Discover the Snowy Scheme
Explore the past, present, and future of Snowy Hydro at one of the Snowy Mountains’ must-see attractions.
Discover the Snowy Scheme’s proud history, learn about renewables, and stay up-to-date with the Snowy 2.0 pumped-hydro expansion mega project.
Immerse yourself in the interactive displays, exhibition space, and state-of-the-art theatre.
The Discovery Cafe is open daily. Take a break and enjoy a delicious barista-made coffee and light refreshments. Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and Cafe Monaro Highway, Cooma
Open 7 days | Weekdays 8am-4.30pm Weekends and public holidays 9am-2pm
DECEMBER 2024 ISSUE NO. 103
Contents
EDITORIAL
Trista Heath
Nathan Thompson
Karen Forman
Melinda Cairns Hack
ADVERTISING
Keely Pressley
Jim Walker-Broose
DESIGN & PRODUCTION
Aasta Arctander
@themonaropost
PUBLISHER
Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd
ACN 121 288 060
59 Vale St, Cooma NSW 2630 PO Box 1227, Cooma NSW 2630
CONTACT US
Phone: (02) 6452 0313
Website: www.monaropost.com.au
Editorial: editor@monaropost.com.au
Advertsing: sales@monaropost.com.au
Accounts: accounts@monaropost.com.au
The publisher accepts no responsibility for any advertisement, notice or letter published. Any advertisement, notice or letter is published at the risk of the contributor who accepts liability for any intended publication. All such contributors, by forwarding advertisements, notices or letters, agree to indemnify the publisher and warrant that the material is accurate and neither deceptive, misleading, in breach of copyright, defamatory or in breach of any laws and regulations. Please be aware that all material published in The Snowpost is subject to copyright.
Cover photo: Jindabyne local, Jesse Bocking, winner of the Under 17 Joyride Rookie Cup, round 3 on Narbethong.
PHOTO: Jono Brauer from Sendy Gear
photo: National Parks & Wildlife Services
Trout release in time for holiday season
GADEN TROUT HATCHERY
The Gaden Trout Hatchery is one of Australia's main centres for breeding cold water sports fish. Over one million fish are grown on site annually, to be stocked into NSW waterways to enhance recreational fishing in NSW. Set on the banks of the Thredbo River, a short 10 km drive from Jindabyne, Gaden Trout Hatchery has been a premier attraction for more than 50 years.
The brand new state-of-the-art Gaden Trout Hatchery will soon reopen to the public and will have plenty to offer visitors including: guided tours a beautiful BBQ/picnic area theatrette with interactive displays fish feeding aquariums and much more!
member for monaro, Steve Whan, and minister for regional NSW, Tara moriarty, assisted Gaden Trout Hatchery staff, Taylor elkins and mitch elkins, in releasing 100 advanced size brook trout into Lake Jindabyne, making it one of the final stockings of a successful year.
Fishing opportunities in the Snowy mountains region’s largest lakes have been boosted this year, with 160,000 rainbow trout stocked into Lake eucumbene and another 110,000 rainbows released into Lake Jindabyne, with support from the recreational Fishing Trust.
Almost 2.5 million trout have been released into waterways across the State this year, including more than 600,000 in the Snowy mountains region.
“The NSW Government’s $8.6 million investment in upgrades to the Gaden Trout Hatchery – one of Australia’s leading centres for breeding and rearing freshwater sportfish – now means we are better equipped than ever to futureproof NSW’s iconic trout fishing sector,” ms moriarty said.
“The recent investments in state-of-the-art fish production technology at our Gaden Trout Hatchery means we can be more responsive to changing conditions.
“As keen anglers are aware, the trout fishery is dynamic and influenced by seasonal conditions.
“Thanks to favourable conditions involving plenty of rain and mild temperatures, combined with the NSW Government’s ongoing trout stocking efforts, anglers have enjoyed outstanding fishing over the past four seasons in key trout areas like the Snowy monaro.”
mr Whan, ms moriarty and ms elkins dressed in waders and entered knee depth water to release the trout ahead of the busy season and watching on the foreshore was The Fly Program founder, matt Trippet.
mr Trippet said it is amazing the impact something as simple as fishing can have on men’s mental health and the family.
“Fishing with the family creates wonderful memories and creates the opportunity to open up conversations surrounding mental health, it is a space I am really passionate about,” mr Trippet said.
releasing along the Widows Inlet boat ramp in Jindabyne, dedicated fly fishers and holiday anglers will soon get to reap the awards of newly stocked trout as the holiday season approaches.
The new Gaden Trout Hatchery facility will be opening early next year and staff look forward to welcoming the public after a successful opening day event in October 2024.
Walk amongst the clouds on the
A new multi-day hiking trail through the breathtaking alpine scenery of southern NSW is complete and ready for adventure, with the entire Snowies Alpine Walk in Kosciuszko National Park officially opened on Monday December 2.
Federal Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister and Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, joined State Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty and State Member for Monaro Steve Whan for a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the track.
“It’s a great pleasure to be at the opening of this last link, in what will be an iconic Snowy Mountains walk,” Mr Whan said.
“Kosciuszko National Park is already a huge destination yearround, and this walk gives people the opportunity to experience a unique alpine environment.”
The world-class Snowies Alpine Walk is a 56 kilometres four day walk that links the alpine locations of Guthega, Charlottes Pass, Perisher and Bullocks Flat with 27 kilometres of new walking track linking existing walks.
The project was made possible with $10 million from the Australian Government and $17.17 million from the NSW Government as part of their commitments to boosting regional NSW local economies and making this landscape more accessible for everyone.
The new Snowies Alpine Walk is expected to significantly boost tourism in the Snowy Mountains region, attracting hundreds of thousands of visits over the long term and generating substantial revenue for the local economy.
Ms McBain said it’s incredible to see the alpine walking track extension now connecting several resorts across the Snowies.
“We’re delivering for the people of the Snowy Mountains of NSW, as well as tourists, by investing in this infrastructure and building value into the experience of the area.”
Ms Moriarty said this picturesque walk will draw visitors from across Australia and the world, creating an enduring legacy for
the region that will benefit local communities, businesses and the tourism industry.
The completion of the entire project supported 80 local construction jobs and will create four ongoing jobs for regular track maintenance.
The newly constructed 12 kilometres of walking track between Perisher Valley and Bullocks Flat has been built to withstand the harsh alpine environment of Kosciuszko National Park.
It consists of steel platforms, staircases, natural granite rock, gravel hardened track and natural track to provide a comfortable walking experience for all.
The Snowies Alpine Walk caters to beginner and experienced hikers. Walkers can choose to complete any section of the track as single-day walks or combine sections for two, three or fourday walks that showcase the Ngarigo Monero Country.
Those embarking on the walk can choose to experience it as a self-guided adventure or opt to enlist the help of an expert guide who will teach walkers about the area as they go.
Walkers also have a variety of accommodation options to choose from in Kosciuszko National Park, including the NPWSmanaged Numbananga Lodge, Creel Lodge and Creel Bay cottages.
They can also stay in the alpine villages of Jindabyne, Thredbo, Perisher, Guthega and Charlotte Pass.
Kosciuszko National Park is the largest national park in NSW, spanning 690,000 hectares.
It’s home to Australia’s highest mountain, the 2,228-metre Mount Kosciuszko, as well as hundreds of native animals and plants.
The Snowies Alpine Walk provides opportunities to enjoy high-country plains, snow-capped mountain ranges and uninterrupted horizons, as well as unique plants and animals such as gnarled snow gums, wildflowers, wombats, echidnas and native birdlife.
the Snowies Alpine Walk
photo: Expedimage.
Start your engines in Cooma
The Cooma Car Club Motoring Museum is home to one of the great vintage and muscle car collections.
The museum is open each Tuesday and on the first Saturday of the month. Since opening its doors in 2022, the museum has welcomed more than 10,000 visitors.
Built by the members of the Cooma Car Club, the museum has quickly gained a reputation as one of the town’s most popular attractions, drawing in automotive enthusiasts from far and wide.
If you can’t make it to the museum on a Tuesday or Saturday, give the helpful volunteers a call on 0407 299 008 and chances are, someone will be able to show you around.
Funding came largely through a NSW Government grant for men’s mental health. The club has dedicated thousands of volunteer hours and dollars in ensuring the museum is firstclass.
One end of the museum is furnished as an Americana-style diner that serves cold drinks and food for members visitors, and the other end is styled as a 1920s service station with historic bowsers and signage.
The service station is named Montague Motors in honour of Cooma Car Club life member, Keith Montague.
The main attraction is the cars and the Cooma Car Club possesses one of the finest automotive collections to be found anywhere in the country.
One vehicle that gains plenty of attention is the 1908 black motor buggy, on loan from Neville marsden of braidwood.
Other vehicles of note in the museum include a 1926 Dodge that runs on charcoal, and an amphibious car owned and taken on water by car club president, Tony Nassar.
There are land speed record cars, and even a classic Jeep that was once occupied by the Queen. There is also a variety of historic motorcycles and a stack of automotive memorabilia, showcasing monaro’s motoring history.
“This museum has really been a labour of love for the club,” car club life member, Peter Quodling, said.
“A lot of our members are older folks and this project has really given them a lot of inspiration and a new attitude to life, so it’s wonderful to have seen it all come to fruition and turn out as well as it has.
“Since the museum opened, we’ve hosted other car clubs and various groups and it’s been wonderful to see people taking an interest and coming to visit.”
The cooma car club is located at 11 bolaro St cooma and is open every Tuesday from 9am to 1pm and on the first Saturday of every month from 10am to 3pm.
COOMA FURNISHING CO
Sacred Ride’s expert advice
It’s the time of the year again where mountain bikers take to the local trails and realise their legs are not as strong as they used to be a few months ago, and blaming the bike for their discomfort.
It is time to clean the dust off your bike and get it ready to ride again.
Sacred ride owner, Nic Davouli, said it is always a good idea to get your bike serviced to avoid being stuck in one of your first rides and having to walk back.
“The best place in the region to get your bike going again will be SAcreD rIDe Shimano Service centre,” Davouli said.
Shimano Service centres are a global network of independent bike retailers who combine excellent bike care with the latest technologies to provide the best service possible.
“They don’t just service bikes, they care about them. They do whatever it takes to get you back on your bike,” Davouli said.
“Whether resolving an issue or providing regular maintenance, Shimano-trained mechanics use the latest Shimano technologies and genuine parts.”
There are only a few selected shops that are certified Shimano Service centres, only 21 stores in Australia and five in NSW.
Sacred ride with well over 20 years’ experience, has been servicing bikes in a town with a totally different demographic than any bike shop in Australia.
They are used to customers who are here for a short stay and need their bike to be fixed on short notice and they always do their best to make it happen.
Davouli said Sacre ride is open all year round to give the town
a non-stop service and is the only dedicated bike shop in the region.
Sacred ride’s main store is based in Jindabyne and also services bikes in their Thredbo Demo centre.
“If you want to try the latest DH, eNDUrO or e-bikes check them out in the village centre at the top of the stairs,” Davouli said.
“There is a network of trails between cooma, Jindabyne and the mountains to cater for everyone: kids, family, beginner, intermediate to advanced, and every aspect of cycling is well covered: mTb track for cross country, trail, enduro and downhill.
“road cycling, with some very challenging climbs if desired, gravel is also well covered as well as bmX with the new skate park and racetrack.”
To find out about all those options just pop in to Sacred ride, where friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you in the right directions.
Sacred ride also runs guided tours including their iconic Full moon ride that run from November to may, find out more via the Sacred ride website.
Davouli said Sacred ride is without a doubt a one stop shop for your leisure time in the region, as they have a water sports facility right on the shore of Lake Jindabyne with easy access by foot, bike or car with plenty of car park spots.
“They do hire craft such as kayak, canoe, SUP, sailboat, hydrofoil e-board and yes you can even cycle on Lake Jindabyne with the manta 5 hydrofoil e bike,” Davouli said.
“There is a rescue boat always ready for your peace of mind.”
Bigger & Better! What’s new
Time to get fired up for MTB season at Australia’s Only Lift-Accessed MTB Park in Thredbo!
It’s shaping up to be an absolute cracker with new trails, existing network upgrades, the country’s biggest MTB events calendar and more.
An All-New Revolver Trail
We’re building a new intermediate trail called Revolver that will offer riders more variety off the Kosciuszko Chairlift! This new addition to the trail map will provide an alternate option to riding the upper half of Kosci Flow trail.
Bring On More Jumps
We’re building an all-new free ride jumps trail in the Cruiser area in 2025!
Existing Network Upgrades
All the trails you know and love, but better! We’ve made a range of upgrades to the existing network including a major realignment of the Kosciuszko Flow Trail on the lower slopes, adding a new section to Lower All Mountain (Dream Catcher) and revamping Grasshopper with more flow and jumps.
new in Thredbo MTB park
Say Hello To Rockpools
We’re adding a new ‘rockpools’ gravity trail option from Gondola mid Station to Valley Terminal, utilising the old Village cross country Loop in reverse.
Navigation Rebrand
We’re rebranding the two Upper and Lower All mountain trails into three separate trails to improve park navigation; introducing Panorama, Pegasus and Dream catcher.
It’s time to fire up the group chat and lock in your Gravity Season Pass. Offering next level value on unlimited park access, this is a mUST if you’re planning to ride for more than six days this season.
Plus with the new Gravity Pass, you’ll score heaps more savings and perks while you’re here thanks to the new benefits Program. benefits include massive discounts on mTb event entry, food and drinks, bring A Friend Vouchers, exclusive retail offers, a free ride and huge discounts on the Alpine coaster, Leisure centre access, golf, tennis, and more.
at B anj op ate rso ninn .com. au or o n (0 2 ) 64 56 23 72
Snowy Monaro Calendar of Events: Summer 2024/2025
Recurring
December
Thursday 12
Friday 13
Sat 14 – Sun 15
Saturday 14
Sunday 15
30 Nov – 22 Dec - Ben Phillips Nozdrachev Art Exhibition | Raglan Gallery Cooma
2 November - 31 January 2025 - Gail Neuss Art Exhibition | Bundian Way Gallery Delegate
Thursday Ancient Knitting Workshop | Nimmitabel School of Arts, 11.30pm – 1.30pm. Register 0481 481 034
Saturday Ukelele Workshop | Nimmitabel School of Arts, 12.30pm – 1.30pm Register 0481 481 034
Fish Talks | Ex-Serviceman’s Club Cooma, 6pm – 8.30pm
Christmas Craft in Nature | Lions Park Cooma, 10am – 11.30am. Bookings bushwalkingmama.com
Cooma Carols in the Park | Cooma Centennial Park, 7pm
Adaminaby Campdraft | Adaminaby Racecourse
Nimmitabel CWA Markets | Pioneers Memorial Hall, Bombala Street, 9am - 2pm
Bombala Christmas Carols | Bombala Show Ground, from 5pm Karaoke with DJ Grey | Cooma Ex-Services Club 7.30pm
Motorcycle Christmas Gift Run | Shell Service Station Cooma, from 8am Cooma Rotary Markets | Centennial Park, 9am - 1.30pm ‘Beats per Minute’ Rosie O’Sullivan Dance Performance| Berridale Hall, Tickets 0412 993 373 Carols in the Park Jindabyne| Claypits Park 5pm Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko |Thredbo www.thredbo.com.au/events
Thursday 17 Paddock Plant Walk | Dry Plains, 10am - 12pm. RSVP 0429116830
Thursday 19 Santa Sendy Kids MTB Racing | Tyrolean MTB Park, from 5pm
Friday 20 Cathcart Christmas Party | Cathcart Hall,from 7pm
Saturday 21
Sat 21 – Wed 25
Christmas Movie Night | Dalgety Brewing Co, 6.30pm. Book 0418 482 470
Thredbo Christmas Carnival | Thredbo www.thredbo.com.au/events
Sat 21 Dec – 12 Jan Kids Adventure Festival | Thredbo www.thredbo.com.au/events
Friday 27
Saturday 28
Sunday 29
Tuesday 31
January
Wednesday 1
Saturday 4
Sunday 5
Friday 10
Saturday 11
Sunday 12
Tuesday 14
Friday 17
Saturday 18
Cooma Can Crushers Barrel Racing | Cooma Showground, 9am - 12.30pm
Jindabyne Man from Snowy River Rodeo | John Connors Oval Jindabyne 11am
Live Music ‘The Chuffs’ | Dalgety Brewing Co, 12pm – 3pm
Live Music ‘Mystify Road’ | Dalgety Brewing Co, 12pm – 3pm
NYE Party | Historic Bredbo Inn 3 Below Zero | Buckley’s Crossing Hotel, 7.30pm New Year’s Eve Dinner | Thredbo www.thredbo.com.au/events
Live Music ‘Damo & V’ | Dalgety Brewing Co, 12pm – 3pm
Live Music Dave Bishop | Dalgety Brewing Co, 12pm – 3pm Thredbo Summer Music Series ft. The Crowdies | Thredbo, 3pm – 7pm
Live Music Dave Bishop | Dalgety Brewing Co, 12pm – 3pm
Paddock Plant Walk | Bibbenluke, 10am - 12pm. RSVP 0429116830
Live Music Greg Kew | Dalgety Brewing Co, 12pm – 3pm
Comedy Night | Ex-Services Club Cooma, 7.30pm Tickets $30 Book Online www.comedyact.com. au/
Thredbo Summer Music Series ft. Jack Biilman | Thredbo, 4pm – 7pm
Paddock Plant Walk | Dry Plains, 10am - 12pm. RSVP 0429116830
Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko | Thredbo, 4pm
The 30th Thredbo Blues Festival | Thredbo, 10am – 9pm
Live Music ‘Damo & V’ | Dalgety Brewing Co, 12pm – 3pm
Sunday 19
Friday 24
Fri 24 – Sun 26
Saturday 25
Sunday 26
Wednesday 29
February
Saturday 1
Fri 7 - Sun 9
Saturday 8
Sunday 9
Mon 10 – Sat 15
Sunday 16
Saturday 22
Sunday 23
Live Music Michael Horneman & Laura | Dalgety brewing co, 12pm – 3pm
Snowies Beer, Food & Wine Festival | Thredbo, 7pm
Numeralla Folk Festival | Numeralla Hall
Bombala Australia Day | bombala Showgrounds, 8am
Australia Day events | bredbo, cooma, Jindabyne, Nimmitabel, michelago
Top of Oz for Torie 2025 | Thredbo www.toriefinnanefoundation.com.au
New Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko | Thredbo, 4pm
Nimmitabel Show | Nimmitabel Showground
Gravity Series #3| Thredbo Alpine resort, www.thredbo.com.au/events
Cooma Car Club Museum Open Day | 11 bolaro Street, 10am - 2pm
Snowies MTB Festival | Lake crackenback
Nimmitabel CWA Markets | Pioneers memorial Hall, bombala Street, 9am - 2pm
CMR Artisan Markets | cooma Historical railway, 9am - 1pm
Cannonball MTB Festival | Thredbo Alpine resort, www.thredbo.com.au/events
Cooma Rotary High Country Markets | centennial Park, 8am - 1pm
Bombala & District Chamber Markets | bombala bicentennial Park, 8am - 2pm
In2Adventure 2025
Trail Run Australia | Snowy mountains
Gravity Girls MTB Clinic | Thredbo Alpine resort, register www.thredbo.com.au/events
Bredbo CWA Village Markets | bredbo Hall, 9am - 3pm
Monaro Billy Kart Derby | cooma Showground, 9am for 11 am start, registrations: cooma car club. TreX Snowy Mountains | Lake crackenback resort & Spa
support local to grow our community
Linen hire for all type of holiday accommodation Ski clothing laundering high volume linen laundering
Servicing the Snowy Mountains and South Coast NSW We find it important to support other community organisations and are proud sponsors of the Snowy River Bears Rugby League Club, Jindabyne Bushpigs Rugby and Bermagui Breakers AFL.
Over the past 10 years we have owned "Snowy Laundry", we have continued to supply our customers with the highest level of service and quality linen. Based in Jindabye, our high volume laundry has state of the art equipment plus dedicated and experienced staff to cope with any demand. We are constantly reviewing processes to meet the needs of the everchanging regional market requirements. We are proud to support the local economy with employment and to also sponsor local sporting organisations. Should you require a quote for your business, please call at any time. We would be happy to discuss all your laundry requirements-Mick and Rebecca.
Multiple delivery and pick up days in Jindabyne, Thredbo, Cooma and the South Coast. with no additional charges. All linen washed beyond Australian standards for thermal sanitation.
By Varia Karipoff, former print editor of Art Guide Australia
Located ten minutes out of Jindabyne and set among cosy farms and rolling hills, Feldmark Pottery is a rough-cut gem straddled by snow gums.
Here you will find studio potter, Andrei Davidoff, potting away. He’s has been hand-making ceramic plates and serving ware for some of Australia’s best restaurants for more than a decade.
The move from Melbourne to an acreage in the Snowy Mountains in 2021 enabled him to open a gallery adjacent to the pottery as well as a ceramic school. The tree change also helped to unite the many streams of his practice – teaching, exhibiting, and making pottery for restaurants, design stores, and private sales.
“Our bread and butter have been large commercial orders. I’ve worked with international hotel groups, celebrity chefs, and many restaurants which appear in the top restaurant lists. That has been great, but I also enjoy interacting with the public, and educating people about pottery.”
As you approach the pottery, you are greeted by large vases which line the veranda. Andrei was introduced to the ancient skill of Onggimaking enormous vessels from clay coils – by a master in South Korea.
“I got my basic pottery education from a potter here in the SnowyMonaro, whom I lived and worked with. I then went to university in Melbourne and did a Fine Arts degree majoring in ceramics, and then did my Masters in Fine Art.”
The gallery showcases the range and depth of Andrei’s skills and experience – rows of perfectly turned mugs, vases, and plates that speak of their earthy origins. Some objects are glazed with ash which forms a natural green tone, others are painted with white clay slip which was found by a road in nearby Dalgety.
There are cups in traditional glaze finishes like shino, tenmoku, and chun – ancient Chinese and Japanese glazes which are all made at the pottery.
In the gallery space, which is sunlit and white-washed, the objects look contemporary and at home.
A large picture window looks over a dramatically leaning black wattle, covered with a pale green lichen, the colours outside seem to draw the eye back into the gallery.
“My work doesn’t reference just one ceramic tradition,” Andrei said.
“Of course there is a debt to the Chinese and Japanese tradition, but I’m also interested in South Carolina [USA] and German pottery. My ceramic heroes include contemporary potters such as Lisa Hammond from England, and Australian potter, Gwyn Hanssen Pigott, who passed away ten years ago.”
Andrei regularly exhibits his work in Melbourne and Sydney, and is represented by Stockroom Gallery in Kyneton, Victoria.
However, it is the rugged Jindabyne area which informs his practice now.
“It is heartening to see some of our committed pottery students make space in their homes for a pottery wheel or a ceramic studio. Soon we will be a pottery village, not just a ski town!”
Feldmark Gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 1pm-4pm, or by appointment.
www.feldmark.com.au
Feldmark Pottery is at home in
in the Snowies
Find your perfect zone at Big White Ski Resort
If you’re dreaming of endless powder, a warm, family-friendly vibe, and slopes to suit everyone from first-timers to expert shredders, look no further than Big White Ski Resort in Canada.
Known as Canada’s favourite family resort, the mountain offers 3,140 hectares of skiable terrain and 119 runs to suit every ability. With 16 lifts, including Canada’s second-largest lift system, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time skiing. Plus, every lift has a green run, allowing families with different abilities to stay close as they explore the mountain.
Off-piste adventures
Looking to explore off the beaten path? Big White offers 618 hectares of alpine and glade skiing, perfect for those seeking natural, untouched snow.
With five powder bowls known for their deep, soft snow, advanced skiers and boarders can test their skills in fresh powder far away from the crowds.
Night skiing and snowboarding
Explore terrain for all skill levels
Beginner-friendly greens (18 percent):
Looking for the ideal resort that has it all? Find out why Big White is the ultimate snowy playground for you and your mates.
Big White’s green runs, such as Serwa’s off the Ridge Rocket Express and Hummingbird near the Village Centre, are perfect for newcomers.
These runs are groomed daily, providing gentle slopes and wideopen spaces that make learning or refining your technique a breeze.
Cruisy blues for Intermediates (54 percent):
More than half of Big White’s terrain is designed for intermediate skiers and boarders. Favourites like Whiskey Jack and Millie’s Mile in the Black Forest area offer the perfect mix of challenge and relaxation, all while soaking up the stunning mountain views.
Challenging Blacks for Advanced Skiers (22 percent):
For those seeking a bit more thrill, the black runs like White Tail and the steep sections of Cougar Alley deliver exhilarating descents with well-groomed paths for high-speed runs and technical skill-building.
Extreme double black terrain (six percent):
Ready for the ultimate challenge? Head to the Cliff Chair or Gem Lake area, where the steepest and most challenging terrain awaits, along with breathtaking views of the Monashee Mountains.
These runs are both visually stunning and physically demanding, perfect for expert skiers and snowboarders.
Define Your Experience
Perfectly groomed runs
The mountain is famous for its meticulous grooming, ensuring a smooth ride for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. With 367 hectares of groomed terrain, there’s a well-maintained run for everyone, from gentle greens to more challenging blacks.
Keep the fun going after dark with Big White’s night skiing and snowboarding - the largest in Western Canada. With 15 hectares of illuminated terrain and three operational lifts, including the TELUS Park terrain park chairlift, you can enjoy shredding under the stars.
Confidence booster
With a beginner lift ticket, newcomers to the slopes can enjoy a cost-effective day at Big White. Start at the magic carpet area in Happy Valley, a great spot for finding your snow legs.
As your confidence grows, move on to the Plaza Chair and take a smooth ride down the gentle Hummingbird run - perfect for building skills and boosting confidence on the snow.
Insider Tip: New to Big White? Get the scoop on the best powder stashes, top groomed runs, or challenging terrain by requesting a free Snowhost guide.
These experts know the mountain inside out and will help you find the best spots for an unforgettable day on the slopes.
Beyond Skiing and snowboarding
Big White isn’t just for skiers and snowboarders - there’s a whole lot more to do.
• Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing: Discover the winter landscape at a slower pace.
• Tube Park and Canada’s highest skating rink: Perfect for fun with the whole family.
• Dog sledding and horse-drawn sleigh rides: Experience the snowy scenery in a truly unique way.
• Snowmobiling: Add some adrenaline to your day with a thrilling ride through snow-covered trails.
• Events throughout the season: The resort offers a vibrant lineup of winter events, from weekly fireworks displays and live music to family carnival nights and festive holiday celebrations like tree-lighting ceremonies. With thrilling ski and snowboarding competitions and activities for all ages, there’s always something exciting to enjoy.
No matter your skill level or interests, Big White Ski Resort has something for everyone.
So, gather your friends and family, choose your zone, and get ready for an unforgettable Canadian winter adventure.
Full steam into Cooma Railway
Cooma Monaro Railway (CMR) is a heritage railway museum located in the Snowy Mountains region of NSW. Based out of Cooma Railway Station, one of the last remaining, fully complete regional railway yards in NSW, the railway is dedicated to the development of the Cooma Monaro Railway Museum to preserve its rich railway heritage for generations to come.
The group is actively developing the railway precinct at Cooma into a year-round heritage railway museum while dedicated volunteers are working to restore the railway line for tourist services between Snowy Junction to the north and heading south to the terminus at Bombala.
Established in 1991, the Cooma Monaro Railway is an Australian Heritage Railway Museum and tourist railway, based at Cooma station.
For 10 years there were no trains to be seen in the Monaro area, until CMR commenced tourist train operations in December 1998. Services were run by our CPH-class railmotors, of which we have three (CPH 6, 8 and 22) along with trailer car CTC 55 (a matching carriage to the CPH class) with a driver’s compartment at one end.
Up until 2014, CMR operated a successful heritage railway museum including the popular tourist train rides between Cooma and the small village of Chakola to the north using a fleet of heritage CPH Railmotors.
In 2014, due to the deteriorating condition of the railway infrastructure, CMR suspended its railway and museum operations and commenced an internal restructure to strengthen both its corporate and operational governance, allowing the organisation to recommence operations in a more planned and sustainable manner and improve its heritage railway product offering.
Since then, CMR has undertaken considerable work to repair, restore and upgrade the infrastructure with the Cooma Railway Station precinct. The former District Locomotive Engineer’s building has been rebuilt from a shell-like state to a functioning headquarters for CMR members. The building now has a fully functioning kitchen, office, training room and ablutions facilities for men and women.
Electricity and potable water have been re-established in the yard, and security measures, including cameras and a palisade fence now protect the precinct. Extensive repairs and restoration work at the station are nearly complete, with the Station Master’s Office (restored to an 1890s configuration), the Waiting Room and the Signal Box all now available for viewing by the public.
In 2022, a public museum was established in the Parcel Room and surrounding railway precinct.
The focus is now on the return of tourist trains and the restoration of the railway line between Cooma and Bombala.
BISTRO OPEN 7 DAYS
12-2pm Lunch 7 Days
Sun-Wed 5:30pm-8:30pm Dinner Thurs-Sat 5:30pm-9pm Dinner
Bar • Functions • Live Music • Meat Raffle Wednesday
• Trivia Thursdays • Retro Cinema, & Accommodation.
TAkEAWAY AvAILABLE ON MENULOG. Cooma Hotel Drive-Through Bottle Shop
Nature lovers delight in Myanba Gorge
Set in mighty old-growth forest and comprising three lookouts, a picnic area, a boardwalk and walking track, Myanba Gorge is a must for nature-lovers.
Start with lunch at the well-equipped picnic area before taking the easy and accessible boardwalk stroll. At the first lookout you’re treated to picture-perfect views of fast-flowing Myanba Creek. Here, it surges over the escarpment across a huge granite slab, so visit after rain, if you can, to see a stronger, more spectacular flow.
Follow the creek if you choose to keep on walking – it’s a moderate walk that’s well worth the effort. See the numerous torrents burble through the rocks or snake off into rivulets and stunning cascades. Take a quick dip if you like, and look for streaked rock orchids and the gorgeous purple-spotted flowers of the Victorian Christmas Bush.
The third lookout rewards your efforts with views of the remarkable geology of Myanba Gorge and Bega’s pretty Towamba Valley. Return to the picnic area the way you came, listening out for distinctive ‘creaky gate’ calls of gang gang cockatoos.
Myanba Gorge walking track is a short walk that offers young and old the opportunity to experience this unique natural setting.
The wheelchair-friendly boardwalk to the first viewing platform enables disabled and mobility impaired visitors to enjoy the views. And for those of you who want to venture further on foot, continue the track through the gorge.
There is plenty of wildlife to see. Look out for echidnas, swamp wallabies, red-neck wallabies as well as the many forest birds you’ll find. Pay special attention for the diamond pythons sometimes seen at the Gorge viewing platform.
Why not make a day of it, pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the many stops along this remarkable car-touring route. The round-trip from Bombala takes you to Myanba Gorge and Pheasants Peak via the towering canopies of oldgrowth forest trees.
Pedal into Bombala
bombala will soon join the rail trail movement with five kilometres of trail set to deliver a much-needed economic boost for the town.
Plans are underway to use a $1 million federal government grant to construct the first five kilometres of the monaro rail Trail - a project hoped to link Queanbeyan to bombala through 213km of trail.
monaro rail Trail committee member, John Nevin, said the trail would deliver a significant economic injection for the Snowy monaro.
“Imagine what this will be for riders in canberra who want to go on long rides away from busy roads,” mr Nevin said.
The bombala section is scheduled for completion by October 2026.
NPL POKER – EVERY THIRD SATURDAY
SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER – “TOP SHELF” PLAYING FROM 8.30PM
SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER – “MOJO” PLAYING FROM 8PM
CLUB CLOSED ON CHRISTMAS DAY
NEW YEARS EVE – RAFFLES FROM 7PM, “ONE LOUDER” PLAYING FROM 8.30PM
SATURDAY 25 JANUARY 2025 –BAND TBA FROM 8PM
SUNDAY 23 FEBRUARY 2025 –ALL STAR WRESTLING AUSTRALIA –CONTACT THE CLUB FOR DETAILS.
WOOLLEY’S BISTRO OPEN 7 DAYS LUNCH AND DINNER
THURSDAY’S SPIN & WIN MEMBERS DRAW: $75 CASH, $125 CASH, SPIN & WIN FOR JACKPOT. 7PM, 7:30PM & 8PM
FRIDAY MEMBERS
DRAW: 7:30PM AND 8:30PM
SOCIAL BOWLS EVERY WED AND SAT FROM 12:30PM
LIVE MUSIC: SUNDAY SESSIONS 1ST SUNDAY OF MONTH 2PM-5PM, BAND
ONLINE TABLE BOOKINGS ARE AVAILABLE
COMMUNITY RAFFLES EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT. TICKETS ON SALE 7PM DRAWN AT 7:45PM. ALL PROCEEDS GO TO COMMUNITY GROUP CHOSEN FOR THE MONTH
KEEP IT LOCAL ONLINE RAFFLES EVERY FRIDAY ON FACEBOOK. LIVE DRAW AT 7:30PM. OVER $500 IN VOUCHERS TO BE WON WITH TOP PRIZE VALUE OF $140!
11.30AM-2PM DINNER 5.30PM TO 8PM (SUN TO WED) 5.30PM TO 9PM (THUR-SAT)
PHONE: 6458 4466
Yarrangobilly Caves
Kosciuszko National Park
Caves
Photo: Yarrangobilly Caves, Kosciuszko National Park (Adam Klumper/DCCEEW) EH2024/0280 September 2024
Photo: Yarrangobilly Caves, Kosciuszko National Park (Adam Klumper/DCCEEW) EH2024/0280 September 2024
nswparks.info/yarrangobilly
For more information visit nswparks.info/yarrangobilly
For more information visit nswparks.info/yarrangobilly
For more information visit nswparks.info/yarrangobilly
Caves and tours
• South Glory Cave self guided tours
Caves and tours
• Jersey Cave guided tours
• Jillabenan Cave guided tours
Caves and tours
For caves and tours visit nswparks.info/toursyarrangobilly
• South Glory Cave self guided tours
• Jersey Cave guided tours
• Jillabenan Cave guided tours
Caves and tours
• South Glory Cave self guided tours
• Jersey Cave guided tours
Accommodation
• Jillabenan Cave guided tours
For caves and tours visit nswparks.info/toursyarrangobilly
• South Glory Cave self guided tours
Caves and tours
• Yarrangobilly Caves House
• Jersey Cave guided tours
• Lyrebird Cottage
• Jillabenan Cave guided tours
For caves and tours visit nswparks.info/toursyarrangobilly
Accommodation
• South Glory Cave self guided tours
For accommodation visit nswparks.info/yarrangobillystay Activities
• Jersey Cave guided tours
For caves and tours visit nswparks.info/toursyarrangobilly
Accommodation
• Yarrangobilly Caves House
• Jillabenan Cave guided tours
• Lyrebird Cottage
• Yarrangobilly Caves House
For caves and tours visit nswparks.info/toursyarrangobilly
Accommodation
• Lyrebird Cottage
• Yarrangobilly Caves House
• Thermal pools
• Lyrebird Cottage
Accommodation
• Lookouts
For accommodation visit nswparks.info/yarrangobillystay Activities
• BBQs
• Yarrangobilly Caves House
• Visitor Centre
• Lyrebird Cottage
• Thermal pools
For accommodation visit nswparks.info/yarrangobillystay Activities
• Lookouts
• BBQs
For accommodation visit nswparks.info/yarrangobillystay Activities
• Thermal pools
• Visitor Centre
For accommodation visit nswparks.info/yarrangobillystay Activities
• Lookouts
• BBQs
• Thermal pools
• Visitor Centre
• Lookouts
• BBQs
• Thermal pools
• Visitor Centre
• Lookouts
• BBQs
• Visitor Centre
Top 5 reasons to visit Wildbrumby Distillery this summer
1. Celebrate Australia Day with Live Music
mark your calendars for Sunday January 26 – it’s Australia Day at Wildbrumby Distillery! Join us to while away the afternoon with the cooma big band, schnapps or beer in hand. Feel the Aussie spirit with great music, good vibes, and the finest country company. So, grab your mates and let’s make it a day to remember!
2. Tango with Mango this January Summer is officially upon us, which means a January release of our long-awaited mango Schnapps! A tropical twist on your favourite mountain spirit, our mango schnapps transports you from the Snowy mountains to a sunny beach in one golden sip. As we don’t grow magical mangoes in the High country, we enlist the help of North Queenslanders in the supply of A-Grade Kensington Pride mangoes. This is truly a schnapps for all Australians to take pride in!
3. February is Bursting with Berries
February brings a burst of luscious flavours to the distillery as Pure berry Season hits full swing. blackberries, blueberries, red and black currants, and raspberries are handpicked to create our exclusive Pure berry Schnapps. Whether you enjoy it neat, mixed into a cocktail, or poured over ice, this seasonal treat is one you don’t want to miss.
4. Sunday Summer Sessions – Live Music & Good Times
Looking for the perfect way to spend your Sunday afternoon? Throughout summer, we will be hosting
various live music acts at Wildbrumby Distillery. Throughout 2024, we’ve had some amazing musicians perform, and we’re keen to continue showcasing local talent. Keep an eye on our ‘What’s On’ page and follow us on social media for updates on upcoming acts.
5.
Sculpture Walk
Art in the Great Outdoors Stretch your legs and get some fresh air with a relaxing stroll around our Sculpture Garden. The grounds at Wildbrumby are dotted with stunning sculptures, all created by talented artists inspired by the rugged beauty of the alpine landscape. And, of course, don’t forget to stop by the shop and treat yourself to a well-deserved schnapps!
Bonus Freebie - A shot for a shot!
been to the top of Australia? Take a shot from the top of mt Kosciuszko, post it to social media, then tag us on instagram at wildbrumbydistillery or on Facebook at wildbrumbyschnappsdistillery to receive a free shot of schnapps when you visit us at the distillery.
This summer, expect the unexpected at Wildbrumby Distillery. Whether you’re celebrating Australia Day, savouring a new seasonal schnapps, or just enjoying a peaceful sculpture walk, we’ve got something for everyone.
Schnapps tastings are free all day, every day. Don’t forget to sign up to our wildbrumby club and follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with all our summer shenanigans. See you at Wildbrumby!
Thredbo launches its first multi-day hike experience
With the introduction of the Snowies Alpine Walk for 2024, a 55km grade 4 hike across the alpine roof of Australia, Thredbo is so excited to be offering an unforgettable and accessible way to enjoy this world-class hike. Winding through the pristine mountain zones of Kosciuszko National Park, the Snowies Alpine Walk features panoramic views of iconic high-country plains. With a new product from Thredbo Resort, adventure seekers can now explore this rugged terrain without sacrificing creature comforts.
For outdoor enthusiasts who want to add a little bit of luxury to their overnight hike repertoire, or for those eager to try their first multi-day hike – the Thredbo Snowies Alpine Walk Experience is the perfect choice.
With a 44km total distance for the three night package and a 24km total distance for the two night package, guests will enjoy a rewarding combination of exploration and relaxation throughout their journey! Each day, guests will begin with a buffet breakfast from the Cascades Restaurant before heading out in a Defender to the trail head. From there, accompanied by their experienced guide, they will venture across the newly built trail and soak in the unparalleled views of the Main Range before enjoying a packed lunch provided by the Thredbo Bakery. Once the day of hiking is done, guests will be collected and taken back to Thredbo for a delicious dinner and rest their legs at their accommodation at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel.
What’s included:
multi-day return transport from Thredbo to trailheads in a Defender;
each day your guide will point out endemic flora and fauna thriving in unlikely places;
15-minute scenic chairlift ride with sweeping views of Thredbo Valley and Kosciuszko National Park;
Accommodation at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel; buffet breakfast at cascades restaurant;
Daily packed lunch provided by the Thredbo bakery; and Dinner provided at Thredbo owned outlets.
bookings are open across limited dates now with spaces expected to fill quickly. Jump online to thredbo.com.au to secure your spot.
JINDABYNE TRAINING FACILITY
OFFERING NATIONALLY ACCREDITED TRAINING
• SIS30419 CERTIFICATE III IN OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP
• SIS40619 CERTIFICATE IV IN OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP (ALPINE GUIDE)
• AUR20320 CERTIFICATE II IN BICYCLE MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY
Five star rating for correctional museum
You will find the NSW State correctional museum in Vale Street right next to the cooma Gaol.
Learn about the 200 year penal history of incarceration from convict days to the present in NSW prisons.
There is a collection of displays. Objects related to punishment and crime such as manacles, leg irons, clothing, weapons and escape devices and other visual documentation.
There are constant additions to the museum collection including a new permanent exhibit ‘caring for the Incarcerated’ – a history of the NSW prison medical service.
members of the public and small groups are welcome. bookings for large groups are recommended. Take the family, they will love it.
The museum is open Saturday to Thursday (closed Fridays) – 8.30am to 3.15pm (subject to staff availability).
Open later on Tuesdays from 10.30am to 3.15pm
Only $2 per person entry, including a guided tour from an inmate or warden if available.
Starting out in one room in 1989 the museum moved into the decommissioned cooma correctional centre in 1998. When the centre re-opened in 2002, two adjacent corrective Services houses were converted into a new museum space and opened by the commissioner of corrective Services on August 25, 2005.
Highlights of the collection include an original portable cell, restraint devices (e.g. manacles and leg irons), convict and prisoner clothing, tin wear manufactured within prison industries, security equipment (eg riot shields and batons), contraband (eg inmate weapons, escape devices and tattoo guns), artefacts from the notorious Katingal gaol, photographs, videos, oral histories, and film documentation.
Located next to cooma correctional centre, the museum is officially on the map after being identified as a 2024 Traveller’s choice Awards Winner.
The glowing accolade was received thanks to reviews and ratings from guests who visited the museum in the past year and took part in guided tours conducted by minimumsecurity inmates while perusing information and artefacts from convict days to the present.
Welcome to the
largest club on the Monaro, one hour south of Canberra located in the heart of Cooma, gateway to the beautiful Snowy Mountains.
Mt Perisher 6 on schedule for 2025 winter season
Media outlets from across the state joined Perisher staff and construction crew last week for a behind-the-scenes tour of the new Mount Perisher 6 chairlift.
With construction taking place over two summers, the chair is expected to be operational in time for the 2025 winter season and according to Perisher’s mountain operations director, Michael Fearnside, it will provide a 60 percent chairlift capacity on Mount Perisher, while all other surface lifts remain unchanged.
“Some key design criteria that Doppelmayr has been working on is wind-forms, as most know our two and three-seater chairlifts can get affected by the wind and will be put on wind hold if gusts are too strong,” Mr Fearnside said.
“There are set limits that chairlifts can be operated in, including breeze velocity, direction, and others, so a lot of work has gone in the background of making the chairlift more withstanding of windy weather.
“The highest lifted point in Australia of 2042 metres, the top station location opens up more opportunities to the rider to access more of the mountain and not to mention the incredible views.”
Mt Perisher 6 is a high-speed 6-seater chairlift replacing the Mt P Triple and Mt P Double chairlifts and what used to take 10 minutes to reach the top the new lift halves the time, taking only five minutes.
“This new lift is more than just steel and concrete, it is the standard we want to uphold in the industry and help to accentuate us as a resort known for its reliability in snow, diversity and terrain choice and its size and scale,” Perisher’s vice president and general manager, Nathan Butterworth, said.
Doppelmayr GM, Shaun Turner, said as one of the largest manufacturing companies in the world they can turn out one lift every two days.
“We have had a base in Jindabyne for 50 years, celebrating the 50th this year, and having had worked for Dopplemayr for 25 years we’ve built most lifts around the resort from Leichhardt, Freedom, V8 and now Mt Perisher and more,” Mr Turner said.
“We started thinking of the Mt Perisher job about 20 years ago when the plans first came across my desk, and we were excited to be part of the build of the highest lifted point in Australia.
“This build is one of the biggest investments in the snow industry in Australia since the 80s for a private company, the commitment shown from Vail is to extend over the next 30 years if not more.”
Facing many constraints and challenges throughout the seasonal build at an altitude of more than 2000 metres, the build is making good progress and is on track, expecting to reach its deadline for the 2025 winter season.
Riding in luxury, the new lift will include comfortable cushioned seats, footrests, and an overall smoother ride, designed with the safety and comfort of all in mind.
Working six days a week, completing 10-hour days to ensure the build is on schedule, the team has only lost one day to wet weather and has battled through windy conditions and soaring temperatures to keep it all on track.
Look at the views from Australia’s highest lifted point and imagine the runs down with fewer towers, wider terrain, and more choices from the top.
Perisher offers the space to discover your moment.
Snowy Mountains SAP projects progress
The Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct (SAP) projects are progressing across Jindabyne leading Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, and State Member of Parliament for Monaro, Steve Whan, to visit the construction site of the Jindabyne Sport and Education Campus.
Inspecting the progress of the development, the $47 million commitment to enhancing the Barry Way to deliver a safer and easier drop off section for when the school opens in early 2025, is in addition to the $196 million announced earlier in 2024.
Mr Whan said when he was elected, his focus would be on the essentials.
“Essentials which were neglected by the previous government when considering how Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountains area is growing,” Mr Whan said.
The additional funding brings the total the of the government’s commitment to $242 million for the SAP works.
Ms Moriarty said the Snowy Mountains SAP is playing an important role in creating long-term economic prosperity in the region.
“I am pleased to expand the precinct commitment by $47 million to include important upgrades to Barry Way around the new school precinct,” Ms Moriarty said.
In addition to the Barry Way upgrades the projects announced by the Minns Labor Government have progressed, including the key elements of the foreshore design, a 3.5km shared user path upgraded between Banjo Patterson Park and Widows Creek.
Designs have also included a new playground in the park, a pump track, improved lawn areas and improved drainage.
Community consultation related to the foreshore design wrapped up in November and feedback is being considered, the final design is underway with it expected to be completed by mid-2025, making it shovel ready for future funding opportunities.
The Bike Precinct project will see 500 hectares of land within the Snowy Mountains precinct become home to a Mountain Bike Adventure Park.
Planning work is underway and will inform what features, facilities and amenities the adventure park will include. Further details are expected to be announced by mid-2025.
The Jindabyne wastewater treatment plan is being upgraded to increase capacity, to meet the long-term needs of the growing population, ensuring the future amenity needs of the community are met.
The detailed design for the wastewater treatment plant is underway.
A new water treatment plant will be constructed to ensure compliance with drinking water standards.
The project is currently in the concept design phase, with a construction tender expected to be issued in 2025.
The scope of the electrical upgrades is being finalised, these upgrades will future-proof the precinct and provide reliable electrical supply to the growing Jindabyne community.
Planning work is underway that will inform how the staged release of land will be rolled out to support a diverse mix of housing.
“These projects are progressing but there is more to be done and I am ensuring this happens appropriately and in a timely manner,” Ms Moriarty said.
“The water and sewerage works, the foreshore design plus bike precinct and opening further housing development are important for a future Snowy economy and our Government is keen to see it underway.”
NSW Public Works has been engaged to lead the delivery of the water and sewer projects across the precinct.
“Now that public consultation is closed, design works are progressing on the foreshore design, roadworks are underway to finish the Jindabyne School Precinct, and a new sewerage and water treatment plant will help ensure the town’s growth is sustainable,” mr Whan said.
“There is more work to be done, and I will keep the region updated as time goes on.”
THE DOUBLE GLAZING SPECIALISTS OFFERING HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS AND SERVICE
Over 25 years living and working in the mountains. We’ll have the right products for your home or lodge.
NSW Public Works are well equipped to plan and deliver water supply and wastewater infrastructure that meets the council’s and community needs and protects public health and the environment.
The Snowy mountains precinct is also facilitating the supply of a diverse mix of housing to benefit the community, support workers and the transition to a year-round economy.
Learn to love all seasons and reduce your energy bill with double glazed windows and doors.
We supply and install a range of Double Glazed window and door products. These products include timber and aluminium framed items that have been specially chosen to withstand the Snowy mountains Alpine weather.
• Obligation free quotes
• Made to measure shower screens, flyscreens and security screens
• Glass - cut to size
• Broken glass window replacement
• Glass balustrades.
• Thermally broken and standard double glazed windows and doors.
Regional Interschools Snowsports
The Interschools Snowsports Championships is a series of snowsports competitions where school students compete for their school as part of a team or as an individual in any of the nine discipline events.
Thousands of students have been introduced to competitive ski and snowboard competitions through the Interschools Championships, establishing a life-long love for the sport.
From Interschools, many students have gone on to professional instructing, coaching and competing in higher-level competitions, including World Cups and the Olympics.
Over 80 Australian Olympians and Paralympians have begun their competition days in the Interschools Snowsport Championships.
Sounds great! Who can enter?
School students from all ability levels are encouraged to enter, emphasising fun and participation in the initial Regional Championships. As the competitions move into the State and Australian Championships, the level of competition and the degree of difficulty increases.
It is advised that all competitors must be able to execute link turns and ride a chairlift/T-bar confidently, before competing in Regional Level events.
What Snowsport disciplines are on offer?
Interschools has nine disciplines on offer including Alpine, Ski Cross, Moguls, Snowboard GS, Snowboard Cross, Cross-Country Classic and Cross-Country Relay. For our secondary students, we also include Ski Slopestyle and Snowboard Slopestyle.
What is the multiclass event?
Interschools also has a Multiclass event which provides an opportunity for students with a physical, intellectual impairment and autism to participate in a fun and welcoming environment. Students can compete in an Alpine GS or Snowboard event.
What if my school does not already compete?
It is important to note that new schools can enter the Interschools Championships if they have not competed before, or for a long time.¯ You don’t need to create a team to enter; individual entries are open, and there are many competitors who are either the only snow sports participants from their school or there are only a few participants over different disciplines and divisions.
How and when do schools enter?
Online entries open in May and are completed by the school’s representative, the school coordinator.
New schools will need to assign a school coordinator to complete the entries. Please get in touch Interschool Snowsports first if you are a new school to check if there is a previous school registration for the entry system. The entry system can only have one school registration per school.
Event dates
For the 2025 Interschools Event Series, here is an overview of the dates.
Northern NSW & QLD Regional Championships - July 8 - July 11 at Perisher;
Sydney Regional Championships - July 14 to July 18 at Thredbo; South Australia & TAS Championships - July 16 to July 17 at Falls Creek; ACT & Southern NSW Regional Championships - July 22 to July 25 at Perisher; Falls Creek Schools Carnival - July 29 to August 1 at Falls Creek; NSW / ACT / QLD State Championships - August 18 to August 22 at Perisher; Australian Interschools Championships - September 2 to September 7 at Mt Buller. Visit www.interschools.com.au for a detailed schedule.
Which Regional Championships do I enter?
There are five Regional Championships. Which Regional Championships to enter is based on primarily where the school is located. Here is a guide to school location boundaries for the Regional Championships:
• Northern NSW & QLD Championship – Central Coast, Central West, Hills District, Hunter, New England, North Coast, Upper Northern Beaches, Northern Suburbs, Upper North Shore, South-Western Sydney, Southern Highlands, Western Sydney, Queensland;
• Sydney Championships – Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, Lower North Shore, Lower Northern Beaches, Sutherland and St George area;
• ACT & Regional NSW Championships – Riverina, Illawarra, South Coast, South East, Canberra;
• SA & TAS Championships - South Australia, Tasmania; and
• Regional NSW ChampionshipsGreater Hume, South West NSW.
Year-round facility provides endless opportunities
Winter might be over for the 2024 season, however activity at the NSTc doesnt stop when the snow melts.
The NSTc, or the National Snowsports Training centre as it’s formally known, is not only a world-class facility which is home to Australia’s high performance Winter Sports athletes, it is also a hub of activity for both the local area and the wider snowsports community.
Located in Jindabyne within the Sport & recreation centre on barry Way, the John Langley Hancock building houses state-of-theart trampoline and acro facilities. This provides local community and school groups with opportunities to attend classes or aimed at those who would like to participate in a fun activity after school or work, or hone specific skills. The community acro classes are based around a partially-structured class, giving participants the ability to practice with confidence in a safe environment.
Directly behind the John Langley Hancock building is the NSTc Park, giving guests access to two airbags and dry slope jumps. The park is open to the public and accommodates a broad range of jumping abilities.
The park has four jumps:
• the small 13ft and medium 23ft jumps land on the smaller Development bag, perfect for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders;
• the large 39ft and x-large 55ft jumps are for more advanced skiers and snowboarders who practice on the High Performance airbag.
NSTc Park allows participants to practice their jumps and tricks in a controlled manner, giving them time and repetition to perfect tricks and landings before hitting the snow during the season.
Guests can access NSTc Park year-round, providing endless opportunities not only during the winter season, but also during the summer months before heading overseas or just to continue their love of the sport. In addition to the community sessions, guests can arrange to attend with a group of friends by booking a private session.
If you are visiting the area before heading overseas or in the lead into winter and looking to get some extra time honing your skills, then check out the Qr below for details on our scheduled sessions to book online.
A new addition to Jindabyne retail scene
Let’s make this the year we all commit to shopping small and supporting local favourites.
Opening in December 2024 is a fabulous second store for Diana McInnes from the very popular and long running store Design & Detail - Mountain Style located in Jindabyne’s Town Centre.
Diana has owned and operated her store Design & Detail for over 21 years and a few years ago acquired another premises Two Doors Up from her flagship store and opened an art gallery called Two Doors Up.
After a slower year with a marginal ski season, increased interest rates and high end art sales slowing down, she put her thinking cap on and thought how could she turn the space into something that would suit a broader range of customer, and become more viable.
Many years of collecting and collating store props, vintage wares, interesting curiosities and the like, Diana decided that this would be a great opportunity to pass these oneoff wares to the general public so they could enjoy these unique items.
The store is now called Two Doors UpVintage Style and will be open the same days that Design & Detail - Mountain Style is trading.
If you are around, pop in and check out this interesting array of vintage items. Gifting isn’t about spending, it’s about intention. Let’s move away from consumerism and embrace the value of second-hand items.
After all, every time you shop small, you’re investing in more than a local businessyou’re investing in people, dreams, and the heart of your neighbourhood and community.
Art lovers flock to Raglan Gallery
The raglan Gallery and cultural centre in cooma is one of the Snowy mountains’ most loved and visited art galleries.
Located in historic Lambie Street, the raglan building abounds in charm, history and art. Local artists regularly showcase their talents with many wonderful exhibitions held in the raglan each year.
The permanent collection is a must see, with images depicting life on the land, people and the region all on offer.
The raglan is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10.30am to 3.30pm. It is run by the hard work of its volunteer committee.
The raglan Gallery and cultural centre showcases work by the region’s established and emerging artists, from painters to ceramicists, potters, sculptors, jewellers, craftspeople and artisans.
Snowy Museum showcases rich history
There are many reasons to stop at Adaminaby, but one location that should definitely be on your to-do list is a visit the Snowy Scheme Museum.
2024 marks a milestone year for the Snowy mountains Hydroelectric Scheme as it commemorates 75 years since the Governor General, Sir William mcKell and the Prime minister, ben chifley, fired the first explosive shots at Adaminaby on October 17, 1949. It is also 50 years since the completion of the scheme’s construction phase in 1974.
During the 25 years of construction, the scheme achieved many significant milestones, not least of which are the physical and human legacies.
To this day the surviving snowy workers maintain close personnel connections to the scheme through their families and Snowy Scheme workmates.
For the next generation, through groups such as the “Kids of the Snowies”, there is now an inherited family connection to the Snowy Scheme.
One of the projects currently underway is recording the history of the scheme.
The museum now has a collection of more than 400 biographies and oral history records in its collection. Some of the recent stories include:
• A 91 -year-old diamond driller who came from malta and began working on the snowy in 1950 as a wood cutter for the big snowy camps before taking charge of the diamond drilling team;
• A 95-year-old lady who was president of the country Women’s Association (cWA) in the township of eaglehawk, who with the butcher, organised the buff’s cabaret ball raising in excess of 500 pounds for the cooma Hospital;
• An 84 -year-old woman who was a wait attendant was selected by Sir William Hudson to be trained to service Queen elizabeth and Prince Phillip on their tour of the Snowy Scheme in 1963;
• A 92 -year-old woman who, at the age of 23, became the first female teacher at the eaglehawk Public School; and
• A woman in her 90s, whose family immigrated to Australia from Austria, and because she missed the snow, applied for and was successful in obtaining a job with the snowy in cooma and became an excellent stenographer.
Show season across the Snowies
Throughout summer and into autumn, there is no shortage of events to enjoy in the Snowy Mountains and Snowy Valleys.
A highlight of the region is its rural and agricultural shows. Shows bring the community together and offer visitors a taste of what country living is all about.
Show season is a busy time in the region with a show on almost every Saturday or Sunday during February and March.
The first agricultural show of the year is always Nimmitabel. Nimmitabel Show is on Saturday February 1 and is one of best attended in the region.
Tumut is next on the calendar, running over two days on February 28 and March 1. 2025 is a special year for the Tumut Show as it celebrates its 150th anniversary.
A big weekend to start March has the Delegate Show on Saturday March 1 and the Dalgety Show on Sunday March 2.
Cooma Show is on Saturday March 8 with a special anniversary to celebrate, 150-years.
The Adelong Show is also on Saturday March 8 and is one not to miss.
Bombala Show is next up on Saturday March 15 and Sunday March 16, while the Tumbarumba Show is back on Saturday March 15.
Batlow Show turns 101 this year with its big day set for Saturday March 22.
The Snowy mountains is home to some of Australia’s best fishing spots - be it lakes, streams and rivers.
One of the most sought after activities in the region is fishing, particularly trout fishing.
The Snowy Trout challenge is a popular event, attracting hundreds of anglers, each hoping to snag a prize winning trout.
Six hundred tagged rainbow trout have been released into lakes Jindabyne, eucumbene and Talbingo reservoir.
If you catch a tagged trout, you go into a monthly cash prize draw. These run until the end of April.
Looking for the perfect place to land your next big catch? The Snowy mountains has no shortage of alpine streams, worldrenowned rivers and lakes.
The cool waters of the Snowy mountains are renowned for brown and rainbow trout, along with Atlantic Salmon. There are also a number of native fish to be found, such as murray cod and golden perch.
The alpine climate and cool mountain waterways support ideal habitats for salmonids. most of the waterways in the Snowies originate in and around Australia’s highest peaks, draining throughout the south-eastern facing slopes of the alpine region.
The fishery, most of which is encompassed within the Kosciuszko National Park, comprises of 16 hydro dams built between 1949 and 1974 as part of the Snowy Hydro Scheme plus an abundance of creeks, streams and rivers. Although not native to Australia, rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout and Atlantic salmon have all taken to these waterways since their release in the late 1800s.
A vast array of fishing options caters for all anglers. The region’s largest lakes of eucumbene and Jindabyne are perfectly suited
to soaking a bait, land-based sight fly fishing and lure casting and trolling. Smaller reservoirs like Tantangara also provide similar offerings but are a little more “off the grid”.
A multitude of river systems can be explored by the adventurous angler. These range from small mountain creeks through to powerful freestone waterways like the Thredbo and eucumbene rivers. These rivers have been long regarded as the region’s premier fly and lure fishing destinations, offering anglers the chance at trophy brown and rainbow trout.
A number of picturesque towns and villages including cooma, Adaminaby, Jindabyne and Thredbo offer a range of accommodation and dining options. Anglers can also enjoy one of the many wonderful camping and accommodation alternatives within Kosciuszko National Park.
Berridale is a beauty
Travelling to the mountains this summer? Why not break the journey and take some time to explore the pretty village of Berridale. The village, situated between Cooma and Jindabyne, has become a very popular stop-over destination with travellers to the region and it’s easy to see why.
Well known for the Poplar Drive, the row of poplar trees which feature along the main street, it is an attractive welcome to the village. The trees were planted by the local school children in the 1930s.
Offering great venues for wining and dining, shopping, sightseeing, accommodation, and many other areas to explore right there in the village, plus its convenient proximity to the towns of Jindabyne and Cooma, would all have to make Berridale a great place to schedule a break from the road.
And then there’s the history of the village, and the fine efforts the local community are making in order to highlight and preserve the story of Berridale.
The village has also been called the “Crossroads of the Snowy” as in the 1850s, miners heading out to the goldfields around Adaminaby and Kiandra would pass through Berridale on their way. The village was allegedly named by early settler, William Oliver, who settled the area in 1860 and named it after his home in Scotland.
