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Record-Breaking Crowds Light Up Lake Light Sculpture 2025 in Jindabyne

The tranquil foreshore of Lake Jindabyne transformed into a dazzling promenade as the Lake Light Sculpture 2025 closed its curtains on what has been an extraordinary event. Attracting nearly 22,000 attendees, the festival made a remarkable comeback after years of challenges, including adverse weather and event relocations.

Over the span of four illuminated nights, visitors were treated to the spectacle of 70 large-scale sculptures accompanied by over 30 smaller works housed at Horizons, Jindabyne. The impeccable weather worked its magic, drawing in visitors to revel in the festivities, particularly the much-loved ‘Light It Up’ nights that showcased sculptures in their glowing grandeur against the backdrop of a starry night sky.

PHOTO: Sian Watson’s “Gathered Skylark” CREDIT: Raglan Gallery Cooma

The festival not only enchanted visitors but also celebrated local and emerging artists, with $43,500 in prize money awarded across 13 categories. The experienced eyes of Rebel Penfold-Russell, Denise Ferris, and Anwen Keeling evaluated the entries. Sian Watson took home the Major Award with her piece “Gathered Skylark,” while the People’s Choice Award went to Madelaine Last for her work “Conspiracy at Copper Tom.”

PHOTO: Madelaine Last’s “Conspiracy at Copper Tom” CREDIT: Madelaine Last

In a memorable twist, “The Big Chairlift” by Darragh Walsh, a much-adored piece, will remain permanently in Jindabyne following a successful community fundraising campaign. Supported by local organisations and individuals, the fundraiser, which included a significant contribution from Doppelmayr, exceeded $25,000. Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor Chris Hanna and the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce were among the enthusiastic supporters who rallied to keep this local favourite.

PHOTO: Darragh Walsh with his Big Chairlift piece CREDIT: Darragh Walsh

“The organising committee, volunteers, and the entire community deserve immense credit,” said Dani Kel, Chair of the event committee. “Twenty-five years is a huge milestone, and we’re already gearing up for a spectacular celebration in 2026.”

The dedication of more than 70 sponsors and tireless volunteers played a crucial role in bringing this year’s event to life. Visitors and organisers alike heralded the event’s success. Ingrid Solomons remarked, “Well done to all the artists, volunteers and organisers – it’s so great to see Lake Light back.”

As anticipation grows for its 25th anniversary in 2026, the committee is calling on artists, schools, and sponsors to begin planning for what promises to be an unforgettable milestone. Feedback is being actively sought to further enhance the event, with everyone encouraged to share their thoughts via a post-event survey.

For further updates and to follow the journey to 2026, enthusiasts can connect through Instagram @lakelightsculpture or visit the festival’s website at lakelightsculpture.com.au.

Award Winners:

– Major Award: Sian Watson – Gathered Skylark (#52)

– People’s Choice Award: Madelaine Last – Conspiracy at Copper Tom (#12)

– Illumination Award: Jordan Tarlinton – Clarity (#13)

– Clean Energy Environment Award: Ulan Murray & Rachel Burns – Echo of the Ribbon Gums (#62)

– Emerging Artist: Tom Buckland – Flock (#42)

– Youth Award: Jessica Hellyar – The Everlasting Whoops-a-Daisy (#31)

– Waste to Art Award: Madelaine Last – Conspiracy at Copper Tom (#12)

– Secondary School Award: Snowy Mountains Grammar School – We Live Among the Stars (#29)

– Primary School Award: Jindabyne Public School Year 1 – Joyful Jingling Jellyfish (#30)

– Early Childhood Award: Gidgillys Childcare – In the Night Garden (#48)

– Community Award: TS Orion – Navy Cadets – TS Scrapwave (#45)

– Newcomer Award: Michael Ferris – Framework of Growth (#17)

– Smalls Exhibition Major Award: Maria Zylinski – Cocoon

– Smalls People’s Choice Award: Alexander Dalton – Patch and Mum (#96)

Escaped Burns Spark Warning on Safe Burning Practices

The RFS is reminding landholders to follow safe burning practices and ensure they notify their local fire authority and neighbours, after 30 escaped burns were reported across NSW in April – including a dozen over the Easter long weekend.

PHOTO: An escaped burn from over the Easter long weekend CREDIT: NSW RFS

Although the Bush Fire Danger Period has ended, landholders are still required to notify their intent to burn and ensure they check local weather conditions before undertaking any burning activity. The RFS provides an online notification portal, enabling residents to easily inform fire authorities of planned hazard reduction or pile burns at any time, via mobile device or desktop computer.

Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers said using the notification tool at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify plays a key role in preventing unnecessary emergency responses.

“Over the coming months, many landholders will take the opportunity to reduce fuel loads through burning. It’s critical they burn safely and notify both the RFS and their neighbours,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“Even when the official Bush Fire Danger Period has ended, landholders must ensure they’ve obtained any required permits and permissions and provide at least 24 hours’ notice before lighting up.”

“If fire authorities are aware of your burn, it helps prevent unnecessary emergency calls and the deployment of firefighting resources.”

The online notification tool also provides notifications about any Total Fire Bans, helping landholders make informed decisions about whether to proceed with their planned burn.
Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers stressed that while reducing fuel on private properties is encouraged, it must always be done safely and legally.

“Before lighting any fire, landholders should check local conditions and ensure they have cleared adequate fire breaks and have firefighting equipment on hand to prevent the fire from escaping,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“Every landholder has a responsibility to prevent fire spreading from their property. There are serious consequences for those who light fires and fail to manage them properly.”

To notify your intent to burn, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify or contact your local Fire Control Centre.

Altercation at Snowy Monaro Regional Council Meeting Sparks Investigation

An April 17, 2025, meeting of the Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) took a dramatic turn involving police, following debate over a building’s legality in Nimmitabel. Councillor Thaler’s motion, ruled by the SMRC Chair as unlawful due to an Apprehended Violence Order existing between himself and the occupants of the property in question, saw several councillors leaving the session, a move Mr Thaler alleges was an effort to silence his motion.

PHOTO: Councillor Thaler speaks on the motion CREDIT: SMRC screenshot

Tensions escalated when three individuals were reportedly involved in a physical altercation, now under investigation by NSW Police. The situation, according to some councillors appears to have arisen when one member of the public allegedly filmed another without consent. The camera in use was allegedly taken, with a third man then becoming involved in the scuffle.

According to NSW Police, “About 6pm Thursday April 17, 2025, police were called to local council building on Commissioner Street, Cooma, following reports of an altercation.”

Upon arrival, officers found that “three men had a physical altercation in the building with the men aged 52, 59 and 64 with one of the men sustaining a minor arm injury.”

Councillor Summers, who said she attempted to diffuse the situation, shared, “My involvement was no more than interceding to try and stop the continuation of a breach of the peace.”

Councillor Higgins commented on what she believes was a contentious issue, saying, “The motion was about his neighbour, and that was inappropriate. It wasn’t fair that they were named and their address made public, it seemed wrong, and I didn’t want to be a part of it.” She noted the walkout by Councillors Stewart, Summers, Rooney, and Davis as a collective stance against the perceived injustice.

PHOTO: Councillor Tanya Higgins

Councillor Thaler, defending his position, said his motion was lawful, that it sought a compliance assessment of the property against the planning rules, insisting, “You’re not allowed to have a shipping container dwelling without a development consent.”

PHOTO: Councillors starting to leave the meeting CREDIT SMRC screenshot

Mr Thaler further shared his frustration over 19 Code of Conduct complaints made against him, which has seen the council under a Performance Improvement Order, and which he claims remain unresolved allegations, citing a lack of being able to see or respond to the complaints.

“I do think that this walk-out is also part of a broader agenda to try to remove me from council before I have any opportunity to see the complaints made.”

Appeal to Locate Elderly Man Missing in Monaro Police District

Police are appealing for assistance to locate an elderly man missing in the state’s south. The man, aged 84, was last seen in Hereford Hall, around 100 kilometres north east of Cooma about 4.45pm on Friday April 18, 2025.

PHOTO: The search involved multiple agencies CREDIT: NSW RFS

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Monaro Police District were contacted and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold serious concerns for his welfare as he lives with a number of medical conditions. The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm tall, of medium build and with grey hair.

He was last seen wearing a blue jeans and a light brown jumper, and he is believed to be travelling in a 2008 white Ford Ranger with NSW registration CO35AS.

UPDATE: During the search, his 2008 white Ford Ranger with NSW registration ‘CO35AS’ has been found at the Wallace Craigie lookout, Ingeegoodbee, and he may be around this area.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to contact Queanbeyan Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

PHOTO: The search was in steep and rough terrain CREDIT: Ken O’Rourke

UPDATE: The body of an 84-year-old man reported missing from Hereford Hall on Friday 18 April 2025 has been located during a multi-agency search at Ingeegoodbee this afternoon (Monday 21 April 2025).

There are no suspicious circumstances, and a report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.

Officers from Monaro Police District would like to thank the public and media for their assistance.

Jindabyne’s Lake Light Sculpture Event Returns with Enthusiasm and Community Support

The picturesque setting of Lake Jindabyne welcomed back the much-anticipated Lake Light Sculpture event on Good Friday, April 18, marking a successful return after its hiatus. This volunteer-led event, celebrating the unification of art and nature, spans four days, concluding on Easter Monday, offering both locals and visitors an immersive artistic experience in the heart of the Snowy Mountains.

PHOTO: Jindabyne has an illuminated and artistic atmosphere CREDIT: Troldhaugen Lodge

The event showcases the creativity of artists, schools, and community groups, as highlighted by Lake Light Sculpture: “We’re so excited to celebrate the artists, schools, and community groups… Thank you to all of our sponsors for making this happen – We couldn’t have done it without your support – thank you to everyone who’s helped bring Lake Light to life.”

The festival’s resurgence was met with enthusiasm, as noted by Danni Kell of Belle Property Snowy Mountains on behalf of Lake Light Sculpture Jindabyne. “Good morning on this beautiful Good Friday, the weather has certainly turned it on for the first day of Lake Light Sculpture. Everybody is so excited to see it back on the lake, and so are we.”

PHOTO: Danni Kell CREDIT: Lake Light Sculpture

Visitors are encouraged to support the volunteer-driven initiative through donations, ensuring its continuity in the coming years.

PHOTO: A community effort is underway to purchase the Big Chair Lift CREDIT: Destination Jindabyne

Among the artworks, the Big Chair Lift sculpture by Dalgety local Darragh Walsh stands out. This piece captures the essence of Jindabyne’s rich alpine history and has sparked a community-driven effort led by the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce to purchase it as a permanent landmark. “Help Jindabyne Keep a Piece of Art That Celebrates Our Alpine Spirit,” urges Olivier Kapetanakos, organiser of the fundraiser. The goal is to secure this sculpture as a gift for the community, ensuring its legacy for future generations.

PHOTO: Byron Boehm’s Priscilla Queen of Pencils CREDIT Byron Boehm

Artist Byron Boehm is excited to engage with the audience, stating, “I’ll be down by the lake all weekend… Always happy to talk art, process, pencils or just say g’day.” He will also be working a live piece throughout the weekend.

The Lake Light Sculpture event serves as a testament to Jindabyne’s vibrant community spirit, art appreciation, and natural beauty, drawing both locals and tourists to create lasting memories amidst the stunning backdrop of Lake Jindabyne. Voting for the People’s Choice closes 12pm, Sunday April 20.

Strike a Better Kind of Black Gold with Council’s Free Compost Webinar

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) is hosting a free online workshop on Thursday May 8, 2025 to help you make the most of your kitchen and garden waste. Join our expert hosts from Sustainable Gardening Australia from 6.30pm for an hour-long session on home composting, worm-farming, and bokashi.

PHOTO: Learn the basics of the composting process and how to introduce composting to your home and garden.

The webinar will cover everything you need to know to get started and hit the ground running. Learn the basics of the composting process and how to introduce composting to your home and garden, with helpful hints and tips on how to tackle common compost problems and advice on how to handle our cooler climate.

There’s more than just composting on offer next month, with discussions on worm-farming in the home and its many benefits for your garden, and the chance to hear more about the bokashi fermented composting process for the more adventurous.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “Spots are limited, so head to https://qrco.de/smrc-events today to book your ticket and avoid missing out on this great event.”

“Council is bringing this workshop to the region to help our community keep valuable renewable resources out of local landfills. Food waste and garden cuttings are a significant percentage of the waste thrown away each week in our red-lidded bins.”

“By keeping more of this organic material out of our bins, we’ll be extending the lifespan of local waste facilities, reducing landfill greenhouse gas emissions, and helping local gardens across the Snowy Monaro bloom brighter than ever.”

Strike a better kind of black gold from the comfort of home this May thanks to Council and Sustainable Gardening Australia.

Get your free ticket at https://qrco.de/smrc-events before it books out, or follow the same link to learn more about what’s on the program.

For more information about waste, recycling and organic waste in the Snowy Monaro, please visit https://qrco.de/wasteinfoSMRC or contact Council on 1300 345 345.

Want to do Business with Council?

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) is inviting business operators in the Snowy Monaro to register a free account on the VendorPanel procurement platform, your one-stop-shop for all local government tenders, expressions of interest, and requests for quotation in our region.

SMRC advised this unified platform makes it easy for businesses interested in working with Council to find out about new opportunities, submit and track the progress of bids, quotes and expressions of interest, and simplifies the administration work for all contracts from start to finish.

Visit https://qrco.de/VPregister today to sign up for a free account and gain access to Council opportunities, plus thousands of other public and private sector organisations looking for suppliers.

Earlier this year, Council completed a transition of all request for quotation, request for tender, and expression of interest processes over to the VendorPanel platform.

As of April 2025, any business looking to submit a quote, tender bid, or expression of interest must be registered and make their submission through VendorPanel.

Managing every stage of the procurement process in one place is significantly more efficient for Council’s procurement and finance teams, while making it simpler for more businesses – especially small local businesses – to work with us.

It’s straightforward to get yourself registered. Visit https://qrco.de/VPregister to get started, or head to https://vendorpanel.com/marketplace-faqs-and-resources for further information about the platform and sign-up process.

If you do run into any problems getting setup, reach out to SMRC’s customer support team at [email protected] for assistance.

Once registered, there are resources available to help you and your business make the most of the opportunities on offer.

Businesses with questions about the Council procurement process can contact us on 1300 345 345 or at [email protected] to find out more.

Motorists Urged to Drive Safely During School Holidays after Horror Month

In light of an alarming rise in road fatalities across New South Wales, particularly during March when 39 crashes resulted in 41 deaths, NSW Police are urging motorists to adopt safer driving practices during the upcoming school holidays.

PHOTO: NSW Police are aiming to reduce the rates of road incidents by conducting a high visibility operation CREDIT: NSW Government

Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisanos highlighted the concerning statistics: “Last year in NSW there were 85 murders; however, four times as many people – 338 – died on our roads: that is a senseless loss of life.”

The tragic death toll for this year has already reached 103, encompassing a varied demographic from young drivers aged 18 to 25 to seniors between 76 and 95. Among those fatalities were 45 drivers, 17 passengers, 27 motorcyclists, nine pedestrians, and five cyclists. Regional roads pose significant risk, with the Princes, Hume, and Pacific Highways being notable hotspots.

PHOTO: Police will be out in force over the Easter and ANZAC day holidays CREDIT: NSW Police

To address these dangers, NSW Police will implement high-visibility operations during the Easter and ANZAC Day periods, coinciding with increased travel across the state. Double demerit points will be enforced from April 17-21 and again from April 24-27 to deter offences such as speeding, mobile phone use, and failure to wear seatbelts. The efforts will involve multiple police units including the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, supported by tactical teams like PolAir and the Mounted Unit.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley emphasised the importance of cautious driving, stating: “No one wants their long weekend story to end with flashing lights… Slow down, switch off, and stop if you’re tired.”

PHOTO: Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, urged drivers to be mindful of road conditions and the additional stopping distances required when carrying extra luggage.

Transport for NSW Secretary, Josh Murray, reminded the community: “Safety is everyone’s responsibility. We all share the road – and share the responsibility. Drive so others survive.” His sentiment underscores a community-wide call for vigilance and care on the roads, making safety the collective goal for this holiday season.

Community Feedback Sought on Proposed Camping Changes in NSW National Parks

The New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NSW NPWS) is actively seeking community input on a significant proposal to enhance camping experiences within the state’s national parks and reserves. As many individuals and families from the Snowy Mountains region prepare for potential camping trips over the Easter period, this is a timely opportunity for the public to voice their opinions.

PHOTO: Proposed changes are based on a tiered system for camping fees CREDITS: NSW NPWS

The proposed changes aim to create a more consistent and fair approach to camping fees across all NSW national parks. These include the introduction of a tiered system for camping fees, which would vary based on the services and facilities available, such as shower blocks and BBQs, and the seasonal demand.

Additionally, the proposal suggests eliminating booking and extra person fees, as well as offering generous refunds for cancellations to mitigate ghost bookings. Campsites with minimal or no facilities would remain free, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.

These proposed changes are derived from extensive consultation with over 200,000 campers and national park visitors. A spokesperson for the NSW Government said, “Further community feedback will help the NSW Government to decide on next steps and whether proposed changes are adopted and implemented.”

PHOTO: Feedback on the changes is open to the public until May 25, 2025

A comprehensive consultation paper, outlining these proposed changes, is now available for public review and comment until May 25, 2025. Feedback gathered from the public will play a crucial role in shaping the final outcomes and determining whether the proposed changes will be implemented.

Individuals interested in contributing their thoughts can do so through an online survey or by submitting feedback via post. For more information and to participate in this consultation process, individuals are encouraged to visit www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/camping.