Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) advised residents and businesses in the Bombala area that a conserve water notice is now in effect for all properties connected to town water as of 2.30pm Thursday 13 February 2025.
Council asked that everyone in the Bombala area limit their water usage as much as possible to conserve the town’s water supply, following a major intake pump failure.
The failure comes just 11 days after the failure of one of Bombala Pool’s main water pumps causing the Council to quickly locate a replacement pump motor.
SMRC advises the conserve water notice will remain in place until this situation can be resolved and that Council will notify the community when the conserve water notice can been lifted.
Town water in Bombala remains safe to drink and use.
Bombala water conservation measures: In effect from 2.30pm Thursday 13 February 2025
Water usage location / Activity
Conservation measures
Private gardens and lawns, parks, sport amenities and public gardens
At all times gardens, lawns and plants should only be watered without causing pooling or runoff. Watering between 6pm and 9am will minimise evaporation.
Watering systems
Sprinklers and irrigation systems can be used to water lawns and plants. Use between 6pm and 9am will minimise evaporation.
Hand-watering
A handheld hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, a bucket, or a watering can may be used at any time.
Washing vehicles
Vehicles should be washed on a lawn or other porous surface wherever practicable, only using a bucket or watering can, a high-pressure low-volume cleaner, or a handheld hose with a trigger nozzle.
Swimming pools
Pools and outdoor spas should be covered to reduce water loss through evaporation.
Bowling greens
No measures in place.
Paved areas
Water should not be used to clean paved areas. If required due to emergency or accident, only use a bucket and brush or high-pressure low-volume cleaner.
Washing of windows and buildings
Gutters may be cleaned at any time using a hose with a trigger nozzle. Windows may be washed at any time.Other parts of a building may be washed at any time using a bucket, mop and brush and rinsed with a trigger-nozzle hose or high-pressure low-volume cleaner.
Construction and related activities
Water should only be used for dust or pollutant suppression using a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or a vehicle fitted with sprinklers. Use non-potable water wherever possible.
General exemptions
Fire-fighting.Water not sourced from town water supply, including tanks, dams, reclaimed water, and greywater.
The vibrant art community of the Snowy Mountains is set to shine once more as the Raglan Gallery gears up for its highly anticipated “Heads Up” Portrait Art Prize and Exhibition in June.
Encouraging artists from all walks of life to delve into the rich tapestry of local personalities, the event promises to be a celebration of both art and community.
Open to all artists, the competition asks that the subjects of the portraits are local residents of the Monaro region. Wendy McDougall, a valued member of the Raglan Gallery board, and prominent local artist, explains, “Any medium can be a portrait, but the main criteria is that the sitter needs to come from the Monaro region.”
“We want the focus to be on who is in our community, the artist, however, can be from anywhere. Maybe they’re a caricature artist, a sculptor, a painter, or a photographer, the medium doesn’t really matter, everyone is welcome.”
PHOTO: ‘Rowena Evans’ by Merilyn Minell – Supplied
In total, there are four major prizes on offer: a first prize of $1000, second prize of $600, third prize of $400, and a youth award of $200, welcoming entries in any artistic medium.
The works must be created within 24 months of the competition (commenced after May 2024), and artists are encouraged to capture the spirit and character of their subjects.
“For me, as an artist myself, I think that the person you choose sort of helps dictate what you might want to do, how you see them, because the whole point of a portrait is to say something about that person,” McDougall added.
Jacki
PHOTO: ‘Jacki’ by Wendy McDougall
The entry fee is set at $30 per work, with youth entries costing $20 each. Artists are allowed to submit up to two works, which should not exceed 130cm x 100cm, except for sculptures, which must remain portable. The competition also upholds a professional standard by requiring all entries to be new, original works, not previously awarded prizes in other exhibitions or shows.
The event isn’t just about art, it’s an opportunity to acknowledge and honour the diverse personalities within the Snowy Mountains community. As Wendy passionately notes, “They might be a serious kind of character, or someone who’s doing really fantastic work in the community, maybe it’s your next door neighbour who just looks after 10 kids all the time and never gets recognised for the work.”
“I think, in any piece of art, the artist can’t but help be in their work, because that’s their style, but when you have a criteria to answer, you really do have to look at the person you’re choosing, and you have to say something about them.”
PHOTO: Wendy McDougall ‘self portrait’.
Entries must reach the Raglan Gallery by 3:30pm, June 2, 2025, and anticipation is already building ahead of the exhibition’s opening on the 14th of June. The gallery’s celebration culminates on the 20th of July when the exhibition closes.
Art enthusiasts keen to support the event or reward the creativity of participating artists are encouraged to engage with the gallery.
“We’re still looking for some more sponsors who might want to support the event, and anyone who’s interested in being a sponsor could do so in the form of a prize, it doesn’t have to be cash it could be anything.” McDougall said.
“Art is important in our life, and in this instance, it’s the people of the community that make this place, and that’s a big part of why we’re doing portraits, and why it’s called Heads Up.”
For more details, interested parties can contact the Raglan Gallery directly at info@raglangallerycooma.com or by calling 6452 3377. Artists can also collect an entry form from the Raglan Gallery in Cooma.
Wendy advised artists submit entry as early as possible to secure a spot in the competition, as entries could fill up fast.
The NSW Government has appointed Alison Stone as the state’s first statutory Agriculture Commissioner to boost agricultural representation, supporting farmers and fulfilling an election promise.
PHOTO: Newly appointed Agriculture Commissioner Alison Stone CREDIT: Department of Primary Industries (DPI).
The Minns Labor Government, as part of its commitment during the state election, has established this role to provide independent advice and conduct reviews on pressing agricultural matters that impact agricultural practices right around the state, including here in the Snowy Mountains.
Commissioner Stone’s responsibilities include tackling issues such as productivity, land use conflicts, and food security.
Commissioner Stone’s role also includes providing input on renewable energy infrastructure impacts on landholders and promoting collaboration across various government levels.
With over 40 years in primary industries, Alison Stone will guide the NSW Government with her 25 years experience as a farmer, roles in policy areas such as land management, forestry, and disaster resilience.
Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, hailed Ms Stone’s appointment, stating, “The Minns Government has delivered another key election commitment by ensuring farmers and the agricultural sector has a dedicated and independent Agriculture Commissioner to advise me and the Government on best options for matters such as land planning in regional NSW.”
Ms Stone is set to serve an initial three-year term, during which she will assist in developing a system for mapping agricultural lands across NSW and progress a pilot Farm Practices Panel to address land use conflicts.
Ms Stone said “Agriculture is the backbone of our state.”
“My role is to collaborate with government, landowners and industry leaders to drive tangible, on-the-ground outcomes and practices to ensure NSW has a strong and prosperous agriculture sector.”
“NSW’s primary industries sector is one of the most diverse in the country, with a wide range of agricultural commodities and farming systems. While this presents challenges, it also creates valuable opportunities for growth and innovation.”
“One of my key priorities is helping government to protect and support our agricultural land, ensuring productivity remains on the government’s agenda alongside its priorities for renewable energy and housing.”
“I am honoured to be endorsed by the NSW Government for the first statutory Agriculture Commissioner and to work alongside Minister Moriarty and the farming sector to build a more resilient and prosperous future.”
The establishment of this commissioner role is part of broader efforts by the Minns Government, including appointing the state’s first Independent Biosecurity Commissioner and creating a $400 million Regional Development Trust Fund.
In an unexpected twist to the Australian summer, residents and visitors of the Snowy Mountains should brace themselves for a rare weather phenomenon this weekend.
A cold front is set to bring a blast of winter-like conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a potential minimum of -3°C and the possibility of snow at high elevations such as Thredbo and Perisher on Sunday, February 16, and Monday, February 17.
Meteorologist Marina Neuman, from Sky News explained that the cool change will move through southern New South Wales and the ACT region around 12pm, Friday, February 14.
PHOTO: Marina Neuman shows the forecasted movement of the system.
The impending cold front is the result of Antarctic air moving northwards, sweeping over Tasmania and reaching as far as southern New South Wales, with Jindabyne expecting a sharp drop from 28°C today to just 13°C over the weekend.
The unusual weather conditions come as a warning to hikers and those enjoying the landscapes of Kosciuszko National Park and the wider Snowy Mountains region, to be prepared.
Despite being summer, visitors and residents alike are advised to prepare adequately for the approaching cold spell. Such conditions, while rare, are a reminder of the volatility of mountain weather systems even in the warmer months.
Pope Francis has made a significant appointment by naming Father Anthony Gerard Percy, who was born in Cooma, as the new auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Sydney. Percy’s appointment now brings a local connection to the leadership of the Sydney Church.
PHOTO: Bishop-Elect Fr Tony Percy in his Q&A interview with the Archdiocese Canberra-Goulburn.
Acknowledging his new role in a Q&A with the Archdiocese Canberra-Goulburn, Bishop-Elect Fr Tony Percy expressed his initial surprise and subsequent acceptance, stating, “I have been asked by the holy father, to be one of the auxiliary bishops of Sydney, the Archdiocese of Sydney.”
“Naturally enough, I was quite shocked, but since that time I’ve found a fair bit of peace and courage.”
Percy’s journey to this esteemed appointment began in Cooma, and has seen him minister across six parishes, including St. Mary’s Parish in Young and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ariah Park.
Ordained in 1990, he has been a dedicated servant of the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn, where he found joy in his priestly duties, saying he felt as though he “never worked a day.”
Educated at The Catholic University of America, where he obtained a doctorate specialising in marriage, Percy also served as rector of the Good Shepherd Seminary in Sydney, appointed by the late Cardinal George Pell. His far-reaching influence in priestly formation was evident during his tenure as vicar general from 2014 to 2023.
Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher warmly welcomed Percy’s appointment, expressing his gratitude for the addition of such a “good and faith-filled priest” to the archdiocese.
Percy’s episcopal consecration is scheduled for May 2, the feast of St Athanasius, at St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney.
Percy approaches his new role with enthusiasm and hopes to “help the church spread the love of Jesus Christ” in Sydney. His anticipation for the 54th International Eucharistic Congress in Sydney in 2028 reflects his commitment to rejuvenating the Church’s mission.
This February, the Snowy Mountains will see a robust influx of Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) personnel, all gathering for the 20th anniversary of the ‘Beat the Burn’ fundraising event in support of children with burn injuries.
Running from the 17th to the 21st, this annual event underscores a two-decade-long tradition of compassion and community spirit.
PHOTO: FRNSW on a cycling leg to raise crucial funds CREDIT: FRNSW
Each year, FRNSW staff, accompanied by their families, take on a series of challenging athletic events, including running, cycling, hiking, and paddling. The aim is to generate crucial funds for the Burns Unit at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead, known affectionately as the ‘002’ station.
Over the past 20 years, these efforts have amassed over $1.5 million, significantly aiding in the treatment and care of young burn victims.
In celebrating this milestone, Station Officer Scott Hanley reflects, “This is a special event for us, as it marks 20 years of supporting the little ‘warriors’ at the Burns Unit.”
PHOTO: ‘Beat the Burn’ participants reach the Kosciuszko summit.
“Fast forward 20 years and these same firefighters, alongside many more, have raised more than $1.5 million, providing treatment, equipment and specialists for kids who have experienced burns injuries.”
The fundraising week offers more than a test of endurance. Firefighters will engage with local communities through safety and school visits, imparting essential fire safety advice.
These activities will culminate in a community gathering on Thursday, 20 February, at Lake Jindabyne Hotel. The evening promises to be both educational and entertaining, featuring performances by the FRNSW Band, as well as door and raffle prizes.
PHOTO: Cyclists prepare to get underway at Jindabyne.
FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell highlights the dedication of the participants saying, “Our Beat the Burn fundraisers will run, ride, and swim hundreds of kilometres throughout the week to raise funds for kids who are doing it tough.”
“They know, that any discomfort is nothing compared to what the kids at our ‘002’ station endure.”
Discover the Snowy Mountains, where the earth meets the sky, and adventure beckons at every turn.
Embark on a breathtaking journey across the alpine roof of Australia with the newly opened Snowies Alpine Walk in the heart of Kosciuszko National Park. Nestled on the sacred Monero Ngarigo Country, this multifaceted trail promises an enchanting adventure where nature’s majesty unfurls over 56 kilometres, meandering through some of the most unique landscapes the Snowy Mountains have to offer.
PHOTO: Summiting Australia’s highest peak – Mount Kosciuszko, Rawsons Pass, Snowies Alpine Walk CREDIT: Remy Brand (DCCEEW).
Imagine climbing the iconic Mount Kosciuszko, the crown jewel of the Australian Alps, standing at a staggering 2,228 metres above sea level. It’s a bucket-list experience that culminates in panoramic vistas reaching far into the horizon. Yet, this epic four-day trek offers much more than a mountain summit. Each step unveils a rich tapestry of biodiversity, from ancient snow gums to vibrant wildflowers that dance across meadows during the warmer months.
PHOTO: Guthega to Charlottes Pass– A couple on a walk through the river valley CREDIT: Boen Ferguson (DPIE).
The Snowies Alpine Walk connects the picturesque alpine villages of Guthega, Perisher, Charlotte Pass, and Bullocks Flat, weaving new and existing paths into a singular, seamless adventure. Thanks to the collaborative effort supported by both the state and Commonwealth funds, over 27 kilometres of new walking track have been sculpted to withstand the alpine climate, featuring eco-friendly designs that minimise environmental impact while maximising scenic splendour.
Day 1 – Guthega Village marks the beginning of this invigorating expedition. As you leave the tranquillity of Guthega Pondage behind and trace the flow of the majestic Snowy River, keep an eye out for the Illawong Suspension Bridge, an engineering marvel poised at Australia’s highest elevation.
PHOTO: Illawong Suspension Bridge CREDIT: Daniel Parsons (DCCEEW).
The journey from Guthega to Charlotte Pass is a beautifully scenic introduction to the Snowies Alpine Walk. With its network of metal grating trails, this segment protects the fragile alpine ecosystem below as you venture towards the pristine Spencers Creek Suspension Bridge.
PHOTO: Eco friendly metal grate walking tracks on the Glacial Valleys and Ramsar Wetlands, Main Range walk, CREDIT: Remy Brand (DCCEEW).
Day two – perhaps the most challenging, but equally rewarding, lends itself to the grandeur of the Main Range loop. Crossing over glacial valleys and towering peaks, including the breathtaking Blue Lake, walkers are rewarded with stunning vistas and the opportunity to spot Australia’s unique alpine flora and fauna. As you conquer the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, take a moment to savour the views that stretch into the new horizons—a sublime reward for your efforts.
PHOTO: Blue Lake, Blue Lake lookout CREDIT: Remy Brand (DCCEEW).
Day 3 – The third day of the hike gently guides adventurers through the lush Charlotte Pass to Perisher Valley, an area steeped in natural beauty where snow gums stand sentinel over the landscape, and wildflowers paint the terrain in hues of yellows and purples. The views from Porcupine Rocks offer a sense of the immense scale of this alpine region, prompting a profound appreciation of the natural wonderland the Snowy Mountains represent.
PHOTO: Porcupine Rocks, CREDIT: Daniel Parsons (DCCEEW).
Day 4 – Finally, your journey concludes as you descend from Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat. This trail takes you alongside the serene Thredbo River and through subalpine meadows where mossy bogs and delicate ecosystems thrive. Raised platforms offer an eco-friendly vantage point, ensuring this treasured environment remains unharmed, while you bask in the rich beauty that unfolds around you. As you reach Bullocks Flat, pause to reflect on the journey—56 kilometres of awe-inspiring wilderness and personal triumph.
PHOTO: Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat, CREDIT: Daniel Parsons (DCCEEW).
For anyone looking for a deeper understanding of the landscape, guided tours are available, providing expert local knowledge that enriches the hiking experience.
Whether you choose to go it alone or with a guide, the Snowies Alpine Walk offers varied accommodation options, from the rustic charm of national parks lodges such as Creel Bay Cottages and Numbananga Lodge, to the intimate settings of nearby alpine villages. These choices ensure that each adventurer finds the comfort they need after a day of exhilarating exploration.
PHOTO: Creel Bay Cottages,CREDIT: Remy Brand (DCCEEW).
Available from December to April, this beautifully crafted hike is accessible to both beginners and seasoned hikers, inviting everyone to embrace the serene yet challenging environment of Australia’s alpine reaches.
As the Snowies Alpine Walk officially enjoys its first season in operation, it stands as a testament to sustainable tourism and an ode to the timeless allure of the Snowy Mountains.
Whether you’re a lover of nature, a seeker of adventure, or in pursuit of the beauty and solitude that only nature can offer, the Snowies Alpine Walk promises an unforgettable alpine experience that resonates long after the journey ends.
Residents and motorists are advised that road stabilisation works in Bredbo are scheduled to commence from Monday 17 February 2025, weather permitting.
The scheduled works will improve the road base and reduce the need for future maintenance in two locations, at the intersection of Monaro Highway and Braidwood Street (sign-posted as Jerangle Road), and at the gravel pull-over area off Monaro Highway opposite Bredbo Centennial Park.
All work is expected to be complete by Monday 3 March 2025. This schedule is subject to change in the event of poor weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Roadworks traffic control measures will be in place. Motorists are advised to follow all signs, speed limits and traffic controller directions. Local residents will have access to their properties at all times, subject to a delay of up to 10 minutes.
For more information, please contact Council’s road maintenance team by email at council@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au or phone 1300 345 345.
PHOTO: Work locations
PHOTO:Intersection of Braidwood Street (Jerangle Road) and Monaro Highway
PHOTO:Gravel pull-over area off Monaro Highway opposite Centennial Park
Eden-Monaro’s Member of Parliament, Kristy McBain, announced the opening of the ninth round of the Stronger Communities Programme, inviting local organisations to submit expressions of interest (EOIs). Funded by the Albanese Government, this initiative aims to bolster community projects that enhance social benefits in local areas.
The programme offers grants covering up to 100% of project expenditure, ranging between $2,500 and $20,000, with the total project value not exceeding $50,000.
PHOTO: Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain with members of the Jindabyne Rugby Union Club
Interested organisations must submit their EOIs to Kristy McBain’s office by February 16, 2025. Approved EOIs will then proceed to the formal application stage with the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources (DISR).
This year’s programme introduces significant changes to eligible activities. Projects must align with objectives such as promoting tourism, supporting Indigenous communities, commemorating service members, aiding immigration settlement, reducing emissions, and enhancing infrastructure for children and people with disabilities.
Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organisations, local governing bodies, government agencies like fire services, and trustees managing community assets. Unincorporated groups may participate via an eligible project sponsor.
Prospective applicants should consult the grant guidelines, or contact the grant support team at 13 28 46 to ensure alignment with programme criteria.
With the Jindabyne Education Campus now fully operational, attention is shifting towards the development plans for the old Jindabyne Central School (JCS) site. The state-of-the-art facilities for Jindabyne Public and High School students are a significant upgrade within the community, but it also leaves a pivotal question: what comes next for the space left behind?
The decommissioned JCS site, and ultimate sale, plays a key role in financing the new school builds in Jindabyne.
PHOTO: The ribbons have been cut on Jindabyne’s new schools, but a time line for the old JCS site redevelopment is yet to be confirmed.
According to Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, extensive consultations have led to a Development Control Plan, finalised nearly a year ago, outlining permissible developments, and addressing community concerns.
“During the consultation process for that plan the community did raise a number of issues around proposed heights on the site and uses,” Mr Whan said.
“My understanding is that final plan includes areas zoned for independent living (for seniors), residential accommodation, and community space and parking.”
“As it is a sloping block, the maximum heights allowed by the plan increase as the block goes downhill, this is to ensure that existing residences uphill from the site are not negatively impacted.”
Among residents’ concerns is the fear of the site becoming neglected or vandalised before redevelopment begins. Mr Whan acknowledged these concerns, stating that the site’s appearance and potential interim uses are contingent on the pace of the sale process.
“Development on the site is likely to be undertaken by private developers,” Mr Whan said.
“At this stage the education department has approved disposal of the site, but arrangements have not been made for which part of Government will progress the sale and whether it will be for separate parts of the block or all in one.”
“Some of these questions depend on how quick the sale process is likely to be as it would be up to the ultimate owner of the site to then determine any arrangements for interim use of facilities prior to redevelopment.”
“Once I am clearer on these timeframes, we can address some of those other issues.”
Potential interim usages face challenges related to legal aspects like liability and maintenance since ownership transfer away from the education department is pending Mr Whan advised.
“I am happy to discuss proposals for use of facilities but noting that legal aspects of that need to be considered – ie the facilities wont be owned by the education department, so there would need to be a legal arrangement to cover things like liability and maintenance.”
Mr Whan is currently seeking consultation on the process and timeframes and advised he will report back to the community on those issues when more information is available.
The transition period for the old JCS site is an opportunity to redefine its role within the Jindabyne community. Residents remain hopeful that the forthcoming changes will further enrich the town while preserving its vibrant communal spirit.
As the community looks forward to more definitive timelines, there’s a shared excitement about the revitalisation of this historic site in the years ahead.
Mr Whan expressed that, “In the long term, the redevelopment of the site has the potential to address several significant needs expressed by the community.”
“Seniors living, accommodation suitable for seasonal workers and potentially further retail opportunities. I look forward to seeing how this progresses over the next couple of years.”
