News

Community Support Enhances Cancer Patient Care in Cooma

Generosity from the Monaro Committee for Cancer Research Inc. (MCCR) is significantly enhancing patient care at the Cooma Oncology Unit, as recognised yesterday by Southern NSW Local Health District (Southern NSW LHD). MCCR’s steadfast support has been instrumental in advancing the services provided to cancer patients in the region.

PHOTO: Erin Dwyer, Nurse Unit Manager at Cooma’s Oncology Unit CREDIT: Southern NSW LHD.

The latest donations include a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine and specialised chairs, which have revolutionised the care at Cooma’s Oncology Unit. Erin Dwyer, Nurse Unit Manager, praised MCCR’s contributions, noting that the unit would never have been established without their support. The new ultrasound machine is pivotal in a pilot project targeting patients with Difficult Intra Venous Access (DIVA).

“The ultrasound-guided cannulation greatly reduces discomfort for patients,” Dwyer explained. “It minimises the number of invasive attempts and assists in deciding when a central line is necessary, improving patient comfort and care.”

Additionally, new chairs with armrests were procured in response to patient feedback, enhancing safety and comfort for those with mobility challenges. MCCR also operates a Financial Assistance Scheme, aiding families with medical and household expenses during cancer treatment.

Established in 1997 following the untimely death of Helen, a local resident, to cancer, MCCR was initiated by Jackie Sellars (Rose) to honour her mother’s courage. Since its inception, the organisation has raised over $1 million through various fundraising events and generous community donations.

PHOTO: The MCCR were recognised on Australia Day this year for Services to Local Community, Cancer Care and Research CREDIT: MCCR

In further recognition of their efforts, MCCR recently received an Australia Day 2025 award for “Services to Local Community, Cancer Care and Research,” with the region publicly acknowledging their profound impact on local cancer care and research.

Pool Season Extended for Adaminaby and Berridale

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) announced today the extension of the swimming season for the public pools in Adaminaby and Berridale, in response to strong community demand and weather forecasts predicting high temperatures to continue across the region into autumn.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “A big thank you to our regional lifeguards for agreeing to extend their contracts past the original end-of-season dates, who have made this longer swimming season possible.”

“This extension will also help local junior competitive swimmers training to represent the region in upcoming regional carnivals.”

Adaminaby Pool will be open Saturdays and Sundays from 1.30pm – 5.30pm until Sunday 16 March 2025.

Berridale Pool will be open weekdays from 1.30pm – 5.30pm and on weekends from 11am – 6.30pm until Sunday 16 March 2025.

Season dates and opening hours are unchanged for Cooma and Bombala. The enclosed Jindabyne Pool remains open year-round.

For further information about public swimming pools in the Snowy Monaro, please visit https://qrco.de/SMRCpools.

Council Reduces Weed Management Budget Amid Financial Constraints

The Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has announced a reduction in its budget for weed management activities on roads, reserves, and operational lands, lowering the annual spending to $540,000 for the 2024–25 financial year. This decision comes as part of broader cost-saving measures aimed at achieving financial sustainability.

PHOTO: Orange hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum) in bloom.

“Unfortunately, in the current climate it is very difficult for government agencies and landowners alike to attract funding to manage widespread weeds,” Brett Jones, SMRC’s Biosecurity Coordinator, explained.

As a result, many costs are borne directly by the Council, with the Council advising the budget cuts have necessitated reductions in services and contractor engagements, especially in areas where weeds heavily proliferate.

Council’s weed control program, primarily funded by local rates, is crucial in managing state and regional priority weeds such as orange hawkweed, parthenium weed, and gorse. While widespread weeds like serrated tussock and African lovegrass are no longer classified as priority weeds, they continue to pose challenges to local ecosystems and agriculture.

PHOTO: African lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula) is a perennial grassy weed native to southern Africa that dominates pastures around the world – including in the Snowy Monaro.

Council’s strategy now involves prioritising resources, “Our budget for spraying (priority) weeds is directed primarily towards protecting the region’s agricultural and environmental assets from the impact of weeds,” Mr Jones stated.

“That means, the vast majority of our weed control efforts occur in the areas to the south, east and west of Cooma, with only a skeleton budget retained for managing weeds to the north of Cooma.”

Mr Jones warns that, “In many cases Council’s weed spraying activities simply will not occur in a timeframe or to a standard that we have achieved in the past.”

Further cost-saving measures include adopting boom-spraying along road verges to control weed growth more efficiently and reduce reliance on slashing. “This practice, where appropriate, serves to both reduce vegetation height along the road verge for safety reasons and it controls a lot of the weeds that would otherwise have to be spot sprayed at greater cost,” noted Mr Jones.

Eden-Monaro Braces for Rising Heat: Climate Council’s Heat Map Predicts Alarming Temperature Increases

Eden-Monaro is amongst a list of regional areas set to roast, according to the Climate Council’s latest heat map tool. This newly unveiled model comes amidst rising concerns over escalating temperatures, and depicts the daunting future that awaits regional Australia should climate pollution persist unabated.

PHOTO: Snow in Kosciuszko National Park could be reduced to just the higher peaks by 2090 CREDIT: John Spencer (NSW DPIE)

Using this model, Climate Councillor, Professor David Karoly, emphasises the gravity of the situation, particularly for the Snowy Mountains. “In the Eden-Monaro electorate we can see that if there’s no action to cut climate pollution, then by 2090 on average there will be nine times more hot days over 35 degrees on average, (from one day per year to 9).”

“That means that in warm years alpine regions could face significant increases in hot days,” Professor Karoly stated, highlighting the severe repercussions for local ecosystems and human health introduced by even marginal increases in hot days.

PHOTO: Early starts to summer and drier Monaro grasslands have become a regular theme in the region.

The heat map indicates that warming temperatures are already contributing to a decline in winter snow across Australia’s alpine ski fields, consequentially threatening snow-based tourism. With alpine regions covering only a minuscule 0.15% of the continent, and lower-elevation ski resorts being the most vulnerable, potential snowfall declines of 60-80% by the end of the century loom ominously, leaving only the highest peaks relatively safe.

Alpine ecosystems, home to unique and sensitive flora and fauna, stand on the brink as they are reportedly exposed to climate extremities. Thredbo, a renowned ski village within Eden-Monaro, could transition from zero days over 35 degrees Celsius on average to experiencing one such day annually.

While seemingly minor, Professor Karoly explains that, “even a small increase in the average number of hot days or nights can have a big impact, and can damage our ecosystems and our health.”

This stark warning comes as part of broader projections detailed by the Climate Council, where regional electorates are set to endure the brunt of increased temperatures if Australia fails to promptly cut back on greenhouse gas emissions.

Tumut: Critical Incident Declared Following Man’s Death

A critical incident investigation is underway following the death of a man near Tumut in the Snowy Mountains.

Just after 2.00pm (Friday February 28, 2025), emergency services were called to Wee Jasper Road at Bombowlee, following reports of concern for welfare.

Officers attached to Riverina Police District Area Command attempted to speak with a man, believed to aged in his 40s, who was seated in a parked car, allegedly armed with a firearm.

PHOTO: Wee Jasper Road, just north of Tumut CREDIT: Snowy Valleys Council.

The man then discharged the firearm.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the man, but he was unable to be revived and died at the scene. He is yet to be formally identified.

Police established a crime scene and commenced enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

A report will be prepared for the coroner and a critical incident team from Murrumbidgee Police District will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation will be subject to an independent review.

Future of Jindabyne Landfill: A Critical Update for Residents

The Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has provided a significant update regarding the future of Jindabyne Landfill, as part of its efforts to ensure sustainable waste management in the region.

SMRC announced today that preparations are continuing on the new Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) in Jindabyne, with the Jindabyne Landfill rehabilitation and capping project now currently on hold until the RRC is built.

PHOTO: Jindabyne Landfill.

This update follows the project’s classification as ‘off track to original plans’ in the Council’s business paper dated February 20, 2025.

The Jindabyne Landfill, nearing capacity, is set to be closed in accordance with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regulations. The closure will require substantial work to ensure no environmental risks are posed by the landfill’s contents. However, specific closure dates have not yet been set. The time frame is contingent upon the volume of waste received, meaning ongoing community collaboration is essential.

PHOTO: Closure of the Jindabyne Landfill depends on capacity and how much rubbish it receives.

The SMRC has advanced by lodging a development application for a new RRC adjacent to the current landfill. This development is pivotal, as it lays the groundwork for securing grant funding vital for the new facility’s construction and necessary work post-closure.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “Council is preparing ahead of time for the work we’ll need to do when Jindabyne Landfill reaches its limit and needs to close. No dates for the closure of Jindabyne Landfill or the construction of the Resource Recovery Centre have been set. The current site is getting close to capacity, but the exact timing of the closure will depend on the amount of waste the facility receives.”

“Council has lodged a development application for a new RRC on land next door to the existing landfill. This step has been taken so that grant funding can be secured to cover the costs of building the new facility and all the work that the EPA requires when Jindabyne Landfill closes.”

“Council and our community can’t afford the cost of closing and replacing Jindabyne Landfill on our own, so we need to find grant funding to help cover the cost before the facility reaches capacity.”

“Council has to get the plans for the new facility approved first, before we’re able to apply for grants to cover this upcoming cost.”

PHOTO: Council has lodged a development application for a new RRC on land next door to the existing landfill.

The Council reassured residents that while no immediate changes will occur, strategic planning and preparation are underway to mitigate future impacts. By securing grant funding in advance, the SMRC aims to minimise financial burdens on the community when transitioning to the new waste management facility.

Residents can express their views on the proposed RRC plans via the SMRC website until March 5, 2025. Ongoing communication efforts promise to keep the community informed as developments progress, ensuring resident feedback continues to shape future waste management strategies in Jindabyne.

Your Guide to the 2025 West Wyalong Knockout

Excitement fills the air in West Wyalong as the annual Rugby League Knockout kicks off tonight at the Ron Crowe Oval. Now in its 52nd year, this beloved event sees teams from various regions compete for the coveted $20,000 prize.

Clubs from Groups 9, 10, 11, 16, 20, as well as Canberra Rugby League converge for the knockout games. Among the contenders are local Group 16 teams, the Cooma Stallions and Bombala Blue Heelers, who are poised to make their mark.

PHOTO: The Cooma Stallions have recruited a strong side to represent the club in 2025.

According to Local Clubs President Matt Goodwin, the event’s popularity is undeniable, evidenced by the town reaching full capacity, with “not a spare bed in sight”.

Speaking to nswrl.com.au, Goodwin highlighted the tournament’s extensive history and appeal, explaining how teams eagerly signed up before Christmas. “This is a big deal this tournament – has been for the past 52 years with its popularity never dropping.”

Cooma, benefiting from fresh talent like Liam Rankin, aims to showcase their new halves combinations, first up against Woden Valley. A spokesperson for the Cooma Stallions shared confidence in Rankin, a Cooma junior, noting the five eighth’s “versatility and premiership experience.”

Bombala, who face Orange CYMS in their first match, are also optimistic. “We can’t wait to take this side over to get some valuable experience and win a game or two along the way,” a spokesperson expressed.

Matt Goodwin anticipates competitive matches, given each game consists of two 15-minute halves. The defending champions, Woden Valley Rams, alongside Young, Forbes, and Orange, are ones to watch.

Friday night promises action-packed games, where community spirit and sportsmanship are celebrated. Rugby league legend Ron ‘Rambo’ Gibbs will grace the event, offering fans a unique meet and greet opportunity.

Goodwin extended gratitude to NSW Rugby League for their ongoing support and expressed hopes for sustaining the tournament for many years.

West Wyalong Knockout Round 1 Draw

Friday, February 28 – Ron Crowe Oval

– 6:30pm – TLU Sharks v Forbes

– 7:10pm – Parkes v West Wyalong

– 7:50pm – Young v Yanco Wamoon

– 8:30pm – Wagga South v Leeton

– 9:10pm – Cooma (6) v Woden Valley (6)

– 9:50pm – Bombala (6) v Orange CYMS (12)

– Bye round Hay

Schedule subject to change – Saturday February 29 Schedule TBC

LIVE Stream: https://livesportscaster.com/…

West Wyalong Knockout Round 2 Draw

Saturday, March 1 – Ron Crowe Oval

– 4:30pm Cooma United RLFC (0) v Forbes Magpies Rugby League (16)

– 5:10pm Parkes Spacemen Rugby League Page v Orange CYMS

– 5:50pm Young v West Wyalong

– 6:30pm Wagga City v Hay

– 7:10pm Winner G1 v Winner G2

– 7:50pm Winner G1 v Winner G2

– 9:00PM Final

Breaking Barriers: Women Could be the Key to Preventing Construction Skills Shortage

Australia’s construction industry, contributing over $360 billion annually to the economy, faces a looming crisis: a shortfall of 250,000 skilled workers within five years according to a recent report by PlanRadar. As the sector grapples with this shortage, attention is turning to an under-utilised resource: women, who make up less than 15% of the workforce, and under 5% on-site.

Supportive structures are emerging nationwide. Programs like Girls Can Too, fee-free training, and school-based apprenticeships are vital in encouraging women to pursue careers in construction across New South Wales, including here in the Snowy Monaro region.

PHOTO: Girls Can Too is a trades taster course, delivered by the Regional Industry Education Partnerships program (RIEP) CREDIT: PlanRadar.

In response to a looming skills shortage, the NSW Government is actively working to increase women’s participation across the state.

NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, and Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, highlighted the government’s efforts, stating, “Our $20.2 million Women in Construction Program is delivering targeted initiatives to attract and retain women through cultural change projects, flexible work options, and new workforce targets on major infrastructure projects.”

PHOTO: NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, and Member for Monaro, Steve Whan.

“The measures are part of the NSW Skills Plan to build a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable construction workforce for the future.”

Mr Whan noted in his electorate (Monaro) more than 15,000 students are in training in construction and plumbing, including nearly 500 women.

PHOTO: Ausgrid’s Kesaia Takau with Emma and Gabriella, who were apart of 90 young women who graduated from the Girls Can Too program in July 2024. CREDIT: NSW Department of Education.

Leon Ward, Regional Lead for PlanRadar Australia and New Zealand, noted the vital role of mentorship and networking in aiding women’s careers in construction, saying, “Strong support can make a substantial difference, helping women navigate challenges, grow professionally, and stay motivated throughout their career journeys in construction.”

The future for women in trades appears promising as targeted programs, scholarships, and technological advancements make trade education more accessible. Such initiatives are anticipated to ensure that women play a vital role in shaping the future of the Australian construction industry.

New Mt. Perisher 6 Chairlift Nears Completion at Perisher Ski Resort

Perisher Ski Resort is nearing a major milestone as work progresses on the state-of-the-art Mt. Perisher 6-Seater Chairlift, a critical development for winter sports enthusiasts. Despite the holiday season, teams from Doppelmayr and Perisher have worked relentlessly to ensure the lift is ready to operate this winter.

PHOTO: The reduction of lift towers from 27 to 10 is expected to give snow goers more room CREDIT: Perisher

According to Operations Director Michael Fearnside, the project is advancing well with significant strides made in both the top and bottom station structures. “The bottom station is essentially assembled,” Fearnside said. “Currently, they are doing mechanical fit out and preparing to commence all the electric installation works.”

“The whole new drive system, direct drive, is super impressive. Over the years, we’ve seen a whole range of different iterations of lifts, and I’m just so impressed by how well this lift comes together and how clean and compact it is.”

PHOTO: Perisher Operations Director Michael Fearnside.

The direct drive technology by Doppelmayr eliminates the need for a gearbox, providing a more compact and efficient design with increased reliability and minimal environmental impact due to lower noise and vibration emissions.

The construction has seen substantial developments at the top station, with all gearing work on the base slabs completed. Progress includes the foundation that will house communications and storage facilities, alongside block work aimed at forming the unload platform.

PHOTO: Block work aimed at forming the unload platform.

Lift towers construction is also well underway. “Tower One is assembled, tower two is installed, and crews are working their way up the line,” noted Fearnside. With the reduction of lift towers from 27 to 10, the new layout promises more space for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy their runs.

Perisher Ski Resort advised over the next few months, “The team will install the remaining lift towers while mechanical and electrical works also take place before moving onto one of our favourite parts of the process, haul rope installation.”

PHOTO: Direct Drive chairlifts bring with them a range of benefits including higher reliability, and a more compact design.

Perisher Ski Resort’s dedication to innovation continues to enhance the Alpine experience for tourists and locals alike, setting the stage for an exciting winter ahead.

Road Resealing Works Next Week on Bobeyan Road

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has advised roadworks will commence from Monday March 3, 2025 on Bobeyan Road between Ashvale Road and Shannons Flat Road, weather permitting.

Crews will be on-site for several days next week to reseal this section of the important rural thoroughfare.

Line-marking works will be scheduled once the resealed surface has had time to cure.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “Dates for this work are subject to change in the event of poor weather or other unforeseen circumstances.”

Essential information 
Start date:Monday 3 March 2025, weather permitting
Location:Bobeyan Road, between Ashvale Road and Shannons Flat Road
Duration:Three to four days for resealing, followed by surface sweeping and line-marking as soon as conditions allow
Reason:Resealing of the road surface

“Roadworks traffic control measures will be in place. Motorists are advised to follow all signs, speed limits and traffic controller directions. Local residents will have access to their properties at all times, subject to a delay of up to 10 minutes,” the SMRC spokesperson said.

View a map of the works locations online at https://qrco.de/2503Bobeyan, or embedded in the page below (on compatible devices).

For more information, please contact Council’s road maintenance team by email at [email protected] or phone 1300 345 345.