News

Rural Confidence Survey: Region’s Farmer Confidence Levels Highest in NSW

Farmer confidence in New South Wales (NSW) is on the mend, as noted in Rabobank’s latest Rural Confidence Survey, which indicates the state is experiencing a reversal from the downturn seen towards the end of 2024. The survey, released yesterday, captures the perspective of farmers as they embrace 2025 with cautious optimism, with the South Coast and Southern Highlands recording the highest confidence levels in the state.

PHOTO: Toby Mendl, Rabobank’s state manager for NSW.

Improved weather conditions have chiefly driven this positive shift, even as opinions remain nearly split on whether the agricultural economy will improve, worsen, or stay the same. Survey data reveal that 21 per cent of NSW farmers expect conditions to enhance over the next 12 months, marking an increase from 18 per cent in the previous quarter. Meanwhile, those with a pessimistic outlook have decreased to 22 per cent from 25 per cent previously. A significant 51 per cent foresee little change.

The state’s confidence index saw a modest climb, reaching -1 per cent from the previous -7 per cent. However, this uplift places NSW among the lower rungs in farmer confidence nationwide, only ahead of Western Australia. Nationally, about 24 per cent of farmers expect improved conditions, with South Australia and Tasmania witnessing the most notable increases in sentiment.

PHOTO: Much needed rains reached the Monaro and South Coast region in the first quarter of 2025 – taken near Dalgety, March 2025.

The South Coast and Southern Highlands region reported the most significant turnaround, emerging as the state’s confidence leader after languishing with low sentiment in the prior quarter. “We’ve observed a marked improvement in these areas,” noted Toby Mendl, Rabobank’s state manager for NSW. Mendl added, “Although it’s been a dry summer, it’s not unusual for farmers to be looking ahead to rain to set them up for the year.”

Indeed, 44 per cent of surveyed farmers express concern that continued dry conditions could adversely affect the agricultural economy. Nevertheless, 32 per cent remain optimistic about the seasonal outlook, buoyed by favourable overseas markets and rising commodity prices. Despite concerns about government policies and global markets — cited by 31 per cent and 30 per cent respectively — there is a notable feeling of resilience.

PHOTO: Optimism and confidence has returned among NSW sheep producers.

NSW’s sheep producers lead the charge in confidence revival, with sentiment turning from a gloomy -33 per cent to a positive four per cent. Dairy producers have also experienced a significant sentiment upswing. Mr Mendl points to robust consumer demand for red meat in the US as a key factor, noting, “Beef retail prices have reached unprecedented highs, influencing lamb prices.” However, he cautions that “US trade duties and geopolitical tensions remain areas of concern.”

Beef sector optimism persists, bolstered by consistent prices despite record production levels in 2024. In contrast, the grain sector experienced a decline to -35 per cent in net confidence, attributed to seasonal uncertainties. “NSW grain growers enjoyed a remarkable 2024 harvest but now await the autumn break before the next cropping season,” Mr Mendl explained.

PHOTO: The beef sector remains positive under consistent prices – taken in Jimenbuen, March 2025.

Investment intentions have shown robust strength in NSW, second only to Queensland and Tasmania. The survey finds 91 per cent of farmers plan to maintain or boost spending on-farm, with a special focus on infrastructure and new technology. Dairy and sheep producers, in particular, express high investment propensities. “Farmers are keen to invest in improving their operations, particularly in on-farm storage and new technologies,” Mr Mendl stated.

Economic optimism is reflected in income forecasts, with 29 per cent of respondents expecting income growth in the coming year. Dairy farmers remain the most upbeat, closely followed by sheep producers, while grain growers show more tempered expectations.

Eden-Monaro Assesses Federal Budget’s Impacts

The Federal Budget, recently announced by Treasurer Jim Chalmers has many residents of the Snowy Mountains along with families nation wide considering how the changes will impact their hip pocket. With its focus on cost-of-living relief, tax cuts, and healthcare enhancements, the Albanese Government hopes to ease financial pressures while aiming for long-term national growth.

Kristy McBain, Member for Eden-Monaro, has outlined key components of the budget, underscoring a commitment to direct relief. “Last night Jim Chalmers delivered our 4th Budget,” Ms McBain said, emphasising tax cuts and energy bill relief.

PHOTO: Treasurer Jim Chalmers with Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain.

The decision to award every household an extra $150 this year in energy rebates aims to mitigate soaring power bills, and the government’s $7.9 billion Medicare boost plans to facilitate increased free General Practitioner (GP) visits according to Ms McBain. Additional measures aim to enrich the nation’s healthcare staffing, with a pledge to train 2,000 new GP trainees annually by 2028, as noted by Ms McBain.

On the housing front, Ms McBain noted the expansion of the “Help to Buy” programme, which she said, “will help more people achieve home ownership.” She also sighted a reduction in the maximum cost of medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme to $25 down from $31.60.

PHOTO: Jo van der Plaat – campaigning strongly in lead up to the election.

In contrast, Jo van der Plaat, Liberal Candidate for Eden-Monaro, criticised the budget, describing it as “a Budget for an election, not one for our country’s future prosperity.” Ms Van der Plaat pointed to perceived inadequacies in addressing broader economic challenges.

Ms van der Plaat reported, “Under Kristy McBain an Labor Australia has seen the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world… Australia’s core inflation is higher than any other advanced major economy.” Her remarks highlight concerns that the immediate relief efforts may not compensate for deeper systemic economic issues, such as the record number of small business failures and ongoing inflationary pressures.

In alignment with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Ms McBain said this budget lays “strong foundations” for future national security and growth amidst global uncertainties. However, treasury reports suggest an expected deficit of $42.1 billion by 2025-26, placing the Albanese Government under increasing pressure ahead of the looming election.

Residents in Eden-Monaro face the task of weighing these budgetary measures as they prepare to vote, evaluating how policies will materially impact their lives amidst ongoing financial and geopolitical turbulence.

Thredbo Resort Unveils 2025 Offerings: How to Save on Your Winter Holiday

Thredbo Resort has announced an array of offerings for the Winter 2025 season, with both value and premium experiences for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The resort’s newly launched Winter 2025 season pass promises to save visitors on a trip to the snow through the early bird offer.

Revealed today, the Thredbo Resort Season Pass offers flexibility this season, enabling guests to secure their pass with a $50 deposit during the promotional period from March 27 to April 10. This exclusive early-bird offer allows customers to lock in savings of over $250 off the full price.

Stuart Diver, Thredbo Resort’s General Manager, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “With unbeatable benefits and an exciting season ahead, we want to ensure our guests get the most out of every day on the mountain.”

Early Bird adult passes are priced at $1,599 (full price $1850), with the season pass essentially paying for itself after seven days of skiing. The child discounted rate works out to be $930 (full price $1150). The payment plan option allows after first paying the $50 deposit, an option to pay 50 percent on April 23 and the rest on May 23. Available for eligible purchases made before April 10.

PHOTO: Book a trip to Thredbo early – save hundreds off a winter holiday.

Pass holders enjoy benefits such as exclusive discounts, vouchers for friends, and access to attractions like the Alpine Coaster Ride and Thredbo Leisure Centre. An additional Ikon Base Pass option provides unlimited access to 14 different destinations and up to five days at 39 further locations worldwide.

Apart from the Season Pass, Thredbo Resort offers savings across various categories, including lift passes, lessons, and rentals. The “Mid-Week” savings offers discounts of up to 50 percent when choosing to ski mid-week. Additionally, snow goers can save up to 10 percent on same day online lift passes when compared to the window price. 

If your new to the slopes, the resort has bolstered its appeal to beginners with Learn To Ski packages starting at $99, providing a supportive environment to learn and have fun.

For this winter, Thredbo Resort has invested in a state-of-the-art ‘All-Weather Snowmaking Unit’, promising improved snow coverage despite warmer temperatures. This, coupled with traditional methods, is expected to enhance the snow experience for beginners at the popular Friday Flat area.

Aviation Rescue Crew Alpine Training Event: Snowy Monaro District

The Snowy Monaro District Rural Fire Service is hosting a comprehensive four-day aviation rescue crew training event, commencing on Thursday, March 27 and concluding on Sunday. This event, coordinated by the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS), is set to enhance the skills of volunteer and staff aviation rescue teams.

PHOTO: Winch water rescues will be conducted over Lake Jindabyne.

The training involves about 50 participants who are certified in aviation rescue, focusing on both land and water winch rescue recertification. Tova Gallagher, Coordinator for Aviation Rotary Wing, NSW RFS, described the initiative: “We are doing aviation rescue crew training. We have in total 50 volunteers and staff in the aviation rescue crew who do helicopter rescue, especially trained with a full cert three in aviation rescue. From that training, we’re doing four different training events, so there will be be multiple training events happening concurrently.”

PHOTO: Multiple agencies will be involved in the collaborative training exercises aimed at making scenarios familiar.

Residents in Jindabyne and surrounds might see the NSW RFS crews flying around the region, conducting alpine search and rescue and floodwater rescue training operations. Ms Gallagher explained that the training features realistic scenarios to prepare participants for “working in environments that they’re not familiar with, for example they’ll be doing their water winch rescue this week here on Lake Jindabyne.”

“We will also be using Kosciuszko National Park, given that we’ve been dealing with recent searches in this area, we thought it was very timely to come down and do specific training on working in an alpine environment where bushwalkers can go missing.”

PHOTO: NSW RFS are ready to take to the skies of the Snowy Mountains for a four day training event CREDITS: NSW RFS

Numerous local organisations are collaborating on this initiative, including Jindabyne Police, the State Emergency Service (SES), Marine Rescue, and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. Ms Gallagher emphasised the importance of such collaboration, saying, “it’s giving our people an opportunity to do training scenarios where they can practice their skills, but practice them in a real life environment, working with the people that they would work with if they came up here to undertake search and rescue operations.”

This training ultimately benefits the broader community through enhanced response capabilities in various emergency scenarios with Ms Gallagher thanking Snowy Hydro for allowing lake access, and the Jindabyne Aero Club, for supporting such vital training events.

New Mountain Bike Park Set to Open in Tumbarumba

In an exciting boost for the Snowy Mountains’ mountain biking (MTB) scene, Mt Tumbarumba is set to officially open its trails on March 31. As preparations gather pace, the community is set to celebrate with a Big Community Muster event on March 29, at Goldfields Park, offering family fun, music, and a social ride from 5pm, offering punters the chance to be amongst the first to enjoy the new trails.

PHOTO: The Mt Tumbarumba network is gravity-based, designed to appeal to a wide range of riders CREDIT: Mt Tumbarumba

Mt Tumbarumba stands as a strong representation of the resilience the community has shown to build back better, after the devastating bushfires in 2019-20. The community rallied together, selling cattle to acquire the land for what has now become a remarkable mountain bike park. Beyond the thrill of biking, the park symbolises Tumbarumba’s determination and unity.

PHOTO: Plan your trip to Mt Tumbarumba and the wider Snowy Mountains.

Construction of the trails has been a collaborative effort, drawing on the talents of local trail builders like Paul Gardner and Craig Stonestreet. Paul Gardner, from TRC Trails, expressed his enthusiasm for working in Tumbarumba, where the natural landscape proved perfect for creatively weaving climbing trails. Gardner, passionate about the terrain, noted, “This place is going to be so awesome as a destination.”

Meanwhile, Craig Stonestreet of Natural Trails, a long-standing contributor to various iconic trails such as Thredbo and Jindabyne, reflected on his work at Mt Tumbarumba. Now a local himself, Stonestreet highlighted the park’s potential to enhance Tumbarumba’s economy and showcase its natural beauty.

PHOTO: Craig Stonestreet – Natural Trails

The Mt Tumbarumba network is gravity-based, designed to appeal to a wide range of biking enthusiasts. It includes dedicated climbing trails, making it a versatile destination for all skill levels. The uplift shuttle service will commence alongside the park’s official opening, enhancing accessibility for riders.

A spokesperson for Mt Tumbarumba encouraged everyone to join the festivities, stating, “Mark your calendars, this opening is the perfect chance to plan a family MTB adventure in the stunning Snowy Valleys.”

PHOTO: The park is set to attract visitors from right across the country.

With the Easter holidays approaching, Tumbarumba’s new bike park promises to become a premier destination for riders seeking both adventure and the welcoming embrace of a community proud of its achievements. For more details on passes, shuttles, and other information, visit mttumbarumba.com.au.

Motion Passed to Investigate Michelago Contamination Issues

In a critical move to address ongoing environmental concerns in Michelago, the Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) passed a motion on March 20, 2025, seeking an independent audit into allegations of soil and water contamination affecting the Badrock family and surrounding community. The motion, introduced by Councillor Williamson, aims to shed light on a contentious issue that has persisted for three years, involving alleged unapproved waste dumping at a property in Michelago.

PHOTO: Michelago residents turned up in numbers to the March 20, Council meeting CREDIT: SMRC

Mathew Badrock delivered an impassioned speech at the council meeting, describing the unresolved situation affecting his family’s land. “It’s shocking,” he declared, revealing the alleged issues of asbestos contamination and sediment run-off from a neighbouring site. Despite providing evidence to the council, Mr Badrock expressed frustration at the lack of resolution.

Councillor Williamson’s motion called for collaboration with Safework NSW and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). The property’s misuse was publicised by its owner on social media, contradicting its development approval (DA) according to Councillor Williamson, who further noted during a La Niña event, this misuse led to water contamination affecting nearby properties, which has ignited community outrage.

“We need to get to the bottom of why this has not been investigated,” emphasised Councillor Williamson. “The community in Michelago is rightly outraged. They are concerned for their health… and for the health of their environment. Why the EPA say they haven’t been involved, and why no action is being taken.”

PHOTO: Councillor Luke Williamson

Councillor Higgins took an opportunity to remind councillors, the issues experienced were a result of the situation being legal under the LEP at the time, saying, “The problem was that it was at office of discretion where the people were let know, that was just a decision that was again, allowable. We have actually now changed that in our community consultation plan, so that can’t happen again.”

“This didn’t come to council, but we must get an outcome, and we need it as fast as we can.”

Councillor Davis echoed the call for a thorough investigation, highlighting the importance of resolving this longstanding issue. “It’s really important that we have a really good process to actually get closure to this issue,” she stated.

The motion, amended to include seeking legal advice from an environmental law firm and a direction to the CEO to appoint new staff for auditing oversight, underscores the lengthy process of debate that took place.

SMRC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Stephen Dunshea assured the community of ongoing efforts to address the issue saying,

“If there’s another set of eyes come in and they can provide some legal advice or advice through an audit process, then we would welcome that absolute assurance, given that work is being done, and has been done to investigate this matter.”

PHOTO: SMRC CEO – Stephen Dunshea.

An email from the EPA sighted by Mr Dunshea reiterated its stance, stating, “We have previously let the complainant know that this is an ongoing Council matter and that the EPA has no regulatory authority in relation to this.”

Despite some councillors opining for a more straightforward approach, the motion was passed with a majority vote, marking a pivotal step towards resolving the environmental and health concerns that have plagued the Michelago community for years.

Jindabyne Landfill Reaches Capacity: Council Seeks Immediate Solutions to Crisis

The Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has been thrust into urgent action following revelations that the Jindabyne landfill has reached capacity. This pressing issue was a central focus during the council’s meeting on March 20, 2025, which saw councillors and officials grappling with both short-term and long-term responses as a part of a motion following the Mayoral minute.

Mayor Chris Hanna underscored the critical nature of the situation: “This motion is allowing the CEO to continue work for our community in Jindabyne to make sure that landfill does not close… I wish we knew earlier… but unfortunately, we didn’t.” He further commended the efforts of the council’s staff in managing the situation under time constraints.

The landfill’s approach to capacity had been anticipated, and now poses an urgent operational challenge. As Councillor Thaler observed, the development was “not a surprise,” reportedly having been forewarned six months ago. The council, however, now finds itself in the position of urgently needing to act to ensure that waste services in the region continue without disruption.

PHOTO: Jindabyne landfill has reached capacity.

The motion also seeks urgent engagement with Member for Monaro, Steve Whan, in relation to discussions for long-term resolutions inclusive of financial commitments from government, however the exact phrasing of the motion in whole is not yet publicly known, due to the awaited approval of the Mayoral minutes, as confirmed by SMRC in a response to Snowy Mountains News, today, Tuesday, March 25.

As a part of the short term solutions debated, Council will need to transport waste to Cooma from Jindabyne, with an amendment passed early in debate to allocate $500,000 rather than $150,000 to manage the crisis.

PHOTO: Jindabyne landfill will have new limits on waste as of March 28.

SMRC Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Dunshea said in regard to whether Council staff had the capacity to cover the additional work, “We did discuss this in in quite some detail, and it’s my understanding that there’s three trips a day to Jindabyne. Two will do that load to Jindabyne, where that will then be transferred by operators to a to a skip or transportation. The third trip comes to Cooma anyway, over overnight, so that third trip is not an additional trip.”

PHOTO: Council’s CEO Stephen Dunshea advised the additional waste travelling to Cooma will not equate to additional trips CREDITS: SMRC

Councillor Davis highlighted the urgency of passing the motion, stating, “This is an immediate interim solution for our current situation… It has become a critical issue, but it’s not a crisis.” Meanwhile, Councillor Stewart emphasised the need for government backing given council’s lack of funds, asserting, “We’ve got to make sure that the state and federal governments come on board to fund the long term solution.”

SMRC’s media release, dated March 18, outlined the immediate changes necessitated by the landfill’s capacity limits. These include a 1m³ load limit for commercial waste starting Friday March 28, impacting only waste-to-landfill and recycling but excluding materials like scrap metal and green waste.

This measure aims to mitigate the strain on the existing infrastructure while the long-term solution of funding the Resource Recovery Centre is explored. The coming changes could mean extra travel to Cooma for commercial operators above the limit. The motion passed with just Councillor Thaler voting against it despite some councillors having described themselves as being “embarrassed” by the unfolding situation.

New Exhibitions Opening at Raglan Gallery

The Raglan Gallery in Cooma, has announced the launch of two exciting new exhibitions commencing on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Art enthusiasts and newcomers alike are invited to explore the creative talents of two gifted artists showcasing their unique perspectives.

PHOTO: Local artist Jordan Wiggins will present her first ever exhibition.

The Mitchell Gallery will host the debut exhibition of local artist Jordan Wiggins. Titled “Can Ghosts?”, this intriguing collection features drawings that follow the journey of Mishka, a newly formed ghost. “Jordan’s work offers a fresh narrative that is both captivating and thought-provoking,” remarked Wendy McDougall, a board member at the Raglan Gallery.

In the Tillers Gallery, South Coast artist Graham Hearn will be displaying his stunning aerial-inspired paintings. His work intricately depicts properties, with some pieces featuring very familiar local scenes. The official opening event on Saturday, March 29, promises to be a memorable occasion, with Paul West, noted for his appearances on shows like ‘The River Cottage Australia,’ joining Hearn to celebrate the exhibition.

PHOTO: Hearn’s work features some very familiar scenes CREDIT: Raglan

Wendy expressed enthusiasm for the South Coast artist, stating, “Graham’s work provides a unique view from above, capturing the essence of the landscape.”

Both exhibitions will run for six weeks, concluding on May 5, 2025. Raglan Gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 am to 3:30 pm, at 9 – 11 Lambie St, Cooma. Visitors are reminded to check for any closures during Easter period.

Man Charged After Alleged Brawl Stabbing: Tumut

About 10pm on Wednesday March 12, 2025, police were called to Banksia Crescent, Tumut, following reports of a brawl. Officers attached to Riverina Police District attended and were told a 20-year-old man had been struck on the arm with a bladed weapon by another man. The man allegedly responsible for the stabbing, had left the scene prior to police arrival, and has now been arrested.

The 20-year-old man who sustained injuries in the brawl was taken to hospital in a private vehicle, where he was subsequently transferred to Wagga Wagga Base Hospital in a stable condition.

PHOTO: Scott Rodgerson

A spokesperson for NSW Police said, “A crime scene was established which was examined by a specialist command and investigations commenced.”

“Following inquiries, about 1.40am on Monday, March 17 last week, a 22-year-old man was stopped and spoken to by Police in Tumut. He was subjected to a person search where police allegedly seized a knife and a tomahawk.”

The man was arrested and taken to Tumut Police Station where he was charged with reckless wounding, armed with intent commit indictable offence, commit s114 offence, having previous conviction, use knife in public place-cause person to fear for safety, and affray.

He was refused bail to appear before Cootamundra Local Court yesterday where he was formally refused to appear at Tumut Local Court on Wednesday May 16, 2025.

MDCA Semi-Finals Surprise: McCarey’s Masterclass Takes Whitetails to Final

Cricket fans were treated to thrilling semi-final matches yesterday as teams battled for a spot in the Monaro District Cricket Association (MDCA) Senior Men’s One Day Grand Final. The Jindabyne Tigers faced off against the Cooma Titans at JJ Connors Oval, Jindabyne, while Berridale Whitetails took on Coffey’s at Rotary Oval, Cooma.

PHOTO: Aqib Abbasi delivers an off-spinner to Tigers Captain Lucas Rixon CREDIT: Jindabyne Tigers

Saturday March 22, saw two semi-finals take place in the Snowy Mountains. In Jindabyne, the Titans elected to bowl first after winning the toss. The Tigers, led by impressive performances from openers Issac Dawson (39) and Liam Robinson (30), as well as Vice Captain Dave Tickell (31), posted a competitive 186 runs before being bowled out. Titans’ bowler Amir Zaman shone with figures of 2/4 from just one over. However, the Titans struggled in their reply, suffering an early collapse. Jindabyne’s Dave Oxley took centre stage with his leg-spin, claiming 4/40 from six overs. Despite some resistance, the Titans were dismissed well short of the target.

PHOTO: Jindabyne’s Dave Tickell sweeps Hari Shankar for a boundary.

Meanwhile, over at Cooma, the Berridale Whitetails put on a batting masterclass. After winning the toss and deciding to bowl, Coffey’s watched as Berridale’s opening batsman Justin McCarey smashed an unbeaten 145. Captain Russell Haylock added crucial support with 37 runs, propelling the Whitetails to a commanding 4/281 in 40 overs. Coffey’s put up a brave fight, with Hunter Caldwell (72) and Captain Nick Moon (47) leading the charge. However, Coffey’s narrowly missed the mark, finishing at 7/274 after 40 overs.

PHOTO: Coffey’s run is over – Captain Nick Moon did everything he could to book his side another grand final date.

The Grand Final, scheduled for next Saturday, March 29 at Rotary Oval, promises an exciting clash between the Jindabyne Tigers and Berridale Whitetails. Berridale Captain Russell Haylock expressed his pride in the team’s progress, stating, “It was an unreal feeling to have gone from last place in both the T20 and One-Day competitions last season, to having a chance at winning both titles. Couldn’t be prouder of the boys.”

“According to senior player Ben Hearn, it’s been at least 20 years since Berridale made an A Grade grand final, so we are hoping to do the Club and town proud.”

Jindabyne’s top run scorer in the semi-final win, Issac Dawson, shared his enthusiasm: “I personally love playing in grand finals, and as a club we’re obviously stoked to be there and keen to rip into what should be a tough contest against Berridale. Three premierships on the trot would be a pretty big achievement for us.”

“Justin McCarey’s form is honestly no surprise, he’s one of the bats in the competition, He scored 100 against Coffey’s the last time they played as well.”

Cricket enthusiasts can look forward to a spectacular showdown that could go either way, with action getting underway at 11:30am. With this year’s competition being as close as it was, the Grand Final contest shouldn’t disappoint.