Mayoral Column Wednesday 8 April 2020

As we approach the Easter long weekend, I once again urge all prospective visitors and non-permanent residents to avoid the Snowy Monaro.

In line with advice from NSW Health and NSW Police, Council is calling on people to stay at home this long weekend to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

For people with holiday homes and secondary dwellings in the Snowy Monaro, please stay in your primary place of residence. We have a wonderful region and it will always be here for you to enjoy.

I have had many phone calls from locals, dismayed with the number of boats and caravans passing through the region. Our region is not equipped to handle an outbreak of COVID-19, please do not chose the Snowy Monaro for self-isolation and for recreational pursuits.

Now isn’t the time for complacency. COVID-19 is still spreading across the greater south-east and the country. It would be naïve to think the Snowy Monaro will not see an increase at some stage.

To those community members who are following the advice from our health professionals by staying at home and only venturing out for essential matters, thank you.

Council is still delivering essential services for our community. While all offices are shut for the public’s safety, our staff are still here to help. If you need to contact the Council, you can call on 1300 345 345.

Bushfire recovery is still continuing and it’s important we don’t lose sight that there are still people struggling from the devastating bushfires.

Applications are open for the Mayoral Bushfire Relief Fund. This fund is designed to provide equitable relief to residents directly affected by recent bushfires.

The total value of funds available is $483,000 and recipients must be owners of fire-affected properties.

Council’s Customer Service Team can assist you in the application process. Forms are available on Council’s website in the bushfire recovery section. Applications close Friday 17 April 2020.

In some welcomed news, the Snowy 2.0 Segments Factory at Polo Flat Cooma has been given the go-ahead. This will see around 150 jobs created with the factory to produce precast concrete tunnel segments.

Finally, I thank all our health care workers and those delivering essential services to our community. Your efforts are very much appreciated. Together, we will overcome COVID-19.

Councillor Peter Beer Mayor of Snowy Monaro Regional Council