Mayoral Column - 2 September 2020

Our Snowy Monaro was certainly the centre of attention last Friday with the second annual Bush Summit event held in Cooma at the showground.

The Summit put our region on the national agenda as federal and state politicians joined local stakeholders to discuss issues such as mental health in rural communities, ongoing drought, bushfire recovery and responding to COVID-19.

A highlight of the Summit was the presentation of three bushfire recovery grants funded by News Corp.

Matt Tripet, the founder of The Fly Program, has received $42,900 to run the Monaro Men in Flight initiative that encourages men to focus on their mental health and the impact of bushfire on their wellbeing.

The Monaro Family Support Service will deliver a Women Community Connect program to provide a setting where local communities can attend small gatherings to share stories and support each through bushfire recovery.

Wildlife carer James Fitzgerald has received $21,000 to provide solar electricity at his Two Thumbs Wildlife Sanctuary in Peak View. The solar electricity will be used for accommodation and amenities that are used by researchers and volunteers who use the sanctuary as a base for studying koalas.

Congratulations to Birdsnest founder and CEO Jane Cay who was recognised at the Summit for her contribution to rural life. Jane kindly donated her award funding to the Country Education Foundation to assist young people with opportunities to study.

Some of our youngest residents joined community members, Councillors, Member for Monaro John Barilaro and Bronnie Taylor MLC to officially unveil the Nijong Learner Bike Track. The learner bike track will help children learn the basics of safe riding in a setting that mirrors real riding conditions.

This project, funded by the NSW Government, would not have been possible without the support and passion from the majority of our community who recognise these facilities are important to ensuring our region can attract families and continue to grow.

The Cooma Lions Club has celebrated the official opening of the upgraded Lions Park at Yallakool Road.

The access road and parking area has been significantly improved with visitors enjoying additional BBQ facilities and shared picnic areas. The off-leash dog area now has a shaded seating options and obstacles for your pooch to enjoy.

Councillor Peter Beer Mayor of Snowy Monaro Regional Council