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Cooma Red Devils Reach New Heights in Round One of 2025 Rugby Season

The 2025 2nd Division South Coast Monaro Senior Men’s Rugby Competition commenced with an exhilarating local derby at Rotary Oval Cooma on April 5. The Cooma Rugby Union Football Club (CRUFC) Red Devils soared to a high-scoring victory against their Snowy Mountains rivals, the Jindabyne Rugby Union Club (JRUC) Bushpigs, in a showdown that thrilled home supporters.

PHOTO: Hard work has paid off for the CRUFC culminating in the club reaching new heights and recording a dominant win to start season 2025 CREDIT: CRUFC – Lissy Giagios.

The CRUFC women played first in a trial game defeating the Jindabyne women in a thriller, 29-28 and setting the platform for what would be a big day for the club.

PHOTO: The Cooma women set the platform for the men with a thrilling win CREDIT: CRUFC – Lissy Giagios.

In front of decent home crowd, the Red Devils showcased strength and pace, dominating the game with a runaway performance, 47-15. Cooma’s lock, Jake Quodling, proved an unstoppable force, scoring two tries. The team’s efforts were complemented by the contributions of second-rower Devonik Saumalu and winger Hunter Caldwell, each crossing the line for a try, while Captain Damien Roach demonstrated precision, converting six of his seven attempts.

PHOTO: Captain Damien Roach directs his side to a convincing victory CREDIT: CRUFC – Lissy Giagios.

Despite spirited efforts, the Bushpigs struggled to tame the Red Devils, with tries from Jed Frank, Harry Burbury, and Joe Quinlan not enough to stem the flow.

Jindabyne’s assistant coach, Michael Needham, acknowledged a number of new faces in his side, saying, “We will be focusing largely on our defence, but also getting greater numbers and support in attack before round 2. We have a new team this year, and it will take a few games for us to gel.”

PHOTO: Michael “Sauce” Needham, Bushpigs Assistant Coach CREDIT: JRUC

JRUC has undergone a shift in team dynamics with the loss of 18 experienced players from the premiership winning 2024 season. Nonetheless, Coach Liam Seiler’s recruitment efforts have been strong according to Needham.

Red Devils’ Coach, James Quodling, praised the team’s dedication and hard work during the off-season as paramount to their victory. “All the hard work the boys have put in on the off season and preseason training, which started back in November, has definitely helped us achieve these results,” Quodling remarked.

PHOTO: James Quodling.

Quodling attributed the club’s success not only to rigorous fitness and skill development but also to fostering strong team morale and a supportive club culture.

“We have worked hard on our fitness and skills in the lead up to the competition. We focused a lot on commitment, team morale and just building a great club culture and this was definitely evident in the turn out yesterday.”

PHOTO: The Red Devils’ inside centre Michael Oaniu finds himself in space CREDIT: CRUFC – Lissy Giagios.

CRUFC Points from Saturday:

3 points – Devonik Saumalu

2 points – Jake Quodling 

1 point – Damien Roach and Hunter Caldwell

Players Player – Jake Quodling 

As the competition heats up, the Bushpigs Senior men will head to Bungendore, while the Red Devils men prepare for their round 2 clash in Braidwood on April 12.

Southern Cats Men Steal AFL Canberra Season Opener: Cats Women Play Historic First Official Match

The Southern Cats embarked on an exhilarating start to their AFL Canberra 2025 season, facing off against Batemans Bay Seahawks in matches filled with adrenaline and tenacity at Holt Oval, Saturday April 5. Both the men’s and women’s teams took to the field, determined to carve their place in the competition.

In a thrilling men’s match, the Southern Cats secured a triumphant victory against the reigning premiers, with a final score of 57 (9.3) to 53 (8.5). The match kept fans on the edge of their seats, especially in the closing moments.

PHOTO: Elation on the face of Captain Alistair Pollard as he celebrates with star recruit Bryn Larkin. CREDITS: Southern Cats

The Seahawks made an assertive start to the last quarter, however, the Cats demonstrated remarkable resilience, and it was Wade Cutter’s decisive goal, just 15 seconds before the final siren, that clinched the win for the Cats. Cameron Moore was a standout player, kicking an impressive seven out of the team’s nine goals.

President Anthony Sexton said with excitement, “It wasn’t just the win, but the way we won. “Cameron Moore… he couldn’t miss.”

PHOTO: President Sexton was all smiles after the weekend’s result.

“At the start of the last quarter the Bay won the centre clearance and kicked a goal in the first ten seconds retaking the lead. Instead of allowing that to continue the boys kept fighting for the whole quarter.”

“The week ahead will definitely focus on recovery as multiple players were cramping in the 4th quarter due to the hard game and the warm temperatures.”

President Sexton lauded the efforts of Ioan Perkins and Alistair Pollard for their pivotal roles in the middle, while Sean Bourke’s formidable performance in the ruck helped his side edge victory.

PHOTO: Celebrations were wild as the Southern Cats men sang the team song.

The women’s team, competing in their first official match, faced a tough contest against last year’s grand finalists, resulting in a 2 (0.2) to 53 (6.17) defeat. Despite the loss, Coach Damien Asanovski praised his players for their spirited performances.

“All the girls played well for their first ever game together and were quite competitive early but as the game wore on the more experienced side got away on us. Emily Stewart excelled in defence, and Sarah Burns showed plenty of promise in the ruck,” Asanovski said.

PHOTO: Coach Asanovski providing instructions on Saturday.

“The women will look to focus on refining basic skills like strengthening their tackling, shepherding, and goal kicking in upcoming training sessions.”

PHOTO: Captain Sarah Burns (right) had the honours of leading the Southern Cats women out in their first official match.

As both teams continue their journey, Southern Cats fans have much to look forward to, including their first home game on May 15 at Snowy Oval, Cooma. Next week, the Southern Cats travel to Rockley Oval Googong, to take on the Googong Hogs. The women take the field at 10am, while the men take the week off due to a bye.

New Life for Historic Cooma Railway Facilities: Grand Opening Event

The newly restored Cooma Monaro Railway (CMR) Courts and Railway Institute Building celebrated its grand opening today, Saturday, April 5, 2025, marking a significant milestone in preserving the heritage of the local community. The festivities were attended by residents and railway enthusiasts, as the community gathered to witness the unveiling of the meticulously restored facilities.

PHOTO: It’s officially open, the courts and CMR Institute Building are ready for action CREDIT: CMR

A spokesperson for Cooma Monaro Railway Inc. expressed gratitude, stating, “We are thrilled to return these facilities to the community and thank our volunteers for their dedication to preserving our heritage.”

Originally opened in the 1920s, the Cooma Railway Courts were designed for railway workers at Cooma Railway Station. The courts featured a distinctive “Ant Bed” surface, constructed with anthills or termite mounds. Now revitalised, the courts boast a new retaining wall, fencing, surface, lines, and nets, ready for public hire through the Cooma Monaro Railway’s website.

PHOTO: Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor Chris Hanna steps onto the court with CMR Patron, Nichole Overall MLC CREDIT: CMR

As guests arrived with their tennis gear in hand, they were treated to free games of tennis on the refurbished clay courts. The celebration included a complimentary sausage sizzle for lunch, with beverages available for purchase, adding a community atmosphere to the event.

PHOTO: Community members were treated to a free game of tennis CREDIT: CMR

The Railway Institute Building, erected in 1953, also reopened its doors. Originally established to enhance education and training for NSW railway employees, the building later became a hub for social and leisure activities for railway families.

PHOTO: The Institute Building has modern audio visual tools CREDIT: CMR

Now equipped with basic kitchen facilities, modern audio-visual tools, a 75-inch touch screen, video conferencing equipment, and wireless internet, the institute is also available for community to hire, courtesy of a Snowy Hydro community grant.

PHOTO: The courts are a clay surface providing a new experience for locals CREDIT: CMR

The restoration project, completed over two and a half years by volunteers from Cooma Monaro Railway Inc., was funded by the NSW Government through Transport Heritage NSW. Nichole Overall MLC, the CMR Patron, participated in the opening, delivering a ceremonial first serve on the new courts.

Heavy Patching Road Repairs Underway Across the Region

The next stage of the Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) sealed road maintenance and repair program is underway, with damaged sections of road throughout the Snowy Monaro undergoing heavy patching works until May 2025, weather permitting.

Works are scheduled for roads in Beloka, Bombala, Cootralantra, Dalgety, Jindabyne, Lords Hill, Moonbah, Rocky Plain, and Springfield over the course of April and May.

PHOTO: Works will take place between 6am and 6pm on scheduled dates.

The full heavy patching schedule is attached below, or online at Council’s website. Visit https://qrco.de/HP2025 to see the schedule and maps for these works.

A spokesperson for SRMC said, “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.”

“Heavy patching is carried out on significantly deteriorated areas of road surfaces by modifying or replacing damaged sections to improve safety and longevity.”

“Due to the nature of this kind of work, on-street parking is not permitted on the sections of road set for heavy patching on the scheduled dates. Residents and business owners are encouraged to plan ahead and make alternative parking arrangements if needed, with affected urban properties notified directly in advance of work commencing.”

“Access to all properties on roads impacted by these works 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 advised to keep their pets inside and ensure that all windows and doors are kept closed while work is underway.”

Council asks that in the first two weeks following the completion of heavy patching works, drivers are asked to avoid excessive speed, sharp turns, and heavy braking to allow the new road surface to settle.

For further information, contact Snowy Monaro Regional Council on 1300 345 345 or email [email protected].

Improvements Rolling Out for Jindabyne Kerbside Bin Collection Service

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) advised two trucks will be servicing the kerbside bin collection route in Jindabyne from Friday next week. With more vehicles, collections will now be more efficient. This means the trucks will be arriving to empty your bin earlier in the day.

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “With these service improvements coming into effect next week, Council is reminding Jindabyne residents that there are a few simple things you can do to make sure your bin isn’t missed.”

  • Always put your bin out on the kerb the night before collection day
    • Bin collections are scheduled for a specific day, not at a specific time
    • Trucks can arrive before sunrise, so don’t wait and risk it
  • Make sure bins are at least a metre apart, and at least a metre away from anything else on the street
  • Put your bins on the kerb with the Council logo facing the street
  • Bin lids need to be closed all the way
     

Please contact Council’s resource and waste team on 1300 345 345 if your bin isn’t collected on your scheduled collection day, or to report missing or damaged bins.

Visit https://qrco.de/wasteinfoSMRC to learn more about waste and recycling in the Snowy Monaro.

STEM Industry Partnerships Careers Day at Cooma North Public School on Again in November

Cooma North Public School is set to host its annual STEM Industry Partnerships Careers Day on Friday, November 7, 2025, following the resounding success of last year’s event. This initiative aims to inspire students across the Snowy Monaro region by showcasing the many career opportunities available in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

PHOTO: Students engaged in STEM CREDIT: Cooma North Public School.

The event, which has garnered significant interest from local schools, will see the participation of various industry leaders and organisations committed to encouraging the next generation of STEM professionals.

With research indicating that early exposure to STEM careers can significantly influence students’ academic choices and career paths, the school anticipates an even more engaging experience this year.

Chrissy Graham, Stage 1 and STEM Specialist Teacher at Cooma North Public School, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome back all the participants from last year and are eager to see new organisations join us. Our goal is to inspire young minds and provide them with a glimpse into the exciting world of STEM careers.”

PHOTO: Chrissy Graham (centre) attended the STEM Teacher Enrichment Academy at Sydney University in February CREDIT: Cooma North Public School

The event will feature information stalls available from midday, following the presentation of the students’ Smart Agriculture projects. These projects represent a year’s worth of work and innovation, showcasing the practical application of STEM subjects. Stallholders will have designated spaces either on the field or within the school hall to engage directly with students and provide insights into their industries.

Organisations interested in participating are encouraged to confirm their attendance by submitting the attached registration form. As Ms Graham articulated, “We look forward to partnering with local businesses and educational organisations to spark curiosity and ambition in our students. Together, we can inspire the STEM innovators of tomorrow.”

Council Seeks Cooma and Michelago Residents Who Want to Make a Difference

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) is looking for nominations from Cooma and Michelago residents for vacant positions on the community-run Section 355 Committees that oversee Cooma North Ridge Reserve and the Michelago Hall and Tennis Courts.

Council advised no experience is required, and you only need to commit to a few hours a month.

Council is seeking nominations for the following Section 355 Committees:

·    Two vacancies: Cooma North Ridge Reserve Advisory Committee

·    One vacancy: Michelago Community Hall & Tennis Courts Committee

A spokesperson for SMRC said, “Nominations are open now until 5pm Wednesday April 23, 2025. Submit your nomination today to help Council preserve and manage these important public assets, and do your part to inform and engage with your local community.”

“Nominating is quick and easy – just head to https://qrco.de/s355, download the expression of interest form, fill in a few fields and send it back to us. Besides your basic contact details, all you need to do is let us know why you’re interested and any relevant background information that shows you’d be a good fit.”

Return your completed nomination form by email, post, or in-person at your local Council office:

·    Email: [email protected]

·    Post: PO Box 714, COOMA NSW 2630

·    In-person: Council offices in Berridale, Bombala, Cooma, or Jindabyne

Contact Council’s governance team with any questions. Call 1300 345 345 or send an email to [email protected].

Visit www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au/Council/Section-355-Committees to learn more about Council committees on the SMRC website.

Remember to get your nomination submitted by 5pm on Wednesday April 23, 2025.

Discover Local Services For Over-65s at Council’s Free Information Sessions

Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) is holding free information sessions in Bombala and Jindabyne from next month to promote the wide array of local services available for older residents and their families and carers.

SMRC advised residents to come have a chat with Council’s community services team and representatives from local service organisations to learn more about:

  • How to navigate My Aged Care
  • Transport services
  • Meals on Wheels
  • Individual and group-based social support
  • In-home support services
  • Assistance with property maintenance and modifications
  • Carer respite services and support

Upcoming sessions

  • Jindabyne
    Thursday 8 May 2025
    Jindabyne Library
     10.30am to 12.30pm
  • Bombala
    Thursday 12 June 2025
    Bombala Community Centre
    10.30am to 12.30pm

Everybody needs a helping hand from time to time, and getting older shouldn’t mean losing your independence or quality of life. There are local services available to help you when and how you need it, based right here in the Snowy Monaro.

With so many different support programs from so many different government agencies, it can be really tricky to know where to start, how to find what services are available, and what you’re eligible for.

These sessions will give you and your family the information you need to know about accessing these vital support services in our region.

If you can’t make it to the upcoming dates, the Council community services team are available by phone, email, or in-person to help.

Call 1300 345 345 or email [email protected] to speak with the team today, or to book a time to come and speak with us in person.

Trump’s Tariffs Pose Challenges for Australian Farmers

In a recent development that could have significant economic repercussions for producers in the Snowy Mountains and across the country, the Trump Administration has imposed a 10 percent tariff on Australian exports. The news comes as President Trump set out his Liberation Day plans, today announcing reciprocal tariffs that trade partners would face from April 5, 2025.

Alongside the 10 percent tariff set to affect business nation wide, President Donald Trump singled out Australia’s beef industry in his speech, indicating a potential ban on beef imports as early as midnight tonight.

PHOTO: Australian beef plays a crucial role in maintaining food supplies and prices in the United States of America.

President Trump said, “We imported $3 billion of Australian beef… just last year alone. They won’t take any of our beef. They don’t want it because they don’t want it to affect their farmers.”

Australia has had restrictions on importing fresh beef from the US since 2003, following an outbreak of mad cow disease and resulting concerns.

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin expressed disappointment over the tariffs, emphasising Australia’s longstanding trade relationship with the United States. “Considering the deep history we have with the US and our mutual beneficial partnership, these tariffs are really disappointing to Australian farmers,” he stated.

Despite the setback, Mr Martin remains optimistic, urging farmers to remain calm and promising to navigate through these trade challenges. “There’s no doubt our industry will feel the effects, some commodities more than others, but we have worked through trading issues before and we’ll do it again,” he assured.

PHOTO: Producers will likely explore other major markets like China, Japan, and Korea according to NSW Farmers.

This sentiment is echoed by the Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC), which highlighted that Australian beef plays a crucial role in maintaining food supplies and prices in the US. The RMAC estimates the tariff could cost American consumers AU$600 million, given Australian beef is consumed in over six billion hamburgers annually.

Despite these challenges, the situation could open new avenues for Australian farmers. NSW Farmers continues to collaborate with the Australian Government and the National Farmers’ Federation to advocate for free and open trade. Mr Martin emphasised the need to explore opportunities in other major markets like China, Japan, and Korea, collectively valued at billions of dollars, as well as emerging markets in the Middle East and North Africa.

“What these tariffs mean in the short term is that Australia invest in these new market opportunities while our farmers continue to do what they do best: Pull on their boots and grow healthy plants and animals,” Mr Martin advised.

Cooma Hospital Unveils New Accommodation for Key Workers

Cooma Hospital and Health Service is set to welcome healthcare staff into its newly completed key worker accommodation, which comprises 12 modern units. This initiative, backed by the NSW Government, aims to address the recruitment and retention challenges faced by healthcare facilities, particularly in regional areas.

PHOTO: Member for Monaro Steve Whan toured the facility when it was nearing completion in December 2024.

The two-storey accommodation complex, situated on the hospital grounds on Bombala Street, features six units per floor. Each unit is fully furnished and self-contained, offering a light-filled living and dining area, modern kitchen, bedroom with ensuite, internal laundry, and a screened veranda. A communal room and deck provide a space for healthcare workers to relax and socialise.

Steve Whan, Member for Monaro, praised the new facilities, saying, “Cooma’s key worker accommodation units look fantastic, are well designed and equipped, and will be vital in attracting and retaining health workers in the area.”

PHOTO: Member for Monaro, Steve Whan.

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, emphasised the critical nature of staffing healthcare facilities across the state. “We face a no more critical issue than staffing our healthcare facilities across the state, and that challenge is exacerbated in regional, rural and remote communities,” he stated. “I’m proud this government has played a part in delivering accommodation for healthcare workers in Cooma.”

This project is part of the broader Key Worker Accommodation (KWA) Program, into which the Minns Labor Government has recently injected an additional $200.1 million. The Southern NSW Local Health District (SNSWLHD) is one of the beneficiaries, receiving $24 million to further bolster accommodation efforts in Eurobodalla, Bega, and Crookwell.

The accommodation units represent a significant investment in regional healthcare, aiming to make rural positions more attractive and provide a quality lifestyle for those considering relocating to regional towns.