BACK TO COOMA

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B K 25th - 28th MARCH 2016

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Cooma REUNION EASTER 2016 1


We’ve proudly supported the Cooma community through the years

From humble beginnings to now helping thousands of locals with their banking needs, SERVICE ONE® is further evolving to really make an impact. The fact is banks strive for huge profits to return dividends to shareholders. Our customers (who we warmly refer to as Members) are part owners in SERVICE ONE and so our profits are returned back into the business to benefit them. In addition, our alliance with a regional bank now allows us to invest more heavily in community and social-based initiatives to benefit our Members and the broader community. The more the community supports us, the more we can do for the community. If you’re not already a SERVICE ONE Member and want to join us to take part in our exciting journey, visit the team on Sharp Street and help us make an impact.

Loans | Savings | Investments | Insurance

138 Sharp Street

6452 1244

soalliencebank.com.au

SERVICE ONE Mutual Limited (SERVICE ONE) ACN 095 848 598 is an agent of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited (Bendigo Bank) in the distribution of SERVICE ONE Alliance Bank branded products and services. SERVICE ONE has arrangements with other third parties as detailed in the Financial Services Guide. SERVICE ONE Alliance Bank branded loans and deposits are loans and deposits of Bendigo Bank. SERVICE ONE Alliance BankTM is a trade mark of Bendigo Bank.

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SERVICE ONE® is a registered trade mark of SERVICE ONE Mutual Limited.


Snowy’s invaluable contribution On July 7 1949, the Commonwealth Parliament passed The Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Power Act 1949 (the Act), which established the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Authority, the operating body of the Snowy Mountains Scheme. Construction started on the Scheme on 17 October 1949 and was completed in 1974, for a total historical cost (funded by Commonwealth Government advances) of $820 million. The Scheme comprises seven power stations, 16 major dams, 145 kilometres of inter-connected tunnels and 80 kilometres of aqueducts, and is recognised as one of the modern civil engineering wonders of the world. Built in the national interest, the Scheme provides electricity to the National Electricity Market (NEM) and much needed drought security to Australia’s dry inland.

On June 28 2002 the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Authority was corporatised, becoming Snowy Hydro Limited. Snowy Hydro Limited has a long and proud history. The construction of the Snowy Mountains Scheme is a well documented part of our nation’s history and we are a great example of Aussie innovation and ingenuity. From those beginnings, we have become a dynamic and growing end to end energy provider with the complete service offering, backed by the mighty Snowy. We’ve evolved from an electricity generator to an integrated energy business - generating energy, providing price risk management products for wholesale customers and delivering energy to homes and businesses as the fourth largest energy retailer in the NEM.

We own, operate and maintain the 4100MW Snowy Scheme, the 300MW Valley Power gas-fired power station, the 320MW Laverton North gas-fired power station and the 667MW gas-fired generator at Colongra in New South Wales – a flexible and reliable mix of energy. Every day we provide fast, clean electricity and gas to our almost one million account holders who are households and businesses big and small - across the country. Red Energy has been part of our business for more than a decade and we added Lumo Energy to our company in 2014. Direct Connect Australia, which we also acquired in 2014, provides us with a unique channel to access customers who are moving home and is a valuable third-party sales channel. We now have around 1700 employees across our company in Victoria, South Australia and NSW.

Back to Cooma reunion program FRIDAY From noon- registrations in Centennial Park. • Cooma Primary School cake stall • Local musicians performing 2PM: Book launch “Monaro in Pictures” new coffee table book featuing images of the Monaro

SATURDAY 8am: Nijong Oval: Cooma Leos Fun Run 3PM: Street parade - relive the Festivals of the Snow with more than 50 floats. 5PM: Cooma Night Rodeo - featuring the ladies steer ride 7PM: 1950s and 60’s Rock and Roll dance at Cooma Ex-Services Club. • Cooma Ambulance Reunion.

The Ka Links are back!

6PM: Party in the Park. Relive the 1950s 1960s with a night club theme in the park. Floor show by Mikelangelo and the Black Sea Gentleman.

TO L VE lovecooma.com

6PM: Gala Dinner at Cooma Multi Function Centre including: The Launch of the Cooma Hall of Fame; the unveiling of a really big secret;cameo appearances by come of Cooma’sfavourite sons and daughters; The Ka Links reunited

MONDAY 8.30-10AM Farewll breakfast Centennial Park.

7PM: The Joneses live at the Ex-Services Club

SO MUCH

SUNDAY

Various psorting bodies sepcial reunion activities

in

BON VOYAGE!

Popular local band The Ka Links are reforming for the Back to Cooma Reunion at Easter. Musician Dean Messerer will be taking his late father, Joe’s place in teh band. Pictured are teh Ka Links in their hey-day, from left, Carlo Pauletto, Robin Power, Butch Paltmann, Tom Cochran and Eric Pauls.They will plat at the gala dinner on Sunday night

SO MUCH

TO L VE lovecooma.com 3


Mayor’s welcome On bbehalf O h lf off C Cooma-Monaro M Shire Council, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome everyone attending the Back to Cooma celebrations. I would like to extend a special welcome to all visitors to our region. I am sure you will find there is so much to love about Cooma and the surrounding region. Cooma is the largest town in the Snowy Mountains Region and the gateway to the state’s alpine area. Cooma was established as a village in 1849 and since then has supported gold miners, graziers and the thousands of people

from all around the world who contributed to the building of the mighty Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme. This has seen Cooma become one of the most multicultural and diverse towns within southern NSW. Cooma also welcomes the thousands of holiday makers who travel through the region to the snow fields and south coast all year round. The Back to Cooma celebrations was at first a small idea that has turned into one of Cooma’s biggest events of the year – spanning over the Easter weekend of

2016. This festival has many different aspects that show what Cooma and the region is about – from multiculturalism to showing photographs of our beautiful landscape to live music, dancing and dining. This festival expresses the diversity of our citizens and the spirit of our community. I think it is important to recognise and celebrate our heritage and those of generations past – without which our region would not be established. I would also like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands of Cooma-Monaro

Back to Cooma committee: Donna Smith, Chris Reeks, Trish Williams, Heath Woolley, Gail Eastaway, Rogan Corbett, Richard Mack, Mark Williams, Peter and Margaret Quodling.

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Shire, the Ngarigo and Walgalu people, and pay respect the history and culture of the original inhabitants of this area. I highly commend and give thanks to the effort of those who have put many hours into putting the celebrations together and I am looking forward to attending. This festival would not be possible without you. I hope to see you all there enjoying what Cooma has to offer! Dean Lynch Mayor Cooma-Monaro Shire Council

The Monaro Post team, back row: Elle Mackintosh, Nick Chapman, Kylie Hinton and Tracy Frazer. Front row: Gail Eastaway and Jess Plumridge.

Sales, Editorial and Production: The Monaro Post - www.monaropost.com.au Printing: Snowy River Echo - www.snowyriverecho.com


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The Cooma Monaro Historical Society - Keeping our history alive Cooma Monaro Historical Society was formed in 1957 and has an impressive record of their contribution to recording the history of the Monaro region. The society has organised events to coincide with historical happenings including a gathering at Mt Kosciuszko to celebrate Strzelecki’s climb and naming our biggest peak. To celebrate the centenary of the Kiandra gold rush, the society held a panning day at the head of Bullock Head Creek. Crowds of people attended and took out a miner’s licence, collected their panning equipment and a bag of soil, shale and quartz. One lucky prospector found a sizeable nugget in her panning dish. On that day, a plaque was erected to commemorate the centenary. In 1959 “Historic Kiandra” was published by the Society to coincide with the centenary. 1973 saw the sesquicentenary of the Currie and Ovens discovery of the Monaro. Cooma Monaro Historical Society, with the help of the Monaro Shire Council, celebrated that event by erecting a cairn near Billilingra. Local citizens dressed in period costumes arrived by horse drawn buggies and many on horseback

to celebrate the occasion with hot damper, butter and golden syrup served with a steaming mug of billy tea. The official unveiling of a commemorative plaque took place at the Billilingra picnic ground.

In 1976 “Cooma Country” was written by Laurie Neal for the Society, documenting the significant history of our region and giving a vivid account of the life and tribulations of the early settlers

who dared to venture beyond the 19 counties. In more recent years we have seen the Society’s collection increase with the realisation of the importance of maintaining our links to the ppast. Donations of historical items, documents, photographs and the like are gratefully ment accepted. The aim of the Society is the colacce lect and share historical information whilst maintaining the historical integrity of the mai items. item In 2016 the Society continues to share historical information and assist with research to relating to the Monaro region. Initial rere search requests can be sent by email to se the Secretary at glenlyn5193@bigpond. th ccom or by mail to Cooma Monaro Historical Society PO Box 1117, Cooma NSW 2630. If you are considering donating any item that you feel would enhance our collection please contact the President, Richcollec ard B Brown on 6452 6135 or the Secretary, Debbie Schubert on 64 527 418. Any contribution to the collection of Cooma Monaro Historical Society will be gratefully accepted.

Gaol museum is a big tourist attraction The Cooma gaol was built in 1873 and has always played a very significant role for the Monaro Region. Being decommissioned a few times the facility has served many purposes. Corrective Services NSW strongly values its history and the museum adjacent to the jail is a major tourist attraction for Cooma. The artefacts, documents and installations on display will fascinate all who visit.

Pictured right; The lion’s head with captured key is an image that has represented Corrective Services throughout the history of the orgainisation in New South Wales.

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COOMA HOTEL

The Cooma Hotel is changing with the times: We are concentrating on food and providing a friendly atmosphere where family and friends can come together. We are still a traditional public bar with TAB, KENO, ATM, EFTPOS and New Bottle-shop CELLARBRATIONS.

DINING: You will now have the luxury of eating in the hotel, including the bistro and sports bar or TAB.

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COOMA HOTEL

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To make a booking please call 6452 2003

79 Massie St, Cooma |Ph: 6452 2003 | Like us on Facebook www.coomahotel.com.au | E: info@coomahotel.com.au 7


The stories and the wrecks, continue…

THEN Flynn’s Wrecking Yard literally started by accident after Jim Flynn slid on the icy Dalgety bridge in the early 1950’s. He went about selling parts off his destroyed Dodge only to acquire more wrecks and continued in the same manner. He then purchased land 4kms West of Cooma, where Flynn’s Wrecking Yard is still in operation some 60 years later. The stockpile of cars grew over the years, a result of the Snowy Scheme and

regular trips to Sydney NRMA Auctions in the later years. Jim retired from the wrecking yard in 2005, however his stories continue on for those who get the opportunity of chatting with him. NOW With the reins handed over to Wayne Flynn some 10 years ago, the yard continues to be operated on the same 20 acres. Cars date back to 1928 and still hover around the 4000

GLW proud to promote

Monaro wool

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Gordon Litchfield Wool set up in 1994 as a small Wool Broking firm in Polo Flat with just Gordon and Kate. Slowly this has grown from employing one part time employee and a small rented space in the Allenspach Building. GLW now employs 10 people with the addition of casual help and runs the Wool Broking business from the

Long-house Long h Long-house at Polo Flat which is 5000m2. After humble beginnings they are proud to handle a large percentage of the Monaro wool clip.

numbers, still offering the same service of second hand parts, mechanical repairs and used cars for sale along with a wealth of automotive knowledge collected over the years. Technology has played a major roll of late and the historical significance is becoming more apparent as the years role on. Every time a golden oldie leaves the yard, Wayne utters the same words.... that’s another one gone forever and never to be replaced.

St Patrick’s Catholic Parish Cooma The first Catholic Masses were celebrated on the Monaro in the 1830’s, by visiting priests from Goulburn. By the 1850’s Cooma was a parish in its own right. The church at the time was located on land on a large block bounded by Commissioner, Bombala and Sharpe Streets. The present church, in Murray Street was built in 1877. The Convent was built a little later in 1884.

Today, the parish is made up of Cooma, Adaminaby, Bredbo, Jerangle, Numeralla and Nimmitabel. Mass times in Cooma are – Saturday night Vigil at 6pm and Sunday morning at 10am. The priests serving the parish today are Fr Mick Mac Andrew and Fr George Ogah. Telephone 6452 2062 for more details. E-mail coomaparish@ bigpond.com


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28 Vale Street Cooma oma

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Ph 6452 1755

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Cooma Power Equipment Cooma Power Equipment moved to 69 Commissioner Street in January 2000, into what was the furniture one warehouse on the late 1980s, which was

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previously the Pioneer Bus She. Lorayne and Robert Roberson relocated the business that was Peters Power Equipment from Bradley Street. Owner Geoff Peters family ran the business which originated at 8 Vale Street back in the 1970s. Cooma Power has seen a lot of changes over the past 17 years, from drought to floods and was always ready to help the locals in any dire situations. They hold most major brands relating to the small engine business and would like to thank all their valued customers for their support and keeping their business local.

Macks- servicing

Cooma for 120 years Established in the late 1890’s, John Mack Snr began business on Mack’s Corner (at the junction of the two highways, the Monaro and the Snowy Mountains) as Mack’s Commonwealth Store, servicing the Monaro for many years, until his youngest son, John Mack Jnr took control of the reigns. The family lived on the premises until 1956, when the devastating floods ravaged the low-lying levels of Cooma. Their home was damaged and the stock in Mack’s Commonwealth store was lost to the flood waters. The cleanup began, various renovations implemented, and Mack’s Corner was leased to a new owner who turned the building into ‘The Savoy Nightclub’ – one of seven nightclubs operating during the boom-town period of the Snowy Hydro construction During the late 1970’s, after trading in Vale Street for a number of years, John Mack Jnr relocated back to Mack’s Corner, re-opening Mack’s Auto and Tyre Centre.

Over 120 years later, John Richard Mack (aka Richard) is the third generation standing at the helm of Mack’s Corner. Trading as Mack’s Auto & Tyreplus Cooma, Richard and his team are confident of continuing the success of the previous generations, by serving the people of the Monaro with quality products and service.


The Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Authority On July 7 1949, the Commonwealth Parliament passed The Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Power Act 1949 (the Act), which established the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Authority, the operating body of the Snowy Mountains Scheme. Construction started on the Scheme on 17 October 1949 and was completed in 1974, for a total historical cost (funded by Commonwealth Government advances) of $820 million. The Scheme comprises seven power stations, 16 major dams, 145 kilometres of inter-connected tunnels and 80 kilometres of aqueducts, and is recognised as one of the modern civil engineering wonders of the Construction of Tumut 3 Power Station, 1970. world. Built in the national interest, the Scheme provides electricity to the National Electricity Market and much needed drought security to Australia’s dry inland. On June 28 2002 the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Authority was corporatised, becoming Snowy Hydro Limited.

Snowy Hydro Limited Snowy Hydro Limited has a long and proud history. We’ve grown from a supplier of peak, renewable electricity to a dynamic and growing end to end energy provider with the complete service offering, backed by the mighty Snowy. We’ve evolved from an electricity generator to the fourth largest energy retailer in the National Electricity Market.

Tumut 3 Power Station, 2015.

We own, operate and maintain the 4100MW Snowy Scheme, the 300MW Valley Power gas-fired power station, the 320MW Laverton North gas-fired power station and the 667MW gas-fired generator at Colongra in New South Wales – a flexible and reliable mix of energy.

Every day we provide fast, clean electricity and gas to our almost one million account holders who are households and businesses - big and small - across the country. Red Energy has been part of our business for more than a decade and we added Lumo Energy to our company in 2014.

www.snowyhydro.com.au | info@snowyhydro.com.au

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The Alpine Hotel is one of Cooma’s original pubs The Alpine Hotel licence was originally held in Kiandra. After a fire, the licence was transferred to Cooma in 1938 and the Coach House Inn was built and was eventually renamed the Alpine Hotel. Today, the Alpine Hotel has been sensitively refurbished to retain some of its former character, while providing hotel accommodation with modern comforts. Patrons can enjoy a cold beer and hearty meal seven days a week. At the gateway to the Snow Mountains where temperatures frequently plunge below zero, the Alpine Hotel offers cosy hotel accommodation at comfortable prices.

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SMEC reaches across the globe

SMEC has operated for more than 40 years, although not in its current form. SMEC’s origins date back to the Snowy Mountains Scheme – Australia’s largest infrastructure project. The scheme was a massive multi-purpose project undertaken between 1949 and 1974, which involved hydropower, roads and bridges. The objective of the Snowy Mountains Scheme was to divert the rivers from south-east Australia to the west to provide water for irrigation and generate peak load electricity for the states of NSW and Victoria. The A$820 million scheme became an iconic symbol of nation building. It was financed by the Australian Government and an A$100 million loan from the World Bank. The project brought together over 100,000 workers from 30 countries who constructed 16 major dams, seven power stations, one pumping station, 145km of tunnels, 80km of aqueducts and 2,000km of roads. Management of the scheme was overseen by the Snowy Mountains Authority (SMA). In 1960, the Department of Foreign Affairs requested that SMA provide technical assistance for Australian Aid projects in Australia and overseas. International projects included geological investigations along the Mekong River, road construction in northern Thailand and hydropower developments in Cambodia and Malaysia. Among the Australian portfolio, early projects included Fairbairn Dam in Queensland, Ord Dam in Western Australia, the Eastern Suburbs

Railway in Sydney and the Shoalhaven Water Project in New South Wales. In 1967, the Snowy Mountains Scheme was rated one of civil engineering’s ‘Wonders of the Modern World’. As the scheme neared completion, the Australian Government passed an Act of Parliament which recognised SMEC as an agency of the Commonwealth Government. SMEC was established on 24 June 1970. Four years later, the Snowy Mountains Scheme was completed in 1974. During the 1970s, SMEC opened a number of offices including: Canberra, Kuala Lumpur and Sydney in 1972, Dhaka in 1978 and Jakarta in 1979. SMEC carried out projects for the first time in 22 new countries including: Indonesia and Vietnam in 1970, Ghana and Uganda in 1976 and Bangladesh in 1977. In the 1980s, new projects were undertaken in a further 20 countries including: China (1982), Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia (1985) and Egypt (1988). In 1989, SMEC became a Commonwealth Government owned public company under the Companies Act and a new office was opened in Brisbane. During the 1990s, SMEC was sold to staff as part of a government asset sale in 1993. In 1997, the American Society of Civil Engineers recognised the Snowy Mountains Scheme with a plaque: ‘International Historical Civil Engineering Landmark’, joining the Panama

Canal and the Eiffel Tower. Nine more offices were opened in the 1990s, including: Delhi (1992), Hong Kong and Manila (1993), Lahore (1997) and Almaty (1999). SMEC’s growth continued into the millennium with a number of new offices including: Accra and Townsville (2000), Addis Ababa (2001), Dar es Salaam and Kuwait City (2002), Doha (2004), Traralgon (2007), Adelaide, Geelong, Gold Coast, Ho Chi Minh City and Nairobi (2008), Ulaanbaatar (2010), Newcastle and the Sunshine Coast (2011) and Auckland and Perth in 2012. SMEC also commenced work on projects in a number of new countries, including: East Timor and Kazakhstan (2000), Kosovo (2001), Chile (2003), Marshall Islands and Taiwan (2005), Greenland (2007), Burkina Faso, Mali and Spain (2009) and Rwanda, and Sierra Leone (2013). The new millennium brought about a number of acquisitions to complement SMEC’s existing profile including: Brisbane City Enterprises (2005), EGC Pakistan (2007), Dare Sutton Clark (2008), CEIS Pakistan (2009), Lean and Hayward (2011), GMC Global (2012) and Vela VKE (2012). SMEC also established subsidiaries including Perenia in 2008 (as a Joint Venture) to provide carbon services to clients looking to respond to the impacts of climate change. Through organic growth and acquisition, SMEC is well positioned for further growth and success in the coming years.

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GENERATIONS Nightbird Cottage Antiques and Collectables A charming destination, Nightbird Cottage Antiques and Collectables is an exciting addition to Cooma’s streetscape, opening its doors in November 2014. For owners, Nikki Simons and Simon Mansfield, Nightbird Cottage is the realisation of a lifelong dream. Connoisseurs of all things collectable, each made their home in Cooma, connected over an old aluminium bread bin, and decided it was time to stop dreaming and start doing! Nikki and Simon provide old fashioned, friendly service and a vintage style that's straight from the heart. Brimming with rustic curios and vintage wares, from one-of-a-kind antiques to handcrafted pieces by local artisans, an evolving selection of bespoke pieces can be enjoyed, touched and talked about. Nightbird Cottage is very excited about the Back to Cooma 2016 celebrations and look forward to welcoming new and old friends to the soulful surroundings of a space textured by one hundred years of history.

antique and architectural elements ~ retro and vintage eclectica ~ lighting and mirrors 172 Sharp Street Cooma | 02 6452 5373 |

| Wednesday – Sunday 10am to 4pm

MACK’S COMMONWEALTH STORE MACK’S AUTO & TYRE CENTRE MACK’S AUTO & TYREPLUS COOMA

JOHN MACK’S CORNER 90 SHARP STREET 64521433 www.tyreplus.com.au/cooma Licence Name: John Mack Distributors Pty Ltd Licence Number: MVRL8545

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A passion for news and the community The Monaro Post newspaper came into being on August 17, 2006, with the formation of Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd. It was established by four local people, all with extensive experience in the newspaper industry. This weekly, local, independent newspaper quickly grew from an original 24page publication to today’s version which averages 48 to 52 pages. The newspaper has recently opened a new office in Bombala to meet in-

creased demand. The newspaper is owned by five local people, three of whom are directors of the company and work in the newspaper. Pictured, The Monaro Post team, from left, partner and accounts Louise Platts, production manager Jess Plumridge, sales rep Lynn Kingston, partner and editor, Gail Eastaway, production Kylie Hinton, journalist Elle MacIntosh, cadet journalist Nick Chapman and partner and sales manager Tracy Frazer.

Playing hits since 1937

2XL was granted a license and did its first broadcast in 1937, meaning it has been broadcasting for 79 years. The station was originally run by a committee and part time staff with the broadcast studio and transmitters located at Polo Flat. IN 1947, 2XL was owned and operated by Cooma Broadcasters PTY LTD and was known as ‘2XL The Voice of the Southern Tablelands’. Originally, 2XL was only on air for 35 hours a week, which was increased to eight hours daily before the station started broadcasting 24 hours a day. The Scott family owned the station from 19501977 before Kevin Blyton purchased it in 1978 at the young age of 19. His company Radio Snowy Mountains is still the present owner.

In 1998 Radio Snowy Mountains introduced a new station for the Snowy Mountains in the form of Snow FM. This meant listeners now had a choice of music formats to listen to. 2XL is a classic hits station playing hit music from the sixties through to the nineties and Snow FM is a contemporary music station playing the latest hits. A third station, Hot Country Snowy Mountains, has also been established for country music lovers. Radio Snowy Mountains has come a long way since the early days and is now part of the Capital Radio Network, which comprises of 15 stations covering the Snowy Mountains, Canberra, Goulburn, Gippsland in Victoria and Perth in Western Australia.

Last train out of Cooma After extensive lobbying by the community beginning in 1870, the railway line terminating in Goulburn was extended to Cooma and Bombala. The official opening of the Cooma station was on 30 May 1889. Bringing great economic benefits to the region, it opened many doors of opportunity to the locals and put Cooma on 14

the map. The line was closed exactly 100 years after it opened, on 29 May 1989. The Cooma Monaro Railway Inc committee was formed in 1992 and they continue to maintain the infrastructure of the railway, which is not running any trains at present due to the need for upgrades.

PD Murphy’s long history

PD Murphys was for many years one of Cooma’s favourite department stores. It was later turned into a pharmacy and, in its most recent reincarnation, it has become PD Mu PD Murphys was for many years one of Cooma’s favourite department stores. It was later turned into a pharmacy and, in its most recent reincarnation, it has become PD Murphy’s Cafe. In prime position, the building has seen much of Cooma ‘s passing parade. rphy’s Cafe. In prime position, the building has seen much of Cooma ‘s passing parade.

Cooma H Hardware - a 60 year tradition The late Cliff Norton opened Norton’s Building Supplies in Sharp Street in 1954 where the Tradesmen’s Centre is located today. In 1975, the business was bought by the van der Plaat family and later moved to 69 Massie Street. In 2002, the business moved to its present location on the corner of Sharp and North Streets in the old McGee Motors building. Lola van der Plaat and her children Elizabeth, David, Ben and Jannene have

owned the business for the last 14 years. Since its relocation, the business has expanded doubling the range of products on offer and also doubling the number of staff. The name was changed to Cooma H Hardware Timber and Building Supplies in 2012, in conjunction with the rebranding of some HBT stores, of which it has been a member since the van der Plaat family purchased the business.


Percy’s still growing and evolving

Percy’s has been operating in Cooma since 1966. Originally the business was started by John and Joan Percy who held the business until its sale in 1991 to Leo Percy. The shop, which encompasses 471 square metres, originally a newsagency the retail site and web business has grown to incorporate many retail products. Expansion of the world wide web has allowed wed Percy’s to reach all states and territories in Australia and with more than 2,5000 different products Percy’s has something for everyone. Percy’s has expanded its ware-house locations to o Brisbane and Syddney, making connvenience our top op focus, and fast free shipping a reliable service. The addition of the 900 square metres warehouse has allowed Percy’s to ship with ease to remote and rural customers across Australia

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and also increases stock availability and turn order delivery times around. Percy’s has an expanding corporate Telstra presence and caters for business to business solutions for firms needing Telstra solutions.

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Serving the local community for over 30 years COOMA BETTA HOME LIVING www.betta.com.au

55 Sharp Street, Cooma NSW 2630

Ph: (02) 6452 2541 cooma@my.betta.com.au

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Keeping the Monaro gassed up

The Elgas Team today Left: The Elgas Team in 1995 Th Then Elgas has been part of the Cooma Monaro landscape for more than 50 years. In the early days and then known as Portagas, cylinders were transported to Cooma by train from Sydney with the office located in Sharp Street, Cooma. A branch office, gas storage tanks and cylinder depot were built at Polo Flat in the early 1980s. For a number of years the Cooma branch was the focal point for all LPGas deliveries by tanker and cylinders to the whole Cooma, Monaro and Snowy Mountains area.

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The Th 1990 1990s and d 2000 2000s saw signifi i ificantt change h and growth for Elgas with the construction of reticulation systems in the ski resorts, the building of a depot in Jindabyne and the addition of agents in most towns in the region. Over the years, Elgas has been a significant local employer, proud supporter of local businesses and community organsiations. Now Elgas is the major LPGas supplier for the Cooma Monaro and Snowy Mountains region. The area includes Cooma, Jindabyne, the ski resorts of Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass

and Selwyn, Adaminaby, Berridale, Braemar, Nimmitabel, Dalgety, Bombala and Delegate and surrounding areas. Open 8am until 5pm, Elgas supply LPGas in bottles and by tanker delivery to both domestic and commercial customers. The Cooma Snowy Mountains branch of Elgas consists of up to eight staff and also includes branch office at Polo Flat for appliance sales, customer enquiries and payments. So for all LPGas needs and 24/7 support for your business, contact Elgas on 131161 or www.elgas.com.au

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Saving lives for 76 years On the 14 November 1940, a public meeting was held by the Cooma Council to discuss opening a local branch with the Queanbeyan Ambulance Transport Board. With the Alpine area population growing rapidly at that time, an Ambulance service was desperately needed. A committee was apppointed, the secretary of which was Linden Wing, and on 18 November 1940 another meeting was held to discuss fundraising. Mr Poole of Nimmitabel and Mr Ayres, an Adaminaby police officer put up their hands to raise money in their respective towns. Max Bond, a Quean-beyan ambulance officerr and the first officer in n charge of the Cooma staation, was given the task of rounding up volunteers. rs. He rode around the area ea on his pushbike, canvasing people to join the service. Longest standing ambulance officer still

working at the Cooma station is Peter Sopniewski (37 years), followed by Jack Nott (32 years). Having started in 1980, Peter says a lot has changed during his time. The vehicles used were mostly Ford F100s, now they have mainly 4x4 Mercedes

Sprinters each costing about $180,000 to set up. The first vehicle to be used in Cooma was a converted panel van bought for ÂŁ379.

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Peter said when he first started, the vehicles only had ambulance radios that were linked to the Cooma Monaro Shire Council transmitter. He also said there was a massive change when the Basic Life Support course was introduced in 1986 and then the Advanced Life Support course in 1990. Peter was in the 199 rst group of trainees firs and became one of the very first Level 4 Officers in the force. Of Prior to these coursPr es, Peter says they es oofficers had only bassic skills in first aid, pparticularly in the rrural areas. These enabled ccourses pparamedics to cannulate, administer drugs, do cardiac monitoring and fluid resuscitation. Photograph by Officer in Charge, Dennis Willis, 1975.

Welcome to the Kinross Inn! The Kinross Inn is a short walk from town and local restaurants. We have an array of facilities including an indoor heated pool and offer discounted rates on ski hire during the winter season. Kinross Inn offers a range of accomodation from standard to executive, some including spas. All rooms have queen beds with electric blankets, heating and air conditioning, free WiFi and more. We take great pride in the service we offer, we endevour to make each stay as comfortable as possible. Kinross Inn is highly regarded within the local area. The property is set back from the main road, so we are easy to find yet extremely quiet.

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Boyce Chartered Accountants

Michael Boyce was the founding partner of the small accounting practice that opened its doors in 1973 and further opened in Cooma in 1975 by Doug Treloar. Today, Boyce operates offices in Cooma, Dubbo, Goulburn, Moree and Wagga Wagga with a leadership group of 13 directors and four associate directors, along with 98 8 team members.. The Coomaa office remains the sentimental heart of the firm. It is the largest office in terms of the number of people employed and is led by a talented group of three directors – Kathy Kelly Kelly, Jono Forrest and Julie Schofield. It’s also been home to a succession of long-serving employees over the years all of whom have contributed to the social fabric of the firm. In 1989 the firm purchased its current premises from the Cooma-Monaro Shire Council

and it was only when renovaenovations were completed in 2008 to extend into the backyard that it was discovered that the premises had originally been used for electricity generation from diesel motors to supply the Cooma township in the early part of the 20th century.

b u t ggrown to offer a “big city” leveel of accounting and business ad an

visory expertise and range of specialist services. Over 40 years in business and still growing strongly – you can’t argue with that.

It’s clear that the history of the firm will be forever linked to the pioneering way in which Mick Boyce and his fellow founding partners struck out into regional areas to forge a business that has remained true to its rural background

A LOCAL AGENCY THAT WILL ALWAYS ACT IN

YOUR BEST INTEREST

John Barilaro MP Member for Monaro

Congratulations Cooma on the Back to Cooma celebrations

BOLLER & COMPANY BC

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www.bollerco.com.au

168 Sharp Street COOMA NSW BOLLER & COMPANY - YOUR LOCAL TEAM We are close as your phone, so call us on any matter

Ph: 6452 4155 18Graeme

‘Chippy’ Boller: 0402 407 422

for Regional NSW Ph: 6299 4899 monaro@parliament.nsw.gov.au PO Box 998 Queanbeyan NSW 2620


One of the oldest buildings in the town The Cooma Hotel is a significant historical building. In 1861 Charles Solomon took up residence in Cooma and the following year had the Cooma Hotel built to his order. It boasted cut granite, two bars, accommodation rooms, dining room and wrap around veranda. It has changed many hands and endured numerous renovations over the last 150 years. The Cooma Hotel has only recently completed a major ren-

- the Cooma Hotel

ovation, keeping its historical beauty and restoring its original stonework and chimneys. At the same time internally it has been brought into the 21st century with ample space for everyone to relax and enjoy. The Cooma Hotel is changing with the times, concentrating on food and entertainment and providing a friendly atmosphere where families and friends can come together to relax.

A snapshot of Schoo’s Studio history

Next year will mark 60 years of Schoo’s studio, originally opened by Martin and Sieny Schoo. Now run by their son, Theo, and his wife Vicki, Schoo’s studio has continued to grow over the years. From working in the dark room, to digital prints and keeping up with the current growing demand for framing, the Schoos have seen the

business change dramatically. Originally located at 82 Sharp Street, where Deans Computer’s is now, the shop moved to its current location on Bombala Street in 1982. Schoo’s Studio is a valuable part of the community, taking class photographs at the local schools since 1987.

OVER FORTY YEARS OF KNOWLEDGE INSIGHT EXPERIENCE Boyce has been a trusted advisor to families and businesses across the Monaro since 1973. Boyce started in Sydney in 1973, but soon Mike Boyce moved to Cooma. For over forty years we have delivered our unique management accounting services, expert advice and strategic solutions to ensure

Cooma

Dubbo

36 Bombala St Cooma NSW 2630

Goulburn

our clients grow and flourish, and our communities remain strong. Contact Kathy Kelly, Jono Forrest or Julie Schofield at Boyce Cooma on 02 6452 3344 for an obligation free discussion about how we can assist you.

Moree

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P 02 6452 3344 E infocooma@boyceca.com

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19


Hooks Pharmacy Hooks Pharmacy was opened more than 150 years ago a and is one of the oldest names in pharmacy in NSW. Originally located on the corner of Vale and N Sharp Street, where PD Murphy’s CafÊ is now, and S then th later at 40 Vale Street, it moved to its current spot sp in Sharp Street eight years ago. Jenny White has owned the pharmacy in partnership for 18 years. She and her team strive to provide great care and g one o on one advice to t all customers, while ensuring w they have the latt est and greatest e products, treatp ments and serm vices available. v

Pacific Furniture Tha Pacific Furniture building has had many identities but my memories of it are from when I was 16 and working at Fosseys. I would walk through the drive through bottle shop to get lunch from the bakery. When the bottle shop closed, Fosseys used the building for a short while as part of their store. Our store opened in November 2011 at 168 Sharp Street, where Boller and Co is now. I helped open the store as the store manager and I thoroughly enjoyed finding different

pieces to inspire people who were decorating their homes. We moved to our current location in Bombala Street in October 2012 as we needed more space. My husband and I took over as owners of the store in July 2014 and we are pleased to be celebrating our store’s fifth birthday later this year. - Tracy Alcock

Shell Regional Service Station This property and its connected businesses have been owned by the Lester family since 1970. The businesses were run by

20

Mal and Ellen Lester (and their family) or leased out to other enterprises or well known Cooma District personalities, over the

last 46 years. In September 1997, Paul and Kelly Lester (brother and sister) had the opportunity to acquire the overall business activities. Since then, they have evolved, grown and continually upgraded the business operations with the latest technology. 1999 installed, full automatic car wash 2005 installed, three DIY wash bays and vacuums 2009 closed site for a period of 6 weeks to upgrade the site with

all new fibreglass envirotanks and piping to meet the current environmental guidelines. 2012 installed, DIY dog wash. 2013 installed 24/7 kooler ice machine Paul and Kelly, over the year, employ up to 10 local staff, and love seeing their local customers and regular clients, as well as enjoying the thousands of tourist that come through Cooma every winter and summer. Proud of their success and Cooma connections, they support as many local events/charities they can, in order to put money back into the local area and community.


Raine and Horne office has a colourful past Raine and Horne locally owned since 1990 Barbara and Don Minchin have owned Raine and Horne Cooma since 1990, and their office is currently located at 150 Sharp Street. Barbara and Don bought the building at auction in 2000, and had Jim Phillips, a local builder, do a major renovation and in October 2000 the business was relocated to the current site. During the 1930s,

40s and 50s, the building was operated by Quodlings Stock and Station Agency. In the sixties and early seventies, it was 5th Avenue Fashions before becoming Crisford’s Pharmacy and Central Pharmacy between 1976 and 1986. The building was then used as a TAB facility for the nineties until it was purchased by Don and Barbara and they transformed it in to the current office.

Ninety years of good food and good charity The first Cooma CWA was formed in December 1926 with 31 ladies attending the inaugural meeting at the Australian Hotel. The ladies have hosted a curry luncheon every year since 1970, funding many community and State CWA projects.

Over the years there have been members who have been named Anzac of the Year, Citizen of the Year and Woman of the Year in the Monaro electorate. Three members of the branch have served on the State Executive Committee with one, Kaye Anderson,

vogue

becoming State Treasurer. For the past 10 years, the CWA have supported Dr Robert Wiles and the ANU medical students who come to Cooma for their Rural Week twice a year.

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Birdsnest’s evolution

In 1860 James Hain built a small General Store ‘Hain & Co’ on the Southside of what is now known as Sharp Street. Hain & Co grew to become the largest privately owned retail store in the Southern Region under Lindsay Hain’s ownership, which stretched from 1947 to 1984. Grace Bros then operated in the building for about nine years after Hain & Co closed down. After Grace Bros, members of the Hain Family once again opened a retail store in the building ‘Hains Country Store’. The space is now occupied by the Birdsnest store as a retail outlet with a hugely successful online operation and warehouse. Birdsnest now employs more than 100 people and is recognised as one of Australia’s leading online businesses. Visitors travel from all over the country to come to the store and experience the unique Birdsnest shopping experience. The store has become a tourist attraction in its own right and put Cooma on the map in the fashion and retail industry. Business owner Jane Cay has been recognised and celebrated at a national level for her entrepreneurial prowess and unique story of success. She is often asked to speak at conferences and such events to share her inspirational story.

Solicitors last the distance well

Last and Maxwell is a long established firm of solicitors founded by John Last and Donald Maxwell in 1985 in premises above Percy’s Newsagency at 154 Sharp Street, Cooma. The firm continued to operate in those premises for 27 years. In April 2012 the firm relocated to larger premises at 12 Bombala Street, Cooma. In 2007 the firm opened another office in Nuggets Crossing Jindabyne. The firm currently operates with four experienced solicitors and seven support staff in the Cooma and Jindabyne offices, where they offer a wide range of legal serves for businesses and individuals.

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Cooma Furnishing Company In operation since 1953, Cooma Furnishing Company prides itself on providing quality furniture at affordable price. The store has been under the current ownership since 1974, seeing many changes in both style and technology over the years. The store stocks a large range of items including furniture, floorcoverings and window furnishings. They are members of several buying groups: Beds R Us, Furniture House, FlooringXtra. This buying power allows the store to give the best possible price to customers.

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40 Years of Experience in Real Estate Sales, Property Management and Auctioneering. We welcome back to Cooma those visitors who previously made Cooma their home. We hope that you come back soon!

OďŹƒce: 150 Sharp St. Cooma 2630 Ph 6452 3777

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23

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Back to Bush Basics

This commanding Thi di bbuilding ildi bbuilt ilt iin 1891 has been home to different businesses over its 125 year history but most notably ‘Shannon’s’ in the earliest days then ‘Taffas’ from 1947 through until 2000s. For a brief time after Taffas closed it was home to ‘Silly Willy’s’, a franchise $2 shop The current store Bush Basics was opened on April 1, 2011 (a few doors down) by David and Jodi Jardine. As the business grew it was necessary to move

to with t llarger premises i on ttwo occasions i ith the latest move into the ‘Old Taffas’ building in 2015. Bush Basics carry a comprehensive range of country clothing for men, women and children as well as a large gift section, jewellery, handbags, wallets and hats. Plus an extensive range of Ariat boots for the whole family. The team at Bush Basics is always pleased to welcome you to the store and help whenever possible.

The Alpine Hotel in Cooma is the ideal gateway to experience the best of the Snowy Mountains. Voted the best accommodation for a country hotel in the 2011 AHA Awards, the Alpine Hotel offers a warm bed and a cool beer at reasonable prices, with 27 fully renovated rooms. Our restaurant features fine local cuisine, and an inspired wine list. And being conveniently located in the centre of town, it makes an ideal stopover when travelling north or south. Come and experience the best of the Snowy Mountains all in the one location. Book now, phone 02 6452 1466 From $60/night pp.

w w w. a l p i n e h o t e l . c o m . a u

24

170 Sharp Street, Cooma


COOMA VISITORS CENTRE

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High Country Automotive Group was previously Burkes Garage and Wool Store, Urquhart & Nicholson, then Summit Motors. It has been operating as High Country Automotive Group since 2001.


Cooma’s longest standing preschool - Cooma North Preschool Cooma North Preschool is a not for profit community based preschool established in 1952 for the children of the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Authority. We have evolved over the past 64 years, however our commitment to early childhood education and building relationships with children, families and the community is still the heart of who we are. In 2014 we were thrilled to receive a rating of Exceeding

the National Quality Standards rds in the ACECQA Assessment and Rating process. Our play based program is guided by our philosophy and the National Quality Framework, incorporating the Early Years Learning Framework. Key to the Early Years Learning Framework are the elements of belonging, being and becoming and how children

connect with their community. Our beautiful indoor and natural outdoor environment provides open ended learning opportunities for children and gives them

greater opportunity for choices and decision making. Our environment is set up for ‘hands-on’ learning where children can be their own teachers and resource their own learning.

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Cooma Public School Cooma Public School has a proud history of providing quality education on the Monaro since 1863. We are a comprehensive, state, primary school which provides a range of learning experiences for our 258 students. We are committed to preparing our students for life beyond school by providing challenging and enriching learning opportunities and supporting all students to achieve their best. The staff work consistently to develop a deep understanding of

the students and to install a sense of pride in their efforts and achievements. We provide a safe friendly environment that promotes creatvity, collaboration and communicaiton. Innovative and flexible teaching and learning programs allow us to meet the needs of all students. We have a highly supportive community which has high expectations of the educational programs provided for the students. The staff highly value the collaborative relationship that existss re between school and be d community. co We have an active P & C that contribute significantly to the success ni oof educational programs and initaitves. gr Pictured above: 2016 Cooma Public School students. Left: Students from 1956

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SMCS enhancing spiritual development Cooma Baptist Church purchased the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Authority’s Training School in November, 1994 as the Church had outgrown its previous building. The new site came with 3 acres of land and the Pastor, Kevin Carlson asked for ideas. The Vanderhout and Joyce families shared a vision for a Christian

School and an Investigating Committee was appointed in June, 1995. An Interim Board was appointed which worked and prayed hard, meeting fortnightly for 18 months, sometimes until 1 am. Geoff Wainwright was appointed in October, 1996 and the Snowy Mountains Christian School commenced Kindergarten to Year 6 on 4th February, 1997 with an initial enrolment of F 15 1 students. Commencing a single teacher, independent, country school was an immense p undertaking but Geoff was assisted in the un classroom by Rod & Faye Bevan while cl Geoff’s wife, Gail, became the school’s G administrator and librarian. Faye had saved ad a garage full of resources from her career in teaching which she donated to set up the school. They were soon joined by Phil Horsc neman (Music & Art) and Christina Laub ne (German). (G G During 1997, Phil Horneman proposed D extending to Years 7 & 8 incorporating ex a Middle School and in February 1998, SMCS SM grew to 41 students in two classes. What W had initially appeared to be an enormous building was now too small. m In May, 1998, the middle school building in arrived on semi-trailers from Cabramurra. The School took out a loan to conm vert v this second Snowy Hydro building into classrooms with the assistance of i Mobile Mission Maintenance (MMM). M “The Link” was built with further assis“

tance from MMM in 2000. The School began 2001 with 65 students, good premises and excellent staff and the establishment phase was now completed. Geoff and Gail were called to Vincentia Christian School in Jervis Bay and SMCS appointed Catriona Wansbrough as Principal. The oval was bulldozed in 2001 and SMCS continued to grow. By 2004 there were over 90 students and the School was running out of room again! In July, 2004 a building became available at Fairburn RAAF Base and the board raised another loan and relocated it to Cooma so that in 2006, Year 9 could commence when the enrolments exceeded 100, growing to Year 10 in 2007. The Snowy Mountains Christian School has much to celebrate. The school which began nearly 20 years ago with 15 students, one teacher and one building now teaches from K to Year 10. A school is often seen as the buildings and grounds but the real fabric of SMCS is the community of children, teachers, parents and friends. SMCS views the parents as the principal educators of their children with the School community aiding them in this endeavour. More than the physical development of the School, the academic or sporting achievements, however, the spiritual development of the students, which is almost impossible to objectively measure, but evident in the children, bears witness to the real worth of the School.

COOMA OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Monday - Saturday, 7am - 9pm Sunday 8am - 8pm

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30

Centennial Plaza Cooma


Boller and Company turns 25 A licensed real estate and stock and station agent with over 40 years of experience, Graeme ‘Chippy’ Boller started Boller & Company Pty Ltd back in 1991 and has developed it into a dynamic business which dominates the Monaro area in all its fields.

SOUTH EAST PRINTING Pty Ltd

Graeme, having grown up in the area, has a intimate knowledge of the local surrounds. He keeps a keen eye on the rural scene and offers a great deal of experience and expertise to all those he deals with.

Specialist Printers since 1993

Commercial Business Cards - Envelopes - Letterheads With Compliments Slips Delivery Dockets Wedding Stationery

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Now called the Cooma Twin Cinema Complex and the home of South East Printing since 1994.

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Mark Kenmir & Co Accounting, excelling for 20 years Accounting firm Mark Kenmir & Co commenced business in January 1996 when Mark KenJa mir m moved from the Central West town of Coonamble to Cooma. to Mark says “It was a huge risk M leaving a job of 14 years working le for fo my father-in-law, Ellis Ryan, who w ran a successful and well-respected accountancy practice that sp

he h started in 1959. We left to give our o kids more opportunities and to live in a better climate. We put up u a shingle in a town where no one o knew us and away we went. We W have never looked back�.

NEBULA ,MOTEL.

The business started with just Mark and his wife Bronwyn. It started operating in a single room in Massie Street but as the practice grew, so did the demand for space. After a few moves, the business settled in its current premises at 37 Bombala Street in Cooma. The practice grew pretty much completely from word of mouth and after 20 years hhad gone from a one man sshow to a busy and vibrant ppractice with 15 staff. Mark Kenmir & Co are Cooma Accountants, speC ccialising in accounting and ttaxation services to small tto medium sized enterprisees. They provide not only financial statements and tax rreturns, but also comprehhensive tax planning servvices. Over their 20 years they have developed a high level of expertise in primary production activities as well as retail, service industries, professional service businesses and self-managed superannuation funds.

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Cooma Betta Home Living

Betta Home Living Cooma, formerly known as Cooma Retravision, has been operated by the Anthony family for more than 40 years. Andrew Anthony, father to George and his brother Tony, originally purchased the business when he bought what was then the International Club in 1968. He had come to Cooma in 1956 to start work with the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme. Missing home, he returned to Cyprus, where he married his wife Mary. However, It didn’t take long before Andrew found himself back in Cooma. In 1959, Mary joined him and together they gave birth to their family of five children, Pam, Kay, Tony, George and Chris. All five children have worked in the business at some time, but Kay, Tony and George have remained.

Evidently, the family are through and through Cooma locals and are quite significantly involved in the community through various clubs and sporting organisations. The shop became the Cooma Discount King as the Snowy scheme began to wind down. In 1991, the Anthony family joined the Retravision Electrical Retail Group and in February 2013, changed to Cooma Betta Home Living. Apart from the family involvement in the store, there are also several long-term employees who are part of the Betta family. Chris, Kay, Ryan, Julie, Rob and Jen between them have about 50 years service to the business. One of the pleasures of being a local business for the Anthony family is being able to support local organisations.

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South East Printing -

Your local printing and website service

South So th East Printing has operated in Cooma since 1993 when Brian Coyte purchased the printing presses and commercial work from the local newspaper. Brian now runs the business with his wife Dale who came into the business in 2003. Since then they have kept up-to-date with technology and entered the world of digital printing. They now run high end Konica Minolta and Roland machines. In 2004 it was decided to enter the world wide web and offer a cost effective way to get your business on the internet.

South Since inception So th East Printing have taken pride in themselves and in their work. You can be assured of the finest quality product and backup service. South East Printing is a local company, run by local people, and will always be around to assist you. After working with our design people to create the perfect look for your business, you will find the best part about dealing locally, with local people, is that your product can be in your hands in the timeframe they will have discussed with you. South East printing is

located in the iconic Savoy Cinema building on Commissioner Street in Cooma. A potted history of the cinema building: • Savoy Cinema opens in 1958 and operated until 1990 • From 1990-1992 the building housed Dodgem

City as well as the cinema • South East Printing moved in in 1994 and the cinema reopened • Converted to a twin

One of the longest running law firms in Australia The law firm of Blaxland Mawson and Rose commenced with Benjamin Sebright Lipscomb (1841 – 1913) who was named one of the oldest solicitors in NSW. He was admitted as a solicitor at the age of 23 and he was in practice in Cooma from about the beginning of 1868. Frederick Blaxland (1848 – 1933) qualified for the Bar at the age of 22. He started as a solicitor in Cooma in 1872. He became business partners with Lipscomb in 1875 and the business became Lipscomb & Blaxland. Blaxland was also mayor of Cooma from 1919 to 1922 inclusive. Edgar Samuel Mawson (1871 – 1946) entered into

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a clerkship with Blaxland in 1888 and was admitted as a solicitor in 1894 and then entered into a partnership with Blaxland and the firm became Blaxland & Mawson. Alfred Frederick William Rose (1879 – 1940) was admitted as a solicitor in 1895. He joined the firm in 1904 and then the name changed to Blaxland Mawson and Rose, as they are know today. They commenced working from 3 Dawson Street in around 1910. At the time, the building on consisted of the front office and a couple of offices ad the strongroom. Over the years rooms were added when needed until it became the size it is now.

The current partners of Blaxland Mawson and Rose are Mark Herbert, Kirsty Salvestro and Joanne can der Plaat. They also have three employed solicitors, Emma Schlachter, Margaret Peterson and Robert Coyte. Tara Kaufline is a licenced conveyancer, Belinda Digges, Hollie Povey, Jasmine Trevanion and Emma Smith are the wonderful secretaries. Karen Clark is the office manager and Tayler Miners is their receptionist. Blaxland Mawson and Rose moved to 39 Bombala Street 12 months ago into a bigger and brighter office with two conference rooms and a large library for their historical collection.

cinema in 2001 • Remains today the home of South East Printing and the Cooma Twin Cinema Complex


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Cooma Monaro Shire Co In 1912 new Council Chambers were ere

moved to a renovat

IIn 1981 the amalgamation of Monaro S Mark Kenmir & Co) while the a In 1987, Cooma-Monaro Shire

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Mayor Dean Lynch 0419 295 954

Councillor Councillor Deputy Mayor Rogan Corbett Martin Hughes Angela Ingram 0412 722 505 0405 209 685 0410 036 671


e Council has operated from various locations and under various names throughout its history. e erected in Dawson St (currently the offices of Walker Gibbs & King) and Council remained at that site until it

ovated building on the south-east corner of Bombala and Commissioner Streets in 1968. ro Shire and Cooma Municipal Councils saw the technical staff move into the building across the road (now he admin staff and Council Chambers stayed in the building that is now the location of Boyce & Co.

hire purchased the current building on the north-west corner of Bombala and Commissioner Streets.

cillor ngram 36 671

SENIOR STAFF

Councillor Tony Kaltoum 6452 1730

Councillor Councillor Councillor Craig Mitchell Ignazio Mondello Winston Phillips 0429 383 388 0407 714 460 0487 430 000

COUNCIL CONTACT DETAILS

General Manager John Vucic Phone: 02 6455 1777 Director of Corporate Services Stephen Molloy Fax: 02 6455 1799 Director of Engineering Services Linda Nicholson Web: www.cooma.nsw.gov.au Director of Environmental Services Peter Smith Email: council@cooma.nsw.gov.au After Hours Emergency Contacts WATER 0417 278 056 WASTEWATER 0419 251 378 RECREATION 0427 011 144 ROADS 0447 415 150

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Relishing Rose’s Restaurant Rose’s Restaurant was first established more than 20 years ago by Rose Nassar. Born in Lebanon to a family where cooking and sharing meals was a welcoming routine, Rose has had a passion for cooking since childhood with traditions passed on from her Great Grandmother After moving from Lebanon in the 1970’s then to Sydney and onto Cooma in the late 1980’s Rose was excited to share her culture and love for cooking with family and friends. This humble enthusiasm, over time, was gaining momentum and Rose soon found herself cooking more and more. The demand from friends and suggestions of opening up a little restaurant became very real soon after. Rose began her culinary journey at a family run roadhouse at the 4 Mile with her husband Joe; the small 35-seater restaurant gained much support from surrounding communities. As the demand for Rose’s fine cuisine grew, it was decided that a move into the heart of Cooma was the next phase in providing the local community with greater access to her food

within a modern establishment. As the restaurant expanded, Rose went into partnership with her son Tony. With Rose’s cooking skills and Tony’s sense of business and management, Rose’s Restaurant has taken on a whole new dimension- now seating 100 covers with the capability of covering large

functions and corporate events. Rose’s Restaurant has gone from strength to strength. Roses Restaurant is famous for sourcing produce from local growers and the family farm which is meticulously cared for by husband Joe. This ensures the dishes are full of fresh flavours and essence that the mountain air has to offer.

Roses Restaurant plays a big part in supporting local business and community. Rose and Tony have established a wonderful family restaurant where they can work as a family unit and still enjoy their strengths and passions on a daily basis.

Award winning service at The Nebula The Nebula Motel is one of Cooma’s oldest motels and has been providing friendly hospitality to visitors for more than 60 years. Despite its age, the Nebula’s ongoing renovation program keeps the motel upto-date. The Nebula was a winner of a Bicentennial Award for Excellence for its renovations and it still continues to be refreshed today so it can offer excellent, friendly service to its customers. A warm and friendly welcome awaits you at The Nebula.

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The Cooma Ex-Services Club

looking out for members new and old The Cooma Ex-Services Club was founded back in November 1950. The purpose of the formation of the Club was to give all Ex-Service personnel a place to meet and share the stories and friendships of fellow Ex-Service Men. In 1952, the Returned Services League purchased a building on the topside of the current Club, which was then located between the Odd Fellows Hall and the Convent School, which was known as the Aked Building. The then RSL President Mr John Body, and the Treasurer, Mr Arthur Johnson, carried out negotiations for the purchase of the building. They took the opportunity and purchased the building and land for eight hundred pounds. As a result of the purchase, they had some severe criticism from some members at the next RSL Sub-Branch meeting. Looking back, it was eight hundred pounds well invested, which the RSL was repaid by the Club Committee. The Club was then granted a liquor licence in November 1954. At the Annual General Meeting in September 1971, the members resolved that the Club is formed into a company to comply with the new section 134B of the NSW Liquor Act 1969, and the Club became a Limited Company on 4th

November 1971. The Ex-Services Club underwent a major refurbishment in 2012 and provides sponsorship for numerous sporting and community events as well as charities and fundraising. People can enjoy relaxing in front of the big screen and take advantage of the free wifi. The Club also features bistro style dining, regular karaoke and raffles on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Above: The Cooma Ex-Services Club in 2016.

The Cooma Ex-Services Club as it was in the 1950’s and 1960’s. 40


Your House gifts

homewares bedding

+RPHZDUHV *LIWZDUH 7KURZ UXJV &XVKLRQV -HZHOOHU\ %HGGLQJ

Beautiful gifts for any occasion Your House gifts

homewares bedding

75 Sharp St, Cooma P: 6452 2297 OPEN: Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat, 10am-1pm

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Enterprising Robinson’s Florist Jeff Robinson, from Cooma, met Maureen Erundell in Sydney on a blind date and they were married within a year. Accommodation was very difficult to find in Cooma in 1951, the year they married, and so they lived in a shed and cellar attached to an old house in Cromwell Street. as Their daughter Debra was 0 born three weeks early, 10 rmonths after they were married. Jeff worked with some off his brothers erecting fenc-d ing on properties all around the Monaro but at somee point around 1953 or 54 hee started a flower barrow justt next to the park on Fridays. He and Maureen also began to make artificial crepe paper flowers and made wreaths for funerals from them, in a shed near Brigidine Convent. Jeff and Merv Blattman met around this time and as Merv was building his Cooma Furniture store just near the bridge at 62 Sharp Street, he suggested that Jeff and Maureen have part of that building to begin a florist shop. So began a lifetime friendship between Merv and Jeff

and Maureen. Maureen did a course in floral arrangement with a professional in Sydney, possibly Lena Malouf, and so the business was up and running with flowers, garden plants, bushes and trees, fertilisers and sprays, wreaths and sheaths of flowers for fu-

nerals, wedding bouquets and lawn mowers. Through the years there was also gold fish, budgerigars and canaries, souvenirs and gifts. Flower orders were sent and received to and from all

oover the world and in particular E Europe. Maureen became a littl tle linguistic having to know a lit little about the words for street, ro road and other necessaries in a nu number of languages to receive an and send the messages. They be became members of Interflora. IIn 1955 Jeff and Maureen consid sidered themselves very lucky wh when they were allotted a new Housing Commission home in Sellar Street, Cooma. It was two bedroom and was about to be filled with a new baby, their son Steven. After a number of floods, when

Cooma Creek overflowed into the main street and into the furniture store and florist shops at 62 Sharp Street, Jeff and Maureen decided that they needed to move the business to higher ground. They found a shop near the top of the business area in Sharp St at No 178. A little later Jeff and Maureen bought the building at 178-180 Sharp Street that comprised four small shops that later became two larger shops and six flats that later became five flats. The florist shop occupied both 178 and 180 Sharp St at different times.

Service One helping Cooma since 1971 SERVICE ONE’s roots in Cooma date back to 1971, when a group of local residents got together at the Coach House Motor Inn to discuss an easier way for locals to access loans and deposit their money safely. As such, the Cooma Monaro Credit Union was formed. The credit union serviced the Cooma region by providing savings, investment and borrowing facilities to local residents. Through the 1970s, the credit union’s service area grew and with this, so did its name. In 1981, the Cooma Monaro Credit Union became the Snowy Mountains Credit Union. The name change was a logical choice given the credit union’s reach to service Members in the broader Snowy Mountains area. The next 20 years saw a period of steady growth as more

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and more locals sought to entrust their finance and banking needs with a local organisation. As regulatory and compliance requirements continued to place pressure on smaller credit unions across the country, in 2001, the Snowy Mountains Credit Union merged with The Credit Union of Canberra and Hospitals Credit Union to form part of Service One Credit Union. The name reinforced the one major element the credit union had forged its reputation on and that was about a personalised service experience. In March of 2015 the organisation saw another major development when it formed a strategic alliance with Bendigo and Adelaide Bank to become a social enterprise company,

enabling it to make an even greater impact on the social and community good in the region. In terms of the Cooma Branch location, it started on Sharp Street and then moved to Vale Street in 1986 before moving back to its current location on Sharp Street in 1999. The organisation may have seen many changes through the years, but the ethos of Members before profit remains very much in tact. SERVICE ONE continues to offer Members access to the competitive range of SERVICE ONE Alliance Bank branded products and services and Members are comforted by the fact they are supporting an organisation that truly supports the local region.


You’re very welcome at Your House “Your House� opened its doors at 75 Sharp Street in March 2013. Previous to that it was a cafe which closed its doors in 2012. So after a bit of a makeover and a dream by the current owner, “Your House� was born. It currently stocks beautiful homewares and unique gifts to suit any style and budget. In keeping with our wool growing area it

specialises in luxurious wool throws and gorgeous scarves to keep you warm and cosy in our cold winter months. Your House also has beautiful Sterling Silver jewellery a huge range of luxurious body products and candles, cushions galore, frames and many more beautiful things. We hope to be servicing our wonderful community for many years to come!

PERCY’S 1 9 6 6 S I N C E

PH: 6452 2880 ‡ 1HZVDJHQF\ ‡ 5HWDLO 6LWH ‡ :HE %XVLQHVV ‡ 7HOVWUD 6ROXWLRQV ‡ *LIW &DUGV ‡%RRN 3DFNV ‡ 6FKRRO 1HHGV ‡ 'LDULHV ‡ &DOHQGDUV ‡ $UW 6XSSOLHV ‡ L3KRQH $FFHVVRULHV ‡ 3ULQWHU &DUWULGJHV ‡ ¾ 7DEOHWV

158 SHARP ST, COOMA ‡ 1300 764 882 www.percys.com.au 43


Night Bird Cottage and decided it was time to stop dreami and start doing! ing Nikki and Sim mon provide old f fashioned, friendl service and a ly v vintage style that’s s straight from the h heart. Brimming w with rustic curios a and vintage wares, f from one-of-a-kind

Night Ni ht bi bird d C Cottage tt att 172 Sharp Street is formerly home to well-remembered businesses like Robersons Florist and Chrisfords Pharmacy. A charming destination, Nightbird Cottage Antiques and Collectables is an exciting addition to Cooma’s streetscape, opening its doors in November 2014.

ikki Sii For owners, Nikki mons and Simon Mansfield, Nightbird Cottage is the realisation of a lifelong dream. Connoisseurs of all things collectable, each made their home in Cooma, connected over an old aluminium bread bin,

antiques to handcrafted pieces by local artisans, an evolving selection of bespoke pieces can be enjoyed, touched and talked about. Nightbird Cottage is very excited about the Back to Cooma 2016 celebrations and look forward to welcoming new and old friends to the soulful surroundings of a space textured by one hundred years of history.

HOOKS

PHARMACY

Offering a complete range of professional services, Hooks is committed to Cooma and caring for Eden-Monaro. SERVICES: 'RVH $GPLQLVWUDWLRQ $LG '$$ :RXQG FDUH /HDYH FHUWLILFDWHV ,QIOXHQ]D YDFFLQDWLRQV $JHQW IRU 'LDEHWHV $XVWUDOLD 0HGLFDWLRQ FKHFNV

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Excluding some public holidays

Hooks P: 6452 1744 CHEMIST

44

140 - 148 Sharp St, Cooma

F: 6452 5395


Tradesman’s Centre When Deidre and Keith Simpson bought the t Tradesmen’s Centre in Sharp Street Cooma in 1971, they sold hand tools, paint, C a few locks and cut keys. For a time they also sold Makita power tools, getting it well known, before somet one o else took it over.

In that timeslot, they attended trade fairs at Polo Flat, advertising power tools and paint. When the Skitube and Blue Cow were being built all the paint came from the

Tradesmen’s Centre. These days they sell locks and lock hardware, safes, cut many keys and still sell some hand tools. They try to do interesting window displays for Australia Day, Anzac Day, Christmas and other times like motor bikes and historic occasions. Thankfully, the shop never got water damaged during the few w floods since 1971, the sandbags hhave always saved the day. Keith died in 1981 so Geoff beccame the master locksmith. The llocksmithing side of the business iis very interesting, never knowing what will be needed to be done w ffrom one hour to the next. Geoff, with his mobile worksshop, services all the Monaro and ssouth in to Victoria and he is asssisted by Chris Fox. They also work in the shop attending to customers, particularly those with lock problems. Deidre, now Deidre Clark, does office work, serves customers, cuts keys and is a person of influence.

HIGH COUNTRY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP -0$"--: 08/&% "/% 01&3"5&% Proud to support local community events and local sports. t 'JOBODF BWBJMBCMF t 4BUVSEBZ TFSWJDFT

WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON PRICE, TALK TO THE EXPERTS

HIGH COUNTRY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

PH: 6452 1077 | 4)"31 45 $00." | www.highcountryautomotivegroup.com.au Dealer Lic- 034504

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Stihl servicing the Monaro and Snowy Mountains

1930’S Saw Left: Timbersports started in 1985 with Australia being champions in 2016 comp. Stihl started in Australia in 1971 and has now expanded to over 445 specialist dealers in the country. Stihl shop Cooma opened in its current location at 44 Sharp st Cooma in December 2006, following on from previous dealers stocking the Stihl range who started in the region in the mid 1970’s. Stihl has historically been chain-

saw based, and has expanded over the years to become the worlds leading brand of chainsaws and the market leader in the outdoor power equipment industry. The Stihl product portfolio has grown to include the latest environmentally friendly equipment to suit current emissions controls and technology.

Servicing the Snowy and Monaro regions from the ACT border to the Victorian border, the business has grown since the early days of the Snowy scheme and we are proud to continue this service to the local region with a strong commitment to both service and quality products.

The Stihl Shop Cooma is the only Stihl retailer and authorised repair agent for the companies ever growing range of products in the Cooma region. The Stihl Shop Cooma is also an authorised repair agent for other brand equipment such as Craftsman, Dunlite and Masport to name a few.

Margaret Peterson

Robert Coyte

For all legal services including: ă &ULPLQDO /DZ ă :LOOV (VWDWHV ă 6XFFHVVLRQ 3ODQQLQJ ă )DPLO\ /DZ ă (PSOR\PHQW /DZ ă /DQG 8VH DQG 3ODQQLQJ /DZ ă 5XUDO &RPPHUFLDO DQG 5HVLGHQWLDO &RQYH\DQFLQJ $OO W\SHV RI OLWLJDWLRQ

39 Bombala Street, Cooma P: 6452 1266 F: 6452 1913 Email: info@bmrlawyers.com.au

114 Maybe Street, Bombala P: 6458 3686 F: 6458 3883 Email: bombala@bmrlawyers.com.au47


Continuing role of Cooma Hospital The original Cooma Hospital was established as a hut in 1858 and was cared for by an old woman. Situated in Lambie Street, it was large enough for two patients and was rented from James Hain at five shillings a week. The building situated in Bombala Street, on the outskirts of the town, has no record of its birth other than the date 1867, which is engraved in the masonry work of the main building. “There was very few hospitals in the ‘colony’ when ours was founded in 1858 by Archdeacon Druitt and

Robert Dawson. “The present site in Bombala Street was acquired and a building committee formed in 1860.” From 1860 the principle activities of the hospital were those of a General Hospital comprising a fever and accident ward and the usual female and male quarters. A maternity unit was established in 1920 and it was not until 1943 the principle activities increased, with the take-over of Sister R.M Brooks’ Maternity Hospital, where the Bunk

House Motel currently stands today. In 1953, the hospital’s bed capacity increased to 69 following the opening of the 28 bed Male Ward. This was increased to 88 beds in 1956, a year that also saw the introduction of a specialist X-ray service and the creation of the physiotherapy department. In 1959 the hospital became recognised as a training school for general nurses and the women’s auxiliary kiosk was established. This was followed by the remodelling of the Female Ward, lifting the lin hospital’s ho capacity to 111 beds, and the th construction of the physiotherapy block. bl In 1962 the hospital integrated with Goulburn G Base Hospital Regional Training T School for Student Nurses and an held the official opening of the Nurses’ N Training School Building. 1973 saw an announcement by the Minister M for Health to the then Chairman m of the Board, Hayden Litchfield, that th $2.5 million would be provided for fo a new hospital. This was followed by an affiliation t with Prince Henry and Prince of Wales hospitals in Sydney to take Cooma student nurses for clinical experience. In 1979 the Jack Howard Memorial Day Care and Rehabilitation Centre was opened and extensive modernisation of the Community Health Centre was carried out. The tender for a new 61-bed ward was accepted this year, and work commenced in 1980. Stage 1 of the new hospital was completed in 1981, costing $3,000,000. Construction of stage 2 began in 1984 with

the $4,300,000 project aiming to provide a new main entrance from Vale Street, new administration offices and new Operating Theatre facilities. The new hospital was opened in 1986 by Minister for Health Barrie Unsworth. Community health was relocated to the original Cooma Hospital building and the radiology department was re-established, consisting of two X-ray rooms, an ultrasound unit and two mobile X-ray units. The $300,000 hydrotherapy pool was opened in 1994 with funding coming in equal parts from the NSW Health Department and the community. A Cardiac Rehab program was introduced to Cooma hospital and surrounding areas in 1997 and the Thredbo disaster was recognised as Cooma Hospital’s first disaster. Community Health expanded in to the previous maternity building in 2000 and in 2007 the Cooma Hospital Helipad was announced ‘ready for landing’. In 2007 an Oncology Unit was opened, with a Renal Dialysis Unit in 2014. In 2015 a Rural Nursing & Midwifery Clinical School was opened at Cooma Health Service. This is the first of its kind in Rural NSW and is in partnership with CSU University of Wollongong. The school is focusing on increasing clinical placement, clinical projects & staff education. $5 million was allocated to an Education Centre at Cooma Health service as well as $10 million for the redevelopment in planning stages for the Emergency department, Maternity Unit & Ambulatory Services.

CRIME CORRECTIVE SERVICES NSW

$00." 4"/% $0/$3&5& 15: -5% 2VBMJUZ $POTUSVDUJPO .BUFSJBM 4VQQMJFST

t $PODSFUF t &BSUINPWJOH t (SBWFMT t )FBWZ )BVMBHF t 1MBOU )JSF t 3PBECBTF t 4BOE BOE 4PJMT t 5SVDL )JSF t 8BUFS 5BOLFS 48

1PMP 'MBU 3E $PPNB

THROUGH TIME MUSEUM COOMA FREE ADMISSION

BUS BOOKING BY APPOINTMENT OPEN TUESDAY TO FRIDAY: 12:30 TO 3:00 SATURDAY: 9:00 TO 3:00

FOR FURTHER INQUIRES, PLEASE CONTACT THE MUSEUM ON 6452 5974


COOMA FURNISHING CO Cooma Furnishings was First Established by Merv Blattman in 1953. Offering multiple services such as selling new & used furniture, Licensed Auctioneer and trade-in of furniture. As a licensed Auctioneer Merv held monthly auctions at the rear of the shop on the vacant lot, this proved to be a great social event for the community

Nick Giuliani started with Merv in 1964 and was given the opportunity to take over in 1974. Over the years the business has grown and includes carpet, window furnishings, bedding & furniture.

Servicing the locals of the Cooma Monaro, Snowy Mountains and Bombala region for over 60 years the family run business strives to offer our customers the best range and price. Being part of the following chains gives us this opportunity.....

COOMA FURNISHING CO 62 Sharp St COOMA NSW 2630 P. (02) 6452 1499

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Cooma Chamber of Commerce In 1989 the Cooma Chamber of Commerce was incorporated. In 2003 the Chamber went through a period of reinvigoration headed by Cath McGraw of Cooma Flower Shop and Jono Forrest of Boyce Chartered Accountants which saw the Cooma Chamber of Commerce grow to new heights. Other key members in 2003 were Richard Mack, Loraine Courtis and Chris Reeves. The Cooma Chamber of Commerce now consists of Kathy Kelly, President and Treasurer, Boyce Chartered Accountants; Richard Mack, Vice President, Mack’s Autos and Tyre

Centre; Suzanne Dunning, Secretary, Cooma Visitor Centre; Louise Lynch, Your House; Mark Herbert, BMR Lawyers; Mark George, Subway; David Crawford, High Country Automotive; Steve Allen, Cromwell House and Heath Woolley, Snowy Hydro. The Chamber now has a formal resource for its operations in Karen McGufficke as Executive Officer. The Cooma Chamber of Commerce’s vision is to be the voice of business in the local region by helping them meet the opportunities and challenges facing business today, to promote growth and be an advocate for local and regional businesses, to establish good

relationships between members in a competitive commercial environment and to drive the interests and health of the business and commercial sector. The recent success of the shire instigated “So Much to Love” and Chamber “Love to Shop” campaigns have seen the Cooma Chamber of Commerce double its membership. The next exciting initiative from the Cooma Chamber of Commerce will see the Why Leave Town Gift Card promotion, to be launched in April, which is designed to encourage shopping locally.

Stock and Station agents – The backbone of the Monaro

Records show that an amount of £410 was borrowed from Council to construct the Cooma saleyards in 1910. The amount was paid back in full in 1915, with the first municipal livestock sale in 1913. New sheepyards were constructed on the Monaro Highway site in 1992. Bill Smith came to Cooma in 1968, transferred from Gilgandra to be a stock and station agent for the area. Bill says that during his time there have been many ups and downs, with some long and trying droughts and huge price

fluctuations it was often hard going. Other stock and station agents in the area during Bill’s time were Jim Quodling, Frank Montague and Harold Walker and Bill said they all got along well. Other changes that Bill has noticed include the shift from popularity of Hereford to Black Angus cattle; the growth of the local abattoir once Monbeef took over in 1998; the change in transporting stock, becoming much easier with B double trucks. When he first started, the most cattle you could

fit on a truck was 25 and 250 sheep. Now there can be 60-120 cattle and 650-750 sheep. Bill also says that computer aided livestock marketing (CALM) has been a game changer and with the new South East Livestock Exchange saleyards being constructed in Yass, the future operation of the Cooma saleyards will be greatly impacted. Current stock and station agents in Cooma include Boller & Co,

Elders Ltd, John Mooney & Co, Landmark Ltd, Monaro Livestock and Property and Leigh Stewart.

THE NAME OF THE COMPANY- THAT BUILT THE SAW 7+$7 +(/3(' %8,/' 7+( 612:<·6 It is often said the Stihl Contra / Lightning introduced in 1959 was the first true one man, all positon, lightweight heavy duty chainsaw that still lives today in the 070/090 design. The MS 661 C-M the latest chainsaw in the range is a UXJJHG DOO URXQGHU HTXLSSHG ZLWK 67,+/·V HQYLURQPHQtally friendly 2-MIX engine technology for less fuel consumption, less emissions and outstanding cutting performance. The most popular commercial chainsaw in the world for felling, trimming & all commercial forestry applications.

Stihl Shop Cooma 44 Sharp Street COOMA 2630 Ph: 02 6452 4956 50


Cooma Challenge Limited providing disability support for more than 60 years Cooma Challenge Limited’s mission is to provide support to people to enable them to participate and be included in the community. Behind the name Cooma Challenge Limited is a history reflecting the dedication of a great many people from the Cooma district who have worked to ensure our mission has come to fruition. Our story began in 1954 when a group of parents formed the Cooma branch of the Subnormal Children’s Welfare Association. Over the next few years the organisation worked with the Snowy Mountains Authority, the local branch of Soroptimists and Federal Government to procure buildings and land, and support became available for both children and adults with disability. Locals will recall the site know as ‘Pine Lodge’, on the corner of Soho

and Cromwell Streets, and the former Cooma East school which became our activities and training centre .Both sires are still used by the organisation, but for different purposes now. Much later, in 2002, a submission to the NSW Department of Corrective Services resulted in increased space for administration offices and support provision. As well as schooling, supported employment and life skills training, supported accommodation was available for people from more remote areas staying in town. In 1985 we became a branch of the Challenge Foundation of NSW. Then in 1993, we became a chartered company under our current name, Cooma Challenge Limited. From 2005 we have been providing support for older people and people with dementia

as well as respite for their carers via our day centre and a cottage for overnight stays. In 2012 Monaro Family Day Care, a home-based childcare organisation, joined the Challenge family. What began as a struggling community-financed school for children with intellectual disability has evolved into an organisation supporting the needs of people of all ages across the Monaro, including the Bombala and Showy River Shires, through 20 different services. Having celebrated our 60th anniversary in 2014 we continue to be a dynamic organisation that meets the challenge of care in the community, and we look forward to our next 60 years.

TAFE’s busy Cooma Campus

Set amongst rolling plains with snow-covered peaks in the distance, Cooma Campus is located in the Snowy Mountains’ largest town. The campus has developed flexible delivery strategies to service a large area with a small population. Students have the opportunity to participate in a range of courses including business services, automotive, welding, information technology, tourism and hospitality, agriculture, building and general education. A range of courses are also of-

m fered through the Fast Track Training arm including customised training onsite, traineeships, apprenticeships and short courses to meet demand and legislative requirements. The Campus also has Access Centres at Bombala and Jindabyne. Campus contact details Street Address: 66 Commissioner Street Cooma 2630 Postal Address: PO Box 777 COOMA 2630 Telephone: 1300 766 123 local Phone: 6452 0799

We RECYCLE Here TOSO LMUCHVE

COOMA MONARO RESOURCE & WASTE SERVICES

lovecooma.com

FIRST RECYCLE TRUCK

1913

WASTE CREW 1996

1990’s 2016 RECYCLE TRUCK 2016

2016

81 Commissioner St, Cooma t Ph: 6455 1921 t www.cooma.nsw.gov.au51


Helping mums and bubs since 1977 After almost 40 years, the Australian Breast Feeding Association (ABA) Snowy Monaro Group is still going strong. Nine mothers attended the first meeting held in April of that first year. It was established from the beginning as a model of mother-to-mother support that equipped Cooma women to offer breastfeeding assistance and parenting support through the local group. Over the years, the group has held discus-

sion meetings on parenting and breastfeeding topics, held coffee mornings, fundraising lunches, sold raffle tickets and celebrated with picnics and BBQs. The topics for discussion in the early days such as introducing solids, sleep and settling and breastfeeding tips, are just as popular with mums today. The Cooma Group has enjoyed a good relationship with the maternity unit at Cooma hospital since the early days of the group, with pre-birth classes held at there for the

last 20 years. Since the early days of the Cooma Group they have provided baby change and feed tents at local events including the Cooma Show. The group has been led by many capable women who have trained with ABA to be breastfeeding counsellors and community educators helping many women on their parenting journey here in Cooma and throughout Australia.

Snowy Monaro Arts Council a major contributor to the arts The Snowy Monaro Arts Council, affiliated with NSW Regional Arts, is a not for profit music interest community group based in Cooma. The Arts Council was formed many years ago for the purpose of offering quality music performances to local audiences. At least six concerts are held each year. As well as bringing highly distinguished performers such as Simon Tedeschi (pianist), David Pereira (Cellist) and others,

including students from the Conservatorium of Music to Cooma, the Arts Council supports local student musicians, actors and dancers through the annual “Young at Art� concert. Some years ago the Arts Council organised a community fundraising effort for the purchase of a quality grand piano. This was highly successful and resulted in the John Laught Memorial Grand Piano being purchased within six months of the

piano fund’s establishment. The grand piano is available for use by all community members on request. The Snowy Monaro Arts Council is run by community volunteers. As a not for profit organisation, memberships and door takings form the income by which concerts are funded. The Arts Council is a major contributor to the local arts scene.

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53


Cooma Salvos providing a vital service The Salvation Army made its first appearance in Cooma as early as 1887, when it was opened as a ‘station’ by a Captain H. B. Steven. The Salvation Army Cavalry Fort called “Aggressive� pitched its tent in the town under the rule of Captain Bob Jackaman. Despite such an enthusiastic start, The Salvation Army didn’t take hold in Cooma at that early stage. In 1954 Major and Mrs Gordon Fletcher arrived in Cooma to recommence operations in the district with the Snowy Mountains Field Unit. The Salvation Army’s Field Units were an advanced version of the horse drawn Cavalry Forts - motor vehicles designed for outback ministry. The ‘Snowy Salvos’ as they were known, travelled from camp to camp, offering Snowy Mountain Scheme workers practical and emotional support, and a listening ear in both good times and bad. Conditions were rugged, and a newsletter, written by the pair in September 1955, records: ‘Caught in blizzard two miles from Happy Jacks. Put on chains. Snowplough came out but bogged with snow over wheels. Turned back and tried to reach Adaminaby but couldn’t make it. Have been waiting three days and no vehicles have come through. We have food and kerosene for another three days and we are melting snow for water. As well as traversing the icy roads between Snowy Scheme camps to conduct meetings and support workers, in 1959, The Salvation Army started corps (church) work in Cooma and soon afterwards it opened its first building in the town. On its first anniversary as a corps the Cooma-Monaro Express published

a Salvation Army supplement which included tributes of thanks from the local community, prisoners in the local gaol and ex-servicemen. Edward Slattery of Cooma was a teenage butcher when he was won for Christ and decided to become an officer. He entered training in 1898 and his long and honourable service as an active officer concluded with a term as Chief Secretary (second in command) in Australia South.

Captain D G Fletcher and Mrs Fletcher with The Salvation Army’s Snowy Mountains Field Unit circa 1954. Chris Witts was a young radio announcer with a career ahead of him when he joined The Salvation Army in Cooma. He’s quoted in Booth’s Drum as saying “when I came off the air I was an empty, unhappy individual who was merely living on the outside. The Salvation Army was my first contact with a vibrant, hand-clapping, joyful faith. I saw in these people an honesty and sincerity I wanted

so much for myself.� Chris went on to become a Salvation Army officer and has continued to use his broadcast skills in ministry as managing director of Christian radio 2CBA FM (now Hope 103.2) and his popular morning devotion segment has been running on Hope 103.2 for the past 19 years. It’s often said The Salvation Army has a ministry of ‘presence’ - of being there in times of need. When a landslide wiped out a section of the ski-resort at Thredbo in 1997, The Salvation Army was on hand to assist in the rescue effort and to help rescue-workers, volunteers and families of victims by providing a basic catering service, counselling, and chaplaincy support. Over a period of eight days, 16,000 meals and refreshments were provided. Today, the Salvos in Cooma remain a vital presence in the community, offering spiritual and emotional support, church services, welfare support, a Salvation Army Emergency Services team and a family store. Recognising a need to support locals and seasonal workers during the ski-season, Cooma Salvation Army launched the Salvos Snow Mission in 2012 and in 2016 the fifth Salvos Snow Mission will be held in Jindabyne. “We provide a comfortable warm place where people can come in and meet friends and build safe networks at the beginning of the Ski season. Hot drinks, fresh fruit and biscuits are provided and in 2015, 1,515 evening meals were served. People from all over the World tell their friends to look us up, with the message that Cooma Salvos will look after them.�

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Sir William Hudson Memorial Centre stands for strength, courage and determination In 1978 following community meetings, the Cooma District Nursing Home Association was formed to investigate the facilities needed in the area for the aged and infirm. With the assistance of three local government councils, government grants and the local community, Sir William Hudson Memorial Centre (SWHMC) was built, named after Sir William Hudson the NSW Chief Civil Engineer head of construction of the Snowy River Scheme. The home stands today honouring his strength, courage and determination. SWHMC was officially opened on May 1, 1982 with residents being admitted from January 1982. The addition of a 20 bed dementia specific low care unit (Arthur Miles Wing) in 2007 provided a secure environment. In July 2014 SWHMC opened a new ten bed wing increasing the bed availability to 72. With

Government changes allowing ageing in place, there is no longer a distinction between high and low care residents. SWHMC is a reputable, not for profit organisation that provides quality aged residential care in Cooma in a happy environment, upholding dignity and compassion for our residents. SWHMC is committed to continuous improvement, promoting choice, dignity and independence of residents whilst embracing cultural diversity. Services SWHMC offers care to 72 residents- 20 beds in Arthur Miles wing (1 respite bed), and 52 in main stream care (1 respite bed). A Registered Nurse is available 24 hours a day to discuss any suggestions or concerns with you and your family. All catering and laundry services are done on site.

Raglan Gallery

committed to quality art The Raglan has been a favourite Cooma destination for art and community activity since 1968, when Betty Gibson, Jenny Makinson and Pauline Hunter saw the potential for the former Lord Raglan Inn to be used as an art gallery. Owner Lindsay Hain was delighted to see the historic building, constructed by his ancestors in 1854, being put to good use. The trio refurbished the Inn, and the gallery was born. It continued under various lessees, most notably Mrs Theila Mlilner (1972-1992). In 1994 a group led by Mrs Susan Mitchell persuaded Cooma-Monaro Shire Council (owners since 1984) that the gallery could be run successfully as a not-for-profit venture by a volunteer organisation. The Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre was incorporated, and a new phase of the Raglan’s life commenced. With Patrons Barbara Litchfield and Imants Tillers, the gallery continues to be administered and operated by volunteers - a board and general members who staff the gallery each week and maintain the building and gardens. Monday art classes, open to all levels of experience, are held in conjunction with the Monaro Art Group, and there are specialist workshops throughout the year. Raglan artists display art in the new Renal Unit to brighten the

Last and Maxwell John Last B LEG S NOTARY PUBLIC

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view for dialysis patients. After a successful public fund-raising campaign, a purpose built gallery and storeroom was completed behind the original building in 2014. Officially opened in 2015, the Imants Tillers Wing has doubled the gallery’s exhibition area, providing the ideal setting for large paintings and sculpture, classes and workshops. The extension provides parking and facilities for disabled patrons. Expansion has provided other opportunities. The gallery shop has larger space and Cooma Historical Society now occupies a room in the original Inn with displays of historical documents and memorabilia. The area between the old and new buildings forms a sunny courtyard, and the rear garden has been landscaped as a woodland of silver birch trees. Original plantings still delight visitors to the lovingly maintained heritage garden. The Raglan is committed to being a space for local artists and to bringing quality art to local audiences. We hold annual exhibitions for NAIDOC and senior secondary students’ art, as well as the Briscoe Competition, now in its 17th year. Our reach and reputation continue to grow. Up to sixteen exhibitions - featuring local, interstate and overseas artists - will be held at the Raglan in 2016.

Last and Maxwell is a long established firm of solicitors established by John Last and Donald Maxwell in 1985 in premises above Percy’s Newsagency at 154 Sharp Street, Cooma. The firm continued to operate in those premises for 27 years.

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In 2007 the firm opened another office in Nuggets Crossing Jindabyne. The firm currently operates with four experienced solicitors and seven support staff in the Cooma and Jindabyne offices where they offer a wide range of legal serves for businesses and individuals. 55


A very busy Cooma Lions Club

The now worldwide humanitarian organisation Lions Club International was founded in 1917 and arrived in Australia in 1947. Cooma Lions Club was formed in 1959 and officially chartered on 12 February 1960. Queanbeyan and Canberra City Lions Clubs mentored Cooma and John Mack and Cleve Maher were the local leaders in the Club’s establishment. Cooma Lions Club now looks back proudly on 56 years of active commitment to the community and the service activities of the wider Lions organisation. The Club has sponsored four new Lions Clubs (Bega, Bombala, Jindabyne and Adaminaby) and organised four district conventions (1972, 1979, 1994 and 2007). Over the years, Cooma Lions have undertaken many and varied fundraising activities to finance its welfare work and community projects. In the 1960s the Lions performed clean-ups of the overgrown Cooma Mittagang Cemetery and set up a permanent trust which managed it for years, until all public cemeteries were bequeathed to the local government. During this period the Lions Club also performed fundraising for and construction of an urgently needed teacher’s house for Pine Lodge Opportunity School. The Aviation Pioneers Memorial and Southern Cloud Park was prompted by the discovery of the wreckage of the Southern Cloud victims in the Snowy Mountains in 1958. The members of the Cooma Lions Club spent many arduous hours recovering some of the aircraft wreckage from the mountains and building the striking reinforced concrete structure that stands by the Snowy Mountains

Highway in Cooma to commemorate the efforts and sacrifices of Australian Aviation Pioneers. After 200 man hours of effort and community support the project was completed in 1962 and the Cooma Lions Club produced a 16mm sound film, which relates the story of the ill fated aircraft. The Club has also installed a four track button operated sound machine with Southern Cloud and local information. Southern Cloud Park is maintained by the Lions Club. Other projects carried out with Lions Club involvement in the 1960s include Mittagang Road pine plantation, Lambie Street Preschool construction, the Lions Park in Church Road and Howitzer and the Festival of the Snows Processions and floats. In the 1970s, the Lions Club continued organising annual Festival Processions and entered ambitious floats. The Lions Club also contributed to the erection of the memorial wall and gates at the cemetery and assisted with major community fundraising for the proposed nursing home. The 1980s saw the construction of the seven hectare Mittagang Road/Yallakool Road Park. This occupied four years and 2,400 man hours for Lions. There were also some government grants and Council and community input. The Lions Club contributed $5,600 and donated the land, which was part of the pine plantation site purchased from the Snowy Mountains Authority. The remainder of the land was sold by the Club to help fund the project. The park was completed in 1985. In 1984 the Club combined with the Monaro Art Group to inaugurate an annual charity art show, which ran successfully until the final

show in 2015. 1984 also saw the establishment of a large print Cooma and District Telephone Directory, which the Club has produced every two years. The 12th edition will be published in 2016. In the 1990s the Lions built the junior sports shelter at Nijong and continued the annual Identikid Programme, started in the 1980s. The Cooma Back Creek beautification scheme commenced and the Lions contributed various equipment and garden beds to Yallambee Lodge aged hostel. Since 2000, The Lions have carried out Vale Street improvements for Cooma Sesquicentenary including pathways, commemorative wall, fencing and retaining wall, podium, the relocation of the WW1 Howitzer and searing. They continued the longstanding annual Youth of the Year program and contributed to the Bicycles for East Timor Project. The Lions are involved with the Santas and Snowmen to decorate the CBD and provide funds for club projects, and the annual Sister City Youth Exchange programme with Kamoto/Yamaga has been re-established. In 2016 a major upgrade of the Mittagang Road Park by Lions and Council will commence, funded by a $307,000 Clubs NSW Grant, with a pathway from Aviation Pioneers Memorial to Lambie Gorge, assisted by building students from Monaro High School. Other projects include refurbishment of the Nurses Quarters at Cooma Hospital, assisted by grants from MCCR and NSW Government; and in 2013 the Monaro High School Leo Club was formed – a Lions mentored junior community service club, which is doing great work.

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Vinnies has been part of the Cooma community for over 50 years. Funds raised through the Vinnies shop help to give a hand up to people in need in the community. 27 Vale St, Cooma www.vinnies.org.au


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McCR fights cancer A common ground for the Cooma community

The Monaro Committee for Cancer Research Inc (MCCR) was formed at by Jackie Sellars (Rose) whose young mother, Helen, died in 1996 after a five year battle with cancer. Inspired by her mother’s courage and spirit, Jackie was determined to ‘do something’ to continue the fight against cancer. The Committee is a non-profit organisation, run by Monaro volunteers. The original aim was to hold a major fundraiser in the Monaro district every three to four years. Funds from the functions have been distributed in two main directions – research and support for local cancer care facilities.

Research funds have been sent to The Department of Cancer Medicine at Sydney University. Head of the Department, Professor Martin Tattersall, takes a personal interest in the MCCR and has been present at all three major functions. In 2011 they donated research funds to the Medical Oncology Research Unit at Canberra Hospital. The majority of funds raised have been used for creating assistance for our cancer care nurses caring for patients in the Monaro region. In addition, equipment has been purchased for Delegate, Bombala and Cooma Health Services.

The Cooma Com-munity Garden is a volunteer organisation n open to all memberss of the community.. Located at 61 Soho Street, the group holds weekly garden gatherings, regular working bees and many special events throughout the year. The first committee was formed in 2008, with the garden opening in September 2009. The group has also published a Seasonal Vegetable Guide specific to the Monaro climate, which is available from the Cooma Visitors Centre. It is also used as a learning space, with children from OOSH being involved in cooking classes using the fresh produce in the garden. There are also workshops based on learning how to build a garden bed from

scratch and on propagation. There are also plots available to rent for those who do not have the space to have their own garden at home, or who want to take advantage of the gentle climate the garden is set in. New members are always welcome and all the details can be found on the website.

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Cooma Rotary’s

Community Chest

helping those in need The Community Chest is a local charity that was established in April 2013 to provide financial and non-financial support to families and individuals on the Monaro who are suffering from health issues or financial or social difficulties. Initially the group was established by Marnie Stewart, Kirsty Salvestro, Betty McCabe, Coral Mackenzie, Joan Simpson, Kade Morrell, Elaine Schofield, Pam Johnson, Damien Kenneally, Lesley Lloyd, Kathy Bashford, Terri Rick and Paul Cohen. It has since grown to a fundraising group of twelve people plus 125 financial members who contribute annually. Many fundraisers and functions have been held during this time to raise money. These include a charity auction, several trivia nights, the Garage Sale Trail, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the ‘Fashionation’ fashion parade. With the funds raised The Community Chest has been able to assist many families with direct financial support, such as paying for medical

bills, costs associated with travelling for medical treatment, medical equipment, utility bills, food, clothing and supplies. They also have some ongoing programs such as the Community Care Baskets for people in hospital, Christmas hampers, the Preschool Scholarship Fund and Keeping Kids in Sport; all of which are aimed at helping families and individuals who could not otherwise afford these goods and services. In October 2015, Junior Community Chest was established to involve local young people in learning what they can do to help the community. Everyone involved with The Community Chest is very proud of the charity and they are always open to accept new members, donations or certainly just support at one of their events. People are also welcome to contact The Community Chest if they or anyone they know is in need and they would be pleased to help in any way they can.

One of our senior stores

proud history of service Formed in 1953 and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Queanbeyan, the Cooma Rotary Club consisted of 27 members including some well-known names such as Jim Quodling, John Scott, Sir William Hudson, Dr Dick West, and Lindsay Hain. The work categories covered a variety of professions and trade, just as happens today. The motto, ‘Service Above Self’, underpins all the endeavours of the club which aims to encourage and foster • the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service • high ethical standards in business and professions, recognising the worthiness of all useful occupations, especially as they serve society • the application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian • the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace. At one stage the rules of Rotary stipulated that there should be just one person in each category, but the rule has been relaxed over the years and now the requirement is not about occupation, but about the willingness of members to work for the ideals of Rotary. Over the years many thousands of dollars have been raised to fund proj-

ects both local and in other places. At present there are 52 members of the club which is headed by a board of directors: Neil Brown (President), Dugald Mitchell (Treasurer), Les Sutcliffe (Secretary), Peter Davis (Foundation), Ashley Constance (New Generations), Geoff Bowland (International), John Chapman (Community Service), Brian Jeffries S (Vocational), Mark Coo(V per p (Club Service and President Elect) and P Margaret Hassall (ExM ecutive Secretary). The e principal fundraising p activity is the Rotary a High Country Markets H held h on the third Sunday of each month. In the local area, there are many projects that have been supported by the club: Rotary Oval, Norris Park, the hospital, the paving in Centennial Park, the Rotary Youth Leadership Award and Student Exchange over many years, Cooma Heritage Walk, the skate park, Yallambee Lodge, Sir William Hudson Memorial Centre, the Monaro Early Intervention Service, and many others. In 2013, the 60th year of the club’s existence, seats for Sharp Street were donated as a gesture of thanks to the people of Cooma who have enabled the Club to raise funds to benefit this community and people further afield.

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St Patrick’s Catholic Parish Cooma The first Catholic Masses were celebrated on the Monaro in the 1830’s, by visiting priests from Goulburn. By the 1850’s Cooma was a parish in its own right. The church at the time was located on land on a large block bounded by Commissioner, Bombala and Sharpe Streets. The present church, in Murray Street was built in 1877. The Convent was built a little later in 1884. Today, the parish is made up of Cooma, Adaminaby, Bredbo, Jerangle, Numeralla and Nimmitabel. Mass times in Cooma are – Saturday night Vigil at 6pm and Sunday morning at 10am. The priests serving the parish today are Fr Mick Mac Andrew and Fr George Ogah. Telephone 6452 2062 for more details. E-mail coomaparish@bigpond.com

Striving for the highest for 63 years Built by the Snowy Mountains Authority in 1953, Cooma North Primary School provides diverse, challenging and inspiring educational programs to support and enrich the learning of our 340 students. Our school provides a safe a nurturing environment for our students. We pride ourselves on being a supportive public school that focuses on ‘Positive Behaviour for Learning’ where all students are explicitly taught skills and strategies to build positive relationships with peers and adults. Extensive technology resources, outstanding per-

forming arts opportunities, and programs that deepen students’ understanding of environmental issues and sustainability, are offered to our students. Our skilled and experienced teachers are highly qualified professionals, committed to delivering programs that achieve the best outcomes for our students. Our students, parents, staff and the wider community work together as a team to enhance the learning experiences of all students. We are committed to creating life-long learners who lead fulfilling lives, valuing themselves and others.

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Dive into the history of the

Cooma Festival Swimming Pool Funds to construct the Cooma Festival Swimming Pool were raised at the 1958 Festival of the Snows event. ÂŁ25,000 was collected at the event, determined to be one of the most successful community festivals held in Australia. The Snowy Mountains Authority (SMA) also subsidised the con-

struction of the pool. So o with the generosity off the community and off Edgar Kaiser, a contractor for the SMA, the pool was built and officially opened 17 October 1959 by Mayor Alderman Lindsey Hain.

Redeveloped in 1995, the main sswimming pool was divided into ttwo. Having both these and the ttoddler’s pool painted, the place llooked brand new again. The rredevelopment also included the construction of a permanent cover over the main pools and a shade over the toddler’s pool.

Another major upgrade took place in 2009, with the original building and amenities block removed. New amenities, office, kiosk, kitchen, storerooms and dining areas were built, with new paving and a larger covered area also provided.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL INVOLVED IN THIS LOCAL EVENT, THE BACK TO COOMA CELEBRATIONS. Licence No. 1722 | Contractors No A 2605

3 | 0 F. 6452 1021 | E. ietrich@bigpond.com | PO Box 987, Cooma 2630

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Basketball Basketball was first played in Cooma in 1938 at the gaol and at Cooma Public School. The first organised association was formed in the 1950s and was played outdoors at Kennedy’s Tennis Courts. In the late 1950s, basketball was moved indoors to a hall owned by the Snowy Mountains Authority in Bolaro Street where it is still played today. The driving forces behind basketball at this time were Mr and Mrs Jim Brittingham and Fred Oska, with Jim becoming Cooma’s first qualified referee. Basketball was introduced to the high schools in the early 1960s and a junior competition commenced. The number of people playing the sport slumped in 1966, but a big drive by the few interested people saw a resurgence, with games being played every night and all day Saturday and by 1979 there was 135 teams and over 840 players. The association built a new stadium which was unofficially opened in 1979 with a game between the visiting South Dakota All Stars team and Cooma’s top men players. The stadium was officially opened in 1980 and continues to be used for basketball.

Cooma Athletics Inc Cooma Athletics Club was founded in 1981 as part of the NSW Association of Amateur Athletics Clubs. In 1988, Cooma Athletics was given permission to join with Athletics ACT and continues this association today. Cooma Athletics Inc holds events on a weekly basis in a season that runs in Cooma from October to April at Snowy Oval in Cooma North. Children of the Monaro

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from the age of 5 to 15 compete in all athletics events – jumps, throws, sprints, middle and long distance running – and also participate throughout the year in events at a regional, state and national level. Cooma Athletics would not exist without the dedication of all the parents of the Club – those who volunteer on the Committee, as officials at weekly competition

and in bringing their children and encouraging them every week. We are also proudly supported by local businesses and Cooma Monaro Shire Council. If you are interested in joining Cooma Athletics you can find out more on our website: www.coomaathletics.org.au or email us at coomaathletics@gmail.com

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Cooma Rifle Club

Cooma Bocce Club

Cooma Rifle Club was formed in August 1902. It has had many distinguished and competent ‘crack shots’ over its history. Although small in numbers, the club still meets on Saturday mornings at the Cooma Rifle Range.

Cooma Bowling Club a well kept secret

The Cooma Men’s Bowling Club was first formed in 1921 when a limited liability company was formed and a block of land was purchased in Vale Street. Members took part in Country Week and the South Coast District competitions and had visits from other Southern NSW teams. After World War 2, Cooma was without a bowling club until 1954 when the bowling club was re-established. In 1969, disaster struck when the weatherboard clubhouse was razed by fire. A new clubhouse was erected on newly purchased land on the opposite side of the greens and was officially opened in 1971. The Cooma Women’s club was formed by a small group in 1956, with Mrs H

Goodwin being the first president. In the early days, there was about 22 lady associates, a number that has risen significantly in recent times. The ladies had been affiliated with the Federal District in the Australian Capital Territory but in 1978 a new district was formed – The Snowy Mountains District Women’s Bowls Association where Cooma is still a member. The club has an active membership of men and women bowlers who play both competition and social bowls on weekends and a number of days through the week. The Club features a bistro and a bar and considers itself to be the best kept secret in town.

In 1986, the president of the Marco Polo club in Quenbeyan approached Cooma’s Italian community and invited them to make up a team to play bocce. Following an enjoyable outing, the then Local Member for Monaro and patron of the Quenbeyan Bocce Club John Akister suggested Cooma form their own club, and he organised some crown land for this

purpose. Land at Ti-Tree Recreational Reserve was allocated and grant money was secured for the construction of the playing lanes and a clubhouse, on a dollar for dollar basis. Today, the members are very proud of their clubhouse and four all weather playing lanes which are in regular use.

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Get racing at

Ti Tree Racecourse Cooma has held race meetings since 1856 – in fact, local meetings are older than the Melbourne Cup. For the last 22 years, The Sundowners’ Cup has joined the Cooma Cup as a feature of the annual race meeting at Ti Tree racecourse. The Sundowners’ offers great prize money for maiden horses (horses which have not won a race) while the prestigious Cooma Cup offers good money for runners over 1600m. The Cooma races are held on the first Saturday in December each year. Race day has become the single biggest social event on the Cooma calendar, attracting upwards of 3000 patrons to the track. Not only does race day offer good racing for astute

Cooma Trout Acclimatisation Association in charge of local trout fishing

punters, but it allows local fashionistas an opportunity to put on their finest and enter the Fashions on the Field. This very popular component of the races offers substantial prizes for a variety of categories, including best hat and best-dressed couple. Many people use the Cooma races as their work Christmas party.

Originally the Cooma Trout Fisherman’s Club founded in 1949 and then became the Cooma branch of the Monaro Acclimatisation Society in 1955. In 1992, The Cooma branch was incorporated and renamed the Cooma Trout Acclimatisation Association. As a branch of the Monaro Acclimatisation Society, the CTAA is responsible for stocking rainbow and brown trout fry and fingerlings in the Badja River, Numeralla River, Murrumbidgee River, McLaughlin River, Peppers Creek, Rock Flat Creek and Wullwye Creek. The Association’s Annual General Meeting takes place on the first Friday in November, February, May and August. All meetings are held at Bidgee Lodge commencing at 8pm. THE CTAA financial year starts on October 1 when annual contributions for membership fall due. New members joining after June 30 each year remain financial until September 30 of the following year.

The joining fee is $20 plus an annual subscription fee of $30 for adults of $40 for families. Annual membership for juniors under 18 is free. Rod and Line, the Association’s journal, is published approximately four times a year, generally in Feruary, May, August and November. The journal is distributed free to members. CTAA maintain Bidgee Lodge, the centre of activities for the Cooma Trout Acclimatisation Association. Regular Monaro Acclimatisation Society meetings are held there and the Lodge is sometimes used by other fishing clubs. It is available for members and their guests to use for social events and accommodation. The ambience and history of the Lodge are always appreciated by those who visit. General correspondence to the CTAA should be addressed to Cooma Trout Acclimatisation Association, PO Box 1469, Cooma, NSW 2640 or email: johnkillip@bigpond.com

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Cooma show The Cooma Show is celebrating its 141st year in 2016. It was originally held where Centennial Park now is, but later moved to an area off Mittagang Road and later still, to land near the Cooma Railway Station. With the advent of the railway, the Cooma Pastoral and Agricultural Association moved its operation to land bounded by Boundary and Cromwell Streets. Over years, the area was improved, the creek bank stabilised with willow and poplar trees, an arena established and

pavilions constructed. Cooma Showground has been home to shows, trotting and racing stables, football and cricket matches. These days it is also home to Cooma Rodeo and annual showjumping festivals. The Cooma Show is held on the second Saturday of March and is the largest of the district shows. Sheep, cattle, horses and showgirls have all gone from Cooma Show to contest titles at the Sydney Royal Easter Show with great success.

Action-packed

Cooma rodeo

Cooma Rodeo is held on the second Saturday in February every year at the beautiful Cooma Showground. A great day of entertainment, with full food and bar facilities, there is excitement and fun for everyone!

Company Overview Cooma Rodeo is an annual event, affiliated with the ABCRA. Mission To provide quality family entertainment at a reasonable price and give competitors the opportunity to compete in a safe and exhilarating environment.

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Cooma Golf Club succeeds through adversity Golf was first played on the Monaro in 1895 on a private property now known as ‘Bulong’. The property was owned by the Crisp family and they set up a private nine-hole golf course. as The Cooma Golf Club was d officially opened in 1903 and h was situated along Church d Rd towards Wren’s Nest and followed the course of thee Cooma Back Creek. The first president was J. C. Ryrie of Maffra Station and he held the position until his death in 1927. Land was purchased in order to build a clubhouse, which was opened on May 16, 1906. It quickly became well established and membership was growing. Today, Daisy’s Preschool is the original clubhouse. In 1927 it was decided to add three more holes to the layout and more land was purchased. Three tennis courts were built on the gold club land and golf and tennis operated on a combined basis until 1940. In 1941, the Cooma Golf Club Ltd came in to being as a registered company and all assets of land and buildings of Cooma were transferred to the ownership of the company. There was no golf played during World War Two, however, after the war interest in the game increased and the committee decided to find a better venue. After all, there were six creek crossings to be made! J. H. Scott recommended a site along the Dry Plains Rd. This site, with the Brindabella’s as a backdrop proved ide-d al and the land was purchased 0 from Mr. Herbert Hain for 2400 pounds. n The land had many trees on d it and needed to be cleared and rrocks were raked from the fairways. The end result was an 18-hole golf course constructed with sand greens. The first clubhouse was erected in 1948. What is worth noting is that all the work was carried out by voluntary labour. In 1949 the 66

club was registered under the Liquor Act. The Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Scheme began in 1949 and brought many people from around the world.

The population of Cooma was stable at around 2,500 people, but this grew to approximately 10,000 during Snowy years. Needless to say, the membership of the golf club grew tremendously during these years.

During the 1950s and 60s, a regular water supply to the golf club was installed and grassing of the greens became a regular topic of conversation. The 18th green was the first to be sown with bent grass and bent-grass

proved to be successful, so then eight more greens were sown. In addition to this, couch grass was planted throughout the course, mainly on the fairways. The official opening of the grass greens was held on February 28,

1976, with Mr. Eric Lusk, president of the NSW Golf Association, performing the opening ceremony. As a special honour to past members, Mr Nash Crisp and Miss Nan Quodling were invited to drive the first balls. During the late seventies and eighties, the golf club was progressing, and in those days the gold club used to be the thriving entertainment venue. This was excellent ffor the club, but the inttroduction of Random B Breath Testing and the oout of town location of th the club began to have a detrimental impact on th the club as a venue. Sadly, the clubhouse bu burnt down in 1990. Trophies, honour boards and many club records were lost. Following the fire, a machinery shed was set up and used as a temporary clubhouse until the current clubhouse was opened on September 28, 1991, by Mr. Lindsay Hain, a patron of the club. In 2003 the club celebrated its 100th anniversary, with a week of golf taking place in September. A celebratory dinner as well as the burying of a time capsu sule also helped mark this ooccasion. Since then the club has bbeen running smoothly. We nnow have a computerised ssystem for the watering. In ssaying that, we also have many needs and desires. Our membership base has fallen as natural attrition takes its toll. Through our junior programmes we have done our best to encourage juniors to take up this fantastic game. But most importantly, sti have a wonderful group we still of people who volunteer their time and energy in to seeing that Cooma continues to offer a wonderful country golf club.


Carrying on sports tradition Gerald and Fiona Blyton purchased the Cooma Sports Store business in 1984 from Harry and Billy Worthington, who had started the shop in 1960. Harry and Billy had moved to Cooma from Sydney, where they had operated several bicycle shops over a number of years.

Gerald and Fiona continued running the business for several years from the original premises at 69/71 Sharp Street, selling bicycles, fishing tackle, firearms and general sporting goods. In 1989 they moved the business to 130/132 Sharp Street (Halsbury House), a premises they had pur-

chased several years ars earlier. This premisises originally held the he Dragon Gate Chinese se Restaurant and Carl arl Smith’s Barber Shop.. The upstairs of Halsbury House wass originally officee space, and the rearr of the building was custom built for the

2XL Radio Studios andd ofR di St di f fices, and 2XL operated from there for many years. In 2006 Gerald and Fiona divided the premises into two shops, and now operate their busness from 132 Sharp

Street, specialising in Firearms and shooting accessories. The other half of the premises, 130 Sharp Street, is operated by Tag the Trend, a ladies fashion and accessories store.

Cooma Horse and Pony Club 1956 to 2016 The Cooma Horse and Pony Club was formed at a meeting held on Wednesday October 17, 1956 with 26 interested people being present. The first committee was G K Ritchie President; Vice Presidents R E Goodwin and C M Rose; Secretary Malcolm Halsey and Treasurer A S Humphrey. The first instructors were Reg Goodwin and Cliff Rose whilst Elizabeth Upton (nee Rose) and Sandra Carpenter (Litchfield) were the first to get their instructors certificates. The inaugural gymkhana was held on December 22, 1956 at the Cooma Showground while rallies were, and have continued to be, held at the grounds at the Ti-Tree Reserve adjacent to the racecourse. The club house was built in 1969-

70, and today seemm ingly remains genererally as it was at that at time. Over the years, s, members of Coomaa Horse and Pony Club b have been successful at all levels of NSW State pony club competitions and at Royal Shows.

As time has ppassed several generations of the same family, including the founding Rose and Goodwin families, hhave been membbers and riders at the club. th In 2016 the Cooma Horse and C Pony Club has about Po 60 members, most of them being young, the but has several riders who commenced as infants and are now aged over 18 and under 25. Sarah Woodhouse is the Zone Chief Instructor and the Club Committee is President Kirrily Gould; Secretary Nicole Wakeling and Treasurer Belinda Digges.

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Rugby league on the Monaro Rugby League has been played on the Monaro since 1925 when the Cooma Greens were formed to play cup football against Nimmitabel, Adaminaby (2 teams), Bredbo, Chakola and Jindabyne with the Cooma All Blacks 926. In 1932 the joining the competition in 1926. ed. Cooma Wanderers were formed. The area then joined Group 16 and which lasted until the commencement of WW2. From 1946 a local competition was run and lasted until 1971. During this time teams included Bombala, Cooma, Cathcart/Bibbenluke, Nimmitabel, Jindabyne, Adaminaby, Cooma Rovers, St Pats and Cooma Publicc School. In 1971 Alpine Wandererss d were formed and rejoined ed Group 16. Cooma United eformed in 1973 and in 1977 behe came the Cooma Stallions. The Stallions reached the grand final in 1978 under English internanational Tony Millar. Since the formation of the Stallions Cooma has won two first grade premierships in 1984 and 1994 un-

der Mick Tilse and current Gold Coast Titans coach Neil Henry respectively. Cooma has also won reserve grade premierships in 1975, 1988, 1989, 1993, 1994, 2009, 2011 and 2013 with coaches Herman Bruyns, Kerry Galloway, Mark

Williams, Dean Lynch, Chippy Boller, Mark Kaufline and Paul Lloyd. The Stallions’ success

has continued in the juniors ranks with wins in 1976, 1986, 1991 and 2013 under the leadership of Jack Nichols, Mark Weston, Brett Gale and Nathan Smith. From 2002 until 2004 the club played in the George Took Tooke Shield in the Canberra com competition where they won in 22002 with Simon Scott as their coach and 2004 under thei Steven Russell. Stev Cooma has a strong juC nior nio base and after joining the Canberra competition in 1996 and has regularly featured teams in all age fe groups from under 6 to ungr der de 16’s. An indication of our strength is that Cooma had s 3 players in the 2016 Canberra Raiders Auckland b 9’s 9 Competition and have produced NRL players Brett White (St George, Melbourne Storm and Canberra Raiders), Sam Williams (Canberra RaidW ers and St George Illawarra). We also have I Jack Williams and Thomas Cronin currently with the Canberra Raiders NYC team.

Monaro District Cricket Association The Monaro District Cricket Association has been running since 1947 although the game has been played on the Monaro since the 1800’s. There have been various formats of competitions that have ave been played over the years and d in 1952 Monaro joined the Souththern District Cricket Council cil (now Southern Zone). It was not until1957/58 that at Monaro won the Burns Cup, p, one of the longest running g competitions in NSW. Monaaro again won in 1963/64 and d 1982/83. Last year in con-junction with the Far South h Coast Association and under a new carnival format, Monaro again won with 5 representatives in the team. The Monaro won the IMB Cup which is played between Monaro, Eurobodalla and Far South Coast for 3 consecutive years in the late 80’s. The A grade competition winners have always played ed for the Devereux Shield with ith descendants still playing today. The B grade competition winners played for the Hibbard Shield which commenced in 1950.

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The Devereux Shield has been won 10 times by Cooma, Peak View Jerangle and in more recent times Coffey’s. Other winners include Dalgety, Snowy, Kaisers , Colts, Bungarby, Nimmitabel,

Cooma Cats and Jindabyne. Cooma has hosted two international games involving South Africa and a colourful Fijian

team while Jack Chegwyn bought his NSW hopefuls to Cooma 3 times. Teams that have participated over the years include Adaminaby, Bredbo, Chakola, Cooma, Dalgety, Jindabyne, B Bungarby, Boggy Plain, Hydrage, Snowy, St Pats, Island Sn Bend, Eucumbene, Moonbah, Colts, Kaiser, Railway, Casuals, Bombala, Bibbenluke, B High School, Snowy H Mountains Inn, Dodd’s, M Citizens, Ex-ServiceC mens, Australian, Cofm fey’s, Cooma Cats, fe Royal, Rugby Union and R Wanderers. W At its peak competition A was held on Sunday in A wa and B grade with a separate Saturday competition also being played. Today all games are played on Saturday with representaSatu tive games held on Sunday. In a major boost for cricket on o the Monaro Cooma will host the prestigious 2016 Burns Cup Carnival later tthis year which features all of the elite cricketers in south east NSW. This is the first time the Monaro have hosted the competition.


Proud history of Australian Football Australian Football (AFL) on the Monaro and across the Snowy Mountains has had a rich and colourful history. While AFL was played during the early Snowy era, it wasn’t until the early 1970s that a push for a club to be formed for local competition was made. That push saw the Cooma Cats Australian Football Club formed in 1976. Since those pioneering days, the Cooma Cats have established a strong community-based, family-focused and professionally-run Australian Football club competing in the Monaro, NSW South Coast and ACT AFL local leagues in

bboth Senior and Junior comppetitions. The Cooma Cats aachieved premiership success in 1984 when they defeated Western Creek in the ACT AFL Monaro Competition Grand Final at Yass with a come from behind victory.

The Cooma Cats proudly wear the blue and white hoops of the Geelong Football Club as it was Geelong who provided the Cooma Cats with their first jumpers when the club was originally formed. Now tagged as the Southern Cats, the team has been strengthened by its association with Canberra teams.

Cooma Off Road Club

Enthusiasm for off-road buggy and dirt bike racing began for Cooma Off-Road Club (CORC) in the late 1970s. The interest in buggy racing waned in the early arly years with the Clubs dirt bike interest coming to the fore in the mid 1980s. The passion for off-road motorcycle competition

continues to grow for the family based club which runs an array of competitive local, state and national events, drawing competitors from far and

wide. Each year approximately six rounds are held ranging from motox and enduro at the Club’s Carlaminda complex along with grass

tracks (natural terrain motox) held at other varying locations. The club is run by volunteers, who contribute in different ways making the club what it is today, with membership numbers hovering around 300.

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Cooma Tigers Football Club

The Club was formed back in 1952 by the workforce of the Snowy Mountains Hydro Scheme which attracted people from all walks of life and from all over the world to the Australian Alps. Cooma Football Club is one of the oldest continuous Football Clubs in Australia with a very proud tradition considering the small region in which it resides. The Club is affiliated with Capital Football our regional body and they in turn are affiliated with Football Federation of Australia. The Club was readmitted into the Premier League in 2010 after forming a partnership with one of the junior Clubs in Canberra and caters for all ages from under six to over sixty,

grass fields and a clubhouse with the usual facilities. Past President: Mr Bill Dye, Mr Henk Plaat, Mr Henry Koops, Mr Bill Guysen, Mr Geoff Walker, Mr Gordon Bradley, Mr Len Cox, Mr Ignatzio Mondello, Mr Guilio d’Amico, Mr Ken Silich, Mr David Wilkins, Mr Niel Mackenzie, Mr Cor Van Leeuwen and Mr Nicola Tonini.

with a current combined membership of over 700 players. Considering that the Club is situated in a regional area with a population of approximately 8000 people it is a real credit to the Club to have so many participants. The Club’s home oval is Nijong it has three

Life members Kurt Hopfe, David Wilkins, John Schoon, Ken Silich, Denis Minehan, Mick Klima, Cor Van Leeuwen, David Elliott, Len Cox, Ignatzio Mondello, Ron Schoon, Simon Schoon, Nicola Tonini, Heather Elliott and Brendan Toohey.

Red Devils keeping rugby alive

Records indicate that in June 1887 Cooma played a game of Rugby football against Bega at Bega. The team members were: E. Halliday, T. Goodwin, G. Miller, J. Sullivan, B&H. Edwards, W. Russell and L. Solomon. In 1957 a group of enthusiastic graziers, with some help from the Snowy Mountains Authority personnel and league players, played six social games of Rug-by Union for Coomaa winning five and drawing g one. The chief instigators rs were D. Hickson, J. Keeegan, T. Shorrock, and D. Howard. The team dissbanded in 1958. In 1961/62 Jock and Patatrick Litchfield, Peter Martin-Smith, Ian and Michael hael Litchfield and Jock Mitchell h ll were playing for the Eastern Suburbs in the ACT Rugby competition. At that time the ACT was regarded as a NSW Country Region that participated in Country Week held in Sydney every year, playing against all other country regions. In 1961 Jock Litchfield was selected to captain the NSW Country Rugby team to tour NZ. The rugby officials could see that there was a wealth of rugby talent on the Monaro; Jock was

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approached concerning the possibility of forming a rugby club to represent the district in the ACT competition. This proposed 10team competition covered a

good-sized area of southern NSW. A meeting was held in Cooma where it was decided to form a club to commence playing in the 1963 season. Bruce McDonald, a Snowy McD employee, was electempl President. ed P The 70s and 80s Th saw Cooma men’s and ladies boat race teams undefeated, team Cooma may not Co have won on the hav fieeld but were unbeatable back in be the pub. th In 1988 Cooma cclub celebrated ttheir 25th annivversary and won the first grade

Monaro cup for the first time, coached by John X McGee. Cooma’s next real success was in winning the first grade competition 3 years running, 2000, 2001 and 2002, coached by Bill Garnock. 2003 saw Tim O’Ryan play for Australian Schools and the Australian School boys as did James Price both of whom came up through the juniors. Cooma is proud to have a long list of life members: B Kaufline, B Priest, P Sydney, K Moxon, G Bell, S Weinholtz, P Williams, B Garnock, G Dobbie, B Mattner, J Schofield (dec), M Cesarin, J Buckley, P & M Quodling, M Mayhew, G Litchfield, H Litchfield (dec), S Rolfe and B McCosker.


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Open on Good Friday for Dinner, Open Easter Saturday for Dinner, Closed Sunday and open again for Easter Monday Dinner.

Shop 1/69 Massie Street, Cooma Ph 6452 4512 Fax 6452 4653 rosesrestaurant@bigpond.com www.rosesrestaurant.com.au 71


THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Cooma Ex-Services Club is the largest club on the Monaro, one hour south of Canberra and located in the heart of Cooma, the gateway to the Snowy Mountains.

ENJOY WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER, NEW LOOK, DELICIOUS FOOD, GREAT ATMOSPHERE, OPEN 7 DAYS!

RAFFLES Wednesday, Thursday & Friday FACILITIES Keno & TAB, ATM, Foxtel, FREE Wi-Fi /XQFK DP SP 'LQQHU S SP SP DINING /XQFK DP SP ‡ 'LQQHU SP SP $10 Lunchtime special (Monday - Friday) ICY COLD BEERS ON TAP Whether entertaining family or colleagues, catching a quick bite, stopping in before hitting the slopes or relaxing with the family, you will never be disappointed with our great facilities & customer service.

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