Get ready for a day of family fun at the much-anticipated Monaro Billy Cart Derby this Sunday, February 23, 2025. Hosted by the Cooma Car Club at the Cooma Showground, this annual event promises excitement and community spirit, starting with a 9am entry and races kicking off at 10am.
PHOTO: Kurt Wassink (left) and Tony Nassar (right).
The Derby, inspired by a mentoring initiative, was originally founded by Cooma Car Club President Tony Nassar, and Cooma resident Kurt Wassink.
“The Monaro Billy Cart Derby is all about getting kids out of the house and into a real-world experience,” said Mr Nassar.
Since its inception, the event has become a staple in the local calendar, encouraging families to enjoy a classic day outdoors.
Racers can participate for an entry fee of $20, and spectators are encouraged to join in for a gold coin donation. President Nassar noted that the day is completely volunteer-run, with all proceeds benefiting the Cooma Community Chest.
PHOTO: On your marks, get set, Go, the Monaro Billy Cart Derby is on again.
Mr Nassar extends an invitation to the community: “You don’t have to enter the race to enjoy the day. It’s about community spirit, and family fun in the outdoors.”
The Cooma Car Club has organised something for everyone with an offering of refreshments including slushies, donuts, coffees, hotdogs, and sandwiches. Whether competing or observing, laughter and camaraderie are certain, as homemade carts hurtle towards the finish line.
For those eager to compete, online entries can be submitted via the club’s website, with paper forms available locally. The Derby is proudly supported by local sponsors, Roses Mediterranean Restaurant, High Country Automotive Group, Snowy Monaro Regional Council, Cooma Car Club, and High Country Hay.
Amidst a closely contested political landscape, the first YouGov MRP model for the 2025 federal election suggests that Australia could be heading towards a hung parliament. In a revelation that foreshadows critical contests across the country, the model projects the Coalition to win 73 seats in the 150-member House of Representatives, with the Labor party taking 66 seats.
The projection would leave the Coalition just two seats short of an outright majority, putting the opposition leader, Peter Dutton, in a favourable position to form a government. Should Dutton become Prime Minister, it would spell an end to Anthony Albanese’s tenure, marking the first one-term federal government in 94 years.
Locally, Eden-Monaro, know as a bellwether electorate in New South Wales, is under the spotlight. Currently held by Labor’s Kristy McBain, the seat is deemed at risk according to YouGov’s projections. Ms McBain, the incumbent Local Government Minister, is one of two government ministers predicted to lose their seats according to YouGov’s model, casting uncertainty over Labor’s hold on the region.
In response to the projections, Kristy McBain reiterated her commitment to Eden-Monaro highlighting her accomplishments in delivering pivotal projects.
“I’ve never taken Eden-Monaro for granted, but have a strong track record of working with all levels of government and the community to deliver positive outcomes for the Snowy Monaro region,” she said.
PHOTO: Kristy McBain.
Ms McBain emphasised significant local investments, including $25 million towards the expansion of the Bombala Multi-Purpose Service, $15.3 million in Roads to Recovery funding, and substantial allocations for road safety and community infrastructure.
Opposing her is the Liberal candidate Jo van der Plaat, who says change in Eden-Monaro is urgent.
“I’m not taking anything for granted – my only focus is on getting out to all of the corners of Eden-Monaro, and listening to the local community and their issues,” Ms van der Plaat said.
PHOTO: Jo van der Plaat.
The Liberal candidate has been actively engaging with residents, citing cost-of-living hardships and inadequate access to housing, GPs, and mental health services as critical concerns driving her campaign. Ms van der Plaat sees these challenges as illustrating the urgent need for governmental change, stating “Eden-Monaro can’t afford another three years of Albanese Labor.”
PHOTO: Jo van der Plaat campaigning at Cooma’s Rotary Markets.
Across the national landscape, the YouGov model reveals that traditional Labor strongholds, including the coalmining seat of Hunter and neighbouring Shortland and Paterson, are predicted to favour the Coalition. In Western Sydney, the seat of Werriwa, famously held by former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, is projected to experience a 5.9% swing to the Coalition.
Despite these prospective gains, the Coalition would remain unsuccessful in reclaiming seats lost to “Teal” independents in previous elections, hinting at a decline in appeal among affluent, educated voters in urban areas.
PHOTO: YouGov MRP model projection for Eden-Monaro.
Labor, while losing ground overall, might still clinch strategic victories in Brisbane, Ryan, and Griffith from the Greens and reclaim Fowler from the Independent Dai Le, contingent on preferential voting outcomes. This dynamic underscores the complexity of the electoral battle as Labor strives to mitigate its losses and possibly regain seats from its political rivals.
The YouGov MRP model is renowned for its detailed projections, leveraging a combination of demographic characteristics and past voter patterns to estimate electoral outcomes. Having delivered accurate forecasts in previous elections globally, the model’s insights are keenly observed as Australia edges towards what promises to be a closely fought federal election.
Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has commenced the search for a permanent chief executive officer (CEO) as part of an ongoing transition within the council. The move comes after the appointment of Stephen Dunshea as the interim CEO, following the resignation of former chief executive David Hogan in October 2024.
Applications for this leadership role opened on February 18, 2025, with the recruitment process being managed by specialist firm McArthur.
The search began during SMRC’s December 2024 meeting, where councillors voted to appoint McArthur in finding a candidate equipped to navigate the council through a phase of significant reform.
PHOTO: SMRC Interim CEO Stephen Dunshea.
The deadline for applications is set for March 5, 2025, after which McArthur will conduct a thorough evaluation of potential candidates. Their findings will be presented at the upcoming council meeting where the final decision will be made.
Stephen Dunshea, who took on the mantle of interim CEO in November 2024, brought over 40 years of local government experience to SMRC. His tenure as CEO at Shoalhaven City Council was marked by effective leadership during multiple crises, including the Currowan Fires, alongside successful implementations of growth strategies and securing crucial infrastructure funding.
SMRC described Mr Dunshea’s role as a “transitional leader” in November last year, aimed at ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining operational continuity, allowing the council time to identify and appoint a long-term leader.
SMRC Mayor Chris Hanna commented at the time saying, “This interim appointment gives us the breathing room to do a proper search for our next permanent CEO. It’s a crucial role for our region’s future, and we need to make sure we get the right person for the job.”
The recruitment effort takes place during a transformative period for the council, as it seeks to implement significant reforms aimed at securing financial sustainability and improving community outcomes.
A spokesperson for SMRC advised the incoming chief executive is set to take on a significant program of reform that is already well underway, as work continues to secure a financially sustainable future for the organisation.
“Appointing the right person for the job will ensure Council can deliver the best possible outcomes for our community, with the high-quality services and infrastructure the Snowy Monaro deserves,” the spokesperson said.
The incoming CEO will be tasked with driving these changes, ensuring the Snowy Monaro region receives high-quality services and infrastructure. As the process unfolds, SMRC advised it will provide ongoing updates to keep the community informed.
In a strategic move expected to advance Australia’s largest renewable energy initiative, the Federal Government has announced the appointment of James Cain as the new Chair and Non-Executive Director of the Snowy Hydro Board.
With 30 years of extensive experience in property, infrastructure, and major capital works across both public and private sectors, Mr Cain is anticipated to play a pivotal role in accelerating the completion of the Snowy 2.0 project. Mr Cain, who currently holds positions as a Director of Inland Rail and
PHOTO: James Cain.
Non-Executive Director at Mirvac, will commence his three-year tenure on March 1, 2025. The appointment is expected to support Snowy in delivering on its major projects, crucial to nation’s reliable renewable energy transformation.
Minister for Finance Katy Gallagher highlighted Mr Cain’s proficiency in handling complex engineering projects, stating, “Snowy 2.0 is one of the most complex engineering projects in the world, and we are thrilled to have someone of Mr Cain’s experience on board as it moves closer to completion.”
PHOTO: The Snowy River is an integral part of the nation’s renewable energy transformation.
Ms Gallagher also expressed gratitude to outgoing Chair, David Knox, for his substantial contributions over the past five years.
Reflecting on the appointment, Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen noted the government’s dedication to transforming the nation’s energy landscape. He remarked, “Mr Cain’s decades of experience working on infrastructure projects in the public and private sector makes him an excellent choice to drive this project for the benefit of all Australians.”
The Snowy 2.0 project once complete, will provide renewable energy and storage capacity capable of powering three million homes weekly, marking a significant leap towards Australia’s sustainable energy future.
The anticipation is building as the Jindabyne Bushpigs gear up to compete in the prestigious Kiama Sevens tournament at the Kiama Showground on Saturday, February 22, 2025.
The annual rugby sevens event, now celebrating its 53rd year, promises an exciting day with top-tier competition, featuring a staggering prize pool exceeding $30,000. The Bushpigs will contest “The Bowl,” an eight-team, two-group format, squaring off against formidable opponents.
PHOTO: Kiama Showground from above CREDIT: Kiama Sevens
Their opening match against Shoalhaven kicks off at 8:30 am, followed by clashes with Terrigal at 11:15 am, and St Patrick’s by 2:15 pm. The Bowl Final, scheduled for 4:50 pm, will determine the ultimate winner from the two pool victors.
PHOTO: The Jindabyne Bushpigs at last year’s Kiama Sevens tournament.CREDIT: JRUC
A spokesperson from the Jindabyne Rugby Union Club (JRUC) commented, “The boys are gearing up for an epic weekend away. It’s set to be a huge day of fast-paced, action-packed rugby, and we’d love to see our supporters there, cheering loud and proud.”
Gate entry is priced at $15 with no exceptions for players, coaches, or managers, but fans are encouraged to secure their passes early.
Mark Bryant, the Tournament Director, expressed gratitude towards the sponsors, saying, “I am very thankful for all our local sponsors, but in our fifty-second year, a special thanks must once again go to our naming sponsor ‘Kells’ for their ongoing sponsorship of the premier sevens event in Australia.”
JRUC fans can look forward to what is set to be an exhilarating day of rugby, with the Bushpigs hoping to capture glory at one of Australia’s most cherished rugby events.
The Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has opened the tender for Stage 1 of the Bombala Showground Sporting Infrastructure Upgrade. The project at 60 Wellington Street aims to improve local sporting facilities to support the region’s sporting culture, with completion expected by 30 April 2025.
PHOTO: Bombala Showground from above CREDIT: Andre Reis.
The tender, open from February 14 – March 14, seeks experienced contractors to provide design and construction services, adhering to stringent standards and safety regulations.
Notable works at the Bombala Showground will include the construction of a Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant pathway, accessible car park, internal gravel road, and concrete slabs for external seating.
Additionally, the project encompasses the supply and installation of external seating and soft landscaping, along with a provisional sum set aside for a new netball court.
PHOTO: Bombala District Netball club are closer to having a new court. CREDIT:Bombala District Netball
Council has prioritised creating accessible pathways linking existing amenities such as the canteen and change rooms, aiming to increase spectator viewing areas that comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and DDA standards.
A key feature of the works is the construction of three external seating areas, enabling patrons of all abilities to enjoy sporting and community events fully.
The upgrades, funded by a NSW Government grant, are expected to foster community health, wellbeing, and social gatherings through enhanced sporting facilities that inclusive for all members of the community.
PHOTO: Bombala Showground.
A spokesperson for SMRC said, “SMRC is committed to investing in quality infrastructure that benefits local communities, with access to high quality sporting facilities playing a vital in supporting our residents’ health and wellbeing.”
The tender process necessitates prospective applicants to attend a site inspection on February 25, ensuring full understanding and compliance with project requirements.
SMRC advised it anticipates providing additional details once the tender process has concluded and looks forward to the substantial community benefits these upgrades will facilitate.
For support queries relating to tender submissions, contact the VendorPanel customer support team through the online forum at: www.vendorpanel.com.au
Basketball in the Snowy Mountains region is set to reach new heights with the injection of nearly $1 million into the She Hoops program, thanks to the Australian Government’s Play Our Way funding.
PHOTO: Basketball Australia will receive almost $1 million in funding from the Australian Government which will allow She Hoops to scale to a new level. CREDIT: Basketball Australia
The substantial grant of $998,000 promises to enhance accessibility and opportunities for women and girls in basketball across 33 locations, benefiting regional areas including Cooma.
The She Hoops initiative, founded by Lauren Jackson AO OLY, is committed to levelling the playing field for female basketball players by providing quality programs that foster both personal and athletic growth.
The programs will be designed to engage local associations and engage a range of basketball skills, with officials, coaches and leaders programs aiming not only to develop skills on the court but also to develop opportunities for the future.
The impact from She Hoops has already been felt at the Cooma Basketball Association with the announcement that local rising star, Skye Adams, has been selected for a She Hoops Scholarship.
A spokesperson for the Cooma Basketball Association praised Skye, saying, “A big congratulations to Cooma junior Skye Adams who has been selected for the She Hoops Scholarship. Those selected will gain valuable coaching and officiating accreditations, alongside mentoring from some of Australia’s top talents.”
Skye, who began her basketball journey in Cooma and currently plays at a representative level for the Queanbeyan Roadrunners, will be part of an enriching program culminating in a three-day immersive camp at the AIS in June. “We are all proud of your achievement, Skye,” the spokesperson added.
The Minister for Sport, Anika Wells, highlighted the broader impacts of such initiatives, noting, “Sport has great benefits for our health and mental health as individuals and brings communities together.”
She Hoops founder Lauren Jackson reflected the sentiment saying, “We appreciate the investment from the Australian Government which will allow us elevate the work of She Hoops.”
“She Hoops was founded with a purpose of addressing the disadvantages in opportunity and resources available in basketball for girls and women in this country. We are invested in delivering programs that encourage everyone to meet their potential, both as participants of the game and as leaders in their communities.”
Residents and businesses in regional, remote, and rural areas like Eden-Monaro are benefiting from faster broadband and increased data. This improvement comes as a result of the Albanese Government’s completion of $480 million dollars worth of upgrades to NBN Co’s Fixed Wireless and Satellite services.
PHOTO: Residents in Eden-Monaro are enjoying faster internet speeds after NBN upgrades.
In Eden-Monaro, the upgrades have facilitated enhanced internet speeds and data capacity for around 14,500 premises in the region. The investment marks a substantial improvement, with fixed wireless download speeds more than doubling from previous averages.
The upgrades provide essential support for businesses, aid remote working capabilities, and provide access to key online services.
Kristy McBain, Member for Eden-Monaro, highlighted the upgrade’s transformative impact on the region: “Having reliable internet isn’t just a nice to have, it’s an absolute necessity – which is why we continue to get on with the job of connecting more people across Eden-Monaro to high-speed broadband,” Ms McBain said.
“Connecting these 14,500 premises to faster speeds is part of our record investment in the NBN, because regional communities deserve affordable, reliable services – just like you’d expect in the city.”
In addition to the fixed wireless improvements, NBN Co has enhanced the Sky Muster satellite service, offering unlimited data and download speeds of up to 100 Mbps, crucial for the more than 200,000 remote users across Australia.
The upgrades utilise advanced 4G and 5G technology, significantly extending service reach and efficiency. According to Michelle Rowland, Minister for Communications, “Fast, reliable, affordable internet is an essential building block of any modern economy, boosting productivity, enabling innovation and creating jobs.”
At the ordinary Council meeting on Thursday February 20, Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) will bring to the agenda the DA outcome for the consolidation and formalisation of the Tyrolean and Mill Creek trail network surrounding Lake Jindabyne.
PHOTO: Shared trail network site.
The project is set to get the green light for a significant upgrade and expansion. The development will see 29 km of existing trails consolidated and refreshed, alongside new developments like the construction of a new car park off Rainbow Drive and associated amenities, aiming to address current parking limitations caused by increased visitor traffic.
PHOTO: Proposed amenities building plans.
The upgrades include 7.64 km of new trails, with a part dedicated to downhill flow tracks catering to riders’ preferences, and the renovation of 16.94 km of existing tracks. Additionally, 3.2 km of existing trails is set for rehabilitation and closure.
A spokesperson for the Jindabyne Trail Stewardship (JTS) who have been an integral part of getting the project off the ground said, “The JTS is very excited to see the Tyrolean Trails DA refurbishment upcoming vote.”
“This is a project the JTS fully supports and have been working with council on for many years. The whole community will benefit from this project through improved shared trails for walkers and riders as well as new trails for bike riders.”
PHOTO: JTS is dedicated to the maintenance of trails. CREDIT: JTS
In what’s been a lengthy process, beginning as a concept plan in 2021, the development application has now satisfied the assessing officer that it complies with the provisions of the Snowy River Local Environment Plan 2013 (SRLEP) and the Snowy River Development Control Plan 2013 (SRDCP), and recommends that the application be approved with conditions.
The project has progressed through a number of considerations such as the need to reduce the operational footprint along trails, the management of increased traffic, and safety measures to deal with dual-direction trail conflicts.
The application was open for submissions for an extended 28 day period, during which time three submissions were received, one submission claiming the DA didn’t “clearly address the environmental impact”, highlighting tree removal, and degradation of open spaces as concerns.
PHOTO: Maintenance of trail networks. CREDIT: JTS
The Assessing Officer found the application had provided the required reports and documentation including a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report, and that it had been reviewed by the Department of Biodiversity and Conservation, who provided a letter of concurrence and recommendation for conditions of consent.
An environmental impact assessment identified several key considerations in the trail area such as significant riparian zones and areas of high biodiversity value. Potential impacts looked at included, the disruption of significant vegetation types, such as Snow Gum woodlands and habitats for threatened fauna species, including the Gang-gang Cockatoo and Scarlet Robin.
Under the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) (Koala Habitat Protection) 2021, the SEPP requires that before granting consent for development on land over one hectare in area, a consent authority must be satisfied as to whether or not the land contains potential koala habitat, or core koala habitat.
Issues regarding Koala sightings and feed trees were addressed with the assessment finding the proposed application is “confined to narrow corridors”, and the development would have “minimal overall impact on vegetation”.
The assessment also noted that while there have been koala sightings to the east of the site, the development is “not expected to disrupt any feeding corridors.” The existing woodland areas will remain untouched, and would allow the koalas that live to the east to continue using these corridors if required.
PHOTO: Koala sightings map.
An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report highlighted the presence of 20 heritage sites, necessitating the implementation of conditions to minimise disturbances during construction.
The study revealed various surface artefacts located along existing trails and several areas of potential archaeological deposits. Appropriate mitigation measures were suggested, with eight of the sites to be entirely avoided, ten facing partial impact, and two experiencing total impact due to the proposed activities.
The report found, once constructed, the trail network is not considered “likely to impact” on any tangible expressions of Aboriginal cultural heritage. General terms of approval were provided by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
With these latest developments, the shared trail network is poised to become a key recreational highlight in the region, attempting to marry both progress, and ecological stewardship.
Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has scheduled water infrastructure works in Delegate for the morning of Saturday February 22, 2025, weather permitting. Council advised the water supply for all residents and businesses will be temporarily turned off while work is underway.
Essential Information:
Delegate water supply interruption
Where:
Delegate, all properties connected to town water
Date:
Saturday 22 February 2025
Time:
7am to 12pm
A spokesperson for SMRC said, “We do everything we can to ensure local water clarity isn’t negatively affected by our work. Despite our best efforts, you may see some cloudy water coming from your taps following this interruption.”
“You can run an outside tap for a few minutes after 12pm, as a precaution, to clear out any cloudy water that might have made it into the plumbing at your property.”
“If you’d like to speak with us about this interruption, phone 1300 345 345 or contact the team by email at [email protected] to get in touch.”
“Thank you for your patience and understanding while this work is underway.”
