News

Southern Cats Set for Exciting AFL Canberra Season Opener

The Southern Cats are eagerly preparing for the commencement of their AFL Canberra 2025 season, as both their Community Men’s Division Two and Community Women’s Division One teams get ready to take on the Batemans Bay Seahawks this Saturday, April 5, at Holt Oval, Canberra. The women’s match kicks off at 10 am, followed by the men’s game at 12 pm.

PHOTO: Coach Asanovski with Captain Sarah Burns, Vice Captains – Amy Morgan and Taylor Moore, along with Millie Drury, and Emily Stewart who complete the women’s Leadership Group.

The Southern Cats’ women’s team is set to make club history by competing in their first official competition match. Speaking about this milestone, club President Anthony Sexton said, “This year our women enter the competition officially, so this weekend, is the first ever competition match.”

Leadership roles were formalised after the training sessions tonight, Wednesday April 2, with Alistair Pollard named as the men’s team captain and Sarah Burns entrusted with leading the women.

The men, face a formidable challenge as they go up against last year’s reigning premiers. Sexton remarked, “Round 1 presents big games for us, the men come up against last year’s premiers and the women face last year’s grand finalists. You never know what happens year to year in clubs, but generally, it’s usually pretty safe to say if someone won a flag or made a grand final last year, they’d be strong this year.”

PHOTO: Anthony Sexton (centre) talks to the men’s team at the quarter time break.

The club boasts significant new recruitment, with the women’s team being composed entirely of new players and approximately 10-15 new additions to the men’s team. Key signings include the talented Bryn Larkin, who will be a key midfielder, and strong forward Cameron Moore. “Bryn… he’ll bring a lot of intensity to our midfield, he’s a fit player with good skills,” mentioned Sexton.

PHOTO: The Cats first home games at Snowy Oval, Cooma are on May 15.

Adding to the excitement, Southern Cats’ fans eagerly anticipate the team’s first home games in Round 6, set for May 15 at Snowy Oval, Cooma, against the Murrumbateman Eagles—marking the initial opportunity for local supporters to witness their team compete on home turf.

Sponsorship support this season has come from The Old Canberra Inn and Baby Sensory Canberra, alongside a substantial government grant from the Play Our Way Program aimed at bolstering the women’s team.

PHOTO: The Cats women’s team at an early March trial game in Pambula CREDIT: Southern Cats.

With coaches Luke Humphris for the men, and Damien Asanovski for the women at the helm, the Southern Cats are poised for both a historical and well structured season in 2025.

Liberals Pledge $900,000 for Seymour Park Revitalisation in Adaminaby

The Liberal Party, under an elected Dutton Government, has announced today, Wednesday April 2, 2025, a significant pledge of $900,000 dedicated to the revitalisation of Seymour Park in Adaminaby. This initiative, rooted in community collaboration, aims to transform the park into a welcoming space for individuals of all ages and abilities.

PHOTO: Members of the ACAG, with Liberal Candidate for Eden-Monaro Jo van der Plaat, and Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor, Chris Hanna (right).

The proposal for revitalisation was put forward by the Adaminaby Community Action Group (ACAG) and focuses on creating a nature-inspired landscape complemented by recreational amenities. The revamped park intends to become a lasting feature in the heart of the Adaminaby township.

Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro, Jo van der Plaat, has spoken positively about the plan, emphasising its potential impact on community cohesion. “This commitment will turn the vision of ACAG into a reality and create something truly beautiful for all of Adaminaby to share and enjoy,” Ms van der Plaat stated. She further commented, “I am pleased to be backing this grassroots community initiative to create a space that will provide a place of connection in Adaminaby that will endure for generations to come.”

PHOTO: The ACAG has expressed gratitude for the Liberal Party commitment.

Ms van der Plaat highlighted the essential role played by local volunteers, saying, “The Liberals’ commitment would not have been possible without the tireless work of the local volunteers who comprise ACAG – all of whom are committed to making Adaminaby an even more beautiful place to live.”

In response to today’s Liberal Party funding announcement on revitalising Seymour Park, Kristy McBain said, “I will have more to say on election commitments in the coming days.”

PHOTO: Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain.

ACAG has expressed gratitude towards the Liberal Party’s commitment. A spokesperson for the group remarked, “We are of course very thankful and excited, if the coalition are voted in, to see our park be re-developed into a beautiful all ages inclusive heart for our town.”

The ACAG noted previous engagements with Kristy McBain, and are yet to hear back from her office about a funding match. The ACAG spokesperson added, “We received a small grant from Boco Rock Wind Farm last year, which allowed us to begin the conversation with our landscape architect, and this promised funding will go a long way to seeing our dreams realised. Every little bit helps.”

Labor Commits to Transforming Cooma into World Class Mountain Biking Destination

In a decisive move to bolster regional tourism and enhance recreational facilities, the Labor Government has pledged $3.1 million to transform Cooma’s mountain biking (MTB) trails into a premier destination should they win the election. This initiative aims to establish new trails and a cutting-edge pump track, potentially positioning Cooma as a venue for world championship events.

PHOTO: Kristy McBain announced the commitment at Mount Gladstone Cooma, on Tuesday, April 1.

Kristy McBain, Member for Eden-Monaro, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s impact on local communities: “I’ve seen how transformative the development of mountain bike trails can be for regional towns – with successful projects off the ground in Eden, Narooma and Tumbarumba.”

Ms McBain highlighted that the trails would not only attract visitors but also be a valuable recreational asset for Cooma residents. She extended her commendations to the Snowy Mountains MTB Club for their persistent advocacy, noting the project’s potential to invigorate local businesses, especially in hospitality and accommodation.

PHOTO: The Snowy Mountains MTB Club working on trails CREDIT: Steve Aldous

Jan Wassink, President of the Snowy Mountains MTB Club, praised Ms McBain’s commitment: “It’s great to see the commitment Kristy McBain has for the local area and the insight for a tourism potential such as the expansion of the mountain bike network.” Mr Wassink emphasised the club’s long-term vision for the project, dating back to 2016. According to him, the development extends beyond tourism, providing significant benefits for local youth and connecting Cooma with other notable South East region bike destinations.

Jo van der Plaat, Liberal Candidate for Eden-Monaro, said that she would not match Labor’s funding. Ms Van der Plaat maintained her focus on other projects important to the region’s communities, stating, “There are so many worthwhile projects out there, without the need for tit for tat style campaigning.”

PHOTO: Liberal Candidate for Eden-Monaro Jo van der Plaat.

Local Cooma resident Louise Jenkins, and active member of the Snowy Monaro Open Spaces and Recreational Committee, underscored the necessity for comprehensive guidelines for recreational spaces like Mount Gladstone, to ensure community benefits.

Ms Jenkins advocated for council leadership in bringing to life, plans like the Snowy Mountains Regional Trails Master Plan, and Snowy Monaro Recreation and Open Space Strategy.

“Council really needs to outline and manage clear guidelines for the use of these recreational areas,” she commented, acknowledging the potential economic growth while stressing the importance of inclusive community planning.

“These things, if they go ahead, need to be Council directed to say, a shared trail needs to be 2.5 meters, not a footpath. You know, it’s making it enjoyable and safe for everyone, Ms Jenkins said.”

The proposed development, with its substantial potential economic injection of $5.3 million annually, stands as a significant opportunity for Cooma to mark itself as a premier MTB destination.

Adaminaby Parking Project: Stage Two Works Begin Monday 14 April 2025

Construction of a new light vehicle and caravan parking area at Adaminaby’s Baker Street Playground off the Snowy Mountains Highway gets underway from Monday April 14, 2025.

PHOTO: Construction starts in April on the new light vehicle, and caravan parking area in Adaminaby.

The second stage in Council’s Adaminaby Long Vehicle and Truck Parking Project, the upgraded carpark will join a new heavy vehicle parking to the west of Denison Street that broke ground in February 2025.

A spokesperson for Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) said, “Together these works represent a major investment in local road safety and a boost to Adaminaby’s visitor economy, through the significant expansion and improvement of highway parking facilities adjacent to the town’s CBD.”

“Residents and motorists are advised that the existing gravel parking area next to the Baker Street Playground will remain closed to the public until work is complete towards the end of July 2025.”

“Council extends its thanks to Snowy Hydro and its team of drivers for their ongoing cooperation and support, as we work to deliver these much-needed improvements for local motorists and the Adaminaby community.”

The Adaminaby Parking Project has been made possible thanks to a Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund grant, co-funded by the NSW Government and the Australian Government.

For further information about this project, you can contact Council. Phone 1300 345 345 or email [email protected] to get in touch.

Stop Mahonia on the Monaro: Choose Non-Invasive Plants For Your Garden

Snowy Monaro Regional Council – Mahonia

Gardens are a great source of peace, beauty, and fresh produce, offering both physical and mental nourishment, but they can also be the source of new weeds when the plants we cultivate escape into the surrounding environment.

Many of our widespread weeds like cotoneaster and blackberry started off in gardens and around homesteads but their toughness, ability to spread easily, and lack of natural predators has allowed them to spread across farmland and natural areas where they can cause significant ecological and economic damage.

PHOTO: Mahonia (Berberis oiwakensis).

The Monaro region is already home to several naturalised garden escapees, but many more species could pose a threat if introduced, particularly given that many gardens are located near natural environments or agricultural land. One such example is Mahonia (Berberis oiwakensis, formerly Berberis lomariifolia).

While conducting routine weed inspections late last year, one of Council’s biosecurity officers encountered an interesting but unfamiliar plant in a garden near Berridale. Further investigation, with samples sent to the NSW Herbarium, confirmed the plant’s identity as Mahonia, an invasive species which had not been recorded previously in the south east region. Mahonia is a striking multi-stemmed tree which produces tall yellow flower spikes followed by berries which ripen to purplish-blue but its sharp, holly-like leaves are unpalatable to livestock and can cause injury to people.

PHOTO: Mahonia fruit CREDIT: NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) – Stefano Bolognini.

Mahonia is a regional priority weed in the Hunter and north coast areas where it has been found invading forests and gullies. The source of these infestations is suspected to be deliberately introduced garden plants, highlighting the importance of responsible gardening practices to our local environment and economy.

There are a number of resources available to help people make better choices such as Gardening Responsibly, a website dedicated to helping people select plants that won’t pose a threat to the environment. The site offers guidance on safe plant choices, provides lists of non-invasive alternatives, and offers practical tips for gardening in a way that supports local ecosystems. Particular care should be taken when purchasing plants or seed online as the unregulated nature of online sales increases the risk of unknowingly purchasing a high-risk species. By making informed plant choices, gardeners can contribute to preserving local biodiversity and preventing the spread of harmful species.

PHOTO: Mahonia flower head in bloom CREDIT: DPI – Andel Fruh.

If you already have invasive plants in your garden, removing them and replacing them with less invasive alternatives is an important step in preventing further spread. When removing invasive species from your garden, proper green waste disposal is critical. Never dump garden clippings or cuttings, especially from invasive species, in local reserves or bushland as many of them can easily establish from cuttings or seed, creating new infestations. Green waste should always be disposed of properly in green waste bins or at a landfill or transfer station.

For assistance identifying suspect plants please contact Council’s biosecurity team on 1300 345 345 or [email protected].

Snowy Monaro Business Awards Celebrate Regional Excellence

The Snowy Monaro Business Awards 2025 illuminated The Station Resort in Jindabyne on Friday night, March 28, with a dazzling celebration of local business excellence. Nearly 200 guests from across the region gathered to honour the individuals and enterprises propelling the Snowy Monaro’s economy and vibrant communities.

PHOTO: Business and community members came together celebrating success and admiration for local enterprise CREDIT: Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce.

Hosted by the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce, the event showcased excellence across 12 judged award categories alongside the eagerly awaited Popular Choice Awards, voted for by the community. Olivier Kapetanakos, President of the Chamber, noted, “The Snowy Monaro Business Awards are a celebration of resilience, innovation, and community pride. We are incredibly proud to shine a light on the amazing businesses and individuals who drive our regional economy and enrich our communities.”

PHOTO: wildbrumby Distillery accepted multiple awards CREDIT: wildbrumby

Among the many highlights, wildbrumby Distillery emerged as a standout, capturing multiple awards, including Outstanding Employee for Sebastian Druege and the coveted Jindabyne’s Popular Choice Award. Recognised for its award-winning schnapps, exceptional customer service, and commitment to sustainability, wildbrumby’s holistic approach has cemented its place as a leader in local tourism and hospitality.

PHOTO: Avonside Alpine Estate (AAE) – Sustainable tourism CREDIT: AAE

Avonside Alpine Estate was honoured with the Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Award, praised for its commitment to environmental, social, and economic sustainability on its picturesque off-grid property. Meanwhile, Eagles Range, managed by Jen and Mark Mooney, clinched the prestigious Business of the Year award for its contributions to regenerative agriculture.

PHOTO: Eagles Range was recognised for contributions to regenerative agriculture CREDIT: Eagles Range.

The night’s success was bolstered by the generous support of sponsors, ensuring the celebration of excellence across the region could take place. The Snowy Monaro Business Awards Committee expressed, “Your support lifts the entire business community—just as a rising tide lifts all boats.”

2025 Snowy Monaro Business Awards Winners:

– Outstanding Employee – Sebastian Druege, wildbrumby Distillery

– Employer of Choice – wildbrumby Distillery

– Excellence in Innovation – Sandra Brabon, Sandy’s Grooming & K9 Café

– Excellence in Sustainability – Samantha Denford, Meadow Store

– Excellence in Diversity – Manuela Berchtold, HighCountry Fitness

– Outstanding Community Organisation – Matt Tripet, The Fly Program

– Outstanding New Business – Eagles Range, Jen Mooney

– Excellence in Micro Business – Feldmark Pottery, Andrei Davidoff

– Excellence in Small Business – Birchwood Café Jindabyne, Laura Stamp

– Outstanding Visitor Experience – wildbrumby Distillery

– Excellence in Sustainable Tourism – Avonside Alpine Estate

– Business of the Year – Eagles Range, Jen Mooney

Popular Choice Awards – Community Favourites:

– Adaminaby – Nimmitabel Bakery

– Berridale – Meet You Halfway Coffee

– Bombala – The Little Garden Nook

– Cooma – Pha’s Thai Restaurant

– Dalgety – Dalgety Brewing Co.

– Jindabyne – wildbrumby Distillery

– All Other Towns and Villages – Bredbo Christmas Barn

Concerns Over Council PIO Compliance: Calls for Independent Review of Reports

The Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) finds itself mired in controversy following the submission of its first Performance Improvement Order (PIO) report. This report, mandated by the Minister for Local Government, scrutinises how the Council is addressing behavioural issues among councillors and aligns with compliance measures. Both supporters and critics of the report’s submission came head-to-head in a heated council meeting, highlighting the complexities of the current political landscape, and adherence to procedural transparency.

PHOTO: Councillor Thaler speaking at the March 20, 2025 ordinary meeting CREDIT: SMRC – screenshot from council meeting.

Councillor Thaler spearheaded an argument against the motion to submit the internally prepared report without prior review by the councillors themselves. His primary concern lay with the absence of transparency and independence, asserting, “We’re the people responsible on behalf of the community. This report has gone out, and I think we should withdraw it.” Councillor Thaler pointed out the potential risks of approving a document he hadn’t reviewed, essentially “writing a blank cheque” without fully understanding the content and implications.

Conversely, Mayor Chris Hanna and SMRC CEO Stephen Dunshea defended the decision to submit the report in its current form. The CEO justified the move by stating that the report followed procedures consistent with other councils under similar orders.

“It was discussed, the difficulties associated with with the confidentiality of code of conduct matters, that I couldn’t present anything, either publicly or to the councillors that provided specific details of code of conduct matters where those things are provided in my report to the Minister.”

PHOTO: SMRC CEO Stephen Dunshea.

Mayor Hanna highlighted resource constraints as a reason for engaging independent assistance for future report preparations, a recommendation backed by the CEO. “We need to engage an external assistant to prepare all the reports in the future,” Mayor Hanna said.

The report submission comes amidst ongoing allegations of legislative and compliance breaches within the council, leading to fears of further governmental intervention. The continuous disputes and confrontations are predicted to take a toll administratively and financially. The estimated annual costs of implementing the PIO are projected at $65,000, which encompasses both staff time for gathering reporting data and the anticipated hiring of an external contractor to review meetings.

PHOTO: Data on alleged infringements from the SMRC March 20, 2025 Business Paper.

Councillor Davis shared concern over the importance of compliance saying, “We continue to have breaches of the PIO, which is a real concern, because I know a number of councillors are trying really hard to make sure we comply with the PIO, and it’s really important that we do comply with the bill for the community benefit, and I would love nothing more than for us to work together and be respectful of the staff.”

Councillor Rose shared concerns regarding the integrity of the first PIO report, raising points about potential biases inherent in internally prepared assessments. He noted, “It’s very hard to find a ‘reasonable person’ in council… the report has got some priority assumptions which are really dangerous.” Councillor Rose’s comments underscored the demand for impartiality and invited comparisons to broader industry best practices.

The psychological wellbeing of the involved parties has come under scrutiny, with reported behavioural disputes leading to some councillors grappling with stress levels that might require professional help.

Despite arguments against the report’s submission, the motion to proceed as planned was ultimately passed. The council now faces the task of reconciling internal conflicts, rectifying behavioural issues, and improving its public image. Scheduled meetings, such as the extraordinary gathering in early April are evident of productivity issues, but do present opportunities to address these challenges.

Bush Fire Danger Period Ends: Hazard Reduction Works to Start

The Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) ends at midnight (12:00am) tonight, Monday, March 31, 2025 for most of New South Wales (NSW), including the Snowy Monaro Local Government Area.

Fire agencies and land managers in these areas where the BFDP has ended will now turn their attention towards conducting hazard reduction works, which includes planned burning across many areas of the state where and when possible.

PHOTO: Operations from recent hazard reduction burns in Kosciuszko National Park CREDIT: Jindabyne Rural Fire Service (RFS).

Inspector Langdon Gould said all members of the public must still abide by the law when conducting their own hazard reduction burns.

“From Tuesday April 1, fire permits will no longer be required for the Snowy Monaro Local Government Area,” Inspector Gould said.

“Even though a fire permit is no longer required, residents must still notify their neighbours and the local fire authority at least 24 hours before burning.”

“Before lighting up, people should also check whether they need a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate and have planned their burn including establishing effective mineral earth fire breaks, checked current and predicted weather, and have sufficient capable personnel and equipment on hand to control and contain the fire to their property.”

“If fire services know about a planned burn, it can help prevent unnecessary responses from local firefighters when we know it is planned and controlled.”

“Despite these milder conditions, there is always the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment, if they are not managed correctly.”

PHOTO: A recently escaped permit burn on the Snowy River Way at Maffra CREDIT: NSW Snowy Monaro District RFS

Inspector Gould said the local community should not become complacent to the danger of bush and grass fires, even with expected milder local conditions. The grass fire threat remains present in the area, especially in areas where African Lovegrass and other cured grasses and tussocks are prevalent. Grass fire threat through the autumn and winter months is not unusual for the Snowy Monaro Local Government Area, as regular frosts intensify the grass curing.

“We urge all residents to take the threat of bush and grass fires seriously and to prepare their families and home now,” Inspector Gould said.

“Your local Rural Fire Brigade or Fire Control Centre can provide advice on how to safely undertake hazard reduction work and how to best prepare yourself, your property and your family for the next bush fire season.

“The first thing you should do is review your bush fire survival plan and discuss it with your household.”

To notify of your intent to burn off, use the online burn notification tool at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify or contact the Fire Control Centre on 6455 0455, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

Nine-Year-Old Boy Found After Going Missing in Snowy Mountains

A nine-year-old boy reported missing from Khancoban in the Snowy Mountains has been located according to New South Wales (NSW) Police in an update provided this morning, March, 31, 2025.

PHOTO: Axtyn Flack – Has now been located CREDIT: NSW Police.

A spokesperson for NSW Police said, “We would like to thank the public and the media for their assistance.”

Yesterday, Police sought public assistance to help locate the missing 9-year-old boy. Axtyn Flack, aged 9, was last seen walking southbound on Mitchell Avenue, Khancoban, about 75 kilometres south of Tumbarumba, at 6.30pm. Family and police held serious concerns for Axtyn’s welfare.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers from Riverina Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Anembo RFS Volunteers Honoured with Medals: Brigade Officially Receives New Truck at Ceremony

The Snowy Monaro District recognised 14 dedicated Rural Fire Service (RFS) members at a special ceremony in Anembo this afternoon, March 29, 2025, with the station also officially presented a new fire truck worth $270,000.

RFS District Manager, Superintendent Jim Darrant was present alongside Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor, Chris Hanna, and special guests, to present nine Long Service Medals and five National Medals to volunteers with combined service of more than 400 years.

PHOTO: Anembo RFS officially received a new truck worth $270,000 today.

Superintendent Darrant said, “This ceremony is an opportunity to recognise the hard work and incredible contribution of all RFS volunteers across the region, particularly those who have dedicated decades of service.”

Mr Darrant highlighted the entire brigade’s commitment to protecting local communities, including two firefighters with more than 40 years’ service –John Moore with 55 years and Allan Lehepuu celebrating 47 years’ service.

Receiving the 50-year Long Service Clasp and National Medal 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Clap for 55 years’ service today was John Moore, who has been a dedicated member since 1969 and is a brigade Life Member.

Superintendent Darrant said, “John is a highly respected and dedicated volunteer, he has held many ranks over the years, including Captain, a position he held for 15 years and Brigade President for 10 years.”

“Allan is the next to be honoured, has been a member since 1977 and has excelled in many roles over the decades, including Anembo Brigade Captain for five years. He truly deserves the National Medal 1st, 2nd and 3rd Clasp for 45 years’ service.”

“It’s important RFS members have access to modern firefighting technology when preparing for and responding to fires and other incidents. This new truck is equipped with the latest technology and is very well received by its members,” he said.

Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said, “Many RFS volunteers go above and beyond for their brigades and local community, and it is fitting to recognise the dedication they all show.”

“Their professionalism does not go unnoticed and while they don’t do the work for praise, their bravery and commitment should be acknowledged.”

PHOTO: Member for Monaro, Steve Whan.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the families, employers and support networks of RFS volunteers, without whom we could not be as resilient and effective in our mission to support and protect lives and property.”