News

Groundbreaking Universal Outdoor Mobile Coverage Initiative: Black Spots Could Soon be a Thing of the Past

The Albanese Government has unveiled the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO), a world-first reform aimed at providing basic universal outdoor mobile coverage across Australia. This pioneering initiative announced yesterday, will compel mobile carriers to deliver mobile voice and SMS services to nearly all outdoor areas across the nation, covering up to 5 million square kilometres and extending over 37,000 kilometres of regional roads.

PHOTO: Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain (left), with Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland (right).

This bold policy aims to enhance access to emergency services like Triple Zero, rectify existing mobile black spots, and improve mobile signal availability during disasters and power outages. The deployment of this initiative is made possible through advancements in Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats) and Direct-to-Device (D2D) technologies, enabling mobile devices to receive signals directly from space.

The government plans to introduce legislation in 2025, with an expected rollout by late 2027. However, many Australians could experience improved access earlier. Although initial efforts focus on voice and SMS, considerations for basic mobile data will follow as technology evolves.

Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, stated, “Labor governments have consistently expanded universal access to essential services. The UOMO will significantly enhance public safety and infrastructure resilience, addressing areas previously deemed too challenging or costly to reach.”

Kristy McBain, Member for Eden-Monaro, highlighted the initiative’s impact on her constituency, “Eden-Monaro is over 42,000 square kilometres – with a number of known coverage issues, which is why the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation is great news for our community. because it will provide another layer of outdoor coverage during emergencies – whether that’s in our national parks, on our hiking trails, or out on the farm.”

PHOTO: Deep pockets of black-spot bushland in Eden-Monaro could soon be connected through LEOSats and D2D technologies.

“Reliable connectivity is crucial for businesses, emergency services, and maintaining social connections. Since taking office, the Albanese Government has invested $8.5 million in 13 mobile base station improvements in Eden-Monaro, with projects like the Jerangle upgrade completed last November.”

Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro Jo van der Plaat said she experiences a number of emails weekly complaining of ongoing blackspot issues.

“As a candidate, I get to witness first hand driving around this electorate, just where they are, where they’ve always been and never fixed.”

“Labor claims that this will provide mobile coverage almost everywhere, but fails to detail which areas will miss out or most importantly, the cost. Labor have failed to declare how much the Mobile Obligation commitment will cost and who will have to pay for it.”

“The people of Eden-Monaro have been smashed by Labor’s cost of living crisis, and they are rightly concerned about the prospect of higher mobile bills, without any detail.”

The government plans to conduct a National Audit of Mobile Coverage to better pinpoint black spots and guide future investments. These efforts complement existing co-investment programmes like the Mobile Black Spot Program, enhancing terrestrial mobile network coverage and resilience.

The UOMO is not a replacement for traditional networks but an additional layer of connectivity, significantly benefiting Australians during emergencies. Federal Labor advised there will be comprehensive engagement with stakeholders aimed to ensure that the implementation of UOMO will be both effective and responsive to public needs, such as which devices are compatible.

This transformative effort could be the first step in fostering a future where rural and isolated areas like Eden-Monaro finally have access to greater safety and connectivity.

Upcoming Jindabyne ScrapMart Closures

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) advised due to temporary staffing shortages, the Jindabyne ScrapMart tip shop at Jindabyne Landfill will be closed on Saturday March 1, and Saturday March 8, 2025.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “Second-hand shoppers can still find plenty of bargains across the region over the next fortnight at our ScrapMart facilities in Cooma and Bombala.”

“Plan your trip and check opening hours at https://qrco.de/ScrapMart.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by these temporary closures and appreciates the community’s understanding.”

Please visit https://qrco.de/wasteinfoSMRC for more information about waste and recycling in the Snowy Monaro.

Contact SMRC on 1300 345 345 with any questions or concerns.

Have Your Say on the Revised Snowy Monaro Community Strategic Plan

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) is inviting all residents, ratepayers, and stakeholders to provide feedback on the revised Snowy Monaro Community Strategic Plan 2042. The consultation is open now until Monday 24 March 2025, and is your chance to provide input on the updated plan following community engagement conducted last year.

Originally adopted in 2022, the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) is the highest-level strategic document, setting out a long-term vision for the region. Over the past 12 months,

Council advised it has conducted a light-touch review of the CSP, incorporating community feedback from consultations held in early 2024. This process helps ensure that the plan remains relevant and closely aligned to the priorities of our community.

It’s easy to have your say, your way, with a range of simple options to get involved:

  • Fill out the online survey on the Your Say Snowy Monaro website
  • Grab a paper copy of the survey from any Council office or library branch
  • Have a chat with us at regional shows and local events

Mayor Chris Hanna said, “This review is an important opportunity for our community to tell us what their priorities are for the region over the long term.”

“Council has spent the last year updating the CSP based on what you told us, and we’re excited to share the results and hear what you think about the Snowy Monaro’s vision for the future.”

The CSP is made up of five key themes:

  1. Our Community – Supporting connected, inclusive, and healthy communities
  2. Our Economy – Driving economic sustainability and local opportunities
  3. Our Environment – Protecting and enhancing the region’s natural assets
  4. Our Infrastructure – Improving transport, utilities, and community facilities
  5. Our Civic Leadership – Ensuring transparent and effective governance

This revised plan considers the challenges and priorities facing our region, including housing affordability, infrastructure investment, sustainability, and economic resilience.

While the CSP sets overarching strategic goals, specific projects and service details are addressed in Council’s upcoming Delivery Program and Operational Plan, which will open for consultation later this year.

Have your say before Monday 24 March 2025 at https://qrco.de/CSPreview and help SMRC make the future of our region brighter than ever. The plan will be further revised based on your feedback and presented to Council for review and adoption in mid-2025.

Visit https://qrco.de/CSPreview to learn more about getting involved, or give SMRC a call on 1300 345 345 for further information.

Cooma Colts Launch Pathways Program for Junior Rugby League Players

A new initiative aimed at bridging the gap between junior and senior rugby league levels was launched on Sunday, February 23, at the Cooma Showgrounds. Nathan Smith, the Colts’ Under 18s Coach for 2025, spearheaded the pathways program designed to transition Cooma Colts Junior Rugby League players into the senior Cooma Stallions team.

PHOTO: Cooma Colts U18’s Coach Nathan Smith, with Colts pathways players.

The program featured a series of drills and fitness sessions, providing a platform for teenagers to enhance their skills and stay engaged with the sport. Smith, who has successfully organised similar programs in the past, emphasises the importance of retention in junior sports.

“As kids start leaving sport around those ages, I want to keep them involved and hopefully move them on to become a Stallion,” he said.

PHOTO: Smith conducting drills with the Colts in their new training kit.

The training kit for the program was generously funded by the Cooma Rovers trust fund, a nod to the rich history of rugby league in Cooma, which once boasted multiple local sides.

Smith’s vision is to foster a strong rugby identity within the community, keeping the Cooma Colts and Stallions prospering. “If the Stallions are strong, it gets the local community involved and gives the town something to look forward to,” Smith added.

With 17 local junior sides last year, the Colts are committed to nurturing young talent, ensuring future successes for both players and the community.

Opportunity to Join Snowy Mountains Aboriginal Community Advisory Committee

In an effort to strengthen collaboration with Aboriginal communities, the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has announced another opportunity for Aboriginal people of Monero-Ngarigo descent and those with cultural ties to Monero-Ngarigo country to join the Southern Snowy Mountains Aboriginal Community Advisory Committee.

PHOTO: Monero-Ngarigo country.

The committee is essential for maintaining and enhancing communication between NPWS and the Aboriginal community, promoting the protection and management of cultural heritage in areas such as the southern part of Kosciuszko National Park. The partnership stems from a memorandum of understanding (MoU) established in 2016, which underscores NPWS’s commitment to working alongside Monero-Ngarigo communities in preserving their cultural heritage sustainably.

The Advisory Committee comprises a minimum of five and a maximum of ten members, including at least two Monero-Ngarigo Elders. It plays a vital role in advising NPWS on issues related to cultural interpretation, conservation, and tourism within the area, thus ensuring culturally-sensitive management of national parks and reserves.

The NPWS will cover travel expenses for committee members, who volunteer their time, and membership is set for a three-year term. Interested persons are urged to submit a nomination form, with expressions of interest closing March 16, 2025.

Artist Benni Phillips Nozdrachev Returns to Raglan Gallery with “Asteroid Farm”

The Raglan Gallery is captivating art enthusiasts with renowned Ngarigo country (Numeralla, Cooma) based artist Benni Phillips Nozdrachev’s latest exhibition, “Asteroid Farm”, running until March 2nd. Known for his intriguing use of recycled materials, Phillips Nozdrachev impresses with works that embody a unique blend of intricacy and rustic charm.

PHOTO: Benni Phillips Nozdrachev’s latest exhibition, “Asteroid Farm”.

Wendy McDougall, a board member at the gallery and local artist herself, praises Benni’s distinctive style, describing him as a person who “sees the world in a unique way,” who shies away from the spotlight but captivates audiences with thought-provoking art. “Almost every bit of the Asteroid display is made from salvaged parts of his old artworks,” McDougall notes, highlighting how the artist repurposes fragments of time into new narratives.

“We have realised we have to use and promote his work otherwise, we don’t know how far it could go. He just plods along, he’ll be one of these characters that, you go, I’ve got to buy his art, and you probably can’t afford it later down the line.”

“Take the time to look at his work from every angle you can and find your own story and meaning about this intriguing piece. No one will ever truly understand an artists reason and purpose of a work, the joy of art is finding your own from how you feel about it. What itch does it scratch.”

PHOTO: Raglan Gallery board member Wendy McDougall.

Benni Phillips Nozdrachev is a self-taught artist who has honed his skills across Europe and is based in based in Helsinki, Finland. His work encourages viewers to explore meaning through personal interpretation, perhaps prompting questions about sustainability and the essence of value.

PHOTO: Thought provoking angles in the “Asteroid Farm”.

The display which was created on-site, intrigues the gazing eye, and shows the careful observer a hidden lens of inspiration. A secret message perhaps, of being ‘ok’ with the imperfect nature of things if they serve a purpose. The display for some, may raise questions of how far we have drifted as a society from the essence of what we truly need.

In addition to “Asteroid Farm”, the gallery also features Benni’s “Heads and Tails – Part 2”, a painting installation created as a follow on from last year’s Part 1. According to Wendy McDougall, this may be the last opportunity to witness these installations before they disappear, unless they find a home in a private collection, they are of course likely to be recycled.

PHOTO: “Heads and Tails – Part 2”.

Phillips Nozdrachev’s art invites reflection on humanity’s progress and consumption, offering a rare window into different perceptions of everyday life. Visitors are encouraged to take their time when exploring these detailed creations, each telling its own story.

A Weekend of Triumph and Trail Blazers

The Snowy Mountains played host to an exciting weekend of grueling feats and triumphant finishes, captivating participants and spectators alike at the Trail Run Australia (TRA) and TreX Cross Triathlon events. Powered by In2Adventure, the high-country setting provided a stunning backdrop for over 1000 athletes to showcase their stamina and skill across various competitions.

PHOTO: TreX Cross Triathlon male Australian National Champion Ben Forbes CREDIT: IN2Adventure.

Amidst the stunning scenery, Ben Forbes from Brisbane and Laura Gillard from Albury emerged as the new Australian National Champions, leaving their mark on the region in 2025, with line honours in the Elite female category going to Solenne Billouin from France, one the top off road triathlon athletes in the world.

PHOTO: Laura Gillard (left) and Ben Forbes (right) CREDIT: Delly Carr – AusTriathlon.

Event Director at In2Adventure Robyn Lazenby said, “Ben Forbes only started racing with us a few years ago on the Sunshine Coast. So he started off racing very casually, and he has gone ahead in leaps and bounds.”

“Last year he had really bad mechanical, he was going neck and neck with Ben Allen, but then with the mechanical, had to pull out. So this year, for him to come back and to take out championships, it was really
great for him.”

Meanwhile, the Trail Run Australia Ultra50 saw an inspiring performance by Joshua Mcnab of Monavale, NSW. The debut ultra runner dashed to victory in an impressive 4:18:07.66, noting afterward in his interview with In2Adventure’s Wes Heather, “This is my gateway to trail running, this is my first ever ultra.” Grace Harrison from Vaucluse NSW clinched the female category, conquering the course in 5:16:32.17.

PHOTO: In2Adventure’s Wes Heather with TRA Ultra50 winner Joshua Mcnab.

Robyn Lazenby gave some insight into Joshua saying, “He is an amazing athlete and an amazing person as well, what a tremendous performance. He even overtook the some of the 30k event runners at the finish as well.”

In notable performances by locals, Andrew Clarkson of Cooma came sixth in the TRA Ultra50 male category, and Amy Parnell of Jindabyne ran tenth in the TRA 21km female category.

Robyn Lazenby summed up the event saying, “It was an epic showdown of grit and speed, and pure determination, every athlete brought their A-game and made it unforgettable.”

PHOTO: TreX Cross Triathlon female National Champion Laura Gillard CREDIT: In2Adventure.

NSW Government Invests $10 Million in Health Worker Accommodation for Regional Areas

The Minns Labor Government has announced a significant $10 million investment aimed at improving accommodation for health workers, particularly paramedics, in regional New South Wales. This initiative is part of the broader $200.1 million Key Health Worker Accommodation program, which seeks to attract and retain over 500 health workers across rural and remote areas of NSW.

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, emphasised the importance of supporting the regional health workforce, stating,

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in modern, sustainable accommodation options for key health workers who are the backbone of our regional, rural and remote communities.”

PHOTO: Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park.

The program, which encompasses more than 20 projects, will secure around 120 new and refurbished dwellings, enhancing the living conditions for health workers. Investment in key worker accomodation is crucial for regions like the Snowy Mountains, where the demand for housing is intensified due to the rise in short-term rental accommodations.

Steve Whan, Member for Monaro, highlighted the critical nature of worker accomodation in the region, stating, “The population of Snowy towns like Jindabyne explodes over winter, and these booming periods are increasing each year. That’s why we need stable accommodation for our key workers.”

“We know that the inability to get housing is a key reason why public sector workers sometimes knock back a job in Jindabyne, and we know that if people are part of a great community, they are much more likely to stay.”

PHOTO: Member for Monaro Steve Whan, at the key worker accomodation next to Cooma hospital.

The addition of key worker housing in locations such as Cooma is expected to alleviate housing pressures, but it’s unclear at this stage whether or not any of the 120 dwellings will be based here in the Snowy Mountains.

Mr Whan added, “The key worker accommodation in Cooma is just about to open, and that will not only free up housing for other people, but ensure our health workers have somewhere guaranteed, which will attract more to our area.”

“I continue to work on other accommodation to build on the new Cooma key worker accommodation.”

“Overcoming shortages is a key part of better health care. When you’re a part of a community, and form these strong bonds with it, you want to stick around. That’s the sort of stuff that will bolster healthcare in our regions.”

Gerard Hayes, HSU NSW Secretary, also welcomed the initiative, noting, “The housing crisis can become a healthcare crisis for rural and regional towns if we can’t provide safe and secure housing for essential workers.”

The investment reflects a significant step towards addressing the intricate linkage between housing availability and the health sector’s viability in NSW’s rural communities like the Snowy Monaro.

8.5 Billion Investment in Medicare: Labor Pledges to Leave No-One Behind

In a landmark move, the Albanese Labor Government has announced an $8.5 billion investment to enhance Medicare, marking the largest single investment since its establishment over four decades ago. Aimed at delivering an additional 18 million bulk billed General Practitioner (GP) visits annually, the initiative also includes hundreds of nursing scholarships and a scheme to train thousands more doctors, promising a significant boost to Australia’s healthcare system.

Under this investment, the government plans to expand bulk billing incentives to all Australians, offering new incentive payments for medical practices that fully embrace bulk billing. According to Health Minister Mark Butler, this will result in 9 out of 10 GP visits being bulk billed by 2030, potentially tripling the number of fully bulk billed practices nationwide to approximately 4,800.

PHOTO: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (right), and Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain (left) present united front on Medicare funding.

Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain said, “Whether your family needs urgent or ongoing healthcare, under Labor, every Australian will have access to free healthcare with their Medicare card.”

“This builds on the work we’ve already done, like tripling bulk billing incentives and opening 87 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics across the country, including here in Eden-Monaro.”

PHOTO: Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain at a family practice in Queanbeyan.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stressed, “Labor built Medicare, and we will protect and improve it for all Australians.”

In response to Labor’s bold Medicare expansion, the opposition Coalition, led by Peter Dutton, committed to a slightly larger $9 billion investment to address what they describe as Labor’s “healthcare crisis.” The opposition claims bulk billing rates have plummeted from 88% to 77% since Labor’s tenure began, arguing that this has forced millions of Australians to forego necessary medical visits, exacerbating pressure on the nation’s hospitals.

The Coalition’s plan also includes a $400 million initiative to cultivate a pipeline of domestic GPs and incentives to encourage training in community settings. Senator Anne Ruston, Shadow Minister for Health, underscored the urgency of addressing bulk billing declines, particularly in regional areas like Eden-Monaro, where GP visits have significantly decreased.

PHOTO: Senator Anne Ruston, Shadow Minister for Health engages with health care workers.

The Labor Government’s initiative seeks to rectify previous funding freezes, reportedly leading to a $8.3 billion reduction in Medicare funds initiated under Mr Dutton’s term as Health Minister. The Coalition, on the other hand, credits their previous administration with strong economic management that enabled substantial healthcare funding, including the creation of the $22 billion Medical Research Future Fund.

As both parties gear up for the forthcoming election, the future of Medicare and the accessibility of GP services will be a pivotal concern for Australians nationwide, but critical for residents of regional rural areas like Eden-Monaro which have rates of bulk billing availability well below the nation’s average.

Rehman’s Rapid Round 9 Six Wicket Haul: Jindabyne Tigers New Ladder Leaders

The latest round of the Monaro District Cricket Association One Day competition witnessed thrilling encounters and impressive performances across the board, with Jindabyne taking the top spot on the ladder.

In an important clash, the Jindabyne Tigers visited Bombala, where Bombala chose to bat first after winning the toss. Opening batsman Mark Tonks set a promising tone by scoring 42 runs before falling victim to the skilled bowling of Jindabyne Captain, Lucas Rixon. Jason Cikos, maintaining his remarkable season average of 70.13, added 47 off 28 balls contributing significantly to Bombala’s total.

PHOTO: The ‘on-fire’ Jason Cikos carefully watches as the Jindabyne Tigers look to pounce CREDIT: Joey Sullivan.

Joey Sullivan’s disciplined 24-run innings brought Bombala to a score of 139, all out by the 29th over. Rixon’s prowess was central to Jindabyne’s bowling attack, claiming 3/39.

Jindabyne’s reply saw a stellar start from Issac Dawson, who remained unbeaten on 60, and Luke Saare, who scored 24. Together with a solid 35 from Dave Tickell, the Tigers were well ahead and finished strong with a contribution from Rixon. Despite Brent Lucas’s best efforts for Bombala, capturing 1/20 in 5 overs, Jindabyne secured a comfortable victory.

As Bombala looks to refine their strategies, a spokesperson for the club said, “The match was played in great spirits, and Bombala would like to extend appreciation to Jindabyne for their sportsmanship and banter throughout the day. Bombala will look to bounce back in their fixture next week against Rhythm at Nijong Oval, working on middle-order stability and tightening our bowling.”

Meanwhile, at Nijong Oval, Cooma Titans emerged victorious over Rhythm Cricket Club. The Titans overcame early setbacks with cohesive performances from their middle order. Hassan Nawaz (44), Mirza Zeeshan (42), and Moshin Imran (41) were instrumental in setting a challenging target of 226. Gus Brabham’s commendable 3 for 39 for Rhythm provided some resistance.

Rhythm’s chase began promisingly but faltered under increasing run-rate pressure. Despite Stuart Wood’s 37 and Nemasha Ambagahawatte’s 32, Rhythm was all out for 127 in 31.4 overs. The Titans’ strong bowling attack were hard to get away and pivotal to their win, each very economical, but there was one standout performer, Babar Rehman 6/8 from just 3.4 overs.

The Berridale Whitetails hosted Dalgety Cricket Club with Berridale opting to bat first. Despite setbacks, including the early loss of Captain Russell Haylock, Thomas King’s brisk 31 and Justin McCarey’s consistent 49 anchored the innings. The team totaled 175 before being dismissed.

Dalgety’s John Stanford showcased his prowess with a rapid 59, guiding his team to a victory with contributions from a disciplined middle order.

Reflecting on the match, Dalgety’s Simon Freebody expressed enthusiasm: “Today’s match in Berridale was a fantastic effort and proves we can mix it with the best.”

With Jindabyne leading the ladder on 29 points, important battles loom next week as the competition intensifies in the final rounds. Next week Rhythm host Bombala, Dalgety travel to Jindabyne, Coffey’s host the Cooma Titans, and Berridale have the bye.