Celebrating our Local Seniors

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is encouraging the community to celebrate the positive role seniors play in the local area by nominating them for the 2024 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Awards.

Nominations are now open for the awards program, with the winners to be announced during the NSW Seniors Festival, taking place from 11th – 24th March, 2024.

The NSW Seniors Festival celebrates and acknowledges the important role that seniors play in our community.

It is the largest festival for seniors in the Southern Hemisphere, with an estimated 250,000 seniors participating in hundreds of free or discounted events.

“This annual festival is all about celebrating the positive impact of older people in our families, and broader community,” Ms Cooke said.

“The festival provides an important opportunity for seniors to participate in their communities in meaningful and engaging ways.

“The awards too are a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of our seniors.

“So many seniors go above and beyond for our community as volunteers, carers, and role models, so if you know a senior who helps make our community a better place to live, then I encourage you to nominate them,” she said.

Nominations close at 5pm on Friday, 1st March 2024.

To nominate a senior or find further information on the awards program, phone: 6382 2399 or email: cootamundra@parliament.nsw.gov.au

For more information about the NSW Seniors Festival visit: www.seniorsfestival.nsw.gov.au.

Scouting for New Recruits in Young

Students and young adults in Young and surrounding areas are being encouraged to embrace the spirit of adventure and community by signing-up to the Young branch of Scouts Australia.

Following a recent visit to the newly refurbished Scout Hall, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said Scouts is open to anyone aged 5 to 25, who can join either the Joey Scouts, Cub Scouts, Scouts, Venturer Scouts, or Rover Scouts.

“Scout numbers in Young unfortunately dropped-off during Covid, but now that the renovations have been completed at the hall, the local chapter is ready to ramp-up their activities in the New Year, so I encourage anyone who is perhaps looking for a new challenge or something fun to do, to learn more about the activities on offer,” Ms Cooke said.

Ms Cooke said joining the Scouts can help foster leadership skills, teamwork, and resilience in young people.

“Scouting is often thought of as focused solely on outdoor activities, but it’s also a great foundation for developing leadership and other life skills, as well as creating lifelong friendships,” Ms Cooke said.

Ms Cooke was given a tour inside the newly refurbished hall – made possible thanks to a $160,000 grant from the previous NSW Coalition Government – by 1st Young Scout group leader Corey McIntyre.

“The hall not only has a new roof, but the inside has been completely transformed with new flooring, a new ceiling, and a new kitchenette; it’s very impressive, and such a welcoming environment for young people to come and spend time with friends,” Ms Cooke said.

“There’s also opportunities for adults to become a Scout volunteer, so to all the adventurers out there, I encourage you to give Corey a call; he’ll tell you all about how to join in the fun, and activities, and at the same time, make some lifelong friendships,” she said.

Prospective Scouts and their families who would like to learn more can phone Corey McIntyre: 0422 015 842, or get in touch with the Young Electorate Office (02) 6382 2399.

Photograph caption: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke met with 1st Young Scout group leader Corey McIntyre recently to learn more about the activities planned at the Young Scout Hall for 2024.

Boosting Visitor Numbers in our Villages

A new playground in Koorawatha is expected to be a major drawcard for visitors to the village, after it was officially opened during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Memorial Park.

Ideally situated just off the Olympic Way, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the new equipment will be a big attraction for travellers looking to break up their journey.

“The new playground is a wonderful asset for the village of Koorawatha, and I certainly encourage locals and visitors of all ages, to come and try-out all the new equipment for themselves, and enjoy the surrounding revitalised recreation area,” Ms Cooke said.

Ms Cooke said she was extremely proud to have supported the project, which was made possible thanks to a $441,360 grant under the previous NSW Coalition Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.

“This playground has revitalised Koorawatha Memorial Park and will allow members of the community, along with visitors to the area, to enjoy a modern facility which provides and promotes an active and healthy lifestyle,” Ms Cooke said.

“Residents in villages across our entire Cootamundra electorate are just so passionate about finding ways to enhance their communities, and I certainly applaud projects like this that represent a long-term vision for the future of Koorawatha,” she said.

During the proceedings, Ms Cooke acknowledged the hard work and dedication of members of the Koorawatha Progress Association in bringing the project to fruition.

“Today is the culmination of a lot of hard work by dedicated locals over a number of years; it takes a long time and a lot of effort to pull projects like this together, so I congratulate the Koorawatha Progress Association, particularly Secretary and Treasurer Jane Fisher, for their tireless commitment,” Ms Cooke said.

The new playground features a central treehouse tower, a flying fox, swings large and small, obstacle course, and buggy rocker. Park benches are provided, in addition to an undercover, accessible picnic shelter that complements the barbecue facility, while concrete pathways give access to scooters, bikes, trikes, walkers, and wheelchairs.

Restocking Boosts Local Fish Populations

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke visited Bethungra Dam to lend a hand during the recent fish restocking project, which is designed to strengthen the local fish population and enhance recreational fishing opportunities.

Ms Cooke said restocking projects like this help ensure lakes, rivers, and dams are well stocked for future generations.

“It was great to be involved in the release of 15,000 native fish at Bethungra Dam, with a mix of Murray Cod and Golden Perch let loose at the popular recreation spot,” Ms Cooke said.

“These kinds of projects are just so important to the long-term health of our waterways, and contribute significantly to the perseveration of threatened species,” she said.

Ms Cooke said the restocking program was also important from an economic perspective.

“These kinds of stocking events not only maintain and enhance recreational fisheries, but also benefit our local communities through tourism and economic opportunities,” Ms Cooke said.

“The recreational fishing industry contributes billions to the state’s economy every year, so ensuring our local waterways are well-stocked helps draw visitors to the region, ensuring our local economies don’t miss out.

“The NSW Coalition understands this and has provided millions in funding in recent years towards safety upgrades at Bethungra Dam, as well as towards enhancing the nearby camping facilities to ensure the best possible experience for locals and tourists alike,” Ms Cooke said.

Junee Shire Council Environmental Officer Mason Schembri explained the fish restocking was undertaken as part of the Department of Primary Industries’ Fish Stocking Program.

“The program is a Recreational Fishing Trust funded initiative that provides $2 for every dollar contributed by the local council, which has allowed us to invest a total of $12,000 into this vitally important restocking project,” Mr Schembri said.

“The last restocking event in the dam occurred back in 2021, so this latest release will help increase the number of native fish in the water, which will help balance out the number of invasive species such as the European Perch, which are also present,” he said.

New funding for Vital Road Repairs Across the Narrandera Region

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke says ensuring rural and regional communities continue to get their fair share of road funding is vital for the ongoing safety and productivity of our local towns and villages.

Ms Cooke met with Narrandera Shire Council Mayor Neville Kschenka and General Manager George Cowan to announce that $3,976,990 in additional road repair funding has been secured for the Council, under the Regional Emergency Road Repair Fund (RERRF), to undertake maintenance work on the 1,556 kilometres of local and regional roads within the LGA.

“It’s my job to shine a light on issues in our electorate, and one of my number one priorities is making sure we have adequate funding to help provide access to roads that are safe and convenient for our communities,” Ms Cooke said.

“It’s with this in mind that I have advocated tirelessly for our region to ensure the Roads Minister fully understands and appreciates the pivotal role our roads play in connecting our towns, and enabling economic growth.

“As a result I am thrilled to announce that we have been able to secure close to $4 million in additional funding for much-needed repair and maintenance of our local roads in and around the Narrandera region, which is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and convenience of our community members,” she said.

Narrandera Shire Council Mayor Neville Kschenka said small road maintenance projects can drive big benefits in the bush.

“The funding will be dedicated to addressing a range of road issues, including pothole repairs, resurfacing, and general road safety improvements,” Mayor Kschenka said.

“I certainly encourage local residents and businesses to continue providing input on road conditions, and areas that require attention; this feedback helps us make informed decisions about allocating resources where they are needed most,” he said.

Talent on Show at Schools Across the Cootamundra Electorate

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has congratulated students, parents, and teachers on completing the 2023 school year, and has praised the achievements of all schools – large and small – across the electorate.

“I’ve had the great honour and privilege in recent weeks of attending many school presentations right across our electorate, and I have just been so impressed by what students have achieved; we have a lot to be proud of,” Ms Cooke said.

“Our students really have had an amazing year, and I’ve enjoyed hearing all about the academic and sporting achievements, as well as watching students perform across music and the arts; we really punch well above our weight, particularly given that many of our schools are small schools,” she said.

Ms Cooke praised the work of teachers, school staff, parents, and volunteers in ensuring students are well supported and able to thrive.

“Our teachers are so passionate about their classes and their students, and the results speak for themselves in the classroom, so congratulations and thank you for the work you do supporting the younger members of our community,” Ms Cooke said.

“The P&Cs too do a wonderful job throughout the year, hosting activities and fundraisers that help provide students with those extra opportunities that enrich their school lives,” she said.

Ms Cooke said while she does her best to visit as many schools as possible, it does take time to get around them all.

“There are 82 schools in the Cootamundra electorate, and I visit on average about 20 schools a year – and this year’s no different – so it takes me four years to get around them all. So if I haven’t quite got to your school lately, I promise you it’s on the list; it just takes me a little while to get to each and every one of them in-person,” Ms Cooke said.

“To all the school communities – large and small – well done on another successful year, have an enjoyable break, and good luck for 2024; I can’t wait to see what you all do next,” she said.

Photograph caption: Steph Cooke with award winners from Junee North Public School following their end of year presentation.

Young Welcomes New Probationary Constable

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has welcomed new Probationary Constable Tom Perkins to the region following his first shifts at Young Police Station, after his graduation from the Goulburn Police Academy. 

“Congratulations on your posting Tom; Young is lucky to have you, and I wish you all the very best as you start your career here in our local area,” Ms Cooke said.

“Policing is like no other profession; it is a selfless career where officers run towards danger to protect us and the wider community, rather than the natural instinct to run in the opposite direction.

“Coming into the holiday period, this is a timely reminder that there is no break for our police, who will be serving our Cootamundra community through Christmas and the New Year.

“Their commitment to fostering a safe and thriving environment is invaluable, and we want each and every officer to know that their efforts are deeply appreciated.

“Please share a thought for those officers forgoing time with their family and friends to keep us safe over the holidays,” she said.

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole joined in welcoming Probationary Constable Perkins and all the enthusiastic new recruits commencing duties across the state.

“I am proud to welcome the new recruits into the NSW Police Force; they have taken up the incredibly challenging but rewarding responsibility of serving and protecting the people of NSW,” Mr Toole said.

“These probationary constables are certainly helping strengthen the ranks of our modern and world-class police force,” he said.

Photograph caption: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke with new Probationary Constable Tom Perkins, Detective Sergeant Mark Lake, and Senior Constable Kurt Lyzun.

Cooke: We all Have a Role to Play in Keeping our Roads Safe this Christmas

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is urging motorists to take care during the Christmas holiday period after ten people lost their lives on the state’s roads over the weekend, including “a much-loved man” of the Cowra community.

An 84-year-old man died after the minibus he was travelling in, was involved in a collision in Cowra on Saturday night. The driver of the bus – the Cowra Bowling Club courtesy bus – along with four other passengers were injured.

“This is a tragic incident, and our deepest sympathies are with the deceased gentleman’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time,” Ms Cooke said.

“My thoughts and prayers are also with those injured in the accident. Nobody ever wants to hear news like this, particularly at Christmas time, and I want to extend my most heartfelt support to the families of all those involved, and to Bowling Club staff and patrons, some of whom I sat down and spoke with today, and who are understandably extremely shaken by what’s happened.

“The club has offered staff and patrons access to counselling services, and I applaud them for the support they’ve provided,” she said.

Ms Cooke also met with members of the Cowra Police to thank them for their response, and extended her appreciation to the NSW Ambulance paramedics, and the members of Fire & Rescue NSW who attended the scene and provided support.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to the emergency responders and thank them for being on call during the Christmas season, standing ready to assist if and when they’re needed; they work tirelessly to respond to emergencies, often sacrificing time with their own families during the holiday period, and I want them to know their service is never taken for granted,” Ms Cooke said.

As the school holidays get underway and traffic increases, Ms Cooke said the entire community has a role to play in being vigilant and responsible on the roads.

“I simply encourage everyone to exercise caution on the roads, adhere to speed limits, drive to the conditions, avoid distractions, and by doing so, hopefully we can help ensure that everyone reaches their destinations safely,” Ms Cooke said.

Happy Little Vegemite Art Competition Winners Announced

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has praised the imagination, creativity, and talent displayed by the local school students who took part in the Happy Little Vegemite Art Competition.

Ms Cooke said there was an overwhelming response to the competition celebrating Vegemite’s 100th birthday, with entries submitted from schools right across the electorate.

“We had hundreds of wonderful artworks created by local students of all ages, from Kindergarten right through to Year Six,” Ms Cooke said.

“I was just so impressed by the talent on display; the competition well and truly exceeded expectations, so much so, that it was too difficult to narrow the entries down to only two winners. Instead, a winner has been chosen from each year group,” she said.

After careful consideration of the many impressive entries, Ms Cooke said she’s delighted to announce the following winners, with their artworks now on display in the Young Electorate Office for the community to enjoy:

  • Kindergarten: Audrey Emmett-Daley – Quandialla Public School
  • Year 1: Charlotte Dicker – Barellan Central School
  • Year 2: Liam Surilla – Young Public School
  • Year 3: Eva Power – Ardlethan Central School
  • Year 4: Billy Petit – St Mary’s War Memorial School West Wyalong
  • Year 5: Taite Johnson – St Patrick’s Primary School Gundagai
  • Year 6: Gracie Elphick – Jugiong Public School

“Congratulations to the winners and to all those who entered; I’m truly impressed, and I commend all participants for their exceptional artistic talents,” Ms Cooke said.

Image: Steph Cooke with Year 2 prize winner Liam Surilla at Young Public School.

A New Era for Sport at Temora’s Bob Aldridge Park

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the completion of significant upgrades at Bob Aldridge Park, marks a new era for sport in Temora.

Ms Cooke was joined by Temora Shire Mayor Rick Firman, council staff, and members of the community to officially open the new-look park facilities on Wednesday.

“Community sport is a vital part of our social fabric, and the upgraded facilities at Bob Aldridge Park will encourage greater community participation in sports, and support growth in our local sporting clubs,” Ms Cooke said. 

Ms Cooke said the changes include the construction of a new amenities building incorporating state-of-the-art change rooms and accessible restrooms. Ms Cooke also emphasised the importance of investing in local infrastructure to promote active and healthy lifestyles.

The upgrades have been made possible thanks to a $518,078 grant provided under the previous NSW Coalition Government’s Regional Sport Facility Fund, along with funding from Temora Junior Rugby League ($30,000), Temora Touch Association ($10,000), and Temora Shire Council ($30,000).

“The previous government also invested $55,000 to upgrade the lighting at the park, as part of the Female Friendly Community Sport Facilities and Lighting Upgrade Program,” Ms Cooke said.

“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.

“An important focus of these funds was around encouraging the participation of girls and women – and people with a disability – in sport, and I will continue to pressure the current government to ensure they don’t lose sight of that focus,” she said.

Temora Shire Mayor Rick Firman thanked Ms Cooke on behalf of the community, adding that the upgrades promise to have a positive impact on local sports and recreational activities.

“Two of our sporting clubs utilise this facility, Temora Touch Football and Temora Schoolboys Rugby League; both are hardworking clubs with dedicated officials and players, so they deserve this significant upgrade,” Mayor Firman said.