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Weekend wonders Further strikes

BUSINESSES WELCOME PROMISING

By NATHAN THOMPSON

BUSINESS operators across the Snowy Monaro have welcomed one of the busiest June long weekends in years as heavy snowfalls attracted thousands of extra visitors to the region.

Thredbo Resort launched its 2025 winter season in spectacular style, welcoming more than

30cm of fresh snowfall across the opening weekend. Perisher Resort also enjoyed a bumper weekend, receiving about 60cm of natural snowfall with more expected this week.

Businesses throughout the region were busy over the three-day weekend, with owners optimistic about the season ahead.

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

FURTHER industrial action by Snowy 2.0 workers is planned this week, with talks between the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) and Future Generation Joint Venture (FGJV) continuing.

The dispute between AWU members working on the Snowy 2.0 project, and employer, Webuild, concerns a discrepancy in pay parity between Snowy 2.0 project workers and their North East Link tunnelling colleagues working on a Webuild project in Melbourne.

The North East tunnellers, conducting similar type work, are paid signi cantly more than workers employed on Snowy 2.0, the union said.

EXCITEMENT: Thredbo Resort launched its 2025 winter season in spectacular style as families enjoy Friday Flats a er receiving 60cm of snow ofver the long weekend.

Simon Bolton, owner of Mainstreet Clothing in Cooma, said the long weekend was one of the busiest for the town in years.

“We have been very busy and so has Cooma. It’s great to see so many people about, the snowfalls have de nitely helped us all,” Mr Bolton said.

“It’s been a promising start

COOMA FURNISHING CO

PHOTO: Thredbo Media

to the season, when the resorts and mountains are busy so are businesses in Cooma.”

In Thredbo, the resort was transformed into a winter wonderland. Skiers and snowboarders took their rst turns on Friday Flat, with both eager rst-timers and seasoned riders making the most of the early season conditions.

Following a third day of industrial action last Wednesday FGJV, in a statement regarding progress with the Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) negotiations being undertaken said, “the employer continues to negotiate in good faith for a replacement agreement with relevant bargaining representatives”. Branch secretary the Australian Workers’ Union NSW branch, Tony Callinan, said the AWU representatives have attended a number of bargaining meetings, the most recent being yesterday (Tuesday, 10 June), with another scheduled for today (Wednesday, 11 June).

“We attended bargaining meetings on Monday and Wednesday last week, we did make some progress on the wording of a number of clauses in the agreement,” he said.

“We have additional meetings this week, one yesterday and a second meeting on Wednesday.

Blessing of the Snow service draws a crowd

FOR more than 40 years, on the Saturday morning of the June long weekend, a special service has been held at Perisher.

The short service enables all Perisher senior sta , National Parks and Wildlife Services, Monaro Police Unit, NSW Fire and Rescue, Ambulance NSW and Snow Patrol to come together to celebrate the opening of the ski season.

State and Federal members of Parliament and Snowy Monaro Regional Council are also invited, along with Planning NSW, and all lodges came together on Saturday to pray for God’s blessing on their work as another snow season begins.

This year more than 50 people attended, staying on a erwards to chat.

Chaplain, Graham Morrison, said as always it was a great time for people to meet and celebrate what is hoped to be a great season.

“The service at Thredbo regrettably had to be cancelled this year due to unforeseen circumstances. However, the Perisher service was a great success and we look forward to welcoming many to both the Thredbo and Perisher chapels this year,” Chaplain Morrison said.

Visit The Alpine Church (all denominational chapel) Front Valley, Perisher, on the snow above the Perisher Centre, and the Thredbo Chapel located at the foot of Crackenback Mountain.

Jindabyne clubs host biggest morning tea

By TRISTA HEATH

JINDABYNE Snow Dragons and Club GOGO Jindabyne joined forces on Saturday to host Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser for the Cancer Council.

An array of delicious baked goods lined the table outside of the Jindabyne Library for the morning as many chipped in for the worthy cause.

Member of both Jindabyne Snow Dragons and Club GOGO Jindabyne, Peggy Wobith,

spearheaded the event aiming to raise $500, brought fellow members together raising an incredible $898.

“Thank you Club GOGO Jindabyne and the Jindabyne Snow Dragons for coming together to support such a worthy cause, all of us amongst us has been impacted by cancer at some stage in our lives,” Peggy said.

“The Cancer Council does amazing work and their fun raising e orts go a long way to help people a ected by cancer.”

Boco Rock Community Enhancement Fund

Applications for the Boco Rock Community Enhancement Fund are now open until Sunday 6 July 2025.

The fund provides grants to community groups, events, initiatives and their organisers based anywhere in the Snowy Monaro region.

The Boco Rock Community Enhancement Fund reinvests a portion of revenue generated by the Boco Rock Wind Farm back into the local community through this yearly grant funding program.

Visit https://qrco.de/bocorock today to learn more about fund eligibility criteria, application requirements, and the application process before applications close on Sunday 6 July 2025.

Key dates for 2025

Applications opened Monday 2 June 2025

Applications close 11.59pm Sunday 6 July 2025

Payments to successful applicants Will commence in October 2025

For further information

Visit https://qrco.de/bocorock to download the required documents and to review the program guidelines.

Contact Council with any questions.

Phone 1300 345 345 or email council@smrc.nsw.gov.au.

FUNDRAISING: Jindabyne Snow Dragons and Club GOGO Jindabyne fundraise for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser for the Cancer Council.

PHOTO: Trista Heath

Perisher’s general manager, Nathan Butterworth, (le ), joined Australian Ski Patrol Association for the Blessing of the Snow.

SERVICE: Chaplain Lloyd Bennett addresses the crowd to begin the annual Blessing of the Snow in Perisher.

Parts of national park to close

Aerial shooting of ferals resumes

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

AERIAL shooting in Kosciuszko National Park is to resume this week with public access to northern and central sections of the park closed from 10-30 June.

The operation will be conducted to control all feral species, including brumbies, pigs and deer, in national park areas outside the designated horse retention zones.

Certain areas of the park will be closed to the public and all park users while the aerial shooting is ongoing, including tracks, campgrounds, huts, picnic areas and accommodation nodes within the operational areas.

Aerial brumby shooting resumed as a population control method in NSW under the state Labor government in November 2023, reversing policies in place under the former coalition government.

The recent call to resume aerial shooting has again raised concerns among brumby advocates and animal welfare groups, particularly as comments recently made by Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe, suggested aerial shooting of the brumbies was being wound back.

Minister Sharpe has stated that aerial culling remains a

necessary option in remote regions where non-lethal methods are impractical.

In March, Ms Sharpe, at an NSW budget estimates hearing, said more than 8,594 wild horses were removed from the park, the majority from aerial shooting, since the cull began in 2021 under the Kosciuskzo National Park Wild Horse Management Plam.

She indicated this reduction in numbers would allow a biological population management approach to be adopted, negating the practise of aerial shooting as a control method, with some ground shooting expected to remain.

This month’s resumption of aerial shooting follows the release of the 2024 Kosciuszko National Park wild horse population survey by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), which estimates between 1579 and 5717 horses across the parka drop from the 2023 estimated average of 17,393 (a gure that was, and continues to be, disputed by brumby supporters and animal welfare groups).

Under the Wild Horse Heritage Management Plan, the NSW Government is legally required to reduce the wild horse population to 3000 in 32 per cent of the park by 30

June 2027.

Snowy Horseriders Huts and Brumbies president, Alan Lanyon, last week said the NSW Government’s information on the brumby population is awed and inaccurate.

“This shooting to begin with has come from a set of questionable numbers that were in a media release that indicated the remaining population in the northern end was roughly 1700 to 5000,” he said.

“I would re-iterate the

Cairns methodology [in 2020] has been thoroughly dismantled by several people on our side of the argument who are well quali ed to do so.

“Aerial culling rears its head again under the auspices of the plan of management, not the act, but the plan of management mentions 3000 horses.

“E ectively, what Penny Sharpe and the Invasive Species Council have done is say there’s 1700 to 5000+ so they believe they can go ahead with their ‘population man-

agement’ and will be aerial culling under that premise.

“I have taken many observation ights over the northern end of the mountains and spent a long time riding around the northern end, particularly the last 10 years, taking note of di erent mobs, numbers and locations.

“So I think I am reasonably well-quali ed to speak when I say there is nothing like the numbers they have ever mentioned.”

Mr Lanyon said the true indicator would be the 2020 unpublished population count his group accessed through the GIPA [Government Information (public access)] Act that said in the northern end there was a population of 2400.

“That’s the most accuranumber that I have seen so far,” Mr Lanyon said.

“They are just snowballing people with numbers and have just rushed through aerial culling.

“The fact the government didn’t repeal the bill [Kosciuszko Wild Horse Heritage Act 2018 presented through a community petition in late March] tells me they only rejected the petition from Joe McGirr [Independent Member for Wagga Wagga] because they are still reliant on the plan of management that allows aerial culling.

Mr Lanyon believes the biological control method is not seriously being considered or implemented at this point as the aim has always been “zero population and they have never diverted from that path”.

“The statements they keep coming up with population management is more to do with politics, as the Government tries to assuage the probrumby population,” he said.

Reclaim Kosci petition co-ordinator and volunteer, Linda Groom, said the petition – signed by more than 11,000 people across NSW ‘is a major milestone’.

“I started as a bushwalker who could see the damage being done by feral horses and wanted to do something about it,” Ms Groom said.

“So I organised a protest in 2018 and then became involved with the Invasive Species Council and organised this petition.

“The Kosciuszko Wild Horse Heritage Act 2018 is a bad piece of legislation because it protects a feral animal in one of our most glorious national parks.”

Sections of Kosciuszko National Park in the nothern and central areas will be closed until the end of this month as aerial shooting operations take place.

PARK CLOSURES: Parts of Kosciuszko National Park will be closed again as aerial shooting resume this week for 20 days, weather permitting. PHOTO: Ian Brown

Operation Snow Safe campaign launches for the 2025 ski season

NSW POLICE are warning people heading to the snow this season to ensure they are prepared before hitting the slopes and act responsibly o the slopes, during the launch of Operation Snow Safe.

Operation Snow Safe begins Friday 6, June and runs until Monday 6, October. The high visibility operation coincides with the opening of the o cial ski season.

Operation Snow Safe will see a surge in additional police o cers from across NSW deployed to the Snowy Mountain region, within the Monaro Police District, to keep visitors and locals safe.

General duties o cers attached to Monaro Police District, with assistance from Southern Region Licensing Police, the NSW Dog Unit, Southern Region Enforcement Squad, Operational Support Group, Tra c and Highway Patrol Command and other specialist units will be out in force to conduct patrols across the snowy mountains.

O cers will be targeting anti-social behaviour, alcohol-related crime in licensed venues, dangerous and distracted driving on roads leading to the snow and risky be-

haviour on the slopes.

In addition, NSW Police co-ordinate search and rescue operations during the snow season including o cers from the Monaro Police District Alpine Operations Unit, NSW Police Rescue Squad along with assistance from the State Emergency Service, Fire & Rescue NSW, NSW Ambulance Service and National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Operation Snow Safe coincides with the King’s Birthday road safety and enforcement operation, with double demerits in force.

Southern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner, Joe Cassar APM, said preparation is paramount to ensure people have a safe and enjoyable time at the snow.

“The main message is for people to be patient and be prepared. Most people have to drive a considerable distance to visit the snow, so please plan regular breaks, check the weather conditions beforehand and make sure your car is roadworthy and can manage hazardous and slippery conditions. Drivers are urged to carry snow chains and ice scrapers, in the event of a heavy

downpouring of snow. In the event of a crash or breakdown, drivers are reminded to pack blankets, food and water, with limited scope for detours on the roads leading to the snow, meaning you may be stuck in one location for a long period of time,” Assistant Commissioner Cassar said.

“We have signi cant resources deployed to the Snowy Mountains region during the four-month operation to help skiers and boarders stay safe on and o the slopes. A contingent of Tra c and Highway Patrol Command will this year deploy from both Jindabyne and Cooma to keep our roads in the Snowy Mountains region safe. Monaro Police District uniformed and plain clothes o cers will be patrolling licensed premises in Jindabyne, Thredbo and Perisher, the road networks and the slopes to stamp out any anti-social or risky behaviour putting others at risk of harm. Whether it’s being involved in anti-social behaviour or getting behind the wheel of a car a er consuming too much alcohol, that sort of behaviour won’t be tolerated.”

Wildlife Service Director

Southern Ranges Mark Peacock said hikers should plan their trip well in advance and take precautions, in the event they get into trouble.

NSW National Parks and

“Snow season is one of the most anticipated times of the year for so many people, but we all need to respect our surroundings to ensure we stay safe in these rugged environments. NSW NPWS encourages adventurers –new or experienced – to plan your trip in advance, check

the weather, carry a personal locator beacon (PLB), and know where shelter can be found at all times. It is also much safer to travel in a group rather than alone,” Mr Peacock said.

“In addition to these steps, everyone visiting alpine areas to participate in the wide array of activities the region o ers should complete a Trip Intention Form. The online form includes information about when and where you are going and what equip-

ment you’re carrying. That information is shared with your emergency contact and passed onto authorities in the event you don’t return. It only takes a few minutes, but it could save your life.

“Please visit the NPWS Alpine Safety web page to ensure you’re adequately prepared for your adventure.”

Further information on driving in snow eld conditions can be found by visiting the Centre for Road Safety website.

Commissioner, Joe Cassar APM, and Superintendent and Commander of Tra ic South, Joseph Thone, with the Monaro Police Unit for the season. PHOTO: Police Media

Berridale’s Beautification Plan progresses with community input

By TRISTA HEATH

THE Berridale Beauti cation Project Plan has been many years in the making and was discussed at the Snowy Monaro Regional Council meeting in May.

The rst concept plan for the beauti cation of Berridale was in 2014 when the Snowy River Shire Council placed plans on public exhibition.

Many community submissions to the plan were put forward which concentrated on the business area of Berridale. It included the formalisation of the Highdale Street car park as well as the area along the Jindabyne Road, part of which is in the area considered in the current plan.

Berridale resident and Berridale Beauti cation Committee member, Phil Daley, said the current plan is a far more practical approach than the former one, which consisted of more artist’s impressions that would not t within the available area.

“The plan then hibernated until a proposal emerged to modify the drainage and the road layout of the Myack Street and Jindabyne Road intersection,” Mr Daley said.

“The drainage design was such that the widening of the section of the Coolamatong Creek, which runs through the Memorial Park, impacted many of the memorial trees within the park.

“The public outcry resulted in council assuring the public that no trees within the park would be removed.

“A few years a er the council merger, the car park between the Jindabyne Road and the Highdale shops was formalised but was not beauti ed.

“Fast forward to a couple of years ago when council revived the beauti cation project, and a public engagement committee was formed.”

The indication the committee has been given is the tender documents will be available for viewing by the Berridale Project Engagement Group (PEG) in August 2025. The project will then

That plan was adopted by Snowy River Shire Council and a group of volunteers set about doing some plantings between the Jindabyne Road and the shops, which has transformed a dull area into an attractive garden space.

Expressions of Interest for Lease

be put out to tender.

Another resident and committee member, Nicole Claughton, joined the PEG as she felt she could contribute as a local resident that uses these spaces with her family and could see opportunities to improve them.

Ms Claughton said as a PEG member, they have attended regular meetings at Berridale council o ce to work on the project and give feedback on each amendment and stage.

“It has been a great learning experience in how the consultation and tender process works,” Ms Claughton said.

“Emma Smith from Snowy Monaro Regional Council has taken on the project.

“Emma has been very professional, has kept the group informed of milestones met and has asked for feedback on minor changes.”

Council has listened to the wishes of the PEG and community comments. Council’s project manager has been the link between the PEG and Stantec, the company which compiled the plan.

Ms Claughton said whilst the group knew from the beginning that funding would not stretch to cover all the

Sports Equipment Shop 16 Link Road, Smiggin Holes

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is seeking expressions of interest for the lease and operation of a sports equipment shop at Smiggin Holes in Kosciuszko National Park.

Smiggin Holes is a small alpine village in the Snowy Mountains, only a two minute drive from Perisher Valley.

The area offers excellent year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation, including a range of snow sports, walking tracks, multi-day hikes and cycling trails.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced retail operator to develop a thriving business within the scenic landscape of Kosciuszko National Park.

Submissions close at 3:00pm on Monday 1 September 2025. For further information, please email: commercial.enquiries@environment.nsw.gov.au

Berridale Lions Park is one section of the plan

Committee is focusing on.

parks, it is good they now have a united group vision and have developed a plan that can be used in stages as funding allows.

“Each park has a di erent use or purpose but are all linked by the creek which will get some much-needed attention and it will really become as asset to the town,” Ms Claughton said.

“The culvert across Myack Street is a priority within the project which I’m sure many regular users will be pleased with.

“Mostly I wanted my family to grow up, enjoy and be proud to have grown up in a beautiful town and I want our visitors to remember our town fondly as they pass through, and I look forward

to seeing our plans come to fruition.”

Mr Daley said council’s project manager has been very supportive of the committee and changes it has made over time.

“The real test of council’s support will come when the scope of the tender documents is discussed with the committee,” Mr Daley said.

BEAUTIFICATION:

the Berridale Beautification

PHOTO: Trista Heath

Snowy Hydro to pay $400K

SNOWY Hydro will pay $400,000 to help protect the iconic Northern Corroboree Frog as part of a legally binding agreement with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

The recently nalised enforceable undertaking (EU) was negotiated with Snowy Hydro in relation to a 2023 pollution incident involving elevated nitrate levels in surface water and groundwater at Lobs Hole, on the Snowy 2.0 construction site in Kosciuszko National Park.

Under the EU, the company has committed to paying $400,000 to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to establish two new frog enclosures in the wild, aimed at protecting the critically endangered Northern Corroboree Frog from the threat of the deadly chytrid fungus.

The EU also requires the company to pay the EPA’s legal and investigation fees, totalling $90,000.

Snowy Hydro was issued with a cleanup notice in response to the incident in December 2023, requiring them to immediately stop adding material containing high nitrate levels to spoil areas on the construction site.

Following this, the company implemented a range of enhanced monitoring programs, established lined emplacement areas, installed new water treatment facilities and adopted a Nitrogen Management Plan to manage nitrates at the site (the rst of its kind in NSW).

There is no evidence the pollution from this incident had any impact on the Northern Corroboree Frog or its close sibling, the Southern Corroboree Frog, which is only found in Kosciuszko National Park.

Michelago residents call for urgent council action

Micalago Road needs to be sealed: locals

By NATHAN THOMPSON

MICHELAGO residents are calling on Snowy Monaro Regional Council to seal a local road they say is dangerous and prevents emergency services from reaching certain properties.

The Michelago community is urging council to seal Micalago Road and include the works in the 2025/26 operational plan.

Public submissions on council’s suite of integrated planning and reporting (IPR) documents – which include the operational plan, budget and fees and charges - closed last week with Michelago residents taking the opportunity to provide ‘unprecedented’ feedback that Micalago Road needs to be sealed.

President of the Michelago Region Community Association, Kerry Rooney, said the community has come together over the need to seal Micalago Road.

“Residents have written in unprecedented numbers asking council to x Micalago Road. Council has received 90 submissions asking that the sealing of Micalago Road be included in the council’s 2025-26 operational

plan,” Mrs Rooney said.

road was recently graded, the stretch between the new bridge and the Monaro Highway was almost undriveable.

“Before the recent grade, the section of road from the bridge to the Monaro Highway was virtually impassable due to deep corrugations that generated horrendous vibrations in all vehicles,” Mrs Rooney said.

“This forced all tra c to divert through Ryrie Steet in Michelago village, including through the school zone and the shared pedestrian zone over a single lane bridge.

At

listen to the concerns of residents and seal the road. The are about 60 homes along the road with a dozen more in the pipleline. Residents believe the road is one of the busiest un-sealed roads in the region.

“The current condition of the road presents serious safety concerns and has a direct impact not only on those who live along Micalago Road, but also on the wider Michelago com-

SNOWY MONARO FIREWOOD

c volume through the village.” Council will consider feedback on its suite of IPR documents at a meeting later this month.

Michelago residents are hopeful their concerns are heard and the sealing of Micalago Road is included in the operational plan for the next 12 months.

The feedback period for the suite of IPR documents closed last week.

ACTION NEEDED: Michelago residents say Micalago Road needs to be sealed to prevent possible accidents and ensure emergency services can access properties along the road.

Bar Lula opens in Jindabyne hot spot

By TRISTA HEATH

NUGGETS Crossing is home to a new and inviting wine bar, with Bar Lula now open.

Rasa Fabian and Richard Woods, the owner/operators of Shut The Gate Wines, a premium, award winning winery and vineyard business, are behind the new venture.

Wine is their life and the two are now injecting their passion and vast experience into Bar Lula.

Ms Fabian has had a stellar career in international hospitality, senior wine executive roles and owning small wine businesses, making her a formidable “Gatekeeper”. Her passion for premium winemaking and gourmet food, delivered with European air and generosity, has no limits.

Ms Fabian looks a er all things people, dollars, sales and loves working with their family grape growers.

Forever moving the business forward, there is no moss on this rolling stone.

A speaker at the National “Women in Wine” forum and named one of the Top 50 Stars of the Australian Wine Industry by the Australian Wine Business Magazine, Ms Fabian is ready for her new venture with Bar Lula.

Every business needs a dreamer, and Mr Woods is

Experience fine wine, food delicacies at new wine

bar

“We want Bar Lula to grow with an ever-changing carousel of interesting and complex wines and smallplate food that’s packed with avours.

an “ideas” person who, at times, has just the one foot in reality.

Mr Woods’ creativity is evident in Shut The Gate Wines’ words, pictures and wines that feature in the business.

There’s not many areas of the industry, Mr Woods does not know.

Both Ms Fabian and Mr Woods say wine is their life, and like life, the most

fun can be had when they explore, travel and occasionally challenge themselves.

“The Bar Lula experience and our wine list will evolve and grow re ecting our love for our local community, winemaking fraternity, friends and family,” Ms Fabian and Mr Woods said.

“Our vision for Bar Lula is to be primarily a wine bar for the local community that

visitors will discover.

“A comfortable, warm and welcoming space where friends can meet, share a glass or two of exciting wines matched with a small plate of avoursome food.

“The wine list will change, and a large list of both local and international wines keep things interesting and fresh for the regulars.”

Located in the heart of

Jindabyne, they have enjoyed developing their cool climate wine portfolio from the southern NSW vineyard regions for 10 years, with Jindabyne providing a wonderful base for them.

“We felt a wine bar was a logical extension to our business and a vehicle to share our passion for wine with the community,” Ms Fabian and Mr Woods said.

atmosphere that engages our customers and at times challenges

“We want a convivial atmosphere that engages our customers and at times challenges them.”

ing environment with a wine list that o ers a wide range of choice

food begs another visit to fully graze the list while listening to

Visit Bar Lula for a warm and inviting environment with a wine list that o ers a wide range of choice and discovery, including a wine and food combination that begs for another visit to fully graze the list while listening to killer day and night soundtracks.

most a wine bar leading with ne wine that is supported by a small concise

Bar Lula is foremost a wine bar leading with ne wine that is supported by a small but concise bar menu and is open Wednesdays and Thursdays 3pm to 9pm, and Friday to Sunday 3pm to 10pm.

Located at 18b Snowy River Avenue in the Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre, for all enquiries contact 0492 872 819 or email vino@ barlula.com.au or follow Bar Lula on Instagram and Facebook to keep up-to-date.

Bar Lula opens in Nuggets Crossing, Jindabyne.

The new Bar Lula wine bar features fine wine and delicious small-plate foods. PHOTOS: Supplied

Digital literacy skills crucial: MFSS

Project to boost disaster preparedness

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

MONARO Family Support

Service (MFSS) has welcomed funding recently announced from the Foundation of Rural Regional Renewal for the Digital Literacy for Disaster Readiness (DLD Ready) project.

MFSS identi ed a need for this project through previous disaster preparedness and recovery work the service has undertaken in the community.

During past disaster preparedness workshops and emergency response e orts, a signi cant digital literacy gap was evident, particularly among older adults, people with disabilities, and other disadvantaged groups, MFSS chief executive o cer, Anthony Marshall, said.

“This lack of digital skills limited people’s ability to access vital information, create personalised preparedness plans, and stay connected during emergencies,” Mr Marshall said.

“Further evidence of this need is highlighted from recovery o cers who directly observed the challenges faced by community members following the 2020 bush res.

“They identi ed digital literacy as a major barrier to accessing support and information during the recovery process. This rsthand insight reinforces the importance of equipping the community with the necessary digital skills to better prepare for future disasters, the submission stated.”

Through this project, MFSS aims to address these challenges by providing targeted digital literacy workshops, empowering individuals to manage their own preparedness plans, and reducing the pressure on local support services during emergencies.

“The project will deliver several series of workshops across the entire Snowy Monaro area, focusing on developing digital skills for disaster preparedness, accessing emergency information, and creating personalised preparedness plans,” Mr Marshall said.

“Participants will learn how to electronically save important documents, access accurate and up to date information, nd services, supports and assistance, as well as communicate with others while services are out following disasters, and will build disaster preparedness, response and recovery capacity in individuals.

“This will bring about increased con dence in using digital tools, enhanced community resilience, and improved capacity for emergency response.”

Key skills covered in the workshops will include:

- Using phones, tablets, and computers to access emergency information at all stages of natural disasters, including access to applications and alert systems such as Hazards Near Me;

- Learning to use accessibility features on personal devices such as phones to have access to information despite barriers such as vision, hearing, literacy or

comprehension challenges;

- Accessing and navigating online services and resources to support response and recovery from natural disasters;

- Store and organise digital information securely to ensure access if your home and possessions are destroyed by natural disaster, including how to digitise information and important documents, take photos for insurance purposes and creating spreadsheets of valuable possessions;

- Develop electronic preparedness plans, including information relevant to the individual and their family, which they can then learn to share;

- Learn how to use cloud-based le storage and how to safely and securely share information with those closest to them to ensure access to their information during and a er disasters;

- Developing basic research skills to nd reliable information online, understand safe and up-

to-date sources of information, and research risks and plans using resources such as Rural Fire Service, State Emergency Service and Red Cross websites.

- Communicating e ectively using email, messaging apps, and video conferencing platforms to create connections, nd information, join community e orts towards disaster preparedness and recovery, as well as learning how to stay in touch with people during and following disasters, when communication systems are o en down; and

- Engaging safely on social media and other digital platforms.

“This project is all about making sure no one across our Monaro community is le behind when disasters strike,” Mr Marshall said.

“By building digital con dence and skills, especially for older residents, people with disabilities, and those who are more isolated, we’re helping people stay informed, connected and

safer. It’s a practical way we can strengthen our community’s resilience and ensure everyone has the tools they need to prepare for and recover from emergencies.

“By addressing common barriers and reducing fear and uncertainty around digital technology, participants will feel more con dent and empowered to access real-time emergency updates, navigate o cial platforms, and develop greater self-reliance in disaster situations,” Mr Marshall said.

“The project will foster stronger community networks, reduce reliance on external support during emergencies, and enhance overall preparedness for future disasters.”

Further information on the DLD Ready workshops will be made available by MFSS when the details have been nalised.

For more information about MFSS, visit www.mfss.org.au

provided to help residents to boost their disaster preparedness. A new digital skills project will soon be rolled-out.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Bushfire damaged huts rebuilt

Milestone moment as Round Mountain Hut reopens

THE opening of the reconstructed Round Mountain Hut was not only a signi cant occasion for the hut and those with a close connection to it, but also for the 10 heritage huts destroyed by the Black Summer bushres.

The 10 huts ruined in the res that tore through Kosciuszko National Park have now all been restored.

During the 2019-20 bushres, 10 huts were destroyed, and an 11th was damaged. Since then, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has teamed up with descendants of the hut builders and volunteers from the Kosciuszko Huts Association and others to restore the buildings.

The 60 heritage huts in the park were built from the 1870s to the 1990s, by a range of people including cattlemen, prospectors and Snowy Mountains Scheme workers. They showcase the rugged nature of the area and have served as welcome emergency shelter to bushwalkers.

Where possible the huts were pre-fabricated in Tumut then transported and rebuilt on site, including the Linesman Huts which were airli ed into position. The works were challenging due to the huts’ remote locations and di cult weather conditions in the alpine region.

“Like many locals I have walked to a number of our mountain huts. They are a wonderful connection to the history of the cattlemen, prospectors and pioneers who lived in the region. In many cases they are also important emergency shelters as well as historical icons,” Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, said.

“Rebuilding them a er the devastation of the Black Summer res is a testament to the resilience of our community and the value the Minns Labor Government places on our heritage.

“This has been an incredible collaboration between National Parks sta , local volunteers and communities with deep ties to the huts. I’m proud to see the

people of Monaro leading the way in preserving our unique alpine heritage.”

The high-country huts and homesteads of Kosciuszko National Park are recognised as important NSW heritage structures and are required by law to be conserved. They are also popular tourist attractions. Some are accessible by car, while others require walking or horse riding.

President of Kosciuszko Huts Association, Pip Brown, said personal connections to the huts are still highly valued

“It was wonderful to see so many families associated with the huts at the hut openings and goes to show the social connections with the place are still strong,” Ms Brown said.

“The rebuilding program has also trained agency sta

and volunteers in traditional construction techniques to enable continuation of heritage building skills, such as splitting slabs with a maul and froe and log cabin construction to help keep these skills alive and maintain these huts for future generations.

The rebuilt huts are:

Linesman Huts (two buildings, built 1960s and 1980s)

Sawyers Resthouse (built 1900s)

Delanys Hut (built 1910)

Vickerys

Endangered species protected now project complete

THE Nungatta feral predator free area in the South East Forest National Park is now nished. The area provides a safe place for some of the state’s most vulnerable native species.

Nungatta, near Rockton in the Bombala district, is home to a protected area for native species. Covering 2000 hectares, the project will protect more than 13 threatened native species such as the eastern pygmy-possum, yellowbellied glider and powerful owl and allow for the reintroduction of up to nine locally extinct mammals.

A 25-kilometre-long feralproof fence now surrounds the area, following the completion of works. It is patrolled at least three times a week, with additional patrols

a er storms or res.

More than 40 remote cameras are constantly monitoring the area, to detect any potential incursions by feral animals such as feral cats or foxes.

The NSW government has completed the Nungatta area, which one of 10 feral predator-free areas established by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the rst of its kind on the Monaro and South Coast. It was chosen from more than 35 potential sites due to its suitable habitat for reintroduced species.

The critically endangered smoky mouse became the rst species to be reintroduced into the area, in September 2024. Since then, 79 smoky mice have been

released and ecologists recently detected the rst juvenile smoky mice known to be born in the area.

The long-footed potoroo, eastern bettong, eastern quoll and New Holland mouse are expected to be reintroduced in the coming years.

Feral predator free areas are a critical tool in preventing further extinctions and promoting the recovery of species most at risk of predation by feral cats and foxes. Across Australia, feral cats alone are estimated to kill more than 1.5 billion native animals every year.

The program represents one of NSW’s most signi cant threatened species restoration initiatives, and is funded by the NSW Environmental Trust and NPWS.

Hut (built 1938-39)

Bradley and O’Brien’s Hut (built 1952)

Brooks Hut (built 1943)

Four Mile Hut (built 1937)

Round Mountain Hut (built 1913, 1953)

Happys Hut (built 1931)

Harveys Hut (believed to be built 1960s) (repaired rather than rebuilt)

Round Mountain Hut post the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires.

RESTORATION: The Round Mountain Hut is the last of the 10 heritage huts destroyed in the Black Summer bushfires to be rebuilt.

PHOTO: NSW Parks and Wildlife Service

PROTECTION: The Nungatta feral predator free area is opened, much to the delight of those who worked on the project.

PHOTO: David Rogers

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Michelago residents call for council help

RESIDENTS have written in unprecedented numbers asking council to x Micalago Road. Council has received 90 submissions asking that the sealing of Micalago Road be included in council’s 2025-26 operational plan.

This short road is likely one of the busiest un-sealed roads in the Snowy Monaro. There are 56 houses now and at least another 12 being developed along Micalago Rd and its feeder, Karinya Plains Road. Most of the residents commute daily to work and make regular runs to drop o school children.

Tra c has increased relentlessly in recent years. Four-wheel drives, cars, trucks, service vehicles and horse trailers try to cope with large potholes and appalling corrugations.

Council graders are only scheduled every two years,

which is proving to be woefully inadequate. Residents report that within two months of grading, the potholes and corrugations have returned.

Friends and relatives are very reluctant to visit for fear of damaging their cars. Indeed, residents describe their 4WD suspensions breaking, cracks developing in their ute tubs and countless tyres wrecked.

Water and gas companies have already threatened to stop delivering. For example, one water carrier sustained $5000 in damages to his truck.

Before the recent grade, the section of road from the bridge to the Monaro Highway was virtually impassable due to deep corrugations that generated horrendous vibrations in all vehicles. This forced all tra c to divert through Ryrie Steet in Michelago village, including

through the school zone and the shared pedestrian zone over a single lane bridge.

Understandably, village residents are fearful of large trucks on Ryrie Street imperilling the safety of their children. The section of Ryrie Street near the oval, the playground, the hall and the Bank of Bins is not designed for the volumes of tra c now using it. It is barely wide enough for two cars to pass by each other.

Back on Micalago Road, ordinary trips come with unacceptable safety risks. A lot of drivers believe it’s best to drive quickly across the corrugations to minimise vibrations, but this comes with an increased risk of skidding in the gravel and hitting an oncoming car, or worse, a child walking home from the bus stop.

One P-plater slid o the road into the pylons of the railway bridge, causing extensive damage

to their car. When the road is wet, motor vehicles routinely slide o . One lady reported repairing her mailbox and fence 10 times a er sliding cars had crashed into them.

Of greatest concern are the medical emergencies, some of which have been quite frankly horrifying. A mother told a harrowing story of a motorbike accident on her property which seriously injured two young children.

A er arriving at Micalago Road, the ambulance had to slow down to prevent damaging its equipment. When it le , it crawled along at walking pace to avoid causing further injury to her children. Response times are critical in emergencies like this.

Another lady, who requires regular medical treatment for a back injury, is thinking of selling her small farm because she

cannot bear the pain of bumping along Micalago Road to get to her medical appointments.

In another case, a surgeon forbade a recovering patient from returning home for two months for fear that Micalago Road would cause the patient more serious harm.

The most tragic case of all involved a man critically injured in a farm accident.

The ambulance could not evacuate him because of the state of the road, and a helicopter had to be called to take him to hospital.

The ratepayers of Micalago Road need council’s help. On their behalf, I call upon council to seal Micalago Road and provide residents with a safe road that is fully accessible by emergency vehicles.

Kerry Rooney Michelago Region Community Association president

Karratha approval a poor start for new minister

THE result of the recent federal election was good in one respect, namely, it saw o the prospect of nuclear energy in the near future, a plan that would have prolonged the use of fossil fuels and diverted investment in renewables.

The Labor government, however, has now blotted its environmental copybook with the new Environment Minister, Murray Watt, giving provisional approval to Woodside’s North West Extension project in Western Australia.

This is a plan to keep the Karratha gas processing plant on Burrup Peninsula operating until 2070. Much of the gas will be exported and burnt overseas and thus not counted as part of Australia’s domestic emissions.

Nevertheless, the gas burnt overseas will add to global emissions and, in turn, global warming. Those emissions will be huge – in the order of 4.3 billion tonnes.

The Karratha plant cannot operate without opening up

further gas mines and that means mining the country’s largest untapped gas basin, the Browse Basin, particularly its Torosa gas eld, where wells are planned within three kilometres of Scott Reef.

This coral atoll is very important ecologically with many unique species including reef-building corals and sh, as well as endangered turtles and sea snakes.

There are a lot of big large marine animals – blue whales, manta rays, whale sharks – that

would be a ected by mining operations such as sonic booms.

It’s not just the industry virtually on top of the reef, however, the biggest danger are the emissions, which by warming the seas as well as the air, may cause the death of the reef by 2050.

And an equally critical reason for not having this project go ahead is the presence near the Karratha gas processing plant of the Murujuga petroglyphs, or rock carvings, which record the survival of humankind over more than

50,000 years.

These have already diminished in colour because of pollution from Karratha and are at risk of fading altogether should the plant keep operating until 2070.

About half of the approximately 9000 petroglyphs were destroyed in the construction of the gas plant in the 1980s. As a nation, we really need to do better than this in preserving our invaluable cultural heritage.

New chapter for council, welcome to incoming CEO

AS A resident of this community, I eagerly await the arrival of our new Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) general manager/CEO this mid-July. Her appointment couldn’t come at a more crucial time, as we face some signi cant challenges that require fresh leadership and innovative solutions.

Since amalgamation, our shire has struggled with declining

nances and deteriorating services. The reality is stark – we’ve become increasingly dependent on grants to maintain basic operations, yet our track record in managing these funding opportunities e ectively has been disappointing.

This cycle of dependency without corresponding improvement has le many residents frustrated

YOU HAVE A RELAXING LONG WEEKEND STAN?

I DID ACTUALLY.

and concerned about our community’s future.

What gives us hope is the opportunity for genuine change that new leadership represents.

A fresh perspective, unburdened by past decisions and existing relationships, may be exactly what SMRC needs to break free from current patterns and chart a more sustainable course forward.

I CLEANED UP THE SHEARIN’ SHED, REPAIRED THE HOLE IN THE SOUTH PADDOCK FENCE, PLOUGHED A FIRE BRAKE AROUND THE NORTH PADDOCK, FIXED UP THE LEAKING WATER TANK, CHANGED A BLADE ON THE WINDMILL, PICKED UP A FEW TONS OF FERTILISER, MADE A NEW GATE FOR THE SHEEP PEN...AND SPENT EACH NIGHT GOING THRU ME ACCOUNTS TA MAKE SURE I DON’T GO BROKE.

I welcome our new GM/CEO with open arms and realistic optimism. The challenges she inherits are substantial, but so too is the potential for positive transformation. Our community is ready to support strong leadership that can deliver improved services, better financial management, and a clear vision for our shire’s future.

The road ahead won’t be easy,

but with dedicated leadership and community support, I believe better days lie ahead for SMRC.

I wish our new GM/CEO every success in not just staying the course, but in steering us toward the thriving, self-sufficient community we all want to call home.

Lindy Rose Cooma

Nothin’s

Jenny Goldie Climate Action Monaro

Plug In, The Electrification Handbook

Book review with Nick Goldie

WE had called a local electrician to x the problem of our malfunctioning clothes washer. First o , he found that we had been money laundering.

That is, he removed a two dollar coin and a 10 cent piece from the drain pipe, which were at least part of the problem.

In the kitchen, as we discussed the bill, he noticed a book that I was reading - ‘Plug In! The Electri cation Handbook, by Saul Gri th and Laura Fraser.

“He’s great,” our tradie said.

“I saw him on television. He’s got great ideas. Do you have solar on your roof?”

I said that we did, and that led o into a long discussion about solar panels, batteries, and

Photo of the week

the future of domestic power. I went back to my book with new enthusiasm.

Saul Gri th is an Australian engineer who has had a stellar career in Australia and America, working with NASA, the US National Science Foundation, the US Special Operations Command, and has written several books on domestic electri cation.

‘Plug In!’ covers the ve major decisions that will, he says, ‘electrify your life’. These are: where it comes from, how you heat your hot water; home heating, cooking, and transport.

There’s a great deal of wisdom in the chapter on electric vehicles. Gri th seems to have bought and sold almost every EV available

in Australia and the USA, and has no doubt at all about the economics of electri cation, even recommending a used Ni an Leaf van with sliding doors.

His favourite car – from a huge selection – is an electri ed Fiat 600. But don’t let this matter of taste put you o , as he deals with hybrids, cars big and small, and of course, e-bikes.

‘Plug In!’ is probably not a book to be read like a novel, all of a piece from go to whoa. It is more like a hand-book, to be dipped into encyclopedia-style.

Unlike an encyclopedia, it is full of an infectious enthusiasm.

“I hope to do all-electric burnouts at some future Summernats,” he writes.

“One has to have life goals. But I also hope my children will

hour later, deep in a discussion

never have to tune a carburettor or wrestle with the ve uids required to keep an old Land Rover running ” This is a book which reaches out and grabs you. You start on the page dealing with (say) the best tyres for a mountain e-bike, and nd yourself, an hour later, deep in a discussion about cooking an omelette on an induction stove top, and from there to ‘miss and diss’ – misinformation and disinformation online about the real threat of climate change. It’s a fascinating page-turner.

REVIEW: Plug In! The Electrification Handbook by Saul Gri ith published by Black Inc. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

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OUR latest photo of the week is taken by Peter Gibson of Cooma. Peter’s snap is taken on a very frosty and foggy morning on Sunday, 1 June.

Peter’s photo shows the Murrumbidgee River and part of the reserve at the Cooma pumping station, off Mittagang Road.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way

Preserve the facts

By WALKER GIBBS AND KING

NO MATTER what your will says, a lot depends on some surrounding facts.

The person with the best knowledge of the facts will be you. When the issues come up, you won’t be there to give evidence...

The rst thing you need to do is to check ownership of all assets. Just because an asset is in a person’s name does not mean they “own” it. Suppose your daughter Mary contributed to the value of your land by erecting a second house on it. Mary may be a part owner of the land “in equity”. That needs to be sorted out while you are alive.

Have you checked whether the land you farm is itself a partnership asset? If so, you may not be able to leave the land as you want, because it is a partnership asset. Have you given any assets or assistance to your children? If you don’t preserve the facts about that, then when you die details may not be clear, and a challenge may arise to your will.

There are ways to sort these things out. One of the simplest is to at least put relevant facts in a statutory declaration which sits with your will and can be used a er your death. In that way your knowledge and evidence doesn’t die with you.

Get it done properly by a competent legal professional with experience in the area.

Baby friendly accreditation

Cooma Hospital to enhance care for babies

COOMA Hospital is one of ve birthing hospitals in the Southern NSW Local Health District (LHD) now accredited under the Baby Friendly Health Initiative (BFHI).

The initiative is a globally recognised benchmark developed by the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, to protect, promote and support breastfeeding.

In Australia, the accreditation focuses on improving healthcare for babies, their mothers and families by ensuring all women, regardless of their feeding choices and circumstances, receive unbiased information, appropriate support and factual advice during pregnancy and post-natal period.

Maternity and community health facilities can apply for the three-year accreditation which is granted by the Australian College of Midwives a er facilities meet the 10 steps to successful breastfeeding guidance.

Southern NSW LHD is now one of only two health districts in Australia to achieve BFHI accreditation across all birthing facilities which re ects a strong and system-wide commitment to delivering safe, supportive

HEALTH: Cooma Hospital is now accredited under the Baby Friendly Health Initiative.

PHOTO: File

and informed maternity care.

The accredited hospitals are: Cooma Hospital, South East Regional Hospital (Bega), Moruya District Hospital, Goulburn Hospital and Queanbeyan District Hospital.

Southern NSW LHD is now working towards extending the Baby Friendly Health Initiative principles to its community health facilities.

“This is wonderful news

which enforces the feedback I receive about the excellent preand post-natal care delivered to mothers and their families across Monaro,” Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, said.

“I’m very proud of the fact that our LHD has been recognised like this. It demonstrates our commitment to community and healthcare for families navigating one of the most signi cant events in their lives.”

Southern NSW LHD chief executive, Margaret Bennett, said the accomplishment will bene t mothers and their babies in the Snowy Monaro, and across the health district.

“The accreditation represents a shared commitment to creating environments where breastfeeding is supported as the norm and women are empowered to make informed choices.”

&

– Secure your

and protect your

Whether you’re buying a home, facing legal charges, or planning your estate, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us for more information 7 Dawson Street, Cooma | PO Box 8, Cooma NSW 2630 P: 6452 1488 | F: 6452 1725 E: administration@coomalaw.com.au | www.coomalaw.com.au

St Pat’s shine at Da Vinci Decathlon

SAINT Patrick’s School recently entered a team in the Da Vinci Decathlon competition, and performed exceptionally well.

Secondary teacher, Rachel Kitcher, guided the students, building on the strong foundation laid by Mrs Harris, who had supported the teams in previous years.

Ms Kitcher, a specialist in the humanities, pushed students to explore cause and e ect, think critically, and approach each task with a sense of curiosity.

“It was an enjoyable, albeit demanding task,” Ms Kitcher said.

“The spirit of Da Vinci lies in problem solving through teamwork, and our students certainly embodied this in Mrs Harris’ absence.”

Fuelled by excitement and team spirit, the group le Cooma bright and early at 6.30am to participate in the annual Da Vinci Decathlon, hosted by Canberra Grammar School.

“Competing against 14 other schools from across the region, our students rose to the challenge of this dynamic and rigorous competition, which tests collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving across 10 disciplines,” Ms Kitcher said. Despite the tough competition, St Patrick’s held its own and achieved impressive results across all areas.

Standout performances included second place in Creative Producers (year 7/8), rst place

in Art and Poetry (year 9), and second place in Ideation (year 10).

“These results are a testament to our students’ talent and determination.

“The students did themselves and the school community proud,” Ms Kitcher said.

“St Patrick’s may be small, but we certainly made a big impression. Students returned home as energised and inspired as they were when they set o and already have their sights on 2026.

“A special mention and thanks from the school to Rashida Abdel-Aziz, whose depth of knowledge in the creative arts played a key role in supporting the team to victory,” Ms Kitcher said.

CNPS students enjoy nationwide book reading

COOMA North Public School students enjoyed the book, The Truck Cat, reading it along with thousands of children nationwide as part of National Simultaneous Storytime.

The Truck Cat is written by Deborah Frenkel and illustrated by Danny Snell. Published by Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing, The Truck Cat is a story about cats and humans, immigration and identity,

and homes lost and found.

Cooma North Public School students were inspired to create artworks a er reading the book.

National Simultaneous Storytime is hosted by the Australian Library and Information Association.

Each year, a picture book is read simultaneously in schools, libraries, and pre-schools. The books showcase the work of Australian authors and illustrators.

Council updates

Public toilet upgrades in Jindabyne

Council is holding an information session at Bombala from 10.30am – 12.30pm on Thursday 12 June 2025. to connect local older residents, their families, and their carers with local support services.

Whether you’re curious about what’s on offer locally, or if you need help with specific questions or problems – we’re here to help. Learn more on our website at https://qrco.de/65plusBombala.

Council is coming to Jindabyne Memorial Hall on Thursday 19 June 2025 from 5pm to 7pm to discuss planned renovations for the Jindabyne Town Centre public toilets.

Urgent maintenance was completed last week ahead of the ski season, but substantial work is required to bring the facility up to a high standard permanently.

No RSVP required, all welcome to attend.

Work starts this month on Cooma Pool upgrades

Long-awaited upgrades at Cooma Pool are getting underway in June 2025, proudly funded by the NSW Government thanks to a grant from the Department of Regional New South Wales under the Stronger Country Communities Fund.

These works will see the pool shell replaced and brand new filtration, pumping and plant equipment installed to ensure Cooma Pool meets and exceeds modern water safety standards into the future.

Once this work is complete, Cooma Pool will be set to continue serving the summertime needs of the Snowy Monaro for many more years to come.

Due to the significant scope of the upgrade project and the work required, Council expects that the usual reopening date will need to be pushed back.

The season will be extended to make up for any delay once exact dates are confirmed.

We’re here to help.

Jindabyne waste facility community update sessions

Local residents and commercial customers of the Jindabyne waste facility are invited to Council’s community update sessions next week at Jindabyne Memorial Hall, to learn more about the three potential options for the future of the landfill site.

Session details: Thursday 12 June 2025

Session One | 5pm to 6pm

Residents and non-commercial customers

Session Two | 6pm to 7pm

Commercial customers

Location

Jindabyne Memorial Hall

Thredbo Terrace, Jindabyne

No RSVP is required for these upcoming sessions. All members of the local community are welcome.

Councillors will make a final decision on the preferred option at a Council meeting later this year.

Bombala over 65s event this week

LEARNING: Cooma North Public School students, Arnie Shirvington and Sunny Cooper, enjoy creating artworks inspired by reading The Truck Cat. PHOTO: Cooma North Public School

Decathlon competition.

PHOTO: Supplied

Locals star in latest Raglan exhibition

THE Raglan Gallery’s latest exhibition will celebrate the Snowy Monaro community with locals to be featured in the Heads Up Portrait Prize.

The Heads Up Portrait Prize opens on Wednesday, 11 June with the o cial opening taking place on Saturday, 14 June at 3pm.

Held in the Raglan Gallery, the o cial opening will see artists recognised and awarded for their portraits.

The judges are award winning artist Lucy Culliton and photographer and board member of South East Arts, Dennis Ferris. They will do a blind judging on Thursday to nd the artist who will take home $1000 cash prize.

There is also a people’s choice award (sponsored by Cooma Crash Repairs) where visitors can choose their favourite portrait.

The winning artist will be announced on the last day of the exhibition on Sunday, 20 July.

This year’s competition theme is ‘portrait’ and the sitter must be a Snowy Monaro local. The Raglan will be celebrating the community as much as the artists.

Head along to the highly-anticipated o cial opening to meet the artists and possibly spot a neighbour of yours.

The exhibitions runs from 11 June to 20 July.

Christian school hosts EWB engineers initiative

By SNOWY MOUNTAINS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

SNOWY Mountains Christian School year three to year 10 students had a fantastic opportunity on Wednesday, 28 May to participate in workshops run by volunteers from the Youth Outreach Program, an Engineers Without Borders (EWB) initiative.

Engineers Without Borders is a not-for-pro t organisation which aims to harness the potential of engineering to create an equitable reality for the planet and its people. The EWB Australia Youth Outreach program, is designed to deliver thematic learning workshops to schools around Australia.

Five volunteers from EWB University of NSW branch came to the school to run three workshops.

The uppper primary class learned about oating houses. They were then given a challenge to design and make their own oating house.

Next, they were given $25 fake money to spend on supplies which they then used to build their oating house.

Each group created their own house and then tested the house in a container of water to see how well it oated. They then added marbles to see how strong their design was. Some sunk pretty quickly with only 13 marbles added. One managed to stay a oat with 135 marbles.

A er the testing, they discussed which house designs worked better and why. The class learnt that structures with a bigger surface area oat better than structures with a smaller surface area.

The secondary students participated in two workshops. During the rst workshop, they explored the area of medical engineering, in particular arti cial limbs.

They learnt about the cost of these limbs and what EWB is doing for those who are unable to a ord arti cial limbs.

The students were then given the challenge to design a leg for one of their group members who pretended to have an amputated leg from the knee down. Each group was given the same equipment.

Once the legs were made, they tested them to see how

they went. Some legs didn’t hold up, while others were just able to cross the room without the leg falling out from under them.

In the second workshop, the students learnt about natural disasters, and the impact these disasters can have on structures.

In groups, the students were given $15 fake money to purchase equipment to create a structure which would withstand a simulated hurricane, earthquake and tsunami. The structures were all creative and di erent. Some structures struggled to withstand the natural disasters, while others broke apart when they were picked up.

Two of the structures stood strong; however, its roofs didn’t like the simulated rain.

At the end of the testing, we discussed what is required for buildings to withstand the di ering natural disasters and how engineers are consistently testing and changing their designs.

Quite a few students are really considering the option of becoming an engineer in the future following the visit.

Secondary students were told about the impacts natural disasters can have on structures.

LEARNING: Snowy Mountains Christian School students enjoy the workshops run by Engineers Without Borders. PHOTOS: Snowy Mountains Christian School

RAGLAN GALLERY: An entry by Sydney based photographer, Peter Solness, in the Heads Up Portrait Prize will feature locals Wendy and Mark. PHOTO: Peter Solness

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 Name a kind of soup or stew (7)

8 Name a sour liquid (7)

9 To depart in a sudden manner, is to do what (7)

10 Which newspaper is about one half of the broadsheet page size (7)

11 Name a form of pasta cut into flat sheets (7)

12 What are heavy oneedged swords (6)

14 What is a number of puppies brought forth at one birth (6)

18 When one reduces to an average, one does what (7)

21 What is the official proving of a will as valid (7)

22 Which term describes one who mends shoes (7)

23 What is the first letter of a proper noun (7)

24 To be merciful, is to be what (7)

DOWN

1 Which gods come to earth in a human form (7)

2 What do we call those who seek social rank (5)

3 To not be distinguished by birth, is to be what (7)

4 What is another term for a crib (6)

5 What is a fertile place in a desert region (5)

Letters have a number

Some

6 Which term describes dry weather (7)

7 What is a chain of hills known as (5)

13 Name a kind of distilled whisky (7)

15 To be senselessly foolish, is to be what (7)

16 Name a brilliantly coloured parrot (7)

17 What is another term for lively intelligence (6)

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

E-QUATIONS

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

18 To surpass others, is to do what (5)

19 Name a thin silk net, used in millinery, dressmaking, etc (5)

20 What do we call a Hindu religious ascetic (5)

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

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:

Atomic particle (7)

Describe sentence parts (5)

Garden tool (3)

Graze for payment (5)

Man whose wife became salt (3)

Meadow (3)

Neighbouring (5)

Speaking style (7)

Tear (3)

Uneven (5)

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 1.00 The One That Got Away. 2.00 Restoration Aust. 3.00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 3.25 Anh’s Brush With Fame. 3.55 Love Your Garden. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: A Sister’s Grudge. (2021) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. Final. 11.00 Inside Detroit. 12.30 Raines. 1.30 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 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 Grace. 10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 American Pickers. 1.00 Pawn Stars. 1.30 Highway Patrol. 2.30 The Force: BTL. 3.30 Billy The Exterminator. 4.00 Carnage. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 14. St Kilda v Western Bulldogs. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 Kick Ons. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.35 Whose Line Is It Anyway? 2.55 You Can’t Ask That. 3.15 Doctor Who. 4.05 QI. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 Hard Quiz. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Would I Lie To You? 9.10 Gruen. 9.45 Planet America. 10.20 Late Programs.

And Friends. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Saved By The Barn. 10.05 Amazing Animal Friends. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 1.00 Bay Of Fires. Final. 2.00 Restoration Aust. 3.00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 3.25 Anh’s Brush With Fame. 3.55 Love Your Garden. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 The One That Got Away. 9.25 Gruen. 10.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 10.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Pawn Stars. 2.00 The Car Club. 2.30 Desert Collectors. 3.30 Timbersports. 4.00 Carnage. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 14. Hawthorn v Adelaide. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.15 GetOn Extra. 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.35 Doctor Who. 3.20 Would I Lie To You?

3.50 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations. New. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 Hard Quiz. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Would I Lie To You? 8.40

6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.00 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.25 Rocket Club. 5.20 Thomas And Friends. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Walking With Dinosaurs. 10.45 Late Programs.

(1949) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Yes, Prime Minister. 8.40 Midsomer Murders. 10.40 The Closer. 11.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Get Clever. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 The Resident. 3.00 Santa Makes You Laugh Out Loud. 4.00 The Goldbergs. 5.00 Kittens Make You Laugh Out Loud. 6.00 Bondi Vet.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 4. Heats. 1.35 Young Sheldon. 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 15. Cronulla Sharks v St George Illawarra Dragons. 9.45 ur a i t n ff. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Outback Opal Hunters. 12.00 Next Stop. 12.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 10 News First: Lunchtime. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Neighbours. 4.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Airport 24/7. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 9.30 The Cheap Seats. 10.30 10’s Late News.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Midsomer Murders. 2.00 Yes, Prime Minister. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Seven Nights In Japan. (1976) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 4. Finals. 9.30 A+E Crash Scene Emergency. 10.30 Panic 9-1-1. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Get Clever. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 The Resident. 3.00 House Of Wellness. 4.00 The Goldbergs. 5.00 Weddings Make You Laugh Out Loud. 6.00 Bondi Vet. 7.00 Judge Judy. 7.30 Kitchen Nightmares USA. 9.30 Kitchen Nightmares. 10.30 Ramsay’s Costa Del Nightmares. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 5. Heats. 1.30 Young Sheldon. 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 15. Gold Coast Titans v Manly Sea Eagles. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 MOVIE: Exit Wounds. (2001) 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Midsomer Murders. 2.00 Are You Being Served? 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: The Night My Number Came Up. (1955) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 5. Finals. 9.35 TBA. 12.05 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 The Resident. 3.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 4.00 New Idea Test Kitchen. 4.20 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 6.20 MOVIE: The Boss Baby: Family Business. (2021) 8.30 MOVIE: Bad Teacher. (2011) 10.30 MOVIE: City Slickers

ABC SEVEN NINE TEN SBS

Be alert for red imported fire ant

IN MAY, the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) issued their latest re ant emergency order as the size of the Queensland infested area continues to grow.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council is calling on the community to be alert and keep an eye out for potential local incursions of this dangerous invasive species on Council ovals, playgrounds, recreational areas, and roadsides.

While there are only two known red imported re ant (Solenopsis invicta) infested areas in the north of NSW, as low rainfall and drought conditions continue across much of south-eastern Australia the risk of a local incursion spread by hay, mulch, or other organic material is real.

Fire ants are one of the world’s worst invasive species. They swarm humans and animals and sting repeatedly, causing severe pain

and anaphylaxis – sometimes even resulting in death. These ants can form massive ‘super-colonies’ that can destroy ecosystems and farmland, and their presence can render the public spaces we all rely on every day unsafe and unusable.

Attacks on livestock can cause su ocation and blindness, and their presence alone can cut stock o from sources of feed and water causing starvation and dehydration.

Even in smaller numbers, this invasive pest can cause enormous damage to our environment, farmland, native animals, kids, pets, and infrastructure.

Council is asking residents and visitors to take a few minutes to familiarise themselves with red imported re ants, how to identify them, and what to do if you think you might have found them

on local public lands.

If you think you’ve seen re ants or their nests, follow the DPI’s three-step process: Leave it - do not destroy or treat the nest. Fire ants are prohibited matter in NSW. Snap it - Safely take a clear photo or video for identi cation.

Call it - Call the hotline on 1800 680 244, submit online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ reants, or through the BioResponse NSW app.

If the sighting is on council land or property, call 1300 345 345.

Visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ dpi/bfs/insect-pests/rifa to learn more.

If you work in agriculture, horticulture, or related elds, it is particularly important to understand what you need to do to avoid the risk of spreading re ants through purchased feed, equipment, soil, or other known carriers.

Wagga Wagga sheep sale yards 49,700 Merino lambs reach $296/head

AT LAST week’s Wagga Wagga sheep sale, lamb numbers eased and the quality was not as good as the previous o ering. There were plenty of lighter store lambs with the bare skinned lambs attracting a premium. Trade lambs were well supplied but there were not the numbers of hard fed lambs and there were fewer heavy and extra heavy lambs.

The market sold to a dearer trend for restocking and trade lambs but was rm to cheaper on heavy and extra heavy weights with some of the export buyers not operating. Restocking lambs to 18kg sold to $200/head and ranged from 1000c to 1200c/ kg. The trade lambs were rm to $5 dearer with lambs to 24kg selling from $182 to $262/head and most ranged from 980c to 1050c/kg.

Lambs 24 to 26kg sold from $248 to $266/head. Heavy weights were rm to $4 so er with the bulk sell-

ing from $268 to $296/head and heavy weights $288 to a top of $369.20/head, most ranged between 950c and 980c/kg.

Merinos followed a similar trend with the trade weights slightly stronger and heavy weight slightly cheaper. The best priced Merino lambs reached $263/ head and most of the trade Merinos averaged around 800c/kg. The best for hoggets reached $244/head.

Wagga

Mutton numbers lifted and the quality was again mixed. Prices were stronger by $8 to $10 across most grade with the exception of the light one-score mutton.

Medium weights sold from $110 to $200/head the latter for full woolled Merinos, heavy crossbreds reached $295 and the Merinos $284/head.

A lot of the mutton ranged from 670c to 720c/ kg.

Numbers rise, quality varied

Wagga Wagga cattle sale yards 5755

THERE was a lift in numbers and the quality was again mixed. Weaners were back in numbers but still plenty were supplied, yearling feeders were well represented with buyers after weight.

The trade cattle were in limited numbers and the prime grown steers were very limited. Heavy grown heifers were in reasonable numbers and around 1250 mixed quality cows were penned.

Light weaners were cheaper overall with a smaller restocking group

operating, medium weight weaner steers ranged from 320c to 466c/kg and the similar weight heifers reached 358c/kg. The light heifers under 300kg to feed were 20c softer with most selling between 320c and 358c/ kg. Medium weight feeder steers were five to six cents to stronger and sold to 446c and heavy weights were up to 10c stronger in places selling from 378c to 446c/ kg. Medium weight heifers to feed were firm ranging from 270c to 393c and heavy weights were stronger

reaching 404c/kg.

Trade cattle were 10c and more in places dearer, most steers sold from 359c to 422c/kg and heavy heifers reached 409c/kg. Grown steers and bullocks were back 20c to 25c/ kg with very limited prime stock with the best price for a steer reaching 404c and the heavy heifers sold to 377c/kg.

Heavy cows were firm to five cents dearer selling from 270c to 338c/kg and the leaner two-score cows were back 15c selling from 210c to 278c/kg.

Farmer confidence hit by climate extremes

NEW research shows just two per cent of farmers expect conditions to improve for their business over the next 12 months as drought and floods continue to impact NSW.

The bi-annual NSW Farmers Business Sentiment Survey revealed 56 per cent of farmers are experiencing deteriorating business conditions in 2025 thanks to natural disasters, input costs and global trade headwinds.

Insurance was another major concern for farmers, with the number of respondents concerned about accessing insurance jumping by 10 per cent in the last year alone.

NSW Farmers principal economist, Samuel Miller, said the results of the survey were telling of the effects of the climate ex-

tremes being seen across the state.

“What we’re seeing is the impact of drought on one hand, and floods and severe weather on the other –with both extremes driving those really tough business conditions for farmers in many parts of the state,” Mr Miller said.

“As insurance skyrockets and disaster after disaster hits the farmers that feed our nation, many have been left with the prospect that insurance – something every business should be able to access – may soon be out of reach.”

As communities grappled with the compound effects of multiple disasters, Mr Miller said meaningful support for farmers dealing with flood and drought was essential.

“All the evidence shows

that practical, long-term initiatives like the Regional Investment Corporation’s low-interest loans really do help farmers manage drought and other challenges, so it’s vital the support of these tools are guaranteed,” Mr Miller said.

“We’re also hearing reports from areas most severely impacted by the recent floods that current disaster relief isn’t nearly enough to address the devastation, so our governments need to step up their game to help these communities back on their feet.

“Farmers plan and prepare for all manner of conditions, but the right supports must be in place to fast track recovery for our farm businesses, so they can keep feeding and clothing the world.”

THREAT: Fire ants are copper brown in colour with a darker abdomen and measure

2–6 mm in size. Fire ants appear in a variety of sizes in one nest, making them easy to identify against other ant species.

PHOTO: Photo/video credit: National Fire Ant Eradication Program

LIVESTOCK: Lamb numbers eased at last week’s

Wagga sheep sale. PHOTO: Supplied

Cooma cattle sale prices Upper Snowy Landcare finishes key project

UPPER Snowy Landcare has nished the last of its plantings to restore the shrub and ground cover layers across a number of dieback recovery plots. These e orts are part of project understorey, funded through Snowy Hydro’s community grants program.

Project understorey has funded the Wagtail Natives Nursery, Berridale, to grow 900 local but less common native plants (mainly mid and ground-storey species) to be planted into advanced Upper Snowy Landcare tree/shrub plots scattered across the dieback-a ected areas on the Monaro.

The idea is to increase biodiversity based on the site’s original plant community type (PCT).

Using pre-clearing information, the NSW government has mapped and de ned all plant community types (vegetation communities) across NSW.

“Our Snowy Monaro region contains 112 of these PCTs and they can all be found by downloading the Trees Near Me app on your phone. It is a fabulous easy way to nd out what plant species or broader vegetation community occurs right under your feet – even if it is not currently intact,” Upper Snowy Landcare Network project manager, Lauren Van Dyke, said.

“A huge thank you and congratulations to our volunteer planters who pulled this one o before the cold weather and right before some much needed rain.

“We hope these little plants thrive in the coming years.

“We’re extremely grateful to Snowy Hydro who supported this project through their community grants program, as well as all the people who have worked on project understorey.”

Welcome home to Whinstone Valley

A WONDERFUL opportunity to secure the strategically located Whinstone Valley in the heart of the Monaro district. This property is situated only 56km north-east of Cooma and 110km south of Canberra in the higher end rainfall area securing an annual average in excess of 700mm or 28 inches.

The current custodians of Whinstone Valley is the Stephens family who has had continuous ownership since 1964. Prior to this, the main house was operated as the local post office and telephone exchange.

Bill and Sue are very keen to share the property history. The name Whinstone is a term used to describe a hard dark-coloured rock such as basalt.

Whinstone Valley is a well-established holding offering excellent production for both cattle and sheep breeding and fattening operations. There

is approximately 500 hectares of improved pastures, 230 hectares of native pastures and around 260 hectares of timbered bush country. Up until 2008 the main operation was a self-replacing Merino flock with cull ewes joined for prime lamb production and a small Angus herd of 30 to 40 cows. There was a comprehensive fertiliser program in place using both single super and single super+ mo. The conservative carrying capacity at this time was estimated to be 3500 D.S.E.

The improved granite pastures have been predominately sown to phalaris, cocksfoot, fescue, ryegrass and clovers. There are scattered gums providing excellent shelter for the livestock.

Fencing is also a feature with the property subdivided into 31 paddocks consisting of netting, hinge joint and plain wire together with electric fences. There is approximately 7.5km of new

boundary fencing which was replaced after the January 2020 fires. Also, around 11.5km of internal fences were repaired or upgraded.

Water security is a feature of this farm with the permanent Frogs Hole creek and semi-permanent Cutmore creek.

There are 33 spring fed and catchment dams as well as a solarpowered bore pump servicing nine troughs. The house water is gravity fed from a 44,000-litre tank off the woolshed.

In 2008, a decision was made to semi-retire and sell all the sheep and run a herd of 50 Angus cows with agistment stock. The agistment stock consisted of 150 cows and calves plus more recently up to 400 sheep.

This property has always been lovingly cared for by the Stephens family.

Improvements included:

Two bedroom weatherboard home C 1890

Three bedroom weatherboard/ fibro cottage C 1950

Three stand modern raised board shearing shed.

Two sets of sheep yards

Steel and timber cattle yards with a crush

Machinery shed and workshop Kotzur cone bottom silo

Large flat bottom silo

Small holding paddocks adjacent to yards

The Peak View road provides for an excellent laneway for stock movement

Whinstone Valley is for sale at $4,000,000. Call the exclusive selling agents to secure an inspection.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Bungarby, “Brooklyn” is a unique opportunity for those who love a vintage renovation project or two!

Once part of a larger property, “Brooklyn” now stands alone on 2.428ha/6.0ac and features Brooklyn Homestead and Cottage.

• Brooklyn homestead has loads of art deco features including geometric ceiling patterns, parquetry flooring, classic

and

• 3-4 Bedroom, 1

• Brooklyn Cottage - Ramshackle 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom cottage

The Maclaughlin River is a few hundred meters from the homestead and features some of the best trout fishing in the Snowy Mountains.

If you like a little quirky in your life, and don’t mind some renovating, then this property is a must to inspect!

Spectacular Stradone

ADDRESS: 50 Burton Street, Bombala

NEW PRICE: $925,000

THE majestic grandeur and classic opulence of Stradone can’t help but turn heads.

Built in 1912, Stradone is a solid masonry construction that blends together Federation architecture with country style to create an iconic estate in the rural town of Bombala. Retained within the one family for the last 46 years, Stradone has been lovingly maintained and cared for while being upgraded with creature comforts and retaining its historic beauty.

The two-storey, Stradone, features five bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, a large open kitchen and dining with a sunken living area, modern conservatory with French doors leading out on to the sweeping verandah and rumpus room with private patio.

The paved driveway leads you onto the property and around to the single carport. Nestled amongst established gardens and mature trees, it’s easy to forget you are a short stroll down to the centre of town.

Once in a lifetime properties of this stature come on the market, now is the time to make Stradone yours.

130 Vaughans Road, Ando

Beaumont is a wonderful lifestyle opportunity on the Southern Monaro.

• 3.94ha/9.736ac fenced into 4 paddocks suitable for hobby farm

• Renovated main house with 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, open living areas with timber floors

• Adjacent outbuilding contains 4th bedroom and second bathroom

• Secure water with good rain water storage, 1 dam and reliable bore

• Double car garage, chicken coop, established lawns and gardens

Embrace the beauty of Beaumont and book your inspections today!

Snowy River Way, Bungarby

Digging Up The Dirt On The Monaro For Over 40 Years

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

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

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

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

59 Vale Street, Cooma (02) 6452 0318

Classifieds IN PERSON

REGISTRATION OF

ABORIGINAL INTERESTS

– HERITAGE ASSESSMENT MICHELAGO

PLANNED Town Planning Solutions have engaged Past Traces Pty Ltd to undertake an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment for the proposed re-zoning and future subdivision at 2-14 Ryrie St Michelago (Lots 27 & 28 DP11158 and Lot 29 DP1002933). Client contact is Elizabeth Slapp – 0457 786 776. Past Traces invites Aboriginal people who hold cultural knowledge in determining the signi cance of Aboriginal objects and or places in the area of Michelago to register their interest in a process of community consultation. The purpose of the consultation will be to inform the Heritage Assessment including any subsurface testing, and assist NSW Heritage in the determination of an AHIP application if required. For more information or to register in writing or by email please contact: Lyn O’Brien Past Traces Pty Ltd GPO Box 1584 Canberra ACT 2600 o ce@pasttraces.com.au

Ph: 0403 021 296 Please note that under NSW Heritage guidelines registration for consultation does not guarantee employment. REGISTRATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE 5pm 23/6/2025

COOMA NETBALL ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Monday, July 7, 2025. 5.30pm for a 6pm start. At the Cooma Ex-Servicemens Club. Snowy Lounge

Proposed Road Disposal Section 152D Roads Act 1993

In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1.

If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act.

Schedule 1:

• Crown roads at Quidong, within and/or adjoining 351 Tredegar Road. (File Ref: 16/10082, Cluster: 677860)

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement.

Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road. Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 For the Manager, Divestments

For further enquiries please visit the website roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au or contact Mandy Ade by email at mandy.ade@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 6640 3923 quoting file references above.

PLANT OPERATOR

Evoro are looking for a dependable and safetyfocused Plant Operator to join our team at our recycling facility in Polo Flat.

The ideal candidate will operate and monitor equipment involved in the sorting, processing, and preparation of recyclable materials. This role is essential in supporting the e icient and environmentally responsible operation of the plant.

Key responsibilities are:

Operating monitoring, and working with machinery such as balers, shredders, conveyors, compactors, and sorting systems. Forkli and Loader licence essential. Full time position available with above award wage and conditions including overtime. Potential to gain HR and HC licence for the right candidate.

Please contact Cooma@evoro.com.au or call Jon on 0461 335 400 for more info or to arrange an interview.

HAYDEN, Brian William “Mick”.

8/5/1947 - 4/6/2025

Aged 78 years. Passed away peacefully at midnight Wednesday, June 4, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Much loved husband of Phyllis. Fatherof Craig and Leanne. Adored Pop of Hayley, Kiana and Tallis. Old Pop of Kasey and Cooper.

Mick will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

There will be a private cremation for Mick and a Celebration of Life to be held at the Cooma Car Club on Friday, June 20, 2025, 2pm onwards.

RUSSELL, Graeme Ross. Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at Cooma Hospital, formerly of Scenic Drive, Adaminaby. Aged 78 years.

Dearly loved husband of Dawn, Father of David and Tony. Father-in-law to Jackie. Adored Poppy to Pyper.

The relatives and friends of the late Graeme Ross Russell are invited to attend his funeral service to be held in St Mary’s Catholic Church Adaminaby on Monday, June 16, 2025 commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of the service, the cortege will proceed to Adaminaby Cemetery.

TUCKER, Patricia Wendy. Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at Cooma Hospital. Formerly of Neeworra Street, Cooma. Aged 88 years.

Dearly loved wife of Christopher (dec). Mother of Jane, Ian and Louise (dec). Mother-in-law to Cyn. Adored Nanny to her eight grandchildren and great-granddaughter.

The relatives and friends of the late Patricia Wendy Tucker are invited to attend her funeral service to be held in the Saint Paul's Anglican Church, Cooma on Friday, June 13, 2025 commencing at 12noon. At the conclusion of the service a private cremation will follow.

Kindergarten wonderland complete at The Alpine School

By ELLE THOMPSON

THE ALPINE School has a new, specially designed playground for its kindergarten students.

The Cooma Steiner school has steadily grown since it opened in 2019. Now o ering kindergarten to year 11, with year 12 available from next year, the school currently has around 90 students. Around 10 of those students are in kindergarten.

It is a Steiner principle to have a separate play space for early learners. The playground is constructed of mainly natural materials and includes textured paths, rain-fed water tank for a creek bed, sand pit, mud kitchen, small bridge, row boat, grassy hill, tunnel cave, granite rocks, hammock, timber fort, climbing wall and a slide. The construction of this kindergarten playground has been in planning for years, and the sta and students are excited to have the project completed.

Education manager, Eric Hopf, thanked the workers involved, the board and the teachers for their e orts .

“I know it has been an agonising wait for the teachers and especially the students for the playground to be ready,” Mr Hopf said.

“I would like to thank the board for using signi cant resources to invest in this playground.”

Kindergarten teacher, Myolene Mesley, said the design of the playground was made with speci c intentions.

“A key design priority was to ensure that each feature encourages open-ended exploration and enables the imaginative play that sits at the heart of a Steiner kindergarten,” Ms Mesley said.

“Giving young children the time and space to bring to life their creative forces awakens and fuels their capacity to visualise, problem solve and see the outer world

through a joyful lens. There will be no end to the colourful adventures and inspired inner creativity that will be exercised in this beautiful space over the coming years.

“The other priority in the design of the play space was to ensure the expansive provision of opportunity for movement. In the early years, neurological input via movement is crucial for sensory-motor development and integration.

“In this yard, they will stimulate their vestibular (balance) systems by rolling, hanging and swinging.

While climbing the ropes as ship captain or jungle swinging adventurer they will be building core strength and muscle tone. While feeling the various textures against their feet and cooking feasts in the mud kitchen their sense will be regulated, nurtured and enlivened.”

Ms Mesley says play is so important for younger children, and allowing them the freedom to move helps with learning.

“A wide range of current research has determined that good balance, spatial awareness, strong visual and auditory processing skills, core strength, well-regulated muscle tone and e cient sensory processing are some of the developmental requirements that allow children to concentrate well and learn with ease,” Ms Mesley said.

Our kindergarten playground was inspired by this intentionthat through joy, creativity and movement they prepare their bodies and minds for the formal learning that lays ahead,” Ms Mesley said.

“We are so grateful to landscape constructioners Nick Salzke and Dan Newby. They are the creative genius behind our Kindergarten wonderland. Also George Magoulias of New Age Concreting for his beautiful work.”

Landfill sessions to update community

JINDABYNE Land ll users and town residents will have the opportunity to discuss the future of the site and its current operational changes at two community information sessions this week.

On Thursday, 12 June, Snowy Monaro Regional Councll sta will hold a session with residents and non-commercial customers, and another session with commercial customers at the Jindabyne Memorial Hall Council said the sessions will provide more information about the ongoing planning and feasibility investigations into the future of the land ll site.

“All members of the local community are welcome, and sta will be taking questions about what the proposed plans would mean for attendees and their use of Jindabyne’s waste facility,” a council spokesperson said.

“The three potential options range in scope from undertaking the basic additional works required to make the interim transfer point permanent, through to comprehensive plans for the construction of a new resource recovery

centre facility.

“Councillors will make a nal decision on the preferred option at a Council meeting later this year.

“Community feedback on these potential future paths for Jindabyne’s waste facility will be a key factor in the councillors’ nal decision.”

Session one on Thursday, 12 June between 5pm to 6pm is for residents and non-commercial customers.

Session two runs from 6pm to 7pm for commercial customers.

In March this year, council has enacted urgent operating changes to the Jindabyne Land ll due to the site approaching its end-of-life storage capacity, more quickly than council anticipated.

Some councillors and community members have criticised council’s handling of the site’s capacity issues.

Commercial customers still have a load limit of one cubic metre of commercial waste.

This limit applies only to waste-toland ll and recycling.

Cooma Race Club improves its facilities

WHILE the next Cooma Races are still some months away, the Cooma Monaro Race Club committee is working hard to improve the Ti-Tree Racecourse and its facilities.

The club has used a Boco Rock Community Enhancement fund grant to install a new rainwater tank.

The tank is connected to the sheds built a couple of years agao and will reduce the club’s reliance on town water.

The next Cooma Races is on the rst Saturday in December.

FUNDED: Cooma Monaro Race Club president, Mick Schofield, Olivia Bottom of Top to Bottom Plumbing and race club vice president, Cameron Johnson in front of the club’s new rainwater tank.

PHOTO: Cooma Monaro Race Club

PLAY: The Alpine School kindergarten children help education manager, Eric Hopf, and kindergarten teacher Myolene Mesley cut the ribbon on the newly construction playground. PHOTOS: Elle Thompson

The new playground was mainly constructed with locally sourced natural materials.

The Alpine School kindergarten children enjoying the new sand pit and hammock.

Matilda sets new record, prepares for Canada trip

McDonald’s Cooma supports local athlete’s dream

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

COOMA track and eld athlete, Matilda Wilson, has had an eventful couple of months.

In May, the 14-year-old achieved a Monaro High School (MHS) discus record by throwing 28.49 metres at the school’s athletics carnival and narrowly missed the long standing shot put school record set in 1996.

Last week, Matilda secured a $1500 sponsorship from McDonald’s Cooma to assist with the massive fundraising campaign her family is behind to enable Matilda the opportunity to compete in Canada at two track and eld meets.

The previous MHS discus record in under 14 girl’s discus one kilogram was 26.85 metres. Matilda said she was elated at the result, and appreciated the support from all her age group cheering on from the sidelines.

She also gained rst place in the under 14 girl’s shot put three kilograms, registering a 9.26 metre put, missing the record by only 0.59cm. Matilda has thrown over the school record distance (9.85m) in training, but said she

wasn’t too disappointed at not breaking the record as she was still stoked about her discus result.

She has set her goal to beat the record for next year.

She also placed rst in under 14 girl’s high jump of 1.40m, marginally missing 1.45m. This is a personal best in competition, having jumped 1.47 in training; rst in long jump (even though it’s not her event); second place in javelin with a throw of 21.50, which she said she was slightly disappointed with, however she hasn’t been training in this event

recently, concentrating on her key events for Canada.

The next competition is in Canada following selection in an Australian contingent to compete at the Jack Brow Memorial meet in Kelowna and the Trevor Craven Memorial track and eld meet in Vancouver.

McDonald’s Cooma has just announced a $1500 sponsorship, much to the delight of Matilda and her grateful parents.

This contribution will make Matilda’s dream a reality, thanks to new manager, Hayley Sumanovic, who has only owned

Cooma McDonald’s for six weeks.

“It might pay for an airfare for you,” Hayley said.

An excited Matilda is looking forward to the competition in Canada, despite the nerves building as the event gets closer.

A week a er Matilda returns to Cooma, she will be competing at the NSW South Coast Schools Sports Association Regional Championships in Wollongong, and the winners will progress to compete at Olympic Park in Sydney in the State Championships.

Matilda’s family is assisting to raise the approximately $10,000 needed to pay for Matilda’s amazing opportunity to travel overseas, through a ‘Cans for Canada’ fundraising quest.

With two weeks to go until Matilda leaves, the family is still collecting cans and bottles for cash. Anyone who would like to donate can contact Matilda’s mum, Tonya, on 0490 026 409.

“We have had some amazing donation support from the Cooma Lions Club, Cooma Monaro Race Club, work colleagues at the Cooma Hospital, and members of our fabulous community, some who don’t want to be mentioned,” Tonya said.

“We are incredibly humbled by the support and kind wishes from people who have messaged me, we couldn’t have done it without them, thank you.”

By BOMBALA GOLF CLUB

WHAT a couple of freezing days for golf. On Saturday evening everyone was able to warm up when the club had a huge bon re with a sausage sizzle and music, all making for a fun night.

The weather did not turn players away with good elds both days. Saturday was a stroke for the monthly medal. Linden Hampshire was the winner with a good round of 71 nett, ahead of Wayne Elton 72 nett, Darren Forrester 73 nett, Shannon Guilliford 74 nett, and Pepper Thompson 75 nett. These players were the ball winners.

Nearest the pin was Thompson, golden shot was won by Steve Tatham. On Sunday, the event was a fourball-best-ball v par for G. Hampshire and K. Farrow trophies.

With the very good score of plus nine, Pepper Thompson and Darren Forrester were the winners (both won balls the day before).

Ball winners were Shannon Gulliford and Ray Crawford with plus ve. Thompson had a good day winning nearest the pin and the golden shot. In match play, Gulliford defeated Daniel Douch three and two Program for the week

Ladies Wednesday, 22 June - stableford, club trophy Members Saturday, 14 June - par, club trophy Sunday, 15 June - stableford, J.Ingram trophy

Junior Bombala Heelers shine at Pambula carnival Hampshire claims Bombala monthly medal

Under sevens

THERE was a small but mighty side of seven boys who headed down the coast for another outstanding carnival in Pambula.

The first game was at 8.55am against Eden. Bombala was off to a pretty good start considering the early start.

Coach Korie Elton was pleased with the side’s efforts throughout the day.

The second game was only 25 minutes after the end of the first, so it was a quick turnaround. There were some outstanding runs.

Another top performance came in the third and final game, with the players showing great sportsmanship.

Under nines

The under nines had eight players for the Pambula carnival so everyone enjoyed full games. The side started their day by playing Bega, followed by Moruya and then their nal match before lunch against Narooma.

Despite playing on a smaller, congested eld, the team was challenged with individual game goals. The boys’ con dence and mateship was a highlight of the day.

Under 10s

The side started o with plenty of excitement to play Batemans Bay for the rst time this season.

A little light on numbers with a few boys being away and sick. They tried hard through all three games and a great opportunity to mix up

numbers with other teams through the day.

The team is starting to work on positional plays and spreading the ball through the line to the outside backs. The boys are applying what they have learnt on the eld.

Under 10s league-tag

A mighty e ort by the under 10s that competed in the Pambula carnival. With limited numbers, eight brave girls took the eld for four impressive games of footy.

The girls showed huge improvement throughout the day in their attacking structure and their defence looked strong from the sidelines.

Abbey Elton provided direction to her team all day, Charlotte Thornton was an opportunist scooting

provided some strong go forward, Alex Murphy had a never die attitude, Pip Tonks found her legs this week and had some impressive runs and bagged a try, Sophie DeGeus was a tyrant in defence, Lainey Coates was safe as houses under the highball and Bridget Clear showed classy nishing prowess topping out at seven tries for the day.

Under 12 girls league-tag

The team had a big day with four matches and three players backing up for the under 14s. The under 12 side was helped out by the services of some under 10s.

By the end of the fourth game, everyone was tired but to their credit, they never gave up.

The under 12s defence has im-

proved since the start of the season. With the implementation of a few additional moves, put on show during Saturday’s matches, the attack is also improving.

Under 14s league-tag

The girls started well getting a win rst up. The second game was a loss. While not at their best in the rst half, the team improved during the second half with some great tagging and running.

The third game was a great game even with everyone pretty tired, whilst the girls didn’t get the win they played well, tagging,running and playing with a lot of heart.

A big thanks to the three under 12 league-tag girls that played up an age. Well done to Summer Tonks, Lola Tonissen and Abbey Gilbert.

The Bombala under 12 league-tag side impressed during the Pambula carnival. The side showed plenty of determination and improvement. confidence throughout its matches.

TALENT: The Bombala Junior Blue Heelers headed down the coast for a carnival on Saturday where many of the club’s sides were in action. Pictured is the under 10 league-tag girls, receiving some words of advice from coach Patrice Clear. PHOTO: Bombala junior Blue Heelers

Cooma duo secures world finals spots

Sullivans finish first in ultra trail marathons

COOMA’S Mick and Jenny Sullivan can make a strong claim to being the town’s ttest couple.

The running duo recently took part in the 2025 Ultra Trail Australia (UTA) festival where both won their age groups to qualify directly into the world series nals in France next year.

Mick nished rst in the inaugural 162km (miler) in the 60-65 age category and Jenny claimed victory in the 100km race in the women’s 55-60 category.

Ultra Trail Australia is the pinnacle event on the trail running calendar in Oceania, it’s the second largest trail festival in the world with 7500 runners.

This year it became a world major as one of four spread around the globe. UTA introduced a 100 mile event for the rst time, inline with other major running festivals. The events in Katoomba during the festival week range from 11km to the 162km, the miler.

Mick started in the miler event at 5am on a misty morning on Friday, 16 May. There were 375 runners who set o with headlamps from Blackheath, rst diving into the dark and slippery Grand Canyon loop before taking on the Gross Valley.

The trail in this rst 40km section was rugged with big vertical drops and gains on single tracks, there were ropes and ladders installed in some places for runner safety.

Competitors ran some easier re trails to reach the Hydro Majestic at Medlow Bath for the rst big aid station. Jenny supported Mick at this aid point before she had to get ready for her event starting the next morning.

The route went on to Narrow Neck where it met the regular 100km course for the rest of the race. Darkness fell as Mick enetered the Megalong valley, the next 12 hours would be run by headlamp, sometimes solo and other times with outer similar paced runners.

The other landmarks on this epic course included the Megalong valley, Katoomba’s giant staircase, Leura forest, the scenic cli ine trails across to King Tableland, the big descent into and then out of the Kedumba valley, and nally up the 951 steps of the Furber stairs to the nish archway at Scenic World. Along the route were many aid stations for refueling and hydration supplies. Medics attend to various runners’ needs from blisters to traumas. The aid stations can lure the runners in and if one gets too comfortable then it’s hard to continue, many tired or injured runners pull out at these major aid stations.

Mick ran the 162km in a shade over 32 hours, comprised of one full day starting in wet conditions, then one full night of running by headlamp, and nally half a day with clear weather to nish this epic event.

Jenny had a good run in her 100km event, it started at Scenic World in Katoomba at 7am on Saturday, 17 May.

The 100k draws huge numbers with around 1600 runners starting in seven waves to reduce congestion at some tight spots on course.

Jenny paced the event well but did get stuck in the people jam on the end of Narrow Neck. There at the Tarros ladders, the runners have to descend some technical section on ladders and ropes, this slows down the ow and it took about one hour to get past this section.

Jenny hit darkness as she was departing the Megalong, approaching the big climb up Nellies Glen. From there on it was all night running with her headlamp until she nished at Scenic World just a er 5am.

The thousands of runners had beaten the trail into thick mud in places and this slowed down progress, with most runners taking about one hour extra time than previous years. About 300 runners pulled out of the 100k a er starting.

The next big run event for the Sullivans is this year’s world nals, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc 100km in Italy/Swiss/France later in the year.

For now, it’s time to recover from the UTA and then get into serious training for the steep mountainousnals in the alps.

their ultra-marathon pursuits.

Jenny Sullivan finishes first in her 100km race, and secures a spot in the world ultra-trail marathon finals alongside husband, Mick Sullivan.

WINNER: Cooma ultra-marathon runner, Mick Sullivan, celebrates winning his age category at the Ultra Trail Australia event in the Blue Mountains last month.

PHOTO: Supplied

Williams’ Roos bouncing along

By CANBERRA REGION RUGBY LEAGUE

IN A gritty top-four clash, the Queanbeyan Kangaroos proved too strong for the West Belconnen Warriors, climbing to the top of the Canberra Raiders Cup ladder.

Five minutes in, a penalty gi ed the Roos the rst attacking opportunity, but West Belconnen’s trademark goal-line defence stood tall.

At the eight-minute mark, Queanbeyan surged back up eld, and Sam Williams launched a h-tackle bomb.

Kain Anderson soared above the pack to take it cleanly before icking a spectacular o oad to Lucas Thomson, who crossed for the opening try. Thomson struck the upright with his conversion, keeping the score at 4-0.

By the 16th minute, another penalty handed the Roos eld position, but once again the Westies absorbed the pressure with de ant defence.

In the 19th minute, Calab Edwards sent up a towering bomb that Patrick Broe

couldn’t handle, giving West Belconnen their rst genuine attacking chance. However, it went begging when Tsai Tui knocked on early in the set.

At the 24-minute mark, a risky shi coming out of yardage ended in a costly error as Brandon Withers knocked on inside his own 10. Moments later, George Pohahau was sent to the sin bin for tripping, giving Queanbeyan a one-man advantage deep in enemy territory - but the Warriors’ defensive line held impressively once more.

Fatigue nally began to show in the 30th minute when Luke Cannon sliced through the middle from halfway and o oaded to Kaine Pagura, who scored under the posts to push the Roos’ lead to 10-0.

Three minutes later, Queanbeyan nearly went the length from the kick-o with a slick le -edge movement, but a rushed o oad saw the ball turned over just 20 metres out.

In the nal minute of the half, repeated infringements on their own line saw Sam

Williams sent to the sin bin with 20 seconds remaining. West Belconnen had one nal play and rolled in a grubber, but it couldn’t be grounded. The Roos headed to the sheds up 10-0, set to start the second half without their captain-coach.

Coming out of the sheds, the Warriors had their chances, enjoying good eld position and multiple attacking sets, but couldn’t nd the polish to nish.

The second half became a gritty arm-wrestle, with both sides refusing to yield an inch in defence.

It wasn’t until the 70th minute that the deadlock broke, as Josh Ayers burst clean through one o the scrum and turned on the a erburners to score under the posts, sealing the result.

Despite several more opportunities, West Belconnen couldn’t break through the Roos’ defensive wall, with Queanbeyan closing out a tough 16-0 win.

The victory sees the reigning two-time premiers return to familiar territory - sitting atop the Canberra Raiders Cup ladder.

Wheelchair rugby league comes

WHEELCHAIR rugby league is coming to Monaro High School with students looking forward to experiencing one of the fastest growing inclusion sports in the country. Students and sta will participate in the adaptive sport which does not limit players on size, strength or rugby league experience.

to Monaro High

The idea to bring wheelchair rugby league to the school was borne when the Monaro High sports committee and members of the student body met with the Canberra Raiders inclusive sports team. This meeting was declared by teachers as a resounding success. When planning for further sporting

opportunities for students in 2025, the sports committee decided to bring wheelchair rugby league to school Sta and students will be put through their paces with coaching drills before playing a series of matches against one another at the Cooma Regional Sports Centre on Thursday, 12 June.

PHOTO: File

Cooma backs Matilda

Rugby talent on show

LOCAL PLAYERS IMPRESS

FOR MONARO

By NATHAN THOMPSON

DESPITE the Monaro men’s and women’s representative rugby union sides losing to their Southern Inland rivals, Cooma and Jindabyne players delivered strong performances.

The Cooma Rugby Union Football Club broke a 20-year club record in having 10 players selected in the men’s and women’s Monaro squads for the Brumbies Provincial Championships held on Saturday.

Cooma was represented by Emily Quodling, Brianna Rankin, Paige Jardine, Sophie Caldwell, Natasha Kelly, Damien Roach, Devonik Saumalu, Jake Quodling, Connor Campbell and Nico Maclean. Former Cooma rugby player, Harry Roach (brother of Damien and now playing for Yass) was also part of the side.

The Jindabyne Rugby Union Club had Bushpigs Billy Small selected in the Monaro men’s squad and Miss Piggies players Leanne Saare and Bernadette Lai in the women’s side. Miss Piggies Eden Klemm and Montana Hawkins were part of the Monaro women’s development squad.

In less than favourable conditions, a strong Cooma and Jindabyne crowd was present in Bungendore to cheer the local stars on.

While Southern Inland proved too strong in both encounters - defeating the Monaro women 24-5 and men 72-10 - local players made important contributions.

The Monaro women showed their might in an impressive

EXCITEMENT: Cooma’s Emily Quodling (le ) scores a fine try for Monaro. She is joined by fellow Cooma player, Brianna Rankin, in celebrating Monaro’s sole try for the game.

PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

second half showing. Trailing 19-0 at half time, Monaro had the better of possession and territory during a tough second 40-minutes.

Monaro winger, Emily Quodling, scored Monaro’s lone try in the nal minutes of the match. A er multiple phases on Southern Inland’s line, Monaro spread the ball wide where the Cooma connection of centre Brianna Rankin and Quodling combined.

Rankin delivered a ne pass to Quodling who was too quick and strong for her opposing winger.

Quodling got on the outside of the defender and dragged her across the tryline to nish o a nice try.

Rankin and Quodling were two of Monaro’s best, along with prop Saare.

In the men’s xture, it was oneway tra c throughout the rst 40 minutes as Southern Inland raced to 46-0 lead at hal ime.

Maclean at prop, Quodling at anker, Damien Roach playing inside centre, all started for Monaro. Connor Campbell, Devonik Saumalu, and Billy Small came o the bench.

Where the Flick

Cooma players Devonik Saumalu, Connor Campbell, Damien Roach, Jake Quodling and Nico Maclean represented the Monaro.

Opening weekend snow success Snow safety warning

EXCITEMENT: Family fun on Friday Flat at Thredbo Resort a er receiving more than 30cm of natural snow over the opening weekend.

THREDBO Resort has kicked o the 2025 winter season in spectacular style, welcoming over 30cm of fresh snowfall across the weekend - and with more in the forecast, this is just the beginning. The resort was transformed into a true winter wonderland, setting the scene for a dream start to the season. Skiers and snowboarders took their rst turns on Friday Flat, with both eager rst-timers and seasoned riders making the most of the early season conditions.

The excitement extended far beyond the slopes, with a jam-packed weekend of entertainment lighting up the village. Families soaked up the atmosphere with roving performers, face painting, arts and cra s, and s’mores by the re - all while the snow continued to fall.

The celebrations reached a peak on Saturday night as Après Club launched with a bang.

Everyone’s favourite timetravelling DJ, Hot Dub Time Machine, ignited the Alpine

Bar with an electrifying set. Paired with fresh snowfall and a spectacular reworks display, it was an unforgettable night that set the tone for an unreal season ahead.

With a solid snow base already on the ground and more snowfall on the horizon, conditions are shaping up beautifully. Thredbo anticipates opening more terrain this week - stay tuned for updates as winter continues to deliver.

Perisher Resort’s opening weekend has seen a massive 60cm of natural snowfall, with

more expected throughout the week.

Selwyn Snow Resort also received good snow coverage and with just 11 days until they will be welcoming all the riders and sliders to Selwyn, the snowfall has continued and the cover across the resort is building.

Charlotte Pass Snow Resort received 60cm also, with mountain crew getting the slopes ready for their o cal opening in 11 days.

Visit the resorts’ websites for daily updates and snow reports.

SLEEPMAKER MIRACOIL MATTRESS MADNESS

COOMA FURNISHING CO

NSW POLICE are warning people heading to the snow this season to ensure they are prepared before hitting the slopes and act responsibly o the slopes, during the launch of Operation Snow Safe.

Operation Snow Safe runs until Monday, 6 October 2025. The high visibility operation coincided with the opening of the o cial ski season on Saturday, 7 June.

Operation Snow Safe will see a surge in additional police o cers from across NSW deployed to the Snowy Mountains region, within the Monaro Police District, to keep visitors and locals safe.

General duties o cers attached to Monaro Police District, with assistance from Southern Region Licensing Police, the NSW Dog Unit, Southern Region Enforcement Squad, Operational Support Group, Tra c and Highway Patrol Command and other specialist units will be out in force to conduct patrols across the Snowy Mountains.

O cers will be targeting anti-social behaviour, alcohol-related crime in licensed venues, dangerous and distracted driving on roads leading to the snow and risky behaviour on the slopes.

Operation Snow Safe was launched in Jindabyne on Friday of the long weekend, where police o cers joined forces with other emergency services personnel and local agencies ahead of the busy winter season.

■ Read more on page 4

PHOTO: Thredbo Media

Cooma backs

Rugby talent on show

LOCAL PLAYERS IMPRESS

FOR MONARO

By NATHAN THOMPSON

DESPITE the Monaro men’s and women’s representative rugby union sides losing to their Southern Inland rivals, Cooma and Jindabyne players delivered strong performances.

The Cooma Rugby Union Football Club broke a 20-year club record in having 10 players selected in the men’s and women’s Monaro squads for the Brumbies Provincial Championships held on Saturday.

Cooma was represented by Emily Quodling, Brianna Rankin, Paige Jardine, Sophie Caldwell, Natasha Kelly, Damien Roach, Devonik Saumalu, Jake Quodling, Connor Campbell and Nico Maclean. Former Cooma rugby player, Harry Roach (brother of Damien and now playing for Yass) was also part of the side.

The Jindabyne Rugby Union Club had Bushpigs Billy Small selected in the Monaro men’s squad and Miss Piggies players Leanne Saare and Bernadette Lai in the women’s side. Miss Piggies Eden Klemm and Montana Hawkins were part of the Monaro women’s development squad.

In less than favourable conditions, a strong Cooma and Jindabyne crowd was present in Bungendore to cheer the local stars on.

While Southern Inland proved too strong in both encounters - defeating the Monaro women 24-5 and men 72-10 - local players made important contributions.

The Monaro women showed their might in an impressive

EXCITEMENT: Cooma’s Emily Quodling (le ) scores a fine try for Monaro. She is joined by fellow Cooma player, Brianna Rankin, in celebrating Monaro’s sole try for the game.

PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

second half showing. Trailing 19-0 at half time, Monaro had the better of possession and territory during a tough second 40-minutes.

Monaro winger, Emily Quodling, scored Monaro’s lone try in the nal minutes of the match. A er multiple phases on Southern Inland’s line, Monaro spread the ball wide where the Cooma connection of centre Brianna Rankin and Quodling combined.

Rankin delivered a ne pass to Quodling who was too quick and strong for her opposing winger.

Quodling got on the outside of the defender and dragged her across the tryline to nish o a nice try.

Rankin and Quodling were two of Monaro’s best, along with prop Saare.

In the men’s xture, it was oneway tra c throughout the rst 40 minutes as Southern Inland raced to 46-0 lead at hal ime.

Maclean at prop, Quodling at anker, Damien Roach playing inside centre, all started for Monaro. Connor Campbell, Devonik Saumalu, and Billy Small came o the bench.

Where the Flick

Cooma players Devonik Saumalu, Connor Campbell, Damien Roach, Jake Quodling and Nico Maclean represented the Monaro.