News

Monaro Billy Cart Derby Thrills Community with Record-Breaking Speeds and Family Fun

The much-loved Monaro Billy Cart Derby returned on Sunday with excitement and community spirit at the Cooma Showgrounds. Organised by the Cooma Car Club, the event drew a healthy crowd of families from all around the Snowy Mountains for a day of nostalgic fun and friendly competition.

PHOTO: The Monaro Billy Cart Derby has grown to inspire all sorts of interesting builds.

Now a staple in the local calendar, the Derby was hosted by Cooma Car Club President Tony Nassar, who emphasised the day’s focus on getting children outdoors and engaging with the community. “The Derby is all about having kids experience real-world fun and community spirit,” he said.

This year’s event was particularly memorable with Alan Roberts setting a new speed record of 45km per hour, surpassing the previous 41km per hour record, and winning in the 18+ category with a time of 15.36 seconds.

PHOTO: Alan Roberts sets a new speed record of 45km/hr – WATCH the record breaking run https://fb.watch/xXy8TFnEg0/

Other notable winners included Mateo Henkel (5-9 years, 16.48 seconds), Will May (10-17 years, 16.11 seconds), and Ross Jelbart in the Classic Cart category with 16.01 seconds. The Novelty category was taken by David Thompson (16.56 seconds), the Business category won by Isaac Horneman (16.23 seconds), Emergency Services won by Tom Brown RFS (18.23 seconds), and Judges Choice Archie Lee.

Amongst the crowd was Silvio Pagnamnta, who brought an antique wooden Momo steering wheel, steeped in family history, for his grandkids’ billy cart. “This wheel is at least 70 years old,” he shared proudly.

PHOTO: Silvio Pagnamnta with his grandkids and antique momo steering wheel.

Fathers and ‘billy cart engineers’ such as Mr Redden were thrilled to support his son Charlie and family members as they raced in four carts on the day.

Charlie Redden said some of the carts had come from as far as “Leeton and Nowra” before being worked on for the race.

PHOTO: Charlie Redden (left) with family, proudly showing off one of four carts.

Ministers Bryan and Debbie Bartlett from the Salvation Army offered free sun protection, water, and a friendly ear for members of the community.

After a great day, many reflected on the importance of such community-driven gatherings. As Tony Nassar said, “You don’t have to enter the race to enjoy the day. It’s about community spirit, and family fun in the outdoors.”

Proceeds from the day went to the Cooma Community Chest with Chairperson Marnie Stewart saying, “We come down here to support the community by collecting a gold coin donation, we put that into our funds which go directly back into the community.”

PHOTO: Cooma Community Chest members Marnie Stewart (left), Lizzy Scarlett (centre) and Michelle Burke (right).

“This is a great day for all these kids, they can come and get there billy carts out, it’s fantastic. When we were young out on the farms we did all sorts of things so it’s great to see the kids get to do something for fun in the fresh air away from the computers.”

The success of the Monaro Billy Cart Derby ensures it remains a highly anticipated annual event, appealing to those eager to blend tradition with competition, and a dose of good family fun in the outdoors.

Motion to Complete Monaro Rail Trail Business Case Passed

The motion to reinstate the Monaro Rail Trail project into the Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s delivery and operational plan has been passed, but not before sparking intense debate among councillors, reflecting a mix of enthusiasm for potential economic rejuvenation and caution over possible risks and costs.

PHOTO: A section of rail line on the proposed route in Tuggeranong CREDIT: Monaro Rail Trail (MRT).

Councillor Davis, a chief advocate for the project, underscored its significance during the recent council meeting. She argued that the motion focused on completing a critical business case to assess the feasibility of the rail trail stretching from Michelago to Bombala.

“This motion is about getting this project back into the delivery and operational plan,” she stated, emphasising the necessity of this step for informed decision-making. She added, “We’ve spent half a million dollars on reports to build the business case, and without completing this process, we can’t even justify the expenditure.”

The Monaro Rail Trail proposal envisions converting the old Queanbeyan to Bombala railway into a 213-kilometre recreational trail for cyclists and walkers, potentially spurring tourism and economic growth in the region.

PHOTO: The proposed rail trail would travel through regional towns from Queanbeyan to Bombala CREDIT: MRT.

According to Monaro Rail Trail Inc., this initiative aims to elevate local economies by attracting visitors, similar to New Zealand’s Otago Rail Trail, which significantly contributed to its regional economy.

However, not all councillors share Councillor Davis’s optimism. Councillor Thaler criticised the proposal, suggesting that the council’s resources would be better utilised addressing fundamental infrastructure needs. “I would rather put our efforts into more urgent priorities,” Thaler expressed, highlighting concerns over diverting resources away from essential services.

Councillor Rose echoed these reservations, voicing concerns about potential environmental issues and hidden costs in regards to the potential presence of heavy metals and asbestos under railway lines in the region.

In support of Rose’s cautionary perspective, the Cooma Monaro Progress Association released a press statement detailing environmental and financial ramifications. Ian Ware, representing the association, expressed apprehension over maintenance costs and ecological impact, calling for alternative proposals.

PHOTO: Track work near Cooma CREDIT: Cooma Monaro Railway Inc. (CMR)

Councillor Stewart backed the motion, advocating for the potential benefits to the local economy and tourism. “A lot of rail trails have tried to be the boost to help battling communities,” Stewart argued, claiming significant local support in the Nimmitabel-Bombala area. Stewart further pointed out the potential for long-term economic opportunities, particularly for younger residents seeking economic stability in the region.

Councillor Higgins called for a forward-thinking approach, recognising the rail trail as a pivotal opportunity for economic diversification and community enrichment. “We’ve spoken about this ad nauseam, about the smaller towns needing an economic boost,” she argued. Emphasising the project’s potential to foster a vibrant future for the Snowy Monaro region, Councillor Higgins advocated for the project progressing beyond stagnation, and to watch closely Queanbeyan Palerang Regional Council’s progress on their rail trail during the period of the performance improvement order.

PHOTO: Cooma Railway Station on CMR Artisan Market day CREDIT: CMR.

Despite these divergent views, the conversation continues to pivot on weighing potential economic gains against environmental and fiscal prudence. The outcome of this debate remains pivotal for the council as it considers the implications for its operational strategies as well as community welfare. Ultimately, whether the Monaro rail trail project proceeds hinges on balancing visionary aspirations with pragmatic considerations.

Region-wide Road Resealing Works Continue From Monday March 3 2025

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) advised residents essential road resealing works will resume across the Snowy Monaro from early next month, with crews coming to roads across the region through to the end of March 2025, weather permitting.

Continuing from Monday March 3, 2025, works are scheduled for selected roads in Avonside, Chakola, Cooma, Delegate, Bredbo, Jerangle, Nimmitabel, Numeralla, and the wider Jindabyne/Dalgety area.

Council advised works will take place between 6am and 6pm on scheduled days, with affected property owners receiving direct notification at least 48 hours in advance of work commencing.

Click here: full schedule of roads set for resealing.

Traffic control will be in place at all worksites. Motorists are asked to follow signage, observe reduced speed limits, and expect short delays while works are underway.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “To ensure the safety of workers and the community, on-street parking will not be permitted on roads undergoing resealing during the works period. Residents and business owners are encouraged to plan ahead and make alternative arrangements where necessary.”

“Access to properties will be maintained, subject to minor delays of up to 10 minutes during work hours.”

“While every effort will be made to minimise disruption, some noise and dust should be expected. Residents are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed during works and ensure pets remain indoors.”

“Newly resealed roads will be reopened to traffic as soon as work is complete, with drivers asked to avoid excessive speed, sharp turns, and heavy braking for the first two weeks to allow the new surface to settle.”

For further information, you can contact Snowy Monaro Regional Council on 1300 345 345 or email council@smrc.nsw.gov.au.

Snowy Monaro Locals Transform Six Tonnes of Trash into Treasure in Annual Garage Sale Trail

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has announced the success of the 2024 Garage Sale Trail, where local residents embraced the annual event in record numbers. Over two weekends in November, a staggering six tonnes of second-hand goods were diverted from landfill, as the community turned what could have been rubbish into valuable resources.

PHOTO: The 2024 Garage Sale Trail was a record breaking year in SMRC.

The program aims to increase community reuse of textiles and household items, reducing reliance on landfill for disposal and supporting the transition to a circular economy.

This year’s Garage Sale Trail impact report followed the National Guidelines for Measuring Reuse created by Monash University, and draws on research recently completed by Charitable Reuse Australia and the NSW Environmental Protection Authority.

Participation in SMRC saw a significant increase from the previous year, with 107 sales and stalls, up from 71 in 2023. According to a spokesperson for SMRC, “This was a record-breaking year, as 2,630 locals took part to declutter their homes and uncover bargains. Many items, 42 percent of the 10,455 sold, were saved from a fate in the bin.”

The event proved financially beneficial amidst the current cost-of-living crisis. Sellers pocketed an average of $519 each, with buyers collectively saving around $130,000 compared to the cost of purchasing new items. “It was a boon for our community, providing a much-needed financial boost while promoting sustainable consumption,” the spokesperson said.

PHOTO: Garage sales in Cooma.

Participation in the event has had lasting effects on the community’s consumption habits. “Eighty-eight percent of sellers and 65% of buyers reported they are more likely to resell items and buy second-hand, respectively,” highlighted the spokesperson, underscoring the positive shift towards reducing consumer impact on both the environment and personal finances.

SMRC advised residents eager to participate again need not wait until November 2025, as council supports year-round sustainable shopping through ScrapMart buyback tip shops.

The Garage Sale Trail, a national event, continues to grow and evolve, with over 400,000 Australians participating and diverting millions of kilos of goods from landfill annually. For those looking to join the trail next year or learn more, further information is available at www.garagesaletrail.com.au.

Iconic Road Trips: NSW Government Introduces EV Charging Stations on Alpine Way

The New South Wales government has embarked on a significant initiative to enhance electric vehicle (EV) travel across the state, equipping nine iconic road trips with strategically placed charging stations. Among these is the picturesque Kosciuszko Alpine Way, offering a 171km journey through the Snowy Mountains, which promises both adventure and unparalleled natural beauty.

PHOTO: A view towards Kosciuszko National Park, not far from Berridale.

The project aims to eliminate range anxiety for EV drivers, ensuring they can explore the best that NSW has to offer without concerns about recharging their vehicles. The NSW Government invested $199 million in the installation of publicly available EV charge ports, earning top marks in the 2024 State of EVs report for its commitment to expanding charging infrastructure.

The initiative not only supports the adoption of electric vehicles but also boosts sustainable tourism and the regional visitor economy, Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe said.

“We are committed to making the state a leader in electric vehicle adoption and sustainable tourism. Driving electric is not only better for the environment, but it’s also the most budget-friendly way to hit the road. Lower running costs means EVs offer significant savings for drivers.”

The charging stations are set approximately every 100km, providing at least two fast-charging plugs in addition to a destination charging plug, offering seamless travel through these curated routes.

The Kosciuszko Alpine Way is particularly notable for Snowy Mountains residents and visitors, offering an enchanting drive from Canberra through the serene landscapes of the Snowy Mountains. The route is well-known for its breathtaking scenery, including the majestic Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, and a host of attractions such as ski fields, mountain biking, and hiking trails.

PHOTO: Mountain bikers take the chair lift to the top of Thredbo Valley track CREDIT: Tourism Snowy Mountains.

Ross Martin, a member of AltitudeEV, a group of EV owners in the Snowy Mountains, praised the initiative, saying, “I think this is a great initiative and should service travellers from NSW reasonably well. Type two chargers are also important for smaller mobility such as Motorcycles so this is pleasing to see.”

However, Mr Martin raised concerns about the current fast charging infrastructure in Cooma and Jindabyne, noting its inadequacy during peak times and the absence of charging in Khancoban, which he believes affects travellers from Victoria. He also emphasised the importance of destination charging for longer-stay tourists and the need for public access to these facilities in opening up EV travel.

PHOTO: Ross Martin’s BYD Shark 6 ute, charging at Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre Cooma.

The Kosciuszko Alpine Way and other routes are outlined on the Visit NSW website, offering detailed itineraries and showcasing the rich cultural and natural experiences available along the way. This development marks a significant step in making EV travel more accessible and enjoyable across regional New South Wales.

The nine EV-friendly road trips are on the Visit NSW website www.visitnsw.com/evroadtrips:

Bulk Billing Statistics Show National Gains: Eden-Monaro Electorate Indicates Local Health Crisis

The Australian Government has announced a significant increase of six million bulk billed GP visits nationally from November 2023 to December 2024, averaging 100,000 additional visits each week. The rise is attributed to a $3.5 billion investment that tripled the bulk billing incentive, aiming to support pensioners, concession cardholders, and young families, however local data from Eden-Monaro tells a different story.

Despite national statistics indicating progress, local disparities are evident with residents in the Eden-Monaro electorate experiencing significant challenges finding GPs who bulk bill in the region.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, labelled the investment as a pivotal move to counteract the previous decline in bulk billing, which he argues started during the Coalition’s tenure.

Mr Butler said the decline was partly due to a six-year freeze on Medicare rebates initiated under former Health Minister Peter Dutton, reportedly stripping $8.3 billion from Medicare by 2027-28. “When he was Health Minister, Peter Dutton tried to end bulk billing with a GP tax and then started a six-year freeze to Medicare rebates that the AMA says took billions out of Medicare,” Mr Butler said.

PHOTO: Mark Butler.

According to a joint media release from the Shadow Minister for Health, Senator Anne Ruston, and Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro, Jo van der Plaat, GP bulk billing has dropped by 12.8% in Eden-Monaro. From 913,804 visits in 2021-22 under the previous government, the numbers have reduced to 627,837 in 2023-24.

PHOTO: Berridale Surgery offers bulk billing to pensioners, and concession cardholders.

Similarly, in the nearby Gilmore electorate, a decrease of 5.8% in bulk billed visits has been recorded. These figures have sparked criticism from the opposition, accusing the Labor Government of failing to address a primary care crisis in regional New South Wales.

Senator Ruston expressed concerns over Australians facing rising costs and reduced access to medical care, particularly during a cost-of-living crisis.

“It is seriously concerning that Australians living in southern NSW have had their access to free GP appointments sent backwards, particularly in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis,” Shadow Minister Ruston said.

The Salvation Army’s first Social Justice Stocktake for 2025 has further exposed the issues, showing healthcare access as one of the top concerns in Eden-Monaro.

60.2 percent of respondents in Eden-Monaro considered this a significant community issue, while only 15.8 percent of GP clinics offered bulk billing—a stark contrast to the national average of 25 percent of GPs offering bulk billing.

Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro Jo van der Plaat emphasised the geographic challenges within her electorate, with its vast 33,000 km² area exacerbating access issues for many residents saying, “It is critical we fix this bulk billing crisis and make sure our regional communities get the first-class primary healthcare that they deserve, when they need it, without having to worry about the damage it could do to their family budget.”


“I know that a bulk billing fall of almost 13% means that people are going without the health services that they need, they’ve told me.”

PHOTO: Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro shaking hands with the leader of the opposition, Peter Dutton.

Minister Butler highlighted the national improvements in bulk billing, but recognised the continuous efforts needed to strengthen Medicare further with more doctors and Urgent Care Clinics.

“Thanks to our efforts to strengthen Medicare, we’ve got more doctors, we’ve got more bulk billing, and we’ve got Urgent Care Clinics that have already seen over a million Australians, all fully bulk billed,” Mr Butler remarked.

“That is making a meaningful difference, but we know we need to do more to strengthen Medicare.”

As the government celebrates its national achievements, the situation in Eden-Monaro and similar regions underscores the ongoing challenge of ensuring equitable healthcare access across Australia.

With the next election approaching, how these issues are addressed could sway votes in critical marginal electorates.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service: Urges Bushwalkers to Prioritise Safety

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has issued a critical reminder to bushwalkers to uphold safety measures, which comes as a timely warning after recent sub-zero overnight summer temperatures experienced in Kosciuszko National Park. These unpredictable conditions highlight the importance of preparation ahead of embarking on potentially hazardous national park adventures.

PHOTO: Snowy Mountains Highway passes Blowering Reservoir towrads Tumut, Koscisuzko National Park. CREDIT: Murray Vanderveer (DPIE)

NPWS advised the key to greater safety in expansive and often remote areas are personal locator beacons and trip intention forms. Personal locator beacons, which are compact and reliable, serve as a lifeline by transmitting distress signals via satellite when activated. These devices can be hired at no cost from twelve national park visitor centres across NSW or purchased from outdoor retail shops. Additionally, trip intention forms provide a vital communication link,

supplying NPWS with detailed information about the planned route, expected return time, and notable features such as attire colour. Sharing these details with an emergency contact is also strongly advised.

PHOTO: A woman wearing a personal locator beacon CREDIT: (OEH).

Naomi Stephens, Acting Deputy Secretary for NPWS, emphasised the significance of these precautions in ensuring the safety of the approximately 53 million annual visitors to the state’s national parks. She noted that, irrespective of a hiker’s experience level, the risk of becoming disoriented is substantial, reinforcing the importance of adequate preparation.

“In New South Wales we are lucky to be surrounded by incredible national parks, but these landscapes can be unforgiving and it’s very easy to get lost, whether you are new to hiking or a seasoned veteran,” Ms Stephens said.

“It is crucial for hikers to inform someone about their plans, carry a personal locator beacon, and ensure they are well-equipped with the necessary supplies.”

Further safety measures include familiarising oneself with the route, carrying protective and visible clothing, and ensuring the presence of essential supplies like water, food, and navigation aids.

For comprehensive safety advice and further information on these safety tools, hikers are encouraged to visit the NPWS website or check with national park visitor centres.

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/#

Exploring the Wonders of Yarrangobilly Caves

Nestled in the northern region of the majestic Kosciuszko National Park, the Yarrangobilly Caves stand as a beacon of natural wonder and geological intrigue. With its stunning array of limestone caves, this spectacular destination offers a treasure trove of activities and sights that promise to captivate adventurers of all ages.

Discovering the Natural Marvels

Yarrangobilly Caves is home to some of Australia’s most breathtaking limestone formations, created approximately 440 million years ago. Among these, six show caves are open to the public, each with its own unique features waiting to be explored.

PHOTO: South Glory Cave entrance, Yarrangobilly Caves, Kosciuszko National Park. CREDIT: Murray Vanderveer (OEH)

The South Glory Cave, historically first explored by Europeans in 1834, boasts immense limestone chambers adorned with captivating formations such as the Ice Age Chamber, Lamb’s Fleece, and Judge’s Wig. The self-guided tours allow visitors to experience these wonders at their own pace, with sensor lights illuminating the way and informative signs detailing the cave’s fascinating history.

The North Glory Cave, accessible only via guided tours, offers a different perspective of this underground world. Visitors here can marvel at the vast chambers like the Queen’s Chamber and the mysterious Devil’s Kitchen, along with the intricate helictites that seem to defy gravity. The thrilling exploration of North Glory Cave includes vistas of historical European settlers’ signatures along its walls, heightening the sense of walking through time.

PHOTO: Visitors swim in the thermal pool, Yarrangobilly area of Kosciuszko National Park. CREDIT: Boen Ferguson (OEH).

Year-Round Adventures

The Yarrangobilly area is a year-round haven for adventure seekers. The iconic thermal pool, sitting above ground and staying at a delightful 27ºC, invites guests to relax and recharge while enjoying the sight of superb blue wrens flitting nearby. Throughout the year, the area bustles with guided tours of Jillabenan Cave and Jersey Cave’s rare black flowstones.

Special tours, such as geology and Aboriginal culture tours, are also on offer during school holidays, enriching the visitor experience with cultural depth and scientific curiosity.

PHOTO: Jillabenan Cave Kosciuszko National Park. CREDIT: Elinor Sheargold (DPIE).

The changing seasons lend new charm to this remarkable landscape. Spring and summer bring the lush vibrancy of the surrounding Snowy Mountains, ideal for those inclined towards walking trails like the Yarrangobilly River walk. In autumn, the rugged terrain is bathed in the warm glow of fall foliage, offering a serene backdrop for wildlife and bird watching. Winter transforms the area into a wonderland, often covered in a blanket of snow, and if lucky, showing off exquisite frozen forms.

Living the Experience

Accommodation at Yarrangobilly adds another layer to the adventure. Historic Caves House offers beautifully restored guest rooms with the charm of a bygone era, and Lyrebird Cottage provides a cosy retreat for those opting for more private lodgings. For the intrepid traveller wishing to sleep under the stars, the nearby campgrounds offer an immersive experience of the Snowy Mountains’ natural splendour.

PHOTO: Lyrebird Cottage at Yarrangobilly Caves, Kosciuszko National Park. CREDIT: Boen Ferguson (OEH).

Visitors looking to enhance their Yarrangobilly experience should not overlook the helpful Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre. Here, adventurers can gather tips, purchase cave tour tickets, and even organise customised group tours or school excursions. The centre is a valuable resource, ensuring guests maximise their enjoyment and understanding of this geologically and culturally rich site.

Accessibility and Planning

Yarrangobilly Caves remains accessible year-round, with a range of tours and activities to suit every schedule and interest. However, potential visitors are advised to check the current alerts and tour times by contacting the Visitor Centre at (02) 6454 9597 or visiting https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/#/.

Entry fees apply, with options to purchase day passes or annual passes online for convenience.

With its blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and abundant activities, the Yarrangobilly Caves area in Kosciuszko National Park is a destination that inspires awe and wonder. A testament to Australia’s rich geological heritage, Yarrangobilly offers a sanctuary for both relaxation and adventure.

Roadworks Begin Next Week at Cooma Landfill

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) advised Cooma Landfill patrons can expect minor delays from Monday 24 February until Monday 3 March 2025, weather permitting, with roads at the facility set to undergo essential resealing and maintenance.

Roadworks traffic control measures and temporary changes to traffic flow at the site will be in place while work is underway. SMRC advised patrons to follow all roadworks signs, speed limits and the direction of site staff and traffic controllers.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “Temporary closures of Cooma Landfill may be required on occasion over the next week. Council is working to minimise any possible disruption, but patrons are advised to call ahead before visiting the site during this time.”

“Please take extra care when outside your vehicle, as additional machinery and heavy vehicles will be operating on-site during these works.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by this essential maintenance and appreciates the community’s understanding as we work to improve the internal roads at Cooma Landfill.”

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

SMRC advised you can contact them on 1300 345 345 with any questions or concerns.

Nimmitabel Transfer Station Closed This Sunday 23 February 2025

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) advised residents in the Nimmitabel area that Nimmitabel Transfer Station will be closed on Sunday 23 February 2025.

PHOTO: Nimmitabel Transfer Station.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “This is a one-off temporary closure for this day only, due to staff shortages.”

“As an alternative option for residents needing to dispose of waste and recycling this weekend, Bombala Landfill will be open 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday, with Cooma Landfill open 1pm to 5pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm Sunday.”

“Council apologises for the inconvenience and appreciates the community’s understanding during this closure.”

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

SMRC advised you can call them on 1300 345 345 with any questions and concerns regarding this weekend’s closure.