MP111224_Digital_Edition_AastaArctander

Riders ready to support locals Snowies Alpine Walk now open

By NATHAN THOMPSON

AS COOMA Salvation Army Corps leaders, Bryan and Debbie Bartlett, prepare for their first Christmas in the Snowy Monaro, they are concerned many local families will go without this holiday season.

Noticing more families in

need of assistance, the Cooma Salvos and local motorcycle group - riders of Cooma and the Monaro - are joining forces to collect Christmas gifts and items for food hampers for those in need.

On Sunday December 15 at 8am, riders will depart Cooma’s Shell service station on the Snowy Monaro gift

run. Kat Corbett, organiser of the gift run, is calling on locals who can, to give generously this Christmas.

“You can help underprivileged families this Christmas in our region, by donating a gift or items for food hampers,” Kat said.

“We’d love more riders to join us.”

Drop off points in the region, ready for collection on Sunday December 15, include: Nimmitabel leather shop, Dalgety’s Buckley’s Crossing Hotel, Jindabyne’s Banjo Paterson Inn, Thorn and Snow in Berridale and the Cooma Salvation Army’s new building in Vale Street, Cooma.

By TRISTA HEATH

A NEW multi-day hiking trail through the breathtaking alpine scenery is complete and ready for exploring, with the entire Snowies Alpine Walk in Kosciuszko National Park officially open. Federal Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister and Member for EdenMonaro, Kristy McBain, joined NSW Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, and Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, last week to open the track.

“It’s a great pleasure to be at the opening of this last link, in what will be an iconic Snowy Mountains walk,” Mr Whan said.

“Kosciuszko National Park is already a huge destination yearround, and this walk gives people the opportunity to experience a unique alpine environment.”

The world-class Snowies Alpine Walk is a 56 kilometres four day walk that links the alpine locations of Guthega, Charlotte Pass, Perisher and Bullocks Flat with 27 kilometres of new walking track linking existing walks.

The project was made possible with $10 million from the Australian Government and $17.17 million from the NSW Government as part of their commitments to boosting regional NSW local economies and making this landscape more accessible for everyone.

■ Read more on page 5

SUPPORT: Cooma Salvation Army Corps leader, Bryan Bartlett, is ready to join Sue Turner and Kat Corbett for a Christmas gift run to assist local families. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

will return to the NSW Parliament to fill a casual vacancy in the Legislative Council. Mrs Overall won a NSW National Party vote last week to fill the seat, vacated by Nationals MP Sam Farraway.

Mr Farraway stepped away from his state position to contest the federal seat of Calare.

Mrs Overall, the former Member for Monaro, said she is looking forward to once again representing regional NSW.

“I’m honoured and humbled to be pre-selected by Central Council of the NSW Nationals to serve in the NSW Legislative Council,” Mrs Overall said.

“I’m keen to join our

dynamic Upper House team

“I’m looking forward to the committee work. When I was Member for Monaro, I was on five committees and chaired two.”

Mrs Overall will join a small group of politicians to have served in both the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council.

Mrs Overall thanked those close to her for supporting her return to parliament, particularly former Member of the Legislative Council, Bronnie Taylor.

“It’s a great honour to follow in Bronnie’s footsteps. She set a great example to follow,” Mrs Overall said.

Christmas cheers

THE Berridale Lions Club has staged another popular Christmas markets with this year’s event arguably the best. Dozens of stall holders and hundreds of residents shared the Christmas spirit at the markets on Saturday evening and community groups and businesses received a timely economic boost. The Lions Club received plenty of positive feedback about the markets, with the range of stalls a highlight. Crowds were entertained by the newly formed Snowy Mountains Folk group and there were lots of activities for the whole family.

Have your say on financial statements

THE ordinary Council meeting to be held on Thursday December 12 will include the presentation of the audited Financial Statements and the Auditor’s Reports for the year ended June 30. In accordance with Section 420 of the Local Government Act 1993, any person may make a written submission regarding

186mm(h) x 260mm(w)

Instant health advice when your GP is closed

If you are unwell or injured call healthdirect for free on 1800 022 222. A registered nurse will help you access the health care you need from anywhere, day or night. health.nsw.gov.au/anywhere

1800 022 222 call healthdirect

Council’s audited Financial Statements and/or the Auditor’s Reports.

Visit www.yoursaysnowymonaro.com. au/2023-24-financial-statements to have your say online. Submissions can also be made by email, post, or overthe-counter at Council offices.

The audited Financial

Statements and Auditor’s Reports are available to download from Council’s Your Say website at the link above. Copies are also available to inspect at Council’s offices in Berridale, Bombala, Cooma and Jindabyne. Submissions will be accepted until 5pm Thursday December 19.

POLITICS: Nichole Overall (le ) will return to NSW Parliament a er being pre-selected by the NSW Nationals to fill the seat of Sam Farraway. Mrs Overall has thanked her supporters, including Bronnie Taylor (right) for their advice and encouragement to stand for selection. PHOTO: Monaro Media Group

COMMUNITY: LAOKO is a favourite stall to visit at the Berridale Christmas markets. Lisa Petro and Allyson Jennings of LAOKO raise funds for the organisation which supports injured wildlife. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Crankies Plain Road landholders voice concerns Residents say no to bridge detour

By NATHAN THOMPSON

RESIDENTS of Crankies Plain Road, just north of Bombala, are voicing their concerns over a proposal that will see their road used as a main thoroughfare while the Coolumbooka bridge is rebuilt.

In its final meeting in August, the previous Snowy Monaro Regional Council unanimously supported a Transport for NSW proposal to use Crankies Plain Road as the detour between the Monaro Highway and Cathcart Road while the bridge is upgraded.

Crankies Plain Road is set to be sealed to accommodate the significant increase in traffic movements, but residents are unhappy.

“We have had no consultation with anyone until a phone call and then a letter turned up a few weeks ago requesting access to our land to do the survey for the road,” resident, Phil Heffernan, said.

The bypass is being proposed to allow for the closure and refurbishment of the Coolumbooka bridge which is planned to take four years. The existing timber bridge is listed on

the state heritage register and is only one of the few remaining in the state.

“The new road will effectively be a bypass of the Bombala town for all traffic to and from the south coast and will permanently increase traffic volumes many fold through our quiet little area,” resident, John Williams, said.

“Once it is sealed it will become the preferred route in the navigation maps for travel to and from the coast.”

Residents have formed the Crankies Road Group, to advocate for the detour to avoid their road and for a temporary bridge, next to Coolumbooka, be built.

The report to Council included an option to build a temporary bridge but didn’t provide costings.

“The bypass road is planned to cost $8.5 million which some believe would be better spent on a permanent two lane concrete bridge. The current proposal is to refurbish the existing timber bridge and return it to service as a single lane crossing with a permanent load limit,” Crankies Road Group, chair, Neil Thompson said. Coolumbooka Bridge, located on Cathcart Road,

crosses the Coolumbooka River north-east of Bombala. The bridge was completed in 1892 and is one of the seven McDonald timber truss road bridges remaining in NSW.

Timber truss road bridges were extensively used in NSW because of the high quality of local hardwoods and the shortage of steel at the time.

This bridge is classed as a heritage asset and is included in the Section 170 Heritage and Conservation Register.

Transport NSW is planning to rebuild the Coolumbooka Bridge to reduce ongoing maintenance costs and improve resilience of the overall structure.

The proposal would see the existing timber bridge refurbished in Sydney and then put back in position but lifted around two metres higher for improved flood clearance. Locals say they would prefer a new concrete bridge built next to the existing timber bridge and to manage the timber bridge to recognise the heritage values it represents.

bridge, the proposed load limit of 44 tonnes would stop most modern trucks and force them onto our road,” Mr Thompson said.

“I have no problem with the heritage issues but we need a fully functional

In the Council business paper before councillors in August, the report stated ‘the bridge is suitable for general access vehicles. These upgrades will allow

for an increased load limit to 44 tonnes, opening the area’s freight network and connectivity to the highway and surrounding towns’.

Crankies Plain Road resident, Neville McInnes, has criticised the move to rebuild the bridge with a 44-tonne limit.

“This is a classified regional road and to spend four years and millions of dollars to provide a sub-standard asset is ridiculous,” Mr McInnes said.

“Agriculture and forestry operators require a modern day two lane Bdouble rated bridge.”

UPSET: Residents of Crankies Plain Road are concerned with the proposal to use their road as a detour while the Coolumbooka bridge is replaced.

PHOTO: Supplied

Hikers trek Snowies

Alpine Walk for first time

THE Snowies Alpine Walk has been completed in its entirety for the first time ever following a partnership between Tourism Snowy Mountains, Arc’teryx and the Capital Brewing Co.

Hugh Newall, Ji Sheng, Michaela Franz and Jonny Day took on the walk on November 9 and 10 and completed the entire 56km alpine trail in just two days.

The Snowies Alpine Walk, already renowned for its breathtaking alpine views and rugged terrain, tested the endurance and determination of the team.

“We’re excited to have brought this unique project to life with partners who share our passion for the outdoors and adventure,” Sarah Brown, spokesperson for Tourism Snowy Mountains, said.

“With the Arc’teryx and Capital Brewing athlete team taking on it highlights not only their incredible athleticism but also the exceptional appeal of the Snowies Alpine Walk.”

Mr Newall said the Snowies Alpine Walk

ventures through some of his favourite parts of the national park.

“It was an absolute pleasure to guide the team through these and share some personal stories and insight into what makes these areas so special to me,” Mr Newall said.

Local businesses

Stacks Pizza, Holly Go Lightly, ESS Coffee, Snowy Mountains Shuttles and Common Kosci also supported the project, coming together to show the region’s strong community spirit and pride.

“To hike all day along the beautiful Snowies Alpine Walk and then enjoy a cold Capital beer and burger at Holly Go Lightly was a real treat, I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face,” Mr Day said.

Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to experience the hike through the eyes of the athletes.

Visit @ SnowyMountainsNSW, @arcteryxausnz and @capitalbrewing to witness the inaugural completion of the Snowies Alpine Walk in its entirety.

Peak body welcomes report

THE state’s peak body for local government has welcomed the release of a NSW Parliamentary Inquiry report into the ability of councils to fund infrastructure and services.

The Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on state development has been holding an inquiry into the financial sustainability of councils, receiving more than 130 submissions and holding 10 public hearings.

Local Government NSW president, Cr Darriea Turley AM, said she was delighted to see that the recommendations of the inquiry closely aligned with submissions from LGNSW and from local councils right across the state.

“This is a wonderful outcome for councils and their communities.

LGNSW has long advocated for more support from both the state and federal governments to ensure the financial sustainability of local councils is secured,” Cr Turley said.

“The recommendations contained in the report demonstrate that the inquiry heard our call,” she said.

“They reflect recognition that the financial sustainability of councils is being persistently eroded and that, without improvements, all communities will suffer,” she said.

“We’re hopeful that this recognition will pave the way for muchneeded improvements.

“We thank the NSW Government for holding this inquiry and now call on them to act on these recommendations, in close partnership with councils, to achieve better sustainability, resilience and productivity outcomes for all NSW communities,” Cr Turley said.

Key recommendations include: reviewing rate exemptions and concessions to achieve a better balance between local council financial sustainability, community benefits and principles of equity; re-designing the rating system to provide councils with greater flexibility in setting rates, while keeping rates affordable for the community; and streamlining the special variation process.

Jonny Day, Ji Sheng and Hugh Newall enjoy the picturesque views along the way.

TREKKING: Hugh Newall, Jonny Day, Michaela Franz and Ji Sheng get ready to conquer the Snowies Alpine Walk. PHOTOS: Will Guy from Atc’teryx

Tourism boost tipped as walk opens

Walk amongst the clouds on multi-day Snowies Alpine Walk

By TRISTA HEATH

A NEW multi-day hiking trail through the breathtaking alpine scenery is complete and ready for exploring, with the entire Snowies Alpine Walk in Kosciuszko National Park officially open.

Federal Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister and Member for EdenMonaro, Kristy McBain, joined NSW Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, and Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, last week to open the track.

“It’s a great pleasure to be at the opening of this last link, in what will be an iconic Snowy Mountains walk,” Mr Whan said, at the opening.

“Kosciuszko National Park is already a huge destination year-round, and this walk gives people the opportunity to experience a unique alpine environment.”

The world-class Snowies Alpine Walk is a 56 kilometre four-day walk that links the alpine locations of Guthega, Charlotte Pass, Perisher

and Bullocks Flat with 27 kilometres of new walking track linking existing walks.

The project was made possible with $10 million from the Australian Government and $17.17 million from the NSW Government as part of their commitments to boosting regional NSW’s local economies and making this landscape more accessible for everyone.

The new Snowies Alpine Walk is expected to significantly boost tourism in the Snowy Mountains region, attracting hundreds of thousands of visits over the long term and generating substantial revenue for the local economy.

Ms McBain said it is pleasing to see the alpine walking track extension now connecting several resorts across the Snowies.

“We’re delivering for the people of the Snowy Mountains of NSW, as well as tourists, by investing in this infrastructure and building value into the experience of the area,” she said.

Ms Moriarty said this

picturesque walk will draw visitors from across the world, creating an enduring legacy for the region that will benefit local communities, businesses and the tourism industry,” Ms Moriarty said.

The completion of the entire project supported 80 local construction jobs and will create four ongoing jobs for regular track maintenance.

The newly constructed 12 kilometres of walking track between Perisher Valley and Bullocks Flat has been built to withstand the harsh alpine environment.

It consists of steel platforms, staircases, natural granite rock, gravel hardened track and natural track to provide a comfortable walking experience for all.

The Snowies Alpine Walk caters to beginner and experienced hikers. Walkers can choose to complete any section of the track as single-day walks or combine sections for two, three or four-day walks that showcase the Ngarigo Monaro Country.

Those embarking on the walk can choose to

experience it as a selfguided adventure or opt to enlist the help of an expert guide who will teach walkers about the area as they go.

Walkers also have a variety of accommodation options to choose from in Kosciuszko National Park, including the NPWSmanaged Numbananga Lodge, Creel Lodge and Creel Bay cottages.

They can also stay in the alpine villages of Jindabyne, Thredbo, Perisher, Guthega and Charlotte Pass.

Kosciuszko National Park is the largest national park in NSW, covering 690,000 hectares.

It’s home to Australia’s highest mountain, the 2,228-metre Mount Kosciuszko, as well as hundreds of native animals and plants.

The Snowies Alpine Walk provides opportunities to enjoy high-country plains, snow-capped mountain ranges and uninterrupted horizons, as well as unique plants and animals such as gnarled snow gums, wildflowers, wombats, echidnas and native birdlife.

Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain and State Minister for Regional NSW ,Tara Moriarty, with NPWS sta , o icially open the Snowies Alpine Walk.

ICONIC WALK: Federal and local government members meet with National Parks and Wildlife Services sta to celebrate the Snowies Alpine Walk completion. PHOTOS: Trista Heath

Revitalised Dalgety Chamber of Commerce open to all

By KAREN FORMAN

DALGETY Chamber of Commerce is up and running again, and approaching its revitalisation with a novel new membership drive.

Rather than just inviting local business people to join its ranks, the Chamber is opening its membership books up to all locals, whether they run businesses or not.

“Our first goal was not to fold and our second is to boost the membership and make the chamber a true community group that brings people together and promotes the area,” recently elected president, Claire Rogerson, said.

“We want to have as many members of the community in the Chamber as possible, including sports organisations, arts, culture, agriculture and youth.

“Anyone in Dalgety is welcome to join.”

Ms Rogerson was elected at the annual general meeting on November 20 along with secretary, Sidonie Carpenter and treasurer, Lloyd May.

Dalgety Chamber of Commerce was formed

Julie Pearson, in 2000 and incorporated under the Department of Fair Trading in 2001.

However it had become dormant around four years ago.

“People had moved on or retired,” Mr May said.

“Now we want to build the membership and really bring the community together.

“It won’t just be a group of business people, but an organisation for all of the community to belong to.”

The executive of the new Chamber, which met for the first time since

River for a shared picnic dinner, is keen to hear ideas for projects it could undertake in 2025.

“We want people to come to us with their ideas, then we will choose one or two to complete next year,” Ms Rogerson said.

“Already we are looking at white water activities on the weir, re-invigorating the tennis courts and cricket nets.

“We have decided we want to tell people how amazing Dalgety is.

“We have so much here. A caravan park by

Busy agenda

ELEVEN notices of motion will be brought forward at this week’s Snowy Monaro Regional Council meeting, five each by Cr Reuben Rose and Cr Andrew Thaler, and one by Cr Nick Elliot. Councillor Rose will move a motion calling on Council to provide all recommendations in future business papers in a one-plus-four format. This format would see an executive summary outlining key issues and staff recommendations, accompanied by a supporting document of no more than four pages.

the Snowy River, a hotel, showground, a show, and cricket ground. Facilities we share.”

Ms Rogerson said they are fortunate that the old committee left some funds which can be used to create more funds.

“We will be looking at running some events, even getting some Dalgety merchandise,” she said.

Ms Carpenter said the Chamber could potentially look at hosting season events like Christmas and was keen to run regular social get-togethers for its members.

“Council papers often go to hundreds of pages and sometimes much more. The resolution aims to ensure best practice by Council streamlining the process of reviewing business papers and ensuring that councillors have access to clear and concise information to enable effective decision making by Council,” Cr Rose said.

In the CEO’s response to the motion, acting CEO Stephen Dunshea, said Council’s governing body should take a strategic level approach to its decision making.

“Councillors will need to be prepared to commit to a strategic level of reporting and operation of the

governing body. This approach will not work if councillors move to asking detailed questions due to there not being the lowerlevel details included in the reports,” the CEO response in the business papers said.

Councillor Nick Elliott is calling on council to provide a publicly available organisation chart to show all employment positions within Council.

Cr Elliott said he is receiving regular feedback from the community that ratepayers are unsure of which areas of council are adequality staffed.

“Councillors need to be as informed as possible. Otherwise, how do we know we have the proper organisation to provide the services that our community expects,” Cr Elliott said.

The mobile library is on the agenda at Thursday’s meeting, to be held in the Cooma office chambers, with Cr Thaler proposing to re-instate the mobile library.

Councillor Thaler’s motion is – ‘Council cease all activities and efforts to dispose of the Mobile Library Van and Primemover and that Council continues to provide the Mobile Library truck service’.

SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER

LEADERS: Dalgety Chamber of Commerce president, Claire Rogerson, (centre), secretary, Sidonie Carpenter, and treasurer, Lloyd May.

PHOTO: Karen Forman

Thredbo named nation’s best ski resort

THREDBO has won its eighth consecutive title as ‘Australia’s Best Ski Resort’ at the 2024 World Ski Awards, alongside receiving ‘Australia’s Best Ski Resort for Families’ at the 2024 Out And About With Kids Awards for the seventh year in a row.

In a further honour for the resort, Thredbo took out Best Australian Resort at the 2024 Snowsports Industries Awards for the second consecutive year, among other accolades.

Thredbo general manager, Stuart Diver, said it is an honour to receive these prestigious awards.

“I am so proud of the Thredbo team for consistently delivering a premium experience each season despite the challenges faced this winter. Our success in 2024 is a direct result of the hard work and commitment of not only our team, but also the unwavering community support and the guests who choose Thredbo as their winter destination year after year,” Mr Diver said.

As Australia’s Best Ski Resort, Thredbo is committed to continuously improving its offering, and winter 2024 was a testament to this.

With the introduction of the Alpine Coaster, the first of its kind in the Southern

Resort claims Australia’s top award for eighth straight year

WINNER: Thredbo Resort has been named Australia’s best ski resort for the eighth consecutive year.

Hemisphere, and an unparalleled lineup of events and entertainment, winter 2024 in Thredbo was one for the books.

As the most prestigious awards program in the ski tourism industry, the World Ski Awards is the only international initiative to recognise, reward, and celebrate excellence in ski tourism on a global scale.

This win is a direct result of Thredbo’s commitment to delivering a world-class customer experience through a diverse range of on-mountain experiences, Australia’s biggest events calendar, and the country’s best skiing and snowboarding.

Voted by Australian families, Thredbo is proud to be crowned Australia’s

Best Ski Resort for Families at the 2024 Out And About With Kids Readers’ Choice Awards.

Reflecting Thredbo’s incredible family offering, including snow terrain for all abilities, Australia’s only alpine gondola, Australia’s only Alpine Coaster, one of the country’s best snow sports schools, a dedicated beginner area, and a huge

variety of family-friendly events.

Once again, Thredbo earns recognition and for the third year in a row is named Australia’s Best Ski Resort at the Snowsports Industries of Australia awards.

Thredbo was also awarded the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Award at

the 2024 Keep Australia Beautiful NSW Tidy Towns Sustainability Awards, along with the Litter Prevention, Resource Recovery, and Overall Tidy Towns Award in the population category of less than 1,500 people.

As the first Australian snow resort to hold Gold EarthCheck Sustainable Destination Certification for four years running, this further recognition of its environmental initiatives is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its team in promoting sustainable practices and protecting the unique alpine environment for future generations.

As the resort continues to strive to improve its offering, Thredbo, supported by EVT, has made significant developments to its snow-making fleet with the purchase of a new all-weather snowmaking unit, the first of its kind in NSW.

The Demac Lenko SnowPRO 260 is designed to produce up to 260m of snow per day in temperatures up to 20°C. This, combined with traditional snow making, will have a major positive impact on Thredbo Resort’s ability to ensure great snow coverage in its beginner area on Friday Flat.

PHOTO: Thredbo Media

Mt Perisher 6 on track for winter

By TRISTA HEATH

MEDIA outlets from across the state joined Perisher staff and construction crew last week for a behind-the-scenes tour of the new Mount Perisher 6 chairlift.

With construction taking place over two summers, the chair is expected to be operational in time for the 2025 winter season and according to Perisher’s mountain operations director, Michael Fearnside, will provide a 60 percent chairlift capacity on Mount Perisher, while all other surface lifts remain unchanged.

“Some key design criteria that Doppelmayr has been working on is wind-forms, as most know our two and three-seater chairlifts can get affected by the wind and will be put on wind hold if gusts are too strong,” Mr Fearnside said.

“There are set limits that chairlifts can be operated in, including breeze velocity, direction, and others, so a lot of work has gone in the background of making the chairlift more withstanding of windy weather.

“The highest lifted point in Australia of 2042 metres, the top station location

opens up more opportunities to the rider to access more of the mountain and not to mention the incredible views.”

Mt Perisher 6 is a highspeed 6-seater chairlift replacing the Mt P Triple and Mt P Double chairlifts and what used to take 10 minutes to reach the top, the new lift halves, taking only five minutes.

“This new lift is more than just steel and concrete, it is the standard we want to uphold in the industry and help to accentuate us as a resort known for its reliability in snow, diversity and terrain choice and its size and scale,” Perisher’s vice president and general manager, Nathan Butterworth, said.

plans first came across my desk, and we were excited to be part of the build of the highest lifted point in Australia.

Doppelmayr GM, Shaun Turner, said as one of the largest manufacturing companies in the world they can turn out one lift every two days.

“We have had a base in Jindabyne for 50 years, celebrating the 50th this year, and having worked for Dopplemayr for 25 years we’ve built most lifts around the resort from Leichhardt, Freedom, V8 and now Mt Perisher and more,” Mr Turner said.

“We started thinking of the Mt Perisher job about 20 years ago when the

“This build is one of the biggest investments in the snow industry in Australia since the 80s for a private company, the commitment shown from Vail is extended over the next 30 year’s if not more.”

Facing many constraints and challenges throughout the seasonal build at an altitude of more than 2000 metres, the build is making good progress and is on track, expecting to reach its deadline for the 2025 winter season.

Mr Turner had the innovative idea to create the company’s own concrete

STACKS OF TOYS AND GAMES FOR CHRISTMAS

source to cut down on the risks associated with uncertain concrete supply issues.

“Our crews were working long hours and into the night to keep to schedules set by concrete plants,” Mr Turner said.

“It wasn’t sustainable, and the time we might need concrete was often outside normal business hours, which made it hard to rely on local plants.”

The availability and reliability of concrete supply became one of the highest project risks, especially when the delays meant crews might need to wait around until the concrete arrived if the delivery times were pushed back.

As a solution,

Doppelmayr applied for a Development Application to produce its own concrete, which was granted.

In October, Doppelmayr had made around 400 cubic metres of concrete, which has been placed on-site.

In June, Perisher held an auction to sell the historical Mt P Double chairlift where $312,000 was raised for the community.

Community organisations including Jindabyne Bushpigs, Disabled Winter Sports Australia, Jindabyne Trail Stewardship, Berridale OOSHC, LAOKO and more all took a share in the money raised from the auction.

Riding in luxury, the new lift will include comfortable cushioned seats, footrests, and an overall smoother ride, all designed with safety and comfort in mind.

Working six days a week, completing 10-hour days to ensure the build is on schedule, the team has only lost one day to wet weather and has battled through windy conditions and soaring temperatures to keep it all on track. Look at the views from Australia’s highest lifted point and imagine the runs down with fewer towers, wider terrain, and more choices from the top.

Perisher 6 chairli .

TOUR: Nathan Butterworth speaking to media at the top station site. PHOTOS: Trista Heath

Snowy Mountains SAP projects progressing well for Jindabyne

commitment to $242 million for the SAP works.

By TRISTA HEATH

THE Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct (SAP) projects are progressing across Jindabyne with Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, and Member for Monaro, Steven Whan, visiting the construction site of the Jindabyne Sport and Education Campus.

Inspecting the progress of the development, the $47 million commitment to enhancing the Barry Way to deliver a safer and easier drop off section for when the school opens in early 2025, is in addition to the $196 million announced earlier in 2024.

Mr Whan said when he was elected his focus would be on the essentials.

“Essentials which were neglected by the previous government when considering how Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountains area is growing,” Mr Whan said.

The additional funding totals the government’s

Ms Moriarty said the Snowy Mountains SAP is playing an important role in creating long-term economic prosperity in the region.

“I am pleased to expand the precinct commitment by $47 million to include important upgrades to Barry Way around the new school precinct,” Ms Moriarty said.

In addition to the Barry Way upgrades the projects announced by the Minns Labor Government have progressed, including the key elements of the foreshore design such as a 3.5km shared user path upgraded between Banjo Patterson Park and Widows Creek.

Designs have also included a new playground in the park, a pump track, improved lawn areas and improved drainage.

Community consultation related to the foreshore design wrapped up in November and feedback is being considered, the final design is underway with it expected to be completed by mid2025, making it shovel

ready for future funding opportunities.

The Bike Precinct project will see 500 hectares of land within the Snowy Mountains precinct become home to a

Mountain Bike Adventure Park.

Planning work is underway and will inform what features, facilities and amenities the adventure park will include.

Further details are expected to be announced by mid-2025.

The Jindabyne wastewater treatment plan is being upgraded to increase capacity, to meet the longterm needs of the growing population, ensuring the future amenity needs of the community are met.

The detailed design for the wastewater treatment plant is underway.

A new water treatment plant will be constructed to ensure compliance with drinking water standards.

The project is currently in the concept design phase, with a construction tender expected to be issued in 2025.

The scope of the electrical upgrades is being finalised, these upgrades will future-proof the precinct and provide reliable electrical supply to the growing Jindabyne community. Planning work is underway that will inform how the staged release of land will be rolled out to support a diverse mix of housing.

“The water and sewerage works, the foreshore design plus bike precinct and opening further housing development are important for a future Snowy economy and our Government is keen to see it underway.”

NSW Public Works has been engaged to lead the delivery of the water and sewer projects across the precinct.

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

“There is more work to be done, and I will keep the region updated as time goes on.”

The Snowy Mountains precinct is also facilitating the supply of a diverse mix of housing to benefit the community, support workers and the transition to a year-round economy.

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

UPDATE: Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty and Member for Monaro, Steven Whan, update the progress of Snowy Mountains SAP. PHOTO: Trista Heath

Road strategy, yes or no

AS A follow-up to my letter in last week’s Post regarding the Avonside Road debacle, I thought I would give a critique of the recently completed/ almost completed Dry Plains Road project.

Travelling along the existing road from the Snowy Mountains Highway intersection to just past the Cooma Golf Club, had me wondering why that section of road wasn’t the focus of the grant funding instead.

Even though it is within an unrestricted speed environment (100kph) that part of the road has poor alignment (horizontal and vertical) for the greater part of it.

The majority of the corners can be safely driven at no more than 70kph and the sight distance is very poor.

The pavement is sealed and in most part is in good condition, but it is narrow by today’s standards and the linemarking is misleading to a point of being dangerous. There are at

least shoulders adjacent to the bitumen surface which is something the recently completed reconstruction lacks.

That part of the road not only feeds the Cooma Golf Club but numerous new subdivisions including those on the Towrang Vale Road and Old Mill Road.

Hence the traffic volumes on that section of the road are much greater than the section recently sealed which is between the Old Mill Road and the Slacks Creek.

I guess the traffic volume beyond the golf club would be less than 10 percent of the total traffic on the road.

I really do wonder where that section of recently completed road fits into Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s roads improvement strategic plan.

Actually, I wonder if there is a strategy for the improvement of our road network at all and is it documented?

I couldn’t find a copy on Council’s website. I assume like the Avonside Road, the new

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

section of the Dry Plains Road was designed by consultants, maybe to a Council prepared design brief. Since the merger of our three councils, there is not a road design or survey section in Council’s staffing structure which means those critical functions are farmed out to consultants without professional engineering input from within Council’s organisation.

So, how does that lack of expertise show in the newly sealed road. For an unrestricted speed road, the majority of the horizontal curves do not meet the Austroads standards.

The width of bitumen seal does comply with the standards but the road formation design is such that there is minimal width of shoulder to allow vehicles to pull onto and that tiny shoulder width provides no support for the pavement which will increase the edge wear of the newly sealed surface.

The line marking is abysmal and does not meet the current

An update needed into Snowy River Hostel’s future

I WAS dismayed to read in the draft Snowy Monaro Regional Council Annual Report that Snowy River Hostel at Berridale is closed and is now empty and vacant.

This begs the question as to what happened to the Expressions of Interest called for by Council months ago?

This valuable community building and freehold should

not be squandered. More information is needed from Council in response to community concerns.

I believe that many in the community are sad that the wonderful voluntary and paid caring staff have been lost as a result of this closure.

Our community is still desperately short of respite and residential places despite

the divestment of Yallambee in Cooma to Respect, a privately operated industry aged care organisation. As a matter of urgency, Councillors, may the community please have an innovative solution to having the Snowy River Hostel open and back in action.

linemarking standards and in fact the markings are downright dangerous and need to be rectified immediately before there is an accident.

The last kilometre of road leading to the new Slacks Creek culvert should not have been reconstructed on its existing alignment. It should have been re-aligned to provide a road that is safe for the travelling public at an acceptable design speed. There is a section of that part of the road that has been and still is located very close to high voltage transmission line support structures.

The alignment of the former gravel road was sub-standard but at least it was rough enough to discourage excessive speed.

If that last kilometre could not have been reconstructed to a current standard of alignment, it should not have been included in the grant funding agreement.

There are no advisory speed signs along the entire length including a sub-standard crest

and sub-standard curves.

Where access ways to adjoining properties have been restored, the plastic pipes installed are less than the required minimum 375mm diameter required for new access points and they have insufficient cover required for plastic pipes.

The shining light in this sorry saga is the construction of a box culvert structure over the Slacks Creek which is a vast improvement over the former concrete causeway.

The new structure will not provide access for motorists during major flood events but will allow dry passage during lesser flood events.

Next week, I will examine the work being done on the Shannons Flat Road which is also part of the grants allocations to see if Council can get at least one road built to comply with the Austroads standards.

THE U3A or University of the third age Snowy Monaro (SMU3A) is a great source of learning, and social interaction in the Snowy Mountains. I have attended classes personally, and have found the classes to be of great benefit to me. All are welcome.

The Tai Chi, has been great for my personal health. The technical class has been invaluable to me, and others, as

technology is moving so fast in these times.

Also, even though we can be any age from 18-years or over to attend classes, I am way over 18. I believe, as we get older, the social interaction of such classes is really beneficial for our health, if we are lonely, or not 100 percent fit, we can still attend. So join SMU3A.

SMU3A member

FARMER STAN’S FIGURED OUT HOW TO WIN THE PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION. ALL HE HAS TO DO IS ENTER A PHOTO THAT’S ‘BLACK AND WHITE’ AND IT’S REGARDED AS ‘TRENDY ART’.

GEE, I’VE NEVER THOUGHT OF THAT BEFORE. EVERYTHING IN OUR WORLD IS ALREADY ‘BLACK AND WHITE’.

Phil Daley Berridale

Lindy Rose Cooma

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

By BOYD MOULD, from his collection of works

OLD Amos Hedger’s cashed his chips, No more he’ll go on droving trips, No more stale bread will pass the lips Of frugal Amos Hedger

No more now ‘round Snowy plain Will rangers ride the rough terrain In search of cattle – all in vain, They’ve gone with Amos Hedger.

This lone man lived his life like that, The mountains his true habitat, And Home was just the coat and hat Of bushman Amos Hedger.

He’d trudge through snow on homemade skis, Wade through swamps up to his knees, And camp that night beneath some trees, A tough man, Amos Hedger.

He knew each beast like next of kin, Knew which locale he’d find them in, Over stocking, his big sin. Too greedy, Amos Hedger.

No one can say what drove him on –What dreams he had in days long gone –What gave him strength to carry on! Relentless, Amos Hedger.

A few may partly understand, Who knew his hunger for the land, A legend, in his own life span! He lives on – as a legend!

EDITOR,

The last line of my letter published in the Monaro Post of December

COOMA, once a finalist in tidy towns, is a sad reflection of its former self. It seems to be a victim of neglect and apathy, by all.

I fear this is not only a council problem, but businesses, houses and our communities all should be held accountable.

Example A - Why were two dead kangaroos left lying in our main street for over a week, making it a very uninviting walk for locals and visitors alike, and it was reported to the council twice.

Example B - Last weekend with the national busking competition being held in our main street, it rained and it rained, but still could not dampen the buskers spirits.

Unfortunately, every second awning leaked like a sieve, making it very uncomfortable for performers and spectators. Surely, it’s in the interest of the owners of these building to look after their assets?

Example C - The Cooma Centennial Park used to be the jewel in the crown, the playground has had one of the play items out of action for more than six months, for the sake of a bearing replacement, not a big cost item and not a big job to fix.

4, 2024 was a quote from Luke 2, verse 29. The quote is “Let now your servant depart in peace.”

Example D - Our CBD pavers are a disgrace, the million-dollar upgrade of our pavement, shows shopkeepers don’t care about their entrances, our visitors and locals must think it looks very uninviting. Once again not that hard or expensive to fix. Look at the alpine hotel for example, what a hose can do.

Example E - Our two creeks are a disgrace. It is alright for bureaucrats to say you can’t interfere with our waterways, but that is a cop-out.

Other towns have beautiful creeks and our waters running through their towns, it is always put in the too hard basket.

Example F - Our footpaths in Cooma are an example of an accident going to happen, once past the CBD our main street footpaths are a major trip hazard for old and young, when you consider the amount of foot traffic on these paths, it should be a priority. These are just some of the issues I see whilst walking around our once beautiful town, of which I was proud to be a part of.

Rogan Corbett Cooma

With thanks and greetings. Elizabeth Laught, Cooma

Church service times across the Snowy Monaro

Cooma Baptist Church: 10am Sunday

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

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

St Andrew’s Cooma Uniting Church: 9.30am Sunday

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

Cooma Presbyterian Church: 9am Sunday

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

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

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

All Saints Anglican Church Berridale: 9.30am Sunday

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

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

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

GROUP EDITOR

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

JOURNALISTS

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

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

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

Riposte

By LISA ASHURST

IF YOU HAVE never heard of fridge-scaping don’t panic. You are not alone, because I’d never heard of it either until the weekend.

But not to worry, the word is that it’s on the way out because it’s all about the curated supermarket basket now.

Sorry, I don’t know what that is either.

But fridgescaping. It’s the thing where you turn the inside of your refrigerator into a “themed tableau” of food and accessories.

Which is another way of saying you go all out on arranging the things inside of your fridge to resemble an artscape, after which you take a photo and post it on Instagram and/or TikTok. And it’s not just about the food.

Serious fridgescapers were, and possibly still are if they’re not up to speed on curated supermarket baskets yet, adding cut flowers in decorative vases, fruit and vegetables arranged in artful displays, picture frames, strings of lights (what??), ornate china and even the odd figurine to enhance the visuals.

I know. I’m speechless too.

Okay, having said that, what are the pluses of going beyond just placing the fridge contents wherever they fit? Well, in arranging the fridge to present a more pleasing aesthetic (within reason) can be beneficial up to a point.

Food presented appealingly will catch your attention and encourage you to use it, plus it will help you to be more purposeful with the food you buy. It will make meal prep easier, as you can see everything, it’s right there on hand, and it looks so attractive in there, right? You will want to use it, which will lead to less waste. It will also

encourage more regular upkeep and cleanliness in the fridge, which is really important for health and food safety. But the downside?

Fridgescapers need to remember that the fridge is a food storage unit, which means its interior is not a home decor shelf unit. It’s not that kind of display. For starters, some of those decorative items are not food safe, which makes them totally unsuitable for food storage environments and depending on what they are and how awkward they are to clean, they can introduce contaminants. They can also disrupt the air circulation in the fridge, which can play havoc with the fridge maintaining the temperatures that prevent bacterial growth and spoilage. All of which can create an ideal breeding ground for Salmonella and E.coli to flourish. Is that photo really worth the risk of exposing you and your family to food poisoning?

Your fridge is for food storage, and while it is a good idea to keep it clean and for the food items in it to be arranged neatly to allow good airflow and visibility, it does not need any further adornment in there.

It doesn’t need artfully arranged fine china, cut flowers and figurines. It definitely does not need strings of little lights. Other than you, how many others are going to see it anyway? Oh that’s right, if you have been posting those pics, your hundreds of online friends will have. Unless you’ve already moved on from the fridgescaped themed tableau to embrace curated supermarket baskets. I still have no idea what they are because I haven’t Googled them yet, but I think I can guess. Just food. But so photogenically arranged.

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

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Published by Hartley Higgins for Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd (ABN 121 288 060), 59 Vale Street, Cooma NSW 2630. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Group Editor Nathan Thompson. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is copyright of Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

The Monaro Post is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Monaro Post itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

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FEATURES WRITER

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Member

Snowy Monaro community.

Monaro Post o ice at 59 Vale Street between 9-5pm

Culliton wins major portraiture award

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

BIBBENLUKE-based artist, Lucy Culliton, has been named the winning artist of one of Australia’s most loved and richest awards for realistic portraiture, the biennial Shirley Hannan National Portrait Award.

The winning entry, titled “Support Crew”, was announced last Friday at the launch of the 2024 Shirley Hannan National Portrait Award in Bega.

This coveted award has returned to the Bega Valley for the first time at the newly opened South East Centre for Contemporary Art.

Celebrating portraiture in memory of the dedicated arts patron and supporter, Shirley Hannan, the $50,000 biennial award is nonacquisitive and attracts

hundreds of entries from many of Australia’s most respected artists.

A pre-requisite for the award is that those works selected to hang depict their subjects accurately, without abstraction, and demonstrate a sound skill and knowledge of drawing and painting technique.

Known for painting landscapes and still life, the portrait by Ms Culliton depicts her partner, Jamie, and their many dogs.

The judges for this year were acclaimed artist Jude Rae, and independent curator, Dr Sarah Engledow.

Jude Rae said Ms Culliton’s entry is complex and sophisticated.

“It could be argued it gently prods the genre of portraiture by raising the very current topic of

non-human subjectivity.”

Awards patron, Peter Hannan, congratulated Ms Culliton on winning this year’s award.

“A huge thanks to all the crew at South East Centre for Contemporary Art too, my family and I are appreciative of all your hard work.

“Congratulations to all the finalists as well, the works are outstanding and to see them hanging in the new gallery space is wonderful.”

The exhibition of finalists will be on show until Saturday February 1 2025.

Exhibition entry is adult – $10; concession – $7; Summer multi-pass – $25 (unlimited gallery entry); children and youth under 16 – free.

Exhibition entry can be purchased at the gallery desk daily.

Concern over cost of living for young people

Cooma Mission Australia team o ering Christmas relief

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

YOUNG people in NSW have indicated the cost of living, mental health, climate change, and the environment, are the most important issues impacting Australia today, according to Mission Australia’s 2024 Youth Survey Report.

For the first time, cost of living (55 percent) was the issue young people in NSW considered most important in Australia, an increase of more than 20 percentage points on the previous year.

After cost of living, mental health (28 percent) and climate change and the environment (24 percent) were the next most important issues in Australia today.

“The survey responses suggest that NSW young people are feeling the same pressures that are impacting the rest of society,” co-ordinator Cooma Region Homelessness Support Service for Mission Australia, Caitlin O’Bryan, said.

“While most of the young people surveyed live with their parents, when the family unit faces cost of living pressures,

everyone is impacted.

“Locally, we’ve seen the decrease in housing affordability across the region, rents are at record highs, people are struggling to pay their mortgages, and necessities are increasingly expensive. Young people are living this reality along with their families.

“Mission Australia Cooma is experiencing an increased demand for services.

“People are seeking support from our homelessness service for a range of reasons, but financial challenges, unemployment and lack of affordable homes are becoming a frequent reason why we receive requests for our services.

“We know that young people in Cooma and the wider Snowy Monaro region face challenges when it comes to finding affordable rentals.

“The lack of affordable homes may cause young people to couch surf or stay in overcrowded dwellings. This is a form of hidden homelessness.

“Mission Australia is also seeing an increased request for food relief in the community,”

Ms O’Bryan said.

“This is another sign that people are struggling with cost of living pressures.

“To help with the pressures that families are facing, the Mission Australia Cooma team is offering Christmas presents to local children, thanks to the support of a generous donation.

“We’re encouraging families to come down to our Cooma office during business hours between Thursday December 12 until December 23 to collect presents for their loved ones.”

Mission Australia state director NSW, Di Kapera, said that like many in the community, young people were feeling the impact of inflation and the high cost of housing.

“It’s distressing that there are families across NSW struggling to pay their rent and afford necessities like groceries,” Ms Kapera said.

“There’s a clear need for the federal government to raise the rate of income support payments, including Jobseeker and Youth Allowance and lift Commonwealth Rent Assistance to help young

people and families who are doing it tough.

“Continued investment in social and affordable housing, including youth specific options such as youth foyers will also help young people who are navigating an increasingly unaffordable rental market.”

Mental health was the second most important issue in Australia according to NSW young people and 20 percent of respondents identified it as one of the biggest personal challenges they faced.

Over one in five NSW respondents (22 percent) were found to have a high level of psychological distress and around the same number said they felt lonely all or most of the time in the past four weeks.

“Young people are dealing with stress, anxiety and loneliness, and we must ensure they can access affordable mental health support as they navigate what can be a challenging period,” Ms Kapera said.

“Supporting young people at an early age can help set them up for a bright future.”

Nationally, responses from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people revealed that 42 percent had

experienced discrimination compared with 29 percent of non-Indigenous respondents.

“There is clearly much more we can do as a society to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people are supported and have equal access to opportunities,” Ms Kapera said.

NSW young people also expressed concern about the impact of alcohol and other drugs, with 53 percent of respondents saying they strongly agree or agree that alcohol is a problem in Australia and 63 percent saying the same for drugs.

“We must make sure that if they do need support in their own lives, they can access youth-specific rehabilitation services,” Ms Kapera said.

“There is a huge need for these services in regional and rural NSW.”

More than 3,500 young people in NSW aged 15 to 19 completed the Mission Australia 2024 Youth Survey.

The 23rd annual Youth Survey was conducted between April and August with results shared with schools, community services, councils, policy makers and those who support young people.

Council News

Updates | Information | Consultation

COUNCIL'S 2023/2024 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In accordance with Section 418 (3) of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW), Snowy Monaro Regional Council advises that the ordinary Council meeting to be held on Thursday 12 December 2024 will include the presentation of the audited Financial Statements and the Auditor’s Reports for the year ended 30 June 2024.

A summary of the Financial Statements is provided below.

ROCKY PLAIN ROAD

Construction has begun on a temporary singlelane bridge at Cowbed Bridge on Rocky Plain Road, Berridale. The temporary structure will preserve access for motorists during upcoming major upgrades to Cowbed Bridge.

A 15-tonne load capacity will apply for the temporary bridge, which is scheduled to open by Christmas Day, allowing bridge upgrades to begin without the need for a full road closure.

DELEGATE BANK OF BINS

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

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

NEW LIBRARY OUTREACH SERVICE UNDERWAY

RECYCLING SURVEY

The Canberra Region Joint Organisation is seeking community feedback about local use of Community Recycling Centres in our region. Submissions are open until Friday 20 December. Visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/QH9GTL7 today.

REQUEST FOR TENDER

Council is seeking tenders from suitably qualified contractors for the works to complete the 2024/2025 heavy patch contract at miscellaneous sites across the Snowy Monaro Local Government Area in south-eastern NSW. Interested parties must obtain copies of the tender documentation from Council’s e-tendering system at vendorpanel.com.au using reference number VP 439747

CLOSING DATE AND TIME: Tenders close at 5PM AEDT on Monday 23 December 2024 and submissions must be fully received by this time.

ENQUIRIES: Tender enquiries should be directed to the VendorPanel online forum.

Net

Statement of Financial Position Total

In accordance with Section 420 of the Local Government Act 1993, any person may make a written submission regarding Council's audited Financial Statements and/or the Auditor's Reports. Visit www.yoursaysnowymonaro.com.au/202324-financial-statements to have your say online. Submissions can also be made by email, post, or over-the-counter at Council offices.

The audited Financial Statements and Auditor's Reports are available to download from Council’s Your Say website at the link above. Copies are also available to inspect at Council's offices in Berridale, Bombala, Cooma and Jindabyne.

Submissions will be accepted until 5pm Thursday 19 December 2024. Phone 1300 345 345, or email council@smrc.nsw.gov.au for more information.

BOBEYAN ROAD

The Bobeyan Road upgrade project is entering its final phase, with work estimated to be complete by the end of summer 2024/25.

This project has already delivered major improvements for locals and motorists travelling between the ACT and the Snowy Monaro. Substantial funding from the NSW Government has made these works possible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday 11 December Nimmitabel Police Station 10–11am

Thursday 12 December Delegate Bombala Street 2–3pm

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

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

WEED OF THE WEEK

Our annual Weed of the Week series brings you the information you need to know about weeds and biosecurity in the Snowy Monaro. Visit our website to catch up on this year's articles at https://qrco.de/SMRCWeeds Whether you work the land or just like spending time in the great outdoors, these articles help you play your part in keeping our region safe from local weed incursions.

SUBMISSIONS: Completed responses can ONLY be submitted via the electronic tender box using the Microsoft Word version of the schedule(s). Respondents will receive a successful submission receipt, timed and dated upon completion. Should assistance be required, please refer to the online manual on the VendorPanel portal, contact the VendorPanel support team by phone at (03) 9095 6181, or email support@vendorpanel.com.au. Submissions must be fully received by the closing time as late submissions will not be accepted. Council is not bound to accept the lowest priced Tender or all or any part of a Tender and reserves the right to conduct the Request for Tender process and select the successful respondent(s) as it sees fit. All responses must be made by online submission. Any response made by any other means (open email, facsimile, post, or in person) will not be considered.

JOB VACANCIES

If you're looking for a career with purpose, consider joining the team here at Council. Visit https://qrco.de/SMRCjobs to learn more.

Closing Thursday 12 December 2024

•Construction Worker Full time – Berridale

•Resource & Waste Facility Attendant Part time – Cooma

•Resource & Waste Plant Operator Part time – Cooma

Closing Thursday 19 December 2024

•Executive Assistant to Chief Officers Maternity Leave Contract – Cooma

LOCAL CITIZEN AWARDS

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

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

Nomination forms are available from any Council office or https://qrco.de/SMRCawards

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

Call for local help in forming women’s shed for Snowy Monaro

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

IT ALL started from a conversation with someone Diane Phillips worked with. She said to Diane she would like to learn how to use some tools to do some craft, to which Diane replied, ‘we need a women’s shed’.

From this, an idea was born, which was followed-up with a post on Facebook’s Cooma Noticeboard. The post gained so much support from local women interested in the concept, that, after a few days, it had more than 180 “likes”.

Diane, who has a craft background, has always had an interest in making things, and comes from a family involved in building and construction, arts and crafts.

“I like restoring old furniture and making trellis and compost frames for the garden.

“As a child I had access to my father’s very organised work shed.

“Everything had to be put back in its correct spot and he liked his tools to be wiped with an oiled cloth.

“There was a vice, wooden horses and a lathe,” she recalled.

Like the Australian Men’s Shed Association, there is now a fledgling Australian Women’s Shed Association, which aims to deliver spaces that provide a safe, welcoming environment to inspire, promote wellbeing, personal growth, and strengthen communities.

The men’s shed in Cooma is a popular meeting place where a group of older retired men enjoy get-togethers, coffee mornings, social events, and fixing/repairing wooden and other items for townsfolk.

“The men’s sheds are known for helping with mental health issues, depression and socialise and support one another,” Diane said.

Many locals who Diane has talked to have expressed an interest in the women’s shedfrom those who have skills and experience in the building and engineering industry, to those who could lend or donate equipment, or who can help with the

establishment of the initiative, with advice and guidance on local funding options and Government startup grants.

Obviously, one of the most important things to get the ball rolling is acquiring a shed or building. A possibility could be sharing the existing men’s shed when they are not using it.

“Initial enquiries have so far been positive and encouraging, but there’s been no luck in regard to the availability of a shed, or land.

“I expect we will need to form a committee if there is sufficient interest to get things organised and official.

“There are successful women’s sheds in other regional areas, so I hope we can get something started here,” Diane said.

“Any donations or assistance in any way to make this happen would be very welcome.”

If you can help or are interested in the proposal to start a women’s shed contact Diane on 0490 033 594 or email caulifloweraaa721@ gmail.com

Cooma Probus Ladies Club enjoy busy few months

By COOMA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

MEMBERS of Cooma

Ladies Probus Club have enjoyed a variety of outings in recent months, starting with a journey into Ancient Egypt at the National Museum in Canberra and ending with a lot of laughs at the spectacular musical show ‘Nice Work if You Can Get It’ at the Q Theatre.

‘Discovering Ancient Egypt’ displayed objects from the collection of the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities and included the Book of the Dead Sea Scrolls, jewellery and coffins, mummified people and animals, and other artefacts that revealed insights into the everyday life of ancient Egyptians, their gods and society,

creativity and belief in an eternal afterlife. How wonderful was the day trip to Eden to look for whales. Rough seas and an overcast sky didn’t deter the ladies or the whales. There were so many whales frolicking and breaching and waving their tales that the catamaran couldn’t move for two hours.

Even the crew couldn’t stop ‘wowing’ at the sight of this one pod and the antics of these wonderful creatures. Morning tea at Bemboka en route and a fish’n’chip lunch in Eden were enjoyed on the day too.

Next on the agenda was a cultural trip to the National Art Gallery in Canberra to see the exhibition Gauguin’s World: Tona lho, Tona Ao. Paul Gauguin (1848 –1903)

career. His early paintings from Impressionist beginnings were of Breton peasants and countryside while his later works, perhaps more recognisable, were of Polynesian women who, like pagan

The exhibition offered new perspectives on Gauguin’s life and work, his artistic influences and networks, as well as his historical impact and contemporary legacies. It was interesting to also see

his drawings, engravings, sculpture, carvings and other decorative arts; he was not just a painter.

Although belonging to the art and themes of his time, Gauguin’s life and art have been debated. In today’s context, his interactions in Polynesia during the latter part of the 19th century would not be accepted today.

Next stop was a trip to the Q theatre to enjoy the staged musical ‘Nice Work If You Can Get It’, which was an hilarious screwball comedy using the songs and music of George and Ira Gershwin.

Highlights from the score included Gershwin classics such as ‘Fascinating Rhythm’, ‘Let’s Call The Whole Thing Off’, ‘Someone To Watch Over Me’, and the title song, all played by a

live orchestra in the pit below the stage.

The show originally opening on Broadway in 2012 was an absolute ‘blast’ with excellent choreography, singing and acting from every person onstage. The length of the bridal veil of the woman of substance who was to marry the wealthy and carefree playboy would rival that of Princess Diana’s bridal train. An enjoyable time was had by all. The Ladies Probus is more than just regular meetings, which are also informative.

Probus ladies are looking forward with bated breath to the outings next year and are most appreciative of the work done by member Judi Knighton who goes above and beyond to organise these excursions.

Janome

Janome

CONNECT: Diane Phillips hopes to gather support from the community to establish a women’s shed in the area, a proposal which has been met with a lot of enthusiasm.

Festival celebrates all abilities

THE 15TH annual Celebrate Ability Festival brought another fiesta of inclusive activities and entertainment to Cooma’s Centennial Park on Friday November 29.

This free community event brought together people with disability, their families, carers, and service providers for an afternoon of connection and celebration.

Visitors enjoyed live music performed by Steve Jackson from Euro-Monaro Disability and Aged Care Support Services, participated in line dancing lessons with Riley’s Rodeo Line Dancing, got hands-on with an interactive STEM experience from Snowy Hydro, and explored creative activities, including henna painting provided by the Cooma Multicultural Centre.

The festival featured interactive displays from local disability service providers, community

groups, and sporting clubs, alongside sensory play areas and a dedicated kids’ zone.

A special guest appearance from Santa added to

the festivities, while a free sausage sizzle – kindly provided by the Cooma Lions Club – kept attendees energised throughout the afternoon.

“The Celebrate Ability Festival provides a platform for people with disability to connect with others and share their achievements,”

community development planner with Snowy Monaro Regional Council, Kristy Harvey, said.

“It’s about highlighting positive initiatives, while

identifying areas where we can work together to create a more inclusive community.”

The local event was aligned with the International Day of People with Disability, a global day of recognition celebrated around the world in November and December each year.

The theme for 2024 was ‘amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.’

Cooma’s Celebrate Ability Festival was coordinated by an organising committee made up of representatives from the local support sector.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council thanked the committee members from Cooma Challenge, The Disability Trust, Monaro Family Support Service, and Uniting for giving the region the opportunity to come together to mark this important date.

Trout release boasts fishing offering in region

By TRISTA HEATH

MEMBER for Monaro, Steve Whan, and Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, assisted Gaden Trout Hatchery staff in releasing 100 advanced size Brook trout into Lake Jindabyne, making it one of the final stockings of a successful year.

Fishing opportunities in the Snowy Mountains region’s largest lakes have been boosted this year, with 160,000 Rainbow trout stocked into Lake Eucumbene and another 110,000 Rainbows released into Lake Jindabyne, with support from the Recreational Fishing Trust.

Almost 2.5 million trout have been released into waterways across the State this year, including more than 600,000 in the Snowy Mountains region.

Ms Moriarty said the NSW Government’s $8.6 million investment in upgrades to the Gaden Trout Hatchery – one of Australia’s leading centres for breeding and rearing freshwater sportfish –now means the industry is better equipped than ever to future-proof NSW’s

iconic trout fishing sector.

“The recent investments in state-of-the-art fish production technology at our Gaden Trout Hatchery means we can be more responsive to changing conditions,” Ms Moriarty said.

“As keen anglers are aware, the trout fishery is

dynamic and influenced by seasonal conditions.

“Thanks to favourable conditions involving plenty of rain and mild temperatures, combined with the NSW Government’s ongoing trout stocking efforts, anglers have enjoyed outstanding fishing over the past four

seasons in key trout areas like the Snowy Monaro.”

Mr Whan, Ms Moriarty and Ms Elkins dressed in waders and entered knee depth water to release the trout ahead of the busy season, and watching on the foreshore was The Fly Program founder, Matt Tripet.

Mr Trippet said it was amazing the impacts something as simple as fishing can have on men’s mental health and the family.

“Fishing with the family creates wonderful memories and creates the opportunity to open up conversations surrounding mental, it is a space I am really passionate about,” Mr Trippet said.

Releasing along the Widows Inlet Boat Ramp in Jindabyne, dedicated fly fishers and holiday anglers will soon get to reap the awards of newly stocked trout as the holiday season approaches.

The new Gaden Trout Hatchery facility will be opening early next year and looks forward to welcoming the public after a successful opening day event in October 2024.

Matt Trippet, Tara Moriarty, Steve Whan, Taylor Elkins and Mitch Elkins.

Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, and Gaden Trout Hatchery Guide Attendant, Taylor Elkins. PHOTOS: Trista Heath

Jindabyne Lions Club host successful seniors Christmas party

By TRISTA HEATH

THE Jindabyne Lions Club hosted its annual seniors Christmas party at Jindabyne Sport and Rec on Sunday December 9, with more than 120 seniors attending from across the region.

Chef Andy and his team from Jindabyne Sports and Rec cooked the meals and local Navy Cadets, T.S. Orion, Jindabyne Lions Club members, 1st Kosciuszko Scouts group and other community members volunteered their time to serve the seniors their three course luncheon and drinks throughout the event and stayed on afterwards to clean up.

The oldest senior in the room was invited to cut the cake, baked by Bluebird Baking Studio, 94-yearold Noeline Dahlen-Maclean.

Erin Lee and Sue Sell entertained the seniors with Christmas carols and musician, Gabi Forman, wrapped up the 2024 event.

Overall, the Jindabyne Lions Club 2024 seniors Christmas luncheon was a great success and the club would like to thank all sponsors, helpers and attendees.

Lee and Sue

provided the

The oldest senior attending the luncheon had the privilege of cutting the cake, 94-year-old,

Grandson, Angus O’Brien, with his grandfather, Jim Crocker.

Jindabyne Lions Club members, Brian Phillips and Narissa Hamilton, serve the drinks.

Rod Kucks and Al Symons enjoy the days events together.

Eli Petrov, Teah Petrov and Jesse Coles from 1st Kosciuszko Scouts volunteered for the event.

Jindabyne Lions Club member, Noel Braun, was selling Christmas cakes and puddings.

Erin

Sell

Christmas carol entertainment.

LUNCH: Jindabyne Op Shop volunteers enjoy Christmas luncheon together.

PHOTOS: Trista Heath

Feral pigs on landholders’ radar

Local farmers urge government to work together

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

A SERIES of feral pig workshops in the local area, conducted by industry expert Mark Lamb, provided farmers and landholders with valuable insights and practical strategies to help effectively control and monitor feral pigs in the Snowy Monaro.

However, there are calls from landholders in the district for more government assistance in combating the impact of feral pigs on farms and the local environment.

They believe a continual joint effort between government and local landholders is required to effectively manage the problem.

According to Rob Edwards, a property owner in the Kydra Valley for 40 years, in his experience the feral pig problem is a continuing concern.

“The pigs come through when the ground is wet and churn it up, destroying pastures and creating opportunities for weeds to germinate.

By NATHAN THOMPSON

THE Cooma Car Club

Motoring Museum is home to one of the great vintage and muscle car collections.

The museum is open each Tuesday and on the first Saturday of the month. Since opening its doors in 2022, the museum has welcomed more than 10,000 visitors.

Built by the members of the Cooma Car Club, the museum has quickly gained a reputation as one of the town’s most popular attractions, drawing in automotive enthusiasts from far and wide.

“This museum has really been a labour of love for the club,” car club life member, Peter Quodling, said.

“The pigs were particularly bad along the Kydra River last winter; in drier periods they move on,” Mr Edwards said.

“We have had sporadic control programs over the years supported by Local Land Services, but I think what is needed is a continuing, collaborative program to control them.”

Mr Edwards stressed that individual property owners cannot do this in isolation and with high fecundity, these feral pigs pose a serious biosecurity risk.

“There are national programs for feral pig control; I am not aware of how these programs are filtering down to the Snowy Monaro region.”

Nimmitabel farmers, Kate and Ant Waldren, are actively addressing the biosecurity threat of both wild dogs and foxes, and feral pigs, reaching out to all levels of Government to secure more support in managing what has become an environmental crisis.

Feedback from their correspondence to others

in the industry regarding invasive pest species has revealed major concerns about the feral pig problem in Australia.

“It’s a biosecurity catastrophe waiting to happen,” Mr Waldren said.

“Governments report that today there are up to 23.5 million feral pigs across Eastern Australia alone.

“Farmers in Northern NSW say they are having to pay to get rid of as many as 2,000 pigs coming on to individual properties to save crops being taken out.

“This is a massive food security risk to the country, also if foot and mouth got in or other nasty diseases enter Australia, the pigs will be the main conduit of spread.

“The same farmers up north are saying there needs to be at least an 80 percent successful cull of pig numbers each year to stop exponential increase in their population year on year.”

Mr Waldren said there are suggestions a change in employment structure across all government

land agencies is required to retrain biosecurity staff to become trappers, and or diversify employment structure to create a large number of trappers for wild dogs and pigs across the country.

“They are saying a good rollout model would be the successful wild dog trapping programs on the Monaro.

Start your engines in

“Contract trappers also need to be a big part of the mix,” Mr Waldren said.

“There is a massive opportunity for closing the gap here with contract trappers training and engaging Indigenous trappers across the country.”

Mr Waldren has urged NSW Councils to work

Cooma

“A lot of our members are older folks and this project has really given them a lot of inspiration and a new attitude to life, so it’s wonderful to have seen it all come to fruition and turn out as well as it has.

“Since the museum opened, we’ve hosted other car clubs and various groups and it’s been wonderful to see people taking an interest and coming to visit.”

The Cooma Car Club is located at 11 Bolaro St Cooma and is open every Tuesday from 9am to 1pm and on the first Saturday

of every month from 10am to 3pm.

Funding came largely through a NSW Government grant for men’s mental health.

The club has dedicated thousands of volunteer hours and dollars in ensuring the museum is first-class.

One end of the museum is furnished as an Americana-style diner that serves cold drinks and food for members, visitors, and the other end is styled as a 1920s service

station with historic bowsers and signage.

The service station is named Montague Motors in honour of Cooma Car Club life member, Keith Montague.

The main attraction is the cars and the Cooma Car Club possesses one of the finest automotive collections to be found anywhere in the country.

One vehicle that gains plenty of attention is the 1908 Black Motor Buggy, on loan from Neville Marsden of Braidwood.

together on these issues across the state, and lobby all state and federal members of Parliament, to achieve a bi-partisan roll out of such proposals.

“There is massive community building and healing which we can get out of this, and the biggest real closing the gap initiative to date if done right,” Mr Waldren said.

Other vehicles of note in the museum include a 1926 Dodge that runs on charcoal, and an amphibious car, owned and taken on water by car club president, Tony Nassar.

There are land speed record cars, and even a classic Jeep that was once occupied by the Queen. There is also a variety of historic motorcycles and a stack of automotive memorabilia, showcasing Monaro’s motoring history.

PEST CONTROL: Local landholders are concerned about the growing feral pig population in the Snowy Monaro. PHOTO: Supplied - Local Land Services

The Cooma Car Club is the perfect place to spend a few hours when visiting Cooma.

The 1926 Dodge that runs on charcoal is one of the popular vehicles in the museum.

MUST VISIT: Cooma Car Club members, Rogan Corbett, John Brown and Kath Nichols, are ready to show visitors around the club’s motoring museum.

SCHOOL WRAP-UP SNOWY MONARO

END OF YEAR REFLECTIONS: A TIME FOR CONNECTING

By SNOWY MOUNTAINS GRAMMAR SCHOOL

AS WE conclude 2024 at Snowy Mountains Grammar School (SMGS), it’s a fitting time to reflect on the remarkable moments that have defined this year.

Underpinning our teaching and learning throughout 2024, has been the theme of ‘better together’ - a concept deeply woven into the fabric of our school’s ethos. It represents our belief that collaboration, community, and connection create the foundation for success.

This has been a year of growth and discovery across every aspect of school life. From academic pursuits to co-curricular activities, our students have stepped outside their comfort zones to achieve extraordinary things.

Whether competing in the da Vinci Decathlon, exploring creative problem-solving in the Junior School STEAM Club, or mastering strategy in Chess Club, they have tackled challenges with enthusiasm and resilience.

The launch and growth of our specialist academies in mountain biking, snow sports, aviation, and equestrian have provided students with opportunities to pursue their unique passions.

These programs are a testament to our commitment to offering a diverse and enriching education that extends beyond the classroom.

One of the highlights of 2024 has been the strength and camaraderie of our boarding community. For our boarders, SMGS is more than a school - it’s a second home. This close-knit environment fosters friendships that last a lifetime, and the support our boarding staff provide ensures every student feels valued and supported.

This year, we celebrated many milestones, including the opening of two significant facilities. The Curiosity Centre has become the heart of innovation and collaboration for our middle and senior school students. The new specialist spaces have enhanced learning experiences across art, STEAM, robotics, aviation, and design and technology, empowering students to explore and excel in these dynamic fields.

This year also marked the opening of our new gymnasium, designed to support the physical well-being and fitness of our students. From PE lessons to co-curricular sports and team training sessions, the gym has

SMGS celebrates year of achievement

quickly become another engaging hub of learning for our students.

Our students have excelled across a wide range of activities. They explored the Budawangs with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, applied the design process in bottle rocket challenges, and represented SMGS at the VEX Robotics Nationals in Sydney.

Creativity shone brightly during the inaugural Curiosity Centre

Art Prize and the Cre8ive Sessions, which showcased performances from students across all year levels.

The year has also been rich in academic achievements. Programs like Bright Sparks have supported students in their studies, while projects such as building a Mars rover in Software Engineering and learning about animal husbandry in Agricultural

Technology have inspired curiosity and innovation.

For our youngest learners, Kindergarten marked the start of their educational journey, from writing their first stories to embracing the joy of discovery.

Our teachers, wellbeing staff, and the entire learning community play a vital role in making SMGS a place where students thrive. Their dedication

ensures that every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their potential.

As we look back, it’s clear that 2024 has been a year of curiosity, growth, and connection. Together, we have achieved so much, and we are excited for the future as we continue to build on these successes and experience.

We wishing everyone a safe holiday season

SMILES: Snowy Mountains Grammar School kindergarten students celebrate the end of a productive year.

PHOTOS: Snowy Mountains Grammar School

School is out for the year. SMGS students have impressed during the last 12-months.

Snowy Mountains Grammar School holds its investiture ceremony during 2024.

Students put their minds to work during mathematics.

SCHOOL WRAP-UP

Education hub delivers for all ages

IN 2024, the Country Universities Centre Snowy Monaro (CUCSM) achieved significant milestones, showcasing the impact of its community-driven education initiatives across all age groups.

The Future Me Program, delivered in partnership with the University of Wollongong, supported more than 20 high school students in preparing for life beyond school. Over six weeks, participants explored career pathways, budgeting, and post-school opportunities.

Every student completed the program and secured early entry offers to the University of Wollongong.

The Illustrator Competition, funded by the NSW Government, encouraged creativity and aspiration in younger students.

More than 600 primary school children from across the region submitted artwork, resulting in the publication of We All Wonder Why?, a book celebrating their dreams and talents. A digital copy is available at cucsnowymonaro.edu.au.

For adults, the Common Ground program provided practical guidance on tertiary education pathways. Sixtytwo participants attended workshops delivered in collaboration with the University

of Canberra, Australian National University, Australian Catholic University, University of New England, and TAFE NSW Cooma. The initiative, funded by the Australian Government’s Regional Partnerships Project Pool program, connected participants with critical resources and support.

CUCSM also saw record student registrations, with 204 students accessing its facilities and services. These students represented more than 20 study areas, with 17 percent pursuing health-related courses and 16 percent focusing on education or teaching qualifications. These achievements highlight the power of collaboration between schools, universities,

and community organisations.

CUCSM continues to redefine education opportunities in the Snowy Monaro region, supporting students of all ages to achieve their goals and contribute to their communities.

In 2025, CUCSM has a new and exciting program for our young, future leaders. In partnership with University of Canberra and with the help of local, high profile mentors, the SPEAK UP program is a leadership program for young people who are turning 16, 17 or 18 in 2025. This program has been generously funded by Snowy Hydro Ltd. More information about this Program can be found at cucsnowymonaro.edu.au.

Jindabyne students completing the University of Wollongong Future Me program. The program has proven popular in 2024.

Dom Giagios, a Cooma barber, participated in the Cooma Ground initiative run by the Country Universities Centre Snowy Monaro.

FUTURE: Han Worsley at St Patrick’s Parish School with some of the 2023 Illustrator winners.

The Alpine School sets bar high in national debating, snow sports

DEBATING

THE Alpine School has won recognition for its performance in the Australian National Virtual Debating Competition (ANVDC), an annual online event that brings together students from six states, with more than 140 teams competing across four agebased divisions.

Having competed in the ANVDC since 2020 and reaching the finals round each time, in 2023 The Alpine School

Senior Debating Team came fourth in a field of more than 60 teams from independent, public and selective schools.

This year the school entered three teams, with all three progressing to the finals round.

Studies show that debating enables students to develop critical thinking and leadership skills, build emotional maturity and self-esteem, improve reading comprehension and lead to higher overall academic achievement.

SNOW EVENTS

The Alpine School also batted well above its weight at the National Snow Australia Interschools Championships, with 11 of its 95 students achieving places in state-level events to qualify for entry into the national competition.

Each year, more than 7,000 Kindergarten to Year 12 students from almost 700 schools across ACT, NSW, Queensland and Victoria compete in Snow Australia

Interschools events.

The Alpine School’s results at national level included first, second, third and sixth places across various Slopestyle individual events and second in a Slopestyle Team event; a second in Cross Country relay, a second in Cross Country classic and a ninth in moguls.

The Alpine School offers an optional winter ski program in downhill and cross-country skiing. It also fields teams in the

Australian Interschools Mountain Biking competition, and participates in other competitive sports including basketball, swimming, athletics, cross-country running and karate.

The Alpine School is currently taking enrolments from Kindergarten to Year 11 for 2025. For further information about the school and also to enrol please see the website: www.thealpineschool.nsw.edu. au.

The Alpine School’s talented skiiers in the TAS Winter Ski Program. It’s been a busy year for the Cooma school.

Outdoor education opportunities for The Alpine School.

LEARNING: Kindergarten students with teacher Katrina Joyce. PHOTOS: Supplied

MONARO

SCHOOL WRAP-UP

Jindabyne students excited for new campus

JINDABYNE Public School has enjoyed a busy 2024, with the new $1.4 billion Jindabyne Education Campus construction going well, ready for Term 1, 2025.

The purpose-built campus will include a separate primary school and high school, known as Jindabyne Public School and Jindabyne High School, with modern facilities to support students, teachers, and the community.

The schools will include flexible learning spaces, libraries, halls, playing fields, open spaces and access to specialist facilities for art, woodwork, metalwork, music, drama and science.

The campus will also include a new Connected Learning Centre (CLC) being delivered by TAFE NSW and specialist Vocational Education Training (VET) facilities for hospitality, construction, entertainment and primary industry courses, as well as a new public preschool.

The school community is eagerly

awaiting the completion of the campus and looking forward to the big move next year. Meanwhile, this year has been full of student achievement, excursions, sporting events and joyful learning opportunities for the students.

Some highlights for Jindabyne Public School include Grandparents and Friends Day, Snow Sports program, Jindy Jamboree, Book Week, Premier’s Debating Challenge, Peter Pan the Musical performance, NAIDOC Week and the Festival of Instrumental Music at the Sydney Opera House.

This year, some memorable moments have included School Spectacular, the Girls on Fire program, the Regional School Alumni Event, Lions Youth of the Year competition, Australian Interschools Snowsports Championships, Seniors Showcase, Jindabyne Snow Ball, Girls Can Too program and Australia Day Citizenship Awards.

Jindabyne High School students participating in a Schools Spectacular dance performance recently.

Jindabyne Public School’s performance of Peter Pan the Musical was a highlight of 2024.

Jindabyne High School hosted a Regional School Alumni Event, which was a valuable experience for the students and alumni alike.

Jindabyne High School students achieved great results in Interschools Snowsports Championships this year.

INNOVATION: The Jindabyne Education Campus will be ready for operation at the beginning of Term 1, 2025. PHOTOS: Supplied

SCHOOL WRAP-UP

opportunity

THROUGHOUT 2024, Cooma North Public School (CNPS) has continued to foster a rich cultural tapestry, deeply intertwined with the school’s heritage and its community, including the extensive partnerships with service groups, volunteers and Snowy Hydro.

The focus on an inclusive and rich curriculum has provided extensive opportunities for our students to connect, thrive and succeed.

These opportunities supported by a dedicated and knowledgeable staff including specialists in literacy, numeracy and Aboriginal education have promoted a love of learning and excellence across academic, sporting and social domains.

Cooma North Public School has been proud to offer gifted and talented programs including Think Tank, and specialised STEM and robotics programs (culminating in the development of the CNPS initiated Snowy Monaro Academy of STEM Excellence – SMACE).

Participation in the Wakakirri Dance Story competition, the

Cooma North students learn, grow in 2024

Monaro Performing Arts Festival and a major school performing arts production, have engaged students in the creative and performing arts.

Sporting opportunities including gala days, PSSA competitions at school, district and regional levels have

promoted the building of team skills, resilience and a passion for sports including football, athletics, swimming, netball and basketball.

Social events have been closely linked to classroom activities and have continued to see large numbers of parent, grandparents

Learning (PBL) School, CNPS along with strong partnerships forged with parents and

COOMA NORTH PUBLIC SCHOOL

‘Every Student… Every Day…Every Opportunity’

At Cooma North Public School it’s simple, learners today, leaders tomorrow.

Cooma North Public School continues to honour its rich heritage while embracing a vibrant, diverse community offering exceptional learning opportunities for all students in visually and physically aesthetic indoor and outdoor learning environments.

Cooma North PS is committed to providing evidence-based, challenging and inspiring programs offering specialised support in

• Literacy

• Numeracy

• Aboriginal education

• Wellbeing, and

• English as an Additional Language or Dialect

Providing extracurricular activities including:

• Public Speaking and Debating

• snow sports to aquatic programs

• creative and performing arts – Wakakirri Dance Story, Monaro Performing Arts Festival, Artrageous and major school productions

• specialist STEM and robotics programs as part of the Snowy Monaro Academy of STEM Excellence (SMACE)

• adventure camps and excursions

• leadership and transition programs

As a Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) School we promote and acknowledge

• inclusion, diversity and cultural safety

• teamwork and collaboration

• student voice

• school and community partnerships

• innovation and achievement

Join us at Cooma North Public School – empowering today’s learners … cultivating the leaders of tomorrow.

Principal: Mrs Jo Tozer

There have been many opportunities throughout 2024 for Cooma North Public School student to learn about space.

STEM: Cooma North Public School students have played a leading role in establishing the Snowy Monaro STEM Academy.

PHOTOS: Cooma North Public School

SCHOOL WRAP-UP

Positive year for Monaro High School

THIS year has been a busy one for Monaro High School. From big events such as the Peter Pan musical, the sports tour to the Central Coast, the trade and careers expo and the return of the Martin Schoo Memorial Shield, among many others, students and staff have put their best efforts in to make these events a success for the school.

The school’s student representative committee (SRC), sports committee and Leo Club have all shown excellent leadership skills and maturity throughout the year. SRC members have been outstanding ambassadors at community events, and organised school events like mufti days, cake stalls and awareness campaigns for a variety of causes. The Leo Club joined them to organise Do it for Dolly Day and participated in community events such as the Cooma Show and Motorfest. MHS has also revamped its sports committee which has made a fantastic effort to run a intra-school competition between the year groups and teachers at break times. It has been a fantastic addition to the school calendar promoting camaraderie and fostering school culture.

The Waligada program was introduced this year to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

students. The programs allows students to connect or re-connect with people, country, culture and lore. It has been a valuable experience for students to connect with the local Indigenous community and participate in cultural

education programs.

Monaro High School’s Year 12 students have completed their HSC exams and are currently waiting for results to be released next week. The Rowan Sandercoe Awards Day and MHS

poresentation night are taking place this week to celebrate the achievements of our students throughout the year. This is always a special event and one the school looks forward to each year.

Principal Jai Lester, who came to MHS at the start of this year, said 2024 has been a positive one for the school community.

“I am constantly in awe of the dedication of MHS staff and want to take this opportunity to publicly thank them for caring so much about the young people under our responsibility,” Mr Lester said.

“I am also proud of our students who throughout the year have shown dedication to their academic work and enthusiasm in participating in school activities. We introduced this year some behaviour expectation contracts and a token rewards system to recognise the positive student behaviour we value in our school and in the broader community. I have been pleased with the way this has fostered respect and optimism in the school and would like to congratulate Lawson on winning the token tally.”

Deputy principal Nathan Schubert says the culture in the school this year has been really positive, for both students and staff.

“We all are looking forward to the adventures and challenges that next year will bring, with energy and enthusiasm,” Mr Schubert said.

PRODUCTIVE: Monaro High School Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students participated in the Waligada program for the first time this year. The program allowed students to connect or reconnect with people and country. Pictured are students with Uncle Mike and Aunty Therese. PHOTO: Monaro High School

SCHOOL WRAP-UP

Passing on a special Christmas ‘gift’

“This is a gift of a school,” was the comment that the current St Patrick’s Parish School principal, Mrs Frances Robertson, made recently to the incoming principal, Dr Sean Mangan. Dr Mangan will commence the school’s leadership in 2025. Mrs Robertson is leaving the position she has held for the last 11 years.

“It is such an inclusive place where there is a place for everyone and the school’s motto, Strength in Gentleness, is lived every day,” Mrs Robertson told Dr Mangan.

The school has grown significantly. As well as accepting local families for enrolment, St Patrick’s has been able to welcome many international families. Their enrolment is marked by a pin in the world map in the foyer. The students are supported with a dedicated program in English language development, which has seen these students significantly progress in their academic studies.

Apart from very high expectations and standards for learning, there is a love of learning at the school.

St Patrick’s has also implemented a behaviour

curriculum, which is a program for explicitly teaching students ways to be behave so they are productively learning in a safe and calm space. This allows all students to thrive academically because disruptions and off-task behaviours are minimised, and instruction time is maximised.

St Patrick’s provides many different enrichment activities for the students. Recently, the Secondary Tournament of Minds team won regional and state competitions and progressed to the international competition. Debating prowess has been a highlight and competitive wins in the Da Vinci Decathlon and Science Engineering competitions in recent years have been a point of pride.

“We say that we are a place of learning, safety and belonging. It helps us to focus on the important things. We know that we have a strong tradition to anchor us, contemporary evidenced-based teaching to give the best to our students and our eyes are lifted to the horizon to prepare for the future. It is, indeed, a gift of a school,” Mrs Robertson said.

Big Steps to School

SUCCESS: Above - St Patrick’s Parish students have enjoyed a busy 2024. Above right - Dr Sean Mangan is the incoming principal at St Pat’s. He is welcomed to the school by principal, Frances Roberson.

Below - Students preparing to go into class during the year.

PHOTOS: St Patrick’s Parish School

mitment to fostering a love of learning. As the school looks ahead to 2025, the excitement for what’s to come is palpable.

Throughout 2024, the halls of CPS have echoed with laughter and enthusiasm as students have embarked on their unique learning journeys. The school’s

passion and commitment, have played a vital role in helping every student connect, succeed, thrive, and learn.

Kindergarten students have truly embraced the challenges of reading, writing, and maths, taking to these foundational skills like a duck takes to water. Their

Cooma Public School displays plenty of energy, enthusiasm in 2024

achievements fill teachers with pride, as they eagerly anticipate the wonderful things they will showcase in the future.

As CPS celebrate its Year 1s, staff recognise their growth and development in critical thinking and collaboration.

Year 2s have made significant strides in their learning, building a solid foundation for their future studies.

Year 3s have explored new concepts in subjects like science,

mathematics, and literacy, their teachers have continually been impressed by their curiosity and eagerness to learn. Year 4s have shown remarkable resilience and creativity with innovative ideas

Year 5s have blossomed into confident learners, ready to tackle more complex concepts and collaborate with their peers.

Meanwhile, Year 6 students are preparing to embark on the next exciting chapter of their

taught staff as much as has been imparted to them, reminding the adults to dream big and believe that anything is possible.

As the school wraps up this year, teachers are filled with gratitude for its students, staff, and community who have made 2024 a year to remember.

Here’s to a fantastic 2025, where CPS will continue to inspire, support, and watch its students soar to new heights.

CoomaPublicSchool

LEARN

The sta and students of CPS are looking forward to 2025.

Busy in the classroom, CPS students enjoy personalised learning.

LO O L ARNING: Cooma Public School students ha e had a terrific year. PHOTOS: Supplied

New facilities enhance student learning

areas, library

STUDENTS and staff at Bombala’s St Joseph’s Primary School are benefiting from new and improved facilities following the official opening of the enhanced spaces.

Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, joined the school community to open new general learning areas, a library and a covered outdoor learning area at the school which will are arealy bossting student educational outcomes.

Ms McBain said work on the development project was delivered with support of Australian Government funding of $444,312 through the Capital Grants Program.

“A lot of work has gone into this project which has delivered refurbishment of general learning areas, a library and a covered outdoor area,” Ms McBain said.

“These new facilities will provide school staff, teachers and students at St Joseph’s School with better, more modern

LEARNING: New and improved facilities are unveiled at St Joseph’s Primary School in Bombala. Members of the school community, the Catholic Archdiocese of Canberra, Member for Eden Monaro, Kristy McBain (third right), and school leaders celebrate the milestone.

including those in St Joseph’s School, Bombala, get the best possible education.”

Ms McBain said the new facilities would benefit the

have built a strong and positive school community and these new facilities will further enhance our local educational opportunities,” Ms McBain said.

Ms McBain takes time to meet students at St Joey’s in Bombala.

SCHOOL WRAP-UP

Proud principal praises students

By SNOWY MOUNTAINS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, ELLA MAYER

WHAT a wonderful year we have had, and the students have been given many creative learning opportunities.

Snowy Mountains Christian School (SMCS) exists to prepare children for life by training them, in partnership with their parents, to grow in character, skills and knowledge; realising their full potential in Christ to serve, as they understand more of God’s truth in an atmosphere of God’s love and mutual respect.

This core purpose drives everything we do. It is about the head, heart, and hand.

 Learning that instructs the mind, shapes the heart and equips the hand.

This year, our school focus verse was from John 12:46 - ‘I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness’. It has been beneficial to learn and understand how that verse is relevant to our lives and culture.

We are so thankful for the many people who have contributed to making this such a memorable and productive year; people who put in endless hours of volunteering,

donating, and doing whatever was necessary to support students - both at home and at school.

And in particular, the exceptional staff who work so hard over and above the call of duty.

During 2024, we welcomed a new visual arts teacher, Mr Stan Menshic, who is passionate about the arts and being part of the school community.

We welcomed Miss Madeleine

and greeting guests as they came to school functions. They are such wonderful role models for the younger students.

We are very thankful for the various ways God has blessed the school community this year.

in K/1/2 and assisting in many areas of the school community. She played a huge role in helping to prepare the Primary classes for the school musical.

We also welcomed Mrs Victoria Carpentier as our new PDHPE teacher. She has a huge passion for all things sport, and this passion has made a huge impact on our sport program.

New to the school was Mrs Elise Grootenboer as wellbeing aide. She has been a huge

encouragement to the staff and students, and we are very thankful for her wide-ranging contributions to the school community.

I was impressed with the work of the Student Service Council (SSC) under the leadership of Mrs Elizabeth England. The students have grown into fine young leaders who have been proactive in their roles.

They led Monday assemblies, book week parade, fun fair, Anzac Day wreath laying, and meeting

SMCS benefitted from so many extra learning experiences through a variety of events, including: Water Day at Snowy Hydro, Snowy Classic Fundraiser, Kub Kar Racing. NSW Country Secondary Schools Chess Competition, public speaking competition involving all the students, primary camp to Kianinny Bush Cottages, Tathra, Cooma Fire Service truck visit, secondary school’s involvement in the Rotary Club Debating Competition, secondary school excursion to the National Museum of Australia, primary rostrum, in-school chess tournament, plus many more wonderful opportunities.

Snowy Mountains Christian School welcomes all students and families across the Snowy Monaro who are interested in a Christ-Centred Education. If you are interested in enrolment or information about Snowy Mountains Christian School, please don’t hesitate to visit our school website smcs.nsw.edu.au or call 6452 4333

In Christ we strive for excellence

Students have enjoyed dozens of additional learning opportunities at the Snowy Mountains Christian School this year.

CHAMPIONS: The Snowy Mountains Christian School Year 9/10 debating team celebrate winning the Cooma Rotary Club secondary schools debating competition.

SCHOOL WRAP-UP

Inaugural Indigenous program ceremony for MHS graduates

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

THE first Waligada Program graduation ceremony at Monaro High School (MHS) for the class of 2024 was held last Thursday.

Students, staff, parents, friends, Snowy Monaro Regional Council mayor, Chris Hanna, and Clr Tanya Higgins, along with special guest, Ngarigo Elder, Aunty Tammy Wilesmith, were in attendance.

The program, the first of its kind on Ngarigo country, is offered to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Grade 7 – 12 to allow them to connect or re-connect with people, country, culture and lore.

It is the first of its kind ever offered to students and includes the opportunity for students to engage and participate in cultural educational experiences.

Waligada Program co-founders, Uncle Michael-Andrew Kyron Wilesmith (“Uncle Mike”) and Aunty Rachael Hopkins, Ngarigo Waligada Aboriginal Corporation and Elders, are proud of the success of the program.

Uncle Mike said the program is scheduled to be launched next year for primary education.

Thursday’s graduation began with a traditional smoking ceremony, before adjourning indoors for the certificate presentations.

“This year the students made coolamons, didgeridoos, traditional artworks,” Uncle Mike said.

“The program also offers Indigenous recognitions to our students and to their families, who have not been formally recognised, who connect and reconnect with their cultural and Indigenous heritage.

“With this year’s launch of the program, hopefully it’s one that will continue for many years to come.”

Following the presentation of graduation certificates, appreciation certificates were given to those who supported the Waligada program, as well as certificates to recognise Indigenous and Torres Strait Islanders.

MHS principal, Jai Lester, said the school was the first to offer a program of this kind in the Monaro.

“One of the biggest challenges we have always had in Snowy Monaro schools I have worked at is making authentic connection to Ngarigo Country and acknowledgement of the history we have in the Snowy Mountains, and that some of the history on this land is horrific. So to have Uncle Mike, Aunty Rachael and all those who have worked in the Waligada Program to help re-build a genuine connection to Ngarigo Country, and for Monaro High School to be the first school to offer the program, is an incredibly proud moment for us, and an important moment for the Snowy Mountains in re-gaining our cultural history and acknowledging the importance of the

“It’s

opportunities for me,” Jack

“Finding out more about where I come from and just connecting with country more often.

“Also the creative options available, the making coolamons and

didgeridoos; but mainly getting in touch with Country was the big thing for me.”

For Blake, the highlight was learning to make coolamons, didgeridoos and tapping sticks.

Ngarigo people to this land,” Mr Lester said.

Students Jack Bryant, Year 8, and Blake Bridges, Year 9, valued being part of the program.

opened a lot of

said.

who I am as an Aboriginal man and learn more about the culture.”

Waligada Program facilitators Aunty Rachael Hopkins and Uncle Mike Wilesmith with MHS principal, Jai Lester.

Student Learning Support officers, Gabbi and Antonia de Rooy, and Learning Support teacher, Bernadette Howard receive their Completion of the Waligada Program from Uncle Mike Wilesmith and Aunty Rachael Hopkins.

PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News.

1.00 Grand Designs Aust. 1.55 Brush With Fame. 2.30 Take 5. 3.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 3.30 Long Lost Family. 4.15 Grand Designs: The Streets.

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Left Off The Map. 9.30 NBC Today. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Mt Hutt Rescue. 3.30 Left Off The Map. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 ER. 3.00 Doctor Who. 3.45 Speechless. 4.05 Would I Lie To You At Christmas? 4.35 MythBusters. 5.25 Amazing Spaces. 6.15 Car S.O.S. 7.00 My Family. 7.30 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Hard Quiz. Final. 9.00 Question Everything. Final. 9.30 Gruen. 10.10 Late Programs.

6.00

3.25

Designs:

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 MOVIE: Candy Coated Christmas. (2021) 1.45 Motorbike Cops. 2.15 Catch Phrase. 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 The Seven: 7NEWS — Year In Review. 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 8.30 MOVIE: In The Line Of Fire. (1993) Clint Eastwood, John Malkovich. 11.10 Pam & Tommy. 12.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 Pawn Stars. 12.00 Swamp People. 1.00 Highway Patrol. 2.00 The Force: BTL. 3.00 Billy The Exterminator. 3.30 Jade Fever. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 8.30 MOVIE: Alita: Battle Angel. (2019) 11.05 MOVIE: 2.22. (2017) 1.10 Late Programs.

And The Band. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.05 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.35 Doctor Who. 10.20 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.45 Late Programs.

MOVIE: The Ship That Died Of Shame. (1955) 5.00 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 World Aquatics Championships. Budapest 2024. Day 2. Heats. 9.45 MOVIE: Moonraker. (1979) 12.15 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Left Off The Map. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Buffy. 2.00 Modern Family. 5.00 Glee. 6.00 Modern Family.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Heiress Of Christmas. (2023) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Great Getaways. 8.30 Emergency. 9.30 A+E After Dark. 10.30 Captivated. New. 11.25 Resident Alien. 12.15 Tipping Point. 1.05 Cross Court. 1.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed.

Glee.

8.30

9.00

6.00 Morning Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 1.50 Explore. 2.05 Dales For Sale. 3.05 MOVIE: All Creatures Great And Small. (1975) 5.00 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 World Aquatics Championships. Budapest 2024. Day 3. Heats. 9.30 MOVIE: For Your Eyes Only. (1981) 12.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 Lost For Words. 3.25 The Cook Up.

3.00 A

4.15

5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia Christmas Special. 8.30 Shetland. Final. 9.30 Question Everything. Final. 10.05 Hard Quiz. 10.35 The Cleaner. 11.35 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 5.20 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.05 Kangaroo Beach. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.50 Doctor Who. 10.35 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10 ER. 2.55 Doctor Who. 3.40 Speechless. 4.05 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 4.30 MythBusters. 5.25 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. 6.10 Car S.O.S. 7.00 My Family. 7.30 Would I Lie

Feed Australia. 2.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Harry’s Practice. 3.00 Taste Of Aust. 3.30 Left Off The Map. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 American Pickers. 12.00 Pawn Stars. 2.00 Close Encounters Down Under. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Jade Fever. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Surveillance Oz. 8.30 MOVIE: I, Robot. (2004) 10.50 MOVIE: Resident Evil: Afterlife. (2010) 12.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: A Christmas Break. (2020) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Find My Beach House Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Bad Moms 2. (2017) Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell, Kathryn Hahn. 10.30 MOVIE: Fighting With My Family. (2019) 12.30 Tipping Point. 1.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Left Off The Map. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Big Brother. 2.25 Bondi Vet. 3.25 First Dates UK. 4.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 5.00 Aust Got Talent. 7.00 MOVIE: Playmobil: The Movie. (2019) 9.00 MOVIE: Ghostbusters II. (1989) 11.15 MOVIE: Searching. (2018) 1.30 Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.40 Entertainment Tonight. 12.00 Farm To Fork. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 10 News First: Lunchtime. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Family Feud. 4.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Days Of Our Lives. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 2.00 Dales For Sale. 3.00 Dr Quinn. 5.00 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 World Aquatics Championships. Budapest 2024. Day 4. Heats. 9.45 MOVIE: Never Say Never Again. (1983) 12.30 Late Programs.

ABC SEVEN NINE

5

•Delightful

•Home

•A

•Five

•Covered

Address: 10 Dickinson Street, Bombala

Asking: $550,000

Agent: Nutrien Harcourts Bombala

Rarely does a home of this caliber come on the market, and now after 6 decades, 10 Dickinson Street, has hit the market. This beautiful home was built by a well-known local builder for his own family, 65 years ago. Treasured and cared for by the same family since, the home

nothing more to do than move in.

With practical and stylish cabinetry, oodles of storage and a breakfast bar perfect for entertaining, the kitchen is definitely the heart of this family home. An elegant north facing loungeroom, complimented by ducted gas heating and quality furnishings, will ensure your all-year-round comfort.

The original section of the home offers three double sized bedrooms, complete with built-in robes. An extension was undertaken

dining / sitting area that overlooks the back yard, an additional living room/4th bedroom, home office, second bathroom and modern laundry. This area would easily convert to a parent’s retreat and ensuite providing privacy and quite from the rest of the household. With manicured lawns and well-established gardens, a stand-alone single car garage and double garage with workshop, this home will tick a lot of boxes.

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

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

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

• West paddocks are perfect for lambing and calving

• Majority of fencing in new condition

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

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

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

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

• Storage machinery shed and grain silo

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

Auction 16/01/2025 11am at

Proprietors of the local long-established firm Boller & Company, 57 Vale Street, Cooma wish to advise that as of 20th December 2024 they will be trading and operating Boller & Company from their residence 11 Smith St, Cooma NSW.

Both Tracy and Chippy wholeheartedly thank everyone who has supported them over the past 35 years in the Cooma and the whole Monaro region. All contact phone numbers remain the same as do email addresses and Post Office address.

Lot 206 Delegate Road, Delegate

Snowy Monaro

Forecast rain lifts Cooma market

COOMA Associated Agents held its monthly cattle sale on Friday November 29.

On the promise of rain the following day (which produced welcomed falls across the region), the market lifted substantially with the 900 cattle penned selling above expectations.

Buyers came from Bathurst, Forbes, Gippsland, Bega, Riverina as well as some local support.

There were 110 scale cattle penned, mostly made up of cows with some feeder steers and heifers.

Cows reached 271c for 661kg. with plainer cows making 230240c. Feeder steers made up to $3.30/kg for 413kg black baldies.

Scale heifers reached $2.61 for 510kgs.

The majority of sales were up and on par with the current Wagga Wagga market.

In the store cattle department, there were several runs of cows

and calves penned along with good lines of re-stocker steers and heifers, totalling 790 head.

Cows and calves reached $2300 for a pen of younger, rejoined Angus cows with Angus calf at foot. With lighter, older cows and little calves making from $1400-$1800.

Store steers reached $1350 for steers with plenty of weight with the bulk making $900-$1150.

The buyers were paying better money for good run of well bred, straight Angus steers.

Store heifers were lighter in weight but still sold well considering. The best of the store heifers made $1130 for heifers ready to join with the bulk making $600$900. All pending breed and weight.

The next Cooma cattle sale will be held on Friday January 17, to be confirmed, pending numbers early next year.

Contact your preferred selling agent for bookings and enquiries.

COOMA CATTLE SALE REPORT Friday November 29, 2024 BULLS

LIVESTOCK: Buyers show plenty of interest at the Cooma cattle sale with the promise of rain li ing the market. PHOTOS: Damien Bond, work experience

Cooma Associated Agents are pleased with the numbers sold at the recent Cooma cattle sale.

What are the new weeds on my doorstep?

weeds within the Snowy Monaro region

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

For these new weeds, because they are in such low numbers within the state or within a region, it is considered technically feasible to eradicate, or at least contain them. Furthermore, the Biosecurity Act 2015 gives Council the tools, and in many cases requires Council, to enforce the control of these weeds.

Snowy Monaro Regional Council, as the local control authority in the Snowy Monaro region, is the agency primarily responsible for managing these weeds.

Council weed officers are often asked, what are the new weeds that have now taken precedence over serrated tussock, African lovegrass and blackberry? This article details some of the new and emerging weeds within the region and those which are on our doorstep that should be closely monitored and reported to Council if someone suspects their presence.

Coolatai grass (Hyparrhenia hirta)

Like African lovegrass, Coolatai grass is a tropical, perennial weed that readily invades weak pastures on light soils. In tablelands situations, it grows prolifically throughout the summer and goes dormant over winter, leaving behind a tall, rank thatch of highly flammable growth.

Coolatai grass typically has low digestibility and low protein levels, making it a low quality pasture species.

Four isolated patches of Coolatai grass are known to occur along the Monaro Highway between Cooma and Michelago, where it is thought to have been introduced by slashers or vehicles. These sites are routinely monitored and treated by Council’s biosecurity team throughout the warmer months.

While the sites have been impacted by a number of natural events, including bushfires, the infestations are not believed to have spread from the roadside onto private lands.

Coolatai grass is not widespread within south-east NSW, being limited mainly to isolated roadside infestations.

The South East Regional Strategic Weed

Management Plan 2023–27 identifies Coolatai grass as a weed which is unlikely to be eradicated. It is therefore most appropriately managed through the adoption of containment strategies.

Alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides)

Alligator weed is a major threat to waterways and floodplains. It can blanket the surface of waterways, restrict access, damage infrastructure and affect flora and fauna.

It is considered one of the world’s worst weeds. Not only does it impact the aquatic environment, but it also has the ability to creep out into the terrestrial environment, where it contaminates grazing pastures and threatens the viability of a number of commercial industries.

Alligator weed currently occurs in a number of waterways within the Australian Capital Territory where it is managed by the ACT Parks and Conservations Service. Alligator weed reproduces vegetatively, with new plants being produced from any root or stem fragment.

Alligator weed readily spreads on machinery, boats and trailers, hay, turf, landscape supplies

Northern re-stockers drive market prices up

Wagga Wagga MLA sale

Total yarding: 4280 (-890)

RE-STOCKERS took centre stage on December 2 at Wagga Wagga, making their presence felt in a smaller yarding.

The recent rains have sparked renewed enthusiasm among northern restockers, who were active across all weights and grades of cattle under 400kg.

The bidding was intense, with all buyers vying for a share of the market, leading to stronger competition that outpaced feedlot buyers, who then mainly focused on purchasing cattle above 400kg.

Overall, the market showcased the significant influence of restockers, driving competition and prices higher across various categories.

Both domestic and export processors were active in the market; however, heavy steers faced a lack of competition unless they belonged to specific breed.

Steers heading back to the paddock weighing between 280kg to 330kg saw a significant price increase, gaining 54c to average $1,148/head.

The next weight category, 330kg to 400kg, also experienced a rise, with prices climbing by 33c and selling in the range of 322c to 384c/kg.

or through any other movement of soil and has a high likelihood of spreading into our region.

Tell-tale features of Alligator weed are its hollow stem, leaves in opposite pairs and small white flowers on short stalks. In tablelands situations, the plants breakdown and decay over winter and actively grow again during the summer months.

Alligator weed is managed in NSW through the imposition of a biosecurity zone, enabling different management responses to be adopted based on biosecurity risk. Within the Snowy Monaro and the broader south-east region of NSW, alligator weed must be reported to the local control authority (Council) and must be eradicated.

Gorse (Ulex europaeus)

Gorse is a shrub up to three metres tall that is covered in sharp spines and forms impenetrable thickets. Late winter is its main flowering time in the Snowy Monaro region, when it is covered in brilliant yellow flowers.

Major infestations occur in the higher rainfall areas of the NSW Blue Mountains, Tasmania, Victoria and New Zealand.

Only isolated infestations of gorse exist in the Snowy Monaro region, owing mainly to relatively low rainfall. Sites are therefore limited mainly to waterways where the plants can access more reliable moisture reserves.

Heifers returning to the paddock lifted an impressive 81c making from 290c to 334c/kg to average $975/head.

Lightweight feeder steers sold for 309c to 358c, reflecting an improvement of 13c/kg.

Medium-weight feeder steers faced stronger competition from Queensland buyers, resulting in an 8c increase, averaging 343c/kg cwt. Medium weight feeder heifers were keenly sought, with prices jumping 25c selling at 285c to 318c/kg.

Additionally, trade steers and heifers experienced a notable uptick of 11c to 24c selling between 280c and 350c/kg.

The export market showed some volatility, with competition improving as the sale progressed.

However, heavy steers struggled to attract buyers, leading to a price drop of 10c, with most selling between 288c and 340c/kg, and a single steer reaching 360c/kg.

Bullock prices fluctuated based on age, with an overall improvement of 6c, averaging 333 c/kg.

The cow sale was particularly robust, supported by strong demand from restockers.

Heavy cows gained 15c, selling between 275c and 298c, while leaner D3 types saw a 16c, fetching prices between 244c and 285c/kg.

Due to its limited distribution in south-east NSW, gorse is a priority weed as identified within the South East Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan 2023-27.

Like Coolatai grass and Spanish heath, gorse is unlikely to be eradicated from the region and is most appropriately managed through the adoption of containment

Visit Council’s website to learn more about weeds and biosecurity in the Snowy Monaro. Head online to https://qrco.de/ SMRCweeds to access your

expert biosecurity team about managing weeds on your property, email council@smrc.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 345 345 to get in touch today.

Only isolated infestations of gorse exist in the Snowy Monaro region, owing mainly to relatively low rainfall. Sites are therefore limited mainly to waterways where the plants can access more reliable moisture reserves.

Alligator weed is a major threat to waterways and floodplains. It is considered one of the world’s worst weeds.

EMERGING: Coolatai grass in tablelands situations, grows prolifically throughout the summer and goes dormant over winter, leaving behind a tall, rank thatch of highly flammable growth. PHOTOS: Supplied

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 Name a Greek or Roman deity (6)

8 Which Siberian peasant posed as a monk (8)

9 To be red-faced, is to be what (6)

10 Name a crewed orbiter, used in the USspace shuttle program (8)

11 To be more irritable, is to be what (6)

12 Name a repository for money, jewels, papers, etc (4)

13 What, colloquially, are sausages (5)

16 What are pits in which liquid is collected (5)

19 To encourage by aid, is to do what (4)

21 What is a meal also known as (6)

22 Name a large S American snake of the boa family (8)

23 What are funeral songs or tunes (6)

24 What is a song performed by a man under the window of his sweetheart (8)

25 Which term describes a holiday place (6)

DOWN

2 Name a knightly or heroic champion (7)

4 What are authoritative directions (6)

5 Which term describes globular masses (7)

6 What is reversion to an earlier type (7)

7 What are dishes served at dinner before the main courses (7)

13 Name a renowned Austrian composer, Johann ... (7)

15 Which hotel bars are the dearer ones (7)

17 What are referees also known as (7)

18 Name the French chemist considered to be the founder of microbiology (7)

20 What might we call a merchant (6)

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

2 RATIOCINATE

E-QUATIONS

3 To be lying in concealment, is to be doing what (7)

Letters

Some

14 What are matters of interest or concern (7)

the right

E-QUATIONS

Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

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

(c)

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:

Bachelors of Arts (3)

Film studio’s outdoor area (7)

Firm (5)

Loose coil of yarn (5)

Mobility aids (7)

Ordinary (abb) (3)

Small lizard (5) State of matter (3)

Under (5) Was victorious (3)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

TRADES AND SERVICES

CALLAGHAN, Bruce William. The family of the late Bruce William Callaghan would like to thank everyone for their condolences, support and love during this di cult time. We are truly blessed to have such a caring and supportive community.

~ Ines, Renee Tamara and families. Thank you.

Local indigenous artwork loaned to council and Monaro High

By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK

THE mayoral office of Snowy Monaro Regional Council will be home to an Indigenous piece of artwork created by Aunty Tammy from Ngarigo Waligada Council of Elders.

Clr Chris Hanna was presented with the artwork on Thursday while attending the first graduation of the Waligada Program at Monaro High School.

Aunty Tammy said the painting is dedicated to her father, Geoffrey Wilesmith.

The painting, titled Ngarigo Engulfed in Flames, represents the 2019-2020 bush fires Ngarigo Country endured; lost connections and then re-forming these connections to Ngarigo ancestors during that period of time.

“It’s about family, friends and the strength of the woman in our Mob,” Aunty Tammy said.

“My dad passed away in January 2020, just after returning to his home from the Adelong Evacuation Centre. This painting was a way of re-connecting and healing.”

Three other paintings by Aunty Tammy were officially presented to Monaro High School, on loan for 12 months.

“One of these paintings

represents the different terrains of Ngarigo Country, and how we all play a part in preserving our Lands.

“The meeting of our friends and family along the journey.

“The second one depicts strength; we are strong.

“Connecting with our Stolen Generation and lest we ever forget what they gave and what was taken from them.

“The third painting reflects the Great Southern Lands of Ngarigo. “the most beautiful lands of all. “We light up the skies from our Ancestors eyes.”

CWA Cooma branch raffle winners drawn

COOMA branch of CWA Christmas raffle has been drawn, with the winners advised of their prizes.

First prize of a large Christmas hamper was won by Rae Johnston, second prize of a smaller hamper by Robert Unwin and third prize - a wall hanging - was won by Letitia Newman.

“Congratulations to our winners and thank you to all those in our community and beyond for supporting this year’s raffle. Your support is much appreciated,” branch president, Margaret Peterson, said.

“Each year, our branch makes donations to local community organisations, local schools and to CWA of NSW. We were

pleased this year to make a significant donation to a local community service, the Monaro Early Intervention Service, now part of Monaro Family Support Services.

“Cooma Branch is part of CWA Monaro Group and we are pleased that this year, Monaro Group was able to provide education grants for 16 students from schools on the Monaro. These grants are for students in year 6 who are transferring to year 7 next year.”

At State level, CWA of NSW engages in advocacy work, based on motions passed at its State Conferences.

Once motions have been passed, letters and submissions are made to relevant decision

makers at all levels of government to advocate on selected issues.

Some of CWA’s advocacy work this year has included:

• Advocating for amendments to the NSW Bail Act to change the default bail provision for domestic and family violence offenders and to harmonise bail law presumptions nationally;

• Advocating for all levels of government to prioritise funding models for domestic and family violence victims’ support and for services targeting perpetrator risk factors, such as mental health, alcohol etc;

• Advocating to the National Cabinet to establish recording and tracking of domestic violence perpetrators across all jurisdictions;

• New coercive control laws have been brought into force this year;

• CWA is also advocating for up to date rural road maps to be provided to 000 centres, showing the quickest practical route to the incident, along with remote area GPS devices for 000 vehicles;

• Another advocacy area is housing for nurses, midwives and allied health workers and also affordable housing for single, older women, in remote, rural and regional areas;

• The Agricultural and Environmental Committee is advocating for NSW and ACT governments to take urgent action for bush fire mitigation

in government controlled land; and

• Another issue is funding for local councils to maintain school bus route roads in rural and regional areas.

“There is much more. There is a strong track record over the years of many successful outcomes,” Ms Peterson said.

The first meeting in 2025 will be 11.30am on February 10. Regular meetings are on the second Monday of the month at the Cooma Car Club, Bolaro Street, Cooma. Enquiries: 6452 1782.

“We look forward to another year of CWA activities and fellowship and we would welcome new members. Come and join us!”

BOMBALA is all set for a huge community Christmas carols event this Saturday at the Bombala showgrounds.

The free event will get underway at 5pm and offer family activities, hot food, refreshments by Bombala Lions Club and more.

It has been made possible by Presbyterian Inland Mission and the Bombala Youth Booth Inc.

The Christmas spirit in the town will be heightened by a Christmas display at 71 Elton Rd, Bombala, nightly from 7pm to 10pm.

Lollies and small gifts will be provided for children, handed out by an elf.

Donations will be accepted to help keep Bombala Youth Booth up and running to support local children.

RAFFLE: Woolworths team member, Marietta Corey, draws the winning tickets for the Cooma CWA branch Christmas ra le, watched on by president, Margaret Peterson.

Aunty Tammy Wilesmith has loaned three of her paintings to Monaro High School for 12 months. She is pictured with MHS student learning support o icer, Antonia de Rooy.

HAND OVER: Cindy Chawner, (le ), Aunty Tammy Wilesmith, Uncle Mike Wilesmith, and Aunty Rachael Hopkins present Snowy Monaro Regional Council mayor, Clr Chris Hanna, with art for his o ice.

Fun, fashion highlight Cooma Races 2024

Runner-up in the fashions on the field over 40s is Roslyn Rudd.

Winning the best dressed couple is Maddie Broomfield and Nathan Boate at the 2024 Cooma Races.

Sarah Burns defends her title as best dressed lady (30-39 age group) in the Cooma Races fashions of the field competition. Sarah is congratulated by her dad, Peter Burns.

Kevin Fraser and Erin McDonald return to the Cooma Races. They are looking forward to seeing old friends and catchingup with family.

Rachael Schouten, Megan Lee, Tara Docker, Abbie Williams and Sarah Atkinson are having a top day at the Cooma Races.

Sam Green and Andrew Rolfe catching-up at the Cooma Races.

Natalee Freebody-Reid, Clare Andrich and Tania McLachlan joined the Monaro Wool Services team for race day.

SOCIAL: Bombala’s Sam Stewart, Karter Hampshire, Kristy Nichols, Tash Stewart, Brooke Morey and Patrice Clear enjoy their time at the Cooma Races. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson

Lake Jindabyne Sailing Club’s regatta declared a winner

LAKE Jindabyne Sailing club held its bi-annual regatta on the weekend of December 6 and 8. The regatta was very busy with 67 entries in five divisions and national competitions for Nacra 16 squared and Hobie 14s, 16s and 18s. The club was privileged to have professional race officer, Hugh Leicester, for the weekend to set the courses and manage starts.

Racing was varied with some very strong winds. A quick twilight race on Friday started the regatta, with the three races on Saturday held in very strong winds, gusting to over 30 knots. Lots of capsizes kept the three safety boats busy.

Sunday saw the wind reduce slightly as races started, but

race two of the three Sunday races saw the wind increase and a number of boats return to shore. The final race was held in lighter winds.

A total of seven races were completed with one race eligible for dropping. Full results are on the website (www.lakejindabynesailingclub.com)

Winners were as follows:

Division 1 - Nacra 16 Square + Hobie 18 - John Forbes and Rose Cookson on Hobie 18 ‘Pine Lime Splice’ from Palm Beach Sailing Club

Division 2 - Hobie 16 + Hobie 14T - David Fisher and Hayley Fisher on Hobie 16 ‘The Barbaloots’ from Palm Beach

Sailing Club

Division 3 - Other

Catamarans - Gary Maskiell on ‘The Bees Knees’, a Mosquito Cat with Spinnaker from Gippsland Lakes YC

Division 4 – Monohulls - Nick Longbottom and Darryl Bentley on ‘Magic Element’ a Tasar from Canberra Yacht Club

Division 5 – OptimistsJeremy Jorann on ‘The Real Deal’ Optimist from Canberra Yacht Club.

The club thanked their sponsors, Jindabyne Brewery, The Banjo Patterson Inn, Sacred Ride and Catcovers. In addition thanks to Perisher resort and MidStation Perisher for their supply of food and chefs, and the mountain of volunteers for the weekend, including those from other local clubs.

Jindabyne too strong for Bombala

THE Jindabyne Tigers have started the Monaro cricket one-day premiership in style with a dominant victory over Bombala. The Tigers chased Bombala’s 47 inside 10 overs.

Dalgety win local derby as cricket returns

By RUSS HAYLOCK

DALGETY sits atop the Alpine Hotel One Day Competition ladder after a four-wicket win in its round two match against Berridale.

The Whitetails were made to rue their inability to bat the full 40 overs, being bowled out for 151 with six overs still to bat.

Ben Hearn’s 47 was the mainstay of Dalgety’s innings, supported first by Tristan Hamilton (22) and later Alex Thomson (24). These were the only scores of substance, with Rylee Holland (3-20), Simon Freebody (3-35) and Owen Freebody (2-23) all chipping in with regular wickets.

The Whitetails score of 151 appeared to be under par, but three early wickets between Zac McKenzie and Jack Dunn brought them

right back into the contest.

Young Dunn bowled his eight over spell without a break, and without letting his opponents off the hook, finishing with tidy figures of 1-22.

Simon Freebody and Shannon Devine set about rebuilding the innings and took the score from 3-31 to 4-52 before Thomson had Devine caught by Dan Watts.

The key partnership then came between Freebody and Grant Ross, with the duo working the ball into gaps nicely.

Young quick, Felix Bertossi, put in his best senior performance to date, bowling six overs straight to finish with tidy figures of 0-27. He and Watts found their rhythm at the same time to slow Dalgety’s scoring

down, with Watts breaking the 64-run stand with the wicket of Freebody (31). Ross (29) then fell to McKenzie (3-23), bringing two new batters to the crease with 30 runs still required.

The two given this task were captain Nolan Holland and Aaron Fenton, who were made to work by McKenzie and Watts, as well as senior debutants Liam Hedger and Xavier Bertossi. The wisened captain and his younger partner were able to see their team home however, sealing the victory in the 38th over.

Dalgety is at home again on Saturday to face Coffey’s, while Berridale has the bye. The Cooma Titans are back in action, travelling to Jindabyne to take on the Tigers, while Bombala host Rhythm in the last round before the Christmas break.

EVENT: Jindabyne Sailing Club held its popular regatta over the weekend with close to 70 entries taking to Lake Jindabyne.

Tigers keeper Dave Tickell was solid behind the stumps.

Jindabyne spinner Lucas Rixon bowls a Bombala batter.

RUNS: Bombala’s Hugh Kater leads the way for his side. PHOTOS: Steve Cu

Pevere shows class on world stage

COOMA’S Michael Pevere is no longer one of Australia’s best junior bocce talents, but one of the world’s most promising under 18 players.

Michael finished his singles campaign with a bronze medal, following an impressive run in the Bocce World Junior Championships in Puerto Rico.

The 17-year-old took on a France competitior in the semi-final after defeating a Chilean opponent in the quarter-finals.

The semi-final was a close encounter as both players shared points, 5-5, forcing the match into a tie-breaker. France won by just a shot.

Michael claimed bronze for Australia, and for Cooma. The Pevere name is well-known in Cooma bocce circles and throughout the sport in Australia.

Michael’s brother, Daniel, has won national medals, while dad, David, is one of Australia’s top coaches. Michael’s twinbrother, Sam, is part of Bocce Australia’s social media team.

Michael’s, mum, Eileen, is in Puerto Rico cheering her son on, alongside David and Sam.

David is on coaching duties and Sam is helping run the Bocce Australia social media platforms and live-streaming matches.

Michael secured his spot on the national team with four gold medals at the national championships earlier this year.

Family affair for Wallace trophy

By COOLAMATONG GOLF CLUB

COOLAMATONG golfers played for the prestigious W R Wallace trophy on Sunday, a dual trophy for both men and ladies.

William ‘Bill’ Wallace was a founding member of the golf club and donated the trophy in 1970. He is the grandfather of current member Ron Wallace.

In tough windy conditions it was a real family affair for the winners, with Roger White capturing the men’s trophy, and wife Michelle winning the ladies.

Roger had his best score at Coolamatong, shooting 78 scratch and nett 66, saying he had never broken 80 previously.

“I parred the first four holes, so I started all right, and it included two chip ins, one for birdie on the last hole,” Roger said.

Michelle White had two equal nines of 44, with three pars in her last four holes helping her to better her handicap by three

shots with a 69 nett. Jan O’Halloran was runner-up in the ladies with 76 nett.

In the men’s A Grade, Roger White had 66 nett, Jordan Sell a great round 74 scratch for 67 nett, Josh Crawford 70 nett and Chris Brown and Ron Wallace both 74 nett.

In the men’s B Brade, Peter Hastings had 69 nett to edge out Kim Weston on a countback with 69, with Wayne Tuckwell in third on 71 nett.

In C Grade, Lochlin Colin had 69 nett, Robert Haigh 71 nett and Nigel Emmery 73 nett.

On Wednesday, Ian

Wheeldon was back to form winning the day with 38 stableford points, shooting a fine 75 scratch.

The highlight of the day was a great birdie three on the first hole. Further birdies on 13 and 18 made up for a double bogey on 11.

Kevin Cramer was the runner-up on 37 points, producing a very steady card mainly of two pointers, plus three, three pointers.

The ladies event was won by Karen Caban with 33 points, marginally ahead of Michelle White.

In the four-ball-bestball event, Wheeldon teamed up with Brian Clayton for 46 points, with Ross Thompson and Bob Haigh runner-up on 45 points.

Gregg Quinn and Chris Brown were third with 44 points.

Next Sunday is captains against presidents day and the final day for the 2024 ecelctic.

Elton in form as Bombala golfers contest stableford

By BOMBALA GOLF CLUB

WITH Christmas fast approaching and lots of parties taking place, numbers were not great over the weekend.

On Saturday, the event was a stableford for club trophy. Wayne Elton had one of those days when everything went his way coming in with the great score of 40 points.

Ray Crawford couldn’t peg Elton back, despite having his chances but it wasn’t his day.

Elton and Crawford were the ball winners.

Brad Yelds collected a good nest egg winning the nearest the pin on seven.

Neil Thompson had another win of the golden shot.

Sunday was a par for the club trophy. As usual after a round of golf, you hear the funny stories and the

sad stories, the stand-out was the shot of the day. Elton hooked his drive on the 12, close to being out of bounds. With rows of trees in front of him, he turned to a wood, found fresh air and finished just short of the green.

After all that, the winner on the day was Crawford coming in square from Brad Yelds – 2.

Nearest the pin on 13 was not won. The golden shot was won by Wayne Elton.

Golf program for the week

Ladies

Wednesday December 11 - Stableford, club trophy

Members Saturday December 12Stroke, monthly medal

Sunday December 15 - Closing day, chapmans (choose partners). C and W. Elton trophies.

Stewart defends his Cooma medal of medals title

By COOMA GOLF CLUB

IN A tough field, Dave Stewart has defended his medal of medals crown to win this year’s competition.

On Saturday, the overall winner was Phil Ingram with 71 nett on countback from the A Grade winner Bailey Burke.

B Grade went to Marcell Too with 73 net on countback from Phil Amey and

C Grade went to Gary Batten who also had 73 nett. Balls went to Sean Smith, Chris Brown, John Gargett, David Stewart, Phil Amey and Angela Andrews. Nearest the pin on four was won by Ken McGrath, the ninth went to Jason McCarthy, Sean Smith snared 11 and 17 went to Phil Ingram.

Saturday was also the final round of Burke’s

Plant Hire long drives for 2024. A Grade went to Sean Smith, B Grade to Marcel Too and C Grade to Stephen Edgenton.

Gaye Wilson won the ladies’ long drive.

On Sunday, the winner of the stableford was Jonathon Kenmir from Gold Creek Country Club with a great score of 41 points, followed by runner-up Ben Smith with 38 points. Balls went to

Stephen Young, Garry Cornish, Donna Smith, Sean Smith, Fletch Jones, Helen Langley from Narrandera Golf Club and Alan Kelly.

In last week’s mid-week competition, Steven Wheatley was the overall winner with 39 points. A Grade went to David Robinson with 37 points on countback from Phil Ingram, the B Grade winner was Warren Bray

with 37 points and the C Grade winner was Peter Ewart with 35 points on countback from Garry Cornish.

Balls went to Phil Ingram, Robert Gatti from Concord Golf Club, Mitch Hynes, Garry Cornish, Ben Rolfe, David Stewart and Tim Bedingfield.

Nearest the pin on four went to Andreas Geach, hole nine was won by David Robinson, 11 went

to Phil Ingram and the 17 to Colin Langdon. Next Saturday is the ham hit-out with hams up for grabs for the overall winner and the winner of each of the grades. This is being held in conjunction with the captain and presidents Cup with presentation day to follow the golf which is a 9am shotgun start. There are also raffle tickets available at the bar to win a ham.

SUCCESS: Cooma bocce talent, Michael Pevere, has won bronze at the Bocce Junior World Championships. While Michael lost in the semi-final of the under 18 singles competition to a French opponent, he showed his class on the global stage. PHOTO: Bocce Australia

WINNERS: Ron Wallace presented the W R Wallace trophy to Roger (le ) and Michelle White.

PHOTO: Coolamatong Golf Club

Sacred Ride owner offers expert advice

By TRISTA HEATH

SPONSORED CONTENT

IT’S THAT time of the year again where mountain bikers take to the local trails and realise their legs are not as strong as they used to be a few months ago.

It is time to clean the dust off your bike and get it ready to ride again.

Sacred Ride owner, Nic Davoli, said it is always a good idea to get your bike serviced to avoid being stuck on your first ride.

“The best place in the region to get your bike going again will be Sacred Ride Shimano Service Centre,” Davoli said.

Shimano Service Centres are a global network of independent bike retailers who combine excellent bike care with the latest technologies to provide the best service possible.

“They don’t just service bikes, they care about them. They do whatever it takes to get you back on your bike,” Davoli said.

“Whether resolving an issue or providing regular maintenance, Shimanotrained mechanics use the latest Shimano technologies and genuine parts.”

There are only a few selected shops that are certified Shimano Service Centres, with 21 stores in Australia and five in NSW.

Sacred Ride has operated for more than 20 years, servicing bikes in a town with a different demographic than any bike shop in Australia.

They are used to customers who are here for a short stay and need their bike to be fixed on short notice and they always do their best to make it happen.

Davoli said Sacred Ride

region. Sacred Ride’s main store is based in Jindabyne and also service bikes in their Thredbo Demo Centre.

“If you want to try the latest DH, ENDURO or E-bikes check them out in the village centre at the top of the stairs,” Davoli said.

“There is a network of trails between Cooma, Jindabyne and the mountains to cater for everyone: kids, family, beginner, intermediate to advanced, and every aspect of cycling is well covered: MTB track for cross country, trail, enduro and downhill.

“Road cycling, with some very challenging climbs if desired, gravel is also well covered as well as BMX with the new skate park and racetrack.”

To find out about all options just pop into Sacred Ride, where able staff will guide you in the right direction.

Sacred Ride also runs guided tours including their iconic Full Moon Ride from November to May, find out more via the Sacred Ride website.

Davouli said Sacred Ride is without a doubt a one stop shop for leisure time in the region, as they have a water sports facility right on the shore of Lake Jindabyne with easy access by foot, bike or car with plenty of car park spots.

“They do hire craft such as kayak, canoe, SUP, sailboat, hydrofoil E-board and yes you can even cycle on Lake Jindabyne with the Manta 5 hydrofoil E bike,” Davoli said.

“There is a rescue boat always ready for your peace of mind.”

Sacred Ride Water sport’s is located at 6532 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne.

BIKING: Sacred Ride, Jindabyne is located at 1/3A Gippsland Street. PHOTOS: Supplied

Local trainers dominate

COOMA RACE CLUB VOLUNTEERS HONOURED

By NATHAN THOMPSON

FOUR long-serving and hard working volunteers have been honoured with life membership of the Cooma Monaro Race Club.

In a special occasion on race day, Mick Schofield, Steve Johnson, Dave Kelley and Bill Hampson were unveiled as the club’s latest life members. With more than 100 years of racing success and involvement between the four, their

induction was met with much excitement from race goers.

The life member induction started a terrific Cooma Races with the club holding a seven race meet for the first time in its history.

On the track, local trainers and connections enjoyed one of their finest race meets.

Trainers Dave Kelley, Antia ‘Skeet’ Walder and Georgie Boucher all produced winners.

The local success started in race 2 where the Kelley-trained,

Mia’s Dream, finished first in a strong field. Ridden superbly by Ellen Hennessy, Mia’s Dream finished three lengths ahead of the field.

In race six, a 1200 metre handicap, Bombala trainer Walder delivered another win with Big Steve. Damon Budler rode his second winner of the day when Big Steve won the 10-horse race.

The third local win came in the seventh and final race of the meet. Georgie Boucher’s

Gwennybegg finished first in a well ridden race by jockey Sinead Pebbles. It was an emotional win for Boucher who trains near Jindabyne. Her stepfather, ‘Rusty’, a part-owner, recently died. Gwennybegg’s win was a crowd favourite.

In the two feature races of the day, the Wangaratta trained Fox Appeal took out the Cooma Cup.

Jockey, Sarah McDonough, praised trainer, Craig Weeding, for having Fox Appeal in top

condition and thanked the Cooma Monaro Race Club for its efforts in staging the races.

McDonough, speaking at the Cooma Cup presentation (race three sponsored by Snowy Hydro), thanked race club president, Mick Schofield, for the committee’s work in delivering a high-quality country meet.

The prestigious Sundowners Cup was won by Bounty By Knight, trained by Anthony Warren and ridden by Peebles.

HIRE: CANOE, SAIL, WAYDOOS

J IND ABYNE

WINNER: The locally trained Mia’s Dream streaks away in race two at the Cooma Races on Saturday.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson

Mt Perisher 6 chairlift construction on schedule Snowies Alpine Walk now open

By TRISTA HEATH

A NEW multi-day hiking trail through the breathtaking alpine scenery is complete and ready for exploring, with the entire Snowies Alpine Walk in Kosciuszko National Park officially open.

Federal Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister and Member for EdenMonaro, Kristy McBain, joined NSW Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, and Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, last week to open the track.

“It’s a great pleasure to be at the opening of this last link, in what will be an iconic Snowy Mountains walk,” Mr Whan said.

“Kosciuszko National Park is already a huge destination yearround, and this walk gives people the opportunity to experience a unique alpine environment.”

By TRISTA HEATH

MEDIA outlets from across the state joined Perisher staff and construction crew last week for a behind-thescenes tour of the new Mount Perisher 6 chairlift.

Construction is taking place over two summers, with the chair expected to be operational in time for the 2025

winter season and according to Perisher’s Mountain operations director, Michael Fearnside, will provide a 60 percent chairlift capacity on Mount Perisher, while all other surface lifts remain un-changed.

Mt Perisher 6 is a high-speed 6-seater chairlift replacing the Mt P Triple and Mt P Double chairlifts and what used to

take 10 minutes to reach the top, the new lift will halve the time.

“This new lift is more than just steel and concrete, it is the standard we want to uphold in the industry and help to accentuate us as a resort known for its reliability in snow, diversity and terrain choice and its size and scale,” Perisher’s vice president and

general manager, Nathan Butterworth, said.

Facing many constraints and challenges throughout the seasonal build at an altitude of more than 2000 metres, the build is making good progress and is on track, expecting to reach its deadline for the next snow season.

■ Read more on page 8

The world-class Snowies Alpine Walk is a 56 kilometres four day walk that links the alpine locations of Guthega, Charlotte Pass, Perisher and Bullocks Flat with 27 kilometres of new walking track linking existing walks.

The project was made possible with $10 million from the Australian Government and $17.17 million from the NSW Government as part of their commitments to boosting regional NSW local economies and making this landscape more accessible for everyone.

■ Read more on page 5

ON-TRACK: Perisher’s vice president and general manager, Nathan Butterworth, takes media to top station of the Mt Perisher 6 chairlift.

PHOTO: Trista Heath

Bocce brilliance

Local trainers dominate

COOMA RACE CLUB VOLUNTEERS HONOURED

By NATHAN THOMPSON

FOUR long-serving and hard working volunteers have been honoured with life membership of the Cooma Monaro Race Club.

In a special occasion on race day, Mick Schofield, Steve Johnson, Dave Kelley and Bill Hampson were unveiled as the club’s latest life members. With more than 100 years of racing success and involvement between the four, their

induction was met with much excitement from race goers.

The life member induction started a terrific Cooma Races with the club holding a seven race meet for the first time in its history.

On the track, local trainers and connections enjoyed one of their finest race meets.

Trainers Dave Kelley, Antia ‘Skeet’ Walder and Georgie Boucher all produced winners.

The local success started in race 2 where the Kelley-trained,

Mia’s Dream, finished first in a strong field. Ridden superbly by Ellen Hennessy, Mia’s Dream finished three lengths ahead of the field.

In race six, a 1200 metre handicap, Bombala trainer Walder delivered another win with Big Steve. Damon Budler rode his second winner of the day when Big Steve won the 10-horse race.

The third local win came in the seventh and final race of the meet. Georgie Boucher’s

Gwennybegg finished first in a well ridden race by jockey Sinead Pebbles. It was an emotional win for Boucher who trains near Jindabyne. Her stepfather, ‘Rusty’, a part-owner, recently died. Gwennybegg’s win was a crowd favourite.

In the two feature races of the day, the Wangaratta trained Fox Appeal took out the Cooma Cup.

Jockey, Sarah McDonough, praised trainer, Craig Weeding, for having Fox Appeal in top

condition and thanked the Cooma Monaro Race Club for its efforts in staging the races.

McDonough, speaking at the Cooma Cup presentation (race three sponsored by Snowy Hydro), thanked race club president, Mick Schofield, for the committee’s work in delivering a high-quality country meet.

The prestigious Sundowners Cup was won by Bounty By Knight, trained by Anthony Warren and ridden by Peebles.

HIRE: CANOE, SAIL, WAYDOOS

J IND ABYNE

WINNER: The locally trained Mia’s Dream streaks away in race two at the Cooma Races on Saturday.

PHOTO: Nathan Thompson