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Monaro District Cricket: Round 11 Results Stir Competition Ahead of Finals

As the Monaro District Cricket Association One Day Competition heads towards the finals, Round 11 delivered thrilling encounters that shook up the competition ladder, leaving teams jostling for the coveted top four positions. With just one round remaining, every match is crucial in determining which clubs make the finals.

PHOTO: Cooma Titans premier top order batsman Aqib Abbasi made 79.

Saturday’s fixtures kicked off with the Cooma Titans facing the Jindabyne Tigers at Rotary Oval. Early breakthroughs by Jindabyne’s Dave Oxley, picking up the wickets of Dilip Chandran and Mohsin Imran, had the Titans at 2/21. However, Aqib Abbasi (79) and Hassan Nawaz (68) formed a vital partnership to steady the Titans’ innings, the score 3/185 when Nawaz fell.

PHOTO: Jindabyne’s James Joyce went through the in-form Babar Rehman.

Jindabyne’s bowlers, led by James Joyce with figures of 4/32, initiated a collapse, bowling out the Titans for 218 runs in 38.4 overs. In response, Jindabyne came very close in their chase, with strong performances from Dave Tickell (72) and Captain Lucas Rixon (38). Despite their efforts, Rixon was run out chasing the remaining 11 runs required for victory, the Tigers concluded their 40 overs just seven runs short at 9/211 after a full 40 overs.

In Bombala, Coffey’s Cricket Club displayed exceptional prowess against the home side. Bombala elected to bat and reached a total of 201, thanks to standout performances from the in-form Mark Tonks (73) and Jason Cikos (42). Coffey’s Nathan Thompson played a pivotal role, nabbing key wickets, including Tonks and Cikos.

Coffey’s chase was a masterclass in batting dominance, with openers Dale Cook (101*) and Nathan Thompson (94) leading their team to a comprehensive victory, reaching 0/205 in 34.1 overs, and dispatching 26 boundaries between them.

The final match of the round saw Berridale Whitetails taking on Rhythm at Nijong Oval. Berridale managed a modest total of 127 after 36 overs, guided by Zac McKenzie’s 45. Berridale reached the 100 run mark before three quick wickets fell for just one run. Thomas King, Benjamin Hearn, and Zac McKenzie departed leaving the Whitetails reeling at 6/105. Rhythm’s bowlers, led by Isiah Peisley with 3/16, from 7 overs was very effective.

In reply Rhythm lost Toby Inskip (5) early before Jack Watt and Nemasha Ambagahawatte settled things down. Watt (15) fell to Berridale young gun Jack Dunn and then Ambagahawatte followed, Dunn taking two key wickets.

Resistance from Rhythm was strong though, as Kasun Basnagoda (27), and Captain Kaeliff Khoury (20), formed an important partnership. Basnagoda ultimately lost his wicket to Russell Haylock’s leg spin, leaving Khoury and the lower order to attempt it on their own.

A disciplined knock from Stuart Wood (22*) gave Rhythm every opportunity however the loss of Khoury saw Rhythm fall just short. Berridale’s strong bowling performace was highlighted by Captain Russell Haylock’s 4/14 from 7 overs of leg-spin resulting in a narrow Berridale victory with Rhythm bowled out for 118.

With Coffey’s leapfrogging Jindabyne to lead the competition, only one round remains before the semi-finals, promising more exciting cricket as the top four battle for supremacy. In round 12, will see Coffey’s host Dalgety, Berridale travel to Jindabyne, and Rhythm are at home to the Cooma Titans. Bombala have the bye.

Dalgety must win to make the finals, and hope that Berridale lose to Jindabyne. Coffey’s must beat Dalgety to be first past the post. If Berridale win in Jindabyne they will lock in fourth spot, and a finals birth. If Jindabyne win and Coffey’s lose, they will be first past the post. The Cooma Titans can finish second if they win and Jindabyne lose.

Cooma Show Celebrates 150 Years of Community and Heritage

The Cooma Showgrounds bustled on Saturday March 8, as the community gathered to mark the 150th anniversary of the Cooma Show. This significant milestone reflects Cooma’s deep agricultural roots and a vibrant multicultural history that continues to thrive.

Upon opening the show, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, highlighted the unique essence of the district. “Even with my inexperienced eyes, I can see looking over the livestock and produce displays, that agriculture in Cooma, and on the Monaro, is floating,” she observed.

PHOTO: Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn, officially declared the 150th Cooma Show open.

Her Excellency praised the district’s multicultural diversity, saying, “The magnificent flags in the town centre are a joyful representation of all the people who came from all over the world… Today that story is vivid as ever.”

The day was marked by warm sunshine that drew large crowds to explore an array of attractions, from cattle, sheep, and poultry displays to captivating wood chopping events, as well as an array of food stalls, rides, and agricultural events. The show was, as always, a festival of community spirit, made possible by diligent contributions from sponsors and community members.

PHOTO: Stunning flower displays dazzled show goers with delicate entries.

President of the Cooma Pastoral and Agricultural Association, Robert Hain, extended heartfelt thanks to the show’s sponsors, especially the major sponsor, Bendigo Community Bank Cooma, stating, “Without the support the sponsors have shown this year, we wouldn’t be able to put on this event.”

Notably, the event celebrated individuals who have significantly contributed to the show’s legacy. Sue West was honoured with the Royal Agricultural Society Medal for her 50-year commitment to the show and her work in equestrian eventing. Meanwhile, Sue-Ellen Mackay received the Agricultural Society Council Next Generation Award for her dedication to the show movement.

Young faces also shone brightly, with Emily Lucas and Sarah Fraser honoured as the Young Woman and Rural Achiever, respectively. “I’m honoured to be your Cooma Show 2025 Young Woman,” Lucas said, expressing excitement about the opportunities the role offers. Fraser, echoing community pride, stated, “There’s a special pride in saying you’re from Cooma.”

PHOTO: International Women’s Day coincided with Cooma’s 150th Show – The regions’ young leaders pictured with Her Excellency, Sam Mostyn.

Special thanks was given to Cooma Pastoral and Agricultural Associations’ Secretary Danielle Mackay who puts countless hours of work into every single show.

Mayor of Snowy Monaro Regional Council Chris Hanna reflected the sentiment saying “The Cooma show has been a part of my life for 35 years, I was born and raised in Cooma, and I take my hat off to the entire committee, particularly Danielle Mackay who does such an amazing job, a job that she works on all year in preparation for the next show.”

It was a particularly special trip for mother and daughter Jay and Rosie Basilisco from Canberra, with Rosie and horse “Dolly” coming away with a first place ribbon in the 55cm show jumping. Rosie’s mother Jay Basilisco mentioned this was “the first time we have done anything like this”, having never been to the Cooma Show, or entered in anything like it before.

PHOTO: Jay Basilisco proudly presenting “Dolly”.

As evening fell, the skies lit up with a vibrant fireworks display by Mr Boom Boom Fireworks, capping off a day that truly embodied Cooma’s rich heritage and communal joy, leaving a lasting imprint on the community.

Thredbo Hosts Thrilling 2025 Boost Mobile Australian MTB Interschools

Thredbo, the heart of the mountain biking (MTB) scene in the Snowy Mountains, came alive last week as it hosted the 2025 Boost Mobile Australian MTB Interschools. From March 3-7, the event attracted over 1,100 keen student riders from nearly 350 schools across Australia, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for MTB among young Australians.

PHOTO: Very impressive talents were on display in down hill competition CREDIT: Thredbo

The bustling event featured a packed schedule with four exhilarating races: the Rockshox Downhill, Fox Flow, Maxxis All-Mountain, and Deity Pump Track. Students from years 3-12 competed in five different divisions, highlighting their diverse skills and passion for the sport.

Tim Windshuttle, Thredbo MTB Business Manager, expressed his admiration for the event, stating, “It’s always inspiring to see such a strong passion for mountain biking among the younger generations. The incredible number of kids who came to compete this week is a clear testament to the sport’s bright future in Australia.”

“Their skill level continues to rise each year, and there’s no doubt that we’re witnessing the early stages of some truly promising MTB careers.”

PHOTO: The pump track competition drew a large crowd of spectators.

Spectators were treated to thrilling performances, particularly impressed by Thredbo Junior Ambassador Maddie Lloyd. Representing Snowy Mountains Grammar, Maddie won first place in all her races, a remarkable achievement that contributed significantly to her school’s overall victory in the event.

PHOTO: Maddie Lloyd – a future star in the making on the pump track.

The success of the Interschools not only highlights the individual talents of young riders but also underscores Thredbo’s lure as a premier MTB destination.

Crews Swiftly Contain Fires South of Cooma

Rural Fire Service (RFS) crews from the New South Wales RFS Snowy Monaro District (NSWRFS-SMD) demonstrated their rapid response capabilities as they successfully contained two fires on Saturday March 8, one near Maffra and another close to Cooma Airport.

PHOTO: The pine trees at Snowy River Way Maffra will be monitored for residual heat CREDIT NSWRFS-SMD.

At 10:13am Saturday, crews responded to a fire on the Snowy River Way at Maffra. Brigades from Nimmitabel and Dalgety called for support upon arrival, with brigades from Berridale and Brothers then attending the incident. The fire was contained at two hectares in size and will continue to be monitored over the coming days.

NSWRFS-SMD Inspector Langdon Gould said “The fire will be monitored and patrolled till such time as we are confident there is no residual heat within affected pine trees. The cause of that fire was due to an escaped permit burn.”

At 1:13pm on Saturday, NSWRFS-SMD were alerted to a grass fire south of Cooma Airport. Brigades from Berridale, and Dry Plains responded, and upon arrival, called additional units, from Cooma, Dry Plains and Brothers.

PHOTO: Grass fire on Kosciuszko Road near Cooma Airport.

Quick work by crews extinguished the fire at just two hectares in size, noted NSWRFS-SMD Inspector Langdon Gould.

“The fire was contained at two hectares and the cause is still being investigated. However, we do know the the origin of the fire was on the side of Kosciuszko Road.”

PHOTO: Crews quickly contained the Kosciuszko Road fire.

The two incidents came on a day which the Cooma RFS had initially committed resources to the annual Cooma Show further complicating response efforts. Inspector Langdon Gould said the fires provided a timely reminder to the community.

“These two fires clearly demonstrate the volatility of fuels across Snowy Monaro District, and we are asking the community to remain vigilant in ensuring they prevent ignitions, as it is clear, fires are still readily igniting.”

PHOTO: Cooma RFS trucks committed to the 2025 Cooma Show.

“We ask people to take all care with any heat sources in open areas, especially vehicle exhaust, any hot works, or slashing. The bush fire danger period remains in place, until at least March 31, and fire permits are required for any burning in the open, with the exception of cooking and recreational fires.”

Monaro Highway Set for Vital Upgrades with Significant Federal Funding

Commuters and tourists travelling to or from the Snowy Mountains region via Canberra can expect improved travel conditions on the Monaro Highway, thanks to a substantial funding boost from the Federal Government.

Committed to enhancing safety and connectivity, the federal government has allocated $17.5 million to support the next stage of safety upgrades on the Monaro Highway. This project builds upon the $230.5 million already invested in the road network, co-funded by both the Albanese and Barr governments.

PHOTO:Federal Member for Canberra, Alicia Payne (left), with Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain

The upgrade will see over eight kilometres of the Monaro Highway rehabilitated, extending from the Jerrabomberra Creek intersection at Hindmarsh Drive to David Warren Road. These improvements will cover both the south and northbound carriageways, as well as on-and-off ramps. The pavement rehabilitation is expected to conclude later this year, enhancing the daily travel experience for many who drive in and out of Canberra from our region.

Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government and Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain MP, noted that the improvements are critical, as “over 18,500 people from the Queanbeyan-Palerang region cross into Canberra every day.” She further emphasised the importance of maintaining road safety in response to increasing demand, highlighting that “we want people to be able to leave the ACT and spend their money in our regions across the mighty Eden-Monaro.”

PHOTO: On-route to Canberra on the Monaro Highway near Old Cooma Road CREDIT: ACT Government

The Monaro Highway is pivotal for those commuting to Canberra and tourists travelling to the Snowy Mountains, as confirmed by Federal Member for Bean, David Smith MP. “This significant funding to improve the road surface will be really helpful for people driving on it every single day, not only to go to work but to go to the snow as well,” Smith remarked, underscoring the road’s vital role in regional transport.

These investments are part of a larger $70 million Roads to Recovery initiative from the federal government.

Landmark School Funding Agreement Achieved in NSW

A historic funding agreement has been reached between the Australian Federal Government and the New South Wales (NSW) Government, marking a significant milestone for public education in the state. This agreement, announced on 4 March 2025, ensures that all NSW public schools will receive full and fair funding in accordance with the Gonski model, fulfilling a long-standing promise to educators and families.

PHOTO: Berridale Public School.

Principal Janene Petersen of Berridale Public School expressed gratitude regarding the impact of the new funding: “Berridale Public School is committed to using the additional school funding to enhance our educational programs, focusing on improving student wellbeing and boosting literacy and numeracy outcomes for every child.”

Under the terms of the Heads of Agreement signed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns, the Federal Government will increase its contribution to the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) from 20 per cent to 25 per cent by 2034.

This increase represents an additional $4.8 billion in Commonwealth funding over the next decade. The NSW Government has also committed to eliminating the previous practice of including capital depreciation costs in their funding calculations, ensuring that funding directly benefits the classroom.

PHOTO: This agreement is hailed as the largest new investment ever made by the Australian Government in NSW public schools.

This agreement is hailed as the largest new investment ever made by the Australian Government in NSW public schools. It is set to provide more than 780,000 children across over 2,200 schools with resources to enhance their education, focusing on improved literacy and numeracy outcomes, student wellbeing, and closing the gap for those who struggle academically.

NSW Teachers Federation President Henry Rajendra welcomed the agreement, stating that it represents a historic stride forward, providing crucial, life-changing support for students. “This is the culmination of more than a decade of committed campaigning by teachers, parents, and students. For the first time, we have a comprehensive plan to deliver the full funding our public schools have been promised since the original Gonski Review more than 13 years ago,” Rajendra commented.

PHOTO: The new Jindabyne Education Campus.

The funding will be tethered to reforms aimed at lifting education standards and includes measures such as phonics and numeracy checks in early schooling years, targeted tutoring programs, and improved access to mental health support. The commitment from both governments is seen as a testament to prioritising education as the foundation for Australia’s future.

Political leaders, including Prime Minister Albanese and Premier Minns, emphasise that this investment ensures every child in Australia receives a quality, free public education. “Education opens the doors of opportunity, and we want to widen them for every child in Australia,” Albanese declared.

This significant agreement with NSW follows similar funding pacts with other states and territories and underlines a growing national focus on achieving equitable education access for all Australian students.

Motion Passed to Seek Funding and Develop Town Master Plans: Cooma to Come First

In the second half of the Snowy Monaro Regional Councils’ February meeting, councillors debated the Motion 11.14, brought forward by Councillor Davis, regarding inclusion of a plan in councils’ draft for the 2025–2027 delivery and operational phase to seek grant funding for the development of a master plan for beautification efforts in Cooma’s central business district (CBD), its entrances, and the Cooma Back Creek riparian zones.

PHOTO: Cooma CBD – Centennial Park, Sharp Street CREDIT: Snowy Monaro Regional Council

During the discussions, Councillor Davis emphasised the significance of community involvement, citing inputs from the Cooma Chamber of Commerce and concerned residents as crucial elements. However, concerns were voiced by some councillors regarding the potential absence of formal consultation with the council and the possibility for community divisiveness if the proposal appeared to favour Cooma exclusively.

Councillor Rose stated, “I think in broad principle this idea is a good idea, but I think it’s premature… We need much more information on the meetings that have taken place before I could support the motion… it needs to be more inclusive.”

Councillor Hopkins asserted the necessity for a phased approach: “This is probably the first step of many steps that we need to take… it’s something that absolutely needs to be put into our plans for the next four years without question.”

PHOTO: Cooma CBD – Sharp Street near Soho Street CREDIT: Future Generation

There were further concerns regarding inclusivity and prioritisation. Councillor Stewart expressed apprehensions, indicating, “I appreciate the Cooma residents want to enhance their entrance… but I think we should be asking each of the other areas what they want to see in their communities.”

Seeking a more inclusive approach, an amendment was proposed to include seeking grant funding of master plans in all towns beginning with Cooma, which Councillor Davis accepted.

Councillor Thaler highlighted resource allocation issues and the need to prioritise current projects: “We already have a lot of outstanding projects that need to be completed.”

Consequently, the motion faced a notable divide in opinion but ultimately passed with support from Councillors Higgins, Hopkins, Elliott, Davis, and Hanna, while Councillors Stewart, Rose, and Thaler were against.

PHOTO: Cooma CBD – Vale Street at the Crime Through Time Museum.

With the master plans now part of the official agenda, it paves the way for potential funding opportunities aimed at the enhancement of all towns and villages in the Snowy Monaro Regional Council area.

The initiative marks a critical step towards strengthening community infrastructure and aesthetic appeal, but didn’t come without concerns over Councils’ current capacity to take on more projects.

Pond Defect Detected at Bombala Wastewater Facility

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) advised rectification works are in-progress at the sewage treatment plant in Bombala to repair a treatment pond defect recently detected by Council staff.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “Temporary additional lining is being installed to protect against leakages from the pond. Maintenance plans were already in-place before this recent defect was identified, with efforts now being made to bring forward the timeline for these planned permanent repairs.”

“The team on-site are working closely with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to rectify this situation as quickly as possible and to ensure that the local environment is protected.”

“Council self-reported this matter to the EPA immediately upon detection.”

“Frequent environmental monitoring in consultation with the EPA is continuing, with the results of these tests available to the public on Council’s website.

Contact Council’s water and wastewater team on 1300 345 345 for further information, or email SMRC at [email protected] to get in touch.

Visit www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au/Water-and-Wastewater to learn more about water and wastewater in the Snowy Monaro.

Impacts of Climate Change on the Northern Corroboree Frog: New Insights from UNSW Study

A recent study from UNSW Sydney has raised alarms about the vulnerability of amphibian species worldwide, offering new insights into their resilience against climate-induced heat stress. The findings have significant implications for conservation efforts, including growing concerns for the Snowy Mountains, Brindabella Ranges based, critically endangered Northern Corroboree Frog (Pseudophryne pengilleyi), already struggling against various environmental threats.

PHOTO: The Northern Corroboree frog is found only in isolated parts of the NSW and ACT Brindabella Ranges CREDIT: David Hunter (DPIE)

Researchers from UNSW, led by Dr Patrice Pottier, have developed a novel methodology for predicting the heat tolerance of 60% of the world’s amphibians using 2661 heat tolerance limit estimates from 524 species. This development allows scientists to forecast which species are most at risk under current and future climate scenarios.

“We used very conservative estimates in this study assuming access to cool shaded environments. Therefore, the impacts of global warming will likely exceed our projections,” says Dr Pottier.

“So all efforts to limit global warming are needed to protect the world’s amphibians.”

The study, published in Nature today, reveals that 2% of the world’s amphibians already experience temperatures exceeding their physiological limits, with projections indicating this could rise to 7.5% with a global 4°C temperature increase.

The study’s findings highlight areas such as the Southern Hemisphere, where tropical species face increased risks from overheating, challenging previous assumptions about vulnerability based solely on latitude.

Climate Action Monaro President, Jenny Goldie, has warned of regional impacts due to climate change, sighting the recent release of the Climate Councils’ new Heat Map Tool.

Ms Goldie said the model shows the rapid increase in high-temperature days and its potential to disrupt ecosystems in the Snowy Mountains.

“While we can be thankful there will be no days over 40 degrees by 2090, the fact the model projects going from one to nine days over 35 degrees in Eden-Monaro is very worrying,” she said.

“Our whole alpine region is vulnerable to the hotter and drier conditions that come with climate change. Many ecosystems and species rely on snow cover, but that will steadily diminish as well.”

“It is thus critical that we take action now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that are the cause of climate change. There can be no delay.”

PHOTO: Senior Wiradjuri man, Rodney Penrith, assisting in the collection of Northern Corroboree frog eggs. CREDIT: David Hunter (DPIE)

The Northern Corroboree Frog, a species spotlighted by the NSW Government’s Saving our Species (SoS) program, already faces imminent extinction due to threats from diseases, particularly the amphibian chytrid fungus, and habitat degradation.

Efforts under SoS include captive breeding, habitat restoration, and reintroduction programs, notably in Taronga Zoo and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, aimed at stabilising populations in areas like Micalong Swamp Flora Reserve.

The combined insights from the UNSW study and ongoing conservation initiatives underline the urgency stakeholders feel is required for comprehensive action to preserve these vulnerable amphibians and the wider complex ecosystems they support.

Monaro Woman of the Year 2025: Elaine Lollback

The winner of the Monaro Woman of the Year has been announced with Elaine Lollback taking the honours in 2025. Elaine and her team are well known in Queanbeyan and the surrounding area for the work of St Benedict’s Community Centre.

PHOTO: Steve Whan (left), Elaine Lollback (right) presented with the Monaro Women of the Year award.

Based in the former Annie’s Place site, St Benedict’s has been assisting the community for several years with housing and food security. It is wholly volunteer run and relies on funding from donations and government grants.

Member for Monaro Steve Whan said, “Since I was last the member, I’ve noticed a decline in the availability and affordability of housing not just in Queanbeyan, but across Monaro. This isn’t to say it wasn’t an issue when I was last in Parliament, but the situation has become more dire over the years.”

PHOTO: St Benedict’s Community Centre celebrating Elaine Lollback.

“That’s why someone such as Elaine is a wonderful role model for our society – someone who runs on faith, goodwill, and chocolate to ensure the people who come to St Benedict’s are receiving as much assistance as humanly possible. My staff have mentioned receiving calls on weekends and after hours where Elaine is still busily working away, fighting for a good
outcome.”

“Elaine never asks for anything in return, and never judges anyone or their circumstances. She is inspiring, and someone we could all learn from. This is why I have awarded her the title of Monaro Woman of the Year 2025.”