THE Monaro is celebrating a successful start to the Sydney Royal Easter Show with top honours coming the way for a Merino stud and two inspiring female agricultural leaders.
The Lette family of Conrayn Merino Stud, located near Berridale, has claimed the prestigious Stonehaven Cup for best exhibit of five Merino March shorn sheep.
Conrayn Merino Stud has continued the Monaro’s success with the Stonehaven Cup, after the Alcocks of Greenland Merino Stud won the cup in 2024.
Cooma’s, Miranda McGufficke, took out top spot in the Merino fleece young judges competition.
Further success came for the Cooma Pastoral and Agricultural Association’s Young Woman, Emily Lucas.
Ms Lucas won through to the state finals after securing Cooma’s third-straight zone 3 win.
Ms Lucas, raised in Adaminaby, was awarded the Sydney Royal show announcer’s academy scholarship for 2025. She will be mentored by rural ambassador, Lyndsey Douglas.
“Our association is very proud of Emily’s achievements and wish her all the best with her journey ahead,” a spokesperson said.
Monaro’s best star at Sydney Royal Show Boost needed
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
EASTER, followed by winter, in the Snowy Mountains traditionally means an increase in visitor numbers, resulting in an increase in local trade.
This year, some Cooma business owners are experiencing decreased business from tourism and reduced foot traffic within town and are feeling the effects of this.
Business is increasingly relying on local community support to keep the doors open, with the message to shop local encouraged.
“When I have spoken to some local businesses, there’s been mixed responses,” Cooma Chamber of Commerce president, Lynette Armour, said.
“But they are all reporting decreased business from tourism and reduced foot traffic.
“Business owners are looking forward to the Easter holidays and are hopeful that it will bring more visitors to the area.
“Winter will see Cooma and Jindabyne busy with more people visiting and staying in the area, so we are very much looking forward to the increase in customers winter brings.”
The Cooma Chamber of Commerce is encouraging locals now more than ever to shop local to support the town’s businesses.
Ms Armour said fresh, new ideas and suggestions from businesses to attract more shoppers and visitors to town are also being sought.
“The chamber is looking for new ideas to promote Cooma business,” Ms Armour said.
“We are also happy to support any events which would bring greater numbers to the town.”
■ Read more on page 3
HONOUR: Cooma Pastoral and Agricultural Association Young Woman, Emily Lucas, has been awarded the Sydney Royal show announcer’s academy scholarship for 2025.
PHOTO: Cooma Pastoral and Agricultural Association
Club remains open during massive refurbishment Bowling club’s major makeover
By TRISTA HEATH
JINDABYNE Bowling and Sports Club’s major makeover has begun with the installation of new carpet throughout the main lounge area last week.
Refurbishment work will continue in stages over the coming weeks and is expected to be completed by late-May to early-June.
The upgrade is designed to bring fresh energy, improved comfort, and a modern twist to the club.
Jindabyne Bowling and Sports Club’s general manager, John Riordan, said after listening to feedback from members, guests, the board and community members, the club is enhancing guest experience by creating a true community hub that serves its members’ and guests’ needs.
“The refurbishment is part of a re-freshed approach to customer service and experience at Jindabyne Bowling and Sports Club, including new food service in the bistro, a new system that enables table service for our bowlers, poker players and darts comp participants,” Mr Riordan said.
The club is upgrading its tables and seating to a range of comfortable options catering to the size of guest’s groups and nature of the visit as well as new LED screens and improved
audio technology.
Mr Riordan said all furniture in the club is being upgraded and the main bar/lounge area will be re-configured to offer distinct zones that better accommodate guests.
“We’re upgrading our capacity to watch live sport with multiple new screens being installed and a dedicated sports lounge area being created, meaning you’ll be able to get together with a group of any size to watch the latest sport live on our screens,”
Mr Riordan said.
“The current big screen will be replaced with a host of new state of the art LED screens supported by directional speakers, this means you could be watching NRL with sound and a table nearby watching AFL, but the sound will not cross over each other.”
Adding around 20 per cent more seats and tables will create a new events space for up to 12 guests in various configurations, such as banquet or theatre style and equipped with video conferencing, perfect for corporate day events, private dinners and more.
Mr Riordan said the refurbishment aims to provide a better experience for all their guests, whether coming for a casual visit for one of the clubs regular events such as poker or darts.
“We’re aiming to provide an enhanced VIP experience for
poker and darts guests, with your own dedicated space located in the downstairs conference room along with VIP table drinks service,” Mr Riordan said.
The electronic dart board will remain in the new sports lounge area while the competition dart boards will move to the new darts and poker room downstairs and the pool tables are being removed to accommodate additional seating.
“Preserving the club’s history is important, so the foyer sign and Jindabyne photo will be displayed in other areas of the club,” Mr Riordan said.
“We know how much people like to stand and observe the photo for some time, so we’re moving it to the atrium between the main bar and bistro where it will still enjoy a high amount of foot traffic but allow people to be out of the way of the main entry whilst viewing it.
“The view over the bowling green will also remain unchanged and in fact should improve due to the removal of shrubbery along the eastern edge of the bowling green which will open up the view whether you’re inside the club or on the green.”
Mr Riordan said the club will remain open throughout most, if not all the project.
“We’re working closely with contractors to minimise
disruption, and weekly favourites like trivia, squash and bowls will still be happening,” Mr Riordan said.
“Any short closures, if
required, will be clearly communicated in advance and we’ll be sharing regular updates via email, social media, our website, and in-venue signage,” he said.
Design impressions of the new window seating area.
Design impressions of the new sports lounge.
Design impressions of the new main lounge area.
Design impressions of the new bistro and dining area.
Cooma retail sector needs injection
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
THE winter season is fast approaching, and Cooma business owners are hoping for a much-anticipated increase in trade.
An unfavourable economic climate has produced mixed results, particularly since the start of the year.
Business is increasingly relying on local community support, with the message to shop local encouraged.
“When I have spoken to some local businesses there’s been mixed responses,” Cooma Chamber of Commerce president, Lynette Armour, said.
“But they are all reporting decreased business from tourism and reduced foot traffic.
“Business owners are looking forward to the Easter holidays and are hopeful that it will bring more visitors to the area,” Ms Armour said.
“Winter will see Cooma and Jindabyne busy with more people visiting and staying in the area, so we are very much looking forward to the increase in customers winter brings.”
Business owners hopeful of busy Easter weekend
expect anything at the moment,” she said.
The Cooma Chamber of Commerce is encouraging locals now more than ever to shop local to support the town’s businesses.
Ms Armour said fresh, new ideas and suggestions from businesses to attract more shoppers and visitors to town are also being sought.
“The chamber is looking for
new ideas to promote Cooma business,” Ms Armour said, “we are also happy to support any events which would bring greater numbers to the town.”
Pacific Furniture and Bedding’s Tracey Alcock said trade has been down at the Sharp Street furniture and furnishings store.
“We have seen about a 12 per cent drop in sales year-to-date,” Ms Alcock said.
“With Easter later than last year and coinciding with the school holidays and ANZAC Day I think a lot of people will take the opportunity to travel over the Easter break.
“I have been told by some
accommodation providers that bookings are very good for the holidays.”
Ms Alcock said it’s difficult to predict how busy it will be due to economic uncertainty.
“I am hoping to see an increase in sales and foot traffic within the township.
“But I don’t think you can
She believes the cost of living on basics and basic services is a concern to most people.
“We have seen the cost of shipping rise significantly, therefore raising the cost of goods; this would affect most industries.
“I am not sure how you can improve things.
“I know from a small business perspective I find a large part of my time is spent sourcing better deals from my suppliers and freight companies so I can keep providing competitive pricing and keep our service and jobs in town,” Ms Alcock said.
“A bigger focus on shopping local would be great, I know there have been a couple of businesses close in the area lately more as a result of big business decisions, but people just need to have a look in the stores around town, there are many things that you may not think are here but they are, or we can get them in, and I know many other stores in town feel the same.
“That would be my challenge to locals to go into stores and just look at what is actually available here in Cooma,” Ms Alcock said.
As a business owner, and with a federal election on 3 May, Ms Alcock said there are a few boxes an Eden-Monaro candidate needs to tick for her vote.
“I would like to see strong leadership for our country, and our local member to restore focus on small business and the importance of our regional areas,” she said.
GREG COWELL LANDSCAPING
EASTER TRADE: Pacific Furniture and Bedding store owner, Tracey Alcock, and Luke Holloway, are hoping there will be an increase in trade for Cooma businesses over Easter and the winter season. PHOTO: Melinda Cairns
Work on Bombala’s $40 million aged care expansion begins Currawarna open day
By KAREN FORMAN
RESIDENTS of Bombala’s Currawarna Assisted Living (CAL) are so enthusiastic about their home, they have taken it upon themselves to open it up to the public.
The facility, formerly a nursing home but brought back to life a year ago as an independent living home operating under an innovative funding model, is now home to 18 residents, with room for about 10 more.
Facility manager, Maddison Campbell, said the residents were so happy in their home that they had decided that the staff should host a “G’Day Bombala” day on Saturday, 3 May.
“The day has been designed so that people can come and meet the folks at THEIR Currawarna,” she said.
“The community made it happen, now we want the community to be the guests of our residents and staff and take a guided tour.”
People will be able to see the different rooms available, have a cup of tea and a chat with the older residents, as well as try some of the food prepared by the resident chef.
“Find out what it costs, get information on government assistance plans, ask the tough questions,” Ms Campbell said.
Currawarna is a not-for-profit, community driven enterprise, not an aged care home, but a place that provides assisted living.
The open day will be held from 10am until 2pm.
by mid 2027
By KAREN FORMAN
THE $40 million expansion of Bombala Multi-Purpose Service (MPS) aged care unit has begun and is expected to be complete by mid 2027.
Director of nursing, Jacki Ross, told the annual forum of the South East Zone of the United Hospital Auxilliaries (UHA) in Bombala that architects had started preliminary designs for extra aged care beds and three key worker accommodation units funded by the state and federal governments.
“We are hoping the plans will be ready for consultation by the community and stakeholders by the middle of the year,” she said.
“Then, we expect that the works will be completed by mid 2027.”
The expansion of Bombala MPS, known locally as the Bombala hospital, will increase the number of residential aged care beds by 20 to a total of 30, returning the bed numbers to levels prior to the closure of Currawarna as a nursing home a few years ago.
The facility also has eight acute care beds, plus an emergency department and serves
the Bombala population of 1500 and surrounding areas.
A medical centre operates out of the building, providing general practitioner services.
“The staff are very excited about the expansion and can’t wait to see it unfold,” Ms Ross said.
Bombala UHA president, Marjori Feilon, said the organisation was looking forward to the expansion and would continue to support it.
The local UHA branch has provided equipment for the
MPS including ECG, falls equipment, an education manniquin, a mobile bath, lifts, curtains and a garden, just to name some.
Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, said she had been proud to secure $25 million in federal funding, together with $15 million from Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, and the NSW Government, to support expanding the Bombala Multi-Purpose Service.
“This will increase the
number of residential aged care beds at the MPS, significantly boosting access to high-quality aged care services in the Monaro region – something our community has long called for,” she said.
“This project will also deliver staff accommodation, to help attract and retain more health workers to this region.
“Design work continues to progress, and I will keep the community updated as it’s finalised.”
PHOTO: Karen Forman
Monaro Stone Supplies opens shop
the rock we sell, other people can do it,” he said.
“They can lay it themselves or hire an expert.
“We are going to make a couple of instructional DVDs showing people how to lay it out. We are even thinking of running a three or four-day workshop here at the back of the shop, so people can buy the rock and learn how to lay it. It will save them a lot of money to be able to do it themselves.”
Dennis said stone masonry is a dying art.
“Not many young blokes go into it these days. I have two apprentices on, and a team of about 6 to 8 employed.
“Most of our ‘stoneys’ we have taught, as they were in different trades originally…I have some original old stoneys who have been working here for years.
Dennis works hard to keep stone masonry alive
SPONSORED CONTENT
LOCAL business Monaro Stone Supplies now has a shop and show room open at Four Mile, Cooma with a wide selection of stone tiles – both indoor and outdoor – on display.
Monaro Stone Supplies caters to both commercial and residential clients, specialising in design, construction, and restoration of exquisite stone solutions.
Owner and stone mason, Dennis Bowerman, said the shop will be a base for customer enquiries,
product displays and office administration.
“We’ve been just so busy with jobs at the high schools in Jindabyne that I haven’t had a chance to officially open the shop until now,” Dennis said.
He plans to expand the services offered by providing opportunities for other Snowy Monaro trades such as carpenters, gyprockers, plumbers etc, to promote their products using the large glass frontage around sides of the building for window advertising, making it a convenient one-stop trade centre.
The open plan shop features a
choice of stone tiles of different styles, sizes, patterns, colours and textures for walls and floors, gardens and landscaping with names that represent towns/villages, colours and the natural environment within the Snowy Mountains.
The business mainly concentrates on wall tiles, of which there are 12 to choose from, displayed as individual panels on the shop walls.
“It’s not solid rock but there’s still 4.5 tonne on this wall,” Dennis said.
Monaro Stone Supplies also offers a professional tiling,
concreting, and concrete polishing service.
Plus there’s a range of crazy pavers – these pavers are a popular style of paving with its irregular shapes, sizes, and patterns creating a unique surface.
The stone product is of a high quality imported from China.
Dennis said the most popular stone chosen by local clients and builders has been “Snowy Bush”, as it looks like natural bush rock and boulders in the area, and “Kosciuszko Blue”.
“Stick-on rocks have really taken off, the beauty of it is it’s actual real stone,” Dennis said.
“Even though we can’t lay all
“Stone masonry needs an eye for detail, you need to be able to shape with hand tools and a lot of it we have to cut, it’s physical work so you need to have a level of fitness,” Dennis said.
“Some of the rock is quite heavy and when we do solid walls, like we did at Snowy Mountains Grammar, you’re lifting anything from 30 to 50 kilos of rock, sometimes more, up the scaffolding.”
For rock prices and laying/ labour cost contact Dennis on 0438 452 013 or call into the showroom at 664 Snowy Mountains Highway, Cooma. Keep an eye out for the business’ new website.
NEW SHOP: Monaro Stone Supplies can be found at the Four Mile, Cooma, next to the Caltex service station.
PHOTO: Melinda Cairns Hack
Jindabyne Lions Club hosts successful community discussion
By TRISTA HEATH
JINDABYNE Lions Club hosted the Jindabyne CWA Day and Evening branch and the senior’s group on Wednesday 9 April at the Jindabyne Bowling and Sports Club.
Special guests, Snowy Monaro Regional Council mayor, Chris Hanna, interim chief executive officer, Stephen Dunshea, and chief people and organisational performance officer, Angela Sommerville, were in attendance to answer questions from the community.
This was a chance to get to know community leaders, the people who make decisions that affect the town and for senior community members to ask questions important to them.
Many topics were discussed, and The Monaro Media Group will be breaking the conversation down into sections over the coming weeks.
Hot topics among the Jindabyne community are the state of the roads, lack of footpaths and the poorly maintained Town Centre toilet blocks.
It was advised the community use the council’s ‘Snap Send Solve’ platform to notify the council of any issues of concern within the LGA including road potholes, road signage issues and other road and communitybased issues.
Mr Dunshea said roads is of importance across the entire region, and ‘Snap Send Solve’ is the easiest and most efficient way of notifying council of non-urgent issues that need addressing in the community and has been successful in rectifying many situations.
The lack of footpaths has long
been a point of concern within the community, while areas of the town have sufficient footpath corridors many of the main streets have none.
Mr Dunshea said Council is in constant contact and in regular meetings with the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation regarding the
concept plans of the foreshore development, with $33 million in funding to be allocated.
A concept plan is in the early stages of being created and will go to public viewing once complete allowing the community to review the plans for pathways connected to the foreshore.
The Town Centre toilet block was a point of contention during the discussion, with some voicing the block should be closed due to poor maintenance and overall ‘atrocious’ amenities.
Dunshea said there is money in the budget to do a refurbishment, the delay was due to the Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct (SAP).
“As SAP was still in the planning stage and putting together their concept plan and finalising what the SAP funding was going towards, there was talk at the time that the block was included in the funding program,” Mr Dunshea said.
“Whilst that was happening, we weren’t going to use the funds set aside until we knew if SAP would fund the block or not.
“Now confirmed, within the last three months, SAP will not be funding the project of a new toilet block and now Council can progress with the new refurbishment.”
New manager of corporate projects, Greg Thompson, who is also running the tip project, has been allocated the toilet refurbishment job as a priority.
“It is on the agenda, and it will happen. We will be working on what we can do with the extent of the funds that are available,” Mr Dunshea said.
More topics discussed will be reported in next week.
MEETING: Snowy Monaro Regional Council interim chief executive o icer, Stephen Dunshea, answering questions from the community.
PHOTO: Supplied
Jindabyne Community Association welcomes new board committee
By TRISTA HEATH
THE Jindabyne Community Association (JCA) welcomes a new board of committee members joining the fight to better the town and surrounding villages.
The committee welcomes new chairperson, Peter Beer, and communications officer, Kerry Beer, along with previous members secretary, Toni Clarke, and treasurer, Olivier Kapetanakos.
New members also include Alpine Uniting Church and Op Shop members, Don and Jean Hayman, on board to help build awareness of the committee and their aims and goals for the community.
JCA is a non-profit organisation founded in 2020 with a primary focus to foster support and pursue community projects that benefit the residents of Jindabyne and the surrounding villages.
Ms Clarke said the committee has changed JCA’s focus from primarily on aged care to other issues the community is facing and find important to focus on.
“The JCA aim was solely based on aged care, which feedback from the community was perceived as
unattainable in the near future. We will still focus on aged care where applicable but want to open our horizons to other issues the community finds important,” Ms Clarke said.
“While we are still unsure of the future of the old Snowy River Hostel in Berridale, we will still fight for Jindabyne, Berridale and Dalgety for an aged care solution and hope to see the facility taken over sometime in the future.
“We are asking the community and other groups to get involved and bring their thoughts and energy into one group, united we might get somewhere.”
Another issue close to the JCA committee is finding a solution to the footpath issues surrounding Jindabyne as well as roads, along with other issues that may arise from the community.
Ms Clarke said another issue the committee will focus on is the old school site.
“We want to know what is happening with that site, this is the most prominent issue at the moment on what the plan is with the site as it is important and can be well utilised,” Ms Clarke said.
“We encourage the
community to connect with us on this issue so we can gather ideas and their concerns so that we can then try and get the answers we seek along with the possibility of a meeting with those in charge, however, we need the numbers behind us to achieve this.”
The committee is committed to presenting to Council regularly on issues of concern brought forward in their meetings.
“We aim to be a combined voice for any of the groups that wish to join us and to aim for things of concern for this community,” Ms Clarke said.
“We see the op shop as an essential service in our community, so to have Jean and Don on board as members is a great link to the community, it gives us another source to share information through.”
Planning to meet once a month, with the potential of a fortnightly meet in the future and if the committee gains the numbers and interest, get in contact with Ms Clarke on 0412731804 or connect through the JCA Facebook page if you wish to be part of the JCA movement.
Meeting location to be determined closer to the date.
Quarry expansion not an option: council
A JINDABYNE community meeting has allowed residents to ask key Snowy Monaro Regional Council staff and mayor Chris Hanna questions about the ongoing operation of the Jindabyne landfill site.
Operating changes at the landfill site have been in place for a month following council announcing the site was approaching its end-of-life much quicker than anticipated.
At the Jindabyne Lions Club hosted meeting last week, residents and commercial users of the landfill took the opportunity to ask interim CEO, Stephen Dunshea, and Cr
Hanna about the future of the site. Council responded to queries about expanding the landfill site into the neighbouring quarry.
“Council and the Environmental Protection Authority are not contemplating using the quarry,” Mr Dunshea said.
Mr Dunshea told the audience, council had project the landfill’s end-of-life would occur in 2023.
“I’ve seen a projection from 2020/21 the landfill would be filled up in 2023. We’ve actually been able to extend this by 18 months,” Mr Dunshea said.
BERRIDALE
LIONSINC
MONSTER EASTER FAIR
SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2025
9am - 2pm
Lions & Central Parks, Jindabyne Road, Berridale
Lots of Entertainment for All Ages
Easter Bunny Hunt
Silent Firewood Auction
CWA Stall
Cooma District Band A Large Number and Variety of Stalls Something to Interest Everyone
Lions BBQ Van
Wide choice of wholesome food at reasonable prices
If you’re interested in having a stall go to www.berridalelions.com to register
FEDERAL ELECTION
3RD MAY 2025
During the extensive period that I served in Local Government (more than 30 years, including 17years as Mayor of Queanbeyan) I have had the pleasure of working for our community with many State and Federal politicians.
In 2019/20 we saw Kristy McBain as the Mayor of Bega Council represent, assist and keep her community informed on the devastating bush res. She did this professionally in a most caring manner with empathy for her community which was very much appreciated by the people of Bega Valley.
Following this Kristy was elected in the By-Election of 2020 and again re elected in 2022. In 2022 she was appointed as Minister for Regional Development/ Local Government and Territories.
During the past 5 years she has worked very hard to achieve for the people of Eden-Monaro. I have always found Kristy a remarkable person for her dedicated work in the communityshe is a person with very high principles and is always eager to listen and help anyone.
I believe that Kristy has proven herself as a committed and hard working Federal Member for Eden-Monaro and deserves our continued support. She has a proven commitment and experience to deliver for the people of Eden-Monaro.
On May 3rd I ask you to join me and Vote 1 for Kristy McBain and return her as our Federal Member for Eden-Monaro.
Written and Authorised by Frank
Pangallo MBE
Former Mayor (1991-2008) Queanbeyan
COUNCIL: Interim CEO, Stephen Dunshea, says the organisation is not considering using the Jindabyne quarry to accommodate an expanded landfill.
PHOTO: Trista Heath
Lake Light Sculpture returns to feature more than 100 art pieces
By TRISTA HEATH
LAKE Light Sculpture 2025 is shaping up to be a successful year after a four year hiatus from Jindabyne foreshore.
With more than 60 sculptures and 40 small sculptures, the wait was well worth it and the committee is ready to put on quite a show.
Lake Light chair, Dani Kell, said the winner of the Peoples Choice award from 2021, Jesse Graham, from Eden, and one of the committee’s favourite artists, is returning for the 2025 event.
“We are really excited to welcome him back, along with all our other returning and new artists,” Ms Kell said.
“The amount of effort and dedication from artists has been incredible. We have community groups, schools and the early childhood centres bringing their pieces for the exhibition also.
“What I always loved about Lake Light Sculpture was that mix of real professional, beautiful pieces as well as the fun exhibits that children have created.
“Pieces put together in garages and experiments turned to art is a wonderful thing to experience and I think we will see that again this year.”
The committee is excited to welcome a brand new award to the 2025 Lake Light Sculpture line-up, The Newcomer Award, of $1000 - bringing the total prize pool to $43,500 across 14 award categories.
The Newcomer Award celebrates fresh talent, recognising a first-time artist exhibiting at Lake Light and is sponsored by South East Arts.
Lake Light Sculpture will feature more than 20 new artists to its 2025 line-up and more than 70 businesses across the region are supporting the event.
Event
draws support from more than 70 business with over $43k prize pool
“The countdown is on, but first, one final thank you to the small businesses and community groups who’ve helped bring Lake Light Sculpture back to the foreshore,” Ms Kell said.
“We’re so proud of our local community and everything they’ve done to support this event. With their backing, and an incredible artist lineup, Lake Light 2025 is set to be something special.”
The committee is excited to welcome back past award winners, including Tobias Bennet.
Mr Bennett won the Snowy Monaro Environment Award in 2017 for his piece On The Edge - a striking depiction of four horses - and now stands as a landmark along the Monaro Highway. He is keen to add to his award winning collection.
A local favourite and familiar
artist among Lake Light events, Darragh Walsh, is set to return this year after his piece Light Within earned the Snowy Monaro Environment Award in 2021 capturing imaginations as it lit up the lake.
Artist and 2018 Environmental Awareness Award winner, Jen Mallinson, will be returning.
Her winning piece Take Flight, is showcased proudly at the Snowy Region Visitor Centre in Jindabyne. Ms Mallinson is hoping to secure another award in this year’s event.
People’s Choice award winner, Madelaine Last, known for her scrapyard to the spotlight approach, will return to the foreshore this Easter bringing her breathtaking recycled metal sculptures back in hopes to secure another win.
Returning for another year are artists Ulan Murray and
Rachel Burns after their pieces captivated audiences in past events and they are hoping to leave a lasting impression once more. The last time Lake Light Sculpture took place along the foreshore was 2021 where the event saw more than 25,000 in attendance over four-days. The committee has been dedicated in getting the foreshore up to standard to be able to host Lake Light Sculpture once more.
Ms Kell said Snowy Monaro Regional Council has repaired the footpath and it is once again safe to welcome thousands of spectators to one of Jindabyne’s much-loved events.
“We are very appreciative to all Council members who helped rectify any safety concerns of the foreshore pathway and get the repairs done in time for this great event, now it is all full steam
ahead to get the sculptures up and ready for Friday, 18 April,” Ms Kell said.
“The committee is excited to showcase the return of Lake Light Sculpture to Jindabyne’s foreshore, now let’s just hope for good weather.”
Lake Light Sculpture schedule: Friday, 18 April from 8am to 8pm 10:30am - Opening Ceremony and Awards 6pm - Light It Up Saturday, 19 April from 8am to 8pm 6pm - Light It Up Sunday, 20 April from 8am to 8pm 12pm – People’s Choice Voting Closes
4pm – People’s Choice Award 6pm – Light It Up Monday, 21 April from 8am to 12pm Last chance to visit.
Some sculptures are more known for their night time illumination.
PHOTO: Trista Heath
Sculptures come to life at night when illuminated along the Jindabyne foreshore. PHOTO: Trista Heath
2018 Environmental Awareness Award winner, Jen Mallinson, will be returning a er winning piece Take Flight, was a great success. PHOTO: Trista Heath
People’s Choice Award winner, Madelaine Last, to return to the foreshore for 2025. PHOTO: madmedalcreations
ARTISTS: A local favourite and familiar artist among Lake Light events, Darragh Walsh, is set to return a er the success of his piece Light Within earned the Snowy Monaro Environment Award in 2021. PHOTO: Lake Light Sculpture
Authorised by Chris Stone, Liberal, Level 2, 131 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
Snowy Monaro Easter church services
Anglican Parish - Cooma
Maundy Thursday - 17 April
6pm and Foot washing service followed by Passover meal St Paul’s Cooma
Good Friday - 18 April
9.30am Easter readings and reflective service Christ Church Maffra Rd
3pm reflective service - St John’s Adaminaby
Easter Saturday - 19 April
11.30am Holy Communion
- St Bartholomew’s Bredbo
5pm Holy Communion - St John’s Numeralla
Easter Sunday - 20 April
8am Holy CommunionChrist Church Maffra Rd
9.30am Holy CommunionSt Paul’s Cooma
11.30am Holy Communion
- St Peter’s Nimmitabel
3pm Holy Communion - St John’s Adaminaby
Easter Monday - 21 April
9.30am Holy Communion
- Yallambee Aged Care Cooma
10.30am Holy Communion
- Hudson House Aged Care Cooma
Cooma Baptist Church
Good Friday at 9am
Easter Sunday 10am
St Patrick’s Catholic Parish - Snowy Monaro Easter
Holy Thursday, 17 April
Cooma 6pm; Delegate 5pm; and Bombala 6.30pm
Good Friday, 18 April
Cooma – Stations of the Cross 10am Jindabyne Stations of the Cross 10am (Leader)
Berridale Stations of the Cross 10am (Leader)
Bombala – Stations of the Cross 9.30am (Leader)
Cooma 3pm Passion
Jindabyne 3pm Passion
Holy Saturday, 19 April
Cooma 6pm
Bombala 5pm
Easter Sunday, 20 April
2025
Adaminaby 8am
Cooma 10am
Berridale 10am (Liturgy of the Word)
Jindabyne 10am
Lifegate Church, Cooma
Good Friday 10am
Easter Sunday 10am
Trinity Lutheran Church
Cooma
Good Friday – 10.30am
Stations of the Cross Meditation
Easter Sunday – 10.30am
Resurrection Day service
St Andrew’s Uniting Church Cooma
Good Friday - Service at 9am
Sunday service at 9.30am
St James Boloco, Snowy River Way
Good Friday – 9.30am
The Village Church, Park Avenue Jindabyne
Good Friday – 5pm
Claypits Stage, Lake Jindabyne
Easter Sunday – 9am
All Saints Berridale
Easter Sunday – Holy communion – 9.30am
Alpine Church, Perisher barbecue at noon
Easter Sunday - 12.30pm
St Matthias’ Bombala
Good Friday, Friday, 18
April service 10am
Easter Sunday, Sunday, 20
April Easter Day Service 9am
Salvos prepare to celebrate good news
WE LIVE in a time where bad news seems to be everywhere. Whether it is international conflicts and politics, a national cost of living crisis or personal devastation, our world seems to sometimes be more focussed on the bad as opposed to the good.
Indeed, the idea of ‘good news’ often seems like an afterthought; a short segment to wrap up the evening news bulletin, or an attempt at offering a ‘silver lining’ after hearing a story of devastation and loss.
However, as we look towards the Easter season, The Salvation Army is preparing to experience and celebrate good news - for us, that good news is found in the Easter story through the death and resurrection of Jesus.
When Jesus died on a cross on Good Friday, it was the ultimate bad news for all of those who followed Him. All hope seemed lost, but the story didn’t end there.
On Easter Sunday, Jesus rose from the grave into new life. This good news brought with it hope and joy back then, and this good
Life on the funny farm
By Paul Dorin
news can offer the same for us today. We believe that through the good news of Jesus, God can take our tragedy and turn it into joy.
For The Salvation Army, every day we have people reach out to us who are looking for help. We are seeing new faces come through our doors, those who have never had to reach out to a charity before, who are only just making ends meet.
We see how the most simple things like offering a meal, assistance paying bills, a safe bed to sleep in, or a listening ear, can be the ultimate good news for someone. It is that good news that brings people hope.
So, as we all face struggles right across the country, whether they are big or small, perhaps a little good news would go a long way.
This is why this Easter, regardless of your faith, the Salvos invite you to explore the good news of Jesus with us.
To find out more about your local Easter activities through The Salvation Army, visit salvationarmy.org.au Salvation Army
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Council’s resolution inaction sheets need attention
THE second session of Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s incomplete March 20 meeting, which was held as an extraordinary meeting in Cooma on April 3, was a doozie.
After more than five hours of debate, only 11 of the scheduled 28 motions were debated with 17 being held over to be added to the April 17 meeting.
Good luck with wrapping all that up in one session councillors. Included in the topics discussed in the meeting was an item that caught the attention of one of our returning councillors, Cr Tricia Hopkins, and a new councillor, Cr Andrew Thaler.
That was item 6.1.1 which was the Resolution Action Sheet updates which advises councillors of the actions taken by staff on council resolutions.
Cr Thaler questioned if there was some way the resolutions can be brought to a satisfactory conclusion which could
be explained to the community.
The lack of action is reflected so badly in that report that one has to wonder if the staff actually provide any real commitment to the tasks they are allocated through resolutions of council, some of which date back to 2019.
Months, even years seem to pass with no real progress indicated on the expected outcomes of the resolutions. Lame excuses like ‘this is not planned work for the strategic planning team’ and lines in the report of ‘no further update at this stage’ is simply not good enough especially considering the many months or years that pass with that sort of comment reflecting on the inaction of the staff. If it is not planned work for that team, shouldn’t another team be tasked with the work? These are resolutions decided by council and the expectation would be that the item be given a reasonably high priority.
The CEO suggested ways
of resolving the inaction could be that staff report to council the resolution was not achievable and recommending the resolution be removed from the resolution sheet update report or council resolve to remove its own resolution because of the inaction on it.
What a cop out, surely councillors resolved the course of action based on a staff recommendation or a councillor notice of motion.
It should not take six years of inaction before a full report is presented to council giving reasons for not being able to achieve the expected outcome of the resolution within a reasonable timeframe.
On the same issue, Cr Reuben Rose asked why a resolution concerning the results of a staff survey did not appear on the action sheet even though council had resolved that action should happen.
After toing and froing, the issue was explained away by stating council was awaiting for an opportunity to arrange for
Use your vote wisely this Federal Election
SO the ‘pork barreling’ has arrived, and boy has it got off to a good start in our electorate.
What we should remember is that it’s our hard earned taxes that are being spent. It’s not the politicians’ money, it’s ours. We tend to believe that if propaganda is repeated often enough, say through modern media, that we take it as factually true.
Just check out the leaflets arriving in your mail box for example. In the best interests of the future of our great country and for the sake of the generations to
the consultant to provide a presentation to council.
The reason the inaction was not reported in the action sheet was never answered.
Cr Hopkins admirably stated she would not like to see the resolutions lost and suggested they be resourced in the operational plans for 2025 onwards.
Surely those resolutions were resourced in the budget following the resolution date so what has happened to the cash allocated to that task.
I would expect unused funds which involved more than staff wages would have been re-voted for the following year.
And so readers, with that unsatisfactory outcome, the motion was put and the inactions accepted. So now another month passes before any further scrutiny.
Perhaps the resolution action sheets should be re-named the resolution inaction sheets.
Phil Daley Berridale
Riposte
By LISA ASHURST
THANK goodness that’s over. I’m talking about Married At First Sight (MAFS). I don’t watch it but if I am on the channel that airs it, I inevitably see promos and that’s enough to convince me that it’s not something I’m interested in.
All the same though, I’ve wondered occasionally why these people are even doing it?
On the whole, they mostly look attractive enough, so I can’t imagine they would have too much difficulty meeting potential partners, which suggests to me that there must be another reason they are having so much trouble holding down a relationship that they opt to put the whole thing into the hands of a panel of matchmakers. Are they too demanding, too nit-picky, too self-focused, too bratty, or too something I haven’t even thought of yet? That’s a possibility. Or maybe it’s the allure of some media exposure. Craving a higher online profile and hoping to acquire it via the program?
come who will have to service this debt; let us all use our vote wisely in the forthcoming Federal Election.
Lindy Rose Cooma
The
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Crossing their fingers that their time on the show might open doors for them in further lucrative media roles?
Well, it wouldn’t be the first time that has happened. Occasionally some of these reality show hopefuls do manage to attain ‘star’ status and start popping up in media roles all over the place, and if that was why they hopped into reality TV in the first place, then I guess they got what they wanted.
But people will remember where they started.
Yet the word is that reality TV is not a walk in the park, and according to many who have done it, they have had
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.
big regrets afterwards. MAFS participants don’t always walk away with the love of their lives either and many have fessed up to wishing they had not taken part in the program, and I’m guessing that may go for a few of the other reality shows too.
Some have been unhappy with how they’ve been portrayed and with what has befallen them afterwards, but so far, while looking into it, I haven’t’ seen anything where a participant has said they have owned or felt embarrassed about their own behaviour, let alone regret it.
I’ve seen the promos though for these programs and, coupled with alcohol and possibly forgetting sometimes that almost everything they do and say is beamed out there across the nation, I’m sure that privately they must have at least the odd cringe moment. Then again, I may be wrong about that.
Anyway, while I avoid reality TV on the whole, I do watch The Block. It also has its moments of drama and while I admit I find those moments amusing up to a point, I mainly watch it because I like reno shows. I like decor and reno ideas and so I like watching what The Block contestants do with the properties they get and think about what I would do with it, if it was me. Most of them have really good ideas, but wow, I’ve seen some that leave me wondering what the you-know-what were they thinking?
And seeing as I’m fessing up, I watch Lego Masters too. The things you can do with Lego now, because where there’s a plan, there are limitless pieces of Lego to make it happen.
And no one gets drunk. Or misbehaves.
DESIGN & PRODUCTION
Aasta Arctander aasta@monaropost.com.au
FEATURES WRITER
Lisa Ashurst
Member
Monaro Post
Fire fighter encourages new recruits
Fire and Rescue NSW has recruited in Bombala, Thredbo
By KAREN FORMAN
DUANE Burke was hanging out around Perisher, managing a ski lodge and skiing with his mates, when he decided to give something back to the community and join Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) as a fire fighter 14 years ago.
The local fire station had gone from full time to “on-demand’’ and Mr Burke and his friends, who included lodge owners, National Parks and Wildlife Service employees, ski resort employees and other skiers, felt they wanted to help FRNSW, known as NSW Fire Brigades until 2011, serve the mountains community they loved.
More than a decade, much training and many call-outs later, he’s the first to say that he hasn’t looked back.
Mr Burke still manages a ski lodge, has had his partner join him in the FRNSW ranks, has been promoted to Perisher Fire and Rescue station Deputy Captain and is now a FRNSW recruitment project officer.
He says he is too busy to ski much but isn’t too worried. He’s more interested in encouraging other emergency services-minded people to consider joining the multi-disciplined organisation which in 2017 began the process of transformation from world class fire fighting service to a world-leading emergency service.
out on the job.
Mr Burke has just overseen recruitment drives for two of the eight FRNSW Region South One units - Thredbo and Bombala.
Thredbo was recruiting for four new members and Bombala two.
As well as manning a stand at Bombala Show to provide information about the organisation, Mr Burke held an open day at the Thredbo fire station recently to show people what FRNSW is all about.
“A difference between FRNSW and some other emergency services organisation is that we pay our members,” he said.
“Being an on-call fire fighter is a secondary position, like a part-time job. Everyone has a job somewhere else to cover the cost of living. But we pay a base retainer of $80 a fortnight and $34 an hour for a recruit when
“We also cover the cost of uniforms and training and offer paid leave entitlements such as annual leave, sick leave, long service leave and parental leave, along with employer contributions to superannuation.”
Mr Burke said on-call firefighters were a diverse group of people who balanced other work, study and family commitments to support their local community by responding to emergency incidents.
“When the pager goes off, our on-call firefighters answer the call by responding directly from their place of work or home,” he said.
Emergency responses could include building/structure fires, motor vehicle crashes, animal rescue, assisting ambulance, flood response with the SES, recovery efforts after natural disasters, home and factory fires and bush and grass fires.
FRNSW has its headquarters and Logistics Support Centre in Greenacre NSW; Operational
Communication Centres in Alexandria and Newcastle; Emergency Services Academy at Orchard Hills; a network of 335 fire stations across the State and a fleet of 739 firefighting and support vehicles.
It currently has 6822 firefighters; about 4666 Community Fire Unit members and 515 administrative and trades staff working together to help anyone, anywhere, anytime.
“We employ people who reflect our professionalism and values and applications are accepted from all community members and assessed on merit and physical aptitude,” Mr Burke said.
“Applicants need to hold a NSW driver’s licence, including a provisional licence, must be over 17, an Australian or New Zealand citizen or a permanent resident of Australia, live or work a reasonable distance from their local fire station and have daytime availability to respond to emergencies.
“We do not discriminate on
age. People just need to be able to pass the fitness and medical requirements.”
Although FRNSW only actively recruits when there are vacant positions, people can express an interest in joining the units in Perisher, Jindabyne, Cooma, Bega, Merimbula and Eden when they become available by visiting the NSWFR website and filling in an online form.
“Ten per cent of our call-outs these days are rescues. Fires, we don’t do lot these days, maybe five per cent, then we do a lot of medical assists and disaster response with NSW Ambulance, NSW Police, State Emergency Services, Rural Fire Service and other agencies.
“We do drills as a station every fortnight - members are required to complete four hours per month of station trainingand have other training methods going away, to Sydney to the Emergency Services Academy, Fire and Rescue Main Base or to Hume to ACT facilities.”
Successful applicants are
interviewed prior to undergoing a medical and must receive authority from a doctor to do the Physical Aptitude Test (PAT) which is available online.
“It was put together by the University of Wollongong, and meant to simulate different areas of fire fighting we do,” Mr Burke said.
“When I started 15 years ago it was the beep test and going into blackouts in masks, but now it is a lot more relevant to what we do.
“Some people have to train for it, especially some of the strength elements of it, while others go straight through, and others struggle.
“They don’t get rejected if they miss, they are allowed to try again, and we have an occupation health and fitness division that will help them do some training if they need it. We try to get people through.”
For further information contact Mr Burke on 0401 367 058 or visit https://www.fire.nsw. gov.au/
FRNSW Open Day at Thredbo.
PHOTO: Gabi Forman
SERVICE: Duane Burke with a young future recruit at the recent Bombala Show.
PHOTO: Karen Forman
Students recognised for community service
By NATHAN THOMPSON
MONARO High School has initiated a new awards program to recognise students putting their school community and Cooma community first.
Principal, James Armitage, praised the inaugural recipients of the Monaro High School rise and recognise awards, at a special morning tea held last week with students, teachers, parents and guest of honour, former politician Bronnie Taylor.
A group of Monaro High School students was recognised for its efforts helping the Cooma Pastoral and Agricultural Association at this year’s Cooma show.
“I received such positive feedback from the show and other schools about what great ambassadors the students helping at the show were,” Mr Armitage said.
“They helped with setting up and tours with the primary school students on the Friday. We wanted to make sure the students are recognised for their wonderful efforts.”
At the morning tea, two individual awards were presented to Josie Holfner and Alastair King.
Josie was nominated for two areas of volunteering - through the Monaro High School Leo Club and the school’s live production team.
Alastair, was praised for his quick thinking and calmness when responding to an incident at the school, when a teacher was hurt during a practical lesson.
Alastair has contributed a report to Safe Work NSW as part of the school’s reporting process for the incident. The Safe Work NSW inspector was impressed with Alastair’s detailed report, declaring it one of the best and most thorough they have seen.
He also received the rise and recognise award for helping students in the inclusive learning support classes.
At the morning tea, a special staff award was presented to Mrs Louise Jenkins for 30 years service to public education.
“Louise is a wonderful educator and we have been very lucky to have her here at Monaro High School,” Mr Armitage said.
Mrs Taylor, a Monaro resident and well-known advocate for rural women, delivered an inspiring speech to the award recipients. Mrs Taylor congratulated the recipients on their contributions to the community.
Second folk festival for area announced
By KAREN FORMAN
A NEW folk festival has been announced for the Snowy Mountains and hopes are it could over time bring thousands of people and dollars to the region.
The Great Divide Folk Festival, to be hosted by Nimmitabel School of Arts (Nimmity Artz), will be held at Nimmitabel over three days on 24-26 October this year.
Organiser, Kelvin Fahey, said the festival, which would be the second for the region after the longestablished Numeralla Folk Festival held each January, would be a grassroots folk festival featuring acoustic music and dance with simple workshops.
“Initially we would expect a few hundred people, using The Federal Hotel and Nimmity Artz Gallery, but in time it will grow and we can expand into the showground,” he said.
“In a time of event closures and few live venues the Great Divide Folk Festival provides an opportunity for performers and audiences alike to experience live music and dance at the grassroots level, a great start to the
Snowy Monaro spring time.
“Music focus will cover bluegrass through traditional and modern folk with dance covering various cultural traditions.
“No ticketing will be charged, no venue hire or artist fees will be paid, although there could be artist merchandise and tutoring fees.
“Walkup/blackboard stages will comprise a minimum of 30 per cent of the festival duration.”
Mr Fahey said Nimmity Artz committee had decided to add the folk festival to its list of activities in line with its wish to develop and grow the arts in the area.
Nimmity Artz has taken on the Steampunk@ Altitude Festival for the first time this year after the chamber of commerce decided not to continue running it.
It has also announced that it will organise a new Steampunk New England, taking the best from Steampunk@ Altitude and Steampunk Victoriana with old machinery and re-enactments, in Kentucky NSW.
“The budget for the folk festival initially will be $3000 and will be held the weekend after Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival,” Mr Fahey said.
“We are aiming it at folk music enthusiasts, remembering that there are 10,000 regulars at the National Folk Festival, Woodford, Port Fairy, etc, as well as Canberra day trippers, independent musicians and folk dance enthusiasts.”
Mr Fahey said more information about the folk festival would be available soon.
Council updates
Pursuant to Section 163 of the Roads Act 1993 and Part Seven of the Roads Regulations 2018, notice is hereby given of two road name proposals.
Bredbo
One new pubic road requires naming as part of a 10-lot subdivision.
The proposed name for the new road is Carelon Road, the local name for the area and property on which the subdivision is located. The proposal will preserve use of this historic local name.
Cooma
One new public road requires naming as part of a 15-lot subdivision, located off Old Dry Plains Road.
The proposed name for the new road is Acacia Place, the genus name for wattle trees which are common in the area.
Feedback period
The community is invited to share their feedback on the names proposed.
Submissions are open for twenty-eight (28) days, ending Wednesday 16 April 2025.
Submissions can be made in writing to Chief Executive Officer Stephen Dunshea by email to council@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au or by mail to PO Box 714, Cooma NSW 2630.
Council meeting this week
The April Ordinary Council Meeting is scheduled for 1pm Thursday 17 April 2025 at Council Chambers in Cooma.
Visit https://qrco.de/SMRCmeetings to learn more, access the business paper, or view the live meeting webcast.
Job vacancies at Council
If you’re looking for a career with purpose, consider joining the team here at Council.
Visit https://qrco.de/SMRCjobs today to see our current open vacancies, or find out more about working with us.
April public holiday closures for Council services and facilities
Closures and holiday trading hours will be in effect for Council services and facilities over the upcoming Easter and Anzac Day long weekends.
Easter | Friday 18 April to Monday 21 April 2025
• Scheduled kerbside bin collections will occur as normal, including the temporary Saturday waste service in Michelago
• Landfills and transfer stations in Adaminaby, Bombala, Cooma, Delegate, Jindabyne and Numeralla will be open on Easter Saturday 19 April 2025
• Bombala ScrapMart is open on Easter Saturday 19 April 2025
• Visitor centres in Bombala and Cooma are open as-normal over Easter
• All other services and facilities are closed on all other dates over Easter, including support programs, pools, libraries, offices, waste facilities, and ScrapMarts
Anzac Day | Friday 25 April 2025
• Bombala Visitor Centre is open 12 to 4pm and Cooma Visitor Centre is open 12 to 3pm
• Scheduled kerbside bin collections will occur as normal
• All other services and facilities are closed on Anzac Day, including support programs, pools, libraries, offices, waste facilities, and ScrapMarts
Road name proposals
TOP WORK: Monaro High School students have been recognised for their community e orts through the school’s inaugural rise and recognise awards program.
PHOTO: Nathan Thompson
MORE FOLK: The newly announced Great Divide Folk Festival at Nimmitabel will be a second folk festival for the Snowy Mountains a er Numeralla. PHOTO: Karen Forman
Local war history shared
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
A SAMPLE of Snowy Monaro family history was on display at the Snowy Monaro Council Chambers in Berridale last week to honour and recognise past defence force personnel from the region.
In the lead-up to ANZAC Day council installed this fascinating military exhibition in partnership with the Snowy River Historical Society and Berridale Science and Heritage Centre.
The presentation included photos and letters sent home to local families and informative talks by local historians.
A morning tea was hosted by council which was attended by community members and Berridale Public School students.
Those who attended the exhibition over the course of the day were able to immerse themselves in local history to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect Australia and the Australian way of life.
The event also provided an opportunity to view the Men from Snowy River Memorial Book, commemorating local servicemen from the Snowy region.
Council’s Berridale office is
Men from Snowy Rivery Memorial book on display
the proud custodian of the Men from Snowy River Memorial book. The original book is kept behind glass, but a copy is available to read during council business hours.
Berridale Public School years 4, 5 and 6 students attended
the exhibition.
“Students were very engaged in learning about local history, finding family members and trying some of the equipment and clothing such as hats and gloves,” principal, Janene Petersen, said.
“They were amazed at the resilience of these soldiers and how far they walked.
“Engaging with local history gives our students a sense of belonging in their local community too, so we are really pleased to have been
invited to the exhibition,” Ms Petersen said.
Part of the display included around 40 handmade individual tributes made by Navy veteran and Snowy River Historical Society member, Marion Carson, commemorating those soldiers who feature in the Men from Snowy River Memorial book.
“I thought it would be nice to have tea lights under all the trees at the Berridale memorial,” Ms Carson said.
“I started to make these tributes using the boards recently removed from the floor of Saint Mary’s Gegedzerick Church and placed the little lights on each of the small pieces of board.
“Then I thought maybe they need some names as well so I added names and photos. Hopefully, all these will be lit underneath the trees on the eve of ANZAC Day and for the ANZAC Day dawn service.
“The trees are special and were planted in the 1920s by a local school teacher and students, who dug the holes. At the time there were ceremonies for each tree planting, which represented families - some of the trees were planted for more than one family member, it could be cousins or brothers of those who went to war.”
A laminated sheet with the Navy details of Berridale resident, Marion Carson, was part of the display at the Snowy Monaro Regional Council Chambers in Berridale.
The Men from Snowy River Memorial Book, written by Reginald Mould, grandfather of Colin Mould, which is on display at the SMRC o ice in Berridale.
Navy veteran and Snowy River Historical Society member, Marion Carson, with just some of the timber memorial plaques she has made for the this year’s ANZAC Day dawn service in Berridale.
Lucy and Luca flick through a copy of the Men from Snowy River Memorial book.
Berridale Public School students Talyah and Juanita try on the hats that were part of the display.
HISTORY: Blaine, Mila, Isla, Ava, Henry, Brian, Zac and classmates take a look at some of the information presented at the military exhibition held at Council’s Berridale o ice last week. PHOTOS: Melinda Cairns Hack
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
3 What are prizes to be won in competitions (8)
7 Name a form of stylised exercises based on Chinese martial arts (3,3)
8 What is a body of troops stationed in a fortified place (8)
9 What is an angle in a golf-links fairway (6)
10 Name a group of eight related items (8)
11 Which term describes a warning or caution (6)
14 Name some nocturnal carnivores that feed chiefly on carrion (6)
17 What might we call a plasterer (8)
18 Who created a former method of hypnosis, Franz Anton ... (6)
19 Name an extended musical composition (8)
20 What is a type of long, narrow pasta (6)
21 What describes one deserving of distinction, especially for poetic merit (8)
DOWN
1 Name a cylindrical rocket-launcher (7)
2 What is an altar attendant of minor rank (7)
3 Which English jockey won the Derby nine times, Lester ... (7)
4 Which planet is nearest the sun (7)
5 Name the 20th letter of the Greek alphabet (7)
6 Which instrumental compositions are usually in several movements (7)
11 Who wrote Alice in Wonderland, Lewis ... (7)
12 Which Pacific republic was formerly New Hebrides (7)
13 What is propanone also known as (7)
Letters have a number value
E-QUATIONS
Some values are in the right hand cells. 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.
14 Which substance is secreted by an endocrine gland (7)
15 Name the process by which the earth is worn away (7)
16 What is an alternative term for a halo (7)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
1 INCALESCENT (a) Increasing in heat (b) Not cautious or careful (c) Helplessly drunk
2 NOISOME (a) Clamorous (b) Unwilling (c) Injurious to health
BIYWORD
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:
Bull-fighting cheer (3)
Eurasian bird: Jack ... (3) Fearfully (7)
Military priest (5)
Nap: ... off (3)
Rewritable disk (3-2)
Swedish auto maker (5) Vacation (7) Very Important Person (3) Wanderer (5)
6.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. 12.00 Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 My Impossible House. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Murder, She Baked: A Chocolate Chip Cookie Mystery. (2015) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. 10.00 The Amazing Race. 11.30 The Chernobyl Disaster. 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Pawn Stars. 1.30 Highway Patrol. 2.30 The Force: BTL. 3.30 Duck Dynasty. 4.00 Mountain Men. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. Brisbane Lions v Collingwood. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 Kick Ons. 11.30 Late Programs.
Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Yes, Prime Minister. 8.30 Midsomer Murders. 10.30 The Closer. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 9.00 Shopping.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 1.00 Getaway. 1.30 My Way. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 7. Manly Sea Eagles v St George Illawarra Dragons. 9.45 T ursda Nig t no Off. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Outback Opal Hunters. 12.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Dales For Sale. 1.00 Antiques Roadshow. 1.30 MOVIE: Ghost Ship. (1952) 3.00 MOVIE: The Amazing Howard Hughes. (1977) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 RBT. 8.30 Emergency. 9.30 A+E After Dark. 10.30 My Feet Are Killing Me. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Beat Bugs. Final. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Dancing With The Stars. 4.00 10 Years Younger In 10 Days. 5.00 Bondi Vet. 7.00 Judge Judy. 7.30 Kitchen Nightmares. 8.30 Ramsay’s 24 Hours To Hell And Back. 11.30 First Dates UK. 1.40 Kitchen Nightmares. 2.40 Ramsay’s 24 Hours To Hell And Back. 4.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 10 News First: Lunchtime. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 10
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Learning To Love. (2023) 2.00 Tipping Point Australia. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 7. Canterbury Bulldogs v South Sydney Rabbitohs. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 7. Dolphins v Melbourne Storm. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 MOVIE: John Wick. (2014) 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.20 Airborne: Nature In Our Skies. 11.30 Judge Judy. 12.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 Jamie Oliver: Cooking For Less. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 Family Feud. 4.00 Judge Judy. 4.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. 5.00
1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Australia’s Best Backyards. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 American Pickers. 1.30 Pawn Stars. 2.00 Desert Collectors. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. North Melbourne v Carlton. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Pawn Stars Do America. 8.30 MOVIE: The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen. (2003) 10.45 MOVIE: Cliffhanger. (1993) 1.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 The Cook And The Chef. 1.00 Unforgotten. 2.00 Restoration Australia. 3.00 Back Roads. 3.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Sherwood. 9.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. 10.00 Fresh Blood: Westerners. 10.30 Father Brown. 11.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 5.20 Kangaroo Beach. 5.50 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 10.35 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 2.50 Doctor Who. 3.35 A Bite To Eat. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 My Family. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 MOVIE: J. Edgar. (2011) 10.45 ER. 11.30 Breeders. 11.50 Rage. 12.55 Breeders. 1.45 Penn & Teller:
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Larry The Wonder Pup. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Rebel Wilson’s Pooch Perfect. 1.15 Dancing With The Stars. 3.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 4.00 Black-ish. 4.30 Frogger. 5.30 The Amazing Race. 7.00 MOVIE: The Smurfs. (2011) 9.05 MOVIE: Ghostbusters. (2016) 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 MOVIE: Second Fiddle. (1957) 2.30 MOVIE: Crossplot. (1969) 4.30 French And Saunders: Easter Special. 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 West Coast Cops. 8.30 MOVIE: Noah. (2014) 11.10 Hotel Chocolat: Inside The Chocolate Factory. 12.10 Late Programs.
Snowy Monaro
Focussed on health, movement
indoor pool
ESTABLISHED in 2019, Leah Redden Fitness offers group fitness sessions focussed on improving cardiovascular health, range of movement, strength and balance, falls prevention, and social interaction.
Leah is passionate about helping people to move better, move more often, live pain free, and to feel welcome and supported when attending sessions, therefore maximising enjoyment as well as results.
“The overall goal is to build confidence in the way we move, to help everyone continue to enjoy their daily activities,” Leah said.
Leah is a qualified personal trainer, aqua fitness instructor and swim instructor, holding further certifications in pre and postnatal training, boxing for fitness, children’s fitness training, Zumba and Aqua Zumba.
cardiovascular health, mental health and overall wellbeing.
Starting out in pre-COVID times and seeing the impact of lockdowns and isolation on people’s health and wellbeing, Leah realises her fitness sessions are as much about improving mental health through social interactions as it is about being physically active.
Operating from a privately owned studio and indoor heated pool, all fitness sessions are open to all fitness levels across all ages and stages of life. These small group settings allow individual participants to receive personalised feedback, with modifications and alternatives provided as necessary. There are sessions available to suit people from all walks of life, including circuit, strength and balance, boxing, aqua fitness,
aqua boxing, aqua gym for men, and walking in water.
All the pool based sessions offer the added bonuses of being no/low impact. The water provides varying levels of resistance, whilst also supporting participants to move with more ease and greater range than they can on land.
“The power of water really is amazing,” Leah said, New participants are always welcome, whether you bring
along a friend, family member, or join in on your own. There are casual rates, and package deals available to help keep you accountable.
Leah holds learn to swim lessons for young children, Monday to Friday, during school hours, with the focus on introducing babies and toddlers to the benefits of swimming, and working towards children being safe in and around the water before they start school.
Offering group fitness sessions in:
Fitness for every age and stage of life!
PHOTOS: Leah Redden Fitness
Leah is passionate about helping people move better and live pain free.
All smiles for members of this a ua class. eah is a ualified a au fitness instructor.
A ua fitness classes are o ular at Leah Redden Fitness. Leah runs the classes in a private, indoor pool.
A beacon of holistic health
Nestled in the heart of the Snowy Mountains, Alpine Alignment Chiropractic supports the health and wellbeing of the Jindabyne, Berridale and surrounding communities. Led by the dedicated Dr. Woody Hulst, this family-run clinic is passionate about helping patients achieve better functionality and lasting wellness.
Meet Dr. Woody Hulst
Originally starting out in nursing, Dr. Hulst then moved into chiropractic care. He went on to earn a Master’s degree in Chiropractic from Macquarie University and has spent the past nine years refining his skills through continuous education and hands-on experience.
A Personalised, Holistic Approach
Alpine Alignment Chiropractic focuses on the belief that proper alignment is key to a pain-free, healthy life. Dr. Hulst offers tailored care plans that address individual needs, helping with issues like back pain, neck tension, and headaches. His approach combines gentle spinal adjustments, soft tissue work, rehab exercises, and lifestyle advice for long-term results.
Dr. Hulst is also trained in dry needling, a technique that targets tight muscles and trigger points to ease discomfort and support healing.
Care
That Fits Your Life
The clinic prides itself on offering a warm, welcoming space where patients feel supported. Whether you’re an athlete wanting to enhance performance or just hoping to move and feel better each day,
Alpine Alignment Chiropractic provides care that meets you where you’re at. Book online at www.alpinealignment. com.au or call/message 0466 792 831 to start your wellness journey.
Finding relief from aches and pains: The power of remedial massage and myotherapy
Remedial Massage and Myotherapy offer lasting, practical benefits for people at all stages of life. Whether you’re recovering from injury, managing chronic pain, supporting your athletic performance, or simply looking for greater comfort—these therapies can help you move and feel
Local therapists Ruth Wellsmore (Remedial Massage) and Jane Wear (Myotherapy), based in Jindabyne and Berridale, are passionate about helping their community reduce pain, improve movement, and enjoy a better quality of
“We work closely with clients experiencing pain and discomfort,” says Ruth. “Using soft tissue techniques like myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and stretch therapy, we aim to relieve tension, restore function, and improve well-being. Seeing someone walk out of our room with a smile of relief is incredibly rewarding.”
Ruth has a particular passion for helping clients reduce the frequency and severity of headaches, often linked to postural tension and muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders.
Their client base ranges from teens managing growing pains to active adults and older clients living with age-related conditions. Every treatment is personalised, addressing the root causes of pain—not just the symptoms.
Ruth and Jane also take a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach, working alongside local allied health professionals to ensure comprehensive care and support for each client.
Whether you’re in pain, staying active, or simply need gentle hands-on therapy, expert care is available right here in Jindabyne and Berridale.
PROFESSIONAL: Dr Woody Hulst leads Alpine Alignment Chiropractic, family-run practice is committed to guiding patients toward optimal alignment and overall wellbeing. PHOTO: Supplied
EXPERIENCE: Jane Wear (myotheraphy) and Ruth Wellsmore (remedial) are passionate about helping the community move better and recover more quickly. PHOTO: Supplied
Alisha provides unique wellness service
By KAREN FORMAN
ALISHA Kelland’s Bombala
Massage and Wellness Centre
may be a few minutes drive out of Bombala, but it is not difficult to find the treatment rooms once you arrive.
The aroma of essential oils chosen especially for each individual client permeates the air and leads you onto the porch of a delightful historic cottage with stunning views of the Monaro and then into a large reception area warmed by an open fire.
The relaxation promised by Alisha starts right there. It continues with massage, sauna, ice bath and more and by the time you leave, you are already dreaming about the next treatment.
Owner and sole operator of the centre, located at 92 Benlady Rd, Bombala, Alisha offers massage two days a week and her sauna and ice bath rooms are open five days a week. She also offers compression/ recovery boots and gentle scar therapy.
Clients can visit for individual sessions or join as members to enjoy regular wellness routines to stay mobile, pain-free and active and can pay by the week or annually.
“Consistent heat therapy, cold therapy and compression can reduce muscle soreness, improve circulation and enhance mobility,” she said.
“It is perfect for active individuals, athletes and those recovering from injury or surgery who want ongoing relief and peak performance.
“It is is perfect for those looking for a regular wellness routine to stay mobile, pain-free and active.”
The centre is located in the 100
a client
her
year old-plus cottage that has been in her husband’s family for generations.
“We live in the house up the hill and the cottage was going to ruin, so we decided the easiest thing was to put the Massage and Wellness Centre into it,” she said.
“The surrounds are beautiful
and peaceful, perfect for a wellness centre.
“People in the cities go and have a massage and then have to drive home through traffic and housing estates. My clients can enjoy the Snowy Mountains landscape, the gardens and the tranquility.
“We painted, created a massage room, installed a sauna, icebath, extra treatment room which is used by a beauty therapist and designed a cosy reception area with a toasty woodfire.”
Alisha started her massage business a decade ago after completing a Certificate IV in Massage, adding a Diploma of Remedial Massage a few years later. She had been working at the local pharmacy in between having her two children and wanted to work closer to home and have more time to do the books for her husband’s Bizz’s Farm Forestry and Civil Contracting business.
At first, Bombala Massage and Wellness Centre operated out of shops in Bombala, then a cabin on Alisha’s property, but found its forever home in the historic cottage, two years ago.
Clients range in age from 17 to the 70s and come from not only Bombala but further afield.
“I am the only person in Bombala offering these services. My goal is to help people not to have to travel to Cooma and the coast for treatments,” Alisha said.
“My passion and drive is to bring a service we didn’t have in the area and make wellness more accessible.”
She is keeping mum on possible future expansion plans, but suggests people ‘watch this space as you never know what could happen’.
INFRARED SAUNA | ICE BATH | COMPRESSION BOOTS
HEALING HANDS: Alisha Kelland treats
at
Bombala Massage and Wellness Centre, just out of town.
PHOTO: Karen Forman
Revive Rehab, your path to optimal health
REVIVE Rehab is an exercise physiology, clinical pilates and massage clinic offering specialised care for individuals seeking to improve their health, prevent or manage chronic conditions, and recover from injuries.
Revive Rehab believes in restoring not just movement, but the joy of everyday life.
Founded on the principles of holistic, evidence-based care, its mission is to empower individuals to regain their independence and enhance their overall function through tailored exercise rehabilitation and massage interventions.
Owner and sole clinician, Samantha Scott, accredited exercise physiologist (AEP) and remedial massage therapist, combines the latest research with a comprehensive understanding of each client’s unique needs.
“Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or seeking to improve your physical performance, we’re here to support you every step of the way,” Samantha said.
What is an accredited exercise physiologist?
AEPs are experts in using exercise as medicine.
They specialise in designing clinical exercise programs for individuals at high risk of developing, or those already living with, chronic and complex medical conditions.
The goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining your optimal physical function, health, and wellness.
Through evidence-based strategies, our AEPs provide education, guidance, and lifestyle modifications with a strong focus on long-term behavioural change.
Whether you’re looking to prevent or manage chronic disease, recover from surgery or injury, or simply lead a healthier life, our AEPs prescribe the right exercises to meet your unique needs.
Conditions Revive Rehab help manage Revive Rehab provides expert care for a wide range of conditions, including but limited to: diabetes, obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, asthma, high blood pressure, pre and post-surgery rehabilitation, osteoporosis, lower back pain, depression and mental health, postural imbalance, cerebral palsy, arthritis, chronic pulmonary disease fibromyalgia, falls and poor balance, occupational injuries, cancer rehabilitation, MS, and cardiovascular disease.
By tailoring exercise programs to your specific needs, Revive Rehab helps you manage your conditions and improve your overall quality of life.
“At Revive Rehab, we believe in the transformative
power of exercise, not just for your body, but for your mind,” Samantha said.
“We want to help you achieve your best health outcomes.”
Services
- Private exercise physiology (1:1 and group classes)
- Medicare - exercise physiology
- Workcover - exercise physiology
- NDIS - exercise physiology
- Remedial massage
- Clinical pilates and mums and bubs pilates Upcoming programs/ services
- Oncology massage
- Lymphatic massage
- Diabetes exercise group
- Men’s exercise group
- Cancer rehab exercise group
- Falls prevention exercise group
Whether you’re looking to manage a medical condition, recover from an injury, or simply improve your health and fitness, Revive Rehab are here to guide you every step of the way.
Book online or visit Revive Rehab today, where your health is their priority.
Located - 27 Bombala St, Cooma, 0494 16 8270 Reviverehab6@gmail.com
Exercise Physiology, Clinical Pilates and Remedial Massage Services that are tailored to your specific needs and health status Book an initial assessment today!
Thursdays 9:00-10:00am Mums & Bubs 10:00-11:00am 4:30-5:30pm 5:30-6:30pm
FOCUS: Samantha Scott of Revive Rehab believes in not just restoring movement but giving people back the joy in their everyday life.
PHOTO: Supplied
Fantastic Fortitude Physio leads way
By NATHAN THOMPSON
AT THE heart of Kristy Nichols’ successful physiotherapy business, is a commitment to the Monaro community.
Kristy could easily be running her business in any town or city in the country, but a love for the Monaro is why she has established Fortitude Physio in Bombala.
Born and bred in Cooma, Kristy started Fortitude Physiotherapy after realising there were some pretty significant gaps in the physiotherapy space in the Snowy Monaro.
Fortitude Physiotherapy initially operated in Cooma before a move to Bombala, where the business has just unveiled its new space in the main street.
2025 is proving to be another busy year for Kristy, as she grows her online platform You by Fortitude and runs Fortitude in its brand new location.
Kristy started the online platform to help those in rural areas or unable to access a physical class to still participate in classes online.
The innovative online platform provides convenient access to personalised physiotherapy and Pilates-inspired movement programs, designed for all fitness levels and lifestyles.
“I loved creating the online space. It was a lot of hard work, it was months in the making but very worthwhile,” Kristy said.
“A focus this year is promoting the online platform to a wider audience and to run live online classes.
“For people living out of town, it’s good for them. I’ve received lots of positive feedback about You by Fortitude.”
Kristy is well-known on the Monaro for her many sporting pursuits and active community involvement. Kristy has played league-tag with the Cooma Fillies and Bombala High Heelers, and has won multiple premierships with both sides.
Kristy has coached junior Bombala league-tag sides, passing on her knowledge and enthusiasm for the game.
“Sport and the Monaro is in my blood and I love that I have been able to make a contribution in our community in this way,” Kristy said.
Fortitude Physiotherapy can be found on Maybe Street, Bombala. Kristy said she is pleased with the instant success of the new location and is looking forward to supporting locals.
“I’m so stoked with the new space. Dad and my partner Ben put a lot of hard work into setting it up, and it looks terrific,”Kristy said.
“Bombala and Cooma people are so supportive, there has been great feedback since moving the business.”
While only moving down the road, Kristy said the new and larger space has been well received.
“Being right in the centre of town is making a difference. Our larger offering will help expand the reformer Pilates classes with more size in the room.”
In 2018, Kristy and Ben welcomed daughter Charlotte,
and son, Clancy, in 2020.
“This gave me a new perspective on what the body is capable of, but also the shortcomings in recovering from pregnancy and labour, especially in rural areas,” Kristy said.
“My interests in physiotherapy lie in musculoskeletal and women’s health physiotherapy, as well as Pilates, and this has become a driving force for the changes taking place at Fortitude Physiotherapy.
“I am so excited to be able to provide you with movement, mindfulness and exercise anywhere, anytime.
“I am here to support you and be with you every step of the way, whether you are a beginner or advanced this space is for you.”
For more information or to book a class, contact Kristy athello@youbyfortitude.com.au or 0484 951 806.
With an increase in space for her popular reformer Pilates classes, Kristy is hoping to encourage more people to try classes.
Kristy says she is very happy with the new setup and home for Fortitude Physiotherapy.
Kristy is heavily involved in community sport as a player and coach of a junior side. Kristy (back left) stands with the Bombala junior girls league-tag side following a match last season. PHOTO: Nathan Thompson
TRANSFORMATION: Kristy Nichols has unveiled her new space for Fortitude Physiotherapy, in Bombala’s main street. PHOTOS: Kristy Nichols
Berridale Pharmacy recognised for rural healthcare, community wellbeing
BERRIDALE Pharmacy plays an important role in the health of its small community of around 1,300 residents and to the surrounding district.
In a town with limited healthcare options, featuring only a small GP clinic and no supermarket, Berridale Pharmacy serves as a vital hub for essential services.
The Berridale Pharmacy was recognised for its role in the community, being named as a finalist in Guild Pharmacy of the Year national awards.
It’s a trusted resource, bridging the gap in healthcare access and ensuring that residents, especially those in geographically isolated areas, can receive the care they need.
“We’ve always aimed to be a trusted partner for the people of Berridale and the surrounding regions. Whether it’s offering essential medications or providing health education, we’re here to make healthcare more accessible,” Pharmacy owner, Freya Woodhouse, said.
To ensure the most remote patients receive timely care, the pharmacy offers a delivery service that spans a 45km radius, ensuring no one travels long distances for their medication.
Berridale Pharmacy is deeply committed to the community, actively hosting local health events and collaborating with schools and organisations to raise awareness about important health issues. Their initiatives include speaking at local schools and offering diabetes education programs at nearby daycares, which help build lasting relationships and foster trust with residents.
The pharmacy has been recognised for its innovation
services right here to Berridale - saving people the long trips to larger cities for care.”
“We’re proud of our collaborative approach to patient care,” Freya said.
enabled the pharmacy to offer even more services to the local community. the area, helping reduce the risk of blood-borne infections.
Mental Health Australia welcomes election commitment
THE country’s peak mental health body Mental Health Australia has welcomed the Labor Party’s $1 billion election commitment to significantly increase access to free mental health supports across the country, along with a much needed boost to grow the workforce.
“This is a landmark investment that recognises the challenges the community is facing, particularly young people,” Carolyn Nikoloski, CEO of Mental Health Australia, said.
“With two-thirds of mental health issues emerging by age 25, and young people reporting cost is the most significant barrier to accessing mental health care, Mental Health Australia has been urging all political parties to commit to free mental health care for all children and young people as part of their election platforms.
“At a time when people need support the most, one in five people delayed or did not see a health professional for their mental health due to the costs
associated in 2023-24.”
Ms Nikoloski said against a backdrop of serious cost-ofliving pressures, commitments to free and accessible care are more important than ever, and will help deliver more equitable care across our communities.
“Rates of mental ill-health among young people increased by 50 per cent between 2007 and 2022, so that now two out of five young people experience a mental health condition in a given year,” Ms Nikoloski said.
“Recent research also
indicates that 22 per cent of five-year-olds show vulnerability to mental health issues in their first year of school.
“This commitment represents an important step towards a better mental health system for Australians.
“One that provides free and high-quality support, regardless of your income or postcode.”
Mental Health Australia said mental health is a major priority for voters this election, with polling conducted for the
organisation showing 75 per cent of Australian voters think the government needs to do more on mental health, and 63 per cent of voters would be more inclined to vote for a party committed to address accessibility of mental health services.
For more than 25 years, Mental Health Australia has advocated for mental health reform, and continues to drive policy changes and proactively put mental health on the agenda.
Peak body backs Coalition’s mental health promise
MENTAL Health Australia says a recent Coalition funding promise to increase youth mental health support has placed mental health on the Federal Election agenda.
Mental Health Australia is supporting the Coalition’s focus on youth mental health, as pledged in its Opposition Budget reply speech.
This commitment recognises
the vital importance of mental health services, as we tackle the cost of-living crisis, housing pressures and job insecurity.
“We call on all political parties and candidates to strongly prioritise mental health in their election commitments over coming weeks,” Carolyn Nikoloski, CEO of Mental Health Australia.
“Too many families and young people in Australia are forced to
choose between essential mental health care and basic living costs.”
Mental Health Australia is urging all political parties to commit to free mental health care for everyone under the age of 25 as part of their federal election platforms.
MHA Director of Policy and Advocacy, Emma Greeney, said that with two-thirds of mental health issues emerging by age 25,
it is essential that any barriers to treatment and support are removed to guarantee all children and young people the chance to thrive.
“This ambitious move could change the trajectory for a generation of Australians, by investing in accessible care, earlier in life, during the most critical phase of growth and development,” she said.
Ms Greeney said rates of mental ill-health among young people increased by 50 per cent between 2007 and 2022, so that now two out of five young people experience a mental health condition in a given year.
Recent research also indicates that 22 per cent of five-year-olds show vulnerability to mental health issues in their first year of school.
RECOGNITION: The Berridale Pharmacy was named as a finalist in the Guild Pharmacy of the Year awards. The team of (left-right): Claudia Bicknell, Freya Woodhouse, Ellen South and Amelia Kayess were thrilled to be recognised for their efforts.
PHOTO: Supplied
Prices surge, market strong in local weaner sale
By Monaro Livestock and Property
MONARO Livestock and Property (MLP) held its 15th annual weaner sale on Wednesday, 2 April, which saw nearly 2900 Monaro-bred weaners yarded and sold in a significantly stronger market compared to two weeks ago.
This improvement was driven by timely rain in the south, as well as unprecedented rainfall in northern NSW and Queensland.
Prices, on average, surged by $170-$200 per head compared to the previous sale, as private agents and commission buyers from three states competed eagerly for the high-quality 2024 drop calves.
Buyers came from various locations, including Longreach, Goondiwindi, Gunnedah, Trangie, Dubbo, Bathurst, Orange, Braidwood, Wagga Wagga, Cootamundra, Wodonga, Corryong, Pakenham, and South Gippsland, with the odd local buyer looking to secure stock before winter.
A total of 92 registered bidders set a fast pace right from the first pen, which saw genuine spring drop Angus steer weaners weighing 390kg sold for $1640 ($4.20/kg). Heavier Angus steers, ranging from 300-370kg, were in high demand, with one buyer from Dubbo purchasing the entire front lane for prices between $1450$1640 ($4.20-$4.55/kg).
Medium-weight steers from 280-300kg were also highly sought after, selling for $1280- $1380 averaging $4.45-$4.70/kg.
Lighter steers under 270kg fetched strong prices, ranging from $1000-$1280 ($4.60- $4.87/ kg). Several pens of wellbred lighter Angus steers breached the $5/kg mark on two occasions.
Heavier Hereford steers, over 300kg, sold for up to $1500, with prices ranging between $1,230$1500 ($3.97-$4.14/kg).
Middle-weight Hereford steers from 260-290kg sold for $1150-$1230, averaging $4.03/kg, which represented an increase of approximately 70 cents/kg from the previous sale.
Younger, plainer steers under 180kg, were in numbers from some of the drier parts of the Monaro, sold for $750-$950.
Heifers were in strong demand, with a pen of Angus yearling heifers weighing 376kg selling for $1280 ($3.40/kg). Hereford heifers weighing 384kg made $1240 ($3.26/kg), and a pen of Charolais heifers fetched $1260 ($3.34/kg).
Genuine Angus and Black Baldy heifer weaners reached $1220, with heavier drafts ranging from $1050-$1220 ($3.45-$3.65/kg).
The middle run of heifers sold for $800$980 for both Herefords and Angus breeds, while lighter, younger heifers traded for $600-$750.
Monaro Livestock congratulated all vendors on the condition of their cattle after a tough spring/ summer period leading up to this sale.
“We also thank all our yard staff and local livestock carriers for their efforts in preparation for this annual sale,” Will Dixon of MLP said.
MARKET: Monaro Livestock and Property was pleased with its 15th annual weaner sale results.
MEMBERS of the NSW Natural Resources Commission visited parts of the Monaro last week and met with several landholder groups.
The commission is preparing a report for the government on the native vegetation laws and was accompanied on its visit by Local Land Services staff making a delegation of 16 in total.
The first report is due to go to the Ministers of Environment and Agriculture by 30 June with public submissions closing 27 April.
“It is very important that landholders are aware and get involved in this review,” Monaro Farming Systems (MFS) chair, Mandy Horton, said.
“Current legislation and the inaccuracy of the native vegetation maps are a real concern, especially when it comes to protecting our land from weed invasions such as Lovegrass.”
There was a strong consensus the current draft maps are wildly inaccurate and that any attempt to finalise them will result in the loss of any farmer goodwill.
“Farmers recognise the need for conservation and are willing to work with government to get the maps right, reference group member, Grantley Ingram, said.
“The trust in the process is fragile.
“Finalisation of the current maps will destroy any chance of future farmer buy in,” he added.
The department’s assertion that the maps are 90 per cent accurate does not stand up to any scrutiny,’ according to NSW Farmers Cooma Branch chair, Ritchie Taylor.
“The maps cannot distinguish our key noxious weeds
from native pastures, and are regulating five or six times the area occupied by the native grasslands they are seeking to protect,” Mr Taylor said.
“By preventing effective weed control, the maps are ensuring the destruction of the native grasslands that farmers have worked so hard to preserve.”
Other issues included the perverse outcomes for weed control where some landholders
Common sense reform needed
FARMERS are calling for practical and common-sense workforce and regulatory reforms to address ongoing labour shortages in Australian agriculture and support improved productivity outcomes.
NSW Farmers’ president, Xavier Martin, said agricultural businesses depend on a consistent and suitably skilled workforce, and decisive action is needed from political leaders during this federal election to deliver the workforce regional Australia requires.
“An extended AgCAREERSTART program, increased support for graduate veterinarians in regional areas, and broader initiatives to develop and train future farm communities are
essential to the long-term sustainability of the agriculture sector,” Mr Martin said.
“Investment in farmworker accommodation and regional infrastructure is also necessary to attract and retain workers in the areas where they are needed. Improving the liveability of regional areas plays a critical role in workforce retention.”
Mr Martin said reducing the complexity and cost of complying with industrial relations laws was a priority for primary producers.
“Workplace regulations must support productivity, not inhibit it. Compliance processes need to be streamlined so farmers can focus on running their businesses efficiently,” he said.
Mr Martin added that improvements to migration programs are also required to ensure farmers can access international labour to fill roles that cannot be met by the domestic workforce.
“We continue to call for the retention of specified work requirements for working holiday makers, as well as streamlined visa processing for skilled and semi-skilled workers in agriculture,” he said.
NSW Farmers is also urging the Albanese Government to reconsider its position on the PALM scheme’s 30-hour minimum work guarantee if re-elected and called for reforms that improve accessibility and reduce complexity for employers.
Lamb numbers lift, quality mixed
LAMB numbers lifted and the quality was very mixed at Yass last week.
There were plenty of secondary lambs and only a limited supply of well finished trade and heavy weights.
There were a few extra restocking and feeder orders operating but the market sold to a weaker trend.
Re-stocking lambs sold from $45 to $155/head
averaging $12 cheaper and feeder paid from $128 to $160/head.
Trade lambs were $4 to $5 cheaper selling between $144 and $190/head averaging from 740c to 770c/kg.
Heavy weight 24 to 26kg fell $12 and sold from $176 to $202/head and lambs to 30kg sold to $229/head and averaged 770c/kg.
Heavy Merino hoggets lost $25/head and ranged
from $111 to $144 and heavy crossbreds were $8 softer reaching $178/head.
Mutton numbers jumped and the quality was plainer.
Prices were $35 to $50/ head softer in places with light ewes selling from $26 to $66 and medium weights $97 to $135/head.
Heavy crossbred ewes reached $173 and Merinos $182/head and most ranged from 420c to 470c/kg cwt.
are not permitted to undertake effective control on lovegrass and must wait until exotic species reach 50 per cent of the ground cover before taking action.
“By the time we get to 50 per cent of Lovegrass we have lost the paddock and accelerated the spread across the adjoining lands,” Monaro Grazier, Ross Sherlock, said.
The commission spent the morning examining the northern
Monaro and saw first hand the devastation of Lovegrass taking over native ground cover.
“If the regulations in their current form are allowed to continue virtually all the native grasslands of the Monaro will eventually succumb to the invasion of African Lovegrass, to have any chance of success, the smaller areas of grazing land that are identified as High Conservation Value grasslands must be accurately mapped and all resources focused on their preservation,” Mr Sherlock continued.
The meeting also heard about the detailed trial conducted previously covering a number of Monaro properties that was put forward as a solution when the legislation was first introduced in 2016.
“We have made a good start to a practical solution with the Monaro Code project but unfortunately it appears to have fallen on deaf ears,” Monaro grazier, Craig Mitchell, said.
“Monaro landholders are more than willing to help government find a solution to manage native vegetation and run sustainable farms.”
Submissions can be made via the Natural Resources Commission website.
LOVEGRASS INVASION: Members of the NSW Natural Resources Commission visited parts of the Monaro last week and met with landholder groups. The commission is preparing a report for the government on the native vegetation laws, with public submissions closing 27 April.
PHOTO: SMRC
The beauty of Beaumont
ADDRESS: 130 Vaughans Road, Ando
ASKING: $660,000
BEAUMONT is a wonderful lifestyle opportunity on the Southern Monaro.
Beaumont is 3.94ha/9.736ac and has been lovingly renovated over recent years by the current vendors, with attention to detail and high quality finishes both inside and out. Inside, the timber floors that flow through the main living areas have been reclaimed and painting has been freshened up throughout.
The main house features three bedrooms, master with built in robes, bathroom with separate toilet and open living areas.
A modern kitchen overlooks the back yard and gardens and features gas cooking and lots of storage. The fourth bedroom is in the adjacent outbuilding along with the second bathroom/laundry and office. House yard is complete with established lawns, trees and gardens, two-car garage and new fencing.
The property is watered by rainwater to the house and reliable bore water for gardens and stock as well as one dam. Lifestyle package completed with chook run, vegetable patch and four paddocks suitable for hobby farm.
Embrace the beauty of Beaumont and book your inspection today.
Fantastic opportunity to purchase a family home with beautiful views over the town and local countryside.
•3 good sized bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 toilets
•Spacious kitchen with island bench, open dining and lounge
•Extension suitable for 4th bedroom, teenage retreat/games room etc
•Front patio with elevated views over town
•Rear patio suitable for outdoor entertaining
•Electric ducted heating/cooling and slow combustion heater
Great location for an active family within walking distance to the CBD and major sports ground, book your inspections today!
Looking for something far from the maddening crowd but need to be close to town, this property could be your answer!
•2 very spacious bedrooms with BIR, 1 bathroom/laundry
•Modern kitchen, dining room and good sized lounge room with reverse cycle air con and pellet heater
•Large deck with plenty of room for entertaining/outdoor living
•Large block 3022m2 (approx.)
•Fenced house yard with established lawns, gardens and dog run
•3 Bay garage, additional shed with sliding door access - perfect for mancave/ teenage/retreat or guest bedroom
This is a fantastic opportunity to combine space and privacy, so book your inspection today!
2 Keys Street, Bombala
Prime retail space in blue ribbon location
Address: Unit 8, 5 Snowy River Avenue, Jindabyne NSW 2627
In terms of location, it does not get better than this.
Unit 8, 5 Snowy River Avenue, Jindabyne NSW 2627 presents a unique opportunity, arguably a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire a prime retail space in the well renowned Nuggets Crossing.
Positioned on the corner of the main and most used entrance into Nuggets Crossing, no stairs, no elevator, simply outright pole position. The space entertains front and rear access from the carpark and the courtyard.
This premises has been operating as High Country Outfitters for 37 years, and have made the most of the 85m2 space over the years, earning themselves a well-known reputation. Don’t miss out on the opportunity this prime retail space in a blue ribbon location presents. Unit 8, 5 Snowy River Avenue, Jindabyne goes to auction – online and in room – on Tuesday, 29 April. Don’t wait until it is too late, contact the KMPL sales team today on 02 6456 7232 to find out more.
• 85m2ofprimeretailspacelocatedadjacent to themaincarpark at streetlevel.
• No stairs,noelevator,outrightpoleposition.
• Enterfrom two sides,carparkaswellascourtyardentrance.
AGISTMENT OR LEASE WANTED for Merino Ewes. Small or large mobs. Ph 0417 588 740
Edition after Easter
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2025
CLAIM THE DATE
Saturday 17th May 2025
“WARRIGAL”
653 Werralong Road, Dalgety NSW 2628
A/C: JD Downs & C Kolano
Saturday 31st May 2025
“KALKITE PARK”
115 Hilltop Road, Hill Top NSW 2628 A/C: P Fischer
Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW) will be conducting an ongoing 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) ground baiting program for the control of Wild dogs and Foxes from the 12th of May 2025 to October 31st, 2025. This program may include the use of 1080 meat baits and Canid Pest Ejectors. The program is part of a regional management strategy to control wild dogs and foxes using baits containing 1080 poison.
The areas covered in the plan include Bondi SF No. 128, Coolangubra SF 547, Nalbaugh SF No. 129, Craigie SF 1069, Glen Allen SF No. 1031, Glenbog SF No. 149, and Towamba SF No. 908 and Tallaganda SF No 577
For further information or enquiries please contact the FCNSW Bombala Management Area Office on (02) 6459 5200.
Inspections: 8am | Auction: 9am Refer to kirshnermackay.com.au for further details, photos & inventory
Is looking for a full-time wait person. No experience necessary. Need to be 18+, driver’s licence, RSA or be willing to obtain.
GRAND COURT CHINESE COOMA LOG SPLITTER Whitlands Engineering Superaxe WS3150. Vertical hydraulic log splitter with 9hp Honda engine. Very good condition. Australian made. $6000. Ph (02) 6454 6463.
See Wendy at Snowstop Village Cooma or call 6452 4525.
White Landcruiser 1998 HJ75
Diesel, tray, bull bar, winch, tow bar, snorkel, Mickey Thompson tyres, toolbox, Stratos driver’s seat. 470,855km. Reg 29/10/25. (VLX 366) $18,000 ONO. Ph (02) 6454 6463.
SCHOFIELD, Ian Vincent ‘Pug’. Passed away at Cooma on Sunday, April 6, 2025. Aged 85 years.
Barbara, Rhonda and Jason, Michelle and Alan, Leigh (dec), Glenn and Julie, Steven and Vicki. Grandfather of Scott, Jade, Tara, Riley, Florence, Miranda Ivy, Meg, Bella, Sara and Phillip.
Invite relatives and friends of the late Ian Vincent Scho eld to attend his funeral service to be held graveside at Cooma Lawn Cemetery, Mittagang Road, Cooma on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at 10am.
SALVESTRO, Anna.
It’s been 30 years since you le us Mum. We remember your funny jokes like, “Facia da Pet” and your wonderful Nonna’s cake. You will always be missed, and are forever in our hearts.
your classified Booking by email classifieds@monaropost.com.au or phone 02 6452 0318 by 10am Mondays
your classified booking by email classifieds@monaropost.com.au or phone 02 6452 0318 by 10am Mondays
~ Carlo, Stella, Lilli, Nina, Ines, Lorenza, Robbie and families.
St Pat’s students parade their imaginative Easter hat creations
By MELINDA CAIRNS HACK
SCHOOL and community spirit and a respectful relationship between staff, students and families plus an array of decorated hats, were on display at the Saint Patrick’s School easter bonnet parade last Thursday.
Hats of many shapes, sizes and colours were worn by students, as they proudly paraded in front of an appreciative audience.
The students decorated their fabulous head gear using artificial eggs, chickens, carrots, bunnies and feathers plus other materials, with some very fancy designs and styles on show.
The best part of the parade were the smiles on the children’s faces who clearly continue to enjoy this traditional school activity - from the infant students to those in year six, everyone participated with enthusiasm, and celebrated Easter together.
Large Sri Lankan community celebrates festival
THE Sri Lankan community has again held a wonderful celebration for its Sinhala and Tamil New Year with hundreds coming together in Cooma.
On Sunday, Sri Lankan families from Cooma, the Far South Coast and Canberra enjoyed a day of food, culture and music to celebrate the New Year.
The lighting of the traditional oil lamp and boiling of milk was a highlight of the day.
Games were held for children, while most attendees were dressed in traditional Sri Lankan clothes.
CELEBRATION: Cooma Multicultural Centre manager, Yvi Henderson, joins Udaya
the Sri Lankan
the
Year celebrations. PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson
Bombala hosts regional United Hospital Auxiliary forum
By KAREN FORMAN
THIRTY-eight members of the United Hospital Auxilliary NSW(UHA) network descended on Bombala Golf Club for the South East Region’s 2025 Forum.
The women represented the 10 branches in the region, including host group Bombala, Queanbeyan, Delegate, Batemans Bay, Pambula, Cooma, Braidwood, Bega, Tathra and Moruya.
Guest speaker was Bombala Multi-Purpose Service (MPS) director of nursing, Jackie Ross, who spoke about expansion plans for the aged care section of the facility.
UHA was first formed in 1933 by Eleanor Mackinnon OBE and now has 166 branches.
State president, Sally Cronberger, from Tamworth, said she was pleased with the
numbers and was looking forward to the State conference to be held in Orange in October.
More than 3700 volunteer members across NSW raise funds which are then used to purchase much-needed equipment and items for their facilities.
Facilities provide ‘wish lists’ each year to their UHA branch, for items such as medical equipment, patient comfort items, additional training for nursing/ medical staff, accommodation, as well as items that are used for all general health care needs.
Branches fundraise through gift shops, op shops, raffles, on-site kiosks, craft stalls, market days, and many other events throughout the year. All funds raised by a branch are retained by that branch for use by their own community Health Service.
Max McPhie, George Morley, Zarlia Shaw and Jasper Lennon.
PARADE: Saint Patrick’s School students Charisma Bosco, Ellie Reid, Luna Nassar, Harper Coombe, Rizzani Flores, and Rebecca Jamieson.
Thomas Hill, Joseph Luton and Emilio Brazulaitis wearing their Easter hats.
The Basnagoda family enjoy their time at the New Year event at Cooma’s Lions Park on Sunday.
Hundreds came along for the Sri Lankan Sinhala and Tamil New Year festivities.
Liyanage of
community for
nation’s New
TOGETHER: (from le ) Regional representative Ann Burgess (Queanbeyan), Bombala UHA president, Marjori Feilen, Delegate UHA president, Claire Strickland, guest speaker, Jackie Ross, UHA state president, Salley Cronberger and UHA Cooma president, Sue Litchfield.
PHOTO: Karen Forman
Bombala wins 2025 Monaro Shield
By BOMBALA BOWLS
BOMBALA has won the 2025 Monaro Shield with Jindabyne coming in second, six points behind, and Cooma third.
The final was contested on Sunday, 6 April in Jindabyne.
Games were again followed by a social gathering of the players from the competing Monaro towns.
The results were:
Bombala 1 played Jindabyne 2
Jindabyne 2 – Jenny Smith, M Hamilton and Coral Hume defeated Bombala 1 - Mal O’Brien, Reigh Callaway and John Ryan 19-17
Jindabyne 2 – Barb Johnson, Brenda Byrne and Ken McCorie defeated Bombala 1 - Eileen Hampshire, Karen Brownlie and Neil Brotherton 23-19
Bombala 2 played Cooma 1
Bombala 2 - Mark Guthrie, Art Frances and Greg Griggs defeated Cooma 1 - Kathy Venables, Gayle
Schouten and Steve Bowerman 40-13
Bombala 2 - Matt Cootes, Aurora Reed and Kyle Richardson defeated Cooma 1 - Bruce Stewart, Fiona
Richards and Cheryl Meillon 26-13
Jindabyne 1 played Cooma 2
Cooma 2 - Diane Wilkins, Judy
Locker and Leonie Snell defeated Jindabyne 1 - Paul Livissianos, Eliza
Ryland and Dell Turner 24-17
Jindabyne 1 - Mick Towner, Paul
Bradshaw and Cathy Burn defeated
Cooma 2 - Paul Fuller, Mary Bowerman and Olga Jebbink 47-4
Final ladder
Bombala 2 - 27 points
Jindabyne 1 -21 points
Cooma 1 – 12 points
Cooma 2- 12 points
Jindabyne 2 -9 points
Bombala 1 -9 points
This friendly competition brought fellow bowlers, young, old, new or experienced from throughout the Monaro together for camaraderie, fun and enjoyment.
Bushpigs split matches, Red Devils receive forfeits
By NATHAN THOMPSON
RUGBY UNION
THE Jindabyne Bushpigs faced a tough test in round two of the South Coast/Monaro competition with a 76-10 loss to Bungendore.
The Bushpigs are in a re-building phase this season following the retirement of a number of key players after the club secured its third-straight
premiership last season.
A strong Bungendore side raced in 12 tries to the Bushpigs two. Tries for the Jindabyne side went to Klemm and Harry Burbury.
The Miss Piggies’ first game of the season was a tight affair with both sides crossing for three tries.
The teams couldn’t be split at fulltime, finishing 15-15. Sarah Farrell collected two tries and
Bernadette Lai one.
Following the Easter weekend break, the Bushpigs have its first home game of the season on Saturday, 26 April at John Connors Oval. Kick-off 2.30pm against Taralga.
The Miss Piggies have a bye.
The Cooma Red Devils faced a frustrating weekend with the women’s and men’s sides receiving forfeits. Cooma was scheduled to
play Braidwood in round two of the men’s division, however Braidwood announced earlier in the week it would be withdrawing from the competition due to low player numbers and an already high player injury toll.
Cooma’s women’s side was due to take on the Australian Defence Force Academy. This match will be played later in the season.
Blencowe wins first president’s cup
By COOMA GOLF CLUB
OVER the weekend, the inaugural president’s cup was held at Cooma Golf Course.
This year’s overall winner was Kerry Blencowe with an impressive 66 nett, six under par.
David Crawford won A grade with 70, B Grade was won by Wayne Ryan with 71 on a countback and the C Grade winner was claimed by Neil Mackenzie with 73.
Place getters on the day were David Goggin, Helen Crawford, Richard Hanna, Tony Clibborn and Greg Abraham.
Alan Kelly was nearest to the pin on both holes four and 11. David Stewart was nearest on the ninth and Peter Ewart on 17.
In Sunday’s stableford, Marcel Too was the overall winner with 37 points. Jason McCarthy, Stephen Young, Leo Percy and Mark Kenmir were place getters.
The mid-week competition this week was a stableford, with Greg Abraham the overall winner on 37 points. Andreas Geach took A Grade with 35 points on a countback. The B Grade winner was Gino Cerro with 36 points, and Claire Caldwell won C Grade with 35 points on a countback.
Nearest to the pin on the ninth was Garry Cornish and Mark Rainsford was closest on 17. Place getters were Steven Wheatley, Colin Langdon, Martin Gelling, Sean Bradshaw and David Stewart.
Coming up this week is the Kenmir Accounting Easter Cup, on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20. Both days are a stroke event.
All was not lost, as the men arranged a trial against Easts in Canberra. They came away with an impressive 48-7.
The club is gearing-up for a big double header against Yass on Saturday, 26 April at Rotary Oval.
The Red Devils play Yass in the women’s 10s competition at 12.30pm. The men take on Yass for the Gordon Litchfield Wool Boots n All trophy at 2.30pm.
Strong fields contest stablefords
The mid-week competition will be a stableford.
By BOMBALA GOLF CLUB
THE Bombala Golf Course is in good shape following a lot of hard work from members and volunteers working on the course during the week.
After the work on Saturday, there was a great field to play a par for the John Cherry trophy.
Nick Ryan had a very good round, coming in the winner on plus two from Pepper Thompson and Brendan Weston, plus one.
They collected a ball each with Nathan Thistleton and Brad Yelds on square winning the remaining balls.
Nearest the pin on 17 was won by Pepper Thompson. Golden shot went to Nick Ryan.
Sunday was a stableford for club trophy. The winner was Daniel Douch with the good score of 38 points.
Balls were won by Daniel, Ray Crawford 35 points and Pepper Thompson 32 points.
Nearest the pin on 17 was won by Pepper Thompson again and golden shot went to Neil Thompson.
Program for the week
Ladies Wednesday, 16 April - stableford, club trophy
Members
Good Friday, 18 April - stableford starring late R.Baird trophy
Easter Saturday, 19 April - stableford
Easter Sunday, 20 April - stableford
Easter Monday, 21 April - stableford
WINNERS: (back, from le ) Art Frances, Kyle Richardson, Greg Griggs, Matt Cootes and (front from le ) Mark Guthrie and Aurora Reed celebrate their Monaro Shield success.
VICTOR: President’s cup winner, Kerry Blencowe (right), with Cooma Golf Club president, Lyndon Taylor. PHOTO: Cooma Golf Club
Cats show fight, strong spirit
THE Southern Region Cats women’s team took on the Googong Hogs in their second round clash. Despite another tough match up, the Cats showed promise in defence and displayed a strong competitive spirit.
The side focussed on tackling during training, and this was translated onto the field on Saturday. Throughout the game, the Cats maintained a high tackle count, an improvement from the previous week.
The third quarter was a highlight for the Cats, who showed solid defensive pressure through the midfield and backline. Nevaeh Asanovski and Taylor Moore took some excellent marks, and Bethany Ammann and Erin Donnelly were excellent in the back line
Best on field were Erin Donnelly, Elizabeth Hazlewood, Amy Morgan, Bethany Ammann, Nevaeh Asanovski and Anna Bakker. There is a whole league bye next week. The following week the men take on the Cootamundra Blues in Holt at 12 pm while the women’s side has a bye.
COMMITTED: Erin Donnelly was best on ground for the Southern Cats. Donnelly was strong in defence and worked hard throughout the game.
Major takes Division 1 ladies club championship
By COOLAMATONG GOLF CLUB
THE ladies club championships concluded on Sunday with Carolyn Major taking out the Division 1 club champion title by six shots with a total of 277 and a final round of 90.
The strength to Major’s win was playing the four par three holes in one over par.
In runner up position was Michelle White on 283 who started one shot back in the final round and was in contention until early on the back where a series of bad holes cost her dearly.
The ladies nett winner was Janece Peters on 230 and runner up nett Kylie Woodcock on 243.
Jan O’Halloran won the division two scratch with a score of 296
followed by Elise Cave in runner up position on 317.
The division two nett was won by Maureen Rupcic on 242 just eclipsing Nadine on 243.
The members on Sunday played a two ball ambrose with the duo of Steve Dunn and Teresa Dunn combining for a great winning score of 59 nett.
Playing off a revised handicap of 11, the Dunn combination shot a great par figures score 35 on the first nine holes, which included a double bogey, and they followed up with a one under par score on the back nine for 70 scratch and 59 nett.
Ben Hearn and Joel Patton were runner up with 62 nett and David Douglas and Stephen Edgenton in third with 65 on a countback.
Legacy Diggers Day charity day a success
By COOLAMATONG GOLF CLUB
THE Coolamatong Golf Club hosted its Legacy Diggers Day charity golf event on Saturday in perfect weather conditions.
With a $10,000 hole in one prize donated by the Cooma Ex-Services Club up for grabs, golfers had every opportunity to fill their kitty. Unfortunately, the best shot of the day on the 15th hole would only be about 10 feet, so the prize did not go off, but there were other feats that added to the occasion.
Besides the golf, and as a true charity day, barman, Erich Koennecke, offered to have his 27-month-old exceptionally long beard shaved for charity. Erich now looks much younger after neighbouring sheep farmer, Kim Weston, used his shearing skills to delicately extract the beard without a hitch.
As for golf, Andrew Haigh had the best round of the day shooting a great 75, fa great four over par round.
The men’s best nett score went to Roy Gabriele with a great 65 nett, and Mark Brown had the best non handicap round of 81 scratch.
The best of the ladies was Michelle White shooting a fine 88.
Maureen Rupcic was excited to win the best nett score with 71, and the leading non-handicap lady was Megan Haigh.
There were four junior golfers in the field, and each walked away with a prize. Best scratch score with handicap was Cole Haigh with 101 and Aaron Fenton had best scratch with 74 nett.
The best non-handicap score was Felix Bertossi with 98 and Owen Freebody won three golf balls to round out the junior trophies.
The Bradman’s prizes were won by Elfie Doran and Robert Thompson.
The men’s near pins were won by Eric Partell on three, Jason Brazulaitis on eight, Cliff Richards on 15 and Soren Stoettrup on 17.
The ladies near pins were Janece Peters on 15, which was the best shot of the day for the hole in one hole and Janece also captured the ladies near pin on 17.
A huge thank you to all the organisers, cooking crew and those selling raffle tickets, led by Ross and Betty Thompson.
Ross also extracted several dollars for charity auctioning off various prizes, and Alan ‘Barney’ Davis was the lucky winner taking home half a lamb from the raffle.
The day was played in great spirit and the money raised will go the CoomaBombala Legacy, which is always a worthy cause.
A tough performance from the Southern Cats inaugural women’s side drew plenty of praise from club coaches and o icials.
PHOTOS: Nathan Thompson
CHAMP: Carolyn Major claimed the Coolamatong ladies club championship. PHOTOS: Coolamatong Golf Club
LEGACY: Barman, Erich Koennecke, had his 27-month-old exceptionally long beard shaved for charity. PHOTOS: Coolamatong Golf Club
Erich Koennecke a er shaving his beard for charity.
Athletes awarded
THE Cooma Athletics Club has celebrated another successful season with its presentation event recognising outstanding achievements throughout the summer.
The following athletes received age champion and age champion runner-up:
Under six girl - Lily Fitzgerald, winner; Bonnie Dietrich, runner-up
Under six boy - Kenji Watzinger, winner; Myles Hope, runner-up
Under seven girl - Indie Hartas, winner; Elkie Docker, runner-up
Under seven boy - Ugo
Croissant, winner; Elijah Martin, runner-up
Under eight girl - Lily Dawson, winner; Lalyla Irviine, runner-up
Under eight boy - Ashton Watzinger, winner; Logan Shaw, runner-up
Under nine femaleAnna Payne, winner; Mikaela Martin, runner-up
Under nine boy - Finn Dietrich, winner; Bryce O’Reilly, runner-up
Under 10 girl - Rachael Davis, winner; Kaidence Rikkin, runner-up
Under 10 boy - Bowen Fitzgerald, winner; Walker Pate, runner-up
Under 11 girl - Lucy Strange, winner; Charlotte Claughton, runner-up
Under 11 maleJack Payne, winner; Sebastian Andrews, runner-up
Under 12 girl - Emily Payne, winner; Bella Schofield, runner-up
Seniors under 13 to under 17 girl - Chantelle Douglass, winner; Tahlia Jamieson, runner-up
Boy - Angus Linton; Blake Davis, runner-up
The personal bests award was claimed Blake Davis and the gold star award went to Ashton Jamieson.
TALENT: Cooma’s junior athletes have celebrated another fun and successful season with the club hosting its presentation day. Athletes were recognised for their hard work and dedication throughout the 2024/25 season.
These youngsters were amongst the top performers in the age range.
The Cooma Athletics Club is one of the most popular organisations in the region. With strong numbers each week, the club has become a favourite amongst juniors and seniors.
Cooma athletes are all smiles following the presentation day. Awards recognised personal best achievements, club records and overall success.
The presentation day allowed the club to thank its volunteers, parents and sponsors for ensuring another season went by smoothly.
and Ashton
celebrate their successful seasons.
The
are
of
and
The club also had a number of athletes compete in the ACT championships, bringing home dozens of medals between them.
Chantelle Douglass
Jamieson
pair
two
Cooma Athletics Club’s most talented
decorated athletes. Charlotte is the senior girl’s champion and Ashton claimed the gold star honour.
Jindabyne hosts state BMX titles
RACERS READY: The second round of the NSW BMX Championships was held at Jindabyne on a state-of-the-art track.
PHOTOS: Karen Forman
By KAREN FORMAN
SNOWY Mountains BMX Club
hosted the second round of 2025 NSW BMX Championships on its state-of-the-art track at Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Centre at the weekend.
More than 550 riders aged from two to 60 travelled from throughout NSW, ACT,
Queensland and Victoria for the event, including 30 elites racing the male and female Superclass categories.
With sun shining, food and other stalls and a large crowd, the event was dubbed a big success by club president, Mike Daley.
“It was great to see the riders of all ages come along from all around NSW as well as the ACT,
Victoria and Queensland,” he said.
‘This is grassroots racing at its best, there is something for everyone. And we had a lot of great feedback about the track.”
The track opened four years ago, with a new polymer surface added two years ago, making a big difference to the quality of the track.
“It is now considered to be
Where the Flick
track, with the best surface we
a national level track, with the best surface we can possibly get, so we can host events like this, which was our first state championship and our biggest event yet,” Daley said.
including sprockets, mini wheelers, challenge, and superclass categories across 20” and Cruiser, which is the elite level of racer.
The AusCycling BMX Racing State Championships for New South Wales is the pinnacle event for the state’s BMX racers.
The Championships feature competition for all riders,
The club opens its gates on Wednesdays from 5pm to 6pm (4.30pm in winter) but advises riders to check Facebook for updates. New riders are welcome.
visit the iconic ‘Little Bush Pub in the middle of nowhere’
There was plenty of action at the Jindabyne Sport and Rec Centre over the weekend as the state’s best BMX riders took to the track.
Lake Light Sculpture 2025 event, biggest yet
Community discussion successful
By TRISTA HEATH
JINDABYNE Lions Club hosted the Jindabyne CWA Day and Evening branch and the senior’s group on Wednesday 9 April at the Jindabyne Bowling and Sports Club.
Special guests, Snowy Monaro Regional Council mayor, Chris Hanna, interim chief executive officer, Stephen Dunshea, and chief people and organisational performance officer, Angela Sommerville, were in attendance to answer questions from the community.
By TRISTA HEATH
LAKE Light Sculpture 2025 is shaping up to be a successful year after a four year hiatus from Jindabyne foreshore. With more than 60 sculptures and 40 small sculptures, the wait was well worth it and the committee is ready to put on quite a show.
Lake Light chair, Dani Kell,
said the winner of the Peoples Choice award from 2021, Jesse Graham, from Eden, and one of the committee’s favourite artists, is returning for the 2025 event.
“We are really excited to welcome him back, along with all our other returning and new artists,” Ms Kell said.
“The amount of effort and dedication from artists has been
incredible. We have community groups, schools and the early childhood centres bringing their pieces for the exhibition also.
“What I always loved about Lake Light Sculpture was that mix of real professional, beautiful pieces as well as the fun exhibits that children have created.
“Pieces put together in garages and experiments turned
to art is a wonderful thing to experience and I think we will see that again this year.”
The committee is excited to welcome a brand new award to the 2025 Lake Light Sculpture line-up, The Newcomer Award, of $1000 - bringing the total prize pool to $43,500 across 14 award categories.
■ Read more on page 8
This was a chance to get to know community leaders, the people who make decisions that affect the town and for senior community members to ask questions important to them.
Many topics were discussed, and The Monaro Media Group will be breaking the conversation down into sections over the coming weeks.
Hot topics among the Jindabyne community are the state of the roads, lack of footpaths and the poorly maintained Town Centre toilet blocks.
■ Read more on page 6
EASTER ART EXCITEMENT: Peoples Choice Award winner from 2021, Jesse Graham, set to return for the 2025 event. PHOTO: Lake Light Sculpture
Jindabyne hosts state BMX titles
RACERS READY: The second round of the NSW BMX Championships was held at Jindabyne on a state-of-the-art track.
PHOTOS: Karen Forman
By KAREN FORMAN
SNOWY Mountains BMX Club
hosted the second round of 2025 NSW BMX Championships on its state-of-the-art track at Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Centre at the weekend.
More than 550 riders aged from two to 60 travelled from throughout NSW, ACT,
Queensland and Victoria for the event, including 30 elites racing the male and female Superclass categories.
With sun shining, food and other stalls and a large crowd, the event was dubbed a big success by club president, Mike Daley.
“It was great to see the riders of all ages come along from all around NSW as well as the ACT,
Victoria and Queensland,” he said.
‘This is grassroots racing at its best, there is something for everyone. And we had a lot of great feedback about the track.”
The track opened four years ago, with a new polymer surface added two years ago, making a big difference to the quality of the track.
“It is now considered to be
Where the Flick
track, with the best surface we
a national level track, with the best surface we can possibly get, so we can host events like this, which was our first state championship and our biggest event yet,” Daley said.
including sprockets, mini wheelers, challenge, and superclass categories across 20” and Cruiser, which is the elite level of racer.
The AusCycling BMX Racing State Championships for New South Wales is the pinnacle event for the state’s BMX racers.
The Championships feature competition for all riders,
The club opens its gates on Wednesdays from 5pm to 6pm (4.30pm in winter) but advises riders to check Facebook for updates. New riders are welcome.
Book in for dinner or lunch on Saturday and visit the iconic ‘Little Bush Pub in the middle of nowhere’
There was plenty of action at the Jindabyne Sport and Rec Centre over the weekend as the state’s best BMX riders took to the track.
