next end Athol scored the needed shots winning the game 23-10.

Final

Athol played Neil Brotherton (14). Neil took charge taking the rst two ends but Athol in his skilful drawing game took the next six ends taking the game to 10-3 despite Neil putting down some great bowls, Athol would send down bowls that would sneak between the Jack and Neil’s bowls and in the nal ends there was no stopping Athol scoring three and four shots nally taking the game 26-5.

ATTACK: Shannon Harvey goes for a run in the Bears league tag match.

CHAMPION: Athol Dent has won the Bombala Bowling Club’s handicap singles in atop display of bowls.

PHOTO: Bombala Bowling Club

SNOW: Students to take part in the National Snowsport Training Centre (NSTC) Snowready Interschools Scholarship Program. PHOTO: Supplied

Heelers trifecta treat

Bombala seals memorable

local derby day

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THE Bombala Blue Heelers’ e orts on Sunday have been described by long-time supporters as one of the best in the club’s proud history.

The Blue Heelers registered wins in all three grades against local rivals the Cooma Stallions.

First grade bounced back from last week’s loss to Bega with a 22-8 win over Cooma, reserves were far too strong winning 366, and the High Heelers nished 62-0 over the Cooma Fillies.

A special Sunday of rugby league took place at the Bombala Exhibition Ground as the Blue Heelers celebrated ladies day. The club honoured its High Heelers league-tag side, and all the women who volunteer and support the club.

Before the league-tag xture, ladies day jerseys were presented to the Bombala side. Fittingly, the team went out and showed why they have been Group 16’s most dominant side over the last 10 years.

Lily Hampshire crossed for a hat-trick as her side raced in 12 tries.

Bombala’s reserves were too good for Cooma, winning by 30 points. The win moves the side into second on the ladder.

First grade returned to form with a tough 22-8 win over Monaro rivals the Stallions. The win puts Bombala back into h spot and in nals contention.

An exciting game awaits the team this Sunday at home against Narooma. Narooma sits in sixth, but on equal points with Bombala. A win for the Blue Heelers would go a long way to continuing its nals hopes.

In first grade, the Heelers delivered one its best e orts of the season to defeat rivals, Cooma. Cooma Fillies playmaker, Ruby Barnes, makes important metres for the side.

during a 36-6 win.

Dunn on fire

By COOLAMATONG GOLF CLUB

SUNDAY’S golf scores were some of the best for the winter season, with Steve Dunn shooting an impressive 41 stableford points, Nigel Bolton runner up with 39, and Jackson Holtham in third position on 38 points.

Dunn had one of his best rounds in many years, shooting a par round of 71 from his ve handicap, including 12 pars and three birdies.

Bolton, also in A grade, shot 74 for what was still an impressive round, even though he was off the pace of Dunn’s scoring.

The ball comp included Felix Bertossi on 36, Mick Thoms 34, Mitch Canty 34, Cameron McKid 33, Ewan Murdoch 33, Bruce Hart 33, Ross Thompson 33, Cody Dixon 32, Ben Hearn 32, and Megan Haigh on 32.

The men’s nearest the pins were won by Ben Be-

attie on three, Mick Thoms on eight, and Ben Beattie on 15. The ladies nearest the pins were won by Jan O’Halloran on eight and Janeece Peters on 17.

The match play championships have started, and the draw on Golf Genius and the club’s Facebook page, with all players having to finish their first round match before the end of July.

Juniors lead way

By BOMBALA GOLF CLUB

CONDITIONS were ne at the Bombala Golf Course over the weekend with a good eld contesting Saturday’s event.

On Sunday, numbers were down due to the rugby league in town. Golfers have been challenged by a wet course of late.

Saturday’s event was a four-ball-best-ball stableford multiplier for C and T Gronow trophies.

The club’s juniors came in the winners with a good score of 62 points. They nished ahead of Daniel Douch and Nick Ryan 60 points.

Nearest the pin was not won, while Darren Forrester claimed the golden shot.

On Sunday, members played a stableford for club trophy. Ray Crawford produced a top round to win on 36 points, ahead of Darren Forrester 34 points.

Nearest the pin on 17 proved challenging for golf-

ers with the hole not claimed again. Golden shot went to Brendan Weston. Program for the week

Ladies

Wednesday, 9 July - stableford, club trophy

Members

Saturday, 12 July - par, R. Fermor trophy

Sunday, 13 July - stableford, club trophy

Four-ball-best-ball championships have been postponed until 13 and 14 September.

Club’s young gun stars

By COOMA GOLF CLUB

FORTY-nine golfers took part in the July monthly medal over the weekend at Cooma Golf Club.

Nate Quodling, one of the club’s youngest members, was the overall winner with a nett score of 69.

In A Grade, Philip Ingram nished with 74 nett to win A grade. Kenneth McGrath

was the B Grade winner with 72 nett, while Warren Bray topped C Grade with a nett score of 71.

Place-getters were Alan Kelly, Dylan Litch eld, Ben Smith, Wayne Flynn, Barry Williams, Jason Brazulaitis, Tony Clark, David Robinson, and Stephen Young. The nearest the pin were awarded to Peter Devereux on the fourth hole, Mark

Burke on the ninth, Wayne Flynn on 11, and Philip Ingram on 17.

The longest drive competition, sponsored by Burke’s Plant Hire, was also played on Saturday. David Goggin won A grade, Adam Scho eld won B grade, and James Darley was the C Grade winner.

This week’s competition on Saturday and Sunday are both stablefords.

TOP FORM: Steve Dunn shoots a par round of 71, one of his best rounds in years.

PHOTO: Coolamatong Golf Club

Red Devils’ finals ready

CROOKWELL CLASH TO DETERMINE

HOME SEMI-FINAL

By NATHAN THOMPSON

AFTER ten years without playing nals rugby, you could understand if the Cooma Red Devils were satis ed with just reaching the pointy end of the season.

Red Devils coach, James Quodling, is eyeing more than just a fourth placed nish. He said the side is working as hard as ever to nish second or third (the latter would secure a home minor seminal).

A forfeit last Saturday by the Australian Defence Force Academy secured the Red Devils place in the nals, but now the side’s attention turns to its biggest home clash of year.

On Saturday, 12 July, the Red Devils host fourth placed Crookwell with the winner going a long way to nishing third and earning the right to host the minor semi- nal.

The xture holds additional signi cance with both sides

contesting the inaugural James Cup.

The James Cup was instigated by Red Devils life member, Marcus Caldwell, and the Crookwell club to honour the contributions of Cooma rugby stalwart, James Quodling, and Crookwell stalwart, James McCormack.

“The cup came as a surprise to me and players but it is nice recognition,” Quodling said.

“James McCormack and I are mates from school and we played

representative rugby together.”

The cup is contested over the two home and away games dring the season. The Red Devils accounted for Crookwell earlier this year 32-21 and take an 11 point lead into this weekend’s match.

While Quodling said he is honoured to have a cup jointly named a er him, a win to lock in third spot is his main focus.

“There is lots to play for this weekend, the winner will nish

third and could nish as high as second,” Quodling said.

“The next fortnight is big for us. Our mid-season slump is over and numbers at training have been very good.”

The Red Devils last featured in the nals in 2015. Quodling said the feeling in the club is positive with both the men’s and women’s sides headed for the nals.

“The feeling is good. Everyone has worked hard this year,” Quodling said.

SATISFIED: Cooma Red Devils were satisfied with just reaching the pointy end of the season.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson