Australia Day 2019 - Mayoral Column 30 January 2019

There was a fantastic range of events and activities held throughout the Snowy Monaro for Australia Day. Our towns and villages came together to celebrate what we love about living where we do.

The theme for this year’s Australia Day events was ‘our community’. Here in the Snowy Monaro, we enjoy a strong sense of community. We are resilient, hardworking and ready to lend a helping hand, no matter the circumstances.

At a number of Australia Day ceremonies across the region, individuals and groups were recognised for their community involvement. These volunteers work tirelessly to improve their communities, and often do so with little recognition.

Australia Day awards are an opportunity for us to say thank you, and acknowledge the hard work of all award nominees and recipients.

I had the pleasure of attending the Nimmitabel and Cooma Australia Day celebrations. There was a great turnout at the Nimmitabel event with three community service awards presented to Jenny Hood, Chris McGregor, and Vickie Pollard.

At the Cooma event in Centennial Park, we were joined by Australia Day Ambassador Ms Robina Beard OAM, and local ambassador Tony Mackenzie. Robina was popular amongst locals who were eager to discuss her illustrious career on stage and the small screen.

Tony was a fitting choice for local ambassador. He is a founding member of the Cooma Lions Club, a former Councillor, and a life member of the Monaro District Cricket Association.

Another stalwart of the Cooma community is Lil Frezza. Lil received the Cooma Citizen of the Year award in recognition of her 27-years as Cooma RSPCA branch president. Now serving as vice-president, Lil continues to care for and protect vulnerable pets.

On Saturday, the first of the Snowy Monaro show's commences. The Nimmitabel Show is on February 2, and I’m looking forward to what promises to be their best show yet!

Mayor John Rooney Snowy Monaro Regional Council