Mayoral Column 29 January 2020

Last Thursday, we heard the sad and tragic news that a large aerial tanker had crashed in the Peak View area.

On behalf of Snowy Monaro Regional Council, I extend my thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of the three aerial fire fighters from the United States who lost their lives while protecting our region. Our community will be forever grateful for your efforts. You will not be forgotten.

Fires flared up again last week due to hot, dry and windy conditions. This fire season is not over yet and will probably take another two months before it finishes. I thank our fire fighters, emergency service workers, and all the support services for their continued efforts in trying to save properties and lives.

The Snowy Monaro’s bush fire recovery process is progressing. There will be community meetings held in Adaminaby, Bombala, Cooma, Jindabyne and Numeralla in the coming weeks to update residents on recovery efforts.

At each meeting, updates on the recovery effort will be provided by representatives from multiple disaster recovery agencies. Representatives will be available to answer questions, assist with grant applications and help people access the recovery services available.

If you have been affected by fires, please complete all recovery forms. Without your data, Council can’t advocate for further bush fire funding assistance. We are here to assist as much as possible.

This week, recovery meetings are being held in Numeralla on Wednesday 29 January at 10am in the Numeralla Hall and in Bombala on Wednesday 29 January at the Bombala Showground. At 5pm there will be a free sausage sizzle and the meeting will start at 6pm.

All bush fire affected residents from Bombala, Rockton and surrounds are urged to come along to the Recovery Assistance Point at the Bombala Community Centre (163 Maybe Street, Bombala).

The Recovery Assistance Point will be opened on Thursday 30 January from 10am to 4pm. Throughout the day a number of agencies will be available for one-on-one consultations to help with the recovery process. Internet, telephones and computers will be available for use.

Across the Australia Day long weekend there were many well attended community events held in our towns and villages.

Congratulations to all Australia Day Award winners. Your contribution and dedication is much appreciated by all.

Despite the fires, droughts and hardships of many, the Australian spirit was on full display.

Councillor Peter Beer Mayor of Snowy Monaro Regional Council