Summer’s quickly coming to a close for another year, and that means the swimming season at outdoor public pools across the region will soon be coming to an end.
Snowy Monaro Regional Council extended a thank you to local swimmers for another great season in 2024/25 saying, “Our pool staff and operators look forward to welcoming you back to the water in late spring 2025.”
Public pool end-of-season dates
Adaminaby Pool
Closes for the season Sunday 2 March 2025
Berridale Pool
Closes for the season Sunday 2 March 2025
Bombala Pool
Closes for the season Saturday 22 March 2025
Cooma Pool
Closes for the season Sunday 31 March 2025
“Our indoor swimming pool in Jindabyne is open year-round for anyone looking to keep their laps up over autumn and winter.”
Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) advised residents and motorists that roadworks are scheduled to commence from Monday March 3, 2025 on Barry Way in Moonbah, either side of Grosses Plain Creek Bridge, weather permitting.
The scheduled works will see crews performing maintenance on the road seal of the sections of Barry Way approaching Grosses Plain Creek Bridge.
Roadworks traffic control measures will be in place.
Motorists are advised to expect delays during this maintenance work, and to follow all signs, speed limits and traffic controller directions.
A spokesperson for SMRC said, “Local residents will have access to their properties at all times, subject to a delay of up to 10 minutes.”
All work is expected to be complete by Monday 17 March 2025. This schedule is subject to change in the event of poor weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent decision to cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 4.10 per cent has garnered significant attention, reflecting the need for economic relief amidst high costs of living. The move will provide relief to many households, but much more
needs to happen to address the broader social issues impacting the Eden-Monaro region, according to local organisations.
In Eden-Monaro, the Salvation Army social justice stocktake highlighted deep-seated challenges, with 74.1 per cent of residents identifying housing affordability and homelessness as critical issues, a sharp increase from previous data.
PHOTO: Salvation Army social justice stocktake findings– Eden-Monaro.
The Salvation Army emphasises that not having a secure home exacerbates other social issues. They state, “Addressing the housing system is fundamental to solving other justice concerns.”
While the rate cut offers some relief for homeowners, providing an estimated saving of $960 yearly on an average $500,000 mortgage, it does little for the significant portion of the population who do not own homes.
Dr Cassandra Goldie, CEO of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS), stresses that mortgage relief does not mitigate the struggles of low-income individuals reliant on government support, stating, “Millions on low and fixed incomes, without mortgages, need more than rate cuts—they need direct government support.”
PHOTO: Cassandra Goldie.
Goldie continued, emphasising the need to increase support payments like JobSeeker and Youth Allowance to align with the pension rate.
The urgency for broader intervention in regions like Eden-Monaro is underscored by the climbing rates of homelessness, child poverty, and inadequate access to essential services. With 543 people experiencing homelessness and a deficit of 2900 dwellings in the region.
Mental health issues, closely tied to housing stress, have also risen, with the Salvation Army noting the interplay between mental illness and other disadvantages, arguing that “medical responses must be complemented with addressing underlying disadvantages.”
Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro Jo van der Plaat said she has heard a number of stories of hardship from residents in the region.
“It illustrates just how dire a lack of mental health services is in Eden-Monaro when strangers approach me and confide in me about the struggles they face trying to access mental health services for their teenager,” Ms van der Plaat said.
Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers insists the rate cut is part of broader efforts against inflation, stating, “This is the soft landing we’ve been preparing for, but more work is to be done.” However, the gap between systemic change and immediate aid needed by those struggling within Eden-Monaro remains vast.
PHOTO: Jim Chalmers.
With financial hardship reported by 55.6 per cent of Eden-Monaro respondents as an issue within the community, Mr Chalmers highlighted the progress made, he acknowledged the ongoing struggles faced by Australians, emphasising that government efforts will remain focused on “the cost of living” as a primary objective.
In a move aimed at revitalising local tourism and catering to outdoor enthusiasts, the Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has approved the much-anticipated development application (DA) for upgrades to the Tyrolean shared trails.
PHOTO: Two riders take in the view of Lake Jindabyne. CREDIT: Jindabyne Trail Stewardship (JTS).
The decision came during an ordinary meeting today, Thursday, February 20, following a detailed discussion of the region’s mountain biking infrastructure and its potential impact on the local economy and environment.
The project seeks to breathe new life into the Tyrolean and Mill Creek trail network surrounding Lake Jindabyne, building on an existing 29 km of trails. Upgrades include the refurbishment of trails and the creation of 7.64 km of new paths featuring downhill flow tracks, popular among contemporary riders.
PHOTO: The upgrades will focus on trails for a range of ability levels.
Paul Gardner, a prominent figure in the region’s biking community and director at Rolling Ground Jindabyne, addressed the council in a motion prior to the vote, highlighting the once-flourishing biking tourism between 2010 and 2018.
“We were the country’s number one destination for mountain biking,” he recalled, citing a subsequent dip in developments, as contributing to a 60% decrease in tourist numbers. Gardner emphasised the need to revisit development plans and consult with world-class local trail experts to rejuvenate tourism and community spirit.
Gardner further stressed the importance of the Tyrolean upgrades but cautioned against expecting them to replicate larger projects like Derby or Thredbo, noting, “It’s never going to be a Derby or a Narooma, but it’s part of the puzzle.”
The council’s decision was not without its controversies. Councillor Williamson, the only vote against the DA, voiced apprehensions regarding the potential presence of critically endangered species. “All I’m asking is where we’re putting the trail – is there critically endangered species?” he queried.
The matter was passed to Peter Smith, Acting Manager of the Built and Natural Environment, who clarified that the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Science had reviewed the project’s biodiversity calculations and had not flagged any impediments to proceeding. “If it was deemed critically endangered, we would be informed that we can no longer proceed,” Mr Smith said.
Councillor Rose supported the development, stating, “Today, let’s try and get the money spent appropriately, rather than just let the time go by.” Councillor Rose acknowledged bureaucratic hurdles during debate as having previously stalled progress, stressing the minimal environmental impact given the project’s scale.
“I don’t care how many endangered species we knock down, it’s only 3.8 hectares so let’s get rid of them, and get the bike paths up,” Councillor Rose said.
Councillor Summers, while sharing environmental concerns, remarked on the current unregulated use of the trails. “Once this DA gets up and is in place, we’ll have a regulated environment where we can work with the stewards to ensure we look after the environment,” Summers said, labelling the development a “win-win”.
PHOTO: Jindabyne Trail Stewardship.
Though facing a myriad of challenges, the approval marks a significant step toward revitalising mountain biking in the Snowy Mountains. Councillor Davis underscored the importance of progressing to the next phase.
“We could extend it for another month but it’s not going to make a difference to the outcome of the DA, we need to approve it and we need to get on with the job, and get this project out to tender ASAP,” she said.
With the regional mountain biking scene having stagnated in recent years, the trail expansion and upgrades represent a tangible commitment to promoting tourism, while maintaining environmental stewardship.
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
