Steph Cooke | 26 Mar 2024 | Bland Shire Community Grants Local projects News Sport and Recreation
Sport and recreation in West Wyalong has been transformed after the official opening of the renovated West Wyalong Recreation Ground, by the Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke.
Ms Cooke said she was proud to do the honours, having secured an investment of close to half a million dollars for the upgrades, which includes the resurfacing of the netball courts, renovation of the cricket nets, an upgrade to the sports lighting, and renewed fencing.
“This is a fantastic community and I’m just so delighted to have been able to secure the $485,000 in funding, that has breathed new life into the recreation ground here in West Wyalong,” Ms Cooke said.
“Community sport is a vital part of our social fabric, and the upgraded facilities will encourage greater community participation in sports, and support growth in our local sporting clubs.
“Congratulations to the council and all those involved in making this project a reality; it’s by enhancing our local infrastructure that we can continue to grow investment and interest in the West Wyalong community, and indeed, right across the Bland Shire,” she said.
Ms Cooke said the West Wyalong Recreation Ground project was one of five in West Wyalong that shared in a $2.1 million funding injection under the previous Coalition Government’s Resources for Regions fund, round seven.
These included Cooinda Waters Canoe Circuit ($350,000), West Wyalong Harness Racing Club refurbishment ($354,763), West Wyalong Golf Course rejuvenation & sustainability project ($299,236), and West Wyalong Aerodrome upgrade ($606,173).
“I was proud to be a part of a government that invested heavily in the regions, especially in projects that increased sporting participation, promoted healthy lifestyles, and fostered vibrant communities,” Ms Cooke said.
“An important focus of these funds was around encouraging growth in our rural and regional towns and villages, and I will continue to pressure the current government to ensure they don’t lose sight of that focus,” she said.
Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke and Bland Shire Council Mayor Brian Monaghan joined with members of the sporting community to celebrate the official opening of the renovated West Wyalong Recreation Ground.
The NSW Labor Government must commit to prioritising issues in rural and regional New South Wales during its second year in office, or else risk leaving communities west of the Great Divide behind.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said while progress has been made on Coalition-era projects, rural and regional areas have not been a top priority for the government over the past 12 months.
“There will be a lot of discussion about the progress – or lack thereof – that the NSW Labor Government has made since the election last year, and I could point to various programs and projects that have either been axed or significantly cut by this government,” Ms Cooke said.
“As a result, there are very real concerns that the NSW Labor Government simply does not have the needs and concerns of our regional communities at the top of their to-do list, and this is being conveyed to me by residents who are concerned about the future prospects of the regions, should this continue.
“Whether it be water infrastructure, our roads network, community infrastructure, sporting grounds, help with the cost-of-living, access to educational opportunities, policing resources and infrastructure, concerns around the severity and incidence of crime, access to vital health services, or housing, I am working hard every single day to bring all of these matters to the government’s attention.
“To that end I have held very constructive discussions in recent times with a number of ministers in key portfolios, including with the Regional Transport Minister, the Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, the Local Government Minister, the Minister for Families and Communities, the Police Minister, and the Health Minister.
“During all of these meetings I’ve brought the issues and concerns of our communities to their immediate attention, ensuring they hear first-hand about the obstacles we’re facing,” she said.
Ms Cooke said one of the main challenges is the fact the government is very city-centric, with their MPs having little – if any – first-hand knowledge of the regions.
“It’s my intention to make sure they’re aware of the needs of our towns and villages, and to work with the government to progress large-scale infrastructure projects like the Cowra Hospital redevelopment, the Temora Hospital redevelopment, road infrastructure like the Wallendbeen Bridge, as well as finding solutions to water quality and supply issues like those facing Boorowa and Narrandera,” Ms Cooke said.
“I will continue to advocate for 24/7 policing in Cowra, and the need for a new police station in Young, and to that end we’ve had great success in forcing the government to commit to a regional crime inquiry that will canvas those very issues.
“I will never stop calling for equitable access to educational opportunities, and we’ve certainly had wins on that front recently, securing investments for preschools in both Cowra and Boorowa.
“At the end of the day, residents in our rural and regional communities should never feel like second class citizens, so it is incumbent upon this NSW Labor Government to remember that they’re governing for the entire state; they must never lose sight of the fact that the future prosperity of New South Wales depends on the health and prosperity of the regions,” she said.
Steph Cooke | 22 Mar 2024 | All LGAs Community Emergency Services News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is encouraging residents to contribute to the newly established regional crime inquiry to ensure communities across the electorate have their say on law & order throughout the region.
Ms Cooke said the inquiry, spearheaded by Country Mayors Association Chairman Mayor Jamie Chaffey, is the result of months of campaigning to convince the government of the need to examine the issues behind the incidence and severity of crime in the regions.
“Make no mistake, this inquiry is all thanks to the hard work of Jamie Chaffey and the Country Mayors Association who, along with the Police Association, NSW Farmers, the CWA, and members of the opposition, called on the government to once and for all, take action on combatting regional crime,” Ms Cooke said.
“I backed the need for this inquiry from day one; I too believed it was the only way that we could properly assess the situation, identify whole of government solutions, and put in place long-term measures that will address the issue, and hopefully, provide residents in rural and regional areas with some peace of mind,” she said.
Ms Cooke said she discussed the inquiry and its terms of reference with Mr Chaffey, along with other mayors from the Cootamundra electorate, who had gathered at Parliament House for a meeting of CMA members, with regional crime at the top of the agenda.
“I certainly welcome the inquiry, but the hard work has only just begun; we’ve lost six valuable months while the government dragged its feet on this, so it’s important that we mobilise now, and create real momentum towards achieving meaningful outcomes for the regions,” Ms Cooke said.
“And that’s where our local communities come in; I’m encouraging anyone who would like to tell their story and contribute to this important initiative, to make your voice count by lodging a submission to the inquiry.
“I will be writing to the committee chair requesting that panel members conduct one of the various regional hearings in our Cootamundra electorate, to ensure they see firsthand the need for a new police station in Young, the need for 24/7 policing in Cowra, along with the need for adequate police infrastructure and resourcing in other areas, such as in places like Narrandera,” she said.
Steph Cooke | 20 Mar 2024 | All LGAs Community Community resources Emergency Services News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said common sense has finally prevailed with the announcement today that a parliamentary inquiry into regional crime will soon get underway.
Ms Cooke said she has backed calls for the inquiry since it was first raised by the Country Mayors Association last October.
“I spoke again in parliament this week on the urgent need for a bi-partisan parliamentary inquiry into regional crime, and I’m relieved the government has finally listened to our concerns, and has woken up to the seriousness of the situation we’re facing in the regions,” Ms Cooke said.
“While I wholeheartedly welcome this important and much needed intervention into the problems around crime in the regions, I am disappointed that it took the government this long to acknowledge the problem, and to agree to doing something about it.
“Essentially, we are now six months behind where we could have been if the government had only listened to those of us giving a voice to residents in regional communities, who are tired of being treated like second-class citizens when it comes to law and order.
“The bottom line is that nothing short of a bi-partisan parliamentary inquiry will properly address the issues around regional crime, and get to the bottom of what’s causing the anti-social behaviour, the support services that are available, the deterrence measures that are needed, and the level and allocation of police resources.
“Today’s announcement is a testament to the unwavering commitment of those who have long championed the need for an inquiry, including the Country Mayors Association led by Chair Mayor Jamie Chaffey, the Police Association, NSW Farmers, the CWA, the Shadow Police Minister, and other key members of the Opposition.
“Recent statistics from the New South Wales Bureau of Crime Statistics & Research confirmed what those of us who live and work in the regions, already know: that when it comes to crime in NSW, it is far worse in regional and rural areas, than in Sydney.
“With an inquiry now confirmed, the work can finally begin on finding lasting solutions to combat these problems and provide our rural and regional communities with the peace of mind they deserve,” she said.
Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke meeting with the Shadow Police Minister Paul Toole in her office in Parliament House, following news an inquiry into regional crime will soon get underway.
Steph Cooke | 14 Mar 2024 | All LGAs Community Health News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has announced her support for the Lions Eye Health Program, and is encouraging primary schools across the Cootamundra electorate to take part in this vital initiative.
The program is dedicated towards providing free eye screenings for students, which Ms Cooke said, is something she has a special interest in.
“Early detection of vision problems is something that’s very close to my heart,” Ms Cooke said.
“I’ve worn glasses since I was three years-of-age, after my mother picked up on some subtle signs that I was having vision difficulties. She was teaching at the time, and so was able to compare some of my behaviours, with that of students in the classroom who were having similar problems.
“She then took me off to the optometrist who confirmed her suspicions, and I am forever grateful for this early intervention, without which – I have no doubt – my life would have gone down a very different path,” she said.
Ms Cooke said vision problems can affect learning and overall wellbeing, and can significantly impact a child’s ability to participate in school activities.
“When you consider that close to one-in-five children have an undetected vision problem, programs like this are just so vitally important in detecting and addressing eye health concerns early, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” Ms Cooke said.
Club Secretary with the Lions Club of Young Stuart Freudenstein, said screenings have recently been carried out at Trinity Catholic School in Murrumburrah, with Boorowa Central School the next on the growing list of schools putting their hand up for the screenings.
“We visit the schools ahead of time and work with them to find a suitable spot for the screenings, which involve tests around shape and colour recognition, a special 3D test, as well as a special camera that helps assess eye health,” Mr Freudenstein said.
“Based on the test results, we are then able to provide advice to the school and to parents, on whether students should visit an optometrist for further assessment,” he said.
Ms Cooke said she is proud to offer her support to the program, and is incredibly grateful to the dedicated volunteers from the Lions Club of Young who are making it possible.
“My goal is to have this program rolled-out in every primary school across our Cootamundra electorate,” Ms Cooke said.
“By participating in the Lions Eye Health Program, schools can ensure that every student has access to essential vision screenings, and I urge all schools right across the electorate to take advantage of this invaluable program,” she said.
Schools interested in participating in the Lions Eye Health Program can contact Lions Club of Young Club Secretary Stuart Freudenstein for more information: lionsclubofyounginc@gmail.com
Steph Cooke | 13 Mar 2024 | All LGAs Community Emergency Services News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has once again raised the urgent need for 24/7 policing in Cowra during a speech on the floor of the NSW Parliament.
Ms Cooke highlighted the issue, along with the necessity for a new police station in Young, to reinforce her ongoing calls for a bi-partisan parliamentary inquiry into regional crime.
“A bi-partisan parliamentary inquiry is vital in addressing the growing incidence and severity of crime throughout rural and regional towns and villages,” Ms Cooke said.
“The reality is, nothing short of a parliamentary inquiry is going to properly shine a light on this issue, and really get to the bottom of what is happening out in the regions. An inquiry will help highlight the areas of need, and in doing so, identify pragmatic and lasting solutions.
“When it comes to our Cootamundra electorate, an inquiry would provide an opportunity to once again raise the issue of 24/7 policing in Cowra, along with the desperate need for police infrastructure funding, including a new police station in Young, and an upgrade of the station in Narrandera,” she said.
Ms Cooke said an inquiry will provide stakeholders with the opportunity to examine police resourcing, as well as factors behind anti-social behaviour, and potential deterrence measures.
“When you consider that the three regional police regions in New South Wales cover 90 per cent of the state’s land mass, and yet have only one third of the 17,600 sworn police officers based there, clearly this is something that requires ongoing scrutiny to ensure that police resources are adequate, and are going where they are needed most,” Ms Cooke said.
Ms Cooke said so far, the NSW Labor Government has resisted the idea of an inquiry, with the police minister dismissing it as a “talk fest”.
“It’s important to remember, this isn’t targeted at police; our country police are doing the best they can, but a parliamentary inquiry would help to figure out what the core issues are behind the rise in crime, and what our hardworking police need to combat this issue,” Ms Cooke said.
To report a crime, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. If you or someone you know has been impacted by crime in rural and regional parts of the state, and would like to share your experience as a way of further reinforcing the need for government action, visit: www.regionalcrime.com.au
Photograph caption: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is continuing to shine a light on local crime and police resources during the current sitting of the NSW Parliament on Macquarie Street.
Steph Cooke | 12 Mar 2024 | Community Grants Local projects News Temora Shire
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was in Temora to officially open the upgrades to the Bundawarrah Centre, including a new walkway for a revitalised entrance to the Temora Rural Museum.
Ms Cooke said recent upgrades have been made possible thanks to federal and state government funding, including $187,200 under the previous Coalition Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
“I have seen many changes to the Temora Rural Museum over the years, all of which have encouraged more and more visitors to the area, boosting the local economy,” Ms Cooke said.
“Thousands of people visit the museum each year to see the amazing collection, so the upgrades to the Bundawarrah Centre will certainly enhance the experience and ensure it continues to be a major attraction in the town, both for residents and tourists alike,” she said.
During the opening, Ms Cooke also had the honour of presenting a plaque to Superintendent Steve Holden (retired), in recognition of his tireless work in showcasing the vital history around the evolution of bush firefighting in the area over many decades.
Superintendent Holden was the District Manager for the NSW Rural Fire Service (Bland Temora Zone) from 2001 to 2021.
“Not only was Steve a member of the RFS but he’s also a volunteer of the Thanowring Rural Fire Brigade which he remains a member of today,” Ms Cooke said.
“Steve has always been committed to serving the community across a number of organisations, including as a volunteer member of the Temora Rural Museum. He was instrumental in the creation of the NSW Rural Fire Service Community Engagement Centre, which forms one of the many historic displays within the museum,” she said.
Ms Cooke said the Rural Fire Service Community Engagement Centre incorporates appliances, equipment, and many ancillary items associated with the vast history of the RFS.
“This display is a credit to Steve’s efforts, and that of the volunteers that help maintain this vital link to our fire-fighting history, including the men and women who have contributed throughout the years,” Ms Cooke said.
Photograph caption: Steph Cooke MP presenting Steve Holden with a plaque in recognition of his work establishing the NSW Rural Fire Service Community Engagement Centre.
Steph Cooke | 11 Mar 2024 | All LGAs Community News
24 residents from across the Cootamundra electorate have been announced as recipients of the 2024 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Award.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke made the announcement to mark the start of the 2024 NSW Seniors Festival, running from 11 – 24 March.
Ms Cooke said the Seniors Festival has been running for over four decades.
“I am just so delighted to join communities right across our Cootamundra electorate, in celebrating the start of the NSW Seniors Festival for 2024,” Ms Cooke said.
“The Seniors Festival is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and honour the invaluable role of the older members of our towns and villages, and show our appreciation for the seniors in our lives, and the countless ways they enrich our communities.
“The seniors in our Cootamundra electorate make such wonderful contributions in our communities every single day. From the local Lions Club, Rotary, CWA, hospital auxiliaries, Meals on Wheels, the list goes on and on.
“It’s so important that we give them the recognition they deserve; of course they never ask for praise or accolades, but it’s really important that we’re able to do that.
“Our seniors bring such wisdom, experience, and vitality to our local communities, and I encourage everyone to join me in celebrating this.
“So during this year’s two week festival, I urge everyone to show your appreciation for the invaluable work our seniors do, and take the time to embrace the opportunity to learn from their vast wealth of knowledge.
“Congratulations to all those who received a Local Achievement Award; your wisdom, experience, and resilience certainly is an inspiration to us all,” she said.
2024 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Award recipients in the Cootamundra electorate:
Steph Cooke | 04 Mar 2024 | Community Cowra Shire Education News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has announced an investment of close to $800,000 to go towards a stand-alone preschool at Cowra’s Yalbillinga Boori Day Care Centre.
Ms Cooke said she was delighted to announce the funding totalling $797,000 under the Start Strong Capital Works Grants Program, which will create an additional 15 places for pre-schoolers in Cowra.
“It’s well known just how important the first five years of life are, and how vital it is we engage young people in learning right from the start, and I’d like to congratulate Centre Manager Caroline Bamblett and her team, for this great outcome,” Ms Cooke said.
“As the wonderful team at the centre will tell you, there’s always a waiting list, so today’s news means they can accommodate more children, which will provide great opportunities for local families.
“This investment in the Yalbillinga Boori Day Care Centre is an investment in Cowra’s future, and a signal to families here and beyond, that this is a great place to raise children.
“We must do everything we can to ensure our youngest learners have access to the best possible start when it comes to their education, so securing investments for our preschool-aged children has been a top priority for me personally over the years,” she said.
Ms Cooke said she has secured more than $8.5 million in preschool funding for the Cootamundra electorate since being elected in 2017.
“It’s all about providing parents and families with more places in areas of high need, and the new preschool will help ensure more families have the chance to utilise these opportunities here in Cowra,” Ms Cooke said.
Ms Cooke said today’s announcement follows news that the Cowra Early Childhood Services (CECS) has been awarded $3.7 million in government funding to build a new 60-place community pre-school, also thanks to the Start Strong Capital Works Grants Program.
“As the local member, ensuring we have access to these services is just so vital. It goes far beyond bricks and mortar; funding like this will literally change the lives of families and improve outcomes for our young ones, for generations to come,” Ms Cooke said.
Photograph caption: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke talking with Yalbillinga Boori Day Care Centre manager Caroline Bamblett about the exciting plans for the centre following the recent funding announcement.
Steph Cooke | 04 Mar 2024 | All LGAs Bland Shire Community Coolamon Shire Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Cowra Shire Junee Shire Narrandera Shire News Weddin Shire
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said NSW Women’s Week 2024 is a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of women across our Cootamundra electorate, that also serves as a reminder of the resilience, strength, and talent that women bring to local communities.
Ms Cooke said the week provides an opportunity to highlight the diverse roles and experiences of women of all ages, and from all walks of life.
“Today is the start of NSW Women’s Week 2024 – a chance for us all to recognise the contributions of women and girls across our Cootamundra electorate,” Ms Cooke said.
“Women play a vital role in our communities, and they deserve to be celebrated for the wonderful and tireless work they do.
“We have some fantastic local women kicking goals and doing amazing things in their field, from sport, to small business, education, health, the arts, agriculture – the list is endless.
“But this week is also about acknowledging the unsung heroes; the home-makers, the ones who give their time as volunteers, or committee members – those who are active in the community doing every role under the sun to help our amazing towns and villages thrive.
“It’s a chance for women and girls everywhere to support one another, learn from each other, and enjoy each other’s company.
“Essentially, this week is all about honouring the achievements of women, celebrating their contributions, and inspiring generations to come, so that together we can build a brighter future for all,” she said.
Find out more about the events that are going on this week from Monday 4 March to Sunday 10 March here:
